Seeking the Dao Ancestor in Zixiao Palace, Haotian Exhausts His Old Affection

Deep within Chaos.

A streak of golden light tore through Chaos and finally stopped before the ancient palace gates of Zixiao Palace.

Haotian's figure looked incomparably small before the palace gates.

He adjusted the Imperial Robe he wore, replacing his expression with one of respect, humility, and even a hint of grievance and helplessness.

Facing the tightly shut palace gates, he bowed deeply.

"Haotian requests an audience with my lord."

Within Chaos, there was only utter silence. His voice slowly echoed through the void, yet failed to stir even the slightest ripple.

Time passed bit by bit.

There was no response from within Zixiao Palace.

Haotian simply stood there, bent at the waist and maintaining his bow, without moving an inch.

He knew his lord could hear him.

No one knew how long it was—perhaps an instant, perhaps ten thousand years.

The great doors of Zixiao Palace, which had not opened in ages, silently and slowly parted inward, leaving a narrow gap.

Joy surged in Haotian's heart, but he did not dare reveal the slightest trace of it on his face.

He maintained his respectful, humble posture and carefully stepped into the familiar yet strange grand hall.

Inside Zixiao Palace, everything remained as it had been.

Empty, ancient, and utterly simple in accordance with the Great Dao.

Upon the elevated platform, a blurry figure sat cross-legged on a Cushion. Dao Rhythm flowed around him, as if he had merged with the Great Dao.

It was Dao Ancestor Hongjun.

Haotian walked to the center of the hall, knelt directly on the ground, and kowtowed with utmost respect.

"Haotian pays his respects to my lord. May my lord enjoy boundless longevity."

"Rise and speak."

"Thank you, my lord."

"You should be handling affairs in the Heavenly Court. Why have you come to