A Clash Once More

What did it mean to embody the bearing of a Shaman?

Heroic and exceptional, with skills beyond the age; diligent in relieving the people's hidden suffering, bearing oneself with lofty grandeur.

In ancient times, those whose vital spirit was unwavering, who could also keep their hearts solemn and upright, whose wisdom could weigh right and wrong above and below, whose sagacity could shine afar and proclaim brightly, whose sight could illuminate all, whose hearing could pierce through all—upon such people, enlightened gods descended. Among men they were called xi, among women, wu.

Those who possessed propriety in ritual, standards in bearing, dignity in appearance, and a nature of loyalty and trustworthiness were made Shamans.

A bridge of communication between Heaven, Earth, humanity, gods, and ghosts.

All qi passed through his altar, and as a fair and solemn Shaman, he would uphold righteousness and justice, maintaining this balance for all time.

When Zhu Fengdan was young, he had been like this.

And Li Qi had once received the same appraisal from Senior Le Ya.

Li Qi did not respond.

He had already said everything he needed to say.

"Enough, let's not speak of this. It's all in the past. But since you've already made your decision, I can only support you. Keep it up, young man. Hold fast to your views. Even if the outcome is wrong, at least the will behind this decision won't be." Huodou decisively ended the subject and turned to look into the distance.

She slipped out of her serious state again, returning to how she had been before.

Li Qi therefore said nothing either. In any case, he was quite accustomed to silence.

But Huodou got angry.

She leapt up at once, grabbed Li Qi by the ear, and roared, "When it comes to the Dao