As Xiao Hua left the mountain, he headed straight to his residence, searching for a certain purple-clothed little girl who had not shown up to bid farewell to their departing brothers and sisters.
Since his return to the Xiao Clan, this was only the second time he had actually entered his own residence. He had always stayed in Xun Er's courtyard, while his brothers and sisters took up residence in his.
Before long, Xiao Hua spotted the little girl he had been looking for. She sat on a stone chair in the middle of the garden, gazing blankly at the blue sky, her expression tinged with loneliness and sorrow.
Xiao Hua approached her slowly and asked, "If you were going to be sad, why didn't you see Sister Li Mei and the others off?"
Zi Yan turned to him, her violet eyes filled with melancholy. "If I did, I wouldn't have been able to let them go."
Xiao Hua was momentarily stunned before shaking his head helplessly. He understood—she didn't want to burden Li Mei and the others with her reluctance, so she had chosen to remain here instead of seeing them off.
Knowing her past—how she had suffered loneliness and mistreatment—Xiao Hua could comprehend her reluctance to separate from those she had grown close to. The melancholy in her expression, the loneliness in her eyes, stirred an ache in his heart.
"I need to leave the Xiao Clan for a while to fulfill a certain request. Do you want to come with me?"
Xiao Hua initially intended to bring Zi Yan along to keep her from getting bored and sneaking off to steal medicinal ingredients in Wu Tan City. However, now he truly couldn't bear to leave her behind—if he did, she might succumb to loneliness.
"Sure!" Zi Yan responded with a bright smile.
Without hesitation, she grabbed Xiao Hua's hand, ready to drag him away from his residence. Xiao Hua could only shake his head helplessly at her antics, allowing himself to be pulled along. Still, he felt relieved—at least she had returned to her cheerful, lively self.
They made their way to Yao Ye's residence, which had been arranged by the Xiao Clan. Upon their arrival, Yao Ye swiftly issued orders to finalize the preparations for their departure.
While waiting, Xiao Hua took the opportunity to upgrade his ACP Rate twice. Now, he could gain 120 ACP every six hours.
Fortunately, the wait wasn't long—Yao Ye and her people had begun preparations the day before, so everything was completed swiftly.
Upon arriving at the Central Plaza of Wu Tan City, Yao Ye sent a signal. Moments later, two massive flying Magical Beasts appeared on the horizon, their enormous figures casting shadows over the city as they descended before them.
The creatures resembled colossal avian beasts, yet their features bore traces of marine influence. Their bodies were adorned with iridescent, scale-like patterns that shimmered under the sunlight, while their expansive wings blended both feathered and fin-like structures. Their heads were distinctly bird-like, with sharp beaks and piercing eyes that exuded intelligence and majesty.
Atop each beast's back rested a grand white structure—a palace-like edifice with curved, tiled roofs and intricate carvings, reminiscent of the architecture of a prestigious sect or an influential clan.
"These are Sky Soaring Rocs," Yao Ye explained. "They are specially bred and nurtured by the Imperial Family, reserved for significant occasions or to receive esteemed guests. I made arrangements for them to pick up Master Xiao Hua right after our meeting six days ago."
"While they may not match the speed of Master Xiao Hua's flying ship, they are far swifter than ordinary flying Magical Beasts. More importantly, I can assure you that they will provide a most comfortable journey to Jia Ma Sacred City."
Xiao Hua nodded in acknowledgment and thanked Yao Ye before following her aboard the Sky Soaring Roc. Once everyone had settled in, a guard signaled the beast, and with a powerful beat of its massive wings, it ascended gracefully into the sky, soaring toward Jia Ma Sacred City.
...
After ten days of travel, Xiao Hua stood behind the wooden handrail, arms crossed, a faint smile on his face. He watched as the clouds drifted past, quietly enjoying the tranquil scenery.
"I'm bored, Xiao Hua…"
A voice interrupted his peaceful moment. A weary smile tugged at his lips as he turned to glance at the purple-clothed little girl sitting on the handrail beside him. Zi Yan, with her light purple hair, swung her legs back and forth, her expression filled with boredom.
Xiao Hua let out a tired sigh and said in a resigned tone, "Didn't we stop multiple times just because you were bored and wanted to search for treasures you sensed?"
"Thanks to that, a journey that should've taken three days ended up stretching to a full week." He shook his head helplessly.
"I know that…" Zi Yan murmured, a guilty look flashing across her face. She truly felt bad for delaying their journey, but resisting the urge to seek out treasures whenever she sensed one was simply impossible for her.
Xiao Hua couldn't bring himself to scold her too harshly—after all, every time she located a treasure trove, his own wealth expanded significantly. Sometimes they unearthed Xuan-Class Dou Techniques and Qi Methods; other times, they discovered rare medicinal herbs and fruits which is can be use to refine high-tier medicinal pills.
"What about the medicinal pills I refined for you?" Xiao Hua asked, his gaze sharp. He had refined multiple Danwan for her each time they stopped while she searches for the treasures, hoping to keep her out of trouble.
"…They're all gone." Zi Yan averted her gaze awkwardly, avoiding his eyes.
Xiao Hua's eyes twitched, and he let out a long sigh before face-palming. "You do realize I gave you enough to last an entire month, right?"
"I'm still growing!" Zi Yan protested, puffing out her cheeks defiantly.
A vein throbbed on Xiao Hua's forehead as he grabbed her soft cheeks and pulled them in frustration. "That doesn't mean your greed and gluttonous stomach should grow as well!"
"I'm schtil g'rowing! O'course my sh'mach grosh too!" Zi Yan tried to argue, her words muffled by her pinched cheeks, making it almost impossible for Xiao Hua to understand.
As Xiao Hua and Zi Yan were fooling around, Yao Ye rounded the corner and was momentarily left speechless at the sight before her. Though she had witnessed similar scenes multiple times, she still couldn't help but feel exasperated.
"It seems Master Xiao Hua and Young Lady Zi Yan share a close bond," Yao Ye remarked with a smile.
Xiao Hua and Zi Yan both felt slightly odd hearing her address Zi Yan as 'Young Lady,' but neither bothered to correct her.
"Since Princess Yao Ye is here, I take it we're about to arrive at the Imperial City," Xiao Hua said, smoothly shifting the topic as he turned his gaze toward the massive city looming in the distance.
After spending a week traveling with him, Yao Ye had come to realize that Xiao Hua was rather easygoing and approachable. It was only his formidable aura and overwhelming strength that made people instinctively feel distant and uneasy in his presence.
"Indeed, we are. We'll be arriving in about five minutes," Yao Ye confirmed. "I came to inform you, but it seems I've interrupted your moment with her." She chuckled softly and offered a lighthearted apology.
"It's fine. You didn't interrupt anything." Xiao Hua shook his head with a sigh before glancing at the twin-tailed girl beside him. "You heard her. Just be patient for five minutes, will you?"
"Fine… I'll wait," Zi Yan grumbled in disappointment. Slumping her shoulders, she sat back down on the wooden handrail, clearly disheartened by the short wait ahead.
Yao Ye watched the interaction intently. Throughout the journey, she had noticed that Xiao Hua was particularly affectionate toward this delicate yet strikingly beautiful girl.
She had attempted to build a good relationship with her, only to be met with complete indifference. Zi Yan seemed utterly uninterested in her presence.
As the First Princess, this was the first time she had ever been outright ignored, leaving her feeling slightly awkward. Yet she understood there was little she could do about it.
Whether in terms of strength or connections, Zi Yan had her completely outmatched—so long as she remained close to Xiao Hua, Yao Ye had no choice but to accept the situation.
'Is it just me, or does this girl always find a way to stop me from getting closer to Xiao Hua?'
Yao Ye pondered the thought, but upon seeing Zi Yan's innocent, child-like behavior, she quickly dismissed it with a shake of her head. She blamed her own misfortune—unlike Ya Fei, she had yet to find an opportunity to connect with Xiao Hua.
Zi Yan quietly watching Yao Ye with cold and indifferent gaze. While she might seem like an innocent child with her playful demeanor, she was far from naive.
She could easily discern people's true intentions, and it was clear to her that Yao Ye was merely using her to leave a good impression on Xiao Hua. Naturally, she felt indifferent toward her.
More importantly, Zi Yan understood that Yao Ye only saw Xiao Hua's strength and status—but never the man himself. She had witnessed something far beyond what Yao Ye had perceived. She had seen him endure the Heavenly Judgement Lightning trial, and the sight had shaken her to her very core.
Li Mei and the others had warned her not to go, knowing how perilous it was, but her curiosity got the better of her. Ignoring their advice, she had quietly followed and hidden in the mountains, only to witness Xiao Hua screaming in excruciating pain as the lightning tore through him.
She knew that Xiao Hua was never one to speak of his suffering or hardships but watching him endure such agony just to push himself further made her heart ache.
In that moment, she truly understood the depth of his determination and perseverance. It was then that she realized why Xiao Hua remained humble despite the endless praise and admiration he received from others.
Because of this, Zi Yan's mindset has slightly matured. That's why she has deem that Yao Ye will never fit for him and blocking any advance she is trying to make with Xiao Hua.
'Besides, I have promise Sister Xun Er to watch over him and not let any unworthy women come near him!'
Zi Yan puffed out her chest proudly, snorting in satisfaction at successfully blocking yet another one of this woman's advances.
Xiao Hua raised an eyebrow, glancing at Zi Yan with a hint of curiosity. He had no idea what was going through her mind, but at the very least, she didn't seem depressed anymore. That alone was enough to make him feel relieved.
Wanting to indulge her a little, he brought up a place where she had sensed a couple of natural treasures. However, he had ultimately refused to let her go alone, deeming it too dangerous.
Xiao Hua reached out and gently ran his fingers through Zi Yan's silky hair, savoring its delicate softness. A warm smile graced his lips as he gazed at her before speaking.
"How about we visit the Magic Beast Mountain Range once this matter is settled? Didn't you say you could sense countless natural treasures there?"
"Really?! Then you have to promise not to stop me every time I sense treasures, okay?!"
"I won't," Xiao Hua assured her with a chuckle. "I'll be following you to make sure nothing happens while you search for them. But in return, you have to promise to be patient while we're in Jia Ma Sacred City."
"I promise!"
Zi Yan's expression instantly lit up, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Her dangling feet swung back and forth over the handrail, unable to stay still.
She especially loved the feeling of Xiao Hua gently running his fingers through her hair. No wonder Sister Xun Er always looked so at ease whenever he did the same for her.
"Master Xiao Hua, there is no need to go through so much trouble. Our royal family has a vast collection of medicinal herbs. After this trip, Master Xiao Hua may visit the royal treasury and take as many as you need."
"Of course, Young Lady Zi Yan, as a friend of Master Xiao Hua, we will also present you with two medicinal herbs."
Hearing their conversation, Yao Ye hurriedly interjected, swiftly promising them medicinal ingredients in an attempt to foster goodwill and strengthen their ties.
Zi Yan, however, saw through Yao Ye's intentions with ease. If this had been the past—when her mindset was still immature—she would have readily accepted the offer without hesitation, oblivious to its deeper implications. But now, with her growing awareness, she didn't immediately agree.
Instead, she turned to Xiao Hua, waiting for him to speak. She had full confidence that he had also discerned Yao Ye's intentions, and whatever he decided, she would follow.
"Thank you, Princess Yao Ye." Xiao Hua responded with a polite yet superficial smile. "Those medicinal herbs will be counted as part of the reward this time."
As expected, Xiao Hua had seen through her intentions and had no interest in treating her affectionately—he understood her nature all too well.
Yao Ye's cheek twitched slightly, realizing that her attempt had failed. Just as she was about to say something else, a royal guard suddenly emerged from around the corner and rushed over to them.
After offering a respectful salute, he reported, "First Princess, we have arrived at Jia Ma Sacred City and are awaiting your orders to descend to the designated flying station."
"Understood." Yao Ye nodded, her expression darkening momentarily before she quickly concealed it behind a smile. Turning to Xiao Hua, she cupped her hands in a formal gesture and said, "I apologize, but I must take my leave to prepare."
"Don't worry about it, Princess Yao Ye." Xiao Hua shook his head with a faint smile.
Without further delay, she turned and headed toward her chambers. Once inside, a dispirited sigh escaped her lips—winning Xiao Hua's affection was proving far more difficult than she had anticipated.
After composing herself, she swiftly gave the order to land and sent a message to Jia Xing Tian, informing him of Xiao Hua's arrival.
...
After landing, a luxurious carriage prepared by the Imperial Family arrived, immediately drawing attention.
However, what truly captured everyone's gaze was Xiao Hua's striking appearance—undoubtedly the most handsome figure anyone in the imperial city had ever seen.
Zi Yan, having spent most of her time in Xiao Hua's residence, had never noticed the extent of his charm. But after witnessing the stunned reactions of the onlookers, she finally realized just how incredibly handsome he was. At that moment, a troubling thought crossed her mind.
'Sister Xun Er… it seems keeping other women away from Xiao Hua will be much harder than I thought…' She gulped nervously.
Xiao Hua, unfazed by the attention, unceremoniously pulling Zi Yan along and stepping into the carriage. At Yao Ye's command, the skillful driver acknowledged her orders and swiftly directed the snow-white beast pulling the carriage toward the heart of the imperial city.
The journey didn't take long as the carriage successfully passed through the imperial city's tight defenses.
Xiao Hua and Zi Yan stepped out of the carriage and were led by Yao Ye into an enormous circular hall. The entire structure was crafted from exquisite marble and adorned with gold, from the walls and window frames to the grand staircase.
Numerous banners bearing the emblem of the Jia Ma Empire hung proudly around the hall, exuding an air of prestige. At its center stood a majestic dragon statue, sculpted from reflective crystal and embellished with gold, shimmering under the ambient light.
The grandeur of the hall was a testament to the Imperial Family's immense wealth and influence. Yet, beneath its splendor, it also reflected their deep-seated pride and sense of superiority.
In front of the radiant dragon statue stood an elderly man, awaiting their arrival with a bright smile.
His long gray hair was neatly tied back, complementing his well-groomed mustache. He wore a luxurious robe adorned with intricate golden patterns, layered with armor-like shoulder guards and bracers, exuding both elegance and authority.
"Master Xiao Hua, it is my pleasure to meet you. I am Yao Ye's great-grandfather, Jia Xing Tian. My apologies for making you travel this far."
"It is nothing, Jia Lao," Xiao Hua replied with a polite smile.
With his exceptional perception, Xiao Hua immediately sensed that the old man before him was on the verge of breaking through to the Dou Zong class. If one excluded himself, Jia Xing Tian was likely the strongest person in Jia Ma Sacred City at present.
On the other hand, Jia Xing Tian was also attempting to gauge Xiao Hua's strength. However, his efforts were futile—Xiao Hua's aura was completely veiled, like a thick mist obscuring his senses. No matter how he tried, he couldn't get the slightest read on the young man's power.
That alone was enough to tell him everything—Xiao Hua wasn't just exceptional; his strength was downright monstrous.
With a warm smile, Jia Xing Tian gestured for Xiao Hua to take a seat, prepared to offer him a few words of praise. But just as he was about to do so, Xiao Hua raised a hand, stopping him in advance.
"Jia Lao, shall we get straight to business?" Xiao Hua asked with a polite yet firm smile. "Which matter do you wish for me to handle first? Would you prefer I refine the Zong Breaking Pill, or should I treat the Serene Sea Scaly Beast first?"
Having experienced this scenario countless times, Xiao Hua already knew the routine. He intercepted Jia Xing Tian's predictable praise before he and Zi Yan could be subjected to a long-winded speech.
Moreover, he was well aware of Jia Xing Tian's intention to win him over. But no matter how generous the old man's rewards might be, Xiao Hua had no interest in staying within the Jia Ma Empire.
"Master Xiao Hua, isn't this a bit too hasty? I have prepared a banquet to celebrate your arrival. Wouldn't it be better to discuss this matter after properly welcoming you first?"
Jia Xing Tian was momentarily taken aback by Xiao Hua's eagerness but quickly felt pleased. Resolving these matters sooner would undoubtedly benefit the Imperial Family.
However, allowing Xiao Hua to begin his work before even offering him a proper reception would reflect poorly on their hospitality. Thus, he felt compelled to voice his concern.
"It would be best for me to examine the guardian beast's injuries first," Xiao Hua replied calmly. "Old wounds are difficult to heal, so assessing them as soon as possible will ensure a better chance of recovery."
Jia Xing Tian nodded in understanding. "Indeed, the Serene Sea Scaly Beast's injuries have worsened over time. I must apologize to Master Xiao Hua for our lacking hospitality and for troubling you with this matter."
Seeing the reasoning behind Xiao Hua's decision, Jia Xing Tian no longer insisted on formalities. However, he made sure to extend a personal invitation, ensuring that Xiao Hua would attend the banquet later that night to properly celebrate his arrival in Jia Ma Sacred City.
Xiao Hua, wanting to settle this matter as quickly as possible, relented and accepted the invitation.
Satisfied, Jia Xing Tian swiftly rose to his feet and personally led Xiao Hua and Zi Yan to the vast back mountain within the imperial city—home to the Serene Sea Scaly Beast. Naturally, he also brought Yao Ye along, hoping she would have the opportunity for a private conversation with Xiao Hua after his examination of the beast.
Unfortunately for her, Zi Yan had no intention of allowing that to happen. Throughout the journey, she skillfully kept Xiao Hua's attention on herself, effortlessly thwarting any attempt Yao Ye made to get closer to him.
After passing through the bamboo forest under the guidance of Jia Xing Tian and Yao Ye, Xiao Hua and Zi Yan arrived at a vast lake situated at the mountain's peak.
"Haha, we've troubled Master Xiao Hua..." Jia Xing Tian said politely, offering a warm smile.
"Jia Lao is too courteous. Since I have accepted the request, it is only natural for me to do everything necessary to ensure the treatment is successful," Xiao Hua replied with a faint smile.
His gaze swiftly shifted to the massive lake. Beneath its calm surface, he could sense a powerful presence lurking at the bottom.
Yet, with his exceptional perception, he detected something more—despite the creature's formidable aura, its energy felt noticeably weak for a magical beast of such caliber. It was evident that the Serene Sea Scaly Beast was severely injured and had been resting to recover. However, its efforts seemed barely effective.
If left untreated, who knew how long it would take for the beast to fully heal—assuming it wasn't forced into another battle before then? Even with time and natural healing, the chances of a complete recovery were slim without the aid of an alchemist.
"Xiao Hua, there's a huge snake inside this lake!" Zi Yan suddenly cried out in surprise. Her eyes sparkled with intrigue as she observed the aura beneath the water. "Its strength isn't bad either…"
She nodded approvingly, clearly impressed that such a powerful magical beast had been hiding in the depths of the lake.
Jia Xing Tian and Yao Ye were momentarily stunned upon hearing Zi Yan speak. Their gazes immediately turned toward the jade-carving-like little girl, surprise flickering in their eyes. Sensing the hidden presence deep within the lake was already an incredibly difficult task.
Yet, this seemingly innocent girl had not only detected it with ease but had even identified its form. How could they not be astonished?
Xiao Hua, however, remained unfazed by Zi Yan's revelation. His gaze lingered on the lake, his expression calm. With her Ancient Void Dragon royal bloodline, it was only natural for Zi Yan to sense the Serene Sea Scaly Beast lurking beneath the water.
"Jia Lao, please summon the Serene Sea Scaly Beast," Xiao Hua requested.
Zi Yan raised an eyebrow. "Is there even a need? With your keen spiritual perception, haven't you already discerned its condition and determined how to treat its old wounds?"
"I simply wish to see its appearance," Xiao Hua replied casually.
Zi Yan huffed and rolled her eyes. "Hmph. What a childish reason!"
Jia Xing Tian could only shake his head helplessly at their conversation. He had to admit—Xiao Hua's reason for wanting the beast to surface was surprisingly childish.
Even so, he chose to comply. His figure flickered, appearing above the lake in an instant. As he landed lightly on the water's surface, his feet barely caused a ripple before his energy surged. A powerful burst of Dou Qi erupted, piercing through the lake's depths…
As Dou Qi poured into the lake, its once-calm surface began to churn violently, forming countless bubbles that rapidly multiplied.
With the intensifying turbulence, a formidable aura gradually surged from the depths.
Bang!
The lake's surface suddenly erupted as a massive column of water shot skyward, scattering droplets like a torrential downpour.
A low, deep roar echoed from beneath the waves, resonating through the air. In the next instant, an enormous figure emerged, its colossal body rising from the lake and dominating half its surface.
This was none other than the Serene Sea Scaly Beast—the Guardian Beast of the Jia Ma Empire.
"I can see why Zi Yan called it a huge snake... It resembles a snake far more than a dragon, aside from the horn on its head," Xiao Hua murmured to himself, an amused smirk tugging at his lips.