BTTH: Auto Cultivation System

Xiao Hua and Xiao Xun Er entered the hall, led by the elder, with their heads held high.

The hall was spacious, but not crowded. A few people were seated, with four occupying the seats at the top. Naturally, Xiao Hua recognized them: Xiao Zhan, the Clan Leader, and the three elders.

Their expressions were tense, with stiff smiles betraying their unease—a sign that this meeting would determine the future direction of the clan. Xiao Hua and Xiao Xun Er understood the gravity of the situation.

Ignoring the other elders, whose wrinkled faces held forced smiles, Xiao Hua and Xiao Xun Er stepped forward swiftly and bowed respectfully. “Patriarch, Elders.”

Their respectful demeanor brought a wave of relief over Xiao Zhan and the elders, who subtly relaxed. They had been worried that these two might have become arrogant due to their extraordinary talents.

While the younger generation might view their abilities as awe-inspiring, the elders had to think about the clan's future. They feared that if these two became too arrogant, they might disregard those around them, potentially leading to disaster.

After all, the elders had seen countless geniuses fall due to their arrogance, often dragging their clans down with them.

“Now, now. This is just a casual meeting. No need to be so formal. Let’s sit down and chat,” the First Elder said in a kind tone.

Xiao Zhan was about to tell Xiao Hua and Xiao Xun Er to relax, but the Head Elder spoke first, reassuring the two to make themselves comfortable.

‘This damn old fox!’ Xiao Zhan cursed internally.

Having his words stolen, Xiao Zhan shot a glare at the Head Elder, feeling a surge of annoyance. He knew exactly what the elders were thinking: winning the favor of a genius who had surpassed his own son, Xiao Yan, was more valuable to them than praising a son they personally disliked.

For the small Xiao Family, the caliber of these two talents will have a big voice within the family in the future. Especially, when these two are only rivalling each other in terms of talent. So, it was normal for these stubborn elders to fawn over Xiao Hua and Xiao Xun Er.

As Xiao Hua took his seat, thanking both the Patriarch and the elders with a mature and composed demeanor, Xiao Zhan couldn’t help but compare him to his own son, Xiao Yan.

The events of the previous day had dealt a severe blow to Xiao Yan, shattering his arrogance. Even now, he stared blankly at the sky, lost in thought. It seemed he needed to have a heart-to-heart talk with Xiao Yan that night.

After all, just a few days ago, Xiao Yan had been intensely focused on his cultivation and eager to grow stronger. It must have been a significant blow to witness not one, but two peers of his own age, possessing overwhelming talent surpassing his own.

‘Yan'er is still just a boy at heart,’ Xiao Zhan mused. ‘He wants to ask for Xiao Xun Er’s hand, but from the looks of it, that seems unlikely. It seems he’ll have to give up; Xiao Xun Er is too focused on Xiao Hua to give him any attention.’

After exchanging pleasantries and navigating some awkward conversations due to the significant age difference, Xiao Hua eventually raised his questions.

"Patriarch, Elders, I understand why we’re here, but could you elaborate? Where exactly do you intend to send Xun'er and me?"

Xiao Zhan and the elders were taken aback by Xiao Hua’s casual use of Xiao Xun Er’s name. Judging by her expression, she didn’t mind—in fact, she seemed to prefer that he addressed her so intimately, even in public.

Despite their surprise, Xiao Zhan and the elders chose to overlook the matter, recognizing that it was between Xiao Hua and Xiao Xun Er. Instead, they focused on the issue at hand.

"As you know, both of you possess talents that far surpass what the Xiao Clan can nurture. Naturally, we don’t want those talents to be stifled due to our limitations, so we’ve been discussing where to send you. We have two places in mind, but before we make any decisions, we want to know your desires. Do you wish to leave the clan to pursue greater strength, or would you prefer to stay within the clan?"

Xiao Zhan inquired about Xiao Hua desire before proceeding. Although he already knows the answer to it, he still wants to hear from his mouth.

“I want to get stronger, Patriarch. I want to see the scenes that are only available to the people at their peak. I want to reach where I can rewrite the rules on this continent where only strength speaks and to protect those who I deemed precious.”

Hearing Xiao Hua words, the Patriarch and the elders were surprised while Xiao Xun Er was smiling on the verge of crying. Xiao Zhan was surprised, then later he gave a smile with nodded in approval.

“Is that so? If that’s what you desire, then we have no qualms about sending you to these two places we have picked for you. The one we pick for you are Jia Nan Academy and Yun Lan (Misty Cloud) Sect.”

“In a few months, Jia Nan Academy will have their recruitment period. Both of you may choose to register for your name if you desire to go there. If you don’t want to go to the academy, one month later, Yun Lan (Misty Cloud) Sect would open their gate to recruit disciples. Whichever it is, we will support you.”

Xiao Zhan patted Xiao Hua gently on the shoulder. His charismatic presence as a leader was slightly undermined by the smug expression he directed at the First Elder, who clicked his tongue in annoyance. Xiao Hua and Xiao Xun Er could only smile wryly at their banter.

“Patriarch, I would like to go to Jia Nan Academy,” Xiao Hua declared.

“I would like to accompany Brother Xiao Hua, Patriarch,” Xiao Xun Er added.

“Very well. In that case, you both should spend the next few months preparing yourselves and ensuring you’re in peak condition. The entry exam for Jia Nan Academy is extremely competitive, so thorough preparation is essential. As for Xiao Hua’s accommodation—”

“Please hold on, Patriarch. How about allowing Brother Xiao Hua to stay with me? The place is still a bit large for me alone,” Xiao Xun Er interjected.

“If you’re comfortable with that, Nephew Xun Er, then it’s acceptable. Since it’s your courtyard, we have no objections as long as it doesn’t cause a problem.” Xiao Zhan agreed.

Xiao Zhan and the elders know that Xiao Hua and Xiao Xun Er always together. For the past few months, they always received countless reports that Xiao Hua slept in her courtyard. So, none of them have any reason to reject her request.

Xiao Hua just shook his head wryly at Xiao Xun’er request. Although it is true her courtyard is a bit too big for her alone. However, she is by far not alone since Ling Ying is hiding inside the courtyard, preparing to protect her from any danger.

As there is nothing else left to talk about, Xiao Hua and Xiao Xun’er left the hall to prepare themselves for the upcoming week.

---

“I amazed at your capabilities, boy.”

“Ha… Ha… That doesn’t make me feel good, Uncle Ling.”

Xiao Hua, who is heaving heavily, lies flat on the ground after being thrown by Ling Ying. Although Ling Ying complimented him, it doesn’t make him feel satisfied as seeing Ling Ying without a single injury.

Xiao Hua needs to get used to having Heavenly Suppression Band on him, so for the past few months, he has been having sparring sessions with Ling Ying. Although he keeps losing, he didn’t bother as he knew there is a huge gap, not only in realm but also experiences.

‘At first, I only accepted to see his fighting strength and testing his capabilities. But he exceeded my expectations. I feel pity for the young generation in the clan. Now, I’m sure of it. This boy is not a genius but an absolute monster.’

Ling Ying helped him to his feet, and they walked slowly toward the girl who was watching with a warm smile. Ling Ying’s own smile grew, feeling that his young lady had finally found a man who could bring her happiness and was worthy of her. He recalled how, just the day before, Xiao Hua had sworn to always protect her from any harm.

“Old Ling is a 7-Star Dou Emperor, so don’t be too hard on yourself for losing to him, Brother Xiao Hua,” Xiao Xun Er said, trying to comfort him.

While her words were true and Xiao Hua couldn’t deny them, he was still disappointed. Ling Ying was an experienced 7-Star Dou Emperor, so it was no surprise that Xiao Hua, a 2-Star Master currently suppressed to a 4-Star Practitioner, would lose.

“I know, but I really wanted to at least leave a scratch on Old Ling before heading to Jia Nan Academy,” Xiao Hua admitted.

“Don’t complain, boy. If that had happened, I’d lose face and wouldn’t be able to show myself to the other Dou Emperors,” Ling Ying quipped.

“Even so…” Xiao Hua pursed his lips, still displeased.

“Now, now, Brother Xiao Hua. The tea I made is getting cold, so let’s take a break,” Xiao Xun Er said with a smile, ending the banter.

With that, Xiao Hua and Ling Ying sat down to enjoy the tea she had prepared. They both knew that she would sulk if they didn’t calm her down first. Once they were settled, they could proceed with their discussion.

“Brother Xiao Hua, why are you a 4-Star Dou Practitioner? Aren’t you suppressing your realm with the Heavenly Suppression Band?” Xiao Xun Er asked.

“I don’t understand why I’m suddenly a 4-Star Dou Practitioner either. Old Ling, do you know the reason?” Xiao Hua said, clearly confused.

Xiao Hua and Xiao Xun Er turned their attention to the black-clothed elder, hoping he might have an explanation.

“Yes, I do,” Ling Ying confirmed. “First, you need to understand something. Although you are using the Heavenly Suppression Band to limit your realm and reduce your Dou Qi, it doesn’t mean you’ve stopped progressing.”

“Your Bloodline and Dou Qi Method are so powerful that the Heavenly Suppression Band can only do so much to slow you down. Even if you suppress and decrease your Dou Qi, it won’t completely halt your advancement.”

“Of course, it takes immense effort to keep progressing under such conditions. That’s why I know you aren’t just a naturally talented genius, but a true monster of talent, hard work, and unbreakable determination.”

Xiao Hua scratched his nose, feeling embarrassed by Ling Ying’s explanation and compliment. Xiao Xun Er, seeing his reaction, couldn’t help but giggle.

“Enough about that. It’s about time for you both to prepare for your application to Jia Nan Academy,” Ling Ying said, wrapping up the discussion.

“Ah, it seems they’re already here. If that’s the case, let’s get ready, Brother Xiao Hua. Please wait a moment, Old Ling,” Xiao Xun Er replied.

“Oh? Old Ling, are you coming with us to Jia Nan Academy?” Xiao Hua asked.

“Of course. My mission is to protect Young Miss from any harm. As for that Xiao Yan brat, he’s just lucky. That’s all,” Ling Ying said.

“Sure! Whatever you say, Old Ling!” Xiao Hua grinned teasingly.

“Damn brat! Don’t think I won’t hit you!” Ling Ying’s face twitched in annoyance.

Xiao Hua enjoyed teasing Ling Ying, knowing how sensitive he was about the incident with Xiao Yan. Seeing Ling Ying’s face redden with anger, Xiao Hua quickly excused himself to get ready for their application to Jia Nan Academy.

"Before you left, Young Miss, there is something I want to mentioned. For the past six days, I have seen the frenzy about the recruitment of Jia Nan Academy and it would end even before its your turn." Ling Ying remarked.

"Since you have said that, you must have found the solution to it, right?" Xiao Xun Er asked.

Ling Ying nodded and said, "Yes. You can enter it through the backdoor and I can guess what the test is, which is fairly easy to passed the test with the strength of Young Miss and Xiao Hua." Ling Ying stated.

When they were ready, Ling Ying explained that he’d heard of a backdoor recruitment process designed for those who don’t want to wait in line. However, this path comes with a significant test, though the exact nature of it was unclear.

While Ling Ying didn’t know the precise details, he suspected the test might involve a formation that would subject the participants to an intense aura of bloodlust and pressure, making it difficult to breathe. Such a trial would be easier for those like Xiao Xun Er and Xiao Hua, as the backdoor guards were seasoned soldiers who had faced the horrors of frontline wars and slaughters.