Guarding the altar and performing rites, the wonders of Union with the Dao (seeking monthly votes

"My land, my altar; my Dao, true and profound.

Profound beyond profundity, the supreme wonder stood manifest.

The altar must not be lost; the Dao must not be lightly passed on.

Let there be a spirit general to guard the altar in full."

After purifying the altar, Cheng Xinzhan murmured an incantation. Then he suddenly pointed his sword fingers at the lion crouching beneath the ritual altar, his voice bursting forth like thunder.

"Where is Baolu of the lion clan!"

The lion's heart jolted. He knew the opportunity his master had spoken of had arrived. Immediately, he let out a long roar, then unleashed his Divine Ability and released his magical power, returning to his original size. He became a lion Mountain Lord over thirty zhang tall, stood guard south of the altar, and answered loudly,

"Your disciple awaits your command!"

Cheng Xinzhan nodded and continued,

"You were born of the mountains' righteous qi, the finest essence of metal and stone. Your form possesses the might of the lion; your nature holds the virtue of primordial Kun. For several tens of days you have followed the Dao, observing precepts and obeying laws, ingesting qi and rejecting flesh, cultivating your person and nurturing your nature. You are worthy of great service.

"Now I raise this altar, reaching through earth and connecting to heaven. It rightly requires a guardian to restrain tribulations and safeguard fortune. I now confer upon you the office of 'Surveying and Festival-Holding Spirit Garrison General.' Patrol east and west by day; guard northwest and northeast by night. Roam and hunt through the Eight Extremities, expelling evil and binding malign spirits. Devour foul qi, defend the Dao, and protect the true. Merits shall be recorded; failings shall be punished. Receive this with reverence!"

Having recited this, Cheng Xinzhan formed