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Battle Through the Heavens Chapter 286-290


Chapter 286: The Benefits of the Champion

Xiao Yan’s gaze stared lazily at this black colored broken jade piece. He randomly held it in his hand. The jade piece that entered his hand was not smooth. Instead, it was covered with tiny granules and appeared as if the material was not very good. Moreover, there were some faint crack lines on the jade piece. Between the gaps there were even some soil stains.

As he played with the jade piece, Xiao Yan’s eyebrows were knit together. From his senses, he appeared to feel that this thing was somewhat strange. However, he was unable to say where it was strange. His Spiritual Strength explored around it, but found no activity nor did he receive any information.

“Don’t tell me that I have sensed wrongly?” Xiao Yan uncertainly muttered in his heart. His finger slowly cut across the jade piece. He wanted to put it down, yet his palm could not throw it aside. A long while later, he helplessly shook his head and eyed the man who was staring at him anxiously. His hand randomly chose a few medicinal ingredients that looked barely acceptable. After which, he waved at the young man, smiled and asked, “Do you want to exchange for items or sell them?”

“Grandmaster, I want to exchange them for a tier three medicinal pill.” Hearing this, the young man’s spirit rose. Immediately, he smiled awkwardly as he spoke. He knew in his heart that these medicinal ingredients did not appear to be worth a tier three medicinal pill.

Xiao Yan indifferently glanced at him. He placed the things in his hands into the storage ring. After which, he easily took out a bottle which only had three ‘Energy Recovery Pills’. He tossed it to the man and said, “These are tier three medicinal pills, ‘Energy Recovery Pill’. It can swiftly recover Dou Qi that has been depleted. As it belonged to the more common consumption type medicinal pill, I will give you three of them.”

The man scrambled to received the bottle. A joy that was difficult to hide appeared on his face. Three ‘Energy Recovery Pills’. If one were to discuss about its price, it would not be lower than forty thousand gold coins. Counting in this manner, he had profited by a lot. Immediately, he hurriedly bent his body toward Xiao Yan who was already walking off and bowed.

Xiao Yan left the counter in this area and headed out of the eastern area. His finger rubbed on the storage ring and the piece of black colored broken jade piece once again appeared in his palm. He frowned and played with it in his hand. A moment later, he still had no clue and could only sigh disappointedly as he held it.

Standing in the middle of the hall, Xiao Yan was at a loss as he looked around him. He mused for a moment before pulling over a delicate and pretty lady who appeared to be a female servant and softly inquired about the position of the Head of the Alchemist Association Branch at Black Rock City.

Although this female servant, who appeared to be busy with something, was somewhat angry at being suddenly stopped, her pretty face immediately revealed some respect when she saw the tier two alchemist badge on Xiao Yan’s chest. Her delicate finger pointed at the western area where the human flow was extremely low. With a gentle voice, she said, “That place is the area where the heads of the various Alchemist Association Branches in the Jia Ma Empire is at. However, only alchemist tier three and above have the qualification to enter.”

“Haha, thank you very much.” Xiao Yan said his thanks, lifted his feet and walked toward the quiet western area. When he was about to enter, he was unsurprisingly blocked by the two guards at the entrance.

“May I trouble you to help me inform Grandmasters Frank or Ao Tuo from Black Rock City that Xiao Yan has come to see them.” Eyeing the two icy expressions of the guards, Xiao Yan said with a smile.

The two guards eyes glanced at the tier two alchemist badge on Xiao Yan’s chest and then swept across the young face. Their eyes revealed quite a bit of shock. Becoming a tier two alchemist at such a young age was something that was really rarely seen. Immediately, the coldness on their faces melted a little. They nodded slightly and after asking him to wait, one of them stepped back and swiftly climbed up some stairs.

Xiao Yan inserted his hands into his sleeves as he stood at the entrance. His eyes were closed as he quietly waited.

Not long after the guard climbed up the stairs, a wave of hurried footsteps swiftly sounded. A moment later, an old figure was first to appear in Xiao Yan’s sight. A joy covered his face.

The old man quickly came to the entrance. His gaze swept around but did not see the person that he wanted to meet. The smile on his face stiffened as he frowned. He faced the guard beside him and softly reproved, “Where is he? Don’t tell me that he was ousted by you people?”

“Grandmaster Ao Tou.” Hearing the old man reprove, Xiao Yan smiled and cried out.

“You…” Hearing the somewhat familiar voice, Ao Tuo was at a loss. His gaze doubtfully eyed this young stranger in front of him. A long while later, he finally said in a stunned voice, “Xiao Yan? Why have you turned yourself into this manner?”

Xiao Yan smiled and shook his head. He softly said to Ao Tuo, “I will tell you later. There are many eyes looking around here.”

“Uh… follow me in.” Hearing this, Ao Tuo took the hint and nodded. He turned his head and fiercely said to the two guards, “The both of you heard nothing. Do you understand?”

Seeing Ao Tuo’s fierce and vicious manner, the two cold faced guards bitterly smiled. Immediately, they wisely nodded their heads. After being a guard for so many years, they naturally knew what was taboo.

This action of Ao Tuo caused Xiao Yan to nod his head slightly. Ao Tuo was indeed someone who could become the deputy chairman of the Alchemist Association Branch at Black Rock City. When he did something, he ensured that it was watertight.

Following behind Ao Dou, Xiao Yan slowly walked up the stairs. Only when the human flow around them became scarce did Ao Tuo softly asked, “Xiao Yan, why did you turn yourself into this manner? Don’t tell me that you have offended someone? Tell me about it. In this Jia Ma Empire Sacred City, the words from me, Ao Tuo, do have some weight.”

“Hehe, thank you Grandmaster Ao Tuo. It’s just some private matter. I don’t want someone to recognize my identity.” Xiao Yan shook his head and rejected Ao Tuo’s good intention.

“So it’s like this? Then it’s up to you.” Hearing Xiao Yan’s intention to reject, Ao Tuo did not insist. His old and sharp gaze slowly swept across Xiao Yan. A while later, his voice had a shock that could not be covered, “What a great little fellow. After not seeing you for a year, your strength has actually soared, The current you should at least have the strength of a five star Dou Shi, right?”

“I was merely lucky.” Xiao Yan shook his head and smiled.

“Tsk tsk, what a great little boy. This kind of talent really stuns everyone. I wonder which old fellow had the luck to find such a good student.” Ao Tuo said as he praised unceasingly. His face was filled with envy.

Xiao Yan smiled, but did not chip in on this topic. His footsteps moved at a comfortable pace as he moved in parallel to Ao Tuo.

TL: Huge thing in china to move parallel to someone

“We’ve arrived.”

Their footsteps walked past a few luxurious large rooms and finally stopped outside of a spacious room. When Ao Tuo heard the scolding voice emitted from inside, he smiled and said to Xiao Yan, “This is that old fellow Frank reprimanding that girl Xue Mei. That girl actually used his tier four medicinal formula to exchange for a ‘Peach Blossom Flame Seed’. It pained him to death…”

Hearing this, Xiao Yan was dumbfounded as he involuntarily laughed. He had already knew that once Xue Mei returned, she would definitely receive a huge scolding. A tier four medicinal formula was not an ordinary thing.

Xiao Yan stepped into this spacious room. His gaze swept across it and finally stopped at the middle of the room. There, Frank, who was wearing an alchemist’s long robe, was sending his saliva flying everywhere. His old face was green as he furiously slammed the table. In front of him, Xue Mei’s hands were still holding the ‘Lotus Blossom Flame Seed’ while she remained silent and allowed Frank to scold angrily.

At the other corner of the table, a lady wearing a red colored clothes was gloatingly watching Xue Mei who was being scolded. When she heard the door opening, she swiftly shifted her gaze over. Her sight swept across Xiao Yan’s body behind Ao Tuo. Immediately, she murmured with the corner of her mouth and said, “Teacher, is this the person who requested for you to personally go down to receive him? What a large face he has…”

Hearing her voice, Frank, who was giving a big reprimand immediately paused. His gaze turned to Xiao Yan and said with surprise, “Old Ao, who is this?” Seeing his manner, they were apparently ignorant of who was coming up when the guard had informed them.

Seeing the numerous surprised gazes, Xiao Yan touched at the area around his neck and moved. A moment later, he pulled down the mask, revealing his delicate and handsome face which had a fair complexion.

“Grandmaster Frank. After not seeing you for a year, you are becoming stronger in your old age.” Xiao Yan returned the ice silk dough into his storage ring and said with a smile to Frank.

“Xiao Yan? It is actually you, little fellow. I thought you wouldn’t be coming.” Eyeing the face that had a diminished tenderness compared to a year ago, Frank was stunned before he immediately said with great joy.

Xiao Yan smiled and slowly walked forward. He eyed Xue Mei, who appeared glamorous and moving in her silver colored dress. She had also turned her curious gaze over to him. As their eyes met, they courteously smiled at each other.

“Grandmaster Frank, this kind of ‘Peach Blossom Flame’ may not be considered a strong flame, but it is undoubtedly much stronger than an ordinary flame that was catalyzed from Dou Qi. Moreover, this kind of flame is less frantic compared to other flames, being finer and smoother instead. It is quite suitable to be used to refine medicinal pills. Although a tier four medicinal formula is extremely valuable, grandmaster must have already read it. With your ability, you should be able to prepare another copy if you spend some time.” Xiao Yan smiled and said to Frank as he eyed the pink colored flame seed in Xue Mei’s hand.

“Ah, this is the only thing that I can do. But without at least half a year, it is impossible to prepare another tier four medicinal formula again. It is too troublesome to create that thing.” Frank helplessly shook his head and finally ceased his scolding.

Seeing that her Teacher had stopped reprimanding her, Xue Mei also sighed in relief. She faced Xiao Yan and gratefully smiled. Her icy pretty face appeared even more moving.

“You actually interceded on Xue Mei’s behalf? Have you taken a fancy to her?”

Being the enemy of Xue Mei, Lin Fei naturally was not happy to see her escape like this. She hurriedly leaped forward. Her hands held her waist as she stared at Xiao Yan’s delicate and handsome face. Her heart inexplicable muttered quietly to herself, “Why does this guy look even better than before?”

Xiao Yan was not overly concerned about Lin Fei who was like a female cat. His gaze stared at her delicate and pretty face until her face could not help but be flooded with some scarlet color. Only then did he laugh loudly and turn his gaze aside, leaving Lin Fei to stand on the same spot with her crimson face as she angrily stomped her little feet.

“Ke ke, Xiao Yan. The reason for your coming to the Jia Ma Scared City should be because of the Alchemist Grand Meeting, right?” Pulling Lin Fei aside, Ao Tuo sat on a chair and laughed.

Hearing these words of Ao Tuo, the eyes of Frank at the side also brightened. He hurriedly turned his gaze toward Xiao Yan. He naturally knew what kind of outstanding refining talent that this little fellow possessed. If he wanted to participate in the Alchemist Grand Meeting, he would be a popular choice of becoming the champion.

Xiao Yan smiled and gently tapped his finger on the table. He smiled and said, “What benefits do I have for participating in this Grand Meeting? Don’t tell me that it is only to compete for fame? I am not really interested in that.”

“Uh?” Hearing this, Ao Tuo and Frank were blank. They said in a stunned voice, “If you are able to stand out in the Alchemist Grand Meeting, your future will be really smooth. When that time comes, an unknown number of strong strengths would invite you to join them… and your reputation and status in the Jia Ma Empire would swiftly be raised.”

“You should know that Pill-King Gu He came to fame in such a manner back then.”

“I’m sorry. I don’t like to join and rely on any strength.” Xiao Yan shook his head and stretched his lazy waist. He said with a smile, “Therefore, please tell me what kind of substantial benefits there are.”

“Hey, aren’t you a little too realistic?” In the corner, Lin Fei knit her eyebrows and said annoyingly when she heard Xiao Yan being so forthright.

Xiao Yan waved his hand and ignored her.

“Ah, you little fellow… really won’t act until you have identified your target.” Ao Tuo smiled bitterly and exchanged glances with Frank. He helplessly shook his head and slowly said, “According to the rules, each season’s Alchemist Grand Meeting champion will become an honorary elder of the Alchemist Association and enjoy the same welfare and authority as other elders of similar grade. At that time, you would be able to obtain the help within your authority at any Alchemist Association Branch in the Jia Ma Empire. Additionally, you will be able to have priority in exchanging for the rare medicinal ingredients in the association’s warehouse.”

“Oh right, in the entire of the Jia Ma Empire, the number of people who have the qualification to enjoy such a treatment would not exceed fifteen. As long as you become the Alchemist Association honorary elder, any strength would think carefully before touching you. Remember, this is any strength, including the royalty and the Misty Cloud Sect! Our Alchemist Association has the qualification to say this.”

Xiao Yan’s finger that was tapping the table’s surface suddenly paused. He pursed up his lips and the glow in his eyes flickered. After Ao Tuo had said up to this point, Xiao Yan’s heart had gradually felt a little moved. He knew that he would sooner or later stand opposing to the Misty Cloud Sect. At such a time, if he had the support of this strength, which could cause the Misty Cloud Sect to think twice, it would naturally help him save a lot of trouble.

Seeing that Xiao Yan was obviously somewhat interested, Ao Tuo sighed slightly in his heart. He smiled and threw the last temptation, “Additionally, the reward for the champion this season would be a medicinal formula for a tier six medicinal pill.”

“A medicinal formula for a tier six medicinal pill?” Xiao Yan’s eyes shrunk slightly. He slowly inhaled a breath of cold air. The price of a medicinal formula of this tier would not lose to that of a Di class Dou Technique.

“What kind of medicinal formula? What use does it have?” Xiao Yan cautiously inquired. Although a tier six medicinal formula was rare, it was also necessary to consider the effect of the medicinal pill. Take the ‘Breaking Adversity Pill’ of Hai Bo Dong the last time. It belonged to a slightly unorthodox medicinal formula and its value is at most similar to a tier five medicinal formula.”

“‘Thawing Spirit Pill’, a kind of medicinal pill that can let the spirit and the physical body merge together. Its medicinal effect is a little unorthodox, but for a spiritual body, it is a perfect, saint-like medicine. Not only would it cause the spirit to swiftly recover, but it is also able to completely repair all the damage that the spirit has received.”

“Spiritual body? Recovering spiritual strength?” Xiao Yan was extremely sensitive as he grasped these two key phrases. His heart gradually jumped intensely.

“Brat, get your hands on the medicinal formula for this ‘Thawing Spirit Pill’ and I will not kill you in the future!”

Just as Xiao Yan was moved by these two ample condition, his hands, which were in the sleeves, suddenly became cold. A weak spiritual message that carried some enchanting taste was transmitted into his mind.

The sudden appearance of the enchanting voice caused Xiao Yan to abruptly tighten his fists in his sleeves. A cool air swiftly shrouded his chest, causing his entire body to become icy cold. He recognized the owner of the voice. It was shockingly from Queen Medusa who was hidden within the body of the ‘Heaven Swallowing Python’…

Chapter 287: Participate

The weak, enchanting voice resounded within Xiao Yan’s mind, causing his body to feel an icy chill. The hand in his sleeves trembled slightly without being noticed. Xiao Yan slowly let out a breath and did his best to prevent the startled expression from surfacing on his face. He lowered his head slightly. A long while later, he gradually calmed down and calmly asked in his heart, “You want the medicinal formula?”

After the words were throught, however, all remained quiet. Queen Medusa did not give any response.

Xiao Yan slowly frowned. He once again shouted a couple of times in his heart. However, it was like a rock sinking into the ocean. After trying like this for a few times, he could only choose to give up. His fingers curled and flicked on the table surface as a thought began to rotate in his heart. The effect of the ‘Thawing Spirit Pill’ was to let the spirit and the physical body merge together. The reason for Queen Medusa to be so concerned was naturally because of her and the ‘Heaven Swallowing Python’. This was something Xiao Yan was clear of.

However… if Queen Medusa was really allowed to obtain the ‘Thawing Spirit Pill’, wouldn’t she be able to control the ‘Heaven Swallowing Python’s’ body? When that time comes… perhaps only with Yao Lao protecting him could Xiao Yan have some chance of escaping from a Dou Zong class legendary strong person. Although she said that she would not kill him, Xiao Yan still did not quite believe her.

However, if Xiao Yan did not comply with Queen Medusa’s request, his relationship with her may well grow even worse. During the initial period of time, the ‘Heaven Swallowing Python’ may be able to suppress Queen Medusa but Xiao Yan did not think that it could suppress her forever. Once Queen Medusa appears again in the future, Xiao Yan’s situation would really be extremely terrible…

Should he agree or disagree?

Xiao Yan pursed up his lips as his finger rubbed his forehead in distress. He mused for a long while before his finger abruptly tapped on the table surface. He raised his head and eyed Ao Tuo in front of him. With a sigh, he said, “Alright. I’ll participate.”

Regardless of what happened, he could only get his hands on the medicinal formula first. Once he had the medicinal formula, the next step was naturally to refine the medicinal pill. This refining route had to completely rely on Xiao Yan. Therefore, Xiao Yan would have the capital to converse with Queen Medusa when the time comes. Xiao Yan might be able to gain some conditions from Queen Medusa that would be beneficial to him by using this point of him refining the pill… Honestly speaking, Xiao Yan did not want to offend this person who will become a strong person of the legendary Dou Zong class the moment she wakes up. If he had the chance to reconcile their relationship, he would naturally be extremely willing to take it.

Hearing Xiao Yan’s agreement, Ao Tuo and Frank sighed in relief. Xiao Yan had registered at their branch. If they were to get him to represent the Black Rock City Branch when joining the Alchemist Grand Meeting, it would naturally add glory to their branch. In that case, they would gain a huge advancement in performance ranking for the branches next year.

“But I have a condition…” Xiao Yan suddenly said as he faced the two people who were full of smiles.

“Uh? Why don’t you tell us…” Hearing this, Ao Tuo and Frank were surprised as they immediately said with more smiles.

“Due to some reason, I will be using the appearance that you have seen earlier to participate in the Grand Meeting. I would also like to trouble the both of you to change my participant name from the old Xiao Yan to Yan Xiao. Is that possible?” Xiao Yan rubbed his face and said with a smile.

“Hey, if you are participating, just participate. Why are you doing all these shady things?” On one side, Ling Fei held her cheeks, rolled her eyes at Xiao Yan and spoke with curled up lips.

Xiao Yan smiled, but did not reply to her. He simply stared at Ao Tuo and Frank with his eyes, awaiting their answer.

“Changing your name is a small problem…” Ao Tuo nodded his head. He eyed Xiao Yan and said, “Looks like you appear to have gotten into some trouble. If you have anything that needs our help, you can tell us. If we can help you, we will do our best to.”

Xiao Yan smiled and shook his head. He did not want to continue to be entangled by this topic. Instead, he said, “But you should all not place too much hope on me. The Jia Ma Empire is so large with an unknown number of people hiding their great skills. As someone of the junior generation, I would say that I am lucky if I could barely break into the finals. Back then, when Gu He participated in the Grand Meeting, he was a tier four alchemist. I am merely a tier two alchemist. I may be a little shabby if I were to stand up there…”

Hearing Xiao Yan’s words, Ao Tuo shook his head and said, “Back then, when Gu He participated in the Alchemist Grand Meeting, he was nearly thirty. How old you are now? Moreover, it is not like we are asking you to fight for first. That spot is really far too difficult. According to what I know, the heaviest few groups this time around are coveting that spot. When that time comes, as long as you enter the top ten, it would naturally cause many people to be shocked.”

“The Grand Meeting does not have an age limit?” Xiao Yan asked in surprise. If there was no age limit, who among the younger generation could compete against some of those old fellows who participated?

“Ke ke, there is naturally a limit. This Grand Meeting is only open to alchemist below thirty years old. Back then, Gu He barely met the requirement, as he was almost thirty. Therefore, he gained quite a bit of advantage in terms of experience. However, that fellow’s training talent was indeed rarely seen in alchemists. His flame controlling ability stunned the whole audience. He was really the most dazzling star during that season’s Alchemist Grand Meeting.” Frank clicked his tongue and praised. He recalled how Gu He, who was still a young man back then, energetically demonstrated a controlling flame feast that could be called perfect. The Gu He then had become the object of admiration for countless of young ladies hearts in the Jia Ma Sacred City.

Xiao Yan nodded slightly and he asked with a smile, “When will the Grand Meeting begin?”

“Three days later.”

“Three days later, I will come here to find you. I will trouble you two grandmasters to settle the formalities needed to participate in the Grand Meeting.”

“Yes. During this period of time, we will remain here. If you have any problems, remember to come and find us.” Frank nodded and smiled as he reminded.

Xiao Yan smiled and stood up. He bowed to the four people in the room. After which, he covered his face with the icy silk mask and directly walked out of this spacious room.

Eyeing the back that was gradually disappearing behind the door, Frank sighed, “I wonder if that little fellow can force his way into the top ten.”

“In previous seasons, the top ten participants were all tier three alchemist. He seemed to be only at tier two, right? It looks like it will be difficult, but given his age, he might well be in the limelight in the next Alchemist Grand Meeting. As for this season… it appears to be quite difficult. Those abnormal fellows were all unleashed by their teachers. This season is going to be a fierce competition.” Ling Fei played with the wine cup on the table and said.

“It is indeed a little difficult, but it is not impossible… don’t look down on Xiao Yan. Becoming a tier two alchemist when he is not even twenty. This kind of training talent is something that even Gu He could not compare with back then. I don’t think it would be impossible for a miracle to happen with him.” Ao Tuo said with a faint smile.

“Hopefully that’s so. If some miracle was to happen, then the reputation of our Black Rock City’s Alchemist Association Branch would naturally also shake the empire. He he, we can also ask for an exorbitant sum for our funds next year from the headquarters.” Frank laughed.

“And those rare medicinal ingredients…” Ao Dou smiled sinisterly.

“These two old fellows only know to care about the things in their own association…” Seeing the sinister smiling manner of the two of them, Lin Fei and Xue Mei helplessly shook their heads and secretly muttered.

……

Xiao Yan walked directly out of the Alchemist Association. He stood on the street and looked in all directions. After musing for a moment, he lifted his feet and headed to the Nalan clan in the middle of the city. Today’s poison expelling session had yet to be conducted. After discovering that the ‘Searing Poison’ had actually remained in his body yesterday, Xiao Yan wanted to once again confirm just how this thing had actually come to him today. If each time he expelled the poison would result in an increase of the ‘Searing Poison’ in his body, then this thing seemed to be a little…

Xiao Yan sighed and shook his head. His footsteps walked into the human crowd and gradually disappeared in the human flow.

In the waiting room at the Primer clan’s headquarters, many old people whom were usually seldom seen were jittery while seated on their chairs. They ignored the stunned eyes of the younger generation next to them as they threw a respectful gaze at a white haired old man seated at the Leader’s Seat in the waiting room.

“Old Hai, I did not expect to still be able to see you today. Back then, when you left and never returned, I had almost mobilized all our strength but we still failed to find the slightest trace of you.” Below the Leader’s Seat, an old man wearing a gorgeous robe said with a somewhat agitated expression.

“Back then, something happened, so I have lived in isolation for so many years. But it is fortunate that everything is alright now…” The old man on the Leader’s Seat was shockingly Hai Bo Dong who had split up with Xiao Yan awhile ago. Currently, he held a warm teacup as he glanced at the agitated old man. The indifferent expression on his face also melted significantly as he explained.

“Tengshan, after having not seen you for so many years, you have also become a Dou Wang. You have carried this heavy burden of the Primer clan quite well. In the future, you will continue to be in charge of the Primer clan. Currently, I also don’t wish to intervene too much. I think that the news of my return will soon be known by the old demon in the palace.” Hai Bo Dong nodded his head and softly said.

“Haha, Old Hai being able to return is naturally the Primer clan’s greatest joyous event.” The old man who was addressed as Tengshan was naturally the one in charge of the Primer clan. At the same time, he was also one of the Ten Strong in the Jia Ma Empire, Primer Tengshan.

There were quite a number of outstanding people from the younger generation seated within the hall. They were the new blood of the Primer clan. As they eyed the First Elder, who usually had a severe face and treated people strictly, reveal such a respectful expression, their faces were completely dull. Their hearts repeatedly guessed the identity of this white haired old man. Hai Bo Dong had not gone to the Primer clan for a few decades and this was sufficient to let the younger generation forget his existence.

“Lei Ou, get your a*s over here!”

Primer Tengshan suddenly turned his body around and sternly cried at the human crowd. Immediately, a panicked looking human figure hurriedly squeezed his way out. His entire body trembled as he knelt on the ground and said with a quavering voice, “First Elder.”

“For offending Old Hai, I ought to directly chase you out of the clan. However, in consideration of your merits to the clan, I will remove your ‘elder’ position and assign you to a border city to manage our branch there. For the next three years, you are not allowed to return to the headquarters!” Primer Tengshan said with an indifferent tone.

Hearing this, Lei Ou’s face immediately became the color of dirt.

Under the stern voice of Primer Tengshan, silence reigned in the hall. No one dared to interrupt. Only Hai Bo Dong on the Leader’s Seat calmly sipped his tea.

“Ya Fei.”

Turning his gaze toward Ya Fei. who was sitting uneasily on a chair in a corner, Primer Tengshan’s tone gradually became gentler. He said with a smile, “You have done very well this time around. In the future, you will begin to formally manage the auction house at the Primer headquarters.”

“Ah! Thank you very much First Elder.” Ignoring the surrounding gazes which had suddenly become heated, Ya Fei forcefully acted calm as she nodded her head slightly. Her hands under her sleeves, however, were tightly clenched.

“Old Hai, haha, I think you should come back to the clan to stay. Your room has always been cleaned.” After handing out the punishment and rewards in front of Hai Bo Dong, Primer Tengshan turned his body around and eyed him fervently.

Hai Bo Dong shook his head slightly and said with a smile, “I am unable to do so for this short period of time. According to an agreement, I have to follow behind a little fellow and be a bodyguard for a period of time.”

“Bodyguard?” Hearing this, the expression on Primer Tengshan’s face changed. In his heart, he muttered somewhat doubtfully, “That young man called Xiao Yan is actually able to get Old Hai to lower himself and become a bodyguard? How is it possible for him to have such a great capability of power?”

With the Primer’s clan ability to gather intelligence, it was natural that Primer Tengshan knew quite a bit about Xiao Yan’s details. However, this was merely restricted to when Xiao Yan resided within Wu Tan City.

“Don’t underestimate him. This fellow is not someone simple. Even the me back then suffered a loss quite a few times at his hands… This kind of person hides his ability far too deeply. If you can’t become friends with him, then you should definitely not make him your enemy. Otherwise, I’m afraid that even I would have difficulty protecting the Primer clan.” Hai Bo Dong’s expression was extremely serious as he said. Every time the current him recalled the ‘Angry Buddha Lotus Flame’ that Xiao Yan had created back then, he would feel fear rise up in his heart. That strength was really too terrifying.

Watching the rarely seen grave expression of Hai Bo Dong, a dismay involuntarily surfaced in the hearts of the elders and Primer Tengshan in the hall. Knowing the former’s character, they naturally knew that there would not be more than five people in the entire of the Jia Ma Empire who had the qualification to be treated in this manner by Hai Bo Dong. However, those people are some old fellows who just would not die despite being so old. However, that young man called Xiao Yan was not even twenty years old…

“Old Hai, you can be reassured that I will severely instruct the members of our clan not to form grudges with him.” Primer Tengshan nodded his head heavily as he solemnly said. In the face of such a big matter, he did not dare to randomly do as he pleased.

“Yes.” Hai Bo Dong nodded his head and stood up. He said, “If it is possible, try your best to give him the help that he needs. In the future, you will rejoice at the decision you have made today. I need to return. If you have any problems, you can get someone to find me. You should already know where I am staying.” After saying these words, Hai Bo Dong did not linger any longer. He directly walked out of the hall and slowly disappeared from everyone’s sight.

“Hu…” Eyeing Hai Bo Dong who had disappeared, Primer Tengshan sighed in relief. His stern gaze swept around the hall before saying deeply, “All of you have clearly heard Old Hai earlier. You better not go and provoke that young man called Xiao Yan. Otherwise, Lei Ou is the precedence!”

Everyone in the hall hurriedly nodded.

Watching Primer Tengshan’s grave face, Ya Fei pursed up her red lips. Her heart shook as she smiled bitterly and muttered, “Who would have expected that the young man who was called a ‘cripple’ three years ago is currently being feared to such an extent by one of the three large clans in the empire, the Primer clan… Nalan Yanran, you really have made a grave mistake…”

Chapter 288: Liu Ling

In the spacious room, Xiao Yan was frowning slightly as he eyed the spot where his finger touched Nalan Jie’s back. With his previous experience, he could clearly sense the flame was doped with some unknown things which were in turn absorbed into his body the instant the green colored flame was withdrawn.

“A mutation of the ‘Searing Poison’ is indeed scary. Even with my current flame controlling ability, I am unable to completely incinerate it. Ugh, it is likely that only Yao Lao’s ‘Bone Chilling Flame’ can completely remove it.” Xiao Yan slowly removed his finger, shook his head and sighed softly in his heart.

“We will stop here for this poison removing session. After a couple more times, I think that the poison in your body will be completely removed.” Xiao Yan retracted his finger into his sleeves, then eyed Nalan Jie, whose expression was much improved since the last time, and said.

“Thank you very much Little Brother Yan Xiao. I am able to sense that the ‘Searing Poison’ in my body is gradually decreasing.” Nalan Jie wiped off the perspiration on his forehead. The intense pain each time the poison was expelled was very exhausting, similar to him having gone through a battle with a strong person of the same class. He turned his head around and thanked Xiao Yan, whose face showed slight exhaustion.

“It is just that each of us are holding what the other requires.” Xiao Yan indifferently shook his head. His mind scanned the interior of his body a couple of times. He knit his eyebrows even deeper as he realized that the ‘Searing Poison’ appeared to have become even more dense in his body after this poison removing session.

“Ah… this thing. I wonder if it is a blessing or trouble. It would be good if Teacher was here. With the experience of his elderly self, I would not need to blindly worry about such matters…” Xiao Yan softly sighed and could only speak with a bitter smile in his heart.

“Haha, Little Brother Yan Xiao. It must have been hard on you for these past two days. If you need any medicinal ingredients or other things, you can tell us. These are all small matters. Just let our Nalan clan go and settle it. You just need to rest.” Seeing Nalan Jie’s increasingly ruddy complexion, the smile on Nalan Su’s face also increased. He took two steps forward and said with the smile still on his face to Xiao Yan.

Hearing this, Xiao Yan hesitated for a moment. He conveniently took out a paper and pen from the storage ring. After which, he swiftly wrote some rare and precious medicinal ingredients that were rarely seen in the market. After which, he handed it over to Nalan Su. Since the other party was a big fat sheep, it would be a waste not to slaughter. In any case, with the financial strength of the Nalan clan, this little bit was an insufficient amount that wouldn’t even make their hearts ache.

TL: Fat sheep = lot of resources, Slaughter = take a generous cut

Nalan Su received the paper and took a glance at it. His expression did not have the slightest change because of the valuable medicinal ingredients on it. He called out and got a female servant to follow what was written on it and take them out from the clan’s warehouse. During the whole process, Nalan Su’s response did not have the slightest hesitation, acting in an ostentatious manner.

“Haha, Little Brother Yan Xiao, why don’t we go to the living room to take a seat first. The things that you need will immediately be brought over.” Seeing that the female servant had exited from the room, Nalan Jie, who had finished wearing his clothes, smiled and said to Xiao Yan.

“Okay.” Xiao Yan nodded slightly and lifted his leg to follow Nalan Jie and Nalan Su in front of him.

After exiting the door, they passed through a quiet corridor before the three of them walked into the luxurious living room. They had just taken their seats when the female servant at the side hurriedly served them fragrant tea. After which, she bowed her body and stepped back.

“Little Brother Yan Xiao, I assume that the purpose of you coming to the capital this time around would be to participate in the Alchemist Grand Meeting, right?” Nalan Jie lifted his teacup, took a slow sip and asked with a smile.

“Yes.”

“Ke ke, all the mighty people have gathered for this Grand Meeting. It seems that there will be a good show to watch.” Nalan Su seated by his side smiled and said.

“I am only here to join the fun and don’t have much ability to compete with the others.” Xiao Yan smiled and replied.

“You are really modest. Possessing something as unique as a ‘Heavenly Flame’, it would be impossible for you not to display your splendor.” Nalan Jie shook his head and immediately laughed, “Before the Grand Meeting, there is definitely a need for some practice. If Little Brother Yan Xiao needs any medicinal ingredients, you can just mention them to me. As long as our Nalan clan has it, we will definitely not be stingy.”

“So you want to win me over early…” Xiao Yan sipped his tea, slightly shook his head and whispered in his heart.

The kind of prospects that an alchemist who possessed a ‘Heavenly Flame’ was something that a strong person like Nalan Jie was extremely clear of. Therefore, Xiao Yan might only be a tier two alchemist now but Nalan Jie still had put in all his effort to win the former over. As the saying goes, ‘one’s mouth will be shorter after eating other people’s things’. If Xiao Yan really did as he had said and randomly took the medicinal ingredients from the Nalan clan, it would not be easy for Xiao Yan to reject Nalan Jie when he invited Xiao Yan to be an alchemist for the Nalan clan in the future.

“I will come and find the two of you when I require them.” Xiao Yan did not immediately reject him. However, his vague words did not agree either.

As a person who had become wise with age, Nalan Jie naturally could hear Xiao Yan’s vague meaning. He smiled and his face did not have any disappointed emotion. With a smile, he diverted their topic of conversation and began to randomly inquire about some other information about Xiao Yan.

“Haha. May I ask who is Little Brother Yan Xiao’s teacher? I am able to recognize over half of the Jia Ma Empire’s well known alchemists. However, I have never heard of any one of their students possessing a ‘Heavenly Flame’ at such a young age.”

“Teacher doesn’t like to reveal himself. He has been living in isolation. Before I left, his elderly self had instructed me not to reveal any information about him.” Xiao Yan shook his head and said.

“Since it’s like this, I will not make things difficult for you.” Hearing the words, Nalan Jie smiled and nodded. His heart, however, muttered, “A strong person hidden from the world? With Yan Xiao’s age, it is naturally impossible for him to rein in the ‘Heavenly Flame’ by himself, I think that his Teacher should have given quite a lot of help on this. A strong person who could rein in a ‘Heavenly Flame’ should at least be a Dou Huang. Looks like the strength behind this little fellow cannot be underestimated. If I can win him over, there would be many benefits…”

Following Xiao Yan’s casual reply, time slowly passed by. The female servant that had gone to obtain the medicinal ingredients carried a silver plate and walked into the living room with a curled posture. She then respectfully placed the plate on the table beside Xiao Yan.

Glancing at those perfectly preserved medicinal ingredients on the silver plate, Xiao Yan nodded his head slightly. It looked like the Nalan clan had quite a number of skilled people who knew how to take care of their medicinal ingredients.

Xiao Yan cautiously stored the medicinal ingredients into his storage ring. Not intending to wait, Xiao Yan didn’t continue to stay any longer. Immediately, he stood up and bid the other two goodbye.

“Hehe, let us see Little Brother Yan Xiao off.” Seeing Xiao Yan stand up, Nalan Jie also hurriedly did the same. After which, he and Nalan Su walked shoulder to shoulder out of the living room.

Once they were out of the room, they walked along a small path. The Nalan clan members who were coming and going hurriedly greeted them. They waited until the three of them walked away before facing each other in shock. Immediately afterwards, they threw their curious and surprised gazes at Xiao Yan. In the whole of the Jia Ma Empire, there were no more than five people who had the qualification for both, the old grandfather of the Nalan clan and the clan head to respectfully send someone off together. Yet this young person who appeared only around twenty years old actually possessed the qualification to enjoy such a respectful treatment?

Under the surprised and strange gazes throughout the journey, the three of them finally came to the main door. Xiao Yan bowed slightly toward Nalan Jie and Nalan Su. He was just about to leave when the corner of his eye suddenly stiffened at the sight of two human figures who were slowly walking over to the Nalan clan.

Of the two human figures, one was a male and the other was a female. The lady was wearing a moon white colored robe with trailing spacious sleeves. Her elegant footsteps caused people to have an extremely pleasing beautiful feeling. Her pretty face, which carried a little smile, hooked the gazes of the surrounding men as she passed by.

The man was wearing an alchemist long robe. His age was also quite young and his figure was tall and straight, appearing only slightly over twenty years old. His handsome face had lines that seemed to be carved by a knife, emitting a somewhat feminine feeling. The gentle smile on his face also had an easy time moving some ladies’ hearts. When comparing the appearance of this person to Xiao Yan’s disguised appearance, it was like two polar regions that were extremely far apart.

Of course, the thing that attracted the most attention was still the alchemist badge on the young man’s chest. On it, three silver colored ripples reflected an eye-piercing glow under the sunlight. Those passersby, whose heart originally had contained a sour feeling because of the other party having the company of such a beautiful woman, felt dull initially upon seeing the three silver colored ripples that represented his status. Immediately, the unhappiness in their eyes automatically turned into one of respect that one used when faced with a strong person.

The man and the lady slowly walked over. A talented man and a beautiful woman, a perfect couple. They attracted the attention of quite a number of eyes on the street. Immediately, numerous amazed and envious gazes were thrown over as two of them suddenly became the focus of attention on the street.

At the moment when Xiao Yan’s gaze paused on the two of them, Nalan Jie and Nalan Su beside him also noticed the two people walking over. When their gazes swept onto the man by Nalan Yanran’s side, each of their expressions were somewhat different.

Staring at the two of them who were slowly walking over, Xiao Yan lowered his head slightly. For some unknown reason, his heart faintly had a hint of anger. A long while later, he inhaled a breath of icy cool air. He understood that although he no longer had those feelings for the lady in front of him, she was still someone who had nearly become his wife regardless of all that had happened. Now that he saw her conversing and laughing with another man as they walked together, he would naturally feel a knot in his heart.

Xiao Yan raised his head. The emotions in his eyes were completely withdrawn by him as he calmly watched the two people who had arrived in front of him.

“Mister Yan Xiao, we have troubled you again today.” As the two people reached the main door, Nalan Yanran greeted Nalan Jie and Nalan Su before she smiled and spoke to Xiao Yan.

Xiao Yan did not open his mouth to speak. He merely shook his head. His face, which was covered by the icy silk mask, appeared slightly cold.

Having known Xiao Yan for a day, Nalan Yanran also knew about his indifferent character and was unconcerned with it. She pointed to the man by her side and said with a smile, “Mister Yan Xiao, this is my friend, Liu Ling. He is also an alchemist.”

“Nice to meet you, Mister Yan Xiao.” That handsome man extended his hand as he smiled and greeted Xiao Yan. His smile was extremely gentle, appearing quite sincere.

“Nice to meet you.” Xiao Yan extended his hand and held the other party’s hand as he spoke calmly. His eyes watched Liu Ling. Ever since he had left Wu Tan City, the young man in front of him was the first young person who caused Xiao Yan to actually pay close attention to. Being able to become a tier three alchemist at such a young age, his talent was definitely not weaker than Xiao Yan.

“Hey, Liu Ling boy, why have you run over here instead of learning refining skills from your teacher?” Nalan Jie glanced at this man who was extremely outstanding. He sighed slightly in his heart. Liu Ling was the most outstanding young man that he had seen during these last few years. If one were to discuss about talent and ability, he was a man who was a good match to Nalan Yanran. He also knew that his extremely haughty granddaughter may also have a favorable impression of this very outstanding young man who was at her age. Although this small favorable impression was far from having any feelings, Liu Ling was one of the few males of her age who had given her a favorable impression in many years.

While Liu Ling was indeed very outstanding, the agreement with his old friend back then had always been in Nalan Jie’s heart. Just thinking about the little fellow from the Xiao clan whose engagement was broken off, his heart was filled with regret and helplessness. Therefore, he had some resistance to Liu Ling and Nalan Yanran becoming too close. He was still trying to think up ways to rescue the already shattered pre-arranged marriage.

“The Grand Meeting is about to begin soon. The Grand Meeting has gathered countless strong people in the empire’s alchemist scene. There is always someone better than one. Therefore, Teacher has asked me to descend from the mountains and experience it for myself. Additionally, Teacher also asked me to send his regards to Old Sir.” Liu Ling bowed slightly and replied with a smile.

“Mister Yan Xiao, I didn’t expect that you were able to help Old Sir remove the ‘Searing Poison’ at such a young age. It really surprises people. Back then, Teacher had also come and taken a look, but did not have the slightest solution. Ha ha, I think that Mister Yan Xiao should be in possession of the legendary ‘Heavenly Flame’, right?” Liu Ling turned his gaze to Xiao Yan by the side and laughed.

Xiao Yan’s eyes narrowed as he probed Liu Ling and asked, “Who is your teacher?”

“My teacher is Gu He.” Liu Ling gently smiled and said. Although he hid the pride in his smile very deeply, some of it still seeped out.

“So it is Pill-King Gu He…” Xiao Yan muttered softly in his heart. He nodded, but the indifferentness on his face did not move because of this name that had once shaken the entire Jia Ma Empire.

Xiao Yan’s calm manner caused Liu Ling to be startled; being able to become Pill-King Gu He’s personal disciple had always been something that he was very proud of. However, in the eyes of the young man in front of him, it seemed to be nothing at all. Immediately, his eyebrows were pressed together slightly without being noticed before they immediately quickly relaxed. He smiled and asked Xiao Yan, “May I know the name of Mister Yan Xiao’s teacher?”

“Teacher is just an idler in the mountain and does not have a great reputation like the Pill-King Gu He has. He is not worth mentioning.” Xiao Yan smiled and answered faintly. His very calm manner caused Nalan Jie, Nalan Yanran and the others to give him a sidelong glance.

“Mister Yan Xiao is really humble. Even if we don’t mention the ‘Heavenly Flame’, you have become a tier two alchemist at such an age. Your teacher’s ability is naturally not weak in order to be able to teach a student like you.” Nalan Yanran at the side covered her mouth and laughed.

“I have no choice. This was all forced by someone…” Xiao Yan stared at Nalan Yanran’s pretty face and suddenly mocked himself as he spoke softly.

Nalan Yanran was at a momentary loss. For some unknown reason, the eyes of the other party caused her heart to quiver without realizing it. She gently shook her head and was just about to say something when Xiao Yan cupped his hands together and shook them at everyone. He smiled faintly and said, “I’m sorry. I still have something to do and won’t be able to accompany everyone to chat. Goodbye.”

Once he said those words, Xiao Yan walked toward the street. After which, he gradually disappeared into the sea of people in front of the eyes of Nalan Yanran’s group.

“Yanran, does he really possess a ‘Heavenly Flame’?” Seeing that Xiao Yan had disappeared, Liu Ling could not help but inquire again.

“Yes. Mister Yan Xiao’s ability is quite good. His flame controlling ability would not be lousier than yours. In terms of refining pills, he is the only one of similar age whom I have met in so many years that I think may actually exceed you.” Nalan Yanran nodded her head. Her pretty eyes watched the end of the street and she felt a little absentminded. For some unknown reason, this cold young man kept giving her an extremely strange feeling. This kind of feeling was something that she had never felt from Liu Ling.

Liu Ling frowned as he eyed Nalan Yanran who was staring at the end of the street in a somewhat absentminded manner. His fist tensed slightly without him noticing while a faint sourness appeared in his heart…

Chapter 289: Hidden Opponent

Within the quiet room, Xiao Yan, who was seated cross-legged on the bed. slowly opened his eyes. A glint flashed across his dark eyes. Turbid air moved along his throat as he exhaled. Xiao Yan’s face faintly emitted a weak glow. Clearly, the Dou Qi in his body had greatly increased after this training session.

“The energy contained within this ‘Searing Poison’ is indeed very large. Even though I have refined it a number of times, it still possesses such substantial energy.” As he sensed his Dou Qi that was becoming more thicker and more powerful, Xiao Yan could not help but mutter softly.

“The energy may be substantial, but… it also has a price.” Xiao Yan laughed bitterly. He shook his right hand and a cluster of green colored flame rose. On the outer surface of the flame, vague black colored marks were writhing slightly. Finally, it was completely suppressed to Xiao Yan’s middle finger. Immediately, his long finger turned as black as ink, appearing extremely strange.

“Ah, the ‘Searing Poison’ is increasingly dense…” Eyeing the color of his finger, which had turned darker, Xiao Yan shook his head. He pressed his finger on the bed pillar by the side. The tough wooden pillar was instantly corroded and an empty hole was formed.

“Forget it. As long as I get hold of the ‘Seven Magical Green Spirit Saliva’, I will be able to wake Teacher. When that time comes, there should be a solution that solves these problems.” Xiao Yan stared at his finger for a long while as he muttered, “Although this thing is very dangerous, I have absorbed quite a lot of energy from this ‘Searing Poison’ during the last two days. According to the energy level, it will likely be sufficient for me to advance from a six star Dou Shi to a seven star Dou Shi by the time I completely absorb all the ‘Searing Poison’ in Nalan Jie’s body.”

Xiao Yan shook his head and curled his finger slightly. The dark black color on it was withdrawn and a moment later, returned to its normal color.

“Creak.”

As Xiao Yan was withdrawing his hand, the tightly shut door was gently pushed opened. Hai Bo Dong walked in lazily. He glanced at Xiao Yan in the room saw his slightly ugly expression and could not help but ask with a smile. “What? Have you suffered some wrong at the Nalan clan? Do you want me to accompany you next time?”

Xiao Yan helplessly shook his head. He leaped down from the bed and said “It is still the matter of the ‘Searing Poison’. My ‘Heavenly Flame’ seems to be unable to do anything to it. Each time I help Nalan Jie remove the poison, the ‘Searing Poison’ in my body becomes increasingly dense.”

“Increasingly dense?” Hai Bo Dong was startled upon hearing this. He immediately frowned and said, “Since it is like this, then why are you still helping him remove the poison? I don’t believe you are one of those good people who try to help everyone. Moreover, you seem to have some grudges with Nalan Yanran of the Nalan clan.”

“I want that ‘Seven Magical Green Spirit Saliva’. Don’t tell me we should go and steal it?” Xiao Yan shrugged his shoulders and replied faintly.

“That won’t do. Due to Nalan Yanran, the Nalan clan and the Misty Cloud Sect have an extremely good relationship. Moreover, the clan also possesses some weight in the empire’s government. I think that old demon from the royalty would also act. Do you think that our ability would be able to contend with these two large strengths?” Hai Bo Dong smiled awkwardly as he replied to Xiao Yan.

“Then what is there to say? For now, if I want to obtain the ‘Seven Magical Green Spirit Saliva’, I can only help cure Nalan Jie. Although this ‘Searing Poison’ is extremely dangerous, at the very least it currently does not appear to hurt me in any way.” Xiao Yan helplessly shook his head. After this analysis by Hai Bo Dong, his heart became a little more serious. This Nalan clan indeed lived up to its reputation as one of the three large clans of the empire. There were far too many strengths behind them that would be dragged into the matter.

“Do what you want as long as you don’t end up causing yourself to sink into it. I am still waiting for you to help me refine the ‘Spiritual Recovery Purple Pill.” Hai Bo Dong waved his hand and said.

“Relax. As soon as you can gather all the medicinal ingredients, I will help you refine it. Although my Spiritual Strength was slightly damaged because of the ‘Angry Buddha Lotus Flame’, refining the ‘Spiritual Recovery Purple Pill’ should not be something too difficult.” Xiao Yan slowly walked toward the side of the table. He removed all the clutter of things on it, took out a medicinal cauldron from within the storage ring and randomly said superficially,

“Ke ke, I naturally have confidence in you.” Hai Bo Dong smiled and nodded. He eyed Xiao Yan’s action and inquired in a stunned manner, “What are you doing?”

“I think that you should continue to wander around outside. I am about to train my refining skills.” Xiao Yan removed numerous medicinal ingredients from the storage ring and said with as smile to Hai Bo Dong.

“Uh… I haven’t been back that long.” Hearing Xiao Yan’s words, Hai Bo Dong smiled bitterly and shook his head. A moment later, he noticed Xiao Yan staring at him with a tilted head and could only helplessly smack his lips. He said, “Forget it. You can train. I will go out for a stroll…”

As he spoke, Hai Bo Dong turned around and opened the door unsteadily before reluctantly walking out. He knew that an alchemist did not like their surroundings to be disturbed by anyone while they were refining medicinal pills

Xiao Yan eyed the door which slowly closed before turning his gaze to the medicinal cauldron in front of him. His palm slowly caressed some of the medicinal ingredients on the table as he knit his eyebrows together and thought deeply. After around a year of tough training in the desert and especially after having consumed the Fire Lotus Seed recently which resulted in his compatibility with the ‘Green Lotus Core Flame’ to soar, Xiao Yan was extremely confident that it would not be something overly difficult to pass the test for a tier three alchemist. This was because the most important thing for a tier three alchemist was the flame controlling ability. On this aspect, Xiao Yan even had the confidence to compare with a tier four alchemist.

“Ugh but even if it is like this, it would not be an easy thing for me to successfully obtain the champion spot in the Alchemist Grand Meeting. Those opponents aren’t ordinary people…” Xiao Yan sighed and shook his head. He recalled Gu He’s disciple, Liu Ling, whom he had met today. Although he had not personally seen the other party refining, it was only natural that with Pill King Gu He’s ability, the disciple that he taught would not be someone useless. Moreover when they were facing each other, Xiao Yan had also sensed the confidence contained within the other person’s action and voice. This confidence was not a forceful act. This was something that a person was only able to have when he really possessed some ability.

Xiao Yan’s palm rubbed the icy cold medicinal cauldron. He suddenly shrugged his shoulders and laughed softly, “Of course, I am not an ordinary person either. If I were to lose to Liu Ling in the Alchemist Grand Meeting, won’t it mean that Teacher cannot be compared to Gu He?”

“That won’t do…” Xiao Yan slowly exhaled a breath of air. He pursed up his lips slightly. A long while later, he faintly smiled. His finger gently flicked at the flame outlet of the medicinal cauldron and a wisp of green colored flame was swiftly inserted in. Following a soft muffled sound, a green colored flame immediately rose and burned within the medicinal cauldron.

“I will first try to refine a tier three medicinal pill…” Xiao Yan’s palm slowly moved over the medicinal ingredients on the table.After which, it stopped at a few medicinal plants. His palm curled slightly and a subtle absorption force pulled them into his palm and randomly threw them into the medicinal cauldron.

Watching those medicinal ingredients that were separated and wrapped by the green colored flame, Xiao Yan nodded slightly. A medicinal formula for a tier three medicinal pill automatically surfaced in his mind. During his training, Yao Lao would occasionally use his Spiritual Strength to pour all these medicinal formulas into Xiao Yan. It was naturally extremely easy for him to be able to use them now.

“‘Refreshing Pill’, tier three medicinal pill. It is able to let the senses of person who consumes it to be even more sensitive to the exterior natural energy in the outside world while in one’s training mode, increasing the speed at which one absorbs energy. The quantity of it would also increase significantly. The ingredients needed to refine it are: a thirty year old ‘Pure Heart Three Leaves Grass’, a ripe ‘Buddha Heart Fruit’, a ten year old ‘Spirit Absorption Tree’… a rank three monster core.”

Xiao Yan’s mind slowly recalled the medicinal ingredients recorded in the medicinal formula. A long while later, his ten long fingers gently flicked. Immediately, the flame in the medicinal cauldron burned turbulently.

As Xiao Yan began to refine the medicine, the temperature in the room also gradually increased. A faint smoke seeped out from the cauldron. After which, it lingered within the room, causing the place to be shrouded by fog.

Due to this being his first time refining such a medicinal pill, Xiao Yan expectedly incinerated the medicinal ingredients during his first two tries. However, this did not cause him to feel any disappointment. After all, failures when refining medicinal pills were difficult to avoid even if it was Yao Lao who personally performing the refining.

Therefore, after ceasing the flame and summarizing the failure experiences, Xiao Yan swiftly grasped the necessary flame temperature, etc. During his third refinement, a round, shiny ‘Refreshing Pill’ was finally freshly created after two hours of refining…

Eyeing the ‘Refreshing Pill’ that was quietly lying in the jade bottle, Xiao Yan wiped the perspiration on his forehead. He smiled with satisfaction. After which, he once again raise the flame and continued to refine…

By consuming the entire afternoon, the success rate for Xiao Yan refining the ‘Refreshing Pill’ had increased at a joyfully swift pace. When the medicinal ingredients on the table were about to be exhausted, three ‘Refreshing Pills’ had already appeared in the jade bottle.

Xiao Yan stored the jade bottle containing the three ‘Refreshing Pills’ carefully into his storage ring. The tired expression on his face was difficult to hide. Once he cleaned up the table, he took a few weak footsteps and planted his head onto the bed.

……

By the time Xiao Yan woke up from his deep sleep, he realized that it was already the morning of the next day. He shook his somewhat drowsy head as he climbed out of his bed. He watched the empty room and shook his head with a bitter smile. Refining medicinal pills was indeed very tiring work. The loss experienced by his spirit strength was really too large.

Xiao Yan climbed out of his bed and cleaned himself up in a simple fashion. Once he was wide awake, he walked out of the room and headed toward the Nalan clan to begin today’s poison removing session for Nalan Jie.

Although he had not seen Hai Bo Dong for a day, Xiao Yan was not very concerned. With the old man’s strength, other than those old fellows and the leader of the Misty Cloud Sect, it was likely that no one in this Jia Ma Empire could pose any big trouble to him.

……

The poison removing session today was about the same as the last time. During the session, there was nothing special that happened. Once Xiao Yan had helped Nalan Jie removed the poison, he was also invited to sit in the Nalan clan for a while. For some unknown reason, Nalan Yanran had come forward with great interest during the time that they were seated and inquired about some things related to Xiao Yan. However, these questions were all vaguely withstood and dealt with using Xiao Yan’s indifferent expression and tone. Although the current her appeared to have changed a lot compared to back then, it was really difficult for Xiao Yan to form any good opinions of this woman.

Anywhere that Nalan Yanran was present, that Liu Ling would naturally also follow closely behind. Xiao Yan could sense the peripheral vision of that fellow repeatedly drifting over during the times when he was conversing with Nalan Yanran. Although Liu Ling’s face still maintained a smile without speaking, Xiao Yan was able to sense that the former was in some sort of a bad mood and had also formed a faint enmity against him. However, Xiao Yan merely shrugged his shoulders in response to this. “It is not my concern if you are unhappy… I even dared to snatch the ‘Heavenly Flame’ that Gu He had his eyes on. In what way can you, as a disciple that has not graduated, frighten me?”

Under Liu Ling’s slightly cold gaze, Xiao Yan sat in the living room for nearly half an hour. Only then did he stand up and bid them goodbye. After which, he was sent off by Nalan Jie and the others as he walked out of the Nalan clan and slowly disappeared from their sight.

Looking at Xiao Yan, who had disappeared, with narrow eyes, Liu Ling turned his head around and suddenly laughed, “Grandfather, do you know the background of this alchemist called Yan Xiao?”

“Why?” Hearing the question, Nalan Jie was distracted and he immediately said with a frown, “Mister Yan Xiao is a distinguished guest of our Nalan clan. I only care about whether he can help me expel the ‘Searing Poison’. I am not concerned about his exact identity.”

“Young people should have wider hearts. Don’t feel enmity over some little things. You may be Gu He’s disciple, but I dare to say that the Teacher behind Yan Xiao would likely not be any weaker than Gu He. Becoming an enemy with such a person is not going to be a good thing…” Nalan Jie glanced at the smiling Liu Ling and spoke meaningfully with a soft voice. With his old and sharp gaze, he could naturally sense the thoughts Liu Ling had about Xiao Yan.

“Ha ha, Grandfather must be joking. Mister Yan Xiao and I have never met. Why would I have any enmity toward him?” Liu Ling’s expression changed slightly. However, he was not an ordinary person. He swiftly withdrew his expression, drifted his gaze toward the slightly frowning Nalan Yanran and laughed.

“It would naturally be best if it is like this. That Yan Xiao may not be able to compare with you now, but his potential is extremely great. If I have the chance, I really want to pull him into our Nalan clan.” Nalan Jie faintly smiled. Without looking at the stiffened expression of Liu Ling, he turned around and walked through the main door.

Nalan Yanran glance at Liu Ling who was helplessly shrugging his shoulders and said softly, “You better not try anything stupid. My grandfather has already said that he is a distinguished guest of the Nalan clan.” Once she said those words, her hand pulled aside the black hair in front of her forehead and slowly followed Nalan Jie in front of her.

“Yanran, after so many years, you should know how I…”

Watching the enchantingly graceful back, Liu Ling could not help but say those words. However, before he managed to say all that he wanted to, Nalan Yanran, who had her back facing him, randomly waved her delicate, white jade-like smooth hand under the sunlight. She sighed, “You should know that I don’t wish to discuss about these matters now. You are one of the few men who was able to become my friend during all these years. Perhaps you might be able to move me in the future, but at least for now, I merely treat you as an ordinary friend. I do not deny that you are outstanding. However, you have not met my requirements. My man will definitely not be a mediocre person.” Once she said these words, she did not linger any longer. She moved with successive footsteps and walked through the main door.

“I know that you have high expectations. This time around I will take the throne at the Grand Meeting to prove that I, Liu Ling, am a good match for you.” As he watched that enchanting back, a fanatical emotion flashed across Liu Ling’s eyes. Being the future leader of the Misty Cloud Sect, Nalan Yanran’s status in the Jia Ma Empire was nearly even more distinguished than the empire’s princess. With the haughtiness in Liu Ling’s heart, he would naturally need to subdue such a woman in order to prove how outstanding he was.

“Wait until you become the champion before discussing it.” A faint moving voice moved through the door and slowly transmitted over.

“Just wait…” Liu Ling shrugged his shoulders, turned around and stared at the spot where Xiao Yan had been seated earlier. He gave a shady soft laughter as he softly muttered, “I will let him be ashamed of his foul appearance in the Grand Meeting. The disciple of Pill-King Gu He is without a doubt, the most outstanding person in the Jia Ma Empire.”

Chapter 290: Advance to Seven Star, The Final Test

Xiao Yan was seated cross-legged on the bed. At this moment, the natural energy within the room was fluctuating somewhat intensely. Numerous energy ripples that were visible to the naked eye were surging and rolling out from within Xiao Yan’s body. His clothes had swollen until they were bulging. On his grave face, a faint green glow was partially visible.

As the surrounding natural energy was poured into Xiao Yan’s body, wave after wave, the green glow on his face also grew increasingly dense. In the end, the green colored glow almost covered his entire face. The force within his body was also gradually being raised.

When the rising force reached a certain level, the surrounding fluctuating energy suddenly came to an abrupt stop. The swollen clothes on Xiao Yan’s body appeared to have stiffened and did not move anymore.

This strange, quiet pause continued for nearly ten seconds. Xiao Yan, who had his eyes tightly closed, suddenly opened them. The green colored flame instantly rolled and surged up before immediately and swiftly disappearing. A fierce glow suddenly shot out from within his dark eyes.

With his body maintaining its training mode, Xiao Yan opened his mouth. A somewhat black colored turbid air was spat out. The black air wreathed upward. Anything that touched it was completely corroded. It continued to rise until it corroded a small hole in the roof before it finally gradually turned into nothingness under the sunlight.

After exhaling the turbid breath. The fierce glow in Xiao Yan’s eyes also quietly withdrew. The stiffened clothes once again became soft as they nestled close to Xiao Yan’s skin. The imposing force that was lingering within the room was also withdrawn into his body.

“Seven star Dou Shi…”

As he gently tightened his fist, the feeling of his body being filled with strength caused Xiao Yan to be a little intoxicated. Although he knew that according to the pace at which he was advancing from before, he would sooner or later advance into the seven star level. However, he did not expect that by merely absorbing the ‘Searing Poison’ in Nalan Jie three times would be sufficient enough for him to raise a level.

“The energy within a Dou Wang’s body is really vast and surging. I have only absorbed it three times, but the energy was sufficient enough to let me raise a level…” Xiao Yan muttered softly. His body twisted strangely. Hearing the waves of clear bone cracking sound from within his body, he could not help but smile with satisfaction. “This transaction seems to be quite a good bargain.”

Xiao Yan placed both his palms on the bed and used a little energy. His body shot upward in a supple manner. After which, he somersaulted in the air and landed gently on the ground. He clapped his hand, looked around and mumbled with a frown, “Why is he still not back?”

Xiao Yan mused for a moment and could only helplessly shake his head at the futile effort. He then opened the door and walked out. Tomorrow was when the Grand Meeting would begin. He needed to go to the association to inquire about the different kinds of competitions in the Grand Meeting and the method in which the tests were conducted now or else he’d start on the wrong foot.

After exiting the inn, Xiao Yan stood on the street and took a look all around him. He then lifted his footsteps and walked toward the towering building of the Alchemist Association where one would at least be able to see a corner of it from afar.

During the walk there, Xiao Yan was stunned to realize that some of the main roads in the city already had completely armed knight units patrolling. Clearly, this was due to the Alchemist Grand Meeting which was about to begin. After all, if a commotion were to occur at such a large grand meeting, it would have many different large impacts to the empire. Therefore, the imperial family needed to prevent any such possibilities.

TL: Yes, knights. People with horses + armor + aren’t cavalry (army). Correct me if wrong but pretty sure the only word for them is knights

After slowly walking passed a few wide streets, the large Alchemist Association finally appeared in Xiao Yan’s sight. Eyeing the entrance which was even more packed compared to two days ago, he could not help but shake his head. It appeared that there were many alchemists who wished to reveal their brilliance at this Grand Meeting.

With both his hands behind his back, Xiao Yan slowly crossed his footsteps and entered the association. He turned his footsteps and squeezed through the human crowd. He had just followed the human flow and entered the association when a disturbance occurred not far behind him. The surrounding gazes were thrown over.

The human flow at the front had stopped entering and Xiao Yan was plugged up at the middle. He helplessly sighed, frowned slightly and turned his head around to watch the source of the commotion.

The source of the commotion was a horse carriage that had a great noble aura. In front of the horse carriage, there were two horses which had snow white hair without the slightest impurities quietly pulling it. A strange beast which had a blue colored flame rising from its body was drawn on the golden yellow brocade surrounding the horse carriage. The strange beast was of a large size and it had a ferocious appearance, emitting a feeling that would faintly frighten the hearts of those who looked at it.

“The imperial crest…” Staring at the strange beast crest whose name eluded him, Xiao Yan softly muttered. As a citizen of the Jia Ma Empire, he was able to identify the Jia Ma Empire’s imperial crest.

Surrounding the horse carriage, there were over ten people wrapped entirely in black robe accompanying it. Xiao Yan’s gaze swept across these black robed people and his eyes shrunk. From his senses, these ten plus black robed people actually gave him a feeling of danger.

“It is really indeed worthy of being the Jia Ma Empire’s imperial family. Its strength really cannot be underestimated.” Xiao Yan exclaimed slightly in his heart as his gaze was thrown to where the carriage curtain was.

A black robed person stepped forward and respectfully lifted the carriage curtain. When the black robed person did this, Xiao Yan could clearly sense the other black robed people had already swifty formed a steady circle during the slight movement, guarding the horse carriage in the middle of them. At the same time, numerous gazes that were as sharp as an eagle shot out from the black robed people as they swept back and forth in front of the surrounding packed human crowd.

Under the watch of the surrounding people, a snow white jade like delicate hand was extended out from the carriage. It gracefully held the handle of the carriage door. After which, a beautiful figure slowly walked out and appeared in everyone’s sight.

The person who appeared was wearing a purple colored dress that had silver colored lines embedded in it. Her exquisite appearance, under the influence of the imperial family, faintly seeped out a noble imposing presence that was her birthright. A purple colored belt was worn on her narrow and delicate waist, displaying the small waist vividly and incisively. Her age did not appear to be very old, appearing similar to Xiao Yan’s before he had changed his appearance. Her pretty face contained a smile, appearing elegant and serene. However, each time her gaze swept across the surroundings, Xiao Yan was able to discover that this young lady who looked very ladylike had some quirky and strange smile flashing across her watery eyes. Clearly, this was different from the surface she showed which seemed to like quietness.

“A woman really cannot be judged by her appearance…” Xiao Yan bitterly smiled and shook his head. He withdrew his gaze and no longer looked at this very extraordinary young lady.

“Tsk tsk, what a beautiful girl…” Watching the young lady which had appeared, a wave of cheers was immediately erupted from the surrounding human crowd. A number of heated gazes were swiftly thrown over. Although the lady’s status was extremely noble, it did not appear to be inappropriate to take advantage of the large crowd and allow their eyes to be a little impudent.

“Hee hee, this is the little princess within the Jia Ma Empire imperial family. I heard that her teacher is the deputy chairman Grandmaster Qie Mi Er. Since she has appeared here this time around, I think that she must have come because of the Alchemist Grand Meeting.” There were quite a number of well informed individuals within the human crowd who managed to identify the young lady upon seeing her appearance.

“She doesn’t seem to be that old, yet she is actually here to compete in the Grand Meeting?”

“Che, the little princess’ refining talent is something that even the chairman had praised non-stop. Don’t just look at her young age. I have heard that half a year ago, she had already stepped into a tier three alchemist…”

“Uh…” Hearing this, there was an immediate uproar in the surrounding crowd. Some of the older middle-aged alchemist lifted their hands with somewhat red faces and covered the tier badge on their chests in embarrassment.

Being squeezed in the human crowd, Xiao Yan heard the conversations of these people and a shock flashed across his face. He once again turned his gaze to the purple dressed young lady who was walking to the association with the support of the black robed person. He said quietly in his heart, “Indeed, there is always someone who is better. It is really unexpected that this young lady who appears so weak is actually a tier three alchemist…”

Although Xiao Yan was shocked in his heart, Xiao Yan did not feel that this was very unexpected. With the rich foundation of the Jia Ma Empire’s royalty, as long as this little princess possessed the basic talent needed to become an alchemist, they could use those ingredients that could be piled into mountains to easily build her into a high tier alchemist. Moreover, from the looks of things, this little princess’ talent for refining medicine was quite good. Therefore, having such an achievement was within expectations.

Under the protection of the group of black robed people whose bodies were shrouded by a dark and cold aura, that purple dress young lady passed through the packed human crowd without meeting any obstruction. After which, she swaggered into the Alchemist Association.

As the back of the young lady which appeared elegant disappeared from his sight, Xiao Yan shrugged his shoulders and twisted his body slightly. Like a loach, he squeezed passed the surrounding human crowd without leaving a trace as he swiftly leaped into the interior of the association.

After pushing aside the last layer of the human flow, the surrounding area finally became spacious. He eyed the vast hall and exhaled a long breath of air. Wiping off the perspiration on his forehead, Xiao Yan walked toward the western area of the hall as though he had walked there countless times.

The two guards from the last time were still present at the entrance to the western area. When they saw Xiao Yan arrive, they did not stop him like they did before. After bowing and greeting him, they did not bother him when he entered. Looking at this situation, it appeared that Ao Tuo had already gave them specific instructions for Xiao Yan.

Seeing that the guards did not stop him, Xiao Yan was happy to save some trouble. He walked into the corridor and slowly climbed up the stairs. Finally, he stopped outside Ao Tuo’s room from the last time. He knocked softly on the door, waited for Ao Tuo’s voice from inside before pushing it open and entering.

Only Ao Tuo was seated in the room. At that moment, he was watching Xiao Yan who had entered with a smile. “Little Fellow, you are quite punctual.”

Xiao Yan smiled and sat on the chair beside Ao Tuo. He lifted a teacup and took a sip as he laughed, “Haha, I shall not say anything unnecessary. My purpose for coming here this time around is to inquire about the format of the competition. Is it done by drawing lots or by other means?”

TL: Drawing lots = having one random person go up at a time

“There are so many competitors who participate in the competition. If the competition were to rely on drawing lots one at a time, just how long would it take?” Ao Tuo shook his head with a smile. His finger drew a very large rectangle on the table’s surface as he continued with a smile on his face, “All of the alchemists in the competition will be participating at the same time on a huge platform. There, you will have quite a few rounds and the requirements for the competition will gradually become harder. When that time comes, it would be like a sieve sieving away the sand particles, swiftly removing those that do not qualify. Those who are able to stay the longest are all the best among the participants. Whoever is able to stand out among the cream of the crop, will be the final victor.”

“Oh…” Xiao Yan nodded his head slightly. The scene of hundreds or thousands of alchemists raising their flames and refining medicine on the same platform must be extremely spectacular.

“Hehe, you really want to see that kind of scene, don’t you? Don’t be frightened when that time comes. Back then, when I first participated, I was also shocked.” Grandmaster Ao Tuo laughed, appearing to know what Xiao Yan was thinking.

“That’s right. There is a namelist here. Why don’t you take a look. These are all the competitors with great ability who will be participating in this Grand Meeting.” Ao Tuo picked up a paper scroll from the table and handed it to Xiao Yan. He immediately added, “This is an internal document. According to the rules, I cannot leak it to others.”

Xiao Yan was somewhat curious as he received the paper scroll. He smiled and nodded as he slowly pulled it open. The long namelist had at least twenty to thirty people with abilities that were not bad. Xiao Yan swept his gaze over it and his eyebrows were suddenly raised. He realized that Liu Ling was actually on the namelist and it was very close to the top. Clearly, the name of the Pill-King successor was not simply something that was obtained from bragging about.

“This Little Princess should be the one from the imperial family right?” Xiao Yan pointed at the Little Princess who was ranked fifth and asked.

“Yes, have you seen her?”

“I have seen her for a moment at the entrance just now. I didn’t expect that her name is so close to the front.” Xiao Yan smiled, feeling a little surprised at the ranking.

“Don’t look down on that girl. Under the support of the imperial family strength, she has so many hidden cards that would dazzle people.” Ao Tuo smiled and reminded.

Xiao Yan nodded slightly. He looked through the information on the namelist carefully before returning it to Ao Tuo. “The competitors are indeed very strong. Just counting the tier three alchemists, there are already thirteen of them.”

“It is indeed a little troublesome and you can only rely on yourself for this. I can only help you this much.” Ao Tuo nodded his head and helplessly said.

Xiao Yan smiled and nodded his head. He asked, “Is the Grand Meeting starting tomorrow? Do I still need to do something now?”

“Haha, indeed, you still need to do something. Consider this the last test before the competition. Outsiders do not have this round of test but the competitors who are recommended by us, the branch heads, must pass this round… This can be considered a kind of test in advance where the association judges our ability to pick people. If one cannot pass this test, then our recommendation would lose effect.” Ao Tuo stood up, smiled and said, “Follow me. At this place, you will be able to see some of the strong opponents on the namelist.”

“Yes.” Xiao Yan nodded his head, stood up and followed Ao Tuo. The two of them walked out of the room and walked along a quiet corridor for a short while. Once they were at the end, they pushed opened a door by the side and slowly entered.

A strong light suddenly shot over as they walked through the door, causing Xiao Yan to involuntarily narrow his eyes. He finally opened them once he adapted to the light.

Appearing in front of them was a spacious inner hall which was decorated in quite a classical manner. At the moment, the inner hall had some people standing in twos and threes. Xiao Yan’s gaze swept across these people and was somewhat stunned to discover that many of these people, who appeared quite young, were actually at the level of a third tier alchemist. The empire’s little princess whom he had saw at the main entrance some time ago was also among them. His gaze rotated once again and with raised eyebrows, finally stopped on a handsome looking young man who was conversing with a few tier three alchemists.

Liu Ling…

Hearing the sound of the door opening, everyone in the hall who was whispering privately ceased their conversations. Their gaze turned toward the door. When they saw Xiao Yan entered, they were all momentarily stunned. Their gazes then drifted toward the tier two alchemist badge on his chest and their expressions carried some ridicule.

The Little Princess, who was leaning on the wall, was surrounded by a few alchemists in a manner similar to stars arching around the moon, also glanced at Xiao Yan. However, after she saw the tier badge on the his chest, she completely lost interest. She lazily stretched and her curves hooked the gazes of the surrounding men.

Liu Ling’s gaze lazily stared at Xiao Yan. The latter’s entrance had also caused Liu Ling to be a little surprised. Quickly following this, however, a dark mild smile surfaced on his face, appearing to harbor malicious intentions.

Xiao Yan lowered his eyebrows slightly. The different gazes in the large hall did not affect him. His hands drooped in front of his sleeves. The indifferent face of his was like an old monk. However, a faint cold laughter quietly surfaced within his heart.

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Battle Through the Heavens

Battle Through the Heavens

Battles Breaks the Sky, BTTH, Doupo Cangqiong, Fight Break Sphere, Đấu Phá Thương Khung, 斗破苍穹
Score 7.6
Status: Completed Type: Author: , , Released: 2009-2024 Native Language: Chinese, English
In a land where no magic is present. A land where the strong make the rules and the weak have to obey. A land filled with alluring treasures and beauty, yet also filled with unforeseen danger. Three years ago, Xiao Yan, who had shown talents none had seen in decades, suddenly lost everything. His powers, his reputation, and his promise to his mother. What sorcery has caused him to lose all of his powers? And why has his fiancee suddenly shown up?

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