That night, Li Hao activated the locket.
The small sprite appeared, glowing softly.
"Master, it's time you truly learn," she said gently.
What followed was not simple teaching—but awakening.
She guided him through advanced alchemy principles—not just refining pills, but understanding the balance between elements.
She taught him how flame, ice, and lightning could coexist within a single refinement.
For formations, she revealed patterns hidden within qi itself—how to draw arrays not just on the ground, but in the air, even within attacks.
Healing, she explained, was not just restoration—but control over life energy.
Li Hao practiced through the night.
Failing.
Improving.
Evolving.
This was knowledge no ordinary disciple could access.