Gathering the Four Clans, the Foundation Takes Shape

For a long while.

Tai Tan finally slowly raised his head. His once-stubborn eyes were bloodshot, yet they now held a trace of clarity and resolve.

He looked at Xiao Yin, his voice hoarse but more serious than ever before:

"Marquis, I have taken your words today... to heart. Lady Ah Yin's appearance has also allowed me to see through many of the mists of the past."

He paused, as though it took all his strength to continue. "The Marquis has sincerely invited us and planned a way forward for our four clans. I am not a stone. It's just..."

His tone shifted, and a spark of the pride and determination belonging to the Strength Clan's chief reignited in his eyes. "My Strength Clan was founded on strength and built upon forging. The Marquis's forging skills are divine; I am utterly convinced.

But the word 'strength' is the soul of our clan! If the Marquis does not find this old man presumptuous, I am willing to use this brute strength of mine to seek one final lesson from you!

This battle has nothing to do with choosing loyalty. It concerns only the dignity of the Strength Clan and this old man's personal obsession! If the Marquis can make me utterly convinced in the matter of 'strength' as well... then from this day onward, everyone in the Strength Clan shall follow the Marquis's lead without a shred of divided loyalty!"

Upon hearing this, Niu Gao, Yang Wudi, and Bai He immediately understood Tai Tan's intentions.

This Old Gorilla had already made his choice in his heart. He had simply spoken too absolutely before, and now he needed a dignified way out—a reason for him and the Strength Clan to openly admit defeat in the field they took the greatest pride in: