Wei hadn't done much in the past few days. Most of his time was spent inside his room, even during meals, reviewing his knowledge and rehearsing possible future confrontations. At times he read the books Madam Yue had gifted him, expanding his understanding of the continent and deepening his foundation.
He didn't have to wait long. On the third day, the Xiao family's yearly test began. Wei had no plans to attend, but he went down to the street to confirm the news himself. The entire city buzzed with excitement—it was the only topic of conversation. By nightfall, everyone already knew who the rising stars of the clan were.
Among them, Xiao Yan had also appeared, though his display was infamous for all the wrong reasons. Once praised as a prodigy, he had been reduced to the subject of ridicule, mocked by his peers both inside and outside the clan. Some sighed in pity at the fall of a genius, while others openly sneered.
The following morning, Wei prepared himself. At an appropriate hour for a formal visit, he dressed carefully to fit the role he intended to play. His puppet followed behind him, radiating an oppressive aura of peak Grandmaster strength. Wei didn't strut arrogantly, but his composure and elegance carried the bearing of a refined young master from afar.
When he stopped before the Xiao family gates, the guards rushed over at once, bowing deeply.
"Greetings, young master. How may we help you?"
Wei nodded, showing appreciation but not humility. He needed to strike the balance perfectly until his objective was achieved.
"Good morning. I am here to meet with the Xiao family elders regarding a sect matter. I regret that I cannot reveal the specifics to you, but I must stress its importance."
The guards exchanged uneasy glances, unsure how to proceed. Yet none dared risk offending a youth of such strength—especially with a bodyguard stronger than their clan leader looming behind him.
One guard sprinted into the compound and soon reached the clan's meeting hall, where the clan leader and several elders were gathered. Bowing low, he relayed, "Clan Leader, Elders. A young master has arrived at the gates, accompanied by an even stronger bodyguard. He claims to represent a sect and requests an audience on an important matter. His own strength is that of a five-star Fighting Master, and his bodyguard radiates the pressure of a peak Grandmaster."
The elders exchanged looks of surprise. A youth of that age and level was extraordinary enough—but to travel with such a protector hinted at an unfathomable background. Though puzzled about what business a hidden sect had with their clan, they knew they could not dismiss the matter. The order was given to escort the guest inside.
Wei entered the compound under the curious stares of many clan youths. He ignored them entirely, his demeanor calm and composed, and was led straight into the meeting hall.
When the doors closed behind him, Wei stepped forward and bowed slightly.
"Clan Leader Xiao, honored elders. I apologize for the intrusion. My name is Dan Wei, and I come from a sect with a branch in the northwest continent. During my travels, I heard of young master Xiao Yan's predicament, which happens to align with the traces of a relic once tied to our sect. The details of this relic I cannot share, but I request permission to examine Xiao Yan. Should my suspicions prove correct, there is a chance he may regain his lost talent."
His tone was respectful yet assured, concise and elegant in its delivery.
The elders were baffled, uncertain of his intentions, but Clan Leader Xiao Zhan's eyes sharpened with interest. Still, he chose caution.
"Young Master Wei's visit honors our Xiao family. It is not that we are unwilling to allow you to meet Yan'er, nor that we would not rejoice at his recovery. But if your search yields nothing, we fear it may lead only to disappointment."
Wei smiled faintly. "That is no issue. I have my own method to confirm the relic's presence. If I find nothing, I will report back to my sect that the matter ends here, and no one else will disturb your clan. In return for your cooperation, I will not make you act for nothing."
With a wave of his hand, he presented several items. "These are five Foundation Building Fruits. For any youth yet to step into the path of cultivation, they guarantee a strong foundation—at the very least ensuring they reach the Grandmaster realm in their lifetime. This, as well, is the Fire Ember Technique, a black-grade cultivation method. If I find what I seek, I will take it. If not, these remain with you."
The Xiao clan elders were stunned. Every fruit represented a potential Grandmaster—a treasure beyond value. And the Fire Ember Technique, a black-grade cultivation art, was something their clan sorely lacked.
"Young Master Wei, this is far too valuable. We cannot accept such things for such a small favor!" Xiao Zhan said quickly, attempting to return the items.
Wei pushed them back with a casual wave. "Do not worry, Clan Leader Xiao. In my sect, these fruits are commonplace—each disciple receives one, and I have already consumed several as snacks during my travels. As for the technique, it is not my element, and I have superior methods. To me, it is of little use."
The elders nearly choked on their own breath. 'A dog with a golden spoon' they cursed inwardly. To treat such priceless treasures so lightly was maddening. Yet none dared show their envy or frustration before this mysterious youth.
Xiao Zhan, swallowing his disbelief, carefully put the items away. He feared pressing further would only irritate the young man before him.
"Then, Young Master Wei, please rest from your travels. I will personally bring Yan'er here."
But Wei raised a hand. "No need, Clan Leader Xiao. If you have a quiet, secluded place, simply bring young master Xiao Yan there. I prefer discretion."
Xiao Zhen nodded at once and ordered a servant to lead Wei to the back mountain. A few minutes later, he returned himself with a black-haired boy of similar age to Wei.
Excitement flickered in Xiao Yan's eyes, though he worked to contain it. Stopping before Wei, he bowed respectfully.
"Young Master Wei, thank you for being willing to examine me."
Wei inclined his head lightly. "It is no trouble." He turned to Xiao Zhan. "Would you care to remain during the procedure?"
"I will stay close, if you need me just shout out to me" Xiao Zhan shook his head. Some matters, he knew, were better left unseen. He remained close enough to intervene if danger arose, but far enough that he would not overhear.