Targeting the Sea Heart Flame, Preparations Before the Battle

Xiao Yan embraced her in return.

"I promise you."

The two stood in the courtyard for a long time. Only when the moon had risen high into the sky did Xiao Xun'er let go and turn to leave the residence.

Xiao Yan remained where he was, watching her figure vanish into the night.

He turned and returned to the room, sat cross-legged, took a deep breath, and began circulating his cultivation art.

Yao Chen was right. He was still too weak.

Not only for the sake of avenging his teacher, but also for Xun Er, he had to become stronger.

A five-star Da Dou Shi was not enough. He wanted to become a Dou Ling, a Dou Wang, a Dou Huang, a Dou Zong—to stand at the peak of the continent, strong enough that no one could stop him from bringing Xun Er back.

Inside the ring, Yao Chen sensed the noticeably accelerated circulation of Dou Qi within Xiao Yan and nodded in satisfaction.

Xiao Yan-zi had finally come to his senses.

After leaving the stone platform on the Back Mountain, Lu Heng followed the paths of the Inner Academy toward Courtyard No. 1.

Along the way, he encountered several squads from the Enforcement Team. They all nodded and saluted him, and Lu Heng returned their greetings without saying much.

He had only just reached the courtyard gate when he heard Zi Yan's voice from inside.

"Why aren't you back yet?! I'm starving!"

Lu Heng pushed the door open. Zi Yan was sprawled across the stone table, propping up her chin with both hands, looking utterly listless.

Xiao Yi Xian sat nearby, mending clothes with needle and thread, while Qing Lin crouched in the corner tending to the flowers.

"Hungry?" Lu Heng walked over and rapped Zi Yan on