WARNING!
This chapter is over 5,000 words. It is extremely lengthy...
"Grand Elder Xiao Yang, Supreme Elder Xiao Hua, and Lady Xun Er have arrived!"
The voice of the Xiao Clan's servant, responsible for announcements at the venue, resonated throughout the hall. The lively chatter ceased abruptly, and the previously fawning expressions turned solemn and tense at the mention of two names that carried immense weight across the Jia Ma Empire—especially that of the young Supreme Elder.
As the doors swung open, Xiao Yang stepped inside, followed closely by Xiao Hua and Xun Er, their serene expressions complemented by faint, noble smiles.
The moment Xiao Hua and Xun Er entered, the gathered crowd froze in stunned silence, their minds momentarily blank as they gazed upon the pair's ethereal and elegant appearance.
"That handsome young man—is he Xiao Hua?"
"It seems so, but he looks as though he's only in his early twenties and not in his teens…"
"Even so, how could someone so young possess such a divine appearance? Is he the bane of all men who remain single, deprived of love despite their age?"
Those who had attended the morning's Coming of Age Ceremony had already witnessed Xiao Hua's striking appearance, yet even they found themselves once again awestruck. For those seeing him for the first time, the effect was even more pronounced, leaving them utterly mesmerized.
Yet not a single person dared to approach him. The reason for their hesitation was simple—they lacked the courage to step forward. Despite their plans to engage with him, none could muster the nerve.
The reason was clear. While numerous accounts described Xiao Hua as possessing a kind and amicable character, his overwhelming strength and influence demanded caution. His very presence, even without the release of pressure or aura, was enough to cow them into silence.
Fortunately, the tense atmosphere and anxious silence didn't last long. Xiao Zhan and the First Elder rose from the main table, stepping forward to greet him with bright smiles.
"At last, you've arrived, Supreme Elder, Lady Xun Er. We were starting to worry you might have been delayed. The celebration cannot begin without our honored guests," Xiao Zhan said warmly.
"What the Clan Head says is true!" the First Elder chimed in. "Tonight's banquet is centered around you, and your arrival has truly brought this gathering to life!"
"Please, come and take your seats," Xiao Zhan added, gesturing toward the main table.
With faint but polite smiles, Xiao Hua and Xun Er nodded in acknowledgment and followed the two elders toward the main table.
As Xiao Hua approached, his gaze swept across the individuals seated at the table. He quickly recognized them as people of prestigious status and background. Most of them were familiar faces—guests he had already encountered earlier that morning.
Noticing Xiao Hua's approach, the guests at the main table rose in unison, their movements synchronized as if rehearsed beforehand. Each of them wore expressions of deference, preparing to greet him with the utmost respect.
"Although Supreme Elder might already be familiar with them, allow me to formally introduce our distinguished guests," Xiao Zhan said, stepping forward to begin the introductions.
"First, let me present the Crown Princess of the Jia Ma Empire and future Queen, Her Highness Princess Yao Ye. She has graciously joined us today to observe our Coming of Age Ceremony and extend her goodwill to our clan."
The first guest introduced was a regal and determined young lady with long, dark purple hair tied in a high ponytail. She wore a luxurious, intricately designed gown that radiated elegance and authority, further amplifying her imposing presence.
"Good evening, Supreme Elder," Yao Ye greeted respectfully, her tone measured. "I could not help but be curious about the rising Xiao Clan, which has created such a sensation across the Jia Ma Empire."
She lifted her head and fixed her gaze on his face, her eyes filled with astonishment. His strikingly handsome features and noble demeanor left her in awe. She doubted there was anyone among the noble clans of the Jia Ma Empire who could rival him in appearance, disposition, or temperament.
"I have heard of your remarkable achievements, Supreme Elder, and how you've become the hero of the Xiao Clan. Seeing you in person this morning, I now understand that the tales are no exaggeration."
Xiao Hua responded with an indifferent smile and cupped his hands in a gesture of courtesy. "Your Highness is too kind. I have also heard of your commendable achievements—leading a corps of soldiers to protect and ensure the safety of the Sacred City of the Jia Ma Empire."
Although his words seemed like polite formalities, they carried genuine admiration. He was truly impressed by her leadership and capability. Her majestic and regal aura, no doubt, stemmed from the rigorous tutelage of the Imperial Family.
'Regardless, this Crown Princess is quite bold to remain here, knowing there's a chance I might hear about her engagement…'
Xiao Hua's thoughts turned to what Xiao Yang had shared with him on the way to the hall. Over the years, countless marriage proposals had been sent his way. However, the most troublesome one came from the Imperial Family, who had expressed their desire for an engagement between Xiao Hua and Yao Ye.
The Xiao Clan, unable to outright reject such a proposal, had deferred the matter, stating it would be decided upon Xiao Hua's return.
'No, it must be precisely because I might hear about it that she has chosen to stay here. Still, I recall she once declared her desire for a husband with only one wife…'
Xiao Hua's mind raced as he considered the implications of Yao Ye's presence. However, he felt no inclination to accept the engagement. He knew that becoming tied to the Imperial Family would inevitably restrict his freedom.
Moreover, his ambitions lay far beyond the Jia Ma Empire. He intended to build his strength and establish a force in the Central Plains, a place far removed from Yao Ye's world. Their paths, he decided, would never align, no matter the circumstances.
"Next, we have the Misty Cloud Sect's esteemed Sect Leader and Young Lady—Sect Leader Yun Yun and Miss Nalan Yanran. Accompanying them are Master Gu He and his disciple, Liu Ling,"
Xiao Zhan announced, his respectful smile brightening noticeably as he introduced the members of the Misty Cloud Sect.
The cordiality in Xiao Zhan's demeanor caused a slight sense of awkwardness to ripple between Xiao Hua and the Misty Cloud Sect members. Nonetheless, both sides silently agreed that unresolved matters would need to be addressed at a later date. They could only hope that no lingering animosity would sour their relationship, as any discord between them might only benefit opportunistic third parties.
"I am Sect Leader Yun Yun. It is a pleasure to meet the young genius of the Xiao Clan who has shaken the Jia Ma Empire," Yun Yun said as she stood and offered a radiant smile.
Her rare display of warmth captured the attention of everyone in the hall, leaving them momentarily mesmerized. None had expected the aloof and reserved Sect Leader to display such a charming side. This unexpected demeanor stirred whispers among the crowd, some speculating that her heart might have been swayed by Xiao Hua's remarkable appearance and noble bearing.
However, the truth lay far from such assumptions. Yun Yun's attitude stemmed from genuine gratitude toward Xiao Hua for his understanding during the annulment of the engagement between Nalan Yanran and the Xiao Clan. His calm and non-hostile response to the matter had earned her deep respect and appreciation.
Yet, this subtle warmth sparked a faint ripple of envy in Gu He's heart. Despite his many attempts to win Yun Yun's affection, he had always been met with indifference. To see her display such a demeanor, even if it stemmed from gratitude rather than romantic interest, left him feeling unsettled.
Still, Gu He quickly suppressed his envy, reminding himself of the reality. Yun Yun's feelings were rooted in appreciation, not affection. Moreover, the chances of these two developing any romantic connection were practically nonexistent.
One was the Sect Leader of the Misty Cloud Sect, fully devoted to her sect and martial path, with no interest in romance. The other was a young genius with soaring ambitions, destined to leave the Jia Ma Empire behind. Furthermore, Xiao Hua's heart was already claimed by another.
'I wonder if I will ever gain her heart…' Gu He mused with a weary sigh in his heart.
Xiao Hua, unaware of the turmoil in Gu He's heart, remained focused on Yun Yun. He felt relieved that he had instructed Xiao Tao to communicate his stance on the annulment of the betrothal beforehand, ensuring clarity on his position.
"It is truly my pleasure to meet one of the few remarkable female powerhouses in the Jia Ma Empire. I have long heard of your reputation, and seeing you today, it is clear that you are indeed an extraordinary woman," Xiao Hua said with a respectful smile, returning her sincere greeting with equal courtesy.
"It is merely what others say," Yun Yun replied, shaking her head modestly. Her gaze shifted to Xun Er, and she spoke softly, "If your fiancée were inclined to pursue such fame, her reputation would undoubtedly surpass mine."
"After all, she is a Dou Huang powerhouse, just like me," she added quietly.
Yun Yun's words elicited a soft chuckle from Xiao Hua. He couldn't help but agree that if Xun Er were interested in making a name for herself, Yun Yun might indeed be considered only the second strongest female expert in the Jia Ma Empire.
Turning his attention to Gu He, Xiao Hua cupped his hands respectfully and greeted him with polite formality.
"Master Gu He, I have heard much about you since I became an alchemist. It is an honor to finally meet you. Although, I must admit, I never expected our meeting would happen under such circumstances."
"Keke, Master Xiao Hua is too modest," Gu He replied with a harmonious laugh. "In terms of alchemy, I fear you may have already surpassed me."
Pausing for a moment, Gu He added, "I couldn't miss this opportunity to meet you, especially after hearing of your return."
Gu He caught the subtle implication in Xiao Hua's words and shook his head inwardly. Like Yun Yun, he felt relieved that their actions would not lead to conflict with Xiao Hua.
As for Nalan Yanran and Liu Ling, Gu He glanced at them briefly, his expression softening into a friendly nod. This unexpected gesture of warmth startled the two, who quickly returned the nod in a stiff and anxious manner. Despite Xiao Hua's stated intention to step back regarding the annulment, the oppressive aura of his strength left them feeling tense and suppressed.
"Next, we have the head of the Primer Clan and one of the top ten strongest men in the Jia Ma Empire—Primer Tengshan," Xiao Zhan announced, pausing briefly before shifting his attention to the woman seated beside him.
"And finally, someone you are already familiar with, Ms. Ya Fei. I have heard of the incredible achievements she has accomplished since becoming the manager of the Primer Clan. Truly spectacular," Xiao Zhan added, his tone carrying a hint of admiration.
He didn't hesitate to offer such praise in front of everyone, fully aware that the relationship between Xiao Hua and Ya Fei was anything but shallow.
Xiao Hua nodded, a faint smile gracing his face. However, this time, his expression softened noticeably, far gentler than the one he had offered to Yun Yun.
"Sister Ya Fei, it has been quite some time since we last met. It seems you've grown even more beautiful in the meantime. I must admit, it truly surprises me."
His words were not empty flattery. When he had seen her earlier that morning, he was momentarily speechless. Ya Fei's appearance had matured significantly, the difference between her younger self and the current her akin to the gap between heaven and earth.
"Hehehe, it seems Little Brother Xiao Hua has developed quite a glib tongue," Ya Fei teased, her sweet, soft laughter ringing through the hall. Her playful demeanor sparkled with amusement as she added, "And to think you'd offer such a compliment so easily in front of Lady Xun Er."
Her playful response, paired with her soft laughter, momentarily entranced some of the attendees, leaving them dazed by her charm. Amused by Xiao Hua's compliment, she couldn't help but tease him in return.
"You've already met Xun'er before. What's the point of teasing me like this?" Xiao Hua rolled his eyes and waved dismissively. A faint trace of disdain flickered in his gaze at Ya Fei's playful remark.
"Regardless, since you're here, shall we declare the start of the banquet, Clan Leader Xiao Zhan?" Ya Fei turned her attention to Xiao Zhan and asked with a polite smile.
"Indeed, we shall, Ms. Ya Fei." Xiao Zhan nodded, his expression warm as his gaze shifted to Xiao Hua. "Supreme Elder, as this celebration is in honor of you and Lady Xun Er, please begin eating. Otherwise, we'll all be stuck here waiting idly."
Xiao Hua and Xun Er exchanged a glance, her soft giggle ringing out like a delicate melody. A resigned smile tugged at Xiao Hua's lips as he shook his head lightly, though neither voiced any objection.
The two made their way to the table, moving with quiet elegance. Picking up their chopsticks, they began eating with an unhurried grace, their calm and composed demeanor captivating the room.
As if a signal had been given, the atmosphere in the hall shifted the moment they began. Conversations sparked, and the once-tense silence was replaced with lively chatter and laughter.
"Hahaha! The banquet has officially begun!"
"Indeed! With this event, the Xiao Clan's reputation will surely soar to new heights!"
"What are you talking about, old man? With the Supreme Elder here, their fame and status will rise endlessly!"
"Supreme Elder is truly the fortune and blessing of the Xiao Clan!"
The hall quickly filled with a cheerful ambiance. Guests spoke with unrestrained enthusiasm, their voices overlapping in an attempt to draw attention to themselves. The once-serious gathering had transformed into a jubilant celebration, brimming with energy and joy.
After taking a sip of wine, Xiao Hua raised his cup and toasted with everyone at the table, including Xiao Zhan, Xiao Tao, Xiao Yang, multiple elders, and the honored guests.
When it was Ya Fei's turn, Xiao Hua lingered in conversation with her longer than with anyone else. Even Xun Er joined in, her cheerful laughter blending with Ya Fei's melodic voice as they merrily exchanged words.
It was evident to everyone present that the bond between Ya Fei, Xiao Hua, and Xun Er had not faded in the nine years they had been apart; instead, it had grown stronger.
From a distance, Primer Tengshan and Yao Ye observed the interaction with sharp focus, their thoughts moving rapidly as schemes and plans began to take shape.
Primer Tengshan saw this as an opportunity to finally convince the Primer Clan elders to support Ya Fei's ascension as the next clan head. Meanwhile, Yao Ye quietly resolved that to win Xiao Hua's favor, her first step must be to build a closer relationship with Xun Er.
As the toasting continued, the Xiao Clan members seated at the table approached Xiao Hua one after another. Their expressions brimmed with admiration and respect, reflecting the esteem they held for him.
After offering a toast and exchanging a few joyful words, each clan member stepped back and returned to their seat, leaving Xiao Hua at ease.
After Xiao Hua drank a cup of wine, he raised his glass to toast with everyone at the table, including Xiao Zhan, Xiao Tao, Xiao Yang, several elders, and the esteemed guests. When it was Ya Fei's turn, their conversation lasted noticeably longer than with the others. Xun Er also joined in, cheerfully engaging in the lively exchange with Ya Fei.
It became evident to all present that Ya Fei shared an exceptionally close relationship with both Xiao Hua and Xun Er, a bond that had remained steadfast despite the nine years that had passed.
Primer Tengshan and Yao Ye observed this scene intently, their minds racing with various thoughts and strategies.
For Primer Tengshan, this was a golden opportunity. He was already formulating plans to leverage this relationship to sway the elders into finally supporting Ya Fei as the next head of the Primer Clan.
Meanwhile, Yao Ye's thoughts followed a different path. She had come to a clear realization: to draw closer to Xiao Hua's heart, she would first need to build a connection with Xun Er.
However, she remained unaware of the futility of her plan. Xun Er had already discerned her intentions—Yao Ye's desire to become his wife and control his harem was something Xun Er despised.
To her, such an ambition signified an attempt to dominate Xiao Hua, a notion she vehemently rejected. Furthermore, Xiao Hua had confided in Xun Er earlier that he had no intention of accepting the Imperial Family's proposed engagement with Yao Ye.
As the evening progressed, the Xiao Clan members seated at the table began approaching Xiao Hua one by one. Their faces were filled with admiration and respect as they raised their glasses in toasts to honor him.
After sharing a toast and exchanging a few warm, joyous words with each of them, they courteously stepped back and retreated, allowing the next person their moment.
Almost simultaneously, Xiao Zhan stood up abruptly, leaving his seat and making his way to Xiao Hua and Xun Er's side. With a raised cup and a bright smile brimming with gratitude and excitement, he spoke:
"Supreme Elder, you have made countless contributions to the development of our clan over the years. As Clan Head, I offer this toast in your honor."
Xiao Hua, understanding the source of his excitement and joy, nodded silently in acknowledgment. A faint smile graced his lips as he watched Xiao Zhan down the wine in a single, swift motion.
Without hesitation, Xiao Zhan refilled his glass, lifting it once more.
"For this second toast, I wish to express my gratitude as a father—for extending your hand to help my son!"
This time, he drank merrily, not waiting for Xiao Hua's response.
The smiles on the First Elder, Second Elder, and Third Elder twitched slightly at his words. They couldn't ignore the dual nature of his toast—it was both an expression of thanks to Xiao Hua and a veiled jab at them. The jab was a reminder of their previous disputes with Xiao Zhan regarding the medicinal formula Xiao Hua had sent to the clan at Xiao Zhan's request.
'What a black-hearted man! It's not as though we've continued to argue about it since Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang confirmed that Xiao Hua has been protecting Xiao Yan!' they silently grumbled, their irritation evident in their expressions.
Xiao Hua responded calmly, his tone casual but sincere. "This was merely a small matter. As a member of the Xiao Clan, it is something I ought to do."
With that, he drank from his cup, his movements graceful and composed.
Yet, seeing this exchange, some of the Elders frowned deeply, their dissatisfaction bubbling beneath the surface.
Even though they had ultimately dropped their objections, they couldn't help but felt slightly resentful at Xiao Zhan's actions. To them, his use of the medicinal formula for personal gain, rather than the benefit of the entire clan, was unbecoming of a proper Clan Head.
Xiao Zhan did not return to his seat. Instead, he remained standing, his intentions clear as he poured himself another cup of wine. With a broad smile, his voice echoed across the hall, commanding everyone's attention.
"This will be my last toast, Supreme Elder."
He paused, raising his cup high. "I must thank you for personally examining my son's condition. With your abilities as an eighth-tier alchemist, the chances of my son's condition remaining uncured are virtually nonexistent!"
The hall fell into stunned silence before erupting into a cacophony of gasps and exclamations.
"Eighth tier?!"
"Did he just say Xiao Hua is an eighth-tier alchemist?"
"Is that even possible?!"
"An eighth-tier alchemist and a Dou Zong powerhouse? How can such a monstrous genius exist?"
"Are we sure he's a kid? Could he be an old man possessing the body of a youth?"
"Why is Xiao Clan so blessed, and not us?!"
Xiao Zhan's proclamation sent ripples of shock throughout the hall, leaving those unaware of this revelation reeling in disbelief. While they may not have fully grasped the significance of an eighth-tier alchemist, they all knew it far surpassed the most respected and famous alchemist, Master Gu He.
Their suspicions were further confirmed when Gu He made no attempt to refute Xiao Zhan's claim. His silence was proof enough. A storm of envy and frustration brewed in the hearts of many, their resentment toward the Xiao Clan threatening to pierce the heavens.
Xiao Zhan, however, paid no heed to the uproar. He calmly drank from his cup, his expression smug as he savored the attention. In truth, he wanted to revel in their reactions, to flaunt the fact that the Xiao Clan now had the unprecedented backing of an eighth-tier alchemist—something never before seen in the history of the Jia Ma Empire.
Meanwhile, Xiao Hua's lips curled into a faintly amused smile at the murmurs of the crowd. One particularly loud guest had muttered about an "old man possessing a young man's body." It amused Xiao Hua because, in a way, it was almost true. The reality, however, was reincarnation, not possession—and he wasn't some powerful elder but a cowardly, young man in his late twenties in his past life.
Regardless, Xiao Hua had no desire to dwell on such trivialities even if it does amused him. His focus was on resolving Xiao Yan's condition.
"Clan Head," Xiao Hua said, his voice calm yet resolute, "bring Xiao Yan to my room tomorrow morning. I will examine his condition and do everything in my power to cure him."
Xiao Hua didn't explicitly state whether he could cure Xiao Yan, but instead, he firmly declared that he would try his utmost to do so.
At the same time, his thoughts drifted to Yao Chen, the spirit residing within the Bone Flame Ring. With his exceptionally sharp spiritual perception, Yao Chen's presence was impossible to conceal, no matter how extraordinary the ring's aura-concealment were.
'When the time comes, I should negotiate with Yao Chen…' Xiao Hua mused inwardly, already considering the potential benefits of cooperation.
He was well aware that it was due to Yao Chen's actions that Xiao Yan had lost his talent. Moreover, Xiao Hua knew the old man had long since awakened from his dormant state.
Given that, Yao Chen must have overheard their conversation. There was no doubt in Xiao Hua's mind that Yao Chen would eventually be forced to take action and appeared in front of him.
From what Xiao Hua anticipated, Yao Chen likely intended to groom Xiao Yan into a disciple bound by gratitude—one who wouldn't betray him.
A faint smirk curved at the corners of Xiao Hua's lips as he found Yao Chen's circumstances both ironic and fascinating.
According to the original novel, Yao Chen had once raised Han Feng from an orphaned baby into an accomplished alchemist, guiding him through every step of his life. While it was true that Han Feng's greed for the Flame Mantra eventually led to betrayal, Xiao Hua couldn't fathom why Yao Chen hadn't simply entrusted him with it.
After all, a newborn child could not inherently harbor darkness in their heart. Xiao Hua surmised that Han Feng might have been driven to his eventual betrayal out of extreme disappointment and a sense of betrayal by Yao Chen's lack of trust.
That darkness, brewing quietly within Han Feng's heart, had likely been nurtured by resentment and finally exploded when he joined forces with Mu Gu.
'Regardless, this matter lies solely between Han Feng, Yao Chen, and Xiao Yan. Once I cure Xiao Yan, he'll naturally feel indebted to me. Of course, I'll ensure that sense of obligation deepens by "coincidentally" discovering a Heavenly Flame and presenting it to him.'
Xiao Hua's goals were straightforward—he intended to use the main characters as tools to secure his own freedom, shifting all major responsibilities onto their shoulders. At the same time, he sought to unravel the true purpose of the System governing his existence, free from unnecessary interference or hindrances.
To achieve this, he needed Yao Chen's cooperation. They would have to act as though Xiao Hua was unaware of Yao Chen's presence during the examination. Furthermore, refining a high-tier medicinal pill for Xiao Yan would cement trust and lay the foundation for a deeper friendship.
While some might see his actions as manipulative or excessive, Xiao Hua regarded them as necessary steps for a greater future.
'Even so, I doubt I can remain just a spectator when it comes to the Fiend Clan…' Xiao Hua thought wryly, a faint smile of resignation curling in his heart.
His musings were abruptly interrupted by Xiao Zhan's hearty laughter, filled with excitement and satisfaction.
"If that's the case, then I'll trouble Supreme Elder with my son's well-being," Xiao Zhan declared, his tone brimming with gratitude.
Xiao Hua smiled exasperatedly at the clan leader's enthusiasm but didn't respond.
Instead, he shifted his gaze toward a table designated for the Xiao Clan's younger generation. His eyes fell on Xiao Yan, seated among his peers.
Xiao Yan, in turn, was intently watching the exchange between Xiao Zhan and Xiao Hua, his expression thoughtful and focused.
Xiao Yan was deeply moved by the exchange. Ever since he had lost his talent, ridicule, mockery, and insults had become his daily companions. Yet, in the midst of such scorn, his father and two elder brothers had always treated him with love and care. Furthermore, the two Grand Elders and Xiao Hua had neither mistreated him nor shown disdain or coldness.
The Grand Elders, while stern, had consistently supported his father's position and fulfilled their roles as proper elders. Though they scolded him when he was wrong, their criticism was constructive, delivered with kindness and warmth.
Xiao Hua's presence, however, was the most impactful. His declaration of protection had significantly reduced the mistreatment Xiao Yan endured. More than that, Xiao Hua had even returned to the clan upon hearing of his condition, going out of his way to help without seeking anything in return.
'Although others have compared me to him countless times, I feel nothing but gratitude and indebtedness toward Xiao Hua,' Xiao Yan thought, his heart swelling with a mix of admiration and resolve.
Xiao Hua's willingness to go to such lengths to cure him, asking for nothing in return, was a kindness Xiao Yan could never overlook.
Sitting slightly further than Xiao Yan's seat, Xiao Yu glanced at her him, her expression betraying a hint of envy. Her cold glare and slightly dissatisfied frown made her feelings clear.
With a resentful tone, she snorted and remarked, "Xiao Yan, you're truly fortunate to have Cousin Xiao Hua's attention."
Xiao Yan could only smile helplessly in response. He had grown accustomed to envious remarks since Xiao Hua's declaration of protection. Though such words no longer cut deeply, he remained silent, unwilling to fuel the conversation further.
'Not that I don't understand their feelings, though…' Xiao Yan mused inwardly, his heart heavy yet resolute.
Meanwhile, Xun Er's gaze swept across the hall with an indifferent air. Her eyes briefly landed on Xiao Yan before retracting without lingering. She understood that in her previous, determined fate, Xiao Yan was meant to be her lover.
However, that path required her to sacrifice her true self, adopting a false persona to fulfill her so-called destined role. Now, she regarded Xiao Yan as nothing more than another member of the Xiao Clan.
Despite this, a flicker of curiosity lingered in her heart regarding how her man, Xiao Hua, intended to cure Xiao Yan. Even with her knowledge, she could not discern the nature of his condition. Yet, she was aware of the tremendous fate Xiao Yan carried, making her wonder what had caused his affliction.
'If I carefully consider Brother Xiao Hua's words, it's clear Xiao Yan's condition was caused by someone, and he knows who the culprit is. That must mean he intends to forge some sort of relationship with this person, as they hold the key to Xiao Yan's growth into a powerful expert.'
Xun Er quickly connected the dots, her sharp mind piecing together the situation. Her curiosity now turned toward the identity of the person capable of not only crippling Xiao Yan but also earning the attention of Xiao Hua.
She recalled a time when Xiao Hua had purchased a large number of common medicinal ingredients and a medicinal cauldron. The implication was clear: the one responsible for Xiao Yan's condition must be an alchemist.
'I see… A soul of an alchemist has been continuously absorbing Xiao Yan's energy. And this alchemist must be someone significant—someone who has earned Brother Xiao Hua's respect and confidence in Xiao Yan's potential to grow into an expert…'
Her thoughts swiftly moved toward identifying the person. She eliminated the North-Western Region and the Black-Corner Region, as their alchemical expertise was too insignificant. That left only the Central Region.
Her mind raced, analyzing the profiles of renowned experts in the Central Plains. 'A formidable expert with extraordinary alchemy, its impossible for this individual to remain unknown or obscure. They must be someone with considerable fame.'
After pondering for a while, Xun Er finally pieced everything together, and the realization left her truly astonished.
'Yao Chen… Yao Zun Zhe, the legendary alchemist rumored to have fallen due to a backlash while refining a pill. If I recall correctly, the one who announced his demise was none other than his disciple, Han Feng—the so-called "Medicinal Emperor" of the Black-Corner Region.'
Her thoughts gained clarity as she unraveled the intricate connections. While she couldn't discern how Xiao Hua had acquired such knowledge, she now fully understood the reason behind his confidence in Xiao Yan's future potential.
With someone like Yao Chen in the shadows, Xiao Yan's future as a formidable expert in the Central Plains seemed all but assured.
'Although, it is slightly pitiful that Xiao Yan is being manipulated by Yao Chen and Xiao Hua, the two people that will significantly impact his future.'
A faint smile graced Xun Er's lips, a mixture of satisfaction and amusement. She resolved to confront Xiao Hua with her theory after the celebration.
'Regardless, If I'm right, I can't wait to see Brother Xiao Hua's reaction—how amusing it would be to see him speechless for once. If I'm wrong, well, I'll simply ask him directly.'
For now, she decided to let the matter rest, choosing instead to enjoy the lively celebration held by the Xiao Clan in honor of her lover. She would bide her time, confident that her answer—or lack thereof—would soon reveal itself through Xiao Hua's reaction.