A hundred thousand celestial soldiers and generals swept in, blanketing the heavens and covering the earth. Golden light and battle banners blotted out the sun, sealing off the starfield surrounding Ziwei Star so tightly that not even water could pass through.
Li Jing stood at the front of the formation with the Exquisite Pagoda in hand, his expression grave. Nezha stood at his side atop his Wind Fire Wheels, though a flicker of barely perceptible calculation flashed through his eyes.
"Lü Dongbin, by the Jade Emperor's decree, this marshal has come to reclaim the position of Imperial Lord Ziwei.
"If you know what is good for you, hand over the Imperial Lord Seal and return to the Heavenly Court with this marshal to stand trial.
"Otherwise, do not blame this marshal for showing no mercy."
Li Jing's voice echoed through the starry void, carrying a trace of forced authority.
Li Jing knew his own limits. Even against the original puppet Imperial Lord Ziwei, he and his hundred thousand celestial soldiers and generals had been no match.
Much less Lü Dongbin and the other Eight Immortals, who were even more terrifying.
Lü Dongbin stood at the highest point of Ziwei Star, looking down at the dark mass of celestial soldiers and generals with a face as calm as still water.
The Pure Yang Sword in his hand turned slightly. Sword light flowed like autumn water, and Sword Qi permeated a vast starfield beneath its gleaming edge.
"The position of Imperial Lord Ziwei belongs to the virtuous.
"Since this poor daoist has been acknowledged by the seal, I am the rightful Imperial Lord Ziwei.
"If Heavenly King Li wishes to seize it by force, then come and take it with your own skill."
Li Jing said no more. He raised the pagoda