The Huo Family's Challenge

Qingyun Garden had once housed twelve people. Now only eight remained.

Those eight had distinguished themselves through one fierce competition after another.

Today, all eight had gathered in Qingyun Garden's square.

Compared to when they first arrived, their faces had lost some of their youthful innocence and gained a measure of resolve and maturity.

"Everyone's here, then."

Li Tiangang was the last to arrive. He smiled as he looked over the group.

"Do you know why I've gathered you here today?"

Everyone shook their heads.

"Then I'll tell you. You'll represent our Li Family in a contest against the Huo Family's outstanding younger members."

"The winner will claim a silk farm outside the city and three hundred mu of medicinal fields."

Li Tiangang's words startled everyone.

"Fourth Uncle, was this the family's decision?"

Li Tianci hurried to ask.

"Yes. To be precise, the leaders of the Li and Huo families made the decision together."

Li Tiangang sighed. "Our families have fought long enough. It's time to make peace."

"This contest will be the last time our families clash."

"And a great deal is at stake."

"The silk farm outside the city belongs to the Huo Family, while the three hundred mu of medicinal fields belong to ours."

"Each property is worth more than ten thousand taels of silver."

"And you will decide who gets assets worth tens of thousands of taels."

At that, everyone's breathing quickened, and their expressions grew tense.

"Isn't this taking things too lightly? You're staking all that on whether we win or lose?"

Li Qingshan's tone was accusatory. Clearly, the decision made without consulting them had left him

resentful.

"Oh? What would be less frivolous, then? Having the leaders of both families fight it out?"

Li Tiangang shot back.

"Well..." Li Qingshan opened his mouth, but