Published at 24th of July 2024 7:32 am

Chapter 2211 Temptation

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Yun Lintian's brow furrowed in confusion. Lan Qinghe and the others had never spoken of this. Perhaps the concept of the True God Realm differed vastly between the two worlds.

"The remaining options involve external forces," Qing Shui elaborated. "For instance, some True Gods utilize their resources to construct wards that shield their families. These wards mitigate the brunt of karmic backlash, but they come with a caveat: instability. Should the wards be destroyed, the consequences would be dire."

"Ideally, complete separation is preferable. As a True God, your lifespan is practically limitless. Inevitably, your family will pass away before you."

Yun Lintian lapsed into silence. He empathized with True Gods who opted for alternative methods rather than severing the karmic ties with their families. He, too, shared their reluctance to part ways with loved ones. After all, what purpose did eternal life hold without those he cherished by his side?

"While your family thrives now, consider the future – a million years from now," Qing Shui said, his gaze penetrating Yun Lintian's turmoil. "Unless they too ascend to True Godhood, remaining close will only bring them harm."

"Is there truly no other way, Senior?" Yun Lintian inquired.

Qing Shui met his gaze with a calm understanding. "The answer lies within your own heart."

Yun Lintian dipped his head in a thoughtful nod. "It seems a distant concern for now," he murmured. "Thank you for your guidance, Senior. I will consider your words carefully."

Qing Shui wisely chose to leave the matter there. "It seems you possess a remarkable affinity for the water element," he observed. "This place will undoubtedly be a paradise for you to cultivate."

"However, it's time for me to depart for now," Yun Lintian announced. "Barring any unforeseen circumstances, I'll return within a few days."

"Very well," Qing Shui said with a nod, offering no resistance.

Yun Lintian bowed respectfully. "Then, I'll take my leave. Farewell, Senior."

With a resolute turn, he vanished into the darkness.

Silence reclaimed the cave. Qing Shui, his gaze lingering on Yun Lintian's path, offered a faint smile. "A promising seedling indeed. It seems fate has not forsaken me."

As Yun Lintian emerged from the lake, he settled on the shore, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts. The knowledge he'd amassed felt scattered, a collection of disparate pieces. Yet, a deep intuition pulsed within him, a conviction that everything, somehow, held purpose.

A wave of frustration washed over him. He couldn't shake the feeling of having circled back to the very beginning, despite his long journey.

Gazing up at the vast expanse of the night sky, Yun Lintian murmured a question to himself, "What is the purpose of my existence?"

***

Outside the grove, Yun Wuhan's brow furrowed in concern. Yun Lintian's score had stalled, leaving him perplexed about his son's strategy. Was Yun Lintian deliberately concealing his true potential?

The initial buzz generated by Yun Lintian's meteoric rise in points had faded. Whispers now circulated among the observers. Some even cynically dismissed his earlier success, attributing it to mere luck in encountering wounded beasts.

At this moment, Su Jian came over to the Yun Clan's pavilion. His arrival sent a ripple of surprise through their ranks. All were well aware of his true identity – a royal guard of Qing Zong.

Yun Wuhan rose to his feet and cupped his fists in greeting. "Greetings, Senior Su. Please, have a seat."

Su Jian acknowledged the courtesy with a faint smile and settled into the offered seat. "There's no need for such formality, Patriarch Yun."

"May I inquire about the nature of His Highness' message?" Yun Wuhan wasted no time in getting to the heart of the matter.

Su Jian's explanation was direct. "Your son has displayed remarkable talent in the first round. In light of the previous conflict with the Chen Clan, the Thirteenth Prince acknowledges that the Yun Clan was somewhat neglected. He wishes to offer your clan compensation. Patriarch Yun, feel free to express your desires directly."

A murmur of disbelief rippled through the other clan members. They could hardly believe their ears. Meanwhile, the clan elders exchanged discreet glances, their minds already contemplating the true motives behind Qing Zong's offer.

Yun Wuhan locked eyes with Su Jian, his expression turning serious. "Is it safe to assume His Highness wishes to recruit my son?"

"Indeed," Su Jian confirmed, his honesty evident from the outset. "Should your son accept the offer, the Yun Clan will be granted permanent management rights over the Azure Spring Grove, regardless of the competition's outcome."

A collective gulp rippled through the clan members. This was undeniably a staggering proposition for the Yun Clan. Permanent management rights would eliminate the need for meticulous resource allocation, ensuring a fair and equal share for everyone.

The clan elders, their gazes fixed on their patriarch, silently implored him to accept the offer.

Yun Wuhan, after a contemplative pause, spoke. "While I appreciate the offer, I cannot provide His Highness with an immediate answer. I must first consult with my son. I trust His Highness will understand."

Su Jian offered a smile of understanding. "Of course. There is no coercion involved. Once your decision is reached, you may approach His Highness directly."

Without further ado, Su Jian rose and departed.

"Patriarch—" Second Elder began, but Yun Wuhan cut him off.

"I understand your eagerness. The clan's well-being is paramount. However, have you considered the implications of the ongoing competition between the princes? Should the Thirteenth Prince lose, do you believe his authority will extend to granting management rights?" Yun Wuhan inquired calmly.

"But Senior Su assured us the outcome wouldn't affect the offer," another elder countered.

Yun Wuhan met his gaze. "At this stage, it remains just that – a promise. Unfulfilled."

The elder, chastened, fell silent. While not naive, his desire for the grove's resources had clouded his judgment. He hadn't considered the bigger picture.

Yun Wuhan surveyed the room, his gaze sweeping across every face. "You have all witnessed Tian'er's exceptional talent firsthand. With him by our side, the Yun Clan is poised for a meteoric rise. However, to thrust him into the maelstrom of the princely conflict would be akin to sending him to his demise."

He paused, letting his words sink in. "Let me be clear – my familial bond does not influence my judgment. This is a stark reality, one you all acknowledge deep down. The competition between the princes is a treacherous labyrinth we dare not tread. This decision hinges on the very future of our clan. I urge each of you to consider it with utmost care."

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