Perplexed but obedient, Li Zhouwei lowered his head. As he kneeled, the voices of Li Xuanxuan and Li Qinghong echoed in unison—one hoarse and weathered, the other resonant and firm—reverberating throughout the chamber, "The Li Family of Qingdu offers respect along with fine delicacies and wine with unwavering devotion. We respectfully request the talisman for our descendant. He will dedicate his life to pursuing the Dao and his destiny rests in your hands… When the time comes, he will remain true to their oath. With this talisman burned, we express our gratitude to Supreme Yin."3

Their voices reverberated in the chamber, causing a slight tremor in the air. Li Zhouwei widened his eyes in shock at the power of the words. Before he could grasp their full meaning, he looked up and saw a brilliant white light emanating from the stone platform.1

The light grew increasingly...0