Sacred Hall Council, Longevity Dao Rhyme Sets the Strategy

The council hall of the Hongmeng Sacred Hall was packed to capacity today. Upon its vaulted ceiling were engraved the stars of the heavens, and faint Chaos Dao Rhyme flowed through the patterns of the stars, echoing the runes upon the dragon-coiled pillars within the hall. Dozens of sandalwood armchairs stood in rows along both sides, occupied by elders and powerhouses of the Hongmeng races, as well as envoys from the races of the universe. Some wore scaled armor, others feathered robes; their auras varied, yet all had restrained their sharp edges, their expressions grave.

Since news spread that Shen Hao had obtained the Life Fruit within Origin Secluded Valley, all of Hongmeng and even the surrounding starfields had fallen into an atmosphere of excitement. Everyone knew that this Life Fruit would play a crucial role in the coming great war. This council of the ten thousand races was convened today to determine the final strategy.

At three quarters past the hour of the Snake, a steady chorus of footsteps sounded outside the hall. Then the doors slowly opened, and Shen Hao entered at an unhurried pace, accompanied by Zi Xuan and Chaos Child. He wore a moon-white Chaos Dao Robe, its hem embroidered with delicate Longevity Dao Rhyme runes. As he walked, his aura was calm and gentle, yet it carried a pressure that looked down upon heaven and earth, making everyone in the hall instinctively hold their breath.

Chaos Child wore a Green Daoist Robe and held an exquisite jade box in his hands. Within it lay the Life Fruit. Dense runes were carved across the jade box, and as they flowed, they released a rich aura of life that jolted the minds of everyone in the hall.

"Common Lord!"

At the sight of Shen Hao, everyone in