Chapter 93: Don't Underestimate a Young Woman's Resolve (Part 2)
A colossal Dou Qi projection, towering over a thousand feet tall, loomed above the imperial capital, its grandeur visible to all.
As the voice boomed across the city, the entire Jia Ma Empire fell silent. Whether commoners or Dou Kings and Dou Emperors, everyone shivered in awe. In the face of such overwhelming power, they all seemed as insignificant as ants.
"What... what kind of existence could summon such a phenomenon?"
In the royal palace, Jia Xing Tian gazed in terror at the immense figure that had appeared above the Nalan residence.
At the Nalan estate, Tengshan stood frozen in shock, his mind racing to connect this bizarre occurrence with Xiao Yan's arrival.
In the depths of the Yun Lan Sect, a dark cave considered a forbidden area, an emaciated elder with skin like dried bark suddenly opened his cloudy eyes. His gaze pierced through the cave walls, locking onto the phenomenon outside.
"A Dou Zun expert... No, this aura surpasses even a Dou Zun!" the elder murmured, his eyes blazing with fervor.
"If I can secure the help of such a being, I might break through to Dou Zong before my end."
"My time is running out," Yun Shan whispered anxiously.
Nearby, another beautiful woman in seclusion opened her eyes in astonishment.
"What realm could such a being have reached?"
She was about to investigate when a telepathic message interrupted her thoughts.
"Yun'er, come to me."
"Yes, Teacher," Yun Yun responded, her expression hesitant. She soared toward the cave of her master, Yun Shan.
The magnificent spectacle not only stunned the Jia Ma Empire but also alarmed the surrounding nations.
On the Western Continent, where the average level of strength was far lower, a Dou Zun was already considered the pinnacle of power. Many had never even witnessed such a figure.
Rumors spread like wildfire.
"Investigate immediately! Find out which mysterious power has descended upon the imperial capital. But under no circumstances should we provoke them!"
Orders like this echoed across the land, setting the imperial capital abuzz with covert activity.
The massive Dou Qi projection disappeared after delivering its message, but its lingering effect left all eyes fixed on the Nalan estate.
Inside the Nalan residence, Xiao Yan clasped his hands toward Nalan Jie.
"Elder, I have fulfilled my grandfather's orders. The Nalan family can now freely develop its strength over the next century. However, I dislike seeing anyone misuse the Xiao Clan's name for malicious purposes."
Xiao Yan smiled warmly at the elder. "When I return to the Xiao Clan, you are welcome to accompany me and visit my grandfather."
He turned to Nalan Yanran and added, "Miss Nalan, if there is nothing else, we'll take our leave."
As he prepared to depart with Ya Fei and his two protectors, a cold, determined voice called out behind him.
"Xiao Yan!"
He stopped and turned to look at her.
"One day, I will challenge you. Even if you seem unreachable now, I will defeat you!"
The evening sun bathed Nalan Yanran's pale face in a crimson glow.
"Thirty years east of the river, thirty years west don't underestimate a young woman's resolve!"
Xiao Yan's clear, sharp eyes softened, and a smile spread across his face.
"Good one. For a moment, I almost thought you were a remnant of the Hun Clan."
Nalan Yanran's defiant proclamation amused him.
"I'll give you the time to chase after me," Xiao Yan said. "But don't be surprised if the distance becomes insurmountable."
With that, he turned and walked away, leaving behind a silhouette etched in Nalan Yanran's memory forever.
Once Xiao Yan was gone, Nalan Yanran's legs gave out, and she slumped to the ground.
"Yanran," Nalan Jie said, his voice filled with concern as he approached his granddaughter.
"I'm fine, Grandfather." Nalan Yanran forced a bitter smile, shaking her head. "Please, leave me alone for a while."
Nalan Jie sighed heavily. Though his heart ached for her, he couldn't bring himself to blame Xiao Yan or his family.
From their conversation, it was clear that Xiao Yan's situation involved two immensely powerful factions. Their intertwined interests were far beyond the reach of a small clan like the Nalan family.
Moreover, Xiao Yan had handled the matter with extraordinary tact.
"Rest well, and don't dwell on this too much," Nalan Jie said, patting her shoulder before leaving.
As soon as he was gone, tears began streaming down Nalan Yanran's face.
It wasn't because Xiao Yan had humiliated her, but because her pride cultivated over years of smooth sailing had taken a devastating blow.
For the first time, she faced a kind of defeat she couldn't overcome.
In both the Dou Qi Continent and Earth, many prodigies grow up in environments where everything comes easily. This fosters their immense self esteem and pride, which drive them to strive ever higher.
But such pride can also make them fragile. When struck by profound failure, some crumble under the weight of their own expectations.
Yet, those like Xiao Yan who have faced repeated setbacks develop a resilience that grants them a unique perspective on life.
Such individuals often understand what they truly want after enduring life's storms.
Under the moonlight's silver glow, the imperial capital basked in a serene calm.
In a private chamber, Ya Fei leaned languidly against the edge of a steaming bath, her face flushed.
Behind her stood Xiao Yan, his hands working skillfully on her delicate shoulders.
Splashes and ripples filled the air as the water danced around them.
Though annoyed, the empire's renowned auctioneer and celebrated beauty gritted her teeth and endured it.
For Xiao Yan, life's pleasures were simple and worldly. Despite his grand aspirations, he had no qualms about indulging in life's mundane joys.
"Born in the mortal realm, why strive to transcend it?" Xiao Yan mused, his eyes glinting mischievously.
Meanwhile, in the Yun Lan Sect's grand hall, Nalan Yanran stood before her mentor.
The woman, dressed in elegant white robes, bore a striking resemblance to Nalan Yanran in demeanor, though her mature beauty and regal presence surpassed her young disciple.
"Yanran, you're saying that the Dou Qi projection earlier was summoned by your former fiancé's protector?"
The woman, none other than Yun Yun, the sect leader, arched a delicate brow.
"Yes, Teacher," Nalan Yanran replied with a hollow expression. "But he's no longer my fiancé."
Yun Yun's heart ached at the sight of her disciple's forlorn state. Yet, thinking of her gravely ill master, she hesitated before asking, "Could you introduce this Xiao Yan to me?"
"Teacher!" Nalan Yanran looked up sharply, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears.
"Yanran," Yun Yun said softly, pulling her close and resting her chin on the girl's head. "My master is nearing his end. I must try everything I can to save him. Can you understand my desperation?"
After a long silence, Nalan Yanran returned to her mountain peak and sat on her usual training boulder, gazing up at the moon.
A deep sense of helplessness filled her heart once more.
"Surpassing Xiao Yan seems... impossible," she murmured.
His strength, his protectors, and his unimaginable resources all seemed insurmountable.
A sinister chuckle echoed suddenly in her ears.
"Young lady, you seem quite troubled."
(Chapter End)
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