Beiming thought back to before, when the Three Pure Ones had come calling—either storming the mountain or releasing their auras, stirring the place until even the chickens and dogs knew no peace.
Now, Tongtian, visiting alone, was being very courteous indeed.
At once, Beiming instructed, "Xiong Jun, there is a guest outside the mountain. It is the Tongtian Sect Master of Golden Turtle Island.
Go and welcome him into the palace."
Outside the palace gates, Xiong Jun, the only one of the Eight Immortals in Attendance left to keep watch, answered respectfully:
"Disciple receives the imperial decree!"
Accepting the order, Xiong Jun came outside the mountain. Seeing Tongtian, he cupped his hands and bowed:
"Junior Xiong Jun pays respects to the Tongtian Sect Master."
Tongtian looked at Xiong Jun and saw that his foundation was solid, his blood and qi mighty, with the Earth-Thick Virtue Aura hidden within. He nodded slightly:
"No need for such ceremony, young friend. Is Junior Brother Beiming in the palace?"
Xiong Jun lowered his head and replied, "It is precisely my master's command. He specially sent this junior to come and welcome Senior Aunt's sacred carriage."
"Very good." Tongtian stroked his beard. "I will trouble you to lead the way, young friend."
The two stepped onto the mountain path veiled in wind and snow.
Wherever they passed, the raging Gang Wind, ice, and snow parted of their own accord to either side, revealing a quiet, level road.
Before long, they had arrived outside Great Void Palace.
The palace gates opened soundlessly.
Xiong Jun led Tongtian inside, crossed the forecourt, and came to the outside of the main hall.
Xiong Jun stopped outside the hall doors and bowed slightly:
"Reporting to Master, Senior Uncle Tongtian has arrived outside the hall."
As light and shadow rippled faintly,