"No, we can't!"
Inside the grand hall of the Bai Clan estate, the atmosphere was thick with tension.
Bai Tianheng, the Clan Leader, stood at the head of the hall, his expression calm but his gaze sharp.
Around him, a half-dozen elders were gathered, their faces a mix of concern, skepticism, and even a hint of defiance.
"Clan Leader," Elder Bai Wei said.
"I must speak plainly. Including Bai Zihan among the participants for the ancient ruin is… reckless."
"Reckless?"
Bai Tianheng's voice was even, but there was a dangerous edge to it.
"Yes!"
Elder Bai Wei pressed on, emboldened by the murmurs of agreement around him.
"Bai Zihan may be your son, but this is an opportunity of unimaginable value—a once-in-a-lifetime chance. We must send only the best of our disciples. Those who are strong, capable, and can help in obtaining the inheritance!"
"Are you implying Bai Zihan is none of those?"
Bai Tianheng's tone grew colder.
