Leak

"What? The clan chief has gone into seclusion? How is that possible? He went to the Divine Ape Arena today—how did he return only to enter seclusion?" Yuan Xi roared at the two Giant Apes standing before Clan Chief Yuan He's cave abode.

One of the Giant Apes said, "I'm not sure either. When the clan chief returned today, he said he would enter seclusion for seven days. Elder Yuan, you should come back after seven days."

Yuan Xi steadied himself and said, "Whatever it is that made the clan chief enter seclusion, he may not have said it, but surely you can guess a thing or two."

The other Giant Ape stepped forward and leaned in. "Elder Yuan Xi, isn't it obvious? Why else would the clan chief enter seclusion now, if not for Princess Yuan Qian's marriage? Yuan Wan's strength is absurdly formidable. Compared to him, Princess Yuan Qian falls far short..."

After pondering briefly, Yuan Xi said, "The clan chief is using the Rising Steadily to the Azure Clouds technique to lay Yuan Qian's foundation?"

"That must be it," said the Giant Ape. "Otherwise, why would he need seven days? Besides, the clan chief has been gathering the relevant spirit herbs all these years. He has probably collected nearly enough. Today he announced the betrothal, and now he is hurrying to cast the technique on Princess Yuan Qian."

Yuan Xi nodded. "The moment the clan chief leaves seclusion, notify me at once. Tell him he must wait for me—I have an important matter to report."

The two Giant Apes said, "Rest assured, there won't be any problem."

Yuan Xi said to Yuan Dao, "Let's go back."

Then he turned to the two Giant Apes again. "This concerns the safety of the Divine Ape Clan, and it is