Chapter 290 Zi Yan's Change
Shaking his head, Elder Huo said with emotion, "I dare say that any alchemist will salivate at the sight of this secret method. Xiao Ling, you have given me a big surprise this time."
Xiao Ling smiled with satisfaction when he heard this. He responded easily, "Haha, as long as you like it."
Afterwards, the three chatted for a while in Elder Huo's courtyard, and the atmosphere was relaxed and pleasant. Finally, Xiao Ling said goodbye to Elder Huo and Xiao Yan, and left this place full of medicinal fragrance and warmth.
...
Xiao Ling's courtyard and Elder Huo's residence are both located in the Elders' District of Canaan College. The two places are not far apart, and he quickly returned to his own territory.
When Xiao Ling glanced around the courtyard, he found it was quiet and there was no one in sight. It seemed that his companions were busy practicing or handling their own affairs and were not wandering around the courtyard.
Just as Xiao Ling expected, Xiao Yixian and Qinglin had already started practicing. As Xiao Ling's strength increased rapidly, he was about to enter the realm of Seven Star Dou Zong, which gradually widened the gap between his strength and theirs.
Faced with such changes, both girls felt a sense of urgency.
Xiao Yixiang and Qinglin are not the kind of people who just want to rely on Xiao Ling and become a burden to him.
They all remember Xiao Ling's care and help for them. Although their current situation is closely related to their special physique, the most important thing is Xiao Ling's help along the way.
Therefore, they are eager to improve their strength through their own efforts so that they can truly stand by Xiao Ling's side in the future and become his helper.
Xiao Ling gently pushed open the gate of the courtyard, and with a slight creak, he stepped in. The courtyard was filled with a warm and peaceful atmosphere, and the sunlight shone through the treetops and sprinkled on the neat stone road, forming mottled light and shadows.
The flowers and plants around were well-maintained, every leaf looked full of vitality, and the flowers were blooming, emitting a faint fragrance.
Although there are not too many gorgeous decorations, everything here seems so harmonious and natural, giving people a home feeling.
Xiao Ling's courtyard is not luxurious. It welcomes the return of its owner in a simple and comfortable manner.
Every stone and every plant in the courtyard shows signs of being carefully cared for. The stone tables and stone benches are neatly arranged, and it is obvious that people often drink tea and chat here. In the corner, some unknown grasses sway gently in the wind, adding a bit of vitality.
Xiao Ling took a deep breath. The air here seemed to be fresher than anywhere else. He liked this place, the peace and tranquility here. This was his safe haven in the Douqi Continent and his spiritual home.
Here, Xiao Ling can put aside all his fatigue and enjoy a moment of peace. This is his home.
Then, Xiao Ling walked leisurely into the courtyard. The tranquility around him made him feel relaxed, but the tranquility did not last long. Suddenly, a colorful stream of light broke the tranquility and headed straight for Xiao Ling.
Xiao Ling's soul perception instantly captured this sudden movement. His mental power was like an invisible net, covering the entire courtyard, and any slight change could not escape his perception.
However, when that familiar breath entered his perception, a smile appeared on Xiao Ling's face. He did not make any defensive gesture, but instead relaxed his body and allowed the stream of light to pounce on him.
The colorful light and shadow accurately hit Xiao Ling's arms. It turned out to be the little Sky-Swallowing Python. Its cute figure appeared in Xiao Ling's arms. Xiao Ling quickly reached out and held it firmly to prevent it from falling.
The little Sky-Swallowing Python seemed very happy to be held tightly in Xiao Ling's arms. It rubbed its head against Xiao Ling's chest affectionately, and this intimate little gesture expressed its attachment and love for Xiao Ling.
Xiao Ling gently stroked the little Sky-Swallowing Python's head, and lightly lifted its little chin with two fingers. This intimate action made the little Sky-Swallowing Python so comfortable that its eyes narrowed into slits, as if it was enjoying the favor from Xiao Ling.
After playing for a while, the little Sky-Swallowing Python began to show its cleverness. It gently nudged the ring on Xiao Ling's finger with its head, then stretched out its tongue and spit gently at Xiao Ling. This action was full of expectation, and it was obvious that it was asking Xiao Ling for something delicious.
Seeing the cute and cunning behavior of the little Sky-Swallowing Python, Xiao Ling couldn't help but laugh. He shook his head, with a hint of pampering and helplessness in his tone: "You little greedy ghost, there's really nothing I can do with you. You were clinging to me just now, it turns out you were thinking about the delicious food in my ring."
As he spoke, Xiao Ling took out an exquisite porcelain bottle from his ring. He gently uncorked the bottle, poured out a few pills that exuded an alluring aroma, and then handed them to the little Sky-Swallowing Python.
These pills were carefully prepared by Xiao Ling, specifically for the taste and needs of the little Sky Swallowing Python. They were made from seventh-level fire-attributed medicinal materials, which not only helped the little Sky Swallowing Python regulate its body, but also assisted its cultivation. For the little Sky Swallowing Python, these pills were not only delicious food, but also a boost to its cultivation, so it particularly liked these pills.
When Xiao Ling handed the pill to the little Sky-Swallowing Python, its eyes immediately sparkled with excitement, as if to say, "I've finally waited for you!"
The little Sky-Swallowing Python first extended its tongue and licked Xiao Ling's fingers affectionately, expressing its gratitude and joy. Then, it rolled its tongue flexibly, and the pills were skillfully rolled into its mouth, swallowing them with relish.
After taking the pill, the little Sky-Swallowing Python seemed satisfied. It opened its mouth slightly, as if it was burping with satisfaction, and then its eyes slowly narrowed into slits, showing that it wanted to rest.
Then, it twisted its body flexibly, crawled into the big pocket on Xiao Ling's robe, curled up into a ball, and soon fell into a quiet resting state.
Seeing this scene, Xiao Ling couldn't help but shake his head and laugh, feeling a little helpless. He thought, this little guy's life seems to be nothing but eating and sleeping. Compared with Zi Yan, she at least plays around, while the little Sky-Swallowing Python doesn't seem to care about sports at all.
"What a greedy and sleepy little fellow," Xiao Ling said softly, with a hint of pampering and helplessness in his tone. "However, as long as you don't run around, I can still afford to raise you as a little fellow."
However, thinking of this, Xiao Ling's heart moved, and then he realized that he had not seen Zi Yan's figure. That lively and active girl always didn't like to practice quietly, but preferred to explore and play around.
He remembered that on the way back to the courtyard, he had released his soul perception and clearly felt that Zi Yan's breath was in the courtyard.
Logically speaking, now that I'm back, she should come to me as usual, jumping up and down, but now she's nowhere to be seen. This is indeed a little unusual.
Immediately, Xiao Ling concentrated again, released his soul power, and began to carefully explore the entire courtyard. He found that Xiao Yixian and Qinglin were both practicing attentively in their respective practice rooms. Everything was normal and there was nothing unusual.
However, when Xiao Ling's soul power touched Zi Yan, he noticed something unusual. Zi Yan's breath seemed unusually stable, as if she was about to fall asleep.
But at the same time, the energy in her body was fluctuating extremely violently, like a rough sea, full of huge potential.
Realizing that Zi Yan might be in some critical state of cultivation, Xiao Ling quickly came to her courtyard. He gently pushed open the door and looked through the crack in the door into the room. Inside the room, Zi Yan lay quietly on the bed, her face showing an unusual ruddy color, as if a powerful energy was surging in her body. The temperature radiated from her body was also higher than usual, and she was surrounded by a faint purple light, like a layer of mysterious halo, flickering gently.
Seeing this scene, Xiao Ling's originally tense heartstrings finally relaxed a little. He whispered to himself: "It seems that this girl is finally going to break through to Dou Zong." He remembered that Zi Yan had indeed consumed a lot of precious medicinal herbs and pills recently.
For her, who possesses the royal blood of the Taixu Ancient Dragon, the energy required for advancement is enormous. But after Xiao Ling's careful training and constant intake of high-level medicinal herbs every day, the energy accumulated in Zi Yan's body should be enough.
Feeling Xiao Ling approaching, Zi Yan slowly opened her eyes, her sight piercing through the dim light and fixed on Xiao Ling. She complained softly, "Xiao Ling, I feel so hot now."
Before she finished speaking, Zi Yan involuntarily stretched out her hands to Xiao Ling, as if seeking a bit of cool comfort. Xiao Ling quickly stepped forward, hugged Zi Yan into his arms, and gently lifted her up.
Zi Yan snuggled in Xiao Ling's arms, feeling the peace of mind and comfort he brought her. Although her body was still a little hot, her mood gradually calmed down.
Xiao Ling gently rubbed Zi Yan's hair, with a hint of smile and comfort in his tone: "It's okay, you have taken so many pills these days, and the accumulated energy is already quite sufficient. It seems that you will be able to break through to the Dou Zong realm soon. This is good news."
Hearing Xiao Ling's words, Zi Yan's eyes lit up, she nodded, and a relaxed smile appeared on her face. She was not unfamiliar with the upcoming breakthrough, after all, she had experienced such a process before. She hugged Xiao Ling tightly, with a hint of playfulness and expectation in her voice: "Hehe, this lady is finally going to break through to Dou Zong. I wonder if I can always remain an adult after the breakthrough."
Xiao Ling was amused by her words. He remembered that in the original novel, even after Zi Yan broke through to Dou Zong, she still looked like a little girl on weekdays. Only when she burst out with all her strength could she show her adult form in a short period of time and exert her full strength.
"Okay, don't think so much," Xiao Ling interrupted Zi Yan's thoughts, his tone was filled with relief and determination, "The most important thing now is to find a suitable place for you to break through to Dou Zong with peace of mind. Other things can be considered after the breakthrough." As he said that, Xiao Ling carefully picked up Zi Yan and strode out of her room.
Although his movements were quick, they were very steady, ensuring that Zi Yan would not feel any discomfort.
Perhaps because their movements caused a slight commotion, Xiao Yixiang and Qing Lin came back to their senses from their training and walked out of their rooms.
They just happened to see Xiao Ling holding Zi Yan, and there was a hint of surprise in their eyes.
As soon as the two saw Zi Yan in Xiao Ling's arms, they immediately noticed the unusual redness on her face and the unusual aura emanating from her.
Qing Lin showed an anxious look on his face. He walked quickly to Xiao Ling and said with concern, "Master, what happened to Sister Zi Yan? Is she okay?"
At this time, Xiao Yixian also came over. She gently patted Qinglin's shoulder and soothed him in a calm tone: "Don't worry, Qinglin. Ziyan's current condition looks like she is going through a critical moment of promotion. This is a rare opportunity for Ziyan."
After hearing what Little Medical Immortal said, Qing Lin suddenly realized what was going on, breathed a sigh of relief, and a relieved smile appeared on his face: "So that's how it is, I was worrying too much. Sister Zi Yan is so amazing, I didn't expect that she would break through to Dou Zong so soon."
The news that Zi Yan was about to make a breakthrough made Qing Lin feel sincerely happy, and she was proud of Zi Yan.
At this time, Xiao Yixian turned to Xiao Ling and asked, "Xiao Ling, you just came back from outside, right? Don't you want to take a good rest? What are your plans next?"
Xiao Ling's lips curled up into a relaxed smile, his voice was filled with a hint of anticipation and confidence: "Yes, I already have a plan. I plan to retreat for a period of time, concentrate on cultivation, and break through my current realm. The magic poison spots left by the old ghost Xie Bi Yan, and the Huasheng Fire I got from Fang Yan, are both valuable resources for me to improve my cultivation. Coupled with the Zongji Pill I prepared for myself, I believe that it is only a matter of time before I break through to the Nine-Star Dou Zong."
Upon hearing the news that Xiao Ling was going to go into seclusion again, Xiao Yixian and Qing Lin were a little surprised at first, but they soon accepted this decision and nodded silently to show their understanding and support.
Practicing in seclusion is the normal state for practitioners, and going out to look for opportunities like before is indeed an uncommon situation for most people.
Xiao Ling suddenly seemed to remember something important. He turned to Qing Lin, with a hint of expectation in his tone: "Oh, by the way, Qing Lin, I need your help with something. Please tell Xiao Zi to prepare a beast fire for me. I may need it in my next practice."
Xiao Ling needed Xiao Zi's beast fire because he planned to condense a transformation fire. The process of condensing the transformation fire required three different types of beast fire, and the higher the quality of the beast fire, the better the quality of the transformation fire that was finally condensed.
Xiao Ling originally had two high-level beast fires, one was an eighth-level beast fire extracted through the system, and the other was a seventh-level beast fire obtained from the inner courtyard treasure house. They were originally perfect materials for fusing into the birth fire. However, these beast fires had been devoured by Xiao Ling using the Burning Technique and could no longer be used to fuse into the birth fire.
However, during his previous outing, Xiao Ling swept through the treasure troves of many forces in the Black Horn Region, including the three major sects including the Golden Goose Sect, and reaped a lot of rewards.
In the treasure houses of those forces in the Black Horn Region, he obtained more than dozens of new beast fires, and now he has two seventh-level beast fires in his hands. If he adds the seventh-level beast fire provided by Xiao Zi, Xiao Ling will have enough materials to condense a high-quality fire seed.
Xiao Ling now has five strange fires in his hands. He believes that once he breaks through to the Nine-Star Dou Zong and uses the Five-Colored Fire Lotus, the power will be extremely amazing. He thought to himself that against a low-level Dou Zun, such an attack can almost kill the opponent with one blow and turn the opponent into ashes.
Even a mid-level Dou Zun would be seriously injured and lose his combat effectiveness if he was hit by such a blow. If he was in close contact, he might even die. As for the high-level Dou Zun, Xiao Ling felt that it was beyond his imagination.
However, Xiao Ling was full of confidence in the future. He felt that once he broke through to the Dou Zun realm and possessed the Huashenghuo, as long as he had time to rub out the five-colored half-fire lotus with his hands, as long as the opponent was not a Dou Zun who had just started to compress his Dou Qi, he would be confident that he could cause damage to him. Such power, just imagining it, made him feel extremely excited.
Hearing Xiao Ling's request, Qing Lin was slightly startled, but soon nodded to show his understanding: "Okay, Master, I understand. I will tell Xiao Zi to prepare a beast fire for you."
She knew that although taking out the beast fire from its body would consume a certain amount of the monster itself, Xiao Ling had enough resources, so it would be no problem for him to take out some pills for recovery.
Qinglin gently raised her arm, and a small purple snake-like monster jumped lightly from her wrist and landed on the ground.
As a ray of light flashed, Xiao Zi's body grew rapidly and turned into a giant python more than three meters long. This size was enough for it to communicate with Xiao Ling and the others at eye level.
After Xiao Zi appeared, Qing Lin gently stroked its little head with a gentle smile on his face. He said to Xiao Zi in a relaxed tone: "Xiao Zi, can you do the young master another favor and lend him one of your beast fires? He needs it for his cultivation."
Hearing Qinglin's words, Xiao Zi's eyes flashed with a trace of grievance. It remembered that Yao Tianhuo had asked it for beast fire before, and that time was a big consumption for it. Unexpectedly, not long after, Xiao Ling also needed its help.
Although Xiao Zi felt a little dissatisfied, he did not reject Xiao Ling's request. He knew that under Qing Lin's care, his life was worry-free and his strength was steadily improving. It was not difficult for him to recover this loss.
More importantly, Xiao Zi knew clearly that Xiao Ling was an important figure in this team and its major financial sponsor, and he could not be offended under any circumstances.
It was not an easy task to extract the beast fire from the body. It was different from releasing fire to attack or defend. To extract the fire from the beast fire, it needed to be condensed again. This process was not only difficult, but also consumed a lot of energy for Xiao Zi.
(End of this chapter)