The Jiang Clan was re-established, and its leadership now rested with Yeeming, the son of the clan's previous head. With Yeeming's rise, a fragile unity began to form among the three tribes. Together, they entertained the idea of attacking the Shi Clan, but one group still hesitated—the Wen Jung Clan.
The Wen Jung Clan's leader believed that engaging in a fight could have catastrophic consequences. He feared that such a conflict might not only destroy the Shi Clan but could also bring ruin upon their own people. Thus, he refused to join the alliance.
The Wan Clan, meanwhile, remained neutral, focusing solely on its own interests. They had no deep enmity with the Shi Clan and preferred to maintain harmony with both sides. As the wealthiest tribe, the Wan Clan's power was unmatched, and they believed themselves superior. However, their leader, Fu Wan, was a fair and wise man who avoided unnecessary conflicts.
Fu Wan had two sons. His eldest, Moe Wan, was proud and aloof, his complex nature making him difficult to read. The younger son, Pai Wan, was clever, ambitious, and ruthless. Pai Wan harbored a dark desire: to first defeat the Shi Clan and then turn on the Jiang and Wen Jung Clans to claim dominance. He believed that their wealth and resources gave them the right to rule over all.
Despite Pai Wan's schemes, Fu Wan maintained control over his clan, ensuring their prosperity. The Wan Clan thrived in a region with excellent weather—neither too cold nor too hot. The land was fertile, ideal for farming, which made it a hub for agriculture and trade. Merchants from all tribes flocked to the Wan Clan's territory to do business, paying taxes proportional to their success. This constant flow of trade and wealth ensured that no tribe dared to attack them.
---
Meanwhile, the Shi Clan had grown stronger, but its happiness had diminished. Xiaobo, the clan's leader, was still searching for his missing son, Xiao, driven by Madam Ying's unshakable belief that her child was alive. Despite exhaustive efforts, Xiaobo found no trace of him. His hope had dwindled, replaced by a resigned sorrow.
The Shi Clan's palace, once filled with joy and laughter, now felt empty. Silence reigned where there had once been the lively chatter of Xiao's presence. Even during meals, the once-vibrant conversations had faded into quiet. A single empty chair at the table served as a constant reminder of Xiao's absence.
Xiao's disappearance affected everyone, but none more so than his maid. She had raised him like her own son, nurturing him with boundless love and care. Xiao, in turn, had adored her, treating her like a second mother. Though he often playfully teased her, he also protected her and listened to her counsel. Without him, her world felt empty. She suffered in silence, her sadness a private burden she shared with no one.
Though the clan carried on, their hearts yearned for Xiao's return. The villagers, once vibrant and hopeful, seemed subdued. The Shi Clan remained strong, yet the void left by Xiao's absence was one no wealth or power could fill.