Inside Danxin Cave.
The spiritual energy was so dense it nearly liquefied. The air was filled with the intense aura of Earth Fire, yet it was not scorching; instead, it felt warm and mellow.
At the center of the cave abode.
A Golden Cauldron drew the eye most of all. Its body was engraved with patterns of the sun, moon, and stars, mountains, rivers, vegetation, and trees. Beneath it, nine phantom fire dragons coiled and circled, breathing flames and spiritual energy.
Before the Golden Cauldron sat an old man in meditation.
His hair and beard were crimson, and he wore an apricot-yellow Daoist robe embroidered at the hem with three-legged divine birds. His appearance was dignified and imposing, yet carried a hint of carefree ease.
This man was none other than Daoist Longxu. His eyes were slightly closed, and his aura was as vast as an ocean. He appeared calm, but contained a pressure that made one's heart tremble.
Chen Sheng hurriedly bowed, his voice steady.
"Chen Sheng greets Hall Master."
Daoist Longxu slowly opened his eyes. Two flames seemed to dance within them as he stroked his crimson beard and smiled faintly.
"Since you have accepted my Ziying Gourd, what should you call me?"
Chen Sheng drew a deep breath and bowed again, his tone becoming even more respectful.
"This disciple is foolish. Greetings, Master."
Daoist Longxu laughed heartily, his laughter causing the spiritual energy within the cave abode to ripple.
"Ha ha ha! Rise. From this day onward, you are the seventh disciple under my tutelage."
"You have several senior brothers above you. I will introduce them to you one by one in the future."
Chen Sheng rose to his feet. "Thank you, Master."
Daoist Longxu's gaze settled on Chen Sheng, and his expression grew slightly solemn.
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