Attaining Immortality, Starting From Slaying Demons
Chapter 1000 - 648: Siblings about to Reunite

Chapter 1000: Chapter 648: Siblings about to Reunite

Above the Azure Sky, the White Cloud Immortal Palace.

A robust middle-aged man draped in thick armor rode a fierce beast resembling a tiger, yet also similar to a regal lion, its neck adorned with a dense mane sparkling with golden brilliance.

He clutched the reins, eyes fixed straight ahead.

The Lion-Tiger Beast’s sturdy limbs moved with grace, its large paws silently touching down on the Immortal Jade Corridor.

Within the Immortal Palace, there was no need to dismount, a privilege reserved for generals of the fifth rank.

"Why haven’t you departed for the Mortal Realm yet, as General Qingluan instructed, to observe the ceremony on his behalf?" he asked calmly, while behind the Lion-Tiger Beast, a woman of elegant demeanor followed on foot.

Upon hearing the question, the woman slightly raised her head and spoke softly, "Zi Ling was too hasty and forgot the rules. Fortunately, Horses’ Fortune reminded me, hence the delay."

...

The man fell silent for a moment before he finally turned his head to glance at her, yet said little else.

To reach the rank of fifth rank Immortal General within the Immortal Court, he had seen countless women like her. Whether they were purposefully acting coquettishly to attract attention or sincerely admitting their mistakes, he did not care.

"Since you’ve been delayed, you’d better be on your way. I remember that you’re also from Hongze. Take this opportunity of descending to the Mortal Realm to visit my unworthy nephew for me."

Having said that, the man withdrew his gaze. His connection with that nephew wasn’t close, as the latter’s talents and temperament were rather lacking, and he had made some serious mistakes in the past.

Still, he and the boy’s parents had been fellow disciples with a good relationship, and he had received a lot of help from them. After his mentors passed away, it was only right, both morally and rationally, to provide an outlet for the youngster.

The nephew did know how to be considerate, sending letters of greetings to his uncles on scheduled days.

The nauseatingly sweet words had already become tedious to read.

The man seldom revisited them, but upon returning this time, he found the desk where the letters should have been conspicuously empty, which reminded him of his nephew.

"General Hong Jing speaks too seriously. Zi Ling also wanted to return and have a look. If it weren’t for your generous recommendation, I wouldn’t have had the chance to ascend to the Immortal Palace."

At this point, Zi Ling respectfully bowed again.

These generals in the Immortal Palace, aside from their celestial duties, mostly belonged to the Three Immortals Sect and had their own mentors. Their taoist names could generally indicate which Immortal Venerable they were disciples of.

For example, General Qingluan and his fellow disciples all used divine birds as their signs, while General Hong Jing’s mentor preferred to name disciples after Heaven and Earth Treasures.

Hearing the words "your servant," General Hong Jing slightly raised his eyes and, after a moment, showed a faint smile, "General Qingluan is currently in high spirits, and you, as his sole mount, certainly remember the word ’humility.’"

High-ranking officials were often surrounded by subordinates who would act unrestrainedly, taking advantage of their master’s power. This woman, at least, seemed to know better.

It was a perfect timing for him as he had been looking to have his nephew called back to the Immortal Court.

Living comfortably as a local ruler in a remote place might be easy, but it did not promise a future. If General Qingluan were to get promoted, many vacancies would surely appear under his command.

Conveniently, his nephew had a past with the Dragon Maiden, and working under General Qingluan, they could certainly look out for one another.

This was an opportunity for him to form a good connection with General Qingluan.

"Let’s go."

With this in mind, the Hong Jing Immortal General dismounted from his steed, leading the Lion-Tiger Beast, and walked slowly toward the Imperial Stables.

"Greetings, General!"

Several Powerful Warriors hurriedly came forward, wanting to take the Lion-Tiger Beast, only to be rejected by a wave of General Hong Jing’s hand. They stood confused, not daring to make a noise. "Do you have any orders?"

Without a word, Hong Jing Immortal General continued walking with Zi Ling to where a mighty Golden Body was recording names, playing with the reins in his hand: "Are you the newly appointed Horses’ Fortune?"

Lady Qinghua was taken aback, then stood up and performed a salute: "Your humble servant greets the Immortal General."

Ordinarily, since they were not part of the same system and it was their first meeting, there was no need for such formality.

However, General Hong Jing did not dismiss the salute and stood quietly, indifferent, watching as Horses’ Fortune fully bowed down, even kneeling on one knee, before he spoke faintly: "This immortal beast is accustomed to indulgence. Take extra care not to let anything go wrong."

"Your humble servant understands," Lady Qinghua replied with hands clasped.

"If there is any issue, let Zi Ling report to me. Understood?" General Hong Jing raised an eyebrow and extended the reins.

...

The Deputy Supervisors around them didn’t dare to breathe too loudly—they were astute enough to perceive what was happening.

"Your humble servant understands."

Lady Qinghua remained silent for a moment before reaching out to take the reins, but just as she was about to touch them, the Hong Jing Immortal General retracted his hand and turned to look at Zi Ling: "I almost forgot, you are going to the Mortal Realm to attend the ceremony. This immortal beast also hails from Bodhi Sect, having committed a grave error and been stripped of its spiritual rank to atone for its sins in the Immortal Court. You might as well take it with you as a protector."

"Thank you, General Hong Jing!"

Upon hearing this, Zi Ling, overwhelmed by the favor, bowed. The attendants from the Imperial Stables turned pale.

This Immortal General had made no plans to return his immortal beast to the Imperial Stables; the whole visit was clearly to slight their master. Furthermore, lending one’s personal mount to another as a protector was an enormous favor.

"No need for excessive thanks."

General Hong Jing smiled faintly, his voice amiable: "Once you’re done, just return this misbegotten creature back to the Imperial Stables for me."

With that, he walked out of the Imperial Stables, and even at this moment, he still showed no intention of allowing Lady Qinghua to get up.