Origin Xia, Origin Upper Hall, atop the broad platform of the Lower Hall.
The rainbow arc of Azure Goose-Riding Plume descended, scattering moments later as Sheng Zheng's external body returned to the hall platform.
After standing there for only a moment, he transformed into a streak of light and fell into his true body deep within the hall, the thread of qi-intent stationed within it returning as well.
He frowned. He knew that the Black-Gold Colossal Rampart had been breached, but not how it had been breached. In his perception, everything had simply collapsed for no apparent reason.
Yet only a Dao-Suppressing treasure could explain such a situation. Otherwise, it could not possibly have affected him so greatly.
As he considered how to explain this battle to the Origin Upper Hall, a disciple entered from outside, bowed to him, and said, "Councilor Sheng, Councilor Quan requests your presence."
Sheng Zheng said, "I will be there shortly."
The disciple bowed again and withdrew. Sheng Zheng remained where he was, thinking for a while longer before finally setting off for the main hall.
When he entered, Councilor Quan was seated upon a stone. His robes drifted like shapeless white clouds, his aura subtly aligned with the workings of Heaven, as if he had merged into one with heaven and earth. Sheng Zheng stepped forward and saluted him. "Councilor Quan."
Councilor Quan nodded and asked, "What happened?"
Sheng Zheng did not conceal anything, recounting the events in detail from beginning to end. He defended himself, saying, "This defeat came because Celestial Xia's strength surpassed ours. It was not my fault."
Councilor Quan said, "I believe you. Some people seemed intent on censuring you, but I turned them back."
Sheng Zheng said coldly, "This time, I requested men and supplies from the rear, yet