Incense Power came from the living beings within the realm.
As time passed, under the stewardship of Song Dongyang and the Heaven-Protecting Orthodox Gods, the populations of the Four Great Continents grew ever larger, and their incense offerings naturally flourished by the day. Yet they would not suddenly increase dramatically without reason.
Such a change naturally drew Wang Ba's attention.
With a slight stirring of his thoughts, he cast his gaze into the realm and immediately understood what had happened.
Just then, a streak of spiritual light flew out from within the realm, passed through the Daoist Grounds, and landed directly outside the Secret Realm. It then transformed into the figure of a Confucian scholar, who bowed deeply and respectfully toward the Secret Realm, his voice carrying into the distance:
"Your disciple Song Dongyang requests an audience, Teacher."
Wang Ba withdrew his gaze, unsurprised by Song Dongyang's arrival.
However, recalling how little attention he had paid to this second disciple over the years, he said:
"Come in."
"Yes."
Song Dongyang shook out his robes, straightened his cap, and adjusted his sleeves. Only after making certain nothing was improper did he stride inside.
Upon seeing Wang Ba, he bowed deeply once more:
"Dongyang pays his respects, Teacher."
Wang Ba nodded slightly:
"I already know why you have come... this matter arose from my lack of forethought. That wretched beast has been noisy since it was young. All the other beasts dislike it, and it has few playmates, which led it to commit such a grave mistake. It has caused you all considerable trouble."
Song Dongyang hurriedly said:
"How could Teacher be to blame? It was my own inadequate strength that kept me from daring to act rashly."
Wang Ba nodded.
Song Dongyang had entered the divine path through the method of