The reunion between master and disciple eased the murderous atmosphere considerably.
Chan Master Hui'an spoke at just the right moment. "Lay Patron Qing, I specifically invited your master here. First, so that you two could reunite; second, because there are indeed important matters to discuss. Please join us in Vajra Hall."
"After you, Chan Master." Qing Chen withdrew his gaze from Budong, narrowed his eyes, and nodded.
He instructed Ye Wushang to wait aboard the ship and took only Jia Daoyi with him-after all, the man came from Great Jin and had no ties to Gouwu Sea's major factions.
Qing Chen was actually somewhat surprised that Ye Wushang had followed him.
After all, Sword Fool, Jian Yi, and the others had already returned to the Shushan Sword Sect. By rights, Ye Wushang should have been traveling Great Jin, testing his sword against the world, or returning to the Shushan Sword Sect to hold his Nascent Soul Ceremony.
Without further words, the group transformed into streaks of Escape Light and flew deep into Vajra Spirit Island.
Vajra Hall.
The hall stood atop Buddha Summit Mountain, Vajra Spirit Island's highest peak. Built entirely from vajra rock, it rose ninety-nine zhang high, symbolizing the Buddhist Sect's principle of nine times nine returning to truth.
The hall's interior was spacious, enshrining a hundred-zhang-tall Gilded Great Buddha. Incense smoke curled before the Buddha, and Buddhist chants resounded.
After the hosts and guests took their respective seats, bhikkhus served third-tier spirit tea.
Chan Master Hui'an sipped his tea and slowly began, "Lay Patron Qing, I invited you here today for two matters."
"Please speak, Chan Master." Qing Chen grew solemn.
"First, Lay Patron Qing bears a Subordinate Third Rank honorary rank and the title of Second-Class Immortal Marquis. You have returned home in embroidered robes, bringing