Chapter 37: The Soul Clan's Strategy to Destroy the Xiao Clan
Gu Realm, Gu Yuan's Residence.
After returning to his residence, Gu Yuan's previously relaxed demeanor turned into one of concern and confusion.
Based on his understanding of Xiao Xuan, he couldn't believe Xiao Xuan would actually target Xiao Tiance, let alone go so far as to annihilate an entire branch of the Xiao Clan.
"Xiao Xuan, is this part of your scheme, or has your obsession with becoming a Dou Di clouded your mind?" Gu Yuan murmured with a sigh.
Soul Realm.
Unlike the Gu Clan's cautious observation, the Soul Clan erupted into excitement upon receiving the news from the Xiao Realm.
The Soul Clan's spies within the Xiao Realm confirmed with their own eyes: Xiao Xuan had killed Xiao Tiance and eradicated his entire branch. Whether it was Hun Tiandi or the Soul Clan elders, they all accepted the news as true.
Soul Clan Meeting Hall.
Hun Tiandi sat in the main seat. Beside him was Void Devouring Flame, now in the form of a strikingly handsome man clad in dark robes. His appearance was so flawless that even the most celebrated idols of Earth would pale in comparison. His commanding presence and devilish charm could captivate anyone at first glance.
Also present were four middle aged men: Hun Yuantian, Hun Shengtian, Hun Yao, and Hun Motian.
Hun Yuantian, an early Eight Star Dou Sheng, was the weakest among them, while the other three were mid stage Eight Star Dou Shengs. Together, the four possessed the Gates of Death, which, when combined, formed the formidable Death Domain Array, one of the Soul Clan's strongest weapons besides Hun Tiandi himself.
This emergency meeting was convened after both Hun Tiandi and Hun Yuantian received news of the Xiao Clan's internal conflict.
"Clan Leader, the Xiao Clan has severed one of its own arms before even engaging us. This significantly increases our chances of victory," Hun Yuantian said with a gleeful expression, his eyes glinting with malice.
"Indeed. Previously, you instructed me to locate Xiao Tiance before the battle began. Who would've thought Xiao Xuan would handle him for us?" Hun Shengtian added with a chuckle.
Though Hun Yao and Hun Motian remained silent, their expressions mirrored their satisfaction.
Hun Tiandi observed their reactions with a faint smile and raised his hand to signal silence. "I never expected Xiao Xuan's obsession with reaching the Dou Di realm to push him to such lengths. But this is advantageous for us.
Xiao Tiance was a thorn in my side. Even though I crippled him a hundred years ago, he was still dangerous. Now that Xiao Xuan has removed this threat, it's time for us to act.
Shengtian, you will join the attack on Xiao Xuan. This time, we must completely annihilate the Xiao Clan and secure the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor's Jade."
Hun Tiandi's command left no room for debate. The elders nodded in agreement.
However, Void Devouring Flame, seated beside him, suddenly let out a cold laugh. "Aren't we being overly optimistic?
Xiao Tiance was a strategist, known for his calm and meticulous planning. Do you really believe he would engage Xiao Xuan head on?
Over the past century, I've gathered extensive information on Xiao Tiance. Beyond his strength, his true prowess lay in his intelligence and cunning.
And now, on the eve of Xiao Xuan's attempt to break through to the Dou Di realm, we hear of their direct conflict, ending with Xiao Tiance's death and the annihilation of his entire branch? Doesn't this feel contrived?
Even if Xiao Xuan has lost his mind due to his obsession, it's unlikely he would resort to such extremes. And would Xiao Tiance, of all people, be so reckless? Doesn't this situation seem a bit too convenient?"
Void Devouring Flame's words caused the others to pause and reflect.
After a moment, Hun Yao spoke up, "Void Lord, you make a valid point. I also find this situation suspicious. Xiao Tiance was known for his talent and restraint. He never relied on the Dou Di bloodline to cultivate yet still maintained one of the top five combat strengths in the Xiao Clan.
For someone so calculating, to oppose Xiao Xuan so openly and die without leaving even his soul behind something feels off."
Hun Motian, who had been silent, finally voiced his agreement. "I concur. What if this is just an elaborate ruse by Xiao Xuan and Xiao Tiance?"
The three turned to Hun Tiandi, seeking his perspective.
To their surprise, Hun Tiandi shook his head firmly. "No, there's no need to worry about this being a performance.
The Soul Clan's spies confirmed that every soul tablet of Xiao Tiance's branch was shattered. As you all know, the soul tablet is a direct link to one's life force. Once it's broken, the individual is undeniably dead. This is no act."
Upon hearing this, Void Devouring Flame, Hun Yao, and Hun Motian's doubts dissipated, and their expressions turned to satisfaction.
"If that's the case, then we can proceed without hesitation. The Xiao Clan will fall, and Xiao Xuan is as good as dead," Void Devouring Flame declared with a smile.
Hun Tiandi's face lit up with a confident grin. "Even if Xiao Tiance were still alive, or if the Xiao Clan hadn't lost a branch, they'd still be no match for us.
This time, we will obliterate the Xiao Clan entirely. Prepare yourselves. This is the end for them."
The four elders rose and saluted in unison. "Rest assured, Clan Leader. We will erase the Xiao Clan from history."
"Good. Dismissed for now. Await my orders."
"Yes, Clan Leader!"
The elders departed, leaving Hun Tiandi and Void Devouring Flame alone.
Hun Tiandi turned to his companion. "Void, I didn't want to reveal the full plan in front of them. Once Xiao Xuan is dealt with, I'll need your help."
Void Devouring Flame chuckled darkly. "Don't worry. Not a single member of the Xiao Clan will escape. Xiao Tiance once dared to injure me while I was vulnerable. Though he's dead, I'll make the Xiao Clan pay with their blood."
Hun Tiandi burst into laughter. "When this battle is over, the Ancient Eight Clans will be reduced to seven. Once I ascend to the Dou Di realm and unify the Dou Qi Continent, Void, anything you desire will be yours."
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