[Three Days Later]

The disciples and elders of Heavenly Dragon Cliff stood ready, prepared to set out at a moment’s notice.

But why the three-day wait?

The reason was simple.

First, as the conflict originated with Sect Master Bu Haoyan, it was imperative for him to lead the charge.

However, his injuries—particularly the swelling on his face—wouldn’t heal overnight.

It was only proper to give him time to recover and present himself with dignity.

Second, Grand Elder Zu Xuzhong, humiliated by the incident with the communication stone, had declared his intention to stand with Bu Haoyan in opposing Zhaomo Pass.

But some elders and disciples still harbored deep reluctance.

Zhaomo Pass was infamous for its ferocity.

For Heavenly Dragon Cliff to seek revenge against them seemed like an act of suicide.

Many didn’t want to throw their lives away.

This was when Ye Yu stepped in.

To rally the hesitant, Ye Yu began with a show of solidarity.

He displayed footage captured by a recording stone of Bu Haoyan’s grievous injuries, eliciting waves of sympathy from the crowd.

Next, he emphasized the core principles of the demonic path: loyalty and gratitude.

“As demonic cultivators, we cannot forget our duty to those who have protected us.

Your sect shields your name and ensures your safety in the cultivation world.

If we allow the humiliation of our sect master to go unanswered, what will people think of Heavenly Dragon Cliff?

This isn’t just a slap in the face to Bu Haoyan—it’s a slap to every one of you!”

Once their anger was stoked, Ye Yu painted a vision of the glory to come.

“Imagine this: Heavenly Dragon Cliff, the number one sect under Demon Lord Bai Xichu’s domain!

A title so glorious, you’ll walk with heads held high wherever you go.”

Through a calculated mix of provocation and inspiration, Ye Yu fully ignited their fighting spirit.

Outside the grand hall of Heavenly Dragon Cliff, the gathered disciples and elders stood in high spirits, ready for war.

Bu Haoyan, standing on the highest platform, was overwhelmed with emotion.

Since taking over Heavenly Dragon Cliff, this was the first time he had seen such unity among his sect members.

But he didn’t let the moment go to his head.

He knew this was all thanks to Ye Yu.

Casting a grateful glance at Ye Yu, Bu Haoyan stepped back and said in a solemn voice, “Before we depart, let’s have Elder Ye say a few words!”

Ye Yu, who had been resting with his eyes closed, was startled.

Opening his eyes, he found every gaze in the crowd fixed on him.

What the hell is this? Ye Yu thought, bewildered.

Through voice transmission, he asked, Sect Master, what are you doing? Didn’t we agree you’d speak, and then we’d head out?

Bu Haoyan responded with heartfelt sincerity: *I’ve thought it through. This unity, this resolve—it’s all your doing.

Without you, I wouldn’t have had the courage to take this step.

You are my lucky star, Ye Yu, and the lucky star of Heavenly Dragon Cliff.

You must say something!*

Before Ye Yu could protest, Bu Haoyan dragged him to the forefront.

The sudden gesture made the elders’ expressions shift to confusion.

Ye Yu had only joined Heavenly Dragon Cliff a few days ago.

His cultivation level, at late Soul Formation, merely qualified him as an elder.

While his recent motivational efforts were commendable, what else had he done to warrant this spotlight?

For Bu Haoyan to personally invite him forward—this was unprecedented.

What about Grand Elder Zu Xuzhong, the sect’s cornerstone? Was this some scheme to elevate a new favorite over the old guard?

The elders cast wary glances at Zu Xuzhong, expecting a reaction.

To their surprise, Zu Xuzhong sat motionless, his eyes closed as if asleep.

Several elders sent frantic voice transmissions.

Brother, now’s the time to speak up!

But Zu Xuzhong remained unresponsive, leaving them increasingly anxious.

Facing the crowd of demon cultivators, Ye Yu felt his latent trypophobia start to stir.

So many horns… everywhere…

Exhaling deeply, he steadied himself.

Fortunately, his dream-world experiences as an emperor gave him the confidence for public speaking.

Ye Yu spoke with commanding clarity.

“The sect master has asked me to say a few words, but I don’t have much to add.

So let’s get practical.

Kill a disciple of Zhaomo Pass? 50 demonic crystals!

Kill an elder? You’ll receive a magical artifact!

Take down Zhaomo Pass? Whatever you want, the sect master will make it happen!”

His speech was simple and direct, echoing tactics he’d employed in the Dayong Dynasty.

When in doubt, promise rewards!

“No delays. No excuses. If you’re strong enough to earn it, you’ll get it!”

With that, Ye Yu glanced at Bu Haoyan, signaling him to affirm the offer.

Bu Haoyan, catching on, announced in a booming voice, “Yes! Everything Elder Ye has promised, I fully support!”

The rewards Ye Yu had proposed were exorbitant, but Bu Haoyan was willing to splurge to crush Zhaomo Pass.

The crowd erupted into cheers.

The prospect of tangible rewards—demonic crystals and magical artifacts—was unprecedented.

Previously, even verbal praise had been rare.

Now, they had a chance to be rewarded handsomely for their efforts.

Even the elders, lured by the mention of magical artifacts, felt their enthusiasm rise.

The battle cries grew louder.

Ye Yu raised his voice above the din: “For Heavenly Dragon Cliff—move out!”

The crowd surged into the air, streaks of light flying outward in a spectacular display.

Bu Haoyan stood silently, watching with a smile.

Then, he frowned slightly.

Wait a minute… wasn’t I supposed to lead the charge after giving my speech?

Looking at the empty platform, he sighed in regret.

Damn it. Ye Yu’s done so much already, and I’m here worrying about this?

I have no shame…