. The Holy City of Gama.
As the heart of the Gama Empire, it is bustling with activity daily.
However, with the approach of the eight-yearly Alchemist Conference, the city's energy and enthusiasm have reached an unprecedented climax.
People from all over, whether young alchemists with aspirations or spectators drawn by the famed event, flock here, bringing new life to this ancient city.
On the streets, vendors set up a dazzling array of stalls, selling everything from precious medicinal herbs to exquisite alchemy tools, from exotic clothing to local snacks. The dazzling array of goods is truly dazzling.
People wandered among the stalls, selecting their desired items, the sounds of bargaining echoing in the air, creating a bustling atmosphere.
In the city's central square, the massive alchemy furnace stood ready, though the fire had not yet been lit, yet a crowd of citizens and tourists gathered to observe.
They gathered in groups of three or five, discussing the upcoming Alchemy Conference or strolling around the square, enjoying the rare atmosphere of the grand event.
As the conference's opening day approached, the excitement in the Holy City of Gama grew.
In the bustling marketplace and in the quiet alleys, people were buzzing with excitement about the upcoming event, anticipating the brilliant performances of the talented alchemists.
The entire city, like a firework about to burst into flames, was filled with boundless anticipation and excitement.
...
On the bustling streets of the Holy City of Gama, a group of four stood out.
They were Xiao Ling, returning from Canaan Academy, and his companions, Xiao Yixian, Qinglin, and Ziyan.
With the swift flight of the Sky-Splitting Seat, they had made the journey from Canaan Academy back to the Gama Empire in less than three days.
This speed made Xiao Ling marvel at the immense convenience of having a flying mount.
Xiao Ling, dressed in a simple robe, exuded an extraordinary aura. His blue-gold eyes were calm, revealing a sense of composure and confidence.
Walking through the streets of the Holy City of Gama, his steps were steady, his long hair gently blowing in the wind, giving him an air of unfathomable depth.
Beside him, Xiao Yixian, dressed in an elegant purple dress, exuded a pure and ethereal beauty, like a fairy from another world.
Her skin was as smooth as cream, her features were picturesque, and every smile was like a blooming spring flower, captivating everyone. Her
long, silvery-white hair flowed softly over her shoulders, fluttering gently in the breeze, exuding a delicate fragrance that drew close. Qinglin
, dressed in a turquoise robe, had a slender figure, her eyes sparkling with agility and wit, like a forest elf. Her
movements were light and graceful, and every turn revealed her agility and grace
. Her braids, tied with emerald green ribbons, complemented her attire, adding a vibrant energy and sparkling curiosity.
Ziyan, wearing a pink dress and white shorts, her purple hair and matching eyes exuded a unique charm, giving off a mysterious yet playful air.
A subtle hint of arrogance lingered in her demeanor, blending seamlessly with her innocent personality, making her stand out from the crowd.
The four of them walked side by side, weaving through the bustling crowd, their presence undoubtedly adding a touch of color to the bustling market.
After all, their aura and demeanor clearly transcended those of ordinary alchemists or tourists.
Surrounding vendors and passersby cast curious and envious glances, but the four seemed accustomed to the attention, continuing to admire their surroundings.
Xiao Ling skillfully employed the Dream Shadow technique, blurring his features in the crowd, as if shrouded in a veil.
As for Xiao Yixian, Qinglin, and Ziyan, their reputations within the Jiama Empire were relatively unknown. Outside of a few high-ranking figures within the empire, ordinary passersby naturally failed to recognize them.
Thus, they avoided unnecessary attention and distraction.
At this moment, Zi Yan turned to Xiao Ling, her eyes gleaming with curiosity, and asked, "Xiao Ling, will you be attending this Alchemist Conference?"
Before Xiao Ling could speak, Little Medical Immortal preempted him, grumbling with a hint of resignation, "Xiao Ling is already a seventh-rank alchemist. Looking across the entire Jia Ma Empire, only one guest elder, Gu He from the Yun Lan Sect, has reached the sixth rank, and there are fewer than ten fifth-rank alchemists. If Xiao Ling attends the Alchemist Conference, wouldn't that be blatant bullying?"
"Isn't Xiao Ling already an Honorary Elder of the Alchemist Guild? He'd be a good judge."
Zi Yan scratched her head sheepishly, her smile tinged with embarrassment as she explained, "Hehe, I'm just curious. After all, the Alchemist Conference is a rare experience for everyone."
Xiao Ling chuckled softly, his voice tinged with reminiscence and confidence. "Hehe, when the last Alchemist Conference was held, I was still just a student at Canaan Academy. But back then, I was already able to refine fourth-grade pills. If I had participated, I might have won the championship."
He stroked his chin and continued, "However, Elder Huo told me a while ago that Xiao Yan returned to the Xiao Family not long ago. He should be attending this Alchemist Conference. This conference is undoubtedly a great opportunity for him to showcase his talents."
The Xiao Yan Xiao Ling mentioned was indeed a familiar name to the women.
Ever since Xiao Yan joined the inner court of Canaan Academy with his exceptional talent and strength, he had become the focus of everyone's attention.
Not only is he Xiao Ling's cousin, but he is also Elder Huo's favorite student. This dual identity naturally brings him attention in Canaan Academy.
However, Xiao Yan's reputation spread quickly, not only because of his identity, but also because of his outstanding performance in the Inner Court selection competition.
In the Inner Court selection competition of the Outer Court, Xiao Yan won the first place with his outstanding performance. This achievement not only made him famous, but also won him the support of many students.
His performance was exactly the same as Xiao Ling's when he entered the Inner Court. He also relied on his strength to snatch the fire energy of the old student. This behavior caused quite a stir in the Inner Court.
Xiao Ling set a precedent by snatching the fire energy of the old student in the fire energy hunting competition. Although this behavior was bold, it also inspired the fighting spirit of the subsequent freshmen.
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Many freshmen, self-proclaimed experts, followed suit, attempting to establish their own reputation within the Inner Court. However, most failed, facing harsh rebukes from the seniors.
Unlike Xiao Ling, who single-handedly overwhelmed the seniors, Xiao Yan adopted a more united strategy.
He united a group of like-minded freshmen to fight against the seniors, ultimately successfully seizing the Fire Energy. This feat not only earned him widespread support from the freshmen but also dramatically increased his prestige within the Inner Court.
With the support of the freshmen, Xiao Yan founded a faction called "Panmen."
This faction quickly gained momentum within the Inner Court, becoming a formidable force.
Xiao Yan's exceptional leadership and personal strength, coupled with his close ties with the "Supreme Freedom Sect," enabled "Panmen" to flourish within the Inner Court and establish a firm foothold within it.
Xiao Yixian nodded slightly, and said with a hint of nostalgia, "Actually, Xiao Yan had come to look for Xiao Ling before. But at that time, Xiao Ling was already in seclusion, so we couldn't contact him at all."
Qing Lin nodded in agreement, adding, "I remember that during his visit, Master specifically asked me to give him a manuscript of a sixth-grade alchemist. I casually flipped through it, and that manuscript was the alchemy experience recorded by Medicine Emperor Han Feng."
Suddenly, a slightly aged voice sounded softly in the ears of the few people. Although Yao Chen did not appear, his voice was clear to everyone's ears. "I see that kid has an outstanding talent in alchemy. Coupled with his hard work, I have given him an opportunity. As for whether he can seize this opportunity, it depends on his luck."
Xiao Ling smiled and said, "I believe Xiao Yan can absorb the essence of that manuscript. His talent and unremitting efforts are destined to take him far on the road of alchemy. In my opinion, he has the potential to become an eighth-grade alchemist."
As the few people chatted, they unknowingly arrived at the door of the Alchemist Guild.
This majestic building, with its unique style and grandeur, has become an unmissable landmark in the Holy City of Gama.
The guild's gate towers tall, carved from heavy mahogany. The lintel is inlaid with a silver medicine cauldron, a symbol of alchemy, gleaming brilliantly in the sunlight.
The crowds milling around are mostly alchemists, trading rare herbs in the market or exchanging insights with fellow alchemists. Their faces reveal a deep love and unwavering pursuit of the art of alchemy.
The air is filled with the aroma of various herbs, mingling with the distinctive smoke of alchemy, creating a relaxed and lively atmosphere.
Zi Yan surveyed the bustling scene around her, then glanced at Xiao Ling with a hint of confusion. Curiosity flickered in her eyes, and she asked, "Xiao Ling, shouldn't we be returning to the Xiao family first? Why have we come to the Alchemist Guild first?
" Xiao Ling's smile held a hint of mystery, a glint of light in his eyes that was difficult to detect. He softly replied, "This visit to the Alchemist Guild may offer us an unexpected opportunity."
With a gentle wave of his hand, Xiao Ling dispelled the veil of his phantom dream, revealing his true form.
He took the lead, slowly and steadily entering the Alchemist Guild's gates. Xiao Yixian and the others followed closely behind him.
Soon, the group arrived at the Guild's majestic gates, where several guards stood guard, maintaining order and tranquility.
The leading guard had only casually glanced at Xiao Ling's chest and found no insignia of alchemist rank.
His brow furrowed slightly, preparing to address the visitor with his usual formal politeness.
However, as his gaze inadvertently shifted upwards and met Xiao Ling's face, a wave of disbelief suddenly surged within him.
He instinctively rubbed his eyes and stared again, reassuring himself that what he saw was not an illusion.
As the gatekeeper of the Alchemist Guild, he naturally knew the faces of some important figures. Xiao Ling's features were instantly recognizable.
"Master Xiao Ling, your arrival truly honors our Alchemist Guild!" The captain's voice was thick with barely concealed excitement and respect, his demeanor instantly becoming solemn.
The other guards and alchemists entering and leaving the guild all glanced in surprise and curiosity at the captain's address.
They murmured, filled with admiration for the "Gama Empire's First Alchemist" who had suddenly appeared at the guild's gates.
"Isn't this Master Xiao Ling of the Xiao family? Why is he here? Hasn't Master Xiao Ling been studying at Canaan Academy?" a young alchemist whispered to his companion, his eyes gleaming with admiration.
"Could it be that Master Xiao Ling has returned to the Jiama Empire specifically for the Alchemist Conference?" another alchemist speculated, his tone thick with anticipation.
"Master Xiao Ling is not only highly skilled in alchemy, but also humble. He is truly a role model for us alchemists," an older alchemist said with emotion.
Xiao Ling seemed accustomed to the whispers and admiring glances around him. His calm demeanor exuded a detached grace.
He simply nodded slightly, acknowledging the guards.
Then, Xiao Ling, leading Xiao Yixian, Qinglin, and Ziyan, walked steadily into the guild's interior.
The moment Xiao Ling entered the Alchemist Guild, the guard captain immediately realized the importance of this matter. He quickly turned and whispered a quick, low command to a young guard standing nearby.
"Hurry up and inform the Guild Master that Master Xiao Ling has arrived at our Alchemist Guild." The captain's voice was filled with urgency. He knew that Xiao Ling's return during this period was undoubtedly a major event for the Guild and must be reported immediately.
The young guard nodded immediately upon hearing this order and turned to run deep into the Guild's interior, evidently to carry out the captain's order and report this crucial news to the Guild Master.
With Xiao Ling's appearance at the entrance of the Alchemist Guild, word of his return spread silently through the streets and alleys of the Holy City, like an undercurrent. Simultaneously
, the various factions within the Holy City of Gama were also immediately informed of this news.
Upon learning of Xiao Ling's return to the Gama Empire, various factions eagerly sought to visit him, hoping to establish a good relationship with Xiao Ling, the "Gama Empire's First Alchemist."
However, Xiao Ling remained oblivious to all this, or even if he did, he paid little attention.
(End of Chapter)