Three days later, in a stream in Emerald-Mist Hidden Valley.
Ripples suddenly spread across the water, reflecting another world. A vast ocean seemed to emerge within it. Then five figures abruptly burst out of that reflected world and landed in the secluded valley.
Li Yuanqing, who had been waiting for some time, looked at the arrivals. Sensing their powerful auras, he frowned slightly, a trace of wariness rising within him.
But his desire to save the blessed land soon overcame everything else. Setting his worries aside, he cupped his hands and said:
"Fellow Daoists of Dragonkind, thank you for making the long journey. Forgive Yuan Qing for failing to come out and welcome you."
The leader's eyes gleamed. He nodded slightly and smiled. "I am Canghan. I have long heard of the bearing of Qi Refiners. Seeing you today, I find your reputation well deserved."
"You flatter me, Fellow Daoist Canghan."
Li Yuanqing stepped aside and gestured invitingly. "Please follow me. An immortal feast has been prepared in the hall. We can talk over drinks."
Canghan accepted without demur, leading the four Dragon Kings behind him into the main hall with Li Yuanqing. Chu Mo followed silently, his gaze sweeping discreetly over Canghan's party.
Five Dragon Kings. One at the peak of Dao Integration, two at the middle stage, and one at the early stage who's on our side... Tsk, tsk. Nice, very nice indeed.
With a shift of his thoughts, his other self, far away in Brightlight Blessed Land, strode toward Heavenly Pivot Clear Edge's palace.
... Inside Jadegreen's main hall, the two sides took their seats as hosts and guests. After some polite pleasantries, they quickly came to the matter at hand.
Canghan got straight to the point. "Valley Master Li, I have discussed the alliance your junior