With Joyful Shichen's complete dissipation, the power of joy collapsed as well.
The beings of the Tianyuan Divine World who had been assimilated came to their senses at once.
They looked around in confusion, at the countless broken bodies beneath them, at the people of the Reincarnation Universe glaring at them in fury, then at their own blood-soaked hands...
The faces of the soldiers from the Ancient Heavenly Court and the Heavenly Court changed drastically.
"We... slaughtered mortals. We've broken heavenly law. What are we supposed to do now?!"
Panicked voices rose from the crowd, their faces filled with dread.
Duobao glanced at Creation and Order. Neither seemed inclined to speak, so he took a deep breath.
He stepped into the void, and his voice rang out:
"None of you acted of your own will. You were controlled by an outside force. Generals of the Heavenly Court, hear my command: settle the people of this universe, contact the soul collectors of the Netherworld, and see that the innocent are blessed in their next lives. Once order has been restored, return to the Tianyuan Divine World and stand guard!"
The Heavenly Court soldiers looked up. At the sight of the figure in purple imperial robes standing in the void, they dropped to one knee as one.
"We obey Emperor Ziwei's Imperial Edict!"
The Heavenly Soldiers and Generals then dispersed to deal with the aftermath.
Duobao turned to the people of the Ancient Heavenly Court. After a moment's thought, he said:
"As for you, I'll tell Di Jun exactly what happened here. Will you join the Heavenly Court's people in this work?"
The soldiers of the Ancient Heavenly Court exchanged grateful looks, then cupped their fists in salute.
"Thank you, Emperor Ziwei! We'll do everything we can to make amends!"
With that,