Northern Region, Yunze Prefecture.
This place is crisscrossed by waterways and vast marshes, shrouded in a hazy, indistinct mist all year round, with a rich aquatic essence and a faint demonic aura permeating the air.
This is the Daoist temple of the Azure Flood Dragon King, Mighty Figure demon from the Northern Region.
The heart of the prefecture is not a bustling city, but a vast, boundless, azure marshland called " Cloud Dream Lake ".
In the center of the lake, in a hidden space, lies a magnificent cluster of blue palaces, built along the water and half-suspended above the water's surface.
The palace is majestic and carved with various dragons and aquatic totems, exuding an ancient and awe-inspiring aura under the misty water vapor and moonlight.
This is the Azure Flood Dragon King's water palace, the Cloud Dream Palace.
At this moment, the night is deep and quiet, and all is still.
The only sounds were the subtle ripples from the moonlight emanating from the aquatic creatures in the swamp, and the occasional low roars of unknown monsters from afar.
At the highest point of the Cloud Dream Palace, on a viewing terrace that extends into the heart of the lake and is open on all four sides, two Dao Body stood by the railing.
One of them was dressed in a blue dragon robe, tall and robust, with an ancient face and eyes that seemed to hold a deep blue light, exuding an imposing aura without anger.
This is the master of this place, the Azure Flood Dragon King.
Standing beside him was a man dressed in colorful feathered robes, with a handsome face like that of a young boy.
He stood tall and straight, with a noble air mixed with a touch of innate arrogance. His eyes were sharp as lightning, and with each glance, he seemed to be able to draw upon the vital energy of heaven and earth around him.
It was the Peacock King Azure Flood Dragon King and ranked among the giants of the demon race in the Northern Region.
On the white jade table in front of the two were spiritual wines and immortal fruits, but they were clearly untouched.
The atmosphere was somewhat somber.
" Azure Flood Dragon, I still feel that sending Ruyu to Jade Pool is not a foolproof plan."
The Peacock King broke the silence first; his voice was clear and melodious, yet tinged with a hint of confusion and worry.
" Jade Pool is a sacred place for the human race, and has always been clearly separated from our demon race."
Although Li Qingshan, the Jade Pool Holy Son, once said he would protect her Ruyu, he is ultimately a human.
Is entrusting him with the bloodline of the imperial lineage and the Chaos Green Lotus too risky?
" Li Qingshan is currently riding high and hasn't come looking for us. He might have already forgotten about this matter. Wouldn't it be better to let Ruyu stay with you?"
The Azure Flood Dragon King held a luminous cup in his hand, the amber-colored spirit wine inside rippling with the slight movement of his wrist, reflecting the cold, demonic moon on the horizon.
His gaze was deep as he looked down at the boundless Cloud Dream Lake, shimmering like scattered silver under the moonlight, and he spoke slowly, his voice deep and magnetic:
" Peacock, I know what you're thinking all too well."
He turned his head to look at the Peacock King, a glint of light flashing in his dragon eyes:
"But have you ever considered that since the passing of the Azure Emperor, our demon race, though seemingly still entrenched in the Big Dipper and occupying many great states, is actually beset by internal and external troubles and has long since lost its ancient glory."
Internal conflicts among various ethnic groups make it difficult to truly unite as one.
Externally, the holy lands of the human race and Desolate Ancient Family are eyeing us covetously, and the Ancient Emperor of the Central Continent also have their eyes on our demon race's territory.
Furthermore, there are those ancient beings hidden in Life Forbidden Zone, who regard all things as mere straw dogs; once chaos erupts, my demon race will be the first to suffer.
"Yan Yatou possesses the bloodline of the Azure Emperor and wields the Chaos Green Lotus. She is the future hope of our demon race, but also the root of our calamity."
Countless eyes were secretly watching her.
The previous pursuit by an unknown force was so ruthless and meticulously planned that it was beyond the capabilities of ordinary forces.
Although I can protect her for a time, Yunze Prefecture is by no means a safe place.
Those lurking in the shadows won't give me much time."
The Peacock King frowned.
Even so, is there no one in my demon race whom I can entrust with my duties?
If we join forces, it's not impossible.
"Join forces?"
The Azure Flood Dragon King interrupted him, a slightly mocking, bitter smile playing on his lips.
" Peacock, we've known each other for many years. Honestly, if we weren't facing a life-or-death situation, could our forces have truly merged without any reservations?"
Of those other old fogies, how many are truly willing to follow Yan Yatou and restore the glory of the Azure Emperor?
I fear that many more people intend to use her, along with the Chaos Green Lotus, as a bargaining chip, or as an object to be devoured!
His tone turned sharp, carrying a coldness that suggested he had seen through the ways of the world:
"What the demon race lacks now is not experts, but a banner that can truly awe the masses, unite all sides, and lead us to survive in the coming golden age and even the Dark Turmoil!"
Yan Yatou has the potential, but she needs time to grow, and more importantly, she needs a sufficiently safe and powerful protector!
"And Li Qingshan, the Jade Pool Holy Son,"
When the Azure Flood Dragon King mentioned this name, his expression became extremely solemn.
"It seems to be the most suitable, and perhaps only, option at present."
The Peacock King was silent for a moment, then said:
"Because he possesses Innate Sacred Body Dao Embryo?"
"Holding the Beginningless Bell?"
"Not only that."
The Azure Flood Dragon King shook his head, downed the spirit wine in his cup, and, feeling the scorching spiritual energy flow into his stomach, said in a deep voice,
"This person's rise to power is nothing short of a miracle."
Although not born into a top-tier clan, he was able to stir up a storm in a short period of time, gain the approval of the Great Emperor Wushi in Purple Mountain, and return with the Emperor Bell.
His temperament, his courage, and his fortune are all terrifying.
You and I have both had contact with him. He may seem indifferent, but he is actually of iron will, a man of his word, and certainly no ordinary person.
He paused, his gaze fixed on the direction of the Eastern Jade Pool, as if it could pierce through endless mountains and rivers:
More importantly, he returned from Purple Mountain this time to receive the inheritance of the Great Emperor Wushi.
He wields the Emperor Weapon, the Beginningless Bell, and is also the Lord of the Future of the Jade Pool Holy Land. The Western Emperor Pagoda, another Emperor Weapon of Jade Pool, is also under his control.
Therefore, his covetousness for the Green Lotus Emperor Weapon is not very strong!
The holy lands feared him.
His future is destined to be inextricably linked to the very core of this golden age.
"Send Yan Yatou to Jade Pool and entrust her to him. In the short term, we can take advantage of Jade Pool's influence and the power of the Wu Shi Emperor Weapon."
This will deter the villains, ensure her safety, and buy her precious time to grow.
In the long run,
A profound light flashed in the Azure Flood Dragon King's eyes.
"Yan Yatou and he had already formed a bond."
If this connection could be further strengthened, what would that mean for my demon race's imperial descendants, and for the entire demon race?
Peacock, you can't possibly not understand.
The Peacock King's body trembled slightly, and a look of surprise appeared in his eyes:
"You mean, a marriage alliance?"
"It's not impossible."
The Azure Flood Dragon King spoke calmly.
"If we could gain such a powerful ally, a being who is highly likely to attain enlightenment in the future, and even a husband, what immense benefit would that bring to my demon race?"
This is far more advantageous than struggling to survive under internal strife and external pressure!
"But,"
The Peacock King still found it somewhat hard to accept.
" Li Qingshan is, after all, a human!"
"How could I, a descendant of the demon emperor, utterly..."
How narrow-minded are those who cling to bloodlines and races when faced with true life-or-death situations and the rise and fall of a people!
The Azure Flood Dragon King said with a sigh,
In ancient times, all races coexisted, and countless people intermarried.
As long as a way out can be found for the demon race and the glory of the imperial lineage can continue, what does it matter if some old rules are broken?
Besides, Yan girl,
At this point, the Azure Flood Dragon King's voice lowered, carrying a complex meaning:
" Peacock, you and I know perfectly well what that girl is thinking."
Do you really think that her trip to Jade Pool was entirely out of necessity and helplessness?
Upon hearing this, the Peacock King was speechless.
The image of Yan Ruyu, with her exquisite beauty yet always carrying a lingering melancholy and resolute air, appeared in his mind.
The popular category "Infinite Heavens" rankings are updated weekly; click to see the ranking changes.
Since being rescued by Li Qingshan, the usually aloof and reserved niece seems to have undergone some subtle changes.
When she occasionally mentions words like " Jade Pool " or " Li Qingshan," a complex light, imperceptible even to herself, flashes in her eyes, which are as deep and cold as an autumn pool.
There was gratitude, curiosity, and perhaps even a hint of a girlish, instinctive flutter that she herself was not entirely clear about.
She wasn't entirely without resistance to going to Jade Pool, but that resistance seemed to be mixed with some other, indescribable emotions.
A brief silence fell over the terrace.
A night breeze carries the scent of the lake and the faint fragrance of the lotus pond in the distance.
After a long while, the Peacock King finally exhaled a long breath, a mixture of helplessness and relief appearing on his handsome face.
"Never mind, never mind, perhaps you're right."
The current situation no longer allows us to remain complacent and stagnant.
Since you believe Li Qingshan is a trustworthy person, and Ruyu isn't entirely without intentions, then let's proceed according to your plan."
The Azure Flood Dragon King patted his shoulder, a cold glint flashing in his dragon eyes:
"Rest assured.
We, the descendants of the demon emperors, are not so easily bullied.
Sending Yan Yatou there this time is both a matter of seeking protection and an investment.
I trust Yan's judgment, and I also trust my own.
The two Mighty Figure demons stood silently on the edge of the terrace under the cold moonlight.
Outside the Cloud Dream Palace, the waterside palace where Yan Ruyu resided, there was a winding corridor that led to the center of the lake.
As dawn breaks, the lake is shrouded in mist, like a light veil, with distant mountains faintly visible. Occasionally, the cry of a crane breaks the silence.
The Azure Flood Dragon King's tall figure appeared at the end of the corridor, slowly approaching.
He wasn't wearing formal robes today, just a simple blue casual outfit, which made him look less imposing and more like a gentle elder.
Yan Ruyu was standing by the corridor, leaning on the railing watching the several spirit carp swimming leisurely in the water. Hearing footsteps, she turned around and bowed slightly.
" Azure Flood Dragon King."
Today she changed into an elegant dress, her long black hair flowing like a waterfall, held up only by a simple jade hairpin, her exquisite face even more beautiful in the morning light.
However, a lingering sadness and sorrow remained between his brows.
The Azure Flood Dragon King walked to her side and stood beside her, his gaze also fixed on the vast, misty lake. After a moment of silence, he spoke, his voice low and deep:
" Ruyu, you will be setting off in a month."
Is everything ready?
"Uncle, everything is ready."
Yan Ruyu responded softly, her voice like jade beads falling onto a plate, clear and crisp yet carrying a subtle, almost imperceptible ethereal quality.
"Um."
The Azure Flood Dragon King responded, his gaze still fixed on the distance, as if carefully choosing his words.
Do you still have any doubts?
Yan Ruyu's slender fingers unconsciously twisted the corner of her sleeve. After a moment of silence, she whispered:
" Jade Pool is a pure land for humans. We demons who go there for refuge are ultimately outsiders."
My niece is just worried that it will bring unnecessary trouble to Jade Pool, to him, and to others.
The "he" she was referring to was naturally Li Qingshan.
The Azure Flood Dragon King turned his head, his deep dragon eyes fixed on Yan Ruyu, as if trying to see into her heart:
"Trouble?
Now, where in the Big Dipper is there no trouble?
My demon race is plagued by internal strife and surrounded by powerful enemies. You, possessing Emperor Weapon and imperial blood, are the biggest source of "trouble" in yourself.
Staying in Yunze Prefecture will only bring more trouble, each more dangerous than the last.
With the Western Emperor Pagoda guarding the Jade Pool, and now the Beginningless Bell revived, its power is enough to deter most villains.
Li Qingshan's promise to protect him that day gave him the confidence and strength to take on this "trouble".
For him, this might also be a trial and Cause and Effect.
He paused, his tone becoming somewhat meaningful:
"Furthermore, Ruyu, do you really think that Li Qingshan's promise to protect her was merely out of a momentary sense of righteousness?"
Upon hearing this, Yan Ruyu's delicate body trembled slightly, and she raised her clear yet melancholy eyes to look at the Azure Flood Dragon King.
The Azure Flood Dragon King slowly said:
"Although I did not witness the events at Purple Mountain firsthand, I was able to glean some information from various sources afterward."
This young man's unwavering will, extraordinary courage, and exceptional fortune are truly rare throughout history.
He acts according to his own methods and is by no means a reckless person.
He must have his reasons for taking on this task.
Yan Ruyu lowered her head, avoiding the all-seeing gaze of the Azure Flood Dragon King, but her heartbeat involuntarily quickened.
She remembered the figure in black who appeared in the face of despair, and his calm yet powerful words.
She remembered the jade pendant he left behind when he left; these images lingered in her mind.
The Azure Flood Dragon King took in her subtle reactions, understood them, and continued:
"For you, this journey to Jade Pool is an escape from disaster and an opportunity for growth."
For our Eastern Wasteland demon race, this is also an important attempt.
If this can be used to establish a closer connection with that " Eastern Exalt " and Jade Pool, who wields the Wu Shi Emperor Weapon.
Furthermore, it will have immeasurable benefits in stabilizing the situation of our demon race and preparing for future upheavals.
He didn't spell it out too clearly, but the words "go a step further" were enough to make Yan Ruyu's cheeks flush and her heart surge.
She understood what her uncle meant; it was a politically charged expectation that she could establish a relationship with Li Qingshan that went beyond ordinary allies.
In the past, given her pride as a descendant of royalty, she would have definitely felt repulsed.
But at this moment, apart from the slight discomfort brought on by the inherent pride, there was no strong aversion as I had imagined.
Instead, there was a hint of indescribable panic, and a deep-seated, unspoken tremor in my heart.
She remained silent, neither admitting nor refuting.
Knowing her complicated emotions, the Azure Flood Dragon King said no more, but gently patted her shoulder, his tone regaining the gentleness and firmness of an elder:
Go, child.
The road ahead may be bumpy, but this is the best option right now.
Remember, Yunze Prefecture will always be your support.
Your uncle Peacock King, and I will always keep an eye on you.
As for Li Qingshan,
The Azure Flood Dragon King turned its gaze eastward once more, a glint of shrewdness flashing in its dragon eyes.
You just need to follow your heart.
Some destinies cannot be forced, yet they cannot be avoided.
Let things take their natural course; perhaps then we can truly see the results.
Yan Ruyu took a deep breath of the fresh, watery air, trying to calm her turbulent emotions, and bowed deeply to the Azure Flood Dragon King once more:
"My niece understands."
Many thanks to my uncle for his care and guidance over the past year.
"On this journey to Jade Pool, I will certainly live up to the name of an imperial descendant, and I will act with utmost caution."
Although her voice was soft, it revealed the tenacity and determination that belonged to a demon princess.
The Azure Flood Dragon King nodded with satisfaction:
"That puts my mind at ease."
Go ahead and prepare well.
Yan Ruyu bowed again, then turned and slowly walked along the winding corridor towards her pavilion.
The morning light stretched her figure long and slender; her back remained elegant, yet seemed even straighter than usual.
The Azure Flood Dragon King stood there, watching her figure disappear at the end of the covered bridge. After a long while, he let out a barely audible sigh.
Below, the vast Cloud Dream Lake appears calm on the surface, yet it seems as if undercurrents are surging, foreshadowing the impending storm.
Book lovers are all in the discussion area, chatting about the charm of the multiverse infinite novel.