BTTH: The Legend Of Xiu Emperor

The black flames burned brightly, exuding an intense and scorching heat. The temperature in the study rose sharply, and the power of heaven and earth within the room became restless due to the appearance of the two flames.

These two flames were no ordinary fire; they were sub-fires of the Void Devouring Flame, comparable to some of the rarest and most powerful flames in existence.

The sub-fires were divided into two types: ordinary and advanced. One was weaker, while the other held greater power. Ordinary sub-fires could be separated directly from the main body of the Void Devouring Flame. However, the advanced sub-fire was far more difficult to obtain, as it contained a trace of the origin of Void Devouring Flame, making it incomparable to its ordinary counterpart.

Such fire could only be wielded by a select few with exceptional souls. A Soul Clan warrior who had not made great contributions would never be worthy of possessing even a sub-fire of the Void Devouring Flame.

For this clan competition, Hun Tian Di had commanded that two sub-fires be prepared—one of which was the advanced sub-fire containing the original fire. This gesture demonstrated just how much importance the Emperor placed on the competition.

"I see," Hun Tian Di said, extending his hand toward the Void Devouring Flame. The two sub-fires landed on his palm, their heat radiating through the air.

"Hmm?" The black flames in the Void Devouring Flame's eyes flickered. "Hun Tian Di, what are you planning?" he asked cautiously.

Hun Tian Di put away the flames and said calmly, "Gu Yuan is currently within the Soul Clan territory. He's likely here to gather intelligence on our clan's strength before the competition. I believe it's best you do not appear this time."

He continued, his tone resolute, "After all, you suffered a significant loss at Gu Yuan's hands a thousand years ago. By all logic, you should not have fully recovered yet."

The Void Devouring Flame remained silent for a moment before nodding. "Very well, I understand."

Indeed, it made sense. Gu Yuan's attention could jeopardize the clan's plans. For now, it would be wise to lay low, as patience was key to achieving their ultimate goals.

"I'm glad you see the wisdom in this," Hun Tian Di said with a slight nod.

The Void Devouring Flame's form gradually dissipated, leaving only a faint heat behind in the study room.

Once it was gone, Hun Tian Di's expression darkened. His eyes narrowed as he muttered to himself, "It seems your ambitions are growing. You've even dared to target my son."

Two more black flames emerged from his body, each harboring strands of hidden soul power. He observed them coldly, his aura turning faintly murderous. "Hmph."

---

The Next Day.

Hun Xiu stirred from his bed, wincing as he tried to move. "Ah... it hurts," he muttered, the pain jolting him fully awake.

Memories of the previous night flooded back, sending a chill down his spine. "What was Father thinking?" he murmured, confused.

As he struggled to sit up, he noticed his injuries were still present. "Why didn't the system heal me this time? Last time, I woke up completely fine. What changed?"

A voice seemed to echo in his mind, as though mocking him:

[Hun Tian Di: "Healing? Don't be absurd. If I hadn't helped you last time, you'd still be lying in bed. Do you think your system is all-powerful? Without a father like me, you'd be nothing."]

Hun Xiu sighed. "So, the system isn't invincible after all. It seems I've been relying on it too much."

With a determined breath, he muttered, "No more depending on others. If the system won't heal me, I'll heal myself."

Sitting cross-legged, he formed seals with his hands, drawing in the Qi of heaven and earth. As he absorbed the energy, his injuries began to mend.

---

Meanwhile, in the study room, Hun Tian Di had summoned Hun Feng, Hun Yu, and Hun Huan'er. The three stood with their heads lowered, nervous under their father's imposing gaze.

"Do you know why I've called you all here?" Hun Tian Di asked coldly.

The three exchanged puzzled glances before shaking their heads. "We don't know," they replied in unison.

"The clan's young master competition is less than half a month away," Hun Tian Di announced. "The reward for the top two places this time will be the sub-fires of the Void Devouring Flame."

The room fell silent. The three children stared at their father, their surprise evident.

The Void Devouring Flame's sub-fires were treasures of immense value, rarely granted to anyone within the clan. Their inclusion as a prize underscored the significance of this competition.

For a moment, the siblings were too stunned to speak. Then, as the weight of the reward sank in, excitement began to stir in their hearts.

Each of them silently resolved: I want first place.