"If Cousin Xiao Yu harassed Xiao Yan for that reason, then I have no grounds to scold her," Xiao Hua said with a sigh.
Xiao Yu, the granddaughter of the First Elder, was known for her remarkable talent. However, her sharp tongue and fiery personality made her a force to be reckoned with. Xiao Yan, unfortunately, had once provoked her, and since then, she had kept him firmly in her sights, harboring a deep grudge.
If anyone in the Xiao family harbored the greatest resentment toward Xiao Yan, Xiao Hua was certain that Xiao Yu held the top spot.
Still, upon learning that Xiao Yan was under Xiao Hua's protection, Xiao Yu had begrudgingly buried her animosity. While her compliance was reluctant, it was, at the very least, a relief for Xiao Hua.
However, when it came to Xiao Yan's alleged peeking and touching of her legs, even Xiao Hua found it difficult to defend him.
As for the arrogance that Xiao Yu accused Xiao Yan of exhibiting, it came as no surprise to anyone at the table. After all, which genius raised in a life of privilege wasn't a little arrogant?
Ming Cheng and the others exchanged knowing glances, finding nothing unusual about Xiao Yan displaying an air of superiority. For someone who had been pampered from a young age, such behavior was almost expected.
Just thinking about this topic brought waves of headache to Xiao Hua, and he wished to put an end to it.
"Anyway, since you've reached three-star Da Dou Shi, I'll prepare a gift for you if you successfully enter the Inner Academy," Xiao Hua said, changing the subject.
Xiao Yu and Xiao Ning's ears perked up at his words, their excitement palpable. Over the years, Xiao Hua had sent numerous high-level Dou Techniques, rare Qi Methods, high-tier pills, and treasures to the Xiao family. It was well-known that Xiao Hua's gifts were never ordinary.
"What kind of gift is it, Cousin Xiao Hua?" Xiao Yu asked eagerly, her curiosity brimming.
"It's something I don't need, but it's something you definitely will," Xiao Hua replied with a cryptic smile. Then, shifting his gaze toward Xiao Ning, whose expression showed a trace of envy toward his elder sister, he added, "If you manage to reach Da Dou Shi this year, I'll prepare a gift for you as well."
"Thank you, Cousin Xiao Hua!"
Xiao Ning's face lit up with joy. He hadn't expected to receive the same treatment as his elder sister and was elated by the offer. His expression betrayed not the slightest hesitation or intention to refuse.
"Anyway, we've finally arrived at our destination," Li Mei said as she stood up gracefully, leaning on the rail and gazing at a small city that grew larger with every passing moment as the Cloud Steering Ship approached.
Ming Cheng and the others followed her, silently taking their places beside her as they observed the scene. Their curiosity was piqued when they noticed a large crowd resembling a swarm of ants moving about in the city below.
"Is there something special happening today for such a large gathering?" Ming Cheng asked, casting a glance at Xiao Ning.
"Today is the Dou Qi Test for our Xiao Clan," Xiao Ning replied promptly, leaning on the rail with a puzzled expression. "But this is the first time I've seen such a massive crowd for it."
"Does this mean they've heard that Hua'er has returned?" Mei Ling tilted her head, her brows furrowed slightly in confusion.
"I don't think so," Wei Jie interjected, his gaze sharpening as he scrutinized the ever-growing city ahead.
Xiao Ning scratched his head, feeling slightly embarrassed by his earlier assumption. "I did send a letter to Grand Elder Xiao Tao, informing him of Cousin Xiao Hua's intent to return to the clan, but..."
"You don't need to worry about them spreading the news," Ming Cheng interjected, shaking his head with a reassuring tone. "Those two know Xiao Hua's temperament well. They wouldn't disclose it, nor would they allow the clan to spread the word unnecessarily."
He paused briefly, his gaze fixed on Wu Tan City in the distance. "Still, this gathering seems unusual. I can sense a strong Dou Huang's presence within the city, so it's likely because of that."
"Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang are fire-affinity, but this Dou Huang is wind-affinity. Besides, it will still take some time for Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang to reach Dou Huang."
"Indeed," Xin Yu added with a slight nod, her eyes shifting toward Wu Tan City, which was growing larger. "Regardless, for a crowd of this size to gather, that Dou Huang must be quite an influential figure, drawing them out of curiosity."
"Enough talking! Let's head down and see our little brother's clan!" Mei Ling exclaimed, her excitement palpable.
Xiao Hua and Xun Er exchanged awkward smiles, shaking their heads at Mei Ling's enthusiasm. They knew their clan had little to offer in terms of grandeur or spectacle, and Mei Ling would likely end up disappointed or bored after a quick tour.
Meanwhile, Xiao Hua quietly sent a mental message to Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang. With his sharp and keen perception, he had already sensed their presence within the city, even from this distance.
...
Xiao Clan, at the Center of the Training Field, Magic Stone Monument.
Young boys and girls gathered in a dense crowd, resembling a colony of ants, their attention wholly focused on the imposing black stone monument standing tall at the center of the training field. Embedded within the monument were nine radiant yellow crystals, gleaming faintly under the sunlight.
Beside the monument stood a middle-aged man holding a thick book in his hands. His voice resonated across the field as he called out names and recorded the results displayed on the monument with meticulous care.
From time to time, a name would be announced, prompting a young individual to step forward. Each step they took toward the stone monument was heavy with nervousness and anticipation, their emotions almost tangible as they approached the test that awaited them.
"Next, Xiao Yan!"
As the name echoed through the training field, a hush fell over the crowd. It wasn't because the name belonged to a prodigy, but rather because he had once been the third-most genius in the Xiao Clan.
All eyes shifted toward the young man who had been called.
Among the younger generation gathered at the training field, mocking smiles and gloating expressions were common, their anticipation for a spectacle evident. Others, however, sighed and shook their heads, their gazes tinged with pity.
"This is what I've been waiting for. Here he is, the 'so-called third genius' of the Xiao Clan who's done nothing but squander our resources!"
"Exactly! Let's see how far this 'genius' has fallen after devouring so many of the clan's treasures!"
"Enough, you fools! He is still the Third Young Master of the Xiao Clan. Be more respectful towards him!"
"Don't forget. Grand Elders Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang have made it clear—Xiao Yan is under the protection of Cousin Xiao Hua!"
Though the mockers clicked their tongues in irritation, their scorn and ridiculing smiles didn't fade. Their expressions remained filled with disdain, their eyes gleaming with malice as they waited for the spectacle to unfold.
The crowd seemed divided. On one side were those who saw Xiao Yan as a disgrace, a waste of the clan's resources, and eagerly anticipated his humiliation. On the other were those who showed him reluctant respect—not for his achievements, but for the one standing behind him.
'I know the only reason they're backing me is because of Xiao Hua…' Xiao Yan's bitter smile deepened as he glanced at the group of young clan members supporting him. 'But why would someone like him go to such lengths for someone as useless as I've become?'
He couldn't help but ponder Xiao Hua's motives. He understood that the young members defending him did so out of respect and admiration for Xiao Hua. They recognized there was no reason to harbor contempt or envy, as they knew that with Xiao Hua's support, Xiao Yan might regain his talent and rise once more.
Raising his head slightly, Xiao Yan's melancholic smile wavered. The arrogance that had once shone in his eyes during his childhood was nowhere to be seen. His gaze now held only the weight of regret and introspection.
'Grand Elder Xiao Tao and Grand Elder Xiao Yang were right,' he reflected somberly. 'I was far too arrogant and spoiled as a child, blind to the workings of the world around me. It's no wonder they resent me… I gave them every reason to.'
Unlike in the novel, where he had seen himself as the victim and everyone else as antagonists, Xiao Yan now understood the consequences of his actions. The hostility he faced wasn't born of baseless malice—it was the result of his own behavior.
As a reincarnator, he should have known better. His immature and thoughtless actions as a child had sown the seeds of this enmity. He vividly recalled his inappropriate behavior, especially the incident with Xiao Yu, where his recklessness and shameless action clearly had gone too far.
'I can't believe how I acted back then… She was just a child, and yet…' Xiao Yan sighed deeply, shame washing over him like a tide.
The weight of his past mistakes pressed heavily on him, filling him with remorse. If only he had shown the maturity and humility that Xiao Hua displayed despite his immense talent. If only he had acted differently, perhaps things wouldn't have come to this.
Nevertheless, this experience served as a sobering dose of reality, dousing the remnants of his arrogance and spoiled behavior. It was a bitter medicine, but one that spurred his maturity and strengthened his ability to control his emotions. Yet, despite his growth, Xiao Yan could not deny the weariness and gloom that the countless mocking words and ridicules etched into his heart.
It was precisely because of this that he had silently vowed—if Xiao Hua could truly help him regain his lost talent, he would carry eternal gratitude toward him.
...
On the Guest's Platform, nearly everyone seated there had their gazes fixed on the black-clothed young man, their expressions a mixture of disbelief and curiosity. Yet, among the crowd, three distinct groups stood out, each exuding an air of influence and authority.
Each of these groups had their own reasons for visiting the Xiao Clan, yet their presence stemmed from a common thread: the news that Xiao Hua had exited his retreat and was returning to the clan. His return had drawn the attention of these prominent figures, making even those of high status to participate in the Xiao Clan's Coming of Age Ceremony.
The first group of guests donned light-green robes, their attire exuding elegance and unity. However, among them, four figures stood out prominently. Two were young—a man and a woman—who stood quietly to the side, while the other two, a middle-aged man and a strikingly beautiful woman with a regal aura, occupied the center of attention.
The middle-aged man was Gu He, a renowned sixth-tier alchemist who had once held the title of the greatest alchemist in the Jia Ma Empire. That is, until Xiao Hua's rise overshadowed his fame. Gu He sat with an air of quiet dignity, his sharp eyes scanning the crowd as though gauging the significance of the occasion.
Beside him stood a young man, seemingly just over twenty years old. His handsome face, with its knife-edged features, bore a faintly feminine quality that added an unusual charm to his appearance. The gentle smile he wore had the ability to disarm onlookers, especially among the ladies, whose gazes often lingered on him.
This young man was Liu Ling, Gu He's esteemed disciple. Yet, beneath his composed demeanor, his heart churned with unease. He was all too aware that today, he would stand face-to-face with Xiao Hua—a meeting he both dreaded and feared.
Beside Gu He sat Yun Yun, the Sect Master of the Misty Cloud Sect. She wore an immaculate light-green robe, untouched by even the slightest impurity, its simplicity accentuating her natural elegance. Her beautiful face carried an air of nobility and grace, which seemed further enhanced by the flowing garments she adorned.
Standing quietly next to Yun Yun was Nalan Yanran. Her attire mirrored her master's, exuding the same refined charm, but her face was devoid of color, pale and lifeless, betraying her inner turmoil.
The Misty Cloud Sect found itself in an awkward predicament. Their purpose for attending the Xiao Clan gathering was to formally annul the betrothal agreement between Nalan Yanran and Xiao Yan. Although they had prepared compensation to smooth over the situation, there was no guarantee that the matter would resolve peacefully.
This uncertainty weighed heavily on their presence, casting a gloomy and somber atmosphere over their group—one that starkly contrasted with the lively energy surrounding the other two groups.
The second group represented the Imperial Family of the Jia Ma Empire. Seated among them was the Crown Princess and future queen, Yao Ye, who had been chosen to attend on behalf of the empire.
Her attire seamlessly blends elegance with battle-readiness, adorned with intricately crafted metallic gold and silver armor. A striking dragon motif graces her shoulder guard, symbolizing power and prestige. Her expression radiates an aura of regal authority and majesty, befitting one of imperial lineage.
The Royal Family, ever vigilant, had stationed spies within Wu Tan City. When whispers among the Xiao Clan revealed Xiao Hua's impending return, the news swiftly reached the palace. In response, the Imperial Family wasted no time in preparing their delegation to visit the Xiao Clan.
Their intentions were clear: they sought to forge an alliance by proposing a union between their Crown Princess and Xiao Hua. Such an opportunity was too significant to pass up, and they were determined not to let it slip away.
The third and final group wore yellow garments accented with black outlines, their presence exuding an air of quiet authority. Leading this group was an old man with neatly combed black hair swept backward. His face carried a serene smile, making it nearly impossible to discern his thoughts or intentions.
Beside him sat Ya Fei, a stunning auburn-haired woman dressed in an elegant black dress adorned with intricate golden embroidery. The garment clung tightly to her voluptuous, mature figure, highlighting her captivating curves. Her golden belt accentuated her slender waist, further emphasizing her enchanting aura. Her beauty was radiant yet restrained, exuding both sophistication and allure.
As she sat gracefully, her mesmerizing eyes seemed to hold a subtle, magnetic charm. Many young men from the Xiao Clan found their gazes drawn to her against their will. Some nervously swallowed as their hearts raced, while others turned their heads quickly, blushing and shifting uncomfortably to conceal their flustered reactions.
A few coughed awkwardly, their faces betraying a mix of embarrassment and admiration as they struggled to compose themselves under her spellbinding presence.
Ya Fei ignored the flustered glances directed her way and focused her attention on Xiao Yan, observing him closely alongside Primer Tengshan. They both understood that Xiao Yan was under Xiao Hua's protection, and unlike others, they were aware that Grand Elders Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang had made the announcement at Xiao Hua's behest.
"I can't fathom what Xiao Yan has done to attract Xiao Hua's attention…" Primer Tengshan muttered, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. Despite having heard about Xiao Yan's sudden regression in cultivation, he couldn't discern a reason that justified Xiao Hua's interest in or protection of him.
The situation puzzled him greatly, leaving him both intrigued and baffled.
He turned to Ya Fei, raising an inquisitive brow. "Do you have any idea why Young Master Xiao Hua is backing Xiao Yan?"
Ya Fei shook her head lightly, her crimson hair swaying with the motion. "Unfortunately, I don't know much. All I can say is that during Xiao Hua's first return to the Xiao Clan, he has been purchasing supplies for Xiao Yan. Beyond that, there's little information to go on…"
She paused, her thoughtful gaze lingering on Xiao Yan before continuing. "However, I suspect it might be because Xiao Yan has the potential to become an alchemist."
"You did mentioned before that Xiao Hua bought a medicinal cauldron for him, but it has never been used…" Primer Tengshan crossed his arms, his expression growing contemplative. "Does that mean Xiao Yan have the potential to become an alchemist and wanted to nurture him for the benefit of the clan?"
"Might be so." Ya Fei nodded thoughtfully. "With Xiao Hua's level of talent, it's clear he won't remain confined to the Jia Ma Empire forever. He's bound to travel the world in search of greater strength."
She paused, her gaze turning distant. "Perhaps nurturing another alchemist is part of his strategy to secure the Xiao Clan's protection and future growth."
Primer Tengshan sighed, shaking his head. "It's remarkable how much foresight he has. The Xiao Clan is fortunate to have someone like Xiao Hua."
Despite his words, there was a flicker of envy in his eyes. Yet, alongside that envy, he felt a touch of gratitude and relief. After all, Ya Fei had managed to forge a strong bond with Xiao Hua—one she described as being akin to that of siblings.
'Or at least, that's what she claims…' Primer Tengshan mused, his gaze shifting subtly toward Ya Fei's left hand. His eyes lingered on her middle finger, where a black Storage Ring, intricately adorned with golden patterns, caught the faint light and shimmered softly.
The ring was no ordinary accessory. It was a high-grade Storage Ring, one of the many lavish gifts Xiao Hua had bestowed upon her. Even he, the head of Primer Clan, doesn't have a high-grade Storage Ring.
Primer Tengshan had noticed how, ever since she received the ring, Ya Fei would often touch it absentmindedly, her fingers gently tracing its patterns. When she thought no one was watching, a faint smile would grace her lips, filled with a warmth and affection he had never seen her show toward any other man.
'I never expected her to be so oblivious to her feelings for Xiao Hua…' Primer Tengshan smiled wryly, his gaze softening as he observed his granddaughter's unawareness.
At the same time, he understood why she hadn't realized it. Her profession had conditioned her to suppress her true emotions, always analyzing others' intentions to guard herself against manipulation and deceit. This constant vigilance had dulled her ability to recognize her own heart, even when her feelings for Xiao Hua were as clear as day to Primer Tengshan, Xiao Tao, and Xiao Yang.
'It seems I'll need to intervene subtly in this matter,' Primer Tengshan thought with a resigned sigh.
There was, however, a significant obstacle—Xiao Hua already had a fiancée. Even so, Primer Tengshan was aware of the nature of powerful men like Xiao Hua. It wasn't unusual for someone of his stature to have several women by his side. This reality only strengthened Primer Tengshan's resolve.
He would do whatever was necessary to ensure that Ya Fei's love and affection found their rightful place with Xiao Hua. At the same time, this alliance would bring prosperity to the Primer Clan, a benefit he could not ignore. Yet deep down, his primary motivation wasn't the clan's gain—it was Ya Fei's happiness and fulfillment.
"Regardless, now that Little Brother Xiao Hua is returning, that young master's condition will surely be cured," Ya Fei said with confidence, her tone leaving no room for doubt.
Her voice snapped Primer Tengshan out of his thoughts. He glanced at Xiao Yan and silently agreed—if Xiao Hua were to examine him, there was no doubt his condition could be resolved. His gaze then shifted to the group from the Misty Cloud Sect, and a soft sigh escaped his lips as he spoke with a hint of pity.
"Misty Cloud Sect is truly in an awkward position right now…"
Ya Fei turned her attention to his words, her gaze following his to the somber expressions of the Misty Cloud Sect. She nodded slightly, her agreement evident.
"However," Ya Fei murmured softly, her voice so low that only Primer Tengshan, seated beside her, could hear, "I doubt Little Brother Xiao Hua would even care about such matters."
Primer Tengshan raised a brow at her cryptic remark, but before he could voice his question, Ya Fei continued, her expression calm but thoughtful.
"Little Brother Xiao Hua would likely view this entire situation as a trial for the growth of Xiao Clan's Third Young Master."
"Trial, huh? That means, as long as they tread carefully, the matter of annulment can be resolved peacefully," Primer Tengshan mused, understanding Ya Fei's implication.
Xiao Hua understood four vital aspects of the cultivation journey: will, mind, heart, and potential. These weren't attributes that could be easily cultivated—they required the trials and tribulations of life to nurture.
If Ya Fei's interpretation was correct, then as long as the Misty Cloud Sect handled the situation with tact, the annulment could proceed without unnecessary conflict.
"Ya Fei, does no one in the Xiao Clan know about the Misty Cloud Sect's intention to annul the engagement?" Primer Tengshan inquired thoughtfully.
"I doubt it," Ya Fei replied, shaking her head. "Elder Xiao Tao and Elder Xiao Yang have deliberately kept this matter quiet, as it's far too delicate and sensitive. It's unlikely anyone in the Xiao Clan has caught wind of it."
She had personally witnessed Xiao Zhan warmly welcoming the Misty Cloud Sect, his smile beaming with hospitality. The same went for the faction led by the First Elder of the Xiao Clan; they appeared puzzled by the enthusiasm Xiao Zhan showed toward the Sect's arrival.
That was how Ya Fei could confidently conclude that neither Xiao Zhan nor the First Elder's faction were aware of the Misty Cloud Sect's intentions. If they had known about the proposed annulment, the reception would undoubtedly have been very different.
If Xiao Zhan were to learn of the Misty Cloud Sect's intention to annul the betrothal, his face would undoubtedly darken, shadowed by outrage and indignation. His heavy frown would speak volumes of his disapproval, even with just a glance at their group.
Meanwhile, the faction led by the First Elder would react differently. Gloating smirks and mocking expressions would likely spread across their faces, reveling in the humiliation and embarrassment Xiao Zhan would be experiencing.
The strained relationship between Xiao Zhan and the First Elder was no secret. It was clear to anyone who observed them that the First Elder wouldn't miss an opportunity to mock and humiliate Xiao Zhan.
"The fact that this information hasn't reached the Xiao Clan must be because the major forces that attended the ascension ceremony have deliberately chosen to remain silent," Primer Tengshan said, stroking his chin thoughtfully.
Ya Fei nodded in agreement. Even if Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang had kept their mouths shut, it would be nearly impossible to block every source of gossip or rumor. For such silence to persist, there had to be a calculated reason behind it.
"They likely don't want to get involved in this matter," she surmised, her voice calm but certain.
Ya Fei understood the workings of the major forces within the Jia Ma Empire all too well. Their decision to stay uninvolved was strategic—one wrong step could result in incurring the wrath of both sides.
"Regardless," Primer Tengshan said, his tone firm, "as Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang have stated, this is a matter between Xiao Zhan, Xiao Yan, and the Misty Cloud Sect. It is not our place to interfere, nor should we seek to dig deeper into it."
'However, if Gu He is here, why hasn't the Chairman of the Alchemist Association come? With that old man's enthusiasm for Xiao Hua, I was sure he would either come himself or at least send the Deputy Chairman...'
Ya Fei pondered, puzzled by the absence of any representative from the Jia Ma Empire's Alchemist Association. She knew Fa Ma, the Chairman, would have been ecstatic upon hearing of Xiao Hua's return to the Xiao Clan. Normally, he would drop everything to make his way here.
As an alchemist himself, Fa Ma had always expressed a keen desire to exchange alchemical insights with Xiao Hua. For someone as enthusiastic as him to remain absent was both baffling and uncharacteristic.
Rumble—!
Before Ya Fei could voice her thoughts, a muffled thunderous sound reverberated through the sky. The air seemed to ripple with waves of energy as everyone's gaze instinctively turned toward the source of the commotion. A massive Flying Ship was gliding majestically toward the Xiao Clan's residence.
Naturally, the sight of such a grand vessel sent the entire Xiao Clan's estate, both guests and members alike, into a frenzy of speculation and alarm.
"What… what is that? Is it some sort of artifact?"
"Does anyone in the Jia Ma Empire possess such a treasure?"
"Is someone attacking the Xiao Clan?"
"Who could have provoked someone powerful enough to send that?"
Fear gripped the hearts of those gathered. None of them had ever seen such a thing in their lives. While bird-type magical beasts were often used to transport carriages—or, in rarer cases, large structures mounted upon their backs—this Flying Ship was clearly something far beyond that. It moved gracefully through the skies, untouched by any beast or visible mechanism, as if propelled by an unseen force. Beneath its hull, shimmering waves of energy resembling the calm sea rippled outward, creating a mesmerizing sight.
As panic spread and many scrambled to find a way to escape, two bursts of loud, hearty laughter cut through the chaos, silencing the crowd.
"It seems he has finally returned, Brother Xiao Tao," one voice echoed.
"Indeed, Yang'er," the other replied with equal mirth. "Though I must admit, his return is far grander than I anticipated…"
All eyes turned upward, where two figures hovered in midair, majestic red-colored Dou Qi Wings extending from their backs. Their gazes were fixed firmly on the humongous Flying Ship, and nostalgic, joyful smiles graced their faces.
Recognizing these two figures, the Xiao Clan members froze for a moment before swiftly reacting. With the exception of the Misty Cloud Sect, Imperial Family, and Primer Clan, everyone present cupped their hands respectfully and bowed in unison.
These two were none other than the Grand Elders of the Xiao Clan, Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang. Second only to Xiao Zhan in authority within the clan, their presence commanded respect even from the stubborn First Elder, who would not dare defy their orders.