The autumn breeze was cool on the road to the little house in the wilderness. The fireflies that had all but vanished from the city seemed to have returned to this place. At least, in Qi Zhongbin's eyes, countless fireflies rose and fell among the wild grasses.
Hui Mian jumped down from Yi Shuyuan and darted onto Qi Zhongbin, who stiffened, not daring to make any sudden movements.
Then Qi Zhongbin felt a tickle at his ear. Hui Mian had leaned close to it and was speaking in a voice barely audible.
"Boy Qi, I rather like you, so here's a word of advice. Once we get home, find a chance to ask to become his disciple. As long as the master doesn't blast you with immortal arts, cling on shamelessly. If that still doesn't work, I'll lend you a hand."
"Watch my expression and act accordingly!"
Wild delight surged through Qi Zhongbin's heart. He nodded slightly, then glanced sideways at Hui Mian on his shoulder. How was he supposed to read expressions on that furry marten face?
"Th-thank you for your guidance, senior. May I ask your honored name?"
Qi Zhongbin deliberately fell two steps behind and respectfully questioned Hui Mian in a low voice. His words pleased Hui Mian immensely.
"My name is Hui Mian. Over a hundred years ago, I was the Great God Yunlai of Phoenix Mountain. Now I follow the master and have turned to cultivating the immortal Dao, dispersing centuries of cultivation in the divine path and demonic arts. As the saying goes, to seek immortal affinity, you must give something up to gain something. Understand?"
"I understand. Thank you, Senior Hui!"
Qi Zhongbin nodded solemnly. This opportunity had been hard won, and with Senior Hui helping him, he had to seize it!
Hearing