Hongjun's decision made the atmosphere throughout Zixiao Palace grow even more oppressive.
Laozi, Yuanshi, and Jieyin remained silent. Their hearts churned like storm-tossed seas, yet they dared not say more.
They knew very well what the Dao Ancestor's seclusion meant.
It was not merely an investigation into Gu Changqing's unknown methods, but also a silent declaration.
Until that power was understood, there might be no one in the entire Primordial World capable of keeping Gu Changqing in check.
Hongjun's gaze swept over the Three Sages without lingering on them.
He knew very well that Gu Changqing's sword strike had nearly shattered both Laozi's and Yuanshi's Dao Hearts.
Even without his warning, these two Sages would now avoid Gu Changqing as they would snakes and scorpions.
At that thought, a trace of helplessness welled up in Hongjun's heart.
He turned toward the Elder of Chaos, who had remained silent at his side.
"Fellow Daoist, we both trace our origins to the Great Dao Demon Gods of old. Perhaps we can glimpse mysteries within that power that neither of us has ever touched."
Hongjun spoke, his words carrying a hint of consultation.
"For this seclusion, I will need you to join me. Perhaps only by working together can we gain something."
At those words, Laozi, Yuanshi, and Jieyin were shaken to their cores.
Dao Ancestor Hongjun, who had merged with the Heavenly Dao, actually needed to enter seclusion alongside the Elder of Chaos just to investigate Gu Changqing's secrets!
This was no longer mere wariness. He was treating Gu Changqing as an unprecedentedly formidable enemy!
The Elder of Chaos's ancient face showed little change when he heard this.
He merely raised his head slowly, looked at Hongjun with his clouded eyes, and nodded gently.
"As you say, fellow Daoist."
With the Elder