When Yuanshi suddenly arrived, Jieyin and Zhunti both changed expression.
Their auras stirred, and even the Eight Treasures Merit Pool beside them rippled.
"Daoist Yuanshi, what brings you to the Western Lands so suddenly?"
After a moment of silence, Daoist Zhunti lightly waved the Seven Treasures Wonderful Tree and asked in an even tone.
Jieyin said nothing. He rolled the prayer beads in his hand, staring fixedly at Yuanshi as unease stirred within him.
"Yuanshi has come to the Western Lands at a time like this."
"It's very likely connected to Houtu's transformation into the reincarnation cycle."
Jieyin's guess proved right. Yuanshi didn't beat around the bush, but got straight to the point.
"I wish to seize authority over the Underworld, and I've come to form an alliance with you two."
At his words, the Bodhi Seed between Jieyin's fingers suddenly stopped moving.
Just earlier, he'd been discussing Houtu Ancestral Witch's transformation into the reincarnation cycle with Zhunti.
They'd been wondering whether gaining control over the Underworld would benefit the Western Lands.
Who could have guessed that before they'd reached a decision, Yuanshi would show up and propose an alliance?
"Daoist Yuanshi."
"Houtu Ancestral Witch transformed into the reincarnation cycle for the good of the Primordial Wilderness."
"Wouldn't it be improper for us to take the fruits of her enlightenment?"
After a moment of silence, Jieyin spoke.
Yuanshi smiled faintly as Jade Pure Immortal Light radiated around him.
He knew full well that Jieyin's words sounded so righteous, but he'd already been eyeing the Underworld in secret.
After a brief pause, he spoke.
"What?"
"Daoist Jieyin, are you unwilling?"
"The Underworld's reincarnation grounds can grant countless departed souls a new life."
"If we could take control of them, the benefits would be too many to list. Surely I don't need