Then, the two slowly walked towards the luxurious mansion of the Loulan Family, which occupied a vast area. In front of the mansion's entrance, two burly guardians stood vigil, and upon seeing Thunderstorm and Luo Chen approach, they immediately blocked the way with their long staff, frowning coldly, "The family is not receiving guests today!" It was clear they were not welcoming these uninvited visitors.

However, Thunderstorm did not feel discouraged or angry. He said blandly, "Inform your Clan Leader that someone is bringing the Soul Stone." The guardians were stunned at the mention of the "Soul Stone." They exchanged a glance, a flicker of doubt flashing in their eyes. One of the guardians hurriedly ran inside the Loulan Mansion to report, while the other kept a close watch on Thunderstorm and Luo Chen, afraid of any sudden movement.

Luo Chen took the opportunity to ask quietly, "What is the Soul Stone?" His curiosity was piqued by the unfamiliar term. However, Thunderstorm merely shook his head slightly, "You will find out soon enough. Remember, do not speak without my orders." His tone carried an undeniable authority. Luo Chen shrugged, feeling a bit discontented but chose to comply.

In no time, the guardian who went in to report returned excitedly. His attitude had drastically transformed, and he addressed Thunderstorm respectfully, "The Clan Leader invites you inside, esteemed guests from afar." Luo Chen was secretly astonished: How did he know we came from afar? Could it be because of the Soul Stone?

With a heart full of questions, Luo Chen and Thunderstorm followed the guardian into the Loulan Clan's mansion. They passed through one courtyard and corridor after another, finally arriving at a spacious hall. The hall was opulently decorated with a sophisticated elegance, exuding a noble and mysterious aura. At the center of the hall, a middle-aged man stood with hands clasped behind his back, awaiting their arrival.

This middle-aged man was the Clan Leader of the Loulan Clan—Loulan Xiong. He was dressed in splendid attire, his face dignified and profound. As he saw Thunderstorm and Luo Chen approach, a gleam flashed in his eyes, and he walked up with a smile, "Welcome, esteemed guests. Forgive us for not greeting you from afar." His voice was loud and powerful, revealing the presence of someone in a high position.

Thunderstorm also smiled in response, "Loulan Clan Leader, you are too courteous. We have come today to discuss an important matter with you." Saying this, he took out a stone glowing faintly from his bosom—it was the "Soul Stone" they had mentioned.

Upon seeing this Soul Stone, Loulan Xiong's eyes flashed with a passionate gleam. He understood the stone's immense value and realized that Thunderstorm's visit was by no means simple. Thus, he restrained his smile and said seriously, "I wonder what important matter Mr. Thunderstorm wishes to discuss? If it is within my Loulan Clan's capabilities, we will spare no effort."

What followed was a covert contest involving interests, power, and resources. During this contest, Luo Chen gradually understood the significance of the Soul Stone and the complex relationships between the Loulan Clan, Thunderstorm, and himself. He realized the need to proceed cautiously, lest he fall into a catastrophic predicament.

So, it turned out that the Soul Stone was a mysterious gem containing immense energy. It could not only be used to enhance a cultivator's strength but also to refine higher-quality Spiritual Treasures. For a lineage specializing in artifact refining like the Loulan Clan, the Soul Stone was undoubtedly a precious material. Thunderstorm's purpose in visiting was to negotiate or establish a cooperation with the Loulan Clan.

Throughout the negotiations, Luo Chen remained silent. He quietly observed every person's expressions and movements, attempting to gather more information.

Passing through the spacious courtyard, Luo Chen and Thunderstorm silently followed the guardian, arriving at the empty martial arts arena. The area was vacant, yet it exuded a chilling aura as if telling of fierce battles that had taken place here. Ahead, the magnificent buildings stood quietly, like silent guardians watching over every person stepping into these lands.

At this moment, the martial arts arena was surrounded by an imposing crowd forming a forty-meter diameter circle. The crowd's presence was steady and powerful, as if everyone was a battle-hardened warrior. Opposite this circle stood a majestic platform, rising over ten meters above the ground like a solitary tower facing the wind.

At the top of the platform was a meticulously designed Fang Pavilion. Its architectural style complemented the surrounding buildings; ancient and elegant, yet not lacking modern aesthetics. Inside the pavilion sat an elderly man with a full head of white hair and dressed in black robes. He sat quietly, seemingly out of place with the world around him, yet emanating an undeniable presence. Beside the elderly man stood two middle-aged men respectfully, their presence subdued and stable, evidently men of profound cultivation.

Luo Chen watched them from afar, only able to discern their silhouettes, unable to see their faces and expressions clearly. He speculated in his heart: What identities did these three individuals have? Why were they here?

Just then, Thunderstorm suddenly moved. A smile subtly curved at his lips, and before the guardian could lead the way, he propelled Luo Chen like an arrow towards the Fang Pavilion! This move caught everyone off guard, including Luo Chen. He only felt the wind howl past his ears, and in an instant, he was inside the Fang Pavilion.

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