READ NOVEL ONLINE Chapter 5: Chapter 5: The Clan Treasure Vault
Chapter 5: The Clan Treasure Vault
"The clan's Treasure Vault?"
Upon hearing Lin Fan's words, Great Elder Lin Mu was momentarily stunned before hurriedly objecting. "Clan Head, this must not be done."
"The clan's Treasure Vault contains many precious items—countless martial arts scrolls, elixirs, and rare artifacts. According to clan rules, only those who have made significant contributions to the clan or who win the clan tournament are granted access. Although Lin Langtian's recent breakthrough to the Form Realm is indeed remarkable, awarding him the position of Elder of Law is reward enough. Granting him access to the Treasure Vault may be excessive."
Several elders aligned with Lin Mu quickly spoke up in agreement, "The Great Elder is correct. We urge the Clan Head to reconsider."
Lin Langtian glanced at Lin Mu, the elder in the purple robe, who met his gaze without expression, his eyes conveying an official, businesslike attitude. Lin Langtian privately scoffed, silently cursing the old fox. He disliked Lin Mu's tactics but felt no anger. He was no longer the petty, short-sighted Lin Langtian of the past, but rather a reborn soul from another world with broader ambitions that stretched beyond the Lin Clan, the Great Yan Empire, and even the Eastern Xuan Region. These minor grievances meant little to him now.
Besides, Lin Langtian knew he didn't need to speak up. There were others ready to advocate on his behalf.
Indeed, as Lin Mu's faction continued to press their objections, Elder Lin Zhi stepped forward and respectfully addressed Lin Fan.
"Clan Head, I believe the Great Elder's concerns are misplaced. Langtian is now the Lin Clan's top talent and the strongest among our younger generation—a representative of our clan's honor. Langtian's breakthrough into the Form Realm brings great prestige to the Lin Clan. As the Great Elder mentioned, only champions of the clan tournament are allowed into the Treasure Vault. But, realistically, who among the younger generation stands a chance against Langtian in the next clan tournament?"
When he finished, other elders from Lin Langtian's faction chimed in with support.
Lin Mu's brows knitted tightly, and just as he was about to respond, Lin Fan raised his hand to silence him. "My decision is final. Langtian will be granted one visit to the Treasure Vault. However, he may only select one item."
Seeing Lin Fan's resolute expression, Lin Mu held back his words, sighed, and fell silent. He narrowed his eyes, studying Lin Langtian, a slight suspicion flickering in his gaze. There was something different about Langtian's demeanor—calm, unruffled, as though he were a different person.
With the rewards granted, Lin Langtian and the others left the clan hall.
"Congratulations, Langtian, on becoming Elder of Law and earning a chance to enter the Treasure Vault," Lin Zhi said with a smile.
Other elders from Lin Langtian's faction also offered congratulations.
"Heh, my thanks to each of you for speaking up on my behalf earlier. When I succeed, I won't forget your support," Lin Langtian said with a respectful bow.
Lin Zhi and the others exchanged pleased smiles, feeling their faction's unity strengthen even further.
After some brief conversation, Lin Langtian said, "Elder Lin Zhi, since you oversee the Treasure Vault, perhaps you could lead me there?"
"Of course." Lin Zhi nodded, smiling, and then led Lin Langtian away from the crowd.
As they walked, they passed many members of the Lin Clan. Most greeted Lin Langtian with respect, especially the younger members, who would hurriedly step aside with looks of awe and admiration. He raised his eyebrows in mild surprise, not realizing just how highly he was regarded within the Lin Clan. In his memory, though Lin Langtian had looked down on Lin Dong, who came from a branch family, he had been well-regarded within the main clan for his support of others.
As they approached the depths of the Lin Clan's grounds, Lin Zhi spoke quietly to Lin Langtian, "We're nearly there. Many of the treasures inside were rewards our ancestors earned during the Hundred Dynasties Battle. Some of the powerful Earth-ranked spirit artifacts have a life of their own, so whether you can obtain one will depend on your fate. But I believe in you, Langtian."
Lin Langtian nodded, feeling a surge of curiosity about the Treasure Vault.
The Treasure Vault lay deep within the clan grounds, nestled against a steep cliffside. Surrounding the cliff were elegant pavilions hidden among lush greenery, creating a secluded, peaceful atmosphere. Yet beneath the calm, Lin Langtian felt a subtle chill in the air and sensed the presence of hidden clan experts, guarding the area with intense vigilance befitting a forbidden zone.
Before him stood a massive stone door embedded in the cliff face, emanating faint energy waves. A group of guards, all elders of the clan, stood watch over it.
"Elder Lin Zhi, isn't this your rest day? What brings you here?" one of the guards asked as he approached.
"Heh, Langtian has broken through to the Form Realm, and the Clan Head has granted him access to the Treasure Vault to select one item," Lin Zhi replied.
"Langtian broke through to the Form Realm? His pace rivals that of Wang Zhong from the Wang Clan and even the Third Prince from the royal family!" The guards looked on with surprise.
Lin Zhi waved dismissively, "Langtian's talent is on par with theirs, so this shouldn't be surprising. Open the gate."
The guards glanced at each other, chuckling before they moved into position and sent pulses of energy toward the massive stone door. The door trembled, and then slowly cracked open, releasing a surge of powerful energy from within.
"Alright, Langtian, you may go in now. According to the rules, you have a maximum of one month and may only take one item. Even I lack the authority to bend this rule," Lin Zhi said.
Lin Langtian gave a slight smile, "Understood, Elder Lin Zhi. I'll follow the rules."
With a polite bow, he stepped through the stone doorway. Once he was inside, Lin Zhi and the others closed the heavy stone door behind him.
(End of Chapter)