.
Ling Ying nodded upon hearing this. He didn't interfere with Xiao Xun'er's decision. After all, Xiao Xun'er held a special position within the Ancient Clan, and her decision naturally had its reasons.
He was merely carrying out the orders from the Ancient Clan, and he would respect Xiao Xun'er's choice.
"Yes, Miss Xun'er, I will inform the Clan of your situation. However, please make a decision as soon as possible. The elders in the Clan won't wait long."
Ling Ying's tone was calm, yet his words revealed his concern for Xiao Xun'er and his understanding of the pressure from the Ancient Clan's leadership.
Xiao Xun'er nodded gently, indicating that she understood.
She knew the power and rules of the Ancient Clan, and was aware of her own responsibilities.
But she also understood that Xiao Ling was a special person to her, and she didn't want the clan's affairs to affect their relationship.
"Uncle Ling, please go back first. I'll consider this carefully." Xiao Xun'er finished speaking, and Ling Ying's figure flashed, transforming into a dark shadow that gradually dissipated into the air, as if he had never appeared.
Xiao Xun'er picked up the ancient tome again, but her mood was no longer as calm as before.
Meanwhile
, in the training room, Xiao Ling was completely absorbed in refining the Sea Heart Flame, oblivious to the events outside.
Within him, the Sea Heart Flame, the Golden Emperor's Burning Heaven Flame, and the Azure Lotus Earth Core Fire intertwined and gradually merged, and Xiao Ling's strength steadily increased in the process.
Time slipped quietly, and two months passed quickly. The glow in the training room gradually faded, and Xiao Ling's aura became more restrained and profound.
As the last trace of the Sea Heart Flame's surging energy, guided by the "Burning Art," was thoroughly refined and absorbed within Xiao Ling's body, his body felt as if undergoing a complete transformation.
At that moment, Xiao Ling's eyes slowly opened. In that instant, a gleam of light flashed in them, like a sword piercing the darkness, sharp and dazzling, illuminating his entire spiritual world.
This light was not only a symbol of his growing strength, but also a manifestation of his deepest desire for power.
Xiao Ling deeply felt the newfound power surge within him. It surged through his meridians like the mighty Yangtze River, bringing him an unprecedented sense of strength.
Refining the Sea Heart Flame not only saw a quantum leap in Xiao Ling's strength, but also tempered and purified his soul.
He clearly realized that reaching the Dou Zong realm, the realm most people only dream of, was no longer far away; he had taken another solid step.
Xiao Ling slowly walked out of the training room, his steps light yet filled with strength and confidence.
Standing in the center of the courtyard, he gazed up at the starry sky, his eyes gleaming with longing and determination for the future.
With a gentle wave of his hand, he seemed to command the entire universe.
"On this vast path of cultivation, I, Xiao Ling, may be just a star that has yet to shine," Xiao Ling's voice was deep and powerful, as if stating an undeniable truth.
"But even if it's just a glimmer, I still dream of illuminating the night sky, letting the stars guide me, letting the heavens and the earth bear witness to my progress."
"The peak of Dou Huang," Xiao Ling's tone was filled with yearning, yet also with a hint of unyielding determination.
"It is my goal, but not my destination. The true peak lies in the vast, boundless universe within my heart. There, is the homeward path of my soul."
With this, Xiao Ling gently closed his eyes, his body seemingly blending with the night. Although he hadn't yet broken through to Dou Zong, his aura foreshadowed his future glory.
His presence was like a brilliant star about to rise, not yet at its peak, but already showing its brilliance.
His slender figure stood out against the night, and Xiao Ling's eyes revealed a firm resolve for the future.
He knew his road was long, but he was ready to meet those challenges and protect those he cherished most.
...
In the courtyard of the Supreme Freedom Sect, the night was as dark as water. Several women sat around a stone table, their figures strikingly beautiful in the moonlight.
Their voices rang out remarkably clear in the still night, seemingly blending seamlessly with the moonlight.
As the topic gradually shifted to Xiao Ling, Xiao Xun'er couldn't help but complain, "Why hasn't Brother Xiao Ling come out yet? I'm so worried sick."
Qing Lin smiled and soothed, "Don't worry, Sister Xun'er. Young Master's training is going smoothly."
Han Yue chimed in, "Yes, Xun'er. Xiao Ling is the top talent at Canaan Academy. We've all seen his rapid training. This retreat shouldn't take long."
Despite this, Han Yue was probably the one who missed Xiao Ling the most. After experiencing Xiao Ling's nourishment, Han Yue had truly relished the sweetness and longed to continue experiencing the fulfillment he brought her.
Xiao Yixian nodded in agreement, "Besides, Xiao Ling always achieves breakthroughs during his retreat, and I believe this time will be no exception."
Although Xiao Xun'er expressed her concern, she knew they had a point. She sighed, a hint of resignation in her tone. "Well, I hope he comes out soon."
They chatted for a few more moments, when suddenly, a ray of light emanated from the Bone Flame Ring on Qinglin's finger.
Yao Chen's soul floated out of the ring, his eyes gleaming with a strange brilliance.
Stroking his beard, Yao Chen looked at the women. "There's an aura of a peak Dou Huang coming from Xiao Ling's courtyard, and it doesn't resemble that of Zi Yan."
Yao Chen's voice was calm but powerful. "It must be that Xiao Ling has achieved success in his cultivation and has broken through to the peak of Dou Huang."
Upon hearing Yao Chen's words, the women paused in their conversation, expressions of surprise and delight crossing their faces.
Han Yue excitedly said, "Then let's go check it out! Maybe Xiao Ling has already emerged from his retreat."
Xiao Yixian and Qinglin agreed, following Han Yue towards Xiao Ling's courtyard.
Xiao Xun'er, though worried, followed closely, hoping to see Xiao Ling as soon as possible.
...
Several people arrived at Xiao Ling's courtyard and saw him standing in the center. His aura was calm and restrained, and he had obviously broken through to the peak of the Douhuang realm.
Xiao Ling saw everyone coming and a warm smile appeared on his face.
"I'm sorry to have worried you," Xiao Ling said softly.
Xiao Xun'er quickly walked up to Xiao Ling and looked him up and down, her eyes full of concern: "Brother Xiao Ling, you have finally finished your training."
Xiao Ling nodded and glanced at the crowd: "This training has been very fruitful, thanks to your continued support."
Han Yue's beautiful eyes moved, and she said coquettishly: "Xiao Ling, you have kept us waiting for so long while you were training."
There was a hint of resentment between her eyebrows, and a hint of temptation.
Little Medical Fairy smiled and said, "Such a breakthrough is due to your talent and hard work."
Qing Lin blinked his bright eyes. "Young Master, what are your plans next?"
Xiao Ling paused for a moment before saying, "Next, we should prepare for the Dou Zong breakthrough. But after so much training, it's time to relax. I want to enjoy some quiet time with you, putting aside the hardships and challenges of cultivation."
Xiao Xun'er's eyes were filled with tenderness as she nodded gently, "Yes, Brother Xiao Ling, it's not good to be constantly tense. It's time to relax."
Xiao Ling chatted with the others for a moment, the atmosphere harmonious.
Suddenly, Xiao Xun'er interrupted the harmonious conversation. She looked at Xiao Ling, her tone a touch serious as she whispered, "Brother Xiao Ling, I have something I'd like to discuss with you privately."
Xiao Ling's gaze fell softly on Xiao Xun'er's face. Sensing her seriousness, he nodded slightly and replied, "No problem, let's go over there and talk."
With that, Xiao Ling led Xiao Xun'er down the winding corridor towards his room.
The sound of their footsteps was particularly clear in the quiet night.
Han Yue, Xiao Yixian, and Qing Lin watched Xiao Ling and Xiao Xun'er depart. They exchanged glances and tacitly chose to remain where they were.
They understood that some things needed to be said in a more private space, and their presence might interfere with the depth of the conversation.
As Xiao Ling and Xiao Xun'er left, the atmosphere gradually grew quieter.
Han Yue, Xiao Yixian, and Qing Lin exchanged glances before each of them sorted themselves out and quietly said their goodbyes.
...
As Xiao Ling and Xiao Xun'er entered the room, the night's stillness deepened.
The door closed gently, shutting out all the outside noise, leaving only the hushed whispers of their conversation.
Xiao Xun'er sat on a soft couch by the window, the moonlight casting a worry-filled shadow on her face.
Xiao Ling stood beside her, his gaze fixed on her with concern.
"Xun'er, what's so worrying you?" Xiao Ling asked softly, his tone filled with concern for Xiao Xun'er.
Xiao Xun'er's eyes didn't betray much worry. After all, she was the eldest daughter of the Ancient Clan, of noble status, having enjoyed a high position within the clan since childhood.
Her anxiety stemmed from a slight reluctance and discomfort at the impending departure from Xiao Ling.
"Brother Xiao Ling, the Ancient Clan is urging me to return for the Coming of Age Ceremony, a crucial rite of passage for every Ancient Clan member." Xiao Xun'er's voice was calm, but a hint of reluctance at the impending separation lingered in her eyes.
"Also, the clan elders are very concerned about the news surrounding the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade and want me to quickly reclaim the Xiao Family's piece," Xiao Xun'er continued, a hint of resignation in her tone.
Upon hearing this, Xiao Ling gently held Xiao Xun'er's hand, his eyes full of understanding and support: "Xun'er, the ancient clan's coming-of-age ceremony means a lot to you. I know you will handle it well." "
As for the mission of the Tuoshe Ancient Emperor Jade, since the elders in your family are so curious, then take it back. I can also receive the transaction reward sooner."
Xiao Xun'er looked up at Xiao Ling, a trace of gratitude flashing in her eyes: "Brother Xiao Ling, you always understand me so well. I'm so lucky to have you by my side."
Xiao Ling smiled and patted Xiao Xun'er's shoulder gently:
"There's no need for us to be so polite. You are like another part of my life. I am also proud of you for attending the coming-of-age ceremony."
"Back then, you were just a three-year-old girl, and now, in the blink of an eye, you've become a graceful, beautiful lady."
Xiao Xun'er let out a shy smile. She deliberately glared at Xiao Ling and teased, "Hmph, who knows which little brat sneaked into another girl's room in the middle of the night? Shame on you..."
Xiao Ling chuckled, feigning innocence. "Xun'er, you're wrongly accusing a good person! You were feeling unwell back then, not me having any ill intentions..."
Xiao Xun'er couldn't help but laugh. She knew Xiao Ling was teasing, but her heart was filled with sweetness.
She gently nudged Xiao Ling, a blush on her face. "How dare you say that? Back then, you were just a little kid, and now you're a badass."
Xiao Ling gently held Xiao Xun'er's hand, his eyes filled with tenderness. "Xun'er, you'll always be a little girl in my heart. No matter how old you get, I will always protect you."
...
As the night deepened, Xiao Ling and Xiao Xun'er decided to go for a walk, enjoying their last moments of peace.
Hand in hand, they strolled through the courtyard of the Wushang Zizai Sect. The moonlight cast a silver halo over them.
Neither spoke, simply walking silently, savoring each other's company.
Their hearts were filled with attachment to each other, a sweetness that made them forget their impending separation.
They passed corner after corner, leaving their footprints in every spot.
Finally, Xiao Ling led Xiao Xun'er to an open space where a large tree sat, beneath a stone table.
Xiao Ling gently pulled Xiao Xun'er toward him, letting her sit on his lap. They faced each other, their eyes filled with love.
Xiao Ling gently stroked Xiao Xun'er's cheek, his eyes filled with tenderness.
"Xun'er, I'm truly happy to be with you these days." Xiao Ling's voice was low and warm, filled with trust in Xiao Xun'er.
Xiao Xun'er gently squeezed Xiao Ling's hand, her eyes also filled with love. "Me too, Brother Xiao Ling. You are the most important person in my life."
The two stared at each other, their hearts filled with attachment.
At this moment, they seemed to own the whole world, and all their troubles and worries disappeared without a trace.
Xiao Ling gently approached Xiao Xun'er, his lips gently touched Xiao Xun'er's lips, and the two closed their eyes, enjoying this sweet moment.
As their heartbeats quickened, the two felt each other's breath, as if the whole world had stopped.
After the kiss, the two smiled at each other, their eyes full of happiness. Xiao Ling whispered: "Xun'er, no matter where you are, no matter how noble your status is, I believe that in the near future, we will never be separated."
Nodding, Xiao Xun'er said in a firm tone: "Brother Xiao Ling, Xun'er believes that you will be able to become an unparalleled strong man, even surpassing the ancestors of the Xiao family."
The two hugged each other tightly again. They knew that this separation was only temporary. Their hearts were always connected, and their future was full of infinite possibilities.
(End of this chapter)