Stealing the Celestial Path.

Summary

The "Temple of the River God" is set in a canyon, where Pei Zi Yun and a lady arrive on a chilly spring night. They seek permission from the River God to use the temple for their purposes. After performing rituals with incense, the River God agrees but imposes conditions against torture and killing. They prepare a magic altar, using a special incense to affect mortals while remaining safe themselves. Unconscious servants of a magistrate are brought in for their plans, and the ceremony begins amidst an eerie atmosphere, blending Daoist practices with strategic deception.

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