Seven Grand Clans of Grand Xia
Seven Grand Clans of Grand Xia
As Yun Mengyi departed the area, Qin Wentian observed her retreating figure. Despite his outward calm, his heart was in a state of slight turmoil. Yun Mengyi's beauty was nearly on par with Mo Qingcheng and Qing'er—how could a young, hot-blooded man like Qin Wentian remain unmoved? After all, he was someone who had yet to experience the intimate embrace of a man and woman.
However, his temperament was different from that of others, allowing him to restrain himself despite the difficulty. Nonetheless, Yun Mengyi's actions... the enigma that was this woman only grew more perplexing. She resembled a puzzle, a shadow obstructing his vision.
After a few more moments of contemplation, Qin Wentian shrugged off his thoughts and returned to his cultivation in silence. He needed to prepare additional trump cards before the upcoming ranking battles. Only then would he possess the capacity to vie against other exceptional talents.
The following morning, major powers received invitations from the Chen Clan. These invitations called for the younger generation of cultivators to gather at the Chen Estate for an exchange.
This development seemed to have been instigated by Ouyang Kuangsheng, the young master of the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan. Rumors circulated that Ouyang Kuangsheng had acted audaciously, directly challenging the Chen Clan by demanding to spar with the Great Solar Chen Clan's younger generation. His intention was to witness the renowned Great Solar Universe Art in action.
As a response, the Great Solar Chen Clan issued invitations to various transcendent powers. Apart from the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan, they extended their invitations to the Shi Clan from the Ginkou Continent, the Pill Emperor Hall and Hua Clan from the Moon Continent, the Wang Clan from the War Continent, and the Swallow Swordsmen from the Yan Continent.
This led many to speculate that the Great Solar Chen Clan had ulterior motives. It appeared that they sought more than just an exchange among the younger generations of various powers.
Among these transcendent powers, nine stood out as the strongest:
Ginkou Continent: Venerate Heavens Sect, Great Solar Chen Clan, Shi Clan
Moon Continent: Pill Emperor Hall, Hua Clan
War Continent: Wang Clan
Azure Continent: Ouyang Aristocrat Clan
Demon Continent: Skydemon Sect
Yan Continent: Swallow Swordsmen.
Among these nine, the ones hailing from the Ginkou Continent held the title of the strongest transcendent powers, while those from the Moon Continent ranked second. The current invitations had been extended to seven out of these nine powers, with only the Venerate Heavens Sect and the Skydemon Sect being omitted.
The Venerate Heavens Sect possessed a unique status, as they were responsible for determining the rankings within Grand Xia. Long ago, the sect's founder had even overseen the guardians. With their mastery over various mystical arts, including the prediction of the empire's fortune and destiny, it was rumored that without the Venerate Heavens Sect's support, the historical rebellion against the empire's establishment would have failed. They could peer into the future by observing the stars' movements, skilled in interpreting signs and omens. Given this, many speculated that one of the nine traitors might have been the founder of the Venerate Heavens Sect.
As for the recent invitations, aside from the Ouyang Aristocratic Clan, the rest of the guest list consisted of five other transcendent powers that were reportedly founded by members of the same group of traitors.
It was conceivable that the gathering at the Chen Clan might be more than just an exchange among the younger generation; it could also be considered a convergence of the nine traitors associated with the Nine Grand Clans of Ancient Grand Xia.
In the present moment, the members of the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan were en route to the Great Solar Chen Clan.
As they headed to the Chen Clan, Qin Wentian and Ouyang Kuangsheng discussed this matter extensively. It left Qin Wentian feeling a tremor in his heart. After all, he had been the one to witness the final scene atop the Heavenly Stele Platform—the moment when the nine traitors plotted against Princess Tianyu. He pondered about the middle-aged man who led the operation, the vile figure who had assaulted Princess Tianyu. Which of the Nine Grand Clans had he originated from?
"The Nine Grand Clans of Ancient Grand Xia have been reduced to seven in the current era. These seven now occupy positions among the nine supreme transcendent powers of Grand Xia," Qin Wentian mused.
Among these supreme transcendent powers, only the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan and the Skydemon Sect hadn't been established by the nine traitors.
"Such powers indeed warrant seven out of the nine positions. Were it not for the fall of those two Grand Clans, the nine supreme transcendent powers would undoubtedly align with the Nine Grand Clans," Ouyang Kuangsheng remarked, shaking his head. "My Ouyang Aristocrat Clan and the Skydemon Sect eventually rose to join the ranks of the nine supreme powers. However, in an unbiased assessment, we would certainly find ourselves near the bottom."
"The Nine Grand Clans were originally dispersed across various regions of Ancient Grand Xia, each controlling a distinct territory. However, an unimaginable event transpired. For unknown reasons, someone or something annihilated the mightiest of these Nine Grand Clans. Following that, the Venerate Heavens Sect, Great Solar Chen Clan, and Shi Clan relocated to the Ginkou Continent. The Hua Clan moved to the Moon Continent. Over time, these shifts and changes have culminated in the Grand Xia we are familiar with today."
Ouyang Kuangsheng recited the passage ingrained in his memory since his youth. He then sighed, "The current state of Grand Xia can no longer be considered an Empire. The powers are too fragmented, with each one striving for supremacy. The prospect of Grand Xia being united under a single banner seems impossible now."
"The might of Ancient Grand Xia was beyond imagination. The Pill Refiner Grand Clan transformed into today's Pill Emperor Hall, the Weapon Forger Grand Clan became the Wang Clan on the War Continent, and the Venerate Heavens Pavilion evolved into the Venerate Heavens Sect. The other Grand Clans, specializing in combat, eventually became the Chen Clan, Shi Clan, and Swallow Swordsmen of Yan. If not for the gradual decline of the Nine Grand Clans over millennia, they would never have allowed other transcendent powers to emerge."
"But shouldn't Stellar Martial Cultivators become stronger over time? Why did their power wane instead?" Fan Le asked intently, fully engaged in the conversation.
"We can only speculate," Ouyang Kuangsheng replied, "perhaps the true powerhouses of that era had already reached an incomprehensible level of cultivation and departed Grand Xia for other realms. No one knows for sure."
Ouyang Kuangsheng's musings were merely speculative. Qin Wentian and the others nodded, finding his thoughts to be quite reasonable.
"Isn't this similar to the situation between Chu and Grand Xia? If Chu were as dominant as Grand Xia, we wouldn't have needed to leave Chu to explore Grand Xia. That would imply there might be even more formidable places beyond Grand Xia's borders," Chu Mang mused.
Were there limits to the path of cultivation? How expansive was the world they inhabited? Were the legendary powerhouses truly as described—capable of shattering heavens, seizing moons, and claiming stars?
As their conversation concluded, they arrived at the outskirts of the Chen Estate. Touching down, they demonstrated their respect for the Chen Clan.
As gracious hosts, the Chen Clan had stationed individuals at the entrance to welcome the arriving guests.
"Well... someone's about to reunite with his little sweetheart. Aren't you feeling excited?" Luo Huan playfully taunted as they entered. Aware of the recent news concerning Mo Qingcheng, she had a history of teasing the two of them. Who would have predicted they'd become a couple one day? Regrettably, numerous obstacles seemed to obstruct their union.
"Senior Sister, please spare me," Qin Wentian replied with a chuckle. They approached an island within a lake, evidently the chosen venue for the gathering. Graceful women danced and played zithers on boats that drifted around the lake, filling the air with enchanting melodies that enhanced the ambiance and delighted the senses.
The island was spacious, featuring a central arena that had been set up.
At that moment, as members of the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan arrived, a middle-aged man stepped forward and greeted them, "The esteemed presence of the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan graces our humble abode."
"Brother Chen, your courtesy is overwhelming." Leading the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan was none other than Ouyang Kuangsheng's second uncle, Ouyang Long. His face radiated with smiles as he extended a respectful hand towards their host.
"My humble abode is graced by numerous esteemed guests today. If any aspect of my hospitality falls short, I beg brother Ouyang to forgive me. Please, allow me to have someone guide you to your designated seats." The elder from the Chen Clan summoned an attendant to accompany the Ouyang Clan. Ouyang Long replied with a smile, "Brother Chen, your kind efforts are greatly appreciated."
After Ouyang Long and his group had taken their seats, several pairs of eyes cast their gaze upon them. The other transcendent powers were all being personally attended to by members of the Chen Clan, except for the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan.
This small detail did not escape the notice of the Ouyang Clan. A hint of displeasure crept across their expressions, as if the Chen Clan had purposely intended to provoke them.
Polite greetings were exchanged through words, yet actions spoke volumes. Respect seemed conspicuously absent.
At that moment, Qin Wentian felt a piercing stare directed at him. Shifting his gaze, he identified the source as Wang Xiao. Accompanying Wang Xiao was his girlfriend, Qiao Xuan from the Mystic Maiden Palace, who had joined him to broaden her horizons amidst the gathering of Grand Xia's supreme transcendent powers.
Apart from the Chen Clan, the other six supreme powers, originating from the seven remaining Grand Clans, were all present.
"The Wang Clan of the War Continent certainly lives up to its reputation. Their aura is truly formidable," Qin Wentian thought as he observed Wang Xiao and his entourage.
Next, his attention was drawn to a group of white-clad swordsmen with ancient swords strapped to their backs. This gathering represented the Swallow Swordsmen from the Yan Continent, a faction solely dedicated to the mastery of swords.
Members from the Hua Clan and the Pill Emperor Hall had also arrived.
His gaze then settled on Luo He, who was engrossed in conversation with the elder representing the Hua Clan.
Clearly, the Hua Clan sought to strengthen their ties with the Pill Emperor Hall, possibly indicating their intent to form an alliance through marriage.
Luo He, as the Master, somehow sensed Qin Wentian's eyes upon her. She turned her head and her focus instantly locked onto him. Upon noticing his presence, her expression grew sharp, and an almost palpable pressure seemed to bear down on him. The moment Luo He spotted him, her demeanor turned colder, driven by the knowledge that this young man held a profound place in her disciple's heart. As her Master, she couldn't compete with Qin Wentian for Mo Qingcheng's affection.
"Qin Wentian." Positioned at Luo He's side, Zhan Chen's eyes gleamed with a sharp, golden glint, his intent to kill conspicuously unmasked.
In no time, those from the Hua Clan also directed their collective gaze towards Qin Wentian. Was he the one responsible for Hua Xiaoyun's demise?
The stares fixed upon Qin Wentian were as frigid as ice, as though they were regarding someone already departed from the living.
In truth, aside from Hua Xiaoyun's immediate family, no one within the Hua Clan mourned his death. Hua Xiaoyun had been a wastrel, a pampered young master who consistently stirred up trouble. Many secretly considered his death a blessing.
However, despite their indifference towards Hua Xiaoyun's fate, Qin Wentian's act of killing one of their own dealt a blow to the Hua Clan's pride.
Yet, they would take no action against him. This was because, while they might remain passive, there was one individual intent on ensuring Qin Wentian's demise.
Hua Taixu, who had always held a special affection for his younger brother, would undoubtedly not allow Qin Wentian to escape his wrath for long.
As long as Hua Taixu was present, Qin Wentian's days were numbered.
Apart from Zhan Chen, among the members of the Chen Clan, Chen Ran's gaze toward Qin Wentian was equally icy. Nevertheless, he dared not openly display his murderous intent. He had already suffered defeat at Qin Wentian's hands, his pride shattered before the eyes of many. Seeking revenge from Qin Wentian would be an exercise in futility, for he knew with certainty he would be vanquished once more.
How could he explain to his clan that he, a chosen of the Great Solar Chen Clan, had been defeated by an unknown figure despite employing the Great Solar Universe Art?
As always, Qin Wentian's demeanor remained unaffected, his countenance composed and tranquil. Even if time could reverse, and he was given the choice anew, he would still eliminate Hua Xiaoyun without a moment's hesitation, based on the threats he had posed to Mo Qingcheng. This fact had no sway over his emotional state.
Regarding Zhan Chen, his true nature concealed a merciless ruthlessness. He was an individual committed to attaining his objectives through whatever means necessary, be they honorable or devious. He wouldn't hesitate to sacrifice even a beloved one to further his own agenda. Considering this, if he sought to end Qin Wentian's life, wouldn't it be natural for Qin Wentian to desire the same outcome for Zhan Chen?
Outside the corridor's entrance leading to the island, another group of silhouettes approached. They marked the final transcendent power to make their arrival—the members of the Shi Clan.
The cultivators of the Shi Clan possessed sinister appearances, with long hair that danced in the breeze, as dark as the night. Their aura held a hint of a demonic nature, an overpowering presence that persisted even when restrained.
"It's said that the Shi Clan members bear the bloodline of ancient primordial beasts. These natural-born warriors once followed the Ancient Emperor in his conquest of Grand Xia," Ouyang Kuangsheng murmured in a hushed tone. His words prompted a flicker of confusion to cross Qin Wentian's countenance. The Shi Clan actually harbored the bloodline of an ancient primordial beast?