Chapter 788: Shifting Tides of Fate

Starry Sea, Crackling Island.

The entire island seemed to be shaken by an unseen force, its constant humming and trembling causing boundless spiritual energy to surge like tidal waves toward a central, mystic eye.

High above, a tornado-like maelstrom of energy roared as if a colossal beast were swallowing the sky, ravenously sweeping up the surrounding aura before channeling it unceasingly into Crackling Island.

“With such a ferocious display, they must be attempting the most refined, authentic Nascent Soul breakthrough!”

“This Nascent Soul phenomenon is simply astonishing!”

“I once had the honor of witnessing a Nascent Soul phenomenon in Starry Moon Immortal City—it pales in comparison to this spectacle.”

On Crackling Island, the five Core Formation cultivators managing the grand array gazed in awe and envy at the unstoppable surge of the Nascent Soul phenomenon.

Every Core Formation cultivator longed deeply for the Nascent Soul stage.

They were no exception.

They all knew full well that, given their current cultivation, reaching this point was the limit of their abilities.

Unless a peerless opportunity arose, achieving the Nascent Soul breakthrough remained an almost impossible dream.

Moreover, forsaking Huaying Pills and risking one’s life for that minuscule chance was a gamble few Core Formation cultivators dared to take.

On one hand, the challenge of leaping from Core Formation to Nascent Soul far exceeded that of Foundation Establishment or even entering Core Formation.

Even after managing the shattered pill-to-infant transformation, one would still have to endure the Heaven’s Thunder Tribulation and the Heart Demon Tribulation.

On the other, genuine Core Formation cultivators enjoyed lifespans of up to 500 years, revered wherever they went.

At this point, who would willingly sacrifice their present state for such a slim chance?

At the island’s center, Lu Changsheng sat in deep meditation. He kept a vigilant eye on Yun Wanshang’s Nascent Soul breakthrough while continuously channeling the world’s spiritual energy into his Heavenly Yuan Lotus.

It was clear that as soon as the energy entered the Heavenly Yuan Lotus, it was instantly devoured by a Kunpeng Egg shimmering with a golden radiance intertwined with an ebony glow.

Even Lu Changsheng couldn’t help feeling a surge of anxiety watching the Kunpeng Egg—resembling an ancient ferocious beast—ceaselessly drawing in spiritual energy.

The amount of energy his son required was simply colossal.

Had Crackling Island not possessed a Fourth-Rank Spiritual Vein, even a lower-grade Third-Rank or medium-quality spiritual land could hardly meet the demand.

Lu Changsheng knew that his son’s Demonic Fetus Rebirth method involved converting every bit of a Kunpeng hatchling’s essence into nourishment, seizing all of its divine abilities.

The more extraordinary the display, the greater the benefits his son would reap upon completing the transformation.

Just then, a sudden system notification echoed in his mind.

【Congratulations, Host! Seventy offspring have broken through to the Ninth Level of Qi Refining, earning one lottery draw opportunity!】

“Huh!?”

Lu Changsheng was momentarily stunned by the notification.

Although he already had over a hundred children with Spirit Roots,

those born in his early years had average potential; many eventually settled, stalling at the Seventh Level of Qi Refining—so very few reached the Ninth Level.

In contrast, later-born children, though extraordinarily talented, appeared only one or two at a time over the years.

Before he knew it, seventy of his offspring had reached the Ninth Level, filling him with emotion.

He recalled that in the days of Qingzhu Mountain, attaining the Ninth Level was already the hallmark of the family’s top masters.

“Who is it?”

As his own cultivation advanced, Lu Changsheng paid less attention to the Qi Refining levels of his children, so he wasn’t sure which one had made the breakthrough.

He opened the family interface to check.

“Eh!?”

At first, he wasn’t too concerned—but then, he looked again and was utterly stunned.

“What the hell?”

How had he suddenly acquired another child?

“Wait!”

His heart skipped a beat as he glanced toward Yun Wanshang, who was in the midst of her breakthrough.

Could it be—just as he feared—that through dual cultivation, an explosive surge of pregnancy had been triggered, and Yun Wanshang had immediately conceived?

Though the odds were almost infinitesimal,

the system’s offspring panel confirmed it was so.

“I really never intended for Master to get pregnant!”

A burst of joy filled his heart.

But almost immediately, worry surged in its place.

With Yun Wanshang battling through her Nascent Soul breakthrough, would her pregnancy compromise her efforts?

After all, during pregnancy the fetus siphons nutrients from its mother, potentially leaving her weakened.

And the longer the pregnancy, the greater the impact.

Especially since Yun Wanshang still had to confront the perilous Nascent Soul Tribulation!

“It’s just one Nascent Soul Tribulation.”

Watching the Nascent Soul phenomenon, Lu Changsheng then glanced at his own Sun-Moon Yin-Yang Mirror.

If needed, he could later let the Mirror help absorb some of the strain.

But worried that the Mirror’s own magical aura might affect Yun Wanshang, he extracted the 【Nine Abyss Black Tortoise Armor】 from the system storage.

This armor, which he hadn’t yet refined for himself, was perfect for aiding Yun Wanshang through her tribulation.

Soon, another Jade Box appeared in his hand.

It contained the Kirin Blood Essence—a gift from the Array Spirit of the Sealing Demons Array, bestowed in the Sealing Demon Realm.

This drop of Kirin Blood Essence held a reservoir of vital energy far beyond the Kirin Blood they normally consumed.

Originally, he had planned to dilute it for his children to ingest when he returned home—for refining and fortifying their bodies.

But with Yun Wanshang now pregnant and the tribulation bearing its risks, he decided it would be best for her to consume the essence to aid both her breakthrough and the nurturing of her fetus. He then glanced at his Storage Ring.

After all, he had already given her the Golden Small Cauldron and Bone Talisman he acquired from his son Lu Quanzhen, so no extra items were needed.

“Phew.”

For some reason, merely seeing Yun Wanshang pregnant instantly lightened his mood.

It was as if a huge burden had been effortlessly lifted from his heart.

He continued to peruse the family interface to check on his offspring.

【Name: Mu Que】

【Lifespan: 19/141】

【Talent: Third-Rank Spirit Root】

【Cultivation: Qi Refining Ninth Level】

【Ability: Space (41%)】

“It’s Mu Que after all.”

Seeing that this daughter had broken through to the Ninth Level, Lu Changsheng was taken aback.

He recalled watching over her—she had started her cultivation quite late, so reaching the Ninth Level so quickly was unexpected.

But with Qingluan Zhenren as her mother, it wasn’t entirely surprising for a nineteen-year-old daughter.

“I wonder how she and her mother are doing these days.”

Noticing that his daughter was already nineteen, he realized that it had been twenty years since he and Qingluan Zhenren had parted.

Back then, Qingluan Zhenren had mentioned she would go into seclusion for anywhere from ten to fifty years.

Now, it seemed unlikely she’d return anytime soon.

Reflecting on this, Lu Changsheng calculated their current circumstances.

But with Qingluan Zhenren being both a Nascent Soul True Lord and a diviner, predicting her fate was nearly impossible.

Still, by virtue of their bloodline, he could trace his daughter Mu Que’s fate even from afar.

However, as soon as he ran the numbers, he was completely stunned.

His daughter’s condition was entirely different from what he had expected.

Rather than growing up smoothly under Qingluan Zhenren’s care,

she had been forced to wander alone, facing constant hardships and trials.

“What on earth happened?!”

Lu Changsheng’s face clouded with disbelief and his brows furrowed as he wondered if he had miscalculated.

But upon recalculation, his deductions proved accurate.

Her breakthrough to the Ninth Level—rife with both fortune and peril—was as if she had undergone a phoenix-like rebirth after a life-or-death tribulation.

“Where is Qingluan Zhenren? How did Mu Que end up like this?”

His expression darkened with confusion as he sought to understand the details.

But whenever Qingluan Zhenren’s fate was involved, it was veiled in mystery, making precise prediction impossible.

Had she abandoned her daughter?

Impossible. If that were true, she would never have borne this child.

Yet from the moment the child was born, Lu Changsheng had his doubts.

He believed that a child born of him and Qingluan Zhenren should possess far greater potential.

Could it be that Qingluan Zhenren, judging her daughter’s talent too low, chose to forsake her?

Lu Changsheng shook his head, dismissing that possibility.

After all, Qingluan Zhenren was not the type to do such a thing. The mysterious shroud over Mu Que’s fate likely came from her.

So, it wasn’t deliberate abandonment; she had most probably encountered danger or trouble.

“It’s very likely that Qingluan Zhenren met with some danger, leading to the separation of mother and daughter.”

Previously, Lu Changsheng had even expended precious life energy to assess the state of the Abyssal Sea Dragon Whale—barely restoring it. Now was not the time to probe further into his daughter’s or Qingluan Zhenren’s situation.

Based on the available information, he speculated that Qingluan Zhenren must have encountered some peril, leaving her daughter to wander alone.

“Could it be the secret realm opportunity from the Mirage Domain of Vast Sands back then?”

Lu Changsheng pondered deeply.

When they parted, Qingluan Zhenren had warned that the aftermath would attract the covetous and envious gazes of many Nascent Soul cultivators, so she would not return to the Immortal City of Qingluan but instead seek seclusion elsewhere.

During that time, she even unexpectedly became pregnant, which would have invited danger if other Nascent Soul cultivators came after her.

“Very likely.”

Lu Changsheng took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, deciding to further deduce Mu Que’s situation upon his return.

“These are truly troublesome times.”

Gazing at Yun Wanshang’s Nascent Soul phenomenon, the Kunpeng Egg within his Heavenly Yuan Lotus, and recalling the crisis of the Abyssal Sea Dragon Whale along with looming threats over Bihu Mountain and the Immortal City of Damengze, Lu Changsheng suddenly felt a severe headache.

One could only say that marrying and having children was euphoric in the moment,

but the ensuing family affairs—with multiple wives, concubines, and children—became an overwhelming burden.

He shook his head, striving to clear his mind as he balanced the spiritual energies on both sides.

After a while, the Sun-Moon Yin-Yang Mirror in his arms trembled, signaling the approach of a Fourth-Rank Demon King from the southeast.

“Xiao Yan.”

Immediately, Lu Changsheng transmitted a message to Qian Zhuyan, urging her to be vigilant as a Demon King advanced, and to use her might to deter the enemy.

“Yes, Lord.”

Qian Zhuyan promptly arrived at the island’s southeast with eleven Third-Rank puppets to hold the formation.

Before long, a massive Fourth-Rank Snake King—its body a deep blue-black pockmarked with sores and oozing corrosive venom—approached.

Seeing Qian Zhuyan, who radiated Fourth-Rank puppet power, the Snake King refrained from attacking immediately. Instead, it spat venom and roared, “This is the Forbidden Sea—our Demon Race’s territory. How dare you human cultivators risk your tribulation here! Are you provoking us!?”

“This Blessed Land is meant for the virtuous. We mean no disrespect; we are simply borrowing this treasure of a place to undergo our tribulation.”

Qian Zhuyan’s body surged with Fourth-Rank puppet power as she first showed courtesy then force, hurling a claw of a Wind-Splitting Beast. In a cold, hoarse voice she said, “Since you’re here as a guest, accept this small token.”

The Fourth-Rank Snake King, upon seeing the claw still imbued with traces of the Wind-Splitting Beast’s aura, was startled—realizing that the beast had been slain by Qian Zhuyan and her comrades, it felt a deep apprehension.

“Did you kill the Wind-Splitting Beast?”

The Snake King, oozing with corrosive, sticky venom and surrounded by poisonous mists that began to corrode the seawater, replied in a hissing tone.

Though it wasn’t well acquainted with the Wind-Splitting Beast, past encounters had shown it that the creature’s strength far exceeded its own.

Its formidable innate abilities—whether soaring through the skies or plunging into the depths—were boundless, making it nearly unkillable.

“If the Demon King’s Wind-Splitting Beast refers to the owner of that claw, then yes.”

Qian Zhuyan responded in a cold, hoarse tone.

Upon receiving confirmation, the Fourth-Rank Snake King’s dark, blue-black eyes filled with apprehension. Saying no more, it coiled the claw and slithered back into the sea.

Regardless of the truth of their words, the fact that Crackling Island was now occupied—and that the Wind-Splitting Beast lay dead—spoke volumes about Qian Zhuyan’s formidable power.

Seeing the Snake King retreat, Lu Changsheng nodded slightly but remained cautious, clutching his Sun-Moon Yin-Yang Mirror as he surveyed the surroundings.

Time ticked by slowly.

Qian Zhuyan steadily repelled one Demon King after another.

Although Yun Wanshang’s breakthrough was much swifter than that of True Person Jing Qing, there was a limit to how fast one could transition from Core Formation to Nascent Soul.

After an indeterminate while, the tremors of Crackling Island suddenly intensified, shaking the ground wildly.

Lu Changsheng looked upon the Nascent Soul phenomenon with a pleased expression.

He realized that Yun Wanshang was on the verge of shattering her Core to form her Nascent Soul!

She was fiercely refining her Golden Core with the help of the earth’s meridians—shattering it to emerge as a Nascent Soul. The higher the quality of her Golden Core, the tougher the transformation and the louder the commotion.

Judging by the magnitude of her efforts, it far surpassed the spectacle of True Person Jing Qing in days past.

However, Lu Changsheng recalled that most Fourth-Rank Immortal Cities or Nascent Soul factions would never allow outsiders to recklessly tap into their earth’s meridian energy during a breakthrough.

After all, that could inflict massive damage on the spiritual vein—damage which might take decades or a host of natural treasures to repair.

It only reinforced the truth that owning one’s own high-grade spiritual vein was the ultimate advantage.

“Bzzz Bzzz Bzzz!!!”

As Crackling Island trembled violently, Lu Changsheng suddenly sensed an extraordinarily mysterious surge of natural spiritual energy ahead.

It was as if the faint apparition of a divine maiden materialized and then faded away.

In that instant, the vast vortex of energy stilled briefly.

“Core shattered—Nascent Soul formed!”

Though Lu Changsheng had only observed True Person Jing Qing’s breakthrough from afar,

the pure, rejuvenated aura emanating from the barrier array confirmed that Yun Wanshang had completed the first stage!

Next, once she cleared the Nascent Soul Tribulation, she would ascend to the rank of a Nascent Soul True Lord—the pinnacle of the cultivation realm! Yet meanwhile, lurking demonic beasts and Fourth-Rank Demon Kings began to roar and swarm toward Crackling Island.

In the Forbidden Sea, a cultivator’s magical aura shines like a beacon in the dark, easily drawing the attention of demonic beasts.

Now that Yun Wanshang’s Nascent Soul had taken shape, its pure, newborn aura was an irresistible lure—many Third-Rank Demon Kings were eager to seize the opportunity to devour it and further boost their power.

“This many?”

Although Lu Changsheng had long anticipated that countless demonic beasts and Demon Kings would attack during her breakthrough, he still couldn’t help but frown.

Not to mention the Third-Rank Demon Kings.

Regarding Fourth-Rank Demon Kings, he spotted three—and even the Fourth-Rank Snake King that had earlier demanded a bribe had returned.

Clutching the Sun-Moon Yin-Yang Mirror with a steely glare, he realized that repelling these Demon Kings as before was likely impossible.

“True Lord, focus on your tribulation. I’ll handle the situation out here. This armor will aid you, and take the Kirin Blood Essence to protect the child.”

Lu Changsheng hurled the Nine Abyss Black Tortoise Armor and the Kirin Blood Essence toward Yun Wanshang within the barrier array before vanishing in a flash.

Yun Wanshang opened her gorgeous eyes, her expression one of shock.

How did that rascal know she was pregnant?

She had been so absorbed in nurturing her fetus that she only now realized she was expecting.

But with her Nascent Soul formed, she had only a brief moment for her body, magical energy, and spirit to transform—leaving no time to exchange words with Lu Changsheng.

Gazing at the Nine Abyss Black Tortoise Armor and the Kirin Blood Essence before her, she hesitated only momentarily before reaching out to catch them.

There was absolutely no room for error during the Nascent Soul Tribulation.

Besides, she was no longer alone.

“Is this a Spirit Treasure!?”

Staring at the Nine Abyss Black Tortoise Armor, her stunning face froze in surprise as she looked toward where Lu Changsheng had vanished.

She hadn’t expected him to bestow yet another spirit treasure armor upon her.

It was obvious that this must have been Lu Changsheng’s own tribulation artifact,

yet now he had given it all to her.

Lifting her gaze, she looked at the gradually brewing gray tribulation clouds overhead, feeling an immense weight upon her body and soul.

Without further hesitation, she swallowed the Kirin Blood Essence.

Although this drop of blood essence was rare and precious,

she had already received countless favors from Lu Changsheng, so there was no time to quibble over it now.

Moreover, her unexpected pregnancy meant she truly needed natural treasures to replenish herself.

Otherwise, if all her magical energy were diverted to herself during the tribulation, it could harm the fetus.

Not only were Nascent Soul cultivators notoriously reluctant to conceive, but she also remembered her son Lu Yunxiao from that dream realm of souls—leaving her deeply conflicted about the child.

After all, even a slight misstep could be disastrous for both her and the baby.

“W-why are there so many demonic beasts, so many Demon Kings?”

“In the Forbidden Sea, trying a Nascent Soul breakthrough is nothing less than a provocation to the Demon Kings.”

“We’re doomed, we’re doomed.”

The five Core Formation cultivators guarding the grand array on Crackling Island were all ashen.

They knew that a cultivator undergoing tribulation in the Forbidden Sea faced extreme danger, attracting widespread demonic beast attacks.

Yet, they never expected not only a swarm of Third-Rank Demon Kings but also multiple Fourth-Rank Demon Kings!

Even though a Third-Rank array isolated them from external energy, the overwhelming aura of the Fourth-Rank Demon Kings, pressing in like a tidal wave, made their blood and magical energy surge as their faces went pale.

“Stay calm—just keep an eye on the array.”

Lu Changsheng transmitted a message to the five, signaling them to maintain the formation and prevent any demonic beasts from boarding the island.

“We heard that human cultivators are undergoing tribulation here, so a few of my friends and I have come to observe.”

Soon, the returning Fourth-Rank Snake King and two Fourth-Rank Demon Kings approached Crackling Island, roaring and whipping up a tsunami of brine and deadly mists.

Compared to before, the Snake King was far more domineering—as if intent on taking advantage of the chaos.

“A Demon King strutting like that—does he really mean to observe the ceremony?”

Qian Zhuyan’s towering mechanical body rumbled as it coordinated with eleven puppets to form a formidable battle array, creating a terrifying display of puppet power with a menacing aura. In a resonant, hoarse tone, she declared,

“What’s the matter? Are you not welcoming us, my friend?”

The Fourth-Rank Snake King, gazing at Crackling Island, had eyes alight with greed.

Even though a Third-Rank array shielded the island, as a Fourth-Rank Demon King it could clearly smell the enticing fragrance of Nascent Soul energy wafting from within.

If the island hadn’t attracted it before, now it was utterly tempting.

“Guests are welcome if they come to observe; but if your intentions are malicious, let this be a lesson!”

Pointing at the remains of the Wind-Splitting Beast, Qian Zhuyan declared.

As she spoke, she tossed out one of the beast’s legs—a sight that pained her deeply.

After all, this was the corpse of a Fourth-Rank Demon King, enough to forge a Fourth-Rank puppet.

“Is that all? Are you looking down on us, my friend?”

The Fourth-Rank Snake King, its body dripping with corrosive venom, spat out venomous words in a hissing tone.

Having seen the Wind-Splitting Beast slain by Qian Zhuyan earlier, it had been cautious and restrained its greed.

But now, with two allies by its side, it dared to be bold.

No matter how formidable the mechanical puppets were, they still couldn’t take down all three Demon Kings.

“Fine, so you want to look down on us!?”

To the left of the Snake King loomed a massive sea cow clad in dark golden scales.

When it spoke, the coral horn atop its head trembled violently, unleashing a roar like a tsunami that intimidated all.

“Do not get greedy!”

Despite facing three Fourth-Rank Demon Kings, Qian Zhuyan remained unflinching, her voice hoarse yet resolute as she proclaimed,

“You human cultivators daring to undergo tribulation in our Forbidden Sea are already provoking us. Now that we have come to observe, you still intend to dismiss us? That’s downright insolent!”

The three Fourth-Rank Demon Kings roared in unison with a force capable of toppling the heavens and the earth, as tornadoes and tsunamis swirled and space itself warped.

Having reached Fourth-Rank, they could no longer rely solely on their bloodline potential and had to depend on external aids.

“My wife is undergoing tribulation. If you wish to observe, you’ll be handsomely rewarded afterward. But if you intend to cause trouble—I have slain a Wind-Splitting Beast once, and I can do it again!”

At that moment, Lu Changsheng appeared beside Qian Zhuyan, his Fourth-Rank physique, reminiscent of an ancient ferocious beast, fully revived and his aura weighing heavily.

He knew that against these Demon Kings, merely offering bribes wouldn’t suffice.

Without enough strength to intimidate them, his goodwill would only stoke their greed.

The Snake King and the two nearby Fourth-Rank Demon Kings conferred briefly before hissing and spitting, “If you wish to observe, then kill the Wind-Splitting Beast and hand over its corpse.”

Although Lu Changsheng’s aura did not suggest he could easily slay a Wind-Splitting Beast, the evidence was before their eyes.

Moreover, with his and Qian Zhuyan’s Fourth-Rank combat prowess, they were more than capable of handling them—and planned to demand a hefty bribe.

“The observation is over.”

Lu Changsheng declared.

Right now, Yun Wanshang is undergoing her tribulation, and Lu Changsheng doesn’t want to cause too much commotion that might interfere with her process.

Once Yun Wanshang finishes, he’ll merge his body with the Great Array and forcefully trigger the Sun-Moon Yin-Yang Mirror to blast these three damn beasts.

They’ve even dared to blackmail Lu Ancestor! “Impossible! You humans are infamously cunning—unlike us demons, who keep our word!”

However, these three demon kings aren’t fools—they know someone on Crackling Island is in tribulation, a perfect bargaining chip.

Latest update—exclusively posted on 69 Book Forum!

In that moment, they unleashed successive tidal waves, surging toward Crackling Island to engulf it.

“If that’s the case, then show us what you’ve got!”

Lu Changsheng’s Nine Treasures Dao Bone pulsed on his chest as his Great Luo Sword Embryo materialized in his hand, radiating dazzling, brilliant sword light.

At the same time, the Three Treasure Incarnation arrived with the Soul-Taking Beast, rousing a snoozing little monkey beast as a signal to get to work.

The Soul-Taking Beast, still drowsy, slowly opened its eyes.

What’s going on? I don’t see any demon kings!

Fighting these oceanic demon kings isn’t really my specialty.

But with no other option—as its master had already charged ahead—the Soul-Taking Beast mustered its resolve, roared, and shifted into battle mode.

Observing the fierce energy emanating from Lu Changsheng, along with an extra Fourth-Rank Demon King by his side, the three demon kings guessed that the Wind-Splitting Beast had been slain by Qian Zhuyan and her allies.

“Hand over half the remains of the Wind-Splitting Beast, and we’ll withdraw.”

After exchanging glances, the three demon kings continued.

But Lu Changsheng was set on witnessing the proceedings and helping fend off the other attackers—now wasn’t the time.

In an instant, the standoff became a deadlock, with neither side willing to yield.

Lu Changsheng realized that if the stalemate persisted, more demon kings would soon join the fray.

To avoid worsening his situation, he wasted no time; clenching his Great Luo Sword Embryo, he charged straight at the Fourth-Rank Snake King.

As long as he could severely injure it, the two nearby Fourth-Rank Demon Kings would likely retreat.

Likewise, the other demon kings arriving would think twice about causing further trouble.

“Ungrateful human cultivator!”

Seeing Lu Changsheng charge straight at him, the Snake King howled skyward in fury.

The pustules on its blue-black scale armor burst open, spewing corrosive slime at Lu Changsheng.

Nearby, the Sea Cow’s coral-horned head throbbed vigorously, emitting a golden radiance that formed a massive shockwave—making the sea boil and roar, and even causing Crackling Island to tremble.

The third demon king, an ancient turtle-like creature, summoned successive tsunamis that created a heavy, indescribable field enveloping Lu Changsheng.

Facing this onslaught, Lu Changsheng immediately deployed his life-bound treasure—the Yin-Yang Diagram—which began circling around him.

“ROAR!!!”

Undaunted, the Soul-Taking Beast was lifted by a dark mist like countless vengeful souls; its blood-red eyes spun fiercely, channeling a bloody divine light that shattered the sonic tsunami as it lunged at the Snake King.

Seeing this, Lu Changsheng swung his Great Luo Sword Embryo in a resounding slash, unleashing a brilliant burst of sword light.

Qian Zhuyan realized Lu Changsheng intended to first seriously wound the Snake King to drive back the trio of demon kings; she merged with eleven nearby puppets to form a tightly-knit Puppet Power Array.

Her puppet spirit had advanced to Fourth-Rank, and under the full force of the Puppet Power Array, she even outclassed many cultivators who had only just broken through to Nascent Soul.

The only drawback was a shortage of high-grade Spirit Stones—her full power surge couldn’t last long.

“Boom, boom, boom!!!”

Multicolored, pillar-like columns of Puppet Power blasted toward the Snake King with astonishing ferocity.

Under the relentless onslaught, the Snake King became shrouded in poisonous mist, forcing it to retreat while signaling the Sea Cow Demon King and the Ancient Turtle to fully engage.

Yet, Lu Changsheng and the Soul-Taking Beast seemed unfazed by the poisonous aura, ignoring the advances of the two adjacent demon kings and leaving the Snake King dumbfounded.

What the hell is going on!?

“Don’t push your luck with demons any further!!!”

Enraged, the Snake King roared and lashed its tail at the sea; its horrifying slime discharged a corrosive poison that spread through the waters, killing many nearby demon beasts.

“Today, my wife is in tribulation—if you dare interfere, I won’t stop until you’re dead!”

Lu Changsheng’s body shimmered with a nine-colored rosy glow as he wielded his Great Luo Sword Embryo, the Yin-Yang Diagram swirling around him with imposing force.

He knew that unless he activated the Sun-Moon Yin-Yang Mirror, it would be nearly impossible to slay even one of these demon kings.

Still, his main goal was simply to force them to retreat.

Although the three demon kings doubted he’d truly risk his life, their formidable stance made them unwilling to engage head-on.

After all, the demon kings of the Forbidden Sea never stood united; if wounded badly, they’d only invite further aggression.

“If you demon kings are willing to simply watch, then my previous promise still stands.”

Seeing the three demon kings gradually waver, Lu Changsheng eased his stance and spoke.

The Sea Cow Demon King was inclined to agree—seeing it as mere support—but the Snake King and the Ancient Turtle dismissed that and insisted on immediate compensation.

Even though they didn’t value these perks much, pride wouldn’t let them forgo taking a cut. However, amid the stalemate, the Snake King suddenly sensed a new aura and, along with the Ancient Turtle and Sea Cow Demon King, all withdrew at once.

At that moment, the Sun-Moon Yin-Yang Mirror in Lu Changsheng’s arms began to vibrate wildly, signaling an approaching threat.

Alarmed, Lu Changsheng’s gaze shifted warily toward the mirror.

From the endless depths of the sea emerged a towering man with fearsome dragon horns, his face, cheeks, and arms covered in blue scales, trailing a thick, long dragon tail as he cut through the waves.

“Human cultivator, you’ve got some nerve coming into our Forbidden Sea to challenge the Nascent Soul stage. Do you really think our Forbidden Sea is an easy target?”

The half-man, half-dragon figure loomed over Lu Changsheng, his voice piercing and resonant.

Danger!

Though the man didn’t display overt might, Lu Changsheng sensed a potent aura of peril emanating from him.

Those piercing blue-red eyes exuded an indescribable fierceness—this was not an early Fourth-Rank Demon King but clearly a mid Fourth-Rank one! “I’ve seen demon kings before. My wife sensed a Nascent Soul opportunity and had no choice but to break through here—there was no provocation intended.”

Maintaining his composure, Lu Changsheng clasped his hands and replied.

If possible, he had no desire to clash with the demon king before him.

“Truly, the love between husband and wife runs deep.”

The dragon-man grinned, his scaled face exuding a terrifying, bestial aura.

Then he continued, “Forty years ago, a couple much like you—accompanied by a few Sea Kings—underwent their tribulation in the Forbidden Sea.”

“They once told me that someday a couple might come for tribulation. Could it be you?”

The dragon-man’s vertical pupils gleamed coldly as he spoke grimly.

“Huh!?”

Lu Changsheng looked both puzzled and surprised.

How could anyone predict events decades in advance?

Even with his Fourth-Rank Divination skills, he wouldn’t dare to make such predictions.

“They said that if I lent a hand when I met them, I’d earn a favor that could benefit me.”

The dragon-man, his visage fierce and grim, grinned while baring his sharp, interlocking white fangs.

“I’m not sure if the person the demon king mentioned refers to my wife and me, but if you’re willing to help simply by watching and driving back our attackers, then I, Lu Changsheng, will owe you a favor.”

Lu Changsheng replied calmly, his expression unchanging.

The dragon-man before him was no ordinary fighter, and under these circumstances, Lu Changsheng was determined not to make a move.

After all, even if he repelled him, engaging in combat would drain him excessively.

“Lu Changsheng?”

The dragon-man, his hand clad in blue scales, pinched his chin and shook his head, saying, “You’re not the one I’ve been waiting for. The person I seek is named Wang Lin and Li Muwan.”

At his words, Lu Changsheng’s eyes narrowed sharply before he said in a deep voice, “The couple the demon king mentioned are none other than Dreamless and Yun Meng!”

Wang Lin and Li Muwan were merely aliases he used in the Immortal City of Damengze—there’s no way the dragon-man from the Forbidden Sea could know that.

Yet, his mention of those names and the tale of a couple from over forty years ago made Lu Changsheng think of the Dreamless couple.

Forty-seven years ago, he struck a deal with the Dreamless couple and acquired the Immortal City of Damengze.

After the deal was sealed and preparations lasted for several months, they vanished without a trace.

Lu Changsheng and Hong Lian speculated that the couple likely hailed from the Eastern Sea Cultivation Realm—and their departure meant a return there.

“Hmm, you know them?”

The dragon-man, somewhat taken aback, remarked.

“Indeed, Wang Lin and Li Muwan were the names I once used. So, are the demon king’s couple none other than Friend Dreamless and Friend Yun Meng?”

Lu Changsheng replied in a deep tone, secretly admiring the ingenuity of the Dreamless couple.

How dare two Core Formation cultivators come to the Forbidden Sea for tribulation?

And to predict that he might one day undergo his tribulation here? It’s simply inconceivable—even with his Fourth-Rank Divination skills.

I suspected you were the person they mentioned—you both even share a mirror.

The dragon-man laughed grimly, his azure-gold eyes as if they could see the Sun-Moon Yin-Yang Mirror in Lu Changsheng’s arms.

Then he continued, “In that case, I’ll stand guard for you here—consider it that you owe me a favor. Agreed?”

“Sure, no problem. May I ask the esteemed demon king’s name?”

“Green Dragon King!”

The dragon-man’s voice rang clear and harsh, like the clash of metal, brimming with authority.

“May I ask, Green Dragon King, how did Friend Dreamless and Friend Yun Meng manage to deal with the demon beasts that attacked during their tribulation here?”

Lu Changsheng motioned for Qian Zhuyan and the Soul-Taking Beast to retreat and rest, then turned to ask the Green Dragon King.

“It was because they provided me with sufficient incentives.”

The Green Dragon King grinned, his interlocking rows of sharp teeth glinting with a cold, icy light.

“Now, what is it you desire from me?”

Lu Changsheng continued to inquire.

“My sister was gravely injured years ago and is now frozen by my own hand. They say you can save her—so once you break through to Nascent Soul, you must treat her.”

The Green Dragon King studied Lu Changsheng, as if trying to discern whether he truly had that ability.

“Save her? No, save the dragon?”

Lu Ancestor was taken aback.

Though he prided himself on his healing skills, he’d never encountered a case like this before.

Yet, deep within, the Peach Blossom Gu seemed to awaken, hinting at a fateful brush with destiny.

“???”

Lu Changsheng immediately subdued the Peach Blossom Gu, muttering, “Don’t make a fuss.”

Even if one wanted to witness peach-blossom luck, you at least need to see the person—look at that dragon’s features! How could my sister be beautiful? He mused, “I do know a few healing techniques, and I’m willing to give it a try.”

“It isn’t a trial—it must be saved!”

The Green Dragon King’s cold, ruthless eyes flashed with unparalleled ferocity, his voice thundering as if to devour Lu Changsheng on the spot.

“In matters like this, I can only do my best—it’s impossible to ensure complete success.”

Lu Changsheng’s robes billowed as he stood firm and composed, clasping his fists as he spoke.

“Hmm, hearing that reassures me greatly. Otherwise, after seeing my sister’s condition firsthand, I’ve already slain more than a few cultivators who claimed they could help.”

The Green Dragon King grinned, his face marked by fearsome blue scales.

.

Lu Changsheng was at a loss for words.

Yet he didn’t pay it any mind.

Though this shapeshifting demon king possessed intelligence, he couldn’t be measured by human standards.

His brutal, erratic nature was entirely expected.

Then, he inquired further about the Dreamless couple.

After all, their fate was truly astonishing.

From their early days as Core Formation cultivators hunting the Deep Sea Demon Whale King to breaking through to Nascent Soul in the Forbidden Sea—and even predicting that he might one day undergo his tribulation here—it was simply incredible.

However, the Green Dragon King didn’t know much about the Dreamless couple, only that they had once struck a deal and, after advancing, set off toward the deep sea.

“Why didn’t you break through, or have you already done so?”

At that moment, the Green Dragon King studied Lu Changsheng and said,

“Although I’m of the demon race, I’ve dealt with many human cultivators and can tell you that you’re no ordinary case.”

“Precisely because of that, I’m willing to exchange favors.”

“Otherwise, for an ordinary Nascent Soul cultivator, I wouldn’t have any hope at all.”

“I still have matters to attend to—I plan to wait until my wife completes her breakthrough.”

Lu Changsheng replied coolly, without a change in expression.

With a mid Fourth-Rank demon king guarding, he could indeed push to Nascent Soul stage here.

But he planned to wait until Yun Wanshang finished her breakthrough, then immediately seek out Lu Lingjing.

Moreover, he didn’t trust this dragon-man very much.

“Just remember that you owe me a favor,” the Green Dragon King stated.

Unconcerned about whether Lu Changsheng broke through, the Green Dragon King’s tall, imposing figure gradually exuded an aura far surpassing that of an early Fourth-Rank demon king.

“Indeed, a mid Fourth-Rank demon king.”

Lu Changsheng’s eyes narrowed as he silently mused.

With the Green Dragon King on board, things would go much smoother—even though other demon kings approached, they sensed powerful auras and chose to withdraw.

Meanwhile, Yun Wanshang’s Heavenly Thunder Tribulation reached its climax, and the first bolt of blue lightning struck.

“Buzz!”

Yun Wanshang formed a protective shield with a hand seal, then wielded a faint golden Dharma sword to slash at the lightning.

Her Nascent Soul power had already transformed, and the first strike of the heavenly lightning barely wounded her.

But then, Lu Changsheng noticed a small infant-like spirit emerging above her head—as if she intended to absorb the raging tribulation.

“What is this!”

In an instant, Lu Changsheng realized that Yun Wanshang was attempting the Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul technique—drawing celestial qi from the tribulation.

He quickly wanted to shout for her to stop,

but knowing that Yun Wanshang was not reckless, he held back, fearing his interference might only hinder her.

After all, she wasn’t directly using her Nascent Soul spirit to counter the tribulation; she was battling it, then using her Nascent Soul to absorb its essence.

Moments later, Lu Changsheng observed Yun Wanshang withdrawing her slightly withered Nascent Soul spirit back into her body and commencing the second phase of her tribulation.

“Sigh.”

Lu Changsheng exhaled in relief, gaining a clearer understanding of the Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul.

The Nascent Soul spirit had just formed and was still fragile—enduring the tribulation at this stage was extremely dangerous.

It was best to have a Nascent Soul Treasure ready in advance to help mitigate the tribulation’s impact or support the spirit in weathering it.

When the second tribulation began, Lu Changsheng noticed a faint phantom Qilin shadow surrounding Yun Wanshang.

He recognized it as the effect of Kirin Blood Essence!

She hadn’t yet fully refined it, and under the tribulation, it was beginning to assimilate.

Steady as she was, after surviving the second tribulation, Yun Wanshang donned the Nine Abyss Black Tortoise Armor that Lu Changsheng had provided, instantly giving her a dashing air.

“Hmm!? Where did you acquire this thing?”

At that moment, the Green Dragon King, watching Yun Wanshang endure her tribulation, suddenly shot a gleam from his eyes and asked Lu Changsheng.

Lu Changsheng, his spirit steeled, replied in a measured tone, “Are you referring to the Kirin Blood Essence?”

“That’s right.”

Had he not sensed a subtle aura of danger from Lu Changsheng, the Green Dragon King would have been all too eager to rush in and seize Yun Wanshang’s Kirin Blood Essence by force.

Such true-spirit quality blood is extraordinarily rare and irresistibly enticing. “It was obtained from the Phantom Ship.”

Lu Changsheng answered truthfully.

After all, with the Starry Sea’s four great calamities and the notorious name of the Phantom Ship, the Green Dragon King might very well know about it.

“Phantom Ship? You’ve been to the Netherworld Land?”

As a mid Fourth-Rank demon king who has dealt with the forces of the Starry Sea, the Green Dragon King knew many secrets.

“I call it the Land of Eternal Night.”

Lu Changsheng replied calmly.

“Do you have any more of that blood?”

The Green Dragon King’s eyes glinted with a cold, ruthless ferocity as he fixed his gaze on Lu Changsheng.

After a pause, he added, “I can trade with you.”

“Just a single drop will do.”

Lu Changsheng shook his head slightly, though he felt a surge of caution as he sensed murderous intent from the other.

The Green Dragon King glanced from Yun Wanshang to Lu Changsheng and ultimately dismissed the idea of attacking.

He remembered that upon arriving, he had seen Qian Zhuyan and the Soul-Taking Beast.

And Lu Changsheng himself exuded danger—especially because of that mirror on his person.

Though greedy, surviving to this point had granted him wisdom far beyond that of most demon kings.

“If you acquire more of that blood, we can negotiate a trade,” the Green Dragon King said.

He said only that.

“If I manage to obtain more, I’ll consider trading with you,” Lu Changsheng replied.

Though the other’s aura was imposing, Lu Changsheng did his best to keep the dragon-man in check.

The Green Dragon King nodded; then, without further words, the two retreated.

Lu Changsheng watched quietly as Yun Wanshang continued her tribulation.

Although the process wasn’t exceptionally perilous, knowing that Yun Wanshang was pregnant—with a child in her womb—had him terrified and on edge.

Even when he had once faced three pursuers led by True Lord Mingsha in the Mirage Domain of Vast Sands all by himself, he’d never been this anxious.

The power of the tribulation grew stronger with every round.

Yun Wanshang possessed the Golden Small Cauldron and Nine Abyss Black Tortoise Armor given by Lu Changsheng. Though she looked a bit messy and her Spirit Treasures were somewhat damaged, she was overall fine.

After surviving the Heavenly Thunder Tribulation, she immediately seized the opportunity to cultivate and heal her injuries.

“With the overwhelming power of the Immortal Golden Core, and given my Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul opportunity and Huaying Pill, if I weren’t so underprepared and lacking secret techniques, I might even try for the Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul.”

Yun Wanshang sat cross-legged, channeling the newly born life force—birthed by the laws of heaven and earth in the aftermath of the tribulation—to enhance her body, magical energy, and spiritual soul.

She hadn’t donned the Nine Abyss Black Tortoise Armor at first because the tribulation itself had refined her body and magical energy to a purer state.

But after her Nascent Soul spirit experienced the tribulation’s wrath, she realized that drawing in the Heavenly Dao’s qi was extremely dangerous.

Though cultivators must be ambitious, her goal from early on was the Earthly Dao Nascent Soul, and now that she had achieved its highest form, there was no need for further greed.

“It’s the Heart Demon Tribulation.”

Lu Changsheng saw a gray tribulation cloud slowly swirling in the sky, his expression grave.

Although after their dual cultivation Yun Wanshang had assured him that her mind was clear, the memory of True Person Caiyun’s failure at the Divine Maiden Palace—falling to the Heart Demon Tribulation—still troubled him subconsciously.

“True Person Caiyun single-handedly reached the peak of Core Formation, was trapped in the Land of Eternal Night for decades, and with the Calm Lotus of the Brahman Heart, she should be fine.”

Lu Changsheng murmured to himself, trying to reassure his heart.

Regarding the Heart Demon Tribulation, though he possessed a Demon Breaking Life Saving Pill, he had to reserve it for himself.

That’s why he only gave Yun Wanshang the Heart Tribulation Spiritual Object—the Calm Lotus of the Brahman Heart—secured by the Divine Maiden Palace.

But if she were to fail her tribulation before him and fall to the Heart Demon Tribulation, he’d be burdened with lifelong regret.

“Nascent Soul Heart Tribulation. With my current state of mind, without the Demon Breaking Life Saving Pill, I’m afraid I wouldn’t overcome the Heart Demon Tribulation at all.”

Lu Changsheng felt his anxiety and uncertainty growing, murmuring to himself.

Fortunately, after five days of this nerve-wracking tension, he saw the Heart Demon Tribulation clouds begin to dissipate.

“Has the Nascent Soul consolidation succeeded!?”

Lu Changsheng watched as a soft, auspicious glow surged from the sky, his spirits lifting instantly—it filled him with more joy than breaking through to Nascent Soul ever did.