I wonder what he'll do?

Bai Jian's suspicions had been aroused, and he knew that he needed to investigate further. He waited for the right moment, when his father was preoccupied with other matters, to discreetly channel the Soul-Spirit energy into his eyes and peer into the wooden box.

As he focused, the emblems that were previously invisible to the naked eye revealed themselves to him. These hidden symbols held a profound and mysterious energy, one that seemed to suggest that the box held more secrets than met the eye.

Bai Jian's gaze swept over the enigmatic runes, and he carefully studied their patterns and connections. He was looking for any signs of tampering or alterations that could indicate Grand Elder Jilie's involvement.

While the task required immense concentration and delicate touch with his Soul Spirit, Bai Jian was determined to get to the bottom of this mystery and protect his family from any potential harm.

Bai Jian's decision to distance himself from the main group of kids proved to be a strategic move.

It allowed him the space and concentration he needed to focus on his objectives inside the Martial Arts Pavilion. He was determined to find martial arts techniques within the Bai Clan that could help him conceal his past skills and integrate them seamlessly with the clan's teachings.

As he moved deeper into the Pavilion, Bai Jian explored the sections categorized by elements and difficulty.

He examined the pictures, scrolls, and decorations that adorned each level, absorbing the knowledge and wisdom they represented.

While the other children around him were excited about the prospect of becoming cultivators, Bai Jian's goals were different. He sought to adapt and harmonize his existing skills with those he could acquire from the clan.

The elders of the Bai Clan were discreetly observing the children's choices and actions, unaware of Bai Jian's ulterior motives.

The young boy remained focused and determined, driven by a desire to protect his family and uphold the facade that he was just another member of the clan.

Bai Jian's journey within the Martial Arts Pavilion had only just begun, and he knew that the path ahead would be filled with challenges, discoveries, and the need to maintain his dual identity.

----------------------------------------------

The three Ancestors stood on the largest Martial Arts stage in front of the Pavilion, addressing the gathered clan members and explaining the rules for the day's activities.

The instructions were clear: the Martial Arts Pavilion would be locked down to test the talent of the youngest clan members. Spirit Energy Barriers had been set up at each entrance to the next level in the Pavilion.

The rules stated that after passing each barrier, the children could choose one item from the corresponding level.

This meant that if a child progressed up to the fifth floor, they could choose a total of five items or five different cultivation-related books.

Moreover, they had the option to skip levels and choose an item on the next floor if they passed the barrier.

For example, if a child selected a Martial Arts Technique from the first floor but skipped the second and third levels, they could choose three items on the fourth floor of the Martial Arts Pavilion.

The Martial Arts Tournament was also explained. Those who placed in the top 10 of the tournament would receive prizes after the competition was completed. This announcement added an extra layer of excitement to the already anticipated event.

The youngest clan members, including Bai Jian, were now entering the Martial Arts Pavilion, ready to face the challenges and choices that lay ahead.

Martial Arts Tournament

1st. Place

----------------------------------------------

Grace of Wind Breathing Manual

Great Winds of Penetration Martial Art

10 Bottles of body Strengthening Pills

10 Bottles of Rising Qi Pills

x5 Martial Arts Skill Techniques

x5 Cultivation Items

x3 Cultivation Weapons

x3 Spirit Herbs

x1 Storage Space Ring

2nd. Place

----------------------------------------------

Grace of Wind Breathing Manual

Great Winds of Penetration Martial Art

10 Bottles of body Strengthening Pills

10 Bottles of Rising Qi Pills

x4 Martial Arts Skill Techniques

x4 Cultivation Items

x2 Cultivation Weapons

x2 Spirit Herbs

3rd. Place

----------------------------------------------

Grace of Wind Breathing Manual

Great Winds of Penetration Martial Art

10 Bottles of body Strengthening Pills

10 Bottles of Rising Qi Pills

x3 Martial Arts Skill Techniques

x3 Cultivation Items

x2 Cultivation Weapons

x1 Spirit Herbs

4th. Place

----------------------------------------------

Grace of Wind Breathing Manual

10 Bottles of body Strengthening Pills

5 Bottles of Rising Qi Pills

x2 Martial Arts Skill Techniques

x2 Cultivation Items

x1 Cultivation Weapons

5th. Place

----------------------------------------------

Grace of Wind Breathing Manual

10 Bottles of body Strengthening Pills

5 Bottles of Rising Qi Pills

x1 Martial Arts Skill Technique

x2 Cultivation Items

x1 Cultivation Weapons

6th. Place

----------------------------------------------

Grace of Wind Breathing Manual

5 Bottles of body Strengthening Pills

5 Bottles of Rising Qi Pills

x1 Martial Arts Skill Technique

x1 Cultivation Items

7th. Place

----------------------------------------------

Grace of Wind Breathing Manual

5 Bottles of body Strengthening Pills

5 Bottles of Rising Qi Pills

x1 Martial Arts Skill Technique

x1 Cultivation Items

8th. Place

----------------------------------------------

Grace of Wind Breathing Manual

4 Bottles of body Strengthening Pills

4 Bottles of Rising Qi Pills

x1 Martial Arts Skill Technique

x1 Cultivation Items

9th. Place

----------------------------------------------

Grace of Wind Breathing Manual

3 Bottles of body Strengthening Pills

3 Bottles of Rising Qi Pills

x1 Martial Arts Skill Technique

x1 Cultivation Items

10th. Place

----------------------------------------------

Grace of Wind Breathing Manual

2 Bottles of body Strengthening Pills

2 Bottles of Rising Qi Pills

x1 Martial Arts Skill Technique

x1 Cultivation Items

The Rest of the Contestants

----------------------------------------------

They get

x1 Bottle of Body Strengthening Pills

x1 Bottle of Rising Qi Pills

x1 Martial Arts Skill Technique

As the Martial Arts Tournament commenced and the Bai Clan's youngest children were escorted to the Martial Arts Pavilion, the atmosphere was charged with excitement.

The grand elders closely observed the young participants, assessing their potential and decisions as they embarked on this crucial journey of cultivation.

Among the children, Bai Jian continued his act of feigned sleep, enjoying the comfortable cushion he was resting on. His thoughts occasionally wandered, and he couldn't help but observe the other children and their family members.

In particular, he had a wistful thought about his sister Bai Yuan.

"Bai Jian, please wake up," a gentle voice called out to him, rousing him from his pretense.

He slowly opened his eyes, feigning drowsiness, and responded like a 5-year-old child.

He cast his gaze upon the tall and imposing Martial Arts Pavilion, a structure with seven levels.

He had been informed that only those with the Clan's bloodline could access the upper floors, with outsiders restricted from entering beyond the fourth level.

The top three levels were deemed off-limits to anyone who didn't carry the blood of the Bai Clan in their veins.

As Bai Jian observed the other children and their families, he knew that this event held significant importance in their lives.

It was a moment for the Bai Clan's younger generation to showcase their potential and lay the foundation for their future cultivation and development.

The Martial Arts Pavilion represented a realm of secrets and skills, and Bai Jian couldn't wait to explore what it had to offer.

As the crowd gathered at the Martial Arts Pavilion, excited murmurs and conversations filled the air, the participants and their family members discussing the prominent figures among them.

A man pointed out Bai Yuan, one of the top 10 beauties of Jade Island and a beauty ranked among the top 100 in the Whirlwind Kingdom and the Hou Kingdom.

Bai Yuan had brought her two youngest children to the event: Bai Yu, her youngest daughter, and Bai Yun, her youngest son. Both were 6 and 7 years old, and they radiated potential as they prepared to take their first steps into the world of martial arts.

The man couldn't help but admire Bai Ruoshi, who was described as a goddess. She brought her beautiful twin girls, Bai Rou and Bai Mei, to the event.

Their presence added an air of elegance and charm to the gathering, making those around them look upon the trio in awe.

The man fantasized about having a conversation with Miss Ruoshi, believing it would make him the happiest man alive.

Another figure, Bai Ju Jian, was pointed out as he arrived with his two gifted boys, Bai Fa and Bai Feng.

These seven-year-old twins were on their way to becoming swordsmen, having reached the initial stage of the Meridian Opening stage at such a young age.

Their rapid progress marked them as potential sword geniuses in the making.

Bai Qi's presence was also noted as he attended the event with his daughter, Bai Shen.

Remarkably, the young Bai Shen had already reached the initial stage of the Qi Condensation Stage at the age of 5, a testament to her unique talent.

The audience couldn't help but marvel at her potential and prospects.

As the man continued to survey the scene, he noticed Bai Yuan's son, Bai Yuan, who was the child of Elder Dao.

He had already made significant progress, having completed the core of the Foundation Stage at the age of 6.

It was believed that, if he didn't become complacent, he could reach the core formation stage in just five years.

Furthermore, two great-grandsons of prominent ancestors of the Bai Clan, Bai Tiemo and Bai Yao, both 7 years old, had reached the middle of the Foundation Stage. The man sensed that the gathering of young talents was impressive, promising a bright future for the Bai Clan.

In total, over 30 children participated in the event, each bearing the hopes and expectations of their families and clan.

However, it was noted that some parents had opted to keep their children from this event, choosing instead to have them participate in the official Bai Clan's Assessment Test in seven years.

These decisions showcased the variety of paths and opportunities available for the Bai Clan's young generation.

With the children brought to the entrance of the Martial Arts Pavilion, they were organized into two groups: one for boys and one for girls. The first two levels of the pavilion were dedicated to laying the foundation for future martial artists, and the groups began their journey of cultivation with great anticipation.

With a sense of determination and anticipation, Bai Jian made his way towards the entrance of the Martial Arts Pavilion.

As he walked through the imposing structure's doors, he couldn't help but feel the weight of expectations and the thrill of exploring the path of martial arts within the Bai Clan. It was a new chapter in his life, and he was eager to uncover the secrets and skills that would shape his journey.

----------------------------------------------

As Bai Jian entered the Martial Arts Pavilion's first section, he noticed the abundance of scrolls, pictures, books, and decorations adorning the surroundings.

The vast array of martial knowledge and techniques displayed in various forms left him in awe. It was a treasure trove of information, and he knew that amidst all this, he might discover the secrets he was seeking.

Bai Jian began to explore the section, carefully examining the scrolls and pictures.

Each element had its distinct area, and he could see the division by ranking and difficulty.

It was evident that the Bai Clan had invested a considerable amount of time and effort into preserving parts of their ancient and long-storied Martial Arts Techniques, and Cultivation heritage.

He decided to start by exploring the section corresponding to the Water element.

With focused determination, he began reading the scrolls and studying the images, looking for any techniques or principles that aligned with his goals and his new physique.

As he delved into the material, he couldn't help but marvel at the depth of knowledge and the beauty of the martial arts displayed.

Unbeknownst to Bai Jian, the clan elders watched from their hidden positions, keenly observing his choices and actions.

The elders remained vigilant, curious to see which paths the young disciples would choose and how they would adapt to the Pavilion's challenges.

----------------------------------------------

Another side of Jade Island -

in Jade Mountain City

The Ji Clan was in a Clan meeting.

the Ji Clan convened for an important clan meeting. They were in the midst of discussing the terms and rules of a significant trade deal they had recently secured with a large merchant group on the mainland.

This deal was intended to provide the Ji Clan with the resources needed to expand their lands and businesses, potentially elevating their influence on Jade Island.

The recent negotiations had taken place with a powerful mainland clan, and the deal was seen as a pivotal moment for the Ji Clan and their allies. It had the potential to propel them into a higher echelon of power, positioning them near the Huo Kingdom and even the Empire behind it.

As the meeting concluded and the guests departed, a young man dressed in pristine white attire with accents of jade walked up to an elder with a long white beard. This elder, distinguished by his jade-colored robe, was known as Elder Jade.

The young man inquired about the recently concluded negotiations and their overall outcome, asking if things had gone well or not.

Elder Jade explained that the negotiations had gone reasonably well. The other party had requested more than initially expected, but the Ji Clan had managed to secure the terms they desired.

This would set them on a course to become one of the most potent and affluent clans on Jade Island.

The young man then asked what their next steps would be. Elder Jade advised him to prepare for his education, as in a few years, they would send him to the mainland to attend one of the Royal Academies in the Huo Kingdom, marking a significant milestone in his journey.

Meanwhile, the impact of the meeting held on this small island was largely underestimated by the Yin and Ji Clans.

Little did they know that the decisions made during this meeting would significantly reshape the world of commerce, ushering in profound changes that would alter the island's economic landscape.

Shortly after the meeting ended, a man entered the room in a hurry, causing a commotion and furrowed brows among the elders and great elders present.

"Elder Jade, it seems something has happened," the man exclaimed.

"Why do you say that, little Yu?" Elder Jade inquired.

"I just saw my Uncle Wu rush into the Main Hall," the man replied.

With curiosity piqued, Elder Jade and the others decided to investigate and see what had transpired.

----------------------------------------------

"Clan Leader, the Bai Clan has convened their clan gathering seven years ahead of schedule," Ji Wu reported.

"What in the world?" Clan Leader Ji Wei exclaimed. "Why wasn't I not informed of this?"

"It seems that the Bai Clan aims to gain an advantage in the upcoming Jade Martial Arts Competition," Ji Wu explained.

The sudden revelation elicited laughter from some of the elders. "Hahaha, it appears that some of you are unaware of the current situation," Grand Elder Qing (Green) commented.

"What do you mean, Grand Elder Qing?" Elder Jing inquired.

Grand Elder Qing (Green) held back a smile and responded, "The Bai and Hou Clans are on the brink of war."

This shocking statement left the room in stunned silence. Clan Leader Ji Wei was taken aback by the unexpected turn of events, prompting Ji Yu to comment.

"What, what do you mean?" Ji Yu asked, bewildered by the news.

Elder Jade's patience waned as he tried to keep his great-grandson in check. "Silence, you little rascal Ji Yu!"

"I won't silence a young one, especially when it's your own fault!" Elder Jade retorted.

Intrigued and concerned, Ji Wei pressed for more information. "So, what happened, Grand Elder Qing?"

Grand Elder Qing (Green) proceeded to explain the underlying cause of the conflict. "Over ten years ago, the Hou Clan, with the assistance of a prince from the Huo Kingdom, orchestrated an ambush."

"Why would they do such a thing?" Ji Wei wondered aloud.

"Remember the prince from the Huo Kingdom who fell in love with that young girl from the Li Clan over twenty-five years ago?" Grand Elder Qing (Green continued, shedding light on the matter.

"Ah, I see," Ji Wei said, understanding the motives behind the aggression.

Grand Elder Qing (Green) then dropped the bombshell. "They injured and nearly killed Bai Hu!"

The room erupted with shock and outrage. "What? They did that?" the assembled elders exclaimed.

Elder Jade expressed his concern and questioned why they weren't taking immediate action to intervene.

The Grand Elders discussed their approach, with Grand Elder Qing (Green) clarifying that they needed to prioritize settling their deal with the Yin Clan first. Once that was done, they would assess the situation's profitability and potential for aiding the Bai Clan.

Clan Leader Ji Wei proposed a cautious approach. "Let's observe and see what unfolds."

The room reached a consensus, with the Ji Clan's elders agreeing not to completely sever ties with the Bai Clan. The specter of the Hou Clan's savagery and the unpredictable Huo Sect played a significant role in their decision.

"We do, Grand Elder!" the entire room responded in unison.

With their plan in place, Grand Elder Qing (Green) prepared to depart, and the elders showed their respect to Clan Leader Ji Wei with a bow before proceeding with their deliberations and preparations for the impending crisis.

"We do Grand Elder!!!"

"Okay, then I'm off"

"We Bow to the Clan Leader!"

The elders expressed their understanding and commitment to the plan, and Grand Elder Qing (Green) prepared to leave the meeting. Before departing, he bowed to Clan Leader Ji Wei, acknowledging his leadership.

With the situation clarified and their strategy in place, the elders continued their deliberations and preparations to address the impending conflict between the Bai Clan and the Hou Clan.

The Ji Clan remained on alert, ready to act as the situation evolved.

----------------------------------------------

Amidst the backdrop of Iron Valley on the western side of Jade Island, the battleground was set for an intense clash.

The Hou Clan's Young Master, an embodiment of their martial prowess, faced off against a formidable opponent—an ancient 3-Eyed Giant Fire Ape standing an imposing 10 meters tall.

The titanic battle raged on, with each move and strike showcasing the Young Master's martial skill and unwavering determination.

Clan Leader Huo Dong and his advisors exchanged worried glances as they considered the implications of the Bai Clan's unexpected early clan gathering.

The deviation from tradition raised doubts and concerns, leading them to question the Bai Clan's true intentions.

In response to the uncertain situation, Clan Leader Huo Dong decided to deploy additional guards and intensify monitoring efforts.

He recognized the need to be prepared for any disruptions or surprises that might arise from the Bai Clan's actions.

As the island's power dynamics continued to shift and evolve, it became evident that each clan and faction was navigating a delicate balance.

The future remained uncertain, and the ramifications of these developments had the potential to influence the island's destiny in unforeseen ways.

"Clan leader Huo?!"

"Yes, Huo Dong."

"The Bai Clan had their Clan gathering 7 years early."