Azure Depths frowned slightly and looked at Yichu. "Why refuse so hastily without even hearing the conditions? Why not go inform Fellow Daoist Du You first?"
Yet Yichu merely shook his head gently and said solemnly, "The Azure Depths School is subordinate to the Tribulation Deliverance Gate. Sect Master Du You has the authority to deploy your school. How could you hold conditions over him? Such conduct goes against propriety."
Azure Depths's expression stiffened at once. Feigning anger, he said, "What an insolent, ill-mannered junior. Are you teaching This Venerable how to act?"
Before his words had faded, an immense pressure erupted, bearing down on Yichu as though heaven were collapsing and earth overturning. Dark clouds rolled across the sky, dimming the daylight.
In an instant, Yichu's vision went black, as though he had plunged into an abyss. His face paled slightly. "Why grow so agitated, Dao Venerable? The Outer Sea and the Eastern Sea are inextricably linked to begin with."
He forced himself to remain calm, his voice firm. "I serve the Sect Master. How could I damage his prestige? If you are truly angry, Dao Venerable, then go ahead and strike."
Azure Depths stared at him for a moment, then suddenly smiled.
"Enough. I'll stop frightening you."
The immense pressure abruptly dispersed, and the dark clouds vanished, restoring the clear sky.
Azure Depths said mildly, "Heh. You have some courage. Du You has found himself a loyal man. Still, I recall that you inherited Zhi Su's Dao Register, did you not?"
The weight lifted from Yichu's shoulders, and he nearly staggered backward. Steadying his breathing, he cupped his hands. "You flatter me, Dao Venerable. As for the Dao Register... Supreme Venerable Zhi Su has already granted me my freedom."
After a brief explanation, he asked again, "Dao Venerable,