Chapter 538 Touched Bai Li
Gu Yun tried to make an excuse to brush him off, but Leng Huayun was clearly not so easily fooled.
"Grandmaster, why are you like this? My cultivation isn't over yet."
She blinked her bright, intelligent eyes, her arms wrapped around the young man's neck, her gaze seductive.
Having tasted the marrow, she was far from satisfied.
Gu Yun could only use these two words to describe Leng Huayun's current state.
"Huayun! Think of your master! Are you treating her fairly like this?"
"Fairly! Only when Huayun's strength improves can I better assist my master!"
"Oh my goodness..."
His usual tricks weren't working. Looking at Leng Huayun's slightly mischievous smile, Gu Yun felt as if he had opened Pandora's box.
His demonic nature had been severely suppressed by Leng Huayun earlier, making him forget something: this girl was now also a little demoness.
"Hehe, Grandmaster, don't think you can escape."
Leng Huayun pushed Gu Yun onto the bed, completely turning the tables.
After an unknown period, Gu Yun finally managed to appease Leng Huayun.
"Good thing I have the Great Luo Dao Pagoda, otherwise I really wouldn't be able to handle it."
After a sigh, Gu Yun left You Po Hall. Seven days had passed, and the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool should be opening soon... In Blood Fiend Hall.
As soon as Sister Hong Yu returned to her room, she saw the figure on the bed twitch uncontrollably.
This made her lips curl into a smile, and she immediately adopted an extremely concerned expression.
She approached the edge of the bed.
A moment later, Bai Li slowly woke up. Looking at the familiar decor, he felt a sense of unreality, as if a lifetime had passed.
Only the burning pain on his cheek reminded him that everything was real.
"Damn Yun Valley! One day I will trample you underfoot and crush all your pride!"
Rage, like a venomous snake, gnawed at his heart, almost driving him into madness again.
{Ding! Bai Li and the Host are irreconcilable. Rewarding 3000 Villain Points}
"You're awake?"
Just then, a familiar voice, tinged with concern and a hint of softness, sounded in his ear.
Bai Li laboriously turned his head and saw Sister Hong Yu sitting on the edge of the bed. Her alluring face wore a perfectly appropriate look of worry, and in her hand, she held a bowl of soup with a strong medicinal scent.
"Here, drink your medicine."
Saying this, she offered him the medicinal soup.
Bai Li's expression shifted slightly. He turned his head away: "Why are you still here?"
Sister Hong Yu was slightly stunned, looking at Bai Li's expression with a hint of disbelief: "Bai Li, what are you saying?"
"Sister Hong Yu... I..."
Bai Li opened his mouth, his voice hoarse and dry, like sandpaper rubbing together.
Seeing Sister Hong Yu, a complex and inexpressible emotion surged within him.
The previous scene was like a thorn in his heart, making it impossible for him to be the same as before.
He wanted to lash out at Sister Hong Yu, to question why she had compromised with that scoundrel Yun Valley.
But another voice told him that those were merely his suspicions, not to be taken seriously, and that he should trust Sister Hong Yu.
Sister Hong Yu was a Quasi-Emperor cultivator; what cultivation level was that Yun Valley?
"You're doubting me."
Sister Hong Yu put down the medicine bowl, her gaze towards Bai Li filled with disappointment.
Bai Li's heart ached, and he hastily said: "No, I didn't, it's just..."
"Bai Li! What kind of person do you take me for?!"
"You've disappointed me too much!"
Sister Hong Yu flicked her sleeve, a tear falling from the corner of her eye, and turned to leave.
"No, Sister Hong Yu, it's not like that. I've never blamed you. I just hate myself for not having the strength to protect you!"
Bai Li's heart was filled with urgency. He didn't know where he found the strength, but he struggled up from the bed, wanting to grab Sister Hong Yu's sleeve, but due to his weakness, he stumbled and almost fell off the bed.
Sister Hong Yu paused, but didn't turn back immediately. Her shoulders trembled slightly, as if she was silently sobbing.
Seeing her heartbroken appearance, Bai Li's lingering doubts were instantly drowned out by immense regret and heartache.
How could he doubt Sister Hong Yu?
She was the one who stayed by his side even when he was at his lowest!
Let alone having no evidence, even if he did, she must have had her reasons.
He was truly an animal!
"I'm sorry, Sister Hong Yu, it's my fault. I was blinded by hatred. I'm a bastard!"
His voice was choked with tears, losing all dignity in front of Sister Hong Yu.
The Soul-Corroding Heart-Burning Gu's effects fully took hold, and Sister Hong Yu couldn't help but curve her lips into a smile: "Bai Li, it's alright, I don't blame you. I know this incident has been a great blow to you, but for a cultivator, the body is the foundation of everything."
"I've left the medicinal soup on the table. You must drink it."
"Heal well. Only with a healthy body can you fully unleash your talent."
"As for other matters before that, leave them all to me!"
Sister Hong Yu's voice was somewhat cold, yet exceptionally firm.
"Okay, okay, I'll drink it, I'll drink it."
"As long as Sister Hong Yu doesn't leave me, I'll agree to anything."
This time, Bai Li didn't hesitate at all, obediently downing the bowl of strangely flavored medicinal soup.
He even felt that because the medicinal soup was brought by Sister Hong Yu, it had a hint of sweetness.
However, when he looked up again, the familiar red-clad figure was no longer there.
Bai Li clenched his fists. He knew that he had hurt Sister Hong Yu too deeply this time, and he must find time to make it up to her later.
Sister Hong Yu loved him so much, staying by his side all these days while he was injured. How could he forget such kindness!
"Yun Valley, you just wait. You won't be arrogant for long. I will definitely get justice for Sister Hong Yu!"
The young man's eyes glowed with renewed spirit, and the integrity of a Child of Destiny once again occupied the high ground of his intellect.
At this moment, the departing Sister Hong Yu had already gone to the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool.
The four sequences had already gathered.
Nether, Hundred Beast, and Grandma You all had smiles on their faces, only Blood Fiend's expression was not good.
With all his plans thwarted, how could he cultivate the Heaven Devouring Demon Physique?
However, in front of the other three sequences, he dared not make any moves, only to think of other ways in private.
"You've arrived?"
Seeing Gu Yun and Sister Hong Yu arrive almost together.
The Hall Master You Ming asked with a smile.
"Greetings, Hall Master You Ming."
Gu Yun and Sister Hong Yu both bowed slightly, showing respect to this Great Emperor powerhouse.
"No need for formalities. Since you have become Saint Son and Saintess, you are already on equal footing with us sequences in terms of etiquette."
The Hall Master You Ming said with a smile, clearly not intending to act superior due to his age.
He then glanced at Sister Hong Yu, a flicker of surprise passing through his eyes.
Quasi-Emperor Second Layer?
"Since everyone is here, everyone, let's open the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool!"
//539//
Chapter 539: The Demonic Blood Pool Opens
As the Hall Master You Ming finished speaking, the four Sequence powerhouses stepped forward simultaneously, standing in four directions with solemn expressions.
Each of them formed an ancient and complex hand seal, and the Emperor's might surged around them, resonating with the laws of heaven and earth.
"In the name of the Netherworld, draw forth the power of the Nine Nether, open!"
"By the souls of Hundred Beast, summon the blood of all spirits, open!"
"With the spirit of the Blood Fiend, gather endless resentment, open!"
"By the pact of Grandma You, awaken the slumbering demon, open!"
Four pillars of light, each containing different laws, condensed and shot into the sky, crashing into the ancient altar in front of everyone, which was shrouded in thick, bloody mist.
"Buzz—!!!"
The four stone pillars around the altar trembled violently, demonic energy surged, and the countless bizarre demonic patterns carved upon them lit up one by one, emitting a heart-palpitating glow!
The bloody mist covering the altar contracted, forming a rapidly spinning bloody vortex in the center.
Within the vortex, ten thousand demons roared, and vengeful spirits shrieked.
Just standing outside gave one a chilling feeling.
In an instant, the winds and clouds changed color, and the entire sky above the Third Main Altar was dyed a strange, dark red!
The terrifying pressure attracted the gaze of all the disciples in the Demonic Sect at this moment.
"The Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool has opened again; this time, the commotion is much greater than when we usually earn merit."
"That's nonsense; this is an honor only the Saint Son and Saintess can receive. If it were the same as usual, how embarrassing would that be?"
"Alas, I wonder how much Gu Yun, the Saint Son, and Hong Yu, the Saintess, will improve after they come out."
Inside the Blood Fiend Hall, Bai Li clenched his fists.
Fierce anger surged in his eyes; if it weren't for Gu Yun, that position should have been his, his!
"The Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool is open! Saint Son, Saintess, enter the pool!"
The Hall Master You Ming commanded in a deep voice, his words piercing through the deafening demonic roars.
"Your disciples obey!"
The two responded in unison, then transformed into two streaks of light, one black and one red, and plunged without hesitation into the bloody vortex that seemed capable of devouring everything!
"Hong Yu! After you go in, find an opportunity to deal with Gu Yun!"
Before she left, the Hall Master of Blood Fiend Hall instructed her thus.
"Your disciple understands."
Hong Yu's expression was calm, feeling it was only right.
The moment their figures vanished into the vortex, the negative emotion collector in Gu Yun's mind instantly boiled over like cold water poured into hot oil!
[Ding! Absorbed a massive amount of violent emotions, villain value +30!]
[Ding! Absorbed a massive amount of hateful emotions, villain value +28!]
...The notification sounds frantically flooded the screen, and the villain value number jumped wildly at an unprecedented speed.
It quickly exceeded a thousand, and Gu Yun's face lit up with joy. How could he have such a great harvest in such a short time?
If this Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool was enough for him to absorb for seven days, let alone 200,000 villain value, he felt even 500,000 would be effortless!
"Master, now it's just the two of us, oh."
Hong Yu quietly came before Gu Yun, smiling as she spoke.
The Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool was filled with the resentments of Quasi-Emperor and Great Emperor Demonic Devils; even Sequence powerhouses could not spy on it.
In other words, she could do as she pleased.
Thinking of this, she grew bolder; ever since entering this place, she had already shed all her clothes.
Now, she was naked before Gu Yun, their bodies very close, so much so that Hong Yu's voice carried an even more alluring charm.
Her delicate hand brushed past the young man's chest, moving down step by step.
"That old thing from Blood Fiend actually wants me to deal with you, Master; how ridiculous."
"Why don't... Xiao Yuer first'serve' you well, to not betrayal this rare moment of solitude?"
As she spoke, her soft, boneless body leaned into Gu Yun's embrace, her arms and legs wrapping around him like water snakes.
Gu Yun opened his eyes, looked at Hong Yu, and said with a half-smile, "Oh? Are you sure you want to waste this excellent opportunity for such a thing?"
"What kind of opportunity is so precious that it can even catch your eye, Your Highness?"
Hong Yu smiled charmingly; she was well aware of the background of the person before her.
When had the direct descendant of the Immortal Ancient Gu Family fallen to the point of needing the so-called opportunities of the Demonic Sect?
"What if—it's related to the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor?"
"Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor?!"
Hong Yu was startled, then let out a delicate laugh: "Master, I'm afraid a few Hall Masters told you this."
"This is an ancient legend, constantly circulating within the Demonic Sect, but after so many years, no one has ever received the blood essence baptism of the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor. Many people guess that this is simply baseless, nothing more than a gimmick within the Demonic Sect to encourage disciples to cultivate."
Her breath was like orchids, clearly unconcerned by this.
"Master~~ Don't let this beautiful moment pass you by; don't waste it on a fleeting legend."
Her fingertips traced random patterns, and her captivating eyes released a hint of charm; having spent a long time with Gu Yun, she naturally knew the boundaries.
It was only to stir the young man's spirit, without any impact on his mind.
This trick had always been effective, but this time, to her surprise, Gu Yun directly grasped her restless little hand: "Where there's smoke, there's often fire."
"The Demonic Sect has a long heritage, and the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art has been passed down to this day, showing its intricate connection with the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor."
"Here, demonic blood surges and rises; even if you don't ultimately obtain the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor's blood essence, it will greatly benefit your future cultivation. Don't waste this opportunity."
Although the demonic blood here could bewitch one's mind, for Hong Yu, it was ineffective.
Because with a little guidance from Gu Yun afterward, the effects could be immediately dispelled, and with this drawback resolved, the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool was a genuine land of opportunity.
"Alright."
The young man's insistence made Hong Yu's playful expression recede slightly.
She was just a little regretful, having originally thought she could enjoy a shameless world of two with her Master, but now she had to watch idly, which was truly frustrating.
"Your servant respectfully obeys Master's command~~"
She obediently agreed, no longer pestering him. The crimson lotus light shield around her body brightened slightly, and she began to fully circulate her cultivation technique, resisting the pervasive mental attacks and demonic energy erosion.
Putting everything else aside, this Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool was indeed a great sacred land for demonic cultivation practitioners!
Soon, fine beads of sweat began to appear on her forehead.
Seeing her enter a state of focus, Gu Yun no longer hesitated. His figure moved like a nimble black fish, breaking through the thick, heavy bloody waves and swimming deeper into the blood pool.
This was an opportunity for the Demonic Sect; he wouldn't be polite!
The deeper he went, the harsher the environment became.
The color of the blood became dark red, viscous like colloid, and the negative emotions and chaotic will contained within it almost solidified, transforming into countless clawing demonic thoughts, emitting piercing shrieks, and frantically pouncing on Gu Yun.
The pressure here was enough to crush an ordinary Great Saint.
Even a Quasi-Emperor powerhouse would be completely unable to resist!
However, for Gu Yun, this was simply the best resource, bar none.
The speed of negative emotion collection reached ten times that of the shallow area.
Gu Yun sat cross-legged and began to fully perceive the existence of the Devouring Heaven Demonic Blood.
//540//
Chapter 540: Suck It Up
The youth's appearance was like a stone thrown into a calm lake; the encroaching demonic thoughts gradually transformed into surging negative emotions, all of which were devoured.
The system notifications were continuous, and his Villain Value was steadily and rapidly increasing.
He fully activated the demonic bones within him, absorbing all the demonic energy into them, and that mysterious bone segment emitted a faint dark glow.
Under this fierce energy tempering, a new round of refinement and sublimation began.
Gu Yun's strength rose dramatically, growing at an astonishing rate.
However... he still couldn't find any trace of the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor's essence blood.
"This guy, he really is a tailor-made opportunity for the Child of Destiny."
A cold glint flashed in Gu Yun's eyes; the development of events did not exceed his expectations.
How could the Child of Destiny's opportunity be so easy to find?
He took out the heaven's mandate soul hunting disc.
This item could locate the Child of Destiny, so it could naturally also find the location of the heavenly opportunity.
It could be said to be the best countermeasure Gu Yun could think of at the moment.
Using it required consuming 1000 Villain Value, and Gu Yun didn't hesitate for a moment.
The compass shone with divine light, but it quickly dissipated.
The beam of light pointed to a certain direction within the blood pool.
Gu Yun rushed over, only to find it was just a demonic bone, massive in size, seemingly left behind by some fierce ancient demonic beast.
It was indeed extraordinary, but compared to the anticipated Devouring Heaven Demon Blood, it was worlds apart.
"It seems this item cannot precisely locate what I have in mind."
He felt a slight regret, but the trial-and-error cost of a thousand Villain Value was nothing.
After refining that demonic bone,
Gu Yun decided to change his approach. Since finding a trace of that drop of demonic blood in the vast abyss was as difficult as ascending to heaven, why not just devour the entire blood pool here? Wouldn't that be a permanent solution!
With that thought, he stopped searching and instead sat down cross-legged directly in the core area of the blood pool's deepest, most concentrated dark-black blood.
"Divine Transformation, Absorb!!!"
A giant spiritual energy vortex suddenly appeared in front of him. He no longer passively absorbed those demonic thoughts and negative emotions but transformed into the center of a black hole, beginning to devour and exhale at an extremely terrifying speed.
"Boom! —!!!"
In an instant, the world changed color.
Centered around Gu Yun, the entire Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool instantly boiled and raged.
Endless dark blood, mixed with floating demonic shadows, remains, and resentments, surged into Gu Yun's body like a hundred rivers returning to the sea.
[Ding! Massive negative emotions detected, absorption beginning, current speed 5000/second]
The entire world seemed to transform at this moment. Even Hong Yu, who was in the shallower layers, felt the change and emerged from her meditative state, her eyes filled with astonishment.
A violent suction force came from the depths of the blood pool. The terrifying scene was like the end of the world, and even the red lotus light shield she used for defense began to shake violently, as if it could shatter at any moment.
"What's happening? Is something suppressed beneath the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool about to emerge?!"
Hong Yu immediately became nervous.
"No, my Master is still down there. I have to go get him out!"
Without further hesitation, the red-clad young girl bit her silver teeth, and crimson karmic flames blazed around her, transforming into a red streak of light. She moved against the surging sanguine torrent, heading in the direction Gu Yun had disappeared.
The deeper she went, the greater the pressure, and the more terrifying that devouring force became.
Countless demonic shadows and remains were swept into the depths, a visually horrifying sight.
Hong Yu's heart was in her throat. With such a terrifying anomaly, she wondered what kind of great demon was emerging from the bottom of the blood pool.
"Master, you must not be in trouble."
With that thought, Hong Yu's speed quickened a few more points.
In the deepest part of the blood pool, Gu Yun sat cross-legged in the dark-black sea of blood. Everything around him entered his body through his breathing process.
Behind him, a majestic phantom of a Heavenly Demon stood tall, becoming increasingly solidified as time passed.
"Such a huge commotion, let's not attract the attention of those guys outside prematurely."
Opening his eyes for a moment, Gu Yun assessed the changes around him, a plan forming in his mind.
If everything proceeded as normal, that would be fine. But if any unexpected situation arose, he would simply have to activate Plan B early, with no room for hesitation.
Outside, the four sequence powerhouses guarding the altar all had strange expressions.
"You guys, don't you think the speed at which the demonic nature of the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool is decreasing this time is a bit too fast?"
The Hall Master of Hundred Beast Hall's voice trembled slightly. Such a clear situation was a first even for him.
Although they couldn't perceive the specific conditions inside the blood pool, they could glean some insight through the four stone pillars beside the altar.
After the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool opened, the overflowing demonic nature would climb to the top of these stone pillars. As the demonic nature was consumed, the dark gas would gradually descend.
But now, after only half a day, the demonic nature had already descended by half its height, which naturally filled them with dread.
"Indeed, in the past, even with a hundred people using it together, the utilization of the demonic nature was merely superficial."
"Our new Holy Son is truly extraordinarily talented."
The Hall Master You Ming's sinister voice rang out, his satisfaction with Gu Yun deepening.
By absorbing demonic nature so recklessly, when he emerged from the blood pool, he would only become the sharpest blade of the Demon Sect.
"So arrogant, aren't you afraid of overeating?"
The Hall Master of Blood Fiend Hall said sourly, his dissatisfaction with Hong Yu deepening at the same time.
What exactly was wrong with this woman?
Hadn't he asked her to get rid of Yun Valley? How come there had been no effect after so long?
"Blood Fiend!"
"Don't forget what I told you. Your future is also tied to this young man. If you also want to break fate, then forget these trivial grudges!"
The Hall Master You Ming transmitted his voice.
Blood Fiend was also a Great Emperor, a force that could be won over, so he naturally had to try.
The predicament he faced was not his alone; it was just that others had not yet reached their time.
"Don't worry, Nether, I know what I'm doing."
Blood Fiend responded, though he was actually dismissive. Once he devoured Bai Li and possessed the power of the Heaven Devouring Demon Physique, who would be the Cult Master was still uncertain!
Among the four, only Grandma You observed with cold eyes, everyone's small thoughts completely visible from her perspective.
Everyone had their own calculations, which was normal. What she had to do was ensure everything developed in a direction favorable to her Master.
In the deepest part of the blood pool, Hong Yu finally, enduring immense pressure and devouring force, arduously reached the bottom of the blood pool.
For a moment, she stood rooted to the spot, unable to believe her eyes.
The terrifying phantom of the Heavenly Demon before her made her feel an urge to prostrate herself in worship.
"Mas-Master?!!!"
Her throat was somewhat dry; she didn't know what to do.
On the other side, Gu Yun also opened his eyes at the opportune moment.
"Devouring Heaven Demon Blood, has it finally appeared?!"
//541//
Chapter 541 Consuming Heavenly Demon Blood
After absorbing about 80% of the demonic energy from the blood pool, Gu Yun didn't hesitate to use the Heaven's Mandate Soul Hunting Disc again. This time, he indeed made a discovery.
A powerful and terrifying Emperor's aura was precisely locked on. He opened his eyes without hesitation, as profound as an abyss.
This caused Hong Yu, who had just rushed down, to tremble slightly, almost losing herself in his gaze.
"My Master's eyes are so mysterious."
With his Primordial Heavy Pupils activated, the young man's excitement was beyond words.
If there was anything truly precious in the Three Thousand Dao Domains that even he, the Gu Family Emperor Child, considered valuable, the Heaven Devouring Demonic Blood was definitely one of them.
An Emperor's body defying Immortals!
What a magnificent feat! Even his Master, Liu Tianhuang, would never dare to claim she could achieve it!
Divine light pierced through endless illusions, landing deep within the ink-black blood.
"Is that... the spring eye?"
Gu Yun had a plan in mind. A faint dark-gold light began to condense at that spot.
It transcended all demons, as if it could devour all the heavens and myriad worlds!
Vast!
Overbearing!
Peerless!
"It seems I need to put in more effort!"
A smile played on Gu Yun's lips. Only then did he notice Hong Yu, who was standing still in shock beside him.
"Why are you here?"
"Master, you're being too reckless. Do you know how much of a commotion you've caused?"
"The entire Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool is shaking. Those Sequences outside might have already noticed the anomaly here."
Hong Yu couldn't help but express her concern.
"Are you worried about me?"
"Of course! Master, you are the person Hong Yu cares about most in this life. Hong Yu absolutely cannot let anything happen to you!"
The young girl's response was sincere and fervent, without any pretense.
She was a demoness, daring to love and hate.
"You've worried me, but I won't be in any danger."
Gu Yun smiled and pulled Hong Yu closer: "But seeing as you've behaved so well, I'll give you another opportunity."
"Master, you're so naughty. Didn't you just say that cultivation was the priority?"
"How come now..."
"Isn't this cultivation?"
"Alright, don't be distracted. Cultivation is most taboo with such things. Focus."
"Mmm mmm mmm."
Soon, the remaining 20% of the demonic blood was absorbed by the two of them.
Gu Yun held the exhausted Hong Yu in his arms.
"Master, you're truly a monster to be able to absorb so much."
"Xiao Yuer really can't take anymore. If I absorb any more, my stomach will explode."
"Alright, doing what you can is the most important thing."
After some thought, he still put Hong Yu down.
"You should consolidate your gains here. I've left a trace of Myriad Transformation Power within you. Remember, all of this demonic energy must be refined and absorbed; not a single trace can remain!"
"I know, Master, you're really too naughty."
Hong Yu's cheeks flushed red, and she gave Gu Yun a coquettish glare.
Gu Yun looked bewildered, still somewhat uneasy, and poked Hong Yu's forehead again.
"Two wisps of Myriad Transformation Power should be enough."
"Master, what are you going to do?"
"Refine the Heaven Devouring Demonic Blood. That is my only purpose for entering this blood pool."
"Master, you've found the location of the Heaven Devouring Demonic Blood?!!!"
Hong Yu was shocked. As a member of the Demonic Sect, she had grown up listening to the legends of the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor, and naturally held more reverence for this legendary existence than Gu Yun.
"Why are you so surprised?"
"Of course! That's the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor, a demonic overlord who beat back numerous Immortal beings, making them afraid to leave their homes!"
"How terrifying must a drop of essence blood from such an existence be!"
"Alright, you girl, you're already filled with demonic energy. Don't think about this and that, or you'll burst."
"Cultivate properly."
Gu Yun poked her head.
"I know, Master. Next time, can you not poke my head with your finger?"
"You can use other things too."
"Was I poking your head?!"
"Hehe."
"You're just asking for a beating."
"Hey, hey, hey, Master, I'm cultivating, I'm cultivating!"
Seeing Hong Yu instantly back down, Gu Yun shook his head helplessly and turned to look at the gradually appearing spring eye.
"The blood pool has reached its bottom, yet blood is still flowing from here."
"It seems these essences are the key that allows the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool to accommodate the grievances of great demons."
Gu Yun's figure flickered, and he arrived beside the spring eye from which dark-gold blood continuously seeped.
He cautiously extended a finger and touched a trace of the dark-gold blood, which flowed slowly as if containing life.
The moment his fingertip touched it—
"Boom!!!"
A boundless, supremely overbearing will, like an ancient primordial beast that had slept for eons suddenly awakening, surged along his fingertip and forcefully rushed into his Sea of Consciousness!
This will—
Devouring the heavens, reversing yin and yang, transcending all Daos!
Defying Immortals, a lone hero, daring to contend with the heavens!!
Intense pain instantly spread throughout his body. That drop of dark-gold blood seemed to come alive, transforming into a tiny demonic dragon that flowed upstream along his meridians.
"Trying to usurp control?!"
"Refine for me!!"
Gu Yun placed a hand on his shoulder, keenly capturing the location of the small demonic dragon.
The Godly Spirit Myriad Transformation Heavenly Scripture began to circulate, its power contending with the Primordial Dao Scripture.
Fine beads of sweat seeped from his forehead. This was Gu Yun's first direct confrontation with that stunning existence from the Chaotic Ancient Era.
The assimilation effect of the Myriad Transformation Power and the devouring effect of the demonic blood began to cancel each other out, neither giving an inch.
After a long while, Gu Yun slowly opened his eyes and moved his hand to his chest.
He began to recover his strength.
"As expected of the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor. Even a mere drop of his essence blood, after countless ages, is by no means something ordinary beings can easily touch!"
This was just a wisp of scattered power, which didn't cause too much trouble for Gu Yun, but it did serve as a wake-up call.
Heroes of the world were as numerous as carp crossing a river, let alone the renowned Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor.
Taking a step forward, Gu Yun directly leaped, diving into the depths of the spring eye, a place no one had ever set foot in.
Even so, he would fight!
Inside the spring eye was a deep, dark space, without a trace of light. Even Gu Yun's heavy pupils couldn't discern any color.
There were no annoying demonic sounds here, only endless void, and faint air currents that seemed to drift by from time to time.
After walking a few dozen more steps, the space suddenly opened up.
Colors, unseen for a long time, reappeared before Gu Yun's eyes. It floated in the center of the space, radiating a dazzling dark-gold light.
Traces of demonic energy flowed from it, like tiny streams, moving along his feet towards the area outside the spring eye.
"It seems this... is the true essence blood of the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor!"
Gu Yun's heart filled with joy, and he raised his hand, directly reaching for the essence blood.
Above his head, the heaven and earth furnace was already prepared.
If he couldn't easily refine it himself, then he would entrust it to the heaven and earth furnace, which could refine all things.
No matter how strong the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor was, could he contend with a Hongmeng-level divine artifact?!
With a thought, Gu Yun flipped his palm, and a terrifying pushing force was released from his palm, sending that drop of essence blood towards the furnace.
At this instant, Gu Yun suddenly felt a trance in his consciousness, as if he had been dragged into another space.
//542//
Chapter 542 Refining Demonic Blood
That place seemed to be an ancient battlefield.
The sky was shattered, and stars fell like rain.
Flames dyed the firmament, the earth was riddled with abysses, and magma and immortal blood converged into a mournful river.
In the center of the battlefield, corpses piled up like mountains.
A majestic figure stood upon it, her divine might vast and unparalleled.
Her black imperial robe was stained with blood, her body stood tall and firm, and beneath her feet lay the remains of many immortals, their magic treasures shattered, their immortal light dim.
"Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor, you have slaughtered countless cultivators and committed numerous evil deeds. Today, we shall act on behalf of the heavens to bring you to justice!"
The immortals arrayed themselves in the sky, their gazes grim and cold.
The majestic figure standing atop the mountain of corpses slowly raised her head, revealing a peerlessly beautiful face that could dim the sun and moon, yet was as cold as an ancient abyss.
Although her black imperial robe was stained with blood, it only made her skin appear even whiter than snow, and a look of disdain flowed in her phoenix eyes, as if she regarded the immortals before her as nothing.
She parted her red lips slightly, her voice clear and cold: "Act on behalf of the heavens?"
"You are not worthy!"
"How audacious! To dare defy the immortals, Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor, you have courted death!"
"If heaven obstructs me, I shall devour this heaven!"
"If immortals block my path, I shall extinguish these immortals!"
"Do you all dare to withstand one more sword strike!"
Before her words finished, she lightly raised her jade hand, and a long sword, black as ink, in her hand suddenly expanded infinitely, instantly seeming to absorb all light into itself.
Gu Yun only felt a moment of dizziness, and then there was only pitch blackness before his eyes.
Only the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor's cold and arrogant words remained in his ears: "From today onward, there shall be no immortals in the world!"
Boom!
Returning to reality, Gu Yun felt as if his sea of consciousness had exploded. He covered his head and sat cross-legged on the ground.
"No immortals in the world."
"What a solemn and magnificent spirit."
"Is this the demeanor of the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor?"
Even he couldn't help but sigh in his heart. As an Emperor, daring to raise a sword against immortals already required supreme courage.
Moreover, to face a multitude of immortals and utter such resolute words.
At the same time, the drop of demonic blood, imbued with supreme imperial might, burst forth with dazzling light within the heaven and earth furnace. All its energy converged.
Illuminating the pitch-black surroundings as bright as day!
"Rest assured, your will shall not be obliterated in the river of history!"
Although it was only a momentary memory, it still had a profound impact on the young man.
He ascended into the void, his body beginning to bear the full essence of that drop of demonic blood.
With the aid of the heaven and earth furnace, all the demonic power, carrying the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor's million-year essence, was poured into Gu Yun's body.
That indomitable, stubborn, and steadfast spirit also followed suit, integrating into the young man's body.
The demonic blood had a spirit and was unwilling to submit, causing quite a bit of trouble for Bai Li in the script of Destiny.
But under the effect of the heaven and earth furnace, it vanished before it could even cause any ripples.
"Divine Luo Myriad Transformations, forge into my own body!"
Gu Yun roared softly, and the essence of the demonic blood transformed into a dark golden demonic dragon, beginning to rampage within his body.
This seemingly reckless action caused fine cracks to appear on the young man's body, as if he could disintegrate into fragments at any moment.
However, these were merely its final struggles.
Under Gu Yun's formidable regenerative power, the demonic blood, whose ferocity had already been largely consumed by the heaven and earth furnace, could not stir up any significant waves.
The Myriad Transformation Power, like the most precise carving knife, guided, refined, and absorbed it bit by bit.
This process should theoretically be excruciatingly painful, but for Gu Yun, it was effortless.
"When Heaven is about to confer a great responsibility upon a man, it will first test his resolve, and exhaust his muscles and bones."
"If you can endure the pain of the demonic blood's baptism, perhaps you truly can help me."
Outside, a figure slowly appeared at the original location of the demonic blood.
Of unparalleled beauty, standing alone in the world.
In just an instant, it transformed into a streak of light and darted into the heaven and earth furnace.
"I'll give you another push!"
"Ding! Congratulations to the host for seizing the Child of Destiny's opportunity, the Heaven Devouring Demonic Blood. The Child of Destiny, Bai Li's Destiny Value has decreased by 20,000 points."
"Ding! Bai Li's connection with the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor is completely severed. Destiny Value decreased by 10,000 points. Current remaining Destiny Value is 15,000 points. All system value can be plundered."
"Great Luo Dao Pagoda Seventh Floor activation progress (79500 / 500000)."
After an unknown period, as the system prompt sounded, the roar of the dark golden demonic dragon gradually weakened, eventually completely dissipating, transforming into the purest nourishment, which was refined and absorbed by Gu Yun.
"Boom!"
Gu Yun felt his entire body filled with power. The moment the last trace of energy was refined, it was as if some barrier within his body had been broken!
His aura rapidly climbed, and his cultivation also completely reached the critical point.
"It seems I must break through!"
Gu Yun was already prepared. His connection with this world became even closer, and his perception of laws became countless times clearer.
Feeling his cultivation stirring, he knew it was time to leave.
He was only a thin sheet of paper away from the Quasi-Emperor Realm, and to break through that barrier, he still needed to undergo a tribulation.
With a flicker of his figure, Gu Yun vanished from this spring eye space.
At the bottom of the blood pool, Hong Yu was still waiting for Gu Yun.
During this time, she had completely refined the demonic nature, and her cultivation had successfully advanced to Quasi-Emperor Triple Layer.
However, her worry for Gu Yun kept her from settling down. That was the power of the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor; could her master withstand it?!
"Master, you must be alright."
Hong Yu prayed. Just then, a familiar aura appeared beside her.
Feeling the increasingly unfathomable aura emanating from Gu Yun, Hong Yu was ecstatic: "Master, have you absorbed the demonic blood?"
"Yes, next I will undergo tribulation."
"Be careful, and adapt to the situation!"
Gu Yun commanded, and without giving Hong Yu time to react, he pushed out a palm.
Suffering a huge force to her chest, Hong Yu's figure was sent flying backward.
"Master!"
Hong Yu was startled.
But then she saw the young man no longer suppressing his aura; his peak Great Saint Realm cultivation was completely unleashed!
The profoundness of it was comparable to a late-stage Quasi-Emperor expert.
No wonder Heaven still had to send down the Quasi-Emperor Tribulation to punish him!
The entire Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool was shaken at this moment, and the surrounding barrier separating the two realms instantly shattered.
Outside.
The four sequences all took a step back, looking up at the high sky with horror in their eyes.
The sky, originally shrouded in blood-red, had been replaced by endless dark tribulation clouds!
Thunder, like dragons, rolled and roared within the clouds, and a destructive aura enveloped the entire Third Main Altar!
Having just been shocked by the anomaly of the blood pool, now something even more terrifying had descended.
"This is… a lightning tribulation?!"
"How is this possible? Where did a newly ascended Emperor cultivator come from in the Third Main Altar?!"
"No, that's not right. Although this lightning tribulation is equally terrifying, its power has not reached the level of an Emperor's lightning tribulation."
"This is… a Quasi-Emperor Tribulation?!"
//543//
Chapter 543: Nine Netherworlds Covering the Sky Formation
The four exchanged glances, all seeing the incredulity in each other's eyes.
Only by achieving the status of a Great Emperor and truly mastering the power of a Great Dao would one incur the heavens' jealousy, bringing down the Great Emperor Tribulation. Cultivators in the Three Thousand Dao Domains often used the number of tribulations endured to describe the strength of a Great Emperor.
Thus, there were distinctions from one tribulation, two tribulations, up to nine tribulations.
But… a Quasi-Emperor Tribulation, this was almost something only recorded in legends. Even these sequences within the Demonic Sect had never heard of it.
"A Quasi-Emperor Tribulation, the last one to pass a Quasi-Emperor Tribulation was, it seems, that genius Empress of the Gu Family," Grandma You murmured.
"The Thunderbolt Empress… Gu Yaozi, a terrifying existence capable of battling a Great Emperor as a Quasi-Emperor."
The Hall Master You Ming felt a lingering fear. During a foraging trip in his youth, he had once encountered Gu Yaozi.
However, at that time, he was already a One Tribulation Great Emperor, while Gu Yaozi was merely at the peak of Quasi-Emperor.
He had initially thought he could easily kill her and refine her soul.
But the scene of her raising her hand to slay a Demon Emperor left an extremely deep impression on him. He immediately turned and fled, never again harboring any improper thoughts about the Gu Family members.
"I never expected such an existence to appear in our Demonic Sect," Bai Shou Hall Master exclaimed with emotion. After confirming the nature of the tribulation, the identity of the person undergoing it was obvious.
Although Hong Yu's talent was extraordinary, she was already a Quasi-Emperor, so it was naturally impossible for her to still need to undergo a Quasi-Emperor Tribulation.
Historically, there had never been an existence that needed to undergo multiple Quasi-Emperor Tribulations.
Therefore, there was only one possibility.
Yun Valley!
This newly promoted Saint Son of the Demonic Sect!
At this moment, a red figure was blasted out by the shockwave from the shattered Blood Pool barrier. She spat out fresh blood, her face filled with incredulous horror.
The Blood Fiend Hall Master, quick-witted, reached out and enveloped her with a surge of spiritual energy, pulling her away from the core area shrouded by the thunderclouds.
"Hong Yu, what happened?!"
"Why are you so seriously injured?!"
Bai Shou Hall Master hastily asked.
Hong Yu finally recovered, secretly glancing at the Blood Fiend Hall Master, her expression still somewhat panicked.
The other three all looked at Blood Fiend.
"Why are you looking at me?!"
"Could I have done something? It must be that Yun Valley's breakthrough was too grand, affecting Hong Yu, that's all."
"Yes, that's it."
Hong Yu nodded repeatedly, like a startled white rabbit.
"Blood Fiend, if you truly have any ulterior motives and mean harm to Yun Valley, don't blame me for cleaning house early!"
The Hall Master You Ming's gaze locked onto Blood Fiend, his voice incredibly cold.
Even among sequences, there were differences!
"I, I understand. Yun Valley's talent is so strong; he is the hope of our Third Main Altar. If he can win the position of Sect Master, it will be beneficial to me, not harmful. Why would I do such thankless things?" the Blood Fiend Hall Master said with a bitter expression.
"You had better be!" The Hall Master You Ming snorted coldly, no longer focusing his attention on Blood Fiend, but immediately ordered: "Immediately, activate the defense and aura-shielding grand formation."
"The thunder tribulation is too grand; it must be concealed."
Great Emperor cultivators usually made thorough preparations when undergoing tribulation, to avoid their enemies finding their tribulation location and taking advantage of the situation.
But there had never been anyone as reckless as Gu Yun.
However, it might also be that the opportunity of the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool was too powerful, leading to an unexpected and inevitable breakthrough.
For his future prospects, Nether must prepare in advance!
The other three also immediately realized the seriousness of the problem. Not to mention those righteous cultivators, even if discovered by the Demonic Sect sequences of the other two altars, it would absolutely not be a good thing!
Fortunately, Gu Yun's breakthrough was only a Quasi-Emperor Tribulation. Although its power was already incredibly formidable, there was still a certain gap compared to a typical Great Emperor cultivator.
There was still some leeway in concealing it.
The four acted simultaneously. In an instant, boundless Emperor Power was unreservedly injected into the four stone pillars surrounding the altar.
This was not only the location of the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool but also the true core of the Demonic Sect's Main Altar.
It concealed the true foundation that allowed the Demonic Sect to hide in the world without being discovered.
In an instant, the entire Third Main Altar was filled with soaring demonic light!
Thick black beams of light shot up from various parts of the Main Altar, interweaving and spreading in the air, rapidly forming an enormous, inverted bowl-shaped black light barrier that firmly enveloped the entire Third Main Altar, especially the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool area!
Above the light barrier, countless ferocious demonic shadows roamed, emitting silent roars and exuding a strange power that isolated all auras and distorted spatial perception!
Demonic Sect Secret Art — Nine Nether Heaven Concealment!!!
At the same time, countless Demonic Sect disciples, under the command of the elders, also began to meditate.
The activation of the grand formation was no ordinary event; it was a critical moment for the Demonic Sect's survival.
Even though countless Demonic Sect disciples did not know the truth, they still contributed their strength.
These rats, reviled by outsiders, only had a slight chance to breathe here.
The grand formation finally took shape.
The four sequences then simultaneously breathed a sigh of relief, their gazes turning to the center of the altar.
"I wonder if the Saint Son can successfully pass the Quasi-Emperor Thunder Tribulation!"
The Three Thousand Dao Domains had a long heritage, and those qualified to trigger a Quasi-Emperor Thunder Tribulation were countless, but those who could truly pass it were still few and far between.
Yun Valley's breakthrough was not only the hope of him, Nether, but also the hope of the entire Demonic Sect… Outside, with the commotion within the Demonic Sect, countless Shadow Guard cultivators who had already infiltrated earlier also began to act.
Deep within You Po Hall, shadows flowed like water, swallowing the last trace of light.
Only a few points of eerie blue soul fire floated, illuminating a few expressionless faces.
To facilitate Gu Yun and others' actions, Grandma You had specially opened up a cave dwelling, which ordinary people could not enter.
Shadow Seven and others had been deep within it all this time, collecting various intelligence about the Demonic Sect.
Now, Gu Yun had already caused a huge stir, and it was their time to act.
"The Young Master once said that the Demonic Sect's foundation lies in these three ancient formations."
"One is the 'Demonic Essence Reversion Formation,' which gathers demonic energy, making the Demonic Sect a cultivation holy land for demonic cultivators."
"The second is the 'Ten Thousand Demons Slaying Immortal Formation,' which defends against external enemies. This formation integrates offense and defense, and its power is extremely formidable. Once activated, even if ten Great Emperors personally arrived, it would be difficult to breach!"
"The third is the 'Nine Nether Heaven Concealment Formation,' which conceals auras. When this formation operates, it can mask the Demonic Sect's aura, preventing external detection. It is a true method of concealment, and even Great Emperor cultivators find it difficult to perceive."
"Leaving the Demonic Essence Reversion Formation aside for now, if we want to control the Demonic Sect, we definitely cannot bypass these latter two grand formations."
"Fortunately, now, thanks to His Highness the Crown Prince's efforts, the Nine Nether Heaven Concealment Formation has already been activated. This is our opportunity!"
"The two grand formations represent two different attitudes within the Demonic Sect. When one is used, the other cannot be activated."
"The Demonic Sect is already in His Highness's hands."
"Miss Shadow Seven, just tell us directly, what should we do?" Feng Yunyun asked.
"Shadow Three and the other four have probably already occupied the four cardinal directions within the Demonic Sect."
"They can send coordinates outwards at any time."
"And we have been able to enter the Demonic Sect's interior; You Po Hall is already under control."
"Three more people are needed to scout the Blood Fiend Hall, Netherworld Hall, and Hundred Beast Hall to determine their coordinates."
"By combining internal and external efforts, we can bypass the interference of the Nine Nether Heaven Concealment Formation and send messages to the backup plans His Highness has already prepared."
"This way, we can take down one of the Demonic Sect's main altars without anyone knowing!"
//544//
Chapter 544 Quasi-Emperor Tribulation
Shadow Seven's voice was calm and clear, echoing in the secret chamber of You Po Hall.
Before her stood the other Shadow Guards, as well as Feng Yunyun and Leng Huayun, all core members who understood the plan.
"In this way, the Nine Nether Blinding Heaven Array can still serve as a natural protective umbrella to cover our actions. His Highness's move is truly… drawing the firewood from under the cauldron."
Feng Yunyun's eyes sparkled with excitement, filled with admiration for Gu Yun's strategizing.
Leng Huayun stood to the side, a hint of worry on her face: "But Gu Yun is currently undergoing the Quasi-Emperor Lightning Tribulation. Acting against the Demonic Cult during this time, will it…"
She had just confirmed her relationship with Gu Yun and was at the peak of their intimacy, so she certainly didn't want anything to happen to Gu Yun.
Everyone fell into a moment of silence.
Gu Yun was the Gu Family Emperor Child, a personal disciple of the Empress. How could a mere operation against the Demonic Cult put him in danger?
Finally, Feng Yunyun stepped forward to reassure everyone. Everyone present was a foot soldier; only she had once been the sect master in the lower realm, possessing an air of authority that could command everyone: "Seniors, although I don't know how terrifying the Quasi-Emperor Lightning Tribulation is."
"But if it's my husband, he should be able to resolve it with ease."
"He dared to set the plan at this time, clearly having already considered these issues. If we are overly suspicious and worried, delaying the opportune moment, that would be the true eternal sin!"
Feng Yunyun's words were firm and resolute, carrying an undeniable decisiveness.
Everyone exchanged glances, and even Shadow Seven felt admiration. As expected of those valued by His Highness, none of them were ordinary individuals.
Thus, she no longer hesitated and immediately gave the order.
"Since that's the case, let's act immediately. I will go deep into Hundred Beast Hall with the Shadow Guards to imprint the coordinates."
"As for the two madams, please remain here and await good news!"
Feng Yunyun and Leng Huayun had special identities and were larger targets, making them unsuitable for action as it might alert the enemy.
This arrangement was very reasonable, and no one had anything to say.
"What about Netherworld Hall and Blood Fiend Hall?"
Leng Huayun was a bit confused, wouldn't such an arrangement be full of flaws?
"Blood Fiend Hall has Saintess Hong Yu to assist from within."
"As for Netherworld Hall, please rest assured, Miss Leng, His Highness already has arrangements!"
Shadow Seven responded. Afterward, the Shadow Guards dispersed, instantly blending into the shadows within the hall, moving swiftly and silently.
"Already has arrangements? This scoundrel, he's hiding things from me again!"
Leng Huayun stamped her foot in anger.
Feng Yunyun stepped forward with a light chuckle to soothe her: "Sister Hua Yun, don't be angry. My husband has always been cautious in his actions. Before, you hadn't… so he naturally differentiates between closeness and distance in his dealings."
"In the future, he definitely won't exclude you."
"Hmph! This scoundrel, he's simply letting his small head control his big head!"
Leng Huayun said, then looked at Feng Yunyun and complained: "What 'Meimei'? You are my junior sister, you should call me Sister Huayun."
"In my husband's courtyard, we don't discuss such things."
"If Sister Hua Yun is unconvinced, you can go argue with my husband."
"You!"
Leng Huayun, unable to win the argument, turned and went back to cultivate.
Feng Yunyun shook her head. Cultivators like her, who had ascended, had far richer life experiences than the native cultivators of the Three Thousand Dao Domains.
Although it wasted a lot of cultivation time, it also allowed her to meet Gu Yun. It could be said that all karmic edge was predestined by heaven. How could it not be a blessing?
Heaven: Don't talk nonsense, don't slander me!
...Above the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool, the tribulation clouds had already condensed to their extreme.
The dark clouds were so thick they seemed to crush the sky, and what rolled within them were no longer simple lightning snakes, but monstrous, roaring lightning dragons!
The aura of destruction suffocated the entire Third Main Altar, which was enveloped by the grand array!
Seeing the Nine Nether Blinding Heaven Array fully activated, the Hall Master You Ming finally breathed a sigh of relief.
With this, everything was foolproof. Those external scoundrels wouldn't even dream of disturbing their Demonic Cult Saint Child's breakthrough!
"This Quasi-Emperor Tribulation is terrifying. It's at least forty percent as powerful as the Emperor Tribulation I went through back then."
Bai Shou gasped, and the few of them retreated far away, not daring to approach.
They were Emperor-level powerhouses, and theoretically, they could undergo tribulation at any time. If they appeared within it and were targeted by the Heavenly Tribulation, the lightning tribulation would immediately escalate, forcing them to undergo the Great Emperor Tribulation. That would surely lead to their souls scattering and their bodies and Dao disappearing.
"Hmph, I wonder if this kid can withstand it."
Blood Fiend feigned worry.
A trace of imperceptible worry also flashed in Hong Yu's eyes, but she still remembered Gu Yun's instructions and whispered to Blood Fiend: "Hall Master, I feel unwell. The spiritual energy here is too turbulent, and I'm feeling a bit uncomfortable."
"Alright, go, go."
The Blood Fiend Hall Master glanced at Hong Yu and responded perfunctorily.
Hong Yu, as if granted a great pardon, hurriedly stumbled away.
"It's coming!"
Not long after Hong Yu left, the dark thunderclouds in the sky seemed to condense to their extreme. Amidst everyone's exclamations,
The first bolt of tribulation lightning tore through the sky and struck down fiercely!
"Boom—!!!"
The violent thunder instantly shook, and it was no ordinary lightning, but a dark pillar of light entirely condensed from the Law of Annihilation. Wherever it passed, all things returned to nothingness, and even light was swallowed!
"Annihilation Divine Lightning?!"
"The first bolt of lightning is the Annihilation Divine Lightning? How is this possible?!"
Grandma You's voice was a bit dry. She naturally understood the Great Emperor Tribulation. Ordinary Great Emperors only encountered the Annihilation Divine Lightning from the fourth bolt of lightning onwards when breaking through.
And most records of Quasi-Emperor Tribulations only mentioned ordinary Nine Heavens Divine Lightning. Now, Gu Yun had created history.
"When I underwent the Great Emperor Tribulation, I was also left with lingering fears by this thing."
"Although its power seems much smaller now, its characteristics remain unchanged."
"All things return to nothingness, annihilating everything. I wonder if the Saint Child can withstand it."
Under everyone's expectant gazes, the dark tribulation lightning struck the young man's body without any obstruction.
//545//
Chapter 545: Gu Yun's special method of overcoming the tribulation shocked the whole audience
The dark lightning instantly engulfed the young man within it, and destructive energy began to rage and spread wildly, even transforming the surrounding space into absolute nothingness!
"Holy Son!!!"
The Hall Master of You Po Hall couldn't help but exclaim, her heart in her throat.
On one hand, she worried about Gu Yun's safety, and on the other hand, with their lives intertwined, her anxiety had reached an unprecedented level, causing her to lose her usual composure and pretense.
A fleeting hint of joy, however, flashed in the eyes of the Hall Master of Blood Fiend Hall; it would be best if both were injured.
"If this is all you've got, you're not the person I should be expecting."
The Hall Master You Ming shook his head; the young man's aura was already imperceptible. How many peak Quasi-Emperor Realm powerhouses had perished under the might of the World-Annihilating Divine Lightning, let alone a young man who had just embarked on the path of the Great Dao?
However, the next moment, a scene that left everyone dumbfounded occurred.
That violent, seemingly all-consuming World-Annihilating Lightning did not last too long; it actually contracted and collapsed inwards at a visible speed, like a long whale drawing water.
In just a few breaths, the dark lightning completely vanished, and Gu Yun's figure reappeared.
He still floated in the air, his black robes fluttering, his hairstyle not even disheveled.
Only the dark golden demonic patterns around his body now flickered with a faint light, as if he had just enjoyed a hearty meal.
He... he actually completely absorbed that World-Annihilating Divine Lightning?!
"This... how is this possible?!"
The Hall Master of Hundred Beast Hall's eyes nearly popped out: "The World-Annihilating Divine Lightning contains the purest law of destruction; not even the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art can absorb and refine it."
"He... how exactly did he do it?!"
"Could it be that the legend is true?!"
A sharp glint shot from the Hall Master You Ming's eyes, his shock beyond compare.
"Are you saying... the Heaven Devouring Demonic Blood?!"
The four Hall Masters exchanged glances, simultaneously recalling the secret hidden within the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool.
However, no one had successfully explored it for millions of years, and everyone had only treated it as a dream, never expecting it to now appear before their eyes.
"There's no mistake; that dark golden demonic dragon is the mark of His Majesty the Demon Emperor. The Demon Emperor's spiritual power has reached the peak of the Emperor Realm; a spiritual demonic dragon he casually forms can even suppress Emperors and intimidate Immortals!"
"I never expected Yun Valley to obtain it now. This is truly Heaven's blessing upon us!"
The Hall Master You Ming laughed heartily, believing he had found the answer to the problem. The Heaven Devouring Demonic Art couldn't devour the World-Annihilating Divine Lightning, but that didn't mean the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor couldn't!
If Yun Valley had truly inherited the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor's legacy, then nothing he did would be surprising.
In reality, however, Gu Yun merely used what was called 'internalizing force.'
The assimilation power of the Myriad Flower Force was infinitely more profound than the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art.
"Law of destruction... is this the source of the power of the lightning tribulation?"
Feeling the lightning power rapidly refined within his body, Gu Yun's lips curved into an arc.
"Ding! Congratulations to the Host for successfully refining the World-Annihilating Divine Lightning and obtaining the World-Annihilating Great Dao (Minor Accomplishment)!"
If that were the case, this lightning tribulation, which ordinary people avoided, would not be a punishment for him, but rather the best resource!
He looked up at the sky, his gaze disdainful, and loudly declared: "Heaven! Is this all you've got?!"
"Come on, show me your true abilities!"
"He... he's provoking the Heavenly Dao?!"
"Crazy, truly crazy!"
"Hahaha, Great Demon, this is a true Great Demon!!!"
Rumble—!!
The sky seemed to be completely enraged by the young man's words. The tribulation clouds surged wildly, and the second and third bolts of tribulation lightning struck almost simultaneously, with no discernible delay!
The second bolt was blood-red, emanating endless karma—the Karma Fire Divine Lightning!
The third bolt was dark blue and icy cold, the Profound Ice Divine Lightning that could freeze everything!
One fire and one ice, two extremely opposing destructive forces, intertwined into a web of death, enveloping Gu Yun.
The tribulation lightning left Gu Yun no room for retreat.
As the two bolts of tribulation lightning descended, three more auras began to brew, ready to follow closely behind in a short while.
"Not enough, come again!"
Gu Yun laughed loudly, not retreating but advancing, actively meeting them!
Such resources! The Heavenly Dao was truly good to him, not only sending Children of Destiny for him to easily crush, but also condensing such cultivation resources to help him break through bottlenecks!
If he had benefactors on his cultivation path, the System would be first, and Destiny would have to rank second!
The young man's body was submerged by the tribulation lightning, but it quickly transformed into a streak of light and shot out.
The brilliance of the Karma Fire and Profound Ice Divine Lightning transformed into pure law energy, as if becoming ribbons for the young man's coronation, trailing a magnificent trajectory behind him!
"Ding! Congratulations to the Host for successfully refining the Karma Fire Divine Lightning and obtaining the Karma Fire Great Dao (Minor Accomplishment)!"
"Ding! Congratulations to the Host for successfully refining the Profound Ice Divine Lightning and obtaining the Profound Ice Great Dao (Minor Accomplishment)!"
Subsequently, the fourth, fifth, and sixth bolts of tribulation lightning, representing the remaining three elements of the Five Elements—the Geng Metal Annihilation Divine Lightning, the Yi Wood Longevity Divine Lightning, and the Wu Earth Immaculate Divine Lightning—descended consecutively, but none of them caused much harm to Gu Yun.
He was like a true deity, grasping with both hands, his left hand manifesting a devouring black hole, forcibly pulling in the Geng Metal Annihilation Lightning, grinding away its sharpness, and absorbing its essence of slaughter!
His right hand flipped down, directly suppressing the Yi Wood Longevity Lightning within it.
With an open mouth, the Wu Earth Immaculate Divine Lightning directly entered his abdomen, disappearing without a trace in the blink of an eye.
The entire sequence of movements was fluid and graceful, full of violent aesthetics, as if he wasn't undergoing a tribulation, but rather enjoying a hearty feast!
"Ding! Congratulations to the Host for obtaining the Geng Metal Great Dao (Minor Accomplishment), the Yi Wood Great Dao (Minor Accomplishment), and the Wu Earth Great Dao (Minor Accomplishment)!"
"Monster... truly a monster..."
The Hall Master of Blood Fiend Hall was already somewhat numb, a sense of fear actually rising in his heart because of a junior who had just broken through to the Quasi-Emperor Realm!
He had never imagined that this Heavenly Dao punishment, which all Great Emperor powerhouses feared and avoided, could be so easy and comfortable in front of some people.
"Hahahaha, hahahaha!!!"
How could Gu Yun suppress the joy in his heart? Each devoured bolt of tribulation lightning was equivalent to gaining 50,000 Villain Points!
He already possessed several supreme Dao laws, and now the tribulation lightning was helping him complete these fundamental Dao laws in a peculiar way.
With the Five Elements gathered, mutually generating and overcoming each other, a subtle balanced cycle formed within his body, making his nascent Great Emperor Dharma Body even more perfect, and his aura even more complete and majestic!
"The Five Elements have passed. What's next?"
Forcing down the shock in his heart, the Hall Master You Ming's gaze was fixed on the surging tribulation clouds above the sky.
Each previous bolt of tribulation lightning could easily kill cultivators in the early Quasi-Emperor Realm and threaten those in the middle Quasi-Emperor Realm.
Now, the speed of the lightning strikes suddenly paused, and everyone could guess that a big one was brewing!
It was very likely the final divine lightning bolt!
Succeed, and live; fail, and die!
One step forward, and a fish leaps over the dragon gate, with boundless prospects.
One step back, and life and Dao vanish, everything becoming naught!
//546//
Chapter 546 Chaos Thunder
High above, after a brief pause, the tribulation clouds began to churn and compress even more wildly!
The originally dark clouds covering ten thousand miles began to collapse frantically towards the center.
Ten thousand miles... a thousand miles... a hundred miles... The reduction in scope did not mean a decrease in power; on the contrary, as the boundless tribulation clouds shrank, the terrifying power contained within them made even the Sequence powerhouses present feel lingering fear.
"Damn it, how much does it want him dead?!"
The Hall Master You Ming couldn't help but curse. This damn heaven, it was already harsh on demonic cultivators, but now, dealing with Yun Valley, it was pulling out all the stops.
Soon, the boundless tribulation clouds could shrink no further, transforming into a thunder core no bigger than a fist!
The moment it appeared, time seemed to freeze. Light distorted, sound vanished, and even the laws of heaven and earth retreated before it.
A feeling of ultimate destruction, surpassing the sum of all previous tribulation lightning, spread out.
"Chaos... Chaos Tribulation Lightning!!!"
The Hall Master You Ming's voice was filled with unprecedented fear and trembling: "This... isn't this tribulation lightning only supposed to appear when breaking through to the seventh heaven of the Great Emperor Realm?"
"How can it appear during a Quasi-Emperor tribulation?!"
Everyone's hearts almost stopped beating.
Chaos Tribulation Lightning had exceeded everyone's understanding of heavenly tribulations. Even the Great Emperor powerhouses present had never experienced it.
"Concentrated is the essence. Is this... a small black hole for me?!"
Looking at the thunder core that contained infinite power, Gu Yun's lips curved into a faint smile.
"Ding! A huge crisis has been detected: Chaos Tribulation Lightning. The host can choose one of the following two ways to deal with it."
"One, use the ancient emperor armor to resist it head-on. Result: The ancient emperor armor is completely annihilated, the tribulation lightning dissipates, and the host successfully breaks through to the first heaven of the Quasi-Emperor Realm."
"Two, consume 100,000 Villain Points to temporarily enhance the quality of the Myriad Transformations Saint Body and completely refine the Chaos Tribulation Lightning. Result: Gain the Great Dao of Chaos (Minor Completion), achieve ultimate physical transformation, and reach the first heaven of the Quasi-Emperor Realm, but this will thoroughly enrage the Heavenly Dao, directly triggering the second Quasi-Emperor tribulation."
Suddenly, the system's notification sound rang out, which surprised Gu Yun: "Xi Tong, when did you become so human-like? You even remind me to make a choice?"
"Hehe, thanks to the host continuously plundering system points, Xi Tong's computing power has greatly increased, and she can do many things the host wouldn't expect."
"Alright, you."
Gu Yun was in a good mood. Xi Tong's increased autonomy could save him some trouble. This kind of crisis warning and analysis could still play a crucial role at times.
With almost no hesitation, Gu Yun made his choice directly.
The ancient emperor armor was a good item. Gu Yun also planned to continuously refine it, making it grow to the level of an Extreme Emperor Armament or even an Immortal Artifact. It would be too regrettable to damage it for a small tribulation lightning.
Moreover, it would cause the tribulation lightning to dissipate, and he wouldn't obtain the Great Dao of Chaos.
It would simply be a net loss.
Compared to that, option two was simply overflowing with value. One must know that a fortune like the Great Dao of Chaos (Minor Completion) would cost 500,000 Villain Points if purchased directly from the system store. Now, it could be settled for 100,000 Villain Points, which was practically a bargain!
Having just devoured the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool and refined the Heaven Devouring Demonic Blood, his Villain Points had already reached 530,000!
He was truly wealthy.
"Xi Tong, consume 100,000 Villain Points!"
He silently chanted in his heart, making his choice.
100,000 Villain Points were instantly deducted, and a profound and unfathomable power descended from the ethereal, merging into his limbs and bones, deep into the core of his divine soul.
"Ding! Host consumes 100,000 Villain Points. Myriad Transformations Saint Body is upgraded to (Intermediate) level, duration: one day."
His Myriad Transformations Saint Body underwent a qualitative leap at this moment, advancing from elementary to intermediate!
Although it was only a temporary enhancement, lasting for one day, it was already enough for the current struggle against the lightning tribulation!
The young man's aura became increasingly ancient and vast, as if he had transformed into the primordial essence at the dawn of the universe.
The evolution of the Myriad Transformation Power gave Gu Yun even greater confidence!
"Come on!"
He looked again at the Chaos Thunder Core, which emitted ultimate destructive fluctuations. There was no longer any fear in his eyes, only fervent anticipation.
The Chaos Thunder Core moved.
It descended silently, seemingly slow, yet it twisted space-time, as if surpassing the speed of light.
Wherever it passed, space did not shatter but simply "disappeared," reverting to its most basic particle state; even nothingness ceased to exist.
Compared to the Annihilation Divine Lightning, it rushed towards Gu Yun with even more resolute and subversive power.
The destructive aura, which made even Great Emperors tremble, firmly locked onto Gu Yun.
The four Sequence powerhouses could only avoid its edge, their hearts like dead ash.
"It's over..."
The Hall Master of Hundred Beast Hall subconsciously closed his eyes, unable to bear watching.
He couldn't imagine any being in the Quasi-Emperor Realm surviving a direct hit from this Chaos Tribulation Lightning.
"Did it still come to naught? Oh, heaven, why must you play such a cruel joke on me!"
The Hall Master You Ming clenched his fists. It was conceivable that with Yun Valley's failure to overcome the tribulation, he himself would soon become another mysteriously missing Sequence powerhouse.
New cultivators would take his place; it had always been so within the Demonic Sect.
Gu Yun moved.
Just as the thunder core was about to strike, he finally raised his right hand, fingers spread, and directly grabbed the thunder core!
"He actually dared to catch it with his hand?!"
Under the disbelieving gazes of the four, Gu Yun's right hand firmly grasped the Chaos Thunder Core!
Time seemed to freeze at this moment.
The Chaos Tribulation Lightning, powerful enough to destroy stars and strike fear into countless Great Emperor powerhouses, upon touching Gu Yun's palm, was like ice and snow meeting a scorching sun.
The incomparably violent destructive energy was forcibly bound, guided, and decomposed by a more fundamental power!
In an instant, the young man's entire right arm turned chaotic in color. Within it, a world seemed to be born, with countless law runes flashing!
The Chaos Tribulation Lightning wildly crashed, but it could not break through this specially made, exclusive cage!
"Chaos Great Dao comprehension +10%... +25%... +50%..."
Intense pain swept through Gu Yun's divine soul, but as the power of the thunder core continuously poured into him, this pain transformed into supreme ecstasy.
With every breath, he took another step closer to the Great Dao!
At the same time, his physical body underwent earth-shattering changes under the scouring of this power.
Every cell truly underwent nirvana in destruction, completely constructing a barrier impervious to all laws. From then on, Gu Yun would no longer need to actively envelop his entire body with the Myriad Transformation Power.
This would be a completely natural bodily instinct.
Time lost its meaning. To outsiders, only a moment had passed, and the despair-inducing Chaos Thunder Core had completely vanished.