Li Mizhen looked at Ying Chong without speaking, then sighed. "Fellow Daoist, circumstances have reached this point; we have no choice. Celestial Xia's determination this time is enough to alarm even us. Yet through the arduous efforts of the two of us, Celestial Xia has agreed to let our several sects continue independently, without having to submit ourselves to them. Only if Celestial Xia encounters an external enemy must we lend our aid. That is all."
He kept his voice as gentle as possible. "Without opposing Celestial Xia, these are already the best terms we could secure. What do you think, Fellow Daoist?"
Ying Chong said, "That is all?"
Li Mizhen solemnly said, "That is all."
Ying Chong said, "Ying must report this matter to the Sect Master."
Li Mizhen nodded. "That is only proper." His expression then grew slightly grave as he added, "But out of fellowship with those of the same path, Li must offer a reminder. Your side must make a decision quickly. If you delay too long, Celestial Xia will be able to cross over on its own and will no longer need your assistance. There is naturally a difference between those two outcomes."
Ying Chong gave no answer, merely clasping his hands in silent salute.
Li Mizhen said no more. After another salute, his figure gradually scattered away.
After he left, Ying Chong did not hesitate. He immediately used the Heavenly Branch beside him to send his thoughts deep into the Azure Spirit Heavenly Branch and informed Yu Lingbi of the matter. After hearing his account, she was initially stunned, then said angrily, "They were the ones who wanted to flee before, and now they are the ones who want to submit to Celestial Xia. Must our Upper Firmament Heaven obey them in everything?"
Ying