Time surged forward relentlessly since the moment Xiao Hua received Xun Er's urgent news—three weeks had passed like a fleeting shadow. Within this span, he dedicated himself to a singular purpose: refining medicinal pills for Lady Azure's recovery.
In the initial four days, Xiao Hua focused on restoring his own strength, knowing that only by reaching his peak could he succeed in such a critical task. Once rejuvenated, he immersed himself in the arduous process of pill refinement.
The refinement spanned an exhausting ten days, not out of inefficiency, but due to the demanding nature of his pill refinement technique.
Employing the formidable 'Extreme Fire Cauldron' method, he formed exactly twelve blazing cauldrons, each tasked with simultaneously refining their own batch of medicinal ingredients, essences, and liquids. Only through precise synchronization could the merging of these components succeed, for even a breath's delay would spell failure.
Of the twelve cauldrons, nine triumphed in producing tier-seven pills of remarkable purity. Though three cauldrons faltered, Xiao Hua paid little heed to such minor losses. These nine pills drew the attention of five-colored Pill Lightning, and among them, a few experience the tribulation of illustrious seven-colored Pill Lightning, further enhancing their quality.
Yet Xiao Hua's expression remained clouded by a trace of dissatisfaction. He had once formed a medicinal pill that summoned nine-colored Pill Lightning, an amazing feat even among batch of genius alchemists.
The seven-colored arcs, dazzling as they were, fell short of his uncompromising standards. For Lady Azure, only the supreme quality would suffice; nothing less than perfection would satisfy the one who had earned his devotion.
Despite his lingering dissatisfaction, Xiao Hua resolved to present the refined pills to Lady Azure albeit with a heavy heart. Though she reassured him and comfort his heart with kind words, his frustration persisted. The pills, though potent, had not reached the perfect quality he envisioned for her recovery.
For the matters of Pill Lightning, Xiao Hua had wisely entrusted them to the blue-colored Lightning Beast, allowing it to consume the fierce, crackling energy and refine it into a form that could nourish Lady Azure's soul and rejuvenate her Spiritual Strength.
Meanwhile, the orange-colored Lightning Beast, prevented the medicinal pills, that have possessed strong spirituality, to escape and runs away.
Once the pills were safely delivered, Xiao Hua withdrew into a retreat, seeking solace in solitude. His body and mind craved rest, and he took this time to immerse himself in quiet reflection. Even as the third week drew near, he remained unmoving, locked in his own thoughts.
What weighed heavily on his mind was the movements of the Hall of Souls. Even among the formidable forces within the Central Region, they stood apart. Shrouded in a veil of mystery and dread, their strength was indisputable.
Yet, having immersed himself in the novel Battle Through the Heavens, Xiao Hua possessed a deeper understanding of their nature and inner workings.
The hierarchy within the Hall of Souls was meticulously structured. At the pinnacle sat the Chief, Hun Mie Sheng, followed by the Deputy Chief. Beneath them were two principal ranks: the Protectors and the Honorable Elders.
Protectors boasted a minimum cultivation level of Dou Zong and bore a spiritual imprint binding them to the Hall of Souls. This mark not only ensured unwavering loyalty but also allowed the Hall to track their movements at all times.
The Protectors themselves were further divided into three distinct grades: Man Grade, Earth Grade, and Heaven Grade. A Man Grade Protector had limited authority and was permitted knowledge of only one branch hall's location during missions. An Earth Grade Protector was granted awareness of two, while a Heaven Grade Protector could know the whereabouts of three.
Above the Protectors were the Honorable Elders, figures of immense influence. Though their internal divisions were less rigid than those of the Protectors, they were ranked by power, with the Tianzuns reigning supreme among them. The weakest of the Tianzuns possessed strength exceeding that of a 7-Star Dou Zun, a testament to the Hall of Souls' overwhelming might.
Despite their unmatched power, the Hall of Souls operated from the shadows, orchestrating events and manipulating even the most powerful factions into endless conflicts. Their true aim was to harvest the souls of the fallen, whether foe or so-called ally, to fuel their insidious purposes.
However, should they choose to act, Xiao Hua surmised that they would most likely dispatch only a Protector-level expert. This gave him some measure of reassurance, as it meant that his trump card—the blue-colored Lightning Beast—would be particularly effective.
The blue-colored Lightning Beast was a natural nemesis to all forms of Spiritual Bodies. To it, the Spiritual Bodies of the Hall of Souls were nothing more than delicacies. For a faction whose elite experts were primarily composed of such entities, the Lightning Beast is a threat that they would have to tread carefully.
Yet, possessing such a trump card did not mean he could openly challenge them. With his current level of strength, doing so would be tantamount to courting death.
Avoiding a confrontation was not an option. As a descendant of the Xiao Clan, he was bound to face their relentless pursuit and inescapable fate. He had no choice but to steel himself and be prepared for the battle against them.
Resolved, Xiao Hua drew in a long, steady breath, feeling his chest tighten before he exhaled, releasing a controlled stream of air. His eyes opened slowly, their sharp, determined gaze sweeping over the landscape, taking in every detail with meticulous focus.
Three figures stood before him. One sat upon the trunk of a tree, using it as a makeshift stool, while the other two stood quietly, their eyes fixed upon him, as if waiting for him to awaken.
The figure seated on the tree trunk was a delicate, dainty little girl, her attire a soft green. She gazed at Xiao Hua with a sweet, unmistakably affectionate smile, her eyes filled with warmth. Her long black hair cascaded down to her waist, flowing like a silken stream, and her features were soft and serene, carrying the innocence of youth.
It was clear that she would one day blossom into an elegant beauty, one whose allure could easily topple kingdoms. This girl was none other than Xun Er, Xiao Hua's beloved, the Young Lady of the Gu Clan, whose tender gaze reflected a love that ran deep and true.
Before him stood a figure of unrivaled, icy elegance. Her long, snow-white hair, secured in a sleek ponytail by a black ribbon, cascaded down her back like an ethereal waterfall, reaching her waist.
Her crystal-blue eyes, sharp and distant, carried a glacial aloofness, yet when they fell upon him, a subtle warmth flickered within their depths, betraying an unspoken emotion.
Her pale, flawless complexion was marked by three delicate, petal-like symbols on her clear forehead, emblems of her transcendent beauty and otherworldly lineage.
Draped in a form-fitting robe of blue and white, her attire embraced her lithe, graceful figure, drawing subtle attention to her unrivaled allure. A lime-green belt cinched her slender waist, a temptation that evoked an instinctual desire to reach out and touch that fragile elegance.
She exuded the divine aura of an ice goddess descended from the celestial realms, untouched by the mortal world. The very air around her shimmered as if consecrated, warning that even the faintest contact could tarnish her ethereal sanctity—a being who seemed to exist beyond the boundaries of human reach.
She was Xue Yue, the living embodiment and soul of the Celestial Ancient Frost.
The second figure beside her was a vision of captivating warmth and allure, a contrast that drew the eye irresistibly. Her skin, white as polished porcelain, seemed as delicate as a bloom at dawn, with a subtle flush that brought her to vivid life. Her lips, soft and irresistibly inviting, held a silent promise that could weaken the resolve of even the most steadfast heart.
Her jade-green hair framed her face like a silken curtain, cascading down in graceful waves that highlighted her exquisitely painted features. Long, almond-shaped eyes shimmered with the deep, entrancing glow of polished jade, their hypnotic gaze evoking the allure of an ancient treasure—beautiful, rare, and dangerously consuming.
She stood as if weightless, her feet caressed by a gentle, perpetual mist that added to her otherworldly mystique. Each step she took, fluid and deliberate, made her appear unbound by earthly constraints. Clad in a skin-tight emerald robe that traced the elegant lines of her figure, her body swayed with a rhythm that seemed almost musical, ensnaring the senses of those who looked upon her. Her presence exuded an enchantment that stirred deep desire, fanning flames of longing in all who beheld her, regardless of their will.
She was Lady Azure, one of the twenty-two souls born from the Primordial Heavenly Flames, a splinter of the formidable Heavenly Genesis Flame itself.
"It seems I have kept you waiting, Sister Xue Yue, Xun'er." A faint smile graced his lips as he cast a glance at Xun'er and Xue Yue.
However, when his gaze shifted to Lady Azure, his eyes took on a heated glimmer, a deep crimson slowly tinting their depths. Without hesitation, he rose to his feet and stepped forward, each stride deliberate until he stopped just before her, close enough to feel her presence envelop him.
"I'm glad to see you've recovered, Sister Azure."
A gentle smile curved Lady Azure's lips as she raised her hand, her touch light as she ruffled his hair with a warmth that softened her jade-like gaze. "It is all thanks to you, child. Were it not for your efforts, I would have remained in slumber for another five years."
"Sister Azure, compared to the teaching and help you have given me, this much is nothing!"
Relief and joy surged through his heart, spreading an elation that coursed through every part of him. Ever since learning of Lady Azure's condition, anxiety and worry had gnawed at him, leaving him restless and unable to focus on the matters of Demon Flame Valley or the Inner Academy. Now, seeing her revived, that weight was lifted, replaced by a bright, enduring happiness.
Unlike ordinary men, he had never once been tempted by Lady Azure or Xue Yue, nor had the desire to covet them ever crossed his mind.
It was not because he was a saint or pure of heart. Rather, it felt more like a deep familial bond—like that between a younger brother and his elder sisters—leaving him untouched by the allure of their beauty. He felt neither enticed nor swayed by their presence.
Though he would not begrudge others who managed to win their hearts and attention, if anyone dared to do so by force, he would be consumed by fury and would relentlessly hunt that person down until they met their end.
To awaken her, he had expended a total of 150,000 ACP. Regardless of what others might think or say, he held no regret for using those precious points. While waiting for five years was an option, he chose to revive her immediately, as long as he had the power to do so.
'Besides, it's only 150,000 ACP. I can earn that back with time,' he thought, the decision firm and unwavering.
Xiao Hua smiled inwardly as he sat down beside Xun'er. His gaze shifted momentarily to the Auto-Cultivation System interface. After three weeks, he had managed to accumulate 103,855 ACP.
Without a moment's hesitation, he allocated it towards the 'Dou Qi Grade Draw' three times, deducting 90,000 ACP and leaving him with 13,855 ACP. Turning his attention to the Gacha Screen, he watched in silence as the rewards unfolded before him, anticipation sparking in his eyes.
[You have received...]
[5x Medicinal Ingredients.]
[Medicinal Pill: 4x Tier Four Medicinal Pills and 7x Tier Five Medicinal Pills.]
[2x Magical Beast's Corpse: Rank 6 Twin-headed Earth Flame Snake, Rank 5 Blue Phosphorus Tiger]
[Dou Techniques: 5x Huang Class Dou Techniques, 2x Xuan Class Dou Techniques, 1x Di Class Dou Technique.]
[3 ACP Reward: 60,000, 40,545, 30,000.]
As he watched the rewards materialize on the screen, Xiao Hua's eyes widened in surprise at the final item revealed. In all his previous seven Gacha draws, he had never once received Auto-Cultivation Points (ACP) as a reward.
The ACP reward was the most coveted of all possible prizes. Regardless of the amount, winning ACP from the Gacha was invaluable; at a minimum, it equaled the cost of a single 'Dou Qi Grade Draw,' allowing him to immediately reinvest and draw again for an additional ten rewards.
'It's unfortunate that the odds of getting ACP rewards are so low...' he thought, a hint of regret flickering in his eyes.
He accepted the rewards from the System in an instant. The medicinal ingredients, pills, Dou Techniques, and two Magical Beast corpses were transferred directly to the Storage Rings he had obtained from the System's Starter Pack.
His gaze shifted to the updated ACP count in his possession: 144,400 ACP. He knew there was a limit to how many ACP he could store, currently capped at 150,000 ACP. Any surplus beyond that would vanish into nothingness.
Without delay, he upgraded the ACP Rate, which cost him 120,000 ACP. A moment later, he noticed that the next upgrade would only require 12,500 ACP. Naturally, he proceeded with the second upgrade, leaving him with a balance of 12,400 ACP. Now, with the improved rate, he was generating 80 ACP every six hours.
Satisfied, he nodded and shifted his attention away from the System. Turning his head, he looked at Xun Er with warmth. "Congratulations on advancing to the Dou Wang class, Xun'er."
"Thank you, Brother Xiao Hua," Xun Er replied with a soft giggle, her joy evident in her eyes. She had reached the Dou Wang class during the first week and had been patiently waiting for Brother Xiao Hua to complete his pill refinement.
He let out a small sigh, a faint smile playing on his lips as he shook his head in a resigned manner. Clearing his mind, he focused on the matter at hand. "Have there been any updates about Brother Ming Cheng and the others?"
"Yes, there have," Xun Er said with a nod and a gentle smile. She had received news about their condition a week after her return from Xin Yu.
"Sister Xin Yu mentioned that, with the help of Elder Huo and the other elders, their condition is improving rapidly and gradually stabilizing. There are no lingering injuries, so we don't have to worry," Xun Er said, her tone light with reassurance. "However, Elder Huo also noted that it's due to the tyrannical physiques of Big Brother Ming Cheng and the other two that the recovery has been so effective with no issue."
Xiao Hua sighed in relief at the news of Ming Cheng and the others' improvement. He had been deeply concerned about their condition, and knowing there were no lingering issues set his mind at ease.
Yet, upon hearing the last part, he smiled helplessly. How could he not know the reason behind their formidable physiques? The refinement processes involving Heavenly Lightning, the Primordial Heavenly Flame, and the Celestial Ancient Frost had tempered their bodies to an unparalleled degree.
"Anyway, we should return to the Inner Academy," Xiao Hua said, shifting his gaze to the three of them. "At our current pace, we should reach Peace Town in less than two weeks."
Xun Er nodded eagerly. She had no qualms about returning to the Inner Academy. In fact, the thought filled her with excitement and anticipation.
Lady Azure and Xue Yue remained silent, their serene expressions reflecting their agreement with Xiao Hua's decision. Their composure conveyed an unspoken understanding and solidarity.
They knew Xiao Hua and Xun Er harbored lingering unease about the condition of their sworn siblings, even after hearing of their recovery. If it were Xiao Hua or their sisters in a similar plight, they, too, would share the same concern.
A soft, ethereal glow emanated from Lady Azure and Xue Yue's bodies before they transformed into beams of light that swiftly merged with Xiao Hua, their energy now residing within him.
With a calm resolve, Xiao Hua summoned his vibrant, multi-colored wings, their radiant hues spreading like a vivid tapestry against the sky.
"So this is the wing that Brother Xiao Hua has constructed."
Xun Er's gaze lingered on the vibrant, multi-colored wings, her eyes captivated by their breathtaking beauty and the graceful elegance of their appearance. The colors shimmered like a painting come to life, drawing her in with every movement.
"Let's go," Xiao Hua said softly, his voice carrying an air of warmth as he gently clasped her hand, as if cradling a delicate jade treasure.
A soft smile curled at the corner of Xun Er's lips, her expression radiating a quiet sweetness. Her fingers intertwined with his, a subtle yet comforting reassurance that needed no words.
With a soft, melodic hum, the colorful wings stirred to life. Xiao Hua flapped them gently, and in an instant, their bodies blurred into fleeting figures. A streak of elegant trail marked their path as they soared into the sky, heading toward their destination with unmatched speed and grace.
———|
Ten days later
"Brother Xiao Hua, we are approaching Peace Town," Xun Er announced, holding tightly to his body as they flew.
Xiao Hua nodded upon hearing Xun Er's words in his mind. He gradually slowed his flying speed, descending with grace until his feet touched down on a small hill. With gentle care, he set Xun Er down beside him.
Standing at the hill's peak, their gazes stretched out across the distance, spotting the faint outline of a small town nestled between two majestic mountains. The scene was serene, with the town barely visible through the mists shrouding its borders.
"It looks like it's Instructor Li's turn to guard the entrance this time, Brother Xiao Hua," Xun Er said, her tone calm and steady.
"Indeed," Xiao Hua replied, a hint of nostalgia crossing his expression. "I haven't seen him since I joined the Alchemy Department." Memories of his early days at Jia Nan Academy surfaced, tinged with the excitement and challenges of his initial journey.
From their vantage point, they sensed a familiar aura standing vigil at the main entrance of Peace Town. Now that both had reached the Dou Wang level, their perception was deeper and sharper than before, easily extending far enough to encompass the town.
Xiao Hua turned his head to look at Xun Er. "Didn't you say you sneaked out? Is it fine to enter through the main entrance?"
Xun Er's lips curved into a reassuring smile. "It's fine. I've already discussed this with my master, so there won't be any issues. In fact, that's how I managed to evade Old Ling's detection and perception."
A subtle, resigned smile crossed Xiao Hua's lips as he shook his head, amused by her resourcefulness. He had never expected Xun Er would enlist Deputy Headmaster Hu Gan's help to outmaneuver her vigilant bodyguard.
Suddenly, a fleeting image of a little girl surfaced in his mind. Ever since he had left for the Inner Academy, his days had been consumed by responsibilities and relentless cultivation, leaving him with neither the time to visit nor send a letter to her.
"I just hope she doesn't greet me with that whip when we meet..."
A faint, wistful smile tugged at his lips. While he had grown accustomed to her fiery temperament and occasional tantrums, there was a hint of worry in his heart about that whip she favored so much. She was quick to wield it, and her proficiency was such that he could easily see why her novel counterpart was called 'Little Witch'.
"There seem to be quite a few people at the entrance…" Xun Er murmured softly, her eyes scanning the flow of travelers along the yellow road.
Xiao Hua nodded, his gaze sharpening as he observed the crowd. The fierce and brutal auras radiating from many of these individuals made it evident that they hailed from the violent and notorious Black-Corner Region. Yet, there was an oddity—none of them exuded any palpable killing intent.
This subtlety, where murderous intent was carefully concealed, felt unnatural. It seemed forced, as if they were deliberately masking their bloodthirsty nature. As a result, the expressions of the passersby appeared unnervingly stiff and unnatural.
Noticing Xiao Hua and Xun Er's discerning stares from their vantage point, a few of the passersby turned their attention to them, their eyes narrowing with a feral curiosity. The intensity in their glances spoke volumes, unmasking a sense of confrontation.
The appearance of Xiao Hua and Xun Er stood out among the rough crowd. Their attire exuded nobility and refinement—elegant and graceful, free of any sign of hardship. They had changed out of their Jia Nan Academy uniforms, opting for different clothing for reasons known only to them, yet their dignified bearing made them impossible to mistake for common travelers.
Xiao Hua's clothes were in tatters, ruined by the aftermath of the chaotic explosion from the Second Strike that had spiraled out of control. Xun Er had also changed her attire, choosing to conceal her identity since the Demon Flame Valley had become increasingly aggressive in hunting down students from Jia Nan Academy who ventured beyond its protective boundaries.
The reasons behind the relentless pursuit of Jia Nan Academy's students by Demon Flame Valley remained unknown to them. They hadn't investigated the matter, prioritizing their swift return to the Inner Academy over digging into the mystery.
Meanwhile, the group that had glared fiercely at them moments earlier began to retract their gazes, their initial hostility fading.
The sight of two seemingly young figures, coupled with their pristine and noble appearance, led these rugged men to assume that Xiao Hua and Xun Er were associated with Jia Nan Academy or hailed from a powerful background. It was enough to make even these people, who have experience killing and death, to hesitate.
Noticing their sudden change in behavior, Xiao Hua found the situation somewhat comical. Had they been in the heart of the Black-Corner Region, such a fleeting exchange would have likely ended with drawn blades and a deadly confrontation.
Xun Er's soft giggle broke the tense silence. She leaned closer and whispered, "It seems the reputation of Jia Nan Academy has truly managed to subdue these knife-licking rogues into reluctant submission."
Xiao Hua's lips curved into a smirk. "Well, they do have their 'intimidation tools' that keep the unruly ones in line, forcing them to restrain themselves."
They walked along the main road of yellow soil, flanked by lush green trees that whispered softly as a breeze passed through their leaves. The sense of chaos synonymous with the Black-Corner Region seemed completely cut off from this place. The town before them exuded an air of uneasy tranquility.
The entrance to the small town, which they were rapidly approaching, bore a horizontal signboard that was simple and unpretentious. The words engraved on it were plain, almost crass in their simplicity. Were this sign to stand in the heart of the Black-Corner Region, it would likely be defaced or destroyed by morning.
"Peace Town," Xiao Hua read the inscription aloud. This town served as the gateway to Jia Nan Academy, positioned strategically at the intersection between the academy's territory and the treacherous Black-Corner Region.
As they drew closer, the air grew heavy and the clamor around them began to fade. The expressions of those they passed turned grim, and many nervously averted their eyes or glanced fearfully at something off to the side. Their legs trembled as their eyes darted to a towering tree not far from the entrance.
Understanding dawned on Xiao Hua and Xun Er as their gazes shifted in the same direction. The sight that met them was one of eerie solemnity.
The tree was massive and pitch-black, its sprawling branches jagged and claw-like, spreading outward as if reaching to ensnare anything that came near. Bathed in the light of the setting sun, it exuded an ominous chill that settled in the bones. Corpses, impaled and dangling from its gnarled branches, swayed with the breeze, producing a haunting, rhythmic creak that sent shivers down the spine.
This was the infamous Death Spirit Tree, the very reason the atmosphere around Peace Town was subdued and the ferocity of its inhabitants held in check.
"The deterrent proves its worth once again," Xiao Hua shook his head, letting out a soft sigh.
"Indeed," Xun Er's laughter was light and melodic. A hint of mischief sparkled in her eyes as she added, "I recall how Cousin Xiao Yang would fall silent each time he set foot here, never daring to cast a glance at that tree."
A wry smile formed on Xiao Hua's lips. He remembered vividly how Xiao Yang, whenever accompanying him on training outside, would turn as pale as a ghost, as if haunted by some unseen specter.
Deep down, Xiao Hua couldn't help but feel a touch of pity for Xiao Yang—not for his fear, but for being the perpetual target of Xun Er's teasing after she learned of it.
He shook his head and remained silent as he waited for his turn. His mind was occupied with the urge to reunite with his sworn brothers and sisters and ensure their well-being.
Noticing his solemn expression, Xun Er paused her playful demeanor. She understood the turmoil in his heart, feeling the same concern herself. That was why she had mentioned Xiao Yang's embarrassing moment—to try to lighten the atmosphere.
They watched the crowd lining up to enter Peace Town. Each person had to declare their name and identity and consume a small pink medicinal pill, which many were reluctant to take.
However, they were soon informed that the pill was not poisonous but designed to detect any killing intent in their hearts. If such intent was present, a red glow would appear, allowing the Law Enforcement Department to track and investigate them.
This was how Jia Nan Academy maintained order and prevented the practices of the 'Black-Corner Region' from spreading into the town.
Furthermore, anyone wishing to leave Peace Town had to go to the heart of the town and obtain an antidote for the pink pill. Once they received the antidote, a member of the Law Enforcement Department would supervise their departure until they left the town's boundaries.
Xiao Hua and Xun Er waited patiently for their turn. When they reached the front, the old man standing guard, flanked by a dozen young men and women in light blue robes, showed a momentary look of surprise.
"Instructor Li, we have returned!" Xiao Hua and Xun Er called out to the old man, who was vigilantly monitoring the crowd entering the town.
"It's good to see you back, Xiao Hua, Xun Er."
Instructor Li's stern expression softened upon seeing them. He had been the one to admit them into the academy and had watched them grow over the years.
Although the two rarely attended regular classes—Xiao Hua being mentored by Elder Huo and Xun Er by Deputy Headmaster Hu Gan—they made it a point to join classes whenever they had spare time, fostering a bond between them and the instructor.
In addition, Xiao Hua and Xun Er were known as the most talented geniuses Jia Nan Academy had ever admitted. Yet, unlike the typical arrogance associated with prodigies, they were modest, well-mannered, and respectful. They treated others kindly and never used their status to oppress the weak.
These admirable traits were precisely what the elders and instructors of Jia Nan Academy valued most in their students, especially in ones as gifted as Xiao Hua and Xun Er.
However, due to their youth, the elders decided to assign someone to secretly follow and protect them, ready to intervene should any danger arise.
Ideally, the elders had wanted Xiao Hua and Xun Er to mature further before allowing them entry into the Black-Corner Region, a place where laws held no sway and safety was never guaranteed. For this reason, they initially rejected Xiao Hua's request.
Yet, their remarkable and rapid progress in cultivation left the elders with little choice but to resort to covert protective measures. Without these precautions, their foundations could have become unstable, as neither had significant experience in real combat or life-threatening situations.
As Instructor Li reminiscent about this matter, he suddenly shows a faint smile, resignation and weary expression mingled in his gaze. "Your master have been worried sick about you and cause quite a ruckus in the Jia Nan Academy, so make sure visit him later."
"I understand..." Xiao Hua replied with a helpless smile. He knew that once Elder Huo learned of his current situation, there would be no avoiding a scene; his master would ensure his safety to the fullest before allowing him any freedom.
"Good. Li Na, Gou Yu, take them to the Griffin carrier."
"Yes, Instructor Li!"
Instructor Li turned and called out to two members of the Law Enforcement Unit—a man and a woman. After issuing his instructions, he allowed them to proceed and make the necessary preparations.
Moments later, a loud screech pierced the air, followed by a powerful gust as something massive landed nearby, sending dust swirling around them. As the dust settled, a large Griffin appeared, with Li Na and Gou Yu seated atop it.
"Senior Xiao Hua, Senior Xun Er, please climb aboard. We will escort you to Jia Nan City."
These two were already familiar with the legend of Xiao Hua and Xun Er, especially their talent and strength. In addition, Li Na and Gou Yu had witnessed their prowess during the Inner Academy Qualifying Competition and had heard the nicknames that emerged from that event.
The 'Little Demon King' Xiao Hua and the 'Little Fairy' Xiao Xun Er!
Furthermore, they had a senior whom they knew well who had attended the Inner Academy. When they ventured outside, this senior recounted the impressive feats that Xiao Hua and Xun Er had accomplished, mentioning how the two had become prominent figures within the academy.
They had established a faction that controlled the marketplace within the Inner Academy and had challenged upperclassmen in the 'Strong Ranking,' securing positions within the top five. This meant their faction boasted the five most powerful individuals in the Inner Academy.
With achievements like these, it was no wonder that even seasoned students showed them respect despite their youth. In this world, strength commanded admiration and deference, regardless of age.
"Thank you, Junior Li Na, Junior Gou Yu," Xiao Hua and Xun Er said with smiles. With a light push, their agile bodies leapt onto the Griffin's back, their feet seeming to adhere seamlessly to its surface, remaining perfectly still.
Seeing how steady they were, admiration and respect flickered in the eyes of Li Na and Gou Yu. It was well known that the Griffin's feathers produced a peculiar, moist air, making it difficult for newcomers to maintain balance without the aid of a specially crafted saddle.
Yet, Xiao Hua and Xun Er effortlessly maintained their stance, using only their own strength to keep balanced. This display did not surprise Li Na and Gou Yu; instead, it reaffirmed their recognition of the duo's unparalleled abilities.
Li Na and Gou Yu waved to Instructor Li before emitting a sharp whistle. Instantly, the Griffin's wings, which had been folded on the ground, unfurled and flapped powerfully. Its massive body lifted into the air, spiraling upward.
Xiao Hua and Xun Er cupped their hands in a respectful farewell to Instructor Li before they departed.
"To think that I can no longer sense their strength... What realm have they reached to exude such overwhelming power?"
Instructor Li narrowed his eyes slightly and muttered to himself as he watched the Griffin ascend and gradually shrink to a black dot on the horizon.
Even though he could no longer gauge Xiao Hua's and Xun Er's cultivation levels, the sheer aura emanating from their bodies alone made him feel pressured, his heart beating with a subtle, uneasy thrum.
"Thankfully, those two haven't realized the extent of this power yet; otherwise, they might find it daunting and frightening..."
———|
Xiao Hua and Xun Er watched as the small town beneath them shrank rapidly before settling down beside each other.
Xun Er rested her head gently on Xiao Hua's shoulder, her eyes closed in peaceful contentment as his fingers combed tenderly through her hair, a silent gesture of affection. With warm, gentle smiles, they both gazed at the boundless azure sky, their hearts communicating in a language only they could understand.
Xiao Hua glanced at the young girl beside him, recalling her laughter and tears, her moments of anxiety and joy. Each expression was deeply etched into his heart and soul.
"I really can't scold Xiao Yan anymore," he mused with a quiet sigh, a resigned smile crossing his face. "I once thought my favorite characters were Queen Medusa and Xiao Yi Xian… but reality is indeed stranger than fiction."
Suddenly, his brows furrowed as thoughts of her background surfaced—the powerful Gu Clan. He knew he could not avoid confronting this issue, especially since they coveted the fragment of the Tou She Ancient God's Jade held by the Xiao Clan.
The same was true for the Hall of Souls, or rather, the true force behind them—the Hun Clan, which had ordered the attack on the Xiao Clan to claim the precious fragment of the Tou She Ancient God's Jade.
It wasn't just these two factions; all of the other five of the Eight Ancient Clans also sought the fragment in the Xiao Clan's possession.
During the era of Xiao Xuan, the ancestor of the Xiao Clan, none would have dared to entertain such thoughts. However, after his fall, the other clans deemed that the Xiao Clan no longer had the strength or right to safeguard the fragment of the Tou She Ancient God's Jade.
'Why did I have to be born into the Xiao Clan during this turbulent era? Why not the Gu Clan or the Yao Clan, where troubles wouldn't arise until much later in the story? Or even the Lei Clan or the Yan Clan!'
Xiao Hua inwardly lamented his fate. Most of the other Eight Ancient Clans enjoyed periods of relative peace until the Hun Clan's eventual rampage later in the tale. But for the Xiao Clan, it was different.
As the clan that birthed the main protagonist, it was destined to suffer, regardless of their strength and position. Entanglement with powerful enemies, impending destruction, and becoming the catalyst for the protagonist's growth were the marks of their fate.
'It seems the System's words were true,' Xiao Hua muttered under his breath, recalling the only conversation he'd ever had with it. 'My luck must have been spent the moment I reincarnated into this world and gained the System…'