With Leng Clan growing, outside rivals circled. Medium-sized clans from the north desired to either absorb or crush this new "Frost Clan."
One frostbitten night, a raiding force from Silverfang Settlement came testing spearhead strength. Unlike Stonefang or Ironfang, they brought not brutes, but disciplined warriors, three with two rings each.
Leng Clan prepared desperately—disciples focusing frost walls, hunters armed, Xuan standing beside father though barely twelve.
And yet, when strongest Silverfang warrior mocked: "Your cripple leads you still?" something inside Tian steadied.
He stepped forth, pale, coughing, but rings glowing faint. "Cripple I may be. But this 'cripple' carries more roots than you will ever sow."
The fight erupted. Frost Veils spread wide, terrain sealed. Disciples fought in organized formation. Despite greater cultivation, Silverfang struggled against cohesive synergy.
At climax, Tian hardly stood—but still extended Frost Bind with last of will. He froze enemy leader half-second, giving Xuan chance to spear forward with child's ice spear technique—stabbing man's arm and forcing retreat.
Silverfang slinked away, humiliated.
Leng Clan had survived again. But Tian's cough worsened—blood spilling freely against snow.
That night, alone with Yuexin, he collapsed against her lap. "Not much longer, Xin," he whispered weakly. "But… look how strong they've become."
Tears streamed her face as she clutched him tighter. "Don't let go, Tian. Please."
Unseen, the Tome shimmered faint:
Clan defended. Roots expanded securely. Bloodline growth accelerating.
Even as his body failed—his dream solidified.
🔥 End of Chapter 46