At my master's words, my heart tightened slightly.
Although I had never been to the Northeast, I had heard the folk legends of the Northeast Five Immortals there, as well as Black Mother, the highly prestigious and renowned guardian immortal of the faith.
From what I understood, Black Mother was a black bear. She had cultivated alongside Patriarch Guo, founder of the Northeast Taoist lineage, and eventually became the immortal guardian of the main altar.
Because her Taoist arts were profound, she could transform into a kind-faced old woman with a dark complexion.
That was why she was called "Black Mother" and "Old Lady Black" over there.
Of course, there was another folk legend that said Black Mother was a "black fox."
But whether that was true or not, couldn't I just ask my master?
"Master, is Black Mother a black fox or a black bear?"
My master froze for a moment at my question.
"Th-this, I don't know either. Back then, I only met her once.
"She looked kind and was very friendly.
"At the time, Yu Long and I were both very young, so I didn't know whether Black Mother was a bear or a fox. But that isn't important.
"Black Mother holds the fort over there, protecting the safety of the region.
"She has a bronze smoking pipe. It can absorb resentment, purify the mind, and keep one's body and mind calm.
"It is an extremely powerful ritual artifact.
"Back then, Yu Long and I received her blessings.
"If we are fortunate enough to see her on this trip, that would be for the best.
"The baleful energy around you is heavy right now. It would be best if you could receive her help.
"If we cannot see her, then it simply means we do not have