That he had gathered so many ingredients for Potion #4 already meant that he would have to move up his plans. Even after entering the second realm, his growth rate wouldn't stall—no, it might even increase!

Thus ended the expedition within Hong Tianqi's personal treasury.

After bidding farewell to Yan Long and Su Feng, he brought the members of Team Zenith back to the Blacksteel Inn, where he retreated to the best underground laboratory the inn had to offer. 

His plans had all been going smoothly to date, and his own strength, and those of his allies, were all improving...