Night had fallen by the time Su Yi and A’Ling returned to Grassy Creek Village.0

“A’Ling, you’re back! Did you have a good time in Fire Cauldron City?” Some of the villagers smiled and called out in greeting.0

Several children went so far as to follow her around and pepper her with questions about the city.0

To the villagers, Fire Cauldron City represented prosperity and grandeur! It was a place they could only long for but not reach.0

Because that was yao and demon territory!0

Li Changqing was already waiting outside A’Ling’s house. When he saw that she and Xiao Jian had returned safely, he visibly sighed in relief.0

He was the only person in the village who knew what they’d gone to Fire Cauldron City to do.0

He walked up to greet them, then asked, “Did everything go smoothly?”0

“Mm.” A’Ling nodded.0

“I’ve got to get some rest. You can talk more once A’Ling’s gotten me settled into my room," said Su Yi.0

Li Changqing smiled and agreed.0

Once he was in bed, Su Yi couldn’t help but sigh. In my crippled state, I’m really most comfortable lying down.  0

But… this isn’t a long-term solution. I’ve got to gather power as quickly...0