It was a thin old man with silver hair, dressed in a robe dotted with stars.

There seemed to be nebulas in the depths of his pupils, as if countless stars were moving within them, following certain tracks.

Nie Tian, who was new to this place, bowed respectfully and said, “My name is Nie Tian. I’m from the Realm of Flame Heaven in the Domain of the Falling Stars, and I gathered the fragmentary star marks during the Heaven Gate trial.”

The old man gave a warm smile. “Nie Tian… My name is Wei Lai, and I’m one of the elders of the Ancient Fragmentary Star Palace. You took your time finishing your path of stars... Those before you who passed Heaven Gate trials and gained fragmentary star marks either died on their way, or finished their path of stars far sooner than you did.

“Judging from the time it took you to get here, your cultivation talent must not be impressive, or mediocre if you don’t mind me saying.”

Sagging his head, Nie Tian said, “Please forgive me for being slow-witted.”

Wei Lai waved, signaling Nie Tian not to worry. “That’s actually not...