[Wild Continent], western region.
Across the vast Continent, two figures stood in the heart of the Cloud Sea. Circular Light revolved around them, reflecting layer upon layer of scenes, as though countless living beings depended upon their shelter.
They were none other than the World Honored One and True Cultivation.
The World Honored One was currently pitching his Great Vehicle Right Enlightenment Fundamental Sutra to True Cultivation, his face brimming with a compassionate smile, wearing an expression that said he would never harm him.
"Would you really not trust me, Fellow Daoist?"
"As everyone knows, I am a good friend of Lower Cultivator. So long as you cultivate this sutra, you will no longer need to worry about the Deification Method forcibly altering your foundation."
"Mm."
Seeing that True Cultivation was hesitant but clearly tempted, the World Honored One promptly struck while the iron was hot. "Could it be that you are worried I might control you, Fellow Daoist?"
"I already understand your origins. Given your close relationship with me, how could you not understand Unity of Ten Thousand Hearts? It might carry some risk for a lower cultivator who has not cultivated a Primordial Spirit, but you achieved a Primordial Spirit long ago. Unity of Ten Thousand Hearts has no binding power over you whatsoever. Why worry?"
That was not without reason.
Once the Primordial Spirit was achieved, only the I reigned supreme. Mere Unity of Ten Thousand Hearts naturally could no longer influence him; indeed, he might even influence it in return.
With that thought, True Cultivation nodded faintly.
"If that is the case—"
Just then.
The smiling World Honored One's expression suddenly froze. A thunderous boom rang by his ear, and he instinctively looked up toward the Netherworld.
This is... The World Honored One parted his lips.