In the royal palace of Chechi Kingdom, in the central square.
The winds and clouds shifted, and the weather grew strange.
An invisible, oppressive atmosphere weighed on everyone's hearts. The King and Queen of Chechi Kingdom, along with the civil and military officials, looked terrified. They had long been trembling with fear as they watched the powerful figures gathered before them.
The three Imperial Advisors stood on the ground, facing the five pilgrims led by Tang Sanzang.
"Saint Zhunti, this contest should accord with the will of Heaven and Earth. What do you think the first round should be?"
Shen Gongbao asked Saint Zhunti calmly.
The Mystic Gate's two-tenths share of destiny seemed insignificant beside the Western Teachings' seven-tenths. But even if the Mystic Gate's destiny vanished completely, it would hardly count as a loss to its people.
After all, Dao Ancestor Hongjun governed the Heavenly Dao and was the master of the Primordial World!
"Let the Mystic Gate decide the first round!"
"Like I said, back then, this Buddha walked around with both hands in my pockets and never met a worthy opponent. Three little demons at the Peak Grand Unity Golden Immortal realm actually think they can defeat the five pilgrims of the Western Teachings? Ridiculous!"
Saint Zhunti spoke arrogantly.
At this, Shen Gongbao, Guiguzi, and Grand Master Xuandu exchanged glances. Then they sat high on their meditation cushions, quietly watching the three Imperial Advisors below.
"Taiqing, boundless and infinite—obey my command!"
Suddenly!
Great Immortal Huli shouted. A sacrificial altar, three zhang tall, appeared before him. All sorts of talismans on it glimmered with mystic light, and three incense sticks as thick as thumbs burned.
Pale smoke drifted toward the summit of the Nine Heavens, while dark clouds gathered above Great Immortal Huli. Bolts of lightning and thunder