"I was invested as a True Person, appointed to oversee the Daoist priests, and was meant to report to the Emperor."
"But I was already a man with little time left!" The Daoist suddenly recalled the conversation Meng Lin and Huo Wuyong had had with him not long ago.
"Throughout the Daoist Sect, they are in truth all Ghost Immortals. Immortals who remain in the world and live forever are nothing but legends."
"Life and death are the natural order. Why can't you let it go? Besides, though our bodies may die, our Primordial Spirits remain. We merely return to the Netherworld." Meng Lin was of higher seniority, and he spoke bluntly.
"Back then, I endured immense humiliation and voluntarily castrated myself to enter the palace. Who knew how many Daoist priests mocked me in secret... It was not that I did not know."
"But there are over a hundred Daoist sects under Heaven, and every famous mountain and great river has long had its own powers... Though our sect prides itself on surpassing others in alchemy, what gives us the right to establish another branch of our own?"
"Only by relying on the Imperial Court can we have some assurance."
Though Meng Lin's face showed a trace of helplessness, it was even colder—I can sacrifice myself, so why can't you?
Huo Wuyong was his senior brother. His expression was helpless, but he was more sincere.
"Rest assured, Junior Brother. Nothing will happen to your disciples. Once they leave, they can still establish a branch and carry on the incense offerings of our lineage."
"Not only that, the sect and the court will certainly give your branch considerable favor and support."
"This is all for the greater good. I hope Junior Brother will understand!"
"The Daoist Sect's greater good?"
"The