The Daoist, Save Me

With a creak, the heavy vermilion gates were pulled half open.

A gatekeeper in green poked his head out, sweeping his gaze around before finally settling on Shen Hui's frost-white hair.

Over the past two years, most who had come calling at the estate had been mud-legged bumpkins seeking to cling to its fame, but he had never seen such an otherworldly Daoist.

The servant composed himself, his respectful manner carrying a trace of wariness as he asked:

"Where has the Daoist come from? And what brings you to our door?"

Shen Hui's expression was tranquil, his tone calm and unhurried, neither servile nor overbearing.

"This poor Daoist has wandered here and seen sinister evil entwining this residence, with the seeds of disaster hidden within. I have come especially to dispel calamity and avert misfortune for your esteemed household."

The servant froze at those words, and his face instantly changed.

This strange occurrence at Squire Wang's estate had spread throughout the county. Everyone took it for a miracle manifested by Seed-Jade Nunnery, blessings arriving at the door.

Yet this Daoist spoke at once of "dispel calamity and avert misfortune." Every word carried danger, completely contradicting the rumors in the streets.

For a moment, he was all at sea. But recalling Squire Wang's recent condition, he did not dare make the decision himself and hastily bowed.

"Please wait a moment, Daoist! This humble one will go report to the master at once!"

With that, he hurriedly shut the gates and turned to run in a panic toward the depths of the estate.

Before long, another burst of footsteps sounded from within the courtyard.

Then the gates opened again, and the gatekeeper stepped aside to clear the way.

"My master invites the three of you inside for a talk."

The three stepped