This elder was the master of the Hall of Receiving Clouds, and his name was He Shouzheng.
Beyond the Eight Peaks of the Innate Sect lay what was known as the Outer Sect, which was comprised of five halls and seven courtyards.
The Hall of Receiving Clouds was considered a "cushy post" among them, responsible for the daily reception of Daoist Children and Lower Courtyard Disciples who arrived bearing Talisman Decrees, tokens, or even official edicts.
It was a leisurely and idle post on most days, with little to do, fostering a rather lax atmosphere.
He Shouzheng had heard that True Master Shao of Mount Luofeng had successfully refined the Nine-Bud Essence Pill and was inviting fellow members of the Lower Courtyard to appraise it, so he had made a special trip to join the festivities.
Though he knew nothing of alchemy, neither its esoteric arts nor the practical methods of smelting lead and mercury, he had a great love for wine.
