Shaurya sat upon the grand throne of the Sanatan Flame Sect, one fist resting beneath his chin as he gazed down at the newly recruited bandits.
The vast hall was silent.
Even Jian Fan, a man who once ruled the mountains as a feared bandit lord, felt an invisible pressure beneath Shaurya's calm gaze.
This was no ordinary young master.
This was a Sect Leader.
Jian Fan stood there awkwardly, his bandits lined up behind him.
Shaurya spoke in a deep, commanding voice.
"I'm glad you accepted my offer."
Jian Fan closed his eyes briefly, his fists clenching.
"It's best for me and my team," he replied. "Also… I lost the bet. I am a man of my word, so I have no other choice."
Shaurya's lips curled into a confident smile.
"Oh, come now. I promise you, you'll never regret this decision."
Jian Fan hesitated but finally bowed his head. His men followed suit, lowering themselves respectfully before Shaurya.
"From today onward," Shaurya declared, his voice echoing through the hall,
