While Cline and the elder were deep in conversation behind the office door, Grant found himself lost in thought. As the murmur of their voices gradually subsided, the door finally opened. The elder gave Grant an acknowledging nod, to which Grant responded in kind. Cline then gestured for Grant to enter, and with a warm smile masking the weariness from his previous conversation, he invited him to take a seat.

"Well, Grant," he began, his tone light yet inviting, "What do I owe for the pleasure of you visiting me today?"

Taken aback momentarily by the formal greeting, Grant quickly regained his composure and replied, "Your kind words flatter me, Chief. I have some important news to share with you. It's about Jasper. He's awakened his aura."

The news took Cline by surprise. His brows furrowed in shock, and a series of questions immediately followed.

Cline's brow was knitted with surprise as he took in Grant's words. "You're certain he's awakened his aura?" He questioned, his voice reflecting a mix of disbelief and curiosity.

Grant nodded, his face serious. "Though I haven't done an in-depth examination, Jasper's changes are quite apparent. Also, I don't think he would lie about something like this." Grant explained earnestly.

Cline seemed to ponder over Grant's words, falling into a thoughtful silence. After a moment, he nodded, a hint of a smile creeping onto his face. "That's truly remarkable," he admitted, a glint of pride flashing in his eyes.

"It indicates that Jasper has an immense talent for martial arts. Most people spend months, even years trying to awaken their aura." He added, a sense of awe tinging his words. This was indeed a monumental milestone. The boy's potential seemed to be extraordinary, much to Cline's delight.

Following the wave of initial excitement, Cline's expression sobered, his brows creasing slightly in worry. He fixed his gaze on Grant, his voice dropping to a hushed whisper, "We need to keep Jasper's talent a secret, at least for now."

Grant blinked in surprise, slightly taken aback by Cline's sudden change in demeanor. He knew that talents were coveted in this world, often leading to jealousy and danger, but he hadn't expected Cline to be so cautious.

"Announce his awakening in a month," Cline continued, his eyes determined. "Awakening aura in a month and a half is still considered remarkably talented, even monstrously so. But if it's assumed that Jasper received my full support, and consumed vast resources, then this feat would still be considered within the realm of possibility for an ordinary genius."

Cline's plan made sense. Announcing Jasper's talents too soon could attract unwanted attention and danger. It was better to downplay Jasper's abilities for the time being. Grant nodded, understanding the gravity of Cline's words, and made a mental note to keep Jasper's progress under wraps.

Despite his understanding, a question lingered in Grant's mind, a compelling curiosity that nudged him towards vocalization. "Cline," he began, his tone brimming with earnest confusion, "Why should we keep Jasper's talent a secret? Wouldn't its revelation have the potential to bolster our village's morale, to amplify our influence?"

He paused, gathering his thoughts before proceeding. "Moreover, it could serve as a stepping stone for Jasper, aiding in the proliferation of his reputation. This might simplify his path to power in the future, providing him with the support he'll need to assume the role of village chief comfortably."

With a measured glance in Grant's direction, Cline released a weary sigh. The lines of his face, usually so composed, seemed to bear the weight of his concerns. "In an ideal world, I would disseminate the news in a heartbeat," he admitted, his voice steeped in reluctant resignation. "But as it stands, the Spring Village Martial Hall is a nexus of competition and potential hostilities... If Jasper's extraordinary talent were to be revealed, who knows what consequences might unfold."

His eyes, as if shadowed by the enormity of their circumstance, grew distant. "I may be the village chief, but I'm not omnipotent. I can't ward off every threat that arises."

In the face of Cline's candid admission, Grant fell silent, mulling over his words. After a moment, he ventured, "Like the Mountain Village elder?"

Cline met his gaze, his eyes reflecting the complexities of their situation. "Yes, like the Mountain Village elder," he affirmed.

"And what does the elder want?" Grant continued, his voice steady despite the weight of the conversation.

Cline's response was immediate and resolute, "Precisely what they all want." He paused before elucidating, "They seek to channel the resources of the Martial Hall towards their villages and clans. This particular elder desires a position within the Mission Hall, as well as permission for more of his clan to establish businesses within Spring Village."

Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

Taken aback by Cline's revelation, Grant found himself grappling for words. "An elder of the Mission Hall?!" he finally exclaimed, his voice steeped in disbelief. "They dare to aspire to such a position? This is practically a brazen attempt at diverting our resources!"

"Yes," Cline confirmed with a nod, acknowledging Grant's concerns. The Martial Hall's Mission Hall is indeed the heart and soul of the entire Martial Hall. By having control over it, they would effectively control over half of the Martial Hall's resources - the precious herbs, beast blood, and more.

"While the request is quite outrageous, the individual they proposed for the position is an Innate Aura martial artist. Having an Innate Aura martial artist is incredibly valuable, providing a higher level of protection and security," Cline disclosed.

On hearing this, Grant was even more taken aback. "An Innate Aura martial artist!" he exclaimed. Within the Practitioner realm, there exist three realms, the most significant distinction of which is the gap between the 1st and 2nd stages. When a Pre-Practitioner transitions to a Practitioner, they can be said to have mastered their aura, opening up and training their bodies to circulate it efficiently. Once a Practitioner progresses to the 2nd stage, it signifies that they have successfully condensed and transformed their aura into Innate Aura.

Grant, himself being only at the 1st stage of the Practitioner realm, was still in the process of condensing his aura. Even the Village Chief was only at the 3rd stage of the Practitioner realm just sub-stage higher, indicating how rare and strong a 2nd stage Practitioner truly is.

"Who is the person?" Grant inquired.

In response to Grant's inquiry, Cline's eyes took on a steely glint. "The person they are willing to send is none other than the head of the Lian Clan.."

Grant blinked in surprise, the information taking a moment to sink in. The Lian Clan was known throughout a few of the surrounding villages for its significant influence and strength. For the Mountain Village to dispatch their clan head was not a decision taken lightly.

Sensing his confusion, Cline continued, "You must be wondering how they can afford such a gamble. Well, the answer lies in a lucky stroke they happened upon. A commoner from the Mountain Village, a child of no particular lineage, manifested an innate talent for spirituality."

Understanding dawned on Grant's face as he listened to Cline's explanation. "So they offered this prodigy to a sect in exchange for protection?"

Cline nodded in affirmation, "Exactly. This way, they have managed to secure their safety and can afford to assign their stronger assets elsewhere, without fearing a downfall."

Grant furrowed his brows, his confusion evident in his eyes as he gazed at Cline. "Chief, why don't we consider sending some of our talented children to join sects as well? If we were to receive their protection, it could greatly enhance our manpower and enable us to expand our village more rapidly."

"No, I won't send any of our children!" Cline said sternly, his voice filled with determination as he slightly raised his voice. His words hung heavy in the air, emphasizing the gravity of his decision. "While it may offer us momentary peace, by giving away our talented individuals, we would be depriving ourselves of the very essence that makes our village strong."

Grant listened intently, respecting Cline's unwavering stance. He could sense the weight of Cline's words as if they carried the weight of past sacrifices and painful memories. It was a reminder of the struggles they had faced to build the village into what it was today.

Cline's grimace spoke volumes, revealing the hardships they had endured in the past. "Besides, with the Martial Hall, it won't take long before we are on par with the sects," Cline continued, his voice laced with determination. "We have seen remarkable progress within our people, and we have the potential to develop formidable talents right here in our village."

Grant nodded, his expression mirroring Cline's resolve. He understood the Chief's perspective. The Martial Hall had become a beacon of hope and progress, allowing the villagers to cultivate their skills and unlock their true potential. By focusing on their resources and nurturing their talents, they could rise to the same level as the sects, or perhaps even surpass them.

With the conversation drawing to a close, Grant bid farewell to Cline and made his way out of the Village Center, heading back towards the Chief's manor.