Jiang Donghua watched the group flee in panic, the smile still lingering on his lips when a soft, rueful chuckle sounded behind him.
"Not bad."
At some point, Elder Mo Xuan had appeared inside the Pill Room. His gray-white robes hung loose, and his gaze was as deep as an abyss.
Standing with his hands behind his back, he spoke with a note of admiration.
"Either do nothing, or make a shocking move."
"You brat earned yourself quite a reputation this time, and even got a peak third-tier pill cauldron."
Jiang Donghua turned around and respectfully bowed, though that composed smile remained on his face.
"You flatter me, Teacher."
Elder Mo Xuan stared at him for a moment before slowly shaking his head.
"Now, I admit I misjudged you somewhat."
"With your temperament and strength, even if you were not an alchemist, you would likely become a renowned powerhouse."
Jiang Donghua's smile did not change, but a trace of depth flashed through his eyes.
"Teacher, a powerhouse who has not yet grown only counts as talented."
Elder Mo Xuan raised his brow slightly, smiling faintly.
"Oh? Then do you think you have grown?"
Jiang Donghua did not answer immediately. Instead, he walked to the window and looked into the distance.
"At least no one dares treat me as trash who 'slept his way to the top' anymore, right?"
Elder Mo Xuan fell silent for a moment, then gave a quiet laugh.
"What a fine 'either do nothing, or make a shocking move.'"
Elder Mo Xuan gave him a long look before finally nodding.
"Fine. Since you possess such resolve, I will say no more."
"But what do you plan to do next?"
Jiang Donghua smiled slightly, his fingertips lightly brushing his Storage Ring. The warmth of the Azure Flame Cauldron