Haotian Zhang.
It was still nearly ten years before Qian Xunji would dispatch the Soul Master Brigade to subdue Sea God Island. At this point, neither Qian Daoliu nor Tang Chen knew of Bo Saixi's existence.
Thus, Tang Chen remained the current patriarch of the Haotian Sect.
With him in charge, Haotia nzong was unquestionably the top sect on the continent—its prestige so great that it was among the first to receive a wedding invitation.
Seated on the patriarch's throne, Tang Chen glanced at the gilded card in his hand and chuckled warmly.
"Haha, Brother Qian's son is finally tying the knot."
He turned toward the Soul Saint standing below.
"I've received the invitation. Three months from now, Haotianzong will be present at the Martial Soul Hall to offer congratulations."
"In that case, I won't trouble Patriarch Hao Tian further."
Salas bowed slightly. Even without unleashing his aura, Tang Chen—one of the world's peerless rank 99 Douluo—radiated a pressure that made it impossible to meet his gaze directly.
"Well, the messenger has traveled far. Don't rush off just yet. Tian, take Bishop Salas to rest and have something to eat."
"Yes, Father."
Tang Tian—Tang Chen's son, father to Tang Xiao and Tang Hao—was a peak rank 95 Douluo, more than ten years older than Qian Xunji.
"No, no, Patriarch, there's no need. I must still deliver invitations to the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan and the Heaven Dou imperial family. Best I not linger."
Though Tang Chen was hospitable, Salas wouldn't dare waste the time of a titled Douluo, especially with his errand unfinished.
Tang Chen nodded, waving a hand. "Very well. Tian, see our guest out."
—
Seven Treasures Glazed Sect.
With the early death of the previous patriarch, thirty-year-old Ning Fengzhi had been thrust into leadership of the vast clan.
Fortunately, a few years prior, the sect had successfully recruited two outstanding Soul Douluo—both of whom had since broken through to the rank of Titled Douluo.
One was a rank 93 offense-type master on par with Chen Xin; the other, a rank 92 defense-type Douluo famed for his unusual abilities.
Though neither had reached the lofty realm of rank 95, their strength, combined with Ning Fengzhi's capable governance, had stabilized the sect's position.
Compared to Salas's reception at Haotianzong, Lordiala's visit was far more relaxed.
While the pressure from Chen Xin and Gu Rong was formidable, it paled before Tang Chen's presence.
Lordiala's wedding invitation was soon delivered into Ning Fengzhi's hands.
Though slightly less refined than he would become in later years, Ning Fengzhi was already a man of poise: jade-like features, straight nose, square jaw, his long hair draped neatly behind him. His gentle eyes concealed a depth impossible to gauge.
Clad in a pristine white glazed robe, he exuded an air of noble grace without arrogance.
"The Pope's wedding is a joyous occasion for the continent," Ning Fengzhi said warmly. "Naturally, my Seven Treasures Glazed Sect will join in celebration. Bishop Lordiala, thank you for making the journey here. It's late today—why not rest in our sect for the night?"
Lordiala glanced at the darkening sky, considered, then nodded. "Then I'll trouble you."
"There's no trouble when welcoming a guest." Ning Fengzhi smiled, summoning a Soul Saint steward to escort Lordiala away.
—
Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan.
Upon hearing of the Pope's impending marriage, Yu Yuanzhen was mildly surprised. He hadn't expected Qian Xunji to wed so suddenly, but he quickly agreed to attend in person.
—
Across Tiandou, Xingluo, and other major powers, those receiving invitations either dispatched representatives or came themselves to the Martial Soul Hall.
The Heaven Dou Emperor, gravely ill, could only send his brothers, Princes Xue Ye and Xue Xing.
Xingluo's emperor, having ascended the throne just a decade ago, was still consolidating power and had no heir. Unable to leave his court, he instead sent a rank 89 control-type Douluo with lavish gifts.
—
Three months passed in a blink.
Today, Wuhun City bustled more than ever. Red lanterns lined every street and alley.
"Brother, hurry up! Keep that pace and you'll miss it!"
Bibidong darted ahead, her lively figure weaving through the crowd. When she noticed Gu Han strolling along at a calm, almost lazy pace, she puffed her cheeks, waving for him to catch up.
Gu Han sighed helplessly. "Senior Sister, the bride's still in makeup. You might get away with peeking, but for me it's best to avoid suspicion."
Bibidong tapped her chin thoughtfully, then grinned. "Fine. You can stand guard outside while I sneak in."
The corner of Gu Han's mouth twitched. Still, seeing her excitement, he only sighed. "If you get caught, I can't save you."
"Okay~" She winked, making an "OK" gesture.
"You two, skipping the banquet already? What are you doing here?"
The voice was light yet teasing. Turning, they saw a short, white-haired man approaching with a broad smile.
He wore a pale blue robe, his youthful face marked by a left eye containing crystalline, scale-like ice patterns.
"The Lightfeather Offering," they greeted together—Guangling Douluo, the fifth-ranked elder of the Hall of Offerings.
Unlike his peers, Guangling Douluo was restless by nature, fond of wandering. Spotting Gu Han and Bibidong—and overhearing their chatter—he had decided to investigate.
"Well," Gu Han began, "we—"
"Of course we're here to check on the bride!" Bibidong cut in cheerfully.
Guangling Douluo's lips twitched. This little ghost still didn't follow any script.
"In other words, you just want to sneak a peek."
"Che, what peek? She's my teacher's bride! I'll look all I want." Bibidong folded her arms proudly.
"Hahaha! You're as amusing as ever," Guangling Douluo laughed, Bibidong joining in.
Gu Han stood to the side, feeling like a complete extra.
One old naughty boy. One little clever ghost. Their brain circuits were a world apart from his.
(End of Chapter)