Fang Shu bowed toward the Deer Cart Earth Immortal, but the Deer Cart Earth Immortal hurriedly shifted aside, avoiding his bow.
The other man shook his head. "No, no. Lu is merely a Foundation Establishment Earth Immortal, not even a Dao Lineage Foundation Establishment cultivator. How could I be your master?"
Fang Shu looked up and saw that the Deer Cart Earth Immortal had turned sideways, his gaze also falling upon the empty altar table in the center of the small temple.
The man sighed softly.
"At a time like this, even accepting a disciple on my master's behalf would be meaningless."
These words stirred a rush of thoughts within Fang Shu, but he restrained himself and revealed not the slightest clue. He merely asked with mild puzzlement, "Accepting a disciple on your master's behalf?"
The Deer Cart Earth Immortal shook his head and changed the subject.
"Get up. At most, Lu can be half a teacher to you. As for a matter as important as becoming your master, do not mention it again."
Seeing that the man's expression was not feigned but quite earnest, Fang Shu obeyed and rose.
Yet he still cupped his hands toward him. "A teacher is also a master. Since Senior Deer Cart is willing to be this junior's teacher, I ask Senior to permit this junior to continue addressing you as 'Teacher Lu.'"
"You child..." Seeing how well Fang Shu understood propriety, without the slightest disdain for him as a spirit-vein Foundation Establishment cultivator, Deer Cart felt greatly comforted. He sighed. "Long Gu... ah, truly... what a pity."
But then the Deer Cart Earth Immortal raised a hand in a gesture of support and spoke gently.
"Since you call me teacher, Lu naturally ought to explain things to you properly. I only hope you