Chapter 14: The Molten Flame’s Return

At the edge of the volcano's crater in Molten Flame Valley, searing waves of heat still rippled through the air. The cracks in the ground pulsed with a deep crimson glow, as though the earth itself was breathing. Within the ruins of a shattered stone hall, Lin Jin tightly gripped the newly acquired Source Flame Crystal. The crimson-gold crystal quivered slightly in his palm, golden-red flame patterns flowing across its surface like tiny flame dragons, each pulse exuding a scorching and ancient energy tinged with the solemnity of bygone eras.

Sweat drenched Lin Jin's robes, a faint trace of dried blood still lingering at the corner of his lips. The battle against the Flame Master Third Rank from the Skyflame Pavilion had nearly drained his spiritual flame, leaving his legs weak. Yet, deep within his eyes, an unyielding fire burned.

Beside him, Su Yao stood with her short sword sheathed at her waist. Faint traces of azure flame still flickered at her slender fingertips, making her bright, lively eyes shine like stars. She patted Lin Jin's shoulder before leaping onto a broken stone pillar, her voice light and teasing.

"Lin Jin, you reckless lunatic! We actually managed to drive off a Flame Master Third Rank! Now that we've got the Source Flame Crystal, those old fogeys from the Skyflame Pavilion are probably coughing up blood in fury!"

Her voice was crisp, carrying a playful charm. In the dimly lit ruins, her figure seemed especially lively, as if the deadly battle moments ago had been nothing more than an exhilarating game to her.

At the entrance of the stone hall, Duan Hao stood with his broad-backed blade resting casually on his shoulder. A few droplets of fresh blood still clung to the edge of his weapon—evidence of the black-robed assassins he had slain. Kicking one of the corpses at his feet, his rugged face broke into a hearty grin.

"That was satisfying! Took down two of them with a single slash—almost didn't get my fill! That spear-wielding guy, though, he had some skill. Next time, we'll have to teach him a proper lesson!"

His voice was like rolling thunder, shaking the hall and causing dust to rain down from the cracked ceiling.

Lin Jin took a deep breath, carefully tucking the Source Flame Crystal into his robes. The residual warmth of the crystal seeped into his chest as he muttered, "They won't let this go. The Skyflame Pavilion has been hunting us for too long—it's not just about the map. This Source Flame Crystal must hold a far greater secret."

His gaze swept over the ancient hall. The walls bore faded rune carvings, their details eroded by time, yet one symbol remained discernible—a coiling flame dragon with its head raised high, eyes seemingly aglow with divine light. The aura it emitted was both majestic and desolate, a lingering testament to a once-glorious past. Above, a few dimly glowing crimson spirit stones cast flickering light, as if whispering the tales of a forgotten era.

"Flame Soul Ancestor," Lin Jin asked in a low voice, "what is this place?"

A rare trace of solemnity colored the ancient voice in his mind.

"This hall… it was likely the temporary residence of a Flame Emperor from the Flame Dragon Clan during the Great Scorching War. That flame dragon emblem is their clan insignia—symbolizing supreme flame authority. As for the Source Flame Crystal, I fear it is the core of a fallen Flame Emperor's inheritance, containing a fragment of his primordial essence. Boy, by taking this crystal, you have entangled yourself in the karma of the Flame Dragon Clan. Fortune or disaster—it's yet to be seen."

"Karma?" Lin Jin frowned, fingers absently tracing the crystal hidden in his robes. "The Skyflame Pavilion is after this as well?"

"Hah! Not just them," Flame Soul Ancestor sneered. "The Source Flame Crystal is an ancient treasure—it can elevate a cultivator straight to the Flame Spirit Realm, or even beyond to the Flame Lord Realm! Any powerhouse in the Nine Domains would covet it. If you can't guard it, you'll be inviting calamity. But with your Netherflame Devouring Technique, this crystal is a perfect match for you. Refine it well, and your future will be limitless."

Lin Jin clenched his fists, a sharp glint flashing in his eyes. His voice was resolute.

"Then I'll guard it. Anyone who tries to take it—will regret it."

Turning to Su Yao and Duan Hao, he spoke in a firm tone.

"We need to leave Molten Flame Valley—now. It's not safe here. The Skyflame Pavilion may have retreated, but they'll be back. And they won't come alone."

Su Yao hopped down from the pillar, clapping her hands to shake off the dust. Her bright eyes gleamed as she nodded.

"Agreed. Let's head back to Molten Rock Town, rest up, and find a safe place to refine that crystal. Lin Jin, you need to break into the Flame Master Realm as soon as possible—if the Pavilion sends a Flame Spirit cultivator next time, we're in serious trouble."

As she spoke, she flitted around the hall like a curious cat, checking for any overlooked treasures before leaving.

Duan Hao swung his blade over his shoulder and let out a booming laugh.

"I'm with you! This damn valley is hotter than a furnace—stay any longer, and I'll be roasted alive! Let's get out of here, drink to our victory, and then train like hell!"

Without further delay, the three of them swiftly departed the ruined hall, retracing their path through the rugged terrain of Molten Flame Valley. The ground still radiated heat, occasional magma jets hissing up through the cracks. Along the valley walls, molten flame vines swayed gently, their fiery tips flickering like a thousand watching eyes. In the distance, the low roars of fire beasts echoed, though none dared approach—intimidated by the lingering killing intent of their battle.

By the time they emerged from the valley, the sky was ablaze with sunset hues, casting long shadows over the desolate plains of Cangfeng Domain. Lin Jin walked at the front, staff in hand, his steps steady despite his exhaustion. Su Yao followed with a lively bounce, occasionally glancing back at the valley, her eyes glimmering with the thrill of adventure. Duan Hao trailed behind, humming a rowdy tune, his massive blade swaying lazily on his shoulder.

Molten Rock Town—Nightfall

The town's earthen walls were bathed in twilight gold, its streets sparsely populated. A few shops still glowed with dim lantern light, flickering against the darkening sky. The trio settled into a modest inn—Molten Wind Tavern—securing two adjacent rooms.

Inside, Su Yao immediately perched on the wooden table, legs crossed, her eyes brimming with curiosity.

"Alright, Lin Jin! Let's see that Source Flame Crystal up close! Just how powerful is this thing?"

Lin Jin chuckled, retrieving the crystal and placing it on the table. The moment it touched the surface, its golden-red glow intensified, filling the room with oppressive heat. A faint burning scent rose as the wood beneath it began to smolder.

Su Yao's eyes widened in awe.

"Damn… This energy is way stronger than Flameheart Grass! Lin Jin, if you refine this… how far can you go?"

Duan Hao stroked his chin, grinning.

"I'd bet this thing's worth more than any top-grade spirit stone I've ever seen! If you break through to Flame Master, don't forget to carry us along!"

Lin Jin exhaled slowly, his voice calm but unwavering.

"Flame Soul Ancestor says… with Netherflame Devouring, I could reach Flame Master Realm—or beyond. You'll also absorb the excess flame energy, so all three of us will grow stronger."

Su Yao blinked before grinning.

"Well, when you put it that way… let's do it!"

Duan Hao laughed heartily.

"Then what are we waiting for? Let's ignite!"

As the night deepened, the Source Flame Crystal's radiance filled the room. In its glow, three figures sat in silent cultivation—ready to step into the flames of destiny.