Chapter 112: The Cunning Ling Hua and the Visit of Gu Dao and Gu Lie

Chapter 112: The Cunning Ling Hua and the Visit of Gu Dao and Gu Lie

Tiance Manor, Ninth Floor, Tian Wai Tian

"Xiao Clan Leader, please inspect this. It is the Tou She Ancient Emperor's Jade that my clan has safeguarded for generations," Yao Dan said, offering the artifact.

Xiao Tiance leisurely reached out, letting the jade hover in his grasp. After inspecting it briefly, he smiled and said, **"Clan Leader Yao, your sincerity is noted. As for this 'alliance,' the Xiao Clan is willing to accept.

However, in any alliance, there must be a leading party. The Xiao Clan is confident in its ability to repel all enemies and extend its protection to the Yao Clan. Therefore, I believe the Xiao Clan is most suited to take the lead. What do you think, Clan Leader Yao?"**

Across from him, Yao Dan nodded without hesitation. "Of course. Clan Leader Xiao is absolutely correct. The Xiao Clan has proven itself to be the strongest family, even surpassing both the Hun and Gu Clans. It is only fitting that the Xiao Clan takes the lead."

Yao Dan's words revealed that he had yet to realize the nature of this "alliance." While it seemed like a partnership, in truth, it placed the Yao Clan in a subordinate position.

On the side, Ling Hua quickly added, "Congratulations to Clan Leader Xiao and Clan Leader Yao on this alliance! With this partnership, both clans will grow stronger and avoid the covetous eyes of others."

Yao Dan laughed happily. "Ha! All thanks to Brother Ling. Without you bridging the connection, my Yao Clan might not have had the opportunity to form an alliance with the Xiao Clan. My gratitude is endless."

Ling Hua responded with a hearty laugh, "No need for such formality, Brother Yao. Given our relationship, I naturally had to look out for you."

Watching their exchange, Xiao Tiance smiled. The strength he wielded as the leader of the Xiao Clan brought him undeniable advantages. Witnessing this interaction, he couldn't help but feel a sense of amusement at the unfolding drama.

After finishing their tea, Yao Dan prepared to leave. Xiao Tiance, however, asked Ling Hua to remain behind.

Tiance Manor, Ninth Floor After Yao Dan's Departure

As Yao Dan left, the smile on Xiao Tiance's face faded. Turning to Ling Hua, he asked with a playful yet serious tone, "Don't you think the Ling Clan Leader owes me an explanation?"

Ling Hua, unfazed by the question, bowed slightly and smiled. **"Clan Leader Xiao, I believe the outcome speaks for itself. Regardless of the methods used, the result is that the Yao Clan is now one of the Xiao Clan's 'allies.'

Whenever the Xiao Clan requires assistance from the Yao Clan, they will undoubtedly comply. Given this, does it truly matter how we achieved this outcome?"**

Xiao Tiance couldn't help but laugh. Shaking his head in disbelief, he said, **"You've got quite the nerve, Ling Hua, even daring to deceive me.

Have you considered that if Yao Dan learns of your deceit, he might harbor resentment toward this so called 'alliance'? Should that resentment lead to conflict between the Xiao and Yao Clans, do you understand the potential consequences?"**

Ling Hua immediately bowed deeply, his tone sincere yet calculated. **"Please calm your anger, Clan Leader Xiao. I fully understand the risks.

However, by the time Yao Dan realizes the truth, it will no longer matter. The Xiao Clan's strength is overwhelming. If Yao Dan is wise, he will play along.

If he is foolish, the Xiao Clan can simply eliminate the Yao Clan. Furthermore, Yao Dan would not blame the Xiao Clan for this situation. He would direct his resentment at the Ling Clan, as we appear weaker and easier to target. His temperament ensures he knows his limits."**

Xiao Tiance chuckled, his initial frustration giving way to admiration. **"Ling Clan Leader, it seems you've planned every move with precision, even considering Yao Dan's future reactions.

You're quite the schemer, aren't you?"**

Ling Hua knew he had successfully passed Xiao Tiance's test. He was fully aware of the implications of his actions. Despite his deceit, the arrangement benefited all parties: the Yao Clan gained protection, the Xiao Clan expanded its influence, and the Ling Clan secured its position.

Even if Yao Dan eventually discovered the truth, his rationality would prevail. He might even increase his offerings to the Xiao Clan, understanding the benefits of continued cooperation.

Xiao Tiance watched Ling Hua carefully. Despite the man's cunning methods, he couldn't deny the effectiveness of his strategies. For Xiao Tiance, strength ultimately dictated right and wrong, and the Xiao Clan's overwhelming power ensured their position.

"Fine. Regardless of your methods, your efforts have brought the Yao Clan under our banner. For that, you deserve recognition," Xiao Tiance said, nodding approvingly.

Ling Hua let out a silent sigh of relief, bowing once more. "Thank you, Clan Leader Xiao. Your recognition means everything."

Ling Hua's Request

Ling Hua seized the moment to press his own agenda. "Clan Leader Xiao, given my contributions, I wonder if you might now assist me in securing control over the Ling Clan?"

Xiao Tiance chuckled. **"Ling Clan Leader, aren't you being too hasty? I've already stated that the Xiao Clan will not intervene in the internal affairs of the Ling Clan.

Even if I were to help you, your clan members might oppose you for relying on external forces. Wouldn't that hinder your plans?"**

Ling Hua's heart sank. Without Xiao Clan support, regaining control of the Ling Clan would be exponentially more difficult.

Noticing Ling Hua's anxiety, Xiao Tiance smiled and said, "Of course, while the Xiao Clan cannot publicly support you, lending you a few individuals in secret is not out of the question."

Tian Wai Tian, Ninth Floor of Tiance Manor

"I believe, with the Ling Clan Leader's intelligence, you should be able to gather a few capable individuals from within the Xiao Clan, no? As long as the Xiao Clan doesn't openly declare its support for you, even those dissatisfied within the Ling Clan wouldn't dare go all out against you, correct?"

Upon hearing these words, Ling Hua couldn't hide his delight. Xiao Tiance's meaning was clear: while the Xiao Clan would not overtly support him, it could discreetly lend him a few experts. Ling Hua could claim that he had personally recruited these individuals, avoiding any overt connection to the Xiao Clan.

As long as the Xiao Clan's stronghold remained untouched, no one in the Ling Clan would dare direct their grievances toward the Xiao Clan. This arrangement not only preserved the Xiao Clan's honor but also allowed Ling Hua to consolidate his hold over the Ling Clan.

"You are truly brilliant, Clan Leader Xiao. Ling Hua is in awe," Ling Hua said, bowing respectfully.

Xiao Tiance waved dismissively, a faint smile on his lips. "It's nothing more than some basic scheming, hardly worth praise. If you were a Nine Star Dou Saint, Ling Hua, all opposition would have vanished long ago. It's a pity that for over a thousand years, you've been constrained by others due to your lack of strength."

Ling Hua's expression turned wry. He understood his own limitations and knew there was little he could do to change them.

"Regardless, thank you, Clan Leader Xiao. When might I expect the assistance from your experts?" Ling Hua asked cautiously.

After a moment of thought, Xiao Tiance replied, "This matter should not be delayed. After the Seven Clan Exchange concludes, seek out Xiao Qing. He will arrange everything for you."

"Understood. Thank you, Clan Leader Xiao. The Ling Clan will always look to you for guidance," Ling Hua said, bowing again.

Xiao Tiance nodded and smiled faintly. "There's no need for such formality. I'm also curious to see how far you can lead the Ling Clan without interference."

After a brief pause, Xiao Tiance's expression turned serious. **"By the way, Ling Clan Leader, I suggest keeping a close watch on the Hun Clan's movements.

Although they are currently in hiding, once Hun Tiandi recovers from his injuries, they will surely resurface. Remember, the Hun Clan still possesses the Void Swallowing Flame. If it manages to harness the abilities of the last leader of the Tunling Clan, it will pose a significant threat not just to the Ling Clan but also to the Shi and Yao Clans.

If the Hun Clan catches you off guard, even the Xiao Clan's reinforcements may not arrive in time to save you."**

Ling Hua's heart skipped a beat. While he outwardly expressed concern over the Hun Clan, inwardly, he was wary of Xiao Tiance potentially using this as an excuse to plant Xiao Clan experts in the Ling Realm, effectively making him a puppet leader.

Hiding his true thoughts, Ling Hua bowed deeply and said, "Rest assured, Clan Leader Xiao. I will keep a close eye on the Hun Clan. If anything arises, I will inform the Xiao Clan immediately."

Xiao Tiance nodded in satisfaction. "Good. Ling Clan Leader, you may leave now. Thank you for your efforts."

The Arrival of Gu Dao and Gu Lie

Shortly after Ling Hua left, a guard entered hurriedly. "Clan Leader, Gu Dao and Gu Lie of the Gu Clan have arrived and request an audience."

"Oh? What brings them here?" Xiao Tiance mused, frowning slightly before waving a hand. "Bring them in."

"Understood, Clan Leader."

Moments later, Gu Dao and Gu Lie were ushered into the hall.

Both were among the strongest representatives of the Gu Clan present at the exchange. Gu Lie, in particular, was a renowned powerhouse in the Dou Qi Continent.

"Gu Dao and Gu Lie of the Gu Clan pay their respects to Clan Leader Xiao," they said in unison, bowing courteously.

Xiao Tiance smiled and gestured for them to sit. "There's no need for formalities. Please, take a seat. To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?"

Once seated, Gu Dao chuckled lightly. **"Clan Leader Xiao, our visit has two purposes. First, our clan leader wishes to strengthen the relationship between our two clans.

Second, we must congratulate you on your stunning victory over Hun Tiandi. To heavily wound a Nine Star Dou Saint at his peak what an extraordinary feat! If not for Shi Zhongtian's interference, I'm sure the Hun Clan would have been eradicated by now.

This battle has not only cemented the Xiao Clan's dominance but also left our clan in awe of your might."**

The Hun Clan had long been an enemy to both the Xiao and Gu Clans. While the Gu Clan didn't harbor the same intense hatred as the Xiao Clan, they had clashed with the Hun Clan numerous times over the years. Any opportunity to strike a blow against them was welcome.

Xiao Tiance waved a hand, his tone calm yet resolute. **"You're too kind, Gu Dao. That battle was born of necessity.

The Xiao Clan had hidden itself for a thousand years, but the Hun Clan forced our hand killing Elder Xiao Tian Yun and grievously wounding Elder Xiao Tian Shan.

If we had remained silent after such provocations, the Xiao Clan's reputation would have been tarnished beyond repair."**

While his words seemed humble, they carried a subtle warning: The Xiao Clan does not seek conflict, but we will not shy away from it. Anyone who challenges us will face the consequences.

Gu Dao remained composed, but Gu Lie, known for his fiery temper, couldn't hold back. **"Clan Leader Xiao, is this a veiled warning for us?

I must say, your Xiao Clan has been quite impressive lately defeating the Hun Clan, subjugating the Shi Clan, and forming an 'alliance' with the Ling Clan. At this rate, will the entire continent soon fall under the Xiao Clan's control?"**

"Gu Lie!" Gu Dao interjected sharply, trying to prevent further escalation.

Xiao Tiance, however, chuckled and waved dismissively. **"No need to stop him, Gu Dao. If Gu Lie has more to say, let him speak freely.

After all, the Xiao Clan values freedom of expression. Besides, given the history between our clans, even offending me wouldn't harm our relationship much."**

He turned to Gu Lie with a playful smile. "Go on, Gu Lie. I'm listening."

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