BTTH: I Am the Ancestor of the Xiao Clan

Chapter 123: The Gu Clan Meeting and the Visit of the Gold Swallowing Rat Clan

"That's why I'm so hesitant, elders. I hope we can discuss this together and come to a decision," said Gu Yuan with a heavy sigh.

In the Gu Realm's grand meeting hall, silence fell as the Gu Clan elders pondered their leader's words.

The temptation of the Nine Grade Spirit Gathering Formation was undeniable its potential benefits were extraordinary. Yet, the Tou She Ancient Emperor's Jade was an artifact of immense significance, tied not only to their clan's dignity but also to the legacy of the Eight Ancient Clans.

The Eight Ancient Clans were defined not only by their history of producing Dou Di (Battle Emperors) but also by their possession of the Emperor's Jade. Other families, no matter how powerful or ancient, lacked this essential artifact and could never be recognized as true imperial clans.

Giving away the jade would be like surrendering the Gu Clan's identity and legacy.

After a long silence, a mid stage Five Star Dou Saint elder rose. Bowing to Gu Yuan, he said, "Clan Leader, while we all agree on the value of a marriage alliance, we urge you to reconsider handing over the Tou She Ancient Emperor's Jade. Its significance is too great."

"Indeed! The jade is tied to the final Dou Emperor's legacy we cannot part with it lightly."

"Exactly! The risks are too great."

The hall erupted into a cacophony of voices as the elders weighed in with their opinions.

Gu Lie, standing to the side, eventually spoke up. "Clan Leader, the elders make a valid point. Is it possible to negotiate with the Xiao Clan for the formation using a different exchange item?"

Gu Yuan sighed deeply and shook his head. "I've tried. Xiao Tiance is resolute there are no alternatives. It's the jade or nothing."

Just then, one of the Gu Clan's three Grand Elders spoke up. **"Clan Leader, what about the jade fragment in the Xiao Clan?

"From our spies within the Xiao Clan, we know their Emperor's Jade fragment is not in their possession. Reports suggest it's still with their branch family in the Jia Ma Empire.

"If the Clan Leader permits, I will personally go to the Jia Ma Empire to retrieve both Gu Xun'er and the jade fragment they guard."**

This suggestion immediately gained traction. If the Gu Clan could secure the Xiao Clan's fragment, they would still possess a piece of the jade even if they handed over their own.

However, Gu Yuan shook his head again. **"There's no need to act rashly. Xun'er's protector, Ling Ying, has already reported that the Xiao Clan has stationed strong guards near the Jia Ma branch. These individuals are likely Dou Zun level or higher.

"Even if we retrieve the jade, it will undoubtedly lead to suspicion. The Xiao Clan would never tolerate such an act, and our alliance would crumble in an instant.

"As it stands, the Xiao Clan's strength far surpasses ours. I estimate they have over 100 Dou Saints, perhaps even 200. Their number of high level Dou Saints alone is beyond our reach.

"To secure their Nine Grade Spirit Gathering Formation, the jade is our only viable bargaining chip."**

The elders fell silent at Gu Yuan's analysis. The realization that the Xiao Clan's strength was so overwhelming left them at a loss for alternatives.

Finally, Gu Dao proposed, "If that's the case, we should summon Xun'er back to the clan. There's no point in leaving her in the Jia Ma Empire. If she remains, she may face unnecessary danger."

The elders unanimously agreed. As the most talented and promising youth of their generation, Gu Xun'er's safety was paramount.

After a moment of thought, Gu Yuan nodded. "Very well. Black Smoke King, I'll leave the task of retrieving Xun'er to you."

"Understood, Clan Leader." Gu Lie bowed deeply, accepting the assignment.

Gu Yuan then addressed the elders again. "Now, I give you all one incense stick of time to deliberate. Should we exchange the Tou She Ancient Emperor's Jade for the Xiao Clan's Nine Grade Spirit Gathering Formation? As elders of the clan, your decision must be made with care."

Closing his eyes, Gu Yuan leaned back in his seat, giving the elders time to discuss among themselves.

Meanwhile, in Tianwaitian.

Two beams of intense Dou Qi shot up into the sky from the Nine Grade Spirit Gathering Formation, sending ripples through the Xiao Clan.

In his study, Xiao Tiance opened his eyes, sensing the commotion. With a flash, he disappeared and reappeared outside the White Jade Capital. By then, several elders, including Huang Jiuji, had gathered.

The gates of the formation swung open with a thunderous boom, and two majestic ancient Tianhuang birds flew out. They descended gracefully before transforming into human forms Huang Min and Huang Lingyun, Xiao Tiance's disciples.

"Master! Teacher!" Huang Min approached Xiao Tiance and Huang Jiuji with a beaming smile. Her Dou Qi still fluctuated slightly, evidence of her recent breakthrough.

"Ancestor! Teacher!" Huang Lingyun bowed respectfully.

Xiao Tiance and Huang Jiuji both looked at their disciples with satisfaction. "Not bad. You've surpassed my expectations your foundations seem solid."

Gesturing for the onlookers to disperse, Xiao Tiance led the two disciples to Tiance Pavilion.

"You've just broken through. Rest, clean up, and have a proper meal. Tomorrow, I have a gift for you both," Xiao Tiance said with a smile.

"Teacher, what kind of gift?" Huang Min asked playfully, her eyes lighting up with curiosity.

Xiao Tiance patted her head gently. "You'll find out tomorrow."

"Alright then!" she said cheerfully.

Huang Min pouted for a while when her teacher wouldn't reveal anything further. After clinging to Xiao Tiance briefly in a playful manner, she and Huang Lingyun returned to their quarters.

Huang Jiuji stood by and gave a respectful bow. "Thank you, Clan Leader, for your guidance."

"You're too polite, Huang Lao. No need for such formalities between us," Xiao Tiance replied with a smile.

Before their conversation could continue, Xiao Bieli hurried into the courtyard, bowing deeply before reporting, "Clan Leader, Elder Chun just sent word that two advanced seventh rank magical beasts have appeared at the entrance to Tianwaitian, requesting an audience with you."

"Seventh rank beasts?" Xiao Tiance raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

Ever since creating the Tianwaitian space, his immense aura had driven all magical beasts within a hundred mile radius far away. For over a thousand years, not a single beast had dared to approach.

"Elder Chun mentioned that these two come from the Gold Swallowing Rat Clan, rulers of the Tianmu Mountain Range."

Hearing this, Xiao Tiance's memory stirred. In the original timeline, Xiao Yan had encountered the Gold Swallowing Rat Clan while exploring the Tianmu Mountain Range after becoming a Dou Huang. Their leader, Jin Shi, had sought Xiao Yan's help in curing his fire poison in exchange for granting Xiao Yan access to the deeper, more energy dense parts of the Tianmu Blood Pool.

Reflecting on this, Xiao Tiance nodded. "Very well. Instruct Elder Chun to escort them to Tiance Pavilion."

"Yes, Clan Leader. I'll relay your message immediately," Xiao Bieli replied before hurrying off.

Soon, Elder Chun arrived with two towering Gold Swallowing Rats in their human forms. Their presence radiated the unmistakable aura of peak seventh rank beasts.

The two beasts bowed deeply upon entering. "Jin Shi, leader of the Gold Swallowing Rat Clan, and Elder Jin Gang, pay respects to the Xiao Clan Leader."

"No need for formalities. Please, have a seat." Xiao Tiance gestured toward the chairs, his calm demeanor helping to ease the tension in the room.

Despite his welcoming tone, the two visitors trembled slightly as they sat. Their awe of Xiao Tiance was clear this was, after all, the leader of the mightiest clan in the Dou Qi continent.

Noticing their unease, Xiao Tiance smiled gently and asked, "What brings the two of you here today?"

Jin Shi and Jin Gang exchanged a glance before Jin Shi stepped forward and bowed again. "Clan Leader Xiao, we have come to humbly request the Xiao Clan's protection for the Gold Swallowing Rat Clan."

"Protection?" Xiao Tiance frowned slightly. "From what I know, your clan rules the Tianmu Mountain Range unchallenged. No magical beast dares provoke you. Why would you seek our protection?"

He recalled the powerful presence of the Gold Swallowing Rat Clan during his time in Tianmu Mountain. Their population was vast, and their expertise in sonic attacks made them formidable. The need for protection seemed unlikely, at least against other magical beasts.

Jin Shi let out a bitter laugh. **"Clan Leader Xiao, it is true that no beast dares oppose us. However, the situation has changed drastically in recent years. The establishment of the Four Way Pavilion has brought human cultivators to the Tianmu Mountain Range.

"The root of the issue lies in the Tianmu Blood Pool. This sacred site, which increases the chances of advancing to Dou Zong, has drawn countless human experts seeking to occupy it.

"Over the years, many human Dou Zongs and Dou Huangs have captured and slaughtered our kin to secure access to the Blood Pool.

"Decades ago, we had a Dou Zun to deter such threats, but with his passing, we are no longer able to resist the humans. Thus, we humbly seek your protection."**

At this, Jin Shi bowed deeply again, his voice earnest as he continued. **"If the Xiao Clan grants us shelter, we will provide annual tributes of high tier medicinal herbs, refined ores, and other resources from the Tianmu Mountain Range.

"Additionally, we are willing to relinquish access to the deeper levels of the Blood Pool, allowing Xiao Clan members to use it for cultivation."**

Xiao Tiance listened intently, nodding slowly. Jin Shi's plea seemed heartfelt, but he suspected the Gold Swallowing Rats had other motives. In the original timeline, even the Four Way Pavilion did not dare act recklessly within Tianmu Mountain. Likely, Jin Shi wanted to secure a strong ally while retaining control of the Blood Pool for his clan's benefit.

Still, the proposal had its merits. The Blood Pool could help the Xiao Clan conserve resources, especially for those advancing to Dou Zong.

After a moment's thought, Xiao Tiance smiled. **"Very well, Clan Leader Jin. The Xiao Clan accepts your request for protection. However, regarding the Blood Pool, I will only require two entry slots.

"As for the Four Way Pavilion, they are a mid tier faction in Zhongzhou, and outright conflict would be unwise. Instead, let's establish a challenge system.

"Whenever the Blood Pool opens, the Xiao Clan will send a representative to oversee proceedings. Should anyone challenge for access, they must defeat our chosen guardian to secure their slot.

"What do you think of this arrangement?"**

Jin Shi's eyes lit up with relief. "Thank you, Clan Leader Xiao! Your wisdom is unparalleled. From now on, the Gold Swallowing Rat Clan pledges loyalty to the Xiao Clan. Any command from your clan will be carried out without hesitation."

Xiao Tiance nodded, satisfied. The alliance would strengthen the Xiao Clan while providing the rats the protection they sought.

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