Shui Yue was full of question marks, only to hear First Lady Hu sneer coldly, “Hmph, this is your skill, forcing our Lord Impermanent to take off his disguise.”
At this moment, two more immortals climbed in from the window—it was the tardy Hu 79 and Bai Wu.
Bai Wu glanced at the crowded room, turned his back abruptly, and lamented in a daze, “…He lied to me again.”
When Lan He wrote to him, he had no idea there would be so many people in the end.
“Come on, aren’t you used to being lied to by now? Get on with it!” Hu 79 leaped onto Shui Yue’s back and stepped on her head. “And you think you can fight with our Lord?”
She didn’t seem that impressive at all.
Shui Yue: “…”
Shui Yue intended to speak but was silenced by Hu 79’s stomp.
If only—if only Hu 79 had arrived earlier—she wouldn’t be so brazen.
Shui Yue was already nearly subdued by First Lady Hu and Liu 13. With Hu 79’s added assistance, the scales of victory tipped even further.
What frustrated her more was: Why on earth did these people obey that Impermanent so wholly? Who exactly was he in the mortal world? A Gu Master?!
By this time, Lan He had already left.
After pushing the door open and saying those words, he didn’t linger. To maintain composure in front of his fans, he blended into the crowd and walked briskly to the third floor without looking back.
The fans became more orderly, afraid of crowding Lan He. While following him upstairs, they gazed at him dreamily. They found nothing wrong with his earlier words. Though many initially felt it made more sense to stay on the second floor where there was light, they now thought: Wow, Brother is so romantic, signing autographs in the dark on the third floor—how romantic!
Some fans farther away called out loudly in the dark, “Brother! Why were you downstairs? Are you really going to play Master Jingsheng and consult with monks?”
Lan He had been wondering how to explain himself—should he claim he was just wandering around or something? But before he could find an excuse, his fans had already concocted the perfect reason for him.
Lan He: “Ah, I can’t say much about that…”
But from his tone, it was clearly an admission.
The host teased, “Exclusive scoop! We get it, don’t worry, we won’t spread the word.”
“Yes, yes, we understand, and that’s enough!”
The fans clung even more tightly to Lan He, escorting him upstairs.
While Lan He ascended, Song Futan remained behind. He was a step late but intended to follow. Before he could go far, a Taoist called out to him, “Why—why do those people listen to Master Lai so much?”
Song Futan looked at him curiously. Although Lan He hadn’t turned back earlier…
“Didn’t you hear what they were calling him?”
Yes, they had heard—Brother.
However, Lan He’s fans particularly enjoyed playing around with such terms. Mimicking the old tattooed male fans and using the tone in *Water Margin* to shout “Brother,” leaving the Taoist hesitant to confirm.
He was utterly bewildered.
“So…so you’re saying he really is…”
The Taoist stuttered, swallowing nervously, and finally forced out, “That idol upstairs?”
Song Futan smiled faintly and left without answering.
The truth was obvious, even without explicit confirmation. Based on this, everyone began to backtrack, piecing together various pieces of evidence that increasingly supported the fact.
For example, how several elders in the sect recently started voting for Lan He.
For example, when Taoist Jiang He and Master Sikong once saluted Lan He, claiming it was a misunderstanding.
For example, the rumors about how Lan He’s death scenes as an actor were performed exceptionally well…!
The so-called atheism? That’s the biggest lie of all.
No one had expected that the real Impermanent Lai had been casually wandering under everyone’s noses for so long. His works and news had always been visible, and some had even gone to watch his movies. Yet they were blinded by their preconceptions and never connected Impermanent Lai to the recently famous idol.
A monk suddenly exclaimed, “What car accident, disfigurement, and wearing a mask? That’s because he’s a celebrity!!”
Shui Yue struggled to lift her head and squeezed out a few words with resentment through clenched teeth: “Celebrity…what exactly is that?”
Hu 79 took the bottle containing Old Bai from her arms and said proudly, “It’s someone influential in the mortal world—everyone likes him.”
Liu 13 added, “Especially his boyfriend.”
First Lady Hu: “…”
Shui Yue: “…”
…
Flashes went off frequently as Lan He used several phones as lights, sitting behind a desk signing autographs for his fans—or rather, he and Song Futan signed together.
Lan He used *Xiao Lai Happy Paper* and had Song Futan write the word “Light” on the back before signing it himself.
This wasn’t just to get the fans to leave obediently. With night demons still lurking and Shui Yue possibly not yet subdued, each signed talisman symbolized light, ensuring the reversal of yin and yang wouldn’t harm his lovely fans. Plus, with his signature on it, they wouldn’t discard it casually.
For those who didn’t know, it just looked like paper. For those who did…well, they’d figure out the truth, but who cared?
His “disguise” was wearing thinner by the minute, leaving him only with oblivious fans to deceive.
Naturally, fans were a little puzzled. Where did Lan He get so many notebook pages, and why did he bring his own paper? Moreover, he insisted that Teacher Xuanguang—who was also here (FuLan stans rejoice)—write two words on each sheet beforehand.
When asked, Lan He simply replied, “Teacher Xuanguang’s handwriting is beautiful. I wanted you all to appreciate it.”
Everyone: “…”
A girl waiting for an autograph couldn’t help but say, “You’re force-feeding us this ship, aren’t you!”
Lan He: “………………”
Lan He weakly replied, “…Please stop talking about force-feeding.”
The fans burst into laughter, assuming Lan He was embarrassed from constant CP teasing.
Only Lan He himself knew that his lips were still tingling faintly.
Fans happily left with Lan He’s autographs. Some noticed that although it had been a bit cold before, their spirits seemed to rise after meeting their idol. Holding onto the signed paper, they even felt a strange warmth.
Lan He had prepared a fair amount of *Happy Paper*, but since he’d already used some, and the crowd was large, the supply was dwindling. As he considered switching to regular paper, Wang Lili arrived at his table.
The staff quickly introduced him, “Lily, you queued up too? Lan He, this is the artist Lily we specially invited. You’ve shared his comics before.”
Lan He paused, holding the last sheet of *Happy Paper*. His mind raced, but he nodded almost automatically. “Yes, I remember.”
Wang Lili, however, was staring at the paper in Lan He’s hands and the identical ones held by fans. He glanced at the paper, then at Lan He—especially his eyes and physique.
Wang Lili wasn’t like Ying Shao, Melonhead Immortal, or the monks. He was a police officer who didn’t believe in coincidences!
He had previously thought this celebrity’s eyes resembled his underworld partner’s. Now, seeing Lan He’s stash of *Happy Paper*, his detective instincts kicked in.
After repeatedly scrutinizing Lan He in person, Wang Lili reached a shocking conclusion: Lan He was his good partner from the underworld! Though he didn’t know how it was possible—alive one moment, dead the next—there was no doubt it was him!
Wang Lili stared at Lan He so intently that others assumed he was overjoyed to meet the celebrity in person.
After a long pause, Wang Lili finally slid his notebook forward. “Do you need more?”
Lan He: “…………”
Lan He mechanically took the notebook. “I do.”
When lice become plentiful, one stops itching. When disguises fall apart too much, one’s face grows thick. Lan He was utterly desensitized.
Wang Lili: “…”
“…So it really is you.”
The manager, oblivious to the situation, couldn’t see the Beijing Municipal Bureau logo on the notebook cover in the dim light. “Huh? Your papers seem to be the same. Haha, what a coincidence.”
Lan He chuckled dryly, “A bit of a coincidence.”
Thanks to Wang Lili’s on-site contribution of more *Happy Paper*, Lan He managed to give all his fans a signed piece. Some sheets even had not only Lan He’s signature and Song Futan’s calligraphy but also Wang Lili’s doodles—quick sketches he had drawn on the spot.
A fan held the sheet to their heart. “This is the ultimate *Triple Masterpiece Paper*! Poetry, calligraphy, and painting.”
Lan He: “Poetry?”
Calligraphy and painting, sure—but where was the poetry coming from?
The fan immediately spun a flowery compliment. “Brother’s name is the shortest and most beautiful poem.”
Lan He: “…”
At this moment, power was finally restored on the third floor. Bright light flooded the room, and everyone cheered, delighted to finally see their favorite actor in a well-lit environment.
The on-site media, initially frustrated by the sudden darkness and thunderstorm that had delayed the event, were now thrilled. Lan He had revealed that he really was taking on the role of Master Jingsheng and had even consulted with monks—this was big news!
As for the brand hosting the event, their satisfaction was unparalleled—money well spent.
Although the press conference started late, everyone left happy.
…
After the event, Lan He headed to the lounge and, under the pretense of chatting, boldly brought Wang Lili along.
Fans, thinking Lan He simply admired the cartoonist’s talent, cast envious glances their way.
The manager was busy wrapping up with the brand representatives, leaving only Lan He, Song Futan, and Wang Lili in the lounge.
Wang Lili, still processing, stared at Lan He. “I’m still trying to wrap my head around this. You’re really my partner!” By extension, did this mean he was now indirectly connected to the entertainment industry?
Lan He sighed. “It’s a long story. Think of it as a side hustle.”
Wang Lili exclaimed, “Who would’ve thought even celebrities have side hustles.”
Lan He laughed, casually explaining, “It’s called ‘Walking as Lord Impermanent.’ It’s not something I can just refuse…”
Song Futan lifted Lan He’s right hand and asked, “How is it?”
Lan He winced. “It hurts a bit.”
Earlier, Lan He’s hand had been briefly frozen by residual evil energy, and then he had signed so many autographs for fans, some with personalized messages. It had taken a toll on his hand.
Song Futan gently cradled Lan He’s hand, massaging from his wrist to the fleshy part of his palm, then kneading his fingertips. Their interlocked hands, slender fingers intertwined, made Wang Lili feel oddly awkward. He averted his gaze.
Seriously… This *Xuanguang* was even more…intense than the news had portrayed. No wonder people shipped the two of them—there was definitely something there.
“So, what were you doing on the second floor earlier?” Wang Lili asked curiously.
“You probably guessed it—there was a haunting. I was trying to save Old Bai,” Lan He replied with a sigh. He briefly explained the situation about the night demon and Old Bai’s capture. “That’s why I didn’t let anyone go downstairs. It’s resolved now; I got confirmation.”
Wang Lili asked, “Will you head down later? I’d like to see it myself. I didn’t expect my partner’s partner to have such a history.”
Lan He: “…”
*My partner’s partner*? Lan He wasn’t sure how to respond to that and even suspected Wang Lili might be planning to rub salt in the wound.
Lan He replied, “I was planning to go now.”
Wang Lili, considering the crowd outside, hesitated. “Now? But the fans haven’t left yet. If you go down, they’ll follow you.”
It was a different situation now. Earlier, Lan He had everyone queued up for autographs and guided them upstairs. If he left now, some fans might not be as cooperative.
The reluctance to part would likely lead to them following—and then, how would anything get done?
But Lan He calmly said, “It’s fine, I’ll die my way.”
Wang Lili: “…………”
Lan He sent a message to his agent saying he would take a nap, “I’ll lock the door in a bit. If you need to go out, better leave now.”
Wang Lili stepped outside, only to see Lan He close the door behind him. A moment later, he and Song Futan appeared in spirit form, leaving Wang Lili marveling. No wonder entertainment reporters and fans rarely managed to capture Lan He’s daily activities—this guy was practically elusive. You’d need quite an extraordinary encounter to run into him.
And even if you did, you’d probably fail to recognize him. Lan He, having left his body, had once again put on a mask. Despite being unmasked earlier, he was already used to it, not to mention needing to be cautious around others. With this fully covered look, not even showing his eyes, even veteran fans would be dumbfounded.
Lan He led Wang Lili down to the third floor. Two Taoist priests were guarding the door and looked rather peculiar when they saw him.
“Open up; he’s with me,” Lan He gestured.
The events upstairs had concluded, and things here were mostly wrapped up.
Shui Yue had been dealt with by First Lady Hu using her own methods, stuffed into a bottle. Holding the bottle, she was sitting on the windowsill, gazing outside. The night’s disturbances weren’t over yet. Fan Wujiao and Xie Bian were nowhere to be found.
Some Taoist priests had already left. Those injured sought treatment—some went to hospitals, others drank talisman water. Some even joined the search for Lord Fan and Lord Xie.
Liu 13, for example, was injured—a rarity in many years. He couldn’t help touching the wound on his neck, and his long snake tongue kept extending to lick it. Bai Wu was treating him, but his constant movements disrupted his breathwork, leaving him exasperated and unwilling to engage.
Meanwhile, Hu 79 was treating Old Bai. Originally lying on the ground in a pitiful state, murmuring incoherent words like “dad” and “money,” Old Bai sprang up the moment he saw Wang Lili.
Hu 79: “……”
Lan He asked, “Is licking like that poisonous?”
When Liu 13 was struck before, even a touch was venomous. So, if this venomous snake bit or licked himself, would it poison him, or would it speed up recovery?
Liu 13 hissed, his mood sour. “Hmph.”
As soon as his snake tongue flicked in the air, Bai Wu, sitting nearby, dodged, barely avoiding a close call.
Watching this, Hu 79 felt a chill. This was why she didn’t want to treat Liu 13. What if his tongue accidentally hit her? Luckily, the Bai Sect was resistant to venom.
However, while the Bai Sect could resist venom, they were not immune to awkwardness. Bai Wu was on the verge of tears, looking pitifully at Lan He.
Lan He said, “Old Four, let him finish treating you. Stop moving.”
Liu 13 protested, “I’m uncomfortable, can’t help it.”
Bai Wu glanced at the corner of the wall, saying, “You really can’t lick, absolutely can’t lick.”
Lan He thought for a moment and said, “Hold on, I’ll go to the pet… hospital to buy an Elizabethan collar. That should stop the licking.”
The household spirits didn’t know what an Elizabethan collar was.
Song Futan and Wang Lili: “…………”
Honestly, Wang Lili found Liu 13 rather terrifying to look at. Lan He reassured him, “Don’t worry, he’s on our side. You’ve met Hu 79 briefly; you should’ve heard of the Four Great Gates?”
As a local, Wang Lili had indeed heard elders mention the Four Great Gates. He suddenly understood. “Are these your household spirits? This is Hu Sect, and this must be Liu Sect…”
The tongue flicking gave it away.
Curiously, he looked at Bai Wu. “Maybe… he’s Bai Sect?”
Lan He nodded.
Wang Lili then turned his attention to the aloof First Lady Hu. Although there were quite a few people present, the spirits and humans had distinctly different temperaments.
Lan He nodded. “She’s—”
Trying to show his compatibility with his partner’s world, Wang Lili interjected, “She must be Huang Sect!”
First Lady Hu: “???”
Lan He quickly stopped First Lady Hu. “Don’t hit him!”
First Lady Hu nearly charged forward, her previously elegant demeanor giving way to her true fox-like visage, sharp teeth bared. “You dare call me a weasel?!”
Hu Sect, proud and competitive by nature, would never tolerate being mistaken for a weasel. To her, not only were weasels unacceptable, but the Huang Sect were sleazy, the Bai Sect withdrawn, and the Liu Sect brainless—none of them were any good.
Wang Lili was startled. “No, you’re not? Sorry, there are just four of you, and since you mentioned Hu, Huang, Bai, and Liu, I instinctively thought it must be one from each.”
Everyone: “……”
This tenuous yet oddly logical reasoning left them speechless.
Even First Lady Hu slowly lowered her claws.
Lan He: “……”
…What, you think he has a point too?
Wang Lili, still puzzled, asked, “So why is there another Hu Sect and missing a Huang Sect?”
Lan He chuckled, amused. “What do you mean ‘another’ or ‘missing’? Who says I have to complete the set with Hu, Huang, Bai, and Liu?”
Wang Lili muttered, “Still, it doesn’t sound great. Lord Lai’s household spirits consist of four great gates: Hu, Huang, Bai, Liu…”
First Lady Hu coolly interjected, “Just think of Hu 79 as a weasel. She’s sneaky and loves exploiting loopholes anyway.”
Hu 79: “……”
Feeling a stir of emotion, Hu 79 slowly lowered her head.
It was Old Bai, weakly laughing as he coughed a few times between chuckles. “Haha…ha…cough.” He knew there would be drama to enjoy!
Hu 79: “…………”
……
From the moment Lan He re-entered, the Taoist priests in the room—recently clued into the truth—had been staring at him. Their phones had died earlier due to the cold, so now they were huddled around power outlets, looking like small animals, their gazes following Lan He’s every move.
Even though they’d heard the truth and seen the news photos—his outfit matching perfectly with what they had just seen—it all still felt surreal. Watching Lan He talk with his companions and household spirits only added to the oddity.
Finally, a timid Taoist from the Eastern Peak Temple called out, “Lord Lai…?”
Lan He turned. “Hmm?”
The priests immediately exchanged excited glances. “Lan He…?”
Lan He: “…Hmm.”
One Taoist, who had interacted with Lord Lai the most and had often offered him banquets, mustered the courage to ask, “Your identity’s already been revealed. Why are you still wearing a mask?”
Lan He burst into laughter.
His laugh put the other priests at ease, emboldening them to join in joking about his unmasking. Who would’ve thought the fearsome Lord Lai was, in fact, a sweet-looking actor with adorable dimples?
“Exactly, Lord Lai! What’s the point of hiding now that your mask is off?”
“If Lord Lai had shown this face earlier, who knows how many people would’ve willingly handed over their souls… Though it’s a bit lacking in gravitas.”
“Seriously, just take it off. It’s pointless now.”
Lan He, grinning mischievously, shot back, “Why should I? You think you can get a free look at a celebrity? If you want to see my face, go buy a ticket!”
The Taoists: “………………”
…Yep, Lord Lai is still Lord Lai!
Long live Lord Lai hahaha
Thank you for the chapter!
His face is premium don’t you know it 😆