Heavenly King Li and the others received their orders and descended to the lower world to subdue the demon.
But the demon possessed such formidable supernatural abilities that nearly a hundred divine generals of the Great Year Department were no match for him. Instead, more than half of them were captured.
Fortunately, Heavenly King Li had anticipated his enemy's moves and retreated above the Nine Heavens ahead of time, allowing him to escape.
Yet returning now would likely cost him face.
Thus, Heavenly King Li lingered at the entrance to the Heavenly Realm, unable to decide.
Wukong caught up and asked, "Heavenly King Li, what are you doing here?"
Heavenly King Li said, "The demon is vicious. I'm here to cover your retreat."
Wukong said, "I just went back for a look. All the divine generals were captured by that monster. Only Jiazi Great Year and the Sun Patrol God escaped."
As they spoke, Jiazi Great Year came flying up from below in a panic, stumbling through the South Heaven Gate. In his haste, he failed to notice Wukong and Heavenly King Li beside him.
Inside Lingxiao Hall.
Less than half the time it took to drink a cup of tea had passed since Heavenly King Li led his forces down to the lower world.
Celestial Worthy Jade Emperor was asking True Lord Kehansi Zhangren about his recent inspections of the Three Realms.
Just then, Jiazi Great Year came running back in a wretched state, his face scorched black and his court robes torn.
Seeing him, Celestial Worthy Jade Emperor asked, "Jiazi Great Year, why are you in such a sorry state?"
Jiazi Great Year said, "Your Majesty, th-th-that demon is truly vicious! We gods followed Heavenly King Li and the Great Sage Equal to Heaven down to subdue him.