Chapter 286: Chapter 286 Heritage
Everyone’s tone was solemn, but filled with conviction.
There was no need for further explanation.
Riley’s actions had spoken louder than any words could.
He had earned not just their respect, but their admiration.
With the full support of the clan matriarch and the unanimous agreement of the elders, it was clear—Riley would have an exceptionally smooth and privileged time within the Raven Clan.
Every door was open to him, and every resource available at his fingertips.
It was not just hospitality—it was honor.
***
Riley spent a full month in the Raven Clan, and in that time, the once-feared outsider had become something of a living legend among the people.
His name was spoken with reverence, not just for his strength, but for his humility, his wisdom, and the countless blessings he had brought with him.
The disciples vied for a chance to glimpse him during their daily training.
The elders quietly acknowledged his presence with the kind of respect reserved for only the greatest cultivators.
The younger generation even began mimicking how he walked, eager to walk in his footsteps.
The land seemed more vibrant in his presence.
The spiritual energy flowed more freely, and some even claimed that the clan’s ancestral grounds had subtly responded to his aura—awakening dormant formations and energizing ancient ley lines.
To say Riley was well received would be an understatement.
He had, without trying, become an integral part of the Raven Clan’s daily rhythm.
But all peaceful moments must eventually give way to change.
One calm morning, with mist still blanketing the mountaintops and the scent of blooming spirit flowers carried gently by the wind, Evangeline came to see him.
She arrived quietly, her robes as elegant as ever—dark violet silk lined with gold, embroidered with the raven insignia of her clan.
A soft breeze toyed with her long black hair, and her presence brought a quiet stillness to the courtyard where Riley sat sipping tea.
"Master Riley," she greeted, bowing slightly. Her voice was as refined as ever, but there was something more casual in her tone now, something warmer.
"Forgive the interruption. I hope I’m not disturbing your morning."
"Not at all," Riley replied, placing his cup down with a smile.
"You’re always welcome, Evangeline."
She smiled faintly and stepped closer.
"My husband has finally emerged from his secluded cultivation. After hearing everything you’ve done for the clan, he’s expressed a strong desire to meet you. If you have the time, he would be honored to host you."
Riley leaned back slightly, intrigued.
"So, the elusive patriarch of the Raven Clan has finally made his appearance." He looked at her with mild amusement.
"I’d be glad to meet the man who captured your heart, Evangeline. He must be someone truly remarkable."
Evangeline blinked, clearly surprised by his words.
For a brief second, her polished demeanor slipped.
A soft blush colored her cheeks—just a hint, but it was there.
She lowered her eyes, composing herself.
"You flatter me, Master Riley," she said softly. "I’m not so special. There are countless women in the immortal realm more radiant, more powerful."
Riley tilted his head slightly. "Beauty is not just in appearance. It’s in strength, grace, wisdom... and the way a person carries the weight of her responsibilities without breaking."
Evangeline’s breath caught in her throat. It had been so long—so painfully long—since anyone had spoken to her like that.
Most men either feared her, revered her status, or simply kept their distance.
Even her husband, though strong and wise, had spent most of their marriage in seclusion, chasing greater power and strength.
She gave a small, embarrassed laugh, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.
"It’s been quite a while since anyone said something like that to me."
"Well," Riley said, his smile gentle, "perhaps it’s something you should hear more often."
A silence lingered between them. Not uncomfortable—but thick with something unspoken.
Evangeline’s eyes met his, and for a brief heartbeat, time seemed to pause.
Then, as if catching herself, she straightened her posture and cleared her throat.
"In any case, I’ll inform him of your willingness to meet. He will no doubt be pleased."
Riley nodded. "Just send word when he’s ready. I’ll come."
Evangeline gave him a final bow, her movements as graceful as flowing water, and turned to leave.
But as she walked away, something in her heart stirred.
She didn’t show it on her face, but for the first time in ages, she felt... noticed.
Not as a matriarch. Not as a powerful cultivator. But as a woman.
And as she disappeared beyond the courtyard walls, the faint blush still clinging to her cheeks, Riley took another sip of tea, eyes drifting toward the sky.
***
An hour later, Riley stood at the entrance to one of the Raven Clan’s ancestral halls, guided by an attendant clad in black and silver robes.
The hall was vast and ancient, built from polished obsidian and deep-blue spirit jade that shimmered faintly under the gentle illumination of floating lanterns.
The floor bore an intricate circular sigil—an ancient formation older than the clan itself—glowing faintly beneath his feet.
From the inner sanctum, a figure approached, his footsteps calm, measured, and filled with confidence.
The moment he stepped into view, Riley’s eyes narrowed slightly with interest.
The man before him was tall and striking, with long flowing black hair that reached his waist, tied loosely with a band of golden silk.
His facial features were sharp and symmetrical, like a finely carved sculpture.
But what drew Riley’s attention most was the uncanny resemblance to Ruby.
If Ruby was a delicate blossom, this man was the towering tree—steadfast and commanding.
His golden robes, adorned with embroidered phoenixes and ancient runes, gave him an air of nobility that rivaled any emperor Riley had seen.
Yet beyond his appearance was the weight of his cultivation.
The air around him subtly distorted as he walked, space folding gently in acknowledgment of his presence.
He was a True Immortal—of that there was no doubt—but there was something deeper.
A quiet strength.
A stillness that only those who had tempered themselves through endless tribulations could achieve.
"Welcome to my home, Fellow Daoist Riley," the man said as he came to a stop.
His voice was smooth and dignified, the kind that could command armies or quiet a hall with a whisper.
He cupped his fists and gave a formal bow.
"I am Lance Raven. It is my absolute pleasure to finally meet you."
Riley smiled and returned the gesture without hesitation.
"The pleasure is mine, Fellow Daoist Lance. I’ve heard of your strength, but your presence exceeds even the rumors. It’s an honor."
Lance’s eyes flashed with amusement. "Coming from you, that’s high praise indeed. Please—come. I’ve prepared a feast in your honor. I know the clan has already held celebrations in your name, but I hope you’ll indulge me with one more."
Riley chuckled lightly. "One can never have too many feasts. And when it’s hosted by the patriarch himself, how could I refuse? I’m honored by your hospitality."
Lance gestured gracefully, and the obsidian doors behind him opened with a low, resonant hum.
Riley followed him into the inner courtyard, where a breathtaking scene unfolded before him.
The Raven Clan had spared no expense.
The courtyard was transformed into a celestial banquet hall.
Hundreds of floating crystal lanterns drifted in the air, casting a soft golden glow over jade tables laden with delicacies from every corner of the immortal world.
Roasted spirit beasts, radiant fruits imbued with natural qi, and wines so pure they shimmered like liquid starlight were just the beginning.
A celestial stream ran down the center of the hall, its waters singing softly as spirit koi leapt from it in glowing arcs.
Elegant dancers performed atop floating lotus platforms, their movements perfectly synchronized with the haunting melodies of the zither, flute, and guqin.
The guests—elders, branch leaders, and envoys from allied sects—rose and bowed respectfully as Riley entered.
He returned the gesture with modest grace before being led to the seat of honor beside Lance and Evangeline at the head table.
As the feast commenced, Riley found himself bombarded with toasts, praises, and eager questions.
He accepted them all with quiet dignity, exchanging words of wisdom and humorous anecdotes.
Despite the lavish setting, the atmosphere was warm, even intimate.
For many in the Raven Clan, it was their first time interacting so closely with a figure of Riley’s stature—and he made himself approachable.
Lance, seated beside him, proved to be a charming host.
He asked insightful questions, spoke with calm authority, and occasionally exchanged knowing glances with Evangeline, who sat on his other side.
Riley’s wives were of course present on the occasion also.
During a quiet moment in the evening, after the main course had been cleared and the music had softened, Lance leaned closer to Riley.
"My wife speaks highly of you and has spoken a lot of things about you, fellow daoist," he said, voice low and thoughtful.