Chapter 170: Xiao Zhan Delivers the Ancient Emperor Jade
Outside the Capital of the Jia Ma Empire
After Yao Chen revealed himself during the escape from Yunlan Sect and fearing possible pursuit, he remained outside the Bone Flame Ring. Xiao Yan glanced at Hai Bodong, who was visibly recovering from his injuries, and said gratefully:
"Elder Hai, thank you so much for helping us. However, you've offended Yunlan Sect. Knowing Yun Shan's temperament, I fear he'll retaliate against you. Why not come with us?"
Hai Bodong chuckled and shook his head.
"No need. While offending Yunlan Sect has surely enraged Yun Shan, don't forget he fears the Tianji Tower. Ya Fei has already joined Tianji Tower. Even if she harbors resentment, the Tower's branch here won't sit idly by if the Mittel Clan is attacked. Yun Shan won't dare to take that gamble, so I'll be safe here."
Xiao Yan considered this and nodded. He realized Hai Bodong had a point. As a member of the Mittel Clan and now Vice Branch Leader of Tianji Tower, Ya Fei's position alone was enough to deter Yunlan Sect from acting recklessly.
"Very well. Then we'll part ways here. I'll make sure to bring you the promised pills the next time I return to the Jia Ma Empire."
Hai Bodong nodded, offering a final reminder:
"The road ahead is long, and the Black Corner Region is notoriously chaotic. It's a land of slaughter where only the strong survive. Be cautious. Still, with your teacher protecting you, I don't expect you'll face too much trouble. Farewell, Xiao Yan!"
Before Xiao Yan could reply, Hai Bodong unfurled his wings of Dou Qi and took off toward the capital, disappearing into the distance.
Watching him leave, Xiao Yan respectfully bowed. Turning to Yao Chen, he grinned sheepishly, his face betraying relief at their narrow escape.
"Heh heh, Teacher, we made it out alive!"
Yao Chen smiled faintly but quickly grew serious.
"This time, we were fortunate. But Xiao Yan, don't let your emotions guide you so recklessly in the future. Life is precious cherish it."
Xiao Yan nodded, his expression becoming solemn.
"I understand, Teacher. By the way, care to explain how you came to possess something as valuable as the Tianji Token? When we spoke of Tianji Tower earlier, you didn't say a word!"
Seeing Xiao Yan's curiosity, Yao Chen sighed softly.
"It's not that I didn't want to tell you, but you're too weak to handle such knowledge right now. Knowing too much won't benefit you. In due time, I'll explain everything."
Changing the subject, Yao Chen added:
"Also, regarding your family, I don't think you need to worry too much. From your exchange with Yun Shan, it's clear he knows more than he let on but was constrained from speaking freely. Your family's disappearance doesn't seem to be his doing."
Xiao Yan frowned in confusion, prompting Yao Chen to elaborate.
"Yun Shan likely avoided answering directly because others were present. For the sake of Yunlan Sect's reputation, he couldn't reveal anything in that moment. As for Yun Leng and the others, their deaths likely stemmed from their attempt to seek vengeance on your family. Since your family lacks the strength to kill them, another powerful party must have intervened."
"Another group?" Xiao Yan muttered.
Yao Chen nodded.
"Judging by the wounds on Yun Leng's corpse, the assailants were at least of the Dou Zong level. Given that they chose to capture rather than kill your family, I'm inclined to believe your loved ones are safe for now."
Hearing this, Xiao Yan felt a wave of relief. As long as his family was alive, he could search for them.
"Teacher, I'll find them one day no matter what it takes," Xiao Yan vowed, clenching his fists.
"You will," Yao Chen reassured him. "Now, let's get moving. To reach Jia Nan Academy, we'll need to pass through the Black Corner Region. The journey will take some time."
At the Tianji Tower Branch in Jia Ma Empire
On the top floor of the branch, Xiao Tianming listened as Wang Chao finished his report. Nodding, he waved him away and sent word back to headquarters. Then, he returned to sipping his wine, staring absently into the distance.
Back at Yunlan Sect
In the ruined grand hall, Yun Shan sat on the damaged throne, his face twisted in anger. The hall's shattered state mirrored the humiliation burning within him. What was supposed to be an easy victory had turned into an embarrassing failure. Not only had Yunlan Sect lost face in front of the empire's strongest, but Yun Shan himself had been bested by Xiao Yan and forced to retreat due to the Tianji Token.
"Damn that Tianji Tower!" Yun Shan roared, slamming his fist onto the armrest.
His hatred for Xiao Yan burned even brighter. If not for the Tianji Token, Yun Shan would have captured Xiao Yan and seized his Heavenly Flames. Instead, Yunlan Sect had suffered a crushing humiliation.
Standing nearby, Yun Yun looked troubled. Though she was pained by the sect's loss of face, part of her was relieved that Xiao Yan had escaped safely.
Turning to Yun Yun, Yun Shan growled:
"Yun'er, erase Yun Leng and the others from the sect's records. Expel their families as well. Someone must take the fall for this disgrace. Additionally, Xiao Yan is a growing threat. His rapid rise from a 'good for nothing' to a four star Dou Shi with terrifying skills is alarming. If left unchecked, he'll become our sect's greatest enemy. The next time you meet him, show no mercy!"
Yun Yun's heart sank. She had deliberately held back during their encounter, but Yun Shan had clearly noticed.
"Yes, Teacher," Yun Yun replied softly, bowing her head.
Yun Shan sighed heavily but continued:
**"We also need to deal with Tianji Tower. As long as they operate here, Yunlan Sect will struggle to dominate the Jia Ma Empire. Assign someone to infiltrate their branch. I want to know why an organization based in Zhongzhou has established a presence here in such a remote area.
For now, I'll enter seclusion to recover. While I'm away, ensure the sect remains stable. Do not let this humiliation embolden our enemies."**
"Understood, Teacher," Yun Yun replied, her heart heavy with guilt and conflicted loyalties.
Yunlan Sect, Main Hall
After speaking, Yun Shan stood and took a step forward, vanishing from the hall. Yun Yun bowed respectfully, then glanced at the silent Nalan Yanran beside her. With a sigh, she said:
"Yanran, there's no need to blame yourself. This matter has nothing to do with you. Take a few days to rest at home. Once you've recovered, I'll take you to the Gate of Life and Death."
"Yes, Teacher."
In Zhongzhou, Tianwaitian
After finishing his meal, Xiao Tianchen dismissed Huai'en and Gu Yue. Shortly after they left, Xiao Bieli hurried in and bowed respectfully.
"Patriarch, Xiao Zhan is outside requesting an audience. He claims to have an important treasure to present."
"An important treasure?" Xiao Tianchen murmured. He had a good idea of what it might be likely the Ancient Emperor Jade of Tuoshe.
"Very well, let him in."
Xiao Tianchen gestured for Xiao Bieli to bring Xiao Zhan in.
Moments later, Xiao Bieli led Xiao Zhan to the ninth floor. After bowing in greeting, Xiao Bieli left.
Xiao Zhan, feeling a mixture of nervousness and awe, stole a glance at Xiao Tianchen. The more he learned about the Xiao Clan, the more astonished he became. Knowing the man before him was one of the most powerful figures on the Dou Qi Continent, Xiao Zhan felt his heart tremble.
"Xiao Zhan greets the Patriarch!"
"No need for such formality. Sit down."
Noticing Xiao Zhan's slight trembling, Xiao Tianchen smiled warmly, his tone intentionally kind.
"Thank you, Patriarch."
As Xiao Zhan sat, Xiao Tianchen spoke with a gentle smile.
"There's no need to be nervous. While this is your first time meeting me, I've seen you several times before though I didn't make my presence known."
"The Patriarch has visited Wu Tan City?" Xiao Zhan asked in surprise.
**"Yes, twice. The first was during Xiao Yan's withdrawal of the engagement by the Nalan Clan girl. The second was when Gu Lie from the Gu Clan went to Wu Tan City.
Although your branch left the Xiao Clan over a thousand years ago, you've always remained part of the family. Over the years, the clan has quietly helped you through several crises.
Now that you've returned, focus on settling into life within the clan. If you need anything, speak to Elder Xiao Chun, or consult Elders Xiao De and Xiao Xian. They're all members of the Xiao Clan there's no need to feel distant.
Also, try to build good relationships with other clan members. If anyone bullies you, don't hesitate to contact the Dragon Vanguard Army or the Enforcement Hall."**
Xiao Tianchen's gentle smile and thoughtful advice left a positive impression on Xiao Zhan. If not for his low strength, Xiao Tianchen might even have considered elevating him further.
"Thank you for your care, Patriarch. I've come today to return the ancient jade passed down in our branch of the family."
Xiao Zhan took a jade piece from his storage ring and presented it with both hands.
"This jade has been passed down as a symbol of leadership within our family. Now that we've returned, it's only right to give it back to the clan."
When Xiao Tianchen saw the jade, confirming it was indeed the Ancient Emperor Jade of Tuoshe, he nodded. Without hesitation, he waved his hand, and the jade flew into his palm.
**"Good. I'll accept this. Your branch has been outside the main clan for many years and lacked advanced Dou Techniques and cultivation methods. After you return, you and your people may go to the clan library to select suitable techniques.
On the Dou Qi Continent, strength reigns supreme. Now that you've rejoined the Xiao Clan, work hard to strengthen yourselves. Strive to contribute to the family as soon as possible."**
"Thank you, Patriarch. Xiao Zhan takes his leave."
After bowing respectfully, Xiao Zhan left.
Once Xiao Zhan was gone, Xiao Tianchen sent a mental command to Xiao Bieli.
"Bieli, summon Elder Xiao Wu to see me."
Not long after, Xiao Wu arrived. After a formal greeting, Xiao Tianchen casually tossed him the Ancient Emperor Jade and gave an order.
"Elder Wu, go to the Jia Ma Empire in the northwest and deliver this jade to Tianming. Have him find an opportunity to pass it on to Xiao Yan."
Xiao Wu looked at the jade in his hand, recognizing it instantly.
"Patriarch, this is the Ancient Emperor Jade of Tuoshe, our clan's most treasured heirloom. Are you certain about this?"
Before he could finish, Xiao Tianchen waved dismissively and smiled.
"No need to worry. While it's precious, it's not irreplaceable. Just deliver it to Tianming as instructed."
After a brief pause, Xiao Wu bowed.
"Understood. Since the Patriarch has made his decision, I won't question it further."
With that, Xiao Wu took his leave.
Not long after Xiao Wu left, a figure darted through the window, landing lightly on the table before grabbing a spirit fruit.
"Mmm, not bad! This tastes great!"
Watching the mischievous figure happily munch away, Xiao Tianchen smiled.
"Qing Lian, where are you coming back from this time?"
The childlike figure grinned cheekily.
**"Hehe, Patriarch, I just returned from the Beast Region. I heard from Brother Xiao Qing about a hidden realm left behind by the Demon Sage of the Purifying Lotus. I went to take a look, but I couldn't enter.
Later, I heard there was some fun to be had in the Beast Region. With Ling Yun and Min'er reigning as kings over there, I decided to join the fun for a bit. It was enjoyable but got boring after a few days, so I came back."**
Amused, Xiao Tianchen handed Qing Lian another spirit fruit.
"I see. Did you notice anything unusual about Ling Yun or Min'er while you were there?"
"Hmm…" Qing Lian tilted his head, thinking.
**"Ling Yun seemed fine. Min'er, though, has been acting a bit strange. She's been busy preparing to attack the Dragon Island of the Ancient Void Dragon Clan. Whenever I asked her about it, she'd brush me off with excuses.
I ended up giving her the ten jade pendants you gave me for protection. Each one has a ninth grade spirit array engraved on it, so she should be fine for now."**
Hearing this, Xiao Tianchen nodded.
"Good. With those pendants and the arrays on her and Ling Yun, they should be safe enough."
Noticing Qing Lian's fluctuating energy, Xiao Tianchen smiled.
"Your aura suggests you're on the verge of a breakthrough. Once you've finished that fruit, go see Elder Xiao Chun. He has a spare Heavenly Flame and some high grade Beast Flames prepared for you. Absorb them to assist in your advancement."
"Thank you, Patriarch!" Qing Lian grinned.
He suddenly took out a peculiar item.
"By the way, I got this from the Pill Domain. Someone there tried to bribe me for help. I didn't care much for it, so I figured you might like it."
(To be continued...)
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