Emerging, Queen Medusa

Stepping forward, Lu Yunxiao carefully examined the Green Lotus Flame within Qinglian's core.

The blue lotus flower possessed eight petals, resembling natural sapphires, crystal clear, pure, and flawless, exuding an irresistible charm.

At the center of the lotus was a seed, approximately three feet in diameter. Faint fluorescence emanated from the holes in the lotus, marking the purest essence of fire attribute energy—the Earth Fire Lotus Seed.

The Earth Fire Lotus Seed, also known as the Essence of Fire Spirit, produced one seed every hundred years. It was an exceptionally rare treasure, highly coveted even by Emperor-level fighters.

Within the lotus, there was a fist-sized cavity, from which a group of agile blue flames leaped and danced.

The Green Lotus Flame, also called the Qinglian Fire, was unpredictable. It could trigger volcanic eruptions and annihilate everything in the surrounding volcanic regions.

Though ranked nineteenth among the different fires, its power was nothing to be underestimated. Each different fire possessed the capability to unleash world-altering destruction and was considered a priceless treasure.

Lu Yunxiao sensed the energy contained within the Green Lotus Flame and found it to be nearly as potent as the celestial gold armor he wore.

Despite the Star Spirit Gold ranking seventh among spirit golds, it was essential to remember that there were only eight kinds of spirit golds. The power of the eighth-ranked Sea Spirit Blue Iron was roughly equivalent to the twenty-second-ranked Ten Thousand Beast Spirit Fire.

As for the Star Spirit Gold, it might be a bit stronger than the Green Lotus Flame, but the difference wasn't substantial. On the other hand, the Yin Ling Cold Gold, ranked sixth, likely equaled the Sixfold Skyfire, ranked sixteenth.

With each rise in the Lingjin rankings, the gaps in power were considerable.

The True Spirit Gold, which held the top spot at number one, was legendary and enigmatic. Even ancient texts only contained a few vague references. It was impossible to determine its true strength, but it could be assumed that it was no weaker than the Jinglian Demon Fire.

The continent placed great importance on different fires, but spirit golds also held significant value. However, they were less renowned due to their rarity.

Their prestige among alchemists was closely tied to their importance in refining powerful elixirs. This fact made spirit golds a coveted treasure for every alchemist.

As the demand for alchemists increased, so did the prices of spirit golds, propelling them to fame.

"It truly is the Green Lotus Flame, a masterpiece of nature."

Lu Yunxiao's thoughts turned, his focus entirely on the Green Lotus Flame. He sighed softly and cautiously moved closer.

Carefully avoiding the long, swaying tendrils of the Green Lotus Flame, Lu Yunxiao soon stood in front of it.

"Let's use the jade ruler to remove the Green Lotus Flame." Lu Yunxiao murmured, retrieving a slender and exquisite white jade ruler from his ring.

He had prepared this specifically for this moment.

Gently, he employed the jade ruler to disconnect the connection between the lotus and its rhizome. The entire Green Lotus Flame descended gracefully.

Lu Yunxiao took it in his hands and examined the rhizome, which was avidly absorbing energy. His eyes flickered slightly, but he turned away. As the saying goes, when dealing with heavenly and earthly treasures, one must leave room for future generations. With this rhizome, it was possible that a new Green Lotus Earth Fire would be cultivated thousands of years later, ensuring a chance for posterity.

This was an opportunity to leave something for those who would come after.

Having obtained the precious Green Lotus Flame, there was no need to take the rhizome. Otherwise, the Green Lotus Flame here would truly be extinguished.

"Old man, assist me in handling the Green Lotus Flame, and then we can depart." Lu Yunxiao requested.

Hearing this, Hai Bodong moved forward and helped support the Green Lotus Flame.

Lu Yunxiao carefully collected the Earth Fire Lotus Seeds. Luckily, while the Green Lotus Flame was still within the green lotus, it remained quite docile. This allowed Lu Yunxiao to collect the seeds smoothly.

"A total of eleven Earth Fire Lotus Seeds—this trip was not in vain." Lu Yunxiao wore a smile as he stored the seeds away. Afterward, he held the Green Lotus Flame once more and turned to Hai Bodong. "Old man, let's leave."

Hai Bodong nodded, and the two of them turned and ascended through the passage.

After their descent, they finally emerged back onto solid ground.

The double-headed fire snake transformed into a small size and slithered into Lu Yunxiao's sleeve.

They exchanged glances, their figures flickering, and they darted up the passage.

"Huh, we've finally made it out." Lu Yunxiao leaped out of the hole, letting out a sigh of relief. A gentle smile graced his face.

"Master Lu, is that a different fire?" As Lu Yunxiao emerged, Xiao Ding, Xiao Li, and others gathered around him, gazing curiously at the Green Lotus Flame in his hand.

"Yes, this is a different fire." Lu Yunxiao patted the little green-scaled head and chuckled softly. "Everyone has worked hard this time. Commander Xiao, don't worry. When we return, I'll make sure everyone receives a set of Mysterious Stage Martial Skills as a reward. Now, I need to attend to this different fire."

"No rush, Master Lu. Please take care of your matters first." Xiao Ding hurriedly replied.

Lu Yunxiao smiled, ready to speak when suddenly, a cold, authoritative voice resonated.

"I see you have no intention of refining it. It seems I won't need to exert any effort. Hand over the strange fire, human."

In mid-air, a beautiful figure appeared, accompanied by a formidable pressure.

Under this pressure, Xiao Ding and the others immediately knelt to the ground, and even Lu Yunxiao felt an immense force bearing down on him, causing his body to tremble and almost compelling him to kneel.

Hai Bodong, seizing the opportunity, positioned himself in front of Lu Yunxiao, blocking most of the pressure.

Taking advantage of the moment, Lu Yunxiao activated his Star Lingjin. His aura suddenly rose to Dou Ling level, barely maintaining his standing.

"Beauty... Queen Medusa?" Lu Yunxiao had just recovered from the influence when he heard Hai Bodong's fearful exclamation. Raising his head slightly, he saw the normally stoic Ice Emperor trembling with fear, clearly terrified.

"Queen Medusa?" Lu Yunxiao quickly shifted his gaze.

In the air, a striking figure had appeared. She wore a crown on her head and a crimson robe adorned with numerous small gems and precious metals, radiating a magnificent aura.

Her features were exquisite: curved willow eyebrows, a prominent nose, starry eyes, and lips like cherry blossoms. Her long black hair cascaded down to her waist. Her skin was fair and flawless, exuding a seductive glow under the sunlight.

Her figure was equally remarkable, even while wearing loose robes, her beauty remained undeniable. Her curves were captivating, and the sight was irresistible.

A purple snake tail with a unique wildness extended from below, adding an indescribable allure to her appearance.

Her beauty was no less than Yun Yun's. If Yun Yun was elegance incarnate, she was truly peerless and captivating.