Tai Cang was shaken. Nine-star potential already rivaled that of a top-tier innate deity, while Qing Tan'er was only half a step away from reaching the level of an innate demon god. Across the prehistoric world, those with the foundation of innate demon gods were exceedingly rare. Even Tai Cang himself ranked only among top-tier innate deities. If she were carefully nurtured, she would surely become a towering figure in the future, perhaps even stand alongside beings such as Nuwa and Houtu.
"Big Brother, this flower is for you!"
Qing Tan'er walked up to Tai Cang. Seeing him lost in thought, she took a seven-colored flower from her basket and said with a bright smile, "I worked very hard to pick this. I hope it cheers you up, Big Brother."
"Alright."
Tai Cang accepted the flower. Though it was merely a low-grade innate spirit root, it was more precious to him than a top-grade innate spiritual treasure. He gazed at Qing Tan'er and solemnly asked, "Qing Tan'er, are you willing to take me as your master?"
"Huh?"
Qing Tan'er froze, then shook her head. "I can't. I need to take care of my little brother, so I can't go cultivate with you, Big Brother." With that, she waved her hand. "My brother is still waiting for me at home. I'm leaving first!"
"Rejected?"
Tai Cang laughed in disbelief, yet his determination to take her as a disciple only grew stronger. How could he possibly let such an unpolished jade slip away?
"Master!"
At that moment, Shi Hao returned with over thirty children possessing eight-star potential. They varied in age, but all had anticipation shining in their eyes. Upon learning that Tai Cang was the founder of martial arts, every one of them longed to become his disciple.
"Rise."
Tai Cang