Negotiating the Details

The shock, fear, doubt, and last traces of resistance in Ling Yuan's and Ling Xuanmo's eyes receded like a tide. All that remained was boundless heartache and a resolve stronger than ever.

They understood.

At last, they fully understood the grand elder's determination to burn away his own life, his resolve to drag the Spirit Clan out of its mire of decay, and the fierce conviction that had driven him to such a tragic choice.

If they did nothing, they would wait for death. If they fought, they might win the Spirit Clan a future.

The two men slowly straightened, like blades about to be drawn. They exchanged a silent glance, then looked together toward the white-haired elder amid the flickering candlelight. He seemed to have set his very life ablaze. Their eyes met, and no more words were needed.

Looking at the two younger men he had watched grow up, Ling Haonan finally laughed with relief. "Good. There's still some fire left in the Spirit Clan. Then the three of us will shoulder the weight of the entire clan together."

"I've worked out the broad strokes of the plan. We'll use the Pill Convention as our way into the Pill Tower. Ling Zhuo will enter the convention, and we'll build up his reputation while he's at it. We'll also send people to intimidate the other factions. If we can bring them under our control, all the better. For now, we'll let them know that the Spirit Clan is about to emerge."

"Ling Zhuo alone certainly can't shake the Pill Tower. The Pill Convention would only be a bonus. Winning would be better, but losing would be no great loss. Beyond the convention, we'll offer generous rewards and start by shaking the Pill Tower's foundations. Those two young women in