In the spacious hall, a throng of people bustled about, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Seated on designated chairs were the leaders or representatives from powerful factions in the eastern provinces of the empire. Although many secretly wished for the fall of the Mo clan, they still had to maintain the necessary formalities on the surface.
At the head of the high platform, an elderly man with silver hair and opulent attire bowed courteously to the guests below. He appeared to relish the envious gazes upon him, and his aged face never ceased to wear a smug smile amidst the joy. This elder was the Grand Elder of the Mo clan, Mo Cheng, a pillar of the clan. The Mo clan’s current status was largely due to his efforts.
“Lord Boer, the City Lord of Yan City, has arrived!” A loud announcement echoed into the hall, momentarily hushing the clamor. Curious glances swept toward the entrance. Generally, imperial officials would not actively participate in local celebrations, but the City Lord of Yan City’s presence signified that the Mo clan had fully connected with the city’s hierarchy.
With official support and the backing of the Yunlan Sect, it was no wonder that the Mo clan’s strength had surged, hinting at a trend to dominate the northeastern provinces.
“Ha ha, Grand Elder Mo Cheng, congratulations,” a group of people led by a well-dressed, plump middle-aged man walked in, smiling broadly. “Ha ha, Lord Boer, thank you for coming personally. Please, take a seat.”
Though Mo Cheng smiled, a cold intent flashed through his mind. He politely directed the City Lord to a special seat on the high platform. After some pleasantries, another announcement sounded.
“Lord Ye Cong, the Head of the Ye Family, has arrived!”
Hearing the name, Mo Cheng’s expression shifted slightly. The Ye Family was one of the three major families in the northeast, though not as powerful as the Mo clan, their strength was formidable. The unexpected visit of the Ye Family’s head indicated a desire to curry favor, showing that the Mo clan’s growing power had shaken the opposing factions.
“Ha ha, Old Man Mo Cheng, you’re truly vigorous in old age. You’re about to consume the entire northeast!” A lean-faced middle-aged man strode in, laughing heartily.
“Ha ha, I didn’t expect Lord Ye Cong to come. I’m deeply honored,” Mo Cheng replied with a polite but insincere smile.
Subsequently, a series of high-ranking leaders from the northeastern provinces arrived, filling the hall with almost all the influential factions. Mo Cheng’s satisfaction grew as he saw the hall filled with guests. In the northeast, only the Mo clan could command such a gathering.
Mo Cheng’s smile broadened when he heard the final announcement. He personally descended the platform and walked briskly toward the entrance. As the center of attention, his actions drew everyone’s gaze. It was rare for the Grand Elder to greet someone personally, sparking murmurs of curiosity.
At the entrance, a group of people entered, led by a beautiful woman in a moonlight dress. Her graceful steps and charming smile drew surprised looks from those who recognized her.
“Ha ha, Nalan niece, I didn’t expect you to come. Your presence truly graces our humble abode,” Mo Cheng beamed, warmly greeting the young woman.
“It’s actually Nalan Yanran, the direct disciple of the Yunlan Sect? No wonder Mo Cheng is so excited.”
“Old coot, he’ll be boasting about this for a long time.”
“Seems like the Yunlan Sect is taking the Mo clan more seriously. Even the future sect leader has come.”
The hall buzzed with envy and admiration for the Yunlan Sect, a towering force in the empire. The alliance with the Mo clan only increased its influence.
“Grand Elder Mo Cheng, Yanran is here only on my master’s orders,” Nalan Yanran said, scanning the hall. She noticed the near-total representation of the northeastern forces and felt a mix of surprise and something else, responding with a reserved smile.
“Ha ha, Nalan niece, Elder Ge Ye, please come in!” Mo Cheng laughed, leading them to the highest seats.
Nalan Yanran became the center of attention, while Lord Ye Cong watched with envy, contemplating the future.
Meanwhile, on the top floor, two dark-robed figures appeared, their eyes scanning the hall. They paused on Nalan Yanran and then on Mo Cheng.
“That must be Grand Elder Mo Cheng, the Butcher of the Mo clan, right?” Xiao Yan observed.
“Yeah,” Hai Bodong nodded. “What’s your plan now?”
“Disrupt the party. According to what you said, we should first incapacitate that old bastard and demand what we need. Mo Cheng is a crucial pillar of the Mo clan, so his life should be worth something.”
Xiao Yan’s eyes, like venomous snakes, fixed on Mo Cheng.
“What a miserable old fellow, meeting a disaster like Xiao Yan on such a day,” Hai Bodong mused, silently sympathizing with the unsuspecting Mo Cheng.
Back in the hall, Mo Cheng finally stopped the chatter and rose, surveying the gathered forces. He calmed the room, announcing, “Thank you all for attending this old man’s banquet. As you know, there is a significant matter to discuss.”
Everyone perked up, listening intently.
“The Mo clan plans to form the Mo Alliance, a loose organization to unite friendly forces for mutual benefit. By joining, you’ll enjoy privileges such as intelligence and military aid. What do you think?”
Mixed reactions followed. Though Mo Cheng framed it loosely, they knew joining meant being under the Mo clan’s influence. Smaller, weaker forces agreed, followed by some hesitant medium-sized ones.
Nalan Yanran and Ge Ye exchanged a meaningful look. Mo Cheng, pleased with the progress, declared, “The Mo Alliance needs a leader. I will temporarily manage it.”
“Of course, Grand Elder Mo Cheng is the most suitable,” came the fawning response.
Amidst this, a voice rang out, “Sorry, Grand Elder, I think you won’t have time to manage the Mo Alliance.” A black-robed figure materialized, fixing a cold gaze on Mo Cheng, whose face darkened.
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