"Thank you, Master!" The Golden Core disciples were beside themselves with joy. They understood better than anyone the difference between taking a master and pledging loyalty. Cultivators who had died once saw more clearly than others, and many taboos were no more than drifting clouds in their eyes.
"For the moment, this old man cannot guide each of you individually. Stay to the side with Chang Yu. Once we return to Black Wind Ridge, this old man will let you know that entering my sect will be the most correct choice of your lives! Oh, aside from entering our Daoist sect, of course—the most correct choice!"
"Yes, this disciple understands!" Though Xiao Hua's words were somewhat unsteady, they set the hearts of the Golden Core disciples ablaze. After answering in unison, they stepped aside.
"Xiong Yi..." Xiao Hua asked with a smile, "this old man promised to take you out of the Yaotai Gathering. Though you said then that you wished to serve me, this old man knew those were unwilling words forced from you by desperate circumstances. Now, this old man will give you an opportunity. You may leave on your own."
"True Person Xiao, I have a question to ask before I can decide," Xiong Yi said very seriously.
"You may."
"Is the joy of cultivation that True Person speaks of admiring flowers beneath the moon, discussing the Dao, and debating techniques? If so, why did True Person come to the Yaotai Gathering to seize the National Teacher's token?" Xiong Yi immediately asked.
"Let us not speak of cultivation first." Xiao Hua smiled faintly and explained, "Speaking only of joy, worldly people have many pleasures. Drinking brings joy, singing brings joy, literary pursuits bring joy, a hall full of distinguished friends brings joy, wielding power over the world