"Teacher, I have a matter that requires your assistance…"
Xiao Yan wanted to inquire about the potential gifts he might receive after accepting Yao Lao as his teacher. However, a sudden thought distracted him, reminding him of something important.
"You're talking about the Adulthood Ceremony next year, aren't you, kid? Honestly, there's little for me to do. Your cousin has already been taking care of your cultivation progress. And let's not forget—you're not sick. That so-called eighth-tier medicinal pill he mentioned refining in the future? Completely unnecessary."
Yao Lao instantly understood Xiao Yan's request, but he also knew that Xiao Hua had already taken care of it. As such, there was little for him to do. Still, his expression turned somewhat begrudging and envious when he recalled the extraordinary gesture Xiao Hua would make—refining a tier-eight medicinal pill purely for Xiao Yan.
'He claimed he suffered great humiliation, yet the benefits he is reaping afterward far exceed that…' Yao Lao sighed inwardly. Even he, with his vast experience, couldn't imagine such luxury—having someone casually refine an eighth-tier medicinal pill just for him.
"That…" Xiao Yan's expression stiffened. He was well aware that he didn't truly need the eighth-tier medicinal pill Xiao Hua intended to refine for him, yet he had been pretending not to notice.
He couldn't deny the allure of receiving such a precious pill for free. After all, even his father, the esteemed head of the Xiao Clan, could scarcely dream of enjoying the luxury of an eighth-tier medicinal pill.
Xiao Hua and Yao Lao simultaneously rolled their eyes, their exasperation palpable.
"You're truly shameless, aren't you?" their expressions seemed to say.
Seeing the disdain and mild contempt in their gazes, Xiao Yan felt a wave of embarrassment wash over him. He realized how disgraceful his behavior had been, considering Xiao Hua was acting purely out of goodwill. Eager to salvage his dignity, he hurriedly changed the subject.
"Anyway, Teacher," Xiao Yan coughed awkwardly, steering the conversation toward a topic he deemed more pressing—at least to him. "When will you begin teaching me alchemy?"
Yao Lao gave him a calm yet pointed look before speaking. "o become an alchemist, you must possess Fire-Attribute Dou Qi with a hint of Wood-Attribute to act as a catalyst in pill refinement."
"Since you are still at the Dou Zhi stage, the Dou Qi within your body is attribute-less. Before you can even think about alchemy, you need to at least reach the Dou Zhe level and cultivate a Fire-Attribute Qi Method."
"Fire-Attribute Qi Method, huh? Our clan does possess a Di-Class Low-Level Fire-Attribute Qi Method…" Xiao Yan muttered thoughtfully, rubbing his chin.
Unlike in the original tale, the Xiao Clan in this world had several Di-Class Dou Techniques and Qi Methods for various attributes. Xiao Yan found himself weighing his options, wondering which fire-attribute Qi Method would suit him best.
This abundance of techniques also explained why Xiao Yan hadn't yet sought Yao Lao's aid for Dou Techniques or Qi Methods. However, the choices left him in a quandary, and he was tempted to seek Yao Lao's guidance on which Dou Techniques suitable for him.
"Instead of practicing those Qi Methods, I have a better one. One that surpasses even the typical Tian-Class Qi Methods. Are you interested in learning it?" Yao Lao's aged, turbid eyes suddenly gleamed with a conspiratorial light.
"Stronger than Tian-Class Qi Methods? Is there something beyond the Tian-Class?" Xiao Yan's tone was filled with doubt as he instinctively glanced at Xiao Hua, seeking reassurance.
"The Dou Qi Continent is far vaster than you imagine. It's only natural for wonders beyond your comprehension to exist," Xiao Hua replied cryptically, a faint smile tugging at his lips. He already knew what kind of Qi Method Yao Lao intended to bestow upon Xiao Yan.
Xiao Yan's heart raced as he swallowed nervously. In the depths of his pitch-black eyes, a spark of anticipation flickered. "Then… what level is this Qi Method?" he asked eagerly.
"Huang-Class Low-Level," Yao Lao replied with a light chuckle.
Xiao Yan's face stiffened. His eyes twitched as he turned to Xiao Hua, hoping against hope that Yao Lao was joking. He didn't care how vast the world was—there was no way a Low Huang-Class Qi Method could be anything extraordinary.
However, Xiao Hua simply smiled and remained silent, his calm demeanor unsettling Xiao Yan further. Remembering the formidable status, abilities, and achievements of the old man before him, Xiao Yan couldn't deny the possibility that this Qi Method might be anything but ordinary.
"What's so special about this Qi Method?" Xiao Yan asked, his curiosity piqued despite his doubts.
"Hehe, it can evolve!" Yao Lao's laughter echoed, filled with an air of mystery.
Xiao Yan's eyes widened in disbelief. He stared at Yao Lao, scrutinizing the old man's expression for any trace of deceit. Yet, after a few moments, he found none.
Still uncertain, he turned to Xiao Hua, his voice tinged with both skepticism and hope. "A Qi Method that can evolve… Is that even possible, Cousin Xiao Hua?"
"As I said, the Dou Qi Continent is vast beyond comprehension, with countless mysteries and extraordinary occurrences happening all the time. Cousin Xiao Yan, having yet to step beyond the boundaries of the Jia Ma Empire, it's only natural that you find this hard to believe," Xiao Hua remarked calmly.
"Then… does that mean you've heard of it before?" Xiao Yan probed, his sharp eyes fixed on Xiao Hua, trying to discern the truth.
"I have," Xiao Hua replied casually. Not only had he heard of such Qi Methods, but he also practiced one. In fact, he possessed several. However, such treasures were far too valuable to disclose, and he had no intention of revealing them under any normal circumstances.
"That's even more astonishing than hearing about my teacher's past achievements…" Xiao Yan muttered, awe evident in his tone. The revelation left him deeply impressed.
Yao Lao, on the other hand, felt a twinge of exasperation. Xiao Yan seemed to trust Xiao Hua's words without question, valuing his cousin's judgment over his own. While it demonstrated the high regard Xiao Yan held for Xiao Hua, it also left Yao Lao feeling slightly dispirited.
'It seems I'll need to work harder to win this brat's trust and reliance,' Yao Lao thought with a sigh, resolving to deepen the bond between himself and his disciple.
Meanwhile, Xiao Yan's curiosity got the better of him. He stretched out his hand, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Teacher, can you let me see it?"
"Forget it, Cousin Xiao Yan," Xiao Hua said, shaking his head and halting him. "You should focus on reaching Dou Zhe first. Once you've achieved that, perhaps he'll let you take a look. For now, concentrate on raising your Dou Qi to 7 Duan within the next year."
Xiao Yan's outstretched hand froze mid-air before he slowly withdrew it, nodding in agreement. He understood the truth in Xiao Hua's words. Greed could disrupt his cultivation. It was better to focus on his current mission and ensure he was in peak condition for the upcoming Adulthood Ceremony.
"It won't take long for you to reach 7-Star Dou Zhi Qi. Despite your Dou Qi declining over the past three years, your foundation is far more stable than most. In Dou Qi training, the foundation is everything! Soon enough, you'll realize just how many benefits these three years have brought you,"
Yao Lao smiled, his tone brazenly confident as if attempting to justify the very situation he caused. After all, it was his actions that had led to Xiao Yan's Dou Qi disappearance in the first place.
His smile gradually faded, replaced by a more serious expression as he fixed his gaze on Xiao Yan. Studying his disciple's reaction, Yao Lao saw understanding dawn in Xiao Yan's eyes. With a slight smile of satisfaction, he continued, "Just follow your cousin's instructions. You'll reach 7-Star Dou Zhi Qi by the time of the Adulthood Ceremony."
Xiao Yan nodded, absorbing Yao Lao's advice.
"Now, about your alchemy training…" Xiao Hua interjected, drawing Xiao Yan's attention. "I agree with your teacher—traveling the world is essential for your growth."
Then, with a faint smirk, Xiao Hua asked, "Do you even know what kind of medicinal ingredients I've been using to create the medicinal fluids you've been consuming?"
"…" Xiao Yan froze, clamping his mouth shut and averting his gaze. A heavy sense of foreboding settled over him.
Xiao Hua scoffed lightly, clearly unimpressed, and handed Xiao Yan a sheet of paper. On it was a detailed list of the medicinal ingredients he had used to prepare the fluids.
Xiao Yan accepted the paper, his hands trembling slightly as he glanced at it with a mix of nervousness and hesitation. His eyes widened in shock as he scanned the list of medicinal ingredients, feeling as though his soul had momentarily left his body.
"A Rank 2 fire-attribute monster core… Four leaves of Ironwood Heart Leaf… Three complete stalks of Greenroot Stalk…"
As he recited the items aloud, his voice grew increasingly strained. The sheer absurdity of the list left him speechless.
In that moment, Xiao Yan finally grasped the reason behind Xiao Hua and Yao Lao's insistence on traveling the world if he truly wished to pursue alchemy.
The majority of the ingredients listed were either outrageously expensive, extraordinarily rare, or completely unheard of.
Even if he were a direct descendant of the Jia Ma Empire's Imperial Family, it would be nearly impossible to amass the wealth and resources needed to acquire such items without venturing far beyond the empire's borders.
With his current standing and meager resources as the Third Young Master of the Xiao Clan, the dream of becoming an alchemist would remain nothing more than an illusion unless he embraced the challenges of journeying across the vast Dou Qi Continent in search of these treasures.
"Anyway, the medicinal fluids I prepared for you will only last three months," Xiao Hua remarked casually. "So, how about asking Yao Zun Zhe for assistance?"
Xiao Yan was momentarily startled upon hearing this, but he quickly recovered. He reminded himself that Yao Lao, being a renowned alchemist and his teacher, could certainly help replenish the supply.
Without waiting for a response, Xiao Hua turned and walked away, leaving the two behind. How Xiao Yan would plead with Yao Lao was of no concern to him.
He had no further interest in continuing the conversation. The only reason he had come was to gauge Yao Lao's motives for trying to pit Xiao Yan against Nalan Yanran. After observing their interaction, he was satisfied that Yao Lao bore no ill intent.
...
As Xiao Hua approached Xun Er's residence, a faint smile graced his lips. He suddenly stopped and turned, his gaze landing on a stunning young woman walking gracefully toward him.
With auburn hair cascading like molten silk and an enchanting beauty that seemed almost otherworldly, she was a vision to behold. Her elegant black attire, intricately adorned with golden embellishments, accentuated her exquisite body.
Her eyes, deep and mesmerizing, carried an irresistible allure that could leave any man breathless, their throats tightening unconsciously under her gaze.
"Beautiful and enchanting as ever, Sister Ya Fei," Xiao Hua greeted with a light chuckle. "I can only imagine the chaos you must cause in the capital city. How many men have risked courting you, only to end up beaten by their rivals?"
"Younger Brother Xiao Hua, you're just as bad," Ya Fei replied, her lips curving into a playful smile. "With your looks, I wouldn't be surprised if you've broken the hearts of countless innocent young ladies at Jia Nan Academy—especially after they learned you're already engaged."
Her words, though teasing, were laced with warmth. She gave the handsome young man an appraising glance, her smile deepening. Taking a soft breath, she composed herself, though her chest—full and alluring beneath her exquisite attire—naturally drew attention with its subtle movement.
"I always knew you'd grow into a fine man," she continued, her tone genuine, her captivating smile sweet yet sincere. "But your current appearance has truly exceeded my expectations."
Her gaze lingered on him for a moment longer, a testament to her honesty. Despite the playful nature of her words, there was no denying the truth in them.
Xiao Hua's current appearance was nothing short of striking. His sharp and refined features exuded a natural elegance, while his piercing eyes and confident expression hinted at both immense strength and keen intellect.
Dressed in black, his attire was intricately designed with golden embellishments that added an air of regal sophistication. Draped over his shoulders was a black cloak with white-edged trim, further emphasizing his noble and majestic demeanor. His lean, athletic frame and sharp eyes radiated a sense of martial prowess and cultivated refinement.
But what captivated most was the mesmerizing contrast of his heterochromatic eyes.
His left eye, a striking crimson, burned with an intensity that seemed to pierce through the soul. Its gaze was commanding and magnetic, holding an allure that left those who met it spellbound.
His right eye, a piercing cyan, evoked an entirely different feeling. It carried the calm serenity of the boundless sky and the tranquil depths of an ocean, yet within its depths lurked an otherworldly intensity that was equally captivating.
Together, his eyes formed a hypnotic balance of fire and ice—vivid contrasts that no one could ignore.
She was utterly stunned by Xiao Hua's transformation. Having encountered countless men of status and power in the prestigious Jia Ma Sacred City, she could confidently say that Xiao Hua's appearance was unparalleled—not just in the capital but likely in the entire Jia Ma Empire.
Yet, it wasn't just his looks that left an impression. His unmatched talent, boundless potential, and growing influence among the younger generation elevated him far above his peers.
'Is there such a thing as a medicinal pill that enhances beauty or handsomeness?' Ya Fei mused silently, her thoughts swirling as she studied him.
As Ya Fei's gaze lingered on him, her mind wandered, wondering if a pill capable of enhancing one's appearance truly existed—or if Xiao Hua had somehow transcended mortal expectations on his own.
'It's no wonder the First Princess is willing to abandon her stance on her husband having only one wife…' Ya Fei smiled helplessly as she recalled her earlier meeting with Yao Ye that morning.
The young man standing before her was truly exceptional in every aspect. Expecting women—whether young or old—not to be drawn to him would be nothing short of wishful thinking. His capabilities, charm, and appearance were simply too dazzling to ignore.
However, just as Ya Fei found herself marveling at Xiao Hua's brilliance, her thoughts shifted to the commotion that had shaken Wu Tan City earlier in the day.
"By the way, about what happened this morning…"
"That was my fault, Sister Ya Fei." Xiao Hua offered an apologetic smile, a trace of embarrassment evident in his expression. Without hesitation, he began explaining what had transpired.
He described the events that led to the wild disturbance, acknowledging the havoc caused when the energy of heaven and earth had grown violent and untamed. The unexpected phenomenon had left the people of Wu Tan City terrified.
"Fortunately, most of the guests had already left the city by then. Otherwise, the chaos would have been far worse..." Xiao Hua's tone carried a faint sigh of relief.
"Are you okay?" Ya Fei asked, her voice laced with genuine concern.
Her expression softened as she looked at him. After hearing about the terrifying commotion, she knew Xiao Hua must have endured immense pressure.
"I'm fine," Xiao Hua replied with a warm smile. He could easily tell that Ya Fei's concern was heartfelt, and the warmth of her worry touched him deeply.
"By the way, why are you here?"
Curiosity flickered in his eyes as he regarded her. Xiao Hua couldn't help but notice that Ya Fei had arrived at the Xiao Clan's residence which was strange as she doesn't have anyone around.
"Hehe. Your fiancée wanted to meet me, so she sent an invitation. However, during our discussion, her expression suddenly changed. She excused herself abruptly and rushed toward the mountain at the back," Ya Fei said, her tone light but laced with curiosity.
"Xun'er sought you out?" Xiao Hua's eyes widened slightly in surprise. He hadn't expected the two to meet, and his curiosity deepened. What could they have been discussing?
However, he quickly pieced the situation together. He knew exactly why Xun'er had hurried off so suddenly.
'Old Ling must have delivered another message from the Gu Clan... something important that Xun'er had to know immediately.' Xiao Hua's thoughts turned sharp, his heart itching to learn the contents of the news.
"Why don't you escort me back to my residence?" Ya Fei's soft voice broke through his musings, drawing his attention back to her.
"Why?" Xiao Hua raised a brow, his curiosity piqued.
"Is there anything wrong with catching up?" Ya Fei's enchanting eyes lingered on him, her voice carrying a rare hint of tenderness and sentimentality. It was a subtle expression of warmth, a side she rarely showed to others.
Xiao Hua let out a helpless chuckle, scratching his cheek sheepishly. "Alright. It's true we barely had time to talk at the banquet, thanks to the First Princess and Gu He…"
Ya Fei's soft giggle danced through the air, carrying a trace of amusement that lingered like the faint sweetness of spring blossoms by his modest demeanor.
With an elegant step forward, she began walking, her every movement exuding a grace that seemed to belong to a world untouched by time. Xiao Hua watched her for a fleeting moment, a faint smile curving his lips before he naturally fell into step beside her.
The quiet harmony between them felt almost poetic, as though their presence together wove an invisible thread of understanding. The soft breeze brushed past, carrying with it the faint scent of Ya Fei's fragrance, subtle yet intoxicating.
As they walked, their conversation unfolded with an effortless rhythm, filled with laughter that was neither forced nor overly exuberant, but warm and genuine. Each shared glance and every exchanged word seemed to hold an unspoken intimacy, as though the world beyond their small space had melted into irrelevance.
The air between them was steeped in an understated affection—one that neither declared nor demanded but lingered gently, like the fading hues of twilight. To any passerby unaware of their identities, they might have seemed like lovers strolling through a moment stolen from time, their connection as natural and unhurried as the soft cadence of their footsteps.
...
"This place has been… slightly renovated?"
As Xiao Hua approached the Primer Clan's residence, his sharp eyes swept across the Auction House in Wu Tan City. What initially seemed like a minor change quickly revealed itself to be an extensive overhaul.
The building now featured smooth, white marble-like walls, accented by soft blue trim that shimmered like polished bluestone under the sunlight. Atop the structure, a distinct symbol signifying the Primer Clan proudly marked its entrance, lending an air of prestige and elegance.
"The elders decided to renovate and expand it after learning that you're from Wu Tan City. The expansion happened because of a certain someone's… slight connection to me," Ya Fei teased, her lips curling into a knowing smile.
Xiao Hua chuckled lightly, but his gaze lingered on the magnificent structure as a subtle murmur escaped his lips. "So, strength really is the foundation of respect. Only when you possess power can you escape having your fate dictated by others…"
His voice was soft, barely audible, yet tinged with a calm understanding of the reality before him.
"Hm? Did you say something?" Ya Fei halted her steps and turned to look at him, her brows slightly raised.
"Nothing, Sister Ya Fei." Xiao Hua smiled faintly, brushing the thought aside. "In any case, now that you've arrived safely, I'll head back to my clan."
Just as Xiao Hua turned to leave, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed from within the estate. His sharp senses caught the commotion, and his gaze shifted toward the source. Emerging from the premises were several individuals, two of whom he immediately recognized: Primer Tengshan and Gu Ni, the second-tier alchemist he had met during a previous auction of medicinal elixirs.
The elders accompanying Primer Tengshan, judging by their attire and bearing, seemed to occupy prominent positions within the Primer Clan. Xiao Hua recalled not seeing them at last week's banquet, deducing that they either hadn't attended or had only recently arrived in Wu Tan City.
The sight of them brought a subtle glint to Xiao Hua's crimson and cyan eyes as he stopped in place, waiting to see what they had to say.
"Ya Fei? Master Xiao Hua?" Primer Tengshan's brows furrowed slightly, a trace of surprise flashing in his eyes. While he had heard of Ya Fei's earlier meeting with Xun Er, he hadn't expected to see her returning with Xiao Hua.
"Sister Ya Fei visited the Xiao Clan residence at Xun Er's invitation," Xiao Hua explained calmly, offering a polite smile as he cupped his hands in greeting. "However, Xun Er had urgent matters to attend to, so I accompanied Sister Ya Fei back. My apologies if this caused any misunderstanding."
"Haha, no need to apologize." Primer Tengshan chuckled warmly, his tone carrying both respect and good humor. "I sensed a formidable presence nearby and had a hunch it might be you, Master Xiao Hua. Naturally, I came out to greet you."
Xiao Hua nodded courteously, intending to take his leave after fulfilling his role as Ya Fei's escort. However, just as he was about to bid farewell, Primer Tengshan stepped forward with a polite but expectant smile.
"Master Xiao Hua, if I may, there is something I wish to request of you."
Xiao Hua raised an eyebrow slightly, his expression calm yet perceptive. "I assume it concerns the refining of medicinal pills?"
"Haha, as expected of Master Xiao Hua. It seems you've already anticipated my request." Primer Tengshan let out a dry laugh, having expected that Xiao Hua would see through his intentions without the need for explanation.
"This isn't the best place to discuss such matters," Primer Tengshan added, his gaze briefly sweeping over the surrounding area. "Please, allow me to invite you inside."
Xiao Hua paused momentarily before giving a slight nod. "Very well."
Without paying much mind to Primer Tengshan's request, Xiao Hua stepped into the building. Ya Fei followed closely beside him, her movements graceful and composed.
He understood Primer Tengshan's concerns and the reason for his secrecy. Even before leaving the clan's residence, his exceptionally sharp senses had already detected the faint, silent presences lurking in the shadows—watchful figures who had been monitoring the Miteer Clan's building.
'I recognize these auras… They're part of the First Princess's entourage. It seems she's keeping an eye on the Primer Clan because of Ya Fei's association with me,' Xiao Hua mused silently.
Regardless of where one stood, dealing with an imperial family was always fraught with complications and hidden agendas.
Once they entered the building, Primer Tengshan visibly relaxed, the tension in his posture easing as he began to explain his request.
"We've managed to acquire several rare medicinal ingredients, but we lack the expertise to refine them into high-tier medicinal pills," Primer Tengshan admitted, his tone both earnest and respectful. "The elders and I would be deeply grateful if you could lend us your skills. Naturally, we are prepared to offer suitable compensation for your assistance."
As he spoke, he led Xiao Hua to a private meeting room, gesturing for him to take a seat that had been arranged in advance. Xiao Hua followed silently, his expression composed. However, Ya Fei chose not to join them and instead made her way toward the residence's garden, leaving the two to their discussion.
Seated across from Xiao Hua, Primer Tengshan couldn't help but study the young man. Xiao Hua's calm demeanor and lack of arrogance were a rare sight, especially among geniuses blessed with extraordinary talent. This maturity and humility only deepened Primer Tengshan's admiration for him.
Observing Xiao Hua, he thought to himself, 'With a temperament like his, I can entrust Ya Fei's future to him.'
Yet Primer Tengshan knew that such matters required careful maneuvering. 'I'll need to pull a few strings behind the scenes, ensuring Ya Fei comes to realize her feelings for him. For her happiness… and for the prosperity of the clan.'
For now, however, the focus was on the matter at hand. Xiao Hua, curious about the ingredients and the pill they intended to refine, broke the silence. "What kind of medicinal pill are you hoping to create?"
"I've heard from Grand Elder Xiao Tao and Grand Elder Xiao Yang that you once refined a medicinal pill capable of allowing a peak Dou Wang to advance to the Dou Huang class. It was said to have been prepared for the elders of Jia Nan Academy," Primer Tengshan began, his tone laced with anticipation.
Xiao Hua nodded calmly, neither denying nor hiding the truth. "That is correct," he confirmed. He had already guessed the nature of the request Primer Tengshan was about to make.
Although he was slightly surprised that the information had reached Primer Tengshan, Xiao Hua quickly understood the reasoning. Knowing Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang's straightforward personalities, it was likely that Primer Tengshan had inquired about such matters directly, and they, seeing no harm, had shared it with him.
The medicinal pill that Primer Tengshan heard of is Three Radiance Huang Advancement Pill. It allows a peak Dou Wang expert a 55% chance to advance to the Dou Huang class, immediately stabilizing their foundation and ensuring their condition will return at their peak after advancing.
Depending on the pill's quality—determined by the clarity and number of its colors—it may also grant one to three additional breakthroughs within the Dou Huang class, and regardless of success or failure, it poses no risk to the user's foundation or existing strength.
It was no surprise that a strong Dou Wang like Primer Tengshan would be drawn to the allure of such a pill. Yet, Xiao Hua couldn't help but feel a trace of confusion.
He silently observed Primer Tengshan for a moment and thought, 'He isn't at the peak of Dou Wang yet. Is it desperation brought about by Hai Bo Dong's disappearance? Or simply the irresistible temptation of stepping into the Dou Huang class?'
After a brief pause, Xiao Hua dismissed these thoughts. 'Whatever the reason, it has nothing to do with me.'
"Would it be possible for me to request your assistance in refining one?" Primer Tengshan asked, his tone carrying a hint of nervous anticipation.
Xiao Hua rubbed his chin in thought before raising his gaze to meet Primer Tengshan's. "I don't mind," he said calmly, "but as you know, alchemists follow a strict rule—Elder Tengshan must provide the medicinal ingredients."
Primer Tengshan let out a breath of relief and nodded eagerly. "You need not worry about that. As long as you provide the list of required ingredients, I will dispatch people to search for them immediately." His voice carried both excitement and determination. He understood the unspoken customs of the alchemist world well and would not dare to object.
In the world of alchemy, there existed an unofficial yet widely accepted rule—anyone seeking an alchemist's help to refine a medicinal pill, especially one requiring a unique or high-tier formula, had to provide the necessary medicinal ingredients themselves.
Furthermore, these formulas were often considered the alchemist's property after the refinement, meaning the alchemist had full discretion over its use, including the right to keep the formula for themselves. Such practices were commonplace, and alchemists rarely entertained complaints about them.
Without hesitation, Xiao Hua retrieved a white sheet of paper from his Storage Ring. With fluid strokes, he wrote down the list of required ingredients before passing it to Primer Tengshan.
He had no doubts about Primer Tengshan's ability to gather the ingredients. After all, while rare, everything needed for the pill could be found within the Jia Ma Empire—if one was lucky enough to obtain them, that is.
Primer Tengshan received the paper with both hands. At first, his gaze casually swept over the list, but in the next moment, his expression stiffened. His eyes flickered with surprise as he once again assessed Xiao Hua.
"We do possess some of these medicinal ingredients… However, the last four—a Rank 6 Wood-Type Magical Beast, Waterleaf Herb, Ironbark Twig, and Firethorn Fruit—are exceedingly difficult to acquire."
Even for the Primer Clan, such ingredients were rare treasures. A Rank 6 Wood-Type Magical Beast was especially problematic—it was equivalent to a Dou Huang expert, making it nearly impossible to subdue without significant effort and risk.
However, while challenging, it was not beyond the reach of the Primer Clan. With their vast wealth, influence, and extensive network, acquiring them within a year or two was possible.
Yet, a pressing concern gnawed at Primer Tengshan's mind.
"But will he still be in the Jia Ma Empire by then?"
A sense of urgency crept into his thoughts. If Xiao Hua left before they secured the ingredients, all their efforts would be meaningless.
As if sensing his unease, Xiao Hua suddenly spoke, his tone calm yet reassuring.
"I will remain in the Jia Ma Empire for at least two more years, so there's no need to worry about the time."
"Haha. If that's the case, then I will make sure to find the ingredients before then." Primer Tengshan let out a sigh of relief before standing up. With a respectful tone, he continued, "I know it is impolite to keep you here any longer, but there are still a few elders who wish to make some requests of you."
Xiao Hua smiled, his tone calm yet accommodating. "Do not worry about it, Elder Tengshan. As long as the requests are not too troublesome, I will hear them out."
He understood the loyalty of the Primer Clan—they had proven their integrity when they risked sheltering the Xiao Clan during the Misty Cloud Sect's attempt to annihilate them in the novel. Such unwavering allegiance was rare in the world of cultivation.
For people like them, he did not mind lending a hand, so long as the requests were not overly burdensome.