The drifting mist slowly settled into shape.
A tall elderly man emerged from within it, appearing to be in his late fifties. His golden hair fell loosely over his shoulders, and he wore plain white robes that made him look no different from an ordinary scholar. Yet the moment his feet touched the ground, the surrounding spiritual energy instinctively bowed toward him, as though the world itself recognized his authority.
Emery had no doubt who stood before him.
The Nine Heavens Supreme of the Sky Dragon Clan.
Emery inclined his head, keeping his tone calm and respectful.
"I apologize for the intrusion, Senior. I came on an urgent matter and am looking for someone."
The Supreme regarded him with open amusement.
"Looking for someone?" he repeated. "And who, exactly, would you be looking for on my sacred mountain?"
"The Serpent Supreme," Emery answered without hesitation.
"Oh?"
One of the man's brows rose slightly.
"And what are you to Ronan?"
