Morning mist hung heavy over the sect as Ye Feng walked toward the central plaza. Whispers trailed him like hungry ghosts.
"He slapped Jin Mu, right in front of the elders…""Didn't Elder Zhen personally take Jin Mu as disciple?""He's dead. Or worse—crippled."
A disciple rushed up. "Ye Feng! Elder Zhen has summoned you to the Hall of Harmony. Now."
[System Warning: Host is being targeted by a Core Elder]Risk Level: VERY HIGHSuggested Action: Prepare slap-words, strengthen core, and stay sassy.
System: Tip of the day—Don't die. It slows down progress.
Ye Feng narrowed his eyes. "Let's see what the old fossil wants."
Hall of Harmony
The chamber was a monument to intimidation. Jade floors, dragon-carved pillars, incense strong enough to choke a wyvern.
Elder Zhen sat atop the high dais, white beard curling like mist, eyes sharp as knives.
"So," he said slowly, "you think slapping a few Inner Sect brats makes you untouchable?"
Ye Feng bowed slightly. "No. But I do enjoy the sound it makes."
A ripple of shocked gasps echoed around the gathered elders.
[Passive Triggered: Iron Face]+5 to Deadpan Resistance+10 to Disrespect Defense
Elder Zhen's aura surged like a tsunami.
"Disrespect me again, and I'll have your dantian shattered."
[System Trigger: Ego Suppression Field Detected]Countermeasure: AvailableSkill: Face of Defiance (Lv. 1) – Unlocked!
Face of Defiance (Lv. 1)
Description: When threatened by figures of authority, your body automatically maintains posture, eye contact, and low-key smirking. Increases charisma and rage factor of the opponent by 50%.
Ye Feng straightened, completely unfazed. "Then go ahead. I've been broken once. Try and see what grows back."
The room fell utterly silent.
Elder's Judgment
Elder Zhen chuckled darkly. "Very well. Then you shall face the Judgment Trial—a sect-wide challenge before the elders and disciples. One mistake, and you'll be exiled."
[System Quest Triggered: Slap the System]Mission: Survive the Trial. Humiliate at least one elite disciple. Walk out praised or feared.Reward: Evolution Core Unlock + ??? Skill FragmentPenalty: Permanent expulsion from the sect
System: Hey, I'm with you… but maybe don't die? Just this once?
Ye Feng turned. "When?"
"Three days," Elder Zhen said. "Prepare your coffin."
Ye Feng smirked. "I'll need one. For your disciple."
Updated Stats – Chapter 8
Name: Ye FengLevel: 5Reputation: 300Public Infamy: 5Flirtation Level (???): 62%Skills:– Slap Returner (Lv. 1)– Mockery Multiplier (Lv. 1)– Inferno Redirector (Lv. 1)– Crowd Conqueror (Lv. 1)– Face of Defiance (Lv. 1) (NEW)Passives:– Iron Face– Fire Immunity (Temporary)– Duelist's Grace (Lv. 1)