Chapter 10: Journey to the Capital
Chapter 10: Journey to the Capital
At the gates of the Lin Clan, Lin Langtian let out a silent sigh of relief after bidding farewell to Elder Tao. Since his rebirth, he had been most conflicted about how to handle his strained relationship with Lin Dong. Although he deeply admired Lin Dong's character, the previous Lin Langtian's actions had left them at odds.
Thankfully, things had yet to escalate to a point of no return. Maybe, just maybe, he could change their fate and avoid becoming lifelong enemies. Although he wasn't sure if this late apology would ease Lin Dong's resentment, at the very least, it was a start—and given what he knew about Lin Dong's character, it would hopefully prevent a confrontation between them.
Shaking his head, Lin Langtian put the matter aside. He had no desire to make an enemy of Lin Dong, but with Aunt Ling's help, he wouldn't have to fear him even if they couldn't reconcile.
Back in his courtyard, he heard a lively voice call out, "Brother Langtian, over here!"
Turning, he saw a young woman in a white dress, her appearance both graceful and striking. Her eyes were particularly captivating, each one featuring a double pupil outlined in a strange blue glow, adding a mystical quality to her beauty. Nearby, other young clan members were practicing martial arts, and upon noticing Lin Langtian, they all paused, their expressions a mix of respect and admiration for the man now considered the most powerful among them.
"Ah, it's you, Ke'er," Lin Langtian said, smiling. "Training even at midday?"
The young woman was none other than Lin Ke'er, a prodigy of the clan's younger generation, second only to Lin Langtian himself. In fact, if not for the support the previous Lin Langtian received from Elder Mu, he might not have surpassed her at all. In the original timeline, she was one of the few in the main clan who was friendly toward Lin Dong.
"Hehe, our talents are nothing compared to yours, Brother Langtian. If we don't work hard, the gap between us will only grow," she replied, her blue eyes fixed admiringly on him.
"That's right," added another young man nearby. In his early twenties and well-built, he was Lin Chen, another top talent in the clan.
"All right, enough with the flattery. The world is vast, and the Great Yan Empire is small. This is no great accomplishment," Lin Langtian said, waving off their praise.
To most, he seemed humble, though Lin Ke'er noticed something different in his tone—a genuine detachment, unlike the Lin Langtian she remembered. In her mind, he had always been far more proud.
As they spoke, Lin Langtian noticed the respect and admiration in the eyes of everyone present. His influence among the younger members was strong, and many of the clan's junior martial artists had been taught directly by him, increasing their reverence. Smiling, Lin Langtian sat down at the training grounds, soon surrounded by younger clan members seeking his guidance. Patiently, he took his time coaching them, his understanding of martial arts making him the top expert among the younger generation.
After two hours of training, Lin Langtian stood to leave but was interrupted by a calm, steady voice.
"Langtian, I knew you'd be here."
Turning, he saw a middle-aged man with an impressive aura approaching.
"Greetings, Clan Head!"
The man was Lin Fan, the Clan Head of the Lin Clan. Seeing him, Lin Langtian and the others quickly paid their respects.
"Haha, you are the future of our Lin Clan. No need for such formality," Lin Fan said, gesturing them to relax with a warm smile.
"Clan Head, did you come to the training grounds specifically to find Brother Langtian?" Lin Ke'er asked with a playful smile.
"As perceptive as ever, Ke'er. Yes, I came to speak with Langtian," he replied, shifting his gaze to him.
Lin Langtian raised an eyebrow, bowing respectfully. "What can I do for you, Clan Head?"
"It concerns the disciple sent by a major sect, Ling Qingzhu. She's a royal guest, but as one of the Four Great Clans of the Great Yan Empire, we, the Lin Clan, should make our own gesture. Since you'll be heading to the capital, the elders decided to entrust you with five hundred thousand Pure Yuan Pills to help build a favorable connection with her. It's not much, but it should at least break the ice."
With a wave of his hand, Lin Fan passed a black storage pouch to Lin Langtian.
"Five hundred thousand Pure Yuan Pills?" Lin Langtian murmured as he accepted the pouch, a hint of excitement flickering in his eyes. Though Lin Fan meant these to be a gift for Ling Qingzhu, he doubted she would care much for it, so he might as well put it to better use himself.
"Of course. I'll do my best to make sure Ling Qingzhu leaves with a good impression of the Lin Clan," he replied smoothly.
"Good. She has an impressive background, and if you can gain her favor, it might prove useful in the future," Lin Fan said seriously.
"I understand," Lin Langtian replied with a nod.
"Clan Head, if Brother Langtian is going to the capital, can we come along too?" Lin Ke'er asked eagerly.
Hearing this, many of the younger clan members exchanged hopeful looks. Though Lin City was bustling, it didn't compare to the allure of the empire's capital.
Lin Fan looked at Lin Langtian. "Langtian, what do you think?"
Lin Langtian frowned slightly. He wasn't keen on bringing extra people, but as the leader of the clan's younger generation, he felt it best to respect their wishes. "I'll take a few along, but no more than five people. Ke'er, Lin Chen, you all can decide who will join me."
He figured that with only five of them, it wouldn't be too much trouble. Lin Ke'er and the others were delighted, and although there were only five spots, everyone was thrilled by the opportunity.
"Thank you, Brother Langtian!" they chorused.
Under Lin Langtian's watch, the five participants were quickly chosen: Lin Ke'er, Lin Chen, and three others. Satisfied, Lin Langtian smiled and said, "Rest up tonight. We'll head to the capital tomorrow!"
(End of Chapter)