I Am Unaware That I Am the Peerless Martial God Chapter 1466: Complete Surrender

The elders of the New Sword Sect found their gazes locked onto the numerous treasure chests situated before the main hall's entrance, unable to avert their eyes.

A considerable duration elapsed before the assembled group could shake off their astonishment. They struggled to comprehend their triumphant return from the recent conflict. Having spent the majority of their lives immersed in the martial world, the sheer volume of wealth before them was unprecedented. What was even more unimaginable was that their Sect Master had not only vanquished the Golden Saber Sect but, by all accounts, had done so with an utterly crushing and decisive victory!

For a fleeting moment, the elders were rendered utterly speechless.

The disciples' faces reflected two distinct sets of emotions. Those who had accompanied Yi Feng into the fray bore expressions of profound reverence and unrestrained excitement. Conversely, the countenances of those who had remained at the sect appeared noticeably awkward and tinged with subtlety.

Just as the entire sect was immersed in elation over their grand triumph and the ensuing spoils, a resonant burst of laughter drifted in from a distance.

"Hahaha!"

"I heard our New Sword Sect demonstrated astonishing divine power and annihilated the Golden Saber Sect. Judging by the scene, the rumors hold true!"

The voice reached them mere moments before the speaker's arrival.

Recognizing the sound of carefree laughter, many disciples eagerly turned their heads. Indeed, they beheld the Chief Protector, clad in black, soaring through the air with an expression of immense exhilaration.

"Greetings, Chief Protector!"

Witnessing the dashing young man in black approach with such confidence, the disciples offered respectful bows in succession.

The young man gestured dismissively as he advanced, a look of deep satisfaction gracing his features. He passed through the spontaneously parting crowd and proceeded directly towards the main hall's doors. Upon observing the multiple chests brimming with wealth and spiritual treasures, his grin widened considerably.

"Hahaha!"

"Such an abundance of riches and rare artifacts! We've truly struck it rich this time!"

After completing a circuit around the treasures, scrutinizing them with keen interest, he excitedly approached Yi Feng. With fists clasped together in a gesture of mock reproach, he spoke.

"Sect Master."

"You've failed to maintain your cool. How could you embark on such a wonderful endeavor as plundering wealth without waiting for me?"

Despite their exceptionally close bond, the young man accorded Yi Feng the utmost respect in the presence of others by addressing him as Sect Master.

Yi Feng responded with a smile and a reciprocal wave.

"Haha."

"It was merely a trivial matter, no need for such a grand display. Chief Protector, you've been rather occupied lately; it would be best to take a few days to recuperate."

Through their brief exchange, a complete understanding was conveyed without the need for explicit words.

The young man in black, fully comprehending Yi Feng's genuine concern and benevolent intentions, felt an indescribable warmth surge within his heart. Simultaneously, he was acutely aware of the formidable methods and cultivation Yi Feng possessed. Subduing a mere Golden Saber Sect was, in his estimation, an effortless feat.

Having fought alongside each other for years, their rapport had evolved into a flawless mutual understanding.

However, those observing from the outside, unaware of their shared history and unspoken communication, displayed expressions of sheer astonishment. The disciples' eyes shone with even greater reverence, their admiration for the dignified bearing of these two individuals intensifying with each passing moment.

"Plundering wealth?"

"As expected of our Chief Protector. To discuss the monumental task of assaulting the Golden Saber Sect with such nonchalant ease is truly humbling for us."

"The Sect Master's profundity is equally immeasurable. We disciples are utterly awestruck!"

Hearing the enthusiastic remarks from those around him, the black-clad young man's mood visibly brightened. He offered a smile, waved, and glanced back at them with an expression of gratification.

"Mm, not bad, not bad."

"Everyone performed adequately this time and did not bring disgrace upon our New Sword Sect. I am quite pleased. Should anyone dare to stir up trouble in the future, we shall utterly crush them, just as we did this time!"

"From this moment forward, this is our home!"

His words resonated with palpable vigor, exuding warmth and inspiration.

Yet, the expressions of the disciples and elders within the crowd began to shift, becoming increasingly and noticeably awkward.

As the adage goes, the speaker may have had no specific intention, but the listeners certainly took it to heart.

The Chief Protector's momentary outpouring of emotion inadvertently struck a sensitive nerve for many. Due to their internal timidity, they had remained behind at the New Sword Sect, consequently diminishing their direct contribution to this significant victory.

At this juncture, regardless of how elated the disciples who had actively participated in the battle might be, these individuals felt an equivalent measure of embarrassment and dejection.

Perceiving the subtle shifts in everyone's demeanor, Yi Feng offered a gentle smile and addressed the assembly.

"Everyone."

"Today marks a momentous occasion of great celebration for our New Sword Sect. In this decisive battle to eradicate the Golden Saber Sect, each of you has exerted considerable effort and earned significant merit. Consequently, we shall now proceed with the equitable distribution of rewards commensurate with your contributions!"

As these declarations were made, the disciples who had engaged in battle felt an even greater surge of excitement, while a subtle hint of regret flickered in the eyes of those disciples and elders who had remained behind!

Before the assembled crowd.

Yi Feng commenced speaking in a resonant tone.

"All disciples who personally accompanied the sect to the Golden Saber Sect engagement, please step forward!"

Upon his command, thirty to forty individuals eagerly moved to the front, their gazes alight with mounting anticipation.

Subsequently, Yi Feng offered a slight smile and proclaimed with hearty enthusiasm.

"Your courageous exploits and significant contributions to our sect have been duly noted. Effective immediately, all of you shall be elevated to the status of inner sect disciples. Furthermore, each of you will be bestowed with twenty taels of silver and three spirit stones!"

Whoosh!

These words ignited a wave of commotion throughout the square!

The disciples who had participated in the conflict were already overcome with exhilaration, expressing their profound gratitude with resounding bows, as if their adrenaline had reached its peak!

"We are deeply thankful for your generous rewards, Sect Master!"

"This disciple pledges to serve the sect with utmost dedication in the future, striving to meet your high expectations and to face any peril without hesitation!"

This exceptionally bountiful reward instantly electrified the atmosphere within the square. The involved disciples had never fathomed the Sect Master would be so magnanimous. Twenty taels of silver alone was a substantial sum, let alone the coveted position of an inner sect disciple!

Even more invaluable was the Sect Master's gracious conferral of three spirit stones!

Within the fiercely competitive environment of the Yandang Mountains, spirit stones were exceedingly rare commodities. Disciples of common, smaller sects might not acquire even a single one over half a year.

They had truly stumbled upon immense fortune this time!

Not only was the Sect Master's cultivation prodigious, capable of vanquishing even the formidable Golden Saber Sect, but he also possessed such unparalleled generosity, readily distributing benefits when they arose!

One could scour most of the Yandang Mountains and never find a sect as benevolent!

Given such extraordinary opportunities, who would hesitate to risk their very lives in service?

In that singular moment, the morale of the participating disciples surged to unprecedented heights, their loyalty solidifying far beyond its previous measure. Nearly every heart resolved that they were, in life, disciples of the New Sword Sect, and in death, spirits bound to the New Sword Sect!

Observing the triumphant disciples forming an orderly line to receive their rewards, each countenance beaming with unadulterated joy as they clutched their silver and spirit stones, the remaining disciples' faces contorted with emerald envy, their spirits twisting with profound regret!

Even the few elders tasked with the distribution of the wealth could not suppress a furtive swallow, shedding silent tears in their hearts.

Had they foreseen such an outcome, they would have gambled everything back then!

At this precise juncture.

Many were reminded of the Sect Master's earlier command, the vivid scene of stepping forward to join the fray replaying in their minds. It was only now that they grasped the potential significance of that moment, possibly the most pivotal decision of their lives.

Alas, that opportunity had already slipped through their fingers.

Following the distribution of wealth, a considerable seven to eight full chests of treasures still remained before the main hall. Despite their presence, no one dared to harbor any covetous thoughts; all waited with quiet deference for Yi Feng's further directives.

Under the observation of the gathered multitude.

Yi Feng's expression adopted a grave demeanor, his gaze subtly sweeping towards the elders who had previously advocated for surrender.

"Esteemed Elders."

"You were once pillars of the Dangjian Sect and have only recently joined our ranks. It is understandable to harbor occasional selfish inclinations, a sentiment I have never held against you. However, during a period of existential crisis for our sect, rather than contemplating how to contribute, you persistently clamored for appeasement from the Golden Saber Sect. You have truly fallen short of my expectations!"

As his deep pronouncements reverberated, the elders were struck with such fear that they swiftly lowered their heads and prostrated themselves on the ground.

"Sect Master, we implore your forgiveness..."

Both logically and emotionally, Yi Feng's words were irrefutable. Conscious of their transgression, they dared not offer any defense. The other disciples who had also remained within the sect, though not singled out by Yi Feng, knelt on the ground with expressions of deep shame, awaiting judgment.

After a few moments of silence, Yi Feng surveyed the kneeling figures and declared with solemnity.

"You have failed to meet the sect's expectations by abstaining from the battle. While I shall spare you the ultimate penalty, the consequence of your actions is unavoidable."

"Henceforth, the elders shall face a deduction of three years' worth of salary and will retain their positions as outer sect elders, dedicating themselves to reflection upon their errors. The remaining disciples will also continue their service in the outer sect. It is my hope that you will learn from this experience, cultivate self-awareness, and develop courage after becoming acquainted with shame."

Upon hearing this decree, the assembled crowd bowed repeatedly in profound and absolute submission.

"We thank you for your magnanimous leniency, Sect Master!"

The Sect Master shows great magnanimity; we are deeply ashamed!

We pledge to turn over a new leaf and bring great honor to the sect!

A significant portion of these elders and disciples were formerly part of the Dangjian Sect. While their cultivation levels and moral character might have been somewhat lacking, years spent at the lower rungs of the hierarchy had honed their judgment and self-awareness considerably.

Desertion during battle is a serious offense. Yi Feng's decision to merely demote them to outer court disciples was already an act of immense kindness. Now that the New Sword Sect had successfully overcome the Golden Saber Sect, its rapid ascent was inevitable. Only a fool would even contemplate departure!

At such a crucial juncture, Yi Feng had offered them a chance. This supposed punishment was, in truth, a profound grace.

Outside the main hall of the New Sword Sect, fervent shouts of gratitude and the sounds of prostration continued without end, fostering an ever-increasing unity within the sect.

Observing that matters were proceeding smoothly, Yi Feng addressed them again.

With rewards and punishments duly administered, and as nightfall approaches, let us seize this auspicious day for our New Sword Sect and host a grand banquet to celebrate! All members of the sect shall partake in the joy of this occasion!

Upon hearing these words, the elders and disciples who had previously faltered in battle were filled with overwhelming gratitude towards Yi Feng, bowing their heads repeatedly in profound respect.

Before the grand hall.

The bowing figures created a spectacle like rolling waves, and their joyous clamor resonated like the thunder of spring!

The Sect Master is wise!

The Sect Master is wise!

The Sect Master is wise!

From the highest to the lowest ranks, the entire New Sword Sect had unequivocally submitted to Yi Feng. If their initial awe stemmed primarily from the formidable cultivation bases of Yi Feng and the Chief Protector, their current reverence originated from the depths of their hearts.

Yi Feng's profound cultivation, coupled with his benevolent and impartial governance, and his clear-cut approach to rewards and punishments, had utterly reshaped the New Sword Sect. The sect was now alive with excitement and pleasant surprise.

Gazing at the highly esteemed figure, the young man in black stood to the side, a smile gracing his eyes, quietly savoring the night's contentment. As the banquet commenced, indulging in hearty drinking and celebratory toasts filled him with profound exhilaration.

For a time, joyous laughter filled the grand hall of the New Sword Sect, etching itself into the memories of many as a most beautiful moment.

Devouring large portions of meat and quaffing wine from hefty bowls.

Life offered no greater delight than this.