As the sound grew louder, the phoenix formed of flame expanded, its wings eventually stretching a thousand li across. Seen from afar, its immense form suggested a colossal phoenix bestriding a low hill known as Mount Shu.

But Ye Wen, standing nearby, felt far more intensely. Not far from him, the sheer purity and power of the scorching heat made it impossible for him to maintain his composure.

He knew the Fenghuang Nirvana Gong was a technique of the Phoenix Clan, and he knew that once Dongfang Cai mastered it, her strength would become formidable. Yet, he never imagined it would reach this degree!

The aura emanating from the gigantic phoenix before him was almost comparable to his own—though, of course, immense power did not automatically equate to superior combat prowess. In terms of pure cultivation level, Ye Wen’s strength fell short of many established Celestial Immortals. However, in an actual fight, Ye Wen feared no one, precisely because nearly all his cultivation had been honed specifically for combat. Techniques like the Myriad Sword Art and Myriad Swords Returning to One were purely methods designed for killing.

Still, it was undeniable that a high cultivation level generally predicted strong combat ability. Furthermore, Dongfang Cai already possessed a foundation in martial arts; gaining such tremendous power meant that even if she couldn't utilize it fully at first, she would inevitably wield formidable strength given time.

One might say, had Dongfang Kui’s hardships finally yielded reward?

He thought to himself, turning to glance at the Vermilion Bird beside him. Clearly, this Vermilion Bird Divine Lord was shocked by the power Dongfang Kui displayed upon achieving success, staring blankly at the massive fire phoenix without uttering a word.

After a long moment, the fire phoenix opposite finally ceased its high-pitched cry, then the flames, radiating terrifying heat and boundless vitality, began to continuously retract and condense. Finally, it settled upon the phoenix tree, and the surge of vital energy, which had appeared like gathered flame, materialized. Ye Wen watched from his position; was that not a phoenix standing upon the phoenix tree?

“Did she… truly master the Phoenix transformation?”

The Vermilion Bird, however, seemed unsurprised, as if this outcome was normal. But just then, the phoenix’s transformation did not stop; it shook again, releasing a dazzling burst of red light.

Both individuals present possessed mystical dual pupils, meaning such light should have had no effect on them. Yet, this time, both the Vermilion Bird Divine Lord and Ye Wen found that after the red light erupted, they could no longer discern what was happening within it. Fortunately, the red light vanished as quickly as it flashed, dissipating momentarily. When they looked again, there was nothing atop the phoenix tree. Instead, standing beneath it was a woman: gracefully slender, with hair black down to her waist, wearing a wooden hairpin that looked ordinary but radiated endless vitality, and clad in an orange-red long skirt adorned with numerous tassels, though Ye Wen and the Vermilion Bird knew this garment was spun from phoenix feathers, the tassels being transformed tail feathers.

The more the Vermilion Bird looked, the happier he became, a broad grin stretching almost to his ears; Ye Wen, however, remained impassive, observing quietly. At the exact same moment, he noticed the woman across the way open her eyes and look toward him.

A mountain breeze swept past, lifting the soft strands of her hair and revealing a pair of delicate earlobes beneath, while a pair of teardrop-shaped earrings dangling there swayed slightly in the wind, seemingly producing the faint sound of flowing water.

This in itself was not extraordinary, but it caused the nearby Vermilion Bird to utter a soft, “Eh?” and mumble, “I wonder what those earrings are made of, that they weren't incinerated even during the cultivation of the Fenghuang Nirvana Gong?”

It turned out that the final stage of the Fenghuang Nirvana Gong, the realm of Phoenix Dance Under Heaven, followed a path akin to dying first and then being reborn.

It was based on the phoenix’s tale of nirvana and rebirth: one had to first sever all vitality, transforming into a dying phoenix, and then utilize the phoenix energy cultivated through the previous eight layers to initiate that one-time phoenix nirvana, leading to rebirth in fire, ultimately manifesting as a true phoenix.

During this process, the fire energy represented not the vigorous life force just displayed, but rather the despairing fire that annihilates all things. Any object subjected to this fire would be incinerated, leaving nothing behind.

To put it plainly, the final stage of cultivating the Fenghuang Nirvana Gong perfectly aligned with the old saying, “Coming naked, going naked.” After rebirth as a phoenix, with its inherent feathers, there was no need for vulgar coverings. Of course, if transforming into human form, a few magical arts would be necessary, fortunately, the spell to clothe oneself in brilliant feathers was intrinsically imprinted in the minds of such beings, sparing Dongfang Kui any awkwardness.

Yet, under these circumstances, there remained a pair of earrings clearly not formed of phoenix energy, naturally causing the Vermilion Bird Divine Lord surprise and confusion. He wondered where Dongfang Cai had found such a treasure that even the Death-Annihilation Fire, representing the severing of phoenix vitality, could not harm it in the slightest? As he stared blankly, he noticed Dongfang Kui’s gaze was fixed entirely upon Ye Wen, and she even unconsciously reached out to gently touch one of the earrings.

This small action suddenly made the Vermilion Bird Divine Lord understand. He turned and looked at Ye Wen beside him with astonishment.

Those earrings were the very ones Ye Wen had created by sealing Dongfang Cai’s two tears with his Azure Snow Ice Vital Energy and then gifting them to her. Later, after arriving in the Immortal Realm, Dongfang Kui had asked Zheng Ying to fashion them into earrings for her ears. Ye Wen was unaware of these details, but since he had crafted the objects himself, he could not fail to recognize the vital energy emanating from them!

Taking one stride, the distance was insignificant to Ye Wen. By the time he stopped, he stood beneath the phoenix tree, facing Dongfang Kui directly.

“Congratulations, you have finally achieved complete success.” “Mm,” Dongfang Kui responded, but spoke few words. However, the joy on her face was undeniable, especially seeing Ye Wen the moment she emerged from seclusion—it made her happy from the depths of her heart.

The Vermilion Bird Divine Lord watched the pair from a distance, primarily observing Dongfang Kui’s change in expression, which brought him sudden realization. He was neither blind nor foolish, nor an inexperienced youth. Seeing this scene, he finally understood what was transpiring, feeling he would have lived in vain if he hadn't.

Startled by this unforeseen complication, he stood by, unsure of how to proceed. He pondered whether to continue with his original plan of proposing marriage, or pretend nothing happened and simply leave? Continuing seemed intentionally provocative, yet leaving entirely went against his nature as the Vermilion Bird Divine Lord. After waiting so long only to gain nothing, turning around and walking away would certainly damage his reputation!

Thus, he leaped to Ye Wen’s side, clearing his throat slightly to announce his presence, then greeted Dongfang Kui: “Long time no see, Miss Dongfang. You have finally reached complete success.”

In truth, Dongfang Kui had been aware of his arrival for some time. While Dongfang Cai was at a crucial juncture in her cultivation, her divine sense remained clear. Moreover, the Vermilion Bird Divine Lord had made no attempt to conceal his presence, immediately unleashing the full force of his Vermilion Bird Divine Power upon arrival, as if announcing himself.

That surge of power was impossible to ignore. Coupled with the fact that the phoenix and the Vermilion Bird were of the same lineage, Dongfang Kui instantly knew who had arrived. It was simply that she was cultivating and unable to greet him.

Greeting him now merely served as a pretext for conversation. Once he spoke, it would be difficult for the other two to continue ignoring him; they would have to turn and show proper deference.

“Miss Dongfang, having achieved complete success and attained the Phoenix Divine Form, you are now considered a member of the Phoenix Clan.”

Although the preceding scene was brief, it had not escaped the eyes of the two. The Vermilion Bird perceived that Dongfang Kui had mastered the Fenghuang Nirvana Gong and possessed the Phoenix Divine Form. However, unlike a phoenix that transformed into a bird, her current human appearance was not merely a disguise; it was her true form.

This meant that after mastering the Fenghuang Nirvana Gong, Dongfang Cai possessed two true forms—one human, one phoenix—unlike the Vermilion Bird, whose true form was the Vermilion Bird, with the human form being merely a transformation. Though he spent much time in human form, which was almost as significant as his true form, it was ultimately different from Dongfang Kui’s situation.

He speculated this anomaly was caused by cultivating the Fenghuang Nirvana Gong in a human body, but this transformation was entirely acceptable, not something the Phoenix Clan would reject.

Furthermore, it affected him little personally. He had already decided that making Dongfang Kui his wife remained perfectly suitable, and he was unwilling to abandon the idea so easily.

“Now that you have become a member of our clan, Miss, you will likely need to accompany this Divine Lord to the Phoenix Clan’s domain. Otherwise, you are sure to encounter trouble down the line!” “Oh? Why is that?” Dongfang Kui had never cared much for the Phoenix Clan. Although the Vermilion Bird Divine Lord had emphasized this matter repeatedly, she hadn’t taken it too seriously. Now, the Vermilion Bird suggested a visit to the Phoenix Clan—were there specific rules?

In essence, yes. The Phoenix Clan was sparse in numbers, and every newly born phoenix was a cherished treasure protected by the entire clan. Dongfang Kui, now a phoenix, naturally had to report her existence. Once registered, the Phoenix Clan would dedicate itself to protecting her. While her own power was formidable, there were many strong beings in this world; who knew what trouble she might attract?

From this perspective, the Phoenix Clan seemed quite unified. Ye Wen was about to voice praise, but he realized he had misjudged the situation upon hearing the rest of the Divine Lord’s words.

“Our clan places supreme importance on bloodline. Since you are now one of us, many matters require consideration of our clan’s rules.”

This statement was not fabricated by the Vermilion Bird. The Phoenix Clan had nearly been wiped out and, though recovering, they remained extremely strict about certain customs, especially regarding lineage. Given the phoenixes’ arrogant nature, they certainly would not permit their bloodline to be sullied by outsiders—in plain terms, their daughters were not to be touched by outsiders!

This applied not only to females; male phoenixes were forbidden from marrying outside the clan. The Vermilion Bird Divine Lord, as the head of the Vermilion Bird lineage, was not exempt from this rule; in fact, these regulations constrained him more strictly than ordinary clan members.

If any member dared to disregard clan rules, the Phoenix Clan’s response would be… severe. The Vermilion Bird’s words were not entirely a threat, but rather an effort to make them aware of the situation. Nor was it entirely benevolent advice, as his relationship with Ye Wen was not yet friendly enough for that.

Hearing this, both Ye Wen and Dongfang Kui understood the implications conveyed, and both furrowed their brows.

Dongfang Kui lost the carefree joy she felt upon her successful emergence. She gazed at the Vermilion Bird, saying nothing.

Regarding such rules typical of great clans, she was not entirely ignorant. Given her own background in a ‘noble family,’ she had experienced countless complicated regulations since childhood. But she hadn't expected that after destroying her own family by her own hand, she would now circle back to facing this sort of restriction. A firm believer in the tangible, she couldn't help but recall a saying: “Is this perhaps fate, a cycle of cause and effect?”

Ye Wen ignored the surrounding implications, frowning, and said to the Vermilion Bird, “Isn’t that a bit too domineering?” The Vermilion Bird chuckled, “The Phoenix Clan was never a gentle or yielding group.”

Ye Wen was the type who responded poorly to arrogance. The Vermilion Bird Divine Lord’s words now irritated him, causing his reply to be less polite than before. Seeing the Vermilion Bird’s stance, he retorted, “No matter how domineering, you cannot legislate on my Mount Shu territory!” “I dare not,” the Vermilion Bird Divine Lord surprisingly shook his head, but his next sentence left Ye Wen speechless: “What I stated just now pertains only to those within our clan; it truly does not govern your esteemed sect! However… Miss Dongfang does not appear to be a member of your Shu Mountain Sect!” Ye Wen opened his mouth, then was forced to close it. This statement was indeed impossible to counter, as Dongfang Kui was, in fact, not affiliated with his Shu Mountain Sect.

If one of his disciples had accidentally cultivated the Fenghuang Nirvana Gong, achieved the Phoenix Divine Form, and then fell under the jurisdiction of the Phoenix Clan’s rules, he could have mounted a defense based on reason.

But this situation… He turned to look at Dongfang Kui, finding her staring intently at him, as if waiting to see what he would say. This left Ye Wen with a massive headache, unsure how to answer.

After thinking for a long time, he finally managed one statement: “Miss Dongfang’s affairs should naturally be decided by Miss Dongfang herself. Moreover, she has no existing ties or connection to your clan. Should she be bound by such tyrannical rules merely for mastering a lost cultivation technique?” The Vermilion Bird remained silent, merely turning to look at Dongfang Kui: “In truth, the rule is nothing major. I imagine Miss Dongfang won’t mind…” But before he finished speaking, he saw Dongfang Cai shake her head: “No, I will not go to that so-called Phoenix Clan.”

Hearing Dongfang Kui’s refusal, the Vermilion Bird’s expression soured. He felt he had made his intentions perfectly clear: it was no big deal; Dongfang Kui just needed to register with the Phoenix Clan. As for where she would go or what she would do afterward, the clan wouldn’t interfere—except regarding marriage.

Logically, this was something most people wouldn't obsess over. Even if she truly didn't wish to find a partner within the clan, she could simply choose not to marry or take a spouse and leave. Although the Phoenix Clan forbade members from marrying outsiders, they did not compel everyone to dutifully continue the bloodline. Freedom of movement, a powerful backing, and even assistance with cultivation—it seemed to offer only benefits. Unless one was absolutely determined to be with someone outside the Phoenix Clan.

“I didn’t expect Dongfang Kui to be so stubborn…”

The Vermilion Bird cast a deep look at Ye Wen and ceased speaking. He was not the type to cling stubbornly. Since Dongfang Cai was unwilling, he couldn't force the issue. He had said what needed saying; as for what might happen next—he couldn’t decide.

The birth of a phoenix would inevitably draw the attention of the Phoenix Clan, especially since Dongfang Kui’s power caused such a massive disturbance. Even if no clan members were nearby, it was likely that certain elders in the clan would sense it. What changes might occur then, he did not know.

Personally, however, he did not wish for Dongfang Kui to sever ties with the Phoenix Clan over this single decision. He tried to articulate the risks and benefits more clearly, but Dongfang Kui simply wouldn't listen.

As he spoke more, the Vermilion Bird’s competitive spirit was gradually exhausted. In truth, his courage wasn't naturally robust; he had been restraining his mounting frustration. Finally, it burst forth: “What standing do you have on Mount Shu?”

Looking toward Ye Wen, Dongfang Kui’s gaze never met the Vermilion Bird Divine Lord’s as she uttered words that shocked even Ye Wen.

“Serving as a maid or a slave, becoming an animal of burden—one will still have an identity.” The Vermilion Bird’s mouth opened, at a loss for words. To his surprise, Dongfang Kui immediately poured more oil on the fire: “In this Immortal Realm, are there not many mighty Celestial Masters who keep mounts? If necessary, I am willing to serve as Head Ye’s mount…”

After she finished speaking, the Vermilion Bird was first incredulous, then furious: “How can a member of the Phoenix Clan speak such a thing?” If her earlier talk of servitude could be dismissed as a polite evasion, this statement truly touched the Vermilion Bird’s deepest pride.

The Phoenix Clan was immensely arrogant; when had they ever served as mounts? Thinking back, no deity or immortal, regardless of their immense power, had ever ridden a phoenix as a mount. This was not without reason. Fundamentally, it was due to the proud nature of the Phoenix Clan: they would rather fight to mutual annihilation than endure humiliation and beg for survival. Therefore, no great power could ever coerce them—this was the pride of the Phoenixes.

But now…

Unfortunately, Dongfang Kui, Ye Wen, and the others were unaware of these nuances. But this one statement caused the arrogant Vermilion Bird to finally lose all restraint. After roaring in anger, he spun around and swept away with his sleeves.

“Think carefully. If you do not realize your error, then hmph!” With that parting shot, the Vermilion Bird vanished. Ye Wen turned to look at Dongfang Kui: “You were joking, right?” He assumed Dongfang Kui had only meant to anger the Vermilion Bird into leaving, but to his surprise, Dongfang Cai shook her head very seriously, stating gravely: “I was not joking.”