The flight to Jia Nan Academy was relatively short, taking just a single night despite a brief two to three-hour rest midway. However, their journey ended at the landing center in Jia Nan City, leaving them to traverse the remaining distance to the academy on foot.
"Ke ke. Our apologies, Senior Xiao Hua, Senior Xun Er, but this is where we must part ways. As you know, flying within the city is prohibited unless under emergency circumstances," said one of the Law Enforcement Department members with a polite bow.
"It's no trouble at all," Xiao Hua replied with a light shake of his head, a warm smile gracing his face. "In fact, we should thank you for your efforts. Apologies for adding to your workload." He raised his hand in a casual wave. "Good luck with your duties in the Law Enforcement Department."
The two enforcers were momentarily stunned by his amicable demeanor but quickly regained composure. They cupped their hands respectfully, smiling. "Thank you, Senior!"
Xiao Hua and Xun Er watched the griffin that had ferried them take to the skies once more, its massive wings slicing through the air. After a brief moment of contemplation, they let out a synchronized sigh, turned, and began walking away from the deserted landing area.
"I wish the Outer Academy had its own Flying Boat. It would save even more time traveling to Jia Nan Academy from Peace Town," Xiao Hua remarked, his tone carrying a trace of longing.
His mind wandered as he is reminiscing of the BTTH donghua. He recalled how Xiao Yan had been provided a Flying Boat—or what they referred to as a Griffon Carrier—making his journey to Jia Nan City swift and convenient.
"It cannot be helped, Brother Xiao Hua." Xun Er responded with a shake of her head. "The resources to build the Flying Boat are slightly expensive and difficult to find."
She paused for a second before continuing with a smile. "However, I heard from the Master that they were planning to make it where even the Peace Town would have access to the Flying Boats."
Xun Er's master is the Vice Headmaster Hu Gan. As his disciple, it is natural that she has heard a couple of things from him about the Jia Nan Academy's operation.
"Later in the future, right? Even if they find the materials, finding someone to refine it into a Flying Boat is easier said than done."
Just like Xun Er, he knew about this information from his master since he had talked about it. However, it would take a long time for this to be implemented within the Jia Nan Academy, especially the fact that they have to find someone who could refine the materials and create Flying Boats.
As if coming up with a good idea, Xun Er clapped her hands and smiled excitedly. "Why don't Brother Xiao Hua learn to create it?"
"You mean becoming an Artifact Refiner? To become one is not that simple now is it..."
A helpless smile appeared across Xiao Hua's face. Becoming an Artifact Refiner is easier said than done.
Even if he upgraded his talent using the System, it doesn't mean that he could completely become a master in Artifact Refinery.
While it is true that he has reached eighth-tier Alchemist, that is all because he has a good master and Sister Azure that teaches him and watches him step by step. Otherwise, he has trouble in becoming even a sixth-tier alchemist despite his soul having reached Soul State and having Dou Di alchemy talent…
"Well... That's true. Even my clan doesn't have an unlimited Flying Boat for others to use..."
The corner of Xun Er's lips curled into a resigned smile. Even she has to agree that becoming an Artifact Refiner is slightly difficult.
"Regardless, we are here." Xiao Hua stopped slightly as his gaze landed on the enormous gate which split both the Jia Nan Academy and Jia Nan City.
After a short moment, they followed the bustling path, filled with the students and lecturers entering and leaving the gate.
As they possess an Inner Academy's badge, they can enter the gate without being stopped by anyone.
"What are you going to do now, Brother Xiao Hua? Will you visit Elder Huo first?"
Xiao Hua shook his head. "I will check the condition of Brother Ming Cheng, Sister Li Mei and Brother Wei Jie first. I can soothe the Master's worry afterwards."
Xun Er nodded. It is true that they returned because they were worried about their sworn brothers and sisters.
They hurriedly walked towards the administrative office and informed them so they could return to the Inner Academy.
The travel to the Inner Academy was swift. It didn't take them half a day as Xiao Hua didn't use the Flying Boat, but instead used his colorful wings, decreasing the time needed to reach the Inner Academy even while carrying Xun Er.
———|
"Welcome back, Leader, Senior Xun Er!"
The members of the Chaos Gate greeted them warmly as Xiao Hua and Xun Er returned to the faction's grounds.
Xiao Hua offered a faint nod and a casual wave of his hand. "Those who are occupied, return to your posts."
His gaze swept across the gathered members before he asked, "Does anyone know where Brother Ming Cheng and the others are?"
"Reporting to the Leader," A senior male student stepped forward, cupping his fists respectfully and began.
"Senior Ming Cheng, Senior Wei Jie, and Senior Li Mei are currently recuperating in the woods at the heart of the forest. Senior Xin Yu and Senior Mei Ling are personally overseeing their recovery to ensure no unforeseen incidents occur."
The disciple hesitated briefly before continuing, his tone tinged with unease. "However, two weeks ago, Senior Xin Yu forbade the three of them from leaving the center of the forest. Her voice could be heard reverberating throughout the forest..."
"Xin Yu forbade them from leaving?" Xiao Hua's brows furrowed slightly, a glint of confusion flashing in his eyes. He turned toward Xun Er, whose expression mirrored his own puzzlement.
It was clear she had not been informed of this development either.
Both of them exchanged a knowing glance, the same thought lingering in their minds.
'Things are going to be more troubling...'
It was unlike Xin Yu to impose such a stern restriction, let alone raise her voice so forcefully that it echoed through the forest. Something serious must have occurred.
They expressed their gratitude with a nod before hastening toward the heart of the forest—the very place where Xiao Hua had once slumbered for two weeks after last year's Fire Energy Hunting Competition.
As they ventured deeper into the forest, their path led them to a vast crevasse that split the lush greenery into two. At its center stood an enormous emerald tree, its majestic presence commanding awe.
The tree exuded a serene warmth, its towering trunk thick and resilient, entwined with countless vines radiating soft hues of blue and green. A faint yet boundless energy pulsed from its core, harmonizing seamlessly with the rhythm of heaven and earth.
Its expansive, verdant branches stretched outward, nearly bridging the crevasse, while delicate twigs hung gracefully from the canopy. Beneath the protective shade of its outstretched boughs, a modest yet sturdy wooden cabin stood. Large enough to house ten people comfortably, the cabin had been constructed when the Chaos Gate was first established, replacing the old pavilion deemed too small for their growing needs.
Just behind the cabin, the tip of a pagoda peeked above its roof. This structure had been expanded over time, its additional floors woven into the intricate formation array that enveloped the forest's core.
The center of the forest, brimming with the essence of heaven and earth, was strictly forbidden to outsiders. Only the elders of Jia Nan Academy and the founders of Chaos Gate were permitted entry. Even so, its true stewards were Xiao Hua and his closest allies, for the creation of this sanctuary—albeit unintentional—was credited to him.
It was ordered by the First Elder that this place would remain their place, untouched by others, even after they had graduated.
As Xiao Hua and Xun Er approached the wooden cabin, their gaze fell upon two figures standing just before the cabin's door—one clad in snowy white, the other in jet black—both awaiting their arrival with quiet composure.
The lady in white stood as a vision of unblemished purity. Her pristine robes flowed gently with the breeze, emanating an aura of serene tranquility. Her long, flowing hair, the color of the clearest ocean, cascaded like a silken waterfall down her back, catching the faint wind and swaying with an ethereal grace that seemed almost unearthly.
Beneath the delicate arch of her brows, her sapphire eyes glistened with a brilliance as deep and boundless as the vast ocean. They shimmered like polished gems, their captivating depths whispering the ancient secrets of the seas, holding a beauty that was both mesmerizing and unfathomable.
Yet, despite her radiant presence, an icy, unapproachable aura enveloped her, as though she existed beyond the grasp of the mortal world, untouchable and divine.
She stood there, a peerless vision of beauty and majesty, awe-inspiring and distant—like a snow-capped peak beneath an eternal winter sky, close enough to admire but forever beyond reach.
Her presence was a masterpiece of contradiction: serene yet cold, breathtaking yet untouchable, divine yet impossibly distant.
Standing beside the ethereal lady was another, her vibrant hair cascading down her back in flowing waves, a striking blend of deep crimson and verdant green. The hues evoked the fiery splendor of autumn leaves, alive with an otherworldly radiance. Each strand shimmered as though graced by the golden touch of the season itself, captivating all who beheld her.
Her eyes, vivid and mesmerizing like flawless emeralds, sparkled with an entrancing light that seemed to hold the mystery of ancient jade. Tall and poised, her graceful figure was draped in a sleek black dress, its dark elegance forming a perfect contrast to her fiery hair and verdant gaze, exuding an air of refined allure.
Every movement she made radiated calm serenity and unshakable poise, a harmonious blend of fierce vitality and the tranquil beauty of nature. It was as if she embodied the meeting point of an unyielding inferno and a verdant forest. Yet, deep within her emerald eyes, a playful glimmer flickered—a mischievous spirit hiding just beneath her composed exterior, hinting at an untamed spark within.
"Sister Xin Yu! Sister Mei Ling!" they called out in unison, their voices brimming with excitement as they rushed forward, stopping just before the two towering figures.
Seeing the two familiar figures dashing toward her, Xin Yu's typically cold and indifferent expression softened, a warm smile gracing her lips like sunlight breaking through winter clouds.
As they drew closer, she reached out with both hands, gently ruffling their hair in an affectionate gesture.
"It's good to see you've recovered, Hua'er," she said, her tone tender, carrying a warmth rarely heard.
Her sapphire gaze shifted to Xun Er, her expression carrying a hint of pride. "Xun'er, it seems you've stepped into the Dou Wang class. Congratulations!"
"Thank you, Sister Xin Yu!" Xiao Hua and Xun Er responded simultaneously, their smiles mirroring the warmth in her words
Watching Xiao Hua's carefree smile, devoid of any trace of remorse, Mei Ling let out a long, exasperated sigh.
"I understand that the path of cultivation is fraught with danger," she said, her tone a mix of concern and gentle reproach, "but I sincerely hope you won't attempt something so reckless again, Hua'er."
With a swift yet playful motion, she flicked his forehead, her exasperation evident in the gesture. Though it carried no real force, it was enough to make Xiao Hua instinctively rub the spot, his brows knitting slightly in mild discomfort.
"I understand, Sister Mei Ling," he replied, his voice tinged with apology as he offered her a sheepish smile. "I'm sorry for making you worry."
His sincerity softened Mei Ling's gaze, though the lingering trace of her frustration still flickered in her emerald eyes. Despite her scolding, her concern shone through, a testament to the bond they shared.
Satisfied, Mei Ling straightened her posture, her emerald gaze softening as it shifted to Xun Er. Gently, she placed a hand on her head, her touch both comforting and congratulatory.
"Xun'er, congratulations on reaching the Dou Wang class," she said warmly. "I've already heard about what transpired. It's a relief that you weren't harmed and that Lady Xue Yue was there to protect you."
Xun Er's radiant smile faltered slightly, her expression turning somber. "Indeed," she murmured, her voice tinged with lingering unease. "It was a terrifying situation."
Though she hadn't been at the center of the chaos, the memory of it still lingered vividly. She could recall the energy of heaven and earth running wild, its once harmonious flow turning into a violent tempest. The overwhelming force, brimming with destruction, had caused even the fabric of space to tremble under its fury, leaving her heart heavy with the echoes of that perilous moment.
Her hands clenched slightly at her sides, a subtle reminder of how close they had come to disaster.
Seeing the flicker of fear in Xun Er's expression, Xin Yu gently shook her head, her movements soft and reassuring. She reached out to rub Xun Er's head with a comforting touch, her calm affection dispelling the lingering unease like sunlight chasing away shadows.
"It's already in the past," Xin Yu said, her serene gaze shifting to Xiao Hua. "As long as you're unharmed, nothing else matters."
Xiao Hua pressed his lips together, feeling a faint wave of embarrassment wash over him. He knew all too well the reason behind the chaos—his own attack had spiraled out of control. To make matters worse, the Old Ground Demon Ghost had survived the ordeal, an outcome that weighed heavily on him, both surprising and awkward.
Just as his thoughts began to spiral, Xin Yu's hand landed lightly on his head, her touch impossibly gentle. She gave him a warm, reassuring smile, her expression a quiet promise that she understood his turmoil.
It was as though she were silently telling him, 'It wasn't your fault, Hua'er.'
Her deep affection, a testament to their sibling-like bond, filled Xiao Hua with a bittersweet warmth. While the gesture comforted him, it also heightened his embarrassment.
After all, if one counted the years of his past life alongside his current one, he was technically far older than her—a truth that only deepened the irony of the situation.
'It's fine for Sister Azure and Sister Xue Yue—they've lived for at least a million years, far older than me—but I truly hope Sister Xin Yu will stop treating me like a child when I come of age...' Xiao Hua mused, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips.
His gaze shifted to the side, where Xun Er and Mei Ling were giggling softly, clearly amused by his flustered reaction. Their lighthearted laughter danced in the air, adding to his growing sense of helplessness.
Xiao Hua's face twitched slightly in irritation, but he knew better than to voice a complaint. He understood that Xin Yu's displays of affection were reserved only for those she considered family.
Her tender gestures—be it a warm smile, a soft touch, or a playful reprimand—were as rare as a fleeting blossom in winter. This kind of indulgence was exclusively directed at her sworn siblings, the only ones who had melted the thick ice encasing her heart.
To the outside world, Xin Yu was an untouchable goddess, aloof and indifferent. Yet, to her younger siblings, she became someone entirely different—someone who could smile gently, offer warmth, and even dote on them like an elder sister spoiling her beloved kin.
Xiao Hua sighed helplessly and took two slow steps back, slipping out of Xin Yu's affectionate reach. Though he couldn't deny the warmth her gestures brought to his heart, this wasn't the time to indulge in familial comfort.
Straightening himself, he looked at the two elder sisters before him and asked, "Sister Mei Ling, Sister Xin Yu, how are their injuries?"
As Xiao Hua distanced himself, Xin Yu's hand lingered in the air for a moment before she lowered it with a faint sigh. The slight disappointment in her eyes was quickly masked, but the absence of the warmth she had shared left a lonely ache.
"They're recovering well," Xin Yu replied, her tone calm but tinged with subtle concern. "In two weeks, give or take, they should return to their peak condition. However..."
She paused, her gaze steady. "They are not pleased with the Demon Flame Valley."
"'Not pleased' doesn't even begin to describe it, Sister Xin Yu," Mei Ling interjected, shaking her head with a resigned smile. Turning to Xiao Hua, she continued, "Those three are absolutely livid. They've made it very clear—they won't rest until the Demon Flame Valley is utterly destroyed."
Xiao Hua and Xun Er exchanged glances, troubled expressions creeping onto their faces. They knew their elder siblings' temperaments all too well. When enraged, their resolve was as unyielding as a mountain, their fury like a storm that could not be calmed.
While it was true their injuries had been inflicted by Demon Flame Valley's elders, such rage-driven determination to destroy the entire valley was uncharacteristic. At most, their wrath would have been directed solely at those responsible for the attack—not at the entire faction.
"Let's continue this discussion later," Xin Yu said with a soft sigh, pressing her fingers lightly against her temples. A flicker of irritation danced in her sapphire eyes, signaling her growing annoyance.
Noticing her mood, Xiao Hua, Xun Er, and Mei Ling wisely pressed their lips into straight lines, remaining silent. They knew better than to risk provoking her further, especially when her patience was already wearing thin.
Without another word, Xin Yu turned and opened the cabin door, her movements measured and composed. She led them through the cabin and out the back, her calm demeanor concealing the faint edge of frustration lingering in the air.
As they stepped outside, a breathtaking garden unfolded before their eyes. The vibrant greenery seemed to pulse with life, its lush plants and delicate blossoms creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. Small animals darted playfully between the foliage, adding a touch of lively harmony to the serene surroundings.
The tranquil ambiance of the garden felt like a balm, the perfect juxtaposition to the tension that had lingered moments before.
Xiao Hua's gaze wandered over the scene before landing on Xun Er. A soft smile tugged at his lips as he said, "Seeing this garden makes me wonder if you've been hiding a green thumb, Xun'er."
Xun Er's laughter bubbled up, light and melodious, as her eyes sparkled with delight.
"Thank you, Brother Xiao Hua," she replied with a playful tone, clearly enjoying the compliment. Her joy seemed to echo the garden's vibrancy, filling the moment with a gentle warmth.
Xin Yu continued walking and brought them to the small circular bamboo pavilion, where three people—dark-blue figure, maroon-red figure and white figure— were waiting for them while drinking tea.
Xin Yu continued leading the group, her steps steady and purposeful, until they arrived at a small circular bamboo pavilion nestled amidst the garden's verdant splendor.
The pavilion exuded a rustic charm, its bamboo structure seamlessly blending with the surrounding nature. Delicate carvings adorned its columns, depicting flowing rivers and serene mountain landscapes, adding an air of refinement to its simplicity.
Within the pavilion, three figures were seated around a finely crafted bamboo table, their postures relaxed as they sipped tea.
The first was a young man clad in dark-blue robes. His straight black hair flowed like a waterfall, framing a face that exuded sharpness and precision, much like a spear poised to strike. His deep blue eyes were calm, yet they betrayed a latent storm, an overwhelming thunderous strength lurking just beneath the surface. His domineering aura demanded respect, and combined with his striking appearance, it left an unforgettable impression.
Seated across him was another young man, dressed in maroon-red robes. His short brown hair and deep brick-red eyes gave him a striking, earthy appearance. Unlike his blue-clad counterpart, his demeanor was casual and relaxed, free from any oppressive air. Yet, within the depths of his brick-red eyes flickered a destructive force, like violent flames that could reduce anything to ashes with but a glance. His aura, though subdued, held a silent threat, a warning of the devastation he could unleash if provoked.
The third figure was a woman clad in simple white robes. Though her attire lacked embellishment, it radiated a distinguished aura—one not of this world, but of the heavens themselves. Her ethereal presence was akin to the divine, as if she carried the remnants of an immortal bloodline that had once graced the mortal realm and then disappeared into legend.
Her long, silken white hair, restrained by a black ribbon, cascaded down her back. When the breeze passed, her hair swayed like strands of moonlight, evoking an otherworldly beauty. Her celestial aura seemed to command nature itself, making her presence feel both unreal and overwhelming.
Her flawless face was a masterpiece of delicacy, her alabaster skin so fair it seemed fragile, as if it could shatter with the faintest touch. A faint blush on her cheeks added an alluring warmth to her cold, detached aura, a paradoxical charm that made her seem both unreachable and mesmerizing. Those unworthy of her attention instinctively kept their distance, awed by her ethereal grace.
"Brother Ming Cheng, Brother Wei Jie, Sister Li Mei!"
Xiao Hua and Xun Er exclaimed in unison, their voices brimming with relief. Though they had heard of their siblings' condition earlier, their own circumstances had delayed their arrival.
Now, seeing the three seated figures before them, the weight of worry lifted from their hearts. From their composed expressions and steady postures, it was clear that their injuries had indeed healed significantly. Just as Sister Xin Yu had stated, they were steadily regaining their peak condition.
Hearing the familiar voices, the trio glanced up from their tea. Ming Cheng, draped in his dark-blue robe, arched a brow before a soft grin spread across his stoic face. Wei Jie's maroon-red robes shifted as he leaned back slightly, a warm chuckle escaping his lips.
Li Mei, ever graceful in her snowy white attire, her icy visage softened. A rare, gentle smile graced her lips, as tender as a spring breeze, and her cold, indifferent eyes shimmering with fondness and affection.
Their subtle reactions spoke volumes. Though their demeanor remained composed, the glimmer of joy in their expressions betrayed the depth of their affection for their "little brother" and "little sister." This silent yet heartfelt welcome was as warm and comforting as a reunion under the embrace of spring's first light.
"Welcome back. It seems you've recovered, little brother," Ming Cheng said softly, his usual domineering aura replaced with a gentle, brotherly warmth. His gaze rested fondly on the two figures before him, his composure carrying a sense of reassurance.
"And it seems our little sister has also advanced to the Dou Wang class," Wei Jie added, his voice laced with both pride and delight.
"Congratulations, Xun'er, on advancing to Dou Wang," Li Mei said with a smile, her tone calm yet filled with genuine joy.
Her sapphire eyes shifted to Xiao Hua, and the warmth in her expression softened into a mix of astonishment and concern. "As for you, Hua'er... I can't decide whether to be astonished or appalled by your luck. Surviving such grievous injuries while carrying a poison so powerful is nothing short of miraculous."
"Thank you, Sister Li Mei," Xun Er replied, her beaming smile radiating pride and gratitude.
Xiao Hua sighed inwardly, reflecting on his extraordinary fortune in surviving such a bizarre and potent poison. Despite having refined and possessed four Heavenly Lightnings and also a Primordial Green Lotus Core Flame, his body—also home to the dormant Celestial Ancient Frost—had been infiltrated by this venomous poison.
The Black Plague Poison was truly enigmatic. Typically, poisons were ineffective against him, but under the influence of the Black Plague Whale, the poison had somehow transformed its energy to mimic his own. This clever disguise managed to deceive even the Heavenly Lightnings and Primordial Flame within him.
Even Lady Azure had been caught off guard by the situation. She never anticipated that the Black Plague Poison, under the control of the Black Plague Whale, could actually able to change its essence and mimic that of Xiao Hua's own body.
"Anyway," Xiao Hua began, steering the conversation away from the grim thoughts clouding his mind, "I've heard that Sister Xin Yu has forbidden the three of you from leaving this place. What exactly did you do to provoke her so much?"
His tone carried a faint trace of curiosity, though it was clear he was using the change of subject to lighten the atmosphere.
The group followed suit as Xiao Hua and Xun Er moved to the bamboo pavilion, settling into their respective seats. Xin Yu and Mei Ling took their places beside them, their calm presence anchoring the scene.
Ming Cheng exchanged a glance with Wei Jie and Li Mei, as if silently consulting them. Both shook their heads subtly, signaling that the explanation would fall to him.
Letting out a soft sigh, Ming Cheng leaned forward slightly. His usually composed demeanor carried a faint trace of weariness, hinting at the gravity of the situation.
"Before I explain," he began, his voice steady but serious, "allow me to first inform you of what has transpired over the past few weeks."
With that, he began to recount the events that had unfolded in their absence. Xiao Hua leaned back, his expression calm but attentive as he quietly listened, while Xun Er sat beside him, her brows furrowed slightly in anticipation of what was to come.
The air within the pavilion grew heavier as Ming Cheng's tale unfolded, drawing them deeper into the threads of the past weeks' happenings.