BTTH: Auto Cultivation System

"It seems like you two are having fun chatting…"

A familiar voice, tinged with exasperation, rang out from behind Little Fairy Doctor and Xiao Hua, prompting them to turn around.

Zi Yan stood there with a hint of displeasure, her gaze flickering between the two as she crossed her arms, standing slightly behind them.

Meanwhile, the Amethyst Winged Lion and its cub had returned to the manor that Xiao Zhan had prepared for them. Xiao Zhan was initially shocked to learn that the Amethyst Winged Lion would become their guardian, but his surprise quickly turned into excitement—this development meant their overall strength would receive a significant boost.

"As expected of an Ancient Void Dragon—your ability to traverse space without even stirring my perception is truly remarkable."

"Welcome back, Zi Yan. Did you manage to meet the quota you set for yourself on your treasure hunt?"

Xiao Hua and Little Fairy Doctor merely exchanged amused glances, brushing off Zi Yan's irritated stare as they greeted her with a smile.

Seeing them casually brush her off, Zi Yan rolled her eyes before hopping lightly into the wooden gazebo. With a playful step, she landed gracefully and plopped onto the chair in front of Xiao Hua.

"So… when are we leaving this place? The mountain behind us is nearly bald." She puffed out her chest with pride as she spoke, clearly pleased with her handiwork.

Xiao Hua sighed, shaking his head at her antics. "I've accepted some pill-refining requests from the Primer Family. We'll stay here for at least another half month. In the meantime, if you're bored, you can hang out with Sister Ya Fei and Little Fairy Doctor."

"Oh? Sister Ya Fei is here?" Zi Yan's eyes lit up. Without hesitation, she jumped off the chair and headed straight for the door.

"I'll go with her and keep an eye on Zi Yan, just to make sure she doesn't cause trouble," Little Fairy Doctor said as she stood up. "Besides, my conversation with Sister Ya Fei was too short earlier—I'd like to talk to her more."

As Xiao Hua watched Little Fairy Doctor leave, he couldn't help but smile. 'Sister Ya Fei, huh…? It seemed she had grown close enough to drop the formalities.'

He was genuinely happy that Little Fairy Doctor had someone else to talk to besides Zi Yan and himself.

Shifting his focus, he activated the System. As the familiar blue panel materialized before him, his gaze moved to the ACP he had stored.

In total, he now had over four million ACP. He had received four million from the Yearly Sign-In Bonus, but in exchange, he would forfeit the Weekly and Monthly Sign-In rewards for the rest of the month.

Regardless, with over four million ACP in hand, he headed to the Gacha section and saw that he had accumulated 157 draws. He needed another 143 draws to trigger the 'Pity Draw' and secure another Primordial Heavenly Flames.

Without hesitation, he spent over three million ACP to draw 128 times, leaving him with just over 190,000 ACP. He immediately used this remaining amount to upgrade the ACP Rate, leaving him with a balance of 10,915 ACP.

After confirming that his ACP Rate had been upgraded and that he now earned 150 ACP per hour, Xiao Hua turned his attention to the list of rewards he had obtained from the Gacha.

As his eyes scanned the list, which had been neatly organized by the System, they suddenly widened when he reached the last entry.

[You have received…]

[5 ACP Rewards: 4,093,240. 391,115. 284,595. 482,605. 8,350,570.]

Seeing the staggering amounts of ACP he had received, Xiao Hua stood frozen in shock, his mind going blank. It took a while for him to process the overwhelming numbers in front of him.

He took a deep breath, calming his excited mind to regain composure. If he collected all the ACP Rewards at once, they would vanish into thin air due to the restrictions set by the System, only appearing when he earned ACP per hour.

He started by claiming the 284,595 ACP reward and used it to upgrade his ACP Rate, lifting the restriction on his ACP storage.

Afterward, he claimed the remaining ACP Rewards, leaving him with a staggering total of 13,333,040 ACP in his bank. This was undoubtedly the largest amount he had ever held in his ACP Bank.

Naturally, he had also received the other rewards. After the System stored them in his Mysterious Heaven Ring, he immediately began drawing from the Gacha using the vast amount of ACP he had accumulated.

In total, he performed 444 draws. Among the rewards, he received one more ACP reward—307,510 ACP—which he used to upgrade his ACP Rate twice, now earning 160 ACP per hour.

[You have two Pity Draws available. Do you wish to use them now?]

After upgrading his ACP Rate, he saw that his accumulation was more than enough to trigger a Pity Draw. In fact, with a total of 729 accumulated draws, he was now able to make two Pity Draws.

Naturally, he didn't hesitate to use one of his Pity Draws, hoping to obtain the tickets for the Primordial Heavenly Flame. However, he was left disappointed.

[4 Tian-Class Dou Techniques: 'Jade Immortal Body,' 'Nirvana Profound Palm,' 'Sacred Thunder Palm,' and 'Flame Scorching the Heaven.']

[75 Batches of Extremely Rare, High-Grade Medicinal Ingredients.]

[43 Batches of Extremely Rare, High-Grade Medicinal Ingredients.]

[4 Parts of Ancient Beast, Celestial Moon Phoenix: Wings of Celestial Moon Phoenix, Ten Drops of Celestial Moon Phoenix's Blood Essence, Starry Moon Eyes of Celestial Moon Phoenix, and Monster Core of Celestial Moon Phoenix.]

[2 High-Grade Treasures: 'Bell of Sacred Origin' and 'Fan of Devouring Earth.']

[Please choose one of the following as your reward.]

Fortunately, his tolerance was far beyond that of an ordinary person. With a swift mental shift, he quickly brushed off the disappointment and focused on selecting his reward.

After a moment's contemplation, he decided that the Celestial Moon Phoenix parts would be the most valuable. The purity of its Phoenix bloodline was perfect, and it would allow him to unlock the third technique in the 'Four Mysterious Body.'

[You have chosen 4 Parts of Ancient Beast, Celestial Moon Phoenix: A Pair of Wings, Ten Drops of Blood Essence, Starry Moon Eyes, and Magic Core.]

[The rewards have been sent to the Mysterious Heaven Ring.]

After receiving the first set of rewards, he didn't hesitate to use his second Pity Draw. Inwardly, he prayed to his most cherished Goddess of Luck, Xun Er, hoping that her luck would grant him his most desired rewards.

It seemed his prayers had been answered. As he scanned the results, his heart skipped a beat when he saw, at the very top of the list, the one reward he had longed for.

[4 Tickets of Primordial Heavenly Flames.]

[4 Tian-Class Dou Techniques: 'Tyrant Worldly Roar,' 'Buddha Sacred Palm,' 'Great Sky-Piercing Sword,' and 'Fist of Heavenly Fury.']

[99 Batches of Extremely Rare, High-Grade Medicinal Ingredients.]

[4 Parts of Ancient Beast, Sky Nirvana Serpent: Scales of Sky Nirvana Serpent, Ten Drops of Sky Nirvana Serpent's Blood Essence, Fang of Sky Nirvana Serpent, and Monster Core of Sky Nirvana Serpent.]

[A High-Grade Treasure: 'Deceiver of Heaven Mask.']

[Please choose one of the following as your reward.]

Xiao Hua's mind froze as he stared at the four Tickets of Primordial Heavenly Flame. He had expected to receive two at most—certainly not four.

'She truly is my lucky goddess,' he thought, an excited smile spreading across his face.

However, he quickly calmed himself and considered the situation carefully. Even though he now possessed four tickets, he couldn't use them here—unless he wanted to reduce Wu Tan City and everything within a five-kilometer radius to ashes.

Furthermore, he lacked another Heavenly Lightning to merge with, aside from the Heavenly Judgement Lightning.

Despite this, he decided it was best to inform Lady Azure and Lady Xue Yue about the matter. Closing his eyes, he guided his consciousness into his spiritual sea.

As he stepped into the boundless expanse of his spiritual domain, his eyes slowly opened, falling upon the two heavenly beauties before him.

"Sister Azure, Sister Xue Yue," he greeted them.

Lady Azure's gaze lingered on him before she let out a soft chuckle. "Why do I have the feeling that the reason you're here is exactly what I'm thinking?"

A faint sense of déjà vu washed over her—the scene felt eerily similar to one from the previous year…

Xiao Hua let out a helpless smile. "I can obtain four Primordial Heavenly Flames."

Hearing this, Lady Azure sighed in understanding, though a faint, knowing smile played on her lips. "Just as I thought… The exact same reason you came here last year."

Xiao Hua could only scratch his head awkwardly, feeling a bit embarrassed by how predictable his actions had become.

"Anyway, since he has received them, which four flames do you think would be suitable for the next child?" Lady Xue Yue asked, her voice calm and detached as she turned her attention to Lady Azure.

"This matter is actually quite simple. He just needs to ensure that the Heavenly Lightning and the Primordial Heavenly Flames are equal in strength," Lady Azure replied.

"Stronger than the Primordial Life Spirit Flame?" Lady Xue Yue raised an eyebrow, a trace of disbelief flickering in her eyes.

"Unlike ordinary flames, the Primordial Life Spirit Flame isn't wild or violent, which allows it to merge with Heavenly Lightnings that aren't overwhelmingly powerful. However, beyond the Heavenly Judgement Lightning, the other three Heavenly Lightnings are immensely strong."

Lady Azure gave a light shrug and coldly snorted as she explained.

"So… the three most powerful Primordial Heavenly Flames, then?" Lady Xue Yue murmured, a trace of hesitation in her voice.

She had to agree with her sister—the final three Heavenly Lightnings were overwhelmingly powerful, and the only flames capable of matching them were the top three Primordial Heavenly Flames.

"That's right." Lady Azure nodded before shifting her gaze to Xiao Hua, her tone turning sincere.

"If you intend to merge the Heavenly Judgement Lightning with a Primordial Heavenly Flame, make sure it's the Primordial Red Lotus Ye Flame. The two share certain similarities, and their combined strength will multiply rather than simply add together."

"I understand." Xiao Hua nodded, relief washing over him. He was glad he had sought Lady Azure's advice. "But I'll have to do it after I return to the Black-Corner Region…"

"Naturally. If you attempted it here, the Xiao Clan might as well sign a contract with the underworld," Lady Azure scoffed, rolling her eyes. A flicker of mild exasperation could be seen in their depths.

"However, do not forget—you must successfully refine twelve Tier Nine Treasure Pills to initiate the ninth and final trial of Heavenly Judgement Lightning."

Lady Xue Yue's voice was as cold as frost, cutting through the air like a blade. Her words instantly doused Xiao Hua's excitement, akin to a bucket of icy water quelling a roaring flame.

Xiao Hua groaned in frustration. Just as he was about to voice his discontent, a soft chuckle reached his ears. His gaze snapped toward Lady Azure, only to find her quickly averting her eyes, as though attempting to stifle her amusement.

Yet, her trembling shoulders betrayed her. A heartbeat later, she could no longer contain herself, and a harmonious, bell-like laugh spilled from her lips. Her mirth was so infectious that even Lady Xue Yue, usually impassive, let out a rare, delicate chuckle.

Xiao Hua scowled. "Damn it, I'm leaving!" he huffed, turning sharply on his heel. Annoyance flickered across his face as he stormed away, leaving the two women behind, their laughter trailing in his wake.

"Child, take care of yourself."

"And make sure not to injure yourself too much."

Hearing the gentle concern in their voices, Xiao Hua halted for a brief moment before flashing a small smile. "I know. Rest assured, I don't plan on dying just yet."

As soon as those words left his lips, Xiao Hua's consciousness returned to his body. Slowly, he opened his eyes.

Leaning back in his chair, he closed his eyes briefly, enjoying the warm breeze that gently caressed his cheeks. A faint smile tugged at his lips as he relished the moment of peace.

After a long while, he finally rose to his feet and extended his Spiritual Strength, searching for Xiao Yan. He had a protective item to give him, along with several other important things.

Sensing Xiao Yan's presence in the back mountain, Xiao Hua picked up a brush and quickly penned a letter to Little Fairy Doctor, informing her that he would be discussing something with his cousin. With that done, his figure blurred and vanished from the wooden gazebo.

...

At the mountain behind the Xiao Clan's residence, two figures stood near the edge of a cliff.

One was a young man dressed in red and black robes. Sitting cross-legged on a rock beneath the shade of a tree, he held a glossy and smooth medicinal pill in his hand, carefully examining it with a solemn expression.

The other was an elderly man with long, flowing white hair that cascaded down his back. A The other was an elderly man with long, flowing white hair cascading down his back. A short beard and mustache of the same silver hue adorned his face, complementing his dark-blue robe. However, his appearance carried an unusual trait—his lower body was shrouded in a misty, white haze, giving him an ethereal, ghost-like presence.

Naturally, these two were none other than Xiao Yan, the protagonist of BTTH, and his master—Yao Chen, more widely known as Yao Lao.

"After taking the Qi Gathering Pill, you must immediately compress the gathered Qi and form a cyclone in your dantian. You cannot afford to slack off midway—failure will result in a missed advancement." Yao Lao spoke with a solemn tone, his sharp gaze fixed on Xiao Yan.

"This is your second attempt at advancing to the Dou Zhe level. If you fail, future breakthroughs will become significantly more difficult."

He paused briefly, assessing Xiao Yan's condition. Sensing the slight tension in his disciple, Yao Lao softened his tone in reassurance.

"However, don't dwell on it too much."

Stroking his beard, he continued, his voice carrying a hint of confidence. "Your Dou Zhi Qi may not have made much progress over the past three years, but your foundation has become exceptionally solid. Advancing shouldn't be too difficult for you."

"Exceptionally solid, huh…" Xiao Yan let out a bitter smile, recalling the reason behind his so-called "solid foundation".

Aside from Yao Lao continuously absorbing his Dou Qi from few years ago, Xiao Yan's body had also endured external stimuli—namely, being repeatedly whipped by Yao Lao. Under such harsh training conditions, both his Dou Techniques and cultivation experience had improved significantly.

'His guidance is truly strict and merciless… but my cultivation has advanced rapidly. I'm not sure whether it's because of Cousin Xiao Hua's medicinal liquids or the brutal training…'

Reflecting on the hardships he had endured, Xiao Yan felt as though he deserved a pat on the back for surviving such merciless training.

Shaking his head, he pushed aside unnecessary thoughts. His expression grew serious as he looked at Yao Lao, giving a firm nod.

"I'll begin now, Master."

"Mm." Yao Lao nodded solemnly, watching as Xiao Yan swiftly swallowed the Qi Gathering Pill and entered a state of training.

As Xiao Yan focused on his breakthrough, Yao Lao remained vigilant, his sharp gaze unwavering. He would not allow even the slightest mishap. However, just as he continued his silent observation, he suddenly sensed a wave of Spiritual Strength enveloping the entire Xiao Clan residence.

If it had been from an unknown person, Yao Lao would have immediately retreated into Xiao Yan's ring to avoid detection. However, the one who had spread their Spiritual Strength was someone he recognized—and more importantly, someone who aware of his existence.

A moment later, the Spiritual Strength abruptly withdrew like a bolt of lightning. In the next heartbeat, Xiao Hua appeared beside Yao Lao, his gaze fixed intently on the meditating Xiao Yan.

"So, he's preparing to advance to Dou Zhe, huh…"

"He has absorbed the medicinal liquids you refined, as well as the ones I taught him to refine and use." Yao Lao stroked his beard and nodded in satisfaction.

"Although pale in comparison with you, his talent is exceptionally high. It's no surprise he's reached this stage so quickly. Now that he's about to break through to Dou Zhe, I'll finally be able to teach him even more advanced techniques."

Xiao Hua could sense the pride in Yao Lao's voice. It was evident that the old man had complete faith in Xiao Yan's success. Their bond had deepened, and Yao Lao no longer hesitated to impart his knowledge as long as it benefited his disciple.

It seemed the old man had opened up even more to Xiao Yan, which Xiao Hua saw as a positive sign.

"Changing the topic, but you should be cautious when you and Xiao Yan enter the Black-Corner Region." Xiao Hua's gaze sharpened as he issued a stern warning to Yao Lao.

"There are traces of the Hall of Souls in that area. Whether they're after you or me remains uncertain. Regardless, you and Xiao Yan must be vigilant while traveling through that region."

Yao Lao's expression darkened at the revelation. He had never expected those wretched people to extend their reach this far. It seemed their influence had already seeped into even this remote corner of the North-Western Region…

"I understand. Thank you for the warning." He nodded, his voice carrying a note of gratitude.

"There's one more thing I wanted to mention—Han Feng is also in the Black-Corner Region." Xiao Hua's voice was calm, yet his gaze remained locked onto Yao Lao, carefully observing his reaction.

As expected, the mention of Han Feng struck Yao Lao like a thunderbolt. This revelation was far more shocking than the last, and despite his best efforts, his expression betrayed his turmoil.

"I never expected… he would be hiding there…" Yao Lao finally spoke after a long silence, his voice trembling slightly with suppressed emotions.

"He knows far more about you than Xiao Yan does. Make sure to completely erase your presence when you in Black-Corner Region so he won't be able to sense you," Xiao Hua warned. "I'm well aware of that man's methods. Even if he can't defeat you, he won't hesitate to call for reinforcements to ensure you don't leave alive."

"I know." Yao Lao let out a heavy sigh, shaking his head in resignation. His voice carried a hint of regret. "From the way you speak, it seems his arrogance and ruthlessness remain unchanged despite all these years. But… perhaps that's also my fault for not teaching him better."

After watching Xiao Yan's growth, Yao Lao couldn't help but reflect on Han Feng's path. The way Han Feng acted was simply a reflection of what he had been taught. In a way, Yao Lao felt responsible for what his former disciple had become. But even if he regretted the past, he knew Han Feng would never change—not even if he pleaded with him to.

The only way to stop Han Feng… was to kill him. An overwhelming feeling of helplessness settled over on Yao Lao's heart as he acknowledged this cruel reality.

"Regardless, it's good that he's advancing to Dou Zhe," Xiao Hua said, shifting the focus and lightening the mood. "I've prepared an Earth Spirit Body Nourishment Pill for him to refine once his foundation stabilizes."

With a nod of satisfaction, Xiao Hua took the pill out from the Mysterious Heaven Ring and tossed it to Yao Lao.

"Earth Spirit Body Nourishment Pill … This will be of great benefit to Xiao Yan once he consumes it." Yao Lao accepted the pill with gratitude and appreciation.

He had read about its effects before. Not only would it enhance and purify one's physical body, but it would also strengthen the Qi Veins, bone marrow, and internal organs while nourishing the body with immense vitality.

All of these were crucial factors—especially when one intended to refine and devour a Heavenly Flame.

Looking at Xiao Hua, Yao Lao gave a sincere nod. "Thank you."

"It's nothing." Xiao Hua waved his hand casually, as if it were of no concern. Crossing his arms, he shifted the topic. "Did he accept the Qi Method you wanted him to learn?"

"He did," Yao Lao replied with a faint smile. "I gave him a different path as well, just in case he felt the one I suggested was too dangerous. I told him that no matter what he chose, he would always be my disciple."

He paused for a moment, the smile on his face deepening. "Yet, he still chose the Flame Mantra. I'm truly happy with his decision. He's a good kid… I'm proud to have taken him as my disciple."

"Let's not forget the method you used to make him your disciple in the first place," Xiao Hua said with a smirk, clearly teasing the old man.

"Haha… Let's not dwell on the past, shall we?" Yao Lao coughed awkwardly, a tinge of embarrassment showing on his face. Still, the warmth in his expression betrayed his fondness for the memory.

Their conversation brought a lightness to the atmosphere, and a rare, genuine smile spread across Yao Lao's face.

As silence settled between them, the mountain returned to its natural stillness. Only the occasional breeze rustled the trees. Their gazes remained fixed on Xiao Yan, patiently waiting for him to complete his advancement—there were still important matters to discuss once he was ready.

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