Chapter 1039: Baiye Capital Immortal Dao (I)
"No need for such formalities." There was something strangely familiar in Gao Xuanzhi's tone, and Li Ximing could hear that his congratulations were sincere. His joy was far more genuine than that of the other gates. Since Tu Longjian regarded Li Yuanjiao as his junior, it was only natural that the cultivators of the Slaughter Jun Gate were genuinely pleased by his attainment of the Purple Mansion Realm.
Gao Xuanzhi picked up a jade box from the table and Li Minggong hurried forward to receive it. With a respectful bow, Gao Xuanzhi said, "My family's Daoist Master has prepared this method, the Art of Miao Tai[1] Transformation, as a congratulatory gift for Fellow Daoist."
The spell did not sound especially miraculous. But the thought behind a congratulatory gift mattered more than the actual value. Li Ximing replied, "Please convey my gratitude to Senior Junjian. I still remember the grace he showed me back then with the Radiant Sky Stone. If not for his assistance, there would be no Zhaojing today."
Gao Xuanzhi returned the salute and quickly withdrew, unwilling to speak more before the crowd.
As Li Ximing took another step, a man approached with a cup in hand. His eyes were bright, and a spear was slung across his back. His features were refined, and his attire was neat.
He smiled and said, "Zhong Qian, on behalf of Chengyun Gate, offers congratulations to the Daoist Master, and presents this pair of White Shadow Gold Clasps!"
This was none other than Zhong Qian, whom Li Xuanfeng had befriended years ago. Li Ximing naturally recognized him. Zhong Qian was by no means an ordinary figure, so he raised his hand and said, "So it is Sect Master Zhong."
"I wouldn't dare!" Zhong Qian, now advanced in years and bearing an air of gravitas, returned the gesture and said, "This humble cultivator was in seclusion in recent years, and some of my subordinates acted rashly. Fortunately, they knew when to restrain themselves and did not commit any outrageous acts. I have come today to offer my apologies to the Daoist Master."
Perhaps the Bhrama Cloud Cave harbored ulterior motives, but in the end, they had not acted out of line. Zhong Qian, as sect master and a familiar face, had also come personally to apologize.
Naturally, Li Ximing did not press further and simply instructed Li Minggong to accept the gift. He then said, "My grand-uncle once mentioned you. He said you possess talent beyond the ordinary, and that you have the prospect of reaching the Purple Mansion Realm in the future."