For exclusive access to 200+ advanced chapters and more, visit my Ko-fi page and support the journey: ko-fi.com/laoyao95
Laoyao with L yeahh..thanks for the support.
or Support me at patreon for 200+ advanced chapters :
patreon.com/YaoIk
**
Mo Yu was not unfamiliar with Xiao Li. Having grown up within the Xiao Clan and sharing its bloodline, Xiao Li was, in terms of family hierarchy, his cousin.
In Mo Yu's memory, this cousin Xiao Li had always been a protective figure, albeit stern and quiet. He recalled an incident from childhood when a younger clan member had bullied him. Xiao Li, upon hearing of this, didn't hesitate to take Mo Yu to confront the culprit, forcing an apology from them.
Since then, Xiao Li had left a profound impression on Mo Yu's original self. Having relived a new life, Mo Yu knew that Xiao Li's story was far from over. Although not as dazzling as Xiao Yan, Xiao Li's experiences would still prove strange and remarkable.
According to the original storyline, Xiao Li had ventured alone into the Black-Corner Region, where he became known after consuming a rare Life Devouring Pill. If word of this reached the Jia Ma Empire, it would be quite a tale in itself.
At the mention of the Life Devouring Pill, Mo Yu's gaze fell on the pale-faced Xiao Li, and a sudden idea crossed his mind.
As Mo Yu pondered, Xiao Yan learned from Xiao Li about the events leading to his arrival at the Jia Nan Academy, confirming Mo Yu's suspicion of turmoil within the Xiao Clan. Two months after the clan moved under the Desert Iron Mercenary Group, the Yun Lan Sect had sent assassins, dealing a heavy blow to the Xiao Clan.
Furthermore, Xiao Li revealed that mysterious figures wielding black chains had joined in the massacre. Mo Yu was taken aback, realizing this group was likely from the Hall of Souls, their target being none other than the Xiao Clan's Tuo She Ancient Emperor's Jade, which was currently with the visibly enraged Xiao Yan.
"Brother Xiao Li, my... my parents, are they safe?" Xiao Yu's voice trembled as she asked.
"Hehe, Yu-er, you've grown more beautiful over the years." Xiao Li's usually harsh expression softened as he glanced at the teary-eyed Xiao Yu, then added, "Aunt is fine, but Uncle lost an arm in battle. If not for Hai Lao and the support of the Mite-er Clan, our Xiao Clan might not have survived, and I wouldn't have made it here."
Hearing this, Xiao Yu, though visibly affected, nodded quietly, her fragile nerves managing to hold.
Seeing her distress, Mo Yu put a comforting hand on her shoulder. Noticing Mo Yu, Xiao Li's eyes gleamed with surprise before he spoke softly, "Little Yu? I hardly recognized you; you've changed so much. I heard you even surpass Xiao Yan now. My brother and I are proud whenever we talk about you."
His words were sincere; the Xiao Clan's Twin Dragons, Xiao Ding and Xiao Li, were often amazed at Mo Yu's unexpected rise. Unlike Xiao Yan, who had been a recognized genius before his talent waned, Mo Yu had once been unremarkable. But ever since he made a name for himself at his coming-of-age ceremony, his fame had only grown, especially after the battle at Yun Lan Mountain, where he and Xiao Yan's names echoed throughout the Jia Ma Empire.
Hearing Xiao Li's praise, Mo Yu chuckled and gave Xiao Li's arm a pat. "Brother Li, you flatter me. I still remember how you defended me when I was bullied as a kid. That's something I'll never forget."
Xiao Yan and the others looked on, stunned at the revelation of Mo Yu's embarrassing childhood incident. Xiao Li, too, was momentarily taken aback but then smiled softly, the memory warming the bond between them.
...
Due to Xiao Li's injuries, Mo Yu and Xiao Yan stayed in the outer courtyard for a few days instead of returning to the inner courtyard. With Xiao Yan, a fifth-grade alchemist, around, Xiao Li's wounds healed rapidly under the effects of precious pills, allowing him to even break through to the rank of Da Dou Shi.
Having endured the clan's hardships, Xiao Li had become even sterner. Though still gentle with family, he now possessed a hawkish gaze that unsettled strangers.
A few days later, Xiao Li, having recovered, approached Mo Yu and Xiao Yan with a surprising decision. "I want to go to the Black-Corner Region." Xiao Li licked his lips and looked at Xiao Yan's shocked expression with a smile. "I find that place suits me. In the Jia Ma Empire, restrictions are everywhere, but in the Black-Corner Region, there are no rules. There, I can do anything to build my power."
"The Black-Corner Region may lack rules, but it's dangerously chaotic. Survival is tough without strength," Xiao Yan warned, attempting to dissuade him.
"Don't worry. I'm a Da Dou Shi now, and not everything there relies on brute force alone." Xiao Li waved off his concern and then pulled out two silver-glowing scrolls from his robe. He smiled. "This is a lightning-attribute Dou Qi technique and Dou Skill Xun'er gave me. Both are mid-grade Xuan-Class, and used together, they rival high-level Xuan-Class techniques. Even a typical four- or five-star Da Dou Shi would struggle against me."
Since Xiao Li was determined, Mo Yu spoke up. "Brother Xiao Yan, we should support him. A quiet life at Jia Nan Academy doesn't suit him."
In the original story, Xiao Li had risen on his own in the Black-Corner Region, enough to trouble the Blood Sect. His harsh nature and cunning were perfect for survival in a chaotic place like that. Moreover, Mo Yu couldn't help but consider the possibility of recruiting Xiao Li under his own banner.
"Haha, Little Yu understands me well. What do you say, Xiao Yan?" Xiao Li patted Mo Yu's shoulder, looking to Xiao Yan.
After a long silence and considering Mo Yu's words, Xiao Yan sighed and nodded. He had initially hoped to enroll Xiao Li at Jia Nan Academy, where his future could be nurtured. But knowing his brother's character, Xiao Yan realized that once Xiao Li made up his mind, nothing would change it. Besides, Mo Yu was right—the Black-Corner Region suited him better.
Seeing Xiao Yan's acceptance, Mo Yu wasn't surprised; he knew Xiao Yan wouldn't refuse Xiao Li.
After a moment's hesitation, Xiao Yan flipped his hand, revealing a strange black scroll. "This is a flight scroll called 'Thunder Bat Sky Wings.' It grants flight abilities similar to a Dou Wang, though it drains Dou Qi quickly. Use it only in emergencies, as its origin is unknown, and it may attract trouble if recognized."
Mo Yu raised a brow. He recognized this scroll as one of Xiao Yan's first spoils from the Black-Corner Region. Xiao Yan's willingness to share such a valuable item showed how much he cared for his family.
"Hehe, this is a treasure," Xiao Li grinned as he took the black scroll without hesitation, tucking it away.
"I'll keep an eye on the Blood Sect," he said coldly, "I've heard of them."
"Stay here a few more days, and I'll prepare some extra pills for you," Xiao Yan added.
Xiao Li nodded, appreciating his brother's thoughtfulness.
The next morning, Xiao Li received everything from Xiao Yan. Seeing Xiao Yan's worried expression, he felt a hint of warmth and gave him a firm pat on the shoulder. "Xiao Yan, don't worry. I'll take care of myself."
After a few more words, Mo Yu finally spoke. "Xiao Yan and Xun'er have given Brother Xiao Li their most precious gifts; I can't let him go empty-handed."
Xiao Li looked surprised and waved it off. "No need, Xiao Yu. We're family; don't worry about such things."
Mo Yu shook his head with a light smile. "I've prepared a gift for you, though it has severe side effects, even possibly death. Whether you choose to use it is up to you."
Intrigued, Xiao Li and Xiao Yan glanced at each other before Xiao Li laughed, "Now I'm curious about what you've prepared, Xiao Yu, if it carries such risks."
Without a word, Mo Yu quietly retrieved a red pill from his storage ring.
The pill was entirely blood-red, about the size of a longan. It appeared incredibly mystical, looking like a transparent bead filled with blood. At its core, a faint blood-red glow flickered, resembling a tiny eye, giving it an eerie and unsettling appearance.
Seeing this unusual pill, both Xiao Li and Xiao Yan showed expressions of astonishment, especially the latter, whose normally calm black eyes flashed with surprise.
"This is a Life Devouring Pill," Mo Yu stated, pointing at the red pill in his hand.
"What!"
Upon hearing this, Xiao Yan froze, his face changing dramatically as he gasped in shock. As Yao Lao's prized disciple, he naturally understood the implications of the Life Devouring Pill.
"Xiao Yan, what's wrong?" Xiao Li asked curiously, noticing his normally mature and composed brother's unusual reaction.
Suppressing his shock, Xiao Yan swallowed and began to explain the effects of the Life Devouring Pill to his older brother.
After listening to Xiao Yan's explanation, Xiao Li's eyes also showed a hint of awe. When he looked again at the red pill in Mo Yu's hand, there was an undeniable spark of interest in his gaze.
A pill capable of allowing a Da Dou Shi to break through to the Dou Wang level in a short period—it was truly astonishing and tempting.
"Xiao Yan is right. I obtained this Life Devouring Pill by chance after arriving in the Black-Corner Region. It can indeed grant a Da Dou Shi the power of a Dou Wang in a short time, but it only lasts for three years," Mo Yu explained.
"No wonder you said the aftereffects are severe."
Hearing it would only last for three years, the heat in Xiao Li's eyes faded a little. At this point, he hadn't experienced Xiao Yan's near-death experience, so while he craved power, he wasn't yet willing to risk his life for it.
Even so, Xiao Li's gaze at the Life Devouring Pill still held a trace of undisguised fervor.
After all, with this pill, he could step directly into the Dou Wang realm. Even if he returned to the Jia Ma Empire, he could dominate one region.
Noticing Xiao Li's hesitation, Mo Yu smiled and said, "Although the Life Devouring Pill has severe aftereffects, it's not entirely irreversible. If you break through to the Dou Huang level within the time limit, you can remove this side effect.
"Plus, with Xiao Yan as a high-level alchemist and his exceptional teacher, there may be ways to extend your life. If that's the case, taking the Life Devouring Pill doesn't necessarily spell a dead end.
"Of course, the Life Devouring Pill is merely a gift I'm offering to you, Xiao Li. Whether you use it or not is entirely up to you."
Upon hearing this, Xiao Li's face lit up with joy, and he turned his gaze toward Xiao Yan.
If he could truly use the Life Devouring Pill without suffering the cost of three years' life, he would certainly be eager to do so.
Seeing Xiao Li's look, Xiao Yan was taken aback, then looked at Mo Yu, scratching his head with a wry smile.
He certainly didn't believe Mo Yu would purposely harm his older brother. Not only was Mo Yu not the type, but if he wanted to hurt Xiao Li, he wouldn't offer such a valuable pill.
After all, this was a seventh-grade pill, valuable enough to buy the life of a Dou Huang-level expert, let alone a mere Da Dou Shi like Xiao Li.
Moreover, after consulting Yao Lao privately, Xiao Yan confirmed that Mo Yu's solution was indeed feasible. Yao Lao had just informed him that there was a pill called the Deep Green Longevity Pill, which could add ten years to a person's life.
With Xiao Yan's affirmation, Xiao Li's enthusiasm grew. He licked his lips and took the Life Devouring Pill from Mo Yu's hand, saying, "In that case, I'll take it."
"Second Brother..."
"Don't try to dissuade me, Third Brother. Since you have a solution, I trust you. Besides, you know the Xiao Clan is on the verge of extinction. The family can't rely solely on you and Little Yu to bear this burden.
"With Little Yu's help, this opportunity has come to me, so I can't let it slip by," Xiao Li said resolutely.
Seeing his determination, Xiao Yan was stunned. He thought about the clan's current situation, contemplated for a moment, then sighed lightly and said, "In that case, I'll make sure not to disappoint you, Second Brother. I'll refine the pill to extend your life as soon as possible."
"Good." Hearing this, Xiao Li finally smiled and, without further ado, swallowed the Life Devouring Pill directly.
"Uh..."
Watching Xiao Li's swift, decisive action, Mo Yu was momentarily taken aback. Indeed, Xiao Li was a ruthless man.
Moments later, Xiao Li slowly opened his eyes, a faint blood-red glow flashing across them. At the same time, his aura surged significantly.
Compared to before, Xiao Li now exuded an eerie, chilling vibe, and to Mo Yu's surprise, his aura seemed more threatening than that of an average Dou Ling expert.
"The Life Devouring Pill truly lives up to its name. If all the medicinal power is absorbed, Xiao Li must have already reached the Dou Wang level," Mo Yu thought to himself.
With that thought, he took out a black iron medallion, about the size of a palm, with the large character "Yuan" carved on it and handed it to Xiao Li.
Feeling the power coursing through him, Xiao Li's eyes gleamed with joy. He sensed that even an ordinary Dou Ling expert might not be his match.
Suppressing his excitement, Xiao Li took the medallion from Mo Yu, curiosity evident on his face. "What is this, Xiao Yu?"
"When I first came to the Black-Corner Region, I founded a faction in Shi Yan City called Yuan Manor. Though it's still small, it has managed to join the ranks of second-tier factions.
"This medallion is the Manor Master's token. Having this is like having my authority. If you find yourself without a place to go in the Black-Corner Region, you can join Yuan Manor as the Vice Leader of the Tiger Hall."
"Yuan Manor?"
Hearing this, Xiao Li and Xiao Yan exchanged glances, both surprised.
They hadn't expected Mo Yu to have already established a faction in the Black-Corner Region, let alone a second-tier faction! Both had been to the Black-Corner Region and understood the strength of its second-tier factions, which rivaled even the top three clans of the Jia Ma Empire!
"Little Yu, our big brother always said you were no ordinary person. I didn't expect you to rise so quickly. Alright, if you invite me, then after I leave Jia Nan Academy, I'll join Yuan Manor!" Xiao Li declared with a hearty laugh.
For him, while he had intended to build his own faction in the Black-Corner Region, Mo Yu's invitation, along with the Life Devouring Pill, was reason enough to accept.
Besides, with Yuan Manor's strong foundation, it was the perfect place for him to develop.
Next, to Xiao Li's surprise, Mo Yu produced another Life Devouring Pill, explaining that it was prepared for the Tiger Hall's leader, Ling Feng.
Of course, Mo Yu didn't insist Ling Feng take the pill, leaving it to Xiao Li to decide if he wanted to use it.
Given Mo Yu's understanding of Ling Feng, he was confident that the latter wouldn't pass up the opportunity.
Xiao Li nodded, stood for a moment, and then, with a wave to Mo Yu, Xiao Yan, and the others, including Xun Er and Xiao Yu in the distance, finally turned away, striding resolutely toward the chaotic lands beyond the academy gates.
Seeing this, Mo Yu's silver eyes narrowed slightly. With Zi Huo guarding the Lion Hall, he wasn't worried about Yuan Manor's security. His only concern had been the Tiger Hall.
But now, with Xiao Li joining and the effects of two Life Devouring Pills, the hall's growth would skyrocket, putting Mo Yu's mind at ease.
Once the Jia Nan Academy journey was over, it would be time for Yuan Manor to make its mark in the Black-Corner Region…
----------------------------------------------------------------------
For exclusive access to 200+ advanced chapters and more, visit my Ko-fi page and support the journey: ko-fi.com/laoyao95
Laoyao with L yeahh..thanks for the support.
or Support me at patreon for 200+ advanced chapters :
patreon.com/YaoIk