At the same time, the Guhan Sect's ancestor, Yun Yangzi, was struggling with a difficult choice.
No one knew Song Wanníng's strength better than he did. They'd crossed paths before, and he understood her character well. She wasn't the type to deceive someone for no reason.
So if she came to him with such a request, it had to be serious.
That was exactly why he hesitated.
People naturally seek benefit and avoid harm, especially those who've reached his level of cultivation. He was so close to ascending that risking it all felt reckless. If something happened to him, the Guhan Sect would suffer the consequences.
But still…
This matter concerned the fate of the entire world. If he turned a blind eye and disaster truly struck, wouldn't he regret it for the rest of his life?
And if he refused, where else could Song Wanníng turn for help?
A storm of thoughts churned inside him, leaving him unable to make a decision.
Meanwhile, in the Demon Palace, Baili Shang was doing his best to persuade the Demon King.
The Demon King couldn't help twitching the corner of his mouth as he watched his son's animated expression.
"Boy, are you so lovestruck you'd even risk your old man's life for a woman?" he said with a teasing smirk.
Baili Shang froze, then scowled. "Father, can you not joke right now? This is serious!"
"I want you to go, but I'm more worried about your safety," the Demon King replied calmly.
Baili Shang shook his head. "Father, I've thought it through. Cultivation's always been about moving forward. If you don't advance, you fall behind. You've been stuck at your current level for too long. To ascend, you'll have to overcome the heavenly thunder sooner or later. If there's even a small chance to break through, I know you're tempted."
He knew his father too well. The Demon King had always been bold and unafraid of challenges. Without that daring spirit, he never would've secured his throne so young.
Hearing his son's words, the Demon King chuckled helplessly. "You really do understand me."
A sharp gleam flashed in his eyes. If this was about saving the world, he wouldn't care much. But if it was a chance to ascend, how could he possibly ignore it?
The opportunity was right in front of him, and if he didn't try, he'd never forgive himself.
"Go tell her I'll do it," the Demon King said with a small laugh, waving his hand dismissively. "A grown son can't be stopped anyway. She's got you wrapped around her finger."
He sighed inwardly. What a mess. His son had fallen head over heels, yet the girl didn't even seem interested. Shaking his head, he turned and went back inside.
Baili Shang knew his father was going to make preparations. His chest tightened slightly, worry flickering across his face.
Even if it was dangerous, he had to go too. If something went wrong, he'd take the hit for his father. He pulled out a message talisman and quickly sent the news to Song Wanníng.
"Thank you. Once I've confirmed the time, I'll contact you again."
Her gentle voice flowed through the talisman, and Baili Shang couldn't help but smile.
"I told you, there's no need to be polite between us."
After exchanging a few more words, he ended the communication. The smile slowly faded from his face.
There was a time when he thought he was a peerless genius, that nothing in the world could challenge him. But after meeting Song Wanníng, that belief shattered bit by bit.
Now, she'd completely surpassed him.
They might both be at the Unity stage, but he knew she was already on the verge of ascension. If she succeeded in rebuilding the world, this realm wouldn't be able to contain her anymore.
And him?
He didn't even know how long he'd still be stuck struggling in the Spirit Realm.
For the first time, regret burned deep inside him. If he'd known he'd meet someone like Song Wanníng, he never would've wasted a single day.
Now he couldn't even keep up with her steps, let alone protect her.
Disappointment and frustration flickered through his heart. He silently swore that once this was all over, he'd throw himself into cultivation and rise as fast as he could—so one day, he could stand by her side again.
…
The next day, Song Wanníng met with Lady Meng Po.
She looked the same as before, but there was a faint liveliness in her expression, and the sorrow that usually clouded her face seemed lighter.
Just as Song Wanníng was wondering why, Lady Meng Po spoke first. "I've decided. I'll go with you, no matter what happens. And if things go wrong, I won't blame you."
She said it plainly, cutting straight to the worry Song Wanníng hadn't voiced. It was her own choice, and she wouldn't let anyone else bear the consequences.
"Alright."
Song Wanníng stood, her eyes lighting up with quiet relief.
Now only Yun Yangzi was left.
She didn't rush things, simply smiling as she said, "Senior, you can take some time to make arrangements. There's no need to hurry."
"Alright."
Lady Meng Po didn't hesitate. Once she'd made up her mind, she wasn't one to back down. If she could reach the Immortal Realm and see Mu Zixu again, she'd have no regrets left in this life.
After discussing a few details, she immediately went to arrange her affairs. Whether she succeeded or failed, she'd likely be gone from the Underworld for a long time. So she had to assign her duties to the other elders and leave a message for King Yama.
Lady Meng Po quickly got busy, and Song Wanníng thought it might take several days. But by noon, news arrived from Luo Hantian—Yun Yangzi had agreed to take the risk as well.
Finally, everyone was assembled.
The weight pressing on Song Wanníng's heart eased a little. She took out the Realm-Linking Incense and lit it.
From the drifting smoke, Mo Yang Xiānzūn's face appeared.
"Xiānjūn, I've gathered everyone. Once you're ready, we can begin."
"You found them already?"
Mo Yang Xiānzūn blinked, visibly surprised.
These were Mahayana peak cultivators from multiple races, yet Song Wanníng had managed to rally them all in such a short time—and they were even willing to take the risk?
He looked at her closely, a hint of admiration in his gaze. This young woman never failed to exceed expectations. In the end, those people agreed because they trusted her.
And that alone spoke volumes.
"Good. Since you're ready, let's set a date."
Mo Yang Xiānzūn didn't waste words. After some discussion, they agreed to begin two months later, giving everyone enough time to travel.
"Alright."
When the incense burned out, Song Wanníng's face grew serious again. She sighed softly and sent message talismans to her Master and Martial Uncle. As always, she didn't tell them the dangers—only that she'd be going somewhere mysterious and might be gone for a long time.
She told them not to worry.
Leng Qingzhu and Liu Lanyi agreed, but worry still filled their hearts.
Given Song Wanníng's personality, the fact that she'd taken the initiative to explain meant this trip was dangerous. But that was the nature of the cultivation world. Danger was everywhere, and they couldn't restrain her path. All they could do was remind her to be careful—and train harder themselves.
Long ago, they'd already fallen behind her.
Now, the best way to help was to grow stronger, so they wouldn't drag her down.
Once all preparations were done, Song Wanníng finally felt at ease.
After Lady Meng Po finished her arrangements, Song Wanníng notified everyone and set the meeting point at the ancient tomb.
Then she and Lady Meng Po began their journey.
This time, Xuan Yan didn't bother hiding. She appeared openly, sitting beside Song Wanníng as they set off toward destiny.