The Ox-Head God burst into hearty laughter, then slowly walked over to an ornately carved armchair in the middle of the hall and sat down. He picked up a snow-white pastry, popped it into his mouth, and savored it slowly before saying,
"This is a long story, and not only legendary, but thrilling as well. Would the two Dukes care to hear the full account?"
Shen Yuhu and his son Shen Hongguang exchanged a glance. By now, they had somewhat set aside their misgivings toward the Ox-Head God, and they were even more eager to understand this supposedly legendary and thrilling experience. Naturally, they would not keep pressing the matter without letting go.
"Furthermore, I want a guarantee. What I say shall leave my mouth and enter only your ears. I do not wish for it to be spread elsewhere."
"You may rest assured on that point. My son and I know the score. Since it concerns that Lord of the Northern Meng Dragon King, no degree of caution would be excessive."
The Shen father and son had been thoroughly intrigued. They looked at the Ox-Head God with anticipation written all over their faces.
The Ox-Head God pondered for a moment. It was still not suitable to lay everything bare, but he could resolve the matter indirectly in another way. His idea was to tell a story and use assumed names. Naturally, some people needed assumed names, while others did not.
In his account, he and the Horse-Face Ghost had made a deal with that mysterious man, crossing mountains and rivers all the way to Ji Prefecture. At the invitation of a man of immense power, they had jointly explored a Grotto-Heaven Secret Realm that had only recently been discovered. Not long ago, this powerful figure had obtained an opportunity