Although Shao Lan's soul power might not be particularly formidable, possessing even a single spiritual pill capable of enhancing his soul force is undeniably advantageous.
Perhaps it even kindles a glimmer of hope for him to become an alchemist.
Given Shao Yan's deep affection for Shao Lan, he would undoubtedly be willing to part with such a treasure.
Shao Yan smiled faintly, shaking his head.
"Xiao Lan has no interest in alchemy. Moreover, if one's soul power is weak, this pill would be squandered. Its efficacy amplifies only in those whose soul force is already strong. Even if ordinary people could increase their soul power, the effect would be minimal."
Gu Qingli nodded in understanding. Indeed, such a precious pill would greatly benefit her.
"Little one, with your soul power enhanced, I imagine you would face Deputy Commander Qi with unwavering confidence."
Shao Yan smiled gently.
"Heh, all thanks to Uncle Shao's miraculous pill," Gu Qingli replied without pretension, readily accepting the vial from Shao Yan's hand.
Gratitude unspoken, she understood the immense value this rare pill held for her. Resolutely, she vowed to nurture her bond with Shao Lan, determined not to let Shao Yan's heartfelt intentions go in vain.
After departing the Mercenary Guild, Gu Qingli returned directly to her chambers. With her duel against Deputy Commander Qi scheduled in three days, she treated the matter with utmost seriousness.
Moreover, she had not forgotten that by bolstering her soul power, the Scarlet Flame Phoenix nourished by her soul force would likewise grow mightier.
Once the Scarlet Flame Phoenix awakened fully, Gu Qingli would stride through the world untouchable.
Without hesitation, she placed the Soul Nourishing Pill upon her tongue.
A fleeting sweetness blossomed, but before she could savor it, a tremendous surge of energy flooded her body. Instantly, her meridians brimmed with a fierce vitality.
Her delicate face flushed a deep crimson.
The pill's potency far exceeded her expectations—so intense that Gu Qingli nearly struggled to endure it. At that moment, she inwardly scoffed at Shao Yan's earlier claim that the pill was of modest grade.
Clearly, it was of far superior quality than any she had previously ingested.
Yet, considering Shao Yan's discernment, it was no surprise he never offered anything ordinary. Fortunately, her physique was extraordinary, strengthened by the Phoenix Flame Technique; her meridians and bones possessed remarkable resilience.
Otherwise, such an overwhelming energy might have shattered her meridians, ending in catastrophic demise.
Still, her entire body glowed scarlet, her alabaster skin thinly flushed beneath with crimson waves. Closing her eyes, she endured considerable pain.
The process of assimilating the pill's power was long and agonizing, demanding utmost care.
Because of her strong soul power, Gu Qingli soon began to dissolve the pill's essence bit by bit, integrating it into her own soul force. Silver threads intertwined within, gradually fortifying her spirit.
Before entering her room, she had thoughtfully informed her parents, knowing that such an absorption would take considerable time.
Thus, for a full day and night, Gu Qingli secluded herself in her chamber, uninterrupted, diligently absorbing the pill's power.
When the process concluded, she found her soul power significantly enhanced, and the Scarlet Flame Phoenix's aura noticeably strengthened. A satisfied smile gently curved her lips.