Within the cocoon of light, the Dragon Phoenix patterns on Zi Yan's body were gradually taking shape. Her small figure was enveloped in violet-golden radiance, and her usually rambunctious little face had grown quiet. She still looked like a child who had yet to grow up.
After a long while, Xiao Fan said, "She's still young."
Zhu Kun fell silent for a moment.
A flash of pain passed through his eyes at those words.
For an Ancient Void Dragon, Zi Yan was not truly considered a hatchling.
But she had wandered the human world for far too long and missed out on too much. There was indeed still much childishness in her nature.
She loved to eat, guarded her food fiercely, feared being abandoned, acted tough, and was easily satisfied.
That was not immaturity.
It was because no one had taken proper care of her.
Zhu Kun said quietly, "It was this Emperor who kept her from growing up properly."
Xiao Fan said, "Then don't rush."
Zhu Kun nodded.
"This Emperor understands."
Yet he could not resist adding, "But when she grows up a little more, you can give it some serious thought."
Xiao Fan looked at him.
Zhu Kun said righteously, "This Emperor is merely reminding you."
Inside the cocoon of light, Zi Yan suddenly muttered again.
"Old man... shut up..."
Zhu Kun: "..."
Xiao Fan finally failed to hold it in and chuckled softly.
Zhu Kun looked at the cocoon, his tone helpless yet gentle.
"Fine, I'll shut up."
The Magma World fell silent once more.
But the silence did not last long.
A low phoenix cry suddenly emerged from within the cocoon.
A dark-golden phoenix pattern abruptly lit up across its surface, like a pair of spreading wings trying to burst out from Zi Yan's brow. Zi