As the fleet reached the harbor, the important figures such as Sect Elder Zhang Changsheng of the Military Hall, Sect Elder Mo Jingchen, and Protectorate Fu San, disembarked one after another.
Zhang Changsheng, a Savant expert, had summoned Wu Yuan for a private meeting before they boarded the ship. As for the other high-ranking members of the sect, they barely acknowledged Wu Yuan's presence during their time on board. And upon disembarking, not a single one bothered to inquire about him. Farewells were practically nonexistent.
Wu Yuan's ship, positioned at the tail end of the fleet, was the last to dock and naturally, his group was the last to disembark.
Gu Ji whispered softly, "Young Master, don't be disheartened. These higher-ups in the sect are simply unaware of the full extent of your talent. Furthermore, Sect Elder Mo is injured and in a rush to seek treatment."
A knowing smile formed on Wu Yuans face as he replied, "Uncle Ji, you underestimate me. Why would I care about such trivial matters? Whether these senior members of the sect acknowledge me or not is not a big deal."
Wu Yuan completely understood their thoughts. A genius was still just a genius. The higher-ranking individuals in the sect hadn't forgotten about him, they simply didn't care. Besides, news of his exceptional abilities had not yet been made public. And even if it had, what difference would it make?
In the eyes of these esteemed members, Wu Yuan had a high chance of becoming a first-rate Adept and a certain probability of reaching the Savant level. However, that would take at least ten years, perhaps even more.
If he had not yet joined the sect, these higher-ups might have extended an invitation to him as Gao Yu did. But now that he was officially part of the sect, they had little reason to involve themselves with a junior like him.
And as for the possibility of him becoming a Land Ranker in the future? History was filled with countless geniuses who showed great potential, but how many of them truly lived up to it?
Moreover, most Land Rankers only become Grandmasters after 40.
Wu Yuan was only fourteen at present. Even if he became a Grandmaster decades later, seasoned experts like Mo Jingchen would long be buried six feet under. Was there any reason for them to get into his good books?
"Uncle Ji, it is I who should be grateful to these seniors for allowing me to join them on the ride." Wu Yuan said with a smile. "Let's disembark. Protectorate Gao Yu has arrived."
Gao Yu was waiting at the port, ready to welcome Wu Yuan.
Slinging his bundle on his back, Wu Yuan made his way down from the ship, then promptly bowed. "Protectorate."
"Haha, Wu Yuan, you've finally arrived," Gao Yu, despite being over 40, had a youthful aura about him. Clad in a striking black robe, he looked both handsome and charismatic.
"I must say, I am surprised that Protectorate would personally come to receive me. I am truly honored," Wu Yuan sincerely replied.
"As your guide, it is only fitting that I welcome you to our sect," Gao Yu said with a smile. "Let us proceed into the city."
"Rest well in the provincial city tonight. Tomorrow, I will take you to Cloudhill," Gao Yu informed Wu Yuan.
"Very well," Wu Yuan agreed without hesitation.
Cloudhill City, much like Southdream City, was considered a provincial city. However, it held a special significance as it served as the heart of the Cloudstride Sect. It was strategically situated right beside the Cloud River - the lifeline of the region, and consequently became the most important port in the middle section of the river. The city teemed with a dense population and thriving commerce.
Here, the influence of the Cloudstride Sect was particularly prominent. The eastern region of the city could be considered the sect's stronghold, housing the families of its members. Magnificent mansions, lively taverns, and bustling shops formed a city within a city.
Accompanied by Gao Yu, Wu Yuan found himself staying in a luxurious mansion located in the east of the city, administered directly by the sect. The accommodation was fully equipped, providing him with every convenience imaginable.
That evening, Gao Yu threw a lavish banquet in honor of Wu Yuan's arrival. Among the guests were a few custodians from the Finance Hall, all second-rate Adepts and figures of authority. They showered Wu Yuan with praise, elevating his status to unprecedented heights.
Wu Yuan did not drink any wine, nor was he forced to by Gao Yu and the others.
After three rounds of drinks, Gao Yu addressed Wu Yuan with a smile, "You must be weary from your journey. May your journey within the sect be smooth, and may you one day find your name among the Land Rankings."
Wu Yuan replied, "Your kind words are appreciated, Protectorate.
"I hope to foster a close relationship between us." Gao Yu suddenly changed the topic, his tone becoming slightly hesitant. "There is a small matter that came to my attention recently. After much consideration, I wanted to seek your understanding, Wu Yuan."
Wu Yuan smiled knowingly. It was only a matter of time before this topic arose.
"I've learned of Inspector Xie's mistreatment towards you, and I feel somewhat responsible," Gao Yu admitted. "Xie Yu... she and I have a complicated history, which has left her with lasting resentment towards me. I never thought she would take her anger out on you."
"Wu Yuan, I apologize," Gao Yu raised his cup, "I hope you won't mind Xie Yu's behavior."
"I dare not," Wu Yuan stood up ceremoniously, "Protectorate, being subjected to Inspector Xie's assessment is a trivial matter. I've never taken it to heart."
"You misunderstand, Wu Yuan. I am not here to shield Xie Yu," Gao Yu clarified, shaking his head. "The sect elders have decided to punish her. You will also receive compensation."
"I only hope you will not hold a grudge. The entire sect eagerly anticipates your future success," Gao Yu said solemnly.
"I understand, and I bear no ill will," Wu Yuan affirmed. "Working towards the prosperity of the sect is the duty of every disciple."
The room raised their wine cups in a toast, and the banquet went on.
After the feast, Wu Yuan retired to his accommodations. The guests dispersed, and tranquility once again descended upon the entire courtyard.
Within the courtyard, Gu Ji said softly, "Young Master, please do not be distressed over today's affairs. Protectorate Gao Yu, too, has his difficulties."
"It's just a small matter. I will not take it to heart," Wu Yuan replied with a smile.
What could he do? Gao Yu, a protectorate of the Finance Hall, could be considered a senior to Wu Yuan. Today, he personally received, hosted, and apologized to Wu Yuan, giving him a huge amount of face, just so that he would let go of the matter with Xie Yu. Could Wu Yuan refuse to let the matter go?
"Uncle Ji," Wu Yuan changed the subject, "I observed that there are many mansions in the eastern part of the city. Are they residences of the higher echelons of our sect?"
"Indeed." Gu Ji nodded, "Much like the layout of Li City, a large portion of the eastern area is filled with homes of sect members below the custodian rank. Although they may be smaller in size, they are nonetheless secure."
Wu Yuan gave a subtle nod. Residing in Cloudhill was no mean feat. Every custodian of the Cloudstride Sect was at least a second-rate Adept. Anyone below the Custodian rank would still be deemed as a core disciple of the sect. This included the soldiers of the Southdream Army and the Cloudhill Army, and a large number of civil officials.
"Only those above the level of a second-rate Adept are considered mid-ranking members of the sect, and are thus entitled to an individual mansion," Gu Ji explained.
"Is it permanent?" Wu Yuan suddenly asked.
"Of course not," Gu Ji chuckled. "Land is limited in the eastern region of the city. Unless one becomes a Land Ranker, even the sect leader cannot secure a permanent, individual mansion."
"Even the sect leader?" Wu Yuan murmured softly.
According to the regulations of the Cloudstride Sect, the hall masters of the five halls were all appointed from the sects Savant experts, and the remaining Savant experts were referred to as sect elders. Sect elders could also serve as deputy hall masters.
The sect leader served an eight-year term, chosen through election by the assembly of sect elders and ratified by the Land Rankers, who concurrently served as hierarchs. In other words, the power of the sect leader was not as absolute as one might assume.