Chaoge Arc: Withdraw the Avatars, Seek the Dao

After a full quarter-hour, a small commotion finally arose within the Azure Palace.

Daoist Duobao arrived on a cloud, still somewhat drowsy and wiping drool from his mouth. He hurried before Li Ping'an and cupped his hands in greeting.

"Dao Master, Dao Master! Why did you suddenly arrive without sending word to warn this poor Daoist?"

Li Ping'an raised a hand with a smile. "Martial Uncle, no need for such courtesy. Is Martial Grand-Uncle in the palace?"

"He is. He's bathing. I'll go report to him at once."

Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning's soft exclamation drifted over. "Ping'an is looking for me? Just come directly. Why report it?"

Daoist Duobao chuckled, cupped his hands toward Li Ping'an in invitation, and led him on a cloud to the rear courtyard of the Azure Palace, toward the bathhouse.

Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning, who had been soaking in the bath and comprehending the Dao, stretched lazily and gestured for Li Ping'an to come over.

"Come here. What brings you all the way here? Is something troubling you?"

Li Ping'an performed a disciple's salute. His clothes transformed into undergarments on their own as he entered the immortal pool and sat opposite Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning.

"It isn't exactly a difficult matter."

Li Ping'an sighed softly.

"I merely wished to speak frankly with Martial Grand-Uncle. This disciple will likely be reclaiming those Heavenly Dao Avatars."

A trace of astonishment appeared on Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning's youthful face. "Hm? Reclaim the Heavenly Dao Avatars? Why?"

Li Ping'an looked toward Daoist Duobao. Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning immediately understood and waved for Duobao to withdraw.

Heavenly Lord of Primordial Beginning regarded him with some confusion. "Your Dao realm... how has it become closer to the Great Dao than even mine?"

"With the Eastern Emperor