Seeing that things were going badly, Emperor Xiangyi immediately adjusted his body and began climbing, taking one step at a time. But his slender little tail, flicking back and forth, betrayed his delight at having just lectured everyone.
Fang Yun, however, was rather worried. Each step was taller than he was, and he had to climb them one by one. It seemed he had no choice but to jump up each step. Still, his body was stronger than an ordinary Great Demon King's, so it was hardly a problem.
"I'll go ahead."
Ao Fen shook his body, and his four dragon legs lengthened. His hind legs in particular grew thick and powerful, making him look very much like a giant lizard standing upright. He climbed without difficulty.
Emperor Yanwen had an easy time, and Emperor Shui Ku had an even easier one. His tentacles served as feet, making the climb effortless.
Yungen King cared nothing for appearances. Though he was clearly a puff of white cloud, he bounced up the steps like a rubber ball.
In the end, only Fang Yun and Eel Thunder Emperor remained.
"You go first," Eel Thunder Emperor said.
Fang Yun glanced sympathetically at Eel Thunder Emperor's fins, walked to the first step, and bent slightly at the waist and knees to jump. But then he discovered that the step before him was rapidly shrinking, becoming the height of an ordinary stair, perfectly suited to his stature.
Fang Yun froze for a moment without lifting his foot.
"Chief Eel, the steps in front of me have shrunk. They're now just the right size for me to walk up," Fang Yun said.
Surprise crossed Eel Thunder Emperor's face. After a moment's thought, he said, "Go on. It's all right. Perhaps you have an affinity with this place."