Category: I, The Man Who’ll Conquer Both the Immortal Venerable and the Demon Empress

Chapter 125: Three Sects United, True Inheritor of the Evil Lotus

“Let me go!” The girl, wrapped in a colorful Daoist robe, pounded Shi Hao’s chest in the darkness.

“Yuejiao, be good. Your Daoist and demonic energies are still unbalanced. Let me help you,” he said, his hand reaching inside her robe.

The girl was both angry and frustrated. Angry at herself for being so weak, so easily swayed by his touch, frustrated that she couldn’t summon the strength to push him away.

“Still angry?” Shi Hao chuckled, “Let it go. Anger makes you less beautiful.”

“If I’m not beautiful, you’ll abandon me, won’t you?” she retorted, then realized she was focusing on the wrong thing.

The point was, this despicable man had captured her, imprisoned her, tortured her, leaving her with nightmares, then “rescued” her, using his gentleness and kindness to seduce her, and just as she was about to give herself to him, he had left, going off with other women.

And now, after she had exposed him, he had captured her again, using some strange technique to… to…

She nestled in his arms, her anger simmering… mostly directed at her own weakness.

“Don’t… don’t touch me… you…” she tried to be strong, to resist, to show him that this time, she wouldn’t be so easily swayed.

After a while, he stopped and whispered, “Do you want more?”

“…Yes,” she whispered, her voice filled with shame.

Just this once, she thought, just one more time… and then I’ll get my revenge.

She wouldn’t forgive him so easily.

The air grew warmer, a sweet fragrance filling the darkness—

---

Half an hour later, Shi Hao carried Du Yuejiao, her face serene in sleep, out of the room.

He knew he was being a scumbag.

But he couldn’t kill her, and he couldn’t let her become a demonic witch, an enemy.

So this… this was the only solution.

He couldn’t think of any other way.

He changed his appearance using the Evil Shadow Disguise Technique and went outside, where a carriage awaited him. He climbed in and saw Xu Xiaoyan, dressed and glaring at him.

Shi Hao said, rubbing his temples, “Don’t look at me like that. If I hadn’t done that, you both might have died.”

The carriage moved slowly through the streets. The drivers were Zhu Ping, the Crimson Lotus Fiery Blaze, and Huan Tingting, the Black Heart Enchantress, of the Moon Lotus Pavilion.

Xu Xiaoyan opened the curtain and looked out.

The carriage moved through deserted alleys, the moonlight casting a silvery glow on the walls.

Screams echoed in the distance, a reminder of the violence engulfing Dàxīng City.

“What happened?” Xu Xiaoyan asked, turning to look at him in the dim moonlight, “I… I have both Daoist and demonic energies within me now. I cultivated my Daoist internal elixir myself, but where did this demonic essence come from? Why are they both in my body?”

She paused, then asked, “And those three Evil Lotus Sect leaders… they called you ‘Young Master.’ What was that about?”

She stared at him, her eyes wide with disbelief.

Shi Hao couldn’t help but smile, “Didn’t I tell you? I would find a solution by the full moon.”

Xu Xiaoyan said incredulously, “Was there really a ‘Madam’? And she really could… destroy the three Evil Lotus factions? I just made that up…”

Shi Hao said, “It’s mostly true.”

Xu Xiaoyan was stunned… Tonight’s events were so bizarre, so unbelievable, like a dream.

Shi Hao continued, “As for the demonic essence within you and Yuejiao, that was the Emerald Beauty’s doing. That Demonic Lotus Palace is a ritual site. She was subjecting you both to a demonic trial. Only those who survive can inherit the Secret Canon.”

“But she didn’t know I’m the true inheritor of the Evil Lotus Sect. She sensed my Daoist foundation and didn’t trust me. I had to wait until the full moon to prove my identity.”

Xu Xiaoyan’s face paled, “Demonic trial? Before you… before you did that to me…”

She blushed, then said, “I did feel like I was trapped in a nightmare, like I was going to die.”

Shi Hao said, “Those who fail the trial die. And to pass, you have to sever all your emotions. I had no choice but to interrupt the trial. But the demonic essence within you couldn’t be removed, and I couldn’t let it devour your Daoist foundation. So I had to help you balance the two, like me, a dual cultivator.”

Xu Xiaoyan huddled in the corner of the carriage, clutching her robe, “So… I should thank you?”

Shi Hao, smiling, said, “You’re welcome.”

Xu Xiaoyan bit her lip, glanced at the sleeping Du Yuejiao in his arms, and muttered, “You’re a real scumbag.”

She looked outside, then leaned closer to Shi Hao and whispered, “Do you really think they’ll submit to you, obey your commands? Even if you’re the true inheritor, there have been cases of demonic sects betraying their chosen disciples.

“For the Keeper of the Canon, inheritance is paramount. If they join forces and kill you and your ‘Madam,’ she’ll just have to choose another successor. She can’t interfere in the sect’s internal affairs.”

Shi Hao smiled, “Don’t worry about that. At least those three leaders, Xuan Feng Huanzhi, Yue Yaotai, and Sha Lingshan, wouldn’t dare betray me.”

Xu Xiaoyan looked at him, puzzled, wondering why he was so confident.

Unless those three leaders knew his “Madam’s” true identity and knew she was someone they couldn’t afford to offend.

But Xu Xiaoyan couldn’t think of anyone so closely connected to the Evil Lotus Sect, and so powerful, that those three leaders would be so afraid of her.

She looked at Shi Hao, her eyes filled with curiosity, “Tell me, who is this ‘Madam’?”

Shi Hao shook his head, “I can’t tell you yet.”

Xu Xiaoyan snorted, turned, and lay down on the small table, thinking, but she couldn’t make sense of it. Finally, she grabbed her hair in frustration and exclaimed, “There’s no one like that! Unless… unless it’s the Demon Empress herself!”

Shi Hao glanced at her.

Even Xu Xiaoyan didn’t believe that a figure from legend, a figure from three hundred years ago, could still be alive.

She shook her head, dismissing the impossible thought, and continued pondering.

After a while, she looked up, “By the way, did you know the descendant of the Taisu Immortal Pavilion has appeared?”

Shi Hao, holding Du Yuejiao, asked in surprise, “The Taisu Immortal Pavilion?”

Xu Xiaoyan said, “Yes, you were… busy with her at the time, so you didn’t see it. But I saw it with my own eyes. Dragon Head Mountain split apart, and that golden energy swirled into a sphere. A woman calling herself Yun Caiyao descended from the sky on a cloud, and with a flick of her wrist, she dispersed the energy.

“And then, all those corpses that had risen from the ground collapsed, and the leader of the Ghost Extreme Sect was injured and forced to flee.

“The entire city saw it. It was incredible, like a dream.”

Shi Hao whispered, “The Taisu Immortal Pavilion… Yun Caiyao?”

He remembered the Holy Jade Immortal mentioning that both the Taisu Immortal Pavilion and the Evil Lotus Sect had ways of dispelling the True Dragon energy. But the Evil Lotus Sect was divided, and the one guarding the energy at Dragon Head Mountain was Little Emerald.

However, neither the Holy Jade Immortal nor Su Mei had mentioned this before he left. He wasn’t sure if Su Mei had given Little Emerald other instructions.

But regardless, the Taisu Immortal Pavilion had finally acted.

Xu Xiaoyan said excitedly, “The descendants of the Taisu Immortal Pavilion rarely appear in public, but when they do, they always bring change to the martial world. I can’t believe, after all these years, a descendant has finally appeared.”

“This is even more significant than the conflict between the Ghost Extreme Sect and the Ancestral Altar. You really missed it. She descended from the sky, like a celestial being, her feet on the sun, scattering starlight as she ascended…”

Seeing her excitement, Shi Hao remembered what the Holy Jade Immortal had taught him… building momentum.

Undeniably, the Taisu Immortal Pavilion’s image-building over the centuries had been successful. Even though they rarely intervened directly, their legends persisted.

Actions speak louder than words. As Xiaoyan had said, the mere appearance of a Taisu Immortal Pavilion descendant was enough to shift the balance of power in the martial world.

“What an incredible night!” Xu Xiaoyan glanced at him, “You united the three Evil Lotus factions, becoming their true inheritor after three hundred years. And now, a descendant of the Taisu Immortal Pavilion has appeared… It feels like a new era is beginning.”

Shi Hao thought, In a way, I’m also a descendant of the Taisu Immortal Pavilion.

He wondered if he would have a chance to… get to know this Yun Caiyao.

“Young Master, we’ve reached Rong Mountain,” Huan Tingting’s voice came from outside.

Shi Hao gently laid Du Yuejiao down, “I’ll go retrieve the Heroic Deeds Blade and the immortal ingredients. Wait for me here.” He left the carriage and headed towards Floating Cloud Monastery.

After he left, Xu Xiaoyan, looking at the sleeping Du Yuejiao, took out a small box of rouge and a brush.

She looked at Du Yuejiao’s face and giggled…

Chapter 124: The Taisu Immortal Pavilion Descendant Reappears

Everyone looked up and saw a woman in her late twenties, dressed in flowing white robes, her beauty breathtaking.

She descended from the sky, her feet on a swirling cloud, like a celestial being, her appearance ethereal and otherworldly.

Within the chasm, the Ancestral Altar and the Ghost Extreme Sect were locked in a fierce battle. The Ghost Extreme Sect had suffered heavy losses, but the army of corpses had put immense pressure on the Ancestral Altar.

The fighting stopped as everyone stared at the descending figure.

Outside the mountain, hidden martial artists watched the battle at Dragon Head Mountain. News of the conflict had spread through Dàxīng City. Imperial soldiers had suffered heavy casualties, and the Shark Dragon Gang was almost completely annihilated, their leader, Bei Tonghui, nowhere to be seen.

Few knew the reason for this battle, but the sight of Dragon Head Mountain splitting apart, a golden light emanating from within, indicated something momentous was happening.

And then, the Gates of Hell opened, a ghostly realm spreading outwards, filling the hidden observers with dread.

At that moment, the woman descended from the sky on a swirling cloud, her beauty like the moon itself, a mesmerizing sight, a true “celestial being descending to the mortal world.”

“Who are you?” a voice boomed, shaking the earth.

It was Peng Tianwang, the leader of the Ghost Extreme Sect.

The woman on the cloud said, her voice melodious, “Yun Caiyao of the Taisu Immortal Pavilion greets Leader Peng of the Ghost Extreme Sect and Grandmother Ba of the Ancestral Altar.”

Her voice, although soft and gentle, far less powerful than Peng Tianwang’s, reached everyone present, near and far.

A gasp went through the crowd… The Taisu Immortal Pavilion!

The legendary Taisu Immortal Pavilion… had finally appeared!

Even in these dark times, a legend persisted within the martial world:

When the immortals of the Taisu Immortal Pavilion returned, light would return to the world.

And now, at this critical moment, an immortal of the Taisu Immortal Pavilion had descended.

Within the chasm, Peng Tianwang’s expression changed, and Grandmother Ba narrowed her eyes.

The cloud platform floated above the swirling golden energy, which began to rotate.

The golden streams of energy, previously being pulled in two directions, now converged. Peng Tianwang and Grandmother Ba’s faces paled.

They both used their techniques, trying to reclaim the True Dragon’s energy, but the golden aura, swirling beneath the cloud platform, formed a rotating sphere, like the sun and moon combined.

The immortal from the Taisu Immortal Pavilion stood above this golden sphere, seemingly walking on the sun and moon, and then, with a gentle push, she began to ascend, carrying the massive sphere of energy with her.

“Leader Peng, the paths of the living and the dead are separate. The mortal world is for the living, the underworld for the dead. Although the mortal world has its flaws, who can say a ghostly realm would be any better? To sacrifice an entire city for your own twisted beliefs… such an act is an abomination.”

“Grandmother Ba, the Ancestral Altar came from the steppes, enjoying wealth and power for three hundred years. But all things rise and fall. Your people have become corrupt and decadent, like a dying tree clinging to a volcano about to erupt. If you don’t return to the steppes soon, you will be destroyed.”

The golden sphere rose from the chasm, hanging above Dàxīng City. Countless people poured into the streets, staring at the wondrous sight.

Tonight was the night of the full moon, the moon itself a silver disc in the sky, its light bright and clear.

But now, the golden sphere rivaled the moon’s brilliance, like the sun and moon vying for dominance.

And between the “sun” and the “moon,” the beautiful woman, bathed in golden and silver light, was like a celestial being, her beauty breathtaking.

This dreamlike scene, etched in the minds of all who witnessed it, would never be forgotten.

“As for this True Dragon energy, summoned here long ago, it’s time for it to return,” the beautiful woman said, and with a gentle turn, the golden sphere exploded, scattering into countless sparks that flew in all directions.

It was like a shower of falling stars, a dazzling display.

As the golden sparks faded, Peng Tianwang’s Four Pearls of the Underworld shattered above him, and he coughed up blood.

The black archway transformed back into a coffin, then exploded. The surrounding corpses collapsed. Peng Tianwang, his body wracked with pain, fell to the ground. The remaining Ghost Extreme Sect members rushed to his side and, supporting him, retreated.

Grandmother Ba stared at the pearl before her, its golden light swirling within, her expression grim. She sighed softly and looked up at the woman in the sky.

The woman had transformed into a rainbow of light, the scattering sparks forming a shimmering backdrop, as she ascended and disappeared.

If Shi Hao had been there, he would have said… Show off.

And she had done it spectacularly.

---

The battle at Dragon Head Mountain had ended unexpectedly. But for Dàxīng City, it was a sleepless night.

The Shark Dragon Gang, like moths drawn to a flame, had gained nothing from this conflict, their forces decimated by their reckless assault on Dragon Head Mountain.

But with the battle over, the other gangs, like sharks sensing blood, descended upon the weakened Shark Dragon Gang, seizing their territory and resources.

The remaining gang members searched desperately for their leader, but he was nowhere to be found.

And the more perceptive among them wondered what the Ghost Extreme Sect had offered Bei Tonghui to make him sacrifice his entire organization.

The Ancestral Altar represented the barbarian court. The Shark Dragon Gang’s actions tonight were tantamount to rebellion. Even if they had survived, they wouldn’t be able to remain in Dàxīng City.

And their losses had been devastating. The promise of a non-existent “treasure” had led them to their doom.

As for the Ghost Extreme Sect, once their true intentions were revealed, they were universally condemned.

Although everyone knew the demonic sects were ruthless, no one had imagined they would attempt to sacrifice an entire city, transforming it into a “ghostly realm.”

Almost everyone had believed the treasure was real; otherwise, why would the Shark Dragon Gang, the Ghost Extreme Sect, and the Ancestral Altar fight over it?

Many gangs had hoped to claim a share of the spoils, but there was no treasure. The Ghost Extreme Sect had simply wanted to create chaos and destruction.

The demonic sects… those mysterious and unsettling figures in the shadows of the martial world… had once again proven themselves to be nothing but madmen.

The surviving Ghost Extreme Sect experts, carrying their injured leader, who had suffered backlash from the destruction of the Four Pearls of the Underworld, fled Dàxīng City.

Although considered madmen by the martial world, they knew their plan had been sound. If Dàxīng City had become a ghostly realm, they would have controlled it completely, then expanded westward, conquering West Shu.

The barbarian court would have been forced to recognize their claim, and the Ghost Extreme Sect, emerging from the shadows, would have established their own kingdom.

But the descendant of the Taisu Immortal Pavilion had appeared, effortlessly dispelling the True Dragon energy, using its residual power to destroy the Four Pearls of the Underworld and shatter the Ghost Coffin.

And as they fled, the three Evil Lotus factions attacked.

The three factions, divided for over two hundred years, had united, relentlessly pursuing them.

The Ghost Extreme Sect’s losses mounted. As the battle raged, they realized the Evil Lotus factions’ true target was Blood Shadow Undying Child.

Left with no other choice, they abandoned him, sacrificing him to escape.

After this battle, the Ghost Extreme Sect, once the most powerful demonic sect, had lost over half of its experts. Although not completely destroyed, their decline was inevitable.

Chapter 123: “Bring Me the Blood of Blood Shadow Undying Child.”

The women of the three Evil Lotus factions knelt before the young man on the black jade throne, who surveyed them, the Demonic Lotus Heavenly Yin radiating from him.

His sharp, angular features, his prominent hooked nose, and the two naked girls at his feet gave him a sinister, demonic aura.

The demonic flames flickered and danced, the hall itself seeming to pulse like a living heart under his gaze.

This bizarre scene, combined with the oppressive aura of the Demonic Lotus Heavenly Yin, made it seem as if he could crush them all with a mere thought.

“The Sect Leader will soon return,” he said slowly, his voice echoing through the hall, “Until then, I will oversee the affairs of the Evil Lotus Sect. But before that, there’s something you must do. Bring me the blood of Blood Shadow Undying Child.

“If you succeed, I will reunite the three canons and use the Secret Canon to help you advance your cultivation.”

He looked down at the three leaders: Xuan Feng Huanzhi, Yue Yaotai, and Sha Lingshan.

Xuan Feng Huanzhi, in her green robe, her hair in a high bun, her phoenix crown gleaming.

Yue Yaotai, her skin fair, her figure curvaceous, her colorful robe flowing around her, her hair in a cloud bun.

And Sha Lingshan, the youngest of the three, her figure slender and graceful.

Under his gaze, they felt the oppressive weight of the Demonic Lotus Heavenly Yin.

Without it, they couldn’t advance beyond the fifth rank. The promise of further progress filled them with a mixture of excitement and apprehension.

Xuan Feng Huanzhi, gritting her teeth, bowed her head and asked, “Which Sect Leader are you referring to?”

This was the question on everyone’s mind.

Since the Evil Lotus Sect’s division, each of the three factions had its own lineage of “Sect Leaders,” although none were true inheritors. After two hundred years, there had been many.

Which Sect Leader was he referring to? And was this Sect Leader truly worthy of leading the entire Evil Lotus Sect?

The young man on the throne sneered. He snapped his fingers, and the demonic fire flared, pushing the other women back.

Dragon Girl, Snake Charmer, Zhu Ping, Huan Tingting, Peach Blossom Lady, Plum Blossom Lady, and the others, startled, tried to move forward, but the flames, like an impenetrable wall, held them back.

Xuan Feng Huanzhi, Yue Yaotai, and Sha Lingshan remained prostrate, motionless. They knew that having entered the Demonic Lotus Palace, their lives were in his hands.

And this mysterious young man clearly didn’t intend to kill them; he simply didn’t want others to hear what he was about to say.

The Emerald Beauty, floating in the air, sneered, “Who else could it be but the Evil Lotus Sect’s true leader? Or have you forgotten her after three hundred years?”

Her words stunned them… Three hundred years? The Evil Lotus Sect’s true leader?

Indeed, none of their current leaders were the true inheritors.

The last true leader of the Evil Lotus Sect… the legendary figure who had united the demonic sects, commanded the dark path, and forced even the Supreme Emperor of the barbarian court to retreat.

And in that moment, they understood… why the Keeper of the Canon hadn’t appeared in all these years, hadn’t chosen a true successor from among their disciples.

The Keeper of the Canon was merely a failsafe, a backup plan.

If the Sect Leader was still alive, the Keeper couldn’t intervene.

For generations, they had wondered why the Keeper hadn’t appeared, why no one had received the true inheritance. This question had plagued them, a mystery they couldn’t solve.

And now, they finally understood. They had overlooked the simplest answer… the Demon Empress was still alive!

This realization, both terrifying and exhilarating, made their blood run cold, then hot.

The Demon Empress, who had vanished three hundred years ago, would return, in this era of chaos and upheaval!

The Demon Empress would return! This thought ignited a fire within them, a sense of anticipation and excitement. They were living in extraordinary times, about to embark on an incredible journey.

“We greet the Young Master!” they exclaimed, bowing their heads in unison, their voices filled with awe and reverence.

The two naked girls beside the throne, awakened by their voices, sat up, looking at the three kneeling women with sleepy confusion…

---

The Gates of Hell opened, flaunting in public.

The black carriage, carrying the black coffin, slowly approached the chasm, the golden energy swirling within, like an inverted waterfall, flowing towards it.

An army of corpses, the bodies of those who had fallen in battle outside, stumbled towards the chasm, their movements jerky and unnatural.

Among the dead were Shark Dragon Gang members, barbarian soldiers and officers, and even martial artists from other sects, lured by the promise of “treasure,” caught in the crossfire.

They rose from the ground, their movements stiff and unnatural, their cries sharp and piercing, and shambled forward.

The Ghost Extreme Sect, their full strength revealed, attacked the altar, while elite barbarian soldiers, hidden until now, emerged from the shadows, further adding to the chaos.

The Ancestral Altar priestesses, kneeling before the stone piles, oblivious to the surrounding carnage, continued their chanting, their voices a low murmur, the unique incantations of the Jin clan intertwining, plumes of green smoke rising from the stones, forming figures that clashed with the approaching corpses.

The experts of both sides also fought, explosions of energy echoing, blades flashing.

Grandmother Ba remained motionless on the altar, the golden energy swirling around her, drawn towards the pearl before her.

The black carriage reached the center of the swirling golden energy, and the black coffin rose upright.

The golden energy surged towards the coffin, like a tsunami, its power absorbed, then unleashed as a wave of dark energy.

The coffin lid burst open with a bang, revealing an old man within.

Peng Tianwang, the “Heaven’s Folly Ghost Sorrow,” leader of the Ghost Extreme Sect.

He had long white hair and a beard, his robe pristine white. And strangely, behind him, an endless expanse of darkness stretched, as if he stood at the gateway to another world.

Although just a small coffin, the old man within seemed to stand at the boundary between two realms.

Behind him, in the darkness, countless shadowy figures writhed and surged.

“Grandmother Ba!” Peng Tianwang’s voice echoed through the cavern, “The Gates of Hell are open. Step aside, or face the wrath of the underworld!”

Grandmother Ba, her gaze fixed on the pearl before her, its golden light intensifying as it absorbed the swirling energy, said calmly, “The Gates of Hell, connecting the realms of the living and the dead. Your actions will destroy this city, killing millions, mostly Chinese.

“If you Chinese don’t care, why should I? If China falls, and the mortal world becomes a ghostly realm, we, the Jin clan, will simply return to the northern steppes. It’s a harsh land, but we can survive. As for trying to kill me… heh, even your master couldn’t do it. You’re not worthy.”

Although Peng Tianwang was over a hundred years old, Grandmother Ba addressed him as a “youngster.” She was of his master’s generation.

Peng Tianwang snorted, “Very well. There’s nothing left to say!” He proclaimed, “Foolish mortals, clinging to wealth, race, power, and lineage, not realizing that whether rich or poor, Chinese or barbarian, noble or commoner, in death, we are all equal.

“The Confucians speak of universal harmony, but only in death can true equality be achieved. Tonight, I bring the underworld to the mortal realm, creating a kingdom of death, a kingdom of equality.”

The coffin behind him exploded, revealing a large, black archway. The golden energy surged towards him, forming a golden bridge beneath his feet, connecting the two worlds.

Countless ghostly figures poured through the archway, their screams echoing. The barbarian soldiers, caught off guard, their flesh and blood peeling away as the ghosts attacked.

They screamed and writhed, their bodies quickly reduced to skeletons that crumbled into dust.

The Ancestral Altar priestesses watched in horror. The woman in black shouted, “Keep chanting! Don’t stop!”

They hurriedly continued their incantations, the green smoke from the stone piles swirling around them, forming a protective barrier against the ghostly figures.

Grandmother Ba finally opened her eyes, her gaze fixed on four black pearls floating above the archway. She murmured, “The Four Pearls of the Underworld. You actually managed to refine them. No wonder… no wonder. With the Yellow Springs formed, and the Gates of Hell open, Dàxīng City is doomed.”

She looked down at the pearl before her and, raising her hand, channeled her power into it, its golden light intensifying.

Peng Tianwang sneered, “Still clinging to that sliver of hope, trying to gather more True Dragon energy? It’s useless… no one will escape Dàxīng City tonight!”

A woman’s voice echoed from above, “Don’t be so sure.”

Her voice, soft and ethereal, reached everyone present. Grandmother Ba and Peng Tianwang, sensing a powerful presence, looked up.

A colorful cloud platform, formed from swirling clouds, descended from the sky, a beautiful woman floating down, chanting, “Idle gaze upon the Azure Sky, singing songs of ancient lore, while moon rabbits are caught on mountain high, seizing destiny’s essence, illuminating the Great Clarity’s sky.”

Chapter 122: “You’re Always Bullying Me!”

Shi Hao looked down at Xu Xiaoyan, her alluring body curled up against him, fast asleep.

Her figure was slender and well-proportioned, her curves graceful.

He examined her energy flow. Her Daoist and demonic energies were mostly balanced.

On the other side, Du Yuejiao, still trapped in the nightmare, trembled, her face contorted in a grimace.

He gently laid Xu Xiaoyan down and picked up Du Yuejiao.

He used the Butterfly Flower Finger on her as well, but it was less effective.

She barely reacted, forcing him to be more… direct.

He tried everything, and after a while, she finally began to respond, her body thawing, her senses awakening.

Following Su Mei’s instructions, his fingers moved across her skin, her body twitching and writhing under his touch.

As if slowly emerging from a nightmare, Du Yuejiao’s eyes fluttered open.

She suddenly pushed him away, trying to escape his embrace.

Shi Hao held her tightly, “Yuejiao, don’t move.”

“Let me go!” she cried, her voice filled with anger and fear.

But Shi Hao wasn’t about to let her go. Ignoring her struggles, he held her close, his hands caressing her body, his voice gentle and soothing, “Yuejiao, stop it. I know I lied to you. I know I was wrong. I shouldn’t have imprisoned you, shouldn’t have hurt you like that.

“But it was the only way to get close to you. You were so cold and distant, and you’re so beautiful. It’s only natural that I wanted to be with you…”

The girl said angrily, “Don’t lie to me! You just wanted the information about the God-Sealing Stones!”

Shi Hao said, “God-Sealing Stones? What are those? Yuejiao, you should have more confidence in yourself. How could a few stones be more important than you? Do you really think I would use you like that? Why do you think so little of yourself? Look at me…”

He touched his face, transforming into the hooked-nosed young man.

Du Yuejiao’s anger flared again. She slapped his chest, but her blow was weak.

The hooked-nosed young man pinned her down again, his voice, however, gentle and soothing, whispering in her ear, “I know I was wrong. But you’re so beautiful. I couldn’t resist.

“Although I enjoyed… hurting you, I truly like you. Even when I tied you up, I liked you. Even when I used those snakes to scare you, I liked you. Even though I hurt you, I truly like you…”

He knew that her deepest trauma was from those nights he had imprisoned her.

If he couldn’t help her overcome that, he couldn’t save her from the nightmare.

He sensed the demonic energy still swirling within her. If she didn’t relax, surrender to him completely, she would be consumed by the illusions of the demonic trial.

The trial was designed to sever her emotions, and “resentment” was an emotion.

Du Yuejiao was furious. He had treated her so cruelly, yet now he claimed to love her, to like her.

She knew there were shameless people in the world, but she hadn’t realized someone could be so utterly shameless.

“Let me go!” she cried, struggling with all her might.

But his fingers, tracing her skin, sent shivers of pleasure through her body.

Her anger couldn’t withstand the rising tide of sensation, like a parched desert finally receiving the life-giving rain, her resistance futile.

She had never experienced anything like this before, so strange, so new, so overwhelming.

And his whispers, sweet and seductive, praising her beauty, telling her how much he desired her, how everything he had done was just to be with her…

She had never been subjected to such a relentless assault on her senses, both physical and emotional. Although she knew he was despicable, shameless, she couldn’t resist.

It was as if all the sweetness in the world had converged, enveloping her in a web of sensual pleasure. Her cries, a mixture of sobs and moans, echoed through the cavern.

“You’re always bullying me,” she whispered, her voice small and vulnerable, like a wronged wife, as she surrendered to his embrace, her body sinking deeper into the abyss of pleasure.

---

A group of women descended through a narrow crevice in the mountain.

Outside, the battle between the Ancestral Altar and the Ghost Extreme Sect raged on. The Ghost Extreme Sect had unleashed some kind of sonic attack, a cacophony of screams and wails that assaulted the mind, like a swarm of invisible needles.

Xuan Feng Huanzhi, Yue Yaotai, and Sha Lingshan, however, ignored the battle.

They knew that both the Ghost Extreme Sect and the Ancestral Altar, having invested so much in this fight, had a significant objective.

But that wasn’t their concern.

The three factions’ experts, wary of each other, moved cautiously.

“The Demonic Lotus Palace?” Xuan Feng Huanzhi, leading the way, suddenly exclaimed.

They were passing through a narrow crevice in the mountain.

Before them stood a large hall, shaped like a burning lotus flower.

A broken stone bridge spanned a chasm.

The palace, formed from swirling flames, radiated a brilliant light.

As they approached, the flames parted, as if welcoming them.

They saw a small, jade-like figure sitting amidst the flames.

It was a doll, with a morning cloud bun, a jade hairpin, and a rainbow robe, its appearance lifelike.

“The Emerald Beauty?” Sha Lingshan, the leader of the Mirror Flower Water Moon Pavilion, gasped.

Behind the three leaders, Dragon Girl, Snake Charmer, Zhu Ping, Huan Tingting, Peach Blossom Lady, Plum Blossom Lady, and the others also stared at the Emerald Beauty.

Seeing it, the three factions, their mutual distrust forgotten, instinctively reached out to grab it.

But the magnificent Demonic Lotus Palace, its flames radiating a powerful, oppressive aura, warned them against any rash actions.

They saw the Emerald Beauty slowly open its eyes.

Its eyes sparkled, and its small body transformed into a beautiful doll.

The doors of the Demonic Lotus Palace suddenly opened behind it.

A powerful, imposing aura emanated from within, making them gasp.

The Emerald Beauty flew towards the open doors and disappeared inside.

Xuan Feng Huanzhi, Yue Yaotai, and Sha Lingshan, followed by their experts, cautiously approached the palace.

The Emerald Beauty, the Demonic Lotus Palace… they began to understand, a sense of disbelief mixing with their excitement.

The demonic flames surged around them, blocking out the moonlight, as if transporting them to another realm.

The swirling flames formed fiery lotus petals.

As members of the three Evil Lotus factions, they recognized this powerful and awe-inspiring aura.

They entered the Demonic Lotus Palace. A crimson dome arched above them, fiery beasts danced on the walls, flames flickered from pillars, and the floor beneath their feet seemed to be made of solidified fire, red as blood.

They saw the Emerald Beauty land before them and bow at the foot of a crimson staircase.

They instinctively looked up, wondering who the legendary Emerald Beauty, the key to the Demon Empress’s legacy, was bowing to.

On the blood-red staircase, a young man with a hooked nose sat casually on a black jade throne.

He wore a long robe, his right elbow resting on the armrest, his hand supporting his head, his gaze cold and disdainful as he looked down at them.

On either side of him, two naked girls sat on the floor, their hands resting on his thighs, their sleeping faces serene and content.

The young man glanced at them, his eyes flashing, and a powerful aura, radiating from him, washed over the three leaders, suppressing their energy flows.

The Demonic Lotus Heavenly Yin? they thought, their faces a mixture of shock and excitement. The mark of the Evil Lotus Sect’s true inheritor, not seen for three hundred years.

The Emerald Beauty flew up and turned to them, “This is the Young Master. Bow before him!”

Xuan Feng Huanzhi, Yue Yaotai, and Sha Lingshan, along with their followers, hurriedly knelt. They were stunned, their emotions a mix of shock, excitement, and disbelief.

The appearance of the Demonic Lotus Heavenly Yin meant they could finally advance their cultivation beyond the fifth rank.

But the inheritor… was a man?

Yet, this was the legendary Demonic Lotus Palace, the Emerald Beauty had commanded them to kneel, and the young man’s aura, suppressing their own, confirmed his identity.

Despite their shock, a surge of excitement filled them.

The true inheritance had reappeared, and the three factions could finally reunite!

At this crucial moment, the Evil Lotus Sect, united once more, returned to the martial world.

Chapter 121: If Love Be Long and True

Ye Zi Yin said, “Recite it for me.”

Shi Hao slowly recited, “…Tender love, like water flowing, sweet moments, like a dream glowing, as I linger on the bridge of magpies, homeward going; if love be long and true, why should we yearn for constant viewing?”

Ye Zi Yin’s eyes sparkled as she recited the entire poem, combining the first half he had shared earlier with the newly composed second half: “Fine clouds weave their magic, shooting stars carry longing, across the vast Milky Way, a secret crossing; when golden wind meets jade dew, all earthly joys pale in hue. Tender love, like water flowing, sweet moments, like a dream glowing, as I linger on the bridge of magpies, homeward going; if love be long and true, why should we yearn for constant viewing?”

She looked at Shi Hao, her eyes filled with admiration, “Such beautiful verses, their meaning profound and their imagery evocative, a true masterpiece. I didn’t know you were so talented, Brother Hao. Even if you didn’t pursue martial arts, dedicating yourself to poetry alone would earn you lasting fame.”

Shi Hao felt a twinge of guilt… he had plagiarized it.

He sighed, “With the barbarians still occupying our land, poetry alone cannot save our people. In these chaotic times, a true hero should abandon the pen for the sword, fighting to restore our homeland.”

Ye Zi Yin took his hand and smiled, “Such noble aspirations are admirable, but they don’t diminish your literary talent. You’re exceptionally gifted, skilled in both literature and martial arts. Perhaps you truly can change the world.”

Her gaze shifted, a thoughtful look in her eyes.

Shi Hao asked, “What are you thinking, Sister Zi Yin?”

Ye Zi Yin sighed softly, “Your poem reminded me of something from my past. Alas, time passes differently in the Primordial Grotto Heaven. I hadn’t realized three hundred years have passed in the outside world. It feels like a lifetime ago.”

She looked at Shi Hao, “Brother Hao, after you leave, could you inquire about a place for me?”

Shi Hao said, “Of course, Sister Zi Yin. Just tell me.”

Ye Zi Yin said, “It’s called the Heavenly Tassel Immortal Manor, located in Lingnan. It’s a rather secretive place, hidden away like a paradise. Just… keep an eye out for it. There’s no need to actively search for it.”

Shi Hao nodded, “I will.”

They left the grotto and rejoined Su Mei and the Emerald Beauty.

The Holy Jade Immortal and Su Mei each took one of his hands, their combined energies suppressing the chaotic Daoist and demonic forces within him, reminding him again that if he couldn’t advance to the sixth rank within three days of leaving, he should return using the Jade Clarity Stone.

Shi Hao hesitated, then asked, “If I enter a day or two before the full moon, using the Jade Clarity Stone, can’t I still stay for three days and then leave on the night of the full moon?”

Su Mei chuckled, “If it were that simple, why would we insist you only enter during the full moon? The Jade Clarity Stone absorbs the moon’s essence. Only during the full moon can it connect to this place. Time is distorted here. If you enter at other times, decades might pass before you even arrive… decades within the Primordial Grotto Heaven.

“If we were still here, we would be old women by then. So, using the stone at other times is a last resort, a gamble with the flow of time, purely a matter of luck.”

The Holy Jade Immortal said softly, “But if you truly can’t advance within three days, you’ll have no choice.”

Su Mei looked at the Emerald Beauty, “The Young Master is your master now. Obey him without question.”

The Emerald Beauty said, “Yes, Master!”

Su Mei turned to Shi Hao, “There’s one more thing I need you to do. Little Emerald has survived until now using the Jade Corpse Technique, but her essence is fading. She’s close to… disappearing…” She explained what she needed him to do.

Shi Hao said, “I understand.”

The Holy Jade Immortal and Su Mei each struck out with a palm, and a rift opened in the air above them.

Shi Hao, worried about Yuejiao and Xiaoyan, didn’t hesitate. He took the Emerald Beauty and leaped into the rift, returning to the mortal world.

The rift closed, and the Holy Jade Immortal and Su Mei exchanged glances before turning and leaving in opposite directions.

As Su Mei walked, she thought, He didn’t even recite a poem this time.

---

Shi Hao and the Emerald Beauty emerged from the Primordial Grotto Heaven.

They were back in the Demonic Lotus Palace, at the bottom of the chasm on Dragon Head Mountain.

The broken stone bridge spanned the chasm, the golden energy from above flowing downwards, transforming into crimson demonic fire under the influence of the ritual.

The flames, forming a giant lotus, its petals unfolding along the walls, rising upwards, created a bizarre and sinister temple.

“Young Master, I’ll stop the ritual,” the Emerald Beauty said, flying towards the altar.

Shi Hao landed beside Du Yuejiao and Xu Xiaoyan.

The two girls were writhing in the flames, the demonic fire, although not burning them physically, pouring into their bodies.

Although the Holy Jade Immortal and Su Mei had suppressed his aura before he left, protecting him temporarily, being here, surrounded by the swirling demonic flames and shadowy figures, still made his skin crawl.

He grabbed Du Yuejiao and Xu Xiaoyan and carried them to the other side of the cavern, away from the intense flames.

Tendrils of fire, like grasping hands, reached towards them.

A stone staircase, flanked by bizarre murals, led to a black throne at the far end of the cavern.

He placed the two girls by the throne. He tried using the Butterfly Flower Finger on both of them simultaneously, but they thrashed and twisted, as if trapped in nightmares, making it difficult for him to even touch them.

He had to remove their clothes first.

The ritual had stopped, the golden energy from above no longer flowing into the cavern.

But the demonic flames still flickered.

“Young Master,” the Emerald Beauty said, flying towards him.

Realizing he couldn’t help both girls at the same time, he had the Emerald Beauty attend to Yuejiao while he focused on Xu Xiaoyan, using the Butterfly Flower Finger as instructed by Su Mei.

“What… what are you doing…?” Xu Xiaoyan whispered, her eyes fluttering open, her body weakly resisting.

“Relax, I’m helping you,” Shi Hao whispered, “This is the Dao Body Demonic Seed ritual. You’re undergoing a demonic trial. If this continues, you’ll die.”

His fingers moved across her skin, a constant, gentle stimulation. She writhed in his arms, her moans a mixture of sobs and laughter.

During the demonic trial, driven by the ritual, her mind, shielded from all external distractions, entered a state of “absolute rationality.” And the demonic energy created illusions, presenting her with dilemmas, but these dilemmas were carefully crafted, subtly manipulating her thoughts.

Shi Hao, as a transmigrator, knew that claiming to be “objective” was already a subjective choice.

True objectivity didn’t exist. Even scientific “laws” had their limitations and were constantly being revised and refined, let alone moral and philosophical concepts.

Like a nation facing invasion, witnessing a surge of patriotic fervor, there were always those who claimed “objectivity,” discussing the invader’s “reasons” and “justifications,” while ignoring the suffering and injustice. Such “objectivity” was a betrayal, a choice in itself.

But for those with immature minds, constantly exposed to such “objective” reasoning, it was difficult to remain unaffected. And those with ulterior motives could use this to distort the truth, turning black into white.

The demonic trial worked in a similar way, isolating the mind while presenting biased “dilemmas,” gradually planting a demonic seed of “rationality” within the victim’s heart.

If Xiaoyan failed the trial, she would die. If she passed, her mind twisted and corrupted, she would become heartless and ruthless… But that wasn’t who she was.

The Xu Xiaoyan he knew was a lively, free-spirited, yet loyal and compassionate, thief. She couldn’t stand injustice. She cared about her friends, even worrying about disturbing them after three years of separation.

After discovering he was being followed by that creepy doll, although she could have left and escaped the danger, she had returned, annoyed but determined to help him.

That was the Xu Xiaoyan he knew, not some heartless demonic witch!

He couldn’t let her become that. So he used the Butterfly Flower Finger, overwhelming her senses, breaking through the illusions of the demonic trial, disrupting her “rationality” with pure sensation.

Xu Xiaoyan, a young woman who had never experienced such intense pleasure, was no match for this technique.

Soon, she clung to him, her cries a mixture of pleas and moans.

As she lost control, he began harmonizing her Daoist internal elixir and the demonic essence within her.

The demonic essence, fueled by the ritual, had been gradually devouring her Daoist foundation. With the trial interrupted, the process slowed, but the imbalance remained, threatening to shatter her cultivation.

Fortunately, Shi Hao had experience with dual cultivation, and the Emerald Beauty hadn’t infused her with too much demonic fire.

Although she had subjected all three of them to the Dao Body Demonic Seed ritual, her true intention had been to kill him. As for the two girls, she had hoped one of them would survive the trial and become her successor.

With Shi Hao’s help, the balance between Xu Xiaoyan’s Daoist and demonic energies was gradually restored. The demonic essence, unable to completely devour her internal elixir and occupy her lower dantian, was redirected to her middle dantian under the pressure of his true energy…

Chapter 120: The Three Origins Flowing Pearl Technique

Shi Hao said, “I understand, Master. Please teach me the Nine Yin Demonic Primordial Technique and the Nine Yin Demonic Transformations.”

Su Mei recited the techniques, and Shi Hao memorized them.

The Nine Yin Demonic Primordial Technique could only be cultivated after reaching the sixth rank. For now, he could only memorize it and practice after completing the ritual outside.

However, with Su Mei’s explanations, he understood the general applications of the Nine Yin Demonic Transformations.

Hypnosis, bone shrinking, illusions, tendon shifting… a wide array of tricks and deceptions.

Some of these tricks, to those unfamiliar with their workings, would seem like supernatural abilities.

Although they were essentially just “magic tricks” using demonic energy, used at the right moment, they could be incredibly effective.

After explaining the techniques, Su Mei smiled, “We still have some time. Let’s go outside. Show me how much your martial arts have improved.”

They left the hall. Su Mei’s crimson robe, loose and flowing, exposed her shoulders and collarbone, the sheer undergarment beneath clinging to her body, her curves accentuated by the thin fabric.

The robe, draped loosely over her arms, seemed impractical for fighting, but she didn’t seem to mind, “Don’t worry, I’ll match my strength to yours. If you can even touch my chest, I’ll grant you any wish.”

Shi Hao took a deep breath. Despite her dismissive tone, he remained calm.

She was already trying to undermine his confidence before they even started. If he lost his composure, he would lose the fight.

He channeled the Unfettered Demon’s Boundless Art, his palm like a blade.

Empowered by the True Dragon energy, his demonic power surged.

At the same time, he used the Sacred Heart Clear Mirror Technique and his Primordial Energy to anticipate her every move.

Although she stood motionless, an invisible aura surrounded her, her robe and sleeves swaying gently, her beauty captivating.

Having practiced countless sword techniques in the Celestial Realm, Shi Hao knew he couldn’t touch her with just the Violet Vortex Blade Technique and the Severing Meridian Burning Heart Finger.

He quickly reviewed the sword techniques he had learned, adapting some of them into saber techniques.

He suddenly stepped forward, crossing a zhang in an instant, his palm-blade slashing downwards, not at Su Mei directly, but creating a vortex beside her, pulling her towards it.

Then, he changed his technique, channeling the Mysterious Charm Technique, unleashing a burst of demonic fire towards her chest.

“Not bad,” Su Mei said, flicking her sleeve and floating away, appearing behind him in a flash – the Soul Chasing Locking Steps!

Shi Hao hadn’t expected to hit her so easily. With his Primordial Energy, he could clearly sense her movements behind him.

He pivoted, a vortex forming beneath his feet, and, ignoring her palm strike aimed at the back of his neck, pushed towards her with his other hand.

This palm strike was a feint, a distraction from the “Celestial Maiden Scatters Flowers” sword technique, too weak to cause any real damage.

But he didn’t need to injure her, just touch her.

And being a feint, without any real force behind it, it was incredibly fast. He was certain that as she struck him, his hand would reach her chest. He might be knocked unconscious, but it didn’t matter, as long as he touched her.

“Cunning! You’re learning,” Su Mei said, tapping her foot on the ground, disrupting the vortex beneath him.

Her movement faltered momentarily as his fingers brushed against her chest, less than an inch away.

“But not enough!” The moment her foot touched the ground, she leaped into the air, kicking him, sending him flying.

Although she had held back, she had expected him to be incapacitated for a while. But he jumped to his feet and attacked again, his movements swift and agile, like a monkey.

“Using both your Daoist and demonic energies for defense, interesting,” Su Mei chuckled, seeing through his technique.

He continued his assault, using every technique he knew.

But even with her suppressing her power to his level, his skill was still far inferior to hers. Despite his best efforts, he couldn’t touch her.

She dodged his attacks, occasionally kicking or tripping him, sending him sprawling, but also offering guidance and correcting his mistakes.

By the time they returned to the waterfall, Shi Hao was exhausted.

He hadn’t landed a single blow, while Su Mei seemed quite pleased with herself.

Reaching the waterfall, he didn’t see Ye Zi Yin, so he crossed the lake and entered the grotto behind the waterfall.

He found her beneath a giant peony, as tall as a house.

He recounted his “training” with Su Mei, not hiding anything.

Ye Zi Yin had him sit down and, amidst the glowing plants, using her knowledge of strategy and the Yin Talisman, analyzed his fight with Su Mei, move by move.

He had initially thought of the strategies of Guiguzi as an art of persuasion and the Yin Talisman as military strategy.

But now, under Ye Zi Yin’s guidance, he understood that, in some ways, they were also applicable to martial arts.

The “opening and closing”, “reaction”, “flying pincers”, and “opposition and agreement” tactics of Guiguzi, along with the five methods of persuasion – conjecture, observation, weighing, planning, and decision – could be used to observe, analyze, and manipulate opponents in combat.

Knowing when to feign weakness, when to lure the enemy, when to strike…

And the “seven techniques of the Yin Talisman” – “Five dragons method of invigorating the spirit”, Tortoise method of nourishing the will, Winged serpent method of solidifying intent, Bear method of dividing power – taught adaptability, choosing the right approach for each opponent.

They could be applied to military strategy, diplomacy, and even martial arts.

With Ye Zi Yin’s analysis, Shi Hao’s one-sided “defeat” against Su Mei was dissected, each move examined and explained.

Since his martial arts skills were inferior, he had to rely on strategy. What to do in each situation, how to anticipate and counter the opponent’s moves, how to discern feints from real attacks, how to disguise his own intentions…

With Ye Zi Yin’s explanations, incorporating principles of strategy and military tactics, Shi Hao felt a sudden clarity, a deeper understanding of martial arts.

He also finally understood why, despite the witch’s cunning, the immortal was more than a match for her.

After the analysis, Ye Zi Yin began teaching him the “Three Origins Flowing Pearl Technique,” an advanced version of the Gathering Essence Flowing Pearl Technique, combining it with three foundational techniques: the Immortal Ice Technique, the True Water Technique, and the Profound Wind Technique.

After reciting the Three Origins Flowing Pearl Technique, she taught him the True Water and Profound Wind Techniques.

Like the Immortal Ice Technique, these two were eighth-rank techniques, easily mastered by Shi Hao.

The Three Origins Flowing Pearl Technique, however, required him to reach the sixth rank and refine the corresponding elixir before he could practice it.

She didn’t teach him any new sword techniques. There was no need.

He had already learned countless techniques in the Celestial Realm, more than enough for him to practice and refine.

Learning too much at once would only be detrimental.

Ye Zi Yin said, “The external elixir for the Three Origins Flowing Pearl Technique requires three Dream Grasses, one Illusory Sea Lingzhi, and one Azure Sky Vermilion Fruit, as well as three liang of Devil’s Thorn, seven qian of Sappanwood, one liang and three qian of Red Yeast Rice…”

She explained the ingredients and the refining method for the sixth-rank elixir in detail, then added, “The ingredients for higher ranks will be increasingly difficult to obtain. Be prepared. The Illusory Sea Lingzhi grows from the seed of the Illusory Sea Spirit Fruit planted in jade.

“Since you were able to find the Illusory Sea Spirit Fruit, the Illusory Sea Lingzhi shouldn’t be too difficult to obtain. Dream Grass originally only grew in the East Sea Dragon Palace. I don’t know if it can still be found. And as for the Azure Sky Vermilion Fruit, if you can’t find it, you can refine a hundred jin of ordinary Vermilion Fruit to create Vermilion Spirit Water, which has the same properties. You should learn this method as well, just in case.”

She then explained the method for refining Vermilion Spirit Water.

After Shi Hao memorized everything, their time was almost up.

But Shi Hao still had a question. He whispered, “Sister Zi Yin, is there really no way to resolve the conflict between you and Su Mei?”

Ye Zi Yin looked at him and shook her head slowly, “Countless lives were lost in that catastrophe. Now, only she and I remain. This conflict… it has to end. One of us has to die.

“She killed my master. And many of my companions died by her hand. This isn’t something you can resolve. Don’t get involved.”

Her voice was calm but firm.

Shi Hao remained silent.

“Speaking of which,” Ye Zi Yin smiled faintly, “The poem you recited last time, why was it only half a verse?”

Shi Hao whispered, “I only managed to compose half of it at the time. I finished the rest during my travels.”

Chapter 119: The Nine Yin Demonic Primordial Technique

Shi Hao frowned, a sense of unease settling over him.

Seeing his troubled expression, Su Mei chuckled, “Why would you think, after all these years of rivalry, that she and I could coexist peacefully?

“Not only is she my master’s killer, but during that final battle, do you know how many of my Evil Lotus Sect disciples she slaughtered, and how many of her so-called ‘righteous’ followers I killed?

“I don’t care. For the Evil Lotus Sect, I am the true inheritor. As long as I live, the others don’t matter. But she will never let me go. And as long as she’s alive, even if I leave the Primordial Grotto Heaven, I’ll always be looking over my shoulder.

“So, no matter what, I have to eliminate her. Preferably permanently.”

She tilted her head, her chin resting on her wrist, “So, the question is, if only one of us can survive, whose side will you choose?”

Shi Hao opened his mouth, but no words came out.

Su Mei didn’t press him, but turned and called out, “Little Emerald, come here.”

A shy voice came from under the covers, “Master, but…”

Su Mei smiled, “He’s your Young Master. What are you shy about? Or have you grown so bold that you no longer respect your Young Master?”

“I… I wouldn’t dare…” The Emerald Beauty emerged from beneath the covers.

Su Mei said, “Lie down.”

Shi Hao watched as the naked doll, looking embarrassed, lay down on the table, covering its face with its small hands.

Although just a doll, it was strangely lifelike.

Su Mei picked up a small twig and pointed at the Emerald Beauty, “Listen carefully! If you want to save those two girls outside, you’ll need to use the Butterfly Flower Finger. They both cultivate Daoist internal energy, but they’ve been forcefully infused with demonic essence through the Dao Body Demonic Seed ritual.”

“First, you have to interrupt the ‘demonic trial.’ If you don’t, they’ll either die or sever their emotions. But interrupting the trial isn’t easy. It’s driven by the ritual, demonic energy invading their minds, creating illusions, tempting them to abandon their past.”

“You can’t directly access their minds, so you have to use the Butterfly Flower Finger to stimulate their bodies, overwhelm their senses, make them lose control, and completely submit to you.”

She narrowed her eyes, smiling, “The demonic trial severs emotions by inducing a state of ‘absolute rationality.’ Human nature is inherently selfish. In a state of absolute rationality, self-preservation becomes paramount. And through illusions, they create various dilemmas, forcing the victim to make choices that gradually erode their compassion and empathy, planting a demonic seed within their hearts.”

“But since these dilemmas are just illusions, carefully crafted ‘life choices,’ the manipulation is subtle and gradual. By using the Butterfly Flower Finger to overwhelm their senses with pleasure, you can temporarily disrupt the demonic trial.”

“And then, you can help them balance the demonic essence within their bodies, harmonizing it with their Daoist internal elixirs…”

Su Mei, using the Emerald Beauty as a visual aid, explained the process in detail.

Shi Hao was stunned… Is that even possible?

Su Mei smiled, “Little Emerald told me about those two girls. They both have good potential. But that Xiao Yan girl has little chance of surviving the demonic trial. It’s probably related to her background.”

“And although she cultivates Daoist internal energy, her methods are more akin to demonic techniques. In a way, she’s already close to dual cultivation. Saving her and restoring her to normal should be relatively easy.”

“But that Yuejiao girl… that’s more complicated.”

She looked at Shi Hao, her eyes seductive and alluring.

Shi Hao, feeling a twinge of guilt, asked, “What’s wrong?”

Su Mei chuckled, “You’ve broken her heart. According to Little Emerald, she has a high chance of passing the demonic trial. She doesn’t even need any prompting; she’s already desperate to sever her ties to her past, to the person she used to be. For a lovesick girl like her, love is everything. And you, you cruel man, broke her heart.”

“If you ask me, just let her become a demonic cultivator. Once she passes the trial, she has great potential. Hmm, of course, dual cultivation is also a possibility now. But in her current state, saving her will be very difficult.”

Shi Hao gritted his teeth, “I’ll try my best.”

Although it might be too late.

He didn’t want Du Yuejiao to become a heartless demonic witch.

Su Mei thought for a moment, “Even if that Yuejiao girl passes the trial, it’s still a pity. Little Emerald intended to choose one of them as her successor, regardless of who passed.

“But now, since she knows I’m still alive, and you’re my chosen disciple, she can’t pass on the true inheritance to them. So, even if Yuejiao survives the trial, she won’t receive the true teachings. If you can save her and help her achieve dual cultivation, it would be a blessing in disguise.”

“But it won’t be easy.”

Shi Hao whispered, “I know, but I’ll do it.”

Su Mei said, “Alright, I’ll teach you the technique. Whether you succeed or not is up to you.” She continued her explanation, using the small twig and the Emerald Beauty as visual aids.

Under her guidance, Shi Hao gradually understood the principles involved.

Even for Su Mei, this was new territory. She had never tried to interrupt a demonic trial before.

After finishing her explanation, she released the Emerald Beauty, which hurriedly put on its rainbow robe.

Su Mei said, “After rescuing those two girls, the more important task is your own advancement. The power you gained from the True Dragon energy is unstable. If you’re not careful, your foundation will collapse.

“If things go wrong, you can always use the Jade Clarity Stone to return to the Primordial Grotto Heaven, but you know the consequences.”

Shi Hao said, “Yes, I know.”

They had mentioned he could enter the Primordial Grotto Heaven at any time.

But due to the time distortion, entering during the full moon allowed him to spend three days inside, while only a moment passed outside.

But entering at other times could mean spending just a moment inside, while days, or even longer, passed outside.

If he failed to advance to the sixth rank, he would have to return here and rely on Ye Zi Yin and Su Mei’s help, which meant spending ten days or half a month here, while who knew how much time passed outside.

Su Mei continued, “And there’s also the matter of choosing your cultivation technique after reaching the sixth rank.

“I’ll have Little Emerald go with you. She knows all the Evil Lotus Sect’s techniques. And there are also the three parts of the Night Charm Demonic scriptures. Once they’re reunited, you can study them yourself.

“At the sixth rank, you’ll be considered mid-level and have access to more powerful techniques. But don’t try to learn too many at once. I have a recommendation for your cultivation method.”

Shi Hao said, “Please tell me, Master.”

Su Mei said, “I suggest you practice the Nine Yin Demonic Primordial Technique and its corresponding Nine Yin Demonic Transformations. Unlike the Unfettered Demon’s Boundless Art, which is a powerful technique even without the Violet Vortex Blade Technique,

“The Nine Yin Demonic Primordial Energy cultivated through this technique is practically useless in combat. Its sole purpose is to enable the Nine Yin Demonic Transformations.”

Shi Hao asked, “What kind of technique is this Nine Yin Demonic Transformations?”

Su Mei shook her head, “It’s not a martial art, but… tricks.”

Shi Hao asked, surprised, “Tricks?”

Su Mei smiled, “That’s right, tricks! It allows you to eat iron, shrink your bones, control minds, feign death… It’s not a fighting style but a collection of tricks and illusions for deceiving others.”

“Don’t underestimate these tricks. Used for nefarious purposes, you could… defile a young woman without her even realizing it, or kill someone in broad daylight and hide in plain sight, undetected.”

“Used for good, you could drink poisoned wine and survive, the poison secretly discarded, or steal a treasure and leave behind afterimages, buying you time to escape.”

“It’s called ‘Nine Transformations,’ but it’s essentially a collection of various tricks. Few in the Evil Lotus Sect practice it because our techniques are generally yang-oriented. Without the Demonic Lotus Heavenly Yin, you can only achieve a superficial understanding of the Nine Yin Demonic Transformations. Only with the Demonic Lotus Heavenly Yin can you truly master the Nine Yin Demonic Primordial Technique and unlock the full potential of the Nine Yin Demonic Transformations.”

She looked at Shi Hao and continued, “After reaching the mid-ranks, you can use your enhanced demonic foundation to further strengthen the Unfettered Demon’s Boundless Art and the Mysterious Charm Technique, while also learning other techniques. That should be more than enough for most battles at your level.

“Although the Nine Yin Demonic Transformations won’t directly increase your strength, it will give you versatility, allowing you to adapt to various situations and solve problems in unexpected ways.”

Chapter 118: Learning to Slay Dragons, Saving the World

Shi Hao opened his eyes and found himself back in the heart of the giant red peony, with Ye Zi Yin.

He was exhausted, his body slumping, barely able to maintain the seiza position.

Across from him, Ye Zi Yin remained perfectly still, her posture impeccable, like a jade statue.

“Sister Zi Yin,” Shi Hao asked, “how long were we in the Celestial Realm?”

Ye Zi Yin said softly, “About a year, according to the flow of time there. But here, only a moment has passed.”

Shi Hao was stunned, “A moment?”

Ye Zi Yin said, “You can think of it as a mental exercise. Your body never moved. It was your mind that traveled to the Celestial Realm and practiced swordsmanship.

“You feel exhausted, not because your body is tired, but because your mind, your spirit, has been constantly engaged for a year, never resting.

“Mental fatigue can manifest physically, just as a good mood can make you feel energized, while stress and worry can make you feel tired.”

Shi Hao marveled at the wonders of the universe.

It was like a cheat code for cultivation.

But then again, both Ye Zi Yin and Su Mei had become leaders of the righteous and demonic paths, their names shaking the martial world, before even reaching twenty. Such achievements required… unconventional methods.

Shi Hao said, slightly dejected, “Although I learned many sword techniques in that year, and integrated them into my own style, I still don’t understand what ‘sword intent’ is.”

Ye Zi Yin smiled faintly, “If it were that easy, everyone would be a master swordsman. That year in the Celestial Realm merely gave you the knowledge and the techniques, compensating for your lack of experience.

“As for developing your own unique sword intent, that’s not something I can teach you. You were able to enter the Celestial Realm with me because you trust me.

“But because of that trust, our sparring lacked the urgency of a life-or-death struggle. You’ve successfully integrated those techniques and even created new ones based on them. But to truly transcend, you need a powerful opponent, someone who can push you to your limits.

“Only in a life-or-death situation, facing true danger, can you surpass your limitations and discover your own unique sword intent. And that’s just the first step on the path to becoming a Sword God.”

She looked at him, her eyes soft and encouraging, “Don’t be discouraged. My expectations are high. You’re only seventh-rank. Normally, understanding sword intent isn’t necessary before the fifth rank.

“Even those above the fifth rank, even fourth-rank experts, don’t necessarily possess their own unique sword intent. Although you don’t understand it yet, learning those techniques and practicing your swordsmanship will be beneficial.”

She added, “You should rest now. Don’t underestimate that trip to the Celestial Realm. Although only a moment has passed here, the mental and spiritual strain can have serious consequences if you don’t recover.”

Shi Hao sat down, preparing to meditate and regulate his breathing.

He looked at Ye Zi Yin, “Sister Zi Yin, what is the Sword God realm like?”

Ye Zi Yin said softly, “At the Sword God realm, there are no techniques, no forms. Every strike is a killing blow.” She flicked her wrist.

A storm of sword energy erupted above them, swirling and converging into a single, blindingly fast strike that seemed to tear through space itself, its power breathtaking, making Shi Hao’s scalp tingle.

The same Azure Sky Immortal Thunder technique, executed effortlessly, its power far exceeding his own.

Is that the Sword God realm? he wondered, stunned. How did I ever…?

Shi Hao meditated for three hours, gradually recovering.

For the remaining time, instead of martial arts, Ye Zi Yin taught him about the I Ching, the strategies of Guiguzi, and other subjects.

Especially the teachings of Guiguzi, which Shi Hao had previously only vaguely understood, a mysterious and profound art of strategy and manipulation.

As Ye Zi Yin explained, he realized it was an art of persuasion, of observing and understanding a person’s character, subtly guiding their thoughts and actions, manipulating them without their realizing it.

This was quite different from what he had imagined.

Ye Zi Yin said, “Don’t underestimate this art. The demonic sects are cunning and unscrupulous, while the righteous path is bound by rules. The demonic sects can take hostages without regard for the consequences, while the righteous path has to consider public opinion and the safety of the people. That’s why it’s said, ‘When the Dao rises one foot, the Demon rises ten feet.’”

“But why do the Daoist sects usually have the upper hand?”

Shi Hao wondered if this meant the Daoist sects were even more cunning than the demonic sects.

But it wasn’t about cunning, but about principles.

If the righteous path abandoned their principles, what would be the difference between them and the demonic sects?

Ye Zi Yin said, “The demonic sects’ selfishness and ruthlessness lead to constant infighting. But our Taisu Immortal Pavilion, in times of crisis, can unite the righteous path against them, dividing and conquering.”

“The demonic sects’ lack of scruples, seemingly an advantage, is also their weakness. When everyone is unscrupulous, no one can be trusted. In that sense, Su Mei is an anomaly among the demonic sects. Throughout history, many have tried to unite the demonic path, but it’s usually a fragmented and disorganized mess.”

“And our Taisu Immortal Pavilion, although small, can lead the martial world because of our long-standing reputation and our skill in diplomacy and strategy. Don’t underestimate the power of alliances. Individual strength, no matter how great, can only allow you to dominate. But uniting others allows you to lead.”

She said seriously, “If you only want to become a powerful martial artist, then focusing on cultivation and techniques is enough. But if you want to make a difference in this world, to learn to slay dragons and save the people, you must also master the art of strategy and diplomacy, the teachings of Guiguzi and the military strategists.”

Shi Hao bowed, “Teach me, Sister Zi Yin.”

---

Shi Hao passed through the waterfall, crossed the lake, and walked through the ruins.

Due to time constraints, Ye Zi Yin’s explanations of the strategies of Guiguzi and the military classics were brief. She simply had him memorize key passages from The Six Secret Teachings of Guiguzi and The Yin Talisman, offering a general overview.

These texts were difficult to memorize, but with Shi Hao’s good memory and Ye Zi Yin’s clear explanations, he managed to learn them.

He passed through the tilted archway, entered the partially collapsed hall, and climbed the white jade staircase.

Reaching the carved screen, he heard the Emerald Beauty’s soft cries, strangely tinged with… pleasure.

Su Mei’s melodious voice called out, “Come in.” She knew he had returned.

Shi Hao entered, and with a yelp, the small figure dove under the covers.

Its rainbow robe lay discarded on the table.

Su Mei sat at the table, her chin resting on one hand, the other tapping lightly on the table. Shi Hao wondered if she had spent the past six hours playing with the doll.

He glanced at the bed… What’s it hiding from? he thought, I’m not interested in a doll.

Su Mei chuckled, “You’re back. What did your little wife teach you?”

Shi Hao knew he couldn’t hide anything from her, just as she knew she couldn’t hide his inheritance from Ye Zi Yin.

He recounted his training in the Celestial Realm. Su Mei said, surprised, “She took you to the Celestial Realm? Hmm, accessing the Celestial Realm is something our demonic sects have never achieved. Even the ancestors of the Evil Lotus Sect only learned of the Taisu Immortal Pavilion’s ability to do so during the early Yang Dynasty.

“That woman is truly devoted to you.”

She tapped her finger on the table, “Sit down. Let’s talk.”

Shi Hao sat beside her.

Su Mei, her chin resting on her clasped hands, looked at him, “What do you think of me as your master?”

Shi Hao quickly said, “You’ve been… excellent, Master.”

Su Mei smiled, “And what about Ye Zi Yin?”

Shi Hao hesitated.

Su Mei said, “Just tell me. There’s no point in hiding anything from me.”

Shi Hao whispered, “She’s also been very kind.”

“Then here’s a question,” Su Mei looked at him with amusement, “If, in the near future, only one of us can survive, who do you want to live?”

Shi Hao was stunned. After a long moment, he said, “Master, can’t you two just… reconcile and leave this place together?”

Su Mei laughed, then her laughter faded as she stretched her arms before her.

She said slowly, “Only one of us can leave the Primordial Grotto Heaven. That’s unchangeable. She knows it, and so do I.”

Chapter 117: Practicing Swordsmanship in the Celestial Realm

Ye Zi Yin smiled faintly, “That’s why I’m not worried about you becoming a disciple of the Evil Lotus Sect. You’ll be an anomaly. In the end, either the Evil Lotus Sect will corrupt you completely, or you will change them, leading them down a different path.”

“Honestly, I’m quite curious to see what happens.”

Hearing her words, Shi Hao sighed in relief.

He had felt guilty about becoming Su Mei’s disciple, betraying Ye Zi Yin’s trust.

But now, he felt a sense of purpose, like an undercover agent infiltrating the enemy ranks, a hidden anomaly within the demonic sects.

Although this shift in perspective was rather abrupt, he truly felt he still belonged to the Daoist path.

He followed Ye Zi Yin, passing through a field of unusually large peonies.

The ethereal glow of the Cave Meditating Grass on the walls illuminated the colorful flowers, their size exceeding even that of a human, creating a dreamlike landscape.

As they walked through the peonies, Shi Hao asked softly, “Sister Zi Yin, you were waiting for me to ask, weren’t you?”

Ye Zi Yin smiled, “Was I?”

Shi Hao said, “You knew I would be concerned about your opinion, but you waited for me to ask.”

Ye Zi Yin, holding his hand, chuckled, “Don’t worry about such trivial matters.” She leaped into the air.

Shi Hao felt a gentle force lifting him as he ascended with her.

Before them stood a giant red peony, far larger than the others, like a towering building.

Ye Zi Yin carried him to the flower’s center, landing amidst the swaying stamens, surrounded by large, red petals.

“Sit down,” she said, facing him.

They sat facing each other, their hands clasped.

Ye Zi Yin said, “Close your eyes, relax your mind, and clear your thoughts.”

Entering a meditative state was a familiar practice for Shi Hao. He quickly relaxed, his mind becoming still.

He felt a gentle energy, like a warm current, flowing from Ye Zi Yin, washing over him.

Like a fetus immersed in amniotic fluid, he felt a sense of peace and comfort.

Trusting Ye Zi Yin completely, he let go of all his defenses.

There was no point in being on guard. Both Ye Zi Yin and Su Mei, his “wives,” could easily kill him if they wanted to.

He felt a gentle tug.

In the next instant, he and Ye Zi Yin were ascending.

It was a strange and wondrous sensation. He could still sense the giant red peony below, see their two figures sitting there.

But he was also rising, ascending towards an unknown destination.

He felt like they were leaving this world, entering a mysterious, unknown realm.

Clouds swirled around them, and colorful threads of light, like brushstrokes in the sky, formed strange and wondrous creatures that floated among the clouds.

“Where are we?” Shi Hao looked down, his eyes filled with wonder.

They were standing on a cloud, the giant red peony below no longer visible.

Ye Zi Yin said softly, “The Celestial Realm.”

Shi Hao looked up, stunned, “The Celestial Realm?”

He hadn’t expected her to bring him here so easily.

Ye Zi Yin said calmly, “Don’t be so surprised. Just as demonic cultivators can obtain demonic essence from the Demonic Realm, we, the Taisu Immortal Pavilion, have ways of accessing the Celestial Realm. And in some ways, the Celestial Realm is safer than the Demonic Realm. The Yin Demons of the Demonic Realm are mostly malevolent, constantly trying to interfere with and invade the mortal world. Dealing with them is like making a deal with a tiger.

She took his hand and flew towards the distance, “As for the Celestial Realm, these figures you see, most are just remnants of the past, echoes of beings that existed in ancient times. What we see now are just… shadows of their former selves.

“Of course, there are some dangerous things here, but generally, as long as you’re careful, you’ll be fine. And we avoid the unknown, unexplored regions.”

She looked back at him and smiled faintly, “Normally, even within the Taisu Immortal Pavilion, only high-rank experts can ascend to the Celestial Realm. And bringing someone else here is even more difficult. But the Primordial Grotto Heaven is the closest place to the Celestial Realm, in some ways, even… superior to it.

“Only here, in the Primordial Grotto Heaven, can I bring you to the Celestial Realm.”

Shi Hao said, “I saw our bodies remaining behind. Are we here in spirit form?”

Ye Zi Yin smiled, “You could say that, but it’s more complicated than that. The body you’re currently using is formed from the pure energy here, based on your own image. And I could only do this because you trust me completely.”

Shi Hao asked, “Why did you bring me here, Sister Zi Yin?”

Ye Zi Yin said, “To practice swordsmanship.”

Shi Hao said, “Practice swordsmanship?”

Ye Zi Yin said, “Indeed… practice swordsmanship.”

The scene around them shifted.

Shi Hao looked around and saw they were now on a giant, floating, white jade platform.

White jade pillars, carved with dragons and phoenixes, surrounded them, swords flying around the pillars.

Ye Zi Yin said, “Use your Primordial Energy to observe these swords.”

Shi Hao closed his eyes and extended his Primordial Energy… He wasn’t sure if his Primordial Energy was here with him or had remained in his body.

But as he focused his mind, it flowed naturally.

His mind, clear as a mirror, observed the flying swords. Before him, Ye Zi Yin waved her hand, and the swords began to move.

As he sensed them, they seemed to respond to him, dancing in his mind, and he began to understand… They weren’t swords, but sword manuals.

Each flying sword represented a complete set of sword techniques.

After demonstrating its corresponding techniques, each sword would disappear. After a long while, Shi Hao slowly opened his eyes, his gaze sharp, his expression filled with joy.

He looked at the Holy Jade Immortal, “Sister Zi Yin, I’ve learned so many sword techniques!”

Ye Zi Yin’s face remained impassive, but her eyes twinkled, “Show me.”

---

Shi Hao stood, sword in hand, his posture steady and composed.

The sword he held was the one forged by Daoist Tie Yu. It was still in Xu Xiaoyan’s possession. He had only brought the hilt with him.

But now, as he willed it, the sword materialized in his hand, a wondrous and inexplicable phenomenon.

Before him, the Holy Jade Immortal held her sword, its tip pointed downwards, her robe fluttering, her beauty breathtaking.

“I’ll match my power to yours,” she said, “Let’s see what you can do.”

Shi Hao raised his sword, then suddenly turned, his blade flashing, a streak of sword energy arcing upwards from left to right, then twisting and splitting into three – the “Threefold Ripple,” a technique from the newly learned Canglan Sword Technique.

Although he had only seen it in his mind moments ago, his body moved instinctively, executing the technique flawlessly.

“Not bad,” Ye Zi Yin said, her sword flickering as she effortlessly intercepted his attack mid-flight.

Their swords clashed and, their power equal, were both deflected. Ye Zi Yin, using the momentum of the impact, twisted her sword and thrust towards Shi Hao, forcing him onto the defensive.

Shi Hao gritted his teeth, using various sword techniques he had just learned.

Ye Zi Yin corrected his movements and offered guidance as they fought.

Shi Hao didn’t know how long they practiced. He integrated the various techniques, choosing those that suited him best, refining his skills.

He felt no fatigue, no exhaustion. He felt like he had been here for months… Ye Zi Yin never let him rest.

“Actual combat is the best way to hone your skills,” she said, “Compared to truly skilled swordsmen, your biggest weakness is your lack of experience and your unfamiliarity with the various martial arts styles. Some things require time and practice, and you lack both.”

She continued her relentless assault, her swordsmanship precise and powerful, forcing him to retreat, his breath catching in his throat.

“In the way of the sword, everyone has their own unique understanding. Only what suits you is truly useful,” she continued, “Every powerful swordsman has spent years, even decades, honing their skills, developing their own style. The same technique, used by different people, will have different nuances.”

“Using a technique at eighty percent of its potential is average. Using it at its full potential is exceptional. But only those who can infuse their own unique understanding and intent, exceeding its original power, are truly geniuses.

“But even geniuses require time to grow. I’ll give you time now. How far you can go depends on you.”

Chapter 116: If One Doesn’t Live for Oneself, Heaven and Earth Will Destroy Them

The Evil Lotus Secret Canon was divided into three parts: the unique cultivation method centered around the Demonic Lotus Heavenly Yin, the secrets of the Demonic Realm and the Night Enchanting Heaven, and the secret techniques for controlling the Evil Lotus Sect’s disciples.

Shi Hao listened intently, memorizing the scriptures and circulating his demonic energy according to the described methods, his power subtly increasing.

Su Mei smiled, “To ensure the sect leader’s chosen disciple holds a special position within the sect, their cultivation speed must naturally surpass that of their peers. The Demonic Lotus Heavenly Yin and the Secret Canon are essential for achieving this.

“Not only must they excel within the sect, but they must also stand out among all the younger generation of the demonic sects. That’s the importance of the Secret Canon.

“Traditionally, I should have chosen a child under three years old and raised them myself. You’re a bit… old. But technically, according to the flow of time in the mortal world, you’re three hundred years younger than me, practically a newborn infant, hee hee!”

Su Mei moved behind him, her delicate hands massaging his shoulders, “As for the tradition of choosing only female disciples, that’s just a custom. The previous two generations only chose female successors, so it became a tradition, an unspoken rule. But the Evil Lotus Sect’s ancestors never established such a rule, and the demonic rituals for interacting with the Night Enchanting Heaven never specified that only women could perform them.

“In fact, I’ve considered taking on a male disciple, raising him myself. It would be… interesting. It’s a pity I didn’t get the chance. The Evil Lotus Sect’s leadership has always been a single lineage. Since I’ve chosen you, I won’t take on any other disciples. Hee hee, you owe me one.”

Shi Hao said resolutely, “Don’t worry, Master. When I surpass you in skill, I’ll find a boy for you to raise and train.”

Su Mei chuckled, “We’ll see if you’re capable of that. Don’t disappoint me.”

Although demonic cultivators were selfish, they devoted all their resources to their chosen disciples, not fearing being surpassed but rather worried their disciples wouldn’t be able to carry on their legacy.

She didn’t mind his impudent words, only hoping he could live up to them.

She leaned against his back, her body swaying gently, and smiled, “You still have some time. Memorize the scriptures. I won’t disturb you. Just be mindful of the time.”

With a giggle, she spun around, the water parting as she leaped out of the pool and floated away.

The water flowed back, submerging Shi Hao’s head, but he remained there, sitting cross-legged in the lotus position amidst the blooming golden lotuses.

He circulated the Unfettered Demon’s Boundless Art, and gradually, the water around him began to swirl, forming a vortex, while he sat motionless in the center, his eyes closed, reciting the scriptures, pondering their meaning.

After six hours, he finally left the pool.

He removed his wet clothes, wrung them out, dried them with his demonic fire, smoothed them out, and then put them back on.

Reaching the upper level, he heard the Emerald Beauty’s cries from behind the carved screen, “Master! Master! No… no… ah… ah…”

Shi Hao’s eyes widened. What’s that sound? He peeked through the screen and saw Su Mei, her left hand on the table, her head turned slightly, using a small wooden stick to poke and prod the doll, which lay on the table beside her discarded rainbow robe.

Su Mei, without turning around, said, “Disciple, have you memorized the Secret Canon?”

Shi Hao said, “Yes, Master.”

Su Mei said, “Then go to your… little wife. I won’t see you out.” She seemed preoccupied.

Shi Hao said, “Oh…” Master/Wife seems very busy.

---

Shi Hao left the hall and headed towards the other side of the Primordial Grotto Heaven.

As he walked, he realized something was amiss.

According to Su Mei, the Demonic Lotus Heavenly Yin suppressed the Evil Lotus Sect’s techniques.

Indeed, after receiving the mark, the effects of the Butterfly Flower Finger had vanished.

Although the Butterfly Flower Finger was a powerful technique, it was ultimately just a variation of the Severing Meridian Burning Heart Finger.

So, when Su Mei had taught him the Butterfly Flower Finger and let him practice on her, her reactions… had all been an act?

He reached the waterfall, its water cascading into a shimmering pool.

The sky above was a dull grey, the surroundings dim, the only light coming from the waterfall and the reflecting pool.

“Come here,” the Holy Jade Immortal’s gentle voice came from behind the waterfall.

Shi Hao, circulating the Gathering Essence Flowing Pearl Technique, walked across the water’s surface.

Reaching the waterfall, he jumped through it.

He found himself on a narrow path that led to a hidden grotto.

The grotto was dimly lit, but it was filled with strange, glowing plants, woven into intricate patterns on the walls, illuminating the space with an ethereal light.

“Those are Cave Meditating Grass,” the Holy Jade Immortal said, appearing beside him, a fragrant breeze accompanying her, “They’re incredibly rare in the mortal world, far more valuable than Night Fragrance Grass.

“Some Daoist elixirs require Cave Meditating Grass. Finding even a single stalk is incredibly difficult.

“But here, they grow like weeds. I’ve been weaving them into these patterns to pass the time.”

Shi Hao turned and looked at Ye Zi Yin. She still wore a white robe, but its style was different now.

It was a pleated dress with a wrap-around top, a sash tied around her waist, her appearance ethereal and even more beautiful.

Ye Zi Yin glanced at him and asked, “Su Mei has made you her true disciple and taught you the Evil Lotus Secret Canon?”

Shi Hao knew he couldn’t hide anything from them. He nodded, “Yes.”

He felt a twinge of anxiety. He was now a disciple of the Evil Lotus Sect. It was understandable if Ye Zi Yin no longer wanted to help him. And as a dual cultivator, he needed both of them for his continued progress.

But Ye Zi Yin didn’t seem to mind, her expression almost as if she had expected it. She took his hand, “Follow me.”

Shi Hao followed her, then, after a moment of thought, decided to ask, “Sister Zi Yin, will you be upset that I’ve become a disciple of the Evil Lotus Sect?”

Ye Zi Yin looked back at him, a faint smile on her face, “It’s not that I’m upset, but rather… relieved. Su Mei is unpredictable and cunning. No matter how kind she might seem, it could all be an act.

“If you displease her, she’ll be ruthless. But now that she’s made you her true disciple and imparted the Secret Canon, she won’t harm you. Inheritance is paramount in the demonic sects. Unless something unexpected happens, she won’t choose another successor.”

“Although your situation is unique. Normally, demonic cultivators prefer to train their chosen disciples from childhood, forging a strong bond. But Su Mei is trapped here, and the three Evil Lotus factions need to unite. And your talent and progress in dual cultivation are… unexpected.

“Instead of spending decades training another child, who might not even be as talented as you, she decided to gamble on you. That’s why, when she took you away earlier, I knew she was going to bestow the true inheritance upon you.

“In fact, it would be foolish of her not to do so.”

Shi Hao recalled his first visit to the Primordial Grotto Heaven. Ye Zi Yin had been trying to protect him when she fell victim to Su Mei’s scheme. If not for the unexpected turn of events, with Su Mei also affected by the Pleasure-Inducing Powder, he would have inadvertently harmed Ye Zi Yin.

Because of her concern for him, she now saw his becoming Su Mei’s disciple as a good thing.

Otherwise, even if there were no immediate danger, who knew what Su Mei might do in the future?

Ye Zi Yin said softly, “Normally, someone like you would never be chosen as a demonic sect’s inheritor. Their creed is, ‘If one doesn’t live for oneself, heaven and earth will destroy them.’ They believe that if you don’t prioritize your own survival, you’re defying the natural order, and you will be punished.”

“Therefore, good deeds are unrewarded, while evil deeds are rewarded. Those who live for others will die for them. When you risked your life for those two girls, without regard for your own safety, you disqualified yourself from becoming a demonic disciple. Inheritance is paramount. Someone who prioritizes others over themselves is not worthy.”

“That’s why the Emerald Beauty used the Dao Body Demonic Seed ritual, a trial for those two girls. It’s a test of their will, a twisting of their minds. If they succeed, they will sever their emotions and live only for themselves. Everyone and everything else will become tools for their own advancement.”

“But if they still cling to their attachments, their love and loyalty, they will fail the trial and die.”

“Let me put it this way, I don’t know those two girls, so I can’t judge them. But with your character, you would never pass such a trial.”