Chapter 223: Slaying Mobas
The banquet hall of the Serpent Tribe fell into a heavy silence following Xiao Yan's proclamation.
"L Lord Xiao Yan, are you certain of this?" one elder finally asked, breaking the silence.
"Do you think I would lie to you?" Xiao Yan shot him a dissatisfied glance.
"N No, of course not. Lord Xiao Yan would never deceive us." The elder quickly laughed nervously, trying to cover his faux pas.
"Let's not talk about others for now. Just look at the four of you," Xiao Yan said, his gaze sweeping over the four grand elders. "With the blood essence I provided, don't you already have a chance of reaching the Dou Zong level?"
The elders exchanged glances before nodding enthusiastically. "Indeed, it's all thanks to Lord Xiao Yan!"
Grins lit their faces.
"The Serpent Tribe's natural talent isn't bad, but the limitations of your bloodline and heritage have held you back. Now, with the return of the original Medusa's legacy and the aid of the blood essence I've provided drawn from a ninth tier magical beast many of you have the potential to reach the Dou Zong level.
"At least half of those present here today could achieve such heights," Xiao Yan said, a calm smile gracing his lips.
"You're absolutely correct, my lord. Without your assistance, who knows how long it would take for our Serpent Tribe to grasp such an opportunity?" Flame Thorn quickly added, his words dripping with flattery.
Xiao Yan nodded approvingly at him.
This guy has a bright future. If he doesn't break through to Dou Zong, then who else will?
"Beyond these gifts, joining the Flame Alliance will also grant the Serpent Tribe access to resources and the opportunity to collaborate with other strong factions," Xiao Yan explained. "With all this, do you still think the Serpent Tribe has any reason to bear grudges against humans?"
A few elders exchanged uncertain glances before one finally spoke up, "There is no hatred, Lord Xiao Yan. The Jia Ma Empire has always been a neighbor to our tribe, and the Flame Alliance is clearly our path to greatness.
"After all, the Flame Alliance was founded by you, Lord Xiao Yan. Being part of it would be a privilege for us."
Most of the elders and tribal leaders agreed, nodding along. However, a few leaders who had fought bitter wars with humans still wore somber expressions.
"Lord Xiao Yan," one of them said cautiously, "there are still warriors in our tribes who harbor deep seated hatred toward humans. It won't be easy to reconcile with them."
Xiao Yan's expression hardened.
"Tell them about the benefits of joining the Flame Alliance," Xiao Yan said coldly. "If they still insist on holding grudges, they're free to stay out. However, if they accept the benefits and later act against the alliance in secret...
"Let's just say, I hope they don't make me regret offering my goodwill."
The atmosphere grew tense as Xiao Yan's tone turned icy.
"This is an internal matter for your tribe. I trust the Serpent Tribe's leaders aren't just a group of useless drunkards," Xiao Yan said, his smile returning but carrying a faint trace of menace.
The elders and leaders felt a chill run down their spines.
For the first time, they were reminded that Xiao Yan not only had the power to uplift the Serpent Tribe but also the strength to destroy it entirely.
"Yes, yes, Lord Xiao Yan," they stammered, hastily raising their cups in a toast to him.
Once the banquet concluded, the four grand elders instructed Hua She'er to escort Xiao Yan to the queen's chambers. Satisfied, Xiao Yan followed her.
As soon as he left, the grand elders' expressions turned grave.
"You all understand Lord Xiao Yan's message, don't you?" one of them said, addressing the remaining leaders.
"If we've chosen to align with such a powerful benefactor, then we must act accordingly," the wisest elder declared. "When you return to your tribes, work on fostering good relations with humans.
"For those warriors who hold grudges, use the promise of rewards to win them over. I'm confident most will yield in the face of sufficient benefits."
"But what if some refuse to let go of their hatred?" one tribal leader asked hesitantly.
"Those who stubbornly cling to the past..." The elder's voice grew cold. "They must be eliminated."
The room fell silent.
"Sacrifices are inevitable in times of change," the elder continued firmly. "But compared to the future of our entire tribe, a few lives are a small price to pay. If necessary, even I am willing to lay down my own life."
His words cut through the air like a blade, etching themselves into the hearts of everyone present.
The other three grand elders nodded in agreement, their expressions equally resolute.
"Understood," the tribal leaders murmured, their voices filled with both awe and determination.
After the leaders dispersed, the four grand elders appeared in the Serpent Tribe's most secure dungeon.
Within the damp and dark confines, Mobas was chained to the wall, his body restrained and his eyes blazing with defiance.
"Mobas," the wise elder said calmly, "this is your last chance. Will you let go of your obsession with the queen and submit to Lord Xiao Yan?"
"Never!" Mobas roared, his voice hoarse but unyielding. "As long as I draw breath, I will never bow to that damn human!"
The grand elders exchanged weary glances.
"Mobas," one of them said solemnly, "you were once a great warrior of our tribe, a hero who brought us countless victories.
"Your deeds will be recorded in the Serpent Tribe's sacred temple. Your family and tribe will be cared for.
"But you have left us no choice."
Before Mobas could react, a sharp spike pierced through his chest, drawing a spray of blood.
"You... you traitors..." Mobas choked, his voice weakening as his life drained away.
"Rest in peace, Mobas," the elder murmured, withdrawing the spike and letting Mobas's body slump to the ground.
The elder raised his palm and struck Mobas's forehead with a burst of energy, ensuring his soul would scatter completely.
With heavy hearts but unwavering resolve, the grand elders left the dungeon.
"Any force that threatens the Serpent Tribe's rise must be eradicated," one of them said firmly.
Meanwhile, Hua She'er led Xiao Yan to the queen's chambers.
"Lord Xiao Yan, this is Her Majesty's royal sanctuary," she said with a respectful bow.
Xiao Yan's lips curled into a satisfied smile as he stepped inside.
(End of Chapter)
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Chapter 224: Sparring with the Queen
In front of a grand palace adorned with the unique architectural style of the Serpent Tribe, Hua She'er stood respectfully before Xiao Yan, though her eyes gleamed with a teasing charm.
"Don't look at me like that," Xiao Yan said, throwing her a glance. "Your gaze makes it seem like you want to eat me alive."
"Is that so?" Hua She'er replied, her cheeks flushing slightly as her eyes roamed over Xiao Yan. "How would Lord Xiao Yan like me to... devour you?"
"If your queen finds out, she might have to punish you for being such a disloyal subject," Xiao Yan quipped, smacking her lightly on her serpent tail.
He had thought Yue Mei was flirtatious, but Hua She'er was just as bold, if not more so.
Despite the playful slap, Hua She'er's blush deepened, yet she showed no shyness. Serpent Tribe women were known for their fiery, uninhibited nature. If they fancied someone, they weren't shy about expressing their feelings or even offering themselves.
However, at the mention of Queen Medusa, a look of reverence appeared on Hua She'er's face. Her flirtatious demeanor faded slightly, replaced with a more serious tone.
"Lord Xiao Yan is destined to be our queen's partner. As her guard captain, I would never overstep my bounds. But if you desire me to join in your companionship, I will gladly comply," Hua She'er said with a soft laugh.
"Your loyalty to your queen is admirable," Xiao Yan replied, nodding approvingly.
Hua She'er smiled, then gestured toward the palace doors. "Please, Lord Xiao Yan, allow me to show you inside."
The palace interior was fragrant and adorned with intricate decorations showcasing Serpent Tribe artistry. Hua She'er dutifully introduced each item, explaining their history and significance. Every piece was a masterpiece, demonstrating the tribe's rich culture.
When they reached the bedroom, Xiao Yan saw a massive circular bed carved from purple jade, surrounded by a sheer veil. This was where the queen rested each night.
Beyond the bedroom window lay a clear artificial lake, now frozen under a thick layer of ice and blanketed with fresh snow. Across the lake, several uniquely designed Serpent Tribe buildings stood in quiet elegance.
"If you wish, Lord Xiao Yan, you may stay here," Hua She'er said with a mischievous smile. "Of course, if the queen awakens and is displeased, it will depend on your skill to handle her."
"Our queen is a woman who values boundaries," she added, giving Xiao Yan a sly look.
"No problem," Xiao Yan chuckled. "Just for the chance to share this bed with you, I'll make sure to win over your queen."
Hua She'er flushed but laughed, her gaze smoldering. "The queen admires strength above all else. Only a man stronger than her is worthy of her attention. I wish you luck in conquering her, Lord Xiao Yan."
"I won't need luck!" Xiao Yan declared confidently.
Suddenly, a sharp pain from his sleeve interrupted him. He flicked his arm, and a small seven colored serpent emerged, twisting in the air before transforming into a dazzling rainbow light.
The light coalesced into a stunningly beautiful woman, her every movement radiating seduction. Xiao Yan couldn't help but swallow hard as he gazed at her perfect form.
Medusa's cold gaze met his, and she snorted before a seven colored energy robe appeared to cover her flawless body.
"Hua She'er, your courage has grown, hasn't it?" Medusa's icy voice cut through the air, her serpentine eyes narrowing. "Discussing me so freely in front of a human?"
Hua She'er's body tensed, and her face paled. "My queen, I..."
Medusa waved her hand dismissively. "As long as you remember where your loyalties lie, I'll overlook this. But don't make a habit of it."
"Yes, my queen!" Hua She'er replied, her expression turning reverent.
Xiao Yan then interjected, "Your soul has fully fused now, hasn't it?"
At his question, Medusa's cold demeanor softened, and a rare smile graced her lips. "Thanks to your Soul Melding Pill, I've successfully merged with the Heaven Swallowing Python."
"Good to hear." Xiao Yan's grin widened. He rubbed his hands together, mischief sparkling in his eyes. "So... can we consummate our bond now?"
Medusa's smile froze, and her expression turned icy again. A chilling aura spread through the room, even causing Hua She'er to tremble.
Xiao Yan, however, remained undeterred. With an air of righteousness, he explained, "Don't misunderstand! I'm not being lecherous. Your ancestor must have told you that only through my help can you fully refine the Heaven Swallowing Python's bloodline.
"And if you wish to obtain the Seven Colored Demon Saint's inheritance and reach the Dou Zun level, dual cultivation is necessary."
Medusa's frosty demeanor thawed slightly. She seemed to recall something important, then said, "I told you before, Xiao Yan. If you wish to be my partner, you must first defeat me."
"Defeat you? You're this confident despite being so weak?" Xiao Yan thought to himself but kept silent.
She probably just wants an excuse, he mused.
He noticed that Medusa's once serpentine tail had been replaced by long, jade like legs. Even the brief glimpse of her calves beneath her skirt hinted at perfection.
"Your strength has returned?" Xiao Yan asked.
"Not fully," Medusa replied. "I've stabilized at the Dou Zong level, though the Heaven Swallowing Python's bloodline isn't completely refined yet."
Her sharp gaze locked onto Xiao Yan's, a battle hungry glint in her eyes.
She wants to test her strength, doesn't she? Xiao Yan realized, a smile creeping onto his lips.
"In that case, shall we spar?"
"Agreed." Medusa's answer came swiftly, though her eyes sparkled with a sly light.
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