Sure enough, before they could arrive at the entrance of the compound, in a relatively crowded area of the city—a plaza—a group of over twenty people were waiting for them, obstructing their path. The leaders, unmistakably, were Li Ma and Tiana Markov. It was evident that they believed this treasure would benefit their families and sought a share of it.

Li Ma, the crafty fox that he was, took the lead and spoke first, his voice soft yet audible to everyone present. "Dear friends of the Violet Sky and Lambert Clans, good day to you. We have heard rumors that the Violet Sky and Lambert Clans have come across something of great value to the city. We are curious to know what it might be."

The elders in Damian's group exchanged quick glances, assessing the situation. They understood that this encounter could potentially lead to a delicate negotiation or, if mishandled, escalate into an unwanted conflict.

James stepped forward, his voice firm yet diplomatic. "Greetings, esteemed leaders of the Li and Markov Families. We appreciate your curiosity and interest in our recent discovery. Rest assured, it is indeed a treasure that holds great potential for the city's prosperity. However, the specifics of this treasure require careful consideration and deliberation among all concerned parties before we can share further details."

Tiana Markov, known for her straightforward nature, spoke next. "We understand the need for caution, Elder James. However, it is only fair that all four great families of the city have a say in this matter. Our clans have made significant contributions to the city's well-being and deserve to benefit from this treasure as well."

Celia stepped forward, her voice carrying authority. "We acknowledge the importance of unity and fairness. The Violet Sky Clan and the Lambert Clan are fully committed to fostering harmonious relations among the great families. That is why we propose convening a council meeting where all four clans can openly discuss the matter. It is in the best interest of the city and its inhabitants."

Li Ma's eyes narrowed slightly as he pondered Celia's words. He recognized the wisdom in seeking a collective decision. After a brief pause, he responded, "Very well, Elder Celia. Your proposal for a council meeting is reasonable. We shall convene to discuss this treasure and its implications for the city. However, I trust that the negotiations will be conducted in good faith, with equal consideration for all parties involved, regardless of clan strength." He looked at Damian warily, noting Damian's strength at the ninth layer of the Golden Core realm. Li Ma was determined to stand his ground, even though he feared offending the Violet Sky Clan. Nonetheless, he had to make an effort to secure a share of the treasure for the growth and prosperity of his own clan.

Celia nodded, indicating her agreement. "Indeed, Elder Li, we value fairness and transparency in our dealings. Let us strive to find a solution that benefits not only our respective clans but the city as a whole."

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With those words, the tension in the air eased, and the leaders of the Li and Markov Families stepped aside, allowing Damian, Cedric, and their companions to proceed. The onlookers observed this exchange with great interest, whispering among themselves as they dispersed, their curiosity piqued by the mysterious treasure.

As they continued their journey toward the clan compound, a sense of relief enveloped them all. Celia apologized to the other members of the council present. "Sorry for taking the initiative to hold a council with the rest of the great families, but I deemed it our priority to avoid immediate conflict."

"It was a bit rash of a decision, but I agree that in the long run, it could avoid unnecessary animosity among the clans," said James.

Damian, Jack, and even Cedric agreed that it was at the very least a measure to gain some time and provide an opportunity to plan how to proceed.

The immediate confrontation had been successfully defused, but they were aware that the council meeting would present its own challenges. They would need to garner support and present a compelling case to ensure the fair distribution and responsible use of the treasure.

The fate of the city hung in the balance, and it would require all their diplomatic skills, strategic thinking, and unity to navigate the intricate web of alliances and rivalries among the great families. The stage was set for a dramatic clash of interests and ambitions, and Damian was determined to guide the Violet Sky Clan through the storm, towards a future of prosperity and harmony.

Their first priority was to reach a consensus within the Violet Sky Clan, followed by gaining the support of the Lambert Clan. They also needed to carefully navigate the Markov and Li Clans. Damian understood that the Violet Sky Clan, with the backing of the Lambert Clan, could overpower both clans if necessary. However, he recognized the importance of the bigger picture. They had less than fifty years until Tian Long dispersed the barriers protecting humanity from stronger beasts. It was not in the interest of his clan or the city to lose a substantial portion of their main power and create a web of conspiracy, animosity, and treachery among the clans, ultimately weakening the city's strength in the face of a potential beast wave—the very reason the barriers erected by Tian Long existed.

Upon reaching the entrance to the compound, Cedric and his guards bid farewell to Damian and his clanmates and headed to their own clan compound.

At the entrance of the clan compound, guards at the first layer of the Golden Core were stationed. James swiftly instructed them to call for an emergency council meeting within the next twenty minutes.

All the members hurriedly made their way to the clan hall, where council meetings were traditionally held, and took their seats. Nathan and Cristine stood guard at the entrance alongside the stationed guards. Damian swiftly created several hundred inscriptions in the air, sending them towards the walls. Soon, a thin barrier of Qi formed, and he allowed more of the Qi from the flame to leak out. The temperature in the room instantly rose, and the council members felt the heat and dryness on their skin. They were once again astonished by the sheer density and purity of the flame. Swiftly, they formed a Qi shield around their bodies, protecting themselves from the intense heat.

"This is amazing," Jack exclaimed. "If the clan cultivates this Qi, we would become significantly stronger."

"Much stronger," Damian confirmed, releasing his grip on his Qi to reveal his cultivation level. The members could feel the vastness of his power.

"I am at least twice as strong as I would be without cultivating with the flame," Damian revealed, emphasizing the potential the flame held for their growth.