After introducing Bai Zhi to the disciples at the harbor, Li Qingqiu took Jinlang and the other two demons back to the Qingxiao Sect.
He had Jinlang and the Golden Monkey perch on his shoulders, one on each side, while he carried the Black Panther in one hand and flew on his sword.
The three demons were terrified, their bodies taut with fear that they might fall.
Instead of returning directly to Lingxiao Courtyard, he landed beside the Xi River at the foot of Qingxiao Mountain. He set the Black Panther down, then swaggered up the mountain with the three demons.
The Black Panther's coat gleamed, giving it a mysterious, handsome appearance that caught the attention of disciples along the way. The Golden Monkey trailing behind it, however, was mostly ignored.
"Sect Master, where did this leopard come from? Are you sending it to the Monster Taming Hall?" one bold disciple asked.
"I found it outside. It'll be joining the Monster Taming Hall, actually."
Li Qingqiu answered with a smile. Seeing his friendly expression, the other disciples grew bolder too and gathered around.
When they noticed the large mantis perched on Li Qingqiu's shoulder, they were even more astonished.
One of them reached out to pet the Black Panther. The startled beast shouted, "Get lost!"
Whoosh—
At the sound of the Black Panther speaking, the disciples hurriedly retreated like a receding tide.
The Black Panther glared fiercely at the disciple, then stuck close to Li Qingqiu.
Li Qingqiu continued up the mountain. He hadn't forbidden the three demons from speaking, figuring it would give the disciples something to marvel at.
The three demons' arrival caused quite a stir in the sect. Li Qingqiu left the Golden Monkey and the Black Panther at the Monster Taming Hall, drawing many disciples there