The bustling market of Little Blue City was alive with energy. Merchants shouted over one another, hawking exotic spices, shimmering fabrics, and glistening jewels. The scent of grilled meats and fresh bread mingled with the occasional whiff of incense, filling the air with a rich aroma.
Xian Xi strolled through the marketplace at a leisurely pace, his noble bearing and sharp features making him stand out even among the crowd. A slight smirk played at his lips as he casually winked at every passing young lady. Of course, none of them spared him a second glance.
It was to be expected.
After all, who in Little Blue City didn't know its infamous "Talented Playboy"?
While Xian Xi was undeniably a genius, his reputation for shamelessly flirting with every girl in sight often overshadowed his talents.
Today, however, he wasn't just idly wandering. His sharp eyes flickered from stall to stall, clearly searching for someone.
Jean Si.
His childhood friend, and one of the few people in the city who could match his talent. Everyone assumed they were destined to marry one day—not that Xian Xi ever agreed with them.
He sighed, raking a hand through his neatly tied hair. The market was packed, and after searching for what felt like hours, he still had no idea where Jean Si was.
That little troublemaker! Making this young master search half the city?
With a huff, he grumbled aloud, "Jean Si, just wait! I swear I'll make you pay for wasting my time!"
Before he could complain further, a soft tap landed on his shoulder.
He turned—only to be momentarily stunned.
Standing behind him was Jean Si, her radiant smile so dazzling that for a brief moment, Xian Xi forgot to breathe.
Her long, inky black hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall, catching the afternoon light with an almost ethereal glow. Her dark eyes gleamed mischievously, framed by delicate lashes. Though still young, her features were striking, hinting at a beauty that, in a few years, would undoubtedly leave men spellbound.
"Brother Xian, were you looking for me?" Jean Si asked, her voice carrying a teasing lilt.
Xi Xian quickly recovered, scoffing as he turned away. "Look for you? Hah! As if I'd waste my time on that."
Jean Si giggled and caught up to him, easily looping her arm through his. "No need to act shy about it," she teased.
Xian Xi frowned, already thinking of a sharp retort—
BOOM!
A deep, resonating chime cut through the noise of the market, shaking the very air around them.
Jean Si's eyes widened. "The Testing Hall bell!" she exclaimed. "It's time for the Spirit Entity Testing!"
Xian Xi's heart pounded with excitement. This was it—the moment that would determine their future.
"Then let's not waste time," he said, pulling his arm free. "I refuse to be late."
With that, he sprinted off.
"Hey! That's not fair!" Jean Si shouted, chasing after him.
---
By the time they arrived at the Testing Hall, the grand arena was already filled with energy-gathering warriors. Towering stone pillars lined the hall, intricate runes glowing faintly along their surfaces. At the very front sat five elders—each representing the most powerful clans in Little Blue City.
Among them was Elder Xu, Xi Xian's esteemed clan elder, and beside him sat Elder Mo, Jean Si's clan elder. Their presence alone made the atmosphere tense with anticipation.
The moment Xi Xian and Jean Si stepped inside, all eyes turned toward them.
Hushed whispers and murmurs spread like wildfire.
"Look! It's Xi Xian and Jean Si!"
"I heard both of them have already mastered the energy-gathering formula!"
"They're both top-tier geniuses... and childhood friends too!"
"Senior Sister Jean looks stunning today. If only she would spare me a glance."
"Shut your mouth! With Senior Brother Xian beside her, no one else stands a chance!"
Xian Xi barely paid attention to the chatter. He was used to this kind of treatment.
After all, he wasn't just another talented warrior.
He was Xian Xi—a prodigy whose future stretched far beyond the limits of Little Blue City.
And today, he would prove it.