Chapter 436: Seahorse Douluo: "You're All Quite Extraordinary"
As the spirit masters of Seagod Island got a clearer look at the newcomers, their eyes widened. Each of the five women was beautiful, especially the four who exuded distinct, captivating charms:
One wore a jade-green cheongsam, her figure alluring, with a gaze that seemed to hold an autumn-like gentleness, hinting at the warmth within; another was dressed in black leather, her silhouette strikingly bold, yet she emanated an icy aura that kept others at a distance. The third woman was draped in a serene, sky-blue gown, exuding an elegant, cultured air, refined like a lady from a noble family. The final one wore a vivid red dress, as vibrant as fire, with fierce phoenix-like eyes that radiated a noble intensity, instilling a sense of reverence.
It was rare for Seagod Island to witness such beautiful women, let alone four together. Typically, encountering even one would be a stroke of luck, but seeing all of them at once felt almost unreal.
As for the last woman, Bai Chenxiang, though also beautiful, found her light dimmed next to the other four, like a plain wooden box hiding a precious gem.
However, when their gazes shifted to the man among them, a certain displeasure surfaced in the spirit masters' hearts.
Why couldn't that man be me?
Remembering his earlier blunt tone, the middle-aged man in purple cleared his throat, realizing he'd greeted the group rather improperly. He quickly arranged his clothes, then put on what he considered a friendly smile as he spoke in a softer tone:
"Greetings, everyone. May I ask who you are and where you come from? If you're weary from your journey, please feel free to rest in my humble home. However, you must leave within a few days, as that is Seagod Island's rule."
Noticing the shift from sternness to politeness, Zhu Zhuqing and Feng Wutong remained composed, while Dugu Yan and Ning Rongrong exchanged amused glances. Dugu Yan raised an eyebrow and turned to Dai Yao, her expression showing an evident anticipation.
After all, he was their husband—he could handle this.
Dai Yao's face darkened. He knew his wives would attract attention, but the unabashed way in which these men looked at them was irritating.
Stepping forward, Dai Yao drew everyone's attention and clasped his hands in respect. "Respected elders, we've traveled far, moved by admiration for Seagod Island. We wish to undertake its trials and join Seagod Island as members."
The man in purple paused, frowning as he studied Dai Yao. The sight of this man surrounded by such beautiful women did not sit well with him.
As his gaze lingered on Dai Yao and the four women, he bit his lip slightly, seeming to recognize the deep connection between them, though he still wanted to leave a good impression.
"Seagod Island is generally closed to outsiders," the purple-clad man replied, his tone stiff. "It would be best if you left."
The yellow-robed spirit masters nearby looked astonished. They were used to their leader's quick temper, but he seemed notably soft-spoken—clearly, the ladies had an effect on him.
Dai Yao maintained a steady smile, his resolve unwavering. "Elder, there's no need to dissuade us. We knew of Seagod Island's rules before we came, and we're fully prepared to undergo the trials, even at the cost of our lives."
Impressed by Dai Yao's determination, the purple-robed man eyed him thoughtfully and asked, "So, you've come prepared. But do these ladies also wish to take the trials?"
Dai Yao nodded, "Naturally."
The man's gaze lingered on the women, his expression grave. "I know you're no ordinary folk, but the trials of Seagod Island are no simple task. I warn you—young and beautiful as you all are, it would be a shame to lose your lives here."
Zhu Zhuqing stepped forward to stand beside Dai Yao, her usually cold gaze softened by a faint smile. "Elder, you needn't worry about us. We're fully committed and ready to take on the trials."
The purple-clad man hesitated, his mouth opening as if to continue his warning, but he swallowed his words and simply nodded. "Very well. Since you're all determined, I'll grant your wish. But remember, there's no turning back. Follow me."
With a signal to the yellow-robed spirit masters, the purple-robed man led the group deeper into the forest, beckoning for Dai Yao and the others to follow.
As Dai Yao walked with his wives, Dugu Yan murmured warily, "Dai Yao, can we really trust them? This is their territory, and we should be prepared for any danger."
Ning Rongrong and Bai Chenxiang shared her concern, though Zhu Zhuqing and Feng Wutong remained unperturbed, as if unfazed by the situation.
Observing their expressions, Dai Yao smiled slightly and reassured them, "It's fine—just follow along."
His knowledge of the original events told him there was no malice in the intentions of these Seagod Island spirit masters, though it wasn't easy to explain. Dai Yao stepped forward and disappeared into the forest with the Seagod Island guides.
Dugu Yan shot him a puzzled glance. She sensed something different about him, as if he'd become harder to read. Turning to Zhu Zhuqing, she asked, "Zhuqing, you don't seem surprised. Why does Dai Yao trust these spirit masters? He's always been cautious before."
Zhu Zhuqing smiled faintly and replied, "I've been with him for many years and have seen many moments when he acts unusually. Each time, events end up going smoothly. So, whenever he shows that kind of calm confidence, I get the feeling he's fully aware of what's to come."
With a sigh, she added, "If Dai Yao trusts it, then I'm not worried."
Dugu Yan was taken aback, her red lips parted in disbelief. "Are you saying… he can see the future?"
Zhu Zhuqing shook her head gently. "I'm not sure. But I trust him..."
Seeing Zhu Zhuqing's complete faith in Dai Yao, Dugu Yan fell silent. She had always acknowledged Zhu Zhuqing's special place among them, as she had been with Dai Yao the longest. Now, she realized Zhu Zhuqing not only had the longest bond with him but also the deepest trust.
Ning Rongrong shared the same sentiment.
Only Bai Chenxiang felt thoroughly out of place, as though wishing she hadn't overheard any of this.
They exchanged no more words, igniting their spirit power as they followed the others, leaving only fleeting shadows behind.
The lush greenery of the forest surrounded them, fresh air filling their lungs. The tranquility of the forest had a calming effect, clearing their minds and focusing their thoughts. Gradually, they felt more at ease, with a sense of peace.
While they marveled at the calming effects of their surroundings, the purple-clad man stopped abruptly, turning to address them.
"This is it," he announced. "Ahead is the location where you'll take the trial—the Seahorse Sacred Pillar."
"The Seahorse Sacred Pillar is one of the Seven Sacred Pillars of Seagod Island. The Seagod blessed these pillars, using them to communicate his will. Any one of the Sacred Pillars can initiate the trial for external spirit masters. Here, you'll receive the trial granted by Lord Seagod."
Following his gaze, they looked forward.
A vast, still expanse of water stretched out before them, glimmering like liquid gold in the sunlight. In the water's center stood a triangular platform, with a stone pillar rising skyward, etched with intricate patterns as if connecting to the divine. Below it sat a solitary figure, eyes closed in meditation, appearing as still as a statue.
The man wore black.
Sensing their arrival, the figure's eyes snapped open, radiating a fierce light that seemed to pierce through the air, parting the water's surface and forming a pathway, finally settling on Dai Yao. The gentle breeze from the man's gaze lightly tousled Dai Yao's golden hair.
Meeting Dai Yao's golden gaze, the Seahorse Douluo, despite being a Titled Douluo himself, felt a subtle but undeniable pressure. The young man's eyes held a power that reminded him of a powerful beast—unmovable and imposing, standing firm against his own aura. This young man's presence was unlike any other.
Noting Seahorse Douluo's attention, the purple-robed man hurried forward, respectfully speaking, "Lord Seahorse…"
However, Seahorse Douluo raised a hand, interrupting him.
"I understand your purpose here, Luke. You may withdraw," he commanded.
"Little ones, it's no easy task for land-based soul masters to step foot on Sea God Island and undergo the trials. You must first pass through the Sea within the Sea to even qualify for the tests. Let me give you some advice—leave now, or there will be no turning back."
Seahorse Douluo sat cross-legged, a gentle smile on his face as he addressed Dai Yao.
Dai Yao clasped his hands respectfully and said, "Senior, since we've come to Sea God Island, there's no reason for us to retreat."
Seahorse Douluo's smile grew wider as he nodded. He was intrigued by Dai Yao's martial soul, which gave him a palpable sense of pressure—something even Tang Chen hadn't managed to do in the past. Stretching out his hand, he pressed down lightly. Instantly, the calm surface of the water began to churn violently, waves surging several meters high. Above, the sky seemed to mirror the ocean's wrath, as a vast azure barrier materialized parallel to the water, sealing the space above the Sea within the Sea entirely.
After finishing his preparations, Seahorse Douluo gestured invitingly.
"The trial begins. Who will go first? But beware, the first to attempt may suffer a slight disadvantage."
Dai Yao turned to the group behind him, smiling. "The trial has begun. Who wants to take the lead? Keep in mind, going first might be a bit harder."
Feng Wutong stepped forward, her phoenix-like eyes gleaming with a sharp intensity.
"I'll go first."
With everyone watching, Feng Wutong activated her soul power, a surge of heatwaves erupting around her. Crimson wings spread wide as she took to the skies. Hovering above the raging waters, she transformed into a streak of fiery light, heading straight for the Seahorse Sacred Pillar.
Her Vermilion Bird martial soul revealed itself fully, and the seawater near her instantly vaporized into white mist, dispersing into the air. The space above the Sea within the Sea was soon filled with dense vapor, though the heat seemed isolated, leaving the water below unaffected.
Feng Wutong resembled a blazing sun, evaporating all obstacles in her path. Moments later, with the sharp click of her high heels landing on stone, she folded her wings and stood steadily before Seahorse Douluo.
Seahorse Douluo's face lit up with amazement.
"What remarkable control. To confine such intense heat to a specific area without affecting the seawater below, and without even using a soul skill—this must be an innate ability of your martial soul. Young one, may I know your martial soul's name?"
Feng Wutong clasped her hands in respect and replied, "My martial soul is called the Vermilion Bird."
Seahorse Douluo pondered for a moment. He had never heard of such a powerful martial soul before, which struck him as odd. Choosing not to dwell on it, he said,
"A Vermilion Bird martial soul, you say? It seems I'm more ignorant than I thought. Without even using a soul skill, you've easily passed the trial of the Sea within the Sea. You are the first to do so and have earned the right to undergo the Sea God's test."
After thanking Seahorse Douluo, Feng Wutong glanced back at Dai Yao, subtly transmitting information about the underwater conditions she had observed. She had deliberately slowed down while crossing to sense the layout beneath the surface.
Dai Yao nodded slightly in acknowledgment before turning to the group.
"Rongrong is an auxiliary soul master, so I'll bring her across. Who's next?"
Zhu Zhuqing stepped forward with a faint smile.
"I'll go."
The group nodded in agreement. Zhu Zhuqing's Netherworld Sovereign martial soul activated, a crystalline crown appearing atop her head, exuding an air of regal authority that made it hard to meet her gaze.
Taking a single step forward, a chilling aura radiated outward. The once-boiling water rapidly froze under her influence. Within seconds, a path of ice nearly 200 meters long and several meters wide stretched across the Sea within the Sea.
With a satisfied smile, Zhu Zhuqing crouched slightly, then shot forward in a blur of light, landing gracefully before Seahorse Douluo.
Seahorse Douluo stared at her in shock, as if she were a monster. Destroying the ice path with a casual gesture, he sighed.
"Without using a soul skill, you froze a 200-meter stretch of water into a solid ice path. This is comparable to the fifth soul skill of most soul masters. You are the second person to pass the Sea within the Sea without using a soul skill."
"May I ask, what is your martial soul? Such a powerful ability—yet I can't recall anything like it."
Zhu Zhuqing smiled faintly.
"Senior, my martial soul is called the Netherworld Sovereign. Currently, I am the only one in existence who wields it. And soon, there will be a third person to pass this trial without using a soul skill."
Seahorse Douluo looked toward the others in surprise. If the first two women were this powerful, could the remaining members of the group be just as formidable?
Dugu Yan stepped forward, smiling.
"My turn."
Her long, shapely leg took a single step forward, releasing a strange wave of energy. The sea creatures within the Sea within the Sea seemed to sense the presence of a ruler, leaping out of the water to gather near Dugu Yan at the shore.
Competing with one another, the sea beasts vied to offer themselves as stepping stones for her.
Casually selecting a wide-bodied soul beast, Dugu Yan stepped onto its back. The other creatures visibly deflated but did not grow angry. Instead, they worked together to calm the raging waters, creating a smooth path for her.
Riding on the back of the soul beast, Dugu Yan effortlessly crossed the Sea within the Sea.
Seahorse Douluo's jaw dropped. Once Dugu Yan reached the platform, he quickly asked,
"Young one, how did you do that?"
After thanking the sea beasts, Dugu Yan turned back and explained with a smile,
"Senior, my martial soul is the Azure Dragon. It possesses an innate affinity with sea soul beasts, compelling them to offer their assistance when they sense my presence."
Seahorse Douluo swallowed hard. This wasn't just affinity; it was domination! Even though she had taken a shortcut, the ability to command so many sea soul beasts was anything but ordinary. Even he could feel a faint sense of submission toward this young woman.
"A group of monsters has arrived," he muttered to himself, shaking his head in disbelief.
Clearing his throat, he glanced at the others on the far side.
Seeing how Dugu Yan had crossed so easily, Bai Chenxiang, who had been watching in awe, snapped back to reality when Dai Yao called out to her.
"Chenxiang, it's your turn now. If you find it too difficult, I can help you."
Bai Chenxiang quickly waved him off.
"Thank you, Sect Master, but I'd like to try on my own."
Dai Yao nodded.
Taking a deep breath, Bai Chenxiang activated her Swift-Tailed Swallow martial soul. Her delicate figure blurred, becoming a streak of white as she darted forward, her wings unfolding gracefully.
With her four soul rings—yellow, yellow, purple, purple—shining brightly, Bai Chenxiang navigated the raging waves like a phantom, slipping through the smallest gaps with uncanny precision.
In mere moments, her white silhouette landed lightly atop the Seahorse Sacred Pillar platform.
"Finally, a Four-Ring Soul Master who used her skills," Seahorse Douluo muttered, relieved. If all of them had been like the previous three, he would have started questioning the world itself. Even so, Bai Chenxiang's display of agility was nothing short of impressive.
"Well done," he said. "A pure agility-type soul master. Fascinating. You've all amazed me today with your incredible abilities. Now, I'm curious to see how the last two will fare."
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