After a thorough examination, Dugu Bo confirmed that Li Chang'an's physical condition was better than ever. Whether in terms of soul power or other aspects, there were no abnormalities.
This undoubtedly proved that the immortal herb indeed possessed the miraculous effect of transforming a soul master.
However, to err on the side of caution, Dugu Bo decided to observe Li Chang'an for a while longer. Once he was sure there were no side effects, he planned to select a suitable immortal herb for his granddaughter, Dugu Yan, to consume.
As for himself, he decided against it. First, because of his age, the herb's efficacy would be greatly diminished. Second, among the known herbs, none were suited to resolve his poison condition. Instead of wasting such treasures, he thought it better to preserve them for potential future uses.
Li Chang'an and Dugu Yan eventually returned to the academy. This news brought relief to the three teaching committee members, as it confirmed that Dugu Bo hadn't caused any trouble for Li Chang'an.
As for the noticeable increase in intimacy between the two, the teaching committee chose to turn a blind eye. After all, Dugu Yan was the granddaughter of the Poison Douluo. Should that old man lose his temper, his destructive power would far surpass that of an ordinary Title Douluo. Though in one-on-one combat he might be the weakest among the Title Douluos, his mastery of poison could decimate anyone below that level. Facing his toxic fog, even a large army would be wiped out. Thus, no one willingly provoked him unless absolutely necessary.
Regarding Li Chang'an and Dugu Yan's budding relationship, the situation could be viewed in both serious and trivial lights. Ultimately, it depended on the circumstances.
Generally, a prince consort was not permitted to indulge in extramarital affairs, as it would tarnish the royal family's reputation. However, this only applied to consorts who were powerless and wholly dependent on royal authority. If a consort's family was powerful or if they possessed formidable strength, the rules were more flexible.
For instance, if Li Chang'an were already a Title Douluo, even if he openly took additional wives, the Emperor of Heaven Dou Empire might turn a blind eye—or even send gifts during his weddings. Such was the privilege of strength.
While Li Chang'an had not yet reached the level of a Title Douluo, his extraordinary talent was undeniable, and no one doubted his potential to achieve it in the future. Thus, as a future pillar of the nation, it was unwise to alienate him over minor indiscretions.
With this in mind, even the Emperor chose to ignore Li Chang'an's flirtatious behavior, tacitly allowing it to continue.
Upon returning to the academy, Li Chang'an and Dugu Yan, now a couple, began living as though inseparable. Outside their essential study and cultivation time, they spent nearly every moment together, reveling in the sweetness of young love.
Their relationship deepened rapidly over six months.
During this time, Li Chang'an almost fully indulged in Dugu Yan's allure. Except for refraining from crossing the ultimate line, they had shared every intimacy a couple could.
When asked why he refrained from the final step, Dugu Yan explained, "Grandpa says we're too young. Starting too early could harm our health and might even lead to distractions that could hinder cultivation."
Hearing this, Li Chang'an could only relent, albeit reluctantly. After all, he still coveted the immortal herbs, and it was wise to heed the elder's words.
Six months later, the two returned to the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well.
Dugu Bo was already waiting. The moment he saw Li Chang'an, he eagerly took the young man's hand to conduct a thorough inspection of his condition.
After a meticulous examination, Dugu Bo confirmed that Li Chang'an's physical state was even better than six months ago. This indicated that the lingering effects of the immortal herb he consumed had been fully absorbed. Moreover, his soul power had risen to level 38.
Before consuming the herb, Li Chang'an had just acquired a soul ring and was only at level 31. Yet, within a mere six months, he had climbed seven levels in soul power!
It was worth noting that during this time, Li Chang'an had deliberately refrained from using his clone's transmitted soul power to raise his level. These seven levels were earned solely through his cultivation efforts.
More importantly, the herb's benefits extended beyond mere soul power. It fortified his body, enhanced the flexibility and strength of his meridians, and solidified his foundation. The intangible advantages were immeasurable.
Satisfied with the results, Dugu Bo finally felt at ease. Confirming there were no side effects, he decided it was time for Dugu Yan to consume her immortal herb.
He retrieved a crystalline white herb resembling a spotless lotus. Known as Water Fairy Jade Muscle Bone, this herb could nourish muscles and bones, harmonize the meridians, and was particularly suited for women.
The consumption method involved eating its petals and then absorbing its essence from the stamens through cultivation.
Following the instructions, Dugu Yan consumed the herb and began meditating to absorb its medicinal power. Soon, a faint jade glow enveloped her, making her appear as if sculpted from flawless jade.
After a while, seeing that Dugu Yan was progressing smoothly and showing no adverse reactions, Dugu Bo nodded in satisfaction. Turning to Li Chang'an, who was quietly observing, he said, "Chang'an, come with me."
With that, he headed out of the cave.
Though puzzled, Li Chang'an followed.
Dugu Bo led the way up a mountain path. Though his pace appeared leisurely, each step carried him more than ten meters, and his movements were as smooth as floating upward.
Li Chang'an mobilized his soul power to keep up, managing to stay close behind. However, unlike Dugu Bo's ease, he seemed slightly rushed.
Soon, they reached the mountaintop.
A vast crater in the shape of an inverted cone lay before them. The two stood at the edge of the mountain, overlooking the crater from above. Thick, humid heat wafted from the depths, carrying the distinctive scent of sulfur.
Gazing at the scene, Li Chang'an couldn't help but imagine the events of countless millennia ago: when the Ice and Fire Dragon Kings fell from the Divine Realm, entwined like a blazing meteor, crashing into this very spot. The land upheaved, ultimately forming this remarkable spectacle.
The dazzling scene of their descent—like a falling sun—must have inspired the name for this place: Sunset Forest.
(End of Chapter)