10 Offering assistance

As the tales of Yue Xuan's awe-inspiring duel spread like wildfire throughout the sect, they reached the ears of the esteemed elders. During a gathering of the elders, his name reverberated within the halls, sparking intense discussions and debates. The impact of his remarkable display of sword intent had left an indelible impression on the sect's leadership.

Among the elders, two distinct factions emerged, each representing a different perspective on Yue Xuan's significance. On one side stood those aligned with the Matriarch, who firmly believed that Yue Xuan was the prophesied savior of their sect. This faction predominantly comprised female sect elders, along with a few male elders who had personally witnessed the magnificence of his sword arts.

"I had foreseen this moment! I knew he was the one mentioned in the prophecy," the Matriarch exclaimed with conviction, her voice echoing with authority. "To witness the manifestation of sword intent, a feat we can only dream of achieving ourselves! None among us can even come close to his mastery."

"You were right, Matriarch!" affirmed one elder, nodding in agreement.

"Indeed, this is a sign of his extraordinary potential," chimed in another elder, their voice filled with admiration.

The other faction, consisting of elders who were more skeptical or cautious, raised concerns about the true nature and intentions of Yue Xuan. They questioned the sudden rise of this enigmatic figure and the mysteries surrounding his background. Yet, even they could not deny the undeniable prowess he had displayed.

"He is undeniably formidable, but we must tread carefully," a cautious elder voiced their reservations. "There is much we still don't know about him."

Amidst the spirited discussions, the fate of Yue Xuan hung in the balance. His remarkable display had garnered both awe and intrigue, casting him into the center of attention and speculation. The sect elders grappled with the implications of his arrival, recognizing that his presence could potentially reshape the destiny of their sect.

The elders' discussion came to an abrupt halt as the heavy wooden doors of the hall swung open with a resounding thud. A young disciple, clearly flustered and out of breath, stumbled into the room. His eyes darted anxiously from one elder to another as he mustered the courage to speak.

"Apologies, esteemed elders," he gasped between breaths, his voice trembling with a mix of anxiety and urgency. "Elder Yue Xuan... he... he wishes to join the meeting."

The sudden interruption drew a collective gasp from the gathered elders. Whispers filled the air, mingling with a mixture of surprise and anticipation. The young disciple's presence only amplified the tension, as his fear of upsetting Elder Yue Xuan was palpable.

Sweat glistened on the young disciple's forehead, a testament to the haste with which he had traversed the sect's corridors. The elders regarded him with a mixture of curiosity and concern, aware that something extraordinary must have transpired to prompt Elder Yue Xuan's presence.

Matriarch Xue Mingyu, the embodiment of wisdom and grace, raised her hand, silencing the murmurs that had erupted in the hall. Her voice, steady yet commanding, cut through the air. "Allow Elder Yue Xuan to join us. We shall hear his words and grant him the respect he deserves."

The young disciple nodded vigorously, relief washing over him as the burden of delivering the message was lifted. He made a hasty retreat, the echo of his footsteps fading into the distance.

Moments later, the grand doors swung open once more, revealing the enigmatic figure of Elder Yue Xuan. The elders turned their heads, their gazes fixed upon him as he entered the hall. His presence alone commanded attention, his beauty transcending mortal expectations.

Elder Yue Xuan exuded an air of mystery and confidence, his aura captivating all who beheld him. His long silver hair, elegantly styled in a ponytail, was adorned with a silver crescent moon hairpin, glistening like moonlight in the night sky.

As he moved gracefully towards the assembly, the light seemed to caress his smooth, pale skin, accentuating his flawless features. His regal stature and perfect height added to the sense of awe he inspired.

Donned in robes of indigo, embellished with intricate silver embroidery that shimmered like starlight, Elder Yue Xuan appeared as a celestial being among mortals. Each step he took exuded a sense of grace and poise, a testament to his mastery of both the sword and cultivation.

The elders' eyes followed him, their gazes filled with a mixture of reverence, awe, and curiosity. Matriarch Xue Mingyu gestured for him to take his place among them, a nod of recognition and respect for the unparalleled beauty and talents he possessed.

With a faint, enigmatic smile gracing his lips, Yue Xuan gracefully seated himself among the elders.

"I thought you gave him the simple indigo robes with silver linings, as all core disciples wear. But these robes... they are beyond exquisite, intricate in every detail. Did you bestow upon him a special favor once again? We are already grappling with financial troubles, and these robes must have cost a small fortune!" Elder Lin Xiu's voice dripped with scrutiny and concern.

Matriarch Xue Mingyu, her usually composed demeanor slightly unsettled, raised an eyebrow at the accusation. She admired the resplendent robes that adorned Yue Xuan, their complexity surpassing her expectations and rivaling even her own regal attire. With a touch of defiance in her voice, she retorted, "Rest assured, Elder Lin Xiu, the robes I granted him were indeed the standard core disciple robes. What he wears now is not of my doing."

Elder Liu, her eyes transfixed on the intricate embroidery and delicate craftsmanship, couldn't help but be drawn into the enigma surrounding Yue Xuan's attire. Her curiosity peaked, she turned her gaze towards him and mustered the courage to ask, "Elder Yue Xuan, might I inquire about the origin of these magnificent robes? They are truly a sight to behold."

Yue Xuan, ever composed and gracious, met Elder Liu's gaze with a gentle smile. He understood the intrigue surrounding his attire and the desire for answers. With a calm yet confident voice, he began to unravel the mystery for them all.

"Indeed, Elder Liu, these robes hold a special significance," Yue Xuan began, his silver eyes glimmering with a hint of mirth. "You see, I have a talented aunt who is renowned for her mastery in the art of tailoring. She has honed her skills over the years, creating garments of unparalleled beauty. It was under her guidance and tutelage that I ventured into the world of tailoring."

As he spoke, the elders leaned in, their interest piqued. They were eager to learn more about the hidden facets of Yue Xuan's talents.

"During my training with my aunt, I discovered a profound connection to the intricacies of design and craftsmanship. Using this, I enhanced the core disciple robes, infusing them with a touch of artistic flair and intricate details," Yue Xuan continued, his voice carrying a sense of pride and gratitude. "These robes are a testament to the union of martial prowess and artistic expression, embodying the essence of our sect's harmony between strength and beauty."

Silence filled the hall as the elders absorbed Yue Xuan's words, their admiration for him deepening further. The realization that he possessed not only exceptional skills in cultivation and swordsmanship but also an artistic sensibility left them in awe.

Elder Liu, her eyes filled with wonder, nodded in appreciation. "Elder Yue Xuan, your talents are truly extraordinary, extending far beyond the realms we had initially perceived. Your connection to the world of art and aesthetics adds yet another layer to the already fascinating tapestry of your being."

Yue Xuan inclined his head, a gesture of gratitude. "Thank you, Elder Liu. I am humbled by your kind words. It is my hope that these robes, with their beauty and elegance, serve as a reflection of our sect's values and inspire harmony among us all."

The elders, their initial concerns about the robes dissipating, now marveled at the profound depths of Yue Xuan's abilities.

The meeting resumed with a renewed sense of appreciation, as they recognized that their esteemed Elder was not only a master of the sword and cultivation but also a visionary artist in his own right.

Yue Xuan however couldn't let go of something he had heard elder Lin Xiu say. 'What did he mean by financial troubles? The sect doesn't look like it's in that much trouble.' he pondered, his curiosity urging him to ask.

He turned his attention to elder Lin Xiu and waited until elder Zhang was done with his raport of the disciples growth. Yue Xuan's inquisitive nature refused to let go of the notion of financial troubles looming over their sect. As the report of the disciples' growth came to an end, he seized the opportunity to address Elder Lin Xiu, his curiosity tinged with genuine concern.

"Elder Lin Xiu, I couldn't help but wonder about the financial troubles you mentioned earlier. Does the sect truly find itself in such dire straits?" Yue Xuan's voice carried a hint of curiosity, his eyes fixed upon Elder Lin Xiu, awaiting his response.

Elder Lin Xiu, caught off guard by the directness of Yue Xuan's inquiry, found himself momentarily at a loss for words. The weight of their circumstances pressed upon him, and he felt a surge of internal conflict, as if grappling with an invisible force.

"T-that... what do you mean?" Elder Lin Xiu stammered, his gaze meeting Yue Xuan's, a hint of hesitance flickering in his eyes.

Yue Xuan, undeterred, pressed forward, his thoughts resolute and unyielding, like a steel power pulsating through his being. "Earlier, you mentioned financial troubles that beset our sect. I am genuinely interested to know the extent of these troubles. Perhaps, with my abilities, I can offer assistance," he calmly explained, the steel power of his determination reverberating within his words.

Elder Lin Xiu glanced toward Matriarch Xue Mingyu, seeking her approval to divulge the sect's struggles. A nod from the matriarch granted him permission, and he turned his attention back to Yue Xuan, steeling himself to reveal the harsh reality.

"Well, in recent years, our sect has faced a precipitous decline," Elder Lin Xiu began, his voice laced with a mix of weariness and honesty. "During the war with the Eagle Claw Sect, we suffered devastating losses. Our patriarch fell, and many of our most talented disciples perished or defected to other sects. The cost of the conflict forced us to take loans, burdening us with substantial debts owed to warlords and merchants. At present, our survival hinges upon the dedicated efforts of our disciples."

As Elder Lin Xiu shared the sect's challenges, Yue Xuan absorbed the information, lost in thought. 'So, things aren't as good as they seem,' he pondered, his mind filled with determination. 'If I'm going to stay here for a while, I should make it comfortable. I can't make it like the Moon Palace, but I can make it my own special place.'

Yue Xuan's thoughts swirled, filled with a mix of responsibility and ambition. He felt a strong desire to improve the sect, to mend its problems and create a better environment. With each passing moment, his plans became clearer.

As Elder Lin Xiu finished explaining the sect's financial troubles, Yue Xuan's focus sharpened. He leaned forward, his eyes fixed on Elder Lin Xiu, and inquired, "Elder Lin Xiu, may I ask which warlords and merchants the sect owes money to? And where can I find them?"

Elder Lin Xiu hesitated for a moment, contemplating Yue Xuan's request. Finally, he nodded and proceeded to provide the information. "We owe substantial sums to Warlord Huang Long, who holds his stronghold in the majestic city of Vermilion Sky. There's also Merchant Li Xue, known for his influence in the bustling trading hub of Azure Harbor. Additionally, we have debts with Warlord Zhao Wei, whose dominion lies in the fortified city of Thunderpeak."

Yue Xuan absorbed the names and locations, his mind already weaving intricate plans. He imagined the strategic possibilities, calculating the advantages and potential alliances that could be formed. His thoughts raced with a detailed scheme to resolve the sect's financial burdens while strengthening their position.

'If I can negotiate with Warlord Huang Long and secure his support, we might be able to leverage his influence to forge a partnership with Merchant Li Xue,' Yue Xuan mused, his mind ablaze with possibilities. 'And with Warlord Zhao Wei's formidable army, we could ensure the sect's security and potentially expand our influence.'

A plan began to take shape in Yue Xuan's mind, each step carefully calculated, with multiple contingencies accounted for. He would navigate the complex web of politics and finance, using his wit, charm, and martial prowess to turn the tide in favor of the sect.