Battle Through the Heavens: Starting with Cao Ying as an apprentice

Without further hesitation, she picked up the warm, jade-like Earth Spirit Pill and put it into her mouth. The pill melted instantly upon entering her mouth, and a thick, cool sensation quickly spread outwards. It wasn't cold, but rather a heavy, earth-like, stable energy that rapidly permeated her limbs, bones, and internal organs, building the first line of internal defense.

Next came the blood lotus pill, its crimson color almost dripping. The pill entered her stomach, instantly transforming into a torrent of intense heat. Far from clashing with her own fire-attribute battle qi, it strangely fused with it.

Immediately, fine beads of blood visibly seeped from her exposed skin. These blood droplets didn't drip, but instead rapidly intertwined and congealed, forming a dense, translucent scab, resembling red glass, that enveloped her entirely, leaving only gaps around her eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. On the scab, lotus patterns flowed subtly, radiating a steadfast protective aura.

This is the moment!

Cao Ying focused her mind on her dantian and activated her will. The ball of Azure Lotus Earth Core Flame seemed to receive a summons, paused slightly, and then transformed into a stream of azure light, following her guidance, and swiftly disappeared into her mouth!

Chapter 91 The Heartfire of the Green Lotus, So Frustrated It Couldn't Cry

"boom--!"

The moment the strange fire entered her body, even with the protection of two kinds of pills, Cao Ying still felt as if she had swallowed a volcano about to erupt! Indescribable violence and high temperature exploded inside her body.

The instinctive resistance of the Azure Lotus Earth Core Fire was exceptionally fierce, scorching the meridians and impacting the internal organs.

The scabs on the skin suddenly glowed red, firmly resisting the terrifying heat that tried to penetrate the body.

Within the body, the thick energy transformed from the Earth Spirit Pill acts like a dam, steadily protecting the key acupoints and meridians, slowing down the destruction caused by the strange fire.

At the same time, the Myriad Fire Azure Lotus beneath her seemed to be activated by the same source energy, and its azure light suddenly burst forth, with the illusory lotus petals unfolding layer by layer, gently enveloping Cao Ying.

A soothing and guiding force from the same source slowly seeped in. The originally extremely violent Azure Lotus Earth Core Flame, upon contact with this aura, strangely slowed down and eased its resistance, as if a lost child had heard its mother's call.

The purple fire that Cao Ying had already refined within her body, as well as the many beast fire origins she had absorbed even earlier, were now, under the subtle influence of the Myriad Fire Green Lotus and driven by Cao Ying's will, not only did they not fear the strange fire, but instead surged up like "local snakes" encountering "crossing dragons," united in their hatred of the enemy.

They entangled, permeated, and decomposed the immense and pure power of the Azure Lotus Earth Core Flame, more like experienced guides leading this violent new member along a predetermined cultivation path, slowly peeling away and assimilating it bit by bit.

(If the Azure Lotus Earth Core Flame at this moment had sentience, it would probably be crying with despair: This... this is not reasonable at all?)

The outside is a tortoise shell forged from Blood Lotus Pills, so hard it can't be burned; the inside is an ironclad formation supported by Earth Spirit Pills, so stable it can't be breached; and sitting under it is a "relative" who is taking sides and acting as a persuader.

What's even more outrageous is that the group of "fire thugs" originally inside me, relying on their numbers and familiarity with the terrain, surrounded me, pressuring and persuading me to "join them"...

(Isn't this lineup... a bit too much of a bully on Fire?)

Time slipped away quietly amidst the extreme heat and the subtle tug-of-war.

Seven days have passed.

The initial violent impact had long since subsided. Under the "luxurious" layers of protection and guidance from the same source, the Azure Lotus Earth Core Flame's will to resist was reduced to a minimum.

The refining process gradually transformed from a perilous conquest into a natural fusion and absorption.

On the eighth day, the suffocatingly high temperature in the quiet room began to slowly subside.

The blood-red, glassy scab on Cao Ying's body gradually became dull and transparent.

The blue flames that had been flickering and occasionally overflowing around her body gradually receded back into her body, like rivers flowing into the sea, becoming smoother and faster.

Her aura began to rise steadily, like waves gathering strength again after the tide has receded.

"Om-!"

A soft energy tremor emanated from Cao Ying's body. The layer of blood scab completely dissipated into the world, and her tightly closed eyes suddenly opened. A deep blue flame flashed in her eyes and then disappeared before her eyes regained their clarity.

The barrier of a one-star Grand Dou Master shattered instantly, and his aura surged higher and higher.

Two-star Grand Master!

Samsung Grandmaster!

In the end, he steadily settled at the level of a four-star Grand Dou Master!

She slowly exhaled a breath of stale air, a long and drawn-out exhale mixed with specks of scorching blue light. The myriad fire lotus beneath her shimmered with light, seemingly gaining even more ethereal charm.

Successfully refining the Azure Lotus Earth Core Flame not only allowed her cultivation to advance by three stars, but also enabled all the beast flames within her body to merge into the Azure Lotus Earth Core Flame, transforming into new exotic flames.

Her Divine Journey Fire Refining Technique also jumped directly from the advanced Yellow Rank to the advanced Profound Rank!

Outside the door, Su Baichen sensed the change inside the room, and a smile of satisfaction crept onto the corners of his mouth.

Knowing that Cao Ying had succeeded, Su Baichen turned and left.

Inside the room, Cao Ying stretched and stood up. She focused her mind and looked inward, feeling the power in her meridians that was far more powerful and refined than before—the aura of a four-star Grand Dou Master was flowing smoothly through her body. A bright smile unconsciously appeared on her lips, and her eyes were filled with joy.

Once she had calmed down, she looked around the room, only to find it empty; her master was nowhere to be seen. Her gaze swept across the table, where she saw a neatly folded pale purple dress lying quietly, with a letter pressed on top of it.

She moved over, picked up the letter, and saw the neat and elegant handwriting:

Now that the deed is done, change your clothes. Your body has been tempered by the strange fire; your old clothes have burned away, and I have prepared new garments for you. Remember to dress neatly before you leave.

Upon reading this, Cao Ying suddenly realized with a start that she was indeed completely naked. She looked down and saw that she hadn't noticed at all, having been so focused on her breakthrough. Then, a thought flashed into her mind—these clothes…could they have been prepared by her master? And what had she looked like just now…?

"ah!"

Her cheeks flushed instantly, as if dyed by the sunset, even her ears felt hot. A wave of embarrassment washed over her, and she couldn't help but cover her face with her hands, lightly stamping her feet, and whispering, "I...I've been seen naked..."

After hesitating for a moment, she finally took a deep breath and composed herself. Her fingertips traced the dress; the fabric was soft and delicate, made of the finest cloud-patterned satin. She bit her lower lip, but still did as she was told and put on the dress. The pale purple skirt brushed past her ankles, and surprisingly, it fit her perfectly, accentuating her graceful figure.

Meanwhile, Su Baichen had already arrived at the front hall.

The hall was bright and clean, with morning light filtering through the carved wooden lattice and casting warm dappled patterns on the floor. A graceful butterfly was arranging several light dishes and porridge on the table with light, quiet movements.

Seeing Su Baichen approach, she raised her eyes and smiled, asking softly, "Young Master, is Ying'er's situation... all right?"

"Yes, the strange fire has been successfully refined. She just broke through and is changing her clothes; she'll be here shortly." Su Baichen sat down at the table, his gaze sweeping across the surface before looking into the inner room. He asked in confusion, "Where's Xian'er? Is she still cultivating?"

Cai Die gently pushed a bowl of congee in front of him. Upon hearing this, a hint of helplessness flashed in her eyes, and she replied softly, "Ever since I saw Ying'er's rapid progress that day, Xian'er seems to have been working with all her might. These past few days, apart from necessary rest, she has been cultivating in her room almost all the time. She just broke through to the Nine-Star Dou Zhe last night, and she should be consolidating her realm now."

Su Baichen paused slightly in his chopsticks. He knew that Little Fairy Doctor was exceptionally talented, quiet, and never slacked off in her cultivation. He hadn't expected Cao Ying's circumstances to instill such a sense of urgency in her. With such aptitude and such a willingness to work so hard, this disciple was indeed reassuring, yet also heartbreaking.

"After she finishes her seclusion, tell her to rest." Su Baichen pondered for a moment, then said in a gentle but solemn tone, "Tell her that the way of cultivation is about moderation. Especially since her constitution is special, she must not rashly consume too many poisonous substances in order to make quick progress, which would disrupt the balance of her body. Remember, there is a long road ahead."

Cai Die's expression hardened, and she nodded earnestly: "Don't worry, young master, I've remembered it. I'll definitely talk to Xian'er about it properly when she comes out."

Chapter 92 Xiao Xun'er is here!

Utan Undercurrent

Three days later, the outline of Wutan City gradually became clear in the sight of Su Baichen and the others.

When Su Baichen and his group of four arrived at the city gate, Yun Yun, dressed in plain white, stood in the shadow of the city wall. Upon seeing Su Baichen, a look of relief flashed in her eyes. She quickly walked through the crowd to stand before them and bowed slightly.

"Master, you must be tired from your journey. Everything has been arranged. Would you like to have some food first?"

Su Baichen's gaze swept over the mottled marks on the city wall, and he nodded. Behind him, Cao Ying and Little Fairy Doctor also showed some relief—after several days of trekking, even cultivators needed to rest.

The famous "Drunken Immortal" restaurant in Utan is located near the Rumiter Auction House. It is a three-story wooden building with flying eaves and bracket sets. The private room reserved by Yunyun is located on the innermost part of the third floor. Pushing open the carved wooden window, you can see the bustling main street of the city.

The dishes are mountain delicacies and medicinal cuisine unique to Wutan City: stewed lark, medicinal-braised rock goat, several dishes of seasonal vegetables, and a pot of warmed aged rice wine.

Cao Ying and Little Fairy Doctor sat below Su Baichen, indulging in delicious food. Yun Yun and Cai Die chatted about the interesting things that had happened in the past few days while eating. Su Baichen ate a little.

After lunch, it was already afternoon. The slanting sunlight cast long shadows on everyone.

The courtyard arranged by Yunyun is located in the east of the city, far from the bustling city center. It is a courtyard with an ancient style, with a total of nine rooms: two rooms each in the east and west wings, five rooms in the main house, and a stone well in the corner of the courtyard, with moss covering the well rim.

“The rooms have been cleaned,” Yunyun said. “Caidie and my rooms are in the two rooms on the left side of the main house, Ying’er and Xian’er are in the two rooms on the right side of the main house, and the master is in the middle.”

As soon as Yun Yun finished speaking, Su Baichen said to everyone, "We will be staying here for a while, so you can get familiar with the place first."

"Okay, I understand."

Cai Die, Cao Ying, and Xiao Yi Xian responded and each headed towards their respective rooms.

Yun Yun followed Su Baichen to the middle room. As soon as Yun Yun opened the door, a faint scent of sandalwood mixed with the aroma of books wafted towards her.

The room was spacious, yet minimally furnished: a rosewood couch. A full-wall bookshelf lined one side of the wall, with ancient books neatly arranged; a large desk stood by the window, the inkstone already prepared.

The most special item is the incense burner in the corner, with wisps of smoke rising from it. The fragrance is refreshing with a hint of sweetness, making it an excellent calming incense.

"This room is indeed very nice, I am very satisfied." Su Baichen walked to the bookshelf, his fingertips brushing against the spines of the books, and suddenly turned to look at Yun Yun.

"Tell me, what have you found out?"

Yun Yun's expression instantly turned solemn. She took out a roll of paper from her sleeve, presented it with both hands, and said:

“Master, the Xiao family originally lived in Jia Ma Holy City. Their former patriarch, Xiao Lin, had reached the peak of the Nine-Star Dou Wang five years ago, only one step away from Dou Huang. Three years ago, he went to explore the Snake-People Clan.”

She paused, and seeing Su Baichen unfold the scroll and examine it closely, she continued, "In the end, he was framed and killed. However, this matter is a secret, and even the Xiao family itself may not know the whole truth."

Su Baichen's gaze lingered on the words "Snake-People Clan" for a moment. So that's how it all came about.

"After Xiao Lin's death, the Xiao family rapidly declined." Yun Yun's voice was calm and composed, as if stating a common occurrence.

"Old enemies joined forces to suppress us, our industry was gradually devoured, and our clansmen died one after another in 'accidents'. Three years ago, Xiao Zhan, the acting clan leader and Xiao Lin's eldest son, made the decision to move the entire clan to this remote Wutan City."

"Xiao Zhan is now a three-star Grand Dou Master. He is steady and patient in his actions. After three years of hard work, the Xiao family has established a firm foothold here. Although it is not what it used to be, it is still a force to be reckoned with in Wutan City."

Yun Yun paused for a moment, then continued, "Three years ago, Xiao Zhan's third son, Xiao Yan, was born. Xiao Yan has good talent and with hard work, he could become a Dou Huang in the future."

Su Baichen put down the scroll, a slight smile playing on his lips. Xiao Yan, the one with great fortune in this world.

Unlike that pseudo-destined person (a certain third party) who only shouts "the way to death," Xiao Yan is a true being who can find a way out of desperate situations.

Everything about this third party was orchestrated by some shameless deity, and the third party himself was extremely selfish and self-centered, a complete egoist.

After all, the saying "I'd rather be Xiao Yan's little brother than a certain San'er's brother" isn't just empty talk.

However, this fellow villager of mine also did something immoral: he climbed through the window to steal Gu Xun'er's heart (when she was young).

Su Baichen thought about it and felt that there was a certain youthful vibrancy in him—after all, he was a fellow villager who had experienced several years of education in his hometown, and he was not guilty of major offenses, and minor offenses... were not a big deal.

"There's one more thing." Yun Yun's voice suddenly lowered, tinged with lingering fear.

"Before dawn this morning, a black carriage drove into the side gate of the Xiao family. A little girl of about three years old stepped out of the carriage and was personally welcomed into the inner courtyard by Xiao Zhan. And the one secretly escorting her... was a Dou Huang of at least seven stars."

She took a deep breath: "I was on the third floor of the teahouse opposite the Xiao family, about a hundred feet away. I used the 'Concealing Breath Technique' taught by my master to hide all my aura. But when that Dou Huang got out of the car, his gaze actually swept in my direction. Although it was only for a moment, I could feel... that he had noticed something."

Recalling that tangible gaze, Yun Yun still felt a chill run down her spine. That was the perception of a true warrior who had experienced countless battles.

"A girl protected by a Dou Huang..." Su Baichen chuckled.

"Gu Xun'er, the eldest daughter of the ancient clan."

He walked to the desk, picked up his brush, dipped it in ink, and wrote two characters on the rice paper: Xiao Yan. The ink was dripping, but then the brush suddenly changed direction, and he wrote three smaller characters next to it: Gu Xun'er.

"Climbing through the window to steal a heart..." Su Baichen shook his head and chuckled, this "romantic debt".

Su Baichen suggested stopping the "old friend" while he was saving him, since it was a bit much for a kid with an adult soul to climb through a little girl's window.

It's obviously a class on moral character and ethics. Xiao Yan either dozed off or skipped class. Anyway, this fellow villager definitely didn't hear it, so he can give him a make-up lesson and teach him a lesson.