Chapter 315
Three days later, early in the morning, Xiao Yuan slowly opened his eyes, awakening from his meditative state.
In the past three days, following Yao Lao's guidance, he had used a brutal secret method similar to how magical beasts absorbed medicinal power, refining all his available herbs into medicinal liquid for absorption.
This method could only be utilized by someone like Xiao Yuan, a freak with five Qi Mansions and a physique comparable to a rank-seven magical beast.
If an ordinary person consumed such potent medicinal liquid, not only would the effects be poor, but their body would also collapse under the overpowering medicinal strength.
Xiao Yuan's five Qi Mansions naturally allowed him to directly absorb medicinal power. After Yao Lao's instruction, turning herbs into medicinal liquid improved absorption significantly, making it faster and more effective.
However, the process itself was excruciating. His muscles and meridians constantly suffered impacts from the violent energy, creating a sensation of tearing and swelling, akin to being bitten by thousands of ants.
Thinking about having to continue this method for a long time made Xiao Yuan shiver. He was somewhat apprehensive, but he knew he could—and must—endure.
After all, the results were indeed remarkable.
Xiao Yuan clenched his fists, sensing the clear advancement in his strength, and couldn't help but smile. He was confident that he could break through to a five-star Dou Zong within a month.
Stretching lazily, Xiao Yuan stepped outside and saw Yun Yun practicing swordsmanship in the courtyard.
Her slender cyan longsword gracefully drew sword-flowers in the air, producing small cyan whirlwinds. Wearing a blue-and-white form-fitting dress, her exquisite figure and mature, gentle temperament immediately captured Xiao Yuan's heated gaze.
Even though it wasn't his first time seeing Yun Yun, Xiao Yuan still felt captivated by her beauty.
The once dignified Sect Leader Yun had been bashful like a girl when Xiao Yuan first treated her wounds, gradually becoming the gentle, mature sister-like figure she was now. When he left for the Central Plains, she had accompanied him without hesitation. A few days ago, when he boldly embraced her legs, she had been the most indulgent, allowing his hands to roam freely. If not for the presence of the other three women, he might have devoured her entirely.
"Good morning, Sister Yun."
Xiao Yuan greeted with a smile.
Yun Yun, who had already noticed him, immediately turned her sword towards him, thrusting forward.
Xiao Yuan chuckled, using Dou Qi to form a sword, sidestepped her attack, and smoothly wrapped an arm around Yun Yun's waist, thrusting his sword alongside hers.
Their swords danced together in perfect harmony, producing clear, resonant sounds. Their figures gracefully moved across the courtyard, swords flashing beautifully in sync.
"You two are really enjoying yourselves."
Cai Lin's voice suddenly rang out. Yun Yun's cheeks flushed slightly, but she continued, clearly enjoying this intimate sword dance with Xiao Yuan.
"Heh, would you like to join, my Queen?"
Xiao Yuan was much thicker-skinned, openly inviting Cai Lin to join them.
"No thanks. I don't enjoy stealing others' pleasures. I'll just watch from here."
Cai Lin sat lazily on a stone chair, supporting her cheek with one hand, legs elegantly crossed, appearing charmingly indifferent.
"You all woke up so early?"
Tang Huo'er emerged from another room. Seeing Xiao Yuan and Yun Yun practicing, her eyes brightened, and she smiled teasingly, "Sister Yun has such a nice figure. And Xiao Yuan… well, at least you look like a human."
Cai Lin's lips twitched into a smile, clearly amused by Tang Huo'er's blunt comment.
Tang Huo'er was understandably resentful. Three days ago, when she first met her three "older sisters" and just confirmed her relationship with Xiao Yuan, he nearly dragged her into a group activity. Not content with merely caressing her legs, this pervert had even touched elsewhere, rubbing and kneading until she almost melted, only to suddenly vanish to cultivate.
She had tossed and turned all night, unable to sleep properly. Yet these past few days, Xiao Yuan had constantly been in cultivation, leaving her frustrated without a chance to settle scores.
"Hah, you didn't say that back at Burning Flame Valley," Xiao Yuan laughed nonchalantly.
"You dare say you touched me recklessly in Burning Flame Valley?!" Tang Huo'er's eyes widened, cheeks puffed in indignation.
"Why wouldn't I dare? You deliberately took off your boots to tempt me; how could I resist?"
Xiao Yuan stated matter-of-factly.
"I can't believe you're such a person! And to think my father believed you were a righteous young man!" Tang Huo'er huffed in exasperation, bringing up Tang Zhen in an attempt to curb Xiao Yuan's arrogance.
"You're mistaken. Uncle Tang is probably busy right now taking over Ice River Valley's territories and resources—something he owes entirely to me. As long as I don't mistreat you, he'll only praise me."
Xiao Yuan smiled smugly.
"Hmph!"
Tang Huo'er, not skilled at verbal sparring, could only sulk irritably.
"Hm? Someone else arrived in Leaf City?"
Suddenly, Xiao Yuan halted his sword dance, holding Yun Yun gently as he frowned, looking into the distant sky where faint wind-breaking sounds approached rapidly.
"Soul Hall?" Tang Huo'er asked eagerly. Having arrived too late for the previous battle, she was itching for some action today.
"No… it's someone from the Gu Clan," Xiao Yuan replied, shaking his head slightly.
Meanwhile, in another courtyard, Xiao Yan and Xun'er also had grim expressions.
"It must be the Black Submerged Army—I smell a Four-Winged Unicorn Beast," said one of the black-robed elders beside Xun'er, gazing toward the sky.
"They must have received orders from within the Gu Clan. Yesterday's battle was too large-scale," another white-haired elder said calmly.
"These people are truly relentless…"
Xun'er's expression darkened. It had only been three days, yet they were already here to take her back!
"There's nothing we can do. The Black Submerged Army reports directly to the Elder Council. Those old fools would rather you spend your whole life inside the Gu Realm," a black-robed elder scoffed disdainfully.
As they spoke, more than a dozen figures descended from the massive Four-Winged Unicorn Beast hovering above Leaf City, landing directly in Xun'er's courtyard.
"Commander Ling Quan of the Black Submerged Army greets Miss!"
A handsome man dressed in dark-purple robes greeted respectfully, his eyes flickering warmly upon seeing Xun'er.
Xun'er frowned slightly. "What brings you here?"
"Miss, the elders are worried you might encounter danger outside, so they've ordered me to escort you back immediately."
Ling Quan smiled politely, then glanced around, his gaze quickly settling coldly upon Xiao Yan.
"With us two protecting Miss, what harm could possibly come to her? Do you think your mere five-star Dou Zong strength—achieved through the clan's Emperor Altar—is sufficient protection?"
The white-haired elder spoke lightly, clearly holding greater status than Ling Quan.
"Elder Lin, please don't joke around. I'm simply following direct orders from the elders." Ling Quan maintained his respectful posture, unwilling to offend the senior elder.
Elder Lin ceased arguing, turning instead to Xun'er, awaiting her decision.
"Miss, the elders are extremely anxious. You've even clashed with Soul Hall on this trip. If they discover your identity, they could become desperate, causing chaos within our Gu Clan. The elders have ordered strictly that we must bring you back. Otherwise, we'll suffer severe punishment."
Ling Quan said solemnly, looking intently at Xun'er.
Xun'er frowned, knowing this would happen eventually. She glanced toward Xiao Yan's closed room and said softly, "Give me two more days."
Ling Quan's brows furrowed deeply. He then glanced toward Xiao Yan, his eyes turning cold as he sneered:
"Young Master Xiao Yan, it's been years since our last meeting at Jia Nan Academy. I wonder how far you've progressed?"
Hearing Ling Quan's subtle mockery, Xun'er's face turned icy.
"Haha, who do we have here? Isn't it Commander Ling Quan, the one my Third Brother effortlessly thrashed like a dog? Sorry for not greeting you properly. But after so many years of cultivation, reaching only five-star Dou Zong? I'm disappointed."
Xiao Yan mocked him calmly.
Ling Quan's smile vanished instantly, replaced by chilling fury. That coward hiding behind others now dared mock him openly—did Xiao Yan truly think having Xun'er protecting him meant he could act so arrogantly? Did he believe Xiao Yuan could protect him forever?
"I truly admire your persistence. What gives trash like you the courage to repeatedly flaunt your arrogance? Just because I didn't kill you last time, you think I fear the Gu Clan's elders?"
A vast aura erupted as Xiao Yuan appeared suddenly, standing protectively in front of Xiao Yan and Xun'er, his eyes coldly dismissive.
"I've told you before—I don't care about your clan's rules. Behind me are my siblings who grew up together with me. Whatever he wants to do is not up to trash like you, who can't even withstand a single blow from me. Yet here you are again—who gave you the audacity? Is your grandfather a Dou Sheng?"
Seeing Xiao Yuan appear, Ling Quan's eyes filled with terror. Back then, Xiao Yuan had nearly crippled him with just a single kick. If not for his status as a member of the Gu Clan, he'd have long since become a useless person.
Unexpectedly, this fellow was haunting him once again!
"Miss, the elders sternly instructed us to quickly bring you back to the Gu Realm without delay. Anyone who obstructs this order shall be killed without mercy!" Ling Quan, afraid to act arrogantly toward Xiao Yuan, cupped his fists respectfully toward Xun'er.
"Xiao Yan, go cripple him. No matter how far our Xiao Clan has fallen, we will not tolerate such humiliation from trash like this," Xiao Yuan calmly said, raising his chin slightly.
"Cripple me? With this trash?" Ling Quan sneered maliciously. He clenched his hand, causing lightning to gather rapidly, transforming into a silver lightning spear. Stomping his foot, he soared into the sky, pointing his spear at Xiao Yan and coldly mocking, "Let me see today what right you, the former trash of the Xiao Clan, have to be arrogant!"
Xiao Yan faintly smiled, cold killing intent flickering in his pitch-black eyes. He moved swiftly, instantly appearing in midair. With a wave of his hand, the Heavy Xuan Ruler materialized.
Chi!
As soon as Xiao Yan appeared, Ling Quan's eyes grew cold. He shook the spear vigorously, and dazzling lightning burst forth, transforming into a massive thunder dragon accompanied by deafening roars as it shot toward Xiao Yan!
Xiao Yan calmly watched the thunder spear hurtling toward him without the slightest intention to dodge. Azure flames surged along his ruler, which he swung downward with immense force.
Clang!
The Heavy Xuan Ruler, enveloped in azure flames, fiercely collided with the thunder dragon, sending sparks flying everywhere!
At the collision, both figures staggered back several steps. Ling Quan's expression slightly changed; he felt his palm go numb from the overwhelming force transmitted through the spear.
"You brat, your brute strength is considerable!" Ling Quan growled angrily. His body flickered, leaving an afterimage as he swiftly approached Xiao Yan again, launching a rapid, ruthless flurry of spear thrusts targeting Xiao Yan's vital points.
"Dance of Lightning Snakes!"
Chi! Chi! Chi!
Numerous spear afterimages filled the sky, yet Xiao Yan's figure seemed to become illusory. With subtle movements, he easily avoided Ling Quan's fierce attacks.
Seeing Xiao Yan's extraordinary agility, Ling Quan's eyes grew colder. He violently slapped the end of his spear, causing it to shoot forward like a bolt of lightning, tearing through space itself and leaving behind black spatial cracks.
Chi!
The spear moved incredibly fast, yet just before it could pierce Xiao Yan's chest, a fiery palm abruptly extended, firmly grasping the spear, instantly dispersing its momentum. With a squeeze, the spear shattered, dissolving into countless electric arcs that soon vanished beneath the flames.
"Flashy spear techniques without any real substance!" Xiao Yan sneered coldly after effortlessly destroying Ling Quan's spear. The spear's speed was impressive, but under his spiritual perception, it posed no threat at all.
With his spear destroyed, Ling Quan's face finally revealed genuine shock. As he hastily retreated, his hands rapidly formed seals familiar to Xiao Yan— the Imperial Seal Technique!
"Heavenly Flame Three Mysterious Transformations—First Transformation!"
Xiao Yan chuckled coldly inwardly. Given his current strength, activating this technique was instantaneous. This first transformation had long since reached complete mastery.
As his shout echoed, Xiao Yan's aura surged dramatically, instantly matching Ling Quan's level. His figure flickered like silver lightning, reappearing ghost-like before Ling Quan, coldness filling his eyes.
"Mountain Splitting Seal!"
Xiao Yan's speed startled Ling Quan, who barely completed his seals, hurriedly thrusting his palm forward.
"Let me show you how this seal is done properly!"
As soon as Ling Quan's palm moved, Xiao Yan's fist slammed directly into the weakest point of his attack. Azure flames exploded violently!
Xiao Yan knew this Mountain Splitting Seal intimately, including its weaknesses. His punch was precisely aimed at the point where its strength was most dispersed.
Bang!
A fiery explosion erupted in the sky. Ling Quan's wrist emitted a faint cracking sound, cold sweat instantly flooding his forehead.
Despite his injury, Ling Quan reacted quickly, desperately retreating while trying to form another seal with his other hand. However, before he could complete it, Xiao Yan's flaming palm appeared from nowhere, firmly grasping his hand.
"Fancy spear techniques, slow sealing speed, and shallow Dou Qi... You're far below my expectations. Truly disappointing. I'll give you four words…"
Xiao Yan shook his head slowly, his gaze filled with mockery as he looked at the pale-faced Ling Quan.
"Completely. Utterly. Worthless."
His calm voice resonated clearly across the sky, gradually spreading outward.
In the courtyard, the dozen Black Submerged Army soldiers following Ling Quan were dumbfounded. They never imagined Ling Quan could lose so miserably. Throughout this lightning-fast confrontation, Xiao Yan had not once used a single Dou Technique!
In other words, relying solely on his Dou Qi, Xiao Yan effortlessly neutralized Ling Quan's attacks and captured him within mere exchanges. Such a display completely stunned them.
"Is he really the Xiao Clan trash Commander Ling Quan mentioned? Such strength would easily place him among the top ten of the younger generation within our Gu Clan!"
The soldiers exchanged astonished glances, deeply shocked by Xiao Yan's overwhelming power.
"This boy's battle experience vastly surpasses Ling Quan's, and his Dou Qi foundation is exceptionally solid. Ling Quan's strength was forcibly raised by the clan's Emperor Altar, but he lacks practical experience and proper refinement. His Dou Qi is indeed superficial compared to Xiao Yan's…" The two black-robed elders nodded approvingly at the battle above, clearly impressed. Xiao Yan's solid foundation and determination meant he would surely surpass Ling Quan in the long run.
"Ling Quan has brought disgrace upon himself this time," Xun'er remarked coldly, unsurprised by the quick battle. She knew Xiao Yan's true strength very well. Ling Quan was gifted and had received elite training within the Gu Clan, but lacked genuine life-and-death experience. Compared to Xiao Yan, their actual combat skills were worlds apart.
In the sky, Ling Quan's face turned deathly pale at Xiao Yan's humiliating evaluation. Trembling violently, his face suddenly flushed blood-red, his Dou Qi surging explosively within him!
Roar!
As Ling Quan's face turned scarlet, his aura exploded powerfully. Silver Dou Qi violently gathered in his palm, lightning crackling wildly. With a fierce shake, he slammed it toward Xiao Yan.
Bang!
This sudden change made Xiao Yan raise an eyebrow. His palm curved oddly, narrowly avoiding Ling Quan's counterattack. His other fist swiftly struck Ling Quan's chest!
Boom!
Lightning rapidly gathered on Ling Quan's chest, forming a small shield that blocked Xiao Yan's punch.
"You, mere Xiao Clan trash, dare evaluate me?"
Ling Quan's face twisted viciously, bloodshot eyes glaring fiercely at Xiao Yan.
"Secret technique?" Xiao Yan narrowed his eyes slightly, swiftly retreating.
"Blood Transformation Art? This fool is suicidal, using such a self-destructive technique!" The two elders frowned, turning to Xun'er, "Miss?"
"Leave him be," Xun'er coldly smiled, indifferent. "He's simply humiliating himself."
In the sky, blood-red lightning crackled around Ling Quan as he once again condensed a spear, eyes fiercely locked onto Xiao Yan.
Xiao Yan slightly frowned at Ling Quan's current imposing aura. This Gu Clan secret technique indeed raised his strength significantly, nearly reaching a seven-star Dou Zong.
"No matter how strong your secret technique is, without a solid foundation, it's meaningless. Even now, you haven't reached half my expectations."
Xiao Yan shook his head. He had overestimated Ling Quan. Despite being officially a five-star Dou Zong, Ling Quan's actual combat effectiveness barely matched a four-star Dou Zong. Without high-level Dou Techniques, even a robust three-star Dou Zong could challenge him evenly for hundreds of rounds.
Now, though Ling Quan's forced enhancement reached close to seven stars, to Xiao Yan—having used the Heavenly Flame Transformation—it still posed no threat.
"You're nothing! After I capture you, I'll fix that arrogant mouth of yours!" Ling Quan snarled ferociously, then vanished instantly.
Seeing Ling Quan disappear, Xiao Yan calmly shook his head and subtly moved half a step to the left.
Chi!
As he shifted, space rippled behind him, and Ling Quan's spear stabbed past Xiao Yan's shoulder harmlessly.
Instantly, azure flames erupted from Xiao Yan's palm, shattering the spear. He swiftly grabbed Ling Quan by the neck.
"You call this a secret technique?"
With a cold sneer, Xiao Yan hurled Ling Quan downward, smashing him violently through a courtyard wall, causing it to collapse into rubble.
Xiao Yan's expression remained cold as he descended, kicking fragments of stone deep into the rubble, eliciting miserable screams of pain.
(END CHAPTER)
Thank you for the support, friends. If you want to read more chapters in advance, go to my Patreon.
Read 30 Chapters In Advance: patreon.com/Albino1