Yun Leng, the First Elder, swept his gaze across the room, observing the expressions of the other elders. None dared to speak; after all, this matter directly concerned the Young Lady of the Sect and a direct disciple of the Sect Leader, so it had to be handled with extreme caution.
His eyes briefly landed on Nalan Yanran, and he shook his head heavily. The young woman sat in her seat, her posture tense, the weight of her actions clearly evident in her demeanor. Turning his gaze to the lady at the head of the table, Yun Leng addressed her with a respectful and solemn tone.
Draped in an elegant and intricately designed light-green robe, her beauty exuded an innate grace and nobility that could not be concealed, regardless of what she wore. This woman was none other than Yun Yun, the current Sect Leader of the Misty Cloud Sect.
"Sect Leader, what should we do?" Yun Leng asked, his voice filled with reverence and concern.
The elegant lady, Yun Yun, was the one to receive his question. She gave a soft glance toward her student, whose somber and heavy atmosphere filled the room. Despite the situation, there was neither blame nor disappointment in her gaze.
With a deep sigh, Yun Yun shook her head slowly, her voice calm but tinged with resignation. "There's nothing that can be done now."
Her gaze shifted to the table before her, her thoughts as heavy as her words. "Most of the major forces have already heard of this incident, so we cannot simply ignore it or pretend that our Young Lady didn't make such a declaration."
"However, wasn't Xiao Yan said to be under the protection of Xiao Hua? Wouldn't this cause significant trouble for us once Xiao Hua ends his retreat?" one of the elders cautiously raised his hand, his tone low, as if fearing reproach from the others.
Another elder responded with a shake of his head. "It was reported that Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang made that declaration. However, it's also said they might have done so out of frustration with the harassment and insults Xiao Yan was receiving, hoping to protect him by invoking Xiao Hua's name."
Yun Leng let out a heavy sigh, placing his hands behind his back. His sharp gaze swept over the table, and his voice carried a weight of authority. "As the Sect Leader has already stated, we cannot simply disregard the fact that our Young Lady declared the annulment of her engagement with Xiao Yan in front of so many influential figures."
He paused for a moment, his tone growing firmer. "Moreover, if Xiao Yan were still the prodigious talent he once was, there might have been room for flexibility within the sect's rules. But with his current state, there is no justification. It would not only violate our principles but also fail to secure a meaningful connection with Xiao Hua. Such a vague and faint association isn't worth compromising the sect's reputation or bending the rules."
The other elders in the room nodded in agreement. They had reviewed the reports about Xiao Yan and were well aware of his dire circumstances. His cultivation base had regressed to a mere three-star Dou Zhi, and he seemed incapable of advancing further, as though his ability to cultivate had mysteriously vanished.
This revelation deeply disappointed the elders. Within the Xiao Clan, any member who failed to reach the seven-star Dou Zhi level by their Coming of Age Ceremony—a milestone also known as the Adulthood Ceremony—was relegated to the status of an ordinary member, often assigned mundane tasks in other branches of the clan.
Whether Xiao Yan's condition could be cured or not was another matter altogether. His situation was unprecedented, and even Gu He, the renowned Pill-King, had found himself baffled after examining him.
Yun Leng turned toward Gu He, his voice steady yet curious. "Elder Gu He, is it true that Xiao Yan's condition cannot be cured?"
Gu He leaned back slightly, arms crossed, a thoughtful frown etched on his face. "I have examined him thoroughly, and it's true that I couldn't find a cure. In fact, I wouldn't even call his condition an illness. His physical body is in perfect health, and there's nothing wrong with his internal organs or meridians. It's as if his cultivation ability has simply ceased to exist for no discernible reason."
He paused, his brow furrowing deeper in frustration. "Xiao Zhan, Xiao Yan's father, once declared a reward for anyone who could cure his son: a high-grade tier-seven medicinal pill formula. Naturally, such a prize attracted the attention of both myself and Fa Ma, the Chairman of Jia Ma Empire's Alchemy Association. Yet, despite our efforts, we found no solution. All we could do was shake our heads in regret."
Gu He sighed and shook his head, his tone grave. "Even so, the sudden regression of one's cultivation base and the complete loss of the ability to cultivate is something I've neither seen nor heard of before. While I won't question Xiao Hua's abilities, if a method to cure Xiao Yan does exist, it would undoubtedly require countless rare and priceless high-grade medicinal ingredients."
"Rare, high-grade medicinal ingredients…" one of the elders muttered gloomily, his tone heavy with resignation. The expressions of the others darkened as well, their faces reflecting the gravity of the situation.
They all understood the implications. Even if Xiao Hua could somehow cure Xiao Yan's condition, it would take time—a great deal of it. During that period, Xiao Yan would need to restart his cultivation journey from scratch. By the time he made any progress, Nalan Yanran might already have reached the heights of Dou Huang or even Dou Zong, making the engagement an obstacle to her future prospects and the sect's prestige.
"We cannot retract her declaration, nor can we deny the declaration," Yun Yun said, her voice steady yet filled with the weight of the decision. "We cannot accept the engagement, nor can we alter the sect's rules to accommodate it. The only viable course of action is to offer Xiao Clan sufficient compensation to address this issue."
Her words echoed in the silent hall. The elders nodded in agreement, though their expressions were still grim. They couldn't afford to feign ignorance or act as though nothing had occurred. Such an approach would invite the other major factions to exploit the Misty Cloud Sect's perceived weakness and use this as leverage against them.
By addressing the matter openly and providing reparations, they could at least mitigate further damage and avoid straining their relationship with the Xiao Clan more than necessary.
However, a lingering question hung in the air, one that sparked curiosity among the gathered elders: Who would accompany their Young Lady to the Xiao Clan?
Yun Leng's sharp eyes moved to Yun Yun, his tone both respectful and probing as he asked, "Would Sect Leader personally accompany the Young Lady to the Xiao Clan?"
Yun Yun rested her delicate finger on her chin, her expression contemplative. After a brief moment of silence, she nodded, her voice calm and indifferent as she responded.
"Even in Xiao Hua's absence, the Xiao Clan's strength has grown to rival that of the major forces within the Jia Ma Empire. They possess two nine-star Dou Wangs, one eight-star Dou Wang, and five Dou Wangs below five-star. In total, their clan boasts eight elite Dou Wangs."
Her gaze swept over the room, meeting the elders' grim expressions as she continued. "Their strength exceeds that of most major forces in the empire. Once Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang break through to the Dou Huang realm, their status and influence will rise even further, elevating them beyond what most factions can contend with."
Yun Yun paused briefly, closing her eyes as she took a steadying breath. When she reopened them, her gaze was firm and resolute. The weight of the matter was not lost on anyone in the room.
The elders exchanged uneasy glances. They knew the significance of her words. Even within the Misty Cloud Sect, the number of elite Dou Wangs did not compare to the Xiao Clan's current strength. And that was just on the surface.
With Xiao Hua's backing, the Xiao Clan had become a formidable force, capable of challenging Dou Huang powerhouses when necessary. Reports of Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang eliminating Dou Huang-level troublemakers in Wu Tan City only solidified their reputation.
The room grew heavier as they acknowledged an undeniable truth: the Xiao Clan's power had already surpassed most of the major forces in Jia Ma Empire. If not for their apparent disinterest in relocating to Jia Ma Sacred City, the so-called three strongest clans might have been forced to expand their ranks to include a fourth—marking the Xiao Clan's ascension as undeniable.
"To demonstrate our utmost courtesy, I will personally accompany Yanran to the Xiao Clan tomorrow," Yun Yun declared, her tone calm yet authoritative. "As for the compensation, we should prepare tier-four and tier-five medicinal pills to express our sincerity."
"Understood, Sect Leader." Yun Leng cupped his hands respectfully and nodded. Although the compensation was costly, they had no choice. Offending the Xiao Clan, let alone Xiao Hua, upon his return, was a risk they could not afford.
Despite the Misty Cloud Sect's long-standing history and deep foundation, Xiao Hua was not someone to be taken lightly. His record of defeating and eliminating two elite Dou Zong experts before even reaching the Dou Wang level was enough to strike caution into the hearts of even the most confident elders.
With the decision finalized, the meeting swiftly adjourned. The elders dispersed to make preparations, ensuring both the compensation and arrangements for the journey to the Xiao Clan were met without problem.
...
"Master!"
Yun Yun was walking down the hallway, heading toward the exit to make her way to her usual spot at the summit of Misty Mountain, when a familiar voice called out, halting her steps.
She turned around to see Nalan Yanran rushing toward her. The young woman's tear-streaked face and reddened eyes betrayed her inner turmoil.
"Master, I…" Nalan Yanran's voice cracked, a blend of sadness, remorse, and regret. "I'm so sorry for causing you trouble."
Her tears continued to flow as she lowered her head in shame. "My reckless actions have brought nothing but problems to the Misty Cloud Sect. I should have waited for you and the elders to handle the matter, but I just couldn't hold back…"
Yun Yun's expression softened. She gently cupped Nalan Yanran's cheeks, wiping away her tears with a delicate touch. A warm smile graced her graceful, noble face.
"There's no need to blame yourself so harshly, Yanran," Yun Yun said gently. "Everyone makes mistakes in life. What's important is to learn from them so you don't repeat them."
She paused briefly, patting Nalan Yanran's head with a motherly tenderness. "Besides, none of the elders have scolded or blamed you. They've worked hard to contain the situation, and they did so because they believe in you. So don't wear such a gloomy expression—it doesn't suit you."
Nalan Yanran's lips trembled as fresh guilt welled up in her heart. The kindness and forgiveness of her master, and the effort of the elders to clean up her mistake, only deepened her feelings of remorse.
"But, Master, what do you truly think about my betrothal?" Nalan Yanran raised her teary eyes to Yun Yun, her voice tinged with hesitation as she sought her master's opinion.
"You've spoken to me about this matter before the ceremony, haven't you?" Yun Yun's tone remained gentle yet firm. "My thoughts haven't changed. It's only fair for you to meet your fiancé and understand his character. See if he's a man worthy of your future."
Her voice softened further. "However, if he proves unworthy or if you find you cannot accept him, the engagement will be annulled. You are the Young Lady of the Misty Cloud Sect. Your happiness and choices matter, and I will always stand by your side to ensure they are respected."
Yun Yun's expression softened further as she continued, "Though I was surprised by the abruptness of your declaration, I understand your feelings. If this is truly what you want, I will support you."
"Master…" Nalan Yanran's voice wavered, and she stepped forward to embrace Yun Yun tightly. The warmth of her master's reassurance seemed to melt away the unease that had gripped her heart.
After a while, Nalan Yanran wiped away her tears. A faint smile appeared on her face, her heart finally at peace. She released Yun Yun and stepped back, bowing slightly in gratitude.
Yun Yun gave a slight nod of approval, her lips curving into a small, encouraging smile. She noticed the clarity returning to her disciple's eyes and felt reassured by her regained composure.
At that moment, Yun Yun's sharp senses detected two familiar presences approaching from the left corridor.
Moments later, Gu He rounded the corner, his figure tall and composed. Liu Ling followed closely behind, trailing a few steps as though in quiet deference to his teacher.
"Ms. Yun, so you were here." Gu He's voice carried a warm tone as he cupped his hands in greeting. His gentle smile betrayed a trace of affection, a sentiment that did not go unnoticed by Yun Yun.
"Gu He, I see you've come to find me." Yun Yun's tone remained calm and measured. "What brings you here?"
"I was hoping to ask if Liu Ling and I could accompany Lady Yanran on her trip to the Xiao Clan," Gu He stated, his usual courtesy leaving little room for idle pleasantries.
"You? Is it because of Xiao Hua?" Yun Yun arched a delicate brow, quickly discerning his intention.
"That's correct." Gu He nodded, his expression steady. "As you are aware, Xiao Hua has reached the rank of a seventh-tier alchemist. My presence could serve as a gesture of respect, signaling to the Xiao Clan that we approach this matter with the utmost courtesy."
He paused for a moment before continuing. "Furthermore, my involvement may help to ensure that discussions remain amicable. It might temper any potential offense or hostility during the negotiations."
Yun Yun's gaze lingered on Gu He for a moment as she considered his proposal. His reasoning was sound. The Xiao Clan's current status—combined with Xiao Hua's influence—demanded an approach marked by tact and deference. Mishandling this delicate matter could indeed escalate tensions.
After a brief moment of contemplation, Yun Yun lifted her phoenix-like eyes to meet his. "Very well. You may accompany us to the Xiao Clan."
"Thank you," Gu He replied with a polite nod, relief flickering across his face. "There is, however, one more favor I would like to request."
While Gu He and Yun Yun were engaged in discussion, Liu Ying's attention remained fixed on Nalan Yanran. Observing her complexion improving, he felt a wave of relief wash over him, easing the tension in his chest.
"Thank goodness Ms. Yun is here to comfort Yanran," Liu Ying murmured inwardly. He had noticed her pale expression during the meeting and knew the emotional burden was weighing heavily on her.
The matter of the betrothal agreement between the Xiao Clan and the Nalan Clan was not widely known, even within the Misty Cloud Sect or among major forces. Both clans had deliberately kept it under wraps.
Liu Ying had first learned of the engagement from a fellow disciple, someone privy to this secret. Consumed by jealousy, he had schemed to expose the arrangement. Through subtle manipulation, he coerced the disciple into revealing the betrothal during the ascension ceremony, ensuring the matter would reach the ears of the major forces.
Moreover, before the ascension ceremony, after Yun Yun had spoken with Nalan Yanran, Liu Ying seized the opportunity to further destabilize her. He subtly manipulated her emotions, playing on her admiration and concern for her master, Yun Yun. His words were carefully crafted to sow doubt and restlessness in her already fragile state of mind.
Under the weight of his manipulations and the judgmental gazes of the major forces, Liu Ying knew that Nalan Yanran would be forced to choose: Would she honor the betrothal agreement between Nalan Jie and Xiao Lin, or would she embrace her identity as the Young Lady of the Misty Cloud Sect?
Deep down, Liu Ying believed he knew her decision. Nalan Yanran revered her master, Yun Yun, and would never willingly bring trouble upon her.
What he failed to consider, however, was the current standing of the Xiao Clan and the immense power wielded by Xiao Hua, whose influence was the cornerstone of their meteoric rise. His jealousy had blinded him, leading him to underestimate the far-reaching consequences of his actions.
Even so, Liu Ying consoled himself with the knowledge that Xiao Hua was currently in seclusion. With Gu He's presence, he was confident the Xiao Clan would not act unreasonably. Furthermore, Yun Yun's involvement underscored the Misty Cloud Sect's sincerity and respect.
Still, Liu Ying was not entirely naive. He was well aware of the personalities of Xiao Clan's strongest elders, Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang. Both were known for their pragmatic and restrained demeanor, making it unlikely they would allow the situation to escalate unnecessarily.
For now, Liu Ying could only hope his actions would not stir the embers of a greater conflict, though a lingering unease gnawed at the edges of his mind.
If the Misty Cloud Sect were to uncover his involvement, Liu Ying knew the consequences would be severe. Though they might hesitate to act directly against him due to his position as Gu He's disciple, their displeasure would be unmistakable. At best, he would face alienation, a practical half-expulsion from the sect, leaving him in an awkward and powerless position.
His master, Gu He, would undoubtedly be livid. This debacle had already caused considerable trouble for Yun Yun, someone Gu He held deep affection for. As Gu He's disciple, Liu Ying was acutely aware of how this could strain their relationship. If Yun Yun were to grow distant because of this, Gu He might not hesitate to sever their master-disciple bond entirely.
But what terrified Liu Ying even more was the thought of Nalan Yanran's reaction. She would despise him for the chaos he had sown. Before the ascension ceremony, he had tried to counsel her, questioning whether Xiao Yan was worth the trouble for Yun Yun. Yet now, he himself had created an even greater problem for her master. The irony was as bitter as it was humiliating.
"No one can ever know of my involvement in this matter," Liu Ying murmured under his breath, his chest tightening with fear. "If the truth comes to light… my life will be over!"
Before he could wallow further in his anxiety, a frantic voice shattered his thoughts.
"Sect Leader! There's bad news!"
Startled, Liu Ying turned his head along with the others. An elder was rushing toward Yun Yun, his usually composed demeanor completely unraveled. His face was pale, and his expression bore the terror of someone who had seen a ghost.
"What has happened to make you behave like this?" Yun Yun asked, her delicate brows furrowing. It was rare for an elder to act so disheveled, utterly disregarding both his appearance and dignity. She felt a sinking sensation in her chest—whatever this news was, it could only be dire.
"We've received terrible news from one of our disciples who recently returned from Wu Tan City!" the elder exclaimed, his voice trembling with urgency. "He... overheard... overheard…"
"Elder Yun Fan, please calm yourself," Gu He interjected calmly, his tone steady but firm. "Take a moment to catch your breath before continuing."
The elder paused, placing a hand on his chest as he tried to regulate his frantic breathing. His disheveled appearance and haggard expression conveyed the gravity of the situation, even before his words could.
Yun Yun and the others exchanged uneasy glances but remained silent. The oppressive tension in the air coiled around them like a serpent. Though the specifics were yet to be revealed, they could sense this was no ordinary report.
Finally, after regaining his composure, the elder cupped his hands respectfully and straightened his posture. His grave expression deepened as he spoke.
"One of our disciples in Wu Tan City overheard a hushed conversation among members of the Xiao Clan," he began, his tone low and serious. "From what was said, it seems Xiao Hua has emerged from seclusion… and has successfully advanced to the Dou Zong class!"
The news struck like a thunderclap, shaking the very core of their hearts. None of them had anticipated such a revelation—it was truly the worst possible news they could receive at this delicate time.
But the elder wasn't finished. His trembling voice continued, each word adding weight to their dread.
"Moreover," Elder Yun Fan said, his tone laced with horror, "it is said that Xiao Hua has refined not one, but two tier-eight medicinal pills—for the unborn child of Grand Elder Xiao Tao and the unborn child of Grand Elder Xiao Yang."
"Impossible!" Gu He's exclamation cut through the silence like a blade. His disbelief was palpable as his voice rose in protest. "Do you have any idea how old Xiao Hua is? For him to refine even a single tier-eight medicinal pill is absurd, let alone two! This must be some kind of exaggeration or a mistake!"
"Calm yourself, Gu He," Yun Yun chided softly but firmly, her voice carrying an undeniable authority. She sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose as a hint of a frown marred her otherwise serene features. "We can verify the truth of his alchemical abilities later. That's not the pressing issue at the moment."
Gu He took a deep breath, forcing himself to regain his composure. As a Dou Wang and a tier-six alchemist, he understood the necessity of staying level-headed, especially when Yun Yun herself seemed unshaken. Her words sank in quickly, and he realized she was right—Xiao Hua's rumored alchemical prowess could be investigated later. His return, however, posed an immediate and far more critical threat.
For Gu He and Yun Yun, the possibility of Xiao Hua being a tier-eight alchemist was something they could investigate later. Yet, as Yun Yun emphasized, the immediate problem was Xiao Hua's return to the Xiao Clan—a development that sent shockwaves through the Misty Cloud Sect's higher ranks.
If it were merely the Xiao Clan alone, Gu He and Yun Yun's presence might have been enough to smooth things over, potentially ending the matter amicably, even if some bitterness remained on the Xiao Clan's side. However, the dynamics shifted drastically with Xiao Hua's return.
"A Dou Zong powerhouse, and one with Xiao Hua's reputation…" Gu He muttered, his brows furrowed deeply. There was no doubt in his mind that the report was credible—Xiao Hua's breakthrough to Dou Zong class was an undeniable reality.
Though the Misty Cloud Sect had no prior animosity or direct relationship with Xiao Hua, they were acutely aware of one crucial detail: Xiao Yan, Nalan Yanran's betrothed, was under Xiao Hua's protection. Attempting to annul the betrothal under these circumstances could easily be seen as an affront to Xiao Hua, whose reputation alone was enough to make even the most influential sects tread carefully.
Yet, amidst the growing tension, no one was more horrified by this news than Liu Ying. His expression contorted in despair, his complexion turning ashen while cold sweat trickled down his face. His heart pounded erratically, caught between fear and envy.
'Impossible! Why has he come out at this time?!' Liu Ying inwardly screamed, his mind racing in panic. 'Couldn't he have stayed in seclusion just a little longer?!'
The elder's report reverberated in his ears, fueling his rising envy and dread. The notion of Xiao Hua becoming a tier-eight alchemist—a realm even his master, Gu He, had yet to achieve—was a bitter pill to swallow.
'Why?! Why does he have such heaven-defying talent while I, despite all my efforts, fall so short? What's so special about him?'
Liu Ying's lips quivered, and he bit down on them to stop their trembling, concealing his emotions behind his folding fan. Despite his attempts to suppress his turmoil, his entire body seemed to seethe with envy and indignation.
Though the tier-eight alchemist claim was unconfirmed, Liu Ying couldn't dismiss its possibility. It might sound implausible, yet the weight of the Xiao Clan's declaration was too significant to ignore. A simple investigation would soon reveal the truth, and it was unlikely for the Xiao Clan to fabricate such a bold lie, especially concerning someone like Xiao Hua.
Even Gu He, who initially doubted the claim about Xiao Hua, refrained from voicing further disbelief. Deep down, he understood the gravity of the news—it might very well be true.
"This… Leader, what should we do?" The elder asked anxiously, his voice trembling slightly.
Yun Yun fell silent for a moment, her thoughts racing. Her eyes shifted to Nalan Yanran, whose face had turned ashen. The young woman's posture was rigid, her expression a mixture of guilt and apprehension.
Sensing Yun Yun's gaze, Nalan Yanran hesitated before meeting her master's eyes. Her guilt was evident, and her lips quivered as she struggled to speak. She knew she had acted impulsively during the ascension ceremony, declaring her intent to annul the betrothal without fully considering the consequences.
'If only I had waited and discussed this quietly with Master and the elders after the ascension ceremony… If I hadn't been so stubborn and ambitious, none of this would've happened,' she lamented internally, her regret carving deep lines of sorrow across her features.
Yun Yun, noticing Nalan Yanran's inner turmoil, reached out and gently clasped her hand. A warm, reassuring smile graced Yun Yun's face as she said softly, "It's all right, Yanran. There's no need to dwell on what has already passed."
The warmth in Yun Yun's touch and her kind expression worked like a soothing balm. Nalan Yanran's body, which had been tense with guilt, slowly began to relax. Yet, no matter how much her master tried to comfort her, she couldn't entirely dispel the guilt gnawing at her heart.
Seeing the lingering shadow of regret in Nalan Yanran's eyes, Yun Yun made a silent decision. She would stay by her side for the rest of the day, ensuring she didn't spiral further into self-reproach.
In the meantime, Yun Yun decided to focus on the matter at hand. Turning her gaze to the pale and visibly shaken elder, she spoke firmly.
"Nothing changes in our plan. We will handle the engagement between Nalan Yanran and Xiao Yan amicably, ensuring they understand our intentions are peaceful. However, for compensation, make sure to include six-tier medicinal pills or items of equivalent value on the list."
"Understood, Sect Leader." The elder cupped his hands respectfully and quickly departed to relay her instructions.
Feeling a sense of relief, Yun Yun turned toward Gu He. "Elder Gu He, my apologies, but Yanran and I must take our leave now."
"It's fine," Gu He replied with a slight shake of his head. His gaze shifted to Nalan Yanran, noticing her unsteady condition. Understanding her state, he harbored no objections.
As he watched Yun Yun and Nalan Yanran depart, a heavy sigh escaped his lips. His eyes lingered on the distant sky, his thoughts clouded by unease. This journey to the Xiao Clan, he realized, would not be a simple one.
Moreover, if news of Xiao Hua's return had reached them, it was certain the Imperial Family had been informed as well. Their long-standing desire to marry the First Princess to Xiao Hua was no secret, and they would undoubtedly seize this opportunity.
"It seems things are about to become more chaotic than usual," Gu He murmured, another sigh slipping from him as he contemplated the uncertain road ahead.