"This is ridiculous. Who knows whether the headband you're wearing is real or fake? Does that mean we have to acknowledge anyone who shows up wearing a headband as the clan leader? If you still consider yourself a member of the Ruan Clan, then obediently offer up the Azure Jade Headband with both hands and let the true clan leader inspect it. If you keep making trouble like this, you'll be opposing the entire clan!" the Hook-nosed Elder who had taken the lead earlier shouted, immediately drawing a chorus of agreement.
But not everyone stood on the current clan leader's side.
After all, many factions within the Ruan Clan were locked in conflict. Those sidelined branches that had been suppressed long harbored resentment, and now that an opportunity had arisen, they naturally intended to make the most of it.
Several other elders communicated in secret and reached an agreement. They stepped forward one after another, voicing different opinions.
"The ancestors left behind the Ancestral Teachings: the Azure Jade Headband is the clan's token. Whoever within the clan can refine the Azure Jade Headband shall become the next clan leader. This teaching has been passed down for millions of years. Whoever dares violate it is committing an unforgivable act of defiance!"
"That's right. Everything should follow the Ancestral Teachings. Since Ruan Liangyu is wearing the genuine Azure Jade Headband, she should become the next clan leader."
"If anyone doubts the Azure Jade Headband's authenticity, we elders can verify it together. The genuine Azure Jade Headband possesses characteristics that cannot be forged. Confirming its authenticity will not be difficult."
The elders had made their stance clear. They were obviously on Ruan Liangyu's side and intended to uphold the Ancestral Teachings.
The various factions within the clan stood sharply opposed, each taking a