Chapter 52 Guanyin's Ferry (Part 2) (Nutrient Solution 6...)
With the Guanyin bestowing water first and the Buddha statues being unearthed later, Lianhua Temple, which was not very famous in the area around Beijing, has suddenly become a popular new tourist destination.
The once tranquil bamboo forest on the back mountain is now bustling with people, shoulder to shoulder. The huge incense burner is densely filled with incense sticks, and a thick layer of ash has accumulated at the bottom. Smoke swirls in the air above the bamboo forest. Under the sunlight, the Buddha statue that has broken through the ground appears even more lifelike, with a compassionate smile on its lips, quietly gazing at the greed, anger, and delusion of the world.
Pei Jinghuai took three incense sticks from the young novice monk beside him. When he returned, he saw that the others had not moved and couldn't help but wonder: "Since you're already here, aren't you going to go and offer your prayers?"
Shen Lingyue covered her face and silently distanced herself from him.
Whose silly dog is this? It's definitely not hers...
Yan Yi chuckled softly, but couldn't bear it after all. She whispered to Pei Jinghuai, "Second brother, do you know where the bean sprouts we eat come from?"
Glancing out of the corner of his eye at the dense bamboo grove, he added, "Or do you know how fast bamboo grows?"
"Bean sprouts? Aren't they just soybeans that grow after being soaked in water..."
Pei Jinghuai muttered a couple of words, then suddenly had a flash of inspiration, "I understand! This isn't a lie—"
Shen Lingyue jumped up and covered his mouth, "Shh!"
Shouting so loudly, aren't you afraid of getting a sack put on your head by the monks of Lianhua Temple?
Pei Jinghuai's eyes darted around, and he pulled down Shen Lingyue's hand, making a shushing gesture.
They quietly bypassed the devout worshippers offering incense, left the bamboo grove, and found a young novice monk to guide them to an empty room to rest.
Pei Jinghuai, who had been holding back all the way, finally couldn't help but ask, "What exactly happened? Was the amazing discovery of that Buddha statue because there were soybeans or bamboo shoots buried underneath?"
Pei Jingyi glanced at him helplessly and said in a low voice, "It's probably true. Moreover, the inside of that Buddha statue must be hollow, and the soil underneath must have been loosened beforehand, which is why red ropes were strung up around it to prevent people from getting too close, and why a lot of burning cigarettes were used to block the view."
"Hey, no, isn't this just a scam?"
Pei Jinghuai finally blurted out what he had been holding back all the way, scratching his head in confusion, "Is it the monks of Lianhua Temple trying to use this trick to swindle incense money, or... is it Her Highness the Empress Dowager?"
Why would the Empress Dowager do this?
Pei Jingyi and Yan Yi exchanged a glance and shook their heads. "It's not certain yet."
If it were the former, it would be fine. If Lianhua Temple dared to swindle like this, as long as someone was sent to Shuntian Prefecture to report it, none of the monks in the temple would get away with it.
If it is the latter... then one has to suspect whether the Dowager Consort and Prince An's family have ulterior motives.
The four people looked at each other, pondering how to proceed, when Yao Niang spoke up tremulously: "You mean, Lan Ya'er has been used as a raft?"
Before Pei Jingyi revealed the secret of the Buddha statue's discovery, Yao Niang completely believed it and was overjoyed, thinking that Lan Ya'er was indeed a maidservant who was trusted and valued by the Empress Dowager.
But what if these "miracles" were a hoax from the very beginning? Wouldn't Lan Ya'er, as the "incarnation of Guanyin," be the first to be implicated?
Yao Niang grew increasingly worried, her face turned pale, and her body trembled slightly.
Shen Lingyue quickly comforted her, "Don't scare yourself. Things may not be as serious as we think."
Take the last time the Yunshao Girls' School was haunted, for example. They and Princess Tong'an all thought that someone in the court was causing trouble and attacking Princess Tong'an and the issue of women's education.
After investigating for a long time, it turned out to be nothing more than the selfishness of an ordinary farm woman.
"Since the founding of the dynasty by Emperor Taizu, our dynasty has strictly prohibited local officials from reporting auspicious omens indiscriminately, thus preventing them from using this as a means of advancement."
Pei Jingyi tapped the table lightly, his voice cold and deep, "The news of the unearthed Buddha statue from Lianguang Temple has not yet spread widely, but we must nip it in the bud and not let such fraudulent activities disturb the tranquility of Buddhism."
"Does Big Brother intend to expose them?"
Shen Lingyue raised her hand, "But I see so many wealthy and noble pilgrims outside who believe it without a doubt. If we stand up, wouldn't we become the first ones to stick our necks out?"
Only a child would dare to expose the emperor's new clothes; she still wanted to play it safe.
Being able to survive is a kind of wisdom!
"Yes, so we need to find someone who isn't afraid of offending people to expose this."
Pei Jingyi smiled and turned to Pei Jinghuai, "Send someone to deliver a message to Lu Er. I think he'll definitely be willing to get involved in this fun."
"Oh? Right, I'll go tell him right away."
Pei Jinghuai realized what was happening and went out with great interest.
Shen Lingyue and Yan Yi were left looking confused. Who was Lu Er?
However, there were some things that couldn't be asked in front of Yao Niang.
Yan Yi thought for a moment, then stood up and said to Yao Niang, "The Dowager Consort's studies are still not finished. Let's ask for another room for you to rest. We'll find an opportunity to visit her later. Don't worry, we'll definitely be able to see Lan Ya'er."
"Thank you so much for today, Yao Niang really has no way to repay you..."
Yao Niang stood up and gave Pei Jingyi a deep bow, this time being very proper and not making any random glances.
Pei Jingyi nodded slightly, "No need for formalities. I'm only here to accompany my wife."
As Yao Niang walked to the door and was about to leave, Pei Jingyi added from behind, "The calming incense you made works quite well. If it's not too much trouble, could you make me a few more boxes? I'll pay for whatever materials you need."
Yao Niang repeatedly said it was no trouble, and then asked Pei Jingyi if he had any preferred spices and scents, which she could customize for him.
Pei Jingyi glanced at Yan Yi discreetly and said softly, "Then let's add a touch of epiphyllum fragrance."
Yan Yi's earlobes turned red instantly, and she glared at him, both embarrassed and annoyed.
Yao Niang was unaware of what was going on and was completely absorbed in her academic research.
"Epiphyllum, Young Master Pei's hobby is quite unique. I need to think carefully about how to match it..."
Only Shen Lingyue keenly sensed the undercurrent between the two. She looked left and right, then suddenly stood up and said, "I'll go out with you. It'll be good for me to get a room with my husband."
Sigh, she should be under the car, not inside...
*
Pei Jinghuai went to arrange for someone to return to the city to deliver the message. When he returned, he was still a little puzzled, "Why aren't you staying with my elder brother and sister-in-law?"
Shen Lingyue gave a sour snort, "They just didn't want to disturb their time together."
She's so stupid, really. How come she didn't realize before that Yan Yan and Pei Jingyi were a fake couple?
As expected, the truth can't be hidden, and falsehood can't be made true...
Shen Lingyue crossed her arms, looked up at the sky at a 45-degree angle, and said with a melancholy expression, "I'm no longer Yan Yan's only treasure..."
Before she could even feel melancholy for two seconds, Pei Jinghuai wrapped his arms around her from behind, snuggling against her neck and muttering, "Isn't it enough that you're my only treasure?"
Shen Lingyue felt ticklish from his rubbing, laughing and dodging as she turned to the side and asked, "If my older brother and I fell into the water at the same time, who would you save first?"
Pei Jinghuai's eyes widened: "Is that even a question?"
He quickly realized what was happening and asked Shen Lingyue, "If my sister-in-law and I fell into the water at the same time, who would you save first?"
Shen Lingyue: "...That goes without saying!"
Pei Jinghuai looked at her quietly and said, "I guess our answers won't be the same, what do you think?"
Shen Lingyue pretended to pinch his cheek, "Nonsense, you're a grown man, why would I save you? How can you be so shameless?"
Pei Jinghuai was still a little unconvinced, his face, which had been distorted by being squeezed, uttering a muffled protest: "It's all hypothetical anyway, can't you just coax me a little?"
"No," Shen Lingyue answered decisively. "Men can't be coaxed; what if they get spoiled?"
Pei Jinghuai lowered his eyes, looking at her pitifully, "Madam..."
The big dog is being incredibly cute, and no amount of effort can resist it.
Shen Lingyue hugged his neck and kissed him on the cheek. "Let's not talk about this anymore. Tell me quickly, who is Lu Er?"
Pei Jinghuai: ...This way of changing the subject is too clumsy!
However, he didn't intend to dwell on this issue for long. He planned to collect some interest first and settle the score with her later when he got home.
“Lu Er, that’s Lu Xilou. You’ve met him before. That day at the house next to Yao Niang’s, I was the one who gave him the letter from Gu Yuan and his uncle.”
Pei Jinghuai held her and adjusted her into a comfortable position.
Enjoying the human-shaped body pillow, Shen Lingyue casually asked, "What does he do? Is he very capable? Why did Big Brother say he's not afraid of offending people?"
Pei Jinghuai chuckled twice. "He's really not afraid, because his father is the commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard."
Wow, isn't that the little spy chief?
Shen Lingyue was shocked. "You two are actually so close?"
Pei Jinghuai raised his chin smugly, "How about it? Don't you suddenly realize that your husband isn't so bad after all?"
Shen Lingyue chuckled and massaged him like a lackey, saying, "My husband has a wide circle of friends and brothers all over the world. I underestimated you."
It seems there are advantages to not working.
As Shen Lingyue continued kneading, she suddenly asked, "His name is Lu Xilou, so is his older brother named Lu Donglou?"
Now it was Pei Jinghuai's turn to be surprised. "How did you know?"
...There really is one?
Shen Lingyue lay on his chest, laughing so hard she couldn't get up, and said intermittently, "I was just guessing."
“You guessed pretty accurately,” Pei Jinghuai said without much thought. “However, Brother Donglou is rarely in the capital. I heard he’s in charge of collecting and monitoring border intelligence in the northern desert region. If nothing unexpected happens, he will be the new head of the Embroidered Uniform Guard once Commander Lu retires.”
The Embroidered Uniform Guard was a hereditary system, and all its commanders were the emperor's confidants, serving only as a tool of loyalty to the throne.
Lu Donglou is rarely in the capital and has no dealings with the princes, so there's no need to worry about him being bribed.
Pei Jinghuai said, "Lu Xilou is like me, the second son in his family. The hereditary commandership will not fall to him, so he can only rely on himself."
Shen Lingyue twitched her lips. You guys who are second-in-command have pretty good relationships, huh?
*
After resting in their respective rooms for a while, around 3 PM, the weather outside was no longer so hot and humid. Shen Lingyue and Yan Yi called Yao Niang and prepared to try their luck near the Empress Dowager's courtyard.
Yao Niang followed behind the two, nervously moving her hands and feet in unison, her breathing more rapid than usual.
Shen Lingyue told her to relax, and Yao Niang agreed verbally, but she still couldn't control her trembling fingertips.
Yan Yi patted her hand. Perhaps it was a feeling of being close to home but they could all understand Yao Niang's feelings. They could just cover for her with a few words later.
Upon arriving at the courtyard where the Dowager Consort was staying, Yan Yi stepped forward and introduced herself.
However, the reputation of the Marquis of Changning's residence did not make any exceptions for the gatekeeper. She shook her head apologetically at Yan Yi: "I'm sorry, Her Highness the Dowager does not like to be disturbed by strangers. Please leave."
Yan Yi thought for a moment and then asked, "Where is Miss Miaoshan? A few days ago, I went to Prince An's residence to visit the Princess Consort, and she mentioned Miss Miaoshan. I would like to discuss Buddhism with her."
When the maid heard her mention Princess An, she thought for a moment and then pointed ahead, "Miaoshan is in the main hall, helping several doctors with a free clinic."
Yan Yi thanked her and turned to Yao Niang, saying, "Let's go to the front hall."
Several long lines had already formed on the open space in front of the main hall, with everyone working busily.
Five doctors sat at the table, methodically examining patients and dispensing medicine.
An old woman refused to have her pulse taken, but persistently held out an empty bowl.
"I won't drink medicine. I'll ask Guanyin for holy water, which can cure all diseases."
"Grandpa, there is no holy water here, only herbal tea to cool you down. If you are feeling unwell, please see a doctor. If you are healthy, you can pray to the Bodhisattva and then go home."
The old woman turned around at the sound and saw a girl dressed in plain clothes with a red birthmark between her eyebrows. She pointed at her for a long time and said, "You, aren't you Guanyin? Why didn't Guanyin give me holy water? Did she think I wasn't devout enough?"
He then knelt down and kowtowed.
Miaoshan quickly stepped forward to help her up, but the old woman was too stubborn and her body sank like a weight, making it difficult for Miaoshan to do it alone.
Then two more hands appeared on her left and right, helping her pull the old woman up.
Shen Lingyue smiled and said, "Grandma, only charlatans and sorcerers would use talisman water and incense ash to swindle your money, claiming it's holy water that can cure all diseases. If Guanyin really did appear, how could she bear to harm her followers?"
Seeing that she was dressed in fine clothes and had a dignified demeanor, which contrasted sharply with her own coarse linen clothes, the old woman stiffened for a moment and dared not speak.
It took him a while to muster up the courage, "But they all say there's holy water here bestowed by Guanyin, and drinking it will cure all diseases..."
"That must be a rumor, you must have misheard," Shen Lingyue said seriously. "It was the kind-hearted Empress Dowager, the mother of Prince An, who specially invited a doctor to provide free medical consultations for everyone. If you are feeling unwell, why don't you go see a doctor and get some medicine to take home?"
She spoke wittily and without any airs of superiority, which made the old woman lower her guard, sit down in a daze, and extend her hand to the doctor.
On the other side, Yan Yi took the opportunity to smile at the girl: "You must be Miss Miaoshan from the Empress Dowager's side, right? I'm so glad to finally meet you in person."
Miaoshan repeatedly said she dared not accept such praise, and added, "Thank you both for your help. The Bodhisattva will bless your good deeds."
Yao Niang stood behind Yan Yi, her nails digging deep into her palms, desperately resisting the urge to rush up and hug her.
This is her Lan Ya'er. Although she has grown up and taller, her demeanor and tone of voice have not changed at all. She would not mistake her for Lan Ya'er.
Yan Yi, relying on the half-baked knowledge of Buddhist scriptures she had crammed over the past few days, successfully struck up a conversation with Miao Shan, subtly steer the topic toward the amazing discovery of the Buddha statue in the bamboo forest behind the mountain.
Miaoshan frowned slightly before speaking: "It's quite a coincidence. The day after I accompanied the Dowager Consort to stay here, Abbot Ci'en discovered that a Buddha statue had been unearthed in the bamboo forest behind the mountain. The Dowager Consort even went to see it herself and was greatly shocked. In the past few days, I don't know how the news leaked out, but more and more people have been coming."
She softly recited a Buddhist scripture: "If one sees me by form, or seeks me by sound, that person walks a false path and cannot see the Tathagata..."
Although she didn't say it outright, Miaoshan clearly didn't approve of this behavior.
Yan Yi secretly observed her expression; she didn't seem to be lying.
It seems that Miaoshan is also unaware of the inside story.
Yan Yi then brought up her Guanyin costume at the Buddhist ceremony that day, saying, "When I was queuing down the mountain just now, I heard many people firmly believe that you are the incarnation of Guanyin on earth."
Miaoshan shook her head repeatedly, "I am but a mere maid, how dare I claim to be a reincarnation of a Bodhisattva? It's just that the Empress Dowager has shown me such great kindness, I really cannot refuse..."
Her gaze inadvertently fell on Yao Niang, and she paused for a moment before widening her eyes slightly. "Sister, it's you."
Upon hearing that familiar address again, Yao Niang trembled, and tears streamed down her face uncontrollably.
Miaoshan stepped forward and took her hand, her face full of concern: "That day I saw you stop the sedan chair, as if you had suffered a great injustice. Don't be sad, the Bodhisattva will surely bless you and make your wishes come true."
Yao Niang wept uncontrollably, nodding only through sobs, "Yes, Bodhisattva... Bodhisattva has already protected me..."
If it weren't for the Bodhisattva's protection, how could she have seen her Lan Ya'er again?
Seeing Yao Niang crying so hard, Yan Yi thought for a moment and tried to probe for her, "I heard from Princess An that Miss Miao Shan was taken in by the Dowager Consort. I wonder if you have any other family members?"
Miao Shan's eyes dimmed, and she gently shook her head. "I don't remember anything. I guess I don't remember anything. Otherwise, why would they leave me by the roadside and no one has come looking for me all these years?"
Yao Niang was heartbroken; every word she heard felt like a sharp blade cutting into her, leaving her completely scarred.
Just as she was about to speak, she heard Miaoshan's cheerful tone return.
"But none of that matters anymore. I have decided to dedicate the rest of my life to the Bodhisattva and serve the Buddha quietly."
Yan Yi frowned almost imperceptibly, then looked at Yao Niang. The light in her eyes gradually dimmed, and she released Miao Shan's hand.
Yao Niang forced a smile and nodded with difficulty, "You're right... It's best to keep things quiet like this."
...
Shen Lingyue and Yan Yi took Yao Niang to a secluded place to talk.
She asked, "Aren't you going to acknowledge Lan Ya'er as your new family?"
Yao Niang had regained her composure, though her eyes were still red and swollen. She smiled at the two of them and said, "Lan Ya'er has always been attached to me since she was little, but now that I'm standing in front of her, she doesn't even recognize me. It's clear she has truly forgotten her past."
If that's the case, why would she reopen her wounds and make her remember those unbearable childhood memories?
Shen Lingyue was a little anxious: "But you've suffered so much to find her, and now that she's right in front of you, are you just going to give up like this?"
Yao Niang gave her a grateful look. "I know you mean well, but I also want what's best for Lan Ya'er. She doesn't need me as her older sister anymore. I just need to know that she's doing well, and that's enough for me."
Yan Yi sighed softly, stopping Shen Lingyue from speaking, and said to her, "We should respect Yao Niang's opinion."
Yao Niang bowed to the two of them again, saying, "It's getting late, so I'll head down the mountain back to the city now. I won't disturb you two any longer."
Shen Lingyue was worried, so she escorted Yao Niang to the outside of the mountain gate. She watched as Yao Niang boarded a donkey cart back to the city, and then gave the driver an extra string of copper coins, telling him to make sure he took Yao Niang home. Only then did she turn back into the temple.
She leaned on Yan Yi's shoulder and sighed, "I thought I would see a happy reunion of the sisters."
“In Yao Niang’s heart, she and Lan Ya’er are already reunited.” Yan Yi patted her.
Shen Lingyue thought for a moment and then asked, "Do you think the Dowager knew that the Buddha statue excavation was a hoax? But I saw that she even invited doctors to do free medical consultations, which doesn't seem like she's involved in any cult or superstitious practices."
Just as Yan Yi was about to speak, she heard a commotion outside, and faintly heard the barking of dogs.
"I've been looking everywhere for you, and here you are."
Pei Jinghuai ran up from behind and grabbed Shen Lingyue's hand, "Xilou is here, hurry up, let's go see the excitement."
Yan Yi was a step behind, and stared blankly at the two figures running away hand in hand.
The next second, a familiar, cool aura enveloped him from behind.
"Is A-Tan looking for me?" Pei Jingyi gently embraced her and whispered in her ear.
Yan Yi felt as if her heart had been bumped by a tiny insect. She turned to look at him, pursed her lips, and her eyelashes trembled slightly.
Pei Jingyi held her hand tightly, saying, "Huaizhou is right. We need to hurry and see what's going on, or it will be too late."
...
The leader was dressed in a bright red flying fish robe, with a tall and slender figure. A black leather belt was loosely tied around his waist, and a black lacquered and gilded embroidered spring knife with gold and silver patterns hung beside him.
The man was pale, with slightly upturned fox-like eyes that held a cunning smile. He casually said to Abbot Ci'en, who had rushed over, "The Embroidered Uniform Guard is on a mission to investigate a wanted criminal. Why don't you all make way?"
The name of the Embroidered Uniform Guard was so famous that it could stop children from crying at night. As soon as these words were spoken, the surrounding people immediately stepped back three feet, creating a clear circle around them.
Abbot Ci'en looked troubled and put his hands together in prayer: "Amitabha, Your Excellency, you may not know this, but the Dowager Princess of the Prince An's Mansion is currently in quiet meditation at our temple. We should not disturb her peace."
Lu Xilou's smile grew even brighter, and a small tiger tooth that inadvertently peeked out from the corner of his lips looked more like a fox's canine tooth.
"In that case, I must thoroughly search Lianhua Temple to ensure that no thieves are hiding there. Otherwise, how can I protect the safety of the Imperial Concubine?"
"Woof woof woof!"
Behind him, a black hunting dog led by a member of the Imperial Guard could no longer contain itself, leaping up and barking incessantly.
Abbot Ci'en frowned even more deeply, and wanted to stop him, "Sir, who are you here to search? Do you have a portrait? Why don't you let all the monks in the temple identify him..."
Lu Xilou's smile vanished, his teeth grinding menacingly. "A case involving the Embroidered Uniform Guard? You, a bald monk, dare to interfere? Whom I want to search is none of your business. Make your move!"
At his command, a group of men behind him rushed into the temple like wolves, especially the black hunting dog, which took the lead and headed straight for the back mountain.
Lu Xilou followed slowly, and when he passed Pei Jinghuai, who was standing in the crowd as if watching the excitement, he winked at him gently.
Pei Jinghuai whispered to Shen Lingyue, "Let's go to the back mountain and see Lu Er expose the hoax of the Buddha statue's discovery in public."
Shen Lingyue followed him inside, still thinking about the black hunting dog, "So handsome, it's much more sensible than our Weibo."
"What's wrong with the scarf?" Pei Jinghuai grumbled in dissatisfaction, then threatened her, "You can't touch the fierce dogs of the Embroidered Uniform Guard; they all eat human flesh."
"Huh?" Shen Lingyue's face scrunched up, and she waved her hands repeatedly, saying no.
The group hurried to the back mountain, where there were still many worshippers waiting to offer incense and pray for blessings in front of the unearthed Buddha statue. Suddenly, a group of fierce-looking imperial guards rushed in, which frightened them so much that they screamed continuously.
Lu Xilou walked in and casually raised his hand, "Please calm down, everyone. We're here to search for a fugitive. There's no need to panic..."
"Aaaaah, that dog went and bit the Buddha statue!"
A woman pointed across the way and shouted, forgetting her fear, "You can't offend Buddha! Stop it!" The black hunting dog circled in the bamboo forest, then suddenly rushed over the red ropes surrounding the Buddha statue and began pawing at the half-exposed statue.
Abbot Ci'en was shocked to see this and shouted "Amitabha" while signaling the other monks to rush up and stop them.
Just as the monks were about to approach, a member of the Imperial Guard drew his long sword and glared at them coldly: "Do not interfere with the investigation!"
Abbot Ci'en was so anxious that his face turned pale. "You, you can search the fugitive, but you can't desecrate the Buddha!"
Lu Xilou remained unfazed, a playful smile playing on his lips. "That's hard to say. Who knows if the fugitive might be hiding underground?"
Hidden behind the crowd, Shen Lingyue watched as the hunting dogs dug a large pit under the Buddha statue, revealing a glimpse of green. She immediately exclaimed in a high-pitched voice, "Oh dear, what's that under the Buddha statue? Could it be stolen goods?"
After shouting, he immediately pulled Pei Jinghuai aside and ran away, using a phantom teleportation technique.
Hearing this, Lu Xilou became even more excited, pointing at Ci'en's nose, "Well, you bald thief, are you in cahoots with the fugitives? Get a shovel and dig down hard!"
Upon receiving the order, several more Imperial Guards stepped forward, crossed the ropes, and used their scabbards to dig through the soil.
Then someone shouted, "Reporting to Your Excellency, there's a pile of soaked soybean sprouts down there!"
Shen Lingyue changed her position and then exclaimed in a high-pitched voice, "Oh my god, oh my god, oh my god! It wasn't a Buddha statue that was unearthed, but was pushed up by a bean sprout?!"
These words caused an uproar in the audience.
The ladies and pilgrims forgot all about it and rushed forward to take a closer look.
"What? It really is bean sprouts?"
"Isn't it said that auspicious omens descend from the sky, and Buddha statues grow out of the ground by themselves?"
"I came all this way to worship Buddha... Abbot, you owe me my incense money!"
Lu Xilou walked toward Abbot Ci'en, who was slumped on the ground, his face stern. "You thieving bald man, how dare you lie about auspicious omens, play tricks, and deceive the people! Come with me to the Northern Garrison."
The Imperial Guards stepped forward, pulled up Ci'en, and tied her hands behind her back.
"Wait a minute."
A voice came from outside the moon gate, and an old woman with a full head of black hair, holding a Buddhist rosary, walked in with Miaoshan's help.
Lu Xilou turned around, his cold expression vanishing, and bowed respectfully: "Your Highness, how have I disturbed your presence?"
The Empress Dowager gripped her prayer beads tightly and coughed twice: "I just heard that the Imperial Guards entered the temple to search for fugitives. Why are they taking the abbot away now?"
She glanced at Ci'en, who looked dejected, and said calmly, "Is the abbot the fugitive you're looking for?"
“Of course not.” Lu Xilou bowed. “But I accidentally discovered the strange sight of the fake Buddha statues unearthed from Lianhua Temple. They are playing tricks and their intentions are despicable. I am about to take them back to the Northern Garrison for detailed interrogation.”
The Dowager looked astonished. "What? The Buddha statue that was unearthed was a fake?"
Lu Xilou pointed to the pit and said, "Your Highness, please look. The bean sprouts buried under the Buddha statue are growing quite well. We can pick them up, wash them, and add them to a dish."
The Dowager Princess took two steps back, shaking her head repeatedly, pointing at Ci'en with a look of disappointment: "You are a nun, how could you do such a thing?"
Ci'en lowered his head in repentance: "Your Highness, please forgive me. This humble monk was momentarily bewitched and wanted to use this auspicious omen to attract more worshippers and increase the temple's prosperity. It was all my fault for being confused..."
The Empress Dowager sighed and said to Lu Xilou, "He made a mistake in a moment of confusion, so there's no need to trouble the Imperial Guards. Monks are compassionate, so why not let him off the hook?"
Lu Xilou was very respectful to the Empress Dowager, but his actions were anything but relaxed. His tone was cold: "Whether it was a momentary lapse of judgment or something more sinister, we'll find out after an interrogation. The Embroidered Uniform Guard has the responsibility of monitoring all officials and protecting the country. Any risk must be nipped in the bud... Take her away!"
The Empress Dowager had nothing to say and could only watch as Ci'en was taken away.
Just as Lu Xilou was about to mount his horse at the mountain gate, another train arrived in a hurry.
Lu Xilou looked at the newcomer, raising an eyebrow slightly, "Your Highness Prince An, what brings you here?"
Prince An arrived in a hurry, his collar slightly askew, his breathing slightly labored, and his face anxious: "I heard that a fugitive has infiltrated Lianhua Temple. Where is the Dowager Consort? Is she alright? Have you caught the criminal?"
Lu Xilou said with a playful tone, "We haven't caught the criminal yet, but we have caught a swindling monk who's just trying to cheat us."
After hearing the whole story, Prince An pointed at Ci'en in disbelief: "How could you, a monk, do such a thing? I originally thought that although Lianhua Temple was not very popular, its people were very devout in their faith, so I felt at ease sending the Dowager Consort to the temple for quiet cultivation. How dare you use the Dowager Consort's name to play tricks? Your heart is utterly despicable!"
"Prince An, please calm down. Fortunately, the Imperial Concubine was not frightened."
Lu Xilou offered a few words of comfort, but Prince An still seemed unsatisfied, pointing at Ci'en and saying, "Buddha will not forgive you. A person like you will go to the eighteenth level of hell even after you die, and will never reach the Pure Land!"
Ci'en trembled, and suddenly two lines of clear tears streamed down his face. He looked up to the sky and cried out, "Amitabha! This humble monk is guilty, guilty!"
He suddenly broke free from the control of the Imperial Guards, ran towards the half-person-high stone tablet next to the mountain gate, and crashed into it headfirst. Blood gushed out, and he died on the spot.
This unexpected turn of events shocked everyone present.
Lu Xilou looked at Prince An.
Prince An's eyes widened, and he seemed completely stunned. He murmured, "I... I was just angry that he had damaged the Dowager Consort's reputation, so I said a few more words. How could he... how could he try to kill himself..."
Prince An blinked, tears slowly streaming down his face, and turned away as if he couldn't bear it.
A member of the Imperial Guard went over to check his breathing and turned back to Lu Xilou, saying, "Sir, he has already passed away."
Lu Xilou looked at Prince An with a deep and meaningful gaze: "Your Highness has excellent eloquence, comparable to Zhuge Liang. Words can kill."
Prince An wiped his reddened eyes and waved his hand: "There's no need to say anything more about Xilou. I will go to the palace to apologize to my elder brother."
After saying that, he got into the car and left without looking back, without glancing at Ci'en's body again.
"Sir, should we take it back?"
Lu Xilou gritted his teeth and waved his hand: "Call more people to surround Lianhua Temple. Don't let a single monk escape."
...
After the crowd dispersed, Shen Lingyue and the others returned to their resting room.
"How could this happen?" She frowned, her face pale. "The abbot confessed and committed suicide like that?"
Yan Yi asked Pei Jingyi in a low voice, "Is fabricating auspicious omens a capital offense?"
Pei Jingyi looked solemn and shook his head slightly.
“He is a monk, and the law gives him preferential treatment. At most, he will be whipped or exiled; his crime does not warrant death.”
Shen Lingyue muttered, "Could it be that the Embroidered Uniform Guard has a bad reputation, and he was afraid of being tortured in prison, so he simply chose to die?"
A helpless voice came from outside the window, "Pei Er, are you just going to let your wife talk about me like this?"
Lu Xilou pushed open the door and sat down at the table without any hesitation, pouring himself a cup of tea.
As soon as he entered, he brought with him a chilling aura mixed with the smell of blood. Shen Lingyue pulled Yan Yi back a few steps.
Lu Xilou didn't take it to heart, only complaining to Pei Jinghuai, "You really know how to cause me trouble."
What was initially thought to be a minor case of fraud and deception has escalated into a fatal incident and implicated Prince An.
Pei Jingyi coughed lightly, "Xilou, there must be something fishy about this. I'll have to trouble you."
"Don't worry, that old bald monk thinks he's fine just because he's dead. I'm going to dig three feet into the ground and uncover his secrets."
Lu Xilou narrowed his fox-like eyes, revealing the cold and sinister aura of the Embroidered Uniform Guard.
...
It was getting late, and Lianhua Temple was surrounded by the Imperial Guards. They decided to descend the mountain and return to the capital as soon as possible.
As they came out, they saw the Dowager Consort and her entourage about to leave. Miaoshan helped the Dowager Consort into the carriage, and then followed her in.
Shen Lingyue whispered to Yan Yi, "I have a feeling that Yao Niang's expectations are going to be dashed."
It's probably not a good place for Lan Ya'er to stay in Prince An's mansion.
Yan Yi felt the same way, especially about today's grand show, which had a lively opening and a hasty ending, with strangeness in every aspect.
She couldn't help but re-evaluate Prince An.
Is he really a highly respected, selfless, and philanthropic man in the capital?
What if everything he's doing now is just a facade?
Yan Yi thought for a moment and said to her, "The fox will show its tail sooner or later. We need to be patient."
...
A few days later, the gatekeeper suddenly reported that a young maid had come looking for Shen Lingyue, but refused to say whose family she belonged to.
Shen Lingyue went over in a daze and recognized the person as the little maid who served Yao Niang.
Why are you here?
"Madam Shen!"
The little maid knelt down as soon as she saw her, tears welling up in her eyes, "Please, please go and see my young lady, she, she's dying!"
Shen Lingyue was startled and quickly told Qingchan to hitch up the carriage, and also sent someone to Jiusi Academy to fetch Yan Yi.
The two rushed to Bitao Lane as quickly as possible, and upon entering, they were greeted by a strong smell of medicine.
Yao Niang lay on the bed, her face as pale as paper, looking as if she were about to die.
Shen Lingyue rushed to the bedside and grabbed her hand tightly. "Yaoniang, Yaoniang, how did you get so sick? It's only been a few days!"
"You've come..." Yao Niang forced herself to sit up, then picked up a small wooden box from beside her pillow and handed it to Yan Yi. "This is the incense I promised to make for Young Master Pei, but unfortunately there wasn't enough time. I only made this much. Take it back and try it out first..."
Yao Niang gave a sorrowful smile, "I never imagined my body would be so useless. I'm afraid I won't be able to see my two younger sisters again..."
Yan Yi's heart skipped a beat.
Could it be that Yao Niang felt disheartened after finding Lan Ya'er and seeing her living a comfortable and carefree life, leading her to contemplate suicide?
-----------------------
Author's Note: Here it comes! [doge] We finally got to the classic water-falling problem, hahaha! I always have so much fun writing about Yuezai and Pei Er's daily life~
Originally, I intended to use the subtitle "Guanyin's Crossing" to tell the story of the sisters Lan Ya'er and Yao Niang. Lan Ya'er was saved (so far), and Yao Niang finally resolved her inner conflict (?). However, the gold miner came along, so the length of the story got a bit out of my control [crying emoji]. So, I'll temporarily revert to the original title for this series. Don't worry, there won't be any angst [heart emoji].
P.S.: Everyone guessed the answer this time [doge emoji] Okay, okay, you guys will definitely not buy health supplements when you get old!
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