A Wisp of Dormant Divine Sense?

That posture was as though it had not shifted so much as an inch since the creation of heaven and earth.

Then suddenly—

A barely perceptible ripple of spiritual power silently drifted forth from the depths of the void!

Laozi, whose mind had been wandering beyond worldly things, stirred slightly at the brow and abruptly returned to himself.

His fingertips gently stroked his snow-white beard as he raised his eyes toward the palace gate, his voice even. "Second Brother, what brings you to my Eight Views Palace today? How do you find such leisure?"

Before his words had faded, Heavenly Lord Yuanshi stepped forth from the void and arrived before the palace gate.

His plain white daoist robe fluttered lightly in the wind, while the Saint's golden wheel behind him slowly emerged, illuminating all phenomena of the heavens.

He drew in the manifestations around him, sinking his aura and returning to utmost simplicity before slowly stepping into the hall.

Looking up, he saw that Grand Pure One Laozi wore a calm expression and no trace of splendor about him, resembling an ordinary old man.

Yet the anxiety between Heavenly Lord Yuanshi's brows could not be concealed. His heart had been knotted with worry of late, leaving him restless night after night. After much thought, only this Elder Brother was both trustworthy and capable of keeping a secret—once certain words were spoken, there would be no taking them back.

"Greetings, Elder Brother. It has been long since I last paid my respects. I have missed you, so I came especially to visit."

Laozi opened his eyes slightly. His gaze swept over Heavenly Lord Yuanshi's somewhat pale face, and in an instant, he saw through the fact that his purpose was far more than a simple visit.

He raised his right hand