Chapter 604

Chapter 604: The Three Families Unite to Apply Pressure

Everyone looked stunned. The Hao Wentong they usually treated like a pet suddenly became overbearing and assertive. He efficiently killed without blinking and fiercely defended his identity as city lord, daring anyone to speak out.

The expressions of the dozen clan elders turned sour. They wanted to push a supporter to become the city lord to gain an upper hand against Hao Wentong, but this young man had become remarkably strong. If the first step was this difficult, how could they take the second and third? Moreover, there were competitors—how had the situation turned so swiftly?

Li Hui found it amusing to see this group of people entangled with each other, none daring to step forward. Yet, noticing the expression on Hao Yue Lin’s face, he realized that the matter was far from over.

“Alright, the farce ends here!”

The elder at the head spoke, “Wentong, Old Ninth suddenly passed away due to old injuries before we could arrive. His death left us clan elders in a difficult position. Of course, ten years ago he entered the ancestral hall and indeed recorded your name for his branch. This cannot be denied. However, the family tree is one thing, and Mufeng City is another; the management of Mufeng City must be renegotiated.”

Li Hui sneered, “You’ve said so much, but the bottom line is you disagree with me being the city lord, correct? You would even overturn family rules. Unfortunately, your words don’t hold weight; it’s the ancestors in the ancestral hall who are the decision-makers. As the only man of this branch, who else but the city lord of Mufeng City would it be?”

His imposing aura caused Hao Yue Lin to reassess this piece on the board.

“Stop using the elders to apply pressure.” The elder waved his hand impatiently, “Who says you are the only man of this branch? Old Ninth acted foolishly back in the day, leaving his bloodline outside. I have seen Tian Bao; he has suffered many hardships outside and has been slow in his cultivation. However, his lineage deserves recognition since he acts steadily and competently. I believe entrusting Mufeng City to him would be reassuring.”

“That’s not right!” An old woman with white hair spoke slowly, “Hao Tian Bao lacks recognition from Old Ninth and holds no position of validity. This would make our family the laughingstock of others. I favor the child born to Hao Yue Chen; I have consulted a high-level demon cultivator, and while his talent may not be exceptional, it is close enough. What’s more priceless is that both his mother and father possess remarkable qualities; he will surely become a pillar of the family, and he is the closest bloodline to Old Ninth.”

“Hey, have you two forgotten the origins of Mufeng City?” the one-armed Buddhist nun sneered, “Our branch is the true master of Mufeng City. It was agreed that it would be returned after a certain period. Forcing a little child into the role does not make sense. The older generation and the younger generation are all so shameless; it’s disgraceful!”

All three sides held their ground and aspired to seize Mufeng City.

In fact, Mufeng City was far more than just a city; it encompassed vast territories, countless spirit veins and mines, as well as numerous ancestral caves filled with worldly opportunities. The annual output was beyond imagination. Moreover, the city collected substantial taxes and hosted ceremonies every three months, reaping significant profits—auction houses didn’t even need mentioning.

Li Hui crossed his arms and looked at the three groups of clan elders, knowing they were experts at using their age to exploit benefits. To obtain Mufeng City, they would do anything, so he needed to be cautious.

Sure enough, the three sides exchanged glances, working secretly to finalize details, suddenly shifting their focus: “Mufeng City will temporarily be co-managed by everyone, for a one-year term to evaluate performance. If Hao Wentong truly shows the demeanor of a city lord, we will naturally provide full support and respect! But should he continue misbehaving, showing no signs of striving to govern, do not blame us for our rudeness.”

This was a united pressure tactic, imposing a one-year limit. If all went smoothly, it would be enough for them to clear out the old city lord’s remaining influence, showcasing their cunning.

Li Hui thought this was a good arrangement; over the next year, he could acquire what he wanted and then quickly pull out. After all, he still wanted to go to the Heavenly Realm! The Heavenly Realm from six hundred years ago would likely be even more dangerous.

He was willing, but Hao Yue Lin did not agree.

This beautiful woman from the Hao Family suddenly stepped forward, her face filled with displeasure as she stated, “Elders, you are overstepping. This child can become the city lord of Mufeng City without needing anyone’s approval. Previously, he was the Young Master, and after the passing of our great-grandfather, he should naturally ascend to the role of city lord. Tonight, his blood will be entered into the Tian Kui Lantern, leaving his life candle to illuminate Mufeng City.”

“Impossible, absolutely not!”

“Little girl, are you out of your mind? Mufeng City belongs to the Hao Family; your branch is merely a steward. Even if he were to blood into the Tian Kui Lantern, what could he accomplish with his cultivation?”

“Ridiculous! The Tian Kui Lantern is of great significance, relating to the family’s plans for centuries. The ancestors would never risk the family’s fate on a Myriad Forms Stage practitioner.”

Li Hui frowned. After taking the Rebirth Pill, he found himself with many new insights, including information about the Tian Kui Lantern.

Mufeng City was an enormous spirit treasure mechanism, the Tian Kui Lantern being the core that controlled it. Owning the Tian Kui Lantern meant truly possessing Mufeng City. However, despite years of effort by the Hao Family, even with countless talented individuals contributing their wisdom, they could not overcome the burden of controlling so many spirit treasures.

Additionally, when refining the Tian Kui Lantern, the cultivator’s cultivation level could not be too high, as this would suppress its spirituality. However, a level too low wouldn’t unleash its power, necessitating the selection of a highly potential descendant. They needed someone to blood acknowledge it before reaching the Profound Law Stage, nurturing their growth from a mere tool.

For years, the higher-ups of the Hao Family sought candidates, but unfortunately, after extensive screening, no one was found suitable, leaving the lantern dormant for a hundred years without spirit.

“Girl, let us each take a step back. Hao Wentong can become the city lord, but he must be supported by us to avoid any reckless actions.”

Hao Yue Lin glanced at her younger sister, Hao Yue Chen, and sneered, “You come back involved with family matters and are quick to fight for power. It seems that since the day our great-grandfather was wounded, you have plotted. It’s truly impressive that he managed to hold on for so many years, only to end his days as a mere pawn for others.”

“Hmph, don’t overreach.” The three families jointly applied pressure. Hao Yue Lin’s expression shifted several times before she finally looked at Li Hui—today’s focus of competition, Hao Wentong. She thoughtfully remarked, “It seems that unless the gates are opened to let you in, you family elders will not know how long this will go on. Mufeng City is indeed a coveted prize, and you believe there are rich benefits to reap. Very well, you can send people to jointly manage this family business! However, I must make it clear in advance: if Mufeng City does not thrive within a year, you will withdraw voluntarily, or else we will resort to violence.”

“You…” The clan elders were furious. These were the conditions they had set for Hao Wentong, and this girl had turned the tables on them. How utterly infuriating!

Li Hui surveyed the people present, feeling that this play was not yet over; it had only just begun. Hao Yue Lin was far from an easy rival, making Mufeng City a battleground with various powers vying against each other, turning the atmosphere dangerously tense.