After dozens of exchanges between the Little Fairy Doctor and the Sha Bi Scorpion, several green vines suddenly burst from the sand and tightly wrapped around the beast.
The Sha Bi Scorpion struggled violently, snapping at the vines with its pincers, but it was completely futile.
The Little Fairy Doctor clenched her fist.
The vines tightened instantly.
Crack! Crack!
The scorpion's body was torn apart on the spot.
Silence returned to the desert.
The Little Fairy Doctor stood still, eyes gently closed. Her aura began to rise steadily, surging higher and higher until it finally stabilized.
Seven-Star Dou Shi.
Hai Bodong's expression changed slightly as he sensed the strange fluctuations around her.
"There's something… unusual about your little girlfriend. Her aura is mysterious—and extremely dangerous."
"My Xian'er possesses a special physique," Xiao Zhitian said calmly. "That's why she needs proper training. She must grow quickly and solidify her foundation."
He deliberately avoided revealing the truth about her constitution.The fewer people who knew, the better.
The Little Fairy Doctor walked over happily, her eyes shining.
"I broke through! I'm a Seven-Star Dou Shi now!"
"Good, good. My Xian'er is amazing," Xiao Zhitian said warmly, gently stroking her soft hair.
"Tch… you two have no shame," Hai Bodong muttered. "This old man is still here, you know."
He summoned his wings and flew upward.
Xiao Zhitian laughed, wrapped an arm around the Little Fairy Doctor's waist, and summoned his Thunder Roc Wings.
"Elder Hai, at your age, shouldn't you consider finding a companion? You could even find someone younger."
"Scram!" Hai Bodong cursed midair. "No women in my heart. Only ice. Only cultivation!"
"Hahaha!"
Xiao Zhitian's laughter echoed through the desert.
After another half day of flying, they finally arrived before a massive city standing proudly in the eastern desert.
Stone Desert City.
Xiao Zhitian stared at the towering gates and the three bold words carved above them. Memories of childhood flooded his mind—of protection, laughter, and the indulgence of two elder brothers who always shielded him.
Sensing his emotions, the Little Fairy Doctor gently held his hand.
Xiao Zhitian squeezed back softly."I just remembered some things. Let's go inside first."
The three entered the city.
Inside, the streets were lively. Mercenaries passed by constantly, armored guards patrolled the streets, and the atmosphere was filled with danger and vitality.
Xiao Zhitian activated the system.
"System, check-in."
[Ding! Check-in successful at Stone Desert City.Reward obtained: Cultivation Technique — Horned Snake Illusion Spirit Art]
Horned Snake Illusion Spirit Art: Suitable for cultivators with snake bloodlines.
Xiao Zhitian's eyes flickered slightly, then he turned forward calmly.
"Let's find the Mo Tie Mercenary Group first. My eldest and second brothers are there. I want to see them."
"Oh~" Hai Bodong said teasingly. "Meeting the parents?"
The Little Fairy Doctor froze.
"Meet… meet family?" she stammered, her face turning red instantly. Steam almost seemed to rise from her head.
Xiao Zhitian smiled and gently touched her cheek."Don't be nervous. My brothers are very kind."
Slowly, she calmed down—though her eyes still showed nervous anticipation.
After asking for directions, they soon arrived at a large courtyard. A banner fluttered above the entrance with two bold words:
Mo Tie
Several fierce-looking mercenaries stood guard. Their bloodthirsty aura was unmistakable.
One stepped forward but changed his tone upon noticing Xiao Zhitian's alchemist robe.
"This is the Mo Tie Mercenary Group. What business do you have?"
"My name is Xiao Zhitian. I am a relative of your leader. Inform him and the second leader."
The guard hesitated briefly, then gestured respectfully."Esteemed Alchemist, please wait. I will inform them."
He signaled another man, who immediately rushed inside.
Inside the hall, several high-ranking members were seated.
At the head sat a young man in white robes, calm and intelligent, his eyes sharp with hidden wisdom.
Xiao Ding.Eldest brother.
"Leader, urgent report," the guard said nervously.
"What is it?" Xiao Ding asked gently.
"There is a Third-Rank Alchemist outside named Xiao Zhitian. He claims to be your relative."
The moment the name was spoken—
"Say that again!"
A sharp, excited voice came from below.
A young man with mercenary attire stood abruptly. His lazy yet ruthless eyes now burned with emotion.
Xiao Li.Second brother.
At that moment, a familiar voice sounded from the doorway.
"Second Brother, you haven't forgotten me already, have you? That would make me very sad."
Everyone turned.
Xiao Zhitian stood at the entrance with a playful smile.
Xiao Li froze.
Then his face lit up with joy.
"Little Tianzi?! You actually came!"
He rushed forward and hugged Xiao Zhitian tightly, patting his back hard.
"Second Brother, if you keep hitting me like that, I might lose my handsome younger brother," Xiao Zhitian joked.
Warmth surged in his heart.
This…was family.