Zixiao Palace was silent as the grave. Everyone's gaze converged on him.
"The three sermons are complete." Hong Jun's voice was calm and measured, yet carried an unquestionable authority. "My duty to impart the Dao is fulfilled. Today, I shall accept disciples and pass on my lineage."
At these words, everyone in Zixiao Palace perked up.
Hong Jun accepting disciples-this had never happened throughout the three sermons.
Becoming a Sage's disciple meant not merely an elevation in status, but also inheriting a Dao lineage.
Hong Jun was the Primordial World's first Sage. His disciples would have a greater hope of attaining Sagehood in the future than anyone else.
Hong Jun's gaze first fell on the three prayer cushions in the front row.
"Taiqing Laozi," he called.
Taiqing Laozi rose, his hair and brows white, his face as still as an ancient well. He walked before the dais and bowed.
"You were formed from Pangu's Primordial Spirit, taking shape from Taiqing qi. Your foundations are deep, and your Dao heart is steadfast.
Today, I accept you as my first disciple, the Chief Seat of Xuanmen."
Hong Jun extended a finger. A strand of Purple Qi flew from his fingertip and entered Taiqing Laozi's brow. "I bestow upon you a strand of Primordial Violet Qi as the Foundation for Proving the Dao. I bestow upon you the Innate Supreme Treasure, the Taiji Diagram, to safeguard your Dao."
The instant that strand of Purple Qi entered his body, the Yin-Yang Qi around Taiqing Laozi surged violently. Interwoven black and white light formed a vast phantom Taiji Diagram behind him, rotating slowly, its mysteries endless.
His aura soared at that moment.
The Taiji Diagram flew from Hong Jun's sleeve and landed in his hands. It was an Innate Supreme Treasure containing the ultimate principles