At my command, flames sprang up from the five Appeal Talismans in my hand.
The talismans burned to ash, sending the appeals down to the Underworld.
The ghosts in the room were all pleased that I had burned the Appeal Talismans, written out their petitions, and fed them a Yin Meal.
The fat male ghost spoke first:
"Thank you, Daoist."
The three gaunt ghosts who had starved to death spoke up as well.
"Yes, Daoist, thank you for the meal and the spirit money. We won't stay any longer."
"That's right. We'll be on our way."
"..."
I smiled and nodded, and the four ghosts turned to leave.
Some jumped out the window, while others took the stairs.
Soon, only the female ghost in white remained in the room.
She couldn't find her way and didn't want to leave with those gaunt male ghosts.
I would have to light some incense to guide her on her way when I went downstairs.
It was a small matter.
So I turned to Ai Yousheng and said:
"Mr. Ai, everything has been taken care of.
Mr. Yang and his wife will both wake up tomorrow morning.
I won't stay any longer."
Hearing that I was leaving, Ai Yousheng still looked a little panicked.
"M-Master Jiang, I-I'm a little scared to stay here alone."
"It's fine. They've all left.
How about this? I'll give you another talisman.
Besides, your Yang Fire is strong. Unclean things won't latch on to you."
Ai Yousheng was delighted to hear that I would give him another talisman.
"Good, good! For my friend's sake, I'll risk my life and keep watch here tonight."
I smiled without saying anything more.
I simply gave him a very ordinary Evil-Suppressing Talisman.
Then I packed away all my tools.
As I left, I