Chapter 1168: Pill Spirit Serum
Xiao Yan left the hill where Cao Ying's group was situated and flew toward the vast and endless Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range. After which, he moved back and forth over the sky for a moment before finally rushing toward the interior of the vast mountain range.
After rushing into the mountain range, the first thing that Xiao Yan sensed was the dense energy within this mountain range. No wonder it was called Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range. With the natural energy of this place, it was not abnormal for it to grow many natural treasures that were difficult to find in the outside world.
The continuous roars of Magical Beasts could be heard across this mountain range. Perhaps it was because humans kept barging in recently but the roars seemed to have contain additional violent killing intent. After being infected by the wild, violent seed within this place, these Magical Beasts were far fiercer than those in the outside world.
Xiao Yan landed on a mountain top that appeared like a dagger. He knit his eyebrows as he swept his eyes all over the place. By relying on his exceptional Spiritual Perception, he could sense quite a number of unusually powerful auras in this mountain range. Among these auras, the most terrifying one was in the north-eastern direction.
Xiao Yan's eyes looked to the north-east. It was partially visible under the cover of the energy fog. He slightly frowned as he talked to himself in a soft voice, "If I have guessed correctly, the aura in the north-eastern direction should be the strongest within this mountain range. It should be the ultimate beast of the Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range that Song Qing had mentioned…"
A Magical Beast with half a foot into the eighth rank. Such an existence was exceptionally powerful. Even some elite Dou Zuns would be somewhat humbled if they fought it. The fighting strength of a high rank Magical Beast was quite terrifying.
Moreover, a Magical Beast that could reach such a rank was definitely not an ordinary beast. It might even possess the bloodline of a fierce beast from ancient times. If this were the case, it would be many times more difficult to deal with. Magical Beasts with the bloodline of a fierce beast from ancient times were similar to the strange clans of humans that had been passed down since ancient times in that they possessed certain unique qualities…
Xiao Yan had deeply probed around during his journey here. Although he had seen quite a number of uncommon medicinal ingredients, he did not find one that truly attracted him. This outcome did not match the name of this Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range.
"Earlier, Song Qing mentioned that the fierce beast had taken the many precious treasures in this Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range into his cave. Now, all I can do is head over there and take a look…" Xiao Yan's eyes looked to the north-eastern area as his face revealed an expression of deep thought. Since he had already entered this Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range, he would need to clearly probe it. After all, only this place possessed the items he had been tasked to find.
Xiao Yan did not hesitate after making up his mind. He identified the direction he needed to head before lowering his body and flying toward the north-eastern direction. There were many Magical Beasts in the Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range. If they were to end up pestering him, it would slow down his speed even if they were not too troublesome to deal with. Hence, Xiao Yan completely hid his aura along the way. He would purposefully make a detour when he meet some stronger Magical Beasts.
Thus, Xiao Yan's entire journey was quite smooth one. This continued for around two hours or so before he finally entered the deepest parts of the Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range…
The deeper Xiao Yan ventured into the Ten Thousand Medicinal Range, the stronger the aura of the Magical Beasts present. He had even met a powerful Magical Beast that had reached rank 7 along the way. However, it was fortunate that Xiao Yan had been prepared and had not been detected.
Xiao Yan carefully traveled for another ten plus minutes before he quietly landed in a lush, green, giant tree. He raised his head. His eyes were grave as he looked at the perilous mountain peak in front of him.
The size of this mountain peak was extremely vast. It appeared just like a pillar supporting the sky as it inserted itself into the clouds. A rich energy fog covered the middle parts of the mountain, causing one to have difficulty probing what was happening within.
This mountain peak stood in the middle of the Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range. Although Xiao Yan was some distance away, he was still shocked by the rich energy that seeped out of the mountain. If one were to train in such a place, one would definitely be able to obtain twice the effect with half the effort. Unfortunately, the energy of this place was mixed with a wild, violent seed. One needed to refine and remove this seed during absorption in order to successfully merge the energy into one's body…
Of course, the richness of the energy in this place was not what had caused Xiao Yan's face to appear grave. Instead, he had sensed at least three auras on this mountain that had reached the rank 7 level… in other words, there were a total of three Dou Zong class Magical Beasts on this mountain.
Moreover, other than these three fierce auras, Xiao Yan also sensed a concealed aura with a monstrous fierceness vaguely seeping down from the mountain. Clearly, the owner of this aura should be the leader of this mountain range, the ultimate fierce beast that Song Qing had spoken of.
"It is indeed very strong… moreover from the fierceness that is seeping out of its aura, it is clearly not a beast one should offend…"
Xiao Yan carefully withdrew his Spiritual Perception. He looked at the enormous mountain peak before musing for a moment. After which, his toes pressed onto the leaves, and his body quietly rushed into the mountains in a quiet fashion like a large bird.
Xiao Yan suddenly sensed a vague probing aura sweep over his body while he was rushing into the mountains. His heart tensed. His Spiritual Strength hurriedly surged out and wrapped around his body…
Xiao Yan was using his invisible Spiritual Strength to hide himself. The probing aura paused for a moment and returned to scan the area a couple of times before slowly leaving.
Xiao Yan only sighed in relief within his heart when he sensed the probing aura become distant. His body immediately moved, and it shot like an arrow that had been released from the string of a bow. With a 'swoosh' sound, he rushed into the forest and quietly leaped to the top of the mountain.
After flying over the forest for awhile, Xiao Yan was somewhat stunned to discover that there were no traces of other Magical Beasts. It was likely due to those powerful auras. It was not rare for a beast to occupy land and proclaim himself king within the Magical Beast world.
Xiao Yan's speed was significantly increased without the presence of other Magical Beasts blocking him. When he was just about to reach the middle of the mountain, his flashing figure suddenly paused. His body subsequently moved and appeared on a tree branch. After which, he shut his eyes and inhaled a deep breath of the serene fragrance that was slowly scattering in the air…
"This is… the scent of Pill Soul Serum?"
Xiao Yan suddenly opened his eyes after taking a deep sniff. Joy flashed across his eyes. This Pill Soul Serum was one of the key medicinal ingredients he needed to mix with the Core Soul Marrow. This thing was extremely rare. It was unexpected that he was able to find it here. This Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range really lived up to its reputation.
This kind of treasure was something that Xiao Yan needed the most. He would naturally not give it up easily. His body immediately moved, and he quietly landed on the ground like an agile monkey. After which, he flashed and hurried away.
Xiao Yan rushed in the direction where the serene fragrance originated from. Around a couple of minutes later, he suddenly came to a stop. His eyes stared at the area in front of him.
There was a stream in front of Xiao Yan. The source of the stream was a ten meter or so large rock. That enormous rock was covered in green moss. At the center of the rock was a hole. One could vaguely see a jade-green, viscous liquid within it. The serene fragrance was being emitted from that spot.
"It is indeed Pill Soul Serum…"
The joy in Xiao Yan's eyes became even more intense upon seeing what it was. However, he did not recklessly charge out. He was aware that such a treasure would be guarded by a Magical Beast. Those who could seize territory and become king was definitely not be an ordinary character. If one was careless, it would be normal to fall in the most unexpected place.
Xiao Yan's eyes carefully swept around after shifting away from the hole in the rock. A moment later, he was surprised to discover that there was not the slightest trace of any Magical Beast.
Xiao Yan slightly knit his eyebrows. This matter was out of the ordinary. It was impossible for other Magical Beasts to completely ignore a treasure like Pill Soul Serum.
"It is definitely hiding here…"
Xiao Yan licked his mouth. He contemplated where it could be for a moment before he shifted his eyes. Suddenly, they paused on the lower part of the enormous rock. That spot was the source of the stream. It was a deep pool that was around a hundred feet in size.
The pool was extremely deep. One was unable to see its bottom with just a glance. The pool was also extremely calm. There was not even the slightest ripple. Everything appeared extremely silent and peaceful.
Xiao Yan's eyes narrowed as he looked at the deep pool. He was certain there was a Magical Beast hidden within that deep pool. However, the ability of this Magical Beast to conceal its aura was extremely great. He was unable to sense anything. However, the thing that he found troublesome to deal with was the fact that he was unaware of just what kind of Magical Beast it was. Hence, he was unable to find a solution at that moment. This place was essentially the base camp of the Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range's Magical Beast. If any accident were to occur, he would not be able to endure the combined attacks of so many Magical Beasts regardless of how strong he was…
"Huh?"
Xiao Yan hesitated when his gaze paused on some pale-blue-colored scales a short distance away. The scales were around the size of a palm. They were covered with many mysterious lines. The scales had randomly fallen around the place and some extended into the deep pool.
A glint flashed across Xiao Yan's eyes. He curled his hand and a slight suction force surged out. After which, he quietly sucked that scale into his palm.
The scale entered his hand and an cool feeling immediately appeared. Xiao Yan's eyes looked at it as he pondered…
After musing for a while, Xiao Yan's eyes narrowed. He had roamed all over the place during his training over the years. His experiences were many, and he had a clue as to the origins of these mysterious scales.
"The scales are blue in color. The lines on it them are just like the shape of snakes. Occasionally, a tiger pattern is mixed within it. If I have guessed correctly, the Magical Beast protecting this Pill Soul Serum should be an extremely rare water affinity Magical Beast, Mysterious Water Tiger Snake…"
Xiao Yan quietly sighed in relief in his heart after identifying the hidden Magical Beast. This Magical Beast might be fierce, but he had a way to deal with it…
Chapter 1169: Doping
Xiao Yan's eyes swept around after he had identified the Magical Beast hiding in the deep pool. After which, he quietly withdrew a couple of hundred meters. Next, he found a spot where the wind was blowing in the direction of the deep pool. He took out a fruit tree from his Storage Ring. This fruit tree was icy-blue in color. It was only around half a foot in size and at its tip sat a fist-sized blue-colored fruit. The surrounding air became much more moist when this fruit appeared. Surging water affinity energy rushed out like water in a flood.
This fruit tree was called the Water Drunken Cloud Immortal Tree. The fruit on top of it was called the Water Cloud Fruit. There was an extremely dense water affinity energy within it. This fruit held a potent attraction to some water affinity Magical Beasts. Moreover, the energy within it was vast, mighty, causing the fruit to possess a special drunken liquid within it. The effect of this drunken liquid was fantastic. Even a tier 7 Magical Beast would become drunk and fall asleep after having swallowed it.
Xiao Yan needed the drunken liquid within this Water Cloud Fruit.
"Ugh, in order to obtain the Pill Soul Serum, I can only sacrifice this thing…" Xiao Yan carefully buried the Water Drunken Cloud Immortal Tree under the ground. Moreover, in order to achieve a lifelike look, he made sure the surrounding soil was the same. From a distance, it seemed as though this thing had been growing here the entire time.
The spot where the tree was buried was some distance from the deep pool because Xiao Yan was aware that the intelligence of a rank 7 Magical Beast was not weak. If such a treasure were to suddenly appear beside it, it would definitely stir its doubt. Although the distance was currently a little far, Xiao Yan was confident that the beast would be lured out. The allure of the Water Cloud Fruit to a water affinity Magical Beast was something that Xiao Yan had witnessed once.
After burying this Water Drunken Cloud Immortal Tree, Xiao Yan's body moved and he leaped into an enormous tree. His body was hidden in lush, green branches. His gaze penetrated the gaps as he observed the calm deep pool from a distance. His aura was completely withdrawn at this moment.
This patch of forest had also become unusually quiet following Xiao Yan's silence. However, the deep pool not show the slightest response, not even a ripple on the surface of the deep pool.
Xiao Yan did not reveal any anxious emotion despite the situation. After waiting for nearly half an hour and finding that there was still no activity, Xiao Yan finally shut his eyes slowly and recuperated. Today, he would squander time with this fellow…
Nearly three to four hours quietly passed after Xiao Yan shut his eyes. During this period of time, the forest remained quiet. Not even the slightest Magical Beast roar sounded. This quiet atmosphere caused one's pores to open.
"Splash…"
Another hour passed. Suddenly, the sound of a slight wave of water appeared within this quiet forest.
At this instant, Xiao Yan's eyes, which had been shut, were suddenly opened. He instantly turned to in the direction the deep pool was located, only to find circular water ripples were forming on the pool…
"Is it finally unable to endure any longer? Is it about to come out…"
Xiao Yan smiled quietly in his heart when he saw this. His heart contained some excitement. With his strength, it was not difficult for him to deal with the Mysterious Water Tiger Snake. However, this current location was not suitable for a big battle. After all, if some other Magical Beasts were attracted by it, things would likely become bad for him.
A powerful aura began to gradually appear within Xiao Yan's Spiritual Perception, following the increasing number of ripples on the surface of the deep pool.
"It is indeed a rank 7 Mysterious Water Tiger Snake…" Xiao Yan lifted his brows upon sensing the aura.
"Splash…"
A black figure suddenly got out of the pool not long after the aura appeared. It brought about a wave of foam created by the splashing water.
This black figure was quite short. It was merely two meters or so in length. Its body was covered in blue-colored scales, and the lines on the scales appeared just like a tiger pattern. At a glance, it emitted a fierce aura. Its savage, large mouth revealed a cold glint. A pair of concentrated snake eyes swept all around.
Xiao Yan slightly nodded when he saw the Mysterious Water Tiger Snake appear. It might appear quite small, but if it were to enter combat mode, it was likely that it would swell to a hundred meters in size. At that time, just a swing of its tail might send the entire mountain flying.
For some unknown reason, the Mysterious Water Tiger Snake that had appeared did not take a human form. Its dozens of long tentacles continued swung about. A moment later, its eyes turned to the interior of the forest where Xiao Yan had buried the Water Drunken Cloud Immortal Tree.
This Mysterious Water Tiger Snake was obviously extremely cautious. Even though it had sniffed a scent that it found difficult to resisting, it still did not appear anxious. After hesitating in front of the deep pool, it suddenly widened its large mouth, and a blue light was spat from its mouth. After which, it transformed into a circular energy barrier that wrapped around the Pill Soul Serum and the large stone.
Only after placing this layer of defense did it swing its tail. Its body rushed through the air as it quickly hurried to the forest.
Surprise flashed across Xiao Yan's eyes when he saw that this fellow was this cautious. It was indeed worthy of being a rank 7 Magical Beast. This intelligence was much higher than an ordinary Magical Beast.
The Mysterious Water Tiger Snake rushed into the forest. It sniffed for that serene fragrance and roamed for quite a while before finding the Water Drunken Cloud Immortal Tree that Xiao Yan had planted in a somewhat remote location.
A human-like wild joy flashed across its snake eyes when it saw this Cloud Immortal Tree. Against Xiao Yan's expectations, it did not act immediately. Instead, it swung its tail. A pale-blue water curtain swiftly spread out in circular shape with it being the center
Xiao Yan's heart was slightly startled when he saw this tactic of the Mysterious Water Tiger Snake. A thought passed through his heart, and his Spiritual Strength suddenly surged out. After which, this Spiritual Strength completely surrounded his body…
The water curtain rippled over Xiao Yan just as his Spiritual Strength had completely wrapped around him. Fortunately, it did not stir any other activity.
The water curtain spread for nearly a hundred meters before it slowly came to a stop. After which, it suddenly turned into some mist and scattered.
The Mysterious Water Tiger Snake finally relaxed after having surveyed the area. It widened its large mouth and another water curtain shot out, encircling the Cloud Immortal Tree within it. After which, it absorbed the tree into its ferocious, large mouth. With a swing of its tail, it anxiously flew back to the deep pool.
Xiao Yan quietly laughed while he hid between the tree branches when he saw this fellow had finally ate the fruit. His finger slightly moved without leaving a trace
Xiao Yan's finger had just moved when the Water Cloud Fruit, that had been wrapped by the water curtain, suddenly split apart. Wave after wave of a fluid slowly flowed out and dripped down…
The sudden split of the Water Cloud Fruit attracted the attention of the Mysterious Water Tiger Snake. It immediately became startled. After which, it suddenly seemed to have understood something. A bright-blue glow abruptly surged out of its body.
"Bang!"
The glow had just appeared when it came to a sudden stop. At the same time, the body of the Mysterious Water Tiger Dragon suddenly landed on the ground. A dense, serene fragrance, hinting at a drunken feeling, seeped out of its body.
"Swoosh!"
Xiao Yan knew the Water Cloud Fruit had taken effect the moment the Mysterious Water Tiger Snake landed on the ground. His body moved, and he rushed down from the tall tree like lightning. He appeared on the enormous stone within a couple of flashes. After which, he let out a violent punch and broke the curtain of. After which, he curled his hand and the flame agglomerated into a thorn shape that pierced the large rock. Next, he forcefully excavated that hole.
Xiao Yan took out a cold jade box from his Storage Ring after excavating the large rock. He carefully placed this rock, containing the Pill Soul Serum, into it. After which, he flicked his hand and returned it to his Storage Ring. His body moved without hesitation, and he rushed into the distant forest at a low altitude. Within a few leaps, his body had already disappeared…
Although the effect of the Water Cloud Fruit was extremely strong, it was unable to last for long. With the strength of the Mysterious Water Tiger Snake, it was likely that it would wake up in two to three minutes. If he left too late, the infuriated Mysterious Water Tiger Snake would definitely give chase.
This prediction of Xiao Yan proved to be correct. Soon after he had fled from the deep pool, a furious roar resounded over the mountain in an earth-shaking manner. Xiao Yan was still able to hear that mountain-shaking sound from a great distance. Clearly, the Mysterious Water Tiger Snake was unleashing its fury.
Xiao Yan secretly laughed when he heard this roar. After which, he increased his speed and hurriedly left this dangerous place.
There was grand hall built with large rocks standing on the top of the mountain that appeared just like a sky-supporting pillar. Two enormous beasts were guarding the large hall. Two fierce auras were seeping out of the bodies of these two large beasts. From the looks of it, they were even stronger than the Mysterious Water Tiger Snake.
"Grandaunt, have you eaten enough?"
TL: This grandaunt is referring to a woman who is extremely difficult to serve
An angry roar that contained great heartache was suddenly emitted from within the large hall. The two Magical Beasts at the entrance of the hall raised their eyes when they heard this roar. Immediately, they lowered their heads and acted as though they had not heard anything.
In the deepest part of the enormous stone hall was an extremely wide field. At this moment, the field was piled with a countless number of medicinal ingredients neatly ordered. If Xiao Yan and the others were to come to this place, they would immediately become stunned. Anyone of these ingredients could attract the desire of many alchemists if they were taken to the outside world. However, they were as common as cabbage in this place…
There was a large, burly-looking man among these many natural treasures. The large man randomly stood, but he gave one a heavy mountain-like feeling and could not be underestimated.
However, this large man, who appeared to be an extraordinary being, was looking at the middle of the field with the desire to cry at this moment. A lovely little figure had grabbed what seemed like an unusually rare medicinal ingredient. After which, she stuffed it into her little mouth in an unceremonious manner. The clear chewing sound caused the large man's heart to feel a bleeding pain.
"What are you howling for. Once I have eaten until I'm full and found the person I am looking for, I will naturally bring you out of this place. Relax, isn't it just breaking open space. That is what I specialize in…"
That little figure muttered as she ate. It seemed that she was extremely dissatisfied with the heartache the large man felt.
Chapter 1170: Massacre
Due to him being afraid that the Mysterious Water Tiger Snake would give chase, Xiao Yan had rushed away wildly after having hid his aura. Only then did he gradually slowed down. He looked all around him. Currently, he was near the middle of the mountain. The area higher above was covered in a dense fog of energy. Moreover, Xiao Yan was also able to sense some extremely powerful auras within these dense fog. It would be extremely troublesome if these auras were to pester him.
"Now, all I can do is quietly climb to the top of the mountain and try to see if I am able to steal the task items that I need. With my strength alone, it might be a little difficult to forcefully snatch them…" Xiao Yan stood on a giant tree. He overlooked a partially visible mountain top as he mused to himself.
Xiao Yan ceased hesitating after having made up his mind. He was just about to move when a thought suddenly passed through his mind. His eyes suddenly slid to the bottom of the mountain. An extremely intense energy ripple suddenly erupted from that spot. This kind of ripple was not that of an ordinary energy fluctuation. Instead, it was a ripple that was sparked by a Dou Qi battle.
Xiao Yan involuntarily knit his eyebrows when he sensed this kind of fluctuation. If he could sense it, the fierce beasts would definitely be able to sense it. Thus, it would certainly end up attracting some of their attention.
Xiao Yan attentively listened for a moment and was vaguely able to hear some slight human noise. He was immediately startled.
"Could it be Cao Ying's group?"
Xiao Yan knit his brows as he mused for a moment. He suddenly turned his body around and quietly rushed to the source of the energy ripple. It was not that he wished to rescue Cao Ying's group. Instead, it was because the activity their group had created would definitely attract the attention of some high rank Magical Beast. He could perhaps be able to hide by their side. Once he discovered signs of those fierce beasts revealing themselves, he would be able to slip away, taking the opportunity to steal the medicinal ingredients within the cave at the top of the mountain.
Xiao Yan's body flashed across the forest like a gust of wind while this thought flashed across his heart. Around a couple of minutes later, his body suddenly leaped forward, and he entered the top of a tree that was covered with lush, green leaves. His eyes looked through the gap between the leaves.
A concave basin appeared where his sight could reach. At this moment, there were nearly a hundred people clustered within this basin. His gaze swept over them, and he did indeed see a couple of familiar figures. They were clearly Cao Ying's group.
"The space here…"
Xiao Yan's eyes swept over it before suddenly focusing on the space around it. His eyes picked up on a distortion around them.
"Spiritual Barrier!"
Xiao Yan's heart suddenly turned cold upon seeing this. He had seen this thing before. That so-called Old Ying Gu had used this thing that night, causing the Little Fairy Doctor and the rest to be unable to discover his invasion.
"It seems that something is wrong…"
Xiao Yan's heart had sunk upon seeing this Spiritual Barrier. From the looks of it, it seemed someone was preparing to attack Cao Ying's group. Moreover, the person who was attacking them possessed an extremely terrifying strength. This Spiritual Barrier was not something an ordinary expert would be able to construct.
"Is it that black-clothed man?"
Xiao Yan's heart suddenly moved while he was deep in thought. His gaze turned to that concave basin with the speed of lightning. He did indeed see a black-colored figure among the group.
"This fellow… is really ruthless. He is thinking of finishing off all these people. Song Qing and Cao Ying are people with the potential to fight for the champion spot in this Gathering. If these two people are killed…" This thought flew within Xiao Yan's heart as shock involuntarily surfaced within his eyes. This black-clothed man was really vicious.
"Mister, what do you mean by this? Are you planning on attacking all of us here?" Nearly a hundred figures were surrounding the black figure within this basin. Song Qing was currently staring at the black-clothed man with a furious expression as he asked in a deep voice. This person had suddenly launched an attack when they headed over to this place earlier. Within a blink of an eye, over a dozen alchemists had perished to his hands. If not for Song Qing's quick reaction, it was likely that he would have also died to the hands of this person after being caught off-guard.
Cao Ying, with her enchanting figure, was beside Song Qing. However, the current her was staring at the black-clothed man with a somewhat grave expression in her pretty eyes. With her powerful Spiritual Perception that far exceeded that of others, she was able to sense that the black-clothed man in front of them possessed an extremely terrifying strength!
"Two young geniuses of the Pill Tower. Ha ha, this reputation is indeed wonderful. However, I can only use such tactics for the champion spot…" A trace of a strange smile continued to hang on the black-clothed man's face as he spoke despite having been surrounded by so many people.
"May I know who this senior is? Aren't you afraid that the Pill Tower will pursue this matter if you kill us here?" Cao Ying's pretty eyes stared at the black-clothed man before she suddenly asked.
"Ke ke, everyone here will die. Therefore, the Pill Tower will not be aware of it…" The black-clothed man laughed as he looked at Cao Ying. He appeared just like a cat playing with a mouse.
The numerous alchemists around suddenly became furious upon hearing his words. All of them unceremoniously drew their weapons. Their eyes revealed a fierce glint as they stared at the black-clothed man.
"Aren't you a little too arrogant! There are so many of us here, do you think that we are afraid of you?" Song Qing furiously cried out.
The strange smile on the black-clothed man's face suddenly spread upon hearing this.
Ah! Ah!
"Be careful, someone has laid an ambush!"
Before the strange smile on the black-clothed man's face had completely spread, the many alchemists who had surrounded him suddenly emitted miserable screeches. Over a dozen drops of blood-dripping human heads soared into the sky with bright-red pillars of blood.
This sudden, unexpected change had caused Song Qing and the hidden Xiao Yan to be shocked. Their gazes hurriedly looked over, only to see over a dozen figures with sharp killing intent. That unusually powerful aura caused the expressions of everyone to change.
Within less than a minute, fresh blood had dyed this lush, green ground into a blood-red color. The many alchemists who had been alive earlier were now dead ghosts. Their eyes were all wide open. They were all filled with shock and resignation. Even in death, they were unable to clearly see just who had attacked them.
"Bang! Bang!"
Cao Ying's and Song Qing's group was greatly shocked by this unexpected change. Immediately, Dou Qi hurriedly surged out of their bodies and blocked those sharp figures that had come charging at them.
"These fellows were hiding in the crowd!"
Xiao Yan looked at the massacre that had suddenly occurred from within the forest. His expression slightly changed. He had been unable to discover these hidden fellows from the beginning. Moreover, from the looks of it, it seemed that they were actually of the same gang as that black-clothed man.
"Just who are these people. They really dare to attack people from the Pill Tower…"
There were finally some people in the basin who were unable to endure any longer in the face of this sudden killing of the dozen plus wolf-and-tiger-like figures. They hurriedly took their spatial rocks out of their Storage Ring and quickly shattered them. Space became distorted, and they were about to flee.
"I have said… no one here can leave."
That black-clothed man, who had not attacked, smiled when he saw them try to escape. He gently waved his sleeves and an invisible spatial ripple spread out. After which, it solidified the people who were about to flee from the Pill Realm. Next, he clenched his hand and the surrounding space was suddenly suppressed. He forcefully pinched those alchemists into clusters of blurry blood and flesh.
"Distorting space… this fellow is indeed an elite Dou Zun!"
Xiao Yan's eyes shrank when he saw this black-clothed man intervening.
The alchemists in the battleground, who had lost their final tactic, began to retaliate with all their might. However, the strength of the dozen plus black-colored figures far surpassed them. Other than a couple of people who could struggle against them, most of the remaining people suffered a miserable death.
The massacre continued for around ten minutes or so. Less than ten of the hundred alchemist remained. Song Qing, Cao Ying, and the two Elders of the Profound Xuan Sect carrying Chen Xian were among them.
"A useless struggle…"
The strength of those who remained were at the Dou Zong class. Hence, the dozen plus black figures had difficulty eating at them when they clustered together. All the black figures could do was surround them. However, from the looks of it, breaking through the defenses of Cao Ying's group was merely a matter of time.
Song Qing's expression was ugly as he looked at the surrounding black robed people with an extremely dense killing aura. His face was volatile. He could sense a deathly aura from the bodies of these people.
"Does senior intend to kill all of us?"
Cao Ying, who usually wore an enchanting smile on her face, currently had a green expression. She had been special since she was young. There had been a countless number of guards around her. She had hardly seen such a bloody battlefield.
"Ke ke, I am quite interested in your soul. If you are allowed to grow, it is likely that you will really be able to become the next giant head of the Pill Tower. Unfortunately…" The black-clothed man laughed as he stared at Cao Ying. He licked his lips as though he was looking at his prey.
Cao Ying's face was ice-cold. She was aware that this person was determined to eliminate them. However… even though the other party was strong, it was likely impossible for the them to kill her in this place without paying some price!
She definitely possessed some trump cards in order to become the person the Pill Tower thought most highly of.
The black-clothed man ignored Cao Ying's expression. His gaze glanced at the couple of people still resisting. After which, he slowly took a step forward. Just when he had taken a third step, his body suddenly trembled. His cold eyes shot to the large tree where Xiao Yan was hidden.
Xiao Yan quietly cried out "this is bad" within his heart when the black-clothed man paused his footsteps. This person's Spiritual Perception was too strong!
"Come out!"
Before Xiao Yan could withdraw after quietly crying out in his heart, a terrifying suction force surged out. The surrounding large trees shattered into dust in the next instant. Xiao Yan's figure was pulled forward by over a dozen meters. Only then did he forcefully stabilize his body. However, the current him had already landed in the interior of the Spatial Barrier.
Chapter 1171: Join Hands
The human figure that had suddenly been pulled forcefully from the forest caused Cao Ying's group to be shocked. However, they finally sighed in relief after seeing his face. The eyes of Song Qing revealed a gloating expression that was difficult to detect…
"Ke ke, Xiao Yan… tsk tsk, I had yet to go look for you, but instead you have delivered yourself to me…"
That black-clothed man was startled when he saw that the hidden figure was Xiao Yan. His face was immediately lifted into a strange smile as he laughed.
Xiao Yan's eyes were staring intently at the foreign black-clothed man. From the other party's tone, it appeared that the man was acquainted with him. However, Xiao Yan was unable to recall ever meeting this person. He had not met many Dou Zun class experts, but all of them had left behind an extremely deep impression. Only this person in front of him caused him to feel a sense of unfamiliarity.
"Expert, may I know who are you? Xiao Yan does not seem to be acquainted with you…" Xiao Yan spoke in a deep voice as he cupped his hands to the black-clothed man.
"If we are not acquainted then so be it…" The black-clothed man smiled. After which, he randomly said, "In any case no one here will be able to escape. That includes you…"
Xiao Yan narrowed his eyes. He could sense this black-clothed man's desire to kill. Clearly, it would likely not be too relaxing if he wanted to safely escape today.
Xiao Yan's feet stepped into empty air. After which, he slowly stepped back. With a flash, he rushed beside Cao Ying's group. Currently, it was not the time to act courageous. The surrounding dozen plus black-clothed men were extremely powerful. Base on Xiao Yan's estimation with his eyes, it was likely that there were six to seven Dou Zong class experts. This lineup was quite strong even in the Central Plains region. It was unexpected that they would appear here at the same time.
Other than the two Elders from the Profound Xuan Sect, who revealed a fierce glint in their eyes, the remaining people felt alright about Xiao Yan suddenly being pulled over. At this time, an additional person meant that they had gained an additional chance to escape. They had clearly witnessed Xiao Yan's strength on the hill today.
"What should we do?"
Cao Ying's pretty eyes glanced at Xiao Yan as she softly asked.
"What can we do? That fellow is an elite Dou Zun. All of you should think of your own way to escape." XIao Yan helplessly replied.
"How will we flee? That fellow will block us even if we use the spatial stone." Song Qing frowned and demanded.
Xiao Yan spread his hands. He was too lazy to argue with him. In any case, if anything were to really go wrong, he would unleash the Extermination Fire Lotus to escape. As for Cao Ying and the others, he did not possess the energy…
"I am able to break this Spiritual Barrier. However, if I attack the barrier, that fellow will definitely intervene. Therefore, I will need some time." Cao Ying gently clenched her silver teeth. Her pretty eyes were staring at Xiao Yan in an unblinking manner. She knew that if one were to talk about fighting with others, it was likely that the one with the greatest fighting ability here was Xiao Yan.
Xiao Yan raised his eyebrows upon hearing her words. He was a little surprised as he looked at Cao Ying. She was indeed worthy of the nickname witch. She was confident she could to break the Spiritual Barrier that an elite Dou Zun had established. This was really a little extraordinary.
"We are able to block these black-clothed people, but that fellow…" A middle-aged man with blood adhering to his face hesitated for a moment before bitterly laughing.
Xiao Yan glanced at him. By being able to endure until now, it was sufficient evidence that he was not an ordinary character. Of course, those who could enter this Pill Realm all possessed some skill. Whether one was stronger or weaker would be determined by who possessed more skills…
"How long do you need?"
Xiao Yan did not have the time to think more at this moment. A thought passed through his mind, and he swiftly asked after an instant.
"Three minutes!" Cao Ying quickly replied.
Xiao Yan was quiet for a moment. After which, he slowly nodded in front of everyone's anxious eyes. Although the other party was an elite Dou Zun, Xiao Yan still had the confidence to block him for three minutes.
Everyone sighed in relief when they saw Xiao Yan nod his head. A couple of people threw some gazes of gratitude to Xiao Yan. All of them clearly understood that exchanging blows with the black-clothed man was the most dangerous thing. However, only Xiao Yan barely possessed that kind of ability within this group of theirs. Even the two Elders from the Profound Xuan Sect did not say much at this moment. Although they had the strength of nine star Dou Zongs, there was still a great gap between them and the Dou Zun class. It was likely that they would end up in a terrible situation should they exchange blows with him.
"Thank you very much…"
Cao Ying softly thanked Xiao Yan. After which, his toes gently pressed on the ground. Her delicate figure flew backwards. Just when her delicate figure was rushing backwards, her black hair, usually restrained by a ribbon, suddenly scattered. At this instant, an unusually majestic spiritual pressure slowly spread from between Cao Ying's eyebrows.
"Attack!"
Song Qing let out a stern cry just as Cao Ying rushed back. Majestic Dou Qi immediately surged out of his body. After which, he rushed toward the surrounding black-clothed men, firmly pestering them in the process.
Xiao Yan quietly felt shocked within his heart as he sensed the mighty Spiritual Strength that spread from between Cao Ying's eyebrows. This woman was indeed not simple. If one were to discuss the strength of a person's Spiritual Strength, Cao Ying would definitely be the strongest one among those of similar age that Xiao Yan had met all these years. It seemed the reason she had been bestowed the nickname witch was not entirely because of her bewitching appearance. If she were given sufficient time to grow, it was likely that her future would be limitless. At that time, even this mysterious, black-clothed Dou Zun would not be her match…
Song Qing's group intervened and blocked that dozen over black clothed individuals. At the same time, Xiao Yan dared to slight his task. His body moved and he appeared a short distance in front of the black clothed man. His expression was solemn as he looked at the other party. Jade green flame slowly surged out from within his body.
"You are thinking of blocking this venerable self with your strength?"
The black-clothed man's eyes were cold as they stared at Xiao Yan. After which, he swiftly glanced to the side of the spiritual barrier. Cao Ying frowned as she began to use her tactics to undo the barrier. The black-clothed man immediately let out a cold snort as he randomly waved his sleeves. The space around Xiao Yan solidified with lightning-like speed. After which, it appeared just like a prison that firmly locked him in.
Xiao Yan's expression changed slightly when he sensed the heaviness of the surrounding solidified space. An elite Dou Zun was indeed a freak. They were able to turn empty space into a prison with the raise of their hands. Moreover, this prison was so firm that it could not be broken.
"Skyfire Three Mysterious Change, first change!"
"Skyfire Three Mysterious Change, second change!"
Fortunately, Xiao Yan was not an ordinary person. His heart clearly understood just how troublesome it was to deal with an elite Dou Zun. He did not dare to hold back as he unleashed the Skyfire Three Mysterious Change to the second change. The Dou Qi within his body soared. Only then did it forcefully shatter the surrounding solidified space. After which, Xiao Yan flashed and once again blocked the route of the black-clothed man.
"The Skyfire Three Mysterious Change of the Burning Flame Valley?"
Surprise also flashed across the eyes of the black-clothed man when he saw Xiao Yan's strength suddenly soar. His feet immediately stomped on the empty air. After which, his body appeared to have teleported as it appeared in front of Xiao Yan. An ordinary palm flew out and smashed toward Xiao Yan's chest.
Xiao Yan's expression had become extremely solemn upon facing this gentle palm from the black-clothed man. The other party's palm had locked onto the space around his body, causing him to have no ability to dodge.
Since he could not dodge, the only thing he could do was forcefully receive the attack. Xiao Yan immediately clenched his teeth. His hand gently shook in a strange manner. A wave of an extremely strong hidden force erupted.
"Octane blast!"
The hidden force was transferred over Xiao Yan's bones. After which, it left his body and poured into the black-clothed man's palm. However, this merely caused the his palm to slightly pause.
"Open Mountain Seal!"
"Sea Flipping Seal!"
The hand seals changed in a lightning-like fashion. Immediately, two bright energy handprints erupted from Xiao Yan's hand. They heavily smashed into the black-clothed man's palm, causing his palm wind to gradually weaken.
"Hmph!"
The black-clothed man appeared to be extremely displeased at Xiao Yan's stubbornness. An impatience finally flashed across his eyes. The surrounding Spiritual Barrier also became more pale while it was being undone by Cao Ying.
A wave of a strange, hot energy suddenly surged out of the body of the black-clothed man after the cold snort sounded. Subsequently, it agglomerated into a deep-blue, strange crystal layer on his arm. Looking from a great distance, it appeared as though it was a blue-coloured crystal hand.
A dangerous feeling surged into Xiao Yan's heart when that strange crystal layer appeared. His finger was flicked as a reflex action. A silver glow flashed in front of him and the Earth Demon Puppet appeared.
"Bang!"
The Earth Demon Puppet had just appeared when the space in front of Xiao Yan became distorted. Immediately a hand that was covered by deep-blue crystals penetrated the empty space. After which, it heavily landed on the chest of the Earth Demon Puppet. Immediately, an unusually ear-piercing sound appeared.
After the punch landed, that incomparably tough chest of the Earth Demon Puppet formed a dent that was nearly half an inch deep. Its skin cracked apart, revealing the silver-colored interior of its body!
The terrifying force sent the Earth Demon Puppet flying backwards after shattering its chest. Xiao Yan was also subsequently affected by it. A portion of the strength was transmitted to his body, causing his expression to turn a little pale. His feet pressed against empty air as he hurriedly retreated.
"This fellow, what terrifying strength…"
Shock rose within Xiao Yan's heart as he withdrew in a miserable manner. If the Earth Demon Puppet did not feel even the slightest pain, it was likely that this punch would have taken its life. It was difficult to imagine just what kind of injury Xiao Yan would have suffered if that punch, which had shot through the air, had landed on him.
"Is this the strength of an elite Dou Zun…"
Xiao Yan glanced at the chest of the Earth Demon Puppet, which appeared to have completely collapsed. His eyes involuntarily shrank as he did so.
"Clang!"
A slight cracking sound suddenly appeared in the air while Xiao Yan was stabilizing his body.
"Hurry and leave. The spiritual barrier is broken!"
Cao Ying's lovely voice was transmitted into everyone's ears the instant after the noise spread.
Xiao Yan's reaction was extremely swift when he heard her words. He had just stabilized his body when he turned around without hesitation. The silver glow under his feet flashed, and he transformed into an afterimage that rushed toward the forest at the speed of lightning…
Chapter 1172: Fleeing For One's Life
Xiao Yan's reaction was swift and the reactions of the others were also quite quick. Just when Xiao Yan had turned around and left, Song Qing and the rest had also immediately escaped the battleground. After which, they used all their strength to rush explosively to the forest!
"Swoosh!"
Cao Ying was at the front of everyone fleeing. Moreover, she was the first to escape the moment the spatial barrier broke. However, a couple of breaths' time after she had cried out, a figure flashed over from behind her. Within the blink of an eye, that figure had overtaken her. Her pretty eyes swept over to see who it was. Who else could this figure be other than Xiao Yan?
Those who were fleeing were not fools. They did not flee in the same direction. Instead, their eyes glanced at each other before they began rushing in all directions. Within a couple of flashes, they had fled into the vast forest.
"Chase, do not let anyone of them off!"
The black-clothed man was shocked since the spatial barrier had been broken quickly by Cao Ying. He hurriedly recovered and cried out in a dense voice.
"Understood!"
The dozen plus black-clothed man hurriedly acknowledged after hearing the order of the black-clothed man. After which, they began to scatter in an orderly manner, giving chase to the fleeing individuals as they did so.
"I want to see just how long you can struggle!"
The black-clothed man's cold eyes shot in the direction Xiao Yan and Cao Ying had disappeared. He immediately let out a cold laugh as his body shook. The surrounding space slowly wiggled and his body disappeared in a strange manner.
Two figures rushed away like agile monkeys within this lush, green forest. The speed of these two was as quick as lightning. Their bodies flashed between the forest and disappeared.
"Chi!"
Two people rushed out without turning their heads around. Suddenly a ripple appeared from the trees beside them. A figure immediately appeared from within.
The sudden appearance of this figure startled Xiao Yan and Cao Ying. Their gazes hurriedly swept over and found that it was Song Qing.
Joy flashed across Song Qing's face when he saw the two of them. His feet stepped through the empty air as he rushed over and said, "Quick leave, there are some black-clothed people blocking that direction…"
He knew that these words were useless after speaking them because Xiao Yan and Cao Ying did not reduced their speed even a little. Instead, their bodies flashed and their speed significantly increased.
Song Qing's face twitched when he saw this. However, he did not have time to say anything else at the moment. He unleashed his speed to the maximum and hurriedly followed.
The three of them wildly fled within the sea of trees. Their target was the top of the mountain. If they wanted to shake off the black-clothed Dou Zun, they would have to attract something that he was afraid of. The only one who could contend against this black-clothed Dou Zun was likely the ultimate beast at the top of it.
The three figures rushed over the forest like a wild gale, causing the withered leaves on the ground to dance…
Xiao Yan's expression was solemn. A bright silver glow continuously appeared. His flashing figure would occasionally leave some afterimages in the air that would slowly scatter.
"Creak!"
Xiao Yan's feet had just landed on a large tree when he curled his knee. He was just about to borrow the strength to shoot explosively forward when his expression suddenly changed. His foot curled in a strange arc and his body shot backwards instead!
"Bang!"
Soon after Xiao Yan's figure pulled back, the space a short distance from where his foot had landed suddenly distorted. A black figure immediately appeared in front of the three of them from nowhere. His cold eyes caused the hearts of Xiao Yan's group to sink.
"Your speed is quite quick. Unfortunately, it is still insufficient to shake off this venerable self." The black-clothed man appeared and glanced at Xiao Yan trio before laughing.
A cold glint flashed in Xiao Yan's eyes when he saw this. This fellow was indeed troublesome to deal with.
"Do not waste the time of this venerable self…" The black-clothed man appeared to have gradually lost his patience. His eyes suddenly turned dark and chilly. He curled his hand and a deep-blue crystal layer surged out of his body. After which, it formed an energy crystal hand claw.
The claw had just been formed when the black-clothed man waved his sleeves. The crystal claw disappeared into nowhere!
"Be careful!"
Xiao Yan's heart trembled when he saw the crystal claw disappear, so he hurriedly cried out a warning. After having exchanged blows with this black-clothed man earlier, Xiao Yan was aware of just how terrifying that deep-blue crystal layer was.
Xiao Yan trio had separated into three directions after the cry sounded. They pulled back with lightning-like speed at the same time.
The space in front of Cao Ying suddenly formed an intense ripple while the three of them were withdrawing. Immediately, the crystal claw forcefully penetrated space and grabbed at her in a ruthless manner. From the looks of it, that black-clothed Dou Zun was planning on attacking Cao Ying first.
When the hand claw came grabbing over, Cao Ying was a little shocked to discover that the surrounding space had been forcefully solidified!
Her figure was no longer able to move under this solidified space! Hence, she could only watch as the large crystal beast reached over.
Xiao Yan and Song Qing had also sensed Cao Ying suddenly descend into a dangerous situation. Their expressions changed. The eyes of that Song Qing slightly flickered. An instant later, he violently grit his teeth as his feet pressed on a tree branch. His body fled into the forest with lightning-like speed and disappeared in the blink of an eye.
Xiao Yan knit his brows when he saw Song Qing abandon Cao Ying to flee by himself. He looked at Cao Ying, who was bitterly enduring while clenching her silver teeth. All he could do was let out a quiet sigh. Song Qing might be able to do such a shameless thing, but he, Xiao Yan, was really unable to…
After sighing in his heart again, Xiao Yan flicked his finger. A silver-colored figure rushed out of his Storage Ring. After which, it swiftly appeared in front of Cao Ying, using its body to block her.
"Crack!"
The Earth Demon Puppet had just appeared when that energy crystal hand violently grabbed it. One could only see its incomparably strong body immediately form numerous crack lines. There was even the low, deep sound of flesh exploding.
"Go!"
Xiao Yan immediately cried out sternly after having used the Earth Demon Puppet to help Cao Ying block the attack.
This sudden helping hand had startled Cao Ying. Her pretty eyes immediately looked at Xiao Yan in a deep manner. Her red lips were gently widened. A slight sound was transmitted to Xiao Yan's ears, "Thank you."
Cao Ying also understood what kind of a situation it was after the words sounded. She did not stay for long. Her delicate body moved, and she swiftly rushed into the forest.
Xiao Yan beckoned with his hand after Cao Ying turned around and rushed into the forest. He hurriedly pulled the Earth Demon Puppet, that had nearly been turned to scraps, back into his Storage Ring. A silver glow flickered under his feet. After which, he unleashed the Three Thousand Lightning Movement to its limit. He was accompanied by a series of afterimages as he rushed into the dense forest in another direction.
The expression of the black-clothed Dou Zun finally turned dark when he saw his attack was once again without any gains. His cold eyes swept over the directions where the three people had fled. They immediately paused on the spot where Xiao Yan left from.
"Since you love to rescue others, this venerable self shall see just who will come to rescue you this time around?"
A dense voice was emitted from the black-clothed Dou Zun's mouth. After which, his body shook, and he once again disappeared in a strange manner. From the looks of it, Xiao Yan's interventions had truly angered him.
Xiao Yan's figure rushed through the forest in a lightning-like manner. His expression was currently dark and solemn. Although there was no black-clothed Dou Zun figure behind him, he could vaguely feel that he was being locked onto by that fellow.
Clearly, that person had chosen Xiao Yan among the trio.
"Bastard. If you really force me to that extent, I will let you pay a bloody price even if I have to go all out to the point of being seriously injured!"
Xiao Yan's figure had continued to wildly charge for a distance, but that locked on feeling did not weaken. Instead, it became even more intense. Immediately, a fierce glint flashed across Xiao Yan's eyes. Although the other party was an elite Dou Zun, it was impossible for him to bite Xiao Yan's tough bones if this Dou Zun did not possess a good set of teeth!
After this thought flashed across Xiao Yan's heart, his speed increased. In the end, Xiao Yan only able to see a blurry black line rush through the air of the forest. However, he was unable to see any of it while it wildly rushed past…
Xiao Yan's foot stepped on empty air. He looked through the gaps in the forest as he looked at the top of the mountain, which was approaching…
"Chi!"
Xiao Yan's eyes suddenly shrank soon after a sigh was released within his heart. His feet stomped on empty air, and his body was forcefully stopped. His eyes were filled with a deep darkness as he looked at a tree branch a short distance from him. A black-clothed human figure was seated with his legs crossed at that spot.
"Regardless of how intelligent prey is, it will not be able to escape from the hands of the hunter."
The black-clothed Dou Zun raised his eyes. His gaze glanced indifferently at Xiao Yan as he ferociously laughed.
"Xiao Yan. This venerable self wants to see if there will be anyone who will show up and rescue you this time around. I will definitely take your Heavenly Flames!"
A thought suddenly passed through Xiao Yan's heart when he heard these words. His eyes swept over the black-clothed Dou Zun. There was a slight change in his expression as he exclaimed, "You… you are Old Mu Gu?"
The black-clothed Dou Zun was slightly surprised when he heard this. After which, the savage smile on his face became even more prominent. He asked, "Can't you recognize me?"
Xiao Yan's heart involuntarily sank when he heard the words of the black-clothed Dou Zun not denying anything. This fellow… was indeed Old Mu Gi. He possessed such an ability to deceive the three giant heads of the Pill Tower and enter the Pill Realm…
"It is also just as well that you have recognized me. You can at least die knowing why. No matter how one puts it, the both of us have some relationship. If we were to really discuss about it, you might perhaps even have to call this venerable self teacher-uncle." Old Mu Gu laughed in a dark and chilly manner.
TL: teacher-uncle – junior of one's teacher who shares the same master as one's teacher
"I am not so blessed." Xiao Yan involuntarily laughed when he heard this.
Old Mu Gu laughed and did not mind. His eyes were somewhat hot as he stared at Xiao Yan. "This time around, this venerable self will not hold back. I will first kill you and take your soul. This venerable self has his own methods of getting you to reveal the Flame Mantra!"
After laughing in a dense, cold manner, Old Mu Gu clenched his hand. That large claw, which was formed from a deep-blue energy, once again appeared in front of him. He waved his sleeves and the enormous claw disappeared in a strange manner…
Xiao Yan's expression also changed when he saw the enormous claw disappear. After the exchange earlier, he already understood that this thing could penetrate space itself. It was elusive, making it difficult for one to defend against it…
Xiao Yan was not wrong. The space in front of him became distorted while Xiao Yan concentrated. An enormous crystal claw rushed out and grabbed at him.
The momentum of the large claw was extremely shocking. Xiao Yan also understood just how terrifying this thing was. Even the Earth Demon Puppet had nearly been crippled when the claw had grabbed it. With the strength of his body, it was likely that he would explode into a pile of bloody flesh with just a pinch.
However, it was fortunate that he was already prepared. The moment the large claw had appeared, the silver glow under Xiao Yan's feet flashed before the claw could even lock onto him. Within an instant, he had appeared in empty ground around a couple of dozen meters away.
"Hmph!"
Old Mu Gu coldly laughed upon seeing Xiao Yan's swift reaction.
His laughter had just sounded when Xiao Yan was dazzled. The large crystal hand, filled with an unusual Spiritual Pressure, once again appeared in a strange fashion. After which, the hand grabbed with lightning-like speed. The surrounding space once again solidified.
The solidification of the surrounding space caused Xiao Yan's expression to change. This crystal large hand was really too troublesome to deal with. It was unusually difficult to even dodge it. An elite Dou Zun was indeed extraordinary…
Xiao Yan abruptly clenched his teeth as numerous thoughts flashed across his heart. His eyes did not blink as he stared at the large claw that had come violently grabbing over. Dou Qi within his body began to be maneuvered at this moment. The current him really needed to engage in an all out final battle!
The enormous claw flashed. It opened and was just like a ghost claw as it pinched at Xiao Yan's head!
Xiao Yan's expression had become completely grave as he watched the large claw grow larger in his eyes. His hand seal changed as he did so.
"Skyfire Three Mysterious Change, first change!"
"Skyfire Three Mysterious Change, second change!"
Two cries sounded one after another within Xiao Yan's heart, causing the Dou Qi within his body to suddenly soar. The surrounding solidified space had also become much more relaxed.
"Skyfire Three Mysterious Change, third change!"
Xiao Yan's vicious eyes looked at Old Mu Gu with a ferocious smile on his face. He inhaled a deep breath of air. The seals formed by his hands changed once again as he prepared to use all of his strength!
Just as Xiao Yan's hand seal was formed, the space in front of him strangely distorted. Immediately, a strong figure stepped out of the distorted space and stood in front of Xiao Yan like a metal tower.
A vast, calm breath suddenly surged out of the strong body like a sweeping storm when it appeared.
This kind of feeling was as though the one in front was not a person, but instead, a sky-supporting mountain!
"Hee hee, murdering openly in my territory. You really don't give me any face, do you?"
The figure had just appeared when he let out a rough laugh in front of Xiao Yan's stunned eyes. After which, the figure clenched his five fingers tightly. A punch without any fancy moves was suddenly thrown, and it heavily collided with the large claw!
"Bang!"
The two collided. The crystal-like large claw, which possessed an unusually great strength, had been forced back by over a dozen meters. After which, it flew through the air and vaguely revealed some cracks.
"Who has come?"
This sudden unexpected change caused Old Mu Gu to cry out furiously after being startled.
That strong man had yet to say anything after Old Mu Gu's cry sounded when an alluring laughter suddenly resounded over the forest.
"Old fellow, I will not care if you chase after the others. However, you cannot kill Xiao Yan…"
"Zi Yan?"
Xiao Yan, who was in a stunned state, was immediately even more startled when he heard this familiar voice. Joy quickly surged into his eyes.
Chapter 1173: Zi Yan, Xiong Zhan
Old Mu Gu's expression slightly changed when he heard the clear and loud voice that resounded over the forest. His eyes swept around before suddenly shooting to the tree branch of a large tree, only to see a purple-clothed, little girl there. Both of her legs were gently swinging.
Even with Old Mu Gu's calmness, he was involuntarily startled when he saw this little girl. His eyes were covered with shock. Those who could enter the Pill Realm were all alchemists that participated in the Pill Gathering. However, this little girl in front was clearly not one of them. Just how did she enter this place?
The purple-clothed, little girl ignored the surprised gaze of Old Mu Gu. Her small hand pressed against the tree branch and her lovely, small body leaped down from high above. After which, it gently landed in front of Xiao Yan. She involuntarily laughed when she saw Xiao Yan's stunned expression before giving him a strange face. Her lovely and pretty actions were really likeable.
"Zi Yan… why are you here?"
The shock within Xiao Yan's eyes lasted for a good amount of time before gradually disappearing. He grabbed this little girl, who had disappeared for quite a while, and pulled her to his side. After which, he carefully looked at her. Her jade-carving appearance was as cute as it was before, giving her an appearance similar to a porcelain doll.
"I have escaped. Hee hee, I knew that you were participating in the Pill Gathering, so I came here to wait for you…" Zi Yan smiled like a little fox. Both of her eyes narrowed into a crescent shape.
"I have been very pitiful. After having left, I no longer had any tasty Yaowan. Everyday, those hateful fellows would pour some disgusting stuff for me to eat…"
Zi Yan grabbed Xiao Yan's clothes. Her large watery eyes immediately became moist. Her life during this period of time was really too awful from her point of view. It was just like a life in hell when compared to the times she was beside Xiao Yan. Therefore, she had hurriedly took the opportunity to flee once she had the chance to do so…
"Your tribe members?" Xiao Yan was astonished before he immediately understood something. After which, he asked in a surprised manner.
Zi Yan violently nodded. From the looks of it she greatly hated the way her tribe members treated her. However, if those members of her tribe came to be aware of this, they would likely be so furious that they would end up spitting out blood. In this world, one was not rewarded for being a good person.
Xiao Yan helplessly shook his head. He did understand Zi Yan's character. Every word was exaggerated many times over when spoken from her mouth. Hence, he did not really believe these words of hers. As for whatever thing that was being fed to her… at the very least, this girl appeared quite lively. She was undoubtedly many times better than when she had left back then.
"Hey, have you finished chatting. Little grandaunt, this fellow is not someone easy to deal with…" That strongly built man turned his head somewhat impatiently and spoke to the two while Xiao Yan and Zi Yan were chatting.
TL: grandaunt in this case refers to a woman that was difficult to serve
"Big fellow, there is no need for you to be anxious. Go and beat him. Your task will be considered nearly over once you finish him off." Zi Yan curled her small mouth before pointing at the gloomy-faced Old Mu Gu a short distance away. She instructed in a crisp voice.
That large man and Old Mu Gu's faces involuntarily twitched when they heard her words.
"You really think quite highly of me. It is already not bad that I can block him. If not for my constitution, I would not be able to beat him." The large man helplessly replied. He appeared quite speechless when it came to the task Zi Yan had assigned him.
"May I know who this friend is?" Xiao Yan looked at him. He smiled, cupped his hands together, and inquired politely.
"He is called Xiong Zhan. I call him big fellow. He is the chief of this Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range. Hee hee, all of the natural treasures in this place are managed by him…" Zi Yan laughed. A greediness flashed across her watery eyes.
That large man called Xiong Zhan involuntarily shuddered when he heard Zi Yan's words. He thought of the precious medicinal ingredients being eaten by Zi Yan as tidbits. This little fellow was really someone who wasted treasures.
"Chief?"
Xiao Yan's heart was slightly startled. If one put it this way, would this Xiong Zhan not be that ultimate beast talked about by Song Qing's group?
"This friend, it is really not my intention to barge into this mountain. The old me shall apologize to you if I have offended you in any way. However, this person is a target that I must capture. I hope that you will not interfere!" Old Mu Gu a short distance away finally spoke with a gloomy face. Although Xiong Zhan's level was inferior to him, his fighting strength was extremely shocking. It was impossible to tell just who would end up dying to whose hands.
Xiong Zhan rolled his eyes upon hearing this. After which, he responded in an irritated manner, "You have heard what this little grandaunt said earlier. I must protect this person. Why don't we do it this way? I will not bother about you barging into the mountain, and you should just turn around and leave. What do you say?"
The corner of Old Mu Gu's mouth twitched. His eyes gradually became cold. This time around, he had the intention of capturing Xiao Yan at any costs. The hinderance of anyone would not be able to shake his determination!
"In that case…" Old Mu Gu became silent for a moment. A fierce glint suddenly surged within his eyes as he yelled in a dense voice, "You can go and die!"
The dense voice had just sounded when Old Mu Gu waved his sleeves. That crystal hand, which had been forced back by Xiong Zhan earlier, once again rushed out. Within a flash, the hand appeared in front of Xiong Zhan. The large hand was tightly clenched, forming a fist that violently smashed at the Xiong Zhan's head!
"Chi!"
The wind from the fist had arrived before the punch did. That terrifying fist wind caused the ground under Xiong Zhan's feet to sink by nearly two feet despite them being a great distance apart. An enormous fist imprint appeared on the ground.
"Hee, the old me has dominated for so many years. I have not met anyone who dares tell me to go and die. Who do you think you are?"
A fierceness flashed across Xiong Zhan's face when he saw Old Mu Gu attacking at the first sign of a disagreement. His fist was clenched tightly and a deep-yellow energy surged out of his body. A fist was violently thrown out, and it chose the most direct, non-fanciful method to collide with the large crystal fist.
"Bang!"
The two violently collided and a terrifying ripple rushed out with lightning-like speed. All the grass within a hundred meter radius were cut by half a foot. Some of the gigantic trees' trunks were cut. A large amount of sawdust erupted from the spot where they broke.
Xiao Yan's eyes and hands were swift. When that forceful ripple erupted, he had hugged Zi Yan, and moved his body. After which, he rushed to the sky, lowered his head, and looked at a patch of yellow soil that had appeared within the vast sea of trees. He was involuntarily a little speechless. It was indeed worthy of a battle between the Dou Zun class. Such a great destructive strength had been created by just a raise of one's hand.
Xiong Zhan ended up taking two steps back within the forest now permeated by dust. The ground shook each time his feet landed. This continued two times before he managed to completely stabilize his body. He immediately raised his head, and his eyes were unusually hot as he looked at Old Mu Gu across from him. He cried out, "Alright, it is enjoyable! Again!"
Old Mu Gu's expression turned dark and cold. He glanced at the large crystal claw that was once again sent flying. One could see the cracks on it had become denser.
"The fighting strength of this Xiong Zhan is really great. In what way is he just an expert that has half a foot into the Dou Zun class as Song Qing had mentioned? From the looks of it, he has likely already advanced to the Dou Zun class. Otherwise, it would have been impossible for him to face Old Mu Gu head on without too much of a disadvantage." Xiao Yan softly spoke. Surprise involuntarily flashed across his eyes when he looked at the battle below.
"The big fellow has already advanced to the Dou Zun class a couple of years ago." Zi Yan, who was in Xiao Yan's embrace, curled her mouth and revealed some information.
"It is fortunate that I did not listen to Song Qing while he was fanning the flames. Having only half a foot into the Dou Zun class and completely entering the Dou Zun class were two completely different concepts. With the lineup of Song Qing earlier, they would only deliver themselves to death by going there." Xiao Yan involuntarily smacked his tongue when he heard this. This Song Qing was indeed untrustworthy.
On the yellow soil that was being forcefully created, Old Mu Gu's eyes were dark and dense as he stared at Xiong Zhan, who had a face filled with the intent to battle. Some killing intent also flashed across his heart. The level of difficulty in dealing with Xiong Zhan had far exceeded his expectations. However, this was impossible to get him to give up. Immediately, his shriveled hands rolled out of his sleeves and began to form seals with lightning-like speed!
"Nether Demon Fire Arm!"
A deep-blue flame swiftly erupted from Old Mu Gu's body like a volcano following the cold cry emitted. It immediately surged into the large crystal claw.
With an increasing amount of deep-blue flames surging into the large crystal claw, one could see the lines on the surface of the large claw gradually mend. A deep-blue arm of fire was slowly extended from the back of the large claw. The flame rose, causing this arm to give others a kind of extremely cold feeling. It appeared just like the arm of a death god.
A grave expression flashed across Xiong Zhan's face when he saw the large arm with deep blue coloured fire lingering over it. A low roar was emitted from his throat. The large hand trembled slightly.
"Those who hinder this venerable self shall die!"
A dark chilly expression flashed across Old Mu Gu's eyes. His hand seal suddenly changed and that large flame arm immediately rushed up. After which, it appeared just like a meteorite as it ruthlessly smashed down on the spot where Xiao Zhan was located. The space along the way suddenly crumbled, revealing many dark-black spatial holes.
The large fire hand rushed down. When it was a certain distance away, the flame on it suddenly soared. The large fire hand also swelled with the wind. In an instant, it had transformed into something nearly a hundred feet around. An enormous dark shadow covered the forest within a hundred meter radius!
"Roar!"
Xiong Zhan let out a ferocious roar to the sky after sensing the hot energy pressure that was being transmitted from it. His body also began to swell with a 'swoosh swoosh' sound at this instant. Dark-black, long hair surged out of his body in all directions. Finally, he tightly clenched his enormous fist. A glaring, deep-yellow energy surged out like floodwater. At this instant, Xiao Zhan appeared to have merged with this enormous mountain, using the strength of the mountain to unleash a shocking strike!
The large fire hand rushed down. An instant later, it collided with Xiong Zhan's enormous fist!
The mountain shook and all the beasts trembled as a result.
Chapter 1174: Frightening Away
"Bang!"
An earth-shaking sound suddenly reverberated over the entire mountain like a thunderous roar from the sky. A terrifying energy storm formed at this moment. After which, it swept in all directions. The entire mountain trembled under this ferocious energy storm. Numerous ten-foot-wide fissures swiftly spread. After which, they stretched to the edge of one's sight…
This sudden energy storm that had erupted attracted the attention of the many high rank Magical Beasts on the mountain top. However, all of them were greatly shocked when they sensed just how frightening this energy storm was. After which, their footsteps hurriedly rushed away from the mountain. A battle of this level was not something they could get involved in.
The spreading energy ripple easily flattened nearly half of the forest on this mountain. A thousand-foot-wide pit gradually appeared within Xiao Yan's sight.
"Hiss…"
Even with Xiao Yan's calm demeanor, he involuntarily inhaled a breath of cool air as he stared at the bottomless pit that was nearly a thousand feet in size. Such terrifying destructiive strength was indeed worthy of the battle between members of the Dou Zun class.
Permeating yellow dust had just risen into the air when it was blown away by the wild wind. Xiao Yan's eyes swiftly swept over the area below. After which, they paused on the body of Old Mu Gu, who was suspended in the air.
At this moment, the chest of Old Mu Gu rose and fall slightly. His breathing was no longer as calm as it was before. Clearly, that attack had exhausted him.
"Where is Xiao Zhan?"
Xiao Yan's eyes suddenly searched. He looked at the bottomless pit as his brows slightly knit.
"Inside it…" Zi Yan's finger pointed to the interior of the deep pit. Her watery, large eyes contained a flickering purple-colored glint.
"Roar!"
Zi Yan's voice had just sounded when a soul-stirring roar suddenly erupted from the pit. After which, it transformed into a substance-like sonic wave that spread apart with a 'bang.' It once again sent a deep layer of yellow soil on the ground flying.
"Bang!"
The roar slowly weakened. After which, the entire mountain suddenly began to tremble. Numerous thunderous muffled vibrations were emitted from that deep pit.
The expression of Old Mu Gu changed when he heard this sound. His dark, cold eyes were focused on the seemingly bottomless pit.
"Boom!"
Another terrifyingly loud sound suddenly appeared. Immediately, an incomparably large body leaped out of the deep pit like an enormous tower. After which, it suddenly landed on the ground. The entire mountain violently shook when his feet landed on the ground.
A shocked expression involuntarily flashed across Xiao Yan's eyes as he looked at the enormous being that had leaped out of the deep pit.
That thing, that had revealed itself, was a hundred-meter-large bear. The large bear was black in color and the fur all over its body stood like metal needles. There were eight silver hairlines on the chest of the large bear. However, the thing that surprised Xiao Yan the most was the twenty-meter-long black-colored tail behind it. When this giant tail was swung, it was accompanied by the sound of wind splitting apart. From the looks of it, this tail was just like a dragon's tail.
"This is… Ancient Dragon Bear?"
Xiao Yan's eyes swept over the silver-colored hairlines on the chest of the large bear before immediately focusing on the dragon tail behind it. A glow flickered in his eyes as he muttered to himself.
A Dragon Bear, was a ferocious Magical Beast that was extremely rare to find because it was considered a unique beast of the ancient times. Moreover, its body vaguely possessed a dragon's blood, and it possessed a terrifying strength. Based on what was recorded in the ancient texts, this kind of dragon bear was also called Nine Line Demon Dragon Bear. The silver-colored hairlines on their chests was not merely for appearance's sake. Instead, it was used to judge its strength. It is rumored that when this Dragon Bear possesses nine dragon lines, the dragon bloodline within its body will completely awaken. At that time, the Dragon Bear would undergo a transformation. If the transformation was a success, it would evolve into the Ultimate Dragon Bear. Once it evolved, all it needed to do was raise its hand to shatter mountains and crack the lands.
Hence, these kinds of hairlines were also called dragon lines.
The current Xiong Zhan already possessed eight dragon lines. If another were to appear, this large fellow would become the Ultimate Demon Bear renowned for its ferocity even during ancient times!
"It is unexpected that I am actually able to see a Dragon Bear here… how incredible." Xiao Yan involuntarily shook his head and sighed.
"It is only a Dragon Bear. It is only strong because of the hint of its dragon bloodline…" Zi Yan, who was in Xiao Yan's embrace, curled her mouth slightly as she replied.
"By being able to possess the dragon bloodline, it is enough to state its strength. Bloodline is really too important to Magical Beasts. When I had just arrived in the Central Plains back then, someone from the Heavenly Demon Phoenix Tribe had nearly found the Heavenly Demon Phoenix Essence blood in my Storage Ring…" Xiao Yan smiled and spoke as he suddenly recalled the events at the Wind Lightning Pavilion back then.
"Heavenly Demon Phoenix? They hurt you?"
Zi Yan's small hands, which were hanging around Xiao Yan's neck, suddenly tightened. A glaring purple glint suddenly flashed across her watery eyes. Her small, bright-red tongue gently licked her small lips.
"No but I refined the wings of a Heavenly Demon Phoenix into a flying Dou Tecnique. If I use them in the future and someone ends up recognizing them, there would indeed be some trouble." Xiao Yan's eyes stared at the enormous Dragon Bear as he randomly replied.
"Relax, if they dare to come, I'll ensure that none of them return." Zi Yan's small head leaned against Xiao Yan's shoulder. She used a voice that only she could hear to softly mumble.
Xiao Yan did not hear what Zi Yan had said. His attention had been focused on Xiong Zhan, who had transformed. Perhaps it was due to his actual body having appeared, but Xiong Zhan's aura was even fiercer compared to earlier. A pair of blood-red, large eyes were staring at Old Mu Gu, who was like an ant in the air.
"Again!"
Xiong Zhan's feet suddenly stepped forward. His distorted face revealed a ferocious expression. His fist also smashed toward Old Mu Gu.
A wild wind surged across the sky. The whistling sound of wind splitting permeated the entire mountain range like a low drum beat.
Even Old Mu Gu did not dare to underestimate Xiong Zhan's punch after he had transformed into its actual form. Old Mu Gu's hand seal changed, and the space in front of him distorted. It quickly formed a thick spatial barrier.
"Bang!"
A large fist that was covered with black hairs violently landed on the spatial barrier. It easily blasted the spatial barrier apart. The large hand immediately spread and the black-colored hair on Xiong Zhan's hand shot like arrows in all directions!
These black, sharp hairs moved at extremely terrifying speeds. With a flash, they appeared before Old Mu Gu and had a deep yellow energy trace. Clearly, these things might not appear great, but if one were to be struck by them, one would definitely not feel good.
With Old Mu Gu's eyesight and experience, he would naturally not slight the attack of the other party. The seal formed by his hands changed. After which, he opened his mouth and blew. A deep-blue flame shot out like a fire pillar. Finally, it collided with the sharp hairs. The frightening temperature of the Sea Heart Flame caused the hairs to quietly vaporize. They transformed into clusters of grayish ashes that flew down.
"Shua!"
The flame had just been spat out when a black figure suddenly rushed over from the sky. The terrifying wind caused Old Mu Gu's expression to change a little. The seal formed by his hands quickly changed. After which, the fire pillar from earlier immediately agglomerated into a giant fire beast that was a couple hundred feet large. It launched toward that black figure with lightning-like speed.
"Chi!"
The black figure descended down. After which, it collided with the fire beast. A terrifying strength split the fire beast into two. The remaining force rushed through the air and descended, forming a deep scar, a couple of hundred feet large, on the ground.
The black shadow broke through the fire beast and rotated in the air with a whistling sound. Old Mu Gu glanced over. Only then did he discover that the black figure was Xiong Zhan's enormous dragon tail.
"This beast really possesses incredible brute force…"
Numerous spatial cracks appeared when Old Mu Gu looked at the enormous swinging tail. His eyes involuntarily shrank, and his expression was a little ugly.
If they were to really fight with Dou Qi, it was likely that Xiong Zhan would not be able to defeat Old Mu Gu even after having transformed. However, Xiong Zhan was able to engage in an all out fight without any concern, but Old Mu Gu could not. He still needed to participate in the subsequent Pill Gathering. He needed to become the champion and take the opportunity to snatch the Three Thousand Burning Flames. If he were to engage in an all out life and death fight with Xiong Zhan here, what remaining strength would he be left with to compete with the others?
It was impossible for Old Mu Gu to really engage in an all out battle with Xiong Zhan due to him having such concerns. However, if he did not really go all out and fight, it was impossible for him to defeat Xiong Zhan. This kind of situation caused him to fall into an infinite loop. He was unable to obtain both no matter what he did.
A glint quickly flashed over Old Mu Gu. It was a long while later before he violently clenched his teeth. His eyes viciously turned to Xiao Yan in the sky as he coldly cried out, "Xiao Yan, consider yourself lucky this time around. This venerable self will personally finish you off once the Pill Gathering is over!"
"I will keep you company."
A cold glint flashed across Xiao Yan's eyes as he coldly laughed. Once he obtained the Three Thousand Burning Flame and refined it, he would no longer be afraid of this old fellow!
"Hmph!"
Old Mu Gu's face slightly twitched upon hearing Xiao Yan's. Immediately, his cold eyes turned to Xiong Zhan, who was standing on the mountain like a metal tower. Both of his hands tightened with a great unwillingness. He finally ceased doing any useless tasks a moment later. With a wave of his hand, the surrounding space slowly distorted. His body immediately moved, and he rushed into the distorted space and disappeared.
"Xiao Yan, leave this little life of yours for this venerable self!"
Old Mu Gu's figure might have disappeared, but his ice-cold voice still penetrated space as it slowly reverberated across the sky.
Xiao Yan narrowed his eyes. A fierce glint was flickering within his dark-black eyes…
Chapter 1175: Medicinal Ingredient Square
Xiao Yan slowly exhaled when he saw Old Mu Gu disappear in the distorted space. He had finally shaken off this old demon. However, from the looks of it, this Old Mu Gu did not appear to be giving up. A true life and death battle would definitely erupt when they met in the future.
Xiong Zhan, who was just like a giant tower on the ground, also coldly snorted upon seeing Old Mu Gu leave. After which, his enormous body began to swiftly shrink. Within a short couple of breaths, he had turned back into the big, strong man Xiao Yan had seen earlier.
Upon seeing Xiong Zhan turn back into his human form, Xiao Yan hugged Zi Yan closer, and rushed down from the sky. He placed her down before cupping his hand to Xiong Zhan and said, "Thank you for your help big brother Xiong Zhan."
"Hey, big fellow. He is someone extremely close to me. Calling you 'big brother' means he thinks very highly of you. Moreover, he is a tier 8 alchemist. Should he randomly refine a medicinal pill and hand it to you as a gift, you will have gained a great reward." Zi Yan by the side revealed her two small canine teeth as she spoke to Xiong Zhan in a threatening gesture. She was aware of the character of this Xiong Zhan. He would completely ignore the person if that person was not someone he was familiar with. She did not wish for Xiao Yan to end up bearing with the attitude of this rude fellow.
Xiong Zhan was startled when he heard this. His eyes were somewhat surprise as he looked at Xiao Yan. His expression changed a little as he asked, "Tier 8 alchemist?"
Even with his strength, he had to treat an alchemist of this tier politely because the medicinal pills he needed at this level of his could only be refined by tier 8 alchemists.
The world of the strong was one where strength was honored. If Xiao Yan did not possess any ability, that Xiong Zhan might feel some disdain in his heart even after giving Zi Yan face. However, after hearing that Xiao Yan was a tier 8 alchemist, his attitude had drastically changed.
"I am not a tier 8 alchemist. Currently, I am still only at the high grade seventh tier…" Xiao Yan smiled and replied without hiding anything.
Xiong Zhan was once again stunned in his heart when he heard Xiao Yan's frank reply. A rare good impression rose within his heart. Other people always tried to make themselves look better. It was unexpected that Xiao Yan would willingly reveal his level. This point caused Xiong Zhan, who had a forthright character, to feel a little pleased.
"However, I am currently finding some things. If I manage to gather all of them, perhaps I might be able to reach the eighth tier." A good impression of Xiong Zhan rose within Xiao Yan's heart after he saw that Xiong Zhan did not reveal an expression of disdain because of his level. Immediately, he changed his tone and laughed, "If I am able to advance to the eighth tier in the future, big brother Xiong Zhan can come and look for me if you need anything. I will definitely lend a hand if it is within my ability to do so."
"Ha ha, alright. I will remember your words. If you really advance to a tier 8 alchemist, this old bear will definitely come and look for you." Xiong Zhan involuntarily laughed out loud when he heard this offer. His laughter was just like thunder as it resounded over the sky.
"Big fellow, it is rumored that Xiao Yan will require some task items to pass this Pill Gathering. In any case, you have so many things here. Let's go and take a look first. It is a waste if you keep them all…" Zi Yan grabbed Xiao Yan's clothes and commanded to Xiong Zhan. After which, she ignored him. She moved her body, pulled Xiao Yan, and quickly rushed to the top of the mountain.
Xiong Zhan widened his mouth upon hearing this. However, he could only sigh. This little grandaunt was really difficult to serve.
Xiao Yan had reached the enormous stone hall in a couple of minutes with Zi Yan leading him. There were two Magical Beasts with fierce auras at the entrance to the stone hall. When they saw Xiao Yan's foreign face, they immediately stood up. A low, furious roar resounded over the place.
"Go play by the side."
Zi Yan took the lead to walk forward. Her small hand was randomly waved. Those two seemingly fierce high rank Magical Beasts emitted a low whimper before they held their tails between their legs and hurriedly withdrew a great distance away. They felt a pressure emitted from Zi Yan that came from their bloodlines. This caused them to be without any desire to resist.
Xiao Yan contemplated the reason upon seeing this scene. These two Magical Beasts possessed strength that had reached the seventh rank. They were not weaker than the Mysterious Water Tiger Snake that Xiao Yan had met. However, they appeared weak in front of Zi Yan. It seemed that the background of this girl was quite great…
Xiao Yan followed Zi Yan as they quickly entered the stone hall. They shuffled down a couple of corridors and arrived at a spacious square within the large hall.
Xiao Yan's footsteps had just entered the square when a medicinal fragrance, so rich it literally adhered to things, violently surged over. This caused him to violently quiver on the spot. After which, he raised his head and looked at the densely packed medicinal ingredients in the square. His face became dull at this moment.
"Rising Dragon Flower Heart… Red Flame Fruit… Sulphur Flame Spiritual Saliva…"
Xiao Yan's stunned gaze swept over the medicinal ingredients that had been neatly arranged in front of him. These items were considered extremely rare items in the outside world. However, they were randomly placed in this place like white cabbages.
Xiao Yan's eyes swept over the place for a moment. He finally recovered and inhaled a deep breath of air. After which, he suppressed the shock within his heart, looked at Zi Yan and bitterly laughed, "The both of you have moved all of the precious medicinal ingredients in this Ten Thousand Mountain Range to this place, right?"
Zi Yan laughed. She nodded and said, "You can choose whatever you want here and can even take all of them with you when the time comes. After all, that big fellow is going to leave. Leaving them here will only benefit others…
Zi Yan's voice had just sounded when Xiong Zhan's feet involuntarily trembled after following them into the hall. The corner of his mouth twitched a couple of times. Zi Yan was right. In any case, he was about to leave this terrible place. However, Xiong Zhan still felt his heart bleed despite thinking in this manner.
"You can just choose what you need. Just leave a little for me when you leave." Xiong Zhan rubbed his large hands with great force and spoke with an expressionless face.
Xiao Yan involuntarily smiled when he saw Xiong Zhan run his hands. He laughed, "Big brother Xiong Zhan really knows how to joke. The things here all belongs to you. It is already very good of you to lend some of them to me. How can I snatch your things?"
"Damn damn. He has already said that he only wants a little. It's fine, right?" Zi Yan turned her head suddenly when she uttered these words. Her large, watery eyes revealed a bright-purple glow. That purple glow was different from normal. At a glance, it appeared to form the shape of a dragon.
Xiong Zhan's strong body trembled involuntarily when he saw the dragon-shaped purple glow. A pressure, that originated from his bloodline, caused his blood to have the impulse to boil.
"This… this is the ancestor dragon pressure?"
A shocked expression flashed across Xiong Zhan's eyes. His straight body involuntarily and quietly hunched over a little. He hurriedly laughed, "That's right. That's right. Little grandaunt is right. Brother Xiao Yan can just take them. If you take too little, you will be looking down on me, Xiong Zhan. I will be displeased."
Xiao Yan widened his mouth, feeling neither able to laugh nor cry. This Xiong Zhan was indeed interesting. He helplessly nodded. His gaze glanced at Zi Yan who was smiling at him from the side. His finger was gently flicked on her clear forehead. He knew the reason Xiong Zhan had experienced a sudden change was probably because of this little girl.
"Since big brother Xiong Zhan has put it this way, Xiao Yan will not hold back. Currently, I do indeed need a couple of things…" Since Xiong Zhan had already put it this way, there was not much for Xiao Yan to say. He cupped his hands together before carefully entering the square piled with rare medicinal ingredients. His eyes carefully swept over them as he attempted to find the medicinal ingredients he needed.
The medicinal ingredients in this square was basically the collection of the entire Ten Thousand Medicinal Mountain Range. There were many types of medicinal ingredients. It was enough to cause one to feel dazzled by looking at them. Therefore, even though Xiao Yan was quite good at identifying medicinal ingredients, he still spent nearly half an hour or so before finding the three types of medicinal ingredients he needed.
"Seven Magical Green Spirit Saliva… Soul Cultivating Saliva Fruit Plup… Rising Immortal Grass…"
These three types of medicinal ingredients were the tasked items of Xiao Yan this time around. However, at this moment, he had completely gathered them in this place. Thus, his task had been completed in an effortless manner…
Even Xiao Yan involuntarily became absent-minded as he looked at the three types of rare medicinal ingredients in his hands. He immediately shook his head with a bitter smile. It was likely that he would be the person who had completed his task in the smoothest manner in all the previous and future Pill Gatherings.
Xiao Yan threw his mind back to the square after having placed these three tasked items into his Storage Ring. Currently, he needed a special medicinal ingredient called the Heavenly Numb Jade Essence. This thing was a critical substance to mediate the Core Soul Marrow. As long as one found this thing, he would be able to completely remedy the Core Soul Marrow. At that time, his soul would be able to rely on it to completely transform and truly enter that so-called Soul State. The eighth tier would also open its doors to him!
It was not easy to find this Heavenly Numb Jade Essence. It was a rock, yet it was not exactly a rock. If one was not an extremely experienced person, one would find it difficult to identify from a pile of random rocks.
Xiao Yan's eyes steadily swept over the middle of the square. Time swiftly flowed by amid this slow investigation. An hour passed by within the blink of an eye. Xiong Zhan had already turned around and impatiently walked out of the stone hall during this period of time. Only Zi Yan remained seated on some stone stairs. Her small hands supported her cheeks as she watched Xiao Yan's back. She would yawn occasionally while doing so…
Xiao Yan's footsteps did not become hurried because of the flow of time. One could not be half-hearted when identifying medicinal ingredients. After all, quite a lot of medicinal ingredients were similar in appearance. If one was not serious, identifying them was a very difficult task.
Finding medicinal ingredients was also an extremely time consuming task. However, it was fortunate that the Heavens did not let down those who were sincere. When Xiao Yan's feet had gradually walked to the other end of the square, they finally paused. His eyes were focused intently on an inconspicuous spot. There was a green-colored rock quietly lying in fragrant soil…