“Sir, it would be rude if we don’t greet you properly.” The old man said: “Come out already.”

“Hahaha, we’ve heard of your exploits long ago but today shall be our first meeting.” An ancient voice came from the well.

“Rumble!” The well shook violently before a water dragon surged upward. Once it came out, the well could no longer be seen.

In the next second, it turned into an old man wearing a blue robe. He landed on the ground and bowed. He was just as old as the blacksmith but had a scholarly aura to him.

“Apologies for not welcoming you, Sir.” The wutong tree next to the lodge swayed as if a tall person was shaking their body.

It also leaped into the air and once it touched the ground, it turned into another old man wearing a light green robe. He stood tall and brimmed with vitality, far more life force than his peers.

“We thought it was that guy coming, hence the lack of preparation.” The toad rock in front of the house also spoke with a powerful voice.

It landed next to Li Qiye, transforming into a shorter old man with a muscular physique. His arms, in particular, could smash emperors to pieces.

“It’s rare to be in the presence of such an esteemed guest, it’s time for a feast.” The old woman placed a well-hidden wine jar on the table.

“Five-element Progenitor, your reputation precedes you.” Li Qiye smiled.

All five bowed to Li Qiye and said: “We heard many stories of yours, Sir. Unfortunately, we had to mop up matters under the three immortals’ order and couldn’t meet you, a true shame.”

They were the founders of Five-element Mountain, the strongest dao lineage in Three Immortals.

Moreover, they were the second progenitors, obtaining the dao after observing the world and reaching the top.

Little was known about them. The public had no information, the same for most of their descendants and sect members. Thus, people thought they were only one progenitor. Another popular belief was that they were a pair of husband and wife.

The truth was that it was not one or two, but five separate progenitors.

“Wood Ancestor.” The tree progenitor bowed and stated his name.

“Water Ancestor.” The dragon from the well bowed.

“Earth Ancestor.” The toad rock bowed.

“Gold Ancestor.” The blacksmith said with a smile: “But others usually call me blacksmith.”

“I should be Fire Ancestor but I don’t want to steal the brat’s title. Early on during my dao debut, I was known as Fire Fairy.” The old woman said: “It is a blessing of three lifetimes to meet you today, Sir. Let us celebrate with drinks.”

“Yes, until we’re drunk.” Water Ancestor laughed: “My worries are all gone now after seeing you, Sir. The dawn is finally coming so we can sleep well tonight.”

“That’s right, my nerves have been stretched to the extreme in recent years. It is time to celebrate.” Earth Ancestor nodded.

“Not much of a celebration in our desolate area, please forgive us for the crappy food.” Gold Ancestor shook his head.

“I’m sure he won’t mind since we have this wine right here, it’s been sealed for quite a while.” Fire Fairy said.

“If I recall correctly, this was prepared for our triumphant return after the expedition. How many years ago was this?” Earth Ancestor said.

“Way too long, and no triumphant return either, the three immortals are no longer here too.” Gold Ancestor shook his head and sighed.

“Don’t ruin the mood now that Sir is here. We should be excited instead.” Fire Fairy laughed and poured everyone a full bowl.

A fragrant aroma from the clear liquid spread through the area, enticing everyone and making them salivate.

“A toast to you, Sir.” Gold Ancestor raised his bowl.

The other progenitors raised their bowl and finished in one gulp with Li Qiye.

“It’s good.” Li Qiye praised. As the wine went down his throat, it carried the aroma of wheat infused with worldly essences.

“Drinking this feels like taking three trips around the mortal world. Incredible.” Earth Ancestor said sentimentally.

“Our old bones can’t handle a visit to the mortal world, impossible.” Water Ancestor said.

“Just drink then.” Gold Ancestor laughed.

“Very well, this next one is for the three immortals.” Fire Fairy prepared another round for everyone.

“To the three immortals.” They raised their bowl and said loudly.

“This next one is for us.” Earth Ancestor said after finishing his bowl.

“To us!” They shared another round with Li Qiye.

When Earth Ancestor finished his drink, he slammed the bowl down and cursed: “Fuck, that damn bastard, I can’t believe we viewed him as a brother.”

His eyes became moist after the strong statement. He rubbed his eyes and said: “I got sand in my eyes.”

“Sigh, the bastard did screw us.” Gold Ancestor sighed.

“Just waiting for him to come?” Li Qiye asked.

“Yes.” Fire Fairy said: “We are waiting to see if he dares to face us. We are ready for a battle to the death.”

“Even at your prime, you still can’t beat him, let alone now when your dao is damaged.” Li Qiye shook his head.

“Right.” Gold Ancestor sighed: “The bastard dared to make a move against the three immortals so we are certainly insignificant. We once fought together numerous times on the battlefield, we want to send a message that even if we die, we will never compromise or yield.”

“He doesn’t dare to come and face the truth of his nature.” Earth Ancestor said hatefully.

“Hmph, what a waste of our sincere trust.” Water Ancestor said: “We were weak but didn’t fall to the darkness. He, on the other hand, was blessed and loved. What a coward, bah, turning into an abomination after a little setback.”

“He was great and heroic once, always moving forward.” Gold Ancestor sighed.

“That so-called heroism was only present during success. The moment something difficult surfaced, he abandoned principles and forgot others' kindness.” Fire Fairy shook her head.