Soon enough, Huo Ling'er realized that Xiao Fan, given his status, probably had no access to cultivation techniques beyond the Qi Refining stage. Additionally, Xiao Fan's apparent mindset suggested he had given up hope on progressing in his cultivation journey, likely due to a lack of suitable techniques.
With this in mind, Huo Ling'er decided she couldn't let Xiao Fan continue this "self-abandonment."
Firstly, Xiao Fan had saved her life, and repaying this kindness was only natural. Secondly, there was an indescribable emotional connection she felt, making her unwilling to see Xiao Fan remain a mere mortal forever. Besides, if she were to teach Xiao Fan, she would effectively become his master in cultivation, thereby restoring some of her lost dignity.
Having made up her mind, Huo Ling'er approached Xiao Fan with a smug expression. "Xiao Fan, your cultivation has likely stalled at the Qi Refining stage for a long time. Considering you saved my life, if you call me 'Master,' I'll teach you cultivation techniques beyond Qi Refining."
She expected Xiao Fan to be grateful, perhaps even excited. After all, for a cultivator, such techniques were priceless.
However, things didn't go as she imagined. Xiao Fan's expression remained calm, not showing the slightest ripple of emotion. He merely glanced at her and said, "It seems your health has improved quite a bit. If there's nothing else, you should leave."
Huo Ling'er was stunned. She hadn't expected such a cold response or a prompt to leave. Reflecting on her approach, she wondered if her attitude had angered Xiao Fan. After all, Xiao Fan was a person who valued peace and might not have strong desires for higher cultivation.
Softening her tone, Huo Ling'er said gently, "I admit my tone was a bit harsh earlier, but I genuinely want to repay your kindness. Surely you lack cultivation techniques beyond Qi Refining?"
Xiao Fan replied candidly, "Indeed, my cultivation has stalled because I lack further techniques. However, that doesn't bother me much. I don't have a strong interest in cultivation. Living as an ordinary person suits me better."
He didn't mention the demonic consciousness within him. It wasn't relevant to Huo Ling'er, and he didn't want her to worry. Moreover, he truly had little interest in cultivation. He was content with a peaceful, uneventful life.
Huo Ling'er frowned, finding Xiao Fan's attitude perplexing. If any other cultivator had said they weren't interested in pursuing higher levels, she would have thought them insincere. But coming from Xiao Fan, she couldn't argue. His laid-back, desireless nature was evident during their time together. She admired this quality in him, but now it was a barrier.
Unwilling to give up, Huo Ling'er asked cautiously, "Are you upset because I asked you to call me 'Master'? If you don't want to, just forget I said it. I still want to teach you cultivation techniques."
Xiao Fan, seeing Huo Ling'er suddenly so accommodating, found it amusing. Smiling, he said, "You misunderstand. I wasn't angry. I genuinely think you should return home if you're healed. Your father must be worried."
Huo Ling'er fell silent. Xiao Fan was right. As the favored princess of the Heavenly Fire Kingdom, her father must have sent out many search parties by now. She should indeed return to reassure him.
But...
Huo Ling'er glanced at Xiao Fan, her eyes filled with reluctance. The days spent with Xiao Fan, though simple, had been the happiest of her life, free from worry. This carefree feeling was new to her.
Moreover, her feelings for Xiao Fan were unique. She didn't know if it was love, but seeing him nearby filled her with a strange sense of peace and joy. She wanted to be with him always.
With determination, Huo Ling'er said earnestly, "Xiao Fan, why don't you come back to the Heavenly Fire Kingdom with me?"
Xiao Fan was taken aback, but after a moment, he smiled brightly. "Thank you for the invitation, but I prefer a quiet life, away from too many people."
He wasn't lying. The deeper reason was his fear that the demonic consciousness within him might act up again.
"You!" Huo Ling'er felt a surge of anger. She had never lowered herself so much for anyone, and now she was being refused. She decided to use force if necessary. Xiao Fan would come with her, whether he liked it or not. However, she needed to fully recover her strength first. She planned to bide her time and ensure Xiao Fan didn't escape.
"Fine, if you don't want to, I won't force you," Huo Ling'er said dejectedly. "Once I've fully recovered, I'll leave."
Seeing Huo Ling'er's dejection, Xiao Fan sighed deeply. The time spent with her had been the happiest in his life. But all good things must end. He hoped she would be well in the future. For the remaining days, he decided to treat her well.
Thus, Huo Ling'er enjoyed a few more days like a pampered princess. Xiao Fan cooked whatever she wanted and refrained from his usual teasing, fulfilling her requests as much as possible.
Huo Ling'er felt overjoyed, finding this life almost divine. It strengthened her resolve: Xiao Fan must return with her.