As always, the silence after Bi De resumed his true form was heavy. Eyes were wide, mouths were open, and some had even recoiled. Bi De said nothing, letting them recover, but one man spoke before the others. “Your plumage is more radiant than ever, Bi De,” Cai Xi Kong said, raising his own wine cup in salute. Bi De smiled. “Thank you, Sect Master Xi Kong. It is good that we are sharing a drink again; and I dare say we are overdue for another round of go.” “It would be a pleasure,” Xi Kong said. “Our discussion last time was enlightening.” Their casual conversation blew away the shocked silence, and some of the Elders started shifting on their cushions. Now, Bi De could see it in their eyes; they were rationalizing his existence. A chicken, who surpassed them. They were searching for a reason, to salvage their pride. Elder Xinling was still staring at him, her eyes shifting back and forth in abject confusion. He heard her muttering “He's a bird, how's he still handsome as a bird?” under her breath. On Gang was staring at Bi De like he was a ghost. “This is your true form?” Baatar of the Grand Ravine asked after a moment. His eyebrows were high on his forehead, but he had calmed himself. Now, he just looked interested. “Indeed. I am no legendary phoenix, nor vermillion bird. I am but a humble rooster. I do believe many of you met me the last time we were at the Dueling Peaks; I was oft perched (...)