2829 A Shopkeeper Without being in Charge

"You've endured your self-imposed penance for decades, and you've already settled your debts. Starting today, it's time to conduct yourselves admirably and serve Her Excellency, Lady Qiaoqiao of Xuanji School," Qiao Mu declared with a cool, composed expression.

Chen Qi and Qiao Mu were both taken aback, their gazes fixed on Qiao Mu, who had left them bewildered.

This seemingly aloof young woman possessed a perceptive insight that surpassed anyone's expectations.

/She had an uncanny ability to discern their true intentions from their words./

For individuals of their stature, confrontations were far from straightforward. They had to grapple with their own inner turmoil.

These two individuals were unwittingly inflicting pain on themselves due to their remorse over Xuanji's demise.

/In essence, they were punishing each other./

Had Xuanji still been alive, her fiery temperament would likely have led to them being thoroughly reprimanded.

"You are the first-generation disciples of Xuanji School, and as such, you are aware that there are 103 first-generation disciples," she remarked.

The two nodded in agreement.

"Senior Xuanji has entrusted you with a significant mission."

With an unwavering countenance and unwavering composure, the young woman continued, "Senior Xuanji's wish is for you to locate the remaining first-generation disciples."

She reached into her inner world, retrieving a sizable stack of black identity tablets, which she then handed to Chen Qi and Qiao Mu. "As long as these identity tablets are within a 300-meter radius, you will be able to sense the presence of the disciples."

"Guard them well." Without missing a beat, she pushed another stack of identity tablets towards Chen Qi and Qiao Mu.

Chen Qi quickly inquired of Dao Seeking, "Does Junior Sister Xuanji intend to gather everyone together?"

"Mhm, indeed," Qiao Mu responded with a single affirmative word.

On the sidelines, Lu Zheng watched the young woman with a puzzled expression, having suddenly come under her scrutiny.

"Second Headmaster, is this the mission entrusted to you by the headmaster?"

/He hit the nail on the head!/

At this moment, the reserved young woman simply wished to act as a passive observer.

Her petite face tensed. "I shall now delegate this mission to you, Sect Master. Do you have any objections?"

"No objections," Chen Qi and Lu Zheng replied, their exasperation evident.

Meanwhile, Mo Lian and the others, who were spectating the scene, concealed their amused smiles.

"Starting today, your primary task is to locate the remaining 101 first-generation disciples."

Chen Qi respectfully gestured, "Rest assured, Second Headmaster. We won't seek trouble again."

Despite her cold and stoic demeanor, this young woman's actions were motivated by goodwill. Entrusting them with this demanding mission was a means to occupy their minds and prevent them from dwelling on unrelated matters.

Qiao Mu gave them a scrutinizing glance before diverting her gaze. "Let's go."

Mo Lian also rose from his seat.

They needed to make their way to the training grounds to witness the competition.

Today marked the first day of the Holy Son Miyan's selection at the Imperial Academy, promising a lively competition.

"Second Headmaster!" Lu Zheng hurriedly interjected. "Xuanji School disbanded even before Xuanji School departed with the old rascal."

"Our Red Clouds Peak should still stand tall after all these years."

"Indeed, the Red Clouds Peak is abundant in spiritual energy throughout the year, making it an ideal place for cultivation. We need to return and make preparations. Our sect must undergo a re-establishment ceremony…"

Qiao Mu suddenly stopped in her tracks and turned to face them. Her eyes sparkled with anticipation, one after the other.

"How extensive is it?"

"What?"

"How large is Red Clouds Peak?"

"Red Clouds Peak stretches endlessly, and Daylily Peak is nearby."

"It's quite vast."

"It's not far from North Wangda Forest."

"Right, right. A day is sufficient for a round trip."

The young woman's eyes gleamed with excitement. "Let's go together!"

"Second Headmaster, you wish to return with us?"

"Of course, that's perfect."

Qiao Mu nodded vigorously with her petite head.