Standing in the empty Demon Division Hall, Haotian was utterly dazed. After a long while, he walked over to the steps beneath the Chief God's seat and sat down, hugging his knees. Suddenly, he felt rather pitiful.
How... had things turned out like this?
"An Imperial Edict from the Heavenly Emperor and Heavenly Sovereign!" Just then, another shout came from outside.
Hearing it, Haotian hurriedly rose from the steps and shook out his Imperial Robe. His expression became stern and cold, betraying not a trace of self-pity. He puffed out his chest, as though he were still the victor he had been before.
That was right. He was the victor. With the Dao Ancestor backing him, he would soon command a third of the Heavenly Court's actual authority. He was the Jade Emperor in truth as well as name.
That was what he told himself.
Soon, a Divine General strode into the hall carrying an Imperial Edict. He came before Haotian, bowed with his hands clasped, then opened the edict and read, "The Heavenly Emperor and Heavenly Sovereign decree: in accordance with the Dao Ancestor's wishes, authority shall be transferred to Haotian. The Heavenly Court's authority derives from its Divine Positions. Henceforth, the Divine Positions of the Demon Bureau Gods are abolished, and their authority is transferred to Haotian. One-third of the Star Lord positions are abolished and transferred to Haotian. The Demon Bureau Heavenly Army is disbanded! Haotian may recruit living beings and establish his own army and organization."
After reading it, the Divine General rolled up the edict, bent forward, and presented it to Haotian. "Your Majesty, please accept this," he said respectfully.
"Mm," Haotian answered with a nasal grunt, taking the edict.
Then the Divine General straightened and reminded him, "Your Majesty, the Heavenly Emperor and Heavenly