Wenzhong Prepares to March

Wenzhong Seeks to Lead an Expedition

"Nezha, it is time to draw your state of enlightenment to a close and do what you ought to do."

Xuanxiao turned his head toward the boy beside him and spoke with a smile, his voice gentle yet faintly imbued with the rhythm of the Dao.

By now, Nezha had completely emerged from his state of sudden enlightenment. The origins of the Spirit Pearl and Demon Orb within him had thoroughly merged into one, yin and yang complementing each other. Within his dantian, Dao patterns resembling a naturally formed Taiji revolved without end, flawless and perfectly harmonious.

As his Dao heart became clear and open, his cultivation surged like rising waters. He broke steadily through his shackles and reached the mid-stage Primordial Unity Golden Immortal realm.

The wild joy of having just comprehended the Great Dao still lingered in his eyes and brows, but at Xuanxiao's words, the delight on Nezha's face abruptly froze, and his heart clenched.

He raised his eyes to gaze at Xuanxiao. His clear eyes reddened slightly, carrying a youth's unease and dependence. "Patriarch... are you leaving again?"

Xuanxiao lifted a hand and gently stroked his hair, soothing him warmly. "I will not leave for the time being. But you are now a great general of Western Qi, with military duties upon your shoulders. Remaining in the residence day after day is ultimately inappropriate. Besides, the next Yin Shang general blocking your path has deep ties to you. This karma must be settled by your own hand."

Hearing this, the heart Nezha had been holding high finally dropped back into place. He let out a long breath, and his features immediately relaxed, brightening once more. "As long as Patriarch is not leaving, that is enough."

"Go." Xuanxiao gave a light