BTTH: Auto Cultivation System

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The Coming of Age Ceremony concluded without a hitch. No disturbances marred the event—except for one revelation that left many in awe: Xiao Yan's talent had indeed been restored. This time, there was no ridicule, no mockery. Only silent acknowledgment.

The moment it became clear that he had reached the nine-star Dou Zhi stage, any lingering thoughts of looking down on him vanished. To do so now would be nothing short of inviting humiliation upon oneself.

"It seems the ceremony ended without incident, Xiao Hua."

As Xiao Hua and the Little Fairy Doctor stepped down from the platform, a sultry voice drifted over. Turning toward the source, they found an enchanting figure approaching with unhurried grace. Auburn hair cascaded down her back, and every step she took exuded a tantalizing allure. Her curvaceous waist swayed ever so slightly, drawing fervent gazes from the men around her—eyes brimming with desire and admiration.

"Sister Ya Fei, you've grown even more beautiful since we last met. For a moment, I almost didn't recognize you." Xiao Hua halted his steps, his lips curving into a faint smile.

Ya Fei rolled her eyes, but the hint of amusement in her gaze betrayed her true feelings. "What a glib tongue you have, Xiao Hua." Though her tone carried a note of reproach, the soft smile tugging at her lips showed she was far from displeased.

As she did, her gaze met Little Fairy Doctor's. Ya Fei had to admit—this woman was breathtakingly beautiful. However, the most striking feature about her wasn't just her beauty but her exceptionally slender and delicate waist, even compared to her own, making her slightly envious of her waist.

From observing Little Fairy Doctor's interactions with Xiao Hua during the ceremony, Ya Fei quickly noticed something—she behaved differently around him. Her demeanor subtly shifted when she was with Xiao Hua, displaying a side of her that she didn't reveal to others.

She wasn't inferior to either Xun Er or herself. In fact, even if the three of them stood side by side, they possessed a beauty that could captivate the hearts of countless men. Yet, their charms were distinct—each incomparable in their own right.

Xun Er's beauty was otherworldly, her noble grace radiating an ethereal charm, as if she were a celestial fairy who had descended into the mortal realm. There was an untouchable elegance to her presence, making her seem like an existence above the mundane world.

Ya Fei, on the other hand, was an embodiment of temptation—an enchanting seductress who could set the flames of desire ablaze with a single glance. Every movement, every curve of her body exuded an irresistible allure that ensnared the hearts of men, leaving them helplessly drawn to her.

And then, there was the Little Fairy Doctor. Her beauty was accentuated by an air of cold indifference, like a delicate yet untouchable flower that could only be admired from afar. She carried an aura that naturally kept others at a distance, yet before those she cherished—especially Xiao Hua—that frost melted away, revealing a gentleness so soft, so warm, that it could effortlessly seep into one's soul and sway their very heart.

"Xiao Hua, she is…" Ya Fei's voice trailed off as she studied the woman before her. There was an undeniable elegance in her beauty, a quiet yet compelling presence that stirred her curiosity.

"She is Fairy Doctor, a friend of mine, Sister Ya Fei," Xiao Hua replied casually, his lips curling into a light smile.

"A friend, is it?" Ya Fei repeated, a glimmer of amusement flickering in her eyes. Her gaze lingered on Xiao Hua, her smile carrying an unspoken meaning.

Noticing the subtle scrutiny in her peach blossom eyes, Xiao Hua instinctively flinched before letting out an awkward cough. He was far from oblivious—he naturally understood the implication behind Ya Fei's expression.

Seeing his slightly embarrassed reaction, Ya Fei let out a soft chuckle, shaking her head in mild exasperation. Without missing a beat, she turned toward the Little Fairy Doctor, her tone warm and friendly.

"Miss Fairy Doctor, I am Ya Fei, the current head of the Miteer Family. Like you, I am also his friend."

Little Fairy Doctor arched a delicate brow, instantly grasping the deeper meaning hidden within Ya Fei's words. The woman before her, with her captivating grace and striking beauty, clearly harbored special feelings for Xiao Hua—it was something she could sense with ease.

'Similar to me, is it…' A faint smile touched Little Fairy Doctor's lips as she silently acknowledged Ya Fei's words.

"It is an honor to meet the Patriarch of the Miteer Family, one of the Three Great Clans of the Jia Ma Empire." She met Ya Fei's gaze, her tone gentle yet composed. Though her voice carried a soft warmth, it was a warmth she typically reserved for only Xiao Hua and Zi Yan.

The two women exchanged knowing smiles, nodding gracefully. Though they stood side by side as if mere acquaintances, an unspoken understanding had already taken root between them—neither with enmity, yet neither fully without rivalry.

Xiao Hua, however, felt a creeping sense of awkwardness. He wasn't dense. The way they looked at each other, their subtle exchanges—each glance spoke volumes.

Ya Fei let out a soft chuckle before shifting her attention to Xiao Hua. Her warm smile suddenly took on a sharper edge, and her gaze turned piercing.

"I never expected you to capture yet another innocent little girl's heart in such a short time." Her voice was light, yet there was an unmistakable undercurrent of teasing danger. "Tell me, how should I report this to Sister Xun Er?"

Xiao Hua's expression stiffened as his eyes subtly trembled. Letting out an awkward cough once more, he found himself at a rare loss for words.

Seeing his flustered reaction, Little Fairy Doctor couldn't help but let out a soft, amused giggle—her laughter as light as drifting snow, yet carrying a trace of undeniable delight.

Ya Fei had heard from Zi Yan that Xiao Hua already had a beautiful fiancée—Xun Er. However, she also knew that Xun Er didn't mind him taking more wives, as long as they passed Zi Yan's assessment.

Apparently, Zi Yan had turned away many women who failed her tests—those whose interest in Xiao Hua was solely driven by his appearance, status, strength, or wealth.

Perhaps, seeing Little Fairy Doctor's soft and kind demeanor, Zi Yan had deemed her worthy. Especially after learning about her tragic fate as the bearer of the Woeful Poison Body, Zi Yan had seemingly granted her approval.

Xiao Hua could only shake his head helplessly. Sensing that the conversation was heading toward dangerous territory, he swiftly changed the subject before he found himself in an even more difficult position.

"Anyway, Sister Ya Fei, was there anything disappointing about this year's Coming of Age Ceremony?"

Ya Fei glanced at him before letting out a sigh, not minding the sudden shift in topic.

"I merely wanted to see the capabilities of the Third Young Master under your protection. I was expecting a proper display of his strength when someone challenged him… but it seems that brat isn't simple at all. He hid his true power far too well."

She had been invited by the Xiao Clan due to her connection with Xiao Hua, and knowing that he would attend, she had accepted. However, what had truly piqued her curiosity about this year's ceremony was the fact that Xiao Yan would be participating.

She had wanted to see what was so special about this Third Young Master that had caught Xiao Hua's attention—yet, in the end, she was left somewhat disappointed.

Though a few young men had challenged Xiao Yan, their exchanges were nothing more than friendly spars. Even without personally fighting, Ya Fei could tell—Xiao Yan was hiding more secrets than he let on.

She was slightly disappointed that she hadn't been able to glimpse more of his hidden strength, but at the very least, she understood one thing: after this ceremony, Xiao Yan would undoubtedly soar. Especially after hearing that he had agreed to a duel with Nalan Yanran in three years, she was certain of it.

"Heh, that just means he knows not to go overboard," Xiao Hua said with a light chuckle. "It would be troublesome if the future head of a clan was the petty type—harming his own kin over minor grievances."

He paused for a moment before his tone shifted to one of curiosity.

"By the way, Sister Ya Fei… has Primer Tengshan found the medicinal ingredients for the pill he requested?"

Ya Fei let out a soft chuckle and nodded. "He has gathered everything and has been waiting for you."

As she spoke, she couldn't help but note something—Xiao Hua had absolutely no interest in vying for the position of clan head. To most, such a thing would be a shocking revelation, but she understood his reasoning.

With his talent and age, there was no way he would remain confined within the small Jia Ma Empire. His path lay in the vast, uncharted world beyond. To him, taking on the role of clan head now would only be a shackle—one that would tie him down before he even knew what heights he was destined to reach.

A soft sigh escaped Ya Fei's enchanting red lips before she continued, "Grandfather rushed here as soon as he heard that you would be attending the ceremony."

"If that's the case, please inform him that I'll visit tomorrow morning to inspect the ingredients before beginning the pill refinement."

"Alright, I will." Ya Fei nodded in acknowledgment.

Then, as if suddenly recalling something, she leaned in slightly, her voice dropping to a whisper—low enough that only Xiao Hua and Little Fairy Doctor could hear her.

"By the way, I've heard that Jia Lao has failed to break through to the Dou Zong class. He has requested us to inform you that he needs another 'Zong Breaking Pill' and hopes you can refine it for him. As for the medicinal ingredients, he has already prepared them in the Imperial City."

"I see." Xiao Hua nodded, his expression calm. "Please let him know that I'll head to the Imperial City after I finish my business in the Tager Desert."

He didn't mind accepting such a request again. It wasn't surprising—the Imperial Family was clearly growing anxious about their future standing, especially after learning that Primer Tengshan had sought him out for a medicinal pill.

"It seems that ever since the Xiao Clan's continued rise, the Royal Family has become uneasy about their own strength and status…" Xiao Hua mused inwardly, feeling once again that dealing with the Royal Family was nothing short of troublesome and exhausting.

Although they weren't sure what kind of pill had been requested, the medicinal ingredients they had searched for and gathered were of exceptionally high quality. Most notably, the Magic Core was from a Rank Six Magical Beast.

From this alone, it was evident that Primer Tengshan had requested a pill of at least the sixth tier—likely one meant to enhance cultivation.

If the Miteer Family gained a Dou Huang, their strength would soar even further, solidifying their position as the strongest among the Three Great Clans.

Naturally, the Imperial Family couldn't afford to fall behind. With no new Dou Huang emerging within their ranks, they had to rely on their Guardian Beast and Jia Xing Tian to maintain their authority.

However, despite standing at the peak of the Dou Huang class, Jia Xing Tian was nearing his limit. Without a breakthrough to the Dou Zong class, his time as the Imperial Family's pillar was running out. It was for this reason that they spares no effort to aid his advancement.

"Even so… I don't see the Crown Princess. I thought she would be the one to deliver this request herself…" Xiao Hua mused, a hint of confusion flickering in his eyes.

He had not sensed Yao Ye's presence in Wu Tan City. Considering the importance of the request, he had expected her to come personally rather than merely relaying the message through the Miteer Family.

"Apparently, the Chu Yun Empire has been making strange movements lately, so the Crown Princess remained in the capital to handle the situation."

Ya Fei didn't hide anything, her voice soft—barely audible to those around them. However, even if she had tried to be more discreet, Xiao Tao and Xiao Yang would have still heard her. With their strength, no matter how quiet her voice was or how far apart they stood, such details couldn't escape them.

Exchanging brief glances, the two chose to remain silent, feigning ignorance. This matter was not theirs to interfere in—not yet, at least. Moreover, as key members of the Xiao Clan, they had responsibilities to attend to, entertaining the honored guests invited for the ceremony.

Besides, Xiao Hua had subtly signaled that they would discuss this later, so there was no need for them to approach now.

"Chu Yun Empire, huh…" Xiao Hua murmured, rubbing his chin as he fell into deep thought. His gaze flickered toward Little Fairy Doctor, a strange light flashing in his eyes.

In the novel, she would one day establish a powerful faction and rise to rule over the Chu Yun Empire. However, if he allowed her to build her power there, she would inevitably be forced to harden her kind and gentle heart. The cruelty and ruthless methods of the empire would shape her—perhaps into the Poison Sky Woman in the novel.

Sensing his gaze, Little Fairy Doctor turned her head, raising a quizzical brow as a hint of puzzlement surfaced in her eyes. "What's the matter, Xiao Hua?"

"Nothing. It is just Chu Yun Empire is infamous for their poisonous method so I thought that place might be a good place for us to visit after dealing with our business here." Xiao Hua responded with a smile.

"I doubt Zi Yan would be thrilled to hear that we're heading to a place like that… The Chu Yun Empire is, after all, a land where poison lurks at every corner."

Little Fairy Doctor shook her head, a helpless smile gracing her beautiful face. She was well aware of that little girl's temperament—anything with a foul or repulsive scent was something Zi Yan would take great efforts to avoid unless a natural treasure was involved…

"It was merely a passing thought." Xiao Hua chuckled lightly.

He paused briefly before shifting his gaze to Ya Fei. Raising a brow, he asked, "Does Sister Ya Fei know the reason behind their strange movements?"

Ya Fei tapped her delicate finger against her chin, deep in thought. After a brief moment, she lifted her gaze and said, "This is merely my speculation, but it might be related to the upcoming Alchemist Grand Meeting, which is set to take place in about two years."

"Alchemist Grand Meeting? What is that?" Little Fairy Doctor's curiosity was piqued upon hearing Ya Fei's words. As the event seemed to be related to alchemists, she couldn't help but wonder if Xiao Hua would take part in it.

Noticing her interest, Ya Fei turned toward her and began explaining.

"The Alchemist Grand Meeting is a huge event that will be held in the Jia Ma Empire two years from now. During this gathering, not only will many alchemists from the empire participate, but alchemists from various other empires across the Dou Qi Continent will also come to compete."

"Oh? That does sound like a grand event…"

"Indeed. Apparently, Master Gu He became renowned after winning the competition two sessions ago. His brilliance caught the attention of the Misty Cloud Sect's former leader, who then invited him to become an elder. After joining the sect, his pill refinement abilities advanced by two tiers."

"Is that so…" Little Fairy Doctor's reaction was rather indifferent. It was clear that her interest in the Alchemist Grand Meeting had waned after hearing this.

Ya Fei found Little Fairy Doctor's reaction understandable. While most would consider Gu He's achievements impressive—especially advancing two tiers in alchemy—it was nothing remarkable compared to the young man standing between them.

Whether in cultivation or alchemy, Xiao Hua had already far surpassed Gu He at an astonishingly young age.

That said, Ya Fei was still curious. Even if Xiao Hua had no interest in participating, would he at least be inclined to watch the event?

After all, it was set to take place a few weeks before the Three-Year Agreement between Xiao Yan and Nalan Yanran took place.

Noticing her gaze, Xiao Hua shook his head and smiled helplessly. With a weary tone, he said, "I have no interest in watching Xiao Yan's duel with Nalan Yanran, let alone an event that has nothing to do with me."

"If that's the case, then I'll inform my grandfather not to concern himself with it. I'll also arrange for my family to keep an eye on Xiao Yan in your stead, ensuring nothing happens to him."

Understanding that Xiao Hua had no interest in either event, Ya Fei quickly reassured him, offering to have the Miteer Family discreetly watch over Xiao Yan while he is absence.

"Thanks, Sister Ya Fei." Xiao Hua nodded, expressing his gratitude for her assistance.

With Ya Fei keeping an eye on Xiao Yan, he no longer had to worry as much. Even if the Hall of Souls eventually attacked the clan and kidnapped Xiao Zhan, at the very least, he could be certain that Xiao Yan would be safe.

'Still, just in case, I need to find and assist Hai Bodong, earning his favor in advance. I can trust him to protect the Xiao Clan while I'm away…'

Xiao Hua's thoughts turned to Hai Bodong—the old man whose strength had been sealed by Queen Medusa. Whether in the novel, manhua, or donghua, Hai Bodong's loyalty remained unwavering. He was a man who, despite his icy demeanor, would willingly fight to the death to protect the Xiao Clan, even against the overwhelming forces of the Misty Cloud Sect.

If Hai Bodong were to return to the Miteer Family, their strength would skyrocket, ensuring the Xiao Clan's protection in his absence.

Though Hai Bodong might appear distant and aloof, Xiao Hua firmly believed that aside from Ya Fei and the Miteer Family, no one was more reliable when it came to safeguarding his clan.

While the Xiao Clan might be considered a powerhouse within the Jia Ma Empire, it was nothing compared to the forces they would have to face in the near future.

As someone who knew what lay ahead, Xiao Hua didn't believe that a mere four Dou Huangs and a handful of Dou Wangs would be enough to deter the ambitions of the Hall of Souls—or rather, Hun Tiandi.

With Hun Tiandi's deep-seated ambition and ruthless methods, there was no doubt that he would order Hun Mie Sheng to dispatch more Protectors rather than abandon the idea of kidnapping Xiao Zhan.

To him, the lives of the Xiao Clan's members were insignificant. The only thing that mattered was ensuring Xiao Zhan remained alive long enough to reveal the location of the Tuo She Ancient God Jade.

Even if they didn't use the Misty Cloud Sect as a cover this time to divert attention, the strength of the Protectors alone was more than enough to abduct Xiao Zhan—a mere Dou Huang—and escape before the ancient clans took notice.

'As long as the Protectors aren't the greedy type who chase after personal achievements, that is…' Xiao Hua murmured inwardly.

He sighed inwardly at how troublesome the Hall of Souls and the Hun Clan were—especially the relentless ambition of Hun Tiandi.

Regardless, he knew they wouldn't let him off so easily. Once he set foot in the Central Plains, there was no doubt that the Hall of Souls would closely monitor his every move. If he wanted to survive, he needed alternative methods to strengthen himself.

'It seems I'll have to refine the Sky Demon Puppet…' Xiao Hua mused, recalling the Puppet Refinement Technique he had obtained after the fall of Demon Flame Valley.

The materials required to create one were a corpse, a spirit, and a Monster Core. While he already possessed the latter two, he still needed to retrieve the first.

'If I remember correctly, the corpse of the Old Ground Demon Ghost is still frozen in that place. I'll have to retrieve it once I'm done handling matters in the Jia Ma Empire.'

Once he acquired the Old Ground Demon Ghost's corpse, he would have everything necessary to refine the Sky Demon Puppet. For the spirit, he had the Spiritual Body of Protector Fu, and for the Monster Core, he had plenty of Rank 7 Monster Cores to use as materials.

Moreover, with his expertise as a high-tier Alchemist, Xiao Hua was confident that it wouldn't take long for his Sky Demon Puppet to reach its peak-grade refinement—especially given his extensive experience in pill refinement.

'Naturally, I can't forget about Yao Tian Huo, who remains trapped in the magma world. If I can reconstruct a body for him, the strength of those around me will increase significantly.'

Xiao Hua recalled the old man—a Living Spirit lingering beneath the Blazing Sky Qi Refining Tower in the Inner Academy.

He could trust Yao Tian Huo, and once restored, the old man's strength would surge to the Dou Zun realm.

With Yao Tian Huo's power, the might of the Sky Demon Puppet, and his own ability to battle opponents far beyond his level, his chances of survival would rise exponentially.

Moreover, according to Lady Azure, once Little Fairy Doctor successfully fused the Woeful Poison Body with the Ghostly Poison Flame, her strength would soar dramatically, pushing her to the Dou Zun class as well.

If everything fell into place, his group would have four Dou Zuns. Under such circumstances, the likelihood of being randomly attacked in the Central Plains would drop significantly—unless, of course, he provoked one of the major factions.

'This is the foundation I must establish before setting foot in the Central Plains!'

Xiao Hua's eyes narrowed, a sharp gleam flashing within them.

He wouldn't lower his guard for even a moment the moment he stepped into that treacherous land. If there were methods to increase his survival, only a fool would ignore them.

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