The Honghuang (洪荒) novel generally refers to a genre of Chinese mythology-inspired stories, often based on Taoism and ancient myths like Investiture of the Gods (Fengshen Yanyi) and Journey to the West (Xiyouji). There are many novels with a Honghuang theme, but they usually follow a pattern of a primordial world where gods, sacred beings, and high-level cultivators strive to reach the ultimate Dao.
General Conclusion of Honghuang Novels
1. Creation and the Early Era
The Honghuang world begins with Pangu, the Chaos Demon God who splits heaven and earth.
After Pangu's death, his body transforms into various elements of the world (his eyes become the sun and moon, his blood turns into rivers, etc.).
Powerful beings emerge, such as the Three Purities (Sanqing), Nüwa, Fuxi, Taiyi, Dijun, and Zhun Ti.
2. Struggles for the Dao and the War of the Gods
The conflict between the Demon Race and the Wu Clan (Sorcerer Race) leads to a great war, which ultimately results in the near-destruction of both races.
The Saint (圣人) begin to emerge, including Daode, Yuanshi Tianzun, Tongtian Jiaozhu, Jieyin, and Zhun Ti.
The major battles revolve around the struggle for the Dao and the laws of heaven, eventually leading to the collapse of the Honghuang Era.
3. Separation of the World and the Birth of Humanity
After countless wars and conflicts, Heaven forbids the Gods from directly intervening, marking the start of the human era.
The Investiture of the Gods (封神榜) establishes new deities to help govern the celestial realms.
Daode, Yuanshi, and the other Saint retreat into the Eternal Dao, removing themselves from worldly affairs.
4. Transition to a New Era
The Honghuang Era ends, and the world is divided into Three Realms (Heaven, Earth, and the Underworld).
The Saints and other powerful beings no longer interfere with the mortal world.
Humanity begins cultivating independently, forming sects and various paths to immortality.
Final Conclusion
Most Honghuang novels conclude with:
The Saint merging with the Dao and disappearing, allowing the world to develop on its own.
The Honghuang Era ends, and the Human Era begins.
A new cosmic order is established, with realms such as Heaven, the Mortal World, and the Underworld.
Humans gain the opportunity to pursue immortality, but without direct assistance from the Sages.
This conclusion reflects Taoist philosophy on the journey to the Dao, the cycle of power, and cosmic balance.