Behind the Xiao Family's mountain.
Xiao Yan sat somewhat absentmindedly atop the mountain, calmly gazing at the perilous mountain range shrouded in mist across from him.
That was the Magic Beast Mountain Range, renowned throughout the Jia Ma Empire.
"Heh heh, strength! In this world, without strength, you're worth less than a pile of dog shit! At least no one dares step on dog shit!"
Xiao Yan's shoulders trembled faintly as he let out a low, self-mocking laugh. Filled with grief, indignation, and humiliation, it slowly echoed across the mountaintop.
He buried his fingers in his black hair, his teeth clenching tightly around his lips as he allowed the faint taste of blood to spread through his mouth.
Although he had not shown any improper emotions in the hall, every word Nalan Yanran had said had cut into his heart like a blade, leaving him humiliated and trembling all over.
"I don't want to suffer today's humiliation a second time!" Xiao Yan's voice was hoarse yet firm, though it also carried bitterness and helplessness.
"Heh heh, little one, it seems you need some help!"
At that moment, an aged and strange laugh suddenly entered Xiao Yan's ears.
His expression changed. Xiao Yan abruptly rose to his feet, his hawk-sharp gaze sweeping across the surroundings, yet he did not find a single person.
"Heh heh, stop looking. I'm on your finger."
Just as Xiao Yan wondered whether he had imagined it, that strange laugh rang out again without warning.
His pupils contracted as Xiao Yan's gaze suddenly settled on the Ancient Black Ring worn on the finger of his right hand.
It was a keepsake left behind by his mother.
"Was that you speaking?" Xiao Yan suppressed the terror in his heart and tried his best to keep his voice calm.