Chapter 557 Bai Li's Sharpness
He is just a Holy Son, at most an equal to the Four Sequences.
Even he couldn't bring himself to speak ill of Yun Valley, especially since the humiliation of being easily crushed in public was still fresh in his memory.
Even if he wanted to, he would have to wait for a later time to get his revenge.
But now, the Blood Fiend Hall Master, whom he considered his patron, also showed signs of defection, which made him very resentful.
Sister Hong Yu was also present, and seeing Bai Li's rage, the disdain in her eyes was obvious.
She had some guesses about the anomaly coming from the Blood Fiend beside her, but she didn't delve deeper. Perhaps it was like Grandma You, or perhaps Gu Yun had a deeper grasp of it.
But what did that matter?
She had gone to the Hundred Flowers Holy Land to carry out a mission a long time ago, and she and Blood Fiend were only master and disciple in name, with not much affection between them.
Moreover, she had known Gu Yun's purpose for a long time and had readily cooperated, which was enough to show her inner inclination.
As for Bai Li, he had no idea that the respected master in front of him had already become a soulless puppet without independent consciousness.
Although Gu Yun still retained some of the Blood Fiend Hall Master's intelligence from before, to ensure that his actions would not be seen through by ordinary people.
"Bai Li, the Holy Son is the future of the Holy Sect, and even more, the hope of our Third Main Altar. Your disrespect towards him offends not only him but also the other three Sequences."
"Don't say such things again in the future."
"Master! That Yun Valley's origin is unknown, and his methods are extraordinary. He must come from a powerful force within the Three Thousand Dao Domains. How can such a dangerous person be allowed to become the Holy Son of the Demonic Sect?!"
"Now he has just become a Quasi-Emperor, and his wings have not yet fully grown."
"If we are to act against him, now is the best time!"
"Silence!"
A chilling killing intent, as if substantial, emanated from the Blood Fiend Hall Master, instantly enveloping the entire main hall.
Bai Li felt as if he had fallen into an ice cellar; the rest of his words were stuck in his throat, his face pale, and his blood seemed to be freezing.
"If you dare to disrespect the Holy Son again, don't blame me for... cleaning up the sect."
The Blood Fiend Hall Master's tone remained calm, but the coldness in his words made Bai Li's soul tremble.
"Hong Yu, Bai Li is a bit tired. Take him down."
"Yes, Master!"
Hong Yu's face paled at the right moment, and she hurriedly stepped forward to persuade him: "Junior Brother, let's go. Don't make Master angry anymore."
Bai Li said indignantly: "Master, are you really going to, for an outsider..."
"Get out!"
A cold glint flashed in the Blood Fiend Hall Master's eyes, and a powerful spiritual pressure instantly pushed both of them out of the main hall.
Hong Yu's figure landed gracefully, swaying a few steps as if in a daze before steadying herself.
Bai Li, however, was not so lucky. His chest and abdomen took a heavy blow, and his already unhealed body was now even worse, a trace of blood overflowing from his mouth.
"Junior Brother, are you alright?"
Hong Yu walked up to him, seemingly concerned, but made no move.
Bai Li struggled to his feet, his eyes bloodshot, staring intently at the closed hall door, his chest heaving violently.
"I'm fine, it's just that Master, he is no longer our Master!"
His words revealed the truth, causing Hong Yu's heart to clench.
"What do you mean by that?!"
"The former Master would never have compromised with Yun Valley, nor would he have struck me so heavily for an outsider."
"All these abnormal actions now already indicate that a huge change has occurred in the Demonic Sect without our knowledge!"
"Impossible, Bai Li, Master is a Great Emperor, who could have acted against him without anyone knowing?"
"It is precisely because such an existence acted that it is possible to completely subvert the Demonic Sect!"
"Sister Hong Yu."
"The Third Main Altar is no longer safe. Come with me."
Bai Li turned around and tried to grab Hong Yu's arm.
Hong Yu, however, seemed to have been struck by a bolt from the blue, staggering back a step.
"Wait, let me calm down."
"Sister Hong Yu!"
"We can't hesitate any longer."
"Now, only by going to the Second Branch Headquarters can we have a glimmer of hope."
"Earlier, I saw the location of the Second Branch Headquarters at Master's place. We'll go there. The Third Sequence is guarding it, and their strength is a notch higher than here at the Third Main Altar. They will surely keep us safe!"
Hong Yu was silent for a long time, then finally asked tentatively: "Junior Brother Bai Li, can I trust you?"
Bai Li was burning with anxiety. He knew these words were absurd, and he had no evidence whatsoever.
But fear had already taken root in his heart, so he tried his best to save his beloved Sister Hong Yu.
"Of course! Sister Hong Yu, I would never harm you. You must believe me. If we leave too late, it might be too late to leave at all."
Hong Yu took a deep breath, a resolute look flashing in her eyes: "Alright, I'll go with you."
Bai Li's heart swelled with joy. This feeling of being unconditionally trusted was truly wonderful!
"Fool, still thinking of fighting a desperate battle even when death is at your doorstep?"
"Just right, I'll keep a close eye on you for my master!"
With that, a message was sent to the imprint in her mind, and Gu Yun, far away in the Great Luo Dao Pagoda, perceived it instantly.
The two disappeared from their original spot and immediately headed towards the direction Bai Li had grasped... [Ding! Congratulations to the host for opening 2 red treasure chests and 1 colored treasure chest, obtaining:]
[Ancient Immortal Artifact: Heavenly River Chaos Bell, one of the Seven Immortal Sounds]
[Puppet Advancement Card * 100]
[Chaos-grade Treasure: Chaos Thunder Core]
All three treasures were what Gu Yun needed.
The Heavenly River Chaos Bell was a complete Seven Immortal Sounds, and it was the last one he had been waiting for.
It was probably related to one of Yao Qingli's masters, but he didn't know which one yet.
The Puppet Advancement Card was an old item. With the 4 he still had, it should be enough to advance all his Divine Armor Puppets to the Quasi-Emperor Realm.
He would soon go to the Second Branch Headquarters, and he imagined they would be of great use there.
The Chaos Thunder Core was a bead almost identical to the one used when transcending the Quasi-Emperor Tribulation. The energy within it was just as violent, but under the restraint of the system space, it could only remain docile.
Without hesitation, he directly used the Puppet Advancement Card on the Divine Armor Puppets.
After entering the Quasi-Emperor Realm, each level up required two advancement cards.
Thus, all eight puppets reached the fifth level of the Quasi-Emperor Realm. Now, if they deployed the Eight-Gate Golden Lock Array, even a Great Emperor would not be able to break free!
After tidying up his gains, Gu Yun also received a notification from Hong Yu.
"Finally ready to move?"
Gu Yun's lips curved slightly. With his appetite, how could he be satisfied with just taking down one Third Main Altar?
Bai Li wanted to go to the Second Branch Headquarters to seek protection, but what he didn't know was that the so-called Third Sequence was no longer in the Demonic Sect.
Precisely because of this, as long as the coordinates could be found, just a few people from the Underworld would be enough to completely control it.
However... to go to the other main altars, a pretext was naturally needed. Otherwise, the other party would immediately activate the Myriad Demon Slaughtering Immortal Array to resist, and even without the Third Sequence, things would become incredibly tricky.
But now, Bai Li's actions had, in the midst of it all, created an excellent opportunity.
As expected of a Child of Destiny, his sudden inspirations were beyond what ordinary people could achieve.
"Bai Li, oh Bai Li, you even gave me a big gift before you left. How should I thank you?"
"How about I give you a quick death? It wouldn't be in vain for all your efforts these past days."
Gu Yun's figure swayed, disappearing from the Great Luo Dao Pagoda.
At the same time, at the edge of the Third Main Altar, in a hidden valley.
//558///
Chapter 558: Strike First
Bai Li took out a shuttle-shaped flying magical artifact. This was one of the few treasures he had obtained from the Demon God System, and its speed was comparable to a peak Quasi-emperor.
"Sister Hong Yu, hurry up and get on."
Bai Li urged, his expression tense as he scanned the surroundings.
Hong Yu obeyed and stepped onto the flying shuttle, simultaneously updating Gu Yun on their progress.
The flying shuttle transformed into a streak of light, silently tearing through space, and sped towards the approximate location of the Second Stronghold that Bai Li remembered.
"How long will it take us to arrive?"
"Ten days. We will definitely reach the Second Stronghold within ten days!"
"Sister Hong Yu, don't worry. The Third Sequence is a powerhouse at the Great Emperor Sixth Heaven. In front of her, these people from the Underworld won't be able to stir up any trouble."
"Once we report the anomaly at the Third Main Altar, the higher-ups of the Demonic Sect will surely take it seriously. At that time, it will be Yun Valley's death sentence!"
A sinister glint flashed in his eyes. At this moment, his resentment towards Yun Valley even surpassed that for the Bai family!
"Mm..."
Hong Yu relayed this information to Gu Yun without any changes.
The four Sequence powerhouses were currently all on a ghost ship, exchanging glances.
"Master, this matter has nothing to do with me. I followed your instructions and told Bai Li to go back and reflect."
"I didn't expect him to commit such an egregious act. Please send me to capture him and bring him back for you to deal with."
Blood Fiend's attitude was extremely respectful. No one would have expected this to be a Great Emperor powerhouse.
"It's fine. Since I arranged it that way with you, I'm not afraid he'll escape."
"How many days will it take for this ghost ship to reach the Second Stronghold?"
"If we drive it at full speed, three days."
"We don't need to be that fast. Let's aim for around seven days."
"I'll go rest for a while. You all can handle the rest."
Gu Yun yawned and returned to the cabin.
After the three thousand days of battle with Aunt Zi, he needed to properly recuperate.
"A hundred times."
"A hundred times of what?"
"? Why are you here?"
Leaning on the bed, looking at Leng Huayun who had naturally snuggled into his arms, Gu Yun was a bit bewildered.
"I asked Master to bring me in. I specifically told her not to tell you, to give you a surprise."
"She couldn't refuse me."
"This Grandma You."
Gu Yun sighed helplessly and pulled Leng Huayun into his arms: "I just abstained, don't mess around, serious cultivation."
"? You're lying."
Leng Huayun made a move, her expression changed, and she huffed in dissatisfaction: "Are you dissatisfied with me?"
"No, how could I be?"
"Where's Feng Yunyun? Didn't she come with you?"
"She's with Shadow Jie and Shadow Seven Jie, very safe."
"Ever since entering the Demonic Sect, she's been in seclusion every now and then, and her cultivation progress is incredibly fast. She's about to surpass me."
"I don't want that, you have to help me."
Gu Yun couldn't help but laugh as he looked at Leng Huayun in his arms, her eyes stubborn and with a hint of grievance.
He naturally understood what she meant by "help." This girl's competitive spirit was still so strong.
Not only with Hong Yu, but also with Feng Yunyun.
It could be said that her demonic nature was basically manifested in this area.
A bit obsessive, but harmless.
"When it comes to cultivation, haste makes waste."
"If you don't rush, it takes a lot of time."
"..."
"Are you going to help me?"
Leng Huayun looked up, blinking at Gu Yun, looking utterly pitiful.
Gu Yun really couldn't resist. This expression, this attitude, Leng Huayun after letting loose was also a little enchantress no less than Hong Yu.
And their methods of enchanting were completely different.
However... they were equally adorable.
Gu Yun scooped her up by the waist, pinning her beneath him: "Woman, you're playing with fire."
"No, I'm playing..."
Gu Yun covered her mouth.
Stop, no more talking.
His figure flickered, disappearing... Seven days later.
The Underworld Ghost Ship silently hovered in the void at the edge of the endless Underworld Sea, perfectly blending with the thick Underworld Qi.
Inside the cabin, Gu Yun opened his eyes, a sharp glint flashing and then vanishing.
After several days of recuperation, the exhaustion from his "great battle" with Gu Yaozi had recovered, and his state returned to its peak.
Working with Leng Huayun, that little shrimp, didn't require too much energy, and Gu Yun had also completely solidified his cultivation at the Quasi-emperor Third Heaven.
"Later, I'll find a suitable opportunity to use the Chaos Thunder Core. I imagine I'll be able to successfully break through to the Quasi-emperor Fourth Heaven."
Gu Yun's lips curled slightly, a plan already forming in his mind.
"Master, the Second Stronghold is just ahead."
"Bai Li and Hong Yu still need three days to arrive."
The Blood Fiend Hall Master's voice came through his divine sense.
Gu Yun nodded slightly, his divine sense sweeping across the desolate outside world.
"You certainly know how to pick a place, building altars in these desolate Asura Purgatories where few people venture."
"No wonder the forces in the Three Thousand Dao Domains haven't discovered any traces for so many years."
"It's nothing more than a lucky coincidence. This place is a fierce beast to normal immortal cultivators, but to us demonic cultivators, it's a feng shui treasure land."
Underworld stepped forward: "Holy Son, there's Blood Pipa in the Second Stronghold, we..."
"Don't worry, Blood Pipa isn't there right now, and she won't be back for a while."
"Then there's no problem."
"In the Second Stronghold, there are only Fifth Sequence Ghost Fiend, Eighth Sequence Bone Fiend, and Ninth Sequence Shadow Fiend."
"Among them, the strongest Ghost Fiend is a Three-Tribulation Great Emperor, Bone Fiend is a One-Tribulation Great Emperor, and the weakest Shadow Fiend is merely a Quasi-emperor Ninth Heaven, likely still in seclusion. A mob of rabble, not worth fearing."
Underworld was very confident; dealing with these people would be a dimensionality reduction attack for him.
"You want to act directly?"
Gu Yun asked very calmly.
"Yes."
"Can you guarantee that the First Main Altar won't discover it?"
"No..."
Underworld immediately wilted.
"Then don't think about charging in head-on."
Saying that, Gu Yun lightly tapped Underworld and Hundred Beast's foreheads.
The auras of the two instantly became concealed, returning to the realm of around Quasi-emperor Fifth Heaven.
"This..."
The two looked at each other, both feeling incredibly magical.
Their own power hadn't decreased by half, but the strength they displayed was undoubtedly Quasi-emperor Fifth Heaven.
Gu Yun reached out again, and eight Divine Armor Puppets clad in black robes appeared, all of them at the Quasi-emperor Fifth Heaven.
"You two will act with them then."
"Follow behind me, Blood Fiend, and Grandma You. On one hand, it declares the legitimacy of me, the Holy Son."
"On the other hand... tell these people at the Second Stronghold that uninvited guests... are about to arrive."
"Old friends are visiting, why not come out to greet them?"
Blood Fiend's shout came from outside. Two Sequence powerhouses blended into the puppet formation and walked out of the ghost ship with Gu Yun.
//559//
Chapter 559 Greed
"You mean, this is the Saint Son chosen by the Third Main Altar?"
Inside the main hall.
Bone Sludge and Ghost Fiend were both present, facing each other in a standoff, sparks flying between them for a moment.
"Quasi-Emperor Third Heaven, such strength is indeed unparalleled among the Saint Sons of previous generations."
Even Ghost Fiend couldn't help but praise him.
The Second Branch Headquarters had also determined the positions of Saint Son and Saint Daughter a few days ago, but compared to Yun Valley, they were like the light of a firefly compared to the bright moon.
"Hall Master Ghost Fiend is too kind, it was merely luck."
Gu Yun's tone was calm, showing no emotion.
"So, I am very curious, what kind of traitor is worth the three of you coming together to apprehend him?"
After a few pleasantries, Ghost Fiend directly launched his attack.
From his perspective, since You Ming was not present, Blood Fiend and Grandma You were no match for him.
Many things could be said openly.
"A… traitor who could potentially overthrow the entire Demonic Sect."
Blood Fiend Hall Master took a sip of blood wine and said indifferently.
"Ghost Fiend, have you ever heard of… the Heaven Devouring Demon Physique?"
"Heaven Devouring Demon Physique?!"
"You mean, that person is the Heaven Devouring Demon Physique?"
"Exactly… a person with infinite affinity for demonic nature, yet he defected from our Third Main Altar due to extreme jealousy."
"Such a person even intends to go to the Second Branch Headquarters to bewitch you, creating a situation where the snipe and clam fight, and he profits from it, hoping to achieve rapid advancement in strength."
"We have specifically come here, hoping that Brother Ghost Fiend can heighten his vigilance and not be misled by him."
"…"
"Brother Blood Fiend's words are quite interesting. A mere junior who hasn't even reached Quasi-Emperor yet actually has the audacity to plot against two Main Altars."
"It truly makes one want to meet him."
"This is absolutely not a joking matter!"
"Bone Sludge, Brother Blood Fiend has come a long way, take them to stay for a while."
"Alright, follow me."
Bone Sludge was a hunched old man, but the sinister aura emanating from him still made people feel that he was unfathomable.
"Master, what should we do?"
Blood Fiend asked somewhat anxiously.
"Ghost Fiend doesn't seem to believe us."
"So what?"
"Do you think we came here to have a pleasant talk with them?"
Gu Yun chuckled softly.
Following Bone Sludge to the temporarily arranged residence, a complex of palaces built from giant beast bones.
This place was far from the center of the Second Branch Headquarters, clearly treating them as guests.
Bone Sludge stopped: "You all may rest here for now. If you need anything, you can instruct the attendants outside the hall."
"Since Third Sequence Adult is not present, the Second Branch Headquarters is currently on high alert. We ask for your understanding if there are any shortcomings in our hospitality."
After speaking, he was about to leave.
Suddenly, he felt that the surrounding space had been sealed off.
Bone Sludge's alarm bells immediately rang. He looked around and saw that the eight Quasi-Emperors who had followed Gu Yun were now positioned around him, locking him firmly in place.
"Blood Fiend! What are you doing?!"
Blood Fiend Hall Master sneered: "Bone Sludge, I originally didn't want to act, but you are truly unyielding, so we had no choice but to resort to this desperate measure."
"Bastard! As a Sequence, how dare you act within the Main Altar? Are you not afraid of the punishment from the two Adults?!"
"Don't worry, they cannot observe this place. Even Ghost Fiend will not be able to detect it."
With the Eight Gates Golden Lock Array deployed, the inside and outside were completely different spaces.
Unless Ghost Fiend had been here all along and constantly paying attention, he would absolutely not be able to detect it.
And because of Gu Yun's troop-splitting operation, the opponent had relaxed his vigilance, believing that only Blood Fiend from the Third Main Altar had arrived.
And Blood Fiend and Bone Sludge, both being One Tribulation Great Emperors, were sufficient to handle the situation.
However, unexpected events often arise from such oversights. As You Ming and Hundred Beast successively displayed their strength,
A look of terror finally appeared in Bone Sludge's eyes.
Soon.
The Eight Gates Golden Lock Array was dispelled.
Bone Sludge knelt on one knee before Gu Yun: "Bone Sludge greets the Saint Son."
A brand had already been planted in his Sea of Consciousness. He was now on a pirate ship, unable to escape.
"Go back. You know what to tell Ghost Fiend."
"Yes!"
Bone Sludge took his leave and turned to depart.
Upon seeing Ghost Fiend again, the speed at which Bone Sludge was subdued was too fast, and the commotion was too small, so Ghost Fiend had no awareness of it.
"How was it? Did Blood Fiend and the others show any abnormalities?"
"There were no abnormalities. They should indeed be here to search for the so-called Heaven Devouring Demon Physique."
"However, I don't think their motive is necessarily as they described. Ghost Fiend, you also know that the blood technique Blood Fiend cultivates has reached its limit."
"Now, his current body is the biggest obstacle restricting his development. If he still wants to make progress in this life, he can only start from his physique."
"This Heaven Devouring Demon Physique might be an opportunity for him."
"This is why he is so dedicated, unwilling to give up even if it means chasing after us to our Second Branch Headquarters."
Bone Sludge's voice carried a customary chill, his analysis logical and reasonable.
"You mean, he wants to seize the body?"
Upon hearing this, Ghost Fiend Hall Master's eyes flashed with understanding, and he nodded slightly: "That does explain it."
He thought he had seen through Blood Fiend's "true motive," and his vigilance relaxed slightly instead.
As long as it wasn't the Third Main Altar as a whole intentionally targeting the Second Branch Headquarters, but merely Blood Fiend's personal ambition, then it was within controllable limits.
"Ghost Fiend, I think there's an opportunity here."
"What did you say?"
"In terms of body snatching techniques, how can that Blood Fiend compare to you?"
"That is the Heaven Devouring Demon Physique! Known as the super physique most compatible with the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art. If you can claim it for yourself, your future will absolutely be limitless!"
"In the future, surpassing Third Sequence, and even those two, will only be a matter of time."
"That woman, Blood Pipa, has always refused you. Now is your chance."
"As long as you subdue her with absolute strength, she will have no choice but to agree!"
Bone Sludge's words were like the whispers of a demon, precisely stirring the deepest desires within Ghost Fiend Hall Master's heart.
Once the thought arose, the demonic skill amplified it infinitely.
The alluring figure of Third Sequence appeared in his mind, making Ghost Fiend's heart even more restless.
If… if he could obtain the Heaven Devouring Demon Physique!
Ghost Fiend Hall Master's breathing became uncontrollably heavier, and the gaze beneath his black robe became incredibly fervent.
"What you said… makes sense."
Ghost Fiend Hall Master's voice carried a hint of suppressed excitement: "Since he has come to my Second Branch Headquarters, he is mine for the taking. Blood Fiend still wants to lay claim to him?"
"Dream on!!"
"Bone Sludge, this matter still needs careful planning. Although Blood Fiend and Grandma You are not to be feared, once a battle breaks out, it will inevitably lead to suspicion from the First Main Altar."
"If those two are drawn here, then the so-called Heaven Devouring Demon Physique will be out of reach for both you and me."
"Here's what we'll do: you go and activate the Nine Nether Obscuring Sky Formation at full power!"
"I want this matter to be… completely unnoticed!"
//560//
Chapter 560: Walking into a Trap
Upon hearing this, Bone Sludge's hunched body trembled slightly: "But if the Nine Nether Obscuring Sky Formation is used without authorization, it might..."
"What are you afraid of? I'll take responsibility if anything goes wrong, Bone Sludge. Don't worry, if I can obtain the Heaven Devouring Demon Physique, I will certainly not forget your contribution today."
Ghost Fiend patted Bone Sludge's shoulder, tempting him.
These sequences, though seemingly glorious, actually lived in constant fear, which made them fanatical and mad.
"Alright, I hope you remember your words today."
Bone Sludge looked at Ghost Fiend and turned to leave.
Ghost Fiend didn't feel any abnormality; instead, he was immersed in the joy of soon acquiring the Heaven Devouring Demon Physique and greatly increasing his strength.
He licked his somewhat dry lips, and a sinister and greedy smile appeared on his face beneath the black robe.
"Heaven Devouring Demon Physique... Xue Pipa, didn't you look down on me? I will crush all your pride. You are mine!"
After leaving the main hall, Hall Master Bone Sludge's lips already held a faint, almost imperceptible smile.
It really was a case of searching high and low for something only to find it effortlessly.
"Your Highness, Holy Son, the mission is complete."
..."Ghost Fiend has fallen into the trap."
At the same time, in the distant Bone Hall.
Gu Yun stood with his hands behind his back, his divine sense clearly perceiving everything that happened in the main hall through the brand on Bone Sludge.
"Master's divine foresight!"
The Blood Fiend Hall Master and the You Po Hall Master complimented him in unison. To dare to scheme against a Great Emperor expert with only a Quasi-Emperor cultivation, his temperament and courage were truly terrifying.
"Once the Nine Nether Obscuring Sky Formation is activated, isolating the inside from the outside, it will be the best time for us to act."
He was just repeating an old trick; one could only say that the Demonic Cult's formations were still too exquisite, providing him with a perfect stage.
In addition, there was Bai Li.
The value of this Child of Destiny had basically reached its final moment. First, let Ghost Fiend complete the last bit of care from his Destiny Daddy, and then he would personally send him on his way. A set of small combos, incredibly smooth.
"Get ready."
...Three more days passed with such undercurrents, and Bai Li and Hong Yu finally arrived.
Feeling the demonic aura different from the Third Main Altar, Bai Li finally breathed a sigh of relief.
"Sister Hong Yu, we've arrived."
"Don't worry, the Second Branch Headquarters will surely keep us safe!"
With the effect of the Soul-Eating Heart-Burning Gu, he was extremely loyal to Hong Yu.
Hong Yu also gave him the response he desired: "Bai Li, this time, I owe it all to you."
"No need to thank me, Sister Hong Yu. You saved me before, so it's only right that I save you now."
Bai Li scratched the back of his head, saying somewhat awkwardly.
He was completely oblivious to the hint of pity deep in Hong Yu's eyes. Stepping into a meticulously prepared trap without realizing it, and even feeling smug about his foolish choice—this Bai Li was truly pathetic.
However, having offended Master, this was his final outcome, without any surprises.
Soon, the two passed through the distorted spatial barrier on the outskirts of the Second Branch Headquarters. As soon as they entered, an even colder, more eerie demonic energy surged towards them. Unlike the bizarre and bloody atmosphere of the Third Main Altar, this place was more deathly silent and heavy, as if every inch of air was condensed with ancient, unresolvable resentment.
"Halt!"
Several powerful auras instantly locked onto the flying shuttle. A few demonic cultivator guards, clad in bone armor and with icy eyes, appeared, blocking their way.
The leader was a Saint-level demonic general.
"The Third Main Altar has undergone a change. I am Bai Li, a direct disciple of the Seventh Sequence Blood Fiend, and this is Holy Maiden Hong Yu. We have come to request aid!"
Bai Li took a deep breath, suppressing the tension in his heart, and took out a blood-colored jade talisman to prove his identity.
Upon hearing this, the demonic general's expression changed slightly.
"What exactly happened?"
"I cannot speak of it directly. I must meet with the several Sequence Lords before I can..."
"Presumptuous! What kind of status do the Sequence Lords have? How can a mere junior like you just say you want to see them?!"
He scrutinized Bai Li from head to toe, his eyes filled with disdain.
"What change at the Third Main Altar? I think you two are just some nobodies who popped up from nowhere, trying to sneak into our Second Branch Headquarters to take advantage, aren't you? Get lost! Otherwise, don't blame me for being impolite!"
As he spoke, he even menacingly shook the bone spear in his hand, which exuded a chilling aura. A Saint-level pressure subtly emanated, attempting to scare away the disrespectful junior in front of him.
Bai Li's face instantly flushed red.
He was, after all, a direct disciple of the Blood Fiend Hall Master, usually surrounded by admiration. Yet this fellow, a mere gate guard, dared to make things so difficult for him!
"You!"
Bai Li took a step forward, his voice filled with suppressed anger: "I am a direct disciple of the Blood Fiend Hall Master! If I delay important matters, can you bear the responsibility?!"
"Oh ho? Still daring to talk back?"
The demonic general sneered. Bai Li still had old injuries, his aura was not apparent, and he looked like he hadn't even reached the Immortal Platform realm.
"With your meager cultivation, you dare to call yourself a direct disciple of the Blood Fiend Hall Master? Who are you trying to fool! I could say I'm the illegitimate son of the First Sequence!"
The other guards also burst into laughter, and the air was filled with joyous sounds.
"Kid, be smart and get lost! Our Second Branch Headquarters isn't a place just any stray cat or dog can enter!"
"Exactly, why don't you go look in a mirror and see what you look like!"
Bai Li trembled with rage, his fists clenched so tightly his fingernails almost dug into his flesh.
Just as he was about to erupt, a cold, hoarse voice suddenly came from behind:
"What's all this commotion about?"
Everyone looked in the direction of the voice, only to see an old man with a hunched back, leaning on a white bone staff, who had appeared at some point nearby. It was none other than the Eighth Sequence—Hall Master Bone Sludge!
When the demonic general saw Bone Sludge, his expression instantly changed, his arrogant demeanor vanishing completely. He quickly put away his bone spear and bowed respectfully.
"Greetings, Hall Master Bone Sludge! These two unknown juniors are causing trouble here, claiming they want to see you and Hall Master Ghost Fiend. Your subordinate was just driving them away!"
Seeing that the main person had finally appeared, Bai Li was overjoyed and quickly stepped forward.
"Junior Bai Li, greetings, Hall Master Bone Sludge!"
"I've heard of you. Come with me."
After speaking, he turned and, leaning on his staff, walked unhurriedly towards the depths of the headquarters.
Bai Li let out a long sigh of relief. As he passed the guards, he didn't forget to bump them with his shoulder.
"You..."
"You snobs, next time keep your eyes open and know your place."
"Not everyone is as easy to talk to as I am!"
Bai Li chuckled lightly, feeling triumphant as he walked in.
"Bastard, I'd like to see how long you can be arrogant!"
The guard, filled with unvented anger, could only take it out on his colleagues.
"What are you still standing here looking at? Go patrol!"
..."You mean You Ming, Grandma You, Hundred Beast, and the others have all betrayed us, and only you escaped?"
"What is the basis for this claim?"
Bai Li and Hong Yu were brought before Ghost Fiend, who immediately began his interrogation.
//561//
Chapter 561 Demonic Soul Purgatory (Two in One)
Hall Master of Ghost Fiend sat high on the bone throne, his gaze sweeping back and forth between Bai Li and Hong Yu.
Feeling the pressure of the Emperor, fine cold sweat seeped from Bai Li's forehead, but he still forced himself to calm down and presented his carefully prepared statement: "Reporting to Hall Master of Ghost Fiend, it's absolutely true!"
"That Yun Valley is not some ordinary genius at all; he possesses a strange power that can manipulate people's hearts."
"For some unknown reason, the Hall Master You Ming, the Hall Master of Hundred Beast Hall, and even my master, Blood Fiend, all seem to have become different people, obeying Yun Valley's every command."
"I suspect he comes from some Immortal Dao family within the Three Thousand Dao Domains, intending to destroy the Demonic Cult."
His voice was filled with grief and fear, attempting to gain Ghost Fiend's approval.
The Hall Master of Ghost Fiend listened quietly, not immediately expressing his stance, then turned his gaze to Bone Sludge beside him: "Bone Sludge, what do you think?"
Bone Sludge's body was hunched, his voice hoarse like sandpaper rubbing: "Controlling a Great Emperor with the divine power of a Quasi-Emperor, I have never heard of such a thing."
"What I said is true. Previously, my master favored me greatly, but these days he has already sided with Yun Valley."
"There must be some secret involved. I implore you two sirs to uphold justice for me!"
"Oh, and where is Adult Blood Pipa? Why haven't I seen her?"
"That Netherworld is now also afflicted. Only a Third Sequence adult can suppress him."
"How can the Third Sequence be seen just because you wish to? She is not currently within the Demonic Cult. You can wait here for a few more days."
"I will send disciples to the Third Main Altar to investigate. If it is truly as you say, it will not be too late to act."
"But..."
Bai Li still wanted to say something.
But he was directly interrupted by Ghost Fiend: "I observe that your talent is not bad. You have come a long way and endured the hardships of travel. Even if the truth of the matter has not yet been ascertained, your loyalty to the Demonic Cult is as clear as the sun and moon."
"Bone Sludge, open the Demonic Soul Purgatory and let this young man undergo a trial."
Demonic Soul Purgatory!
Bai Li's heart stirred. This was the terrifying place in the Second Branch Headquarters used to temper one's divine soul and interrogate inner demons!
It imprisoned countless powerful demonic souls of ancient defeated warriors, filled with malevolent aura and extremely perilous.
It was known as one of the two great purgatories, alongside the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool of the Third Main Altar. Ordinary cultivators who stayed in it for too long could suffer damage to their divine souls, or even be assimilated by demonic souls, becoming monsters that only knew how to kill!
But for him, who possessed the Heaven Devouring Demon Physique, this was an unparalleled opportunity!
Those fierce demonic souls imprisoned for tens of thousands of years were the purest nourishment for him.
The Hall Master of Ghost Fiend's action gave him a great opportunity to quickly recover from his injuries and enhance his strength!
It seemed that while the Hall Master of Ghost Fiend remained cautious, he was inwardly beginning to trust him and had started to invest!
"Thank you, Adult Ghost Fiend!"
Bai Li suppressed his excitement, quickly bowed in gratitude, his voice filled with thanks. After glimpsing Sister Hong Yu out of the corner of his eye, he couldn't help but try to secure something for Sister Hong Yu as well: "Hall Master, the Saint Sons and Saintesses of the three main altars have always been qualified to simultaneously use the trial grounds of all three main altars."
"To be frank, my senior sister Hong Yu is the Saintess of the Third Main Altar who stood out in this assessment..."
Before Bai Li could finish speaking, the Hall Master of Ghost Fiend waved his hand: "Granted. Since she is your Third Main Altar Saintess, she should be treated equally."
"Bone Sludge, take both of them to the Demonic Soul Purgatory."
Seeing him agree so readily, Bai Li was overjoyed, feeling that the Hall Master of Ghost Fiend was indeed righteous and held him in high regard.
After bowing in thanks again, the two followed Bone Sludge out of the main hall.
"Both of you, please follow me."
Bone Sludge leaned on his staff, turning to lead the way.
Bai Li was full of vigor, following closely, feeling that his future was bright.
The advantage was with him. Hadn't Gu Yun successfully broken through to the Quasi-Emperor Realm through the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool?
He could do the same, and he would do it even better!
With the support of the Hall Master of Ghost Fiend, he would expose Yun Valley's true face, reclaim everything, and become the new leader of the Demonic Cult!
Sister Hong Yu silently followed at the very end, a hint of playfulness and mockery in her eyes.
Demonic Soul Purgatory?
That was indeed a place of opportunity, but... she wondered whose place of opportunity it was!
Deep within the Second Branch Headquarters, before an abyss entangled by countless massive chains and exuding a strong ominous aura.
Hall Master Bone Sludge stopped, pointing to the bottomless abyss entrance where demonic energy surged like boiling water, and said indifferently: "This is the entrance to the Demonic Soul Purgatory."
"Once inside, life and death are up to fate. Are you ready?"
From within the abyss, countless resentful souls occasionally let out mournful roars and screams. The dense negative energy almost solidified, causing one's divine soul to tremble.
Bai Li's expression was excited, his fighting spirit burning fiercely.
"Junior, I am ready!"
"Good, then go."
Hall Master Bone Sludge lightly tapped his white bone staff, and the demonic energy at the abyss entrance parted like a curtain, revealing a passage leading to the dark depths.
Bai Li took a deep breath and stepped in without hesitation.
Sister Hong Yu followed closely, her figure also disappearing into the dense demonic energy.
Watching their disappearing figures, Hall Master Bone Sludge's hunched body slowly straightened a little, and a peculiar light flashed in his turbid eyes.
Behind him, Gu Yun's figure emerged.
"Is it all arranged?"
"Yes, Master."
Bone Sludge seemed to have known of his presence long ago, bowing to him.
"I have already tampered with Bai Li's body. The hatred of those resentful souls will be completely locked onto him, surely making him exhausted."
"Alright, let me go in too."
"Give me the map."
"Yes."
Bone Sludge's mind stirred, and he transmitted a map, marked with the internal areas and danger distribution of the Demonic Soul Purgatory, to Gu Yun.
"This map is not entirely complete; I drew it based on my memories of trials in the Demonic Soul Purgatory."
"However, the most dangerous treasure areas within it will not change in a short time, so please rest assured, His Highness the Saint Son."
Gu Yun's divine sense swept over it, understanding it instantly.
"You guard here. If there's any unusual movement, contact me at any time."
Gu Yun instructed, and with a flicker of his figure, he merged into the shadows, silently entering the passage where demonic energy surged.
Bone Sludge respectfully lowered his head. Only after Gu Yun's figure disappeared did he hunch his body again, leaning on his staff, standing silently by the abyss like the most loyal gatekeeper... Inside the Demonic Soul Purgatory, the sky was dark red, the earth cracked, and the entire space was filled with various strangely shaped skeletons.
Bai Li and Sister Hong Yu's figures appeared within it, both looking somewhat solemn.
Countless malicious gazes instantly locked onto the two of them.
"Roar—!"
"Kill! Kill him!"
"Fresh souls! Devour him!"
In an instant, roars erupted.
Hundreds of thousands of demonic souls swarmed from all directions like a tide, creating ripples of power.
Sister Hong Yu's brow furrowed, and she retreated behind Bai Li.
Bai Li didn't notice this small movement. Instead, he stepped forward: "Sister Hong Yu, don't worry, I'm here!"
He activated the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art and charged towards the demonic souls and vengeful spirits. The battle was incredibly fierce. The demonic souls' intangible bodies easily broke through spiritual energy blockades to harm Bai Li, but Bai Li's Heaven Devouring Demonic Art was like a stubborn plaster, firmly sticking to them. The two sides entered a prolonged battle. Although Bai Li was already covered in scars, he still persevered, refusing to easily give in.
As time passed, Sister Hong Yu couldn't help but yawn.
"So boring. I haven't seen Master in ten days. I miss him."
"Hmm? Master's scent!"
Her nose twitched slightly, and she suddenly caught a familiar scent. Sister Hong Yu was overjoyed.
Just as she was about to go search, a familiar voice echoed in her ear.
"What, after a few days, Xiao Yuer's nose has become so sensitive?"
Gu Yun's figure appeared, pulling Sister Hong Yu into his arms.
Naturally softening into the young man's embrace, Sister Hong Yu's mood instantly cleared: "Master, why are you here? Be careful, Bai Li might discover you."
She glanced at Bai Li, who was fighting fiercely like a god of war in front of them, and chuckled, her fingers tracing lines on Gu Yun's body.
"Discover? Why don't I see any fear in you?"
Gu Yun chuckled, and the power of the deceiving heaven mask enveloped the two of them.
From the outside, Sister Hong Yu still appeared to have a worried expression, showing no abnormalities.
"Oh, Master, Xiao Yuer hasn't seen you in ten days, ten whole days. How can you expect me to endure it?"
Her soft, tingling voice was like a cat's paw scratching at Gu Yun's heart: "You little vixen, I'll satisfy you right now."
Outside, Bai Li was still fighting in a bloodbath. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Sister Hong Yu staring at him intently, the worry in her eyes seemingly about to overflow.
His heart was filled with satisfaction and joy. He was not only fighting for himself but also for those he cared about.
This feeling was truly wonderful!
With the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art operating at its peak, Bai Li finally reached the limit of his body.
Demonic energy condensed around him into countless tiny devouring swirls, tearing and refining the constantly attacking demonic souls.
With each demonic soul refined, his aura grew stronger, and his injuries recovered at a visible rate, even showing faint signs of a breakthrough.
Inside the deceiving heaven mask.
Gu Yun sat leisurely on a large, unknown beast's skull, holding Sister Hong Yu's soft body in his arms.
His gaze constantly lingered on Bai Li. The Heaven Devouring Demon Physique had a very high utilization rate for demonic souls and demonic energy, so there was no waste.
What made Gu Yun even happier was that, just like when he was in the Ten Thousand Demons Blood Pool, his Villain Value began to skyrocket.
Most of these demonic souls had at least the cultivation of the Saint Realm before their deaths, and they could provide Gu Yun with some 'mosquito meat,' which accumulated into a very considerable sum.
"The resentment in the blood pool can provide 500,000 Villain Value. I imagine this ancient battlefield should provide no less."
Gu Yun's mind stirred, and he placed his hands on Sister Hong Yu's waist, pulling her up.
"Master darling~~ What are you doing?"
Sister Hong Yu purred like a docile cat, clinging to him, expressing her dissatisfaction with a soft hum.
"You go straight to the main event without even foreplay. You're really impatient, aren't you?"
"How can I not be impatient? Master has Sister Hua Yun for company, and his days are sweet and pleasant. How can he understand the pain of a lonely night?"
Sister Hong Yu complained.
But Gu Yun pulled her back, stuffing a fruit into her mouth, and comforted her: "Don't worry, there will be plenty of opportunities later."
"No, I don't want later, I want it now!"
Sister Hong Yu was very stubborn, directly turning and pressing herself onto Gu Yun, her full upper body blocking all his sight.
Gu Yun also looked helpless, so he could only nod and satisfy Sister Hong Yu's small request.
The sudden action also made Sister Hong Yu content. Her cheeks flushed, and her hands wrapped around Gu Yun's neck tightened.
After a long while, the little wildcat exhausted her energy and completely softened in Gu Yun's embrace.
Only then was the young man able to withdraw. Sweet juice burst in his mouth, and a rich fragrance flowed from his lips.
"Xiao Yuer is still the most considerate. Could it be that you're already prepared?"
"What are you talking about? You rascal, how could you not know what my body is like?"
"Hehe, of course, if Master ever feels like it, Xiao Yuer is always ready, you know."
Sister Hong Yu enjoyed this rare moment of tenderness, blurting out her innermost thoughts.
After saying this, she quickly covered her mouth: "I'm sorry, Master, Xiao Yuer shouldn't have acted on her own."
"Don't worry, there will be a chance."
Gu Yun didn't spoil the mood but held Sister Hong Yu in a different way.
Outside, Bai Li's battle was nearing its end.
The fooling around should temporarily stop. He retrieved the red dress from the side and put it back on Sister Hong Yu. The latter's figure was still a bit unsteady, so she had to hold Gu Yun's hand and walk slowly.
"Master, how do you plan to deal with him?"
Looking at Bai Li, who was overjoyed in front of them, Sister Hong Yu's words carried a hint of playfulness.
She knew that Gu Yun's patience was probably reaching its limit, and her days of feigning compliance would not last much longer.
"The Demonic Soul Purgatory is vast. Wouldn't it be too tiring if I had to search for everything myself?"
"Let Bai Li work hard. It can also be considered letting him contribute more."
"Master, you're so bad."
"Really? It seems you have some opinions."
"The worse, the more I like it!"
Sister Hong Yu tugged at the young man's collar, lightly pecking him, then stepped forward.
Switching her acting in an instant, she looked at the injured Bai Li with deep pity.
"Bai Li, are you alright? This place is too dangerous. Why don't you let me fight next?"
She made to help Bai Li, but he staggered to his feet, a righteous look on his face: "Sister Hong Yu, how can I let you protect me!"
"Don't worry, my Heaven Devouring Demon Physique is the natural enemy of these soul creatures. I only need to fight to grow stronger. I will protect you!"
With that, he left without looking back, heading deeper into the purgatory: "The demonic creatures here are still too weak. Sister Hong Yu, we cannot miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Follow me!"
Sister Hong Yu's lips curved slightly, and she cast a light, flirtatious glance backward, as if triumphant.
She only needed to make a slight move to make Bai Li run in circles.
"What, are you very proud? Do you think you're very capable?"
Gu Yun's palm pressed against her, his voice very domineering.
Sister Hong Yu instantly softened, no longer showing any trace of complacency: "Master, please spare me. Xiao Yuer's body can't take it."
"Alright, look at you. Am I some kind of monstrous flood beast?"
Sister Hong Yu nodded repeatedly, neither agreeing nor disagreeing with the young man's words.
Gu Yun was quite pleased. At the same time, he took out a scroll: "Find a way to guide him to this place. The concentration of demonic souls there is the highest."
"Let Bai Li devour to his heart's content!"
///562//
Chapter 562: Tomb of Ten Thousand Souls (Two in One)
Hong Yu took the scroll, swept her divine sense over it, and quickly located and memorized the direction Gu Yun pointed to.
It was a secret place called "Myriad Souls Tomb," a battlefield where countless powerful demonic souls clashed, and the malevolent aura there far surpassed that of the outer regions.
There were even beings in the mid to late Quasi-Emperor Realm, which for Bai Li, was a death trap.
"Master, rest assured, Xiao Yuer understands."
Hong Yu smiled charmingly, put away the scroll, and gracefully pursued Bai Li in the direction he had left.
Gu Yun watched her retreating figure, a slight smirk playing on his lips... Deep within the Demonic Soul Purgatory, the environment grew increasingly harsh.
The dark red sky seemed as if it would drip blood, creating an oppressive atmosphere.
And here, the demonic souls were not only more numerous, but their strength also far exceeded those in the outer regions; there were even powerful soul generals comparable to Quasi-Emperor Realm experts!
Bai Li's pressure surged, forcing him to slow his pace. Moreover, to protect Hong Yu, he hadn't closed his eyes for three days and three nights, his nerves constantly taut, pushing him to the brink of collapse.
"Pfft!"
Bai Li spat out a mouthful of fresh blood, his face pale, but his eyes grew fiercer and more determined.
"No, I can't fall here. Sister Hong Yu is still watching me. I need to become stronger; only by becoming strong enough can I reclaim everything that belongs to me!"
His body was already operating beyond its limits, and his cultivation was rapidly improving through life-and-death battles.
The old injuries from his forced breakthrough had all disappeared, and his cultivation had returned to the peak of the Saint Ruler Realm, just a step away from the Great Saint Realm.
However, his divine soul was also under immense strain, and endless black energy emanated from his body.
"Looking at him, he seems to be reaching his limit."
Hong Yu said, "Entering the Myriad Souls Tomb in such a state, will he die directly inside?"
She rested her elbows on the ground, watching the scene before her with great interest, as if she were watching a movie.
"Don't worry, that Bai Li is favored by the Heavenly Dao's destiny."
"He is best at turning misfortune into blessings and finding life in desperate situations. A mere secret realm or dangerous place won't take his life."
Gu Yun chuckled lightly.
"However, our goal isn't really for him to obtain the opportunities inside."
"There is a Soul Demon King in the Myriad Souls Tomb, at least at the sixth level of the Quasi-Emperor Realm. If we're lucky, it should be in a dormant state."
"When the time comes, you go in and wake it up. A furious demonic soul will destroy all living beings in its sight. See if we can force out Bai Li's last trump card."
"Master, you are truly cautious."
Hong Yu giggled.
Gu Yun pressed her perky buttocks: "What, are you perhaps dissatisfied?"
With that, he no longer held back. Hong Yu's skin was tender and delicate, so soft that a light pinch could draw water. In his hands, he couldn't bear to let go.
"No, mm, no, Hong Yu wouldn't dare, wouldn't dare..."
"Sister Hong Yu, let's rest for a while."
Bai Li, covered in wounds, approached the composed Hong Yu.
Little did he know that the Sister Hong Yu, whom he held as sacred in his heart, was currently in another man's arms, yielding to his desires.
"Bai Li, hold on. Our time limit in the Demonic Soul Purgatory is only three days."
"If you waste this great opportunity to improve your strength by resting, will you be willing?!"
Her brows were tightly furrowed, filled with concern.
Bai Li was immensely grateful upon hearing this. As expected of his Sister Hong Yu, she truly thought of everything for him.
Indeed, with only three days, he had already used up one.
He hadn't even seen the true core of the purgatory yet, such efficiency was simply too low.
"I understand, Sister Hong Yu, thank you."
With that, he was about to continue fighting, but Hong Yu stopped him: "My divine sense has already spread out. The demonic souls here are too terrifying, even I wouldn't dare to approach them easily. I can only vaguely sense their strength and make some rough judgments."
"But fortunately, diligence pays off. Xiao Li, your destiny is indeed exceptional."
Saying that, she pointed to a gloomy valley ahead: "The quality of the demonic souls over there is extremely high. Within the limited time, we must improve our efficiency and shouldn't waste time in places where demonic souls are sparse!"
"Good! Sister Hong Yu, let's go!"
Bai Li's eyes ignited with battle fire. As long as Sister Hong Yu was by his side, he felt he had infinite strength.
Once he achieved the Quasi-Emperor position, he would openly confess his feelings to Sister Hong Yu and make her his woman!
The two struggled forward towards the direction of the Myriad Souls Tomb.
They encountered countless difficulties along the way, but with the help of the Demon God System and the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art, Bai Li repeatedly turned danger into safety.
Gu Yun also profited immensely from it.
"Without the opportunity of the Heaven Devouring Demonic Blood, even with these minor opportunities, the current Bai Li has to go through immense hardships, allowing me to gain another 200 system points."
"He has truly become a big funnel."
"Master~~ you move."
"Good..."
As the magic skill continuously evolved, Bai Li's strength advanced by leaps and bounds. Dealing with demonic souls, a species without intelligence and with single attack methods, became more and more effortless.
It might still be difficult to deal with a human cultivator at the first level of the Quasi-Emperor Realm, but dealing with a demonic soul at the first level of the Quasi-Emperor Realm was simply easy.
Finally, at a distance of thirty li from the Myriad Souls Tomb, he devoured and tore apart a demonic soul that had just reached the Quasi-Emperor Realm.
Bai Li's aura erupted, clearing the surrounding demonic energy for an instant.
Great Saint Realm! Achieved!
"This is great, now I'm even more confident!"
Bai Li clenched his fists, feeling the surging power, and once again had the confidence that heaven and earth were in his grasp!
The young man was full of vigor, taking the lead, breaking through numerous obstacles, and stepping into the Myriad Souls Tomb.
The sky grew even darker, and a hazy ghostly mist obscured the entire sky. The ground was paved with countless skeletons, emitting "crunching" sounds when stepped upon.
In an instant, Bai Li felt as if he was locked onto by countless ferocious beasts. Each of these guys could pose a great threat to him before his breakthrough.
But for him now, it was a true opportunity!
"This place... is indeed a treasure trove!"
Feeling the vast soul power, Bai Li trembled with excitement.
"Sister Hong Yu, wait here. I'll take care of these small fry!"
Bai Li was full of vigor, the devouring demonic energy surging around him. Like a hungry tiger pouncing on its prey, he actively charged towards the closest group of Quasi-Emperor Realm demonic souls!
The great battle erupted instantly!
Even though he faced opponents far exceeding his own strength, Bai Li was still at ease, relying on the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art's suppression of demonic souls.
Demonic souls roared, demonic energy surged, and he, like a swimming dragon, continuously tore apart and refined the demonic souls.
His aura steadily increased during the battle, and his newly broken through Great Saint Realm cultivation quickly stabilized, with a tendency to continue advancing.
However, Hong Yu, whom he believed he was protecting very well, was no longer behind him. Under Gu Yun's guidance, the two had already ventured deep into the core area of the Myriad Souls Tomb.
A bottomless cave appeared before them, and the eerie chill emanating from within sent shivers down one's spine.
"Master... this..."
"The Soul Demon King is down there. He's preparing to absorb demonic energy to break through to the sixth level of the Quasi-Emperor Realm."
"Go, interrupt him."
Gu Yun made a decisive move. Bai Li could absorb demonic energy because the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art had high conversion efficiency. As for this Demon King, he couldn't be allowed to waste such resources.
The cave was deep, and the cold was bone-chilling.
The two suppressed their auras and quickly snuck into the lowest level.
The demonic energy became increasingly pure, almost condensing into a liquid state.
Some demonic souls also discovered Gu Yun's tracks and charged forward fearlessly, but they all instantly vanished within a zhang of the young man.
"Master has broken through to the Quasi-Emperor Realm, his strength is beyond what ordinary people can imagine."
Hong Yu's eyes twinkled. Compared to Gu Yun, the blood-soaked Bai Li was no different from a clown.
"Just some small fry, they won't amount to anything."
Gu Yun said, smashing the rock blocking his path with a palm. With a rumble, the front suddenly opened up, revealing a black demonic pool. The pool water churned as if boiling, emitting extremely pure demonic energy.
In the center of the pool, on a raised boulder, a massive figure was coiled.
It was ten zhang tall, its body semi-transparent, with its ferocious bones clearly visible inside.
Crouched and curled up, with two horns on its head, it must have been an extremely powerful demonic beast in its lifetime.
Several small whirlpools faintly swirled around its body, devouring the wandering demonic souls nearby. The tremors of its aura made even heaven and earth seem to tremble.
It was precisely the overlord of this Myriad Souls Tomb—the Soul Demon King!
"Just one step away from breaking through to the sixth level of the Quasi-Emperor Realm."
"This Demonic Soul Purgatory is indeed a dangerous place, to actually have such an existence."
"Master, shall we make our move?"
Hong Yu asked via telepathy, a hint of excitement flashing in her beautiful eyes.
Gu Yun nodded, and the two instantly attacked simultaneously, striking at the two horns on the Soul Demon King's head.
With a rumble, the violent spiritual energy instantly disturbed the Soul Demon King, who was fully concentrating on breaking through its bottleneck.
Hong Yu's power was fierce and overbearing, appearing even more terrifying, while the Myriad Transformation Power Gu Yun unleashed was formless and colorless, making it difficult to detect.
In its haste, the Soul Demon King could only act on instinct.
It barely dodged Hong Yu's attack, but the airflow transformed by the Myriad Transformation Power sliced through, instantly severing one of its core demonic horns at the root.
The demonic beast let out a bloodcurdling shriek, its surging aura abruptly halted, becoming incredibly violent and chaotic.
Its massive body suddenly stood up, and soul power, like black blood, gushed from the broken demonic horn, causing immense pain!
"Go!"
Gu Yun took Hong Yu's hand and instantly left using spatial teleportation.
"Who, who is it?!!!"
The Soul Demon King was a step too late. Its soul sense swept through the entire cavern, but it found nothing.
To find the culprit, it had no choice but to extend its search outwards, and soon locked onto the only external living aura within the Myriad Souls Tomb—Bai Li!
"Ant! Human ant! How dare you destroy my Dao foundation!"
The Soul Demon King didn't even consider how a mere Great Saint could harm it; extreme rage had already drowned its remaining sanity.
It wanted to kill, to kill everything in its sight that could pose a threat to itself!
"Die! All of you must die!!!"
The violent energy instantly tore apart the weaker demonic souls around it. The Soul Demon King's massive soul body directly smashed through the top of the cave, soaring into the sky, carrying monstrous rage and killing intent as it furiously charged out... Bai Li struggled to deal with the siege of Quasi-Emperor demonic souls, then sat cross-legged, preparing to refine and absorb the incoming soul power to stabilize his realm.
Suddenly!
"Roar—!!!"
The deafening roar, followed by the pressure of a Quasi-Emperor fifth-level Heavenly Might, made him tremble violently, causing him to suddenly spit out a mouthful of fresh blood. His newly condensed demonic energy instantly dissipated!
"Wh-what happened?!"
Bai Li was inexplicably shocked, unable to imagine what kind of existence he had provoked.
He looked up in horror, only to see a massive demonic shadow soaring from the depths of the Myriad Souls Tomb.
"Ant! Die!!!"
There was no time to react. The huge soul claw had already torn through space, bringing with it terrifying power that could annihilate souls, and slammed down from above!
This strike had already surpassed the scope of a Quasi-Emperor fifth-level Heavenly Might, infinitely approaching the power of the sixth level!
"No!! Sister Hong Yu! Run quickly!!"
Bai Li's eyes were bloodshot. He turned to look at Hong Yu, only to see her standing frozen in place as if she were scared silly, which made him feel helpless.
It was no longer realistic to find a way to escape now; he could only try his best to block this move!
Without thinking further, Bai Li immediately made his choice.
"Sister Hong Yu, this time, let me stand in front of you!"
The shadow of death loomed, but Bai Li did not retreat in the slightest.
"Devouring Heaven and Earth!!"
Bai Li unleashed his full potential, the Heaven Devouring Demonic Art operating to its extreme. A huge black hole vortex appeared around him, attempting to swallow this fatal blow!
"Boom—!!!"
The soul claw and the black hole collided violently.
After only a momentary stalemate, the black hole shattered with a roar!
Bai Li was like being struck by an ancient divine mountain. All his bones emitted unbearable cracking sounds, and he was sent flying backward like a meteor.
If not for the golden light surrounding him at the last moment, he would have been crushed to dust in an instant.
Finally, he slammed heavily into the ground, deeply embedded within it.
The only thing that brought him comfort was that in the second before he closed his eyes, a familiar red figure appeared, blocking in front of him.
"Sister Hong Yu, I'm sorry. If there's another chance, let's meet again in the next life!"
His consciousness sank into endless pain, and boundless regret and unwillingness surged in his heart.
"Slap!"
A heavy blow landed on the back of his head, and Bai Li, who was in a state of 'life flashing before his eyes', instantly passed out.
Gu Yun's figure emerged, and he leaped out of the deep pit, standing in front of Hong Yu.
"It's you two!!"
The Soul Demon King roared and charged.
"Collect!"
Gu Yun didn't bother with pleasantries and directly activated the heaven and earth furnace. The golden furnace rotated between heaven and earth, dispelling all the gloom from the sky.
Terrifying suction instantly enveloped the Soul Demon King, and the Myriad Transformation Power previously left in its broken horn instantly erupted.
Half of its head was blasted to smithereens, and in that momentary daze, the massive soul body was instantly locked and twisted by the suction, forcibly dragged into the furnace, and vanished.
[Ding! Congratulations to the host for refining all demonic souls in the Myriad Souls Tomb. Reward: 150,000 Villain Points, 1 Pure Soul Power Origin, Emperor Dao Soul Cultivation Progress (1/1000)]
[Ding! Bai Li's Destiny Value decreased by 1000 points, System Value lost 200 points]
In an instant, the sky was clear and bright.
Hong Yu stared blankly at the miracle, her eyes filled with disbelief as she looked at the young man.
"Alright, that's enough. Take him to the next dangerous place."
"A few more rounds should be about right."
//563//
Chapter 563 Bai Li's Infinite Opportunities
A long time passed in the Purgatory Space before Bai Li finally slowly regained consciousness.
"Ugh…"
Letting out a pained groan, Bai Li slowly opened his eyes.
Immediately, intense pain swept through his entire body, especially the back of his head, where a piercing ache would occasionally flare up.
"What's going on? Oh, right, it must have been when I died, the back of my head hit some sharp rock."
He reached to touch it, but there was no blood.
"Normal, how could there still be blood in the world after death?"
"Bai Li! You're awake!"
Suddenly, a familiar voice rang out. Sister Hong Yu appeared in his line of sight just in time, her face filled with relief: "That's great, you really scared me just now."
"Sister Hong Yu…"
"Where are we? Is this the Underworld?"
Bai Li looked around. The air was incredibly thick, and in front of him was an endless swamp with bubbling dark green gas.
It was eerie, terrifying, and silent.
It wasn't exactly the same as his imagined Underworld, but it was very close.
Hearing this, Sister Hong Yu rolled her eyes slightly, then tears quickly welled up in her eyes as she said with a sob: "Bai Li, what foolishness are you talking about!"
"We're not dead, we're still alive! This is the Soul Erosion Swamp, three hundred miles from the Myriad Souls Tomb!"
"What?!"
"I'm not dead!!"
Bai Li was stunned. He abruptly sat up, and the injuries on his body brought boundless, intense pain, a feeling that was incredibly real.
"Hahaha, hahahaha, this is great, I'm not dead, I'm not dead."
He trembled with excitement, wanting to embrace Sister Hong Yu to express the intense joy in his heart.
However, he was pressed back to the ground by Sister Hong Yu's giant spiritual energy palm: "Don't get excited yet. Although we miraculously survived, the injuries the Quasi-Emperor Realm Demonic Soul inflicted on you haven't healed."
As she spoke, she placed a pill into Bai Li's mouth.
"This is a Clear Heart Pill. You should heal your injuries first. We still need to enter the Soul Erosion Swamp. You've been unconscious for half a day, we don't have much time left."
As the pill took effect, a cool sensation circulated throughout his body, slightly suppressing the stinging pain in his soul.
Bai Li looked at Sister Hong Yu gratefully: "Sister Hong Yu, you saved me again…"
"Don't worry, I will definitely not disappoint you."
"I've already been disappointed countless times."
"If I really followed a foolish idiot like you who overestimates himself, I'd probably have met the King of Hell by now."
Sister Hong Yu couldn't help but complain.
"What did you say, Sister Hong Yu?"
"Nothing. You recover well, I'll keep watch for you."
Bai Li's injuries healed very quickly, because what Sister Hong Yu gave him was not a simple Clear Heart Pill, but… a "Clear Heart Pill" specially made by Gu Yun.
The pill exuded a fragrant scent, and its medicinal effect was almost identical to a genuine Clear Heart Pill, but within it contained a trace of extremely subtle Myriad Transformation Power, which could accelerate Bai Li's injury recovery while exhausting his potential.
The Heaven Devouring Demon Physique was already extremely weak, and after this ordeal, it was like adding fuel to the fire.
However, Gu Yun was still benevolent and kind, giving him a final opportunity for a temporary resurgence of vitality.
With the help of the pill, Bai Li's aura quickly stabilized, and there was even a tendency for it to continue climbing upwards.
He excitedly stood up: "Sister Hong Yu, what kind of divine object is this pill of yours? Not only can it heal injuries, but it can also strengthen the foundation, cultivate the origin, and improve cultivation!"
"I feel even stronger now than I did before I was injured."
"That's natural. I obtained this from an ancient secret realm. It's said to be an immortal's pill formula, so it's naturally incredibly miraculous."
"Hehe, then Sister Hong Yu, do you have more of this pill?"
"If I can use it in battle, it will definitely have an unexpected effect."
"You glutton."
Sister Hong Yu said dotingly, directly placing an entire bottle of pills into Bai Li's hand: "There are nine more pills in this bottle. You must use them sparingly."
"Alright."
Bai Li took the pills, as if he had found a treasure. He carefully put them away, full of vigor.
"Sister Hong Yu, let's go! This time, we will definitely find enough opportunities in the Soul Erosion Swamp."
"When I leave the Purgatory, I will definitely be able to break through… to the Quasi-Emperor Realm!"
He was filled with lofty aspirations, and took the lead, walking towards the swamp shrouded in poisonous miasma… [Ding! Bai Li lost the Soul Erosion Swamp opportunity, Destiny Value decreased by 1000 points, System Value decreased by 100 points]
[Ding! Bai Li lost the Buried Soul Abyss opportunity, Destiny Value decreased by 1000 points, System Value decreased by 100 points]
[Ding! Bai Li lost the Soul Refining Fire Sea opportunity, Destiny Value decreased by 1000 points, System Value decreased by 100 points]
… "Bai Li, Bai Li, are you awake?"
"Sister Hong Yu, where am I?"
Bai Li covered his swollen face, feeling somewhat dazed and muddled.
Basically, there wasn't a single good piece of flesh on his entire body; he was already covered in wounds, and even the Clear Heart Pill couldn't completely heal his injuries.
"demon fall altar."
Sister Hong Yu replied without even looking at him.
"How did we end up here?"
Bai Li was a little confused.
Sister Hong Yu sighed slightly: "Xiao Li, there are some things I really need to tell you. The most taboo thing for a person is to aim too high."
"The guardian demonic souls in several major opportunity locations in this Demonic Soul Purgatory have all been awakened by you."
"Now they have all become perilous places where death is certain."
"Our best option right now is to leave from this demon fall altar."
As Sister Hong Yu recounted, Bai Li gradually recalled all the details.
In those places of opportunity, he would always enter full of vigor, then after dealing with some minor soldiers, he would be severely beaten by the leader demonic soul and then rescued by Sister Hong Yu.
It could be said that if it weren't for Sister Hong Yu, he would probably have died several times already.
"I'm sorry, Sister Hong Yu, my cultivation is still too weak."
"It's alright, Xiao Li, I believe that one day you will also be able to stand on your own."
Sister Hong Yu revealed a slight smile, which made Bai Li's heart melt.
Indeed, Sister Hong Yu still cared about him, and he always had someone supporting him from behind. This feeling was truly wonderful!
"Sister Hong Yu, thank you. It is said that there is a chance to summon the remnant soul of the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor in this demon fall altar."
"Don't worry, with my physique, the Devouring Heaven Demon Emperor will definitely have expectations."
"This opportunity, I am determined to obtain it!!"
With that, Bai Li walked onto the altar with great ambition.
Sister Hong Yu carefully shuffled her steps, while complaining in her heart: "Master~~ I can't sit down now."
"It's fine, I'll just carry you then."
"You have something more important to do now."
"Oh, alright."
Sister Hong Yu understood. Her gaze fell on Bai Li, who had already found a geomantically auspicious spot and naturally sat down cross-legged, with demonic energy surging around him, wanting to communicate heart-to-heart with the demon fall altar.
Just then, Sister Hong Yu, who had secretly crept behind him, raised the forty-centimeter-thick wooden club in her hand.
She aimed it at the swollen back of Bai Li's head and brought it down hard.