Chapter 424 Goodbye Cao Ying

Although Cao Ying and Dan Chen are the two most outstanding disciples of Danta today, and they are already eighth-grade alchemy masters at a young age, and even Cao Ying's alchemy skills may be slightly better than Dan Chen's, but if we only look at talent, Dan Chen is still much better than Cao Ying.

Cao Ying was born with a very strong soul power. There are many people whose soul power far exceeds that of ordinary people, and Cao Ying is just the top one among them.

Dan Chen's physique that can absorb soul power gives her unlimited room for growth, and her upper limit is much higher than Cao Ying's.

"Xiao Ling, that woman's physique is quite special. She actually has the ability to devour spiritual energy. If she is carefully trained, in my opinion, she has the potential to become a great talisman master. You can try to subdue her. She can be a great help to you in the future."

At this moment, the spirit of the ancestral stone in Xiao Ling's body also reacted, obviously sensing the special features of Dan Chen's physique.

"I understand, Yan. I will try to contact this girl later." Xiao Ling just replied this in his heart and didn't discuss it any more.

Seeing that Xiao Ling had no interest in the Dan family, Ye Zhong skipped the Dan family and continued to introduce them.
"There is also the Bai family. They actually sent Bai Ying this time. He is the same as Dan Xuan, both are seventh-grade intermediate alchemists. And the Qiu family, the Qiu family only has one seventh-grade primary alchemist. They can't have any influence on the master. I just don't know who the Cao family sent, Cao Dan or Cao Xiu, at least they wouldn't send that Cao family witch Cao Ying..."

Xiao Ling slowly turned his head and looked at the seats of the Bai family and the Qiu family. He saw that the members of those families, including the two contestants, all looked at Xiao Ling with respect.

Some people bowed slightly, while others nodded gently. After all, this was the basic etiquette for an eighth-grade alchemist.

"Alas, the strength of these people is too ordinary. At most, they are at the peak of the mortal realm, and none of them can fight. If I take action myself, it would be like bullying a child. It seems that this time it can only be regarded as a formality."

Xiao Ling just nodded slightly, with a barely perceptible indifference in his eyes, then he slowly withdrew his gaze and gently shook his head.

"If it weren't for that brat Xiao Yan, he wouldn't have stayed in Xingyun Pavilion for long. He took some Immortal Yuan Ancient Fruits and was abducted by Lin Yan to travel. Alas, if he were here, it wouldn't be so bad to let him handle this tough job."

"However, the alchemy conference is about to begin. As an alchemist, Xiao Yan should also come and join in the fun..."

In the intervals between their conversations, amid the hustle and bustle around them, people seemed to be whispering and discussing Xiao Ling's name. Faintly, one could catch some small discussions.

"Why is he here? Isn't the Ye family already in decline? What connection could there be between them?"

"I know Ye Zhong's granddaughter, Ye Xinlan, a little bit. She is only a fifth-rank alchemist. If she participates in this assessment, I am afraid the Ye family will fail again."

"But from what I can see, Ye Zhong looks so calm and composed, it seems that he is very confident about this assessment."

"Hiss, could it be that the person who will represent the Ye family in the assessment this time is that Master Xiao Ling? But why would such a big shot as that master come to participate in such a small competition?"

"Who knows? But since that master is willing to help, the Ye family should be able to pass the assessment smoothly this time."

"It seems that the Ye family has finally retained its place in the top five families. I'm afraid this news will make many people with ulterior motives beat their chests and stamp their feet..."

……

At this moment, a loud shout suddenly came from outside the hall. The sound was very penetrating and kept echoing in the hall.

"The Cao family has arrived."

This shout was like dropping a huge rock into a calm lake, instantly attracting the attention of everyone in the hall.

Hearing the arrival of the Cao family, everyone in the audience reluctantly shifted their gazes away from Xiao Ling.

Before this, everyone's eyes had been fixed on Xiao Ling, but at this moment, their gazes seemed to be pulled by an invisible force, slowly moving towards the palace door.

There, the palace door slowly opened, making a slight "creaking" sound.

A graceful figure came into everyone's sight, like a flower blooming in the morning, delicate and beautiful.

She walked slowly into the hall with lotus steps, each step was light and graceful.

When that graceful figure slowly approached and finally appeared under the light, the entire hall seemed to be silent. Everyone's breathing accelerated at the same time.

The woman was tall and slender, wearing a black dress as dark as ink, tightly wrapped around her exquisite body. The black skirt, under the light, was gleaming with a faint luster.

The woman exuded a hint of coldness and arrogance, and her snow-white skin emitted a charming glow under the light, as if it was carved from the purest ice and snow.

Three thousand strands of black hair were casually draped over her shoulders, like a black waterfall, soft and smooth. Her cheeks were slightly thin, but extremely delicate, like a piece of exquisite porcelain, making people want to touch it gently, for fear that it would be damaged if they used a little force.

The woman's eyes were long and narrow, like two deep lakes, and her gaze was even more charming and enchanting. There seemed to be endless stories hidden in her eyes, which made people want to explore them involuntarily.

The corners of her mouth gently raised a faint arc, and that thin and charming face instantly became full of charm.

The black-clothed woman's lazy gaze slowly swept across the hall. Anyone who looked at her felt a sudden surge of heat in their heart, but this heat was instantly replaced by a deep fear.

The charm that this woman exudes is extremely tempting, making it difficult for people to look away. However, underneath that temptation, there is more of a fear that goes deep into one's bones.

Almost everyone present had heard of this woman's name. She was Cao Ying, the enchantress of the Cao family, and one of the candidates for the Danta giant.

When this name is mentioned, all kinds of complicated emotions surge in everyone's hearts, including covetousness, admiration, awe, envy, and jealousy...

Before Xiao Ling became the focus of everyone's attention, Cao Ying had already been a leader among the young alchemists in Danyu, enjoying a very high reputation. Not only did she have an extraordinary talent for alchemy, she also had amazing beauty and impeccable character. She was often mentioned as a role model by the elders of various families, and was the kind of "other people's child" that was often mentioned.

Although Xiao Ling emerged before, and Dan Chen of the Dan family has been gaining momentum recently, Cao Ying is still one of the top geniuses in alchemy among the younger generation.

Her status as an eighth-grade alchemy master was a symbol of her status and strength. In the eyes of everyone, she was undoubtedly one of the strong contenders for the championship of this alchemy competition.

Seeing Cao Ying walking into the hall, Xiao Ling turned his head slightly and cast a deep gaze at Cao Ying.

"It is indeed a spiritual realm soul, and it is almost approaching the middle spiritual realm. It seems that after some time, this fairy has made considerable improvement." Xiao Ling glanced at Cao Ying casually and found out her specific situation.

Cao Ying's eyes slowly swept through the hall in order, but did not linger on other people for too long.

When her eyes first found where Dan Chen of the Dan family was, her narrow and long phoenix eyes suddenly lit up. However, the light only paused for a moment, and soon she shifted her gaze away.

When Cao Ying's eyes swept towards the last seat of the five major families, the Ye family, her eyes met with a young man who was casually looking at her. She was slightly stunned at first, and then a hint of joy that was difficult to conceal appeared in her eyes.

He was about to say something, but seemed to realize that the occasion was not appropriate, so he quickly restrained his emotions and just smiled faintly.

That smile was like a spring breeze, blowing gently. Although it was not ostentatious, it was hard to ignore.

In response, Xiao Ling also responded with a faint smile, and then nodded slightly. This simple action was considered a greeting between them. The people around them naturally noticed the two people's unusual way of greeting. They were stunned for a moment, and then they looked at the people around them, their eyes full of confusion. They were all wondering in their hearts, wondering when these two alchemy geniuses had met.

However, there were still people who were well-informed and immediately explained to everyone that when Xiao Ling first came to Shengdan City, he had come into contact with Cao Ying and the two were considered acquaintances.

After hearing this explanation, many people who had not known about it before suddenly showed a look of enlightenment.

Immediately, they all shifted their gazes back and forth between Xiao Ling and Cao Ying, their eyes filled with curiosity and speculation, secretly wondering if there was any special relationship between the two.

Immediately, many young men cast glances at Xiao Ling that were mixed with envy, jealousy and resentment, as if they could see through Xiao Ling.

On the contrary, there were also many young and beautiful women who cast eyes full of envy, jealousy and resentment towards Cao Ying, as if Cao Ying had snatched away something that belonged to them.

Of course, Xiao Ling and Cao Ying didn't take such a big commotion and the various looks from the crowd too seriously.

However, even if they knew about the reactions of the crowd, given their personalities, they would not care too much about it. They were just some insignificant looks and speculations.

Cao Ying gently raised her slender hand and brushed the wisp of hair hanging down from her forehead behind her ear with soft and graceful movements. Then, she moved lightly with lotus steps, her figure graceful, her slender waist swaying with every step, like a willow branch dancing in the wind.

A few strands of gauze swayed gently around her body as she twisted her waist, and as she floated in the air, her figure became even more graceful and alluring, as if it could hook people's souls away.

She walked towards the seats of the Ye family in such a graceful manner, and the people of the Cao family behind her did not dare to be negligent and hurriedly followed closely.

Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, Cao Ying led the Cao family and walked slowly and evenly to the Ye family's seat, then slowly stopped.

That scene instantly attracted the attention of everyone present, and everyone was curious about the reason for her action.

Cao Ying stared quietly at the gaze Xiao Ling gave her. That gaze was completely different from that of others, clear and pure, without any greed.

A faint smile appeared on her face, and she said softly, "Xiao Ling, long time no see. Your soul power should have become much stronger. Even now, I still can't sense it at all."

"Of course. I won't stay where I am forever." Xiao Ling smiled slightly, his tone relaxed and casual.

Then, he changed the subject and said, "But your soul power has also improved significantly. I believe it won't be long before you can break through to the middle stage of the spiritual realm, right? Although it's a little late to congratulate you now, I still congratulate you on becoming an eighth-grade alchemy master."

"Hehe~, I accept your blessing. But I will not show mercy in this alchemy competition. You have to show your true strength and don't lose to me. Otherwise, I will be very disappointed." Cao Ying pursed her red lips and said with a giggle.

Xiao Ling raised his eyebrows slightly, and looked at Cao Ying with some surprise. He thought to himself, this little girl seems to be a little arrogant after breaking through the eighth grade of alchemy, but since she dared to say this, she should have the ability to at least refine an eighth grade four-color pill.

Soon, Xiao Ling's expression gradually subsided, revealing a confident look on his face. He spoke with a dignified and unquestionable tone, saying without hesitation: "Don't worry, I won't lose to you. I, Xiao Ling, will definitely win the championship of this alchemy competition."

Although Xiao Ling's voice was not loud, it was clearly heard by everyone present, and it revealed unparalleled confidence.

After hearing this, all the alchemists at the scene looked at Xiao Ling. Some of them wanted to say something harsh, but they opened their mouths helplessly and couldn't say anything.

This is because Xiao Ling is a genuine eighth-grade alchemy master, and they are not. Xiao Ling has the qualifications to say such things, but they don't.

Cao Ying's charming face was obviously stunned, as if she didn't expect Xiao Ling to speak so directly. However, this also aroused Cao Ying's competitive spirit.

Cao Ying, the most outstanding talent in the history of the Cao family, is also the direct disciple of one of the three giants of Danta. One of the goals she set for herself is to win the championship in this Dan Conference.

Although Cao Ying herself knew that Xiao Ling's alchemy skills were ahead of hers, she was now able to refine an eighth-grade four-color pill, which was comparable to Xiao Ling's three years ago.

However, after such a long time, Xiao Ling must have made some progress and would not stand still. In this case, she is likely not Xiao Ling's opponent.

But Cao Ying is not someone who will give up easily. She raised her chin slightly, and a determined light flashed in her narrow and long phoenix eyes. "Xiao Ling, don't be so sure. I, Cao Ying, am not a pushover. It is still unknown who will win the championship of this alchemy competition."

"Although I know that your alchemy skills are definitely not at the same level as before, I, Cao Ying, have not wasted these days. I will definitely go all out and let you see my true strength..."

Cao Ying exudes an aura of coldness and confidence that makes people fall in love with her charm.

She turned slightly sideways, her black skirt fluttering gently, like a black rose blooming in the dark night, mysterious and charming.

Her eyes were filled with anticipation for this alchemy meeting and desire for victory.

She wanted to prove with her actions that she was capable of competing with Xiao Ling, becoming a strong contender for the championship of the Alchemy Contest, and that she was qualified enough to stand beside Xiao Ling...

"I hope you will consider my name in the competition for the championship of this alchemy competition. Don't underestimate me. My alchemy skills are very strong." At this time, a gentle voice suddenly sounded and entered everyone's mind.

When everyone heard the voice, including Cao Ying and Xiao Ling, they all turned their eyes towards the direction where the voice came from.

I saw the pitiful and delicate girl sitting at the Dan family's table. Although she still looked a little reserved and shy at this moment, her eyes flashed with a firm and unyielding light, which formed a sharp contrast with her delicate temperament.

Cao Ying was slightly stunned at first, then a faint smile appeared on her face, and she said, "Sister Danchen, I have never looked down on you."

Xiao Ling met Dan Chen's determined gaze and a faint smile slowly appeared on the corner of his mouth.

He nodded slightly and said softly, "You are an interesting little girl. I admire you very much. Your potential is far beyond other people's imagination. If you have time, you might as well have a private conversation with me. Maybe you can learn something from me."

However, when Xiao Ling finished speaking, everyone looked at him with a strange look in their eyes. Why did Xiao Ling's words make people feel strange?

Even Dan Chen couldn't help but blush slightly when she met Xiao Ling's strange gaze. She then lowered her head, not daring to look Xiao Ling in the face again.

"What a stinky man, he is flirting with a little girl here, what a shameless guy..." Cao Ying thought to herself, and felt that Xiao Ling seemed to have other thoughts about Dan Chen, which made her very angry.

She gave her first kiss to Xiao Ling, but Xiao Ling had always been distant towards her. Now he is so proactive towards a little girl. It is really abominable.

She waved her jade sleeves, then turned around, swaying her slender waist, and slowly walked towards the Cao family's seat.

Behind him, Cao Shan and Cao Xiu, two of the three heroes of the Cao family, bowed to Xiao Ling. Then, they hurriedly followed Cao Ying.

The reason why Cao Ying dared to talk freely with the eighth-grade alchemist was because she herself was also an eighth-grade alchemist and an old acquaintance of Xiao Ling.

Although Cao Dan and Cao Xiu were extremely talented, they could not guarantee that they would be able to truly reach that level and become true eighth-grade alchemists in their lifetime.

(End of this chapter)