After arriving, Tang Zhen made no further move and stopped in his tracks.
Xiao Fan and the others also halted, sensing the dense fire-attribute energy in the air.
"Everyone..."
Ahead of them, Tang Zhen turned around and swept his gaze over Xiao Fan and the others. He nodded slightly to Master Huan before resting his eyes on Xiao Fan and Xiao Yan, a broad smile on his face. "I never expected it. You two truly are accomplished young men! To possess such talent and strength at your age-you put this old man to shame..."
Neither Xiao Fan nor Xiao Yan was surprised by Tang Zhen's words. Given the Burning Flame Valley's influence in the Central Plains, it was perfectly normal for their identities to have been recognized now that they had entered its headquarters. They would only have been surprised if their identities had remained undiscovered even now.
"Hehe, Senior Tang, you flatter us."
Xiao Yan glanced at Xiao Fan and, seeing that he had no intention of speaking, stepped forward himself. He cupped his hands toward Tang Zhen with a smile and said, "I heard that you were the one who requested this gathering of alchemists, Senior Tang, and that once the task is complete, we can make one request of the Burning Flame Valley. Is that true?"
Rather than showing displeasure at Xiao Yan's directness, Tang Zhen appreciated it. Smiling, he said, "Indeed. I gave that promise myself. I gathered the alchemists this time to refine a pill."
Tang Zhen addressed Xiao Yan while also explaining to Master Huan beside him. "I invited you all here to refine a pill. It all comes down to my failure to discipline my daughter, which allowed her to develop a habit of reaching beyond her grasp. As you all know, the