As expected, it turned out exactly as Gu Tao had anticipated. Within only a few days, rumors spread like wildfire across the entire Mountain and Sea Realm. The gossip? That the venerable Mr. Gu, Sect Master of high virtue, and Princess Long—the Dragon King's third daughter—were romantically involved. The news caused an uproar. Many found it incredulous, as to most, Mr. Gu was a paragon of integrity, above reproach for such scandalous behavior. Thus, someone went to consult Bai Ze for answers.
Bai Ze, faced with the inquiring student, merely smiled and set down two cups before leisurely pouring tea. He spoke in a measured, calm tone: "In this world, for every effect, there is a cause. Cause and effect are often tangled beyond discernment. Why are you so intent on understanding? And how would you even succeed in understanding?"
"Master, I don't understand..."
