Btth: Xiao yan with killing system

The weight of Zhi Yi's defeat settled over Xiao Yan, but his hunger for strength only grew. He could feel the system's influence, urging him to continue pushing forward. Each victory, each absorbed life force, had made him stronger, but it also came with a deepening sense of emptiness. The excitement of battle had begun to fade, replaced by an eerie numbness.

Su Mei had grown increasingly silent since their victory. She had seen the toll the battle had taken on Xiao Yan, not just physically, but emotionally. Her eyes often lingered on him, filled with concern, but Xiao Yan couldn't bring himself to acknowledge it. He couldn't afford weakness—not now.

"We're getting closer to the Black-Corner Region's heart," Su Mei said one evening as they camped. "The powerful Dou Zongs and their forces... we're going to face even tougher challenges ahead."

Xiao Yan barely acknowledged her words. He had only one goal now—power. His obsession with leveling up had consumed him. Each time the system offered him more, he eagerly accepted.

> "New target: Tian Hao, 9-Star Dou Zong. Challenge quest activated."

The system's voice cut through his thoughts, but Xiao Yan merely nodded, feeling the familiar rush of anticipation. Another battle, another step closer to his ultimate goal.

Su Mei's voice broke through his trance. "Xiao Yan... do you really think this is worth it? You've already changed so much. It's like you're not even the same person anymore."

He turned to her, his eyes cold and distant. "You don't understand. This is the only way. I can't stop now."

Su Mei recoiled slightly at the harshness in his tone. But she knew he wouldn't listen. She had tried to warn him, but each time, he had brushed her off. The man she once knew—the one who fought for justice, for those he cared about—seemed to be slipping further away with each passing day.

"I just... don't want to lose you," she whispered, her voice heavy with emotion.

Xiao Yan's gaze softened for a moment, but he quickly turned away, unable to confront the feelings she had stirred in him. The system's cold efficiency was all he needed.

They set out toward Tian Hao's domain the next day, their journey filled with a silence that spoke volumes. Xiao Yan couldn't afford distractions—not now. Not when he was so close.

The darkness within him seemed to grow with each step.

---

Let me know when you're ready for Chapter 11!