The Helpless Gu Yuan

Xiao Yan's words made Gu Yuan's brow twitch imperceptibly. The four old men on the steps all wore grave expressions and started down, intending to speak, but Gu Yuan raised a hand to stop them. He then stared at Xiao Yan's solemn, earnest expression for a long while before speaking in a deep voice.

"Xiao Yan, now that you have made your way through the Gu Clan, what are your thoughts?"

Facing Gu Yuan's question, Xiao Yan did not hide anything and answered with complete honesty.

"The Gu Clan's foundation is unfathomable, far beyond anything the Tianhe Alliance can compare to. The difference between the two is like that between clouds and mud."

"Knowing that, you still dared to ask me for an alliance?"

"This junior has no intention of offending you. I merely honestly stated the purpose of my visit. Why would I not dare?"

Seeing that Xiao Yan's gaze held only respect, without the slightest fear, Gu Yuan fell silent. His eyes grew somewhat dazed, as though he had glimpsed the shadow of an old friend.

That man from the past had been just like Xiao Yan—open and forthright in speech and action, always advancing toward the goal he had set his mind on. Even now, when Gu Yuan had become the strongest person on the Dou Qi Continent, he still did not believe he had surpassed that man.

This was not a matter of strength, but a difference in state of mind.

Gu Yuan slowly closed his eyes. After a long time, he opened them again and spoke leisurely.

"You must have exhausted yourself hurrying here today. Stay here and rest for now."

After saying that, Gu Yuan beckoned. A Gu Clan guard appeared at Xiao Yan's side and spoke to him in a stiff, formal tone.