Canglan Reappears

"Hey, Seventh Elder, you are mistaken. Great Snow Ridge has relied on martial prowess to dominate for generations. How can one whose martial arts are lacking shoulder such a great responsibility?

"Though Canglan has slight flaws in his temperament, his martial arts are sufficient. Once he undergoes some experience and tempers his character thoroughly, he will surely become someone capable of bearing the tripod.

"By comparison, the rest are mediocre. No matter how good their character or lofty their integrity, when a great enemy comes calling, what can they do besides stretch out their necks for slaughter? In this world, the strong are king."

The speaker was the Third Elder. Rough-featured and bold-looking, his voice boomed like a great bell, yet his tone was strangely barbed, clearly implying that the Seventh Elder's only son lacked sufficient martial arts.

His personal disciple had lost to the Seventh Elder's son, leaving him with no hope of seizing the top position. That was why he had turned to support the First Elder.

The elders themselves had factions and conflicts. The Third Elder and Seventh Elder were at odds. If the Seventh Elder's son were to inherit the position of Mountain Lord in the future, their branch would likely have no good fruit to eat.

"Now is not the time to argue. First Elder, we have long agreed to select the Mountain Lord through martial competition. Chu Canglan is also qualified to participate. If his skills crush the entire field, there is no reason he cannot become Mountain Lord.

"However, time is limited. Today is the final day. If he does not appear, we cannot make an exception for him."

The one most dissatisfied with the elders' scheming was one of the two great protectors, a refined middle-aged man with a scar at the