The Fire Kirin Was Actually a Fire Lin-and Female, at That!

After reciting the incantation section by section, Zhang Xiaofan finished. Hao Shuai pretended to ponder for a moment, then said, "Xiao Fan, the Great Brahma Prajna only conflicts with the Tai Chi Xuan Qing Dao during the introductory stage. That's why practicing both has slowed your progress. You just need to get through the hardest part at the beginning, and you'll be fine after that."

"I knew Brother Hao would understand." Zhang Xiaofan looked at Hao Shuai as if he'd known all along.

Hao Shuai hadn't been lying. In the original story, Zhang Xiaofan spent three years reaching the first layer of Jade Purity, then only two more years getting to the second and third layers. After that, his progress far outstripped that of the other Qingyun disciples.

And now, there was even less to worry about. Hao Shuai had gone to great lengths to improve Zhang Xiaofan's aptitude, so he figured Zhang Xiaofan could master the basics of cultivating both techniques in a year.

"All right, it's getting late. Try to get some cultivation in, then go to bed early," Hao Shuai urged.

"I'll do as you say, Brother Hao."

Early the next morning

Zhang Xiaofan's chores hadn't been excused just because Hao Shuai had come to visit. He still got up early to chop black bamboo on the back mountain.

By the time the sun was high, Zhang Xiaofan returned to his little courtyard and ran into Hao Shuai.

"Xiao Fan, you're back at just the right time. I'm heading back to Tongtian Peak," Hao Shuai said, taking his leave.

"What? Brother Hao, you're leaving already?"

"Silly boy, I'm from Tongtian Peak. I can't stay at Great Bamboo Peak forever," Hao Shuai explained. "Don't worry. I'll come visit when I have time."

"All right, then." Zhang Xiaofan