The barrier around the Undying Volcano slowly opened under Azure Luan and Fire Phoenix's guidance.
The pale red curtain of light parted to either side like a curtain of water drawn aside by invisible hands, revealing a passage into the depths of the mountain.
The rock walls on either side were covered in natural crimson crystals. Within each crystal was sealed a faint wisp of nirvana fire, like countless ever-burning lamps that bathed the entire passage in warm, solemn light.
The stone beneath their feet radiated an enduring warmth. With every step, they could feel a pulse rising from deep within the earth.
It was the rhythm of the Primordial World's fire veins, and the sleeping breath of the Undying Volcano.
Pan Xuan walked at the front, with the Twelve Ancestral Witches close behind.
They passed through the passage, and the view suddenly opened up. The roots of the Sacred Parasol Tree were not embedded in stone, but suspended above a boundless lake of magma.
The lake's surface was as still as a mirror. Golden magma flowed slowly, giving off a gentle light that did not dazzle the eyes.
Countless roots hung down from the crown and reached into the magma, drawing on the most fundamental power of the Primordial World's earthly fire veins.
Every leaf of the Sacred Parasol Tree burned with nirvana fire, yet those flames did not scorch. Instead, they held a strange warmth, as though welcoming guests from afar.
Yuanfeng stood upon the highest branch of the Sacred Parasol Tree.
Today, she had assumed an innate Dao body.
She wore magnificent crimson-gold robes, the skirts embroidered with nine Fire Phoenixes poised to take wing. Each phoenix's tail feathers were formed from true nirvana fire, shimmering with flowing colors.
Her face was dignified and majestic. Her phoenix