The golden morning sun broke over Mount Qingcheng, glinting off the newly polished glass covers of four parallel escalators.
Down at the main entrance plaza, the ancient mountain gate had been repainted in bright sky-blue and sunflower-yellow.
A neon electronic marquee hung over the turnstiles, flashing in warm holographic letters: Taichu 5A National Scenic Immortal Resort — Welcome, Honored Guests!
Standing in a miserable, shivering row behind the turnstiles were three figures encased in thick, fluffy pink synthetic fur.
Each wore an enormous round rabbit head with floppy velvet ears, wide glass doll eyes, and a bright yellow apron embroidered with a cartoon sword.
The three figures were former Sect Master Xuanji, Grand Elder Kunwu of Mount Kunlun, and Jian Wuchen.
Kunwu had arrived at dawn in the back of a Special Ninth Bureau paddy wagon, his four missing teeth still whistling when he breathed.
Around each of their necks was bolted a glowing bronze Heavenly Debt Collar.
