Lingbao's expression stiffened. He couldn't possibly reveal his Main Body had a gender identity issue, could he? He, along with Tongtian, would become the butt of every joke!
Naturally, he deflected the question. "Perhaps something went wrong when the Three Purities were born. The Grand Purity, Jade Purity, and Supreme Purity were supposed to be men, but an accident occurred with my main body, causing me to form as a male."
Seeing Lingbao's smiling face, Nuwa didn't believe his words for even a second. "What a strange turn of events."
"Indeed," Lingbao said.
"I wonder if Daoist Lingbao can solve a problem of mine." Seeing as Lingbao didn't want to speak, Nuwa decided to go on the offensive.
"If it's within my abilities, I will naturally oblige," Lingbao said, already having an inkling of what question she would pose.
"During the Titan-Demon Tribulation, my brother self-detonated in the war, but I was luckily able to save his remnant soul. However, that is far from enough to revive him," Nuwa explained. "I wonder if Daoist Lingbao has a method to revive my brother. Once my brother is revived, I will owe you a favor."
Lingbao turned silent, pretending to muse over the solution. Nuwa waited patiently. She had already tried over a hundred methods, but none of them worked. If Lingbao could easily solve her problem, then she would become suspicious.
Finally, Lingbao sighed. "It's not that I'm unwilling, but the time is not yet right."
"The time is not yet right," Nuwa repeated. It was only a slim hope that she held onto. "Can fellow Daoist tell me when the time would be?"
Lingbao shook his head. "It involves the secrets of heaven, I cannot say."
Hearing this, Nuwa's beautiful brows tightened. Last time it involved the secrets of heaven, Fuxi nearly perished in the Titan-Demon Tribulation. Now, was it another plot from the Way of Heaven?
"Can you divulge anything?" Nuwa asked. She didn't want to worsen Fuxi's situation. If it did, she would rather slowly search for a method.
"I cannot say much, but it involves your creation, humanity," Lingbao said.
Hearing this, Nuwa pinched her fingers but calculated nothing. Still, she wasn't without gains but verified the truth of Lingbao's words. Fuxi did have a chance of revival in her creations. "I thank Daiost Lingbao for your aid."
Lingbao waved his hand. "I didn't do much. Nothing has changed."
Nuwa smiled but said nothing. Since Fuxi's revival was but a matter of time, she could have peace of mind. With peace of mind, she could focus more on her cultivation. "I wonder what Daoist Lingbao came to my Wa Outer Heaven for?"
"It's like this: I have not found suitable candidates for the positions of the Six Great Emperors," Lingbao explained. "I believe Luya is suitable for a position as one of the Six Great Emperors of Heavenly Court."
Nuwa didn't change her expression but couldn't help but wonder what the meaning behind Lingbao, or rather, Tongtian's actions were. A Saint's every move would be scrutinized under a microscope. Even if she wasn’t a Saint of Heaven, she would still ponder the meaning behind Tongtian's actions because Tongtian represented the Heavenly Court.
Did Tongtian want to use Luya to control the Demon Clan? Or did she plan to reintroduce them to the Heavenly Court, and the only reason she waited so long to re-establish Heavenly Court was to firmly control the Thirty-Three Heavens in her grasp first?
No matter what, Lingbao's proposal only gave her benefits. Not only would it help Luya reduce the Karmic Sin he accrued, but also increase the overall luck of the Demon Clan. Once the Karmic Luck of the Demon Clan prospered, she would also benefit.
"I believe that Luya should choose for himself," Nuwa said without revealing a hint of her true thoughts. She turned toward the entrance. "Lingzhu, bring Luya over."
"Yes, Mother Nuwa," a crisp and milky voice sounded, followed by the pattering footsteps.
Lingbao turned around with interest. Lingzhu, the spiritual pearl that Nuwa carried and transformed into an immortal? The very one that would later reincarnate to Nezha—that Lingzhu?
"Is something wrong?" Nuwa asked upon noticing Lingbao's interest.
Lingbao shook his head. "Just an interesting fellow. Despite knowing that we are Saints, he still tried to eavesdrop."
Nuwa gave a doting smile. "He acts really childish, but it's a result of his innocence. Please don't blame him."
"He’s just a child, how could I blame him?" Lingbao asked. The two shared a laugh.
Not long later, an immortal exuding a fiery aura with the appearance of a late teenager walked in. "Luya greets Mother Nuwa and the Heavenly Venerable of Numinous Treasures."
Lingbao observed Luya's features. He bore around a sixty-seventy percent resemblance to Di Jun with some similarities to Taiyi. Most importantly, he couldn't find any trace of affection in Luya’s eyes like Taiyi.
"Worthy of being Di Jun's son. Despite the Karmic Sin, you managed to cultivate all the way to the Great Unity Realm," Lingbao praised.
"Heavenly Venerable overpraises," Luya said as he bowed. Despite trying to hide it, Lingbao could still sense the pride emanating from his bones. "I wonder why the Heavenly Venerable of Numinous Treasures has summoned me?"
"The Dao Ancestor has appointed my main body as the Jade Emperor, head of the Six Great Emperors, but the positions of the great emperors are still unfilled," Lingbao explained. "Are you willing to become one of the Six Great Emperors? Of course, your strength is not worthy of the position yet. You will be appointed the acting great emperor until you Reach the Quasi-Saint Realm. Only then will you be officially conferred the position."
Lingbao could sense numerous emotions from Luya. Excitement and pride, but also sadness and humiliation. Excitement because it meant that he had a chance to wash away his Karmic Sin and regain the glory of the Demon Clan. Humiliation because the offer came from Tongtian. The heavenly emperor should be Di Jun, yet he died, so Luya needed to rely on Tongtian.
"I wonder if the Jade Emperor's proposal is only for me?" Luya didn't immediately agree and asked a question instead.
"The offer is only for you," Lingbao said. And to make his point clearer, he added, "Only those without Karmic Sin and great merits can become officials of Heavenly Court. You are an exception."
Those words doused most of Luya's excitement. This meant that he couldn't appoint the other demons as officials under him. Although a Golden Immortal of the Great Unity was rare in the current era, that didn't mean he was invincible. The person he wanted to bring alongside the most was Bai Ze. With a Quasi-Saint at his side, he could firmly sit as one of the Six Great Emperors.
"I accept," Luya said. Even if he couldn't bring Bai Ze, Luya would still choose to accept. His path would become a bit harder, that's all.
Lingbao nodded. Not long after, he brought Luya back to the Thirty-Three Heavens. Bidding him goodbye were the remaining top echelons of the Demon Clan led by Bai Ze.
When Luya saw the Thirty-Three Heavens again, he felt despondent. He was born in the Thirty-Three Heavens but was forced to hide in Wa Outer Heaven after the Ten Suns Incident, as it was now called. After finally returning, Luya didn't feel like he had come back to his birthplace but to a foreign land.
The appearance was almost the same, but the essence had changed. First Heaven no longer exuded a heavy yang aura, and he couldn't enter and exit Eminence Heaven Palace as he wished anymore.
Memories of adolescence flashed across Luya's mind. Those had been his happiest days. Although he didn't understand anything and feared his father, his brothers were still alive, and nothing weighed on him. Now, both his father and mother were gone, and he was all alone by himself.
Luya quickly adjusted his state of mind and bowed to Lingbao. "Heavenly Venerable, please instruct me."
Lingbao pointed at Fourth and Fifth Heaven. "Fourth Heaven is Vast Heaven, and Fifth Heaven has been renamed to Jade Lake Heaven. You can choose any heaven from the Sixth to Eighth Heaven as your new residence and rename it however you want."
Luya's expression twisted for a split second but quickly disappeared as if it had never existed. "Thank the Heavenly Venerable for your guidance."
Lingbao showed some surprise when Luya flew into Eighth Heaven by his lonesome. He knew that Luya's pride from his status as a demon prince had not disappeared, yet he was able to curb it and choose the lowest heaven. 'Just his ability to endure is praiseworthy.'
Luya's choice wasn't wrong. Among the candidates for the Six Great Emperors, Luya might not have the weakest cultivation, but he had the weakest backing.
Although the Dao Ancestor backed Haotian and Yaochi, he wouldn't take action easily since he merged with the Way of Heaven, but Haotian and Yaochi were Quasi-Saints. The other candidates Tongtian chose were all backed by Saints of Heaven too.
Nuwa might be behind Luya, but only because she was the Saint of the Demon Clan. As for Tongtian herself, she only gave Luya a chance to become one of the Six Great Emperors because of karma and didn't have a personal stake in Luya. So, Luya's decision was ultimately the best he could have chosen.
Lingbao shook his head. It didn't matter anymore. Luya's future rests in his own hands. If he overstepped his boundaries or broke heaven's laws, then his main body would depose him without a second thought.
Years passed, and all the major powers of the Great Desolation sensed a change coming. Their instincts proved correct as the Allheaven Jianmu Tree began to shine brightly with Karmic Merit.
Ever since the collapse of Buzhou Mountain and the near destruction of the world, the Allheaven Jianmu Tree has been a constant presence in the Great Desolation. New generations of life couldn't even imagine the world before the constant presence of the world tree.
Clouds of merit descended atop the world tree where the Thirty-Three Heavens were located.
In Eminence Heaven Palace, Tongtian stood in front of the Throne of Heaven with her arms raised to the sky. Also in the hall were all the candidates for the Six Great Emperors and all the empyreans.
"The Way of Heaven above, I, Supreme Purity Tongtian of Pangu's orthodox lineage, now re-establish the Heavenly Court!" Tongtian's words echoed across the Great Desolation. No corner was devoid of her voice.
"The previous heavenly emperor, Di Jun, did not govern and bring order to the Great Desolation. He used the Heavenly Court as a tool to strengthen the Demon Clan and wage war with the Titan Tribe, bringing chaos to the world. The Heavenly Court under his rule shall henceforth be known as the Demon Heavenly Court."
In the throne hall, Luya tightly clenched his fist and clenched his teeth to prevent himself from disrupting the ceremony. Unknown to him, Wutian, who was among the audience, narrowed his eyes at him.
As the master of the Eminence Heaven Palace, Tongtian naturally sensed this. But it was just an inconsequential ripple that could affect nothing, so she ignored it and continued with the ceremony.
"Under my rule, the Heavenly Court shall be known as the Supreme Heavenly Court!"
Thirty percent of the clouds of merit descended upon Tongtian, but she didn't use them to boost her cultivation base. Instead, she merged them into a halo of merit behind her.
Once the Way of Heaven officially bestowed the Mandate of Heaven upon Tongtian, she sat down on the Throne of Heaven. Her body and the throne became one and exuded a singular coercion against all beings in the Great Desolation. Compared to the coercion when a Saint of Heaven became consecrated, it was not inferior in any way.
Tongtian's eyes scanned those in the throne hall. None dared to meet her gaze. "Come forth, Haotian."
Haotian stepped forward and kneeled to the new ruler of heaven and earth. In this solemn ceremony, not even he dared to play the relationship card. "Haotian is present."
Tongtian nodded. "You were an attendant by the Dao Ancestor's side and have inherited his teachings. We confer you the position of East Great Emperor of Greenflower to aid Us in controlling the growth of all lifeforms in the Great Desolation."
Haotian's expression froze for a moment. Among the positions of the Six Great Emperors, the Jade Emperor was the most important as the head. Next was the North Great Emperor of Polaris, who controlled the Starry Sky, followed by the West Great Emperor of Curved Array. The most useless position was undoubtedly the Great Emperor of Heaven Bearing.
Still, Haotian quickly schooled his position and thanked Tongtian before stepping on the spot reserved for the East Great Emperor of Greenflower. He silently observed the candidates. Just who would take the position of North Great Emperor of Polaris that he wanted?
Was it Daoist Randeng? Among the candidates, he had the greatest cultivation base at the Peak Great Firmament Realm. Or Antarctic Immortal Weng? His chances were less likely since he was only an outer disciple of the Enlightenment Sect and a Profound Immortal.
"Come forth, Yaochi," Tongtian commanded.
Yaochi stepped out and kneeled to Tongtian. "Yaochi is present."
"Like Haotian, you were also an attendant by the Dao Ancestor's side. We confer you the position of West Great Emperor of Curved Array to aid Us in managing the three talents, military affairs, and punishment."
"Yaochi thanks Your Eminence for this blessing," Yaochi said as she stood on the same level as Haotian. She was surprised that Tongtian would give her such a high position but didn't think too much about it for now.
Next, Tongtian zeroed her eyes on Antarctic Immortal Weng. "Come forth, Weng."
Antarctic Immortal Weng stopped forth and kneeled with even more reverence than Haotian and Yaochi. In the Enlightenment Sect, it was well known that you had to treat Aunt-Master Tongtian with greater reverence than their actual master, or Yuanshi would punish them.
"You are fated with the position of South Great Emperor of Longevity," Tongtian said. "However, your strength is not qualified for the position. So, We will confer you the position of Acting South Great Emperor of Longevity. When you reach the Quasi-Saint Realm, you can officially assume the position."
"Weng thanks Your Eminence for this grace." After giving his thanks, Antarctic Immortal Weng stepped into his position.
"Come forth, Burning Lamp," Tongtian summoned.
Burning Lamp stepped forth and kneeled, barely containing his excitement. Despite holding the position of vice sect master of the Enlightenment Sect, he was treated far worse than Yuanshi's twelve personal disciples. He hadn't even been bestowed an innate artifact like the Twelve Golden Immortals.
"You do not hold much fate with the position of Great Emperor of Heaven Bearing." Tongtian's words directly shattered his fantasies. "However, your Way is compatible with the Six Paths of Reincarnation, so We confer you the position of Acting Great Emperor of Heaven Bearing. I hope you can cut off your Corpse and enter the Quasi-Saint Realm soon."
Although the position of the Great Emperor of Heaven Bearing was good, Daoist Randeng felt despondent. How could the position of the Great Emperor of Heaven Bearing compare to the North Great Emperor of Polaris?
Still, Daoist Randeng thanked Tongtian and stepped into his position. Now, he and all the other great emperors scrutinized Luya. Some were envious, while others were curious, but there was no doubt that all gazes were on Luya at this moment.
Luya gulped and couldn't help back the excitement. His mood had soared and dipped numerous points during the ceremony, but it was all worth it in his opinion.
"Come forth, Luya."
Luya stepped forward and kneeled. "Luya is present."
"Di Jun once ruled the Starry Sky and displayed divine might with the Starry Sky War Array. As his son, you have the right to the position of North Great Emperor of Polaris," Tongtian slowly said. "However, your strength is not enough. That is why We will confer you the position of Acting North Great Emperor of Polaris. Until you reach the Quasi-Saint Realm, the Seven Luminaries shall aid you in governing the stars and managing the four seasons."
Luya felt as if he had been dumped into ice water. With the Seven Luminaries helping him, did he have any power at all? Although he had power on the surface, who in the Heavenly Court didn't know that the Seven Luminaries were created personally by Tongtian? In the end, Tongtian still firmly grasped the position of North Great Emperor of Polaris. Only after reaching the Quasi-Saint Realm did he have a chance to truly hold the power of the North Great Emperor of Polaris.
Still, Luya schooled his expression, a skill he had become increasingly familiar with the longer he spent in the Thirty-Three Heavens. "Luya thanks Your Eminence for your confidence."
Once Luya stepped into his position, the Six Great Emperors had assembled, and thirty percent of the clouds of merit descended. It split into six parts, so all six of them got five percent.
Of the six, Daoist Randeng was the happiest. He absorbed the Karmic Merit and directly severed one of his three thoughts. After forming a Corpse, he entered the Quasi-Saint Realm. If Daoist Randeng was the happiest, the most bitter one was Luya. His Karmic Luck split in half, and he only got half it. The Seven Luminaries took the other half.
Luya gritted his teeth and didn't absorb the Karmic Merit. Although it could increase his strength, it was better to wash away his Karmic Sin first.
Tongtian smiled. "It seems that We have to remove the acting part of your title much sooner than We anticipated."
"It's because of Your Eminence's blessing," Daoist Randeng said. All of his earlier despondency disappeared.
Tongtian said nothing. She continued to confer positions to the empyreans. Altogether they received twenty percent. The last twenty percent merged with the Thirty-Three Heavens and the Empyrean Eden, causing a new batch of flowers to blossom.
With this, the re-establishment of Heavenly Court was finished. However, Tongtian wasn't done yet.
"As Our first act as the Jade Emperor," Tongtian's words spread through the Great Desolation. "The sun and moon will now form a cycle with a peak and dip. To prevent chaos, we will bring order to this change. A single cycle will henceforth be known as a Day! Thirty days will form a Month, and twelve months will form a Year!"
Clouds of merit descended again, but Tongtian didn't stop speaking. "A new era is upon us. The Great Desolation is now divided into three realms. Hence We announce that the Great Desolation shall now be known as the Three Realms.”
"Without the Heavenly Court's permission, travel between the Heavenly Realm, Earthly Realm, and Nether Realm shall be restricted!"
As if to emphasize Tongtian's words, a golden film covered the Allheaven Jianmu Tree, and it disappeared from the eyes of all life, be it immortals or mortals. Now, not even Quasi-Saints could easily enter the Thirty-Three Heavens or the Underworld from the Earthly Realm.
Lingbao's expression stiffened. He couldn't possibly reveal his Main Body had a gender identity issue, could he? He, along with Tongtian, would become the butt of every joke!
Naturally, he deflected the question. "Perhaps something went wrong when the Three Purities were born. The Grand Purity, Jade Purity, and Supreme Purity were supposed to be men, but an accident occurred with my main body, causing me to form as a male."
Seeing Lingbao's smiling face, Nuwa didn't believe his words for even a second. "What a strange turn of events."
"Indeed," Lingbao said.
"I wonder if Daoist Lingbao can solve a problem of mine." Seeing as Lingbao didn't want to speak, Nuwa decided to go on the offensive.
"If it's within my abilities, I will naturally oblige," Lingbao said, already having an inkling of what question she would pose.
"During the Titan-Demon Tribulation, my brother self-detonated in the war, but I was luckily able to save his remnant soul. However, that is far from enough to revive him," Nuwa explained. "I wonder if Daoist Lingbao has a method to revive my brother. Once my brother is revived, I will owe you a favor."
Lingbao turned silent, pretending to muse over the solution. Nuwa waited patiently. She had already tried over a hundred methods, but none of them worked. If Lingbao could easily solve her problem, then she would become suspicious.
Finally, Lingbao sighed. "It's not that I'm unwilling, but the time is not yet right."
"The time is not yet right," Nuwa repeated. It was only a slim hope that she held onto. "Can fellow Daoist tell me when the time would be?"
Lingbao shook his head. "It involves the secrets of heaven, I cannot say."
Hearing this, Nuwa's beautiful brows tightened. Last time it involved the secrets of heaven, Fuxi nearly perished in the Titan-Demon Tribulation. Now, was it another plot from the Way of Heaven?
"Can you divulge anything?" Nuwa asked. She didn't want to worsen Fuxi's situation. If it did, she would rather slowly search for a method.
"I cannot say much, but it involves your creation, humanity," Lingbao said.
Hearing this, Nuwa pinched her fingers but calculated nothing. Still, she wasn't without gains but verified the truth of Lingbao's words. Fuxi did have a chance of revival in her creations. "I thank Daiost Lingbao for your aid."
Lingbao waved his hand. "I didn't do much. Nothing has changed."
Nuwa smiled but said nothing. Since Fuxi's revival was but a matter of time, she could have peace of mind. With peace of mind, she could focus more on her cultivation. "I wonder what Daoist Lingbao came to my Wa Outer Heaven for?"
"It's like this: I have not found suitable candidates for the positions of the Six Great Emperors," Lingbao explained. "I believe Luya is suitable for a position as one of the Six Great Emperors of Heavenly Court."
Nuwa didn't change her expression but couldn't help but wonder what the meaning behind Lingbao, or rather, Tongtian's actions were. A Saint's every move would be scrutinized under a microscope. Even if she wasn’t a Saint of Heaven, she would still ponder the meaning behind Tongtian's actions because Tongtian represented the Heavenly Court.
Did Tongtian want to use Luya to control the Demon Clan? Or did she plan to reintroduce them to the Heavenly Court, and the only reason she waited so long to re-establish Heavenly Court was to firmly control the Thirty-Three Heavens in her grasp first?
No matter what, Lingbao's proposal only gave her benefits. Not only would it help Luya reduce the Karmic Sin he accrued, but also increase the overall luck of the Demon Clan. Once the Karmic Luck of the Demon Clan prospered, she would also benefit.
"I believe that Luya should choose for himself," Nuwa said without revealing a hint of her true thoughts. She turned toward the entrance. "Lingzhu, bring Luya over."
"Yes, Mother Nuwa," a crisp and milky voice sounded, followed by the pattering footsteps.
Lingbao turned around with interest. Lingzhu, the spiritual pearl that Nuwa carried and transformed into an immortal? The very one that would later reincarnate to Nezha—that Lingzhu?
"Is something wrong?" Nuwa asked upon noticing Lingbao's interest.
Lingbao shook his head. "Just an interesting fellow. Despite knowing that we are Saints, he still tried to eavesdrop."
Nuwa gave a doting smile. "He acts really childish, but it's a result of his innocence. Please don't blame him."
"He’s just a child, how could I blame him?" Lingbao asked. The two shared a laugh.
Not long later, an immortal exuding a fiery aura with the appearance of a late teenager walked in. "Luya greets Mother Nuwa and the Heavenly Venerable of Numinous Treasures."
Lingbao observed Luya's features. He bore around a sixty-seventy percent resemblance to Di Jun with some similarities to Taiyi. Most importantly, he couldn't find any trace of affection in Luya’s eyes like Taiyi.
"Worthy of being Di Jun's son. Despite the Karmic Sin, you managed to cultivate all the way to the Great Unity Realm," Lingbao praised.
"Heavenly Venerable overpraises," Luya said as he bowed. Despite trying to hide it, Lingbao could still sense the pride emanating from his bones. "I wonder why the Heavenly Venerable of Numinous Treasures has summoned me?"
"The Dao Ancestor has appointed my main body as the Jade Emperor, head of the Six Great Emperors, but the positions of the great emperors are still unfilled," Lingbao explained. "Are you willing to become one of the Six Great Emperors? Of course, your strength is not worthy of the position yet. You will be appointed the acting great emperor until you Reach the Quasi-Saint Realm. Only then will you be officially conferred the position."
Lingbao could sense numerous emotions from Luya. Excitement and pride, but also sadness and humiliation. Excitement because it meant that he had a chance to wash away his Karmic Sin and regain the glory of the Demon Clan. Humiliation because the offer came from Tongtian. The heavenly emperor should be Di Jun, yet he died, so Luya needed to rely on Tongtian.
"I wonder if the Jade Emperor's proposal is only for me?" Luya didn't immediately agree and asked a question instead.
"The offer is only for you," Lingbao said. And to make his point clearer, he added, "Only those without Karmic Sin and great merits can become officials of Heavenly Court. You are an exception."
Those words doused most of Luya's excitement. This meant that he couldn't appoint the other demons as officials under him. Although a Golden Immortal of the Great Unity was rare in the current era, that didn't mean he was invincible. The person he wanted to bring alongside the most was Bai Ze. With a Quasi-Saint at his side, he could firmly sit as one of the Six Great Emperors.
"I accept," Luya said. Even if he couldn't bring Bai Ze, Luya would still choose to accept. His path would become a bit harder, that's all.
Lingbao nodded. Not long after, he brought Luya back to the Thirty-Three Heavens. Bidding him goodbye were the remaining top echelons of the Demon Clan led by Bai Ze.
When Luya saw the Thirty-Three Heavens again, he felt despondent. He was born in the Thirty-Three Heavens but was forced to hide in Wa Outer Heaven after the Ten Suns Incident, as it was now called. After finally returning, Luya didn't feel like he had come back to his birthplace but to a foreign land.
The appearance was almost the same, but the essence had changed. First Heaven no longer exuded a heavy yang aura, and he couldn't enter and exit Eminence Heaven Palace as he wished anymore.
Memories of adolescence flashed across Luya's mind. Those had been his happiest days. Although he didn't understand anything and feared his father, his brothers were still alive, and nothing weighed on him. Now, both his father and mother were gone, and he was all alone by himself.
Luya quickly adjusted his state of mind and bowed to Lingbao. "Heavenly Venerable, please instruct me."
Lingbao pointed at Fourth and Fifth Heaven. "Fourth Heaven is Vast Heaven, and Fifth Heaven has been renamed to Jade Lake Heaven. You can choose any heaven from the Sixth to Eighth Heaven as your new residence and rename it however you want."
Luya's expression twisted for a split second but quickly disappeared as if it had never existed. "Thank the Heavenly Venerable for your guidance."
Lingbao showed some surprise when Luya flew into Eighth Heaven by his lonesome. He knew that Luya's pride from his status as a demon prince had not disappeared, yet he was able to curb it and choose the lowest heaven. 'Just his ability to endure is praiseworthy.'
Luya's choice wasn't wrong. Among the candidates for the Six Great Emperors, Luya might not have the weakest cultivation, but he had the weakest backing.
Although the Dao Ancestor backed Haotian and Yaochi, he wouldn't take action easily since he merged with the Way of Heaven, but Haotian and Yaochi were Quasi-Saints. The other candidates Tongtian chose were all backed by Saints of Heaven too.
Nuwa might be behind Luya, but only because she was the Saint of the Demon Clan. As for Tongtian herself, she only gave Luya a chance to become one of the Six Great Emperors because of karma and didn't have a personal stake in Luya. So, Luya's decision was ultimately the best he could have chosen.
Lingbao shook his head. It didn't matter anymore. Luya's future rests in his own hands. If he overstepped his boundaries or broke heaven's laws, then his main body would depose him without a second thought.
Years passed, and all the major powers of the Great Desolation sensed a change coming. Their instincts proved correct as the Allheaven Jianmu Tree began to shine brightly with Karmic Merit.
Ever since the collapse of Buzhou Mountain and the near destruction of the world, the Allheaven Jianmu Tree has been a constant presence in the Great Desolation. New generations of life couldn't even imagine the world before the constant presence of the world tree.
Clouds of merit descended atop the world tree where the Thirty-Three Heavens were located.
In Eminence Heaven Palace, Tongtian stood in front of the Throne of Heaven with her arms raised to the sky. Also in the hall were all the candidates for the Six Great Emperors and all the empyreans.
"The Way of Heaven above, I, Supreme Purity Tongtian of Pangu's orthodox lineage, now re-establish the Heavenly Court!" Tongtian's words echoed across the Great Desolation. No corner was devoid of her voice.
"The previous heavenly emperor, Di Jun, did not govern and bring order to the Great Desolation. He used the Heavenly Court as a tool to strengthen the Demon Clan and wage war with the Titan Tribe, bringing chaos to the world. The Heavenly Court under his rule shall henceforth be known as the Demon Heavenly Court."
In the throne hall, Luya tightly clenched his fist and clenched his teeth to prevent himself from disrupting the ceremony. Unknown to him, Wutian, who was among the audience, narrowed his eyes at him.
As the master of the Eminence Heaven Palace, Tongtian naturally sensed this. But it was just an inconsequential ripple that could affect nothing, so she ignored it and continued with the ceremony.
"Under my rule, the Heavenly Court shall be known as the Supreme Heavenly Court!"
Thirty percent of the clouds of merit descended upon Tongtian, but she didn't use them to boost her cultivation base. Instead, she merged them into a halo of merit behind her.
Once the Way of Heaven officially bestowed the Mandate of Heaven upon Tongtian, she sat down on the Throne of Heaven. Her body and the throne became one and exuded a singular coercion against all beings in the Great Desolation. Compared to the coercion when a Saint of Heaven became consecrated, it was not inferior in any way.
Tongtian's eyes scanned those in the throne hall. None dared to meet her gaze. "Come forth, Haotian."
Haotian stepped forward and kneeled to the new ruler of heaven and earth. In this solemn ceremony, not even he dared to play the relationship card. "Haotian is present."
Tongtian nodded. "You were an attendant by the Dao Ancestor's side and have inherited his teachings. We confer you the position of East Great Emperor of Greenflower to aid Us in controlling the growth of all lifeforms in the Great Desolation."
Haotian's expression froze for a moment. Among the positions of the Six Great Emperors, the Jade Emperor was the most important as the head. Next was the North Great Emperor of Polaris, who controlled the Starry Sky, followed by the West Great Emperor of Curved Array. The most useless position was undoubtedly the Great Emperor of Heaven Bearing.
Still, Haotian quickly schooled his position and thanked Tongtian before stepping on the spot reserved for the East Great Emperor of Greenflower. He silently observed the candidates. Just who would take the position of North Great Emperor of Polaris that he wanted?
Was it Daoist Randeng? Among the candidates, he had the greatest cultivation base at the Peak Great Firmament Realm. Or Antarctic Immortal Weng? His chances were less likely since he was only an outer disciple of the Enlightenment Sect and a Profound Immortal.
"Come forth, Yaochi," Tongtian commanded.
Yaochi stepped out and kneeled to Tongtian. "Yaochi is present."
"Like Haotian, you were also an attendant by the Dao Ancestor's side. We confer you the position of West Great Emperor of Curved Array to aid Us in managing the three talents, military affairs, and punishment."
"Yaochi thanks Your Eminence for this blessing," Yaochi said as she stood on the same level as Haotian. She was surprised that Tongtian would give her such a high position but didn't think too much about it for now.
Next, Tongtian zeroed her eyes on Antarctic Immortal Weng. "Come forth, Weng."
Antarctic Immortal Weng stopped forth and kneeled with even more reverence than Haotian and Yaochi. In the Enlightenment Sect, it was well known that you had to treat Aunt-Master Tongtian with greater reverence than their actual master, or Yuanshi would punish them.
"You are fated with the position of South Great Emperor of Longevity," Tongtian said. "However, your strength is not qualified for the position. So, We will confer you the position of Acting South Great Emperor of Longevity. When you reach the Quasi-Saint Realm, you can officially assume the position."
"Weng thanks Your Eminence for this grace." After giving his thanks, Antarctic Immortal Weng stepped into his position.
"Come forth, Burning Lamp," Tongtian summoned.
Burning Lamp stepped forth and kneeled, barely containing his excitement. Despite holding the position of vice sect master of the Enlightenment Sect, he was treated far worse than Yuanshi's twelve personal disciples. He hadn't even been bestowed an innate artifact like the Twelve Golden Immortals.
"You do not hold much fate with the position of Great Emperor of Heaven Bearing." Tongtian's words directly shattered his fantasies. "However, your Way is compatible with the Six Paths of Reincarnation, so We confer you the position of Acting Great Emperor of Heaven Bearing. I hope you can cut off your Corpse and enter the Quasi-Saint Realm soon."
Although the position of the Great Emperor of Heaven Bearing was good, Daoist Randeng felt despondent. How could the position of the Great Emperor of Heaven Bearing compare to the North Great Emperor of Polaris?
Still, Daoist Randeng thanked Tongtian and stepped into his position. Now, he and all the other great emperors scrutinized Luya. Some were envious, while others were curious, but there was no doubt that all gazes were on Luya at this moment.
Luya gulped and couldn't help back the excitement. His mood had soared and dipped numerous points during the ceremony, but it was all worth it in his opinion.
"Come forth, Luya."
Luya stepped forward and kneeled. "Luya is present."
"Di Jun once ruled the Starry Sky and displayed divine might with the Starry Sky War Array. As his son, you have the right to the position of North Great Emperor of Polaris," Tongtian slowly said. "However, your strength is not enough. That is why We will confer you the position of Acting North Great Emperor of Polaris. Until you reach the Quasi-Saint Realm, the Seven Luminaries shall aid you in governing the stars and managing the four seasons."
Luya felt as if he had been dumped into ice water. With the Seven Luminaries helping him, did he have any power at all? Although he had power on the surface, who in the Heavenly Court didn't know that the Seven Luminaries were created personally by Tongtian? In the end, Tongtian still firmly grasped the position of North Great Emperor of Polaris. Only after reaching the Quasi-Saint Realm did he have a chance to truly hold the power of the North Great Emperor of Polaris.
Still, Luya schooled his expression, a skill he had become increasingly familiar with the longer he spent in the Thirty-Three Heavens. "Luya thanks Your Eminence for your confidence."
Once Luya stepped into his position, the Six Great Emperors had assembled, and thirty percent of the clouds of merit descended. It split into six parts, so all six of them got five percent.
Of the six, Daoist Randeng was the happiest. He absorbed the Karmic Merit and directly severed one of his three thoughts. After forming a Corpse, he entered the Quasi-Saint Realm. If Daoist Randeng was the happiest, the most bitter one was Luya. His Karmic Luck split in half, and he only got half it. The Seven Luminaries took the other half.
Luya gritted his teeth and didn't absorb the Karmic Merit. Although it could increase his strength, it was better to wash away his Karmic Sin first.
Tongtian smiled. "It seems that We have to remove the acting part of your title much sooner than We anticipated."
"It's because of Your Eminence's blessing," Daoist Randeng said. All of his earlier despondency disappeared.
Tongtian said nothing. She continued to confer positions to the empyreans. Altogether they received twenty percent. The last twenty percent merged with the Thirty-Three Heavens and the Empyrean Eden, causing a new batch of flowers to blossom.
With this, the re-establishment of Heavenly Court was finished. However, Tongtian wasn't done yet.
"As Our first act as the Jade Emperor," Tongtian's words spread through the Great Desolation. "The sun and moon will now form a cycle with a peak and dip. To prevent chaos, we will bring order to this change. A single cycle will henceforth be known as a Day! Thirty days will form a Month, and twelve months will form a Year!"
Clouds of merit descended again, but Tongtian didn't stop speaking. "A new era is upon us. The Great Desolation is now divided into three realms. Hence We announce that the Great Desolation shall now be known as the Three Realms.”
"Without the Heavenly Court's permission, travel between the Heavenly Realm, Earthly Realm, and Nether Realm shall be restricted!"
As if to emphasize Tongtian's words, a golden film covered the Allheaven Jianmu Tree, and it disappeared from the eyes of all life, be it immortals or mortals. Now, not even Quasi-Saints could easily enter the Thirty-Three Heavens or the Underworld from the Earthly Realm.
