Heavenly Sacred Border

Given Alan's status as the heir of the Sacred Family, persuading the Holy Orchid Institute to grant him and Xiao Ning'er access to the Heavenly Sacred Border wasn't a challenging feat, even though neither of them was officially part of the Genius Class.

As Alan and Xiao Ning'er stepped into the Heavenly Sacred Border, they were immediately enveloped by an incredibly rich spiritual energy that seemed to infuse their very beings and their demon spirits. The ambiance was nothing short of magical, with a pristine forest that stretched as far as the eye could see, filled with exquisite plants and blooming flowers that painted the landscape with vibrant colors.

Alan couldn't help but smile in amazement. "What a great idea for a picnic, Ning'er. This place is enchanting."

Xiao Ning'er returned his smile, her eyes shimmering with delight. Together, they unfurled a soft carpet they had brought with them and settled down, ready to enjoy their lunch. The meal had been lovingly prepared by Xiao Ning'er, and Alan savored every bite, offering praises along the way.

After their satisfying meal, Alan leaned back, resting his head on Xiao Ning'er's lap. Her gentle caresses on his head created an incredibly intimate atmosphere as they began to chat about various topics.

Alan inquired with a playful grin, "What's your favorite thing about this place?"

Xiao Ning'er thought for a moment, her fingers continuing to stroke his hair. "I think it's the tranquility and the feeling of being close to nature. It's a perfect escape from the bustling world outside."

Alan nodded, fully appreciating the sentiment. "I feel the same way. It's peaceful and being here with you makes it even better."

They continued their light-hearted conversation, occasionally punctuated by soft laughter, enjoying each other's company amidst the beauty and serenity of the Heavenly Sacred Border.

The tranquil moments of Alan and Xiao Ning'er's date were abruptly disrupted when a spectral figure materialized before them. This apparition, known as Ye Yan, was one of the esteemed founders of Glory City and the revered patriarch of the Snow Wind Family.

Ye Yan's spectral form was a testament to his former greatness, a serene and dignified presence that held the wisdom of ages. His translucent visage bore the semblance of an older man, and his eyes sparkled with ancient knowledge.

As Ye Yan appeared before them, Alan couldn't help but feel a sense of unease, his sharp instincts on high alert. His piercing gaze locked onto the spirit, and within moments, he integrated with his powerful Demon Spirit, the Divine Winged White Tiger. The atmosphere crackled with tension as Alan prepared to unleash the formidable White Lightning Blast upon Ye Yan's spectral form.

But as the deadly energy surged, Ye Yan's spirit exhibited signs of sheer terror and quickly interjected. "Wait! Please, I am Ye Yan, one of the founding figures of Glory City. I mean no harm. I've come here to talk."

Xiao Ning'er, who had initially held her breath in anticipation, softly pleaded with Alan, her eyes filled with caution and curiosity. Her delicate voice cut through the charged atmosphere. "Yue, stop. Let's hear what he has to say."

Alan, still wary but reluctantly relenting, fixed his intense gaze on Ye Yan and commanded in an ice-cold tone, "You have one chance. Speak quickly."

Ye Yan's spirit exhaled in relief, grateful for the opportunity to converse rather than face imminent obliteration. With a humble nod, he began, "I can sense great talent within both of you. Even though you are not concentrating on cultivation, the Spiritual Energy in the air is still gathering towards you. Perhaps because of your unique talents."

Ye Yan continued with a proud tone, "I was a Legend Rank Demon Spiritualist, if both of you become my students, I promise you that you can quickly reach the Legend Rank Demon Spiritualists!"

Alan's expression remained unimpressed as he listened to Ye Yan's offer. He responded with a cold and detached tone, "I don't care about your promises. I have no interest in being your student. I have my own path, and I intend to tread it as far as it will take me."

His confidence was unwavering, and he continued, "I'll surpass the Legend Rank on my terms, just like she will." Alan's eyes shifted to Xiao Ning'er, who met his gaze with a determined look. They were a team, their destinies intertwined.

Ye Yan, taken aback by Alan's firm refusal, hadn't anticipated such a response. In his mind, he had believed that the promise of Legend Rank cultivation would be an irresistible offer.

Alan's voice dripped with irritation as he scolded, "You interrupted our date for this? If you don't have something truly valuable to offer, I suggest you prepare for your soul to be obliterated."

Xiao Ning'er, though more polite, shared Alan's sentiments. "We value our time here and came for a peaceful moment together. If you don't have a good reason for bothering us, it's best that you leave us alone."

Ye Yan had clearly underestimated the determination and independence of these two young cultivators. Facing their cold rejection, he realized that he needed to provide a compelling reason to justify his intrusion if he hoped to win their cooperation.

Ye Yan took a deep breath before divulging the crucial piece of information, "Within this Heavenly Sacred Border lies a powerful weapon: the Thunder God's Meteorite Sword. However, its malevolent aura is so uncontrollable and bloodthirsty that my soul was sealed here to contain it."

Alan's eyes gleamed with interest upon hearing this revelation. He promptly dispelled his Demon Spirit integration, acknowledging Ye Yan's warning and spoke coldly, "Take me to this sword," he demanded.

Ye Yan, with deep concern, tried to advise him further. "This sword is not to be underestimated. It's vicious and bloodthirsty. It has devoured countless souls and is far from a docile weapon. Approach with extreme caution."

Alan, however, paid no heed to the warnings. It was his determination and self-confidence that fueled his actions. Instead, he received words of caution from Xiao Ning'er. Her gentle voice touched his heart.

"Be careful," she whispered, her concern evident in her eyes.

Alan smiled at her affectionately and nodded in response. "Don't worry, I've got this."

With their resolve steeled, they followed Ye Yan towards the Thunder God's Meteorite Sword.