Primordial Era: I am a treasure trove, full of magical treasures.

After listening to Xuanbao's explanation, Laozi closed his eyes slightly, his cane tapping the cloud bed unconsciously, seemingly deducing the various possibilities and variables of Xuanbao's plan. Yuanshi Tianzun's gaze was clear, his fingers tapping lightly on his knees, clearly weighing the pros and cons and the details of implementation. Tongtian Jiaozhu's eyes gleamed with anticipation, his face showing eagerness, clearly yearning for the scene of "a hundred flowers blooming, a hundred schools of thought contending."

After a moment, Laozi slowly opened his eyes, his gaze as deep as an ancient well: "Xuanbao's proposal is well-thought-out and far-sighted. Establishing a sect through disciples, connecting the three sects with the human race, spreading the Daoist tradition, stimulating vitality, and stabilizing fortune... is indeed a brilliant move. However, the details still need careful consideration. Establishing a sect is no child's play. Rules, inheritance, resources, relationships with the local human race and even other forces... many matters are complex and multifaceted. Disciples who descend the mountain have different temperaments, abilities, and opportunities; not everyone is suitable for establishing a sect. If the wrong person is chosen, or if the actions are extreme, not only will the Daoist tradition not be spread, but the sect's reputation may be ruined, bringing disaster to the region."

Yuanshi Tianzun spoke up, his voice steady: "What you say is absolutely right, elder brother. The selection of the person to establish the sect is of paramount importance. They must possess both virtue and ability, be proficient in the Dao, have a steadfast will, and have the desire to pass on the teachings and the ability to manage and oversee affairs. Only then can they be entrusted with this important task. Secondly, the sect's rules and core traditions must be consistent with the fundamental principles of the three sects and must not contradict them. Thirdly, while the three sects can initially provide some support in terms of resources, in the long run, the sects must raise their own funds or engage in mutually beneficial coexistence with the human race, and must not become a long-term burden on the three sects. Finally, although there is competition among the sects, they must also help each other and be of one mind. They must never fight among themselves, wasting their strength and becoming a laughing stock for outsiders."

The Master of the Heavens laughed heartily and said, "The eldest and second eldest brothers have considered everything thoroughly. However, which of our disciples wasn't carefully selected and tested? I have confidence in them! Rules can be established, resources can be provided, but how to manage them specifically depends on their own abilities and fortune! This is a good opportunity to see which lad has real skills and which is just all talk! As for mutual assistance among fellow disciples, that's a given! Anyone who dares to fight among themselves, I'll first knock their head off with the Qingping Sword!"

Although the Three Pure Ones each had their own emphasis, they had clearly reached a preliminary agreement on Xuanbao's core proposal—to have his disciples descend the mountain to establish sects and spread the Daoist teachings among the human race. The remaining task was to formulate detailed rules to ensure the smooth implementation of this matter and achieve the desired results.

Xuanbao was prepared. Upon hearing this, he bowed again and said calmly, "My three masters are wise. I do have some rudimentary thoughts, which I offer as a starting point for your consideration."

"First, regarding the selection of those who will descend the mountain to establish their sects," Xuanbao's gaze narrowed slightly. "This is not mandatory; it is entirely voluntary. A decree can be issued within the three sects, explaining that this is a supreme opportunity and a weighty responsibility for spreading the Dao throughout the primordial world, tempering oneself, and glorifying the Three Pure Ones' lineage. Those willing to go must meet several basic conditions: First, their cultivation must be at least at the Golden Immortal realm, ensuring sufficient Dao cultivation and self-protection to establish themselves outside; second, they must pass the 'Heart-Questioning Array' test, possessing a pure heart, free from bias and resentment, and embodying the Dao." Those who meet these three criteria must possess unwavering resolve and a sincere desire to impart knowledge and skills, rather than merely seeking fame and fortune. They must also possess a specialized skill, demonstrating unique expertise or profound potential in one or more areas such as alchemy, weapon crafting, formations, talismans, swordsmanship, magic, and philosophy, sufficient to establish a sect and ensure its orderly transmission. Only those who meet these three criteria are eligible to apply. Afterwards, the three masters and senior members of the sect will jointly evaluate and select the first batch of disciples to descend the mountain. The number of participants is not important, but quality is paramount; less is more. If the first batch is successful, many more junior disciples will follow suit.

The Primordial Celestial Venerable nodded slightly: "Cultivation, temperament, and expertise are all indispensable. The 'Heart-Questioning Array' is an excellent test, allowing one to see their true self and nip problems in the bud. The first batch of candidates should be carefully selected and should serve as role models."

The Tongtian Sect Leader grinned: "My bunch of boys have been itching to get started. With this opportunity, they'll fight tooth and nail for it. Perfect, let Duobao, Jinling, Guiling, Wudang, and the others give it a try. Those who can pass the Heart-Questioning Mirror can be released to roam freely! It'll save them from fighting swords and magic in Biyou Palace all day long, disturbing the peace of my Daoist temple."

Laozi stroked his long beard, a knowing glint in his eyes, and said slowly, "Xuanbao's considerations are thorough. His approach—based on voluntary participation, setting screening criteria, and prioritizing the best in the first batch—is sound. However, after descending the mountain, numerous sects will be scattered throughout the prehistoric world. How will they be managed? How will they report back if difficulties arise? How will they be punished if there is disobedience? These are the key points of establishing a system."

Xuanbao, already having a plan in mind, calmly replied, "Master's concerns are very valid. I believe we should establish the position of 'Three Pure Ones Patrol Envoys.' Each of the three sects should send one or two highly respected and accomplished Great Luo Golden Immortals or Quasi-Saints to serve as envoys, to periodically or irregularly inspect the various sects. The Patrol Envoys have four responsibilities: first, to monitor whether the sects adhere to the fundamental principles of the three sects and whether there are any acts of rebellion; second, to liaise, to convey the decrees of the three sects and to report on the situation and demands of the sects; third, to arbitrate, to mediate major disputes between sects or between sects and external entities; and fourth, to support sects that are hindered in their development or encounter difficulties, to provide appropriate guidance or resource support as appropriate. The Patrol Envoys are directly responsible to the three masters, and their selection must be jointly decided by the three masters."

"The Inspector..." Yuanshi Tianzun pondered for a moment, then slowly nodded. "This position is excellent. It grants the power of oversight, liaison, arbitration, and support, ensuring smooth communication between superiors and subordinates and upholding the rules. However, its power should not be excessive; it needs to be checked and balanced. We can establish rules that the Inspector may not directly interfere in the normal affairs of subordinate sects, unless it involves fundamental morality or a major crisis. Its inspection conclusions must be based on evidence and reported to us for approval before rewards and punishments can be implemented."

The Tongtian Sect Leader clapped his hands and said, "That's settled then! I think we should let Duobao, Guangchengzi, and Xuandu do it for now! They have enough cultivation, are experienced, and are reliable. Oh, and Xuanbao, you're quick-witted, so you can also get a name on the list and help keep an eye on things!"

Xuanbao quickly waved his hand: "Master, I am burdened with the affairs of the human race and also involved in the witch-demon situation, so I am afraid I am not able to take on this position."

Xuanbao didn't have the energy to play house with these people. Besides, the disciples of the three sects were all carefully selected by him through layers of selection. They might be poorly managed, but they would never do anything immoral. Xuanbao was very confident in this. After all, he had put in a lot of effort to master the Heart-Questioning Formation. To put it simply, those who could pass the Heart-Questioning Trial were not ordinary people. At the very least, they were from Class Two.

Ahem~ Just kidding.

Putting aside the fact that this is the Primordial World, where nothing can escape the thoughts of a Sage. Do you think they would abandon being disciples of a Sage and do something so immoral? It's completely unnecessary.

……

Laozi nodded slowly, his gaze sweeping over Yuanshi and Tongtian before finally settling on Xuanbao. His tone carried a barely perceptible sigh: "Xuanbao's proposed system for traversing the heavens is quite comprehensive. However, there is another matter at hand, concerning the very foundation of the three sects and the destiny of Kunlun, which must also be settled at this time."

Upon hearing this, both Yuanshi Tianzun and Tongtian Jiaozhu became solemn. As sages with clear minds, they had long sensed the changes in the fortune of Kunlun Mountain, but had never revealed it. Now that Laozi had mentioned it, it was clear that a decision had to be made.

"Brother, are you referring to the fate of Kunlun Mountain?" Yuanshi Tianzun asked in a deep voice. Jade-pure immortal light flowed around him, faintly resonating with the Kunlun ancestral vein beneath his feet, and he could clearly sense the invisible and intangible yet real "pressure".

"Indeed." Laozi nodded slightly, his voice calm, yet it struck Xuanbao's heart like a heavy hammer. "Mount Kunlun is one of the most important ancestral veins in the primordial world, blessed with spiritual energy and boundless potential. It has been a sacred place for cultivation since the beginning of time. The three of us have lived here since birth, comprehending the Dao here, and attaining sainthood here. Mount Kunlun has protected us, and our sainthood has also given back to Mount Kunlun with the fortune of saints, making its spiritual energy even stronger and its Daoist charm even richer, so that it will never decline for eternity."

He paused, his gaze seemingly piercing through the Sanqing Hall, seeing the majestic outline of the entire Kunlun Mountain and the invisible, flowing river of fortune: "However, things reach their extremes and then reverse; prosperity reaches its peak and then declines—this is the ultimate principle of heaven and earth. My two brothers and I have all attained the Primordial Chaos realm and are all sages. Sages are revered alongside the Dao; their every action influences the laws of heaven and earth, and the places they reside in naturally gather immeasurable fortune and Daoist essence. Lao Tzu's meaning is simple: Kunlun Mountain cannot bear the weight of three sages."

Laozi slowly raised his hand and pointed outside the hall, his voice like ripples spreading from the depths of an ancient well, calm yet penetrating to the essence: "Although Kunlun Mountain is the ancestral vein, its capacity to bear weight has its limits. One sage residing there can elevate it; two sages residing there together have reached their fullness; three sages gathering there... the fortune is too abundant, the Daoist energy clashes, and it is no longer a blessed land, but rather a burden. In the past thousand years, have you noticed that the flow of spiritual energy in the Kunlun veins sometimes becomes stagnant? Auspicious signs occasionally appear and stir within the mountains? The growth of innate spiritual roots slows down? These are all signs of excessive fortune, which heaven and earth cannot bear. If this continues, it will not only be of no benefit to our cultivation, but may also damage the origin of Kunlun, and even cause turmoil in the veins, endangering the millions of living beings in the mountains and our disciples."

Upon hearing Lao Tzu's words, the Daoist aura within the Sanqing Hall momentarily solidified. The expressions on the faces of Yuanshi Tianzun and Tongtian Jiaozhu also grew more solemn. As sages of the Heavenly Dao, they could foresee the past and future with a single thought; how could they be completely unaware of the shifting fortunes of Kunlun Mountain? However, Kunlun Mountain held extraordinary significance for them—it was their birthplace, the foundation of their Dao attainment, and the "home" where the three brothers cultivated, discussed the Dao, and grew together. The sudden mention of "separation" inevitably stirred ripples even the most sage-like hearts.

Yuanshi Tianzun remained silent for a moment, his body shimmering with a faint, pure celestial light, revealing that his mind was not at peace. He spoke slowly, his voice deeper than usual, carrying a barely perceptible sigh: "What you say, elder brother, my third brother and I have long sensed. The Kunlun ancestral vein is blessed with exceptional beauty and talent, but the spiritual energy gathered at its source and the fortune it inherits are indeed limited. In the past, before we three brothers became saints, we lived together here, and we could harmonize and complement each other, jointly exploring the Great Dao. However, since we successively established our sects and became saints, the saintly Dao fruits are as revered as heaven and earth, and the place where we reside naturally attracts immeasurable fortune, with all paths paying homage. The Dao charm of three saints and the fortune of three sects are simultaneously added to Kunlun Mountain... Although this mountain is the ancestral vein, it is ultimately the 'earth' transformed from the spine of the great god Pangu, not the truly boundless 'heaven.' If this continues, as elder brother said, there is a risk of overflowing when full, and breaking when too rigid. In recent years, the mountain's veins have occasionally ache, the spiritual energy has sometimes sluggish, and the growth of innate spiritual plants has slowed down—all signs of this."

Xuanbao, who was watching the drama unfold, was also completely dumbfounded. He never expected that even after he had changed the original structure of the prehistoric world, the Three Pure Ones would still have to face the issue of splitting up. Fortunately, it was not like the original story where they split up due to different doctrines and various conflicts. It was just that Kunlun Mountain could not bear the three saints.

However, whether or not to separate is not a big problem. A saint can decide where to go in the primordial world in the blink of an eye, so Xuanbao remained silent and simply watched as a bystander.

……

Laozi paused, his gaze sweeping over every beam and pillar, every rune in the familiar Sanqing Hall. A hint of reminiscence and reluctance flashed in his eyes, but it was quickly replaced by a deeper resolve: "For the long-term sake of Kunlun Mountain, for the sake of the millions of living beings within its walls, and for the sake of our disciples' spiritual path, separation is inevitable. However, Kunlun Mountain is the birthplace of my brothers and the root of our lineage; it cannot be easily abandoned. One of us must remain to guard the ancestral veins, to pass on the lineage, to preserve the bond between my brothers and Kunlun, and to preserve a fundamental place for the Sanqing Daoist temple."

Upon hearing this, the usually carefree and spirited Master Tongtian's brows were unusually clouded with a somber expression. He abruptly stood up, his body radiating sword energy, and his voice rose sharply, carrying an undeniable resolve: "Eldest brother, second brother! Why discuss it? This Kunlun Mountain should naturally remain with you two! Eldest brother, as the eldest, should reside in this ancestral temple to suppress the destiny! Second brother, in charge of the Earth Sect, has strict laws and regulations, emphasizing the inheritance of rules, which aligns with the profound nature of our ancestral lineage! Our Human Sect's Daoist methods emphasize worldly cultivation, adapting to all changes; the location of the Daoist temple is secondary! It would be better if I found another place to establish a Daoist temple, leaving Kunlun Mountain to you two!"

Although Tongtian spoke passionately, his meaning was clear: he would establish his own Daoist temple, leaving Kunlun Mountain to Laozi and Yuanshi. But how could the deep longing for Kunlun, or rather, for them, in his eyes be hidden from Laozi and Yuanshi? The Three Pure Ones were born from the same source and their minds were connected. At this moment, Laozi and Yuanshi felt the same resolute determination and deep reluctance in Tongtian's heart as they felt Tongtian's "If not me, then who?"

But how could Laozi and Yuanshi allow Tongtian to establish his own Daoist temple? They were the elder brothers, so why would they allow their younger brother to establish his own Daoist temple?

"Third Brother, you are mistaken!" Yuanshi Tianzun resolutely rejected the idea. He too stood up, confronting Tongtian. The Jade Purity Immortal Light shone brighter than ever before, revealing the turmoil within him. "The order of seniority and the principles of the Dao are clear! Elder Brother, as our leader, possesses the deepest virtue and should reside in the ancestral temple, harmonizing the fortunes of Kunlun through the Dao of Non-Action. This is the natural order! I, as the head of the Earth Sect, value rules, but where is the Daoist temple? Is it a constraint? For the sake of brotherhood and the perpetuation of Kunlun, I am willing to lead the Earth Sect disciples to another famous mountain to establish the Jade Void Daoist Temple! This matter need not be discussed further!"

"Second Brother!" the Tongtian Sect Leader exclaimed urgently, a faint sword light flickering in his eyes, clearly indicating his extreme excitement. "Your Earth Sect has the most systematic and rigorous lineage of laws and principles, while our Human Sect's methods are inherently about taking unconventional approaches... cough, it's about adapting to circumstances and following the natural way! Away from Kunlun, the world is vast, where can't we make a training ground? This is perfect opportunity for my disciples and grand-disciples to gain more experience! Eldest Brother, Second Brother, please let me go!"

Looking at his two younger brothers, who were arguing heatedly, Laozi finally revealed a clear sense of helplessness and emotion on his usually calm face. He slowly shook his head, his voice soft yet carrying an undeniable force: "As the eldest brother, I should naturally share his burdens. Kunlun is home, but the peace and well-being of the home is more important than one's own dwelling. My inaction is not out of attachment. The location of the Daoist temple is not crucial. It is most appropriate for me to leave with the disciples of the Heavenly Sect. It is just right for you two to remain in Kunlun."

"Brother, you mustn't!"

"Big brother!"

Yuanshi and Tongtian spoke simultaneously, their faces showing disapproval and anxiety. Yuanshi said urgently, "Eldest brother is the head of the Three Pure Ones, how can he lightly leave the ancestral court? This is not about sharing the burden, but how can the third brother and I feel at ease?"

Tongtian was even more direct, sticking his neck out and saying, "If you leave, Brother, I, Tongtian, will not stay behind alone! We'll go together, or stay together! The three of us brothers were born in the same place, cultivated together, and became saints together. How can we be separated now? What talk of carrying destiny? Bullshit! I don't believe that the three of us brothers working together can't suppress Mount Kunlun!"

However, none of the Three Pure Ones wanted to compromise, and they stared at each other blankly, unable to convince each other. Finally, the three of them turned their attention to Xuanbao, who was watching the show from the sidelines.

Xuanbao: ...

What's going on? Everyone who was enjoying this gossip is now eyeing me?

Xuanbao never expected that the flames of war would suddenly spread to him, and he secretly lamented his misfortune.

"Xuanbao, tell me who you think should stay?" x3