The crowd's reaction was a mixture of awe and disbelief. Some disciples whispered among themselves, unable to comprehend how Shenlong, once labeled as weak, had defeated someone as skilled as Li Jiang. Others looked at him with newfound respect, recognizing the strength and determination that had brought him this far.
As Shenlong left the arena, he sensed a shift in the atmosphere. The whispers of "trash" and "failure" had been replaced with admiration, though some still looked on with envy and resentment. He knew that his victory would only intensify the scrutiny and challenges he faced, but he welcomed it. Every battle, every duel was a step toward reclaiming his honor and proving his worth.
Feng approached him, clapping a hand on his shoulder. "Not bad," he said with a smirk. "Looks like you've finally shut up a few of the naysayers."
Shenlong managed a small smile. "There's still a long way to go. This was just the beginning."
Feng chuckled, nodding. "True. But with that kind of strength, you might actually survive the next trial."
Their brief moment of camaraderie was interrupted by the arrival of an elder, a stern expression on his face. "Shenlong," the elder said, his tone grave. "The clan leaders have summoned you. It's urgent."
Shenlong felt a pang of apprehension but nodded, following the elder through the crowded halls to the grand meeting chamber where the clan leaders awaited. The air inside was thick with tension, the leaders' faces unreadable as they studied him.
The head elder, a figure of immense authority, spoke first. "Shenlong, we have been observing your recent accomplishments. You have shown remarkable resilience and strength, and it has not gone unnoticed. However, there are matters that concern us."
He gestured to another elder, who stepped forward, holding a scroll. "Rumors have reached us that your power is not solely your own. Some believe you've come into possession of an ancient artifact, one that could disrupt the balance of our clan's hierarchy."
Shenlong's heart raced, but he kept his expression neutral. The pendant's legacy was indeed powerful, but he hadn't expected it to draw the attention of the clan's leaders so soon. The head elder continued, his gaze piercing. "Artifacts of such power are forbidden without the clan's approval. Explain yourself."
Shenlong took a deep breath, steadying himself. "The pendant was passed down to me by my family. I never knew its true nature until recently. I have no intentions of using it to disrupt the clan."
The elders exchanged glances, their expressions thoughtful yet cautious. Finally, the head elder spoke. "Very well, Shenlong. We will allow you to continue in the trials. However, know that your actions will be closely monitored. Any misuse of this artifact, any attempt to upset the balance of power, will not be tolerated."
Shenlong bowed, his resolve unshaken. "I understand, and I will honor the clan's rules."
As he left the chamber, he felt a mix of relief and determination. The path he walked was dangerous, and the scrutiny from the clan leaders only heightened his resolve to succeed. The pendant's power was both a gift and a burden, but he knew he could not afford to hesitate. The journey ahead would test him in ways he had never imagined, but he was ready.
Outside the chamber, Feng waited for him, a curious look in his eyes. "So? What did they want?"
Shenlong offered a faint smile. "Just a reminder of the rules."
Feng laughed, clapping him on the back. "Well, as long as they're not kicking you out. We've still got a few trials to conquer."
Together, they walked through the clan grounds, their footsteps echoing as they moved forward, united by purpose and bound by a friendship forged in battle. Shenlong's heart swelled with a renewed sense of hope and ambition. The trials were far from over, and greater challenges awaited. But with allies by his side, he felt ready to face whatever lay ahead, determined to prove himself and uncover the secrets of his past.