NOVEL NEXT Chapter 23: Ceremonay
The grand hall of the family estate was abuzz with anticipation. Sunlight poured in through tall, arched windows, casting beams of gold onto the polished marble floors. The intricate carvings on the walls—ancient depictions of battles and triumphs—seemed to come alive in the ambient light, adding an almost sacred aura to the room. The air was thick with the heady scent of incense, a blend of sacred herbs meant to invoke the blessings of their ancestors. Around the room, the low hum of whispered conversations mingled with the occasional clang of ceremonial armor and the shuffling of richly embroidered robes. Family members, servants, and allies alike knew this was no ordinary gathering. Today, the family was preparing for a momentous occasion, one that would be etched into the annals of history: the announcement of Han Jisoo as the new patriarch and the family's entry into the prestigious Sect Ranking Competition.
As the hall filled with guests, it became clear that this was no small assembly. Distinguished visitors from renowned sects had gathered, their expressions betraying a mix of curiosity and respect. Representatives from the Blue Tyrant Dragon Sect, the Seven Treasure Glazed Pagoda, and even the revered Haotian Sect mingled among the crowd. Their robes were decorated with intricate patterns and symbols that marked their origins, yet even with these visual cues, one detail remained hidden from view. Each guest's cultivation level, typically perceivable to those with keen senses, was mysteriously concealed. Only the most skilled cultivators could perform such a feat, a testament to the family's knowledge and mastery of concealment techniques passed down through generations. This mastery added an air of intrigue to the proceedings, reminding the gathered guests of the family's ancient prowess and their commitment to preserving their secrets.
Family members, adorned in robes bearing the family's crest—a majestic golden phoenix entwined with a silver dragon—whispered amongst themselves, occasionally casting glances towards the center of the hall, where the new patriarch would soon appear. Their discussions were filled with speculation and excitement, many noting the notable alliances that the family seemed to be forming. Rumors had spread that the family had gained the allegiance of two powerful sects, a strategic move that would undoubtedly enhance their position in the competition. The elders, dressed in resplendent garments that indicated their wisdom and authority, looked on with pride, their aged faces bearing expressions of satisfaction. They had seen generations rise and fall, but today, they were witnessing the dawn of a new era for their family.
Finally, the moment arrived. Han Jisoo, the eldest son of the previous patriarch, Han Ming, emerged from a side door and strode confidently to the center of the hall. The crowd fell silent. Jisoo, clad in ceremonial robes of deep crimson and midnight blue, stood tall and composed, his gaze steady and commanding. His features, a perfect blend of strength and refinement, reflected his noble lineage and the burden of responsibility he now carried. His eyes, sharp and perceptive, held a steely determination as he surveyed the assembled family members. These were people he had grown up with, trained alongside, and learned to protect. They were a mix of young and old, each one bearing the proud crest of the family on their robes.
Raising his hands slightly to command attention, Jisoo began to speak, his voice resonating through the vast hall, cutting through the silence with ease. "My family," he began, his words laced with conviction and authority, "today marks a new chapter in the history of our esteemed lineage. I have been chosen to lead you all as your patriarch, and I am honored by the trust you have placed in me. As I assume this sacred role, I pledge to uphold the traditions of our ancestors, to guard our secrets, and to guide us toward a future of prosperity and glory." A slight pause allowed his words to settle into the hearts of those listening, and then he continued, his voice growing softer, filled with an almost fatherly warmth. "I promise to create a harmonious and thriving family where each of you feels valued and respected."
A wave of applause swept through the hall, echoing off the walls with a fervor that bordered on reverence. Family members exchanged glances of approval, their hearts filled with pride and relief. Many had watched Jisoo grow from a young boy into a capable leader. They had witnessed his years of training, the way he honed his skills, and how he embraced the values their family held dear. They knew he was prepared for the responsibilities ahead, and they were confident that his leadership would usher in an era of greatness.
As the applause subsided, Jisoo raised a hand, signaling for silence once more. His expression shifted to one of gravity, and the crowd sensed that something of great importance was about to be announced. "Furthermore," he continued, his tone solemn, "I have made a decision that will shape the destiny of our family for generations to come. We will be participating in this year's Sect Ranking Competition."
The declaration was met with a collective gasp, followed by a murmur of surprise that rippled through the crowd. The Sect Ranking Competition was no small affair. It was a prestigious event that pitted the strongest sects in the land against each other, a test of strength, skill, and strategy that had the power to elevate a sect's status—or ruin it entirely. In the past, the family had chosen not to participate, preferring to cultivate their strength in solitude. This sudden decision to join was a bold one, signaling their readiness to step into the spotlight and compete on a grand scale.
"But that is not all," Jisoo added, his voice now tinged with excitement. "I am pleased to announce that our sect has gained the allegiance of two formidable title doulou. These are cultivators of unparalleled skill who have reached levels of power that few can attain. The first, Thunder Dragon Doulou, has attained level 92, and the second, Emerald Dragon Doulou, stands at an awe-inspiring level 93."
The hall erupted into cheers and applause. The news of two title doulou joining their ranks was cause for great celebration. Doulou were powerful cultivators who possessed extraordinary abilities, often capable of turning the tide in battle with a single move. Their presence would not only enhance the family's strength but also significantly elevate their prestige. The gathered guests could scarcely believe the announcement. In the competitive world of sects and clans, acquiring a single title doulou was an achievement of the highest order. To have two was a declaration of power that few could ignore.
As the applause slowly died down, Jisoo continued, his voice now steady and confident. "These two title doulou will serve as our sect's secret weapons in the upcoming competition. Their combined power will be a formidable force to reckon with. They have trained tirelessly for this moment, and I have full confidence in their abilities."
Nods of agreement rippled through the assembled family members, each one absorbing the significance of Jisoo's words. The prospect of having two title doulou fighting for their family was incredibly thrilling. Some exchanged excited glances, while others whispered words of encouragement and anticipation. They could already imagine the prestige their family would gain if they performed well in the competition, the respect they would command from other sects, and the alliances that would be forged in the wake of their victories.
In the days that followed, the family estate transformed into a hive of activity. Disciples, both young and seasoned, could be seen training from dawn until dusk. The clang of swords, the crackle of elemental energy, and the rhythmic sounds of footwork drills filled the air. Sparring sessions became more intense, with disciples pushing themselves to new limits, knowing that they were preparing for one of the most important challenges of their lives. Elders and instructors oversaw the preparations, their experienced eyes scanning for any weaknesses that needed to be addressed. They offered guidance and encouragement, reminding the disciples of the techniques and strategies that would serve them well in the competition.
Meanwhile, the two title doulou—Thunder Dragon Doulou and Emerald Dragon Doulou—trained in secluded areas of the estate, their presence hidden from prying eyes. Thunder Dragon Doulou, known for his explosive attacks and mastery over lightning, would occasionally unleash bursts of energy that lit up the night sky, leaving the disciples in awe of his power. Emerald Dragon Doulou, with her unparalleled control over nature and healing abilities, demonstrated a grace and precision that left even the most experienced cultivators speechless. Together, they represented the peak of cultivation, a source of inspiration for everyone in the sect.
As the days passed, the family grew more united, each member driven by a common purpose: to bring glory to their sect and to secure their place among the most powerful families in the land. They trained not just for themselves, but for the legacy of their ancestors and the future of their descendants.
Finally, the day of the competition drew near. The family gathered in the grand hall once again, this time joined by representatives from other sects as well as dignitaries from the surrounding kingdoms. The atmosphere was tense, filled with anticipation and a sense of solemnity. This was the moment they had all been preparing for, the culmination of weeks of training, planning, and sacrifice.
Jisoo stood at the front of the hall, his face composed and serene. He raised his hand, signaling for silence. When the room had quieted, he began to speak, his voice steady and full of conviction.
"Today, we gather here to formally announce the ascension of Han Jisoo as the new patriarch of our family," he declared. A murmur of approval rippled through the crowd, the dignitaries nodding in acknowledgment of his authority. "Furthermore," he continued, his voice resonating