Wudang Mountain, Jinguang Cave.
King Zhuang of Chu stroked his long black beard with one hand and toyed with the Jade Ruyi he carried with the other. Purple, white, gold, and yellow light flowed across its crystal-clear surface, giving it a solemn, serene air. Countless rays of light shone from it, reaching into the clouds.
A moment later, a young attendant led two people inside. Both had unusual appearances that made them hard to forget.
The one in front stood a full zhang tall, his knotted muscles stretching his ochre Daoist robe. He looked like a giant from legend. His skin was gray-black and dull, like weathered rock.
Beside the giant stood a slender woman, graceful and beautiful, with a tall, elegant figure. Next to him, however, she looked delicate and petite.
"At last, I have sensed the Jade Void Palace again." King Zhuang of Chu looked directly at his two guests.
The giant remained woodenly silent. The beautiful woman smiled and said, "My master foresaw this. The King of Chu truly has a profound affinity with the Jade Void Palace."
"Your various lineages have hidden away in the world for many years, dwelling in blessed grotto-heavens. You did not get involved the last time the Jade Void Palace appeared. Why have you come to seek me out now?" King Zhuang of Chu was imposing and forthright. As he spoke, he devoted most of his attention to the Jade Ruyi. The instant he sensed the palace more clearly, he would fly there.
The beautiful woman grew serious. "My master said that the Great Tribulation is approaching. It may be the final tribulation of this era, perhaps even the true end. Birds fight over a morsel of food, and people fight over the narrowest chance. We must do something. The Jade