Yuan Ming's eyes snapped to the front of the courtyard.
Three figures had appeared on the raised platform there. He hadn't seen them arrive—one moment the platform was empty; the next, they stood there as if they'd always been present.
The three elders are presiding over the selection.
The one in the center was a tall man with gaunt features and hollow eyes that seemed to peer into one's soul.
His robes were black with crimson embroidery depicting scenes of slaughter. Dark qi emanated from him in visible waves.
To his left stood a woman with silver hair and a face that might have been beautiful if not for the cruel twist of her lips.
Her fingers were elongated and claw-like, stained with what looked like dried blood.
To the right was a hunched old man who looked ancient beyond measure, his skin like withered leather stretched over bone.
Despite his frail appearance, Yuan Ming's instincts screamed danger.
All three were at least at the Golden Core realm. Possibly higher.
