BTTH: I Am the Ancestor of the Xiao Clan

Chapter 116: The Temptation of the Spirit Gathering Array

"Tiance, may I ask who created this spirit gathering array?"

In Tianwai Heaven's Baiyu Pavilion, within the nine star spirit gathering array, Gu Yuan's eyes burned with curiosity. Seeing this, Xiao Tiance smiled knowingly. "The one who created this array is neither far away nor hard to find he stands before you."

"I should've known! If anyone could create such an array, it would only be you, Tiance. But since this array is a type of formation, could it be related to the methods you used a thousand years ago to annihilate over a hundred Dou Saints from the Soul Clan?" Gu Yuan exclaimed, his excitement growing.

Xiao Tiance nodded slightly. "Indeed. A thousand years ago, at the entrance to the Xiao Realm, I deployed a few grade eight spirit formations to annihilate the Dou Saints sent by the Soul Clan to destroy my family. This spirit gathering array, however, is a different type of formation. It's a grade nine array, far more complex to construct and requiring a wealth of precious resources."

Xiao Tiance spoke plainly, not bothering to conceal the truth. The concept of spirit formations had already spread among the great clans following his battle against the Soul Heavenly Emperor at the Tianji Tower. Besides, Gu Yuan was an astute individual; hiding the truth would be futile.

More importantly, Xiao Tiance had no intention of keeping this secret. He intended to use the spirit gathering array to entice the Gu Clan into submission.

Suddenly, a powerful energy surged from Gu Dao's body. Previously stuck at the late stage of seven star Dou Saint for over a millennium, he experienced a breakthrough to the peak stage of seven star Dou Saint within mere moments of entering the array.

"Hiss!"

Gu Yuan couldn't help but gasp. He was well aware of Gu Dao's situation. After being stuck for so long, no one had expected him to ever advance again. Yet, the nine star spirit gathering array had allowed him to break through in such a short time.

The impact of this was profound. For high level Dou Saints, even minor advancements represented significant leaps in strength, often enough to turn the tide in life and death struggles.

Gu Dao slowly opened his eyes and exhaled deeply. Though brimming with joy, he quickly turned to Xiao Tiance and bowed respectfully. "I must apologize to Clan Leader Xiao. I used your array to achieve this breakthrough without first seeking your permission. I hope you can forgive me."

"Haha, there's no need for apologies. The array hasn't been used for some time, so the energy here is abundant. Given your near breakthrough state, it's only natural this would happen. Congratulations, Elder Gu Dao," Xiao Tiance replied generously.

Grateful, Gu Dao bowed again. "Still, I owe the Xiao Clan a favor. Should Clan Leader Xiao ever need my assistance, as long as it does not harm the Gu Clan's interests, I will do my utmost to fulfill it."

Xiao Tiance smiled. "That's very kind of you, Elder Gu Dao. A favor from a high level Dou Saint is certainly valuable."

Having witnessed Gu Dao's breakthrough firsthand, Gu Yuan and Gu Lie exchanged meaningful glances. They understood each other without words. Moments later, Gu Yuan turned to Xiao Tiance and bowed slightly. "Tiance, how much would it cost to construct one of these arrays? Is it possible to build one elsewhere?"

"Oh?" Xiao Tiance raised an eyebrow, a subtle smirk curling his lips. "It seems Brother Gu has taken a liking to this spirit gathering array."

"Haha, I won't deny it. If possible, name your price. As long as it's within my means, I'll do everything to meet your conditions," Gu Yuan said directly.

He wasn't concerned about the Xiao Clan's demands being too steep. Xiao Tiance was a shrewd negotiator, and the very act of inviting him and his elders to see the array was a calculated move. Gu Yuan was certain Xiao Tiance already knew exactly what he wanted from the Gu Clan.

The reputation of the "Three Pillars of the Xiao Clan" preceded them. Of the trio, Xiao Xuan was known as the strongest, Xiao Chen the most reckless, and Xiao Tiance the most cunning. It was said that Xiao Tiance could make his enemies willingly walk into his traps and thank him for the privilege.

Xiao Tiance chuckled. "Brother Gu is straightforward, so I'll be frank too. I want the Gu Clan's Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade and the Emperor Seal Technique."

The moment these words left his mouth, Gu Dao and Gu Lie's expressions changed drastically. "Clan Leader " they began, but Gu Yuan raised a hand to silence them.

Looking at Xiao Tiance with a frown, Gu Yuan said, "Tiance, isn't this asking too much?"

"Haha, it's just business, Brother Gu. I've named my price, and the decision is yours. You can choose to accept or reject it. Isn't that fair?" Xiao Tiance replied calmly, his tone steady.

Gu Yuan fell silent, his brows furrowing deeply. He had anticipated Xiao Tiance's interest in the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade, but hearing the direct demand still stung. As for the Emperor Seal Technique, it was a cherished secret of the Gu Clan, but it was clear Xiao Tiance viewed it as a mere bonus.

After a long pause, Gu Yuan said, "This matter concerns the Gu Clan's legacy and cannot be decided by me alone. Give me one month to consult with the elders. Regardless of the outcome, I promise to give you an answer."

"That's reasonable," Xiao Tiance replied, smiling. "Shall we return to our drinks then? No array, no matter how wonderful, can match a good drink shared with friends."

After leaving the array, Gu Dao and Gu Lie returned to their quarters, while Gu Yuan accompanied Xiao Tiance back to the ninth floor of Tiance Manor to continue their feast. Late into the night, Gu Yuan feigned drunkenness and allowed Xiao Bieli to escort him to his guest room.

Once alone, Gu Yuan's demeanor shifted completely. Sobering up in an instant, he summoned Gu Dao and Gu Lie for a private discussion.

"Clan Leader!"

Gu Yuan waved off their formalities. "There's no need for that. Tell me, what do you think of Xiao Tiance's terms?"

The two exchanged glances before Gu Lie spoke. "After leaving the array, I discreetly inquired about its secrets from the Xiao Clan's members. The information I uncovered shocked me "

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