"You want me to intervene?"
In the splendid hall, Dianyunzi sat in the seat of honor, smiling.
Across from him sat Gao Zhengxin, heir to the Prince of Zhao, his hands clasped in appeal.
"I hope you'll help us, Immortal Adept." Gao Zhengxin lowered his hands and said solemnly, "I know you're searching the Great River for a demon. I'm willing to put my people to work and ease that burden for you."
Dianyunzi shook his head. "I came down from the mountain to test my sword against All Under Heaven. Slaying the demon in the Great River is part of that. Why should I intervene on your behalf?"
Gao Zhengxin's heart sank.
Tian Bode, seated beside him, hurried to speak. "What we've encountered is exceedingly strange, and it happened near the Great River. We thought a Demon from its waters might be behind it, so we invited you here. If you help us, Immortal Adept, you may make an unexpected discovery."
Dianyunzi shook his head again.
Gao Zhengxin was nearing the end of his patience. As heir to a commandery prince, when had he ever had to endure such rudeness? But Tian Bode checked him with a look. Remembering his trusted aide's earlier warning, he managed to stay seated.
Dianyunzi saw their expressions and gave a wry laugh. Rising to leave, he said, "When I draw my sword, there is no turning back! You want to use me as a sword to cut away your troubles. Two wagging tongues won't be enough."
Gao Zhengxin understood somewhat. He drew a deep breath. "What would you have us do, Immortal Adept? Please tell us."
Dianyunzi neither looked back nor answered. He simply walked out.
Gao Zhengxin seethed. He had lowered himself to beg, only to get this in return. How could