Feeling the bloodline connection, Yun Chuan, though already aware of the truth, outwardly acted as if his worldview was shattered. He muttered to himself, lost and shaken.
After a moment, he abruptly shook off the tendrils of Blue Silver Grass and turned to run away, seemingly unable to accept the reality.
Since this was an act, Tang Hao, watching nearby, understood Yun Chuan wouldn't calmly accept such news suddenly—otherwise it would look fake. So Yun Chuan put on this facade of denial and fled.
Sensing his son's resistance, the three-foot Blue Silver Grass drooped its leaves sadly. Tang Hao, who had been smiling at its growth, immediately comforted it: "This child just learned the truth suddenly and needs time. Don't worry, Ah Yin is gentle and beautiful, he won't deny you."
The Blue Silver Grass regained some vitality but still looked wilted, its mood clearly low.
After chatting with the Blue Silver Grass for some time, Tang Hao reluctantly rose and went outside.
As he stepped out by the waterfall, he saw a lone figure sitting blankly by the stream, staring into the flowing water, clearly lost in deep thoughts.
Tang Hao did not disturb him, knowing well the child's conflicted emotions. After all, being raised by the Spirit Hall but ultimately facing them as his enemy—anyone would question their life's path. It was best to let him be until he resolved it himself.
The next morning, after a whole day of contemplation, Yun Chuan finally awoke as if from a dream, appearing clear-eyed and resolute.
Tang Hao, observing him anxiously, wondered: now knowing the truth, what would Yun Chuan choose? To abandon Spirit Hall's shadow and seek the light? Or remain loyal to his faux father?
Yun Chuan turned, his eyes bright and steady — no more hesitation or confusion, only unwavering firmness.
He glanced at Tang Hao, who silently understood his decision. He sighed deeply. Indeed, blood ties of birth mother vs. nurture mother — in the end, one cannot outshine the other.
Yun Chuan choosing this path was no surprise to Tang Hao. Given how well Yun Chuan seemed cared for by Spirit Hall — even titled "Holy Son" — it was no wonder he did not feel hatred.
Born an enemy's child yet treated with top resources and respect, the situation felt deeply unnatural.
Tang Hao believed this was Spirit Hall's grand plan: to prevent Yun Chuan from ever rebellion by winning his loyalty early, making him a sharp weapon in their hand forever.
A truly insidious scheme.
—
Just as the drama neared its climax, Yun Chuan spoke words that shocked Tang Hao beyond measure:
"I can help her regain her human form."
The simple declaration broke Tang Hao's composure. He immediately dashed before Yun Chuan, grabbing his shoulders, eager: "Is that really true?!"
When the decisive battle had come long ago, Yun Chuan's wife — the human form of the Blue Silver Grass with ten-thousand-year cultivation — had sacrificed herself to become his ninth soul ring, aiding his breakthrough to Titled Douluo.
Due to her nature, she hadn't died but remained a seedling.
The Blue Silver Grass in the cave had grown from that seed, but after twelve years, it remained just a small plant.
At this rate, it would take thousands, perhaps tens of thousands of years before she could regain form.
For Tang Hao, she was essentially as good as dead. No wonder he drowned his sorrows in drink.
But now he heard this?
That his long-lost son could help the wife regain human form?!
The overwhelming joy left Tang Hao feeling as if in a dream. Having seen the Blue Silver Grass burst rapidly in growth the day before, he no longer doubted Yun Chuan's words — he believed wholeheartedly.
"Don't rejoice too soon—there's one condition."
Yun Chuan's tone turned businesslike, presenting his terms.
"What condition? Tell me! I'll do whatever it takes!" Tang Hao did not hesitate or balk; to see his wife alive again, no price was too great.
"Don't worry, you won't have to struggle." Yun Chuan shook his head. Even if Tang Hao refused, as his blood relation he would still help restore his mother's form. The condition was simply to take advantage of the opportunity.
"I see you use the hammer well and must have your own hammer techniques. My condition is: teach me to use the hammer. When I can wield it as skillfully as you, I will help revive her."
Since witnessing the true power of the Supreme Clear Sky Hammer, Yun Chuan had been eager to learn how to fight with a hammer properly, so it made sense to start practicing now rather than later embarrass himself.
Tang Hao was slightly disappointed Yun Chuan hadn't agreed immediately but having waited many years, one more wait meant little.
He readily agreed; after all, Yun Chuan was still his son, part of the Clear Sky sect, so teaching him some sect hammer techniques was only natural.
Of course, Tang Hao would never impart the forbidden, deadly grand hammer arts capable of shattering soul rings. He feared if Yun Chuan gained those skills, he might someday turn against the sect and become a historic traitor.
(End of Chapter)