Chapter 417: The Demon Slaying King Qin Tian's Words, Alliance with the Fire Spirit Clan
In the bustling White Jade Capital, Xiao Tiance listened attentively to Wan Feng's plea to let the incident with Mohe Tian pass. All eyes were on Xiao Tiance, wondering if he would let the matter drop or escalate the situation further.
Taking a moment, Xiao Tiance glanced at Xiao Xuan and other high ranking members of White Jade Capital, gauging their reactions. To his pride and relief, their expressions were resolute and battle ready. It was clear: if Xiao Tiance gave the order, they would not hesitate to fight, even against both the Great Thousand Palace and the Mohe Ancient Clan simultaneously.
Seeing this unwavering loyalty, Xiao Tiance exhaled deeply, his heart swelling with gratitude. Even the junior disciples, many of whom had recently joined and were far from powerful, displayed no signs of fear in their eyes.
Tiance Relents – For Now
With a faint nod, he finally spoke:
"Very well. Since Steward Wan has intervened and Mohe Tian has already lowered his head to apologize, let this matter end here."
Wan Feng breathed a sigh of relief. He had been genuinely concerned that Xiao Tiance, in his righteous fury, might press the matter further and leave him no choice but to intervene. Given Xiao Tiance's strength and unpredictable nature, the prospect of a full blown conflict was a risk Wan Feng wanted to avoid.
Mohe Tian's Departure – With Resentment
As Xiao Tiance dispersed the sect's protective formation, Mohe Tian's face contorted with hatred. He glared at Xiao Tiance and spat through clenched teeth:
"Xiao Tiance, this isn't over. Just you wait we'll settle this sooner or later!"
Unmoved, Xiao Tiance chuckled coldly.
"You think I'm afraid of you? You're no match for me now, and you won't be in the future. If you wish to challenge me, I'll be waiting."
With a flick of his sleeve, Xiao Tiance ignored Mohe Tian's venomous gaze. Meanwhile, the disgraced heir and his entourage wasted no time fleeing through the capital's teleportation array, their figures vanishing in a flash of light.
Aftermath – Xiao Tiance's Apology
As Mohe Tian disappeared, Xiao Tiance turned to the assembled guests, cupping his hands in a gesture of apology.
"I apologize for the disturbance earlier. I hope it did not sour the occasion for you all."
The guests responded with polite smiles and murmurs of reassurance:
"The Sovereign need not apologize."
"No harm done, truly. You handled it admirably."
"Such situations are unavoidable. We understand."
Relieved by their understanding, Xiao Tiance nodded. He instructed Mo Yang to ensure the guests were well attended to before excusing himself from the banquet.
Private Conversation with Wan Feng
Later, in the serene ninth floor of the Tiance Pavilion, Xiao Tiance and Wan Feng sat together over tea.
Wan Feng, sipping from his cup, smiled appreciatively.
"I must say, Sovereign Xiao, your growth is astonishing. At this rate, it won't be long before White Jade Capital becomes one of the Great Thousand World's most elite forces."
Xiao Tiance humbly waved a hand.
"You flatter me, Steward Wan. Compared to the true powerhouses, my strength is still insignificant. But I must thank you for your mediation earlier. Without your intervention, I might have been forced to deal with Mohe Tian permanently and that would've caused no end of trouble for White Jade Capital."
Wan Feng chuckled warmly.
"You acted out of pride for your sect. That's commendable. Still, I must remind you while Mohe Ancient Clan is not invincible, they're not an enemy to take lightly. Their roots run deep, and they've been entrenched in the Great Thousand World for tens of thousands of years. A direct conflict with them would be… unwise at this stage."
Xiao Tiance nodded, acknowledging the truth in Wan Feng's words.
"You're right. I'll tread carefully. But I believe that by the time Mohe Tian assumes control of his clan, White Jade Capital will be strong enough to face them head on."
Wan Feng chuckled again, impressed by Xiao Tiance's confidence.
"Indeed, with your talent and drive, it's entirely possible. But until you reach the level of a Saint Grade Heavenly Sovereign, it would be prudent to remain low key. Without a Saint Grade powerhouse, no sect can truly claim the title of a 'superpower.'"
Qin Tian's Words
After some further conversation, Wan Feng set down his teacup, his tone shifting to a more serious note.
"By the way, Sovereign Xiao, I came not only to congratulate you on White Jade Capital's founding but also to relay a message from Qin Tian, the Demon Slaying King."
Hearing this, Xiao Tiance's eyes widened in surprise.
"Qin Tian?!"
The name carried immense weight. Known as the first Demon Slaying King of the Great Thousand Palace, Qin Tian was a legendary figure. Having risen from obscurity, he single handedly struck fear into the hearts of the extraterrestrial demon race. His exploits included returning alive from the demon infested territories, bearing the severed remains of a Demon Emperor.
Even among the Great Thousand World's elite, Qin Tian ranked among the top ten powerhouses. His reputation rivaled that of titans like the Flame Emperor and the Martial Ancestor.
Why Qin Tian Noticed Xiao Tiance
Seeing Xiao Tiance's astonishment, Wan Feng smiled knowingly.
**"It's no surprise you're shocked. Sovereign Qin Tian rarely concerns himself with the affairs of others. However, your feats in subduing the Phoenix Clan and indirectly causing the death of Feng Mingtian caught his attention.
"You're the first person since ancient times to facilitate the fall of a Heavenly Sovereign without incurring the Great Thousand Palace's wrath. When Qin Tian reviewed the case files, he took a personal interest in you."**
The Message
Xiao Tiance composed himself and respectfully cupped his hands.
"What message does the Demon Slaying King wish to convey?"
Wan Feng's tone grew solemn.
"He said this: 'Tell Xiao Tiance to hold fast to his indomitable spirit. Without unwavering determination, the path to the pinnacle will be impossibly steep.'"
Xiao Tiance's Gratitude
Hearing this, Xiao Tiance's expression turned serious. He mulled over the advice before bowing slightly toward Wan Feng.
"I am honored by Qin Tian's recognition and advice. Please convey my deepest thanks to him."
Wan Feng smiled, sensing Xiao Tiance's sincerity.
"I will. But heed his words well, Sovereign Xiao. The path you walk is not an easy one, but with determination and caution, I have no doubt you'll rise to the top."
Upon hearing Wan Feng's words, Xiao Tiance carefully committed them to memory. While he wasn't entirely sure why Qin Tian, the Demon Slaying King, would send such a cryptic message, he trusted that someone of Qin Tian's stature had his reasons.
"Very well. Please extend my gratitude to Lord Qin Tian and to you, Steward Wan. I will remember his advice," Xiao Tiance said respectfully, bowing slightly in thanks.
Wan Feng chuckled. "Good. Since I've delivered my message, I'll take my leave. The Great Thousand Palace has many matters requiring my attention. Until we meet again."
Xiao Tiance personally escorted Wan Feng to the teleportation array, watching him leave before returning to the Tiance Pavilion.
An Important Visit
Upon arriving, Xiao Tiance was met by Shi Hao, who rushed in with a respectful bow.
"Sovereign, the Fire Spirit Clan's Patriarch, Miss Huo Rou'er, and Lord of the Four Seas City have arrived."
"Good. Bring them in." Xiao Tiance nodded, his curiosity piqued. He had heard much about Huo Rou'er, the woman who had occupied Tong Sihai's heart for centuries. He was eager to see what kind of person had inspired such devotion.
The Guests Arrive
Not long after, Shi Hao returned, leading the three guests into the hall.
"Greetings, Sovereign!" the Fire Spirit Clan Patriarch, Huo Rou'er, and Tong Sihai all bowed respectfully.
"No need for formalities. Please, have a seat," Xiao Tiance said with a laugh, gesturing for them to sit.
As the guests settled, Xiao Tiance observed Huo Rou'er's demeanor and the respectful expressions on the faces of both her and the Fire Spirit Patriarch. The dynamic between them and Tong Sihai was evident. Tong Sihai's eyes never left Huo Rou'er, and her gaze, equally unwavering, was filled with warmth.
Xiao Tiance Opens the Discussion
Breaking the ice, Xiao Tiance chuckled. "Patriarch, Miss Huo Rou'er, you both must already be familiar with this man, Lord Tong Sihai, correct?"
The Fire Spirit Patriarch glanced at Tong Sihai and responded curtly, "Of course. Lord of Four Seas City, head of all trade under White Jade Capital. A man of considerable power and influence."
Despite the neutral tone, the Patriarch's expression betrayed a lingering disdain. He had long disapproved of Tong Sihai's pursuit of Huo Rou'er, seeing him as nothing more than a merchant, despite his strength as a Peak Earthly Sovereign. The Patriarch had even forbidden the two from meeting, a decree they had defied at great personal risk.
Memories of catching the two in secret meetings surfaced, and the Fire Spirit Patriarch's mood soured further. He had only spared Tong Sihai's life because of Huo Rou'er's tearful pleas.
Xiao Tiance Advocates for the Couple
Observing the tension, Xiao Tiance spoke earnestly. **"Patriarch, it's clear to me that Tong Sihai's feelings for Miss Huo Rou'er are genuine. Initially, I considered not interfering if she showed no interest in him. However, from what I've seen today, the affection is mutual.
"As Sovereign of White Jade Capital, I must look after my people. Tong Sihai is not only one of our five City Lords but also oversees all trade within our domain. It's only fair I do what I can to support him.
"Moreover, their devotion to each other is rare and precious. Centuries apart haven't diminished their feelings but only deepened them. As an old saying goes, 'Better to dismantle ten temples than to destroy one union.' Rarely does love endure as theirs has. For this reason, I humbly ask: Patriarch, could you grant your blessing for their union?"**
The Patriarch Relents
Hearing Xiao Tiance's plea, the Fire Spirit Patriarch sighed heavily, glancing at Huo Rou'er. Her eyes were filled with hope and longing, mirroring the unwavering devotion in Tong Sihai's gaze.
Finally, the Patriarch spoke: **"Sovereign, I must admit, I anticipated this. When your invitation included my granddaughter's name, I suspected this would come up.
"Over the years, I've tried to pair Rou'er with other talented suitors, but her heart has room for no one else. If you, Sovereign, are willing to vouch for Tong Sihai, then who am I to stand in their way any longer?"**
Joyful Reactions
Huo Rou'er's face lit up with joy. "Grandfather, are you saying… you won't oppose us anymore?"
The Patriarch nodded reluctantly, and tears of happiness welled in her eyes. Tong Sihai, overwhelmed with gratitude, quickly bowed. "Thank you, Patriarch! Thank you, Sovereign, for making this possible!"
A New Alliance
As the heartfelt moment unfolded, the Fire Spirit Patriarch turned back to Xiao Tiance. "Sovereign, though I consent to their union, I have a request in return."
"Please, speak freely." Xiao Tiance gestured for him to continue.
The Patriarch stood and bowed deeply. "I hope the Fire Spirit Clan and White Jade Capital can form an alliance one of mutual prosperity and shared fate."
Xiao Tiance's expression grew thoughtful. "An alliance? Given your clan's strength boasting two Heavenly Sovereigns I see no reason to refuse. However, are you not concerned about potential repercussions from the Mohe Ancient Clan? As you saw earlier, tensions between us are high."
The Patriarch chuckled. "Sovereign, you underestimate my connections. In my youth, I shared a deep camaraderie with the Mohe Clan's current Patriarch. One letter from me will ensure they give us some leeway."
Sealing the Deal
Xiao Tiance laughed heartily. "In that case, I welcome this alliance wholeheartedly. From this day forth, the Fire Spirit Clan and White Jade Capital are bound as allies."
Turning to Tong Sihai, he added, "Well, Tong Sihai, what are you waiting for? Go greet your new grandfather!"
Tong Sihai knelt before the Fire Spirit Patriarch, his voice full of emotion. "Grandfather in law, I promise to cherish Rou'er and uphold the honor of both our families."
The room filled with laughter and joy as the two factions celebrated their new bond, a union of love and an alliance of strength.
(End of Chapter)
Thank you for the support, friends. If you want to read more chapters in advance, go to my Patreon.
Read 30 Chapters In Advance: patreon.com/Albino1