A faint, graceful smile blossomed upon Gu Qingli's exquisite visage—how effortless it was to converse with a mind so astute.
"Uncle Shao, rest assured. Though he tends to be withdrawn, Shao Lan is inherently kind-hearted. With patience and persistent companionship, I have no doubt he will gradually overcome the barriers within his soul."
Gu Qingli spoke with earnest conviction. Despite the icy, unapproachable aura Shao Lan exuded, beneath those silver orbs—reminiscent of glacial depths—there flickered a subtle curiosity.
Moreover, though Shao Lan's origins were fraught with hardship and misfortune, he was blessed with a master who cherished him as one would a beloved child. Beneath such tender affection, Shao Lan could scarcely become a callous youth.
"Xiao Li, you truly are a good girl. Hearing your words puts my heart at ease. If you are willing to befriend Xiao Lan, I will feel much more reassured."
Shao Yan's eyes glistened with the faintest sheen of unshed tears. Over the years, few things had troubled him so deeply as this disciple did.
Fortunately, now there was Gu Qingli. He held a fondness for this young girl, and if she could foster a genuine bond with Shao Lan, it would be nothing short of a blessing—such a brilliant and capable girl.
"Heh," Gu Qingli offered a rare, shy smile.
"Xiao Li, come with me," Shao Yan said gently, leading her toward another courtyard.
Curious yet uninquiring, Gu Qingli followed him to what appeared to be his usual training grounds—an environment marked by serene simplicity and refined elegance.
Without preamble, Shao Yan produced a jade vial from a concealed compartment, smiling softly as he extended it toward Gu Qingli.
"What is this?" she inquired, eyes sparkling with curiosity. Since embarking upon her alchemical pursuits, her fascination with such objects had only deepened.
"This is a rare treasure—an exceedingly scarce spiritual herb. Neither Shao Lan nor I have use for it now, so it's a boon for you, little one."
Shao Yan smiled with genteel composure, devoid of the slightest reluctance to part with the precious item, confident in his choice.
Gu Qingli chuckled softly in thanks, her eyes wide with eager anticipation.
"This is called a Soul Nourishing Pill. Though not of the highest grade, it is an extraordinarily rare elixir. Unlike ordinary pills, which typically enhance a spiritualist's energy or a martial swordsman's prowess, this pill elevates the soul's power."
As Shao Yan spoke, he observed the astonishment blossoming on Gu Qingli's face with quiet satisfaction.
Her surprise was well-founded. Since deciding to master alchemy, she had been diligently absorbing knowledge about pills and potions.
Indeed, as Shao Yan had explained, most pills were designed to augment spiritual or martial strength. Pills that could amplify soul power were exceedingly rare and notoriously difficult to concoct.
To encounter one today was nothing short of remarkable.
If soul-enhancing pills were commonplace, alchemists would hardly hold such lofty status or command great value.
Gu Qingli's eyes brightened with genuine excitement.
As Shao Yan slowly uncorked the vial, revealing a single silver pill, a fragrant aroma wafted forth, invigorating her spirit. She felt her inner vitality stir eagerly, as if awakened by an unseen force.
At once, she understood—this was truly a remarkable treasure!
"Such a precious gift—Uncle Shao, did you not consider reserving it for your own disciple?"