A few weeks had passed since Xiao Yan defeated Bai Cheng and was subsequently challenged by the second-ranked expert on the Strong Ranking.
During this time, Xiao Yan had ventured deep into the middle region of the mountain range, where Yao Lao was refining a tier six medicinal pill—the Ground Spirit Pill. This pill was a crucial preparation for the eventual swallowing of the Fallen Heart Flame.
Although his body had already been greatly tempered by the Earth Spirit Body Nourishment Pill, and he had successfully merged with two Heavenly Flames, it never hurt to make further preparations. After all, the Fallen Heart Flame that the First Elder spoke of was not the one sealed within the Blazing Sky Qi Refining Tower.
Instead, it was the very one that Xiao Hua had previously sealed away—one that had since evolved into a Fire Spirit and gained sentience. Refining and merging with such a flame would be far more difficult than what he experienced with the Green Lotus Core Flame and the Ten Thousand Beast Flame.
Therefore, even a seemingly minor preparation like refining the Ground Spirit Pill was vital in increasing his chances of success—and ensuring his survival.
Once the pill refinement was complete, Xiao Yan secluded himself deep within the forest for the remaining weeks, focusing entirely on cultivating the Three Thousand Lightning Movement, striving to break through to its second level—Instant Lightning.
Unfortunately, reaching that level was proving more difficult than expected. Even after days of intense effort, Xiao Yan had yet to make a breakthrough. Left with no choice, he temporarily returned to Pan's Gate to rest. His supply of medicinal pills was completely depleted, and his mind was worn thin from continuous exertion—rest was not just necessary, it was urgent.
Yet, he did not expect that upon his return, he would encounter someone unexpected—along with news he was wholly unprepared for…
…
"Cousin Xiao Yu? What are you doing here? Weren't you in closed-door seclusion preparing for the Grand Competition?"
Xiao Yan had just stepped into the meeting hall of Pan's Gate when he spotted Xiao Yu, who was supposed to be in seclusion. Her presence here was not only surprising—it was alarming.
The moment his eyes met her solemn expression, Xiao Yan's heart sank. His gaze sharpened, and a deep concern took root in his chest.
Something had happened. And for Xiao Yu to break her seclusion and immediately come to him in person, there could only be one reason.
"What happened to the clan?" he asked, voice low and urgent.
"I'm not sure yet," Xiao Yu said with a heavy expression, shaking her head. "But I received a message from Xiao Mei—she said that Older Cousin Xiao Li is currently being tended to by the people in the Outer Academy!"
"Second Brother? What happened to him?!"
Xiao Yan's eyes widened in shock as he rushed forward, grabbing Xiao Yu by the shoulders.
His expression was filled with deep anxiety and concern. He hadn't expected to hear Xiao Li's name in such a context. And for his second brother to be here instead of back with the clan... it could only mean something serious had occurred!
"I told you—I don't know the details," Xiao Yu replied calmly. "I came only to inform you of this. I've already spoken with Elder Su. Preparations are complete—we can depart immediately."
Despite Xiao Yan's overwhelming concern, Xiao Yu stood firm and composed, neither retreating nor flinching. She understood his anxiety—not only was Xiao Li his older brother, but as the current clan leader of the Xiao Clan, Xiao Yan also bore a heavy burden. Her calm words were meant to ground him.
Realizing this, Xiao Yan slowly released her shoulders and took a deep breath, forcing himself to steady his emotions. Her composed tone had brought him back to clarity, allowing his anxious heart to settle.
Once his mind had calmed, he turned without another word and strode out of Pan's Gate. Xiao Yu followed silently at his side, her gaze steady as they made their way toward the Outer Academy.
…
Upon arriving at the exit of the Inner Academy, where the designated Flying Zone was located, Xiao Yan saw that a Griffon Carrier had already been prepared and was quietly hovering in mid-air, awaiting their arrival. The sleek flying boat remained suspended in silence, its deck empty and ready to receive its passengers.
"Ke ke, I assume the two of you are heading for the Outer Academy? Come aboard." The person who was driving it, stood up with a smile as he spotted Xiao Yan and Xiao Yu approaching.
"Much appreciated," Xiao Yan replied curtly. Without wasting words, he waved his hand and leapt onto the Griffon Carrier, landing firmly on its deck. Xiao Yu followed closely behind, her steps light and steady.
"Xiao Yan, don't worry about Pan's Gate—we'll handle things here while you take care of your matters." Wu Hao laughed, his voice carrying a note of reassurance.
"Hmph. Not like he ever handles the affairs anyway," Hu Jia snorted and rolled her eyes, arms crossed.
Though both of them kept a relaxed demeanor, it was clear from their eyes that they understood something serious had happened. Still, they said no more, choosing instead to give Xiao Yan space and peace of mind.
They had no intention of burdening him further.
"I'll leave Pan's Gate in your hands," Xiao Yan said with a nod, signaling to the pilot that they were ready to depart.
"Understood. Setting course for the Outer Academy!" the driver replied as he quickly activated the flight mechanisms of the Griffon Carrier.
At his command, the Griffon Carrier trembled slightly before slowly turning in mid-air. With a low hum, it surged forward, gliding toward the distant mountain range, where a deep, bottomless gorge stretched endlessly—its far end swallowed by the misty horizon.
The journey was not long. The flying vessel cut swiftly through the skies, heading straight for the mountain range where the Outer Academy was located.
…
Within the Outer Academy, on the open ground designated as the Griffon Carrier's anchorage—
Due to the Carrier's striking appearance, a crowd of curious Outer Academy students had already gathered around the landing site. Their expressions shifted to surprise the moment they saw two figures descending from the vessel that had just touched down.
Though Xiao Yu wasn't immediately recognizable to most of the crowd, Xiao Yan was a different story—he was practically a star within the Outer Academy before advancing to the Inner Academy. Even though more than half a year had passed since his departure, many students still remembered his name.
As a result, whispers and murmurs rippled through the crowd the moment he reappeared. Countless eyes lit up with fiery curiosity and speculation.
Xiao Yan and Xiao Yu, however, paid no attention to the surrounding gazes. With heavy thoughts weighing on their minds and concern for Xiao Li and the clan looming, they didn't pause for even a moment.
The two figures flickered and vanished, each unleashing their own Agility-Type Dou Technique as they sped off in the direction of Instructor Ruo Ling's residence.
"Whoa… they're fast! What's going on that they're in such a rush?"
"Those two are clearly strong. I wonder who they are to possess such powerful auras…"
"Who knows? But did you see the red-clothed girl's long legs? That's a rare treasure, no doubt!"
"Tch… you guys are disgusting."
"Still… how have I never seen her before? If I had, I might've gotten a chance to get close. Legs like that—exquisite!"
Some of the voices, especially among the newer students, grew louder as they stared after the pair who had already vanished from sight. A new batch of Outer Academy students had been admitted over the past few months, and many of them had never seen Xiao Yan or Xiao Yu before.
Still, sensing the strong aura that both emitted, even the bolder ones didn't dare speak too arrogantly. Their comments only surfaced after the two had left the scene.
"Tch. Brat, you must be itching for a beating," an older student sneered coldly as he cast a glance at one of the new students nearby. "The woman you're drooling over is none other than Senior Xiao Yu. Unless you're Elder Xiao Hua himself, she doesn't even spare a glance at men."
"There are plenty of stories about young men having their hearts crushed by her. Even those who tried to prove their worth were utterly humiliated. She was without a doubt one of the strongest elites in her year!"
It was clear the older student had done his homework. As he said, many had lined up to pursue Xiao Yu, only to be coldly rejected. Those who didn't take no for an answer often found themselves violently beaten and thrown out for their arrogance.
"Besides," another older student chimed in with a mocking tone, "the young man with her is none other than Senior Xiao Yan. And you new brats dare compare that so-called 'New Student King' Yan Cheng to him? Please."
He laughed coldly, shaking his head.
"When Senior Xiao Yan entered the Inner Academy, he was already a six-star Da Dou Shi. After half a year of training in that place? Who knows—he might've already reached the peak of the Da Dou Shi class! And that Yan Cheng? If the two ever fought, one slap from Senior Xiao Yan and he wouldn't even recognize his own mother."
The surrounding older students burst into laughter, ridiculing the ignorance of the new batch who had only recently arrived at Jia Nan Academy.
The expression of the new student shifted slightly upon hearing that Xiao Yan might have already reached the peak of the Da Dou Shi class. He was well aware of the massive gap in strength between them and no longer dared to utter any frivolous words. Crestfallen, he could only lower his head and retreat quietly, tail tucked between his legs.
Moreover, after learning that Xiao Yu had feelings for Elder Xiao Hua, and recalling the fate of those arrogant enough to pursue her despite that, he immediately dismissed any thoughts of coveting her. After all, Xiao Hua was a legendary figure—not just within Jia Nan Academy, but even across the entire Black-Corner Region.
Everyone understood why those blood-soaked people, who had walked through countless life-and-death battles, still chose not to provoke Jia Nan Academy students without good reason—because of Xiao Hua.
Though he had long since graduated and left the academy, his feats alone was enough to strike fear into the hearts of many. His very name served as a powerful deterrent, suppressing the arrogance of countless factions throughout the Black-Corner Region.
…
As for Xiao Yan and Xiao Yu, they remained unaware of the stir their appearance had caused in the Outer Academy—and even if they had known, they wouldn't have cared.
With their strength and achievements, they could already stand at the top even within the Inner Academy. Why would they concern themselves with the idle chatter of newly admitted students in the Outer Academy?
They moved swiftly through the academy grounds, not pausing even once. Though their rapid movements naturally drew attention, none dared to stand in their way. However, quite a few new students, their faces filled with curiosity, stopped in their tracks to watch the two figures pass, whispering among themselves in hushed tones.
Before long, the elegant residence of Instructor Ruo Ling came into view. Xiao Yan exhaled softly in relief and quickened his pace. Moments later, the two arrived at the entrance, where Xiao Yan raised his hand and knocked lightly on the door.
Creak—!
The door opened with a soft sound, revealing a tall young woman. Her beauty was a captivating blend of purity and allure, with enchanting features that carried both innocence and charm. Her large, watery eyes seemed to speak without words, filled with gentle emotion.
Upon seeing her, Xiao Yan drew in a deep breath and smiled faintly.
Who else could evoke such a reaction from him, if not Xiao Mei—the one who had quietly claimed a place in his heart?
Xiao Mei, who had opened the door, was momentarily stunned at the sight of the two figures before her. But the moment her gaze landed on Xiao Yan's face, her expression faltered. The crystal clarity in her beautiful eyes began to stir, as if a storm was quietly brewing within them.
"Mei'er, don't cry… Please, don't cry. How is Second Brother? Is he alright?" Seeing her on the verge of tears, Xiao Yan's heart tensed. Though storms were already churning within him, he forcibly composed himself and asked in a gentle yet urgent tone.
Xiao Mei bit her lower lip, her teeth pressing tightly against it. She drew in a deep breath, suppressing the tears that threatened to fall. In the end, she didn't speak a word. She simply reached out, grabbed Xiao Yan's hand, and pulled him inside without hesitation.
As his woman, how could she not understand where his deepest concern lay? More than anyone, she knew—his heart was with his second brother's condition.
Under that soft but determined pull, Xiao Yan didn't resist in the slightest. He allowed himself to be led forward, knowing that Xiao Mei understood him better than anyone—and that she would take him straight to where he needed to be.
Xiao Yu, saying nothing, followed quietly behind them. She could sense that Xiao Mei hadn't even registered her presence—but now wasn't the time to speak, much less complain.
Xiao Yan's hand trembled slightly as he caught the expression on Xiao Mei's face. Without a word, he stepped forward and entered the room.
There, his gaze immediately fell upon the bed—and the man lying motionless atop it.
The man appeared to be around twenty-five years old. His eyes were shut tightly, his complexion pale as paper, almost deathly white. A faint trace of pain lingered on his face, and his body trembled slightly from time to time. His features bore a noticeable resemblance to Xiao Yan's.
Xiao Yan stared at that familiar face, his heart clenched in silence. His fists tightened involuntarily, and his teeth ground together. A faint red hue began to bleed into the depths of his dark pupils, the sign of fury barely contained.
A moment later, a voice—low, hoarse, and trembling with rage—escaped from his throat.
"Second Brother!"
…
The atmosphere within the room was so heavy that it felt suffocating. Xiao Yu and Xiao Mei watched Xiao Yan, both stunned by the boundless fury radiating from him—an intensity they had never seen before.
Xiao Yu remained silent, slightly at a loss for words. Meanwhile, Xiao Mei's heart ached with sorrow and deep concern.
This man—so often calm, gentle, and smiling—was now exuding a terrifying aura. No one would have expected such a quiet storm to become so fierce when truly provoked.
"I've already given him all the healing pills I had on hand," Xiao Mei said softly as she stepped closer. She reached out and gently held Xiao Yan's hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "It will take time, but Brother Xiao Li is recovering. His condition is stable, and he should regain consciousness gradually."
Xiao Yan continued to stare at Xiao Li's pale, lifeless face. After a long silence, he finally took a deep breath, forcing the storm within him to subside. He turned to the red-eyed Xiao Mei and asked in a low, steady voice, "Did Second Brother say anything before he lost consciousness?"
Xiao Mei nodded gently and replied, "Two days ago, Elder Cousin Xiao Li suddenly appeared at the entrance of Jia Nan Academy and had someone deliver a message to me. When I rushed out to meet him, I found him already in that weakened state. Before he collapsed, he only managed to say one sentence…"
Xiao Yan took another deep breath, forcing himself to calm the turbulent pounding of his heart. He knew what sentence was coming—he had already braced himself for it. Locking eyes with Xiao Mei, he asked in a hoarse, low voice, "What… did he say?"
Xiao Mei's expression trembled slightly before she answered softly, "Inform Xiao Yan… something has happened to the Xiao Clan."
Bang!
A violent surge of Dou Qi exploded from Xiao Yan's body, sending a wave of power crashing through the room. Fortunately, Xiao Yu reacted swiftly, pulling Xiao Mei behind her and shielding her from the force just in time.
Even without the eruption of aura, Xiao Mei could clearly see the agitation on Xiao Yan's face. His clenched fists, trembling shoulders, and darkened eyes told her more than words ever could—this news had shaken him to his core. The weight in his heart was immense, and it pained her deeply to witness it.
"Xiao Yan! Get a hold of yourself! Do you want to hurt Cousin Xiao Mei with your outburst?!"
Xiao Yu's sharp voice rang out as she invoked Xiao Mei's name, hoping it would snap him out of his fury.
Her words seemed to reach him. The wild aura that had flared uncontrollably around Xiao Yan began to recede, slowly calming as he fought to suppress the tempest raging within his heart.
Xiao Yan panted heavily, trying to regulate his breath. His hands still trembled slightly, the reaction involuntary. He stepped past Xiao Yu and gently took Xiao Mei's hands in his own, offering her a faint, warm smile tinged with guilt.
"I almost hurt you... I'm sorry," he said in a low voice.
Xiao Mei shook her head, her smile soft and affectionate. She gently rubbed his hands, silently conveying that she was fine.
Once assured of Xiao Mei's well-being, Xiao Yan forced himself to set aside his emotions and focus on the matter at hand.
Before leaving for Jia Nan Academy, he had secretly relocated the Xiao Clan to the Desert Metal Mercenary Company, led by his eldest brother, Xiao Ding. It was supposed to be a place of safety. Yet now, Xiao Li—his second brother and a leader within that very company—had somehow appeared here, at Jia Nan Academy, over ten thousand kilometers away from the Jia Ma Empire.
That could only mean one thing: both the mercenary company and the Xiao Clan had suffered a catastrophic blow.
Xiao Yan's fingernails dug deep into his palms. Fresh blood seeped between his fingers and dripped silently to the floor. His gaze remained fixed on Xiao Li's pale, unconscious face.
Regret cut through him like a blade, each pulse of pain echoing through his chest.
He had moved the Xiao Clan in hopes of protecting them... and yet, that very decision might have led them into calamity.
Cough!
A sharp cough suddenly broke the heavy silence within the room.
Xiao Yan, whose mind had been consumed by guilt and regret, jerked his head up—only to see Xiao Li slowly opening his eyes.
Their gazes met, and in that instant, the bond of blood between brothers ignited a subtle warmth in both their expressions.
"I finally get to see you again, Little Yan-zi…" Xiao Li leaned back against the pillow, his voice faint but laced with relief. "I truly thought I wouldn't make it this far."
The wild joy that initially flashed across his face upon seeing Xiao Yan gradually faded. A faint smile curved his lips as he let out a long sigh.
"Three months… If not for the help of a flying magical beast, it would've taken me at least a year to reach here from the Jia Ma Empire."
Xiao Yan's gaze lingered on his second brother's pale, bloodless face. A dull ache rose in his chest, and his nose stung slightly with emotion. Just half a year ago, this man had been full of vitality and fighting spirit. Now, all that remained in his eyes was a deep, chilling ruthlessness that seemed to have been forged through blood and hardship.
"Second Brother…" Xiao Yan gently grasped Xiao Li's arm, his voice soft but firm. "What happened? Where is big brother? Is the Xiao Clan… are they all safe?"
"…Was it the Misty Cloud Sect?" Xiao Yan paused briefly, then clenched his jaw so tightly it seemed as if his teeth might shatter. Boundless fury and killing intent surged within him, nearly overwhelming his reason.
"Everything was peaceful during the first two months after the Xiao Clan relocated to the Desert Metal Mercenary Company," Xiao Li said slowly, his voice low and heavy. "The Misty Cloud Sect's search didn't extend into the border regions, and we thought the worst had passed. Just when the tension seemed to ease…"
His expression darkened.
"They came—silently and without warning."
"That night happened to be the company's monthly celebration, a time when we'd normally rejoice together. But instead… it turned into a massacre. A blood feast."
"A large number of unknown forces surrounded and attacked the Desert Metal Mercenary Company. Though they tried to hide their identities, they couldn't conceal the distinctive sword aura of the Misty Cloud Sect's unique Qi Method. To us, it was unmistakable."
Xiao Li let out a faint, bitter laugh. His face twisted with a hatred that seemed carved into his very bones.
"The attackers were incredibly strong. Almost all of the mercenary brothers were either killed or gravely wounded. Though several of the Xiao Clan's elders fought to the death to protect the clan, we still suffered heavy losses…"
His voice trailed off, and the silence that followed was heavier than steel.
-------|
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