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The night breeze blew, and Lin Yongming, wearing only thin pajamas, shivered as he was pulled from his warm bed to the chilly seaside.
"It's so cold! Bo Saixi, can you let go of me now? It really hurts," Lin Yongming said, his hands covering Bo Saixi's grip on his ear.
Bo Saixi suddenly realized how intimate her gesture seemed. She was tall for a woman, standing over 1.8 meters, and with her high heels, she was only half a head shorter than Lin Yongming, reaching up to his nose.
"Hmph!"
Bo Saixi let out a proud snort, but her cheeks flushed slightly as she pulled her hand away from Lin Yongming's grasp and took a small step back to create some distance.
"Bo Saixi, what's so important that you had to drag me out in the middle of the night? And why so sneaky?" Lin Yongming rubbed his ear, feeling a bit indignant.
"Of course, it's something important. Otherwise, why would I come looking for you?" Bo Saixi retorted.
"Couldn't it wait until daytime?" Lin Yongming replied helplessly.
"Shut up! If it could be discussed during the day, why would I come to you in the middle of the night? Do you want the Spirit Hall to know about your connection to Sea God Island? Aren't you afraid of being restricted once you return to the Spirit Hall?" Bo Saixi glared at him.
"Alright, alright. So, what's the matter? But it seems like you're quite concerned about me. Are you worried about how I'll fare in the Spirit Hall?" Lin Yongming smiled slightly.
"Hmph… It's been over half a month since the last time. The Spirit Hall has arrived, so I came to ask you: have you made up your mind? Are you still determined to follow your own path to godhood?" Bo Saixi asked seriously.
"Is my decision that important?" Lin Yongming countered, sensing the gravity in her tone.
"Yes, it's very important. Extremely important," Bo Saixi emphasized repeatedly.
"Then yes, I will stick to my decision and follow my own path, even if it's difficult," Lin Yongming declared firmly.
Bo Saixi closed her eyes in despair, a single tear rolling down her cheek.
"Can I ask why you're so determined to forge your own path? Isn't inheriting the Sea God's position good enough?" Bo Saixi's voice was icy cold.
Lin Yongming could hear the deep disappointment in her tone. He turned to face the sea, a look of longing on his face.
"The Sea God's position is indeed good, but it's not suitable for me. Everything I've achieved so far is thanks to the Power of Fluctuation. It has given me a complete life."
"Otherwise, I would still be a blind boy in a small village, unable to take care of myself, living in complete darkness, and relying on others for everything."
"But with the Power of Fluctuation, my life has completely changed. Even though my eyes can't see, I can sense everything around me—mountains, rivers, and even the vast ocean. Wherever there is fluctuation, I can feel it."
"And I'm not sure if I would fail or revert to my former self if I abandoned the Power of Fluctuation to inherit the Sea God's position."
"Before, I wasn't sure of my direction, but during those five days of unconsciousness, I had an epiphany. I've made up my mind to forge my own path to godhood."
Lin Yongming spoke openly about his past, holding nothing back.
Bo Saixi listened quietly, hearing about the significance of the Power of Fluctuation in his life and seeing the determination and confidence on his face.
For a moment, she was at a loss for words.
"Bo Saixi," Lin Yongming suddenly turned to her and took a step closer.
"Hmm?" Bo Saixi responded, puzzled.
In the next moment, Lin Yongming's actions stunned her.
He took her hand and said, "I know you're strong and deeply devoted to the Sea God. You would sacrifice your life without hesitation."
"I also know that there's a vast gap between our statuses. What happened in the ocean was just an accident, but I can assure you that I'm willing to take responsibility."
"But I also know that even if I complete the Sea God's Nine Trials, I won't become a god. The final step requires you, the High Priest, to sacrifice your life and all your cultivation to open the path to godhood."
"I know you're aware of this, so part of the reason I don't want to become the Sea God is because I don't want you to sacrifice yourself for me."
Bo Saixi's expression softened slightly. "How do you know about what happens after the Sea God's Nine Trials? Did the Thunder God tell you?"
"Yes, the Thunder God told me. He said that you and Qian Daoliu from the Spirit Hall are both destined to sacrifice yourselves to open the path to godhood for the chosen inheritors."
"Considering all this, I've decided I don't want a godhood that requires someone else's sacrifice," Lin Yongming continued.
"What's the use? Even if you don't inherit the position, someone else might. In that case, I would still have to sacrifice myself for the Sea God. Honestly, I'd rather do it for you," Bo Saixi sighed softly.
"Life is unpredictable. Before I came to the island, you probably never imagined you'd have any connection with someone like me."
"Even if I don't inherit the Sea God's position and instead inherit the Thunder God's, I can use that authority to ask the Sea God to release you from your duty. Then you won't have to sacrifice yourself, and we can be together forever," Lin Yongming said confidently.
"Get lost! Who wants to be with you forever? Besides, sacrificing myself for the Sea God is my choice. As you said, everything I have now is thanks to the Sea God," Bo Saixi replied coldly.
Although she didn't get the answer she wanted, Bo Saixi was surprised by Lin Yongming's response. Through their conversation, she realized that Lin Yongming was a man of integrity and sincerity, and she understood his feelings toward her.
At this moment, Bo Saixi resolved to keep the child.
"I understand. I know it's unrealistic to ask you to leave Sea God Island and come to the mainland with me. The island needs you," Lin Yongming said understandingly.
"You actually thought about asking me to leave Sea God Island and go to the mainland with you? Lin Yongming, who gave you the confidence? I should slap you for even thinking that," Bo Saixi glared at him, half-amused and half-annoyed.
"That's why I didn't bring it up," Lin Yongming smiled helplessly.
"Fine, I won't try to persuade you anymore. The Sea God's position isn't for me to decide—it's the Sea God's will. Since the Sea God's Heart has chosen you, you should keep it."
"But if you truly find your own path, I hope you'll return the Sea God's Heart to the island."
"In a few days, leave with them and pursue your path," Bo Saixi sighed, her hand unconsciously intertwining with Lin Yongming's.
"High Priest, thank you for understanding," Lin Yongming said gently.
"It's nothing. Call me Bo Saixi," Bo Saixi's tone softened.
"Bo Saixi, I don't know how long it will be before I return to Sea God Island. But when I do, I believe my eyes will be healed, and I'll be able to see you," Lin Yongming said slowly.
"Your eyes… you mean there's a chance they can heal?" Bo Saixi was surprised.
"Yes, thanks to the Power of Fluctuation," Lin Yongming nodded firmly.
Bo Saixi didn't respond, but her eyes lingered on Lin Yongming, as if trying to memorize his face.
Lin Yongming could feel the warmth of her gaze through the touch of their hands. Without words, he pulled her closer.
Bo Saixi was caught off guard as Lin Yongming's face drew nearer. Before she knew it, their lips met. Bo Saixi's eyes widened in shock, but she didn't push him away. Instead, she slowly closed her eyes.
After a while, Bo Saixi felt a hand on her waist and quickly pulled away, her cheeks flushed.
"That's enough," Bo Saixi said, resisting the urge to let things go further, fearing Lin Yongming might discover her pregnancy.
"It's been a while. You should go back to your room before she wakes up," Bo Saixi said coldly, startling Lin Yongming.
"Alright, I'll listen to you," Lin Yongming nodded, understanding her feelings.
Bo Saixi escorted Lin Yongming back to his room and released the seal on Bibi Dong's senses.
"One more thing—don't tell your wives about us."
With that, Bo Saixi hurriedly left the room and returned to the Sea God Temple, where she couldn't stop herself from retching.
"He mustn't find out about the pregnancy. If he does, he'll stay, and he won't be able to focus on his path."
"Lin Yongming, how should I face you? I hope you can truly achieve what you've set out to do."
Bo Saixi wiped her mouth and lay down on her bed, unable to sleep.
Lin Yongming, on the other hand, lay in bed, wide awake. Worried that Bo Saixi's lipstick might have left a mark, he nervously wiped his mouth, glancing at Bibi Dong beside him.
"Xiao Ming!" Bibi Dong murmured in her sleep, rolling over and hugging him, causing Lin Yongming to jump.
"What a mess!"
Five days later, Qian Daoliu and Tang Chen finished their tour of Sea God Island. Bo Saixi hadn't appeared during this time.
On the sixth day, as Lin Yongming and the others boarded the ship, Bo Saixi finally showed up with the seven guardians to see them off.
"Goodbye, Sea God Island!"
Lin Yongming, Bibi Dong, and Blue Silver Emperor waved to Bo Saixi and the others.
"Lin Yongming, I'll be waiting for you on Sea God Island," Bo Saixi whispered, her hand resting on her stomach as she watched the ship grow smaller in the distance.
"Bo Saixi, wait for me to return to Sea God Island," Lin Yongming thought firmly as his senses moved further away from her.
As the ship sailed completely out of Sea God Island's waters, the island's outline disappeared on the horizon.
"Finally, we're heading back. I'm so tired of seafood, but I never expected there to be such an isolated place like Sea God Island out there. Their faith is so pure, and it's truly admirable," Bibi Dong gazed in the direction of Sea God Island, sighing with emotion.
"Yeah, I hope no one disturbs these people anymore. They're so simple and peaceful, living on the island for generations, solely to protect the Sea God's legacy. You could say they live a very pure life," Blue Silver Emperor also couldn't help but express her admiration.
"Sea God Island is indeed a special place. Maybe we'll come back to visit someday."
"Ladies, it's windy outside. Let's head into the cabin," Lin Yongming said, pulling his thoughts away from Sea God Island and addressing the two women.
"Oh, since when did you become so sweet? But don't forget, the Grand Elder is inside. Be careful," Bibi Dong teased, then whispered a reminder in Lin Yongming's ear.
"Haha, Dong'er is getting scared again," Blue Silver Emperor laughed, watching Bibi Dong's reaction.
"Shut up, A'yin! Just wait. Give me a year, and once I break through to the Soul Sage level, I'll confront my teacher about my relationship with Xiao Ming. When that happens, I won't share him with you," Bibi Dong retorted, playfully hitting Blue Silver Emperor.
"Oh, really? I'll be waiting to see you gain three levels in a year and reach Soul Sage. If you can't do it, I'll laugh at you for a year or two," Blue Silver Emperor taunted.
"Hmph, just because of what you said, I'll train even harder and prove you wrong."
"I'll be waiting."
Lin Yongming shook his head helplessly and walked into the cabin. Sometimes, the two women really acted like ordinary girls.
"Greetings, Grand Elder, Lord Haotian," Lin Yongming said as he entered the cabin, bowing slightly to the two men.
"You're Lin Yongming, right? Sit," Qian Daoliu nodded.
"Thank you, Grand Elder," Lin Yongming replied, sitting down next to Deacon Keluze.
"From now on, call me High Priest. After seeing the peaceful life on Sea God Island, I've decided to retire from the martial world," Qian Daoliu said slowly.
"Lin Yongming, although I rarely appear in the Spirit Hall, I've heard about you. Despite your innate disability, you've reached level 67 as a Soul Emperor at just sixteen years old. You even led the Spirit Hall team to victory in the Continental Elite Tournament."
"Especially during the attack on Sea God Island, I heard from Deacon Keluze that you used everything you had to cover the Spirit Hall's retreat, ensuring their safe escape and minimizing casualties. You stayed behind and were captured. Your contribution is undeniable," Qian Daoliu's tone was full of praise for Lin Yongming.
"High Priest, at the time, I didn't think too much. I just couldn't bear to see so many colleagues die needlessly. I had a way to help, so I used it. I didn't expect to exhaust all my soul power and fall into the sea. Thankfully, the people of Sea God Island didn't give us too much trouble," Lin Yongming replied humbly.
"Wait, Old Qian, he's as tall as us, and you're saying he's only sixteen? He's already stronger than my grandsons," Tang Chen exclaimed, looking at Lin Yongming in surprise.
"Old Tang, surprising, isn't it? I was shocked too," Qian Daoliu said, clearly pleased with Tang Chen's reaction.
"That's impressive. How about this? I have a granddaughter named Tang Yuehua, just a few years older than him. Maybe we can arrange a match," Tang Chen suggested.
"Get lost! You're trying to pull him into your Clear Sky Clan, aren't you? If anyone's going to arrange a match, it'll be with our Spirit Hall's Holy Maiden," Qian Daoliu retorted with a laugh.
"Tsk, so stingy. Can't even take a joke," Tang Chen muttered.
"Uh, Lord Haotian, I've actually met Tang Xiao and his brothers a few times. We've had some good conversations. They're all open-minded and impressive individuals. They'll be worthy opponents in the future," Lin Yongming explained.
"Old Qian, I have to say, this kid is impressive. He'll definitely be one of the key figures in your Spirit Hall in the future," Tang Chen couldn't help but praise Lin Yongming.
"Lord Haotian, you flatter me. I still have a long way to go. Besides, from the sound of the High Priest's voice, he's still full of vitality and far from old," Lin Yongming said modestly.
"Old Qian, did you hear that? So why retire?" Tang Chen said helplessly.
"I have no choice. The younger generation needs room to grow. Besides, you're no different, spending most of the year on that mountain instead of returning to your Clear Sky Clan," Qian Daoliu countered.
"Actually, after seeing Sea God Island, I've made a decision. I realize that just cultivating in seclusion won't help me break through. So, after I return, I'll make some arrangements with the clan and then set out to explore the continent, searching for lost divine relics. I don't know when I'll return," Tang Chen said seriously.
"Old Tang, you…" Qian Daoliu was stunned.
"So, Old Qian, if the Clear Sky Clan ever makes a mistake or has a conflict with the Spirit Hall, I hope you'll show them some leniency," Tang Chen said slowly.
His words made it clear that Tang Chen was determined to achieve godhood, no matter how long it took.
"So, Tang Chen will eventually find the Slaughter City and become the Slaughter King?" Lin Yongming thought to himself.
Lin Yongming felt no mockery toward Tang Chen. On the contrary, he deeply admired him. Tang Chen had single-handedly created numerous techniques for the Clear Sky Clan, including the Great Sumeru Hammer and the Ring Explosion technique, which were almost godlike in their power.
In the past thousand years, who else could claim such achievements?
But this also highlighted how difficult it was to achieve godhood without inheriting a divine position.
"Old friend, don't worry. I'll keep my promise," Qian Daoliu said, patting Tang Chen's shoulder firmly.
"But if you do become a god, don't come back and bully our Spirit Hall," Qian Daoliu joked.
"Who knows? If I see your annoying face, I might just punch you a couple of times," Tang Chen replied with a smile.
"Fine, fine. Once we're back on land, I'll give you a few slashes first. Otherwise, once you return, I won't stand a chance."
"Are you saying you can beat me now? I can still beat you to a pulp."
"Hahaha!"
Qian Daoliu and Tang Chen burst into laughter.
"This is the bromance between these two," Lin Yongming thought with a smile.
Thanks to Lin Yongming's presence, Qian Daoliu and Tang Chen didn't end up competing for Bo Saixi's affection.
Of course, Lin Yongming didn't know that both men had been deeply impressed by Bo Saixi's beauty. If not for her pregnancy, they might have pursued her.
Outside, Blue Silver Emperor and Bibi Dong, hearing the laughter, curiously entered the cabin.
"Greetings, High Priest."
"Lord Haotian."
The two women bowed slightly as they entered.
"Take a seat. It's almost time for lunch."
"Alright," Bibi Dong, as the Holy Maiden, sat slightly ahead of Lin Yongming, while Blue Silver Emperor sat behind him.
After nearly twelve days of sailing, the ship finally returned to the mainland, docking at Harbor City.
By the time they arrived, it was already dusk, so the group decided to stay in the city for the night.
Early the next morning, Lin Yongming and Blue Silver Emperor bought a variety of fresh seafood at the harbor, storing them in the Ruyi Hundred Treasure Pouch to keep them fresh.
Lin Yongming noticed that Tang Chen was no longer with them, having parted ways with Qian Daoliu.
"Sigh, let's head back," Qian Daoliu said, his sigh likely for Tang Chen.
Under Qian Daoliu's lead, the group didn't take a carriage but instead used their soul power to travel swiftly toward Spirit City.
After a day of travel, they arrived at Spirit City that evening.
"You three have good stamina. I thought you'd need another day to reach Spirit City. I was almost ready to leave you behind halfway," Qian Daoliu teased as they arrived.
"High Priest, please don't remind me. I'm exhausted. You and Deacon Keluze were way too fast. Did you do it on purpose?" Bibi Dong leaned against the city wall, panting.
"Yeah, and you wouldn't even let us use our external soul bones," Lin Yongming added, also leaning against the wall to catch his breath.
Even Blue Silver Emperor, with her strong recovery abilities, was worn out after running over a thousand miles.
Even Deacon Keluze, a Soul Douluo, was breathing heavily, though not as much as the three youngsters.
"Consider it a special training session. I wasn't wrong about you three. This probably isn't even your limit. How about running around Spirit City twice more before entering? I'll run with you," Qian Daoliu said, not even out of breath.
"No, no, High Priest. Look, I can barely stand," Bibi Dong quickly waved her hands in refusal.
"Same here. We're no match for you, High Priest. Your soul power is too strong," Lin Yongming agreed.
"Alright, I'll stop teasing you. Let's go inside," Qian Daoliu said with a smile.
"Yes, High Priest," the three of them sighed in relief.
They entered the city smoothly, with Spirit City's streets brightly lit and bustling even at night.
By around 9 p.m., they reached the gates of the Spirit Hall.
"Greetings, High Priest!" The guards immediately knelt.
"Bibi Dong, you three rest well. We'll discuss everything tomorrow," Qian Daoliu said before disappearing.
"Yes, High Priest," the three of them bowed.
They then returned to the courtyard where Lin Yongming had been staying before. After a quick dinner and a bath, they went to bed.
Meanwhile, Qian Daoliu returned to his hall, where Golden Crocodile was waiting.
"Brother, you're back."
"Golden Crocodile, how has Xunji been these past few days? Has he caused any trouble?" Qian Daoliu asked.
"He was a bit restless for the first two days, but he's calmed down since then," Golden Crocodile replied.
"Sigh, Xunji has been too reckless this time. To prevent him from relying on me too much, I've decided to announce my retirement tomorrow and take full control of the Elder Hall and the Worship Hall," Qian Daoliu said slowly.
"Yes, High Priest!"
Note: So far this story is published up to chapter 290 on my patreon, go check it out and remember that if we reach the goal of 30 power stones I will publish the next chapter.