Yun Guang approached Ying Lei, who appeared slightly anxious yet determined to fulfill his destiny. With the legacy of a respected mountain god grandfather, Ying Lei aspired to make his own mark as a demon hunter, hoping to earn familial pride through his own achievements.
"Are you ready?" Yun Guang inquired. Ying Lei nodded, drawing his Kunlun sword and trusting it into the snow. Yun Guang placed a hand over his core and allowed the power of his star to take control. He was merely channeling that energy while Yixuan and Yichen kept it stable.
Yun Guang began unraveling Ying Lie's seal while the star above them continued to pulse with energy. For one heartbeat, nothing changed, and Ying Lei drew in a sharp breath. He felt neither the pain nor the exhaustion that had accompanied Zhu Yan undoing the first layers, but he sensed no difference either. He shut his eyes, released every thought, and concentrated solely on Yun Guang's hand resting over his chest.
The instant he did, something inexplicable began to stir within him. It felt as though he were standing upon the ground of Kunlun Mountain itself. He could even sense his grandfather's presence back in the human world. It was madness! Though he was no longer anywhere near the gate, he could mentally reach not only his birthplace but his family as well. He knew that his grandfather was crushing nuts while seated on the temple steps. Ying Lei could even picture his grandfather looking at the heavens and mentally, or perhaps spiritually, connecting with him in another world.
"Ying Lei, you have surpassed me. You will become the greatest mountain god this world has ever seen. I will eagerly await your return, my boy," Ying Zhao spoke directly into Ying Lei's mind as the Kunlun sword blazed like a meteor.
He suddenly sensed what should have been impossible: the ground underfoot, the roots buried deep beneath the snow, rivers flowing miles away, forests extending beyond the valley, distant cliffs, stones, and mountains. He also felt the unnatural flow of malicious energy that had gradually tainted the purity Ying Long had crafted for his demon realm. This energy had permeated widely, with numerous concentrated areas, yet the most ominous one lay just a short distance away, likely within the mountain where Bing Yi's seal rested.
When Yu She and Du Wu mentioned the whispers within the demonic energy, they were certainly not exaggerating. In areas where this energy was more concentrated, demons could be more profoundly affected compared to those in regions with less malicious energy. This also supported the idea that more powerful demons could attain higher levels of false cultivation through spells derived from such concentrations. Everything seemed to align seamlessly.
However, when the Kunlun sword began vibrating violently where he had trusted it in the snow, he was brought back out of his thoughts and faced the power the sword was eagerly waiting for him to claim. Ying Lei instinctively reaches for it, and in the moment his fingers close around the hilt... CRACK! The earth fractured.
Everyone jolted in surprise as a jagged fissure raced outward from Ying Lei's feet and spread through the snow-covered ground like the branches of a vast tree. The earth quaked, and Ying Lei's skin acquired a tan hue while the tips of his blond hair darkened to black. He also sprouted a blond beard that looked, admittedly, somewhat funny. Then a mountain god symbol, which typically appears when they reach their pinnacle, briefly glowed on Ying Lei's forehead before disappearing. Despite this dramatic occurrence, Yichen, who felt the vibrations in his dragon form, and Yixuan, who sensed it through the formation, make sure there was no danger to them within Yichen's protective barrier.
Beneath the fissures, a molten light flickered, emitting even more divine energy from the earth, which Zhu Yan and Li Lun harnessed. Yun Guang smiled because Ying Lei had now become a full-fledged mountain god, capable of performing extraordinary feats that perhaps even Ying Zhao might not achieve himself. He was certain of it because Ying Lei's Díshòu materialized around him, bowing in reverence while they roared, heralding the birth of a mountain ruler, a true heir to Kunlun.
Ying Lei had awakened the Kunlun inheritance he had been born with, and even the earth acknowledged his authority, causing everyone inside Yichen's formation to sense the change. Yichen's dragon eyes shimmered, Yixuan smiled brightly, and Bai Jiu stared at Ying Lei in amazement. To Bai Jiu, this newfound strength felt powerful while somehow drawing him even nearer to Ying Lei. Captivated, he stepped forward and lightly tugged on Ying Lei's beard, making him flinch faintly.
"Xiao Jiu, that actually hurt a bit," Ying Lei teased.
"I barely pulled it. Are you going to keep it?" Bai Jiu asked shyly. Ying Lei laughed, realizing that Bai Jiu liked him better without the beard. It wasn't that Bai Jiu hated it, but it did make Ying Lei appear significantly older than him. As a result, Bai Jiu felt noticeably younger, which made him more conscious of his age.
"Don't worry. Just like Yichen's horns, it won't remain forever. Perhaps Zhu Yan can get rid of it?" Everyone turned toward Zhu Yan, who sat in the snow with his eyes shut, looking as though he were communing with the universe. Yichen gently nudged him with his snout, and Zhu Yan opened his eyes before softly rubbed his hand against it.
"My apologies, Baobei. No spell can change the awakening of a mountain god. The beard will naturally fall away when the time comes. There's no need to rush. He can enjoy being a more mature version of himself for just a little longer." Yichen understood that Zhu Yan wasn't really teasing Bai Jiu, but he still felt Zhu Yan was being a bit harsh.
To express his disapproval, he exhaled cold air on Zhu Yan. However, his husband merely laughed, saying it tickled. Additionally, he seemed delighted, remarking that he was thrilled his Baobei was playfully teasing him like a naughty little dragon blowing air into his ear. Accepting the situation with humor, Yichen dramatically partially buried his head in the snow, sending a small wave towards Zhu Yan, who responded with a pout. The playful gesture was worth it as it brought laughter to Bai Jiu, lifting his spirits significantly.
"It's alright, Xiao Zhuo Ge. I'm, indeed, younger, thinner, smaller, and..." But before Bai Jiu could continue, Yun Guang stepped in front of the young man, making him focus back on him. The snow that had previously melted returned to its original state, indicating the conclusion of Ying Lei's awakening.
"Now it's your turn, Xiao Jiu. Given that your lineage is the most ancient among us, it might grant you extra confidence. Are you ready?" he inquired, and Bai Jiu eagerly agreed.
"Absolutely, Xiao Guang. I will wholeheartedly embrace my inheritance. I promise." As he spoke, a green light enveloped them both from the young man's star. The moment Yun Guang touched him, Bai Jiu sensed a presence deep within his mind.
It wasn't a voice but rather a pulse, an ancient, slow rhythm that resonated from everywhere at once, both inside and beyond the demon realm. It felt as though he stood at the center of an abysmally colossal complex web, linking all forms of life, regardless of their size.
As he allowed himself to become part of that web, everything surrounding the formation resembled a festival of fireworks. Every tree, plant, blade of grass, flower, leaf, patch of moss, mushroom, and fungus welcomed him by releasing tiny spheres of life force that drifted in the air like fireflies. That realm was every bit as alive as the human world.
The small greenish orbs floated upwards in a mesmerizing display, even in broad daylight. When they touched any surface, they infused it with renewed vitality. Everyone reached out as the delicate spheres descended, feeling them like droplets of water that not only cleansed, but also revitalized. Yichen found himself enveloped from head to tail in these luminescent orbs, his dragon form briefly glowing a vibrant green. It was a gentle caress akin to the touch of something ancient and wise, yet filled with endless kindness. He felt blessed.
The ground behind Bai Jiu started to tremble. Initially, everyone assumed another fracture similar to those made by Ying Lei would surface. Instead, a small green shoot pushed its way up through the snow. It rapidly transformed into a delicate stem, soon evolving into a young tree. Its branches reached skyward, then reached the top of the barrier and grew under it like a second skin, branching out in a circle and expanding as the trunk increased in size. In a matter of moments, an immense tree towered behind Bai Jiu.
It was a breathtaking sight, for the tree was unlike anything they had encountered before. Filaments of pearly white life force could be seen coursing up and down the countless roots spread over the snow. As more energy gathered around the tree, its appearance continuously transformed before their eyes.
The leaves shifted from a vibrant spring green to golden hues, then to amber, reddish-brown, and finally to white. Beautifully colored flowers unfurl in full bloom before they close and drop. The leaves, too, descend onto the snow in a cascade, resembling fluttering butterflies, only to be reborn as fresh green leaves, echoing the cycle of life and the passage of time.
"The Divine Tree... It's a great honor to witness it once in my lifetime." Yixuan whispered, bowing to the ancient tree in deep respect for the oldest living entity in their world. Bai Jiu heard him but could barely respond, as his consciousness was already delving into something much deeper.
While others observed the changes in the tree, Bai Jiu perceived something entirely different. He saw how a single seed could establish a connection with the entire cycle of life and death, purity and corruption, mortality and immortality. The Divine Tree was imparting lessons on the intricacies of life—its workings, the balance required, the capacity for healing, renewal, and the need to let go. Life was intricate and connected in countless ways, and because of that, there were countless paths toward healing.
Bai Jiu reflected on his mother, recalling how she had been poisoned and transformed into a tree. He was utterly stunned when he realized that since his mother carried the Divine Tree's blood within her too, what happened to her had been a consequence of her dormant survival instincts. As the poison spread, she instinctively transformed herself into a tree to preserve her life. It wasn't the demon who changed her; she did it herself. This revelation meant he still had a chance to reverse the effects once her tree healed.
Tears of joy streamed down his cheeks as he fell to his knees. Ying Lei was beside him instantly, but Bai Jiu knew there was still a lot more to learn and understand. With Ying Lei's help, Bai Jiu stood again, and staring at the projections of the tree, he absorbed these teachings. While doing so, his eyes turned a vibrant emerald green, and his hair lengthened beyond his waist, becoming a deep, rich gray mixed with brown like the color of bark in different stages. White marks resembling branches covered his body as he grew several inches taller, and his awareness became more profound and his five senses were enhanced.
Now, simply by looking at Yichen, Bai Jiu could perceive much more than he ever had before. The details were clearer, and with the newfound knowledge, he had gained the confidence he previously lacked. He no longer feared he wasn't capable of treating a mighty young dragon. If necessary, he felt ready to even tend to Zhu Yan himself. Most impressively, he could now see the auras of all living things, and when he gazed at his Ying Lei, he considered himself the luckiest man alive. Ying Lei's aura radiated with the brilliance and warmth of a sun, utterly perfect for him in every single way.
"I'm so glad I have you..." Bai Jiu whispered to Ying Lei and he smiled so beautifully that Bai Jiu was almost blinded by his overwhelming golden aura. Yet, he reached for Ying Lei's hand, who took it instantly. As Bai Jiu looked at their interwined fingers, he saw for the first time their red string of fate. It was such a beautiful sight that he wanted to imprint it on his mind.
Having shared enough wisdom to guide his descendant into the circle of life, the Divine Tree shattered into millions of pieces, resembling tiny fireflies that dispersed in all directions. Wen Xiao caught a few in her hand, feeling the sacred energy giving her a profound sense of peace. It felt as though everything would be alright if she just trusted in herself and her companions.
As the particles scattered, Yixuan glanced at Li Lun, who was still sitting in the snow, and noticed white flowers with a silvery glow blossoming around him. These were pagoda tree flowers in full bloom, emerging from the snow. To his eyes, they were exquisite, and he felt a sense of joy knowing his energy had condensed into something more significant. Li Lun opened his eyes and gazed at him.
"You're welcome to take them all, Xiao Xuan. They're born from our love and bond," he said, though Yixuan preferred to leave them as they were.
"You can give me as many flowers as you want in the future, but these are too pure for me to accept. They are filled with the magic of heavenly awakenings, and it would be a pity to deprive them of what is yet to unfold. They are more beautiful as they are, right beside you, offering me a glimpse of your true self." Those words were carved into Li Lun's heart, for Yixuan was too good for him, yet he couldn't help but be greedy and wish to keep him close. Yixuan smiled, perfectly understanding his thoughts without needing to speak.
"I'm greedy too, Li Lun," Yixuan whispered softly, just as Yun Guang approached the next person in line, Pei Sijing.
She remained completely calm, as one would expect from the leader of a unit made of young and powerful demon hunters. She had always shouldered the responsibility of leadership, even within her own family. Always prepared to confront challenges directly, she stayed composed when the gentle brown light from her star touched her. When Yun Guang placed a hand on her back, she closed her eyes, focused solely on helping their unit complete the mission and return home. She didn't desire extraordinary powers that might elevate her to near-godly status, just enough strength to safeguard her people through every trial they faced.
Yun Guang started to unravel her layers, and as he did, she started to hear things, a lot of them all at once, like her hearing, which was already far better than what was normal, had been upgraded to top-tier. She could hear the wind weaving through each crystal leaf and the hum of the formation, as well as the distant flow of water.
She hears Yichen's dragon heart beating faster than a human's, Zhu Yan and Li Lun condensing energy within their cores, and their breath. She could hear Yixuan's heavenly resonance, previously inaudible to her, now ringing like a glass armonica with a soft yet pure harmony. Even Bai Jiu's Divine Tree's lingering effects whispered through its roots, and Yun Guang's sword energy was at an extraordinarily level on its own.
However, most importantly, she could hear something cracking deep within the mountain. She recognized this as the breaking of Bing Yi's seal, which had endured for centuries but was now reaching its limit. Bing Yi was most likely exhausted and weakened, and judging by the resonance filling the huge chamber cover in ice, she could vividly imagine what it looked like.
Although she could not see what lay within Bing Yi's seal, she could tell that Bing Yi himself was not inside it. Instead, he rested beneath the seal within a crystal linked to the formation they were standing upon. The energy gathered by the core over the centuries nourished him as he recovered and continued keeping Cheng Huang imprisoned.
However, as Cheng Huang gradually recovered inside too, the seal eventually became more difficult to stabilize. That was how cracks began forming, allowing some of Cheng Huang's energy to surge through them and further taint the demon world's energy. In turn, this affected even more demons, providing them with a stronger source of malicious power.
Cheng Huang's hatred was deep, making him difficult to defeat. However, perhaps she could change that. She possessed the bloodline of an archer god that has more than just skill with arrows. Now, she realized she could manipulate the energy of her arrows, bending them to her will. This meant she could fire multiple arrows in succession to create a net or another shape as needed. Moreover, with complete control over the arrows, she could direct them as well. So, even if her target evaded, the arrows could pursue it as long as her control endured.
As more layers of her seal continued to unravel, she sensed a transformation within herself. This wasn't a physical change; rather, her core expanded. Following this expansion, she instinctively extended her hand, summoning a magnificent bow crafted from divine energy. This bow was versatile, seamlessly transforming into a spear within moments. Those around her were startled by this graceful transformation as the stunning magical bow shifted into a more lethal weapon, long and adorned in black and gold, etched with countless divine runes that shimmered with power. Feeling empowered, she struck the snow with the weapon, causing it to melt instantly and creating a significant crack in the earth below.
The most remarkable thing was how incredibly light it felt in her hands, almost unbelievable. If she unleashed the latent power within her core, she could either cleave a mountain in two or at least inflict substantial damage upon it. Having always excelled in precision, she was quite satisfied with her newfound abilities. With an instant change of weapon and an extended reach, she could safeguard her unit and brother more effectively.
She smiled as the light from her star warmed and then burst into such brilliance, with the wind picking up so rapidly and scattering snow all around, that everyone, including herself, had to shield their eyes by raising an arm. When they eventually reopened their eyes after the wind calmed a bit, they looked at her once more, noticing her winter attire had transformed into black and gold armor. It wasn't the heavy kind used in wars but rather a lighter leather that was harder than steel. Yun Guang gave Sijing an approving nod.
"You've been granted a heavenly vest, an armor that no mortal can pierce and even gods will have a hard time destroying. The gods recognize you as a protector, wherever you may go. No injustice shall escape your vigilance. You will never fall prey to demons or humans alike. Your family's tragedy will not repeat again under your watch," Yun Guang said, and Sijing looked at her brother. Previously unable to save him with her strength, she now vowed that no one close to her would ever be killed or turned into something inhuman again.
She understood why she had been given both a divine weapon and armor. Once humans stop fearing death at the hands of demons, new conflicts might arise where human lives could be lost to greed and power struggles. With the protection she was given, she could help prevent further tragedies. Nuwa herself had already secured the hunters' citadel with her seal, issuing a warning to those in power not to exploit the hunters for selfish aims or act against them out of fear.
She realized that her role, and likely Wen Xiao's too, would remain closely linked to the demon hunters' chain of comand, ensuring their safety and freedom. She embraced this responsibility willingly. The demon hunters were like a large, caring family who had faced life and death together countless times. They had safeguarded humanity for generations and deserved the peace earned through their sacrifices.
"Agree." Sijing whispered, and then Yun Guang turned to her brother for the next awakening.
Yun Guang smiled warmly at him and placed a gentle hand on his chest, right over where his core was forming. It wasn't fully developed yet, much like his skin, which was still not entirely human. He felt Yun Guang's warm touch, though not as warm as the others, and there were still areas where the texture of his flesh remained subtly different, as if his body couldn't decide whether it was that of a living man or the wooden puppet he had once been.
"Siheng, your wish will be fulfilled. Fear not, you will not turn into something inhuman, but into what you once were," Yun Guang whispered with an unusual softness.
"I wish more than anything to become human again, to be my sister's true brother once more and face my family as a human. I realize this will make me weaker compared to you, even more than I am now, but if you're willing to accept me this way, I'll stay with you for the rest of my life. Will you agree?" Siheng asked, and Wen Xiao giggled to herself, thinking the two of them were bolder than even Zhu Yan and Yichen.
Of course, I accept you. My master was fully human until recently, and I am proud to serve as his sword. Whether you are human or demon doesn't change my feelings for you. Yet, you're mistaken in thinking you'll only regain what you lost. Before that demon transformed you into a wooden puppet, you bore the blood of a god, just like your sister. Even though your physical form is long gone, your soul retains that legacy. With the blessing of Hou Yi and your new core born from our combined powers, you will become a half-god. You will not become weaker by any means, and allow me to demonstrate it in our own way... Yun Guang said as he drew Siheng closer, kissed him, and placed his hand over Siheng's core. Instantly, a wall of snow rose from the ground and enveloped them inside an ice bubble.
Siheng hadn't anticipated Yun Guang kissing him right then, but he wasn't bothered by it. The kiss ended as swiftly as it started, and Siheng glanced around their ice bubble that shielded them from view, feeling a slight blush rise on his cheeks.
"You're not planning to marry me and have our honeymoon right here, are you? I mean, that's what your master and Zhu Yan did before, but we could come up with something different," Siheng suggested, prompting Yun Guang to chuckle.
"Don't worry, I won't marry you like this. When the time comes, it will be done properly and not rushed. There's a reason for this: your body is about to fully transform, and I thought you might find it more embarrassing to be exposed in front of others, especially your sister."
"Wait, are you saying I'll be completely naked?" Siheng asked, a flush of color rising in his cheeks.
"Relax, it's not like I haven't seen most of you already, and the rest... well, we've explored enough that there's little mystery even with clothes on. Siheng, I'm not intruding. Your body will undergo a complete transformation. Because your core isn't fully developed yet, the experience will be more painful than when Yichen transformed into a dragon for the first time. Yichen had a complete core with more layers than anyone else, which offered him some magical protection during his transformation. Unfortunately, you don't have that advantage. I can lessen the pain, but you cannot go shy on me and try to push me away." Hearing this, Siheng swallowed hard.
"If I'm in pain, why would I want to push you away? I might pull you closer just to have something to hold onto," he replied with a hint of a warning.
"I won't mind that. If it becomes too intense, you can hold onto me as tightly as you need. I don't experience pain the same way humans do, but trust me, when this is over, you'll be at your best, no longer vulnerable to anyone or anything." At that Siheng smiled.
"Alright, bring it on. I've been a demon for long enough to forget human modesty," Yun Guang laughed.
"That's my man. You should know, I have none at all." Siheng clucked, and once again, Yun Guang placed his hand over his core, and the dark brown light from his star rose through the ice bubble, enveloping him with its power. Yun Guang concentrated on channeling that energy into his new core.
Pain overwhelmed Siheng, and he screamed, but Yun Guang used his other hand to soothe him as the transformation began. The remaining wooden parts fell to the snowy ground in shattered pieces, ripping his clothes. His chest expanded, as did his legs, arms, and muscles, growing slightly taller than his puppet form, just a few inches more than when he was human. His black hair flowed like a river past his thighs. His face changed too, with eyes becoming slightly larger and completely sky blue, his jaw expanding a bit, and his cheekbones softening. Enchanted blood coursed through his veins, forming his meridians and filling his growing core too. His inside organs, including his heart, adapted to his new body, and he spat blood into the snow.
Then Siheng pulled Yun Guang tightly to him, forcing himself to silence his pain until it subsided to just an ache. His body, now entirely human, could feel the soft fabric of his elegant clothes. They tickled a bit on his skin, but he only cared for Yun Guang's warmth, and the chill of the snow made him feel more alive than he had been in years. His body felt like it was on fire, yet stronger than ever. He was once again a real man. Siheng smiled contentedly as he drew back a little.
Yun Guang regarded him as if he were a masterwork of art, gently brushing aside long strands of hair from his face. Though only slightly taller than Siheng now, he felt every bit as a seasoned demon hunter, his new body perfectly honed as it had undergone rigorous training. No longer stiff like wood or something in-between, the transformation was remarkable. Yet, it was his eyes that truly captivated him, slightly larger, yet with an extraordinary depth that hadn't been there before. To him, he looked godlike. Stunning beautiful, youthful, and vibrant with life. As their eyes locked, he could even hear Siheng's heart racing as much as his.
"Do you like it?" Siheng asked with a bold grin.
"Very much, but it's not finished yet," Yun Guang replied, stepping back just in time. The light intensified as it had with Sijing. When it subsided, Siheng was clad in armor similar to his sisters, his hair tied in a high ponytail. In his hand was a black and gold sword, its hilt adorned with a golden tassel he instinctively knew he could manipulate magically into threads when needed.
"That's a fine sword," Yun Guang remarked, with Siheng smiling as he sensed a touch of envy.
"It's not a spiritual sword like yours. My family has always specialized in bows and short swords. We do have long swords too, but our preference leans towards our traditional weapons. I suppose the gods knew that having a sword spirit as a future mate, they'd grant me one to get accustomed to it again. It would be a bit strange to wield my lover in his true form, stained with the blood of my enemies. So now, I've got another to practice with, while you teach me all your techniques. If there is ever a need for someone to use you again as a weapon, it should be the master you choose willingly. No one should change that," Siheng explained, and Yun Gung immediately leaned in to kiss him again. Being closer in height this time made it even more enjoyable.
"Thank you... even if my Didi set me free, he'll always be my master. That connection will always be present for as long as Yichen lives." Yun Guang admitted when they parted.
"As it should be. Now, let me try something... get behind me," Siheng suggested. Yun Guang eagerly complied.
From behind his wide back, he observed as Siheng thrust his sword downward and grabbed the golden tassels. With a surge of his divine energy, he extended them in a circle around them. Suddenly, the ice bubble shattered into a rain of icy crystals, revealing the others who had been patiently waiting for their arrival.
The moment Siheng spotted his sister, he rushed toward her, sweeping her into a hug and lifting her off the ground. She laughed as they spun around in the snow, her weight barely noticeable to him. Tears of joy streamed down his sister's cheeks as well as his. When he finally set her down, she pulled him into an even tighter embrace, causing him to gasp.
"Jiejie... I have full lungs now," Siheng managed to say, struggling for air as her grip threatened to suffocate him. Hearing this, she quickly released him and cheerfully wiped away his tears.
"Didi, welcome back..." she whispered, and Wen Xiao couldn't resist wrapping them both in a heartfelt embrace, sharing in their genuine happiness.
It was such a beautiful sight that everyone felt their hearts warmed. Yichen nudged Zhu Yan affectionately, making him smile as he gently caressed his snout. Yixuan exchanged a gaze with Li Lun, who was already looking at him, conveying a silent message of love. Ying Lei and Bai Jiu held hands closely, and Yun Guang couldn't have been happier watching the scene unfold. There was just one more awakening to go.
"Wen Xiao, it's your turn now," Yun Guang announced once the hugging had concluded.
"You know, Yun Guang, I understand you want him all to yourself, but we were so curious to see his transformation, then you hid it, because no one could see through your bubble. Even with the new awakening powers, you both were completely isolated. He looks so different from his puppet form; it's mind-blowing. Sijing, is this how he appeared before his soul was trapped in that puppet?" she inquired.
"Yes, this is truly my brother as I remember him before the tragedy, just healthier," Sijing responded happily.
"About hiding his transformation, well..." Yun Guang glanced at Siheng, who blushed slightly.
"Trust me, sister-in-law, it was better if no one witnessed it for certain reasons. Xiao Zhuo's transformation was magical in all aspects, but mine was... not. My clothes were torn during the process," he admitted, prompting Wen Xiao to laugh.
"Alright then, I'll take it back. Yun Guang, you were indeed a gentleman for protecting your boyfriend's dignity. Well done. Now, I hope my awakening holds just as much excitement as the others. I'm so eager for it. I love that our little Bai Jiu isn't so little anymore and our handsome young Ying Lei has grown a beard that makes him resemble an old mountain god. The Pei siblings look like warriors ready for battle." She was genuinely thrilled about her own awakening.
"A word of caution, Wen Xiao. It's important to understand that the Baize goddess wasn't interested in flashy displays. She was a humble deity who valued peace and harmony above all. So, your awakening might not align with your expectations," Yun Guang playfully teased her.
"That's alright. I'm already part of something great and special. Whatever the goddess offers will be welcome," she replied, and Yixuan nodded in agreement.
"The gods have chosen their inheritors wisely. I'm confident the Baize goddess will grant you just what you need to succeed in this mission. We're so close now; let's complete this task and move forward. Our toughest battle might be yet to come," Wen Xiao assented to his words, as Yun Guang moved closer to her and the others stepped back to give her space for whatever might unfold next.
"Are you ready?" Yun Guang asked, and Wen Xiao nodded.
"I am." His fingers gently brushed the center of her back as her star cast a lavender glow over her.
Wen Xiao closed her eyes, waiting for the goddess's blessing as Yun Guang removed the remaining layers of her seal. For a minute, nothing happened. She only felt the divine energy intensifying. Then, a flash of deep purple lightning streaked across the sky, branching like enormous fingers reaching down toward the frozen valley, striking the ground and shattering the surrounding crystals.
Wen Xiao gazed upward in awe as another bolt struck, followed by several more, causing the entire sky to tremble with heat and sound. Crystals from shattered trees, flowers, and snow pounded against the barrier, yet nothing penetrated it, not even the lightning that struck in a circle, like announcing the goddess's arrival.
Within Yichen's formation, a white and gold mist started to swirl, coiling around itself as the lightning kept pouring down. The Nine Stars gleamed above, their illumination reflecting through the mist until the entire barrier appeared to be filled with countless shimmering stars.
Yixuan lifted his head, his eyes glowing gold as he followed Nuwa's guidance, knowing this was the moment she would fulfill her earlier promise of giving them something important. His lips moved, releasing a whisper in a language unlike any known to humans, ancient and heavenly. Only Zhu Yan, Li Lun, and Yun Guang could comprehend it due to their time traveling with Bing Yi and Ying Long.
As Yixuan cast Nuwa's divine spell, the mist began to gather into something substantial, no longer just a haze drifting in the breeze. At first, it manifested as a divine beast, a magnificent creature emerging from the golden-white haze. It resembled a large white doe, with beautiful ivory antlers, soft fur, a horse-like tail fluttering in the gentle breeze, and long bird-like wings extended gracefully. Its presence was so pure and harmonious, it brought a deep sense of calm, making them all bow to it. Then, the beast took another form, changing into a beautiful woman.
Everyone held their breath as the Baize goddess stood before Wen Xiao. Her beauty transcended mere appearance, radiating kindness, compassion, and patience. She exuded a gentleness untouched by the world's harshness and war. She seemed the kind of person who could stand beside another in silence, yet make them feel understood and never alone. With a single glance, she could perceive the essence of your soul, whether good, bad, or something in between. It was no surprise Cheng Huang fell so deeply in love with her and was driven to madness when she was lost.
Such purity, wisdom, and benevolence were difficult to accept as casualties of unwanted war's conflicts. It was unfair, it was unjust, and indeed, a man in love would resent all who had robbed both him and the world of such magnificence. Wen Xiao now grasped the depth of Cheng Huang's despair and anger after seeing her true nature. Despite feeling sympathy for his suffering, the Baize goddess symbolized all that was virtuous, compassionate, and just in both heavens and earth. She sacrificed her life willingly to save a friend and a pillar of heaven. Regardless of the motivations behind his transformation, it was never what she wanted or envisioned for him in his future.
As their eyes met, Wen Xiao's mind was flooded with memories of the tragedy. She vividly recalled the ravages of that war, the overwhelming destruction, and the immense suffering it inflicted on everyone. Humanity was powerless against the stronger demons, but their growing hatred transformed even harmless demons and divine beasts into bloodthirsty creatures, escalating the misery. The gods could not stand by while demons threatened to obliterate their creation. Yet, dealing with tainted demons was challenging, as they too possessed access to primordial energy, bestowing them with formidable powers. Thus, war became the inevitable outcome.
Many great demons targeted Nuwa more than any other god, leaving Ying Long with no choice but to sacrifice himself to contain the demons in a single location and allow humans to prosper independently, with the hope of finally ending the war that was taking a huge toll on all sides. He made a dimension within the human realm, followed by creating an entire world inside that dimension, which Nuwa would seal with five colored stones.
Once he cast a spell over the demons in the war, they would be compelled to cross dimensions on their own. With the seal in place separating the worlds, the connection between them would vanish, restoring peace. Ying Long had prepared extensively with millions of arrays to cleanse the malicious energy spawned by humans and return them to their original essence. Success was within reach until Cheng Huang prevented Nuwa from completing the seal.
Since the dimension remained linked to the human world, the malicious energy seeped into the demon world, tainting it. The arrays Ying Long had designed to cleanse the demons began to collapse while overwhelmed. At the end, only Zhu Yan's formidable power and potential, as the son of the mightiest demon god capable of creating entire worlds, managed to hold back the demons. Li Lun alone dared to cross worlds without fear, but that was thanks to the friendship they had shared before the outbreak of war.
Fortunately, the gods had already infused their blood into chosen families, while Baize herself had been the one who shared the knowledge of demons and how to defeat them with humanity during their darkest times. She saw those flashes in where she traveled mountains, rivers, temples, and villages, sometimes as her true self, others as a beautiful woman, but always with benevolence no one could question. Because of this, humans worshiped her as a goddess, and she became one of the reasons they grew stronger and learned to stand on their own. This ultimately led to the establishment of the Demon Hunting Bureau and for her to be fascinated by lore since she was a child. Now she knew it was on her blood.
Sadly Wen Xiao also witnessed the goddess's death at the hands of a demon, she saw the depth of Cheng Huang's suffering, his pain, his loneliness, and his grief. His hatred, already profound for Nuwa, the gods, humanity, and demons, became more venomous than the malicious energy released by humans. This hatred transformed into a force on its own. Despite Bing Yi's compassionate decision to seal rather than kill him, Cheng Huang's malice found a way to escape, becoming whispers that demons heeded and surrendered to.
Wen Xiao realized that such intense emotions, born from grief and obsession, wouldn't be easily purified with the arrays meant to only cleanse malicious energy. Although tainted, Cheng Huang's energy remained divine and mixed with the humans; it overwhelmed Ying Long's system. However, there was still a possibility that something equally powerful could still pierce through, if pushed hard enough against the darkness.
"I understand what needs to be done, and I embrace it willingly, my goddess. It is truly tragic that you were killed, yet I am proud to carry your lineage. It is my honor to fulfill your commands and act according to your wishes," she said while kneeling in the snow draped with a divine mist closing her eyes.
"Child, you will take my wish with you. You know now that I still love him, just as I did when we were together. I don't want him to be destroyed. I want him to move forward and live the life he deserved, the one he would have had if I had never left him. Help him see that there are other ways to grieve besides revenge. Remind him that true love doesn't fade with time, and that what he should hold onto most are the memories we made, not the pain of my leaving."
Wen Xiao felt something stir in her chest. There was a raw honesty in those words, a plea that came not from selfishness but from a deep, aching care for the one left behind. It wasn't that he matter less than Nuwa to her, but that Nuwa's death would had set off a disaster far greater than any personal vengeance. One that would had tear apart both heaven and earth alike. And that thought alone was enough to make Wen Xiao's heart heavy as she nodded, understanding the weight of what was being asked of her.
"You saved our race twice, my goddess. The first time was when you selflessly taught humans how to survive the war with the demons, and the second was when you chose to save Nuwa for the sake of all living things. I will make him hear your plea, your love, and your true nature, which is why he loves you so deeply. I'll do my utmost or die trying. That, I promise you." Wen Xiao bowed low over the snow, but the goddess reached toward her, urging her to meet her gaze again.
"I will grant you the power needed for him to see reason. I trust you will never misuse it, and there's something more." She smiled, and Wen Xiao instinctively extended both hands.
Something formed between them. It wasn't merely energy or divine power but something warm and pure, carrying the weight of centuries without bitterness. The goddess offered it to her, and Wen Xiao accepted. She drew the divine essence into her hands and slowly pressed it against her chest.
The goddess raised her hand and softly touched Wen Xiao's forehead. A warm light enveloped her, and similar to Bai Jiu, wisdom came first, followed by possibilities. She saw countless paths unfolding endlessly, but underneath all of them lay something deeper: understanding.
She fully understood the essence of patience and compassion. She discerned the difference between forgiveness and surrender, realizing that loving someone didn't mean justifying their actions. She understood that saving someone did not always mean sparing them from consequences and that some forms of love were so pure that even death could not taint them. Wen Xiao closed her eyes as the Baize goddess leaned closer, her final words barely audible.
"Let him remember what he loved." Wen Xiao's tears flowed freely.
"I will," And the goddess replied with another smile.
Power surged within her, and suddenly, white wings emerged from her back. Purple lightning enveloped her body, originating this time from her core rather than descending from the heavens. She could now wield Baize's pure lightning at will, providing her with a profound sense of relief. Among all of them, her defenses were the weakest, but now she could stand her ground alongside the others, no longer confined to directing them or giving information from her insights.
"Thank you..." Wen Xiao murmured as she rose, feeling transformed both inside and out. Her wings unfurled as her form dispersed into countless golden particles, returning to Wen Xiao's core. At that precise instant, another bell rang.
Its sound traveled through the formation, pure and immense, and the golden runes covering the barrier blazed brightly. For one glorious moment, all nine stars shone together. The heavens had answered. They had approved the awakenings, nurtured them, and now, their blessing was complete.
The Nine Stars formation slowly began to withdraw, and the shining points of light faded one by one. Then the heavenly runes disappeared, and the mist fully dissolved into the air, and the valley fell silent.
Yichen felt the divine pressure leaving him, and his dragon form shimmered before shrinking back into his human body. His feet barely touched the ground before his strength gave out.
"Baobei!" Zhu Yan caught him immediately, pulling him against his chest. Yichen's eyes were half closed, his breathing heavy.
"Don't worry. I'm alright..." he whispered.
"I know, but you hold such an insane amount of divine energy on your own. It's honestly astonishing. I'm so very proud, my Baobei, you are too remarkable." Zhu Yan kissed him slightly as Yichen passed his arms over his shoulder for more support and blushed when the short kiss ended.
"It wasnt on my own, my Ge was part of it. I hope you cultivate enough of it..." Yichen let Zhu Yan lift him as he walked toward Bai Jiu.
"Of course, Baobei. How can I let your effort go to waste?" Zhu Yan assured him, then turned to the young healer that no longer he could call a kid. This time, however, Bai Jiu wasn't worried he could not get close or treat him. He gave them a confident smile, placed his fingers against Yichen's wrist, and felt his energy stabilizing naturally.
"He'll be fine. He's simply exhausted." Zhu Yan looked at him and smirked.
"You sound pretty sure of yourself," Bai Jiu simply grinned.
"Naturally. I've uncovered the mysteries of life itself, among other things. But I suppose we all learn what we were destined to," he said, glancing at the others. Yichen smiled weakly from Zhu Yan's arms and nodded in agreement.
Around them, the newly awakened members of their team stood together beneath the fading remnants of the Nine Stars. None of them were the same people who had entered Crystal Valley. And somewhere deep within Wen Xiao's newly awakened core, the Baize goddess remained as a guardian.
She looked toward the distant mountains and knew what awaited them there. And for the first time, she wasn't afraid of what she could not foresee. She simply knew they would face it together.
AN: Oh my, even when I cut this plus 10k monter in two chapters it still one of the longest. I hope you guys like thr awakenings. It took me a long time to have them all in the way I wanted. Congratulations to Wen Xiao, she is now a powerhouse. 😂 Thanks for reading and until next time, please take care.