There's a path to the left, still paved with stone slabs. Following the slabs uphill for about a hundred meters, you come to a well-maintained, very smooth ground. The ground is covered with evenly distributed sand, and several tall, ancient trees stand on either side of the stone base, extending to the left and right. In the gaps between the trees, some flowers and grasses are planted, but although they are lush and green, they haven't bloomed yet—a miracle in this cold winter.
The ancient tree is lush and its branches are so thick that it would take several people to encircle it. It looks like it's at least a thousand years old, which means that this temple has been standing here for quite some time.
Behind the ancient tree, in front of the concave mountain wall, there is a small temple. The temple has two floors and is structured in the shape of the Chinese character "吕". The upper floor is made of stones of different sizes, while the lower floor is the main hall, which is carved from a large, complete boulder. A crescent-shaped archway is located in the very center of the main hall.
Four large red lanterns were hung on either side of the archway in front of the temple.
The gentle light illuminates the surroundings, and the green glazed tiles are nestled among the lush green grass and trees.
At this moment, under the bright lights, a not-so-tall but sturdy figure stood at the gate, his back hunched over, revealing only his thick back. Judging from his posture, he seemed to be waiting for someone to arrive.
The monk was dressed very formally, keeping his head slightly bowed and never raising it. He wore a yellow Buddhist robe with an orange kasaya over it, and nine bright Buddhist dots appeared on the top of his shiny head.
Upon hearing footsteps, the monk clasped his hands together in prayer position and lowered his body even further.
"Your presence at our humble temple is a great honor!" The voice carried a hint of age, indicating that the monk was quite old. He clasped his hands in a deep bow, appearing somewhat apprehensive.
"This old man probably recognizes you," Wan'er murmured softly, which Mo Tian heard clearly.
Mo Tianjun raised an eyebrow, straightened his body, stepped forward, stood opposite the old monk, leaned forward, put his hands together in front of his chest, and bowed slightly. "Old man, you are too kind. We are just down-and-out people and do not deserve such treatment from you."
"You're too kind, sir. Please, all three of you," the old man said, bowing deeply once more. After a short while, he stood up and looked at Mo Tian with his squinty eyes.
Three people? He actually knows about goldfish...
Mo Tian was secretly startled. He looked up and examined the old man. He had a round head and a ruddy complexion, and not a single wrinkle could be seen on his face. He had a head of silver hair and a silver beard, and his eyes shone with a sharp light. He was indeed extraordinary.
"My Buddhist name is Kongkong. I will not hide it from you, esteemed sir. I have lived in this world for countless years. It is rare to encounter an old friend. My once tranquil heart seems to be stirring." The old monk nodded and smiled, then turned and walked to the side.
“An old friend? You…” Mo Tian was stunned. He turned to look at Qiao Mei, who was also dumbfounded. She just shook her head slightly. Although the old monk looked healthy, with his white beard, he was at least 70 years old.
"Forgive me, I spoke rashly." The old monk was somewhat embarrassed, then his gaze shifted to the ancient trees by the ground. "I was presumptuous, but some things will become clear sooner or later. Look at these two ancient trees before you; I planted them when I was a child. They wait with me for the arrival of distinguished guests. Oh dear, this old man has talked too much today; it is truly my fault. I should first invite you to the backyard. Please, tea has been prepared for the three of you there." Realizing his embarrassment, the old monk turned around, bowed, and raised his hand in a reverent gesture of invitation…
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