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The Ghost Taoist, seeing Li Ping'an's indecision and mistaking it for fear, sought to reassure him:
"Dragon Mountain has not sent anyone to the Grand Ritual of the Heavenly Master for forty years, and I was merely passing by today. When I walked past the gate of Moyun Temple, I heard the greeting Taoist boys mock the disciples of Dragon Mountain. When I inquired, I learned that Dragon Mountain had indeed sent a delegate this year. I was worried that you would be bullied, so I showed up to bolster your confidence. You don't have to be afraid of me! We're on the same side!"
"Heh,"
Li Ping'an gave an embarrassed chuckle upon hearing the explanation—never had he imagined that by pretending to be a disciple of Dragon Mountain to gain entry in search of Zixia, he would inadvertently draw out this Demon Daoist. Utterly embarrassed, Li Ping'an stuttered in response:
"My name is Li Ping'an... my master has already passed away... "
"Li Ping'an?"
