In the tenth chapter, the enlightened one clarifies doubts and fulfills the heavenly mandate by adding further ministers

Ge Ci shook his head and said: "No... no, that's not right..."

Is this the first time you have heard the master introduce himself today

Thus, the Heavenly Emperor decided to emulate the human realm, allowing the inhabitants of the Daoist world to govern themselves—this is how the Earth Sovereign came into being. At that time, the Heavenly Emperor found a person of high virtue and profound Daoist practice within the Daoist world, granting him the title of Earth Sovereign and authorizing him to manage all the inhabitants of this world in the name of the Heavenly Emperor. Of course, it was not merely a title; the Earth Sovereign received full authority from the Heavenly Emperor, as governing a place filled with half-human, half-immortal beings, as well as demons and monsters, is indeed no easy task. Therefore, generally speaking, the decisions made by the Earth Sovereign are not only unchallenged by the Heavenly Court but also receive ample support.

It is uncertain whether it is because Yuan Zhen is the first friend he has encountered in this place (if one can indeed call him a friend) that he is so concerned. In any case, Yuan Zhen gives him a very different impression; at the very least, he does not regard himself as an absolute authority or a mythical figure from the mouth of a great prophet, as Chilian Fuxi and Mutuo do.

Jiang Heng observed the expressions of the two and thought to himself: "So this large bird is named Yunri, and it seems to have a good relationship with the two of them."

More than a thousand years ago, the world we inhabited was still the same. It was around the Wei, Jin, Southern and Northern Dynasties period, when the Central Plains had been embroiled in conflict for over one hundred and twenty years. The realm was fragmented, and although those in power at the time revered Daoism and Buddhism, they did so solely for personal immortality and the pursuit of longevity, completely forgetting the suffering of the people and the decline of their livelihoods.

What is ... ... ?

"Not bad!" Ge Ci smiled and said, "Chi Lie, Fu Xi, and Mu Tuo, you are also part of this unseen destiny. From today onward, you must do your utmost to assist Jiang Heng in stabilizing the situation and help him ascend to the throne, in order to prevent various factions from taking the opportunity to rebel, causing suffering to the people."

Yunri: A legendary bird, the Zhen. Its feathers are toxic; the female is called Yinxie, while the male is called Yunri

Although it was such a tragedy, this conflict surprisingly lasted for over a hundred years. As the competition intensified, each individual's magical abilities grew increasingly powerful. Finally, one day, a beam of purple light directly destroyed the Southern Heavenly Gate and shook the Hall of Clarity. This compelled the Heavenly Emperor to take it seriously and dispatch heavenly soldiers and generals to suppress the situation

Furthermore, in order to enable the Daoist world to be self-sufficient, the Heavenly Emperor also connected the Daoist world with the Four Divine Continents, allowing the people to migrate freely. With an increase in the population, the productivity of essential goods also correspondingly rose, and the assurance of clothing and food naturally provided another stabilizing force. Thus, this world finally enjoyed over six hundred years of tranquility

However, now, even if he is in the mood to drink, he cannot find a single person to drink with.

The composition of society has added new elements, and over the past six hundred years, the social landscape of the Daoist world has also changed compared to the previous four hundred years. The previously fragmented family powers have been dismantled, replaced by the rise of various sects and gangs. In order to maintain the authority of the Earth Sovereign, various laws and systems have been established, leading to a vague division of these local powers into two factions. One faction supports the authority of the Earth Sovereign, aiming to uphold social justice and promote the well-being of the people, with the Daoist Master as a representative figure; the other faction is dedicated to carving out their own path, regardless of whether they acknowledge the authority of the Earth Sovereign, whose position they seek to challenge. This faction tends to operate more covertly and is generally regarded as the more malevolent side, akin to the annihilation of the master...

Ge Ci stood up, gesturing for Yun Ri and Bu Lian to rise, and said: "These two children are also related to this significant matter, which corroborates my suspicions. Yun Ri, Bu Lian, you have met the Fourth Prince, haven't you!"

Jiang Heng was taken aback, nearly dropping the cup onto the table

As I turned around the mountain bend, I discovered a pond ahead. The stream bed above the pond dropped two to three zhang in height, creating several cascading waterfalls. The waterfalls plunged directly into the pond, producing the sound of rushing water.

At that time, the celestial realm believed that all was well and allowed things to develop on their own. Initially, the population was small, and there were not many significant disturbances. However, after two to three hundred years, some individuals had already proliferated to the ninth and tenth generations, and family clans began to emerge. Various overt and covert struggles for power and territorial plundering gradually came to the forefront, ultimately igniting a large-scale and comprehensive conflict

However, later on, there were significant changes in the situation of the Daoist world, which requires a wise leader even more than the mortal realm. The abilities originally designed by the Heavenly Emperor for Puheng were suitable for development in the mortal world, but returning to the Daoist world may prove insufficient. I know the Heavenly Emperor was quite troubled by this matter, but I later heard that a solution was devised. I am not aware of the details, but now that I see you today, this mystery is about to be unveiled.

As expected, the young man indeed led them up the hillside. Before they approached the pavilion, the figure inside, with his back to them, spoke in an aged voice: "Hehe, you have come at just the right time; I have just changed the tea leaves in this pot... Come, come, come in, come in, all of you! Sit down..."

Three individuals arrived at the stream's edge and each took a sip of water. The stream was cold and refreshing, its chill penetrating to the heart. Jiang Heng looked up towards the upstream, where the distant mountain peaks were already imbued with the essence of winter

Out of the blue, Jiang Heng suddenly thought of Yuan Zhen

The meaning of "仙公" is "immortal gentleman" or "sage" in English

Now, his life has encountered unprecedented changes, and those surrounding him are not only strangers but also possess vastly different life experiences. This situation leaves Jiang Heng with a belly full of frustration and grievances, yet he finds himself in a predicament of not knowing to whom he can express them. Although Chilian Fuxi and Mu Tuo are good-natured, the moment he sees their serious and respectful faces, he is rendered speechless and unable to utter even a hint of soft words.

No, it is not only that there will be dangers along the way, but even if one arrives safely and stands before the revered figure, there will still be crises to face

The young man named Yunri responded and, after Jiang Heng and the other two took their seats, he pulled over a stool and sat down beside them

Jiang Heng pondered, and soon saw the young man leading the way around a wooden house. Behind the wooden house was a small slope, on which stood a grass pavilion. Shadows flickered within the pavilion, as if someone were present. Jiang Heng couldn't help but think: "The person in the pavilion is likely the main figure."

Jiang Heng recalled Yuan Zhen, and in a moment of distraction, he missed a large portion of Ge Ci's words. When he came to his senses, he only heard Ge Ci continue: "... the fourth son of the Earth Emperor, Pu Heng, exhibited extraordinary signs at birth. Even now, many people still remember that during those days, the sky above the Supreme Hall of the Earth Emperor's palace was always filled with brilliant rays of light, regardless of day or night, rain or shine. Moreover, it is said that when Pu Heng was born, he did not cry but instead smiled, and he could open his eyes and speak, humming in tune. That very night, an immortal, claiming to be sent by the Tai Bai Jin Xing, came to present gifts; and on the day of his first birthday, while Pu Heng was playing in the courtyard, a red-eyed azure dragon suddenly flew down from the sky, circling above the Supreme Hall a few times before diving directly towards Pu Heng..."

It seems that Ge Ci also noticed his doubts and said: "Your Highness, do not underestimate my two children. Yun Ri is a thousand-year-old Zhenjing spirit, which is why he can transform into human form. Bu Lian's cultivation is slightly shallower, but she has also reached eight hundred years; she was originally a white deer spirit..."

Ge Ci said: "How to pay respects is merely a trivial matter; the pressing issue at hand is to devise a plan for Jiang Heng to smoothly ascend to the throne"

Upon hearing Ge Ci's intention, Jiang Heng was somewhat pleasantly surprised to realize that it meant giving him the woman in the yellow dress before him. However, he soon recalled that there was also a seemingly frail young man who would accompany him, and with the addition of two individuals who appeared to be burdensome, how could he feel at ease?

"Bilian, wait a moment and stay here with us to have tea," Ge Ci said as he noticed her actions coming to a pause.

Chilie Fuxi suddenly realized and said: "So that's how it is! There is a predetermined order in the universe, which is why the Fourth Prince is destined by heaven, and he remains the Fourth Prince!"

Author's Note

After a brief rest, the three continued their journey upstream along the creek. Before long, they followed the valley and entered a bamboo forest. The creek was quite shallow, and whenever they encountered impassable areas, they simply walked into the water. When the stones along the bank appeared, they would return to the shore, repeating this process of crossing the creek several times. However, they could hear the sound of water flowing ahead, which was the first time Jiang Heng had heard the sound of this creek beneath his feet.

"On the day of the transport, you may also take a seat"

Chilie Fuxi and Mu Tuo said: "Without the proper etiquette between the ruler and the subjects, there can be no correct perception of right and wrong. I implore Your Majesty to retract your decree."

As an old man observing the stars at night, I sought divination and various signs indicate that the matter is not so simple

Jiang Heng was overjoyed and urged everyone to set off. Indeed, after crossing the hill, a winding stream was seen quietly lying among the fields, which were bundled with sheaves of harvested straw. If it were not for the glimmers of light sparkling under the sunlight, one would hardly notice that the water in the stream was still flowing

Guo heard Ge Ci laugh and say: "You think you are not Pu Heng, but rather that so-called Fourth Prince of yours, right? Haha... If you really think that way, then you are completely mistaken"

At that moment, everyone present was taken aback. The palace attendant hurriedly stepped forward to check, but found nothing amiss; Pu Heng was still playing on the ground as usual, and everyone thought they must have been seeing things. It was not until the evening, when the maid was helping him bathe, that they discovered a new tattoo of a blue dragon on Pu Heng's chest

Chilie Fuxi hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Yunri, long time no see. How is your master doing?"

Jiang Heng had never felt so lonely and helpless. Indeed, his martial arts were formidable, and he had always walked alone in the martial world, yet there were still a few close friends who valued loyalty above all, willing to risk their lives for him. They would come to him in the dead of night, bringing a few bottles of wine, to rouse him and share a drunken revelry together.

Chilie Fu: A three-character surname

How much longer until we arrive? We have been walking for a day and a half... The more he thought about it, the more annoyed he became, unable to suppress his growing impatience.

Jiang Heng felt a chill in his heart, as he had almost forgotten that there were four seasons in this world

The elderly man consistently kept his head lowered while brewing tea, filling each cup to about seven or eight parts full. During a brief moment, Jiang Heng took a careful glance at Qiao Yunri, noticing that apart from his sharp gaze, he appeared quite ordinary. Judging by his physique, he should be a lean and agile young man.

The old man said, "In fact, it is not only you who have doubts in your heart; the three of them also have many uncertainties. However, although they do not know the reasons, they know what they need to do, while you know nothing at all"

Of course, this is an exaggeration, but Jiang Heng is still eager to give it a try. However, a hero of the martial world, a master skilled in both sword and palm techniques, does not believe that his fate is in his own hands, and yet he goes to place his faith in a wandering sorcerer, foolishly hoping to learn about his future from others? If such a thing were to spread, it would surely become a laughingstock in the martial world

Ge Ci said, pouring himself a cup of tea to soothe his throat, and after a brief pause, continued: "Hey, the battles here are nothing like those in the mortal realm, with swords, guns, horses, flying stones, and arrows. Here, it is a contest of magic, a large-scale contest of magic... Have you ever witnessed sand flying and stones moving, with dust obscuring the sky, not seeing the sun for a month or two? Have you ever experienced a torrential downpour in the morning, with water up to your waist, only to find by afternoon that the sun blazes high, and the ground is parched and cracked? Have you ever encountered all sorts of bizarre flying creatures and beasts, swarming in groups, rampaging everywhere, attacking humans and livestock, devouring them alive on the spot? That kind of scene truly resembles purgatory..."

At this point, Ge Ci changed the subject and said, "Jiang Heng, could you open your chest and let us take a look at your tattoo?"

Returning to the familiar place of his youth, he was filled with immense joy. He looked around eagerly, touching everything like a curious child. Jiang Heng was infected by his exuberance, and his mood instantly lightened. As they walked down to the stream, they saw a wooden bridge spanning the water, at one end of which stood a young man in black.

Ge Ci shook his head and said: "Although there are signs, they are not clear, so I can only express my doubts. Therefore, I cannot assert anything at this moment; I can only say that this matter will not proceed so smoothly"

Chilie Fuxi spoke of this "wise prophet" as if he were a deity, making Jiang Heng somewhat impatient to meet him immediately. It was akin to the time he had heard of a certain Liu Bansian in the capital, known for his "iron-clad predictions," which had also stirred within him the desire to see him. Legends in the martial world claimed that he could predict the future and discern people's fortunes and misfortunes, knowing five hundred years ahead and five hundred years behind, referring to him as a "half immortal" was still an understatement.

"What is meant to come will always come..." Suddenly, the old man interjected with a few words: "Come, let’s have some tea!" Upon hearing this, everyone eagerly reached for the table, each taking a teacup and a book. Yunri and Mutuo held their cups in hand, not in a hurry to drink, while Chilie and Fuxi took a light sip and then paused. Only Jiang Heng sipped one cup after another, and in just two or three gulps, he finished the tea and was about to place the cup back on the table

He knows we are coming

Although Chilian Fuxi and Mutuo had known for a long time, they still felt quite shaken upon hearing Ge Ci confirm it in person. Moreover, the young man named Yunri and the woman in yellow, Bu Lian, were even more visibly shaken, as if the fact that Jiang Heng was the Fourth Prince had a significant connection to them

However, the current situation is different. The Daoist Master not only possesses profound Daoist skills but is also highly respected for his character among the martial arts community. It can be said that as long as he calls out, all the heroes will respond in unison, and he could potentially replace the current Earth Sovereign at any moment. This is merely the influence of the righteous faction. When it comes to the relatively evil faction, the situation is even more precarious. Originally, these dark forces, lurking in the shadows, have always looked askance at one another, with no one willing to yield, leading to occasional friction and conflict. Although this has caused considerable trouble, the dark forces have thus far been unable to grow stronger.

Budian: Stories from Buddhist Scriptures. In ancient times, there was a celestial being in the southern cave who saw a deer give birth to a girl. He took her home and raised her. As she grew into adulthood, her feet resembled those of a deer, and she was known as the Deer Maiden. Wherever she walked, lotus flowers would bloom in her footsteps

Until the emergence of this figure known as the Master of Annihilation, these originally proud and unruly local tyrants suddenly fell silent, willingly bowing their heads in submission and acknowledging him as their master. This demonstrates that the Master of Annihilation possesses formidable powers, and his skills in harmonizing and balancing are exceptional. The appearance of such a person within the evil sect not only poses a hidden concern for the righteous faction but also represents the greatest worry for the Earth Sovereign.

Fufeng: Gale

The young man nodded and said, "This way, please." After glancing at Jiang Heng, he turned and walked away

At the beginning, the Heavenly Emperor misjudged the situation and suffered defeats in the first few encounters. Although later he sent reinforcements consisting of 200,000 heavenly soldiers, including the Twenty-Eight Constellations, the Nine Luminaries, the Twelve Primordial Stars, and the Five Directions, this also provoked a cooperative resistance from the world of the Dao of Magic. As a result, this suppression of magical power took a total of fifty to sixty years to gradually calm down on the surface.

Jiang Heng observed that this woman was probably only in her twenties, with a beautiful appearance and a graceful figure. It was rather disconcerting to see her serving an old man who claimed to be a prophet, as it felt mismatched and uncomfortable. He couldn't help but wonder: "What is the relationship between this woman and Ge Ci?"

The woman named Bu Lian nodded and found a stool to sit down. Ge Ci continued: "It is impossible for the world to remain peaceful and uneventful forever, and this place is no exception. Initially, the Earth Sovereign attained the throne through virtue, which is why, for hundreds of years, even those with greater magical power or higher cultivation could not shake his position.

Chilie Fuxi listened, ran to the hill ahead, looked around for a while, and then ran back to say: "After passing the hill in front, following the stream upstream, it should take about two or three miles to arrive."

After the woman finished pouring the water, she set the bucket aside, picked up the ladle from the wooden barrel, and began to add water to the ceramic pot on the side of the stove. Her movements were exceptionally graceful, and Jiang Heng found himself captivated as he watched. Ge Ci also paused his conversation, waiting for the woman to fill the pot with water.

Upon hearing this, Jiang Heng was taken aback.

Is there still a need to ask? Ge Cidao said: "Puheng has given you all his strength, and you must skillfully utilize his abilities, combined with your own, to accomplish this task..."

The old man paused for a moment and continued: "I am called Ge Ci. I have lived until today, and I can no longer remember how old I am. However, if I count from the day I began my cultivation, it has probably been over two hundred years... Ah, Yun Ri, how long have you been with me?"

Upon seeing this, Chilian Fuxi joyfully exclaimed: "It has arrived, it has arrived, right up there."

Is it the master of extinction? Chilie Fuxi is confident that he can ensure the safety of the Emperor's arrival at the Xuanji Temple

Jiang Heng was taken aback by the sharpness of his gaze. Especially after he turned his head, Jiang Heng realized that apart from those piercing eyes, he had no impression of the other facial features at all.

Upon hearing this, Jiang Heng could not help but conjure up the dire situation described by Ge Ci in his mind; of course, all of this was utterly incomprehensible to him

It is indeed a matter of fate that the Emperor of Earth has fallen ill, while the two great masters of righteousness and evil are at odds. Meanwhile, the heirs on the stage are increasingly inadequate. Crown Prince Pugong died early, and although the public was not satisfied with the second son Puyi, they could still reluctantly accept him. However, no one expected that Puyi would also die suddenly. The court officials do not speak of it, but everyone knows that this matter is related to the third son Puhui

This place remains the same, not changed at all

What is that? Jiang Heng asked

As soon as he finished speaking, a dark shadow swept over the heads of the three. Jiang Heng looked up and saw a large bird, spreading its wings, circling above them before soaring upward. The bird was backlit by the sunlight, making it difficult to discern its species, but with its wings spread, it was likely taller than an adult. If it wasn't a large eagle, it must have been an exceptionally large wild goose

Jiang Heng noticed the unusual expressions of the crowd and could not help but lower his head to take a look. He saw the Azure Dragon on his chest appearing faintly, as if it were writhing in the clouds. He then heard Ge Ci chanting incantations, and with a sharp exclamation, the Azure Dragon fully materialized, its colors vivid and lifelike. What was particularly striking was that the dragon's eyes emitted a faint red glow, giving it a fierce appearance.

"I can't get used to it..." Jiang Heng set the cup down and continued, "If the old gentleman knows anything, please speak frankly. Jiang Heng is troubled by doubts in his heart and can't even sleep well."

Those who are able to come to this place are all individuals who have achieved a certain level of mastery in their studies, and some even possess a foundation in magical arts. However, these individuals have been left here due to issues of intent. Consider this: they find themselves in a dilemma, unable to become immortals, yet also unable to return to their former lives as mortals. The suffering of being trapped in this place is immense. Consequently, they rely on their own abilities to survive here. Because they are not ordinary mortals, the overall structure and nature of their lives are also distinctly different.

The young man had no particular expression and said, "My master is very good. He has been waiting behind the house since early this morning, and I will take you there now"

Official Order: Compound Surname

What does "Yunri" mean? How is it named the same as the bird referred to by Chilie Fuxi?

Chilie Fuxi Road: "What instructions does the immortal have?"

The woman in the yellow dress walked in, nodded to everyone in the grass pavilion, and then knelt down by the table, pouring the water from the bucket into the wooden tub

The old man raised his eyes to look at him and said, "Have you been getting along well these days?"

Ge Cixu said: "From this moment on, Yun Ri and Bu Lian are yours. They will only obey your commands, and even I can no longer order them to do anything. Their responsibility is to protect your safety day and night. They are all good children I have trained, loyal and devoted, so you can rest assured."

Only Chilian Fuxi led the charge, darting towards the top of the waterfall, while Jiang Heng promptly followed. Mu Tuo, as usual, remained at the rear, serving as a lookout.

Yes

"Very well, you should listen carefully; there will not be another opportunity next time." Ge Ci turned to Jiang Heng and said, "I know where you are coming from, and I can understand the doubts in your heart. However, please allow me to start from the beginning and explain slowly.

Ge Ci asked Bu Lian to pour another cup of tea for everyone, and then continued: "When Pu Heng was five years old, the Earth Emperor suddenly received a decree from the Jade Emperor, stating that Pu Heng had an unfinished celestial destiny, and thus specially sent a heavenly being to take him. The Earth Emperor thought this was a good thing, so he allowed Pu Heng to follow the heavenly being. In fact, as far as I know, the Heavenly Emperor intended for Pu Heng to be born into the mortal realm and take on the position of emperor in the human world.

"It is a lucky day!" Mu Tuo said joyfully as he watched the large bird flying away.

What Ge Ci is about to say is something Jiang Heng has heard Yuan Zhen mention before. Upon comparison, the two accounts are quite similar, with no significant discrepancies. In summary, if Puhui were to succeed the Earth Sovereign, the outcome would be disastrous, as not only would the main rebels be eliminated, but even the Daoist masters would be stirring restlessly.

Jiang Hengdao: "I am not your sovereign at this moment; this matter will be discussed later." Ultimately, he did not grant permission. The two had no choice but to bow in respect.

Originally, among the three realms, anyone with nine orifices could become an immortal as long as they practiced sincerely. However, with the addition of this new barrier, it indeed succeeded in preventing many with ulterior motives. The Heavenly Emperor was overjoyed and tightened the defenses even further. Yet, little did he know that this merely shifted the problem to the world of the Dao, and over time, the number of those stranded here increased, leading to an even greater issue.

Jiang Hengdao: "Indeed, I would appreciate it if you could treat Jiang Heng as if he were an idiot; I wish to understand the ins and outs of everything."

If it were not for ... ...

"Hehe, so I just said the time has come," the old man smiled and said, "You three should listen together. After hearing what I have to say, you will have a clearer understanding of your roles and the direction you need to strive for in the future"

Chilie Fuxi said: "The Daoist Master has sent us to welcome the Four Emperors, which indicates a desire for assistance. We shall set off now to return to the Daoist Master; he will surely have a decision to make."

The three individuals ascended to the top of the waterfall and continued upstream. Before long, they turned onto a mountain path beside the stream, where the trees were dense and the grass obscured the trail. If it were not for the careful observation of Chilian and Fuxi, or if they had not been here before, it would have been nearly impossible for others to discover it. Jiang Heng followed for a while, beginning to feel impatient. Just as he was about to voice his doubts, the scenery suddenly opened up before him, revealing another valley. The valley was flanked by towering mountains, isolated from the outside world, creating its own unique realm. Just as he was about to voice his doubts, the scenery suddenly opened up before him, revealing another valley. The valley was flanked by towering mountains, isolated from the outside world, creating its own unique realm

This year is the seventy-second year, Master

Ge Ci smiled and said, "You are indeed the Fourth Prince Pu Heng, without a doubt"

Jiang Heng was unwilling to think any further

Thus, at the suggestion of the Supreme Laozi, the Jade Emperor issued a decree to create a separate realm of law and Dao between humans and deities, which is the very place we now stand upon, in order to conduct more assessments of these cultivators. From then on, mortals in the world who wish to become immortals face an additional challenge: they must first come here to undergo various trials

Upon hearing this, Jiang Heng realized that he indeed had such a tattoo on his chest, but it had come from the Fourth Prince. He replied, "This tattoo is not something I originally had, and it may not always be visible." As he spoke, he opened his collar, and everyone turned their gaze towards him, unable to suppress a soft "Oh".

Hearing him say this, Jiang Heng felt as if he had swallowed a calming pill. It turned out that in his subconscious, he had long believed that he should be prepared to save the world and that he would eventually become the fourth prince who would inherit the great treasure.

Upon hearing this, everyone except Ge Ci was taken aback. At that moment, Chi Lie, Fu Xi, and Mu Tuo realized that Jiang Heng had actually come from another world; they widened their eyes and fixed their gaze on Ge Ci, hoping he would explain.

Victory is superficial, and the Heavenly Emperor knows this. For a long time, in the pursuit of survival, many things have not only become habits but have also formed deeply entrenched beliefs. Unless this world is completely destroyed, the evil forces lurking in the darkness will ultimately strike back.

Indeed, it seems that his injury has completely healed. Let's hurry and catch up. Chilian Fuxi also wore a joyful expression.

Jiang Heng, knowing that Ge Ciguo was indeed a recluse of extraordinary talent, said, "Mr. Ge, I have mentioned before that this tattoo is not originally mine." After saying this, he briefly recounted his background without any concealment. When he spoke of the strange occurrences before the Fourth Prince's death, he was particularly detailed, only omitting the fact that the Fourth Prince was mistakenly killed by him. He concluded, "Therefore, the Pu Heng you mentioned should refer to that Fourth Prince, not to me"

A wooden table was placed in the pavilion, accompanied by several benches. The young man stepped aside, allowing the three to enter first. As Jiang Heng took a seat, he carefully observed the person in the pavilion. He noticed that the individual was dressed in tattered clothes, with unkempt hair and a rather ugly appearance. Additionally, his face was covered in wrinkles, indicating advanced age, yet it was difficult to discern his exact years.

Chilie Fuxi and Mu Tuo Huo stood up, clasped their fists, and said: "Yes!" As they turned their bodies, they were about to kneel before Jiang Heng. Upon seeing this, Jiang Heng hurriedly reached out with both hands to support them, saying: "In the future, it is precisely the time to work together with one heart and share both joys and hardships. You two must not perform such a grand gesture."

Jiang Heng, constrained by his sense of face, has always hesitated to put this thought into action. He kept hoping that on one of his trips passing through the capital, he could find another reason to detour and take a look. As a result, he has waited until now.

Yun Ri and Bu Lian listened and stepped forward to pay their respects. Jiang Heng repeatedly expressed his unworthiness and helped them to their feet

At this point, Ge Ci suddenly saw a woman in yellow outside the grass pavilion, carrying a bucket of water, slowly walking over. Ge Ci smiled and said, "Just in time, I have been sitting here all morning and have burned all the water." He pulled out a wooden bucket from under the table