Xiao Hua's priority now was to find the cave that Little Fairy Doctor would discover in the future while gathering medicinal herbs.
Within that cave lay the Rainbow Poison Book, a tome left behind by a previous Poison Master. It contained intricate methods of poison refinement and, more importantly, a detailed explanation of the Woeful Poison Body.
No matter how exceptional one's spiritual perception was, a Woeful Poison Body remained undetectable while dormant. It could only be recognized upon its sudden awakening.
The only way to identify it before activation was by a faint seven-colored line on the lower abdomen—an almost imperceptible mark that grew alongside the increasing strength of the body's poison.
When the seven-colored line extended to the heart, the Woeful Poison Body would reach its peak. At that point, its host would experience unimaginable agony, as though being devoured by tens of thousands of poisons from within.
Yet, Xiao Hua couldn't simply tell her about it. Unless he wished to be seen as a pervert, he couldn't mention such a detail outright. Instead, he had to let Little Fairy Doctor uncover the truth herself through the Rainbow Poison Book. Only after she realized her special physique could he step in and help her control it—before it was too late.
As Xiao Hua pondered, Little Fairy Doctor spoke again, her voice soft and clear.
"Young Master, the Thousand Medicinal House plans to enter the Magic Beast Mountain Range to gather medicinal herbs. I will be accompanying them this time because of my knowledge. Will you join us?"
"If that's the case, then I'll go. Besides, I can search for medicinal herbs that the Thousand Medicinal House doesn't have."
"That's right! The Magic Beast Mountain Range is rich in medicinal herbs. There's no doubt it will have what you need."
Little Fairy Doctor's smile brightened, and her joyful expression deepened. If he accompanied them, she could ask him many things about medicinal herbs and gain valuable insights from his knowledge.
Without delay, she brought Xiao Hua to the Thousand Medicinal House and introduced him to its leader, Boss Yao, explaining that Xiao Hua was an alchemist.
At first glance, Boss Yao was already inclined to treat Xiao Hua with respect. The young man's clean and refined appearance, noble attire, and air of elegance spoke volumes about his status. However, upon learning that Xiao Hua was an alchemist, Boss Yao's attitude shifted instantly—his words laced with flattery, his demeanor filled with fawning admiration.
No matter where one went, an alchemist was a highly respectful figure in the Dou Qi Continent. Regardless of talent, background, or wealth, they held a position superior to most.
Yet, the young man standing before him was incredibly young. Boss Yao quickly connected the dots—Xiao Hua was no ordinary alchemist. He must have an extraordinary background.
"Young Master, we are grateful for your participation. We will depart early tomorrow morning."
"I don't mind. Once you're ready, you may call for me at this inn."
Xiao Hua smiled softly and wrote down his address. With the arrangements settled, he left the Thousand Medicinal House and made his way back to the inn to check on the sleeping little girl.
However, he soon noticed Little Fairy Doctor quietly following him. Pausing, he turned to face her.
"Is something the matter, young miss?"
Little Fairy Doctor hesitated before speaking. "I know this is rude, but may I ask you something?"
Xiao Hua's gaze remained calm. "I assume it concerns medicinal herbs? Your expression and focused attention when I explained how to identify Blood Demon Essence made that quite clear."
Her face flushed slightly. "Yes… If it's not too much trouble, may I ask you a few questions about medicinal herbs?"
She nervously nodded, feeling slightly embarrassed that Xiao Hua had noticed how intently she had been listening.
More than that, a hint of unease lingered in her heart. Alchemists were often reluctant to share their knowledge with outsiders. Would he refuse? Would he find her question intrusive? She feared she might offend him—or worse, be coldly reprimanded.
"It's no trouble at all, young miss."
Little Fairy Doctor was momentarily stunned. She had expected hesitation or even a reprimand, yet instead, she was met with a soft, gentle smile. For a brief moment, she found herself mesmerized.
"I need to check on my companion first. Why don't you wait somewhere and let me know where we should meet later?" Xiao Hua said, his voice calm and warm.
"Thank you, Young Master!"
Her expression brightened as she hurriedly jotted down a meeting location along with directions.
Xiao Hua took the note without hesitation, gave her a small nod, and turned toward the inn. Upon returning, he found Zi Yan awake and immediately informed her about the arrangements he had made for their trip to the Magic Beast Mountain Range.
Zi Yan, though slightly puzzled as to why he had agreed to escort the Thousand Medicinal House's herb-gathering team, chose not to question it. Since it didn't interfere with their original plans to enter the mountain range, she saw no reason to object.
Once their discussion concluded, Xiao Hua left the inn with Zi Yan and met with Little Fairy Doctor to discuss medicinal herbs.
The day passed in this manner—engrossed in conversations about herbs and their properties—until a message arrived from the Thousand Medicinal House late at night. Their preparations were complete.
...
The next morning, at the break of dawn, Qingshan Town was even livelier than before.
The reason? A gathering of over fifty groups at the town's entrance. Upon closer inspection, these people were mercenaries—assembled to form the escort team for the Thousand Medicinal House's herb-gathering expedition.
While a member of the Thousand Medicinal House was busy organizing them, Xiao Hua and Little Fairy Doctor were deep in discussion nearby, while Zi Yan sat beside them, visibly bored out of her mind.
"Would it be effective to mix Soothing Blue Grass and Hard Fire Pulp to create a cure for high fever?"
Xiao Hua glanced at her and smile faintly. "Unless you intend to brew a potent aphrodisiac that lasts for two days straight—or, on the contrary, completely rob a man of his ability to 'stand up'—I suggest abandoning that idea."
"S-Stand up...? Aphrodisiac?!"
Little Fairy Doctor blinked in confusion, his words not fully registering at first. But the moment she pieced together the hidden meaning, her eyes widened in shock.
A deep crimson spread across her face as she frantically shook her head, her voice flustered. "I—I had no idea those two herbs could have such effects!"
"Individually, they are not." Xiao Hua smiled in amusement at her innocent reaction. Watching her fluster so easily was truly entertaining, stirring within him an irresistible urge to tease her further.
"Soothing Blue Grass cools the body, healing inflammation and fever, while Hard Fire Pulp generates heat and induces sweating to expel infections and poisons. However, if the balance between them is off, the effects can take an entirely different turn."
He paused briefly before continuing, his tone carrying a hint of mischief.
"If the amount of Hard Fire Pulp exceeds that of Soothing Blue Grass, the mixture becomes a highly potent aphrodisiac, significantly increasing the chances of conception. However, those with weak constitutions should avoid it, as it may be dangerous for them."
"On the other hand, if Soothing Blue Grass is excessive, it will completely suppress a man's function, making it impossible for his precious 'little brother' to stand again."
"Enough, Young Master! Stop teasing me!"
Little Fairy Doctor couldn't take it anymore. Understanding full well that Xiao Hua was doing this on purpose, she lightly scolded him, her face burning with embarrassment.
"Okay, okay. I'm sorry for teasing you." Xiao Hua chuckled softly. His gaze shifted forward, eyes narrowing slightly as a faint grin played on his lips before he continued.
"However, when properly balanced, these two ingredients can create a highly effective remedy for high fever, nausea, poisoning, and infections while slightly enhancing the body's resistance to them. Additionally, when formulated into a cream, it can help reduce inflammation and diminish scars from old wounds."
"I see…" Little Fairy Doctor murmured, her voice soft as she absorbed the newfound knowledge, falling into deep contemplation.
Meanwhile, Xiao Hua's attention drifted toward a young man with a half-shaved head, the remaining hair styled into a short, dark mohawk. His face bore tribal-like tattoos, and large anchor-shaped earrings dangled from his ears.
The reason Xiao Hua took notice of him was simple—the young man was glaring at him with overwhelming hatred, envy, and murderous intent.
Naturally, Zi Yan also sensed the intense glare. However, she merely glanced at the rebellious-looking youth and dismissed him as a fool, finding him unworthy of further attention.
When Boss Yao introduced Xiao Hua to the mercenaries, they were stunned to learn that he was an alchemist. Their postures straightened, their expressions grew respectful, and admiration flickered in their eyes.
Thus, it was easy to single out the one person who continued to glare at him with such intense bloodlust. None of the other mercenaries would dare meet his gaze with such hostility after learning his identity.
"It looks like that brat is planning to kill the young man..."
"But isn't he an alchemist? Is he really foolish enough to make an enemy out of someone like that?"
"The woman he's been fixated on, the one he desperately wants for himself, is now openly affectionate toward someone else. His mind is clouded with envy and hatred. Do you think he cares about consequences?"
"Besides, the only thing he relies on is his father's position as the head of the Wolf Head Mercenary Company. Arrogant and ignorant of the weight of his actions. The moment he turns that young man into his enemy, I'm leaving this company."
Xiao Hua narrowed his eyes, his gaze sweeping over the young man in question. As he listened to the murmurs of the mercenaries preparing for departure, he immediately recognized him.
Mu Li, the Young Master of the Wolf Head Mercenary Company, one of the three major mercenary groups in Qingshan Town. In the original story, he had betrayed Little Fairy Doctor and Xiao Yan for his own benefit, acting on a tip from Li Fei, Little Fairy Doctor's assistant.
Xiao Hua's eyes flickered as he took in the scene. Most of the mercenaries in the escort group bore the Wolf Head Mercenary Company's insignia—a wolf's head with a single eye—marking their allegiance.
The corner of Xiao Hua's lips curled into a cold smirk, a chilling glint flashing across his eyes. Without a word, he subtly released his aura—a silent warning, commanding Mu Li to behave himself during this journey.
In an instant, Mu Li's expression shifted dramatically. A bone-chilling sensation crawled down his spine as an overwhelming pressure crashed onto him, making it difficult to breathe.
It felt as if a terrifying beast were staring him down. As a mercenary, he had encountered countless magical beasts, but the aura pressing upon him now was far more horrifying than even the most fearsome third-rank beast.
Gripping by fear, Mu Li swiftly averted his gaze and hurriedly fled the scene. He understood one thing with absolute clarity—if he dared to provoke Xiao Hua, he would not live to see another day.
Watching the pale-faced Mu Li hastily retreat, cold sweat dripping down his forehead, the surrounding mercenaries raised their brows in confusion. Just moments ago, they had seen him glaring at Xiao Hua with intense hostility—yet now, he was fleeing as if he had seen a ghost…
Xiao Hua had ensured that his aura affected only Mu Li, leaving the others bewildered by the sudden change in his demeanor. However, they didn't dwell on it for long and soon returned their focus to their own preparations.
Little Fairy Doctor, completely absorbed in processing the information Xiao Hua had shared, remained oblivious to the exchange. She was even murmuring softly, experimenting with new combinations of herbs using Hard Fire Pulp and Soothing Blue Grass.
Even if she had noticed Mu Li's reaction, she wouldn't have cared. He had been pestering her for far too long—his sudden retreat was nothing but a relief, ensuring he wouldn't bother her during this journey.
Meanwhile, a faintly troubled expression flickered across Xiao Hua's face. From Mu Li and Little Fairy Doctor's reactions, it was clear that they had yet to discover the Poison Master's cave.
'It seems I'll have to spread my Spiritual Strength and search for it myself once we enter the Magic Beast Mountain Range…'
"Everything is ready! Let's move out!"
At the old man's announcement, Xiao Hua and Little Fairy Doctor stood up, regrouping with the Thousand Medicinal House's herb-gathering team before setting off toward the Magic Beast Mountain Range.
...
The journey to the Magic Beast Mountain Range was uneventful, yet tense. Numerous pairs of wary eyes scanned the dark hidden spots of the surrounding forest, their hands tightly gripping the weapons at their waists, ready to respond to any sudden threats.
The experienced mercenaries maintained a silent understanding of their roles, forming a disciplined formation as they moved through the forest.
Little Fairy Doctor stayed close to Xiao Hua, continuing to ask him various questions about herbs—their characteristics, medicinal properties, and potential combinations to cure ailments or counteract poisons.
Xiao Hua didn't mind answering her. As he spoke, however, he could feel an intense glare drilling into his back. He didn't need to turn around to know exactly who was staring at him with such seething hatred.
Throughout their journey, they encountered multiple Magic Beasts that lunged at the group, only to be swiftly intercepted by the mercenaries.
By right, the Wolf Head Mercenary Group—being the strongest—should have taken the lead, while Xiao Hua and Little Fairy Doctor should have remained in the safest position at the center of the formation.
Yet, during the first wave of attacks, Mu Li deliberately slowed his movements, intentionally delaying his strikes in the hopes that some of the Magic Beasts would slip past the frontline and kill Xiao Hua.
Although he had been entrusted by Boss Yao to protect Xiao Hua and Little Fairy Doctor, he only needed to put on a show of doing his duty. He even went as far as secretly ordering his subordinates not to interfere, ensuring that no one would step in to warn Xiao Hua of the incoming danger.
Unfortunately for Mu Li, each time a Magic Beast broke through the formation and charged toward Xiao Hua, it would suddenly stop and tremble slightly. Then, without warning, it would abruptly turn around—only to launch a ferocious assault on Mu Li instead.
Caught off guard every time, Mu Li barely managed to fend off the beasts, but not without suffering multiple injuries. His body bore fresh wounds, his movements growing sluggish with each encounter.
He had no idea how it was happening, but he was certain of one thing—Xiao Hua was behind it.
If it had only happened once, he might have dismissed it as a mere coincidence. But after several waves of attacks, the same scenario repeated itself. Moreover, every time the beasts turned around and charged, he would inexplicably feel his body grow heavier, his reactions inexplicably delayed, leaving him wide open to attack.
And each time it happened, Xiao Hua would merely smile—a smile laced with indifference and mocking disdain.
Naturally, Xiao Hua had already seen through Mu Li's petty schemes. Even without anyone warning him, he could easily tell what the fool was planning. Though he had frightened Mu Li once before, he knew the man's arrogant and haughty nature wouldn't allow him to back down so easily.
The fact that Mu Li still dared to glare at him with rebellious defiance and murderous intent was almost amusing and the very prove that he wouldn't let this matter settle.
"If he wants to play tricks…" Xiao Hua thought, his lips curling into a faint smirk. "Then let him. I'll simply return his 'gift' with interest."
"Everyone, we're nearing the herb-picking site. After such a long journey, you must all be exhausted. Please take a short rest."
A soft, crisp female voice suddenly rang out from within the group.
Hearing this, the advancing footsteps gradually slowed until the entire group came to a synchronized halt. Turning toward the source of the voice, they saw a young lady flashing an innocent smile. Without hesitation, they obediently nodded in agreement.
After a brief discussion, over ten mercenaries dispersed into the surrounding area, positioning themselves as lookouts. The remaining members simply sat down, taking the opportunity to recover their strength.
Xiao Hua, however, did not sit. Instead, he leaned casually against a nearby tree, eyes closed. His focus wasn't on resting but on something far more important.
He planned to spread his Spiritual Strength, probing the entire mountain for the hidden cave that the Little Fairy Doctor would one day discover.
Though he couldn't be certain if the herb-picking site was the same location, he had no intention of leaving things to chance. If the cave truly existed nearby, he would find it.
Just as Xiao Hua was about to spread his Spiritual Strength, he suddenly felt a tug on his clothes. Turning his gaze, he looked toward the one pulling him.
"What's the matter, Zi Yan?"
A faint smile curved his lips. He had already guessed it was her—no one else in the mercenary or medicinal gathering group would call him so casually.
"Bring your head closer, Xiao Hua. I have something to tell you."
Zi Yan's eyes sparkled with excitement as she gestured for him to lean in.
Obliging her request, Xiao Hua lowered his head. The moment he did, Zi Yan whispered softly into his ear, her voice brimming with joy.
"Xiao Hua, there's something extremely valuable nearby."
Hearing this, Xiao Hua's eyes narrowed slightly, a knowing smile forming on his lips. He hoped that what Zi Yan sensed was the hidden cave, rather than some other treasure. He clearly remembered that the cave contained numerous rare medicinal ingredients, including the Ice Spirit Blazing Grass—a treasure that could very well be what Zi Yan had instinctively detected.
Regardless, he trusted Zi Yan's instincts when it came to natural treasures. If she had sensed something, then whatever lay ahead was undoubtedly extraordinary.
Without hesitation, he nodded. "Lead the way."
However, before departing, Xiao Hua made his way to the Little Fairy Doctor, informing her of his temporary absence.
After informing her, Xiao Hua and Zi Yan quietly left the group, making their way toward a densely forested area nearby. Without stopping, they continued deeper into the thicket, their surroundings growing more secluded with each step.
After covering some distance, they finally emerged from the dense foliage, arriving at the edge of a steep cliff. Below, a vast expanse of lush greenery stretched out, forming a breathtaking scene of untouched nature.
Stepping closer to the cliff's edge, their eyes fell upon a cluster of delicate white flowers, their petals swaying gently in the breeze. Hidden within the bloom was a crimson fruit, discreetly nestled among the leaves, releasing a faint yet distinct medicinal fragrance.
Zi Yan, however, had her sights set elsewhere. She pointed toward the cliff wall, drawing Xiao Hua's attention. The rock face was rugged and uneven, with scattered bones, strange, twisted branches, and broken stones protruding at odd angles. Yet, the exact spot she indicated was concealed by distorted wooden branches, unnaturally curled around it.
Unlike the original storyline, where the Little Fairy Doctor had already discovered this cave, there were no thick camouflaging vines blocking its entrance. Because of this, they were able to spot the cave immediately.
Just as Xiao Hua confirmed their discovery, he sighed helplessly, a faint smile tugging at his lips. Without turning, he shifted his attention as a familiar presence was caught in his keen perception behind them since the very beginning.
"Didn't I tell you not to worry about us? Why are you following us?"
At his words, a nearby bush rustled, and a slender, delicate figure hesitantly stepped forward from the dense underbrush.
It was Little Fairy Doctor. Her steps were slightly awkward, her expression tinged with embarrassment at being caught.
"I was just… curious about why you left," she mumbled, clearly uncomfortable under his knowing gaze.
Little Fairy Doctor hadn't seen where Zi Yan was pointing, as Xiao Hua had deliberately positioned himself behind her, subtly blocking her view.
Shaking his head with a helpless smile, Xiao Hua turned to Zi Yan, his lips curling into a mysterious smile as he asked, "Is that the place you sensed?"
"It is." Zi Yan immediately understood the meaning behind his expression and nodded. Her gaze flickered subtly toward the dense forest behind them before shifting back to Xiao Hua.
"So, what's your plan?"
At first glance, her question seemed ordinary, but there was an underlying meaning—one meant solely for Xiao Hua and not the other two present.
He pondered for a moment before responding with a calm smile, "There's no need to rush. We've already been away for quite some time. If we don't return soon, the Young Master of the Wolf Head Mercenary Group might grow suspicious. Since the medicinal herb-picking team will be staying in the Magic Beast Mountain Range overnight, why not come back under the cover of darkness?"
Naturally, Xiao Hua understood the hidden implication in Zi Yan's words, and his answer carried its own veiled message.
Zi Yan raised an eyebrow slightly before flashing a playful yet knowing smile. While her expression appeared innocent, Xiao Hua could sense a faint chill beneath it—an unspoken understanding passing between them. Clearly, she had caught on to the subtle meaning behind his words.
"Um... Forgive me for asking, but what's down there?" Zi Yan tilted her head, curiosity gleaming in her eyes as she glanced toward the cliffside.
"It's a cave," Xiao Hua replied with a faint smile, making no effort to hide the truth. "A hidden cave filled with natural treasures. Judging by the variety scent of the medicine smells, it's likely that an expert left something behind here."
Little Fairy Doctor's eyes widened in shock. She hadn't expected them to stumble upon a cave brimming with valuable treasures. "How do you know that? Do you have a special method to find hidden caves or treasures?"
"Hehe! I was the one who discovered it!" Zi Yan laughed playfully, puffing out her chest with pride. With her childish demeanor, she looked like a little girl basking in the joy of being praised.
Xiao Hua merely shook his head before stepping closer to Little Fairy Doctor. Leaning in, he whispered something into her ear. At first, she blushed slightly as this is the first time he had ever come closer to her like this, but as she processed his words, her expression shifted to shock. A moment later, she nodded resolutely.
"Since we discovered this cave—well, technically, Zi Yan did—and since you're doing me a favor, that makes you an accomplice. So, I'll share some of the treasures with you. Besides, I doubt I'll need everything inside."
"Are you sure? I didn't really do much…" she asked hesitantly.
Xiao Hua smiled. "Don't worry about it, Little Fairy Doctor. I can also teach you even more about medicinal herbs once we're inside the cave."
With that, he shifted his gaze toward the barely visible cave entrance. However, his focus remained on the dense forest nearby, where he knew another figure had been stealthily tailing them from the start.
Allowing the figure ample time to retreat, Xiao Hua finally turned away and left. Zi Yan and the Little Fairy Doctor followed closely behind as they made their way back to the medicine-gathering group.