Yue Guan waved a hand to tell Lin Xia not to worry, then said bluntly,
"There's still plenty of time. Come with me to see the Pope first. Once they've suffered a little, you can make your entrance. It'll have a much better effect."
"Mm."
The solemn scene in the side hall of Pope Hall's council chamber came into view.
Bibi Dong sat in a high-backed chair, her fingertips habitually tapping the armrest. Her dignified purple eyes settled on Lin Xia, whom Yue Guan had brought in.
"Your Holiness!"
Yue Guan bowed gracefully, unable to hide his excitement.
"Lin Xia passed the Heavenly Stairway trial. He climbed to the twentieth step and cultivated there for an hour, far exceeding expectations. Under the trial's rules, he has the right to make a reasonable request of Spirit Hall."
Bibi Dong's gaze lingered on Lin Xia's slightly pale face, his eyes calm and his aura refined. A trace of barely perceptible surprise flickered in the depths of her purple eyes.
She knew Lin Xia was exceptional, but with Soul Power at rank nineteen, he had endured twentyfold Gravity for an entire hour. His foundation and resilience had indeed exceeded her expectations.
Bibi Dong nodded impassively, her voice cool and dignified.
"Granted. Lin Xia, what reward do you want? A Spirit Bone? Rare medicinal herbs? Or a Soul Tool? Spirit Hall will spare no expense when investing in a genius."
Lin Xia bowed slightly and met Bibi Dong's gaze openly. He didn't answer at once, instead lowering his eyes to Bulbasaur at his feet. The little creature's aura was equally steady, and its bulb gleamed with a deep luster.
As if sensing something, the little fellow looked up at Lin Xia with its crimson eyes, conveying a wordless understanding.
Lin Xia raised his head,