BTTH: I Am the Ancestor of the Xiao Clan

Chapter 127: Gu Lie Retreats and an Unusual Hotpot Feast

"This way, we can also avoid the risk of losing the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade."

High above the Xiao family residence in Wu Tan City, Xiao Tianming's gaze lingered on Xiao Tiance. He firmly believed that retrieving the jade from Xiao Zhan and securing it in the main Xiao clan was the safest option. After all, the Xiao clan boasted many powerful guardians, and no one would dare storm Tianwaitian to steal it.

However, the Xiao family here was far less protected its strongest member wasn't even a Dou Ling. Almost any opponent with slightly higher strength could easily take what they wanted. The Gu Clan, for example, had always shown restraint by respecting the non interference pact between the clans. Otherwise, Gu Yuan wouldn't have needed to send Xiao Xun'er to the Xiao family; they could have simply seized the jade outright.

Still, Xiao Tianming couldn't understand why Xiao Tiance insisted on leaving the jade in Wu Tan City.

Xiao Tiance Explains His Plan

Reluctantly, Xiao Tiance offered some reassurance. "Your plan is indeed the safest, Tianming. However, there are reasons I cannot fully explain for choosing this course of action. I need you to trust me on this."

Xiao Tianming sighed, suppressing his doubts. "Brother Ce, of course I trust you. It's just that…" He trailed off, then shrugged. "Forget it. You've clearly thought this through more than I have. Whatever you say, I'll follow."

Xiao Tiance nodded approvingly, then shifted his gaze to the corpse he'd left outside Gu Lie's quarters. "What do you think Gu Lie will do when he sees the body?"

Xiao Tianming considered the question, then shook his head. "I can't say for sure, but if I were him, I'd collect the body without a word and act like nothing happened. Then, I'd find an excuse to leave the Xiao family as soon as possible."

Xiao Tiance smiled faintly. "Exactly. That's the smartest move. The Xiao family couldn't have killed that man, so the only plausible explanation is that someone from the Xiao clan intervened. If Gu Lie doesn't take the hint and retreats quietly, he can't blame me for making sure he stays in Wu Tan City… permanently."

Gu Lie Discovers the Corpse

As Xiao Tiance predicted, Gu Lie abruptly left the Xiao family banquet, claiming urgent business in the Gu Clan. Returning to his quarters, he immediately noticed a faint metallic scent in the air.

Frowning, Gu Lie stepped inside and froze. The corpse of one of his Black Smoke Army subordinates lay on the ground.

For a moment, his Dou Qi surged uncontrollably, but then his expression shifted as he detected a faint, lingering aura on the body an aura he instantly recognized.

"Xiao Tiance…"

The realization made his blood run cold. He vividly recalled his humiliating defeat at Xiao Tiance's hands in Tianwaitian. The man's speed and strength had been utterly overwhelming. Now, that same aura lingered on this corpse.

"He's here…" Gu Lie's eyes darted around the room. He couldn't see Xiao Tiance, but he knew the man was likely watching from somewhere nearby.

A Strategic Retreat

After a brief moment of thought, Gu Lie did exactly as Xiao Tianming had predicted: he silently collected the body without raising an alarm. Then, he sent a signal to the Black Smoke Army stationed outside Wu Tan City.

Moments later, a powerful surge of Dou Qi rippled through the Xiao estate as Gu Lie's forces regrouped.

Gu Lie's Departure

From atop a massive magical beast, Gu Lie addressed Xiao Zhan and the Xiao family: "Thank you for your hospitality, Clan Leader Xiao. Unfortunately, I've received an urgent summons from the clan and must take my leave."

Though Xiao Zhan remained polite, he was visibly relieved to see Gu Lie and his entourage depart. "You honor us, Lord Gu Lie. Safe travels."

With a wave of his hand, Gu Lie led his party into the sky and disappeared over the horizon.

In the Void

Xiao Tiance watched everything unfold with an impassive expression. He had no intention of revealing himself. "As long as Gu Lie keeps to the original storyline, there's no need for unnecessary interference," he murmured.

Turning to Xiao Tianming, he added, "Gu Lie won't return. Continue monitoring the Xiao family, but don't act unless absolutely necessary."

"Brother Ce, are you heading back?"

"Yes. I only came to prevent Gu Lie from causing trouble. Now that he's gone, there's no reason for me to stay. Besides, the Xiao clan is preparing for a major event in ten days a political alliance with the Gu Clan. I must attend as clan leader."

Xiao Tianming nodded. "Very well. Leave things here to me."

With a small smile, Xiao Tiance disappeared without a sound.

Gu Lie Reflects on His Encounter

Several hundred miles from Wu Tan City, Gu Lie finally allowed himself to relax.

Letting out a long breath, he closed his eyes. "What an intimidating man. To think he'd descend in person for this insignificant branch family…"

One of his subordinates, a Dou Sheng, couldn't hide his curiosity. "Black Smoke King, weren't we supposed to bring the young lady back? Why did we leave empty handed? And… you seem unusually shaken."

Gu Lie's expression darkened. "That's none of your business. When we return, I'll personally explain everything to the clan leader and the elders."

The subordinate fell silent, but the unease in the group was palpable.

Back in Wu Tan City

At Xiao Yan's courtyard, Xiao Xun'er lingered for a while before returning to her own room. Xiao Yan, finding himself alone, sighed and resumed his training.

A Subtle Warning

That night, under the cover of darkness, a Black Smoke Army soldier infiltrated the Xiao estate, heading straight for Xiao Zhan's quarters.

Before he could get close, a massive palm of Dou Qi slammed him into the ground Xiao Tiance's handiwork. The man's lifeless body was tossed unceremoniously outside Gu Lie's former quarters.

In the Void Again

Xiao Tianming couldn't help but question Xiao Tiance's actions. "Brother Ce, wasn't that a bit heavy handed? Now Gu Lie will know someone from the Xiao clan is protecting the Xiao family."

Xiao Tiance dismissed the concern. **"The Gu Clan already knows. There's no point hiding it.

As for sparing Gu Lie, it's simple. I don't want to antagonize the Gu Clan unnecessarily. They're valuable allies in our fight against the Soul Clan, and I'd rather not give them a reason to stab us in the back."**

Xiao Tianming frowned. "That infiltrator was after the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade, wasn't he? Why not secure the jade ourselves to ensure its safety?"

Xiao Tiance gave a knowing smile. "Not yet."

As soon as Xiao Yan returned to his courtyard, Yao Chen emerged from his storage ring, his expression concerned.

"Xiao Yan, are you alright?"

Though Yao Chen didn't dare reveal even a trace of his soul energy during the earlier encounter, he had been fully aware of everything that transpired. While Xiao Yan's physical injuries had healed, Yao Chen feared the emotional toll might have been greater.

Xiao Yan looked at his mentor in confusion. "Teacher, what happened earlier? Why did you suddenly disappear? I thought something happened to you, but you look perfectly fine now."

Yao Chen sighed and explained with a wry smile, "The person who came to the Xiao family today was immensely powerful. I didn't dare expose even the slightest hint of my presence, or I'd have been discovered immediately. Now that he's gone, I'm safe to come out."

Gu Lie, an eight star Dou Saint and former commander of the Black Smoke Army, was also known as the Black Smoke King. Though Yao Chen had never met him, he had heard of his fearsome reputation. Xiao Xun'er calling the man "Uncle Lie" confirmed his identity.

Xiao Yan's Doubts

"Teacher, was he really that strong?" Xiao Yan asked hesitantly, unwilling to fully accept it. To him, Gu Lie seemed formidable, but perhaps not insurmountable.

Yao Chen sighed again, this time with a tinge of helplessness. "Xiao Yan, even at my peak, I wouldn't stand a chance against him not even against one of his fingers. You need to understand just how vast the gulf is between us. That's why you must work harder. Xun'er comes from a family of unimaginable power. If you're serious about being with her, you'll have to put in far more effort. Otherwise, there will come a day when you'll deeply regret it."

Yao Chen had previously been uncertain about Xun'er's background, but Gu Lie's arrival clarified everything.

Xun'er's High Status

"That girl holds an extraordinarily high position in her clan. Otherwise, someone like Gu Lie would never have come all the way here for her. Xiao Yan, work hard. I believe in you. Someday, you'll stand tall and proud and be able to openly claim her as your own."

Hearing this, Xiao Yan felt a growing sense of urgency. Beyond his three year agreement with Nalan Yanran, his resolve to increase his strength was now driven by his desire to be worthy of Xun'er.

"I understand, Teacher. From now on, I'll accept any training methods, no matter how grueling. I won't back down." Xiao Yan's voice was firm as he clenched his fists in determination.

Seeing his student's unwavering resolve, Yao Chen felt a wave of relief. Gu Lie's overwhelming power had worried him he feared Xiao Yan might lose his spirit. But now, his disciple's confidence seemed stronger than ever.

"Hahaha, that's the spirit! You truly are my disciple. Very well, let's focus on rapidly increasing your strength. Once you reach the Dou Zhe level, I'll give you an opportunity you won't want to miss," Yao Chen said with a hearty laugh.

Hearing this promise, Xiao Yan's excitement grew, and he immediately immersed himself in his training. Over time, he had come to know that his teacher possessed countless treasures, any one of which could significantly benefit him.

Xiao Tiance's Observations

Meanwhile, Yao Chen held a token inscribed with the characters "Tian Ji." He studied it thoughtfully, his mind lingering on Gu Lie's sudden departure.

"It must have been that elder of the Xiao clan. I doubt anyone else in the entire Xiao clan possesses the capability to make someone like Gu Lie leave so quickly." Yao Chen sighed inwardly, then put the token away and returned his attention to Xiao Yan.

A Relaxing Interlude

Back at Tianwaitian, Xiao Tiance had returned and was enjoying a brief respite after two days of rest. As he prepared to pour himself a cup of tea, Huang Min and Huang Lingyun arrived.

"Teacher!"

The two greeted him with respect. Huang Min, always lively, quickly moved to pour tea for him.

Xiao Tiance sipped his tea slowly, his gaze falling on their auras. After a moment, he nodded in satisfaction.

"Excellent. Both of you have reached the early stage of the Seven Star Dou Saint realm. Combined with your powerful beast physiques and your control over unique flames, you're more than capable of holding your own against late stage Seven Star Dou Saints. From now on, you are officially considered graduates."

Lingyun's Gratitude, Min's Mischief

Huang Lingyun bowed respectfully. "Teacher, though our progress has been steady rather than fast, Elder Huang says our physical strength is among the best in the Sky Phoenix Clan."

Huang Min, on the other hand, grinned mischievously. "Thanks, Teacher! But I don't care about being called a graduate. I'll leave all the Beast Domain matters to Lingyun. I just want to stick with you forever!"

Xiao Tiance chuckled, gently patting her head. "You silly girl. Why can't you be as sensible as Lingyun?"

Huang Min pouted. "Lingyun's so boring. How could he possibly be better than me? Oh, Teacher! Let's catch an Earth Demon Bull and make hotpot! After all this training, my cravings are through the roof!"

Hotpot Plans

Huang Lingyun sighed at her antics but still turned to Xiao Tiance. "Teacher, I'll go catch one right now. It should last us several days."

Min's expression lit up with approval. "Finally, you're being useful!"

Xiao Tiance smiled and nodded. "Alright, go ahead. Just one will suffice. Remember, even magical beasts need time to replenish their numbers."

Earth Demon Bulls, a species of sixth tier magical beasts bred by the Xiao clan, were specifically raised for their meat. The strongest among them had nearly reached the eighth tier, but they were carefully managed within spirit arrays.

As Lingyun departed, Xiao Tiance retrieved a hotpot and some specially prepared broth from his storage ring. With a flick of his wrist, a stream of spring water flowed through the window and into the pot.

An Exotic Flame for the Feast

As Xiao Tiance prepared to use the Golden Emperor Flame to heat the pot, Huang Min eagerly volunteered. Summoning her Beast Spirit Flame, she directed it beneath the pot.

The flames roared, and the pot began to boil.

"Haha! Everything's ready except the beef. I can't wait!" Huang Min clapped her hands, practically drooling as the aroma filled the room.

Xiao Tiance shook his head, chuckling. "You really are hopeless, Min."

Thank you for the support, friends. If you want to read more chapters in advance, go to my Patreon.

Read 20 Chapters In Advance: patreon.com/Albino1