Chapter 201 The Conference Begins (Part )
As time passed, the annual Alchemist Conference of the Gama Empire finally kicked off.
On such a sunny day with clear skies, the whole city was immersed in joy and expectation.
The sky was blue and cloudless, the breeze was gentle, and the sun was warm but not scorching, providing a perfect backdrop for the Alchemist Conference.
As an honorary elder of the Alchemist Guild, Xiao Ling accepted the invitation of Fa Ma and, as he had no other things to do recently, he gladly attended the conference and served as a judge.
On that day, Xiao Ling wore a specially made sixth-grade alchemist robe with fluttering sleeves and without much decoration. His iconic blue hair was casually tied up, but he still exuded a transcendental temperament and attracted attention.
The Little Medical Fairy was dressed in white clothes as white as snow, with white hair dancing in the wind and a natural face that was picturesque. She looked like a snow lotus blooming on the Tianshan Mountains, pure and noble. The mature charm that she inadvertently revealed made people fall in love with her.
Qinglin, who usually lives a reclusive life, became very interested when he learned about this lively Alchemist Conference.
For this purpose, she carefully selected a light blue dress, meticulously combed her long hair, and inserted a delicate flower ornament in her hair, intending to follow Xiao Ling and Xiao Yixiang to witness this rare and lively scene.
As for Zi Yan, her whereabouts in recent days are really confusing. She has been leaving early and returning late, but in recent days, she has not even been seen.
Xiao Ling was not too worried about this. After all, with Zi Yan's current cultivation and the mysterious spatial talent of the Ancient Dragon Taixu, almost no one in the Jia Ma Empire could pose a threat to her. Xiao Ling also had a rough guess in his mind that Zi Yan might have gone to find Medusa.
……
Standing at the gate of the courtyard, the Little Medical Fairy carefully straightened the wrinkles on Xiao Ling's collar. A gentle smile appeared on her face, and she jokingly said, "You are dressed so delicately, I wonder how many girls will pay attention to you."
Hearing this, Xiao Ling just smiled lightly, with a hint of helplessness in his eyes, "How can those mediocre women compare to you, Xian'er."
After hearing this, Xiao Yixiang gave Xiao Ling a coquettish look and snorted, "You're sensible." The intimate interaction between the two made the air around them seem to be filled with sweetness.
Qing Lin, who was standing aside, silently watched the two of them with envy. She couldn't help but sigh in her heart that in just a few days, the relationship between Sister Xiao Yixian and the young master had developed so quickly.
Qing Lin looked down at her still tender figure, and thought to herself: "If I could grow up quickly, then I could be like Sister Xiao Yixian and be with the young master..."
As she thought about it, Qinglin's pretty face couldn't help but turn red. She quickly lowered her head, fearing that her abnormality would be discovered by others.
Xiao Ling noticed Qing Lin's change and smiled slightly, but he didn't point it out. He just rubbed Qing Lin's head gently.
After packing up, Xiao Ling walked out of the courtyard with the two beautiful girls.
Led by the maid, they met up with Xiao Zhan and Xiao Yan who were already ready.
The group boarded a gorgeously decorated carriage, which slowly started moving and headed towards the Royal Square, the venue of the Alchemist Conference.
The streets were bustling with people. The Alchemist Conference, held every eight years, was undoubtedly the most grand and exciting event in the Holy City of Gama.
In this continent where the strong are respected, alchemists have become the most respected profession because of their ability to create strong people. They are mysterious and awe-inspiring. Even if there are a dozen strong people of the same level, it is difficult to compare the weight of an alchemist in people's hearts.
And today, those noble alchemists who are rarely seen in normal days have appeared one after another, and we even have the opportunity to witness the spectacular scene of them refining pills on the spot. How can this not make people's blood boil and their hearts surge.
Inside the carriage, the atmosphere was relaxed yet a little expectant.
Xiao Ling looked at Xiao Yan's impatient look and couldn't help but laughed and joked: "Xiao Yan, you are so excited, are you trying to show off?"
Xiao Yan was hit on the point and couldn't help scratching his head a little embarrassedly, then laughed, "Haha, a little bit."
Xiao Zhan patted Xiao Yan on the shoulder and said earnestly: "Yan'er, you should be steady in doing things and learn more from your cousin."
Xiao Yan nodded quickly and said seriously, "I understand, father."
Xiao Ling probed a little and found that Xiao Yan's cultivation had improved significantly. He asked curiously, "Has there been a breakthrough in cultivation recently?"
Hearing Xiao Ling's question, Xiao Yan's eyes flashed with excitement, and he replied: "A few days ago, I was lucky enough to break through to the Seven-Star Grand Fighter, and then I took the two Purple Heart Barrier Breaking Pills that I prepared in advance, and was able to break through to the Nine-Star Grand Fighter."
Xiao Ling nodded slightly, with a mysterious smile on his face, "If you can successfully win the championship of this Alchemist Conference, I will give you a special gift."
Hearing this, Xiao Yan showed an expectant expression on his face. He patted his chest and said confidently: "Don't worry, cousin, I won't lose to others. I will definitely win the championship in this Alchemist Conference and spread the reputation of my Xiao family."
Xiao Yan was also secretly curious about what Xiao Ling would give him as a gift. After all, Xiao Ling was wealthy, so his gift would definitely not be simple. However, due to his personality, he did not ask, but just hid his curiosity deep in his heart.
Moreover, regardless of whether there are additional rewards or not, he will try his best to win the championship in this Alchemist Conference.
This was not only for his own honor, but also for the family's reputation. A hint of determination flashed in Xiao Yan's eyes, and he had absolute confidence in himself.
Xiao Zhan looked at Xiao Yan's high-spirited appearance and a gratified smile appeared on his face.
Thinking back to the decadent Xiao Yan three years ago, Xiao Zhan couldn't help but sigh inwardly that the world is unpredictable and people's changes are even more unpredictable.
Now that he sees his son is so ambitious, he feels extremely proud and proud.
……
The carriage passed through the bustling crowd, the hustle and bustle outside the window gradually faded away, and the magnificent sight of the Royal Square gradually came into view.
The Royal Square was already crowded with people and bustling with activity. Various flags and banners fluttered in the wind, creating a festive atmosphere.
The arrival of the Xiao family's carriage naturally attracted the attention of the people around, and many people cast respectful and envious glances at them.
Although everyone was unable to see the true appearance of the person in the carriage, the gorgeous Xiao family emblem had revealed everything. People knew that the Jia Ma Empire's number one alchemist, Xiao Ling, was undoubtedly sitting in the carriage.
Fully armed troops were on standby around the square, maintaining order and security at the scene.
Even the guild members and participating alchemists had to queue up and undergo inspection before they could enter.
However, for Xiao Ling and his party, their special status saved them the trouble of queuing. When the soldiers saw the prominent Xiao family emblem on the carriage, they immediately understood the importance of the people on the carriage, quickly made way for them, and respectfully guided the carriage into the Royal Square.
After entering, Xiao Ling and his companions parted ways with Xiao Yan first.
As a contestant of this conference, Xiao Yan had to go to the contestant area first and prepare for the upcoming fierce competition.
Xiao Ling took Xiao Zhan and the two beauties and slowly walked towards the VIP area.
The VIP areas are strictly divided and hierarchical, and each area represents a different identity and status.
Although Xiao Zhan is the head of the Xiao family and has a noble status, his strength is a little weak and not enough to enter the core area.
After parting with Xiao Zhan, Xiao Ling brought Xiao Yixian and Qing Lin, one Dou Huang and one Dou Wang, to the most distinguished VIP seats.
When Xiao Ling and his two female companions entered the top VIP seats, Mitchell and many elders above the fourth-grade alchemist who were originally sitting stood up without exception, bowed quickly and said in unison:
"Master Xiao Ling!"
Although Xiao Ling is very young, even old enough to be the grandson of some of them, his attainments in alchemy are undoubtedly the best among those present and even in the entire Jia Ma Empire.
In the world of alchemy, those with superb skills are naturally respected, so they did not feel the slightest bit displeased with Xiao Ling's salute.
Xiao Ling gently spread his hands, and a gentle fighting spirit emerged, gently lifting everyone up. He smiled and said in a calm tone: "Everyone, please stand up. No need to be polite."
There was a gleam of light in everyone's eyes, and they couldn't help but secretly admire in their hearts, saying that Master Xiao Ling was worthy of his name, even the control of his fighting spirit seemed so handy and effortless.
As Xiao Ling sat down, Xiao Yixian and Qing Lin also sat elegantly on his two sides.
The elders of the Alchemist Guild around consciously separated themselves from Xiao Ling to show their respect for him and to keep a proper distance.
As Xiao Ling sat down, the discussions around him gradually died down, and the atmosphere became more solemn. Xiao Ling looked around, feeling the gazes from all sides, some respectful, some curious, and some expectant.
Then, Xiao Ling turned to Vice President Mitchell and asked, "Vice President Mitchell, why didn't you see President Fa Ma?"
Hearing Xiao Ling's question, Mitchell smiled and explained, "President Fa Ma is still preparing some precautions for the conference and will be here soon."
Xiao Ling nodded to show his understanding.
As the president of the Alchemist Guild, Fa Ma must have many matters to deal with before the conference begins to ensure the smooth progress of the conference.
After accepting Mitchell's explanation, Xiao Ling stopped asking questions and started talking quietly with Xiao Yixian and Qing Lin beside him. They all looked at the bustling crowd below.
In the bluestone-paved venue, several pharmacists had received their number plates, went to the corresponding stone platforms, and casually sat on the ground with their eyes closed to rest.
Little Medical Fairy couldn't help but sigh: "There are so many people here!"
There was a hint of surprise and excitement in her voice. It was the first time that Xiao Yixian had seen so many alchemists. After all, Xiao Yixian also had a dream of becoming an alchemist in the beginning.
Qing Lin also nodded, with a flash of curiosity in his eyes, "There are at least a thousand people here, more than the teachers and students of Canaan College. Moreover, almost all of them are alchemists."
Xiao Ling smiled slightly and explained: "A conference held by the power of an empire is naturally unprecedented. Although many elites have gathered in the inner courtyard of Canaan College, the number of alchemists is limited after all. This conference will really open your eyes."
After a pause, he continued, "However, when we arrive in Zhongzhou, the Alchemy Conference there will be a real event. Every time the Alchemy Conference is held, the alchemy geniuses from all over the Douqi Continent will gather in Shengdan City. That scene is really lively. When the time comes, I will let you see it for yourself."
After hearing this, Xiao Yixiang and Qinglin's eyes sparkled with anticipation.
At this time, the atmosphere in the Royal Square became more and more heated. As the conference was about to begin, the audience's discussions, expectant eyes, and endless imagination about the alchemy skills that were about to be demonstrated created an extraordinary and lively scene.
At this time, an old man's laughter sounded in the aisle between the seats, breaking the silence around: "Haha, Master Xiao Ling, long time no see. I was in seclusion a few days ago to recuperate and was unable to visit you in person. I hope Master Xiao Ling will forgive me."
Xiao Ling turned around with everyone present, and saw Jia Xingtian, wearing a simple linen robe and walking slowly with a warm smile on his face. Behind him were the two pearls of the royal family, the smart and playful little princess Yaoyue, and the cold and noble eldest princess Yaoye.
Seeing Jia Xingtian take the initiative to greet him, Xiao Ling also treated him politely and responded with a smile: "Mrs. Jia, you are too polite. Naturally, recuperating is the first priority."
He sensed Jia Xingtian's aura and found that he was still at the peak of Dou Huang. It was obvious that his previous attempt to break through to Dou Zong had failed. "I am still staying in the Jia Ma Empire. If the royal family still needs me to refine the Po Zong Dan, as long as the materials and rewards are in place and the timing is right, I will serve you."
Hearing Xiao Ling's words, Jia Xingtian's eyes flashed with a glimmer of surprise. Although the failure of breaking through to Dou Zong last time was a blow, if he could get the Po Zong Dan again, Jia Xingtian was confident that with the experience from last time, he would be able to break through successfully in one fell swoop.
"Haha, then we'll discuss it in detail when we have free time." Jia Xingtian said with a smile.
Afterwards, Jia Xingtian took Yaoyue and Yaoye to sit in the VIP seats nearby.
As soon as Yaoyue sat down, she looked around curiously. Her eyes moved around the venue, and she was filled with novelty about everything.
Yao Ye maintained her dignity and reserve. Her gaze lingered on Xiao Ling for a moment longer, with a hint of imperceptible shyness in her eyes.
Recalling Jia Xingtian's previous instructions, Yao Ye's cheeks couldn't help but blush. She thought to herself: "Great Grandfather is so mean. Master Xiao Ling is so outstanding that even if I intend to get close to him, I may not be able to catch his eye." Although she was a little dissatisfied in her heart, she also understood that Xiao Ling's extraordinaryness was not something that ordinary people could compare to.
At this time, Yao Ye's eyes once again stole a glance at the two female companions beside Xiao Ling.
Xiao Yixiang is fresh and unworldly, like a fairy who is not of this world; Qinglin is cute and charming, full of energy. Their styles are different, but equally eye-catching.
Yao Ye's heart couldn't help but ripple, and she felt a complex emotion that was difficult to describe.
Xiao Ling's perception was so sharp that he noticed Yao Ye's gaze at the first moment.
He turned his head slightly, and his eyes met Yao Ye's. He just glanced at her indifferently and then looked away, as if he didn't take this brief exchange to heart.
Yao Ye's heart almost skipped a beat at that moment, but Xiao Ling just glanced at her lightly and then looked away, as if he had no interest in her at all.
Yao Ye felt an indescribable sense of loss. The little spark of hope that had quietly lit up in her heart seemed to be extinguished by a basin of cold water.
(End of this chapter)