The Present-Day Martial Affairs Bureau

Old Man Ye: “Become an evil spirit to guard the mortal realm; shed this sullied body and become an immortal.” The Confucian Sage: “Willows lock the pond in smoke; tears temper the steel of the city walls.” The night watchman: “The air is dry and the kindling’s ready. Beware of fire.” Ye Nanzhou: “The underworld points the way; the Yellow Springs ferry you across.” Xiao Feng: “A jug of wine in life, two lifetimes of people after death.” Chen Shi: “I’m looking for a man surnamed Yang...” Old Man Ye: “Where my eyes can see and my body can reach, ghosts and gods flee in terror.” Chen Shi: “Speak plainly.” Old Man Ye: “It means I don’t know... Maybe the answer will be revealed at the end.” Chen Shi: “...Is that really what it translates to?” Old Man Ye: “Don’t sweat the details. If you want to know more, come read the book.”