"In this world, there are no coincidences, Brother Zhang. Everything is an inevitability that you simply don't know about yet."
This time, John Chou became the biggest winner. Getting his hands on these things must have been part of his plan from the beginning—and now, he’s succeeded.
"And what about you? Why are you working with John Chou?"
"I don't know either, haha. This world is inherently dull, and I just wanted to see what that evil spirit intends to do. I figured it would be interesting, so I lent a hand. Come on, Brother Zhang, I'll take you out."
There were too many things—I didn't want to ask anymore.
On our way down the mountain, Samuel Young told me that the Nine Dao Gate Elders had already gone to the Hall of Malice. The people from the Immortality Society sent a diagram and incantation for unlocking a certain Daoist technique. All the Nine Dao Gate Elders need to do is follow the instructions, and Rufina Howard can be awakened.
I felt a weight lift from my heart.
"Samuel Young, have you ever heard of a waterfall that flows upstream?"
I asked, and Samuel Young shook his head and smiled.
"This vast world is full of wonders, and I've only lived a few decades. Maybe those who've lived for a thousand years might know."
I looked at Samuel Young. His whole demeanor truly matched his Daoist name—carefree and easygoing. He always treated everything in this world with a lighthearted, playful attitude, even matters involving John Chou.
We entered that pitch-black passage. Samuel Young led the way, and in less than ten minutes, we were out. The cave entrance behind us vanished.
"What do you plan to do next?"
I lifted my head and looked at the sky. It was noon, and the sun was glaring. I smiled and decided to go see my cousin—that's my top priority now. I plan to have a good talk with him.
Having made up my mind, I looked at Samuel Young gratefully, thanked him, and floated up into the air.
"Well then, Brother Zhang, if fate allows, we'll meet again. I'll head back to Mount Immeasurable now."
As Samuel Young spoke, his figure was enveloped in a golden glow and gradually faded away. In just a few seconds, he disappeared before my eyes.
I quickly flew north. It would take me half a day to get back.
On the way, I called Hugh Thompson. He told me that there was no news from my cousin's side for now, which eased my mind a little.
I don't want to lose another loved one ever again.