Way of the Knights

Chapter 807: Laughing Dragon

—

What followed the succession ceremony was a grand banquet where everyone present was invited. 

The Ancient Elysium Sect didn't hold back. They took out many delicacies and liquors for everyone to enjoy. They also expressed their gratitude for the people who attended despite their busy schedules. 

It was a grand celebration, one where everyone mingled and made connections. The stars of this events are of course, other than the new generation of Ancient Elysium Sect's Pantheon with Raven at the very center. 

Currently, Raven is surrounded by people. Right next to him was his very own wife, Luna – who's happily keeping her husband company throughout these small talks. 

For those who were still doubting their relationship at this point, the simple of Luna sticking close to him was enough to prove everything. 

Luna has never been the one to initiate contact with someone. It is unknown how many people longed to touch her hand of even a finger of hers yet they were ruthlessly denied. Luna never even allowed anyone to shake her hand, not even her own servants back in the sect nor anyone she had interacted with throughout her journey in the Divine Realm. 

Those who tried to do so will provoke her ire, depending on their offense, she wouldn't hesitate to slice off their hands. This shows how much Luna loathed to be touched by people she doesn't know or care about. 

But here, everyone saw how Luna was the first one to run towards Raven the moment the ceremony ended. She was the first one to jump to his embrace and wrap Raven so tight in her embrace as if she wants to meld her body with his. 

People here witnessed just how much adoration and love her eyes held for Raven, and just how much Raven reciprocated every single act of affection he received with the same intensity. 

They were meant for each other. Their relationship is something that cannot be denied even by time itself. 

Many hearts bled at this sight but at the same time, convinced of their loss. Well, did they truly lost if they never had it in the first place? It was never – it has never been a competition. From the very start, they never stood a chance didn't they? 

And it wasn't just them though…

To think that Raven had close connections to the other geniuses – namely; Paul, Ellen, Anne and Mark, was simply astonishing. To think that they were born and raised on the same lower plane, ascended separately but still managed to find their way to the peak even without each other's ȧssistance, was a proof that they are extremely formidable on their own. 

Hell, every single one of them are now the ones leading the Divine Realm. They are the new supervisors, envoys of the Dawn Council. Their strength isn't something that should be doubted at this point. 

Really, it makes one wonder what kind of luck their world has to give birth to them. Such glory would span for eons, who wouldn't want it for themselves? 

Raven was really thankful that he can handle his liquor properly. If not, with how many people he had been introduced to and offered a toast with, he'd probably be hammered at this point. 

He wasn't a fan of wines or ales but he doesn't hate them. He prefer tea for his drinks but the occasion doesn't call for it so he could only lament silently. 

Raven endured the shameless parade of fake people trying to curry favor with him. Inwardly, he scoffed. Raven knows his worth, he knew what they wanted from him and to that, he could really only snort in disdain.

These people need to try a little bit harder if they really wanted his attention. 

That being said, Raven spotted a few people who were genuine when it comes to their approach. These people, Raven initiated a toast with. 

The gesture wasn't anything special, he didn't even say a word to them. He just nodded and shared a drink with them. It was cryptic at best but these people aren't idiots, they understand what Raven was trying to send across and judging by their reactions, they appreciated the gesture. 

"Sect Master Raven!" 

Raven's attention was caught by a jolly voice which sounded really familiar. Raven smiled and turned around, only to see a round-bellied bald man with foxlike eyes and whiskers at corners of his cheeks. 

"Laughing Dragon, it's been a hot minute. Thank you for gracing us with your presence." Raven chuckled and shook the man's hand. Raven's wife and friends also greeted him. 

This man goes by the moniker Laughing Dragon – he is a high ranking Elder and Envoy of the Oriental Dragon Group. This man is the one who personally hounded information about Raven's identity and deeds. 

He's extremely famous for his talent…his talent for smelling gossips and conspiracies from anywhere and everywhere. It was a strange talent, one could even say that it's borderline useless but Laughing Dragon used it to his advantages. He flourished after joining the Oriental Dragon Group and is now a respected member of the organization. 

"How could I possibly miss this!?" Laughing Dragon laughed out loud, "It is you we're talking about here. Of course you'll see me snooping around. That being said, I don't have to do that since you graciously sent me an invitation. I am thankful." 

Laughing Dragon clasped his hand and gave Raven a curt bow. 

Although Laughing Dragon is a famous for his work, he also got himself a notorious streak for snooping and sneaking around places he's not supposed to be in. In his defense, he just can't help it, it's in his nature and work to gather intelligence. If he followed the traditional and ethical ways, he'd be dry and unsatisfied. 

Laughing Dragon never crossed any lines though. He has a bottom-line for himself even with his insatiable thirst for chasing after gossips, this is why he was never been in anybody's blacklist. 

"Don't sweat the small details." Raven waved his hand and clasped Laughing Dragon's shoulders. Even though Laughing Dragon is older than Raven, the difference between their status was immense. Nevertheless, Raven maintained a friendly relationship with him since he has proven his worth.

"Are you enjoying yourself at least?" 

"I'm having the time of my life, Sect Master." Laughing Dragon smiled. His expression doesn't seem forced nor fake, which made Raven slightly relieved. "Such a grand event only happens once in a blue moon. It'd be a shame to not take advantage of it!"

"I see. That's good. I'm glad that your enjoying yourself." Raven nodded, "Well? Are you up for another scoop at least?" 

Raven's question caused Laughing Dragon to perk up. Raven could almost hear the gears on his brain creaking. He laughed and said: 

"Don't overthink things, Laughing Dragon. I'm just employing your services. That's of course if you want it." 

"Of course, Sect Master! Is that even a question?" Laughing Dragon replied incredulously, "I'll never get tired making reports about your work! I'll be more than happy to do so." 

"Very good. I am pleased to hear that." Raven chuckled, "We'll discuss it after the banquet. I'll inform my subordinates to prepare some lodgings for you to stay. For now, go ahead and enjoy the banquet." 

Raven raised his cup and proposed a toast to Laughing Dragon, which the later graciously accepted. After they downed their drinks, Laughing Dragon excused himself. 

"Is there any specific reason why you're fond of him?" Luna asked beside him, the rest of their friends are also looking at him for answers. 

"Well, I won't lie. He's useful." Raven chuckled, "Useful and interesting, and I mean this in a best way I can." 

"He did help us solidify our standing amongst the many experts in the Divine Realm through his work." Raven stated, "Although we will be fine without it, he saved us time by doing that. If it weren't for him, we will need to wait longer before getting everyone's acknowledgement."

"In addition to that, his intentions are clear. He isn't just currying favor, with his reputation, he doesn't need it. In fact, he was the same guy who repeatedly attempted to ruin the reputation of the previous Dawn Council."

"His reports about us might be biased but many people can see it is not. And that really helps a lot. He never asked for anything, he just wanted his curiosity sated. It's not that difficult to do that, so I don't mind letting him close." 

"His talents will serve us well in the near future, so be nice to him at least." Raven reminded them with a chuckle. 

"Well, if you say so." Luna shrugged and continued drinking her wine. 

Raven shook his head and entertained another person. Deep down, he's expecting great things from Laughing Dragon. After all, he knew that guy best out of everyone here, including Laughing Dragon himself. 

Laughing Dragon doesn't need to prove himself to Raven. There's no need for him to doubt his intentions either. He knew that Laughing Dragon is a good ally.

He has been his ally in his past life. Laughing Dragon already proved himself to be one when he refused to leave him behind to die on numerous occasions…

So really….there's no need to doubt Laughing Dragon at all.