The Xiao Clan was unusually lively, its spacious welcoming hall, typically quiet, now bustling with activity. The room was filled with elderly men and high-ranking officials, each occupying a position akin to that of an executive. Their weathered faces bore broad smiles, evidence of the joyful occasion.
At the head of the hall sat Xiao Zhan, flanked by Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang, both of whom now held positions equal in importance to that of the Clan Leader.
To their left and right were the First, Second, and Third Elders. Traditionally, these elders would have sat beside Xiao Zhan, given their past authority and status within the clan.
However, following the elevation of Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang to the rank of Grand Elders, the three elders had voluntarily stepped back from their prior roles. Yet, their influence remained undeniable—they still possessed the power to sway key decisions affecting the Xiao Clan's future.
Xiao Hua entered the hall after being summoned by Xiao Zhan and the other elders. As he glanced around, he noted that preparations for the evening's grand celebration were already well underway. However, there was unfinished business to address before the banquet, and he understood precisely why he had been called here.
The murmurs in the hall quieted as Xiao Hua took his seat at the front, on the left side. Xiao Zhan's eyes gleamed with satisfaction and pride as he observed the young man. Xiao Hua's composed expression, devoid of any ripple of emotion, and his noble demeanor commanded respect and admiration from all present.
His temperament and demeanor were truly unlike those of others in his generation—a remarkable trait for someone his age.
Since Xiao Hua had agreed to treat Xiao Yan, Xiao Zhan's attitude toward him had become noticeably warmer, filled with a newfound kindness and respect.
"Nephew Xiao Hua, it is thanks to you that the clan has flourished so rapidly over the years. When you were younger, we believed you would grow into a man of great achievements. Now, it seems our faith in you was not misplaced," Xiao Zhan said, his tone filled with genuine pride.
Normally, the sly First Elder, along with the Second and Third Elders, would have seized the opportunity to shower Xiao Hua with praise before Xiao Zhan could even finish speaking. However, knowing that Xiao Hua was now protecting Xiao Yan, they deemed it prudent to maintain proper decorum in his presence, lest their frivolous behavior diminish his opinion of them.
"The clan's growth is the result of the collective efforts of its members. My contributions were merely small acts within my ability," Xiao Hua replied with a faint smile, leaning back in his chair. His tone was calm yet carried an air of sincerity.
His words were not mere humble pleasantries. The Dou Techniques, Qi Methods, medicinal pills, and artifacts he and his sworn brothers and sisters no longer needed had been shared with the clan, playing a significant role in its advancement.
Despite this, none of the Xiao Clan members saw it that way. To them, Xiao Hua's contributions were the cornerstone of the clan's rapid growth. Most of the Dou Techniques and Qi Methods he had provided were Xuan Class, covering a wide range of elemental affinities, which was a remarkable advantage.
Before Xiao Hua's gifts, the highest-level Dou Technique in the Xiao Clan was only a Xuan Class Middle-Level technique. Moreover, its access was highly restricted—only the Clan Head could practice it. If the Clan Head's elemental affinity didn't match the technique, it often went unused, leaving the clan's potential untapped. This situation was both limiting and unfortunate.
Now, however, the Technique Hall was brimming with Xuan Class High-Level Dou Techniques, and even a few Di-Class Low-Level Dou Techniques and Qi Methods, revolutionizing the clan's training resources.
Furthermore, the Xiao Clan had received an abundance of high-tier medicinal pills from Xiao Hua. While these pills were originally crafted by him to refine his alchemy proficiency, their effectiveness was still extraordinary, far surpassing what the clan could have obtained on their own.
With these medicinal pills, the Xiao Clan's strength had soared to unprecedented heights. They now boasted multiple Dou Wangs, Dou Lings, Da Dou Shis, and Dou Shis—a far cry from their humble past, where such power seemed unattainable.
Therefore, Xiao Zhan and the elders interpreted Xiao Hua's humility as a mark of his noble character, and they began to shower him with praise one after another.
"Hehe, even after all these years, Xiao Hua hasn't changed a bit despite his overwhelming strength!"
"Indeed, his achievements are nothing short of extraordinary, yet he carries himself without the slightest hint of arrogance. Truly admirable!"
"Humble, patient, and composed—his demeanor is as steady as a mountain, unshaken by compliments. Truly, the makings of a peerless expert!"
Xiao Hua shook his head subtly, well aware that his words had been misunderstood. He had grown used to hearing such compliments since childhood, treating them as routine and never letting them inflate his ego.
Despite their kind words, Xiao Hua wished to move the conversation forward. His gaze shifted to Xiao Zhan, his expression calm yet curious.
"Clan Head, while I have some guesses, may I know the specific reason for calling me here?"
"What you're guessing is correct, Xiao Hua." Xiao Zhan chuckled heartily, stroking his beard. He understood Xiao Hua's desire to quickly conclude the meeting but didn't take offense. They were all familiar with his aversion to formalities.
"The contributions you've made to the clan over the years are undeniable, acknowledged by all. In recognition of your unparalleled deeds, we've decided to grant you the position of Supreme Elder—a title that holds even greater authority than the Clan Leader and the two Grand Elders."
"Oh?" Xiao Hua raised an eyebrow, a faint sound of surprise escaping him. He was aware there hadn't been any position higher than Clan Leader or Grand Elder within the Xiao Clan. It was clear they had created this title specifically for him. However, part of him had anticipated being called an "Ancestor."
'Thankfully, it's not the title of Ancestor. That would have been awkward for others to address me by, especially Xiao Zhan and the elders. I'm far too young to prefer such a title.'
Amused by the development, Xiao Hua's lips curved into a faint smile. Though he found the situation unexpected, he remained indifferent about his role within the Xiao Clan.
'After all, Xiao Yan is the one destined to lead the clan in the future,' he thought to himself, silently passing the responsibility to his younger cousin without hesitation.
"Just as you suspected, we did consider giving you the title of 'Ancestor,' but given your age, it felt somewhat inappropriate," the First Elder interjected, stroking his beard with a pleased expression. "Instead, we created the title of 'Supreme Elder' for you."
The First Elder's tone carried genuine respect, though in the past, he would often pit Xiao Hua against Xiao Yan to irk Xiao Zhan. However, after it was confirmed that Xiao Yan will be personally treated by Xiao Hua, he had ceased such antics entirely.
Initially, the elders had strongly advocated for Xiao Hua to take the position of Clan Head. Despite the persistent persuasion of Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang, they remained resolute in their stance.
However, upon learning that Xiao Hua had become a tier-eight alchemist and a formidable Dou Zong, the elders reluctantly abandoned the notion. They no longer pressed Xiao Zhan to step down in favor of Xiao Hua, recognizing that someone of his caliber would likely seek to explore the wider world and carve out a legend of his own.
Their observations only reinforced this understanding. Even as they presented him with the title of Supreme Elder, Xiao Hua's expression remained as serene as still water, devoid of excitement or pride. The immense status and honor attached to the role seemed to leave him completely unfazed.
It was then that the elders finally realized the truth in Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang's words. Offering Xiao Hua the position of Supreme Elder, rather than forcing him into the role of Clan Head, was undoubtedly the correct and pragmatic choice.
Xiao Hua's calm gaze swept across the hall, noting the tension and unease in the elders' expressions. Their unspoken fear was plain: if he rejected this position, it might signify a severing of his ties with the clan, plunging them into uncertainty.
"Since this is the clan's decision, I will accept the position—for now," Xiao Hua said with a faint nod, his tone steady. His eyes narrowed slightly as he added, "But this position shouldn't require me to manage too many affairs, correct?"
Hearing Xiao Hua accept the position, the elders collectively sighed in relief. Their anxiety had been palpable, fearing not only that he might refuse the title but also that such a refusal might signal his desire to sever ties with the clan entirely.
"You need not worry," the First Elder reassured him with a smile, stroking his beard thoughtfully. "The Supreme Elder is free to decide whether or not to involve themselves in clan affairs. However, if a matter arises that truly requires your attention, we will ensure you are informed beforehand."
With that settled, the conversation shifted to more lighthearted topics, primarily the arrangements for the upcoming banquet. The atmosphere relaxed as they finalized the details.
Just as the discussion about the banquet concluded, Xiao Zhan, unable to suppress his curiosity any longer, posed a question. "By the way, Supreme Elder, I've heard rumors about the capabilities of your companions. Is it true that some of them have already reached the Dou Zong class?"
The hall fell silent, the weight of the question palpable. Several elders exchanged uneasy glances, while others nervously swallowed, their anticipation evident.
"Currently, only three of them have reached the Dou Zong class," Xiao Hua replied calmly. "However, two more are on the verge of breaking through."
A collective gasp echoed through the hall, followed by a stunned silence. The elders exchanged incredulous looks, their astonishment unhidden. If such claims had come from anyone else, they would have been dismissed as sheer nonsense.
After all, no matter how they scrutinized Xiao Hua's companions, none of them seemed to be older than thirty. And yet, three of them had already achieved the esteemed Dou Zong rank, with two more close behind. It was an extraordinary feat that defied belief, and yet, coming from Xiao Hua, it could not be doubted.
"What about the young girl in light purple? Could she possibly be a Dou Zong as well?" the Third Elder asked nervously. While they had received detailed information about Xiao Hua's other companions, there had been no mention of the girl gently cradled by Xun Er during their arrival.
"No, she is not," Xiao Hua replied with a shake of his head.
The Third Elder exhaled in visible relief. If even the light-purple-clad girl had reached the Dou Zong class, they might as well abandon cultivation altogether and take up simpler pursuits.
"However," Xiao Hua added calmly, "her strength is at least at the Dou Wang class."
"Dou Wang…" The Second Elder's cheek twitched involuntarily upon hearing this. He recalled the girl's youthful appearance—barely in her early teens—and felt an overwhelming sense of disbelief.
"She is Zi Yan," Xiao Hua explained, his tone measured. "Her background is somewhat unique, but the simplest explanation is that she was adopted by the First Elder of Jia Nan Academy. He entrusted her care to us for the time being."
The elders exchanged knowing glances, quickly discerning the unspoken warning in Xiao Hua's words. Zi Yan's true origins were evidently not meant to be openly discussed. Even so, the mere fact that she had been adopted by the esteemed First Elder of Jia Nan Academy was shocking enough to leave them speechless.
'That lass is still sleeping... Well, with the sheer amount of energy contained in those Yaowan, it's no wonder she's in such a deep slumber,' Xiao Hua mused as he thought of the little girl who had been fast asleep due to her insatiable appetite.
Since their arrival at the Xiao Clan, the girl had shown no signs of waking. He couldn't help but wonder how much longer she would remain asleep. Given the immense energy she had consumed, Xiao Hua was confident that her strength would likely soar to the Dou Huang class upon awakening.
"If that is all, Clan Head, Elders, I shall take my leave," Xiao Hua said as he stood and cupped his hands, signaling his wish to end the meeting.
"Very well. Once the banquet preparations are complete, I'll send someone to inform you," Xiao Zhan replied with a nod, officially adjourning the meeting.
Without delay, Xiao Hua exited the hall, his thoughts returning to the slumbering girl. He felt a growing concern about whether her body could handle the overwhelming energy she had unknowingly absorbed.
Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang followed closely behind him. They wished to discuss Xiao Yan's condition, knowing Xiao Hua hadn't yet had the chance to examine him. Even so, they felt it prudent to share the findings from prior examinations conducted by other alchemists.
Meanwhile, back in the hall, Xiao Zhan and the elders set to work dispatching invitation letters. They focused on contacting the forces that had attended the clan's Coming of Age Ceremony earlier that morning. Some elders even extended invitations to allies in other cities with whom the Xiao Clan maintained strong connections.
...
As evening fell, a vibrant atmosphere engulfed the Xiao Clan estate. The grounds sparkled under the glow of lanterns, and the air resonated with the joyous chatter and laughter of guests.
The estate's grand gates, which would typically be shut by this hour, stood wide open, welcoming an endless stream of visitors. The main courtyard buzzed with activity, as countless individuals from Wu Tan City and nearby regions arrived in droves, their voices filling the night.
Guests approached the gates in an orderly manner, beaming as they greeted the Xiao Clan guards. Many announced their affiliations and presented gifts in honor of the Supreme Elder's return. However, the guards, standing resolute amidst the cacophony, neither accepted gifts nor allowed entry.
Only when three distinguished members of the Xiao Clan emerged from within the gates did the guards begin their duties. With precise coordination, they started collecting the offerings, while the guests were permitted to enter the estate.
Meanwhile, the three clan members diligently recorded the names of the visitors and detailed accounts of the gifts they brought, ensuring that no act of generosity went unnoticed.
At the front of the line stood a towering, muscular man, his body marked by countless scars that told tales of countless battles. With a booming voice, he announced his affiliation and gift.
"I am Li Bai, from the White Tiger Mercenary Group of Shi Ling Cheng City! I have heard of the Supreme Elder's glorious return and have come to pay my respects. This Fourth-Grade Weapon, the Jade Liger Fang Sword, is a small token of my sincerity. Please accept it!"
His words caused a ripple of shock to spread through the crowd. A Fourth-Grade Weapon was no ordinary offering; it was a treasure that even wealthy clans from small city found difficult to obtain.
'This Li Bai is staking everything he has!'
'It seems he truly seeks the Xiao Clan's backing!'
'Still, the Xiao Clan is no longer weak. He's gambling everything just to capture their attention!'
The murmurs of astonishment grew louder as the crowd's eyes locked onto the gleaming weapon and the invitation letter handed over to the guards. The Jade Liger Fang Sword's sharp, luminous edge seemed to radiate its immense value, leaving no doubt about the sincerity of Li Bai's gesture.
After Li Bai passed through the gate, a stunning woman stepped forward, holding two exquisite jade boxes. With practiced elegance, she opened the lids, revealing a pair of sunflowers unlike any the crowd had ever seen. Their petals appeared to be forged from red flames, radiating a fierce glow, while their centers shimmered like a sea of blue fire.
"I am Mi Yue from the Thousand Herbal Garden," she said in a clear, melodious voice. "We have traveled from the neighboring Qing Liu Zhen City to pay our respects. It is said that the two Grand Elders, who share a close bond with the Supreme Elder, possess fire attributes. These are Thousand-Year Skyfire Sunflowers, treasures we have cherished for generations. I hope these humble offerings bring delight to the esteemed Grand Elders."
Her words caused an uproar among the crowd.
"Thousand-Year Skyfire Sunflowers! Can those really be what she claims?"
"And not just one, but two of them!"
"It's said that the leader of the Thousand Herbal Garden possessed two extraordinary treasures, vital for fire-affinity practitioners. So the rumors were true!"
The murmurs of awe and disbelief swept through the gathered crowd. The Thousand-Year Skyfire Sunflower was a medicinal herb, known for its immense benefits to those cultivating fire-affinity Dou Qi, especially cultivators above the Dou Ling level.
Born only at the heart of a volcano on the brink of eruption, the flowers required unimaginable courage and skill to harvest. Even if one managed to locate such a flower, it was always fiercely guarded by a Rank 5 Magical Beast or stronger.
Yet here stood Mi Yue, offering not one but two of these priceless treasures as a gesture of sincerity to the Xiao Clan.
Among the crowd, those hailing from the same city as Mi Yue recognized her instantly. Whispers and knowing glances rippled through the assembly as they grasped the true significance of this "token of sincerity."
"She's the daughter of the Thousand Herbal Garden's owner! It's clear now—this isn't just about offering a gift."
"The owner of Thousand Herbal Garden must be planning to unite her with one of the two Grand Elders!"
"Who would have thought that old schemer would target the Grand Elders instead of the Supreme Elder? Truly a cunning move!"
"Hah! That sly fox never misses a chance to strengthen his ties with influential figures."
The crowd buzzed with speculation, their hushed murmurs barely audible over the lively chatter filling the courtyard.
Despite the festive atmosphere, not everyone was allowed to enter. A strict policy enforced by the Xiao Clan members ensured that only those with official invitation letters were granted entry.
Those who arrived uninvited, no matter how prestigious their background, were politely but firmly turned away at the gates.
"Primer Clan, Primer Tengshan and Ya Fei, have come to attend the Xiao Clan's banquet for the return of Supreme Elder."
A melodious and captivating voice echoed across the courtyard, instantly drawing the attention of the gathered crowd. Heads turned, eyes searching for the source of the alluring sound, and soon their gazes fell upon two figures.
The first was an elderly man with jet-black hair streaked with silver, his serene expression exuding calm and dignity. His slightly closed eyes, framed by faint crow's feet, suggested wisdom and experience. His neatly combed-back hair shimmered faintly under the glow of the lanterns, while a single stray bang swayed gently with his measured steps, adding a touch of vitality to his composed demeanor.
However, it was the second figure that truly captivated the crowd—a stunning auburn-haired lady. Her voluptuous, alluring figure was perfectly accentuated by her attire: a form-fitting black dress adorned with intricate golden patterns.
A golden sash tightly embraced her slim waist, held in place by a black belt embellished with golden ornaments, further emphasizing her breathtaking curves. Her lightly made-up face glowed with a charming smile, her refined features radiating elegance and allure. It was evident she had taken great care in preparing for this evening, her beauty leaving an indelible impression.
As the gazes of the onlookers lingered on her exquisite figure, many felt their blood quicken and their hearts race. Awkward coughs filled the air as the crowd hastily averted their eyes, clamping their legs together in embarrassment, their flushed faces betraying their thoughts.
'Damn vixen!'
Many silently cursed in their hearts, yet their gazes stubbornly lingered on her, as if attempting to commit every detail of her enchanting figure to memory. It was clear from their expressions that once they returned home, these onlookers would indulge their imaginations, envisioning their wives or female servants as this alluring, tempting lady.
Unfazed by the heated stares directed at her, Ya Fei and Primer Tengshan walked forward with poise, handing their invitation letter to a member of the Xiao Clan. Unlike the other guests, the Primer Clan had their own residence in Wu Tan City and, therefore, would not be staying in the guest accommodations prepared by the Xiao Clan.
Once inside the Xiao Clan's estate, the maids gracefully led the way. Eventually, all the guests gathered in a spacious hall, tastefully decorated for the evening. The room was adorned with tables laden with an array of exquisite wines and delicacies, their tantalizing aromas wafting through the air.
Servants moved efficiently among the crowd, carrying trays of food and drinks. As Ya Fei entered the hall alongside Primer Tengshan, her sharp eyes quickly scanned the room. Her gaze landed on a corner where a group of familiar figures stood.
Among them, she recognized four individuals: a young lady with a delicate yet radiant appearance, a feminine yet strikingly handsome young man, a composed middle-aged man, and a young woman clad in elegant light-green robes. The last figure exuded a serene, noble aura that seamlessly complemented her refined and graceful beauty.
"Misty Cloud Sect's four major figures—Young Lady Nalan Yanran, Mr. Liu Ling, Elder Gu He, and Sect Leader Yun—have arrived earlier than I expected," Ya Fei murmured softly, her words so faint that only Primer Tengshan could hear her.
Primer Tengshan followed her gaze, his expression turning contemplative. Observing the group's stiff demeanor, he sighed wryly. "They must be feeling extremely awkward attending this celebration."
"It's unavoidable, Grandfather. Their presence here is likely an attempt to ease the bitterness caused by the annulment," Ya Fei replied with a knowing look. Primer Tengshan nodded in agreement, his gaze lingering briefly on the Misty Cloud Sect's delegation.
"Imperial Family, Crown Princess Yao has arrived!"
The servant's announcement drew everyone's attention. A young woman stepped into the hall, her luxurious gown radiating opulence and authority. Her features, delicate and refined, bore a serene smile.
Yet beneath her composed exterior lay an icy, regal aura—an unmistakable mark of her royal lineage. Her presence commanded respect, an embodiment of the majesty cultivated by the Imperial Family.
Her subtle yet captivating smile left several onlookers momentarily spellbound, their admiration evident.
"Good evening, Princess Yao Ye," Ya Fei greeted warmly, stepping forward with a graceful bow.
"Good evening, Crown Princess," Primer Tengshan added, his tone respectful.
Yao Ye nodded graciously at Ya Fei and returned her smile. "Good evening to you as well, Ms. Ya Fei," she said, before turning to Primer Tengshan. "It's a pleasure to see you again, Elder Primer."
After exchanging pleasantries, Ya Fei gestured subtly toward the Misty Cloud Sect's group, standing quietly in a corner. "Shall we greet the Misty Cloud Sect's delegation?" she suggested kindly.
Yao Ye considered the proposal and nodded. "Indeed."
Together, the trio approached the group. For Yao Ye, it was a strategic move. While she had the ability to win people over and build connections with various groups, she quickly realized that most of them were from lower ranks and lacked any ties to Jia Ma Empire's capital, Jia Ma Sacred City.
Their small, almost negligible influence was not worth her attention.
Although she acknowledged that these groups held considerable sway within their respective cities, she was unwilling to lower herself to befriend them. Their lack of influence and strength across the entirety of the Jia Ma Empire rendered them unworthy of her efforts.
Still, she made a mental note not to disregard their presence entirely. That is, if she remembers it.
As Ya Fei, Primer Tengshan, and Yao Ye reached the Misty Cloud Sect's group, polite greetings and small talk ensued. Their conversation, though cordial, exuded an air of prestige and quiet strength.
The sight of the three groups conversing caused a ripple of hesitation among the other guests. Most refrained from approaching, intimidated by their combined status and fearing the risk of causing offense. Instead, they observed from a distance, their curiosity mingled with unease.