Identity Badge, Returning to Dragon Castle, Initial Formation of the Third Level of Qi and Blood Circulation
The crisp, smoky aroma of the perfectly grilled fish hung in the air, a testament to the culinary prowess that had filled their bellies so heartily earlier. Yao Xuan and Gu Yue had polished off twenty pieces with barely a trace left, save for the barest skeletons and bamboo skewers. Their satisfied murmurs and the clinking of chopsticks against the empty plates underscored the sheer delight in their shared meal.
"This is truly a feast! Yao Xuan, your nose is practically the best food detector out there, it's so sharp!" Gu Yue exclaimed, her voice thick with satisfaction as she licked the savory sauce from her lips. A genuine smile played on her lips, her large eyes sparkling with praise directed squarely at him.
"Ah hehe, didn't I tell you before? Come on, let's keep going, there are still eighty more grilled fish, plenty for us to eat our fill." Yao Xuan chuckled, his own eyes crinkling with amusement as he gestured towards the remaining platters. Together, they continued their indulgence.
An hour later, a hundred grilled fish had vanished into their digestive systems. Their stomachs, accustomed to feats of endurance, showed no sign of bulging, nor did they feel the slightest hint of fullness. Watching them, the other patrons and staff exchanged amused glances, accustomed to the young couple's remarkable appetites.
Later still, after packing their things, Yao Xuan and Gu Yue bid farewell to the friendly faces at the inn. Their return journey involved a soul-guided carriage, then a private soul-guided plane, bringing them back to Tiandou City and finally, to the imposing gates of Dragon Castle.
"Young Master, Miss, you're back."
The sight of Yao Xuan and Gu Yue reappeared caused a stir. Di Tian, Xiong Jun, Zi Ji, and Bi Ji hurried forward to greet them, their expressions welcoming.
"Yes, Uncle Di, we're back."
Yao Xuan nodded, his gaze briefly meeting Di Tian's before sweeping towards the others. "So, what are your plans for the future, Young Master?" Di Tian asked, his tone curious but respectful.
"The same as before. I'll need Uncle Di, Uncle Xiong, and Aunt Bi to train with Gu Yue and me again." Yao Xuan replied, his tone confident yet appreciative.
"It's our honor." Di Tian bowed slightly, a genuine smile touching his lips. Xiong Jun and the others echoed the sentiment.
Thus began the shift in training, moving from refining soul power to strengthening the foundational Qi and blood. Yao Xuan didn't neglect his research into multitasking, but his primary focus was now on his own cultivation. He had already accumulated 5400 Golden Evolution Points, enough to finally condense his third Qi and Blood cycle – a crucial step towards the initial tier of Soul Emperor.
"5400... With these, I can finally condense my third blood and qi cycle! My strength will be one step closer to the initial Soul Emperor level."
The thought filled him with anticipation, a palpable excitement building within him. He made the decision, his eyes reflecting both the thrill of progress and the inherent strain of the process.
"Yes."
Confirmation registered in his mind. The system notification chimed softly, followed by the familiar surge as the evolution energy flowed in.
[Increase begins.]
Inside the Dragon Fortress, Di Tian felt the familiar, noble aura of Ancestral Dragon power emanating from Yao Xuan, a powerful energy he couldn't help but absorb, refining it into his own bloodline. "Has the young master's bloodline power improved again?" he mused, his heart filled with envy.
Beside him, Zi Ji watched with pleading eyes. "Could you also let me refine a portion of the Ancestral Dragon power emitted by the young master, Uncle Di?" she asked softly.
"Of course, I'll give you one-tenth of the Dragon God power." Di Tian agreed, unable to refuse his sister's request while seeing an opportunity to help his friend.