Lin Zixuan couldn't help but frown as she observed the appreciation on Jiang Wan's face.
"Jiang Wan, Horn just said he's not interested in you. Don't you have masochistic tendencies?" Lin Zixuan remarked. She knew her best friend well enough to realize that Jiang Wan's pursuit might lead to Horn genuinely falling for her.
It wasn't a lack of confidence on Lin Zixuan's part; it was just that Jiang Wan, with her myriad tricks, was hard to compete with.
Jiang Wan glanced at Lin Zixuan with a knowing look. "Why are you so nervous? Are you interested in Horn as well?" Her voice was clear enough for everyone present to hear.
Tang Yuxin and Wang Menglu, still regaining their composure, fixed their gazes on Lin Zixuan.
"What are you talking about, Jiang Wan?" Lin Zixuan's anger was mixed with guilt. Horn and Tang Yuxin shared a relationship akin to that of a couple. Although they hadn't formally acknowledged it, their interactions resembled those of a boyfriend and girlfriend. Lin Zixuan felt like an intruder, a mistress stealing her student's boyfriend. If word got out, she'd be deeply embarrassed.
Horn ignored the byplay and addressed Tang Yuxin. "Yuxin, sit cross-legged in the formation. Your cultivation will improve significantly. Just focus on your practice."
Tang Yuxin nodded obediently, stepping into the Immortal Clan Body Tempering formation and sitting cross-legged.
The formation activated upon her entry. Strange energy surged from it, drawing in the power of heaven and earth. Tang Yuxin's cultivation level, previously at the seventh level of Qi Condensation, was soon enveloped in a rich orange light.
Moments later, Tang Yuxin's aura shifted as she broke through to the eighth level of Qi Condensation. The onlookers were astonished when she progressed further to the ninth level. Mr. Qiao and Mr. Wei, overwhelmed, wondered about the nature of this formation. They had never encountered such a formation that facilitated continuous breakthroughs.
"Little friend, I apologize for my previous behavior. Please enlighten me about this two-star formation!" Mr. Wei bowed deeply, followed by Mr. Qiao, who also expressed sincere apologies.
Lin Zixuan and Jiang Wan held their breath, understanding the profound impact of the moment. Wang Menglu, now at the eighth level of Qi Condensation, watched in awe as Tang Yuxin surpassed her.
Horn glanced at the bowing elders and spoke calmly. "This formation is called the Immortal Clan Body Tempering Formation. You wouldn't understand its origins even if I told you. Just know that it can help Qi Condensation monks break through to the Innate Realm without impacting their foundation. In fact, it strengthens it."
Seeing the disbelief on Mr. Wei and Mr. Qiao's faces, Horn continued, "Qi Condensation is a process of Body Tempering. The Immortal Clan Body Tempering Formation channels the power of heaven and earth to assist in this process. Such power harbors many mysteries and helps monks reach greater heights in the future."
As Horn finished speaking, Tang Yuxin's aura surged once more, the surrounding air whipping into a hurricane. The Immortal Spirit Art within her operated continuously. To Mr. Wei and the others, Tang Yuxin successfully entered the early stage of the Innate Realm. The orange light of the formation faded, and the power of heaven and earth receded.
Realizing the validity of Horn's words, Mr. Wei and Mr. Qiao were in awe. Tang Yuxin's solid foundation after multiple breakthroughs spoke volumes.
Jiang Wan, her eyes sparkling, was captivated by Horn. This formation's ability to propel monks from the Qi Condensation realm directly to the Innate Realm could revolutionize the global landscape. Her admiration for Horn grew, and she was eager to bring him to Tianhai Immortal Martial Academy.
Lin Zixuan, noticing Jiang Wan's growing fascination, felt a mix of satisfaction and internal conflict. Despite everything, Horn had become a significant figure in her life.
Tang Yuxin opened her eyes, exited the formation, and marveled at her newfound strength. "Horn, have I really entered the Innate Realm?"
Horn gently touched her head. "Yes, how do you feel?"
Wang Menglu, eyes wide with anticipation, asked, "Horn, can I also enter the formation?"
Tang Yuxin, remembering Wang Menglu's past kindness, was eager to help. Horn nodded, and Wang Menglu stepped into the formation, her cultivation at the eighth level of Qi Condensation.
Soon, Wang Menglu, like Tang Yuxin, broke through to the ninth level and then to the early stage of the Innate Realm. Mr. Wei and the others, witnessing her breakthrough, were convinced of the formation's power.
Jiang Wan, determined to lure Horn to Tianhai Immortal Martial Academy, drew closer to him. The scent she wore was undeniably enticing.
"Brother Horn," Jiang Wan said, her voice laced with temptation, "I was wrong earlier. Give me a chance to make amends. If you come with me to Tianhai Immortal Martial Academy, I'll fulfill any request you have. And I'll be on time to warm your bed tonight."
Horn, maintaining his calm demeanor, replied, "I've told you before, I'm not interested. Are you having trouble understanding that?"
Horn had no intention of offending Jiang Wan, but he remained firm in his stance.