I've also recently started a new translation, please check it out and show your support! Douluo: Seven Kill Shock the World
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As the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud enveloped Shui Bing'er, the trace of the Sea God's divine consciousness not only examined her body and talent but also probed deeply into her soul.
Because Yang Xiong had previously mastered the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud, his spiritual power connected with the Sea God's divine consciousness in that moment. He glimpsed Shui Bing'er's past and even her innermost thoughts.
It seemed the Sea God wanted to ensure that its chosen successor could truly carry on its legacy and ideals, bringing peace to the seas.
Under the watchful eyes of both Yang Xiong and the Sea God's divine consciousness, they observed Shui Bing'er's entire history—everything she had experienced from childhood, every decision she had made, her relentless training to grow stronger while still supporting her team.
Given her Ice Phoenix martial soul, it was more suited for a power-type soul master. Yet, as the team captain, Shui Bing'er had chosen the less suitable role of a control-type soul master.
Despite this, she displayed extraordinary talent. During the previous Soul Master Tournament, she had been the strongest control-type soul master in the Tian Dou region. Even now, she continued to excel in both control and power, standing out in both fields.
From her past, it was clear that Shui Bing'er was an exceptionally gentle girl, yet she was resolute and decisive when faced with challenges. She possessed a spirit of sacrifice and unwavering determination.
Her Ice Phoenix had initially been imperfect, much like Ma Hongjun's Fire Phoenix, which carried demonic flames. The early Ice Phoenix was prone to losing control.
However, through sheer willpower and rigorous training, Shui Bing'er had forced her Ice Phoenix to reach a higher level of mastery. The Ice Crystal Phoenix Sunflower perfected her Ice Phoenix, and under the tempering of the Sea God's power during tidal training, her Ice Phoenix grew even stronger.
…
When Yang Xiong saw recent images of Shui Bing'er, he was momentarily stunned.
But Yang Xiong didn't have time to dwell on it. Clearly, Shui Bing'er had earned the recognition of the Sea God's divine consciousness. Her talent, character, and dedication were all flawless.
Without hesitation, Yang Xiong gritted his teeth and severed the connection between the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud and himself.
Even with his formidable strength, severing the link felt like a heavy blow to his Spiritual Sea. Thankfully, his head soul bone activated immediately, stabilizing his spiritual power and ensuring its resilience.
The danger far exceeded what others could imagine. The Heart of the Sea God was a true Divine Artifact, and one that already had an owner. Though Yang Xiong's spiritual power had reached the level of an Ultimate Douluo, there was still a gap between him and a god. Pushing his spiritual power to its limits felt akin to battling a deity.
Once the connection with Yang Xiong was severed, a deep blue figure emerged from the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud—it was none other than the Sea God Yang Xiong had encountered before.
The Sea God pointed distantly at Shui Bing'er, and a surge of azure light infused itself into her mind. The Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud transformed into a streak of blue light and flew directly into her body.
An indeterminate amount of time passed before Shui Bing'er slowly regained consciousness. She appeared as though she had just endured a fierce battle or suffered a heavy blow to her spiritual sea.
Ning Rongrong quickly asked: "Little Bear, what happened to Sister Bing'er? Has she received the inheritance of the Sea God?"
Yang Xiong nodded: "Shui Bing'er possesses outstanding talent and an incredibly strong will. She has indeed gained the Sea God's approval."
"However, the path ahead will be extremely difficult. Truly obtaining the Sea God's inheritance will be no easy task, and she may face countless life-and-death trials. I hope she can successfully complete the tests."
Shui Bing'er bowed slightly to Yang Xiong: "Thank you, Sect Leader, for your guidance. I will strive to ascend to godhood and bring glory to the Body Sect."
Yang Xiong smiled: "Sister Bing'er, there's no need to be so formal. We're teammates, and we're all part of the same sect. Just remember my words and keep in mind what it truly means to be a successor of the Sea God."
Though the others envied Shui Bing'er for earning the Heart of the Sea God's recognition, they were genuinely happy for her.
As Yang Xiong had anticipated, after gaining the Heart of the Sea God's approval, Shui Bing'er had acquired the ability to use four of its soul skills. With these skills, her combat abilities in water would significantly improve, making their upcoming journey easier.
Yang Xiong addressed everyone: "All of you have just returned from the frontlines. Take a few days to rest. In two days, we'll prepare to set out again."
Ning Rongrong asked curiously: "Are we going back to Sea God Island?"
Yang Xiong nodded: "Not only Sea God Island—we must also venture into the ocean. That's where I'll find my ninth soul ring."
"Of course, this journey is crucial for all of you as well. It will be extremely perilous but also highly beneficial."
After hearing this, everyone left on their own. As Shui Bing'er departed, she glanced back at Yang Xiong with a hint of shyness in her eyes. But the shyness quickly faded, replaced by her usual composure and tranquility.
After everyone had left, Yang Xiong sat down with Ning Rongrong in his arms. They had been apart for some time, and both had experienced much during that period. There was much they wanted to say to each other.
As for the look Shui Bing'er had given him before leaving, Yang Xiong understood its meaning but chose not to dwell on it. The situation remained uncertain, and time was running short.
At the same time, another voice echoed in Yang Xiong's mind.
"Yang Xiong, Fifth Trial of the Asura Nine Trials: Find a new owner for the Heart of the Sea God. Shui Bing'er has gained the Heart of the Sea God's approval. Trial completed. Reward: 10% Asura Affinity, total affinity now at 60%."
Though Yang Xiong had anticipated this outcome, he still let out a sigh of relief. This trial had been the most unpredictable of all.
Beside him, Ning Rongrong looked a little disappointed: "Little Bear, why didn't I receive the Sea God's inheritance? Earlier, I felt a slight connection with the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud."
Yang Xiong couldn't help but laugh as he looked at Ning Rongrong nestled in his arms.
"Rongrong, the path to godhood isn't so simple. It's fraught with challenges and requires a martial soul compatible with the corresponding divine position. Shui Bing'er's ice attribute aligns with the Sea God's essence. Her future strength in the ocean will be unimaginable, perhaps even surpassing the original Sea God."
"As for you, achieving godhood depends on opportunity. You'll encounter a divine inheritance suited to you eventually, and that's when your true hardships will begin."
…
In the God Realm, within the Asura God's palace.
The Asura God gazed at the massive screen before him, which displayed Shui Bing'er.
"Sea God, you should be pleased now. This Shui Bing'er is exceptional in every way. She should make a perfect divine successor for you. Under her rule, the seas will know peace."
A trace of a smile appeared in the Sea God's eyes: "Shui Bing'er is indeed remarkable. When she first came to Sea God Island, her strength and opportunities were somewhat lacking. But now, with Yang Xiong's assistance, passing the trials shouldn't be too difficult."
"It's just a pity. Shui Bing'er only lacks her ninth soul ring. The little golden fish I left behind years ago might be beyond her reach now."
The Asura God sighed: "Sea God, you're overthinking things. Based on the current situation, Yang Xiong will likely seek out your little whale. As the saying goes, 'One whale falls, and all life flourishes.' This will benefit your chosen one, Shui Bing'er."
The Sea God rolled his eyes: "Who benefits the most here? You're the one who set this sixth trial for him. Yang Xiong may be strong, but he might not stand a chance against my little whale."
"After all, across the entire Douluo Continent, my little whale represents the pinnacle of soul beasts, especially in the ocean. Even a Limit Douluo would struggle to contend with it."
The Asura God replied: "If there were no difficulty, how could it count as a trial? Besides, Yang Xiong is already one of the strongest beings on the Douluo Continent, not to mention he wields the Asura Demon Sword."
"But I am curious. How will Yang Xiong deal with the Deep Sea Demon Whale King and his family? I hope he doesn't disappoint me."
The Sea God shook his head: "I'm not sure about that. The Deep Sea Demon Whale clan is the strongest race of soul beasts in the ocean, unmatched in power. They grow stronger by devouring sea soul beasts, yet they are incredibly lazy and gentle, unlike the bloodthirsty and destructive Evil Spirit Orcas."
"Do you think Yang Xiong will eradicate them completely or leave a lingering threat?"
The Asura God's expression turned serious: "If Yang Xiong eradicates the Deep Sea Demon Whale clan, I'll be glad—but also disappointed."
"As you said, the Deep Sea Demon Whale clan naturally needs to consume soul beasts to grow stronger, yet they aren't inherently evil. Their existence disrupts the ocean's balance, which might be considered the tragedy of soul beasts."
"You must understand—I value order above all else. My successor must uphold order but cannot be too extreme, lest they create new destruction. That's why I want the next Asura God to be a normal person with emotions, not a heartless monster obsessed with maintaining order."
…
At this moment, the content of the Asura God's sixth trial appeared in Yang Xiong's mind.
"Yang Xiong, Sixth Trial of the Asura Nine Trials: Obtain your ninth soul ring and torso soul bone. Do not harm innocents indiscriminately, and do not leave behind any hidden dangers. Time limit: one year. Failure results in annihilation."
When Yang Xiong read the trial's contents, he found it strange. Logically, the Asura God should have known that his goal for the ninth soul ring was the Deep Sea Demon Whale King. Yet, it had set such conditions for the trial. Did the Asura God also know about the Deep Sea Demon Whale King's wife and child, or even foresee that the wife might one day wreak havoc upon the world?
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