"Welcome back, Sister Xue Yue."
Xue Yue paused, slightly surprised to see Xiao Hua awake, despite having expected him to remain unconscious.
"I didn't expect you to be awake already. Are you sure it's wise to be moving around?" she asked, her brow furrowing with concern.
"As long as I don't overstrain my body, I'll be fine. It'll probably take a week or two for me to fully recover, though," he replied with a slight smile.
"It seems that your body being tempered by the Heavenly Mortal Lightning and Heavenly Wrathful Lightning has worked in your favor this time. Otherwise, I wouldn't know how to face my sister, who entrusted your safety to me..."
Xiao Hua smiled wryly at her words. It was true that his survival was largely due to the Heavenly Mortal Lightning and Heavenly Wrathful Lightning, yet those same forces had inflicted the most severe injuries he had ever sustained, second only to the tribulation of the Heavenly Lightnings.
As he recalled the two lightning flashes, a troubling memory surfaced in his mind: the orange-colored Lightning Beast.
"About the orange-colored Lightning Beast..." he began, a note of concern creeping into his voice.
He had focused on fleeing earlier due to the out-of-control situation, but now he couldn't shake his worry. Even though it had caused trouble, he couldn't shake the worry that gnawed at him.
The nine Lightning Beast represented the will of Yu Ru Meng, Lady Azure's sister. If one of them were to be destroyed, it would mean a part of her essence would be lost forever, making her return impossible.
"You don't need to worry, child," Xue Yue assured him, her smile gentle and calming. "It would take far more than that to destroy the Lightning Beast. While you were unconscious, it returned to your body and is now resting in the special space within your spiritual sea."
"What...?"
Xiao Hua closed his eyes, summoning his consciousness into the depths of his spiritual sea, a vast expanse within his brow. Gradually, his ethereal form emerged from the tranquil waters, and before him, the currents of Spiritual Strength began to ripple softly, releasing two faint glows that danced like starlight in the darkness.
In a breathtaking moment, these glows coalesced, weaving together countless fragments of light, and materializing into two mysterious doors, each adorned with exquisite and intricate designs that seemed to pulse with life.
The first door radiated a magnificent aura of divine majesty, its surface a vibrant tapestry of colors that shimmered like a celestial rainbow. On one side, nine lightning beasts soared across a starry expanse, their forms a blur of motion as they leapt through the infinite cosmos. Each beast crackled with immortal energy, their presence an embodiment of unfathomable divine strength, inspiring awe and reverence in all who gazed upon them.
On the opposite side, twenty-two flames flickered and danced with a dazzling elegance, igniting the void of the universe with their brilliance. Each flame bore a unique hue, inscribed with mysterious runes that told tales of ancient power and majesty. Together, they created a breathtaking spectacle, a symphony of light that seemed to breathe life into the very air around them.
The second door stood in stark contrast, its pristine white surface emanating a chilling yet serene aura. This door exuded the essence of a celestial being, untouched by the impurities of the mortal realm.
At its center bloomed a glazed lotus, radiant and ethereal, its petals glistening like dew-kissed gems under the soft light of dawn. Upon this exquisite flower rested countless ancient symbols, each one pulsating with profound mysteries that resonated deep within Xiao Hua's soul, sending tremors of reverence through his very being.
These two doors represented the special spaces within his spiritual sea: the first door was formed by the nine Lightning Beasts and the second door was created by Xue Yue.
On the other side of these two majestic doors lay a spiritual realm accessible only to Xiao Hua, Lady Azure, Xue Yue, and the nine Lightning Beasts. To anyone else, these doors were mere illusions—imperceptible, hidden from the eyes and senses of all, regardless of their cultivation level or power.
Behind the vibrant multi-colored door resided the nine magnificent Lightning Beasts, each a guardian of raw energy and divine strength. Lady Azure also called this realm her home, though she often preferred the tranquil embrace of Xiao Hua's spiritual sea, watching over him with a gentle presence that soothed his spirit.
In contrast, the pure white door concealed the realm of Lady Xue Yue, who, in her original form as the Celestial Ancient Frost, existed in serene solitude behind its unblemished surface. Together, they maintained a quiet harmony within their own sacred domain. However, with her awakening, Xue Yue had chosen to reside within Xiao Hua's spiritual sea, her ethereal essence mingling with his own.
"Let me see…"
Xiao Hua's illusionary figure moved forward without hesitation, stepping through the vibrant portal of the multi-colored door.
In a flash of blinding white light, Xiao Hua instinctively narrowed his eyes against the fierce brilliance.
As the light faded, he opened his eyes and was met with an astonishing scene. Beneath his feet lay lush, green grass, and above stretched a vast, azure sky, unmarred by a single cloud. Xiao Hua found himself standing on a gentle meadow, the soft breeze stirring his hair and brushing against his face like a tender hand.
"This place... it's changed in such a strange way..."
The corners of his eyes twitched ever so slightly as he regarded this serene, beautiful landscape with a complex expression. He clearly remembered his last visit to this world, where endless darkness had stretched to the horizons, swallowing everything in its depths. Now, this transformation was beyond his understanding—a realm reborn from shadows into splendor.
"What the hell happened here?"
Yet, his question echoed unanswered, leaving only his speculations. Perhaps it was because he had absorbed an additional Heavenly Lightning—an act that might have triggered this transformation. And, curiously, this explanation felt plausible to him. After all, the architect of this realm was none other than the Nine Lightning Beast itself. If it had absorbed its own Heavenly Lightning and restored its full power, it wouldn't be unimaginable for it to reshape the scenery of this spiritual domain.
"Haa… It's as though this spiritual sea no longer belongs to me…"
Xiao Hua sighed, a faint bitterness in his voice, as he continued his steps forward. He could sense the faint aura of the Lightning Beasts lingering in the air, guiding him toward their presence. Among them, there was one he needed to locate above all others—the orange-colored Lightning Beast. He needed to confirm its strength, to understand its true nature before wielding its power.
Fortunately, it didn't take long to discover her location—a lush, emerald peak, crowned with a crystalline blue waterfall that cascaded gracefully down, its waters merging into a tranquil river that flowed out of the dense forest like a stream of liquid jade. The rumbling crash of the waterfall resounded across the mountain range, an eternal echo that filled the air with a mysterious reverence.
Around this serene blue river, where the water glistened as though kissed by moonlight, lay nine colossal Lightning Beasts. Each one sprawled in watchful repose, their massive forms both regal and unyielding, as if they existed solely to guard this sacred place and hidden treasure.
A golden beast, shimmering like dawn's first light; a blue beast, as deep and quiet as a calm sea; a purple beast, veiled in mystic allure; and an orange beast, blazing with fiery brilliance.The other five remained colorless, their shapes faint and indistinct, as though enveloped in an ethereal mist that shrouded their true form in mystery.
As Xiao Hua approached, the nine Lightning Beasts lifted their mighty heads in silent unison, their eyes like ancient wells of wisdom. Each gaze was sharp and deep, assessing his essence with an intensity that made him feel as though the heavens themselves were watching.
The scene was one of indescribable grandeur, a majestic tableau of power and solemn beauty that seemed to transcend the very bounds of reality.
Yet, Xiao Hua's gaze drifted past the breathtaking scenery, his focus narrowing solely on the heart of the silver lake before him.
Suspended above the lake's surface lay Lady Azure, her figure unmoving in a deep slumber, having exhausted the last reserves of her Spiritual Strength. The sight stirred something deep within Xiao Hua's heart, an unfamiliar ripple breaking through his usual calm. Unconsciously, he stepped forward, his left foot stretching toward the lake—until a sharp, piercing sensation stopped him in his tracks.
The sting jolted him back to awareness, and he pulled his foot back, puzzled by the sudden prickling pain.
As his gaze sharpened, realization struck him with silent awe. The river before him was not a river of water. No, his heightened senses perceived it for what it truly was—a river composed of condensed lightning strength. The terrifying, immense force had materialized into an actual river, its shimmering currents of lightning surging with latent, boundless power.
"This... this isn't a mere lake," he murmured, his voice barely audible. "A river of lightning, powerful enough to assume physical form…"
While amazement coursed through him, Xiao Hua felt no desire to absorb the lightning energy swirling in the river. Instead, the truth dawned upon him: this lightning was meant for Lady Azure. He recognized the familiar trace of Heavenly Astral Lightning woven within, confirming its purpose.
He pressed on, assured that the lightning would pose no threat to him as long as he cloaked himself with his own Heavenly Astral Lightning. His focus shifted solely to Lady Azure; he needed to assess her condition and determine how he could aid her recovery.
Recalling how Xiao Yan had roused Yao Lao from his deep slumber using the Seven Magical Green Spirit Saliva, he pondered whether he could apply the same method to her.
As he approached her, his keen senses detected the gravity of her state. The longer he observed, the clearer it became that if she continued to passively absorb the Spiritual Strength, it would take her more than five years to awaken.
Fortunately, the blue-colored Lightning Beast harbored the Heavenly Astral Lightning, known to nourish the soul and rejuvenate Spiritual Strength. This power would aid her recovery, but it wouldn't be sufficient on its own. He would need to summon additional energy to bolster the Lightning Beast, refining a few more tier-seven and tier-eight energies to invoke the Pill Lightning necessary for her full restoration.
Moreover, he needed to gather medicinal ingredients capable of restoring her Spiritual Strength, ensuring that she would awaken fully healed. Once he procured those ingredients, he could refine a tier-seven medicinal pill for her to consume upon waking, aiding her recovery even further.
"Let's check the System first to see if there are any medicinal ingredients that might aid Sister Azure's situation..." Xiao Hua mused internally, a spark of determination igniting within him. "A single hair of Sister Azure is worth more than a million ACP!"
With his plan taking shape, a wave of relief washed over Xiao Hua. He could finally redirect his focus to the primary reason he had ventured into this realm in the first place.
His gaze shifted toward the orange-colored Lightning Beast, resting languidly on the left side of the river. Their eyes locked, and an unspoken connection flickered between them. Without hesitation, he stepped forward, leaving the tempestuous currents of the lightning river behind as he approached his next goal.
As he approached the orange-colored Lightning Beast, Xiao Hua reached out to gently stroke its head, feeling a surge of warmth emanating from its vibrant form. Closing his eyes, he sought to establish a connection, wishing to delve into the creature's capabilities. This knowledge could prove invaluable for the battles he might face in the future.
Moments passed in silence before a brilliant orange glow emerged from the beast's brow, flowing toward the space between Xiao Hua's brows. Instantly, a torrent of information surged into his mind, each detail etched with vivid clarity as if the beast were determined that he should never forget it.
From what he grasped, each of the nine Lightning Beasts possessed distinct and unique powers. So far, he had only come to know three of them intimately; now, with this encounter, he added a fourth to his knowledge.
The golden-colored Lightning Beast served as an invaluable reservoir for his Dou Qi, allowing him to enhance his cultivation and recover his energy. This reservoir could facilitate quicker breakthroughs, offering him an edge in his training and battles.
The blue-colored Lightning Beast possessed the ability to devour Spiritual Imprints, Spiritual Marks, Spiritual Bodies, and any remnants of spiritual energy. As long as it retained energy within its form, this creature could rejuvenate Spiritual Strength and nourish the soul, also capable of healing injuries that affected the soul itself.
Then there was the purple-colored Lightning Beast. Its prowess in mending physical injuries, revitalizing stamina, and fortifying the physical body in unmatched for. It had the power to temper bones, purify blood, and strengthen the mortal vessel, providing a significant boost to resilience and physical strength.
The orange-colored Lightning Beast harnessed its accumulated energy to unleash a ferocious and destructive dragon breath, capable of decimating foes and leaving nothing but ruin in its wake. The brighter its runes glowed, the more potent and devastating the force of its breath became.
However, this formidable attack required a target—specifically, a Heavenly Wrathful Lightning—to channel its power effectively. Only with such a target could the orange Lightning Beast release its cataclysmic roar.
"So, that's why it unleashed its breath at the Heaven Breaking Sphere…" Xiao Hua muttered, realization dawning upon him. The pieces fell into place, and he finally understood the motivation behind the orange Lightning Beast's actions.
When he had sent the Heavenly Wrathful Lightning toward the Heaven Breaking Sphere, the Lightning Beast had interpreted it as an invitation to unleash its breath. It hadn't hesitated, responding with overwhelming power because it believed he intended for it to demonstrate its strength in that moment.
During the tribulation of Pill Lightning, Xiao Hua had intended to summon the purple-colored Lightning Beast. Its abilities would have been invaluable for prolonging the fight, especially as he anticipated a grueling battle ahead.
Unfortunately, the orange-colored Lightning Beast had been provoked by the Pill Lightning and left without his command, disrupting his carefully laid plans. As a result, the situation spiraled beyond his expectations, plunging him into chaos that he had not foreseen.
To make matters worse, it seemed he could no longer call the orange-colored Lightning Beast back to his side once it fully absorbed the lightning strength.
However, no matter which Lightning Beast he considered, they all required an enormous amount of lightning strength to function—except for the blue-colored Lightning Beast, which also absorbed Spiritual Strength to sustain its energy.
"Moreover, only the nine-colored Pill Lightning can fill the minimum amount…" Xiao Hua murmured thoughtfully. "Does that mean I'll have to refine tier-eight medicinal pills whenever I have the chance?"
He couldn't dismiss the unique abilities of each Lightning Beast, yet meeting their minimum energy requirements would undoubtedly be both physically exhausting and mentally taxing.
"Whatever. I'll decide that later."
For now, he knew he needed to focus on his recovery. Finding medicinal ingredients for Lady Azure also remained a top priority. Thankfully, he still had a considerable stock of dark-violet grade Devil Sprouting Fruits, perfect for replenishing her Spiritual Strength.
He turned away, ready to leave this realm behind. Having accomplished everything he set out to do, he felt no need to linger within his spiritual sea any longer.
As Xiao Hua opened his eyes and surveyed his surroundings, he noticed that Xun Er was still resting peacefully, and the sky above remained shrouded in darkness, countless stars twinkling like diamonds scattered across a velvet canvas.
"It seems you've gained insight into the capabilities of the orange-colored Lightning Beast. Now, why don't you take a rest, child?"
A melodious voice chimed softly, drawing his attention. He turned to find Xue Yue perched gracefully on a nearby rock, her gaze warm and watchful.
Xiao Hua returned her gaze with a grateful smile, appreciating her presence and the gentle reminder. "Thank you, Xue Yue. I'll take your advice. However, there is one thing I'd like to confirm first…"
"If it's about the Old Ground Demon Ghost, don't worry. I've dealt with him properly."
Xiao Hua was slightly startled by her response; he hadn't expected news of the Old Ground Demon Ghost's survival. "As I suspected, that was the reason Sister Xue Yue left the camp."
"It's not surprising, child. He has lived for an extraordinarily long time and even founded a top faction in the Black-Corner Region. It's only natural for him to possess a life-saving treasure or two."
"Then I must pay a visit to Demon Flame Valley once I fully recover." A chilling glint sparkled in Xiao Hua's eyes.
He had debts to settle—debts owed by the Old Ground Demon Ghost. His death wasn't enough to satisfy him. He wanted every treasure the ghost had hoarded through the years, particularly the rare method to refine a puppet from ancient times.
He would also settle scores with Mo Tian Xing, Ying Shan, and that mysterious figure cloaked in blood-red robes.
"I encased the old ghost's body in a block of ice. While I'm unsure if he still has any treasures on him, you may check later."
Xiao Hua nodded at Xue Yue's words, his mind already racing with plans. He waved his hand, producing a few medicinal pills that he swiftly threw into his mouth. As he swallowed them, he closed his eyes and focused on recuperating his injuries, drawing the healing properties of the pills deep into his core.
A faint, satisfied smile graced Xue Yue's porcelain features as she observed Xiao Hua healing himself. She lifted her gaze to the star-studded sky, a sense of anticipation swelling within her. She couldn't wait to reunite with her two sisters again, and she had faith that this young boy could reach the peak.
"However, the thing that worries me most is definitely those invaders from the Great Thousand World..."
Xue Yue's eyes revealed a deep concern and anxiety that could not be concealed as she thought of the invaders who had wrought destruction and polluted the Great Thousand World with their vile energy.
Since their invasion, there had been no moment of peace in the Great Thousand World, particularly for those in the Lower Planes. The invaders relentlessly attacked, spreading corruption, devastation, and death wherever they went.
Xue Yue let out a weary sigh, shaking her head in frustration. She could only hope that Xiao Hua would rise to a level beyond the current peak, becoming the guardian this greater world so desperately needed. Having glimpsed the universe outside of the Great Thousand World—knowing the vastness of the galaxy.
This race came from a completely different world, existing beyond the borders of the Great Thousand World. During the height of their invasion, they managed to seize nearly half of the territories within the Great Thousand World.
The cost to the Great Thousand World to barely halt the invasion had been colossal, reflecting the formidable strength of the invaders.
"Damn Fiend Clans…!" Xue Yue cursed vehemently. Even though she had been sealed by the will of the Great Thousand World and cast into a deep slumber, she did not harbor hatred for it. All four of them had been born simultaneously, nurturing a bond akin to that of sisters.
Yet, with the birth of life within the Great Thousand World came the inevitable sealing of the Heavenly Genesis Flame and the Primordial Heaven Lightning, which had been split and weakened. This applied to her as well, the Celestial Ancient Frost, who had fallen into a slumber, unable to resist the binding.
Despite this, none of them bore grudges or hatred toward the will of the Great Thousand World. After all, the Great Thousand World was like a sister to her, just as her other sisters were. It was a complex relationship but one that they accept.
Xue Yue understood the necessity of sealing the Primordial Heavenly Flames, the Heavenly Lightnings, and herself after being weakened to protect the countless lives within the Great Thousand World. However, it pained her deeply to witness the invaders arriving and slaughtering the living beings tied to her sister.
In her heart, she longed to awaken and exact vengeance upon those invaders. Yet, she knew that if she did, her overwhelming cold energy would turn the innocent lives in the Great Thousand World into mere ice blocks, frozen in her wake.
"However, after I gain a physical body, I won't hesitate to slaughter those Fiend Clans if they dare to enter my sight!" Xue Yue murmured softly, her voice laced with deep hatred and chilling killing intent.
Turning her head, she looked at Xiao Hua, her emotions swirling within her. A sense of conflict stirred in her chest; she didn't want him to join the fight, to bear the burden of battle and the risks that came with it. Yet, she recognized the inevitability of his path. It was the fate of those who were strong and talented—especially someone like him, who harbored that mysterious force deep within.
"I just hope those Fiend Clan bastards don't make any major moves just yet. But..."
Xue Yue's thoughts trailed off, a frown creasing her brow. While she wished for their inactivity, a sense of unease gnawed at her. She knew all too well the aggressive and overbearing nature of the Fiend Clan. Their sudden passivity felt unnatural, filling her heart with ominous foreboding.
"Whatever it is, we must prepare ourselves," she said, her tone firm despite the uncertainty swirling within her. Though she disliked being unable to take the initiative in the battle against the Fiend Clan, she understood that she had little choice in the matter.
....
For the next two weeks, tranquility reigned. No one dared to venture into this area, wary because of the ominous rumors spreading through the Black-Corner Region.
At dawn's first light, Xiao Hua opened his eyes, expelling a mouthful of turbid air, his breath a steady release of all remnants of fatigue within him.
"It seems your injuries have fully healed, Brother Xiao Hua."
A soft, charming voice chimed in as he finished exhaling. Xiao Hua turned to see Xun Er approaching with a gentle, excited smile gracing her face.
Relief flooded Xun Er's heart upon seeing his recovery. It was as if a massive weight had been lifted from her chest, allowing her to breathe freely once more. Since he had awakened, Xun Er had stayed loyally by his side, tending to his every need and supporting him in silence.
"Thank you, Xun Er," Xiao Hua said with a faint smile, touched by her care.
His smile change into an apologetic smile. "Sorry for worrying you. You should rest now. You've hardly taken a moment for yourself these past two weeks..."
"It's fine, Brother Xiao Hua." Xun Er shook her head gently, her smile bright and unwavering. "As long as you're well, nothing else matters."
A helpless smile curved on Xiao Hua's lips as he gazed at her. Guilt weighed on him for having her watch over his condition while neglecting her own. It seemed he would have to linger here until she finally took the rest she needed.
Once she was fully recuperated, he intended to journey through the Black-Corner Region. Alongside that, he could refine a few tier-eight medicinal pills to summon the Pill Lightning. With the purple-colored Lightning Beast absorbing the lightning's strength, his body physical strength and natural durability will reach an even further heights.
"Hm? Xun Er, you…" Xiao Hua narrowed his eyes, sensing the surging energy within Xun Er's body. His gaze sharpened in astonishment. "You've become 8-Star Dou Ling? It looks like you're on the verge of breaking through to Dou Wang!"
Xun Er let out a soft giggle, her eyes sparkling mischievously as if her little secret had finally been revealed. "I was worried about Brother Xiao Hua's condition, so I decided to delay the breakthrough to stay by your side."
Xiao Hua had granted Xun Er a mere spark of his Heavenly Tribulation Lightning. Even with only twenty-five percent of its original potency, it accelerated her cultivation speed immensely while fortifying her foundation with an unmatched stability. This was why, when he observed her swift progress, he couldn't help but feel a slight astonishment.
'In the novel, it seems she intentionally suppressed her cultivation and talents because of Xiao Yan and doesn't want to leave his side.' Xiao Hua mused inwardly.
He knew of Xun Er's potential, but witnessing it firsthand was something else entirely. If she hadn't held back, she would have likely reached peak of Dou Ling and about to advance to Dou Wang long before Nalan Yanran's infamous visit to the Xiao Clan—the catalyst of the "Three Year Agreement" between her and Xiao Yan.
'Her talent is even more monstrous than I imagined…' A helpless smile tugged at his lips, marveling at Xun Er's latent prowess.
However, Xiao Hua didn't lose to her. Xiao Hua's own cultivation progress appeared slower, mainly due to the restraints imposed by the Heavenly Suppression Band, which intentionally restricted his breakthrough speed. Although the band's suppression had lessened somewhat as he refined more Heavenly Lightnings, he still kept his own strength in check.
This deliberate suppression was in line with Lady Azure's guidance; she believed his body was still fragile for the even more formidable Heavenly Lightnings. Thus, she urged him to refine his physical endurance further by tempering himself with Heavenly Mortal Lightning, ensuring he would withstand even the most overwhelming forces when the time came.
"Girl, I'm grateful for your concern, but delaying your advancement just for me makes me feel rather awkward," Xiao Hua said with a helpless smile, gently poking her nose. He was truly moved by her thoughtfulness, yet he couldn't shake the feeling of discomfort, knowing that her progress was being held back on his account.
Xun Er's laughter filled the air, her expression softening as she looked up at him. "Then, I'll break through once I know you're truly healed and ready. Until then, nothing else matters."
"Take a rest, lass."
A cold, indifferent voice interrupted, cutting through the warmth of the moment. Xiao Hua, feeling somewhat helpless amidst Xun Er's amused gaze, turned with her to see a silver-haired woman standing nearby. She radiated an ethereal, untouchable aura, her presence like a distant star in the night.
Yet, both Xiao Hua and Xun Er knew her nature well. Her aloof exterior was merely a veil, concealing the warmth and gentleness she held for those who entered her heart.
She had just returned from guarding the perimeter, having dealt with a Rank 6 Magical Beast that dared approach. In silence, she bore the brunt of danger, tirelessly watching over them to ensure their safety. Her gaze softened as it lingered on them, a subtle reminder of her unspoken care.
"Once you're fully rested, try to advance to Dou Wang class. We won't be leaving this place anytime soon."
Xun Er nodded obediently and retreated to take her rest. To her, both Lady Azure and Xue Yue held a deep significance. Lady Azure had played a vital role in Xiao Hua's rapid progress in alchemy, guiding him step by step. Meanwhile, Xue Yue, with her fiercely protective nature, had been a constant shield, ensuring that no harm approached Xiao Hua while he recovering his injuries.
It was only natural for Xun Er to show them utmost respect and gratitude. She was well aware of the unshakable place both Lady Azure and Xue Yue held in Xiao Hua's heart.
The same sentiments were shared among all their sworn siblings—Li Mei and the others held a profound respect and admiration for the two, seeing them as both mentors and protectors whose guidance had enriched their journey.
Bound by gratitude and camaraderie, they had all come to recognize Lady Azure and Xue Yue as irreplaceable figures in their lives.
"And what about you, child?" Xue Yue asked, her gaze steady. She knew Xiao Hua intended to keep the camp here until Xun Er's breakthrough, but she wanted to hear what he planned to do in the meantime.
"Now that I've recovered, I'll refine a few medicinal pills for Lady Azure," Xiao Hua responded without hesitation.
"Are you sure?" Xue Yue's eyes narrowed with slight concern. She understood his plan—to use the blue-colored Lightning Beast to absorb the lightning strength from the Pill Lightning.
Yet, she worried that summoning Pill Lightning again might draw the attention of even more powerful forces, who would stop at nothing to seize it for themselves.
"I won't be refining tier eight medicinal pills," Xiao Hua clarified. "Just a tier six and a tier seven, to give her something ready when she wakes."
Xue Yue nodded, understanding his intention. "I see. It's wise to prepare for her in advance."
"Exactly. I have plenty of Dou Qi recovery pills, but none for Spiritual Strength." Xiao Hua sighed, admitting the challenge.
This wasn't surprising to Xue Yue—medicinal ingredients that relates with Spiritual Strength were rare treasures, hoarded or sold to earn an alchemist's favor. Few would dare to risk refining them into a pill, facing the very real chance of failure and the devastating loss of such precious materials.
"How many dark-violet Devil Sprouting Fruits do you have?" Xue Yue asked, a thoughtful expression crossing her face.
"No more than twenty," Xiao Hua replied, shaking his head slightly. "But given Sister Azure's level, I'll need at least forty to help her regain consciousness."
A slight frown creased Xue Yue's brow as she considered this, then her eyes lit with sudden insight. "Then… could you not call upon that mysterious force within you? The same one that summoned me and my sisters… perhaps it could aid you in gathering what you need?"
Xiao Hua smiled wryly, understanding her reference to the AC System without a hint of surprise. He knew she was aware of it, but his resources had already been stretched thin.
Xiao Hua offered a weary smile, his eyes tinged with frustration. He knew Xue Yue was referring to the AC System, and it didn't surprise him that she was aware of it. After all, her insight was as deep as it was sharp.
Yet, despite her suggestion, he had already made considerable efforts through the system. He'd spent nearly his entire reserve to buy two Yin-Yang Soul Fruits—each costing a daunting 50,000 ACP—and had only 43,435 ACP left, nowhere near enough for another.
He had painstakingly refined these precious fruits and fed Lady Azure the potent medicinal liquid. The Soul Fruit's essence had reduced her need for dark-violet Devil Sprouting Fruits to just forty—an immense relief, as otherwise, he would have needed over five hundred.
Though this was progress, it still wasn't quite enough to wake her. Her Spiritual Strength had recovered significantly, but he now faced a waiting game, his ACP balance dwindling. He needed one more Yin-Yang Soul Fruit to complete the process, and with luck, Lady Azure would awaken fully.
"Just one more time… and she'll wake up," he muttered to himself, determination lacing his voice. It didn't lessen his disheartened spirit entirely, but at least he knew he was close.