Gu Yu replied calmly:
"You flatter me, Lord Sea God.
All I seek is to protect those I love and preserve peace in this land. Only with that conviction will I walk the divine path."
Poseidon laughed heartily, shaking the entire ocean with a thunderous roar:
"Well said-protecting those you love!
The path of a deity has always sprung from the obsessions of the human heart.
Though the Deep Sea Demonic Whale King possessed formidable strength, he was far too steeped in malice. Even after suppressing him, I could not be bothered to spare him another glance.
I waived your trial to hunt down the Deep Sea Demonic Whale King precisely because you lack the greed and bloodlust of powerful mortals.
I can entrust the Sea God Godhood to you without worry!"
Poseidon's laughter subsided, and his vast divine gaze slowly turned toward Bo Saixi, who knelt nearby.
In that instant, the atmosphere before the hall grew solemn.
Bo Saixi trembled slightly. She slowly raised her head, her aged yet beautiful eyes holding no fear, only the composure of someone who had long understood her fate.
"Bo Saixi."
The Sea God's voice grew grave and solemn.
"I am here."
Bo Saixi answered softly.
"For one hundred and twenty years, you have wielded the Sea God's Scepter, guarded the Sea God Hall, and guided those undergoing the trials. Your merits are immeasurable.
Now, a new sovereign has been established, Gu Yu's divine foundation is complete, and the Eighth Trial of the Sea God's Nine Trials has been fulfilled in its entirety."
Amid its sacred majesty, Poseidon's voice carried a trace of the ruthless law of fate:
"Begin the Ninth Trial:
The Sea God's true form shall descend, and the godhood shall be passed on!
Bo Saixi, fulfill the High Priest's final