BTTH: I Am the Ancestor of the Xiao Clan

Ancient Realm, Gu Yuan's Residence

"Could it be that Xiao Tiance is after the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor's Jade?"

The Tuoshe Ancient Emperor's Jade was a matter of great importance. It held the key to the mysteries surrounding the last Dou Emperor of the Dou Qi Continent.

From what Gu Yuan knew, the Xiao Clan already possessed the pieces guarded by the Ling Clan, the Shi Clan, and the Xiao Clan itself amounting to four out of the eight fragments of the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor's Jade.

Moreover, intelligence from spies within the Yao Clan and Lei Clan revealed that the Yao Clan's fragment of the jade had mysteriously disappeared. Although it wasn't confirmed whether the Xiao Clan had obtained it, there were clues pointing in that direction.

For instance, Yao Dan, the Yao Clan leader, had once met with Xiao Tiance in secret. Following that, the Yao Clan began sending high grade pills to the Tianji Tower every month, suggesting a deeper connection.

Meanwhile, the Lei Clan had also experienced an attempted theft of their jade fragment. Fortunately, Lei Ying, the clan leader, acted swiftly to secure it. If they hadn't, the Lei Clan would have faced serious trouble.

Gu Yuan's Thoughts

As Gu Yuan contemplated these matters, Xiao Tiance sat calmly, sipping his tea. Xiao Tiance understood that Gu Yuan wasn't someone easily manipulated. He knew Gu Yuan would likely deduce his intentions, but he remained unbothered.

In truth, Xiao Tiance had no interest in the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor's Jade. He had already visited the Ancient Emperor's Mansion and obtained the Emperor's Origin Pill from within. Moreover, he had reactivated the restrictions at the mansion's entrance, allowing him access at any time.

His primary goal wasn't the jade it was revenge. The Soul Clan had injured him gravely, leaving him comatose for a time. Moreover, Xiao Xuan, the Xiao Clan's revered ancestor, had fallen in battle due to the Soul Clan's schemes.

Whether for the Xiao Clan's honor or his personal vendetta, Xiao Tiance wouldn't rest until the Soul Clan was annihilated.

Gu Yuan's Concerns

After a long silence, Gu Yuan finally looked up and addressed Xiao Tiance.

**"An alliance isn't out of the question. However, Tiance, you must understand that if the Gu Clan joins forces with the Xiao Clan to deal with the Soul Clan, a swift victory would be ideal. But if Hun Tiandi escapes, my Gu Clan will face a dangerous adversary.

The Xiao Clan is powerful and can bear the brunt of such a conflict, but my Gu Clan doesn't have that luxury. Moreover, while the Xiao and Soul Clans are mortal enemies, the Soul Clan hasn't reached that point with us.

Without sufficient benefits to convince the clan elders, I'm afraid I cannot agree to this alliance. I hope you can understand."**

Gu Yuan's candid response wasn't just for politeness. Though the Xiao and Gu Clans shared close ties due to their alliance and marriage pacts, the risks of such a significant undertaking couldn't be ignored.

Xiao Tiance's Perspective

Xiao Tiance wasn't upset by Gu Yuan's reasoning; he had anticipated such concerns. After a moment of thought, he spoke calmly.

**"Your concerns are valid, Gu Yuan. Were I in your position, I'd also proceed with caution.

However, you must recognize that eliminating the Soul Clan isn't just in the Xiao Clan's interest. Over the past thousand years, the Soul Clan has clashed with the Gu Clan numerous times. While it hasn't escalated into full scale war, their ambitions toward the Gu Clan have never waned.

Now, with Hun Tiandi gravely injured by me unable to recover for three to five years and over a hundred Dou Saints from the Soul Clan annihilated, they are at their weakest. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to eradicate them.

Tell me, Gu Yuan, doesn't removing such a threat bring significant benefits to the Gu Clan as well?"**

The Risks of Upsetting the Balance

Xiao Tiance's words left Gu Yuan momentarily tempted. Indeed, destroying the Soul Clan would rid the Gu Clan of a lurking threat. However, Gu Yuan's rationality prevailed.

**"If the Soul Clan is destroyed, what then? The Xiao Clan would emerge as an uncontested powerhouse.

Faced with such a dominant force, would the Gu Clan submit or resist? Neither option is favorable. Resistance is futile given the disparity in strength, and submission would mean the loss of the Gu Clan's independence."**

Gu Yuan understood that removing the Soul Clan would disrupt the delicate balance among the eight ancient clans, potentially creating more problems than it solved.

He shook his head and responded firmly. **"Apologies, Tiance, but I cannot agree to this alliance.

It's not a matter of trust but of practicality. If the Xiao and Gu Clans destroy the Soul Clan, the balance among the ancient clans will crumble. Your Xiao Clan would dominate, and my Gu Clan lacks the strength to match you.

This is the reality of the Dou Qi Continent: strength reigns supreme. You and I have been allies for years, so I'll be candid between the Soul Clan, a wounded tiger, and the Xiao Clan, a healthy lion, I'm more concerned about the lion."**

Xiao Tiance's Dilemma

Gu Yuan's frankness left Xiao Tiance momentarily speechless. His admission of the Gu Clan's inferiority was so disarmingly honest that Xiao Tiance almost felt guilty for his strategic maneuvering.

"Gu Yuan, your candor humbles me." Xiao Tiance sighed, offering a bitter smile.

Gu Yuan waved dismissively. **"There's no need for guilt, Tiance. I'm merely stating facts. Even if I hadn't said it aloud, the truth remains unchanged.

If the Gu Clan's strength rivaled the Xiao Clan's, I'd gladly join forces. But given the disparity, I must prioritize my clan's future over any immediate gains."**

Xiao Tiance's Next Move

Xiao Tiance understood Gu Yuan's concerns. If their positions were reversed, he might feel the same. However, he also recognized the risks of acting alone. While the Soul Clan was weakened, a cornered enemy could still be dangerous.

"This is why I sought the Gu Clan's support. Alone, the Xiao Clan might succeed, but at what cost? If the Soul Clan decides to go down fighting, how much would the Xiao Clan lose in the process?"

After a moment of thought, Xiao Tiance clasped his hands in respect and said, **"I understand your reservations, Gu Yuan, and I won't force the issue.

However, the Xiao Clan will not miss this opportunity to eliminate the Soul Clan. All I ask is that when the time comes, you ensure the Gu Clan remains neutral and refrains from aiding the Soul Clan."**

Gu Yuan nodded solemnly. "You have my word. The Gu Clan will not interfere."

(End of Chapter)

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