Time flowed gently at first, like mist curling through a quiet valley, as Xiao Hua rested and gradually restored his strength. But by the first day of the second month, that tranquil stillness was shattered. A single spark from Burning Flame Valley ignited a wildfire across the Central Plains—one borne not of flame, but of whispers and dread.
"Xiao Hua, Mansion Master of the Moonlit Chaos Mansion, will be refining a Tier 9 Treasure Pill for Ancestor Huo Yun!"
Such news naturally sent ripples across the entire Central Plains. After all, it came from Moonlit Chaos Mansion, a newly risen power that had, in just a few short years, ascended to stand shoulder to shoulder with the great factions of the Central Plains.
Their foundation, too, was anything but shallow. Countless disciples of the Moonlit Chaos Mansion had displayed startling talent and strength. Even those who were once deemed average by their former sects—abandoned or overlooked—had transformed into true prodigies under its banner, capable of standing toe-to-toe with the Central Plains' most outstanding younger generation.
Moreover, it was already known that two of the Hall Masters were Tier 9 Treasure Alchemists. Yet now, news had spread that Xiao Hua himself was also a Tier 9 Treasure Alchemist.
Three Tier 9 Alchemists within a single faction—how could anyone remain calm in the face of such earth-shaking news?
News of this magnitude spread like wildfire, reaching even the farthest corners of the Central Plains. It stirred the hearts of countless factions, each interpreting it through the lens of their own ambitions and fears. While many viewed it with cautious interest, one particular faction found itself ensnared by a deep and pressing intrigue.
An immense city stood tall upon the vast plains, vibrant with life and activity. Voices rose from every corner—vendors shouting, cultivators laughing, arguments erupting—all blending into a tidal wave of sound that surged toward the heavens. Even the clouds above seemed to pale under the sheer pressure of the commotion.
This was Holy Pill City—the sacred ground of alchemists across the continent.
Holy Pill City was divided into two regions: the outer and the inner. The prestigious Pill Tower resided deep within the inner region. Yet, whether one stood in the bustling outer district or the more refined inner sanctum, all of it belonged to the Pill Tower.
Though called a "city," Holy Pill City was anything but ordinary. Its scale dwarfed that of common settlements—so vast that even a Dou Zong expert would require nearly half a day just to traverse it from north to south.
If the Central Plains could be called the heart of the Dou Qi continent, then the Middle Region was its very core. Most of the continent's top-tier factions had established their headquarters within this region, making it a land where power and prestige converged.
At the heart of the Middle Region lay the Pill Region. The Pill Tower held an unshakably high status. After all, it housed the greatest concentration of alchemists in the entire continent.
The Pill Tower was located at the exact center of Holy Pill City—a sacred ground revered by alchemists across the land. This area, deep within the inner region, was considered the pinnacle of alchemical pursuit. Due to the constant influx of all manner of people from every corner of the continent, the defenses here were exceptionally tight, always on alert for any sudden disturbance.
At the center of this inner sanctum rose a colossal black tower, soaring a thousand feet into the sky. It resembled a dark mountain peak, majestic and unyielding, evoking awe in all who beheld it.
Its summit pierced the clouds, vanishing from sight. Mist drifted around its upper levels, veiling it in mystery and lending it a transcendent air—as though it did not belong to the mortal realm at all.
Within a quiet meeting hall, three figures stood in silence—one seated, the other two standing. Each of them wore solemn expressions, their eyes fixed on the news that had recently shaken the entire Central Plains.
Seated at the center was a man with flowing light-purple hair that reached down to his back. His robes were white, adorned with pale-golden metallic embellishments, while a vibrant purple inner layer lent him a noble and dignified air.
To his side stood a striking woman, her lips a vivid crimson, her features elegant yet imposing. She was draped in a robe of white and purple, trimmed with intricate golden accents. A slit near the hem revealed her flawless snow-white legs, adding a touch of cold beauty to her presence.
The final figure was an elder with dark skin and a face carved with sternness. His expression remained unreadable, yet his presence carried a cold weight. Like the others, he too wore the distinct purple and white robes marked with elaborate metallic designs—a clear symbol of their shared status.
These three were none other than the Association Heads of the Pill Tower: Xuan Kong Zi, Xuan Yi, and Lei Tian Zi.
"Xuan Yi, you've spoken with Mei Ling before," Xuan Kong Zi said, lifting his gaze from the report and turning toward the beautiful woman. "Is there any truth to this news?"
Xuan Yi's eyes narrowed slightly as she raised a hand to gently stroke her pale chin. "I did hear it from Mei Ling," she replied slowly. "She spoke quite proudly of her younger brother—said he was not only a Mansion Master but had even become a Tier 9 Treasure Alchemist before her."
The elder stroked his beard slowly, eyes narrowing. "Then it is true? Hmph… quite unbelievable, if you ask me."
"We all had our doubts when we first heard of Wei Jie and Mei Ling breaking through to the Heavenly State," Xuan Yi said with a sigh, gently shaking her head. "Yet not only did they succeed… they even managed to refine a Tier 9 Treasure Pill."
Her tone carried a subtle warning. Clearly, she was drawing a parallel—this situation was no different. They should not allow their status or pride to cloud their judgment. After all, Xiao Hua was the sworn younger brother of those two.
The seated man gave a slow, thoughtful nod. "Though I haven't met Mei Ling in person, I have crossed paths with Wei Jie. Even I had to lower my head before his profound knowledge of medicinal herbs and the intricate reactions that occur during refinement."
The stern-faced elder could only smile bitterly at their words. Even he had to admit—both Mei Ling and Wei Jie had long surpassed him in the knowledge of medicinal herbs and pill refinement.
The three of them had once extended an invitation to both of them, hoping to welcome them into the Pill Tower. Yet their offer was politely declined. Wei Jie and Mei Ling had already begun building their own force with the other sworn brother and sisters. Though disappointed, the elders had chosen not to press the matter further.
At the time, they had believed the pair would eventually return. The faction they created had seemed unimpressive at first glance. Yet never had they expected the overwhelming strength that later emerged—especially after word spread of the devastating losses the Hall of Souls had suffered at their hands.
"Regardless of the rumors, what interests me more… is the one who taught those three monsters," a faint, aged voice echoed from the entrance of the meeting hall.
The three within the room immediately lifted their heads in shock. As the familiar voice settled over them like a quiet pressure, they straightened their postures at once, cupped their hands, and offered a respectful greeting.
"First Elder!"
The one they bowed to was an old man clad in simple linen robes. His expression was unreadable, almost lifeless, yet his eyes—vast and profound—seemed to contain the boundless depth of the starry heavens.
This man was none other than the First Elder of the Pill Tower—or more precisely, the First Elder of the Small Pill Tower.
While the common world only knew of the Pill Tower's existence, those among the powerful factions were aware of circle that lay within it: the Small Pill Tower.
The Small Pill Tower was the true heart of the Pill Tower's authority. Its members were reclusive elders, each with cultivation and knowledge that reached terrifying depths. Their existence alone was why even the Hall of Souls dared not act recklessly against the Pill Tower. These old monsters were shrouded in age and mystery, yet their influence was undeniable—and even these three respected figures had no choice but to show them the utmost reverence.
"Will the First Elder be attending this event personally?" Xuan Kong Zi asked, his tone filled with curiosity as he looked toward the linen-robed old man.
"I find myself intrigued by this young man," the First Elder replied calmly. "Not only does he dare to publicly declare he will refine a Tier 9 Treasure Pill, but he also maintains a strong bond with Wei Jie and Mei Ling."
Though the First Elder had not clearly stated his intention to attend, he hadn't denied it either.
His voice remained faint, almost detached, yet all three present could sense a distinct interest hidden beneath his calm demeanor—an interest directed at Xiao Hua.
"Moreover," the First Elder continued, "he inflicted a devastating loss upon the Hall of Souls and even escaped death at the hands of their chief. Whether it's his achievements, strength, or this very news… it is only natural that he has drawn my attention."
The three Association Heads exchanged glances before letting out a collective, bitter chuckle. No matter how they looked at it, Xiao Hua's actions were beyond what they could have imagined—especially for someone not yet twenty.
They had all experienced the terror of the Hall of Souls' chief firsthand. Though the one they fought was merely a sliver of his soul possessing a Hall of Souls expert, they were still thoroughly defeated.
And yet, Xiao Hua had not only survived a direct strike from that same chief, but walked away from it alive.
Such a feat was nothing short of monstrous.
While the three of them were reminded the terror of the chief of Hall of Souls, a strange glint appeared in the First Elder of the Small Pill Tower. While the three Association Heads cannot detect anything strange of this news, he can definitely see something else about this news.
'Is he purposely let the Burning Flame Valley spread the news to attract the attention of the Small Pill Tower? Does he want to form an alliance with us to deal with Hall of Souls?'
A faint smile curled upon the First Elder's face as he pondered Xiao Hua's intentions—especially in choosing to make such a grand statement with the public refinement of a Tier 9 Treasure Pill.
He understood well that such news was guaranteed to reach the Small Pill Tower—more so because of Xiao Hua's close ties with Wei Jie and Mei Ling.
Regardless of whether it was by coincidence or design, this young man had already succeeded in capturing their attention.
'Using this event to elevate his reputation… and rally allies against a common enemy—the Hall of Souls. This young man… he's far more cunning and calculating than his age would suggest.'
The First Elder chuckled inwardly, amused, as the image of Xiao Hua's calm and smiling face surfaced in his mind. He found himself growing more eager to meet the youth who had stirred the entire Central Plains with a single move.
…
Days passed swiftly, and soon, the second month came to an end—ushering in a wave of boiling excitement that swept through the Central Plains.
Today was the day.
The day Xiao Hua would attempt to refine a Tier 9 Treasure Pill for Ancestor Huo Yun—an event that had captured the attention of countless factions across the land. Major powers, independent experts, and curious alchemists alike had all turned their eyes toward Burning Flame Valley.
Naturally, the valley's defenses had been tightened to the extreme over the past few days. Surveillance covered a five-hundred-kilometer radius surrounding the Roasting Fire Mountain Range. Countless sharp gazes—both from within and outside—were locked onto the valley, waiting to witness whether this rising star would truly live up to the name he had stirred across the continent.
Clouds lingered over the mountain where Burning Flame Valley welcomed its guests. Ancestor Huo Yun, Valley Chief Tang Zhen, Tang Huo Er and several elders had arrived early, standing atop the summit where the sect had opened its gates for the grand occasion.
While many guests were being received by other elders, there were a few whose status was far too significant—so much so that even Ancestor Huo Yun personally awaited their arrival. These were not people who could be treated with mere formality or courtesy.
As time passed, the sun slowly climbed into the sky, its golden rays casting light upon the mountaintop.
Swoosh—!
The sudden rush of wind tore through the air, breaking the morning's solemn silence.
Ancestor Huo Yun was the first to sense it. Lifting his head, his eyes sparkled with anticipation as a wide grin formed on his face.
"They've arrived," he said with a chuckle.
As Ancestor Huo Yun's voice echoed out, the others instinctively turned their gazes toward the entrance of the realm. In the next moment, a cluster of light streaked across the sky, rushing toward them like shooting stars. After a few shimmering flashes, the lights halted above the mountain peak and slowly dispersed—revealing three figures.
At the forefront stood two men: the First Elder of the Small Pill Tower and Xuan Kong Zi. Behind them, standing quietly with a respectful posture, was a graceful figure whose faint smile carried both elegance and reserve.
The woman's figure was tall and enchanting, clad in a flowing black dress that exuded a faint, cold arrogance. Her skin was like freshly fallen snow, and her long hair spilled loosely over her shoulders like silk. Though her face was slender, her features were exquisitely refined—so flawless that she resembled a porcelain statue, the kind that stirred admiration with a single glance.
"Ke ke, Old Demon Lin... I never expected even someone as ancient and elusive as you to make an appearance," Ancestor Huo Yun said with a hearty grin, his tone filled with amused surprise.
"A Tier 9 Treasure Pill refinement is no trivial matter," the First Elder replied with a faint smile. "Even in all my years, such an event is rarely seen. For me to come here is only natural. If not, I wouldn't have the face to call myself an alchemist."
Then, his gaze sharpened ever so slightly. His next words, spoken in a lowered tone only Ancestor Huo Yun could hear, carried a subtle weight.
"Besides... I have a feeling something about this event requires my attention."
Ancestor Huo Yun didn't respond with words—he merely grinned, a knowing glint flashing in his eyes. It was clear he understood the deeper meaning behind the First Elder's remark.
While the two elders conversed quietly, Tang Zhen and Xuan Kong Zi respectfully cupped their hands toward each other, exchanging polite greetings.
"I would have never thought Elder Xuan Kong Zi would personally make the trip," Tang Zhen said with a smile.
"Ke ke, even an old man like me couldn't resist being drawn in by the young man who's stirred up so many waves in recent months," Xuan Kong Zi replied with a light chuckle and a nod.
Tang Zhen nodded in agreement. That youth was no ordinary talent—he was a monster who could suppress even those from the older generation. If he succeeded in refining the Tier 9 Treasure Pill today, none among the younger generation in the Central Plains would be able to contend for the top position.
Tang Zhen nodded in agreement before turning his gaze subtly shifted toward the graceful young woman standing quietly behind them. "Is she the one I've heard you've taken under your wing?"
Xuan Kong Zi nodded. "That's right. Ying'er, come forward and greet the Valley Chief."
With graceful poise, the young lady stepped forward, her movements soft and measured. She cupped her hands and bowed respectfully.
"Cao Ying greets the Valley Chief."
After greeting Tang Zhen, Cao Ying turned slightly and offered a graceful nod toward Tang Huo Er, accompanied by a polite smile. Naturally, Tang Huo Er responded in kind, her demeanor equally courteous.
"Young Lady Cao is quite well-mannered," Tang Zhen said with a nod, gently stroking his beard.
"She's been training in seclusion within the Pill Tower for some time," Xuan Kong Zi replied with a faint smile. "I thought it was time she broadened her horizons and witnessed the outside world for herself."
Tang Zhen nodded in agreement. "Indeed, this is a rare opportunity. The refinement of a Tier 9 Treasure Pill is not something one sees often, even in a lifetime. A chance like this may grant her valuable insight."
At that moment, Cao Ying softly asked, her eyes flickering with curiosity, "Does Master truly believe he is capable of refining a Tier 9 Treasure Pill?"
Her life had always been one of remarkable feats. From the moment she was born, her innate Spiritual Strength had stunned those around her. By the age of seven, she had already stepped onto the path of alchemy, formally becoming an alchemist.
At fifteen, she caught the attention of the Pill Tower and was taken in as a core disciple, trained in quiet seclusion under their guidance.
Naturally, such accomplishments left her with no small amount of pride. Yet all of it was eclipsed by the sudden emergence of Wei Jie and Mei Ling.
The two had appeared out of nowhere within Holy Pill City, and without fanfare, refined a Tier 9 Treasure Pill—before leaving the Pill Region entirely.
What shocked the entire alchemical world was the fact that they were only in their twenties!
Unfortunately, she had not been present at the time, having temporarily returned to her clan for personal matters. Had she remained, she might have witnessed the arrival of those two monstrous talents who had shaken the Pill Tower to its core.
After that event, Cao Ying was forced to acknowledge a painful truth—compared to Wei Jie and Mei Ling, she was far too ordinary.
And yet now, she had heard news of another—someone even younger than those two, only three years her senior—about to attempt the refinement of a Tier 9 Treasure Pill. Her curiosity was piqued, and she chose to witness it for herself.
What made it even more astonishing was that all three—Wei Jie, Mei Ling, and this mysterious young man—originated from the same faction.
How could such a thing not stir both shock and interest in every corner of the Central Plains?
"That's precisely why we're here to observe," Xuan Kong Zi replied with a faint smile. "But given the confidence surrounding him, I believe that young man is truly capable of it. He reminds me… of Wei Jie."
Cao Ying was slightly taken aback by her master's remark. His confidence in someone he had yet to even meet left her surprised. Just as she was about to voice another question, Ancestor Huo Yun's voice suddenly echoed beside them, his eyes shifting toward the entrance of the Burning Flame Valley's realm.
"The Moonlit Chaos Mansion has finally arrived…"
Cao Ying and the others instinctively followed his gaze. Space at the entrance trembled, and in the next moment, several figures appeared as if summoned from thin air. Among them were Wei Jie, Mei Ling, Little Fairy Doctor, Xun Er, Gu Nanhai, and a few other members of the Gu Clan.
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