"There was no helping it. In all the world, only Fellow Daoist Li of the Huanling Sect knew that your husband had reached Foundation Establishment three years ago. We had to give him some face!" Xiao Hua said with a grin, rubbing his nose.
After laughing, Xue Xue quietly asked, "Xiao Lang, what exactly did you say to Li Dongming?"
"Hehe, Fellow Daoist Xue, I made it clear to Fellow Daoist Li Dongming that only he and I could know those words—no one else could. That is why I cannot tell you!" Xiao Hua said smugly. Seeing how pleased with himself he looked, Xue Xue pouted. "Tell me or don't. If you won't tell me, this girl cannot be bothered to know!"
"Hahaha! Let's go!" Xiangyang laughed heartily. He knew Xiao Hua had certainly gained something, and it was likely some secret of the Huanling Sect that was never passed down. Otherwise, Li Dongming would not have played along with Xiao Hua!
As they continued onward, they encountered several more groups of cultivators. Most were early Foundation Establishment disciples, and there were even quite a few Qi Refining disciples. All of them treated Xiao Hua and the others with utmost respect. Xiao Hua finally got to indulge in being a senior a few times, and watching others bow and salute him, he greatly enjoyed himself. This young master... is now a Foundation Establishment senior too!
Several more days passed. With Xihuang Town close at hand, Xiangyang asked, "Junior Brother, have you and Junior Sister Xue decided where to go?"
Xiao Hua looked at Xue Xue and smiled. "Wherever Xue Xue wishes to go, I will accompany her. Who cares whether it is the ends of the earth or the corners of the sea?"
"Junior Sister Xue, I truly envy you.