Chapter 265: Invitation, Xiao Yan's Worries and Determination
"Lastly, and most importantly, Ya Fei possesses exceptional management skills. With your support, she could handle many matters independently, just as she has managed the operations of Tianji Pavilion with remarkable efficiency."
In the Xiao Clan Council Hall, Tian Luo's words echoed in Xiao Qing's mind as he recalled Ya Fei's abilities and the reports he received about her.
Although much of the Tianji Pavilion's operations had been entrusted to Ya Fei, Xiao Qing maintained a habit of receiving monthly updates about key personnel, ensuring he could step in quickly if any issues arose.
These reports weren't limited to Ya Fei. Every branch head and high ranking member of the Tianji Pavilion was aware their activities were being documented. This transparency was part of Xiao Qing's strategy to maintain accountability and swiftly address problems.
Seeing Xiao Qing lost in thought, Tian Luo didn't push him for an immediate response. He had made his point, and in his view, Ya Fei was undoubtedly one of the most suitable candidates for the Xiao Clan's matriarch.
"Thank you, Tian Luo. If I set aside emotions, Ya Fei is indeed an excellent choice. I'll give it serious thought." Xiao Qing finally replied with a respectful bow.
Tian Luo smiled.
**"There's no rush. Take your time. After the Heavenly Tomb trial, you can make a decision.
In the meantime, if there's anything I can do to assist with the trial, just say the word. It's been quiet lately, and I wouldn't mind stretching my muscles a bit."**
"It's just a trial, not something that would require someone of your strength to intervene. However, if you're interested, I'd be grateful for your advice." Xiao Qing replied with a smile.
"Alright, I'll help where I can. Better than sitting idle." Tian Luo laughed.
News of the Heavenly Tomb Trial Spreads
The days passed, and word of the Xiao Clan's Heavenly Tomb Trial reached the imperial clans and the first and second tier powers of Zhongzhou.
Inside the Pill Tower
"What's your take on this Heavenly Tomb Trial organized by the Xiao Clan?"
Xuan Kongzi, one of the three Pill Tower leaders, asked his peers, Xuan Yi and Tian Lei Zi, as he held the invitation.
Tian Lei Zi frowned.
**"What's there to consider? We watch from the sidelines. With the imperial clans involved, our younger generation has no real chance.
Besides, the trial involves not only entering the Heavenly Tomb but also a smaller alchemy competition held in the Heavenly Outer Sky.
We're known as one of the top alchemy forces on the continent. Skipping the competition would not only risk offending the Xiao Clan but also harm our reputation among other factions."**
Xuan Yi nodded in agreement, her tone carrying a trace of disdain.
**"Tian Lei Zi is right. Let's not waste time on the trial. Even if our disciples participate, they'll be no match for the prodigies of the imperial clans.
However, we cannot ignore the alchemy competition. As much as I despise the Medicine Clan and their arrogance, I refuse to let them win.
We'll send a couple of capable disciples for the trial to save face. But our focus should be on dominating the alchemy competition."**
Both Xuan Kongzi and Tian Lei Zi exchanged helpless smiles. Xuan Yi's animosity toward the Medicine Clan was well known, particularly after they had disrespected Yao Chen upon his return.
Xuan Kongzi chuckled.
**"Well said. The trial is clearly designed for the imperial clans to resolve grudges and flex their strength. It's a slaughterhouse for anyone outside their league.
As for the alchemy competition, I agree we should give it our all. And I've been meaning to challenge Yao Chen for some time now. If I can best him in this competition, it'll be the highlight of my year."**
Xuan Yi and Tian Lei Zi exchanged skeptical glances.
"You better hope Yao Chen doesn't embarrass you instead." Xuan Yi teased. His strength had reached the late five star Dou Saint level. While Xiao Yan had many hidden trump cards, who could guarantee that the imperial clan geniuses wouldn't have some as well?
**"That's not the biggest concern. If the trial were limited to six star Dou Saints at their peak, with your strength, even if you couldn't stand out, you'd at least be able to protect yourself.
But the Xiao Clan explicitly stated in the invitation that everyone entering the Heavenly Tomb has a chance to gain the recognition of the Ancient Emperor's inheritance if they're lucky enough.
You should understand what the Ancient Emperor's inheritance represents. This is something that will attract participants to risk their lives."** Yao Chen said with a worried expression.
What did the Ancient Emperor's inheritance represent? Naturally, it was a chance to become a Dou Di, a title that made the entire Dou Qi Continent's strongest individuals go mad with desire.
Even the proud Gu Yuan, a peak Half Emperor, had schemed shamelessly and involved Xiao Yan in his plans to secure the inheritance.
Now, with the Xiao Clan opening the Heavenly Tomb to anyone under high level Dou Saint strength, and offering this enticing reward, how could the Gu Clan or other imperial clans possibly let this opportunity pass?
"Phew... Teacher, isn't this move by the Xiao Clan too ruthless?" Xiao Yan exhaled heavily, his eyes filled with unprecedented solemnity.
**"A bold and straightforward plan, indeed ruthless. By dangling the Ancient Emperor's inheritance as bait, the Xiao Clan ensures that everyone will participate, whether this trial is a trap or not.
Not only the imperial clans and the first and second tier powers of Zhongzhou but even members of Starfall Pavilion have reported that Tianji Pavilion is spreading the invitation far and wide across the Dou Qi Continent.
This means your competitors might not just be imperial clan prodigies. Some long forgotten but legendary experts could emerge, drawn by the lure of becoming a Dou Di.
Even I, if unaware of the circumstances, would be tempted to compete for such an opportunity."** Yao Chen's face grew increasingly grave as he explained.
Xiao Yan frowned deeper, his fingers tightening on the invitation.
**"Teacher, I know the Xiao Clan well. If they've thrown the Ancient Emperor's inheritance into the mix as bait, then this trial will undoubtedly be perilous.
What's even more unsettling is this clause every participant must sign a life and death agreement. This trial allows killing.
If, and I mean if, this trial is actually a trap targeting the imperial clans, it would be terrifying."**
Hearing this, Yao Chen froze, his expression shifting into one of shock.
"A trap for the imperial clans?" Yao Chen muttered, stunned.
After a moment, he sighed.
"If your guess is correct, Xiao Yan, then this Heavenly Tomb Trial is unimaginably dangerous."
**"Indeed. But regardless, I must participate.
As cultivators, we must possess the courage and conviction to face any challenge head on.
Moreover, this inheritance may be the last chance to become a Dou Di. I cannot let it slip through my fingers."** Xiao Yan's heavy gaze hardened into determination as he clenched his fists tightly.
**"You're right. As you've mentioned, Tiance brought back three Emperor's Origins.
One went to his guardian, Xuan Huang; one to the top expert of the Heavenly Phoenix Clan; and the third to the Xiao Clan's current leader, Xiao Qing.
Additionally, the Emperor Tier Pill was given to the Heavenly Tomb's Guardian Spirit. These individuals are all peak nine star Dou Saints. Trying to seize these opportunities from them would be nothing short of a fool's dream.
The Ancient Emperor's inheritance, however, is the simplest and most feasible path left.
This trial... it will be a grinder of powerful experts."** Yao Chen sighed in amazement.
**"Exactly, Teacher. But it's a path we cannot avoid.
Furthermore, aside from the trial, the Xiao Clan is hosting an alchemy competition. Knowing the Medicine Clan's arrogance, they will undoubtedly participate.
Teacher, it's time to settle your score with them once and for all."** Xiao Yan's eyes glinted with determination.
Yao Chen fell silent for a moment, memories of his time in the Medicine Clan flashing through his mind. Finally, he nodded firmly.
"Xiao Yan, the Ancient Emperor's inheritance will depend on you. As for the alchemy competition, I won't miss the chance to participate."
Xiao Yan grinned.
"Good, Teacher. Let's make this journey unforgettable."
At the Flower Sect
As one of Zhongzhou's top first tier powers, the Flower Sect also received an invitation from the Xiao Clan.
In the Flower Sect's grand hall, the elders gathered to discuss the invitation.
"What do the elders think? Should we participate in this trial?" Sect Master Granny Hua asked as her gaze swept across the room.
The Third Elder was the first to speak.
**"Sect Master, as one of Zhongzhou's leading powers, we must attend such a grand event.
Besides, this is organized by the Xiao Clan, a supreme imperial clan. Even if we wanted to decline, we cannot afford to offend them. If the Xiao Clan views our absence as disrespect, we could face serious consequences."**
The Second Elder nodded in agreement.
**"The Third Elder is correct. Attending is essential, but compared to the imperial clans, our strength is too lacking to gain anything substantial from the Heavenly Tomb Trial.
We should send a small team just enough to save face."**
Granny Hua nodded, her decision swift.
**"Very well. We four elders will lead a group of twenty disciples.
The Ancient Emperor's inheritance is far beyond our reach. We'll focus on maintaining our reputation and avoiding unnecessary losses."**
Thus, the Flower Sect selected its participants, prioritizing symbolic representation over strength. Among the chosen were Yun Yun, Granny Hua's disciple, and Nalan Yanran, a promising young talent.
At Yun Yun's Residence
Upon learning she was selected to travel to the Xiao Clan's Heavenly Outer Sky, Nalan Yanran was ecstatic. She excitedly turned to her teacher, Yun Yun.
"Teacher, does this mean we'll finally meet the Xiao Clan senior who saved us?" Nalan Yanran asked, her voice filled with anticipation.
At Starfall Pavilion
In Starfall Pavilion, Yao Chen handed the Xiao Clan's invitation to Xiao Yan.
"Here, take a look at this." Yao Chen's expression carried a trace of concern as he observed Xiao Yan.
"Thank you, Teacher."
Xiao Yan respectfully accepted the invitation, scanning its contents. His expression darkened almost immediately.
**"Unbelievable. The Xiao Clan has set the strength limit at high level Dou Sheng and below. This means even peak six star Dou Shengs can participate.
At my current level of late five star Dou Sheng, I'm no longer among the strongest."** Xiao Yan sighed.
Yao Chen observed Xiao Yan silently for a moment before offering a few words of advice.
**"Xiao Yan, the Xiao Clan's decision wasn't made lightly. This isn't just a trial; it's a battlefield.
You must be prepared to face opponents far stronger than yourself. The Heavenly Tomb Trial isn't just about gaining experience it's about survival."**
Xiao Yan nodded, his fists clenching.
"I understand, Teacher. But I have no choice. For the sake of the Heavenly Tomb and my promise to Xiao Xun'er's father, I must rise to the occasion."
Yao Chen sighed.
"Very well. Just remember don't let your ambition cloud your judgment. Surviving is more important than any victory."
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