"Oh? I didn't expect even the First Elder of the Small Pill Tower to make an appearance at the event that my little brother cause…"
Wei Jie's tone was polite and composed, a light chuckle accompanying his words as his gaze settled on the First Elder.
"Ke ke. That young man has certainly been making quite a few waves. Moreover, he holds the title of Mansion Master of your Moonlit Chaos Mansion, and is sworn brother and sister with both you and Mei Ling. How could I possibly miss the chance to witness your little brother's abilities firsthand?" The First Elder chuckled, a warm smile on his face.
Wei Jie let out a soft chuckle before turning his gaze toward Tang Zhen and Ancestor Huo Yun. He cupped his hands politely and said with a smile, "I must apologize for allowing my younger brother to act so freely within Burning Flame Valley, Valley Chief Tang, Ancestor Huo Yun."
"Ke ke, there is no need for such formality, Master Wei. He acts for our benefit," Tang Zhen replied with a warm smile, his tone filled with respect.
"Aye. Since he is refining this pill on this old man's behalf, how could we possibly object? We merely let Mansion Master Xiao do as he pleases," Ancestor Huo Yun added with a nod and a faint smile. Even his tone carried a rare hint of reverence.
Though they still held some uncertainty toward Xiao Hua, the fact remained—both Wei Jie and Mei Ling were acknowledged Tier 9 Treasure Alchemists. With such ties and talent, even Ancestor Huo Yun had no choice but to treat them with due respect, regardless of their tempers or unrestrained dispositions.
Moreover, their presences did not escape Ancestor Huo Yun's notice. His eyes briefly met those of the First Elder from the Small Pill Tower, and in that fleeting exchange, a trace of shock and disbelief flickered within them—both had noticed something extraordinary about the pair.
Through their sharp perception, Ancestor Huo Yun and the First Elder could clearly sense it—the aura emanating from Wei Jie and Mei Ling had changed. The two had broken through and stepped into the realm of Ban Sheng. Compared to any other revelation thus far, this discovery was by far the most staggering.
Yet, there was more.
Though their auras indicated only an initial Ban Sheng level, both of them exuded strength slightly dangerous towards Dou Sheng elites like themselves. This contradiction was not only bewildering, but deeply unsettling.
'How could this be possible? Weren't they merely at 5-Star Dou Zun just a few months ago…?'
Questions surged in their hearts as they looked at Wei Jie and Mei Ling. Their outward expressions remained composed, but inwardly, solemnity settled in like a shadow. A sense of unease crept in as they realized—there were secrets behind these two that even they could not grasp.
"Hmph. Ancestor Huo Yun and Valley Chief Tang are far too lenient with him," Mei Ling snorted coldly, her arms crossing over her chest as a trace of irritation surfaced on her face. "That little brat hasn't even returned home to greet the disciples of the Moonlit Chaos Mansion as Mansion Master, yet he dares to stir up such a grand commotion in someone else's territory. Clearly, this lady needs to teach him a lesson in manners."
Her words brought helpless smiles to those within the group. Yet, no one dared to speak against her—after all, there was truth in what she said.
Mei Ling let out a deep sigh, clearly still displeased. Then, lifting her gaze to the space behind Tang Zhen and Ancestor Huo Yun, her eyes narrowed slightly. "So, how long do you plan to hide, Hua'er?"
Outside of the Moonlit Chaos Mansion's members, the others were visibly startled. None of them had sensed anything unusual. But the moment her words fell, the space behind Tang Zhen and Ancestor Huo Yun rippled, and a figure silently stepped out from the distortion.
"Ha ha, Sister Mei Ling's temper is still as terrifying as ever…" Xiao Hua's voice was light as he stepped forward, amusement glinting in his eyes.
"Hmph. If you think my temper is frightening, wait until you return. Sister Xin Yu has been waiting to have a proper word with you," Mei Ling replied coldly, a faint smile curling her lips. Her smile, though beautiful, carried a chill and sharpness that made many instinctively shiver—it was the kind of smile that promised trouble, especially for the one it was directed at.
"Ha… ha…" Xiao Hua laughed awkwardly, cold sweat trickling down his back as a flicker of horror flashed deep in his eyes. Clearly, just imagining Xin Yu's wrath was enough to terrify him.
He shook his head with a helpless sigh, a bitter smile tugging at his lips. He knew full well that his actions had thoroughly angered his sisters. And for that, he had no excuse—nor did he dare to refute them, let alone flee from their fury.
A moment later, he lifted his gaze toward the group from the Moonlit Chaos Mansion. Within the crowd, his eyes quietly found the two figures that stirred the deepest waves in his heart.
One wore flowing green robes, her ethereal aura making her seem like a fairy who had descended to the mortal world. The other, dressed in elegant purple, radiated beauty so peerless it felt as if a flower from the celestial realm had taken human form.
On their delicate, snow-white oval faces bloomed gentle smiles, softening even further the moment their eyes met Xiao Hua's, a warmth flickered between them that needed no words.
The bitter smile on his face softened into something tender. His eyes grew warm, affectionate. In the blink of an eye, he vanished from where he stood and reappeared before the two women.
Before anyone could react, he reached out and gently took hold of their soft, jade-like arms. Without hesitation, he pulled them into a tight embrace, holding both women firmly in his arms, as if trying to make up for all the distance he had put between them.
He paid no mind to the many stunned gazes around them—at that moment, the world could wait.
Held tightly in Xiao Hua's arms, the two women could hear the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. His scent—warm, familiar, and comforting—washed over them like a long-awaited breeze after a prolonged storm.
After a moment of silence, Xiao Hua lowered his head slightly, his voice low and tinged with guilt.
"I'm sorry… for making the two of you worry, Xun'er, Xian'er," he murmured, his embrace tightening slightly. His fingers gently brushed along their delicate arms, his voice softening further with warmth and intimacy.
A gentle arc formed on the lips of both Xun Er and the Little Fairy Doctor. As his warmth enveloped them, they quietly leaned their faces against his shoulders, their expressions serene. For Xun Er, it was a reunion after far too long. For the Little Fairy Doctor, it was a comfort she had missed in recent days. Without hesitation, both of them nestled closer, almost greedily taking in the familiar presence they had yearned for.
"Please don't be reckless again, Xiao Hua… I don't want to be left behind and living without you."
"When I heard about your near-death state from Sister Fairy Doctor… I was truly worried about you, Xiao Hua ge-ge…"
Little Fairy Doctor and Xun Er lifted their heads and whispered softly into Xiao Hua's ears, their voices trembling slightly with emotion, tinged with a hint of tears.
Xiao Hua responded with an apologetic smile, his arms tightening gently around them in a silent vow of reassurance.
"I say… are the three of you planning to pretend we don't exist?" A helpless voice suddenly broke the tender atmosphere. A green-robed young man nearby couldn't help but speak up as he watched Xiao Hua, Xun Er, and Little Fairy Doctor share their quiet reunion.
Hearing his words, both Xun Er and Little Fairy Doctor flushed slightly, their faces tinged with crimson. Embarrassed, yet composed, they gracefully slipped out from Xiao Hua's embrace with subtle poise.
"Ahem! Brother Xiao Hua, let me introduce them. This is Elder Gu Nanhai and my older cousin, Gu Qing Yang. They've been accompanying and protecting me ever since I left for the Moonlit Chaos Mansion around a month ago."
Xun Er lightly cleared her throat, regaining her composure before gesturing toward the blue-robed elder and the green-clothed young man behind her. Both hailed from the Gu Clan and had served as her guardians during her journey through the outside world.
"He was also the one who stopped Hun Mie Sheng from pursuing you through the spatial rift," she added with a sweet smile.
"I see," Xiao Hua nodded slightly, his eyes turning to Gu Nanhai. "It was thanks to Elder Gu Nanhai's timely intervention that the Chief of the Hall of Souls was unable to continue his pursuit. I am sincerely grateful."
"Ke ke, it was but a small matter," Gu Nanhai chuckled warmly. "Besides, this old one ultimately failed to fulfill Young Lady's wish to rescue you completely, so I cannot claim the mission a success."
In the beginning, many elders of the Gu Clan were openly hostile toward Xiao Hua, especially after Xun Er's bloodline was revealed to have reached the Divine Grade at an early stage. That alone caused a great disturbance within the clan, as many believed her Dou Di bloodline should remain pure—ideally through marriage with another clan member.
However, everything began to change when Xiao Hua successfully refined a Tier 9 Treasure Pill—an extraordinary pill that, astonishingly, could even purify and enhance Dou Di bloodlines.
This news was personally verified by Gu Shan, who had witnessed the refinement process with his own eyes. Even the pill itself was examined and confirmed by the Gu Clan's top alchemists, who could not deny its authenticity or its effects.
Then came the even more shocking report brought back by Gu Nanhai himself—Xiao Hua had defeated an elite Dou Sheng from the Hall of Souls and even managed to seal another one's strength.
Although many elders responded that he has relied on some extraordinary trick or external means to accomplish such feats, none could deny the impact of his achievements. His strength had already far surpassed the younger generation of the Gu Clan.
It was precisely these two reasons that caused most of the clan's elders to adopt a wait-and-see attitude. With such accomplishments at such a young age, it was not impossible that he might one day step into the Dou Sheng realm himself.
Thus, many chose to stand back, silently observing the storm he might one day become.
'This young man has stirred more than enough waves for my Gu Clan…' Gu Nanhai thought with a faint smile, recalling the turmoil caused by a single youth.
"Ke ke… Young Master truly is extraordinary," he murmured respectfully, withdrawing his gaze and stroking his white beard with an amused air.
Xiao Hua simply smiled in return. He was well aware Gu Nanhai had been probing him, yet he had only revealed his five merged flames—drawn from the Primordial Heavenly Flames and Heavenly Lightnings.
Beyond that, he offered no further insight. Even if his strength was far below that of the blue-robed elder, discerning anything beyond what he chose to show would be difficult.
Gu Nanhai had noticed this subtle reserve, which explained his words. In all his years, he had never encountered such an inscrutable youth. Better he seeks friendship than harbor enmity.
Afterward, Gu Nanhai allowed the younger generation to converse among themselves, while he stepped past them and began speaking with Ancestor Huo Yun and the First Elder of the Small Pill Tower.
The two elders were clearly startled upon learning the true identity of the three individuals brought by Wei Jie and Mei Ling. Still, it confirmed the rumor they had only half-believed: that the Moonlit Chaos Mansion had formed a close connection with the Gu Clan.
Though whispers of such ties had circulated, none of them had imagined that the root of this relationship was the romantic bond between Xiao Hua and the Gu Clan's most treasured young lady.
Meanwhile, Wei Jie approached Xuan Kong Zi and Tang Zhen, greeting them with a polite smile and speaking in a respectful tone.
"I truly never expected that the heart of our clan's most proud flower had already been stolen," Gu Qing Yang chuckled, speaking to Xiao Hua in a friendly tone.
"Ke ke… I count myself fortunate to have won her heart, Brother Qing Yang," Xiao Hua replied with a warm smile. "But now comes the slightly difficult part—proving that I'm worthy of her."
"Slightly, huh…" Gu Qing Yang's eyes narrowed slightly, his gaze sweeping across Xiao Hua's calm face that bore a confident smile. He chuckled faintly and said, "If those other suitors infatuated with Xun Er heard that, they might already be fuming with fury."
"Then I'll have to trouble Brother Gu Qing Yang to keep it a secret from them," Xiao Hua replied with a light laugh. His impression of Gu Qing Yang was indeed favorable—an amiable and easygoing person, which left a strong first impression.
At that moment, Mei Ling gently asked with a smile, "So, when do you plan to refine the pill?"
Though her tone was light and casual, her words reached everyone's ears clearly. The group fell into a brief silence, each person turning their attention toward Xiao Hua, equally curious.
"We may begin whenever it is convenient," Xiao Hua replied with a faint smile. He then turned toward Ancestor Huo Yun and Tang Zhen and added, "I shall await the signal from the Valley Chief and Ancestor Huo."
"Haha, in that case, we may begin at once. Everything has been prepared. Mansion Master Xiao, everyone—please follow me to the designated location," Ancestor Huo Yun said with a hearty laugh, his expression calm and welcoming.
Everyone nodded in response and followed Ancestor Huo Yun toward the area that Burning Flame Valley had specially arranged for this occasion.
…
The vast valley was blanketed in lush greenery, exuding vitality and serenity. Scattered among the verdant trees were fire-red maple trees that burned like embers amidst jade, adding a soothing yet vibrant touch to the scenery.
At the heart of the valley stood a broad square, paved with crimson mountain rock that gleamed faintly under the sunlight. At the center of the square rose a stone stage over a hundred feet high, commanding attention. Surrounding it were numerous figures in red robes—disciples of the Burning Flame Valley, their presence orderly and disciplined.
On the far side of the square stood a tall platform. Though its height did not match the central stage, it offered an excellent vantage point that overlooked the entire area. Many figures stood atop it with their hands clasped behind their backs.
These individuals were none other than renowned alchemist grandmasters who had come upon hearing the news, eager to witness the spectacle firsthand.
However, their opinions were clearly divided. Some believed the rumors with cautious optimism, others sneered in disdain and treated the claims as nothing more than baseless exaggeration, while the remainder merely wished to observe, curious to see the truth with their own eyes.
Suddenly, a swift gust of wind swept through the square, interrupting the low hum of conversation. In the next moment, four figures descended gracefully onto the stone stage.
Their identities quickly became clear—Tang Zhen, the Valley Chief of Burning Flame Valley; Tang Huo Er; Xiao Hua; and the representatives from the Pill Tower and Moonlit Chaos Mansion.
The appearance of this lineup caused many to suck in a breath of cold air. With such strength and status gathered in one place, even the proudest alchemists found themselves unconsciously restraining their arrogance.
When they recognized Xuan Kong Zi among them, those who had mocked the earlier rumors could no longer maintain their disdain. Doubts began to waver in their hearts, and some started to think—perhaps Mansion Master Xiao's claims… were not as far-fetched as they had believed.
Ancestor Huo Yun exchanged glances with the others before giving a slight nod. He stepped forward, cleared his throat, and let his old yet powerful voice ring out across the valley, "Everyone, thank you for gathering here today. This is a rare event in our Burning Flame Valley, and I ask that all present conduct themselves with decorum. Please refrain from any disturbance during the pill refinement."
The square instantly fell into silence. No one uttered a word. In truth, ever since Ancestor Huo Yun and the others had appeared, none among them dared to make the slightest noise, afraid that even a whisper might interfere with the refinement of the medicinal pill.
Ancestor Huo Yun's gaze swept slowly over the quiet crowd, and he gave a satisfied nod. Then, turning to Xiao Hua, he smiled and said warmly, "Mansion Master Xiao, if you would."
Xiao Hua responded with a faint smile and gave a calm nod.
He took a step forward, and his figure blurred—vanishing like mist in the morning light. In the blink of an eye, he reappeared at the center of the square, standing with a composed smile, his bearing calm and unshaken.
The moment he appeared, all eyes from the viewing platform turned toward him. Curious gazes filled with probing intent swept over his figure. After all, the name "Xiao Hua" had already stirred no small number of waves in the Central Plains—especially after his deeds against the Hall of Souls became known.
Just as all attention converged on Xiao Hua, a cold yet sweet voice rang out across the square.
"If you fail to refine the Tier 9 Treasure Pill, you'll be handling all of Moonlit Chaos Mansion's management affairs for the next ten years!"
Mei Ling's beautiful eyes narrowed with menace as her words struck like thunder, causing the crowd to stir slightly in amusement and surprise.
Xiao Hua froze for a moment, unsure whether to laugh or cry. He muttered with a helpless smile, "What a terrifying punishment…"
Though he had managed numerous responsibilities during his time with the Chaos Gate, even he had to admit—he didn't like administrative tasks. Whenever possible, he would shamelessly pass those duties to his beloved sworn elder sisters—who, for some reason, never seemed to mind.
"Then… everyone, I shall begin the pill refinement."
Xiao Hua lightly shook his head, calming his thoughts before stepping forward. With a gentle wave of his sleeve, his clear voice echoed across the square.
Whoosh—!
Five distinct flames suddenly ignited before him, each radiating a terrifying heat. In the blink of an eye, the temperature of the entire square soared, causing even seasoned alchemists to unconsciously narrow their eyes.
Bang!
The five flames swelled violently upon emerging, then surged together in a fierce whirl. In an instant, they converged above Xiao Hua's head, churning into a majestic cloud of five-colored fire. It flickered like a celestial blaze, roiling with profound energy and pressure.
Before the crowd could recover from their astonishment, the fiery cloud condensed rapidly, transforming into a five-colored cauldron entirely formed from flame. It hovered in the air, boasting both elegance and majestic appearance.
"What… what is he trying to do?"
"Just what sort of pill refinement method is this?"
Confused murmurs broke out among the crowd. The gathered alchemist grandmasters frowned deeply, their expressions puzzled and solemn. It was clear—none of them had ever witnessed such a technique before.
While many remained confused, a few among the more seasoned alchemists on the viewing platform narrowed their eyes. Their expressions turned serious—especially those of Xuan Kong Zi and the First Elder of the Small Pill Tower.
Unlike the ordinary alchemist grandmasters whispering in uncertainty, their insight far surpassed the rest.
"He's using Heavenly Flames… to forge a medicinal cauldron?" the First Elder muttered, his expression calm but solemn.
Xuan Kong Zi nodded faintly, his voice low and grave. "To wield Heavenly Flames with such precision… Mansion Master Xiao's control is truly extraordinary. However… forming a cauldron entirely from flame—does he not fear losing control mid-refinement?"
As the two of them spoke, their eyes naturally drifted toward Wei Jie and Mei Ling, who stood quietly nearby.
Yet, neither responded. They simply smiled faintly. From their expressions, it was clear—they held unwavering trust in Xiao Hua, as if there was never a shred of doubt in their hearts.
Seeing this, the two elders exchanged a glance, before returning their focus to the stage.
What happened next, however, caused even them to stiffen in surprise—Wei Jie and Mei Ling included.
With another wave of his sleeve, five more flames burst forth into the air. Just like before, they surged upward, merged, and condensed—forming yet another five-colored medicinal cauldron entirely out of flame.
"Is little brother… planning to refine two Tier 9 Treasure Pills simultaneously?!"
Wei Jie's voice rang out in disbelief, shaking the hearts of all present. A collective wave of shock surged through the square. No one had imagined that Xiao Hua would dare attempt something so utterly insane.
Judging from Wei Jie's stunned outburst and Mei Ling's sharp gasp, it was clear—they too had not been informed of this beforehand.
Yet Xiao Hua remained silent. He offered no explanation, nor did he glance at anyone else. His gaze was calm, his focus like a sharpened blade honed through countless trials. With a faint smile, carrying unshakable confidence and trust in his own mastery, he moved with graceful precision—beginning the refinement beneath countless stunned and breathless gazes.
At that moment, the true pill refinement had begun.
Even if others had once mocked or doubted him… once this process was complete, none would dare to utter a word of ridicule again.
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