Xiao Feng lay in the quiet of his room, staring at the ceiling, turning the day's strange discovery over in his mind. His cultivation speed had picked up noticeably — Dou Qi seemed to flow into him faster than before, and there was a vitality humming through his body that even he could sense now.
It wasn't subtle anymore. Even the people around him had reacted to it, drifting closer to him without quite realizing why, and Zi Yan had been unusually clingy all evening, practically draping herself over his back at dinner.
He knew his body's constitution was unique — the Beast Venerable had told him as much, that strange pull of goodwill and affinity he seemed to hold over magical beasts. But this felt like something more. Some deeper change he couldn't name yet.
He turned the thought over a few more times, searching for an answer that wouldn't come, and eventually let it go with a tired shake of his head. Whatever it was, it could wait until morning.
After dinner, he'd said his goodnights to the others and retreated to his room, weary down to his bones. He collapsed onto his bed without bothering to change, and within moments felt his eyes growing heavy, sleep pulling him under.
Then — softness. Warmth. A faint, sweet fragrance drifting over him, and the unmistakable feeling of weight settling against his body from more than one direction.
His eyes snapped open.
Xiao Feng blinked in the dim light, his heart still racing from the sudden weight and warmth pressed against him. Three familiar silhouettes came into focus — and he let out a breath that was half sigh, half laugh.
"You three... how did you even get in without me hearing?"
Xiao Yi Xian was the first to answer, though not with words. She simply leaned down, cupping his face with one hand, and pressed her lips to his — slow, unhurried, the kind of kiss that felt like coming home. When she finally pulled back, her eyes were soft. "You looked like you needed rest. We thought we'd bring some company along with it."
"That's a terrible excuse and you know it," Xiao Feng said, though he made no move to push her away.
Beside her, Zi Yan was already pouting, tugging at his sleeve with the impatience of someone who refused to be left out of anything.
"Sister always goes first," she complained, and before he could respond she'd popped up on her knees and planted a quick, insistent kiss on his cheek, then another closer to the corner of his mouth, giggling at her own boldness. "There. Now it's my turn to be first next time."
"You're impossible," he said, ruffling her hair, which only made her grin wider.
Qiao Lin hadn't said a word yet. She didn't need to. She simply moved with the same quiet confidence she carried into everything else, tilting his chin toward her with two fingers and kissing him firmly — not asking permission so much as informing him that this was happening. When she drew back, there was a satisfied glint in her eyes. "Good. Now that's settled."
Xiao Feng found himself laughing despite everything — the exhaustion, the strange new sensations still humming faintly beneath his skin, the unanswered questions about his own body. For a moment none of that mattered.
He was just here, surrounded by the three of them, in a room too small for that many feelings and somehow exactly the right size anyway.
"I don't think I'm getting any sleep tonight," he murmured.
"You will," Yi Xian said, settling against his side and pulling the blanket over the both of them like it was the most natural thing in the world. "Eventually."
Zi Yan curled up on his other side, already half-drowsy despite her earlier energy, while Qiao Lin simply draped an arm across him as if staking a quiet claim. The candlelight flickered low, and the room settled into a comfortable hush — three heartbeats syncing with his, the questions about his changing cultivation drifting to some distant corner of his mind, forgotten for now.
As the first rays of the morning sun illuminated the horizon, Xiao Feng slowly opened his eyes.
For a moment, he simply lay there, quietly enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
It had been a long time since he had been able to witness the sunrise without worrying about cultivation, alchemy, or the countless responsibilities resting upon his shoulders.
Thinking of this, he carefully sat up on the bed.
His movements were extremely gentle, afraid of disturbing the three sleeping beauties beside him.
Xiao Yi Xian slept peacefully with a gentle smile on her face, as graceful as ever.
Zi Yan had somehow wrapped herself around the blanket, sleeping without a care in the world, occasionally mumbling something about medicinal pills in her dreams.
On the other side, Xiao Qiao Lin maintained an elegant posture even while sleeping. Her expression remained calm and composed, though one of her hands still lightly rested on Xiao Feng's sleeve, as if afraid he would quietly leave without saying goodbye.
Seeing the three of them sleeping so soundly, Xiao Feng couldn't help but smile.
"I'll let them sleep a little longer..."
He slowly stood up and walked toward the window, intending to enjoy the morning scenery that he used to admire every day before life became so busy.
The cool morning breeze brushed across his face, carrying with it the fresh scent of dew and flowers blooming throughout the academy.
Just then...
Knock... Knock...
The sound at the door wasn't loud or urgent.
It was just enough for someone inside to notice.
Xiao Feng immediately recognized who it was.
"Come in."
The wooden door gently opened.
The person entering was none other than Qing Lin.
As always, she carried a neatly folded warm towel in one hand and a tray containing a pot of fragrant morning tea in the other.
Ever since Xiao Feng had insisted that she did not need to ask for permission every time she wished to visit, Qing Lin had developed the habit of bringing him hot tea every morning.
She believed it was the perfect way to begin the day.
However...
The moment she stepped inside the room, her footsteps paused ever so slightly.
Her beautiful emerald eyes swept across the room.
She naturally noticed Xiao Yi Xian, Zi Yan, and Xiao Qiao Lin still sleeping peacefully on the large bed.
For barely a second, surprise flashed across her face.
Then, just as quickly, her expression returned to normal.
Instead, a gentle smile appeared on her lips.
After all...
This wasn't the first time she had witnessed such a scene.
Everyone in Xiao Feng's close circle had become like family.
On several occasions, when everyone stayed up late discussing cultivation or celebrating together, they had simply fallen asleep in the same room.
Even Qing Lin herself had stayed there a few times.
To her, there was nothing strange about it anymore.
Quietly placing the tea on the table, she dipped the towel into warm water before wringing it carefully.
"Big Brother Xiao Feng."
"Good morning."
Her voice was as gentle as always.
Xiao Feng accepted the towel with a smile.
"Good morning, Qing Lin."
"You came as early as ever."
She smiled softly.
"I know Big Brother Xiao Feng likes watching the sunrise."
"I didn't want your tea to become cold."
Hearing those thoughtful words, Xiao Feng felt warmth rise within his heart.
"You really think of everything."
Qing Lin lowered her head modestly.
"It is only something I can do for Big Brother Xiao Feng."
As Xiao Feng looked at her gentle smile, an inexplicable feeling suddenly surfaced within his heart.
For some reason...
He felt as though he had neglected Qing Lin recently.
She had never complained.
Never asked for anything.
She simply continued taking care of him quietly every single day.
Yet because of that...
He somehow felt guilty.
It wasn't because Qing Lin had shown any dissatisfaction.
On the contrary, her smile was exactly the same as always.
Perhaps...
That was precisely why he felt this way.
Looking at the young girl who had silently stood beside him through everything, Xiao Feng couldn't help but ask,
"Qing Lin..."
"Have I been neglecting you lately?"
She blinked in surprise before gently shaking her head.
"No."
"Big Brother Xiao Feng has been working harder than anyone."
"I know you're doing all of this for everyone."
She smiled warmly.
"So..."
"You don't need to feel guilty."
"I'm already very happy just being able to help Big Brother Xiao Feng every morning."
Her simple words left Xiao Feng speechless.
Sometimes...
The people who asked for the least were the ones who deserved appreciation the most.
Smiling gently, Xiao Feng reached out and lightly patted her head.
"Thank you."
"I'll make more time for everyone from now on."
Qing Lin's smile brightened instantly.
"I'll be looking forward to it, Big Brother Xiao Feng."
The peaceful morning continued quietly as the aroma of tea filled the room, while outside the first rays of sunlight bathed the entire Inner Academy in a golden glow, marking the beginning of another eventful day.
After taking the warm towel from Qing Lin, Xiao Feng gently wiped his face before taking a slow sip of the fragrant morning tea.
A refreshing warmth spread throughout his body, washing away the last traces of sleepiness.
"As expected..."
"Your tea is still the best, Qing Lin."
Hearing his praise, Qing Lin's emerald-green eyes curved into beautiful crescents.
"I'm glad Big Brother Xiao Feng likes it."
After finishing the tea, Xiao Feng suddenly stepped closer to her.
"Hmm?"
Before Qing Lin could react, Xiao Feng reached out with both hands and gently pinched her soft cheeks.
Her cheeks puffed out like a little puffer fish.
"Mmm..."
"Big Brother Xiao Feng..."
He couldn't help but laugh.
"No matter how many times I do this..."
"It's still fun."
Saying that, he gently rubbed her cheeks before patting her head affectionately, even lightly scratching behind her ear like he was teasing a cute little kitten.
Qing Lin didn't resist in the slightest.
Instead, she closed her eyes slightly and enjoyed the affectionate gestures with a bright smile.
She had always loved these little moments.
To her, they were worth more than any treasure in the world.
Seeing her innocent expression, Xiao Feng chuckled.
"You really are easy to satisfy."
"As long as Big Brother Xiao Feng is happy..."
"I'm happy too."
Xiao Feng smiled helplessly.
"You're spoiling me."
After chatting for a while longer, Xiao Feng gently woke the others.
"Time to wake up."
Xiao Yi Xian opened her eyes first before smiling softly.
"So it's morning already."
Zi Yan rolled over and buried herself deeper into the blanket.
"Five more minutes..."
Xiao Qiao Lin gracefully sat up, already looking completely awake.
"It seems I'm the first one ready."
After everyone freshened up and enjoyed a simple breakfast together, they headed toward the Fire Team's meeting courtyard.
By the time Xiao Feng arrived, everyone had already gathered.
Lin Xiuya.
Han Yue.
Bai Cheng.
Jian Yun.
Liu Fei.
Along with Xiao Yi Xian, Qing Lin, Zi Yan, and Xiao Qiao Lin.
After everyone settled into their seats, Xiao Feng slowly stood up.
"I have something important to announce."
The courtyard immediately became quiet.
"I'll be leaving the Inner Academy today."
"I'll be returning to the Gamma Empire... to visit the Xiao Family."
Everyone listened attentively.
"It's already been over two and a half years since I left home."
"I don't know how everyone is doing."
"I also want to strengthen the Xiao Family's foundation before greater troubles begin appearing in the future."
He paused briefly before continuing.
"I'll travel together with Guardian Elder Bai Lie."
"After my matters there are settled, It will probably take there anywhere from one week to one month."
"Once everything is arranged..."
"I'll contact all of you."
Everyone nodded.
Then Xiao Feng turned toward Han Yue, Lin Xiuya, and Liu Fei.
"As for you three..."
"I have another mission."
The three immediately became serious.
"I want Elder Bai Lie to accompany each of you back to your respective families after our trip."
"His appearance alone will tell every surrounding faction one thing..."
"That your families have the support of a Dou Zun powerhouse."
The three couldn't help inhaling sharply.
A Dou Zun...
Such a figure was enough to intimidate countless factions.
Xiao Feng continued calmly.
"It isn't simply to protect your families."
"It's also to display the strength of Canaan Academy."
"Once the news spreads that one of the Academy's Guardian Elders personally visited your clans..."
"The Academy's prestige throughout the continent will rise even further."
Han Yue immediately understood his intentions.
"Our Han Family will benefit greatly."
"Tian Bei City has never truly been peaceful."
"The Hong Family has constantly fought us for leadership over the city."
"With Elder Bai Lie making an appearance..."
"They won't dare act recklessly for many years."
Xiao Feng nodded.
"Exactly."
Lin Xiuya smiled confidently.
"The Lin Family has very few enemies now."
"Thanks to the medicinal pills you've continuously supplied us over the past two years, our family's strength has increased tremendously."
Liu Fei also smiled.
"The same is true for my Liu Family."
"Still..."
"A visit from a Dou Zun powerhouse will eliminate countless unnecessary troubles."
Xiao Feng estimated for a moment.
"This entire matter should take around three months."
"Five months at most."
He then looked toward Xiao Yi Xian and Qing Lin.
"As for you two..."
"You'll remain at the Academy for now."
"The next shipment of medicinal herbs should arrive in approximately two months."
"I'll need those herbs for refining more high-grade medicinal pills."
Both girls nodded obediently.
"After that..."
"I want you to travel together with Han Yun and Liu Shan."
"With my help, both of them have already advanced to Two-Star Dou Zongs."
"They'll safely escort you to the Xiao Family."
Xiao Feng smiled gently.
"Once everyone arrives..."
"We'll remain at the Xiao Family for one or perhaps even two years."
Hearing this, everyone who originally had questions quietly swallowed them back.
Since Xiao Feng had already arranged everything in advance, there was nothing left to object to.
Just then...
Whoosh!
Like a bolt of lightning, Zi Yan suddenly rushed forward.
Before anyone could react, she threw herself at Xiao Feng and tightly wrapped her arms around him.
"I'm coming too!"
"You can't leave me behind!"
As she spoke, she continuously shook Xiao Feng by the shoulders.
"You promised!"
"You promised!"
Seeing the excited little dragon girl nearly shaking him apart, Xiao Feng laughed helplessly.
"Alright, alright..."
"I'm taking you with me."
"So stop shaking me before I get dizzy."
Hearing those words, Zi Yan immediately released him with a huge smile.
"Hehe!"
"I knew Big Brother Xiao Feng wouldn't leave me behind."
Everyone couldn't help laughing at her childlike excitement.
Meanwhile, Xiao Feng secretly smiled to himself.
'Having Zi Yan accompany me isn't a bad idea.'
'Her treasure-seeking ability is unmatched.'
'With her around, I might discover many hidden inheritances and treasures during this journey.'
His thoughts then drifted toward another destination.
'And when we reach the Tagor Desert...'
'Perhaps I can use Zi Yan's Magical Beast bloodline and natural affinity to establish a friendly relationship with Queen Medusa.'
'If everything goes smoothly...'
'I may gain one of the strongest allies in the Gamma Empire much earlier than originally planned.'
Thinking of the future, Xiao Feng's eyes gradually became filled with anticipation.
After the meeting was over, everyone returned to prepare for their own tasks.
Xiao Feng, however, walked alone toward the Library Pavilion.
When he arrived, he found Guardian Elder Bai Lie and Guardian Elder Qian Mu sitting outside, drinking tea.
Seeing Xiao Feng arrive, Bai Lie smiled.
"Little fellow, what brings you here?"
Xiao Feng smiled and cupped his fists.
"Elder Bai Lie, I have a small favor to ask."
Bai Lie laughed.
"Haha! Just say it."
"You've helped this old man become a Dou Zun. As long as I can do it, I won't refuse."
Xiao Feng nodded.
"Thank you, Elder."
"As you know, I'll be returning to the Gamma Empire."
"I'll probably stay there for one or two years."
"I have many things to do."
"I want to strengthen the Xiao Family, visit the Cloud Mist Sect, and also travel to the Tagor Desert."
"I've already explained these plans to my friends."
Bai Lie nodded.
"I remember."
Xiao Feng continued,
"My only worry is that something unexpected might happen while I'm in the Gamma Empire."
"There are still many hidden enemies."
"If a powerful person appears that my family cannot handle..."
"I hope Elder can help me."
"You don't need to interfere with small matters."
"But if the Xiao Family is in real danger, I hope Elder will lend a hand."
Hearing this, Bai Lie smiled warmly.
"So that's your favor?"
"I thought it would be something much more difficult."
He stood up and patted Xiao Feng's shoulder.
"Don't worry."
"As long as I'm in the Gamma Empire, no one will dare touch your Xiao Family."
"If any Dou Zong or stronger enemy appears..."
"I'll personally deal with them."
Guardian Elder Qian Mu also smiled.
"Little fellow, you've done so much for Canaan Academy."
"Helping you with such a small matter is only natural."
Xiao Feng let out a sigh of relief.
"Thank you, Elders."
"With your support, I can focus on my plans without worrying too much."
Bai Lie nodded.
"Just do what you need to do."
"You've already planned everything carefully."
"I believe you'll succeed."
Xiao Feng smiled.
"After I settle everything in the Gamma Empire, I'll return and pick everyone up."
"Then we'll head to the Central Plains together."
"Haha! Good!"
Bai Lie laughed loudly.
"By then, this old man also wants to see just how far you can go."
The three of them chatted for a while longer before Xiao Feng respectfully cupped his fists once again.
"I won't disturb the Elders any longer."
"I'll go prepare for tomorrow's journey."
Bai Lie waved his hand with a smile.
"Go."
"And don't worry."
"As long as this old man is alive, your Xiao Family will not face danger without my knowing."
Hearing those reassuring words, Xiao Feng finally felt completely at ease.
With a grateful smile, he left the Library Pavilion, ready to begin his long-awaited journey back to the Gamma Empire.