News of Chen Han's death sent shockwaves through the outer gates of the Lihuo Sect. He was a promising disciple on the verge of breaking through to the sixth level of the Earth Spirit Realm. Everyone knew his name and respected his strength.
The news of his tragic death in Lihuo City stunned everyone. An investigation by the outer sect elders revealed that Chen Han had been involved in a vicious fight before his death. His body bore multiple punch marks, and he had been struck between the eyebrows with tremendous force.
The elders concluded that the perpetrator was likely someone with similar strength, perhaps around the sixth level of the Earth Spirit Realm. They also noted that the killer had gone to great lengths to cover their tracks, suggesting a careful and thoughtful approach.
The death of Chen Han prompted some outer disciples to speculate about the circumstances surrounding his demise. They recalled that Chen Han had been yelling and cursing outside Lin Chen's courtyard during the day and was later found dead at night.
The coincidental timing raised suspicions, leading some to speculate that Lin Chen had killed Chen Han. However, they quickly dismissed this theory. If Lin Chen possessed such strength, why wouldn't he have faced Chen Han's challenge during the day? What would he gain from being labeled a coward?
Meanwhile, in Lin Chen's courtyard, his sister, Lin Ning'er, came knocking with snacks. She informed him about Chen Han's death, causing genuine shock and surprise on Lin Chen's face.
Lin Ning'er sensed his sincerity and dispelled any doubts she had about his involvement. She reminded him to keep a low profile and avoid conflicts, as they lacked the connections and influence to defend themselves if trouble arose.
Lin Chen promised to abide by her advice, showing his obedience. He expressed disappointment at not being able to challenge Chen Han personally, feeling a sense of missed opportunity.
His sister revealed that the phantom beast master, Su Yuwei, had mentioned the possibility of Lin Ning'er undergoing cultivation despite her age and cold poison condition. This news filled Lin Chen with hope and determination to explore this path.
As the afternoon approached, He Guan showed up at Lin Chen's courtyard, renewing his insults and provocations. He believed that his insults would eventually push Lin Chen into a fight.
Other outer disciples found He Guan's behavior intolerable, but He Guan was driven by his desire to defeat Lin Chen and gain recognition from the sect elders. He saw this battle as a crucial opportunity to elevate his status.
However, he had made a grave mistake by joining Chen Han in insulting Lin Ning'er the previous day. An outer disciple approached He Guan, informing him about Chen Han's death in Lihuo City.
He Guan dismissed the possibility of Lin Chen being responsible, claiming that if Lin Chen had such capabilities, he would have fought Chen Han openly instead of hiding and avoiding the challenge.
Meanwhile, in the practice room, Lin Chen stood before the wall, deep in thought. He crossed out Chen Han's name and added "Chen Family" beside it, symbolizing his determination to deal with the Chen family, one of the four major families in Da Cang Kingdom.
He continued to write down the names of his enemies on the wall, the individuals who had wronged him or his family. This act served as a reminder of the grudges he held and motivated him to seek justice and revenge.
As he added He Guan's name to the list, a smirk formed on his lips.