Chapter 473: Wenpingzi Visits Again
Huo Erniu kept his head lowered, eyes cautiously raised, his heart filled with unease as he stole a glance at the immortal. But to his surprise, the immortal did not seem intent on punishing him immediately. Instead, he smiled and asked, “Have you been enjoying yourself these past few days?”
This was different from all his previous dreams.
In his past dreams, no matter how good-tempered the immortal was, he would at least scold him after reclaiming the bamboo staff, warning him never to do such a thing again. The bad-tempered ones would curse him harshly or even transform him into a pig or a dog.
The most terrifying dream had been the one two nights ago—where the immortal had merely waved his horsetail whisk, and his soul had been shattered on the spot, condemned to eternal damnation.
Confused but cautious, Huo Erniu still answered honestly, “These past days, with your treasure in hand, I have traveled the land exorcising demons and ghosts. The local villagers and high-ranking officials alike treated me as an honored guest, welcoming and hosting me with great hospitality....”
“You obtained a treasure, gained fame, and even reaped tangible rewards—you've gotten everything you once wished for. So why, then, do you feel uneasy?”
“I... I don’t know.”
“Then let it be.”
The Daoist immediately stopped his questioning. Instead, he gently stroked the bamboo staff and spoke, “You have indeed done some good by exorcising demons these past days. However, the fact remains that stealing my bamboo staff was wrong.
“This staff was given to me many years ago when I passed through Anqing. I encountered an old friend from my sect who treated me with great hospitality, and before I left, I asked him for this staff as a gift. It has since accompanied me across countless mountains and rivers—I have long formed an attachment to it.
“During the days you had taken it, whether I was out buying vegetables or stepping beyond the city to enjoy the spring scenery, I constantly felt as if something was missing.”