Qing Ling and Hong Ling followed Chen Ming's instructions and kept a low profile.
They also knew what the three cave masters wanted. They didn't put on airs, and after exchanging a few polite words, they entered Fuhua Cave together.
After three rounds of drinks, the banquet grew warm and convivial.
Seeing that the time was right, the three cave masters said, "The Thirty-six Caves in the Vast Mountain Range are all occupied by cultivators, but the spiritual energy in our three caves is still weaker than elsewhere."
"Fellow Daoists, might you have any advice for us?"
Hong Ling's Spiritual Intelligence had been affected by the distracting thoughts carried by the Incense and Fire. His mind was complicated, and in an instant, several thoughts raced through it, though none showed on his face.
Qing Ling, however, spoke plainly. "This is simple enough. But if the spiritual energy in your three caves grows, it will weaken elsewhere. If everyone comes looking for Hong Ling and me, what are we supposed to do?"
"My True Person won't bother with such trivial matters, but if this stirs up trouble in the mountains and reaches the True Person's ears, that won't look good either!"
"Is there truly no chance of changing things?" Ge Yanran asked softly.
Daoist Fang Kun tugged at her, stopping her from asking any more.
Fang Kun stepped forward and pressed a jade box into Qing Ling's hands. "I feel an instant kinship with you, Fellow Daoist. Inside is a Spirit Grass of the Profound Yin type. I offer it to form a bond of goodwill with you."
Qing Ling had never encountered such a thing before. She stood and waved her hands, refusing to accept it.
Seeing this, Liu Ruxi smiled. "Fellow Daoist Qing Ling, just take it. None of