ALL NOVEL Chapter 69: Four Years Later
Time flies; the years pass like a shuttle.
Four years have gone by.
In the Soul Clan, within the small courtyard belonging to Hun Xiu, he has been practicing diligently in his room for the past four years, never stepping outside. His life during this time has revolved entirely around cultivation, leaving no room for anything else.
---
Back Mountain.
A vortex of energy formed by the forces of heaven and earth surrounds the courtyard like a whirlwind. Over the four years, this phenomenon has become a daily occurrence, with the vortex growing larger and more intense as time went on. Now, it encompasses almost the entire Soul Realm.
Nearly all the energy within the Soul World is being drawn towards this courtyard, demonstrating the terrifying level of absorption Hun Xiu possesses. This has caused a significant stir—so much so that many members of the younger generation have left, and even elders in seclusion have been forced to relocate to a newly-created Soul Realm.
Hun San stood atop a tree some distance from the courtyard, gazing towards it. He muttered to himself, "Master Hun Xiu has been in seclusion for four years. When will he finally come out?"
For the entire duration of these years, Hun San has remained a loyal guard, stationed near the courtyard. However, as the vortex of energy intensified, even his strength as a Dou Zun warrior proved insufficient, forcing him to retreat further away. He could only keep watch from a distance, feeling deeply inadequate in his role.
---
"Hun Tiandi, I didn't expect this little one's retreat to cause such a commotion," remarked the Void Devouring Flame, black flames flickering within its eyes as it observed the vortex covering the Soul Realm.
"Indeed," Hun Tiandi replied, his sharp gaze fixed on the courtyard. "This magnitude of activity clearly indicates substantial progress. It seems he has consumed nearly all the cultivation resources I provided him."
"Hun Tiandi, I suspect he will emerge soon," Void Devouring Flame added with a faint smile.
Hun Tiandi nodded, though his eyes remained unreadable.
---
Suddenly, the vortex of energy began to dissipate. Both Hun Tiandi and the Void Devouring Flame exchanged glances, their expressions betraying shock. A single thought crossed their minds: Has Xiu'er finally emerged from seclusion?
Without hesitation, their figures vanished from sight.
---
Inside the room, Hun Xiu slowly opened his eyes, black flames flickering within them. His white robes were in tatters, and his disheveled appearance suggested the strain of his training.
"Four... four years," Hun Xiu murmured, his voice slightly hoarse. He clenched his fist, sensing the immense power coursing through his body. A faint smile formed on his lips as he thought, One punch from me now could destroy the world.
Excitedly, Hun Xiu stood, stretching his stiff body before stepping out of the room.
---
Outside, two familiar figures awaited him. "Father. Master Void Devouring Flame," Hun Xiu greeted them respectfully.
Hun Tiandi's sharp eyes softened slightly as he asked, "Xiu'er, have you used up all the cultivation resources I gave you?"
"Yes, Father," Hun Xiu replied, holding out two storage rings. "Here they are."
Hun Tiandi examined the rings, finding one completely empty. A flicker of surprise crossed his face. In his estimation, the resources within these rings would take at least twenty years to exhaust—yet his son had accomplished it in just four.
He could only think one word: Monstrous.
Pride shone in Hun Tiandi's eyes as he said, "You've done well, Xiu'er. Your father is proud of you."
"Thank you, Father," Hun Xiu replied with a bow.
Hun Tiandi continued, "The reason we kept you in the Soul Clan these past four years was because you were still young and your strength insufficient. Now, you are strong enough. You may leave."
He patted Hun Xiu on the shoulder and instructed, "Prepare yourself and come to my study room tonight."
---
Later that evening, dressed in pristine white robes and exuding a refined elegance, Hun Xiu arrived at the study room. His handsome face now fully matured, he could easily captivate countless hearts.
"Father," Hun Xiu greeted, bowing once more.
Hun Tiandi nodded and waved his hand, summoning a black token that floated towards Hun Xiu. "This token represents your identity. With it, the Soul Palace will obey your orders."
Hun Xiu accepted it with a respectful, "Thank you, Father."
Hun Tiandi continued, "This token contains a clone of me. If you encounter an enemy beyond your ability, drop your blood on the token to activate the clone. But remember, this is a one-time use. Use it wisely."
"Xiu'er understands," Hun Xiu replied solemnly, touched by his father's gesture.
Hun Tiandi handed him a mask, adding, "When you go out, wear this mask."
"Why, Father?" Hun Xiu asked, puzzled.
"Look in the mirror," Hun Tian replied with a faint smirk.
Hun Xiu: "..."
(TL/N: Bro's afraid that his son might get stolen by some strong women.)