Chapter 28 - ch 509-18

Chapter 509: The Art of Transformation

Shadow Seven's heart trembled, and the other Shadow Guards who had reached the Quasi-Emperor cultivation level also cast their gazes over, their eyes filled with envy.

Why did His Highness the Crown Prince choose such a blockhead? Everyone had witnessed Shadow Seven being stuck in the Great Saint Realm for many years, yet she had suddenly made a breakthrough in the past few days.

Everyone had felt surprised before, but now seeing Gu Yun, that trace of doubt in their hearts was essentially completely erased.

"Yes, Master!"

Shadow Seven nodded and knelt on one knee.

She turned and, at Gu Yun's command, selected two Great Saint Realm cultivators and four Saint Ruler Realm cultivators to step forward and stand behind Gu Yun.

The other Shadow Guards did not say anything further, melting into the shadows and instantly disappearing.

"You, transform yourselves to look like these people."

"Ensure every pore is identical."

As Gu Yun spoke, he took out the portraits of the Demon Sect cultivators who had previously interacted with Leng Huayun and placed them in front of Shadow Seven.

"Yes!"

Shadow Seven did not say much; they were all experts in their field, skilled in stealth and assassination techniques, and even more so in disguise and impersonation.

Soon, the seven had changed their appearances, with three Great Saints and four Saint Rulers looking lifelike.

The battle back then was covert, and all those who knew the inside story had long since died, leaving only Leng Huayun. Impersonating them would naturally not be detected.

"Not bad, your disguise techniques are truly masterful."

"Your Highness flatters us. However, there are inevitably experts within the Demon Sect. Although the techniques we cultivate are of the Shadow Dao, they lack the bloody cruelty of the Demonic Dao and might easily be seen through."

Receiving Gu Yun's praise, Shadow Seven was secretly pleased but also somewhat worried.

"Don't worry, the Demon Sect is a mixed bag. As long as you pass the initial scrutiny, no one will bother you later."

"Besides, the place we are heading to is only one of the three major headquarters of the Demon Sect. Its internal strength is not as terrifying as you imagine."

"Taking such action is merely to ensure that things happen without anyone knowing."

The reason for not launching a large-scale extermination campaign directly was because Gu Yun was worried about alerting the enemy. If the Demon Sect Leader, who was currently out, learned of the destruction of the Demon Sect's headquarters in advance, how would his subsequent plans proceed?

The matter of the Demon Sect was secondary; his true target was still these Children of Destiny.

"Shadow Seven, come here for a moment."

The young man beckoned to Shadow Seven.

Shadow Seven approached without hesitation. With a light tap of his finger, she quickly felt a strange power emerge and flow throughout her body.

"Th-this is?"

"I merely used the Myriad Transformation Power to mimic the operational trajectory of Demonic Skill. This should be more than enough to deceive the Demon Sect's inspections."

"Your mission is simple: disguise yourselves as Huayun's team and enter the Demon Sect. Afterward, when it's time to seize power, lend her a hand."

The Demon Sect has complex factions. The three main headquarters will produce a total of six Holy Children and Holy Maidens. For the Holy Maiden position, Leng Huayun, Hong Yu, and Feng Yunyun can take one. As for the Holy Child... originally, it would naturally be our Child of Destiny, Bai Li, but now that Gu Yun has arrived, he naturally won't back down.

As he spoke, Gu Yun also released Leng Huayun and Feng Yunyun from the Great Luo Dao Pagoda.

Both women were still in a state of bewilderment, especially Leng Huayun; the pagoda's wonder almost made her jaw drop.

She felt as if countless years had passed inside, yet upon exiting, Gu Yun was still exactly as he had been.

Is this the foundation of an Immortal Ancient Family?

How could other rogue cultivators possibly compete with this?!

In such a short time, her cultivation had actually risen from the Great Power Realm to the Small Saint Realm. Such a speed of advancement was simply incredible.

Even using the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art to frantically devour the essence and blood of cultivators would probably not compare.

After consolidating her Mandara Demonic Body, Feng Yunyun had also cultivated for some time. She was now also a cultivator of the Small Saint Realm, just a step away from the Saint Realm.

If contending for the Holy Maiden position was previously a fantasy, now there was undoubtedly a greater assurance.

Before she could recover from the shock of the Great Luo Dao Pagoda, the disguised forms of Shadow Seven and others came into Leng Huayun's view, causing her pupils to constrict and making her feel as if she faced a formidable enemy: "Demonic Scorpions, you're not dead?! How is this possible?!"

Her reaction was extremely violent. In an instant, demonic energy began to surge uncontrollably, her eyes filled with shock and killing intent, instinctively wanting to strike directly!

She had clearly seen these people killed by Liu Yunfeng in battle, so why were they appearing here completely unharmed?!

Was it an illusion? Or... ghosts?!

"Huayun, calm down!"

Gu Yun's voice rang out like a clear spring, carrying a power that soothed the heart.

A large hand landed on Leng Huayun's shoulder, gently squeezing twice, instantly suppressing her restless demonic energy.

Like a basin of cold water poured over her head, Leng Huayun calmed down. She looked at Gu Yun, quite puzzled.

"Why are you stopping me? Don't you know that these people from the Demon Sect are all lunatics?"

"Demon Sect?"

Gu Yun smiled faintly: "Huayun, why don't you take a closer look?"

Leng Huayun was slightly startled. She turned and stared intently at 'Demonic Scorpions' and the others, quickly noticing something amiss.

Although these people's appearance, aura, and even some subtle gestures were mimicked vividly, their eyes... were too calm. They completely lacked the inherent cruelty and madness of the Demonic Scorpions' group, instead resembling a bottomless pool of cold water, exuding absolute rationality and obedience.

"They are..."

For a moment, Leng Huayun was uncertain and looked at Gu Yun, craving an answer.

The young man leaned in closer: "They are my people, disguised."

"How is it? Still looks the part, doesn't it?"

Suddenly being so close, Leng Huayun's pretty face flushed slightly: "It does have that essence, but even I can detect the anomaly. Those old monsters in the Demon Sect might be even more perceptive."

"Precisely because of that, you still need to give them some special training."

Gu Yun said with a smile: "Along the way, you'll be responsible for finding a way to imbue them with demonic nature."

"Then, when you enter the Demon Sect, you won't be isolated and helpless."

"So that's what you were planning."

Leng Huayun finally understood Gu Yun's plan. She nodded, examining 'Demonic Scorpions' and the others, feeling a bit shocked in her heart.

This art of disguise was simply miraculous!

Both their appearance and aura were identical, so much so that even she was almost fooled.

Squelch, squelch.

An untimely sound broke the silence, and Leng Huayun's smile froze on her face.

"When will you let go?"

All eyes fell on Gu Yun's mischievous hand.

Shadow Seven's pretty face flushed red, and she and the other Shadow Guards turned their heads away.

Feng Yunyun grumbled inwardly, feeling quite helpless about His Highness's character.

"Oh dear, it's a habit, my apologies."

Gu Yun sheepishly withdrew his hand, still making grasping motions in the air: "However, Huayun, you still need to eat more nourishing divine ingredients."

"Your master still far surpasses you in that regard."

"Gu Yun!! I'll kill you!!"

//510//

Chapter 510 A Big Gift for Li Jianqiang

After some playful banter, Gu Yun and the others officially set off.

Before that, the young man found a secluded, uninhabited corner and materialized the human emperor banner.

"Melodious Sound, come out."

Gu Yun's voice was devoid of emotion.

The human emperor banner surged with blood-red light, and after a distortion, Fairy Miao Yin's figure stumbled out.

She was still in her tattered pink immortal dress, her allure faintly visible, but her face was as pale as paper, her eyes unfocused, and her aura extremely weak. There was no trace of the alluring charm of a Paradise Holy Land fairy left.

The once high and mighty Quasi-Emperor expert was now merely a fragile soul body.

As soon as she appeared, she recoiled in terror, looking up at Gu Yun and speaking tremblingly, filled with fear: "Ma... Master..."

Controlled by the human emperor banner, she knew she was completely at the mercy of the young cultivator before her.

"Melodious Sound, you, along with those from Paradise Holy Land, intended to harm my woman. That is a capital offense."

"But now, there is an opportunity to atone for your sins..."

Melodious Sound suddenly looked up, her eyes blazing with a strong will to live: "Master, please command! Your servant will surely accomplish it! Surely accomplish it!"

"Very good!"

Gu Yun was naturally pleased with Melodious Sound's performance. Such a plaything of a protagonist would naturally listen to whoever had the bigger fist; otherwise, Li Jianqiang would never have won her favor.

Now that her life and death were in his hands, she would undoubtedly obey his commands.

"I want you to... return to Li Jianqiang's side."

"Melodious Sound understands, but Melodious Sound does not know what Your Highness wants Melodious Sound to do?"

Seeing that Gu Yun's attitude did not seem too harsh, she grew a little bolder and asked tentatively.

"Do you know that Li Jianqiang has always harbored ill intentions towards you?"

"Melodious Sound understands, but Melodious Sound has always remained chaste and has never allowed that old dog to touch her in the slightest."

"I'm not interested in whether he's touched you or not. Remember, with this relationship, Li Jianqiang will surely listen to your every word!"

"Your mission is to go to Li Jianqiang's side and report all situations to me during that time."

"After three months, take him to this place."

Gu Yun took out a map, and the marked location was a spatial rift.

Though Melodious Sound was puzzled, she still nodded in affirmation: "Melodious Sound understands, but her subordinate is currently only a soul body, how can she..."

Gu Yun said no more, directly reaching out and summoning the incomplete divine souls of Star River Daoist and Xuan Yizi before Melodious Sound.

Both of them now looked like lost souls, like zombies, gnashing their teeth as if constantly tearing at something. Gu Yun had them firmly trapped in a space, unable to break free.

"Devour them, and your cultivation should recover and even improve."

"Your physical body is currently with Li Jianqiang; he should then seek a way to revive you."

"Find a good opportunity to merge into it, and then gradually entice him, making his entire heart belong to you."

"You should know how to do it."

"Melodious Sound understands."

The demoness chuckled: "This servant is most skilled at such things."

Saying that, she became excited, floating beside Gu Yun, wanting to touch the young man's body.

However, she was repelled by a terrifying divine light.

"Ah--!"

Melodious Sound let out a shrill scream, her soul body trembling violently, as if it was about to be completely purified and annihilated by the invisible divine light!

She retreated in terror, no longer daring to overstep in the slightest, her gaze towards Gu Yun filled with deeper fear and reverence.

"This servant deserves to die! This servant will never dare again! Please spare this servant's life, Master!"

She prostrated herself on the ground, her soul body trembling.

Gu Yun looked at her with icy eyes: "Remember your place."

"Do as I instruct, and you might have a chance to see the light of day again."

"If you harbor any more ill intentions, or if the mission fails... these two fellows will be your future!"

Gu Yun pointed to the zombie-like Star River Daoist and Xuan Yizi nearby, adding more deterrence to his words.

"Yes! Yes! This servant understands! This servant will surely do well!"

Melodious Sound kowtowed like pounding garlic, no longer daring to have any distracting thoughts.

"Go."

Gu Yun waved his hand, removing the restraints on Star River Daoist and Xuan Yizi's divine souls.

The two incomplete divine souls immediately let out silent roars, instinctively wanting to escape.

A hint of ruthlessness and greed flashed in Melodious Sound's eyes. She lunged forward, her soul body transforming into a massive pink net, firmly enveloping and devouring the divine souls of Star River Daoist and Xuan Yizi!

Her cultivation also soared, not only did her injuries fully recover, but her cultivation even reached Quasi-Emperor Third Heaven.

"Thank you for your master's grace!"

"Oh, and there's another spell. I'll transmit it into your sea of consciousness."

Gu Yun said, pointing from a distance.

Melodious Sound's sea of consciousness was impacted, and then the rudimentary form of a spell slowly appeared.

"Locking Yang Art?"

Melodious Sound murmured, somewhat puzzled.

"Practice this spell diligently, and after your physical body recovers, cast it on Li Jianqiang every three days."

"It will surely make him feel like he's in heaven and hell."

"I obey Master's command!"

"I've given you the power. If you mess things up..."

"This servant will surely not disappoint Master's expectations!"

After saying that, she scrambled away, transforming into a pink escape light, and instantly vanished into the sky.

"Li Jianqiang, oh Li Jianqiang, look how good I am to you."

Returning his deeply cherished goddess to his side, Gu Yun couldn't help but marvel at his own kindheartedness.

As for a small scapegoat?

We'll have to trouble our Child of Destiny to bear it.

After arranging Melodious Sound's matter, Gu Yun also caught up with the main group. Everyone transformed into several streaks of light and sped towards the headquarters of the Demonic Sect...

On the other side, Li Jianqiang, who had barely escaped with his life, frantically ran for two days and two nights before finally stopping in a desolate cave.

He collapsed, sitting against the stone wall, his aura weak. He was still clutching Melodious Sound's corpse, gasping for breath.

"Damn it, how can that stinky bitch from Hundred Flowers Holy Land be so strong?"

"One day I will catch you, and then I will surely get my revenge for today's humiliation!!"

Li Jianqiang angrily slammed the ground beside him, his gaze returning to Melodious Sound in his arms.

A triumphant, wicked smile finally appeared at the corner of his mouth: "However, it was not in vain that I took such a big risk on this trip."

He carefully stroked Melodious Sound's cold yet still beautiful face, his eyes filled with greed and possessiveness.

"Melodious Sound, oh Melodious Sound, you were always so high and mighty, disdaining me, but now you've fallen into my hands, haven't you?"

Li Jianqiang was very confident in himself. As long as it was an object bound by the Dual Cultivation System, it would absolutely not be able to act against him.

He had paid so much to save Melodious Sound, so what was wrong with him enjoying himself now?!

He reached out to unfasten Melodious Sound's clothes at her chest: "What's going on? It feels a bit cold?"

//511//

Chapter 511: A fruitless effort, Li Jianqiang is filled with grief and anger

Li Jianqiang's hand touched Melodious Sound's cold skin, and the biting chill instantly cooled his fervent thoughts by half.

"Why is she so cold?"

He muttered, a premonition of ill omen rising in his heart.

Once he had completely unbuttoned Melodious Sound's upper garments, the bloody scene before him shocked him greatly: "H-how is this possible?!"

He saw that Melodious Sound's once full chest now had a giant, bowl-sized hole torn through it.

He had suffered a heavy blow to his abdomen, but Melodious Sound... to her chest?!

That Hundred Flowers Holy Lord truly deserved to die!

Li Jianqiang was furious, but he still stubbornly placed his hand under Melodious Sound's nose—no breath.

He then pressed her neck to feel for a pulse—only dead silence.

"No, this isn't possible!"

His face instantly turned ashen, and he frantically poured his spiritual energy into Melodious Sound's body, trying to awaken her.

"Th-thankfully, there seems to be a trace of life in her heart!"

He quickly found a breakthrough and immediately locked onto Melodious Sound's last trace of vitality.

But after this step, the spiritual energy he poured in was like a stone sinking into the sea; Melodious Sound's body showed no reaction, remaining cold and stiff, like a delicate jade sculpture.

After much effort, Li Jianqiang collapsed onto the ground, gasping for breath, completely questioning life.

"System! System! What's going on?! How could she be dead?!"

Li Jianqiang screamed frantically in his mind, panic completely engulfing him. He couldn't accept that what he had risked his life to save was just a corpse!

"Ding! Detecting bound target: Fairy Miao Yin."

"Ding! Detecting abnormal target status, analyzing..."

"Target status: Physical body damage (15%), Soul damage (85%)."

"Conclusion: Target is completely dead, but soul still scattered in the world; there is a certain possibility of resurrection."

"Dead... she's really dead..."

Li Jianqiang was struck by lightning, slumping to the ground, staring blankly at Melodious Sound's lifeless face.

Immense disappointment and anger instantly consumed him!

"Ah—!!!"

He suddenly let out a beast-like roar, punching the nearby stone wall, blasting a large hole in it!

"Hundred Flowers Holy Lord!!"

His eyes were bloodshot, looking like a madman: "I will never rest until you are dead!!!"

After the impotent rage came deep pain and despair.

He had paid a huge price, even using the System's last life-saving measure, only to retrieve a cold corpse?

How could he accept this?!

No, that's not right... Snapping out of his chaotic thoughts, a gleam suddenly flashed in his eyes.

What the System said wasn't 'completely dead'!

"Possibility of resurrection? So, she can still be saved?!"

"System! Quick, quick, tell me, how do I save her?"

He grabbed onto this last straw, urging anxiously.

Melodious Sound was his obsession since transmigrating; he would never allow himself to pay such a huge price only for her to die so peacefully.

Now that there was a chance for resurrection, even if it meant using all his strength, he would find it for her!

As if responding to the Host's anticipation, the System's prompt sounded again.

"The Host can seek three rare heavenly treasures—'Soul-Returning Grass,' 'Blood Bodhi,' and 'Nirvana Flower'—to reshape her body. Then, on the night of the full moon, cast a Soul Condensing Array to summon Melodious Sound's soul back from the world, and she can be resurrected."

"Soul-Returning Grass and Blood Bodhi are not extremely rare divine materials; I should be able to buy them at the Myriad Dao Alliance's merchant guild."

"As for the Nirvana Flower, I happen to have a connection."

"Hahahaha, hahahaha!! Heaven truly isn't forsaking me, Heaven isn't forsaking me!!"

Li Jianqiang laughed uncontrollably, almost passing out.

"Cough, cough, damn it, my injuries are too severe. I can't touch Melodious Sound's body right now. I need to find a place to recover from my injuries first!"

He carefully placed Melodious Sound's corpse into the System space for safekeeping and turned to leave the cave.

There happened to be a main city nearby, a good place for him to recover from his injuries. The Yihong Courtyard was an important industry of the Myriad Dao Alliance, with branches in most main cities. He even had a super VIP card for it. This time, he was going to show off his might!

..."Ding! Li Jianqiang's emotions collapsed, rewarding 3000 Villain Points."

"Ding! Li Jianqiang is furious and agitated, rewarding 3000 Villain Points."

..."Ding! Li Jianqiang's mentality exploded, rewarding 3000 Villain Points."

Enjoying Xi Tong's voice, which was as clear as an oriole's song, Gu Yun felt refreshed, as if his ears had just received a massage.

"They say young people have strong tempers, but Li Jianqiang is already quite old, why is he still so easily provoked?"

Gu Yun shook his head. Three thousand Villain Points were in the bag, and this time it was incredibly easy.

Such a harvest from minor provocations; Li Jianqiang truly lived up to his red-quality Child of Destiny status.

He was simply not comparable to the likes of Su Hao.

Now with Melodious Sound by his side, he expected a continuous stream of rewards.

Gu Yun was in a good mood, and his attention returned to the present.

Before the deaths of those several Demon Sect Great Sages, their souls had already been detained by Gu Yun, and their memories were naturally fully extracted.

Learning the location of the Demon Sect's main altar was not difficult.

Now, their group was already inside a gloomy and magnificent black stone hall, where the atmosphere was oppressive and tense.

Led by a demon attendant, they passed through a strict and eerie corridor.

On the main seat, the Lord of the Ghost Palace (You Po Dianzhu) with her profound aura coldly watched the group, her quasi-emperor pressure subtly spreading.

"This is the twelfth-ranked sequence, You Po Dianzhu."

"Her strength has already reached Quasi-Emperor Eighth Layer, on par with Luo Hanyan."

"It seems that not all of these twelve sequences have achieved the Great Emperor realm yet."

In the'Strongest Demon Son-in-Law' script, the twelve sequences, as the Demon Sect Leader's reliance in the later stages, were all at the Great Emperor realm!

It was precisely such terrifying combat power that allowed them to completely overthrow the Supreme Divine Dynasty after the Empress's disappearance.

However, it now seemed that these sequences had not all fully matured.

"I just don't know how many Great Emperor level existences there are in this Third Main Altar."

Gu Yun wasn't entirely clear about the Demon Sect's power distribution, as it was merely a background element in the novel.

In Bai Li's script, only this You Po Dianzhu had a certain amount of screen time.

"Mo Xie, why are only a few of you back? Where are the others?!"

This trip to the Hundred Flowers Holy Land involved all the elites of a branch, and now only seven had returned, which even pained You Po Dianzhu.

Fortunately, the high-end combat power was relatively intact.

"Dianzhu... I... we..."

Shadow Seven, disguised as "Mo Xie," knelt down immediately, starting to wail: "We plotted for a long time, and with Miss Huayun's assistance, we attacked when the Hundred Flowers Holy Land was vulnerable. But we never expected these stinky women to be so cunning. Besides the aging Grand Elder and the Holy Lord Luo Hanyan who was in seclusion, even the Great Elder Liu Yunfeng had already broken through to the Quasi-Emperor realm!!"

The other Shadow Guards behind her also knelt down, looking like they had narrowly escaped death and were still shaken.

"What? Quasi-Emperor realm? It truly wasn't easy for you to escape from her hands."

//512//

Chapter 512: The Temptation of the Ghostly Lady

The Netherworld Hall Master's eyes narrowed, staring intently at the few people present.

The cultivation gap between a Quasi-Emperor and a Great Sage was like a chasm; she didn't believe these guys could escape from Liu Yunfeng's hands.

"Hall Master, you see clearly, with just us, there was indeed no possibility of escape."

"However, fortunately, Liu Yunfeng had just broken through, and her realm was unstable. Moreover, the Great Development Holy Land, Star Pavilion, and other forces suddenly appeared to disrupt the situation."

"It was only then that we barely managed to escape using a false death technique, and with Miss Huayun's assistance from the side, we narrowly escaped with our lives."

"It's just a pity that all our brothers in the branch hall perished!"

Her voice choked, and she stopped at just the right moment, looking as if she couldn't bear to speak further.

"Please, Hall Master, you must avenge them!"

"Huayun, is that true?"

The Netherworld Hall Master looked at Leng Huayun, her voice icy. The last time she saw this girl, she felt her talent was extraordinary and wanted to take her as her disciple, but she was worried about potential issues with her demonic transformation. That's why she arranged this mission as a test.

Although the branch hall suffered heavy losses, Leng Huayun and Feng Yunyun both successfully returned to the Demonic Sect, which could be considered achieving the goal.

Furthermore, this time, Leng Huayun gave her a huge surprise; her cultivation had already reached the Saint Realm. Such a rapid progression must have been achieved by absorbing the essence and blood of countless people. She truly lived up to being the demonic girl she valued, with boundless prospects and the potential of an Emperor.

"I'm sorry, Hall Master, Huayun was incompetent and couldn't stop Liu Yunfeng from her massacre."

Leng Huayun lowered her head, looking remorseful.

The Netherworld Hall Master shook her head: "This is not your fault. A Quasi-Emperor is extraordinary, not someone you could deal with."

"It's already not easy that you could cooperate with Mo Xie to find a way out."

"Huayun, you did very well this time. I wish to take you as my disciple; are you willing?"

Upon hearing this, Leng Huayun's thoughts raced.

Becoming a direct disciple of the Netherworld Hall Master would undoubtedly allow her to gain status and resources in the Demonic Sect more quickly, making it easier to act.

More importantly, refusing might lead to suspicion.

She bowed slightly, her tone carrying just the right amount of "flattered" and "gratefulness": "Hall Master's immense kindness, Huayun is eternally grateful! To be able to become your disciple is Huayun's greatest honor!"

"Very good!" The Netherworld Hall Master's face broke into a satisfied smile, her wrinkled skin smoothing out. "From today onwards, you are my closed-door disciple! Within the main altar, seeing you is like seeing me!"

Her words carried an invisible pressure that spread, causing all other Demonic Sect members present to fall silent and dare not speak.

"Thank you, Master!" Leng Huayun immediately changed her address and performed a standard Demonic Sect disciple's bow.

The Netherworld Hall Master nodded with satisfaction, her gaze then turning to Feng Yunyun, who stood quietly to the side, a hint of unconcealed greed and eagerness flashing in her eyes.

Mandala Demonic Body!

This was a physique all demonic cultivators dreamed of!

Although the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art cultivated quickly, during battles with top-tier physiques and bloodline prodigies of the Human and Demonic races at the same realm, it always lacked an advantage.

If she could also possess such a physique, not only would her combat power easily increase, but she might even catch a glimpse of the Emperor's threshold!

In terms of value, Feng Yunyun far surpassed Leng Huayun.

"As for you, your name is Feng Yunyun, right?"

"Yun Yun greets the Hall Master."

"No need for formalities. You possess a peerless demonic body, a blessing from heaven to our sect."

"Even I am not qualified enough to take you as a disciple, but... these days, I will keep you by my side and personally guide your cultivation, ensuring you shine brightly in the Saintess selection, how about it?"

"After becoming a Saintess, you will be qualified to become a direct disciple of the Sect Master, a fortune countless demonic cultivators can only dream of!"

Feng Yunyun raised her eyes, calmly glancing at the Netherworld Hall Master, and did not answer immediately. Instead, she turned slightly to look at Leng Huayun, with a hint of dependence.

Leng Huayun immediately understood and said: "Master, Yun Yun has depended on me since childhood, and her personality is a bit timid, disliking communication with others."

"Could her cultivation matters also be assisted by your disciple from the side?"

A flicker of displeasure crossed the Netherworld Hall Master's eyes, but it quickly vanished.

She could see Feng Yunyun's dependence on Leng Huayun; after all, all of this was created by Leng Huayun herself, and it was normal for the born demonic body to have some side effects. Forcibly separating them now might even be counterproductive.

In any case, Leng Huayun was already her disciple, so having this demonic body girl by her side was also within her control.

"Very well." The Netherworld Hall Master waved her hand with feigned magnanimity, "Your sisterly bond is deep, so remain together."

"Huayun, take good care of her, and don't let her talent go to waste."

"A few days ago, Hong Yu returned from outside the sect and brought back a talented disciple. In just over ten days of joining the sect, he actually passed the eighteenth level of the Demon Extermination Abyss."

"This child's talent is unprecedented and unparalleled in the world. In the future, you will inevitably interact with him, remember not to offend him."

"Disciple doesn't understand. After all, he's just a newly joined cultivator. No matter how strong his talent, he can't threaten us."

"Huayun!"

"Don't forget, the selection of Saint Son and Saintess proceeds simultaneously, and both sides must cooperate fully and work together."

"Currently, in our Third Main Altar, there are many Saintess candidates, but the Saint Son candidate is practically a foregone conclusion!"

"Hong Yu is that man's guide. If nothing unexpected happens, he might intentionally interfere in the later selection to make Hong Yu the Saintess."

"At that time, you won't have any chance at all!"

"Therefore, before the Saintess selection begins, you must go and establish a good relationship with him."

"When necessary, you can use any means to firmly bind him to your warship."

"As for whether the Saintess position goes to you or Yun Yun, you can decide that yourselves!"

The Netherworld Hall Master spoke earnestly, as if genuinely considering her disciple's interests wholeheartedly.

In reality, she merely wanted to win over the so-called genius Saint Son to her side. It seemed everyone believed that who became the Saintess wasn't important; what mattered was who that Saint Son wanted to be the Saintess!

What a Saintess, merely a complete slave.

Leng Huayun sneered inwardly, a faint smile also gracing the corner of her lips: "Master, your words are a bit biased."

"What do you mean the Saint Son candidate is already a foregone conclusion?"

ps: Taking a day off tomorrow, mwah.

//513//

Chapter 513: Subduing the Ghost Woman

"What did you say?"

"Nothing, I just thought that the legendary Holy Church also engages in such boring political maneuvering."

Grandma You, the Palace Master, chuckled softly, "I know you're dissatisfied. Within our sect, the Holy Son's status has always subtly surpassed the Holy Maiden's."

"You have to go through hardships and trials, while the other party enjoys the fruits of your labor effortlessly. It's natural to feel uncomfortable."

"But such things are too normal; it depends on both strength and opportunity."

"The competition for the Holy Maiden position is so fierce because you, Hong Yu, and Xiao Yun have all appeared in our Third Main Altar. This inevitably leads to a fierce struggle. As for the Holy Son position, Bai Li's talent is so extraordinary that it's rarely seen in the world. Even the three of you would find it hard to catch up to him."

"Although he started a bit late, he has now reached the Quasi-Saint Realm. His compatibility with the Heaven-Swallowing Demonic Scripture is something even we sequences cannot compare to. His cultivation speed is simply unparalleled. Tell me, who else in the sect can compare to him? Who is worthy of comparing to him?!"

Leng Huayun's lips curved into a cold smile, "That may not be true."

"As long as he is around, that guy will never be able to ascend to the position of Holy Son!"

Grandma You's eyes narrowed slightly, "Huayun, do you know what you're saying?"

"Of course I do. And I also know that his talent is absolutely a hundred, a thousand times stronger than the person Hong Yu brought back!"

"Oh? This piques my interest."

"Who is it that has earned such praise from you? Why don't you bring him here for your master to see?"

Grandma You only thought Leng Huayun was resisting in her heart.

"Master, he's already behind you. How is it that you still haven't noticed him?"

Leng Huayun chuckled softly and slowly stood up.

"What?!"

Grandma You, the Palace Master, suddenly felt an indescribably terrifying pressure, spreading from behind her without any warning.

It was cold, deathly silent, and transcended all things.

Her entire demonic essence instantly solidified. Her cultivation at the Eighth Heaven of the Quasi-Emperor Realm was like a flickering candle in the wind before this pressure, teetering on the verge of collapse.

She couldn't move an inch; even turning her eyeballs became extremely difficult.

Cold sweat instantly soaked her back.

She was at the Eighth Heaven of the Quasi-Emperor Realm!

One of the twelve sequences of the Demonic Sect!

Among the other three sequences in this Third Main Altar, two were not in the sect, and one was in seclusion. Who could have approached her silently and brought such terrifying pressure?

"Ma-Master..." Leng Huayun's voice carried a hint of perfectly placed worry and reverence, "Are you... alright?"

Feeling her neck being gripped, Grandma You, the Palace Master, couldn't believe what kind of monstrous demon was behind her. Such terrifying vital energy, who knows how much fresh flesh and blood had been devoured.

When did such a terrifying existence appear in the Demonic Sect?!

She laboriously turned her eyeballs, glancing behind her with the corner of her eye, only to see a figure had appeared in the shadows behind the chair at some unknown point.

Dressed in black like ink, his face was handsome to the point of being demonic.

He stood there casually, yet he seemed to be the center of the entire hall, like a black hole, absorbing everything around him.

"Who, who are you?!"

Grandma You, the Palace Master's voice was dry and hoarse, her body trembling slightly.

"Who I am is not important. Submit... or die. You only have one choice."

Gu Yun chuckled softly. After stepping into the Third Main Altar, he had already thoroughly understood the situation here.

Since only Grandma You, the Palace Master, a Quasi-Emperor expert, was guarding it, the plan could be slightly altered.

Life or death.

This was not a choice that caused hesitation. Grandma You, the Palace Master, had thought of resisting, but she found that she couldn't even mobilize a trace of her demonic essence.

The gap in strength between them was like a chasm; any resistance would lead to eternal damnation.

"Grandma You... has only ever served the Demonic Sect throughout her life."

Grandma You gritted her teeth and spoke.

Facing her resistance, Gu Yun chuckled softly, not getting angry.

She was a clever person; such a person had a certain value to acquire.

With this thought, he gently raised a hand, and a wisp of extremely pure demonic energy, seemingly containing the chaos of creation, slowly condensed at his fingertips.

"Can this power prove my identity?"

Grandma You's heart instantly churned like surging waves, and fear washed over her like a tide. Even Leng Huayun and the others on the ground were completely suppressed.

Shadow Seven and the others' eyes widened in horror.

"Your Highness... how can he be a demon?!"

"Stop talking nonsense! Your Highness possesses the Myriad Transformations Saint Body, capable of transforming into all powers in the world. A mere demonic essence is child's play for him."

"Do not ruin His Highness's great plans!"

Shadow Seven roared, and the commotion among the Shadow Guards instantly vanished. Each of them was sincerely convinced. They had only heard of the terrifying Myriad Transformation Power before, but seeing it today, they truly understood its heaven-defying nature. The imitation of the aura was so lifelike that even Quasi-Emperor experts couldn't distinguish it!

"This... this is... primordial demonic energy?! No! It's even more... supreme than primordial demonic energy?!"

"You, you are... an ancient Heavenly Demon?!"

Grandma You gasped, somewhat disbelieving. She had heard rumors of a Heavenly Demon descending upon the Ancient Continent before, but everyone thought it was groundless and unfounded.

She never expected to encounter one today.

This power, even compared to the Sect Master in his prime, was far inferior. That was truly the originating demonic energy, the ancestor of all demonic essence!

Before him, even if she achieved Emperor cultivation, she would probably be no different from an ant!

The enormous disparity made it impossible to even think of resisting; instead, it made her somewhat excited.

Demonic cultivators worshipped power, and submitting to a stronger person was not shameful.

Moreover, Grandma You had always been at the bottom of the twelve sequences. Now, wasn't this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity?!

"Grandma You greets Heavenly Demon Lord!"

With almost no hesitation, Grandma You immediately turned and knelt down, her movements flowing smoothly without any delay.

Gu Yun raised his hand and pointed, and a wisp of Heavenly Demonic energy from his fingertip imprinted itself deep into Grandma You, the Palace Master's sea of consciousness.

"Ding! Successfully consumed 5000 Villain Points, performing an enhanced soul imprint."

As the young man acted, Grandma You, the Palace Master, felt her body stiffen. An irresistible, terrifying will had been imprinted deep within her soul!

She felt that everything about her, from her soul to her thoughts, was under the absolute control of this will!

Faced with such miraculous means, she couldn't even conjure a thought of resistance, only endless reverence and obedience.

Gu Yun released his hand.

Grandma You, the Palace Master, collapsed to the ground, panting heavily, yet she dared not show the slightest disrespect. She immediately knelt back down, her posture extremely humble, "Your subordinate Grandma You, greets my Lord!"

//514//

Chapter 514: The beginning of the overthrow of the Demon Cult, Bai Li's spring

In an instant, the high-ranking Demon Sect sequence was already subdued by Gu Yun.

Shadow Seven and the others exchanged glances, their eyes filled with shock and disbelief.

Gu Yun's plan was meticulously detailed; they had expected a tense adventure deep into a den of dangers.

But now, a sequence was subdued with such ease. What was all their previous effort for?

Leng Huayun's mouth was slightly agape. She had merely cooperated with Gu Yun's actions, expecting him to employ some trickery. She never imagined that Grandma You, the Hall Master whom she once greatly feared, would meet the same fate as herself.

It was truly too ironic.

Only Gu Yun remained calm and composed. From the moment he stepped into the Demon Sect, he had already altered his original plan.

When the battle began, half of the plan was rendered obsolete.

Even with a script, Gu Yun wouldn't micromanage every detail. His goal was to formulate a meticulous strategy.

As for how things would be resolved, that depended on his improvisation.

For instance, the Demon Sect Leader always wore a mask, and no one knew his true identity or appearance. So, with the Demon Bone in him, why couldn't he be the Demon Sect Leader?

Sure enough, after using the Great Emperor Cultivation Experience Card, the unsuspecting Grandma You Hall Master was subdued in an instant, her life and death hanging on his whim.

This was absolute suppression, the perfect embodiment of the Great Emperor's might.

Of course, this was also because Gu Yun was lucky. If the person present wasn't Grandma You, who ranked twelfth, but anyone higher, such a move might have alerted the enemy.

But now, the matter was settled.

The Demon Sect sequences who were out wouldn't expect the main altar to be invaded, and the other sequence in secluded cultivation wouldn't expect that right under his nose, his highly-esteemed colleague had already switched allegiances.

"Get up. Since you are the renowned Grandma You Hall Master, there's no need for such pretense."

Gu Yun chuckled, "Show the same imposing aura you had just now. After all, I'm just an ordinary disciple of the Demon Sect."

Grandma You's heart tensed. She looked up at Gu Yun, her expression growing somewhat strange.

An ordinary disciple?

How could someone like you be considered an ordinary disciple?!

"Your subordinate wouldn't dare."

She lowered her gaze and bowed her head, no longer showing any arrogance.

"You are quite sensible. If all the sequences were like you, it would save me some effort."

"Your Lord's demonic might is unparalleled, unmatched in the world, and beyond anyone's reach!"

"Grandma You will naturally follow her enlightened master, never to betray him in this life or the next."

"You don't have to be like that. Since a Soul Imprint has already been carved."

"I naturally trust you, and you don't need to think about any small tricks. If this object is discovered, I can instantly put you to death."

"As for Release? If you think you can find a strong person above an Eight Tribulation Great Emperor to help you remove it without me discovering your intention, you can try and see whose actions are faster."

"Your subordinate will strictly obey your Lord's commands."

"Alright, I will remain in the Demon Sect for now."

"As for those so-called Holy Son candidates, I'm quite interested in meeting them."

Gu Yun spoke with a laugh, his tone full of indifference.

Grandma You's heart tensed, and she silently mourned for Bai Li for three seconds. She had thought a promising young man had joined the Demon Sect, but she never expected him to face such a terrifying demon.

Truly, bad luck.

Grandma You sighed inwardly, her face growing even more respectful. "Your Lord's talent is peerless. That Bai Li is merely a firefly's glow; how dare he compete with the bright moon? It's just…"

"Just what?"

"It's just that Bai Li was brought back by Hong Yu and is highly valued by the 'Blood Fiend Hall Master'. That Blood Fiend ranks seventh among the twelve sequences and was already a peak Quasi-Emperor thirty thousand years ago."

"If your Lord targets Bai Li, it will inevitably lead to a confrontation with him."

"Peak Quasi-Emperor, huh?"

Gu Yun chuckled. This Blood Fiend and Grandma You were likely the only two Demon Sect sequences with significant roles in Bai Li's script, and they were among the few pieces of information he had obtained before coming to the Demon Sect. The Blood Fiend was known for his violent temper and extreme obsession with blood.

The only reason he kept Bai Li was out of greed for his Heaven-Devouring Demonic Physique blood, hoping to soar to great heights with it.

Later, he turned against Bai Li, engaging in a fierce battle that severely wounded Bai Li. He himself suffered a considerable backlash, his strength began to decline, and he could only barely maintain the dignity of an Emperor. He was also the weakest of the Demon Sect sequences in the later stages.

However, the fact that his disguise could even fool his colleagues was quite extraordinary.

"Tell me all the information about your twelve sequences. If there's a single lie, I think you know the consequences."

Gu Yun looked at Grandma You, a half-smile on his face.

Grandma You's heart tensed, and she immediately began to explain everything in detail… "Damn it! Why is this Heaven-Devouring Myriad Elephant Fist so difficult to cultivate? After more than ten days of arduous practice, I still can't even get started!"

Somewhere in the Third Main Altar, Bai Li, having shed his usual dejected demeanor, was diligently practicing his fist technique. Demonic energy surged around him, and veins bulged on his forehead.

After a long while, he finally stopped cultivating, stood to the side, and caught his breath.

To prepare for the future Holy Son selection, the Blood Fiend Hall Master had specially chosen this divine ability for him and then left the Demon Sect, seemingly content.

This showed how much he valued him.

"How ridiculous. The care I never felt in the Bai family, I'm now feeling from these demons."

Bai Li sneered, seemingly mocking his own foolishness.

Trapped by the shackles of his birth, unable to escape, he humbly yearned for care, only to be coldly and mercilessly cast out.

One day, he, Bai Li, would return and personally reclaim everything that rightfully belonged to him.

The Bai family must be utterly destroyed!!

"What, your fist technique is already perfected?"

Suddenly, a charming, soft voice full of allure sounded in his ear.

Bai Li's tired face finally broke into a smile. He turned around, and Hong Yu's perfect figure came into view.

"You're here."

"Let's see how your practice is going. After all, I brought you into the Demon Sect. If anything goes wrong, it's my reputation that will be tarnished."

Hong Yu swayed her body as she walked forward, scrutinizing Bai Li from head to toe. She shook her head slightly, "No, it seems you haven't even gotten started yet."

"Although I don't know what the Hall Master sees in you, your ability to gain her favor and obtain this technique is your good fortune."

"If you still can't master this technique before the Holy Son selection, you won't need to participate."

Hong Yu turned to leave.

Bai Li rushed forward, wanting to grab her wrist to stop her.

"What are you doing?!"

Hong Yu dodged with a flicker, her eyes incredibly sharp.

Bai Li scratched his head sheepishly.

He was used to Hong Yu's behavior. Although she appeared alluring and enchanting, she was actually aloof, and no one could ever win her favor.

However, the woman in front of him was probably the kindest person to him in this world, willing to rescue him from that black-robed figure.

Hong Yu must love him deeply.

It was just that his cultivation was low, and they were both in a dangerous place like the Demon Sect.

She was worried about his safety, which was why she kept her distance from him.

How could he not understand these well-intentioned efforts?

He had been diligently cultivating these days, only hoping that one day he could lead her out of this sea of suffering.

"Sister Hong Yu, don't worry. In this selection, I will surely overpower everyone and trample them all underfoot!"

"The position of Holy Son belongs to no one but me!"

///515//

Chapter 515: The Confident Son of Destiny

Bai Li's eyes burned with fervent flames, and his tone was resolute.

The youth was spirited and refreshed, commanding the world with a flourish!

It was as if the future had already unfolded before his eyes; he would ascend to the pinnacle, basking in all accolades, and then, he would bestow the greatest rewards upon the person before him.

His gaze towards Hong Yu softened a few shades. One day, he, Bai Li, would proudly announce to the entire world:

Hong Yu was his woman!

"Your confidence is a good thing, but you must not underestimate your opponents."

"This grand selection, on the surface, is to choose the Saint, but in reality, it is a game between the various Hall Masters. The Blood Fiend Hall Master is behind you, but that doesn't guarantee absolute safety."

"There are a total of four sequences in the Third Main Altar. Excluding the weakest Hall Master You Ming, all of them possess Great Emperor-level combat power."

"Among them, the Beast Hall Master, ranked sixth, and the Hall Master You Ming, ranked fourth, have chosen contestants who are not to be underestimated."

"If you still only have your current level before the grand selection begins, you might as well tuck your tail and run early; there's no need to continue participating."

Hong Yu's voice was very calm, as if she was narrating a trivial matter.

But in Bai Li's eyes, everything became very different; she had actually gone to investigate information about those disciples specifically for him.

Sure enough, she had him in her heart!

It was just that, being in a dangerous place like the Demonic Cult, she had no choice but to deeply bury this affection, using indifference to protect both of them.

Thinking of this, a warm current surged in Bai Li's heart, and his gaze towards Hong Yu became even softer, even carrying a hint of pity.

How could he disappoint such a beautiful woman who treated him this way?

He wanted to utter grand words to declare the sincerity of his heart, but then he felt he couldn't let Hong Yu's efforts be in vain.

So he asked, "Who are the people chosen by those two Hall Masters? Why have I never heard of them before?"

"Of course, you haven't heard of them. It's precisely because of your appearance that it forced the two lords to change their original plans."

"The position of Demonic Cult's Saint is closely related, and they can also gain huge benefits from it."

"Naturally, they won't allow Lord Blood Fiend to monopolize it."

Hong Yu took over Bai Li's words, her voice still flat, but carrying a subtle hint of seriousness: "The Beast Hall Master has chosen his most outstanding disciple in recent years, named 'Li Kuang'."

"Li Kuang?"

Bai Li frowned slightly; this name exuded a brutish aura.

And he had never heard of him, so he was probably a formidable character specifically prepared to deal with him.

"That's right." Hong Yu nodded: "He has been cultivating in the Fufeng Mountain Range for many years and was only recently urgently recalled by the Beast Hall Master. This person possesses a trace of the bloodline of the ancient fierce beast, Taotie. He cultivates the 'Hundred Beasts Devouring Souls Chapter' of the 'Heaven Devouring Demonic Scripture' passed down by the Beast Hall, and can control fierce beast remnant souls to assist in battle. Furthermore, he can beastify himself by absorbing the power of demonic beasts, making his physical body incredibly powerful."

"Ten years ago, with a Saint Realm cultivation, he once tore apart two demonic beasts that had just entered the Saint Ruler Realm. Now, after his training, he is at least a Saint Ruler Realm expert."

"The Saint selection has always allowed killing, so you must be careful to come out alive."

As Hong Yu spoke, with just a few words, she had completely stirred Bai Li's emotions.

A sharp glint flashed in the youth's eyes. Possesses a fierce beast bloodline? Powerful physical body?

His Heaven Devouring Demonic Physique could devour all things to strengthen himself; the opponents he feared least were those who relied on their physical bodies!

In close combat, his recovery ability would definitely be thousands, tens of thousands of times stronger than his opponent's!

No matter how strong your physical body is, can it be harder than his Saint Weapon?!

As long as he could tear off a piece of flesh and blood, he had a chance of winning. This Li Kuang was not to be feared!

"What about the Hall Master You Ming?"

Bai Li pressed, his fighting spirit growing stronger.

"The Hall Master You Ming acts even more mysteriously."

Hong Yu's tone sank slightly: "The identity of the person he recommended is still unknown to anyone."

"Even I have no way of knowing, but as the most powerful individual in the Third Main Altar, his choice will certainly not be weaker than you and Li Kuang."

"Understood, thank you, Sister Hong Yu, for clarifying!"

"When soldiers come, we block them; when water comes, we cover it with earth. These people are just a few years older than me, nothing to fear!"

"I, Bai Li, am destined to dominate the Three Thousand Dao Domains. A mere Saint position is within my grasp. Sister Hong Yu, just wait for that day!!"

Bai Li spoke proudly; after learning the intelligence, he felt even more that he could not be complacent.

After making his grand declaration, he directly turned and continued cultivating the Heaven Devouring Myriad Forms Fist. This boxing technique was broad and sweeping, and would certainly come in handy in a future battle against Li Kuang!

Watching the youth depart, the gentle, spring-breeze-like expression on Hong Yu's face vanished, replaced by endless disgust.

She lightly stroked her chest with her fair hand and let out a long sigh, as if to expel all the defilement she had just contracted.

"Disgusting fellow. If it weren't for the Master's mission, I would feel nauseous even getting within ten feet of you!"

Recalling Bai Li's eyes, she felt her stomach churn.

She would have to hug the pillow left by her Master and sleep soundly for three days and three nights to possibly recover.

"By my reckoning, Master should have already arrived at the Demonic Cult."

"When will he come to find his little Yu'er?"

As if she thought of something, a sickly flush appeared on Hong Yu's face, and her entire body began to tremble slightly.

Suddenly, her expression changed, and she hastily disappeared from the mountains in a flash… Inside Grandma You's Hall.

Gu Yun sat on Grandma You's chair, leaning back casually, toying with an ink-black jade slip in his hand.

It was densely filled with various pieces of information written in blood.

"Fourth Sequence, Sixth Sequence, Seventh Sequence."

"Is this the full strength of your Third Main Altar?"

"It doesn't look like much."

Even the strongest Hall Master You Ming was only a Five-Tribulation Great Emperor in cultivation, and Gu Yun alone was enough to sweep them all.

However, he would not act rashly. Dealing with Grandma You had been a perfect storm of timing, geographical advantage, and human cooperation, plus a sneak attack while she was unprepared, which led to his success.

The Demonic Cult had a strong foundation; barging in carelessly might trigger unforeseen plot developments.

After all, it was the lair of a Child of Destiny. If he made a big show, alerted the enemy, and caused that fellow to flee at the first sign of trouble, it would be a loss for him.

Everything was in preparation for the subsequent grand harvest; at this moment, he needed to remain composed.

"Your Excellency's divine might is unparalleled; this small foundation naturally doesn't merit your attention."

Grandma You spoke submissively, completely devoid of any of the Demonic Cult Hall Master's arrogant demeanor.

"The Third Main Altar was established last. The First Sequence and Second Sequence disdain to come to this barren land. If it weren't for the Cult Master's strict regulations, we wouldn't be here either, so it's unavoidable that our strength is weaker."

"Oh? It seems the geographical location of your First Main Altar is very superior? Why isn't it marked on this simple slip?"

"Could it be… that you're still holding back?!"

//516///

Chapter 516: Lord of the Netherworld Palace

Gu Yun's fingertips lightly tapped the armrest of Grandma You's chair, a dull sound echoing through the quiet hall.

It was just a casual question, yet it was enough to make Grandma You's nerves instantly tense.

"My Lord, you see clearly!"

"This subordinate did not intentionally hide anything. The location of the First Main Altar is extremely secretive. Apart from the Demon Sect Leader and the two adults of the First and Second Sequence, no one knows its true whereabouts."

"Even we, the sequences, are in a state where our six senses are unaware and our five senses are completely lost when we go to the First Main Altar, so we have no way of knowing!"

"However, I speculate that it might be a moving divine mountain."

"A moving divine mountain?"

Gu Yun became interested. If this news was true, then this so-called First Main Altar might be a major reliance for the male protagonist of 'The Strongest Demonic Son-in-Law'.

At the very least, it was an extremely powerful Imperial Weapon. Even if it were placed in the Gu Family, it would be a rare treasure.

"After obtaining the position of Saint Son, can one go to that First Main Altar?"

"Naturally. According to custom, the Saint Sons and Saintesses of the three Main Altars must all go to the First Main Altar for the final anointing ceremony."

"After their identities are confirmed, they will begin a free-for-all slaughter at a time arranged by the old Demon Sect Leader. The various Hall Masters can freely choose their respective supporters, and the one who emerges victorious will become the next Demon Sect Leader."

"The current Demon Sect Leader climbed out of such a mountain of corpses and sea of blood..."

"Free-for-all slaughter, the victor is king, huh? That's quite in line with the Demon Sect's usual style."

A hint of understanding flashed in Gu Yun's eyes. This plot, which was glossed over in the Heavenly Mandate script, also contained countless bloody struggles.

"Of course... now that Master has returned, with Master's heaven-defying abilities, you only need to display a little skill, and the entire Demon Sect should belong to you, Master. Others are not worthy of coveting it."

Gu Yun's methods were unfathomable, so much so that even she, a Quasi-Emperor, had to submit. In her opinion, participating in that so-called Saint Son battle with such strength was simply a dimensionality reduction strike.

He should directly pull down the Demon Sect Leader, that hands-off shopkeeper who knows not where he ran off to, and let Master inherit it directly!

Gu Yun smiled noncommittally. The position of Demon Sect Leader? The ownership of the Demon Sect?

Before he arrived here, he had already made meticulous plans; all of this was already within his grasp.

What was the point of a future already foreseen? He wanted to see if there would be any unexpected... variables.

"Before the Saint Son selection, I don't want to attract too much attention."

"After this, I will stay in Feng Yunyun's room. After the Hall Master You Ming appears, you can then send me a message."

"Furthermore, for the identity of Yun Valley, you must handle it well, ensuring his background is clear and doesn't invite deep scrutiny, understand?"

"Yes, this subordinate understands!"

Grandma You understood perfectly, and at the same time, her mind became active.

Feng Yunyun, such a way of addressing her indicates that the Demonic Body girl is this person's woman. Could it be that her ability to awaken such a high-quality Demonic Body is also related to him?!

All of this was possible. Gu Yun's top-tier demonic qi, which was as good as it gets, could create a true demonic cultivator genius with just a casual touch.

Would she... also have a chance?

It was a pity that she was old and unattractive, with no way to proceed.

Grandma You felt a bit helpless, but she didn't want to give up. Even after leaving, she was still thinking of a way to break the deadlock... Time quietly slipped away amidst undercurrents.

The atmosphere in the Third Main Altar grew increasingly tense. The Saint Son selection was like a sharp sword hanging over everyone's heads, urging every disciple aspiring to it to desperately improve their strength.

Bai Li's progress was incredibly fast.

With the Blood Fiend Hall's resources invested without cost and the formidable power of his Devouring Demonic Body, his cultivation had already reached the Small Saint Realm.

He was but a step away from becoming a Saint.

This Demon Sect was simply his paradise. Unlike the childish battles outside, every one of his battles was a decisive fight for victory and death!

Thus, with the aid of his Devouring Demonic Body, his cultivation improved at an astonishing speed. It wouldn't be long before he would rise again, return to the Bai Family, and exact his revenge!

And that Liu Ruyan, how dare she slander him? He would definitely drench the Zhenhai Prince's Mansion in blood and let those bastards know the consequences of offending him!

Bai Li stood in the center of the training ground, tossing the dried corpse in his hand aside. He strode down the arena, one step, just one step away!

He would soon truly become a Saint expert!

It was a pity that the Saint Son selection was tomorrow, and he no longer had time.

"The Blood Fiend Hall Master returned to the sect a few days ago and handed me the Blood Pills he refined to help me improve my cultivation."

"A few days ago, the Hundred Beasts Hall Master also returned, and I met the burly man named Li Kuang he brought back. He is indeed a formidable opponent, but he is only at the Saint Ruler Realm, not my match."

"The only one worth paying attention to now should be the representative of the Hall Master You Ming."

Bai Li pondered in his heart. It just so happened that the Hall Master You Ming had emerged from seclusion today, so he could go pay him a visit.

Having made up his mind, Bai Li no longer hesitated and headed straight towards the direction of the Nether Hall.

This place was located deep within the Third Main Altar, closest to the Demonic Yuan Spirit Vein. The environment was dim, and a faint, almost imperceptible aura of death permeated it all year round.

The Fourth Sequence had a strange temper, and ordinary disciples dared not approach.

But Bai Li was fearless and quickly arrived at the entrance of the Nether Hall. He stopped, and declared loudly: "Bai Li, a disciple under the Blood Fiend Hall Master, respectfully comes to pay his respects to the Hall Master You Ming and congratulate him on emerging from seclusion!"

Inside the hall.

The formidable Hall Master You Ming was looking at the young man in front of him with an incredibly solemn gaze, completely ignoring the noise from outside the door.

"Where did this barbarian come from? Get him out of here!"

He commanded, and immediately cultivators set off to carry out the order.

His attention returned to Gu Yun. He looked at Grandma You: "Grandma You, is this the Saint Son candidate you found this time?"

"A Great Saint cultivation, even surpassing Yousha and Li Kuang in terms of cultivation... I really didn't expect that you were the one hiding the deepest."

"Hall Master You Ming is joking. The selection of a Saint Son largely depends on luck."

"Besides, our Third Main Altar already shares common interests, so why must we fight to the death?"

"What do you mean by that?"

"Nether, let's be frank. The position of Demon Sect Leader has always originated from the First Main Altar. Don't you want to take a gamble?"

"Take a gamble? Haha, do you want me to go seek death? I'm not that foolish to go against those two guys."

"What if you do?"

"As a demonic cultivator, Nether, do you only have this much courage?!"

"What did you say?"

"Succeed or die trying!"

"From ancient times until now, have there been few Sequences who died in the Demon Sect? Only those two can be immortalized. Don't you... want to give it a try?"

//517//

Chapter 517: Persuasion, the Temptation of Following the Dragon's Merit (Two-in-One, Unfinished)

A strange silence descended upon the scene.

Grandma You's words were shocking, yet they struck him right where it hurt.

The position of a Sequence Holder was lofty.

Especially for him, Hall Master You Ming, there was no further advancement.

The revolving cult masters and the unmoving first and second Sequence Holders were the reason the Demonic Cult could endure; it was because of the existence of those two.

As for everyone else, they could all eventually become expendable.

How could he accept such a fate?

"Grandma You, I never thought that you, who usually seem harmless, would act so wildly."

"But Grandma You, have you forgotten that even though the Cult Master has left the Demonic Cult..."

"He is still in his prime and on the rise. Although the position of Holy Son has been decided, the battle for Holy Son will certainly not start immediately."

"Are you not afraid of misjudging by taking sides so early?"

Even if their hearts stirred, those at their level would not make decisions lightly.

Facing this invisible pressure, Grandma You remained unusually calm. She was no longer the lowest-ranked Sequence Holder who had to pander to others; with Gu Yun, that great deity, standing behind her, she was no longer who she used to be.

With a light laugh, Grandma You said indifferently, "Then why do you think the position of Holy Son is being decided now?"

"Are you saying..."

"The Cult Master is rarely in the cult, and even we Sequence Holders don't know his whereabouts. Those two have long been discontent."

"Now, confirming the position of Holy Son is naturally a warning."

"Of course, I'm more inclined to believe they've lost all patience."

"This is all just your speculation."

"So what if it's speculation?"

"To find a true dragon in obscurity, to plan ahead, to offer timely help."

"If so, how could your future status be comparable to latecomers?"

"All of this of yours is just a castle in the air, not grounded in reality."

"But once successful, you and I can both advance further."

"Hall Master You Ming, think carefully."

Hall Master Grandma You said all she had to say, then turned and left... Outside the hall.

Bai Li was stopped by two guards from Netherworld Hall, who coldly informed him that the Hall Master was in seclusion and not seeing visitors.

Bai Li was rebuffed, feeling a bit annoyed, but he dared not act presumptuously in front of Netherworld Hall.

He snorted coldly, turned and left, deeply dissatisfied with Hall Master You Ming's arrogance.

"Putting on airs! Once I become the Holy Son, and even take charge of the Demonic Cult in the future, let's see how you still put on airs!"

Bai Li muttered to himself, transforming his frustration into stronger motivation for cultivation.

The next day, in the center of the Third Main Altar, around the massive "Demonfall Arena," it was already packed with people.

The Demonic Cult's Holy Son selection was a grand event for the cult; not only were almost all the disciples of the Third Main Altar present, but even some old devils who had been in seclusion for years, and representatives sent by the other two Main Altars to observe, were hidden in the surrounding viewing stands or in the void.

The arena was entirely constructed from dark demonic basalt, covered in dark red dried bloodstains and countless marks from blades and axes, exuding a strong scent of blood and malevolence that was awe-inspiring.

Powerful barrier light screens rose around the arena to prevent stray attacks from harming spectators.

On the high platform, the four Sequence Holders of the Third Main Altar were prominently present.

Blood Fiend Hall Master was a burly figure shrouded in dense bloody light, his aura violent; Hundred Beasts Hall Master was powerfully built, with phantom images of myriad beasts roaring faintly around him; Hall Master You Ming was in black robes, lifeless and seemingly merged with the shadows; and Hall Master Grandma You sat at the very end, her expression calm, her gaze occasionally sweeping over the crowd below, as if searching for something.

Presiding over the selection was a senior elder, whose booming voice announced the rules:

//518//

Chapter 518: Holy Son Assessment (Two-in-One)

"Master, what are you doing?"

"Little Hong Yu's delicate body can't take much more."

"You're so hot."

"Doesn't Master like it? This appearance... I've never shown it in front of anyone else."

"Of course. Do you actually want to be like this in front of others?"

Gu Yun pinched Hong Yu's chin and kissed her without hesitation.

After a long time, their lips parted.

"In front of others, Little Hong Yu is an unattainable goddess."

"How can that compare to Master?"

Hong Yu blinked her seductive eyes, exuding endless charm.

Gu Yun chuckled softly: "Alright, let's talk business. How is Bai Li doing?"

"Have you appeased him properly?"

"Master, don't worry~~"

Recalling that unfortunate boy, Hong Yu smiled sweetly: "That boy is brimming with confidence now. He's absolutely determined to get that Holy Son position."

"Your servant encouraged him thoroughly. He's probably dreaming about how he'll display his might tomorrow to win your servant's heart."

There was an indescribable sarcasm in Hong Yu's tone. She saw through the young man's thoughts completely and only felt disgusted. She was Master's exclusive possession; others weren't even qualified to touch him!

If Bai Li blocked Master's path, there was only one outcome: death!

"Well done."

"Turn around. I'll reward you."

Hong Yu's eyes immediately lit up. Seeing the resplendent young man before her, she obediently turned around and prostrated herself... Early the next morning, after Gu Yun had his fill, he let the somewhat tired Hong Yu go.

"Use this pill, supplemented with a trace of my life force, to recover your injuries."

"There will be no side effects."

Gu Yun took out a pill, and at the same time, the fingers holding Hong Yu's heart tightened slightly, a trace of the power of life essence flowing from his fingertips into Hong Yu's body.

Feeling the comforting power, Hong Yu was intoxicated and reluctant to leave.

"Thank you, Master, for your blessing!"

Once she had recovered mostly, Hong Yu reluctantly withdrew.

She gazed blankly at the young man, smiling foolishly.

"What, do I have flowers on my face?"

"More beautiful than flowers."

"How... you've become so glib now. I still prefer your old unruly self."

"Is that so?"

"Gu Yun! You scoundrel, you'll never get me! Just give up!"

Hong Yu immediately put on a stubborn expression, as if she would rather die than submit. Having experienced it before, her performance was now remarkably vivid.

Gu Yun was momentarily stunned, his expression a little strange.

"Hehehe, Master, you lost, oh."

Hong Yu's lips curled slightly, very pleased.

In terms of cultivation, she was already under Gu Yun's control, and her combat power was far inferior, so she naturally had to find confidence in other ways.

"Ahem, you should go back quickly, lest they become suspicious."

Gu Yun awkwardly pushed Hong Yu away.

"Is Your Highness... shy?"

"What a joke?"

Gu Yun was about to retort but was directly silenced by the girl's lips.

The young man's pupils constricted slightly. He clearly hadn't expected Hong Yu to be so bold.

Their eyes met, both immersed in the intoxicating moment.

After a long time, their lips parted.

Both were somewhat silent.

"I only have you."

Hong Yu's voice broke the silence, with a hint of a sob.

"Mhm, I'll always be with you. In the future, many more people will love you and accompany you."

Gu Yun said softly.

"Mhm... Master is the best."

Hong Yu nodded, a smile blooming on her face again, sincere, relieved, and with a hint of dependence.

Having been brought to the dangerous lands of the Demonic Sect from a young age, her mind was already sensitive and fragile.

The two kissed each other selflessly once more.

Just then, the room door was suddenly pushed open.

"Yun Valley, we should go."

"The Holy Son Examination is about to begin."

Leng Huayun slowly walked into the room. She fanned her nose, a strange smell pervading the air, making her uncomfortable.

"What's going on, Yun Valley, what did you do?"

Her gaze swept across the room, carefully sensing the young man's presence.

She quietly walked into the inner room.

"Why are you here?!"

After seeing the seductive red-clad figure, her pupils constricted slightly, her gaze unwavering!

Hong Yu.

She would never forget this figure in her life, the one who led her into the Demonic Dao.

"What did you do to him?!"

Seeing Gu Yun still lying on the bed, Leng Huayun was instantly enraged.

Hong Yu was also startled by the sudden intrusion. Her peripheral vision glanced at Gu Yun, and she muttered inwardly, this ill-tempered scoundrel, he didn't even warn her. The panic lasted only a moment before quickly dissipating. Facing the questioning, she remained calm and composed: "Little Sister Leng, long time no see. I didn't expect you to come to the Demonic Sect as well."

"It seems I've interrupted your good time today. I'm truly sorry."

"He, ah, probably can't even move a finger now. He won't be able to enjoy himself with Little Sister Leng anymore. You should come back tomorrow."

Her voice was soft and alluring, with a hint of laziness, and combined with the lingering decadent atmosphere in the room, Leng Huayun immediately knew what had happened.

You, Gu Yun!

To actually get involved with this slut Hong Yu, and I even... Bah, bah, bah, hussy, hussy, all hussies!

Leng Huayun's longsword unsheathed with a clang: "Shameless scoundrel! Do you think a few words can deceive me?"

"You must have taken advantage of him when he was unprepared, using some dirty tricks to ambush him!"

"You people of the Demonic Sect love to do this!"

"Today, new grievances and old hatreds, let's settle them all together! Die for me!"

Suddenly, incomparably sharp sword qi mixed with terrifying demonic energy instantly filled the entire inner chamber, aimed directly at Hong Yu.

Facing this angry strike, Hong Yu remained unhurried.

She was now at the Quasi-Emperor Realm. Leng Huayun's attack was merely child's play in front of her. Her body moved like a swimming dragon, quickly closing in. Hong Yu smiled sweetly, hooking the girl's chin, and chuckled softly: "Always 'Demonic Sect' this, 'Demonic Sect' that..."

"Aren't you also a member of my Demonic Sect now?"

"This scoundrel!"

Her body was stiff, unable to move.

Leng Huayun's pupils were filled with shock. How was this possible? When did Hong Yu possess such terrifying cultivation?

Even the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art required a period of stagnation at the Great Saint Realm, after all, breaking through to the Quasi-Emperor Realm couldn't be achieved simply by accumulating spiritual power.

But now... the disheartening truth was before her, and Leng Huayun had to admit that she was no match for Hong Yu.

"What's wrong, still want to resist?"

"A kitten with its claws trimmed, even if it hisses, it only makes one feel it's cute."

Hong Yu's palm fluttered, caressing Leng Huayun's face.

Last time, she could easily control her, and she could do the same this time!

"Enough!"

"Hong Yu, it seems you're itching again."

Just then, a majestic voice rang out.

The two women in the field simultaneously felt a pang in their hearts. The young man stood up, slowly approaching.

The two women remained in their ambiguous posture, unable to move.

"You, Gu Yun, what are you going to do?"

Leng Huayun was momentarily terrified.

Although Gu Yun was not a member of the Demonic Sect, his wickedness was not comparable to that of ordinary demonic cultivators.

The young man did not respond, but walked directly in front of the two.

Beautiful women before him, four plump mounds pressing against each other, their perfect bodies outlining a unique charm.

"You two are a bit too noisy. I need to make you calm down."

"Master, your servant knows she was wrong."

Hong Yu said timidly, like a startled quail, completely different from her previous domineering demonic woman appearance.

Leng Huayun on the side was dumbfounded: "Master?"

"Hong Yu! Have you no shame, to actually call someone else Master?"

"What's wrong? Are you envious?"

"Your Yin energy hasn't leaked out yet. It must be that Master doesn't fancy you."

"Bah! Who's like you, this fickle scoundrel, always putting on that act. You've probably already..."

Leng Huayun's words were interrupted by Hong Yu: "Whether I have or haven't... Master knows best."

"It's just a pity for a certain little girl, who says the grapes are sour because she can't reach them."

"Tsk tsk tsk, that sourness, I can smell it from eight hundred miles away."

"You... you're shameless!"

In terms of verbal sparring, a hundred Leng Huayuns were no match for Hong Yu. She was defeated in a few words.

"Thank you for the compliment."

Hong Yu smiled sweetly, then her expression suddenly stiffened, and she turned to look at Gu Yun: "Master..."

"Hong Yu, are you very pleased with yourself, aren't you?"

Gu Yun rested his head on Hong Yu's shoulder, smiling as he spoke.

The young man's warmth was against her ear, intimately speaking the most captivating sweet nothings.

Hong Yu's delicate body trembled slightly, and she put away her triumphant expression: "Your servant wouldn't dare..."

"Wouldn't dare?"

"I think you dare a lot!"

"Mhm!!!"

"Master, I know I was wrong."

"Ah ah ah ah!!! You two scoundrels, I'll kill you, I'll kill you!"

...Demonic Sect Headquarters, Demonic Abyss Arena.

Around the arena, filled with blood and malevolent energy, it was already bustling with people.

On the high platform, several Hall Masters had already taken their seats.

"Hmm? Grandma You, where are those disciples you recommended?"

The Blood Fiend Hall Master spoke first, his voice hoarse: "The Holy Son Examination is a major event, not to be treated lightly."

"Thank you for your concern, Blood Fiend Hall Master. Yun Valley will be here shortly."

Grandma You said indifferently, without even lifting an eyelid.

The Blood Fiend's expression changed: "Grandma You, what kind of attitude is that?"

"What kind of attitude do you want?"

Grandma You looked at the Blood Fiend, her calm eyes showing no emotional fluctuations.

It seemed as if she didn't put the other party in her eyes at all.

The Blood Fiend's aura was somewhat unstable. He truly couldn't understand how a mere Quasi-Emperor Realm Grandma You dared to challenge him, but with Hall Master You Ming and Beast Hall Master beside him, he couldn't act out.

"Alright, Grandma You, you're very good. It's just that I wonder if you'll still be as calm as you are now when your disciples are killed by Hong Yu and Bai Li later!"

With two trump cards, he, Blood Fiend, would be the biggest winner of this Holy Son Examination.

Grandma You did not respond, completely ignoring him.

The Blood Fiend was furious, his eyes sinister.

However, the speaker had no intention, but the listener took it to heart.

The Beast Hall Master and the Hall Master You Ming on the side both had solemn expressions and remained silent.

Below.

Bai Li sat in the contestant's waiting room, full of fighting spirit!

He was determined to win this Holy Son Examination. He would definitely show himself well in front of Sister Hong Yu. At that time, she would surely be moved to tears.

Their story would also become a beautiful legend, circulating forever in the Three Thousand Dao Domains.

A hundred years, a Thousand Years, until... forever!

"Sister Hong Yu, don't worry, it'll be soon. I will clear all obstacles for you!"

Bai Li declared firmly, searching for Hong Yu's figure, but did not find her. He was slightly disappointed, but it was quickly replaced by surging fighting spirit.

Sister Hong Yu must be secretly watching him. Today, he would definitely let her witness his rise!

Time slowly passed.

It wasn't until the last second before the competition began that Gu Yun and the other two slowly appeared.

After entering the Demonic Sect, Feng Yunyun fell into a strange cultivation state. Even Gu Yun couldn't interrupt her, and because of this, she missed this Holy Maiden selection competition.

However, this was harmless, because the competition for the Holy Maiden was basically already decided.

Hong Yu's strength was at the Quasi-Emperor Realm, which was beyond Leng Huayun's reach.

Moreover, Gu Yun needed to deal another heavy blow to this arrogant girl, so he naturally wouldn't let her win.

"Arriving at the last second before the competition, Grandma You, your people really don't take the Holy Son Examination seriously!"

Seeing the three appear, the Blood Fiend sneered.

One male and two females, just as the previous intelligence reported.

"I'm afraid they were doing something unspeakable last night. Grandma You, we are the Demonic Sect, not some playful Paradise Holy Land!"

"Taking in such disciples, you are bringing shame to the Demonic Sect!"

"Blood Fiend, do you want to take a closer look?"

Grandma You chuckled softly.

The Blood Fiend was stunned. His gaze locked on, and he instantly gasped, Hong Yu?!

Why was she also there?!

Equally shocked was Bai Li, Sister Hong Yu?!

Why?

Why would she appear with another man at the same time?

Who is he? Who is he!!!

For a moment, he found it difficult to control the fiery demonic flames raging within his body.

Kill, kill, kill!!!

With just one glance, Gu Yun was already on his kill list. Anyone close to Hong Yu must die, all of them must die!

[Ding! Congratulations to the host for causing Child of Destiny Bai Li to experience extreme anger and jealousy. Rewarding 3000 Villain Points.]

Can't hold his temper, huh?

A smile played on Gu Yun's lips.

"Master, I'll go back first."

Hong Yu transmitted her voice softly.

"Mhm."

Gu Yun walked straight to his private box.

He didn't pay any mind to the commotion in the arena. Everything was about strength, and he had the ability to make everyone shut up.

"Since everyone is here, the examination begins!"

After Gu Yun took his seat, the Hall Master You Ming on the main seat spoke, directly setting the tone.

Grandma You and the Blood Fiend, who had been at daggers drawn, also said no more.

The elder in charge of hosting dared not delay and immediately announced the start of the draw.

Although the hope was slim, there were still many Demonic Sect disciples participating in the Holy Son selection.

After all, once successful, it would be a chance for a carp to leap over the dragon gate!

As for danger?

How many who dared to cultivate demon arts were afraid of death?!

They lived lives on the edge of a knife. A little competition, that's all. If they were afraid of even this, they might as well go and let righteous cultivators kill them!

"The first battle."

"Yun Valley of You Ming Hall, against —"

"Mad Dragon of Beast Hall."