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

Meanwhile, deep within the chaos, in the Purple Cloud Palace.

Inside this simple Dao Palace, suspended in endless chaotic air currents and seemingly unchanging since time immemorial, Hongjun, who sits high on a cloud bed, his figure in harmony with the Dao of Heaven, seemingly formless and intangible, slowly opened his indifferent and ruthless eyes, reflecting the entire evolutionary trajectory of the primordial world.

Hongjun's gaze seemed to pierce through the infinite chaos, ignoring the barriers of time and space, and landed directly on the newly born "Netherworld," on the Xuanbao and the Heavenly Dao avatar connected by their auras in the Pingxin Palace.

Hongjun's face remained calm and expressionless, revealing no emotion whatsoever. Only in the depths of his indifferent eyes was there a genuine sense of astonishment. Then, he began to frantically perform calculations, his fingers almost smoking from their intense grip.

After a long while, an extremely faint sigh, as if it were just the natural friction of chaotic air currents, rang out in the empty and silent Zixiao Palace.

"Three thousand and eighty... laws. Severing the incarnation to become a celestial Dao. Mysterious treasure... you truly have not disappointed me."

"Hongjun"!

A sharp, explosive sound rang out in the silent Zixiao Palace.

"Hongjun, what exactly did you do? Why did the situation in the prehistoric world change so drastically? Why did the Underworld become the Great Thousand World and give birth to a new Heavenly Dao? Why didn't you take action to stop it?"

"Why should I stop it!"

Hmph! Don't forget, if the Earthly Path is fully awakened, your strength as a Heavenly Dao Saint will also be greatly affected.

so what?

you!

Hongjun sneered, "Don't forget, this primordial world is inherently full of variables, and the awakening of the Earthly Path is an inevitable trend. What's wrong with me following the Great Dao?" The shrill voice retorted angrily, "You clearly have ulterior motives. The awakening of the Earthly Path will allow the Underworld to become its own Great Thousand World, disrupting the original balance and harming all of us." Hongjun calmly replied, "All beings in the primordial world have their own destiny. The awakening of the Earthly Path may be an opportunity, or it may be a challenge. If you have the ability, you can stop it yourself. Why question me?"

The sharp voice paused for a moment, then said, "After two more great kalpas, I will be able to assimilate you. Who will win and who will lose is still unknown."

Hongjun's gaze was profound. "Everything is preordained. You and I only need to rely on our own abilities."

Purple Cloud Palace was shrouded in chaotic energy. After the dialogue between Hongjun and the Heavenly Dao consciousness fell into a stalemate of silence, this ancient palace once again sank into boundless emptiness and profound darkness. Only Hongjun's indifferent eyes, which seemed to reflect the entire trajectory of the primordial world, remained fixed on the direction of the Netherworld. Deep within his gaze, endless Dao runes flowed and ebbed, deducing the infinite variables and future brought about by the birth of the "Netherworld."

In the Purple Cloud Palace, the invisible battle between Dao Ancestor Hongjun and the consciousness of the Heavenly Dao came to a temporary end, but the aftershocks originating from the source of heaven and earth did not subside. Instead, they stirred up waves in the hearts of various forces in the prehistoric world that were far more intense and complex than before.

Kunlun Mountain, Sanqing Hall.

"Brother, this matter..." Yuanshi Tianzun frowned deeply, the Jade Purity Immortal Light around him flickering uncertainly, revealing his inner turmoil. His gaze was like lightning, as if trying to pierce through the void and see the profound treasure deep within the Netherworld. "The profound treasure opened up the Netherworld and transformed itself into the Heavenly Dao. Why has the Primordial Heavenly Dao shown no reaction to such a feat?"

The atmosphere inside the Sanqing Hall did not truly ease after Laozi's words, "Observe the changes calmly." The question raised by Yuanshi pointed precisely to the shared doubts and subtle anxieties in the hearts of the Three Pure Ones.

"Yes, brother." Tongtian also dropped his eager look, his sword-like eyebrows furrowing slightly, his fingers unconsciously tapping the hilt of the Qingping sword hanging at his waist, producing a soft ringing sound. "The Netherworld has been promoted to a Great Thousand World and even gave birth to an independent Heavenly Dao. This commotion is nothing short of a direct attack. How could the Primordial Heavenly Dao... or rather, that one, remain completely indifferent? Even if that kid Xuanbao's methods are extraordinary, this has exceeded the scope of 'minor trends can be changed,' hasn't it? This is practically creating a 'mini Primordial World' that stands alongside the Primordial World! The Heavenly Dao can tolerate this? If it were me, I certainly couldn't."

The Primordial Beginning, Lao Tzu: ...

Ignoring the absurd old man's antics, the old man slowly stroked his long beard, a rare solemnity and contemplation appearing deep within his eyes, which seemed to see into the very essence of all things. He did not immediately answer his two younger brothers' questions, but instead looked up, his gaze seemingly piercing through the roof of the Sanqing Hall, gazing at that mysterious, unfathomable place. After a moment, he withdrew his gaze, his voice steady.

"Second brother, third brother, your concerns are not without merit. However, of the fifty Great Daos, forty-nine are Heavenly Evolutions, and one is missing. This 'one' is the variable, and also the opportunity for life. Xuanbao's actions, seemingly defying the heavens, are actually taking advantage of the Netherworld's advancement and the perfection of reincarnation. Although the Netherworld is formed, its roots are still connected to the Primordial World, and its path still follows the fundamental principle of reincarnation. In a sense, this is not true 'independence,' but rather a completion of the 'reincarnation' and 'end' aspects of the Primordial World. The Heavenly Dao... or rather, that one, may not be 'forgiving,' but rather... tacitly approving, or even... pleased with its success."

"Would you be happy to see this happen?" Yuanshi raised an eyebrow. "Brother, do you mean that the Heavenly Dao intends to use the Xuanbao to complete the Earthly Dao? But if that happens, the Earthly Dao's strength will inevitably increase, wouldn't that dilute the Heavenly Dao's authority?"

Lao Tzu's gaze was profound: "The three paths of Heaven, Earth, and Man are originally of the same origin. Hongjun merged with the Dao, wielding the power of the Heavenly Dao and regulating the order of the primordial world. However, the primordial world was incomplete; the Earthly Dao was obscure, and the Human Dao was not yet manifest. In the past, Nuwa created humans, and the Human Dao began to flourish; Houtu transformed into reincarnation, and the Earthly Dao first appeared. However, the Earthly Dao has always been subordinate to the Heavenly Dao, and reincarnation is merely a link in the operation of the Heavenly Dao, never truly complete and independent. Now that the Netherworld has been formed, reincarnation is self-consistent, and the Earthly Dao finally has a true foundation to stand alongside the Heavenly Dao. For the primordial world, this is a completion, an advancement, and an inevitable evolution of the Great Dao. The Heavenly Dao is supreme and impartial; what it seeks is the eternity of the primordial world and the prosperity of the Great Dao. If the completion of the Earthly Dao and the perfection of reincarnation can be exchanged for a more solid foundation and deeper potential for the primordial world, even if power is slightly divided, for the 'Great Dao,' the gain outweighs the loss. Moreover…"

Laozi paused, his tone carrying an indescribable meaning: "Hongjun, are you truly... completely of one mind with the 'Heavenly Dao'?"

Upon hearing this, both Yuanshi and Tongtian's expressions turned solemn. Hongjun of Zixiao Palace, having merged with the Dao and acting as the ruler on behalf of Heaven, was the supreme being of the primordial world. However, after merging with the Dao, was Hongjun still Hongjun, and was the Heavenly Dao still the Heavenly Dao, or was Hongjun the Heavenly Dao itself? The mysteries within this were difficult for even them, having become saints, to fully comprehend. Laozi's words vaguely pointed to a more profound and forbidden possibility.

"Brother means..." Yuanshi Tianzun's voice was deep.

"It cannot be spoken of, it cannot be measured." In any case, ever since Hongjun had a conversation with Xuanbao, Hongjun's attitude has completely reversed. As for the relationship between Hongjun and the Heavenly Dao, it remains unknown.

Laozi gently shook his head, cutting off Yuanshi's words, "We only need to know that the formation of the Netherworld and the transformation of Xuanbao into the Heavenly Dao are a foregone conclusion. The Primordial Heavenly Dao did not stop it, and Hongjun did not express his opinion, which in itself is an attitude. The profound meaning behind this is beyond our comprehension at this moment. However, for us Three Pure Ones and for Xuanbao, this is both an opportunity and a test."

A glint of sword light flashed in the eyes of the Tongtian Sect Leader: "Brother, do you mean we just stand by and watch? What if that Laotian Dao, or Hongjun, turns against us later and uses the Xuanbao as a weapon? We can't just watch our disciple suffer!"

Laozi glanced at Tongtian and slowly said, "Third brother, calm down. Since Xuanbao dares to take such a heaven-defying act, he must have a backup plan. He has transformed into the Netherworld Heavenly Dao and is now one with that world. Even a saint would need to destroy a top-tier Great Thousand World to harm Xuanbao, which is no easy task. That's the first point. Secondly, the Netherworld is a manifestation of the Earthly Dao, with Houtu presiding over it. It is a crucial place of reincarnation, concerning the order of the rebirth of all beings in the primordial world. Moving one hair affects the whole body. Even the Heavenly Dao must weigh the consequences. Thirdly..."

Laozi's gaze swept over his two younger brothers. Though his voice was soft, it carried a power that seemed to have the world at its feet: "We, the Three Pure Ones, are the true lineage of Pangu, establishing the three sects of Heaven, Earth, and Man, in charge of education and the control of destiny. Xuanbao is our first disciple, and he is also the key to completing the Dao and establishing the Netherworld. For the public and private good, for the Dao and for righteousness, Xuanbao's affairs are the affairs of the Three Pure Ones. Observing the situation is not about standing idly by, but about accumulating strength. Acting rashly now will only give others ammunition to criticize us and put Xuanbao in a passive position. We should guard our Daoist temple, quietly contemplate the Great Dao, and at the same time... pay attention to the movements of all parties. Especially the demon race. After this upheaval, Dijun and Taiyi will definitely not remain indifferent. And there are those lurking in the shadows... watching us."

Lao Tzu's meaning is quite simple. The Three Pure Ones are the second generation of the Primordial Era, and Xuanbao is the third generation. Everyone in the Primordial Era has to give them some face, even the Heavenly Dao.

Upon hearing this, Yuanshi and Tongtian exchanged a glance and slowly nodded. Laozi's words, "mature and prudent in governing," clearly analyzed the advantages and disadvantages of the situation, as well as the relative strengths and weaknesses of the enemy and ourselves. Acting impulsively is certainly not the best course of action.

"Fine, I'll listen to you, brother." Tongtian pursed his lips and sat back down on the cloud bed, but the fighting spirit in his eyes hadn't faded. "I want to see which fools dare to jump out and cause trouble at this time! I'll just use them to test the effectiveness of my Immortal Slaughtering Sword Formation!"

Yuanshi Tianzun also said in a deep voice, "Brother, your considerations are thorough. In that case, we shall proceed according to your plan. The disciples of the Earth Sect should intensify their efforts to supervise their subordinate sects, spread the Dao among the human race, and stabilize the fortunes. The Heaven Sect and the Human Sect should do the same. The Great Tribulation is approaching, and the more preparations we make, the more chances of survival we have."

The Three Pure Ones reached a consensus, and the tense atmosphere in the hall eased slightly. However, the fact that the Three Pure Ones could temporarily adopt a defensive posture and observe the situation did not mean that other forces could be so "calm."

The Heavenly Court, the Lingxiao Palace.

A deathly silence. A silence even deeper and more oppressive than when they received the Three Pure Ones' decree and were forced to evacuate Penglai.

Di Jun sat high on his throne, the True Solar Flame surrounding him no longer flickering, but completely solidified, like a heavy, dark golden shell enveloping him. His expression was eerily calm, only deep within his golden eyes seemed two extremely cold yet containing the fury to incinerate all things, silently collapsing and erupting. The table before him had already silently turned into a wisp of smoke, leaving not even ashes. Below, Donghuang Taiyi, several demon saints, three hundred and sixty-five Zhou Tian Star Lords… all the high-ranking members of the demon race held their breath and lowered their heads, not daring to even breathe, as if an invisible sword hung over their heads, ready to strike at any moment.

The commotion of the birth of the Netherworld, the dark pillar of light piercing the heavens and earth, the vast and perfect Dao of the world, the nascent Heavenly Dao will that faintly rivaled the Primordial Heavenly Dao... were like the heaviest slaps to the face of the demon race, who had just regained some confidence due to the completion of the Zhou Tian Star Array and the return of Taiyin to its position! No, this was not just a slap, but more like a cold iron hammer, smashing hard on the demon race's newly raised momentum!

"Ha... the Netherworld... Xuanbao... Houtu..." Di Jun finally spoke, his voice hoarse and dry, like sandpaper being rubbed, each word carrying a chilling, bloodthirsty edge. "Good, very good indeed. The Three Pure Ones seized my Penglai, humiliating my demon race first. Now, even Houtu, who should have been eternally imprisoned in the Netherworld and not allowed to leave lightly, has joined forces with that bastard Xuanbao to create such a spectacle... Is this an attempt to completely sever the path of my demon race?"

He slowly raised his head, his golden eyes sweeping over the assembled officials below, a gaze that sent chills down the spines of all who were looked upon. "The Zhou Tian Star Array has just been completed, and the Taiyin has returned to its place. I had thought that Heaven had ultimately left a sliver of hope for our demon race. Now it seems… that sliver of hope has already been meticulously calculated! With the Netherworld established, the Earthly Dao powerful, and the Cycle of Reincarnation stable, the Witch Clan has the most secure escape route, and may even receive the power of an entire realm! And our Heavenly Court, seemingly ruling the Zhou Tian, ​​has become the target of everyone's attacks, beset by internal and external troubles!"

"Big Brother!" Taiyi took a sudden step forward, the Chaos Bell emitting a deep rumble. His eyes were bloodshot, his voice trembling with extreme anger and resentment. "Are we just going to let them do this?! Our clan's Zhou Tian Star Array is complete, with the power of ten thousand stars upon us. We might very well be able to compete with that damned Netherworld! And that Xuanbao, it has repeatedly ruined our demon clan's important affairs. This enmity is irreconcilable!"

"A contest?" Di Jun glanced helplessly at Tai Yi. His second brother was good at everything except for his brain. "Second brother, can't you see clearly now? The Netherworld has become a real, top-tier Great Thousand World, with the Sage Houtu presiding over it, mysterious treasures of unknown strength, and the complete Cycle of Reincarnation! Its boundary is so strong that it can probably not be broken without the power of Primordial Chaos! Even if our clan has the Zhou Tian Star Array, is it possible to break through the boundary of a top-tier Great Thousand World and invade it? Even if we could, what price would we have to pay? And what if the Witch Clan takes advantage of the situation?"

Taiyi was speechless, veins bulging on his forehead, unable to utter a word.

Di Jun stopped looking at him, his gaze returning to the outside of the hall, as if piercing through the Thirty-Three Heavens, seeing the dark and profound Netherworld, the soaring malevolent aura of Mount Buzhou, and the misty purple and sword energy of Mount Kunlun and the Three Immortal Islands. He remained silent for a long time, so long that the demons in the hall almost suffocated, before slowly speaking. His voice became calm again, yet it carried a chilling decisiveness and eeriness:

"Since Heaven offers no way out and others are pressing us relentlessly... then so be it."

Di Jun slowly rose, the solidified dark golden outer shell of the Solar True Fire peeling away piece by piece, revealing a body beneath that seemed to burn with eerie flames. "Continue practicing the Zhou Tian Star Array. It must be practiced until it is as easy to use as an extension of your own arm, perfectly harmonious and flawless. Taiyi, you personally oversee it. The Ten Demon Saints, each return to your respective arrays and restrain your subordinates. Without my decree, they shall not act rashly."

At worst, we'll fight to the death. If we demons don't fare well, then nobody else will either.