Chapter 236: A Grand Celebration
"Now, let's welcome Clan Leader Xiao Tianchen and the newly appointed Clan Leader Xiao Qing. Everyone, please give them a warm welcome!"
At the Xiao Clan's Tianwaitian, the long anticipated succession ceremony commenced. Xiao Chun's voice echoed across the grounds, and the Xiao Clan erupted in thunderous cheers.
"Clan Leader! Young Clan Leader!"
"Clan Leader! Young Clan Leader!"
The shouts reverberated like rolling thunder, and the representatives from various powerful factions looked on with a mix of admiration and awe at the Xiao Clan's might.
Moments later, two figures appeared mid air, seemingly out of nowhere.
The instant Xiao Tianchen and Xiao Qing materialized, the energy in the plaza reached its zenith. Tens of thousands of attendees, all eyes fixed on the duo, marveled at their imposing auras. Clad in golden robes resembling dragon regalia, with meticulously styled hair flowing in the breeze, the pair exuded an air of absolute authority. Their strikingly handsome features drew enthusiastic cheers from the younger generation of the Xiao Clan.
Exchanging a glance and a smile, Xiao Tianchen and Xiao Qing nodded to one another before gracefully descending to the ceremonial altar.
Once they landed, Xiao Chun and the other elders bowed in unison.
"Greetings to the Clan Leader! Greetings to the Young Clan Leader!"
"Greetings to the Clan Leader! Greetings to the Young Clan Leader!"
Xiao Tianchen raised his hand, and the crowd instantly quieted.
"Thank you, everyone," he said warmly.
The gathered crowd responded in unison, "Thank you, Clan Leader! Thank you, Young Clan Leader!"
Xiao Tianchen's Address
Xiao Tianchen's tone turned solemn as he addressed the audience.
"When I assumed the role of Clan Leader a thousand years ago, I carried the weight of our clan's survival and future on my shoulders. Throughout this millennium, the support and trust of our clan members and elders have been unwavering, even when I made mistakes. For this, I am deeply grateful."
With those words, Xiao Tianchen bowed deeply, prompting the crowd to erupt into passionate cries:
"Long live the Clan Leader!"
"Long live the Clan Leader!"
Rising from his bow, Xiao Tianchen gestured for silence before continuing, "I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed guests who have traveled far to witness this occasion. Your presence is an honor for the Xiao Clan."
"Clan Leader Xiao is too kind," the visiting dignitaries replied with respectful bows.
After scanning the audience, Xiao Tianchen resumed his speech.
**"Under the collective efforts of everyone, the Xiao Clan has grown increasingly powerful. We have all but annihilated our greatest enemy, the Hun Clan, and our clan stands united and prosperous. I am proud to say that we have lived up to the expectations of our late Clan Leader Xiao Xuan and fulfilled our duty to our clan.
However, it is now time for me to step aside. It is my decision that Xiao Qing will succeed me as the new Clan Leader. I hope all elders, stewards, and clan members will support him as you have supported me."**
The crowd responded in perfect synchrony, "We will faithfully assist Clan Leader Xiao Qing with all our efforts!"
Passing the Torch
Xiao Tianchen turned to Xiao Chun, who presented the ceremonial Clan Leader's token, symbolizing the highest authority within the Xiao Clan.
Holding the token aloft, Xiao Tianchen called out, "Xiao Qing, step forward!"
"Xiao Qing is here!"
Xiao Qing knelt on one knee, raising both hands in reverence.
Xiao Tianchen addressed him with a firm yet encouraging tone, "Xiao Qing, today, I entrust you with the responsibility of leading the Xiao Clan. Remember to remain humble and steadfast, always prioritizing the prosperity and well being of the clan. Be a shield for the Xiao Clan, guiding it to even greater heights."
"Yes, I will fulfill your expectations and lead the Xiao Clan with unwavering dedication," Xiao Qing replied earnestly.
With a resolute expression, Xiao Tianchen placed the token in Xiao Qing's hands. Rising to his feet, Xiao Qing bowed deeply to Xiao Tianchen, completing the formalities of the succession ceremony.
The plaza erupted with deafening cheers:
"All hail the Clan Leader!"
Raising his hand to quiet the crowd, Xiao Qing spoke, his voice steady and confident.
"I hereby declare that Former Clan Leader Xiao Tianchen is now the Xiao Clan's First Supreme Elder. His commands carry the same weight as those of the Clan Leader!"
"We greet the First Supreme Elder!"
Once again, the Xiao Clan members bowed in unison.
Xiao Tianchen nodded approvingly, motioning for them to rise before turning to Xiao Qing and Xiao Chun. With a final nod, his figure flickered and vanished into thin air.
A Grand Celebration
As the succession ceremony concluded, the Xiao Clan hosted a lavish celebration. There were performances by young clan members, vibrant fireworks illuminating the night sky, rare delicacies, exquisite wines, and mesmerizing fire displays by Dou Qi experts wielding different Heavenly Flames.
It was a spectacle unlike any other, a grand event that showcased the Xiao Clan's strength, wealth, and unity.
Reflections at Tianchen Manor
Back at Tianchen Manor's ninth floor, Xiao Tianchen stood by the window, gazing at the fireworks and the joyous celebrations below. A rare sense of relief and satisfaction washed over him.
"Feeling lighter, aren't you?"
Xiao Xuan's voice came from behind him. Stretching lazily, Xiao Tianchen chuckled.
"Yes, I can't deny it. I always believed I could guide the Xiao Clan well, but only now, stepping down, do I truly feel the weight lifting off my shoulders."
Xiao Xuan laughed heartily. "I felt the same when I handed the reins to you. Come, you're no longer the Clan Leader leave the work to the young ones. Now, how about we toast to your retirement?"
Smiling, Xiao Tianchen caught the wine cup Xiao Xuan tossed his way. "You're right. Let the younger generation pave their own way. Cheers!"
"Cheers!"
No sooner had they clinked their cups than Tian Luo, Mu Ling, Huang Jiuji, Xiao Chen, Xiao Wu, Xiao Teng, Qinglian, Xiao Yi Xian, Medusa, Xiao Yan, Xiao Xun'er, and Ya Fei entered the room.
After exchanging greetings, everyone settled in. Xiao Bieli soon arrived with Xiao Clan servants carrying wine, delicacies, and desserts, adding to the festive mood.
Thus began a night of camaraderie, laughter, and reflection an unforgettable conclusion to the Xiao Clan's grand event.
After the festivities commenced, the group began a "drinking contest" to liven up the mood.
About half an hour later, Xiao Bieli entered with several attendants, each carrying jars of wine, explaining that these were sent by Xiao Qing.
"Hahaha, perfect timing! We were running low on wine. Everyone, drink up! No need to hold back today no one leaves sober!"
"No one leaves sober! Cheers!"
The revelry lasted from morning until the early hours of the next day, around 3 or 4 a.m. The once lively ninth floor of Tianchen Manor finally fell silent as most had succumbed to the effects of the alcohol. Despite their formidable Dou Qi abilities, none used it to dispel their intoxication, choosing instead to embrace the celebration fully.
By the balcony, Xiao Yan, Xiao Yi Xian, Medusa, Ya Fei, and other younger members fared slightly better but were still visibly tipsy.
A Conversation Under the Stars
Leaning on the railing, Xiao Yan held a wine jar as he stared into the night sky. His gaze seemed distant. Noticing his mood, Xiao Xun'er, her cheeks flushed with drink, smiled gently and asked, "Brother Xiao Yan, today is such a joyous occasion for the Xiao Clan. Why are you lost in thought?"
Her voice pulled Xiao Yan from his reverie. He turned to look at her flawless face and said softly, **"Nothing much. I'm just amazed at how things have turned out.
"Once upon a time, the Xiao Family struggled to survive after my grandfather's death. We were forced to relocate from the capital of the Jia Ma Empire to the small town of Wu Tan. Back then, we were one of the so called 'Three Great Families,' but we bickered with the Jia Lie and Aoba families over minor trade disputes.
"Then came my three year agreement with Nalan Yanran, which dragged us into conflict with the Yun Lan Sect. If not for Tianji Tower's intervention, I might never have left the Jia Ma Empire alive.
"But now, I stand here as a proud member of the Xiao Clan. The strength of the clan today is so great that even the mightiest factions of the Dou Qi Continent wouldn't dare act recklessly on our grounds. It all feels... surreal."**
Xiao Xun'er nodded gently, her eyes full of warmth. **"Brother Xiao Yan, the Dou Qi Continent has always followed the law of the strong.
"When I first met you, I was hesitant to reveal too much about the Xiao Clan, fearing it would draw the attention of enemies we couldn't handle. Looking back, it seems my worries were unnecessary."**
Xiao Yan quickly shook his head. "Don't say that. You've always acted with my best interests at heart. I'm incredibly grateful for that, Xun'er. Meeting you has been the greatest blessing of my life."
Medusa's Interruption
Suddenly, a cold scoff broke the tender moment. Medusa, visibly tipsy, glared at them and muttered, "If you two want to whisper sweet nothings, do it elsewhere. This is a place for drinking, not flirting."
Xiao Yan's expression froze momentarily before he chuckled, unwilling to argue with her. He stood, took Xiao Xun'er's hand, and said softly, "Let's go, Xun'er. We've had enough to drink. Let's take a walk to enjoy the scenery."
"Sure! I heard Tianwaitian is full of beautiful sights. It'd be wonderful to explore them with you."
Hand in hand, the two descended the stairs, leaving the balcony.
Lingering Feelings
Watching them leave, Medusa scowled and crushed the wine cup in her hand. Though she didn't lash out, her frustration was evident. She turned away and fixed her gaze on the fireworks still lighting up the sky.
Not far away, Xiao Yi Xian and Ya Fei also showed hints of disappointment in their eyes.
Farewells
The next day, the representatives from various factions departed from Tianwaitian. Zhukun and Gu Yuan left Xiao Xun'er and Zi Yan with the Xiao Clan as a gesture of goodwill.
At the entrance to Tianwaitian, the leader of the Yao Clan, Wan Huo, was accompanied by a two star Dou Saint named Yao Feng. The latter scowled as he spotted Yao Chen chatting amiably with the three heads of the Pill Tower.
"Who would've thought the Yao Clan's discarded trash would become a Dou Saint?" Yao Feng sneered coldly.
Hearing the remark, Yao Chen turned and immediately recognized him. His expression darkened with a hint of disdain. "Oh, it's you."
Enraged by Yao Chen's dismissive tone, Yao Feng pointed and barked, "How dare you not kneel before me, you disgrace!"
The outburst drew the attention of several Xiao Clan Dragon Guard members, who quickly approached. Before the situation could escalate further, Wan Huo snapped, "Yao Feng, silence! This is no place for your insolence."
Yao Feng grudgingly bowed but shot a venomous glare at Yao Chen. "We'll settle this outside Tianwaitian!"
Seeing no immediate danger, the Dragon Guard retreated.
Xiao Tianchen's Response
Standing nearby, Xiao Tianchen heard the commotion. Beside him, Yao Dan, the Yao Clan leader, looked embarrassed and apologized. "My apologies, Clan Leader Xiao. Some of our younger members lack discipline."
Xiao Tianchen waved it off with a smile. "No harm done. Youngsters can be fiery it's natural. Yao Dan, there's no need for such formality between allies."
Knowing the history between Yao Chen and Yao Feng, Xiao Tianchen understood the tension but chose not to intervene. Although he had little regard for Yao Feng, he respected Yao Dan and didn't wish to strain their alliance.
Final Farewells
After seeing off the Yao Clan, Xiao Tianchen turned to bid farewell to Gu Yuan and Zhukun, who approached.
"Xiao Brother, we'll take our leave now. Xun'er is in your capable hands." Gu Yuan bowed.
"Have no worries, Gu Brother." Xiao Tianchen returned the bow.
Zhukun added with a smile, "Zi Yan is also in your care. Please look after her well."
"Rest assured, Zhukun."
After watching them leave, Xiao Tianchen returned to Tianwaitian. But just as he sat down to rest, Xiao Chun hurried in.
"Tianchen, Yao Feng picked a fight with Yao Chen the moment they left Tianwaitian!"
Xiao Tianchen waved dismissively, chuckling. "Let them sort it out themselves, Second Uncle. Yao Dan is there Yao Chen won't come to harm."
Xiao Chun sighed and relented. "Alright, but you seem to favor that Yao Chen kid. I just thought you might want to intervene."
Seeing Xiao Chun's hesitance, Xiao Tianchen smiled knowingly. "Second Uncle, do you have something else on your mind?"
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