Standing on the broad pathway within the inner courtyard, Xiao Yan observed the vibrant students moving in and out, his previously somewhat reserved and composed demeanor gradually softening. Though the competitive atmosphere at the inner courtyard was strong, it paled in comparison to the harsh reality of Blackthorn Domain—here, it felt like a paradise. Alongside Xiao Yan, the ever-loyal Medusa had also joined the inner courtyard. Their relaxed, unassuming stance on this bustling thoroughfare naturally drew countless admiring and curious glances. With Medusa’s stunning, almost ethereal beauty, she carried an undeniable allure for the young students accustomed to life in the ivory tower. Younger boys and men, in particular, found themselves drawn to the mature presence of a woman like her—this, perhaps, was the very essence of the "mature woman charm." Yet amidst the stunning glances from those around her, Medusa remained utterly unimpressed, her graceful face as cold and composed as ever, the aura of aloofness that radiated from her body dissolving the lingering intentions of even the boldest among them. While Medusa could ignore the surrounding gazes, Xiao Yan found himself quite helpless, as she had been constantly following him, thus drawing the attention of others to him as well. When their eyes settled upon him, however, the admiration was no longer striking—it was instead pure, sincere envy, tinged with a genuine male jealousy. For most men, those who could command the attention of a beauty of such extraordinary grace were invariably seen as common adversaries. As for those streams of disapproving glances, Xiao Yan could only shake his head helplessly. Naturally, he wouldn't bother to introduce himself to these younger classmates, so once he had determined his direction, he simply waved to Medusa and then stepped forward, his feet glowing with silver light—within an instant, he vanished into the midst of the astonished gazes surrounding him. After the two had disappeared, the quiet atmosphere gradually gave way to murmurs. "Those two moved so swiftly—it seems neither of them is from the Inner Courtyard!" "But that man seems familiar somehow," some people blinked, trying to recall. "Oh! Wait a moment—I remember now—he's Xiao Yan, isn't he, the head of the Pan Gate?" Suddenly, cries of astonishment rang out, followed by a wave of dawning realization among the crowd. Everyone stared at one another, their eyes sparkling with excitement. This enigmatic figure—almost a legend within the inner academy, yet frequently seen only in passing—had long inspired admiration among the younger students. During the pivotal battle that had determined the very survival of the inner academy, this young man had nearly reversed the final course of the war. Such a remarkable achievement simply sounded thrilling, stirring the very hearts of these young trainees. "Hmph, it's no wonder he has such a beautiful companion by his side—indeed, it's Xiao Yan, the senior student," murmured several after recognizing him. They quietly nodded, almost sighing in admiration—how fitting that heroes were always accompanied by beauty. When Xiao Yan entered the study where Su Qian usually spent his time, Su Qian also noticed his footsteps, lifting his head to gaze at Xiao Yan who entered first, and couldn't help but smile gently. As he rose from his seat, his gaze immediately settled on the Medusa standing behind Xiao Yan. "Hehe, Grand Elder, don't worry—I've already settled matters between me and her," Xiao Yan quickly said, smiling as he saw Su Qian's face suddenly stiffen. He knew that Su Qian had always harbored a certain apprehension toward Medusa, for this woman truly gave him a sense of danger. Upon hearing this, Su Qian's tense posture gradually relaxed a little, though his attention remained largely fixed on Medusa. Yet, a smile now began to appear on his face. "You've been gone for several months now, ever since you left. If it weren't for my confidence in you, I'd have truly thought you'd been quietly eliminated by those people in Black Horn Domain." Xiao Yan smiled and walked slowly into the study, then sat down on the chair in front of Su Qian, saying, "Senior Elder, don't pretend you're surprised—my activities in the Black Corner Domain have been quite significant. How could the Inner Court not have noticed?" Su Qian was momentarily taken aback, then shook his head with a quiet laugh, saying, "You're right—your little spark isn't one to be underestimated. Now that you've taken control of Feng City and organized such a grand herb and pill auction, drawing nearly half the attention of the Black Corner Domain, the Inner Court naturally has to pay close attention." Xiao Yan nodded. As two massive entities standing side by side, the Inner Courtyard naturally had to remain especially vigilant toward that chaotic area. Originally, according to the Inner Courtyard's plan, Feng City, being so close, should not have allowed any other forces from Black Angular Domain to occupy it—otherwise, unforeseen complications might arise later. However, thanks to Xiao Yan's influence, Feng City now belonged to the "Xiao School." Nevertheless, certain essential monitoring measures were still indispensable, as Su Qian and the others needed to ensure the overall safety of the entire academy. Smiling awkwardly, Xiao Yan also felt a bit helpless, and sighed, "The Senior Elder knows well that within the Inner Academy, I no longer have much influence." Su Qian gave a slight frown. Though it was true that, with Xiao Yan's current strength, there was little room for further growth within the Inner Academy—even the very base of the Burned Qi Tower, in Su Qian's eyes, no longer held any appeal—there was still a subtle sense of irritation. This man was simply too negligent of his duties. "Senior Elder, I might return to the Jima Empire within the next two months." Xiao Yan fixed his gaze on Su Qian, his expression growing more serious. Su Qian paused, slightly surprised, furrowing his brows. "Return to Jima? So soon?" Xiao Yan sighed softly, saying, "It's already been three years since I left. Some matters of grudges and debts simply need to be settled." "Ah, such matters—I naturally can't say much to obstruct you. Though your strength has grown immensely, you still need to remain cautious. Yunlan Sect is deeply rooted in the Gama Empire, with an overwhelmingly vast influence. Moreover, Yunshan himself is a genuine Douzong-level master. Should you make a single oversight, you might find yourself with no chance to rise again. I know well that when you first joined the Cangnan Academy, you must have harbored the ambition to strengthen yourself and return to settle your grievances. Over these past three years, you've certainly ceased to be the spirited youth you once were." Su Qian paused, speaking with earnest gravity. "The teachings of the Senior Elder—I shall never forget them. Thank you so much for your continued guidance and support these years." Hearing Su Qian's sincere advice, Xiao Yan felt deeply moved. He stood up, his expression serious, and bowed respectfully to Su Qian. The care and favor Su Qian had shown him throughout his time at the Cangnan Academy was evident to everyone. This debt of gratitude could not be overlooked. "Hah, what need is there to say all this?" "You are one of my inner academy students—this is merely part of my duty." Su Qian smiled, waved his hand, and gazed at the young face, then sighed softly, saying, "I truly admire the Medicine Master for receiving such outstanding disciples. Honestly, back then, I had also harbored the same hope..." Hearing this, Xiao Yan was momentarily stunned, then sincerely replied, "In Xiao Yan's heart, the Senior Elder is an irreplaceable and admirable teacher." Su Qian smiled and said, "I must be going—shall I assist you with anything?" Xiao Yan gently tilted his head, smiling slightly with some embarrassment: "Actually, it's not much. I just hope the Senior Elder can take care of the 'Xiao Sect' a bit after I leave. This region is quite promising for development. Once I settle the affairs of the Jiaema Empire, I'll send personnel to formally take over. But until then, I'd appreciate the Senior Elder's assistance—after all, places like Black-Angle Domain are not easy to manage. As you know, if I stay there, it won't take long before Feng City falls to other factions." "You're asking me, a member of the Inner Court, to oversee the factions in Black-Angle Domain?" "Su Qian found himself both amused and a bit embarrassed, but after a moment, he nodded and murmured, "This isn't actually that much of a challenge. Though the Black Corner Domain has numerous large and small factions, if they all came together, even the Cantan Academy might find it difficult to stand against them. Fortunately, however, each of these factions has its own ulterior motives and struggles to unite. With our current strength, we should be able to adequately support the 'Xiao School' without any major issues." "Then thank you, Senior Elder!" Seeing Su Qian agree, Xiao Yan was greatly relieved and bowed with a smile. Su Qian smiled lightly and then added, "I know this return trip to the Jima Empire is of utmost importance to you. However, due to the Cantan Academy's unique status across the continent, I can't offer you much more than I already have." "Xiao Yan is no fool, and I've already received ample support from the Senior Elder." Xiao Yan smiled lightly. He certainly couldn't expect Su Qian to leverage the resources of the Gan Nan Academy to help him seek revenge, for the academy wasn't solely his own. Gazing at Su Qian's fresh, clear face, bright with a warm smile, he nodded in agreement, his fingers gently tapping the table. After a moment, he spoke casually, "Of course. Some elders—especially those like Lin Yan, who rose from student status to become elders—though officially titled Inner Academy Elders, remain independent. When they choose to act, their actions naturally don't align closely with ours. Do you understand what I mean?" Hearing Su Qian's pointed remark, Xiao Yan was momentarily taken aback, then smiled and nodded in understanding. "Then, thank you, Senior Elder!"