While Lin Yuan and Wu Tianlang were talking, the roar of a tiger echoed from the distance. A gigantic tiger came charging toward them at incredible speed.
"Hm? That aura a Sixth-Rank Magical Beast." Wu Tianlang frowned slightly, his body instinctively tensing.
"Elder Wu, there's no need to be nervous. That's my flying mount." Lin Yuan waved his hand casually with a smile.
As he spoke, two streaks of light shot down from the tiger's back. Moments later, they landed in front of the two men.
"Lin Yuan, you broke our agreement." Zi Yan stared at him resentfully and pouted. "We clearly agreed that on the way back we'd take turns fighting. One battle each. This time it was supposed to be my turn."
"Sorry, sorry. The situation was urgent just now." Lin Yuan chuckled apologetically. "As compensation, I'll cook you a delicious meal after we get back to the Academy."
Zi Yan's eyes immediately lit up with joy.
"It's a deal! I want a full fish banquet!"
"Alright, alright, alright." Lin Yuan laughed as he patted her little head.
At this moment, Wu Tianlang stepped forward and looked at Zi Yan with a gentle smile.
"Little Zi Yan, you've finally returned. The First Elder will be overjoyed when he hears the news."
As one of the Academy's senior officials, Wu Tianlang naturally knew Zi Yan.
As the treasured granddaughter of First Elder Su Qian, Zi Yan's status was comparable to the little princess of Jia Nan Academy. To make sure everyone looked after her whenever they met, Su Qian had personally introduced her to every senior figure in the Academy.
That even included the elusive Headmaster Mang Tianchi, who was rarely ever seen.
That's right. Zi Yan was one of the very few people in Jia Nan Academy who had actually met Mang Tianchi.
"Oh, it's you."
Zi Yan turned her head away and asked in a deliberately indifferent tone,
"How's that old man Su Qian doing?"
Seeing her reaction, a rare smile appeared on Wu Tianlang's usually stern face.
"The First Elder is doing very well. He recently made quite a significant breakthrough in his cultivation."
"Oh..."
Zi Yan quietly let out a sigh of relief.
Wu Tianlang's gaze then shifted to the Little Fairy Doctor standing beside Lin Yuan.
After a moment of hesitation, he asked,
"Lin Yuan, this young lady is..."
Although he had only caught a brief glimpse of her, he had clearly seen the Little Fairy Doctor flying through the air.
Walking through the sky was the unmistakable symbol of a Dou Ancestor.
Could this young woman, who appeared to be around Lin Yuan's age, really be a Dou Ancestor?
Such a young Dou Ancestor?
"The Little Fairy Doctor, my closest friend," Lin Yuan replied without hesitation.
He then turned toward her and introduced Wu Tianlang.
"Little Fairy Doctor, this is Elder Wu Tianlang, the Commander of Jia Nan Academy's Law Enforcement Team. He is one of the seniors who took great care of me in the past."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Elder Wu."
The Little Fairy Doctor smiled softly, her exquisite face blooming with a gentle smile.
Wu Tianlang glanced at the pair, who looked as though they were a perfectly matched immortal couple, then nodded warmly.
"Since you're Lin Yuan's close friend, you're also a friend of Jia Nan Academy. Welcome to the Academy, Miss Little Fairy Doctor."
"Haha, let's get moving first. We'll return to the Academy, and we can talk about everything else on the way."
With that, Lin Yuan flashed forward and landed on the back of the Netherwing Tiger King. Zi Yan and the Little Fairy Doctor quickly followed, while Wu Tianlang hesitated briefly before leaping aboard as well.
A peak Sixth-Rank mount, Wu Tianlang couldn't help but sigh inwardly.
What incredible prestige.
Once everyone had boarded, the Netherwing Tiger King slowly spread its enormous wings before shooting into the sky. A tremendous gust of wind swept across the ground, and within moments, its figure had vanished into the distant horizon.
Under the Nether Tiger King's astonishing speed, the group rapidly closed the distance to Jia Nan Academy.
Two Days Later
Jia Nan City, Jia Nan Academy.
Inside an elegant ancient courtyard, Wu Tianlang, Lin Yuan, and Hu Qian sat around a simple wooden table.
Sitting comfortably in his chair, Hu Qian looked at Lin Yuan and burst into hearty laughter.
"Hahaha! I never expected you brat to come back so soon! And your strength has grown this much too. You're already at the peak of the Dou Emperor realm and are practically ready to break through to the Dou Ancestor realm."
"Hehe."
Lin Yuan took a sip of fragrant tea before smiling.
"Hasn't Elder Hu also advanced to the Dou Ancestor realm? Congratulations."
"That's all thanks to the Ancestor Breaking Pill you refined."
A trace of pride flashed across Hu Qian's face.
"The pills you refined last year greatly increased the Academy's overall strength. Not only did I break through to the Dou Ancestor realm, but Old Huo has also entered secluded cultivation to attempt his own breakthrough."
As he spoke, he glanced toward Wu Tianlang.
"Old Wu, you should try breaking through as well."
"I'll wait until this incident is over."
Wu Tianlang shook his head.
"I'm the one who directly clashed with Demon Flame Valley. Now that all three of their Great Elders are dead, who knows how that old fellow Earth Demon Ghost will react."
Although the three Great Elders had been the ones pursuing Wu Tianlang, they certainly weren't the only members of Demon Flame Valley who had fought him.
No matter what, Earth Demon Ghost would certainly conclude that Fang Yan's death had something to do with Wu Tianlang.
"Earth Demon Ghost..."
Mentioning that name made Hu Qian's expression turn more serious.
"That old monster has been in seclusion for years. By now, he's probably already a high level Dou Ancestor."
After a brief pause, a sharp glint flashed across his eyes.
"Jia Nan Academy isn't some soft target either. Demon Flame Valley started this affair in the first place. If they dare come looking for trouble, we'll make sure they break every tooth they have."
As he spoke, he clenched his fist.
The surrounding space immediately rippled with visible waves.
Wu Tianlang glanced at Hu Qian's fist before sighing helplessly.
"Old fellow, if you want to talk, then just talk. Why are you deliberately showing off? Everyone already knows you've broken through to the Dou Ancestor realm. Do you really need to flaunt your spatial abilities like this?"
Ever since Hu Qian had advanced, he found every possible opportunity to show off his newfound control over space.
Having his little scheme exposed, Hu Qian merely grinned smugly.
"It's not every day I get to be the first one to reach the Dou Ancestor realm. Of course I've got to enjoy showing it off while I still can. Once all of you break through too, what will I have left to brag about?"
"Spatial power?"
Lin Yuan smiled faintly.
"Like this?"
He extended a single finger.
A faint violet glow flashed through his eyes, and the space around his fingertip instantly twisted ever so slightly.
"Spatial power?"
Wu Tianlang and Hu Qian both widened their eyes in shock.
After taking a sharp breath, Hu Qian clicked his tongue in amazement.
"You've already grasped spatial power while still in the Dou Emperor realm. It seems you've already obtained the key to breaking through to the Dou Ancestor realm. All that's left is for everything to fall naturally into place."
"I was simply fortunate enough to encounter the right opportunity."
Lin Yuan answered modestly.
Of course, that was only half the truth.
His mastery of spatial power had never been a matter of luck.
Ever since learning that comprehending spatial power would greatly aid his breakthrough into the Dou Ancestor realm, Lin Yuan had devoted months to studying and practicing it.
For ordinary cultivators, mastering spatial power while still a Dou Emperor was virtually impossible.
But Lin Yuan possessed two unique advantages that no one else had.
Zi Yan and Blood Soul.
As the possessor of the highest bloodline among the Ancient Void Dragons, Zi Yan was naturally beloved by space itself.
More importantly, she never hid anything from Lin Yuan. She allowed him to freely study every aspect of her Ancient Void Dragon power, sparing no effort in helping him comprehend it.
After months of cultivating together, Lin Yuan had condensed an astonishing amount of pure Ancient Void Dragon Qi within his body.
On one hand, this Ancient Void Dragon Qi granted him extraordinary affinity with spatial power.
On the other hand, he could rely on Blood Soul, whose consciousness was connected to his own and whose strength had already reached the Dou Ancestor realm, to observe, comprehend, and practice the manipulation of space.
With these two tremendous advantages working together, Lin Yuan's control over spatial power was no weaker than that of an ordinary newly advanced Dou Ancestor.
"The younger generation truly surpasses the old."
Looking at Lin Yuan's calm expression, Hu Qian couldn't help sighing.
"This only means the gap between my granddaughter, Wu Hao, and you has become even greater. I wonder if they'll be able to handle it."
He had personally witnessed how hard Hu Jia and Wu Hao, especially Wu Hao, had worked over the past few years in order to catch up to Lin Yuan.
Unfortunately, the person they were chasing was a truly unparalleled genius.
The greatest genius in the entire history of Jia Nan Academy.
Before him, the Academy's most outstanding graduate had only managed to reach the Dou Ancestor realm just before graduating because of his unique bloodline.
Trying to catch someone like that was both a blessing and a curse.
Hearing Hu Qian's words, Lin Yuan smiled faintly.
"Don't worry, Elder Hu. Don't underestimate their determination."
After a brief pause, he asked.
"Speaking of which, how are the two of them doing these days?"
"They entered the Inner Academy a few months ago."
Hu Qian slowly took another sip of tea before grinning.
"Hehe. Since it's just us, I'll let you in on a secret. I secretly went to check on them two days ago. Both of them have been progressing very well recently. They've already broken through to the Dou Spirit realm."
"That's good."
Lin Yuan nodded with satisfaction.
He then drained the tea in his cup and said seriously.
"As for Earth Demon Ghost, neither of you needs to worry. I'll deal with him and Demon Flame Valley together."
"Lin Yuan, don't do anything reckless."
Hu Qian's expression changed slightly as he spoke sternly,
"That old fellow is a powerhouse from the same generation as the Headmaster. His strength cannot be underestimated. Even with Miss Little Fairy Doctor helping you, dealing with him won't be easy."
Mentioning the Little Fairy Doctor, Hu Qian couldn't help drawing another sharp breath inward.
A young woman only about Lin Yuan's age was actually stronger than the First Elder.
Just what kind of monsters had gathered around this kid?
Hearing Hu Qian's warning, Lin Yuan waved his hand with a smile.
"Elder Hu, you know me better than that. Have I ever done anything foolish?"
"That's true."
Thinking back on Lin Yuan's usual conduct, Hu Qian relaxed somewhat.
"Still, don't act impulsively. Remember, you're the future leader of the Academy. Don't place yourself in unnecessary danger."
"Understood."
Lin Yuan stood up and cupped his fists.
"The two of you, I'll take my leave for today. Next, I'll bring Zi Yan and the Little Fairy Doctor to the Inner Academy to meet the First Elder."
"Go ahead."
Hu Qian nodded.
"Although you're already the designated successor to the First Elder's position, rules are still rules. You should report Miss Little Fairy Doctor's situation to the First Elder. Also, make sure to inform him about what happened with Demon Flame Valley."
Lin Yuan nodded.
After bidding them farewell, he departed with the others toward the Inner Academy.
Once the group disappeared from sight, Hu Qian shook his head and sighed.
"What a pity. It looks like my granddaughter has no chance after all. That silly girl wasted so many years of opportunities. Now Lin Yuan is going to end up with someone else."
As an experienced elder, he had seen through the relationship between Lin Yuan and the Little Fairy Doctor at a glance.
"Heh."
Wu Tianlang glanced at him with an amused smile.
"Didn't your granddaughter set her heart on that young lady from that clan instead?"
"Sigh..."
At the mention of that, Hu Qian felt another headache coming on.
"Don't even bring it up. It's exhausting..."
Two Hours Later
Inner Academy.
Standing atop a hillside, Zi Yan looked down at the familiar enormous basin and the densely packed buildings below.
Excitement flashed across her face.
She threw back her head and burst into laughter.
The thunderous sound waves spread outward like a dragon's roar, rippling in every direction.
"Inner Academy! Your Great Aunt Zi Yan has returned! Hehehe!"
"This girl..."
Lin Yuan slapped his forehead helplessly as he looked at the smug little girl standing there with her hands on her hips.
The Little Fairy Doctor reacted the same way, rubbing her forehead in resignation.
Meanwhile, Zi Yan's voice instantly caused a huge commotion throughout the Inner Academy.
Everyone reacted differently to this legendary figure, whose reputation had practically become an Academy urban legend.
"Zi Yan is that the Brute Force King? The Brute Force King is back?"
"The legendary Brute Force King? I've always wanted to see her. I wonder if she's some giant barbarian several meters tall..."
"Tsk, judging from that voice, the Brute Force King's cultivation has become even stronger."
"Sigh, the Brute Force King has returned. Looks like this year's Strong Ranking will once again be overshadowed by her."
"I heard she's actually a very cute little girl. I really want to see her for myself."
Just as Zi Yan continued laughing triumphantly, the surrounding space suddenly rippled.
A black figure instantly appeared beside her.
A hand shot toward her chubby little face with lightning speed.
The Little Fairy Doctor instinctively reacted.
A cluster of violet gray flames immediately ignited in her palm.
However, as though he had anticipated everything in advance, Lin Yuan stepped forward just in time, blocking her path and gently shaking his head.
At the very moment the black figure's fingers were about to pinch Zi Yan's cheek, purple light suddenly flashed around her body.
Her figure twisted with unbelievable agility, like a soaring dragon gliding through the clouds, instantly appearing behind Lin Yuan.
She poked her little head out from behind him and grinned smugly at the black-robed figure.
"Hehe! Old man, I'm not the same as before. That trick can't catch me anymore!"
"Oh?"
Su Qian looked at Zi Yan in surprise.
"You little girl actually managed to dodge that? You've improved. And your aura..."
Feeling Su Qian's astonishment, Zi Yan proudly raised her nose and waved her tiny fist.
"See? I'm much stronger than when I left the Academy, aren't I?"
"Heh, old man, I told you long ago. Keeping me trapped inside the Inner Academy was nothing but holding me back. If you'd let me go out earlier, I'd already be a Dou Ancestor by now."
"Stop talking nonsense."
Su Qian rolled his eyes.
"If I hadn't allowed you to travel with Lin Yuan, someone would've sold you off, and you'd probably help them count the money afterward. A Dou Ancestor? Please."
The moment Zi Yan heard that, her eyebrows shot upward.
She immediately jumped in front of Lin Yuan and glared angrily at Su Qian.
"Old man! I'm really strong now..."
Before she could finish boasting, Lin Yuan pressed a palm onto her little head and gently pulled her back beside him.
"Behave."
He smiled faintly.
"If you still want tonight's full fish banquet and the new dishes I've prepared, then be a good girl."
"New dishes?"
Zi Yan's eyes instantly sparkled.
She nodded obediently, though she continued glaring at Su Qian.
"It seems you're the only one who can keep this mischievous girl under control."
Seeing Zi Yan calm down under Lin Yuan's influence, Su Qian smiled before turning his gaze toward the Little Fairy Doctor.
"And this young lady is?"
He looked toward Lin Yuan.
"Aren't you going to introduce her?"
Su Qian already had a favorable impression of her.
Just now, her first instinct had been to protect Zi Yan, which showed the two shared a close relationship.
Lin Yuan glanced at the Little Fairy Doctor.
After thinking for a moment, she gave a slight nod.
Lin Yuan then briefly explained her background, naturally making no attempt to hide the matter of the Woeful Poison Body.
"The Woeful Poison Body and the Poison Pill Method."
After hearing everything, Su Qian drew in a cold breath.
He looked meaningfully at the Little Fairy Doctor.
"No wonder you've become a Dou Ancestor at such a young age. So you possess the Woeful Poison Body."
As the First Elder of Jia Nan Academy, he naturally knew of this exceedingly rare physique.
After pondering for a moment, he looked at her seriously.
"Miss Little Fairy Doctor, Jia Nan Academy welcomes you."
"You may stay here from now on."
"As for the Bodhisattva Transforming Body Saliva and the Magic Beast Core required for the Poison Pill Method, I'll have people keep an eye out for them."
The Little Fairy Doctor's eyes immediately brightened.
She respectfully performed a junior's salute.
"Thank you very much, First Elder."
Su Qian waved his hand casually.
"There's no need to thank me."
"It's only natural."
"After all, there's a very good chance you'll become one of our own in the future, isn't there?"
"Hahaha..."
Hearing Su Qian's teasing words, the Little Fairy Doctor's cheeks immediately turned crimson.
Seeing her reaction, Su Qian's smile became even broader.
He then turned toward Lin Yuan.
"Lin Yuan, where's Qing Lin? Why isn't she with you?"
"Qing Lin is currently breaking through to the Dou Emperor realm," Lin Yuan replied.
Su Qian frowned slightly with concern.
"Breaking through to the Dou Emperor realm requires a safe environment, and it usually takes quite a while. Why didn't you bring her back to the Academy for secluded cultivation? Is the place where she's cultivating now safe?"
"There wasn't much choice."
Lin Yuan explained,
"After Qing Lin finished inheriting the legacy of the Triple Jade-Green Snake Flower Pupils, she was already on the verge of breaking through. I had no choice but to let her enter seclusion where we were."
After thinking for a moment, he added,
"Don't worry, First Elder. Queen Medusa herself is guarding her breakthrough. With a Dou Ancestor protecting her, nothing will happen."
"Queen Medusa is guarding her?"
Su Qian raised an eyebrow thoughtfully.
"That should be more than sufficient."
Su Qian knew well of Queen Medusa's reputation.
For her to entrust her clan's inheritance to Lin Yuan, willingly guard Qing Lin during her breakthrough, and earn the complete trust of someone as cautious as Lin Yuan.
Their relationship was already obvious.
His gaze swept toward the Little Fairy Doctor, whose blush had yet to completely fade.
Then, with an amused smile, he looked back at Lin Yuan.
This brat Lin Yuan...
Not only is his talent extraordinary, but his luck with women is equally astonishing.
At such a young age, he's already captured the hearts of women of exceptional talent. And with Qing Lin as well.
The future is certainly going to be interesting.
----
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