People in Doupo: The beginning of the game intercepts the rich woman Xun'er

The next day, the morning light pierced through the carved window lattice, casting a warm golden glow into the quiet room, which fell precisely on Xiao Yan, who was sitting cross-legged in meditation.

The pale blue battle aura surrounding him trembled slightly, and his tightly closed eyes slowly opened, a clear glint flashing in them.

Almost the instant he opened his eyes, subtle ripples appeared in the room. Streams of clear, pure soul energy, completely different from battle qi, quietly gathered like streams flowing into the sea, slowly seeping into his brow and eventually gently merging into the depths of his soul.

"With this 'Taiyi Soul Technique' in hand, my soul cultivation is indeed progressing by leaps and bounds... What my cousin sent me is indeed top-notch treasure." Xiao Yan raised his hand and gently pressed his brow, feeling the fullness and warmth emanating from the depths of his soul, and a smile of admiration unconsciously appeared on his lips.

During this period, he diligently practiced this soul technique whenever he had free time, and the results far exceeded his expectations. The unruly and difficult-to-absorb spiritual energy of heaven and earth in the past would now automatically flow in from all directions and obediently transform into nourishment for his soul simply by circulating the "Taiyi Soul Technique".

It's no wonder that such a miraculous ancient method could rapidly enhance his soul power in a short period of time.

Xiao Ling gifted Xiao Yan this top-tier soul cultivation technique, which he had obtained from the Pill Gathering, because it was Xiao Yan who provided crucial information about his subduing of the Red Lotus Karmic Flame, allowing him to successfully penetrate the Flame Sky Ancient Domain and ultimately subdue that strange flame.

Xiao Ling always remembered this favor, so when he returned to Xingyun Pavilion, he didn't hold back at all and directly passed on the soul cultivation technique to Xiao Yan, so as to help him avoid some detours on the path of soul cultivation.

Xiao Yan carefully assessed his own condition before getting up from the bed. As he stretched his limbs, his bones made a slight cracking sound.

He pushed open the door and stepped out, just in time to see Xiao Ling already waiting in the courtyard. Their eyes met, and without saying a word, they walked out of the room together and strolled casually along the bluestone path of the manor.

The manor was no longer as tranquil as it had been in the early morning. Powerful figures from all over the Dou Qi Continent had gathered here, some dressed in luxurious clothes and exuding an aura of power, others with a deep and composed presence, hinting at the demeanor of a strong individual.

These people, rarely seen in ordinary times, brushed past each other here, occasionally exchanging hushed conversations, which inadvertently made the atmosphere in the manor a little more lively, yet they always maintained an appropriate distance out of consideration for the dignity of the ancient clan.

The two strolled around for about half an incense stick's time, and then a magnificent tavern came into view. The tavern occupied a vast area, and embroidered gold wine flags hung outside the buildings, their rich aroma of wine faintly wafting in the breeze.

Upon entering, one sees a huge white jade platform standing in the center, where two figures are exchanging battle qi. One of them has a fierce palm wind, and his cyan battle qi is like a tiger pouncing on its prey.
The other person moved with incredible speed, his purple battle aura weaving like a serpent. The booming sound of his fist colliding with his battle aura echoed throughout the pavilion, drawing cheers from the surrounding spectators.

"These two are quite capable. With the strength of a six-star Dou Zong, they would be considered experts in the outside world."

Xiao Yan glanced at the stage and commented softly.

Xiao Ling merely nodded slightly, his gaze not lingering long; such cultivation level held little appeal for them.

The two then found seats by the window in the tavern and sat down. Outside the window were lush trees in the manor, and the breeze brought a touch of coolness, which just dispelled some of the noise in the tavern.

Their gazes casually swept across the tavern, and they quickly noticed several people with impressive presence.

As soon as the two sat down, a girl dressed in a light green maid's uniform walked over with a tea tray.

Her movements were swift and gentle as she poured the warm tea into a white porcelain teacup, the rim of which was adorned with two fresh green leaves. The aroma of the tea, mixed with the steam, rose gently, instantly dispelling some of the restlessness from walking.

"Please enjoy your meal, esteemed guests. If you would like more tea or some food, please feel free to call me." The maid curtsied and quietly withdrew.

Xiao Yan picked up the teacup and took a sip. The tea was clear, refreshing, and sweet, which suppressed his curiosity.

He turned to look at Xiao Ling, his fingertips lightly tracing the rim of his cup, and finally couldn't help but ask, "Cousin, the Ling Quan we met at the city gate yesterday claimed to be the commander of the Black Annihilation Army. The soldiers of the Black Annihilation Army seemed quite powerful. What kind of army is the Black Annihilation Army? And what is its status among the ancient clans?"

His words were filled with curiosity about the division of power among these ancient races.

Faced with Xiao Yan's question, Xiao Ling first raised an eyebrow in slight surprise. He hadn't expected Xiao Yan to care so much about the Black Annihilation Army, but he still explained slowly:

"The Black Annihilation Army holds a high position within the ancient clans, and their selection criteria are extremely stringent. Not only must they be absolutely loyal to the ancient clans, but they must also reach a specified cultivation level within a limited age; even the slightest deviation is unacceptable. Moreover, it is said that the Black Annihilation Army conducts assessments every year, and anyone who fails to meet the standards will be eliminated on the spot. It is precisely because of this strictness that the overall quality of the Black Annihilation Army has always remained extremely high."

After hearing this, Xiao Yan slowly nodded, holding his teacup.

The black-armored guards I saw at the city gate yesterday all possessed an aura as deep and refined as an abyss. Their posture and presence alone were far beyond what guards from ordinary forces could match.

He thought to himself that such a warrior, if placed in a region outside of Zhongzhou, could probably be picked out at random and become a pillar of a force. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that he was a one-in-a-million talent.

Seeing the thoughtful expression on Xiao Yan's face, Xiao Ling added:

"Moreover, the Black Annihilation Army has a very strict hierarchy, with eight commanders. Ling Quan, whom you met yesterday, is one of these eight commanders, but he is only ranked seventh among them, not considered one of the top commanders."

"I also found out some information about the Fifth Commander. It is said that he is already a three-star Dou Zun level expert at a young age."

"Ling Quan is only ranked seventh?" Xiao Yan's eyes narrowed slightly upon hearing this, his fingertips unconsciously stroking the rim of his cup. Although he hadn't fought Ling Quan yesterday, he could clearly sense the pressure of a one-star Dou Zun emanating from him. Meanwhile, the fifth commander, who was only two ranks higher, already possessed the strength of a three-star Dou Zun. Based on this calculation, the Grand Commander of the Black Annihilation Army must have at least a six-star Dou Zun, or even higher.

"As expected of an ancient clan..." He nodded slightly, his tone full of emotion. Among the younger generation of the Dou Qi Continent, those who can reach the Dou Zun level are already extremely rare and exceptionally talented.

Even though the ancient clans possess the bloodline of Dou Di and have a significant advantage in cultivation, this strength is enough to prove that the Black Annihilation Army's top combat power is not something that can be built up solely through bloodline. Xiao Ling smiled slightly and changed the subject: "Don't think that the Black Annihilation Army's top combat power is just those eight commanders. Actually, no, the real force in command is the four Grand Commanders."

"The Four Great Commanders?" Xiao Yan raised an eyebrow and subconsciously repeated the unfamiliar title, his eyes full of curiosity.

"The true high-level structure of the Black Annihilation Army, from bottom to top, consists of eight commanders, four grand commanders, and at the very top are the two true rulers of the Black Annihilation Army, known as the 'Black Annihilation Kings'," Xiao Ling explained slowly, his tone becoming more solemn.
"These four commanders are top figures even among the ancient clans, which are full of geniuses. Each of them is exceptionally talented. Although the purity of their Dou Di bloodline is not as high as that of the number one young person in the ancient clan, in terms of strength and potential, there are very few people in the clan who can match them. If this trend continues, they will definitely become the true core force of the ancient clan in the future."

Upon hearing this, Xiao Yan fell silent, a sense of gravity quietly rising in his heart. At his age, his current cultivation level was already top-tier among his peers in Zhongzhou, but upon arriving in the territory of the ancient clans, he truly understood that this achievement was far from enough for him to be proud of.

He secretly calculated that since the rank of Commander-in-Chief was above that of Commander, even the weakest Commander-in-Chief should be stronger than the Grand Commander of the Black Annihilation Army. By that calculation, the strength of these four Commanders-in-Chief was probably comparable to that of the Nine Heavenly Venerables of the Soul Palace.

"Is the Dou Di bloodline really that powerful?" Xiao Yan slowly exhaled, feeling the pressure for the first time. His cultivation speed was unmatched among his peers, but compared to the top geniuses of the ancient clans who possessed such bloodlines, he was still a step behind.

"There are people beyond people, and heavens beyond heavens... This saying is indeed true." He murmured softly, but his eyes gradually became firm. This gap was not a reason for him to back down, but rather a goal that was even more worthy of his pursuit.

Seeing that Xiao Yan was still pondering the strength of the Black Annihilation Army, Xiao Ling suddenly smiled, his tone carrying a hint of certainty:

"Don't be fooled by the imposing and impressive appearance of the Ancient Clan's Black Annihilation Army. You don't need to take it too seriously. When the Sky Curtain Trial Grounds open in the future, you can come in with me. I can't guarantee anything else, but I will make sure that when you come out, your strength will be no weaker than those lower-ranked commanders of the Black Annihilation Army."

"Hmm?" Xiao Yan's eyes suddenly lit up, then he became somewhat skeptical. "Cousin, is what you say true? Yesterday, I was so close to Ling Quan, and I could still feel a sense of danger from him. That was the pressure of a one-star Dou Zun. I might not even have a chance of winning against him now. There are several commanders stronger than him. Can I really have improved that much?" His words were full of disbelief.

"Don't worry, would I lie?" Xiao Ling chuckled and tapped the table with his fingertips. "There are many more things that will broaden your horizons in the future, so don't make a fuss over this little thing."

Upon hearing this, Xiao Yan immediately adopted an exaggerated expression, his eyes sparkling as he stared at Xiao Ling, reaching out as if to grab his arm, his tone full of eager anticipation, as if he wanted to "cling to his coattails."

"As expected of my cousin! I knew following you would be the right choice! What Black Annihilation Army commander? He's nothing compared to you, cousin! From now on, I'll stick close to you and learn from you. I guarantee my strength will skyrocket!"

Seeing his expression, Xiao Ling deliberately put on a look of disgust, raised her hand and gently slapped away Xiao Yan's outstretched hand, laughing and scolding in an annoyed tone: "I'm not interested in men, stay away from me, and don't touch me."

Xiao Yan wasn't embarrassed when his hand was slapped away. He just scratched his head awkwardly, put away his joking thoughts, and said in a more sincere tone, "But to be honest, cousin, I still have to thank you. You thought of bringing me along for such a good opportunity."

For some reason, Xiao Yan always felt exceptionally relaxed whenever he was with Xiao Ling. There was none of the probing and defensiveness common on the Dou Qi Continent. The two of them didn't need to be careful about their words and spoke as casually as brothers in an ordinary family.

This way of getting along is completely different from the "interactions between strong people" he has experienced in the past, and even he finds it novel.

Xiao Ling felt the same way. When he was with Xiao Yan, he didn’t need to put on airs of a strong person all the time. Their tacit understanding seemed to be innate.

Both of them vaguely sensed the peculiarity of this way of getting along. Although they were somewhat surprised, they both felt comfortable and at ease, so they didn't think too much about the reasons behind it.

"Having the bloodline of a Dou Di (Battle Emperor) does indeed make cultivation smoother, but this smoothness can only be maintained up to the Dou Sheng (Battle Saint) realm at most," Xiao Ling stretched and continued, his tone revealing a hint of clarity.
"Even among ancient tribes like the Ancient Clan, although there are many Dou Zun experts in the clan, there are only a few who can truly reach the Dou Sheng level. If you want to advance to Dou Sheng, you can only rely on yourself in the end. Once you reach that point, the bloodline of Dou Di will not only not help, but may even become a shackle."

He looked at Xiao Yan, his eyes filled with encouragement.

"On the other hand, after the decline of the Xiao clan, the power of our bloodline has long been incomplete. This may seem like a disadvantage, but it also means we are free from that constraint."

So don't compare your current achievements with theirs. Perhaps when you reach the Dou Sheng level, these guys who took shortcuts through bloodline will still be stuck at the Dou Zun level.

Xiao Yan nodded slightly upon hearing this, his heavy heart easing considerably. Dou Sheng were already among the top beings in the world; no matter how powerful the bloodline of Dou Di was, it was impossible to mass-produce such level experts, otherwise it would be far too heaven-defying.

He clenched his fist, and the slight sense of frustration he had felt earlier due to the gap gradually transformed into even greater motivation.

……

As Xiao Ling and Xiao Yan poured themselves drinks and talked in hushed tones, many eyes on them quietly gathered upstairs in the tavern.

After all, Xiao Ling's reputation as "the number one alchemist on the continent" had already spread throughout the Dou Qi Continent, and Xiao Yan had also made a name for himself during his years of wandering in Zhongzhou, so many people around them recognized the two of them.

These gazes were filled with curiosity, apprehension, or attempts to win them over, but no one dared to approach and disturb them. Firstly, they were wary of Xiao Ling's strength and reputation, and secondly, they did not want to lose their composure on the territory of the ancient clan. They could only watch the two talk from afar, occasionally whispering a few words to those around them.

In a secluded corner of the tavern, it was much quieter than the other areas.

Four figures sat around the table: three men and one woman. Each of them had a burning flame mark on their forehead. The mark was bright red with lively lines, and it looked as if a real flame was slowly dancing, faintly exuding a scorching aura, which was out of place with the surrounding atmosphere.

At this moment, a man dressed in a crimson outfit suddenly spoke up, his voice low but unable to hide the inquiry in his tone: "The rumors are indeed true. Xiao Ling has truly subdued the strange fire. Even his cousin Xiao Yan has a strange fire within him."

He tapped the table unconsciously with his fingertips, his brows furrowing slightly. "I sensed it carefully beforehand. The aura of the strange fire within Xiao Yan's body is indeed like the volcanic stone flame, ranked seventeenth on the Strange Fire Ranking. There's no mistake about that. But the strange fire on Xiao Ling's body... its aura is too peculiar. I can't discern its origin at all. It's truly perplexing." (End of Chapter)