"If you're ready, ring the bell three times, and the two of us will know."
"This bell also protects the mind. Carrying it will help you resist the erosion of demonic qi."
Haotian took the Sumeru Bell. It felt warm and smooth in his hand, and faint Buddhist chants seemed to ring in his ears. It was indeed a treasure.
"Thank you, Fellow Daoist."
Zhunti continued, "When you return to the East to gather Spiritual Materials, if you need anything, you can take this bell and visit the Pure Land Market on the western border."
"That is a base the two of us established. It brings together cultivators willing to help the West. They may be able to offer you assistance."
Haotian made a note of it, then discussed some of the details with them until the sun set.
That night, Haotian stayed on Mount Sumeru.
Zhunti had specially arranged a quiet Cave Mansion for him. It was simple, but clean.
Sitting cross-legged in the cave, Haotian's thoughts churned.
This meeting had gone even more smoothly than he had expected.
Zhunti and Jieyin's trust in him was clearly founded on their old ties from the days before Purple Firmament Palace.
That was a pleasant surprise, sparing him a lot of probing and needless effort.
Still, I can't trust them completely. Haotian cautioned himself. Those two are devoted to the West and would give anything for its revival.
If I touch on their fundamental interests, I doubt even our friendship will hold.
Take it slowly, and proceed with care.
Three days later, Haotian took his leave of Mount Sumeru.
Zhunti and Jieyin saw him off at the mountain gate.
"Come back soon, Fellow Daoist," Zhunti said.
Jieyin kept it brief. "I'll await good news."
Haotian cupped his hands in farewell, summoned