Back in his room, Su Baichen raised his sleeve and looked at the Eight-Colored Heaven-Swallowing Python still sleeping within it. A rare hint of tenderness flashed through his eyes.
The little fellow shimmered with eight-colored light from head to tail. Even in the dim light, its scales reflected enchanting hues, like a meticulously crafted work of art.
Curled into a ball, it breathed evenly, completely unaware of the commotion outside.
"You little thing can really sleep. You didn't even wake up just now." Su Baichen murmured softly, his tone carrying a touch of indulgence.
He carefully took the Heaven-Swallowing Python from his sleeve and cradled it in his palm. Seemingly sensing its master's touch, the little snake shifted slightly in its sleep before sinking back into slumber.
Su Baichen extended a slender finger and gently tapped the Eight-Colored Heaven-Swallowing Python's head. His fingertip met a cool, smooth surface; its scales were finer than he could have imagined.
At his teasing, the Heaven-Swallowing Python finally woke slowly. It raised its head, its crystalline snake eyes gazing at Su Baichen as its tongue flicked gently, as though asking something.
"Awake?"
The corners of Su Baichen's lips rose as he stroked the Heaven-Swallowing Python's chin with his fingertip. The little snake seemed to enjoy the touch and rubbed itself against his finger, displaying clear affection.
If outsiders had seen this, they would certainly have been shocked—the infamous Eight-Colored Heaven-Swallowing Python, Cailin, actually had such a docile side.
After teasing it for a while, Su Baichen gently placed the Heaven-Swallowing Python on the bed. His expression gradually turned serious. It was time to get down to business.
With a thought, he sank his consciousness into his mind and summoned the System Shop interface.
The System Shop's vast, mist-like list of items appeared before him.