After Li Xiaoyu returned to Morning Sun Peak, his master, Shang Zhengliang, summoned him to his study and asked him about every detail of his trip down the mountain.
After Shang Zhengliang heard Li Xiaoyu's account and learned of his fortuitous encounter in the Abyss of the Dead, the secrets of the Heavenly Tome, Heavenly Sound Temple's demand, and the feud with Incense Burning Valley, the usually composed Chief Seat fell silent for a long time, shaken to the core.
"You foolish child. The karma you encountered on this trip down the mountain is more complicated than anything I've faced in over a hundred years."
Shang Zhengliang looked at his disciple, his heart filled with countless emotions.
"Master, Xiao Fan..." Li Xiaoyu looked at his master, wanting to say something.
Shang Zhengliang raised a hand and cut him off.
"I know what you want to say."
Shang Zhengliang sighed, his face helpless. "This matter is no longer something our Morning Sun Peak can decide alone. It's not even something the Green Cloud Sect can decide on its own."
"It involves Heavenly Sound Temple and the rules our righteous path has followed for a thousand years. Senior Brother Daoxuan is in a difficult position too."
Li Xiaoyu fell silent at his words.
He knew his master was telling the truth, but he couldn't just give up.
"Master, I still want to do something for him."
Li Xiaoyu looked at Shang Zhengliang, his gaze resolute.
Seeing the determination in his disciple's eyes, Shang Zhengliang's heart softened at last.
"Go ahead." He waved a hand. "Do what you want to do."
"But remember, don't force anything, and don't act rashly, lest you get swept into the whirlpool yourself."
"Yes, I understand." Li Xiaoyu bowed deeply to his master.
Night lay dark as