No one seems to know exactly how powerful the Blood Eagle Guards led by Huo Feng are, but when Ye Xiao instructed them to spread the news that the Heavenly Book appeared in Linlong State as a betrothal gift from Linghuo Sect's Young Sect Master Huo Wensong to the Su family, the Blood Eagle Guards executed it perfectly—swiftly and without leaving a trace.
One might say that overnight, Han City buzzed with the notion that a century ago, Linghuo Sect split from the Purple Fire Sect because the Sect Master of Linghuo Sect obtained a fragment of the Heavenly Book, hence gaining the power to rival the Purple Fire Sect. Yet, now under Linghuo Sect's possession, this Heavenly Book fragment remains inscrutable due to Sect Master Huo Qinglong's inadequate prowess. This is why Huo Qinglong offered the Heavenly Book fragment as a betrothal gift to the Su family.
This is certainly a speculative notion, but to a Martial Artist, the term "Heavenly Book" is like fish reeking of salt—irresistibly enticing. Martial Artists are akin to greedy cats; whether it genuinely resembles fish or not, even if there's a hint of fish odor, a Martial Artist is compelled to investigate.
It's much like some players in online games: although they can't defeat the BOSS, there's always hope to grab a slice of the action.
This is the mindset of most Martial Artists.
Hence, once this news circulated among Martial Artists, it propelled the spread of the rumor, almost overnight encompassing all of Han City, and even beginning to seep outward.
However, due to the rapid dissemination of this news, it easily attracted the attention of certain parties, including external forces led by Max's Soul Sect, and notably the Linghuo Sect itself!
"The decision of Wensong's betrothal gift to the Su family was known only to Linghuo Sect and the Su family. How did it get out? Moreover, linking it to the Heavenly Book."
Inside Linghuo Palace at Linghuo Sect, Huo Qinglong sat uneasily, addressing everyone present.
Huo Qinglong was genuinely upset, aware that this issue might cause significant trouble for Linghuo Sect; the mention of "Heavenly Book" is exceedingly sensitive to Martial Artists.
"Sect Master, it seems some individuals are deliberately sowing discord," a stern-faced man remarked, glancing at Huo Qinglong.
Huo Qinglong looked at him, stating, "I figured as much, but we have no clue about the intention behind spreading this message. It's the unknown that is truly frightful, so I wish to hear everyone's opinions."
Present were the elders of Linghuo Sect, alongside some principal disciples.
"Sect Master, I have something to say, if it's appropriate!" An elderly man, with the appearance of youthful vigor, looked at Huo Qinglong.
Upon hearing this, Huo Qinglong immediately turned to the old man, saying, "Elder Su, speak your mind freely!"
This man was none other than Su Yun's grandfather, the current head of the Su family, Su Hualin's father, Su Zhengyi.
The person most eager for Huo Wensong to wed Su Yun is this elder, Su Zhengyi.
As Linghuo Sect's Third Elder, Su Zhengyi has always been overshadowed by someone named Wei Yande, a member of the Wei family in the Northern Territory.
Due to Wei Yande's status within Linghuo Sect, the Wei family lorded over the Su family.
Su Zhengyi's greatest desire is to change this situation; in terms of ability, he's not less competent than Wei Yande, even surpassing him in certain aspects. However, due to Wei Yande donating a treasure to Huo Qinglong—its specifics unknown to Su Zhengyi—Wei Yande gained favor.
Despite past efforts of presenting treasures to please Huo Qinglong, though Huo Qinglong appeared to appreciate Su Zhengyi's gifts, it didn't alter his favoritism towards the Wei family.
Now, with Huo Wensong interested in his granddaughter Su Yun, Su Zhengyi recognized a chance; if Su Yun becomes Linghuo Sect's young lady, once Huo Wensong ascends as Sect Master, the Su family would inevitably rise. At that time, surpassing the Wei family and any clan within Linghuo Sect in stature.
Despite hearing the news, Su Zhengyi's anger was palpable, yet he understood the need for composure, ensuring none of the plans get disrupted.
"Sect Master, since ill-intentioned individuals deliberately spread rumors, it proves their malice. Thus, I suggest postponing the betrothal date," Su Zhengyi advised, "to avoid unnecessary trouble."
"Elder Su, I must disagree!" said the same man smiling at Su Zhengyi, "Elder Su's consideration for Sect Master and Linghuo Sect is admirable, but as we are Linghuo Sect, yielding to minor disturbances in this crucial matter might invite ridicule, suggesting cowardice. The Purple Fire Sect might seize this opportunity to stir trouble first."
Looking at the man who spoke, Su Zhengyi stated, "Jinjiang, one must always prioritize Linghuo Sect's safety; what value does pride hold?"
Su Zhengyi's current thought was simple: "Stability."
Frankly, though Su Zhengyi belongs to the bride's family, should Huo Qinglong suggest bringing Su Yun directly to Linghuo Peak, Su Zhengyi wouldn't hesitate; he'd immediately send Su Yun. Pride isn't significant; swiftly marrying Su Yun and Huo Wensong represents true pride.
The man who spoke was none other than Li Jinjiang.
Li Jinjiang holds no elder rank within Linghuo Sect, yet is one of the outstanding figures below elder rank due to Huo Qinglong's trust and reliance. Although not an elder, few dare overlook him.
"Since Elder Su has spoken, I have nothing more to say." Li Jinjiang sat back down in his chair.
At this moment, a bald-headed old man smiled at Li Jinjiang, commenting, "Jinjiang, youth and vigor indeed. However, today's remarks are not entirely baseless."
"Old Wei, what do you mean by this?" Su Zhengyi frowned slightly, looking at the speaker.
The speaker was none other than Su Zhengyi's greatest rival, Wei Yande.
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