The morning sun filtered through the windows of Ye Tian's hall, casting golden streaks across the polished floors. A messenger had just delivered an official summons, sealed with the mark of the patriarch of the Ye Clan. Ye Tian's sharp eyes scanned the parchment, reading each word carefully.
"The Dragon Phoenix Competition… they want me to attend," he muttered under his breath, a faint smirk forming on his lips.
Lan Yuhua and Mu Qingyao, sensing the weight of the message, stepped closer. "Husband… what is it?" Lan Yuhua asked, her hand brushing lightly against his arm.
Ye Tian turned to face them, his gaze calm yet commanding. "The patriarch has requested my presence at the Dragon Phoenix Competition. It's time we prepare for travel… together."
Mu Qingyao's brow furrowed slightly. "Do you think it's safe?"
Ye Tian chuckled softly, his hand brushing her hair behind her ear. "Safe or not, we leave as one. You and Lan Yuhua… stay close. Nothing will happen to you under my watch."
Lan Yuhua's cheeks flushed faintly. "Dear… we will follow you anywhere."
"Husband… I trust you," Mu Qingyao added, her voice steady.
At that moment, Ye Xiuying appeared at the hall's doorway, her eyes wide and glimmering with tears. "Brother… I want to come with you! I want to see the world and help you!"
Ye Tian's lips pressed into a firm line. "Xiuying… this is dangerous. You cannot come with me."
Her lower lip trembled, and her voice cracked. "But… but I want to be there! I want to learn! I'm your sister! Please… please don't leave me behind!"
Ye Tian's heart clenched at the sight of her tiny, trembling figure, her arms wrapping around herself as if shielding herself from the world. For a moment, he hesitated—something rare for him.
"Brother… I'll behave! I'll be quiet! I'll stay out of trouble! I can help… I can…" Her words spilled over in a rush, tears streaming down her face as she rambled like a child desperate to be noticed.
Ye Tian sighed, rubbing his temple. His normally cold demeanor softened ever so slightly. "Fine… you can come. But you follow my rules. Understood?"
Her face instantly lit up, cheeks flushed as she threw herself into his arms. "Yes! I promise! Thank you, brother!"
Lan Yuhua and Mu Qingyao exchanged amused glances, while Ye Tian's eyes narrowed slightly in mock exasperation. "This is going to be interesting," he muttered, allowing himself a faint smile.
Mounting his horse, the black cloak of the Ye Clan flowing behind him, Ye Tian signaled for the escort to fall in line. The disciples and guards formed a protective formation, moving with silent efficiency. Ye Xiuying climbed beside him, trying to act composed but occasionally peeking at him with an excited smile.
As the convoy departed, whispers followed them. Merchants, wandering nobles, and minor clan members noticed the calm yet overwhelming aura Ye Tian exuded. The reputation of the Nightlord—the one who devours the night—was quietly spreading across the continent.
"Dear… please be careful," Mu Qingyao whispered, riding beside him.
Ye Tian's eyes narrowed, voice low but confident. "Relax. I'm not afraid of what lies ahead. And I want everyone watching to understand… challenging me comes at a price."
The journey had begun. The Dragon Phoenix Competition awaited, and a new chapter of alliances, battles, and revelations with his wives, sister, and disciples was about to unfold.