Hearing Xiao Xun'er's warning, Yao Chen nodded slightly and promised solemnly:
"Little girl, you can rest assured. I am only planning for Xiao Ling's growth. I only hope that he can show his talents and make achievements on the path of cultivation as soon as possible."
"I will do my best to help Xiao Ling overcome numerous difficulties and obstacles and achieve extraordinary success. You know, Xiao Ling is a gifted child with unlimited potential. As long as he is guided properly, his future will be limitless."
"Besides, only if Xiao Ling can grow up faster and have strong enough strength, can he collect the rare materials needed to refine a new body for me, so as to help me resurrect as soon as possible."
"Although I am old, eighty or ninety years older than you, I am relatively young at the level of Dou Zun. I haven't lived enough. I still hope to be reborn, and maybe I can also glimpse the realm of a ninth-grade alchemist."
After saying this, Yao Chen's eyes revealed determination and expectation.
Seeing Yao Chen's earnest words, Xiao Xun'er's expression finally softened. She said,
"I hope you'll keep your word. I trust you. You're highly respected on the continent, and I'm sure you'll keep your word."
As Xiao Xun'er finished speaking, the golden flame in her hand slowly died down, its dazzling light gradually fading. The once powerful and shocking aura around her gradually receded like a tide, returning to a calm state.
At this moment, Xiao Xun'er seemed to have transformed from a lofty goddess back into a gentle and charming young woman.
Seeing Xiao Xun'er's expression soften, Yao Chen breathed a sigh of relief and said, "Don't worry, young lady. I will do my best and will not slack off for a moment. I will use what I have learned to guide Xiao Ling and help him avoid the many pitfalls on his way to cultivation. I have experienced many hardships and am well aware of the various difficulties and obstacles on the path of cultivation. I will definitely help Xiao Ling avoid detours."
Xiao Xun'er nodded slightly and said, "That's good. Senior Yao Chen, Brother Xiao Ling's future is entrusted to you. Although our ancient clan is powerful, we are also reasonable. If you sincerely help him, you will be richly rewarded in the future. I believe that with the heritage of the Ancient Clan, they will not let you down.
Hearing Xiao Xun'er's promise, Yao Chen stroked his beard and smiled, "Young lady, you're too kind. Now that I've agreed, I will spare no effort. Moreover, even without the support of this eldest daughter of the Ancient Clan, I will impart all my knowledge to
him, without reservation. I've been with Xiao Ling for a long time and truly love him, so I will do my best." As for whether the Ancient Clan would offer him any good things, Yao Chen didn't dwell on it for now.
He knew that the priority now was helping Xiao Ling grow; everything else
was a matter of later consideration. While he and Xiao Ling had initially been bound together by mutual interest, after spending over six months together, their relationship had greatly improved, transcending the simplest interests of the past.
Xiao Xun'er breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that Yao Chen had no ulterior motives in staying with Xiao Ling.
Yao Chen's abilities and insights are crucial to Xiao Ling's growth. As long as Yao Chen is wholeheartedly committed to Xiao Ling's well-being, he can provide immense assistance before Xiao Ling reaches maturity.
Without further ado, Xiao Xun'er bowed slightly to Yao Chen and turned to walk out the door.
Her graceful figure was like a fleeting cloud, graceful and unforgettable. Her skirt fluttered in the breeze, carrying with it an endless mystery and charm.
Yao Chen watched Xiao Xun'er's retreating back, thinking to himself,
"This eldest daughter of the ancient clan truly cares for Xiao Ling. I wonder what merits this young man has earned, the affection he deserves, the affection he deserves from such a beautiful woman."
"But Xiao Ling is truly unique. He values loyalty, loyalty, and is resolute and brave. Perhaps that's what attracted Xiao Xun'er to him."
Shaking his head, Yao Chen sighed softly, "Never mind. Why should an old man like me bother pondering the sensibilities of young people? I should focus on my cultivation. That's the right path."
After a brief pause, Yao Chen abandoned his thoughts. With a flash of his body, his ethereal soul, like a streak of light, swiftly penetrated the nearby Bone Flame Ring.
As the figures of the man and soul vanished, the vast chamber fell silent, as if silence had been pressed. Only the faint flickering candlelight seemed to reveal what had just transpired.
...
After exiting the secret room, Xiao Ling walked slowly along the quiet corridor with steady steps.
The walls on either side of the corridor were inlaid with softly glowing gemstones, illuminating Xiao Ling's sharp features.
Before long, Xiao Ling returned to Xiao Yixian and the others.
The sound of brisk footsteps drew the curious glances of the women, who saw Xiao Ling approaching leisurely, alone.
His figure emerged from the corridor, hazy in the interplay of light and shadow, adding a touch of mystery.
Xiao Yixian glanced behind Xiao Ling but didn't see Xiao Xun'er, sparking curiosity.
Without hesitation, she cast a questioning glance at Xiao Ling.
"Xiao Ling, why are you alone? Where's Xun'er? I didn't see her with you."
Xiao Yixian's voice was clear and melodious, with a hint of inexplicable meaning.
Xiao Ling looked relaxed, and replied calmly, "Little Doctor Fairy, Xun'er is dealing with some personal matters and can't come over for the time being."
Xiao Ling's tone was very calm, as if this was the most ordinary thing.
Although Qinglin and Han Yue didn't say anything, their curious eyes were still focused on Xiao Ling, as if waiting for his further explanation.
Puzzle flickered in Qinglin's bright eyes, while Han Yue frowned slightly, her expression full of curiosity.
Xiao Ling noticed the gazes of the crowd and couldn't help but smile. He said in a light tone, "Don't stare at me like that. It's really nothing special. I know you are curious, but these are just some ordinary things. Xun'er will come back naturally after she handles them."
Little Doctor Fairy curled her lips and muttered, "Hmph, I don't believe it, but if you don't want to talk about it, then forget it."
Folding her arms across her chest, Little Doctor Fairy looked dissatisfied.
Xiao Ling shook his head helplessly and said with a smile, "It's not that I don't want to talk about it. There's really nothing much to say. It's just some ordinary personal matters. Once she's dealt with them, she'll naturally come back. You guys should stop guessing."
Because Xiao Xun'er's true identity is extremely special, it is not appropriate to reveal it to others.
Because doing so is likely to cause a series of troubles and problems, Xiao Ling decided not to tell anyone about this matter after a brief thought.
Xiao Ling is well aware of the interests involved and does not want to cause unnecessary trouble for Xiao Xun'er due to a momentary negligence.
Ads by Pubfuture
Pubfuture Ads
Furthermore, if Xiao Yixian and the others learned of Xiao Xun'er's true identity, it would undoubtedly create some degree of estrangement.
This estrangement would likely make everyone cautious in their interactions, losing the relaxed and comfortable flow they once had, which would be highly detrimental to friendly interactions.
Xiao Ling hoped that his companions could maintain pure friendships, unaffected by status or background.
It was for this very reason that Gu Yuan had concealed Xiao Xun'er's identity and secretly sent her to the Xiao family. Xiao Ling also understood the deeper meaning behind this.
Yesterday, Xiao Xun'er had mentioned this to Xiao Ling. The plan to seize the Xiao family's Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade wasn't Gu Yuan's idea, but rather the suggestion of the elders of the Gu clan.
If Gu Yuan's purpose in sending Xiao Xun'er to the Xiao family was truly to steal the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade, then when Gu Yuan personally brought Xiao Xun'er to the Xiao family, with his soul already at the Emperor Realm, he would have been able to detect any of the Xiao family's secrets simply by releasing a trace of his soul perception.
However, Gu Yuan must have discovered the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade, but he didn't personally take it away. Perhaps there were deeper considerations, or perhaps it was to give Xiao Xun'er a reasonable explanation for staying outside the ancient clan for so long.
Xiao Ling shook his head, clearing his mind of thoughts. After all, he didn't intend to carry the Xiao clan's Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade with him.
This jade had caused too much trouble and was of no help to him in his current situation. Xiao Ling didn't want to be caught up in endless disputes because of the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade.
Seeing that Xiao Ling didn't intend to tell the women about Xiao Xun'er, although the women still had some doubts in their hearts, they were also very tactful and did not continue to ask.
Xiao Yixian and the others were all close to Xiao Ling and knew his character very well. Since Xiao Ling didn't want to speak out, it meant that these things were not suitable for them to know.
Seeing the women still a bit confused, Xiao Ling quickly changed the subject, saying, "Let's not think about Xun'er for now. Let's talk about something else. Little Medical Immortal, have you made any new progress on those poisons you've been researching lately?"
The little medical immortal wrinkled her nose and replied, "Don't mention it. I've hit a bottleneck. Some of the ingredients are too hard to find. I wanted to refine the 'Nether Shadow Deadly Poison,' but I'm still short of the venom of a sixth-tier snake monster."
Xiao Ling smiled, "Don't rush, though. Take your time. Once Qinglin's strength is sufficient, she can tame a sixth-tier monster and get you some venom. Senior Sister Han Yue, how about you? I haven't seen you for a year. I'm sure your cultivation has improved quite a bit, right?"
Han Yue gently brushed her hair and replied, "It's been going pretty well. I'm now a three-star Dou Wang. I just find my training a bit boring sometimes."
Han Yue glanced at Xiao Ling with a puzzling expression, her meaning obvious.
Noticing the look in her eyes, Xiao Ling nodded subtly.
Qinglin blinked and interjected, "I actually find every day quite interesting. I'm so happy just being with Young Master."
Xiao Ling patted Qinglin's head and said, "Haha, Qinglin has a really good attitude. By the way, I've been craving that 'Emerald Jade Delicate Cake' dessert lately. Qinglin, didn't you say you'd give it a try? How's it going?"
As Xiao Ling finished speaking, Little Medical Fairy interrupted, "Qinglin just made one of those desserts. It tasted pretty good, but we devoured it because it was so delicious. Xiao Ling, you won't have that chance to enjoy it."
With that, Little Medical Fairy winked mischievously, a look of unsatisfied satisfaction on her face.
Xiao Ling shrugged helplessly and said with a feigned complaint, "You're so mean. You didn't even leave me any." Qinglin
smiled sheepishly and said, "Young Master, next time I'll make more. I guarantee you'll have enough."
The women all laughed softly, covering their mouths, and the atmosphere was filled with joy.
As everyone was laughing, a familiar figure slowly approached. It was Xiao Xun'er.
Xiao Xun'er had a faint smile on her face, but her eyes first fell on Xiao Ling, full of tenderness.
"You are so happy here." Xiao Xun'er said with a soft red lips.
When everyone saw Xiao Xun'er, the smiles on their faces froze slightly. Xiao Ling hurriedly said, "Xun'er, you came out so soon. Have you dealt with the matter?"
Seeing Xiao Ling's question, Xiao Xun'er nodded, "It's resolved. Everything went smoothly. Just as Brother Xiao Ling said."
"I see. As long as it was resolved smoothly." Xiao Ling breathed a sigh of relief. It seemed that the two of them communicated quite harmoniously and there was no conflict.
Xiao Xun'er nodded slightly, glancing over the group. "I just heard your laughter from afar," she said. "What are you talking about so happily?"
The Little Medical Fairy smiled and replied, "Miss Xun'er, we devoured all the snacks Qinglin made just now, but Xiao Ling didn't get to try any."
Xiao Xun'er smiled softly. "I see. Qinglin should make more next time."
...
As they chatted animatedly, a sharp, rapid knock on the door outside the courtyard suddenly sounded.
The knock drew everyone in, pausing their conversation. Xiao Ling immediately released a trace of his spiritual perception to investigate, instantly identifying the visitor as a student from the inner courtyard of Canaan Academy.
Although a flicker of curiosity welled up in Xiao Ling's heart, he didn't stop his movements. With a casual wave of his hand, the tightly closed door slowly swung open.
The student hurried in, his face filled with respect. He quickly bowed deeply to Xiao Ling, his voice slightly nervous but still respectful, "Elder Xiao Ling, I apologize for interrupting you."
Xiao Ling raised an eyebrow slightly, a hint of confusion in his expression, and asked calmly, "What is the matter?"
The student didn't hesitate for a moment and quickly replied, "Elder, Great Elder Su Qian asked me to tell you that if you are free, please stop by his office. He would like to discuss something with you."
Xiao Ling pondered for a moment and had an idea in mind: "Presumably, the elders have prepared the herbs and would like me to help refine the elixir. This is a good idea. I can practice alchemy and contribute to the academy at the same time. That way, maybe when I want to devour the Fallen Heart Flame, Great Elder Su Qian won't interfere too much."
(End of Chapter)