The radiant light around Su Yi gradually receded. It was as if his aura had been cleansed; it was now utterly calm and simple.

“Congratulations, Fellow Daoist.” The unkempt old Daoist rushed over, awe, surprise, and admiration written all over his face.

“Did you come here looking for me?” asked Su Yi.

The unkempt old Daoist tensed beneath Su Yi’s cool gaze, and he felt an indescribable nervousness and sense of oppression well within his heart.

He dared not hesitate. He said hurriedly, “That’s right!”

“Is it urgent?” asked Su Yi.

After a moment’s hesitation, the unkempt old Daoist said, “It’s actually not urgent.’

He was just about to continue when Su Yi waved and interrupted him. “Since it’s not urgent, let’s talk about it later.”

The unkempt old Daoist had a favor to ask of him. How could he refuse to wait?

He nodded and said, “Fellow Daoist, you’ve only just overcome your tribulation, and it's a crucial time for consolidating your cultivation and tempering your foundations. I understand.”

Su Yi laughed. “No, that’s not it. It’s my birthday, and I’m in an unusually good mood, so I want to drink to my heart’s content. If you don’t think it’s beneath you, feel free to join us.”

As he spoke, he strode...