Just as Black Emperor and the others were at their wits' end, an old man in a straw raincoat came walking across the water, muttering to himself.
"A great dream spans thousands of autumns; what night is this tonight? A million autumns seeking immortality and the Dao, stars fall and moons wither, filling my heart with sorrow. One sleep through eternity, emperors fall; Heavenly Court has crumbled-where can I wander now? I have roamed all my life, yet never met a kindred soul. I raise my cup to drown my sorrow, only for sorrow to deepen."
Those desolate words, paired with the old man's bearing, made him seem detached from the mortal world, like a secluded master beyond worldly affairs.
Those mournful lines in particular gave Black Emperor and the others a fright. The knowledgeable Black Emperor knew a few secrets about the Ancient Heavenly Court.
Dragon Horse and Ye Tong also braced themselves. This old man looked like an expert at first glance. Ye Tong quietly took out his Great Saint Weapon baseball bat, ready to attack at any moment.
The old man approached them, studied Ye Tong, then said excitedly, "To think that after sleeping through eternity, I would encounter such a gifted youth today! I finally have a successor. Our Human Race has hope!"
"Young man, you are excellent. You possess the same constitution as the legendary Solar Power Saint Emperor. Excellent, excellent! The future rests on your shoulders."
"Kneel before me today, and I shall grant you an unparalleled immortal opportunity. From this day forward, you will walk the path of eternal life, free and unfettered."
Black Emperor paled in alarm and immediately stepped in front of Ye Tong, ready to activate the Suit Imperial Weapon he wore, afraid the little fellow might be in danger.