Pingyang Fu of the Red Chamber

Chapter 1176 Visiting Jing'an Temple to Pay Respects to Buddha
They say things take a turn for the better, and I spent a sleepless night there.
The morning light over the capital city was still as bright as the rising sun. However, inside the Jing'an Temple in Beishan, many monks got up early and were doing their morning prayers in the courtyard. Regardless of who was in charge or who was the abbot, they all had to sit down and recite Buddhist scriptures. In this way, even some lazy young masters or their families couldn't stay in bed.

After the morning recitation, the martial monks would practice martial arts and boxing in the Central Plains, without fail.

After the three rounds of recitation, it was time for the monks to have their meal. Along with the pilgrims and lay Buddhists who had stayed overnight, they also came to eat, and the entire Jing'an Temple was bustling with activity.

At the very top of the main hall of Jing'an Temple, Abbot Wuxin lightly leaped onto the roof, landing on the rooftop. Behind him followed his eldest disciple, Fajing Wang Zijin, who, following the abbot's gaze, surveyed the entire view of Jing'an Temple.
"Fa Jing, have you made any progress during this time?"

Since Master Wuxin became the abbot of Jing'an Temple, the temple's rules have changed drastically. The former hustle and bustle is gone, and everything revolves around cultivation. With the medicinal bath techniques provided by the temple, Fajing's cultivation has been progressing at a rapid pace, covering a hundred miles a day.

"Reporting to the Abbot, since I came here, I have been fortunate to receive the care of many senior brothers, and my skills have improved significantly, making further progress."

His words were mostly filled with gratitude. If his master hadn't brought him from Jiangnan to the capital, he might have been found out by Marquis Luoyun and died.

This slight fluctuation in his emotions naturally did not escape the notice of Abbot Wuxin, who softly uttered a Buddhist chant;
“Amitabha, Fajing, having your cultivation techniques is merely a means to protect the Dharma. In the days since you came, you have only focused your energy on practicing your skills. I have not seen you studying Buddhist scriptures, which is already a sign of your lack of understanding. The matter of the Wang family in Jiangnan will be settled by cause and effect. You have already become a nun and severed all worldly ties. Do you still not understand?”

Seemingly offering words of comfort or guidance, Fa Jing's expression subtly changed, but she ultimately clasped her hands together in prayer.
“Amitabha, it is Fajing’s fault.”

"Alright, everything has its cause and effect, there's no need to impose it on yourself. Since Marquis Luoyun returned north, his mother, Madam Wang, has been praying at Jing'an Temple for almost seven days now. Your eldest brother, Fayuan, is the one receiving them. After you finish delivering the sutras, go and inquire when Madam Wang is preparing to set off for her return."

Abbot Wuxin stood with his hands behind his back, a thoughtful look flashing in his eyes. After Marquis Luoyun returned north, the world would surely be in turmoil, especially after the various vassal kings within the pass returned. They would certainly not let the matter rest. In addition, in Xihe County, the major sects of the martial arts world were gathering their disciples. It seemed that it was time for the cult to rise again.

Fa Jing looked puzzled. The rules for allowing pilgrims and lay Buddhists to stay overnight in temples were mostly set by the master. As long as they donated merit, there was no set time limit for their stay. The master asked why.

"Yes, Abbot, I will ask my senior brother about it later. But I have a question: Marquis Luoyun led his troops back north without saying goodbye to his mother. I heard from the pilgrims here that Marquis Luoyun left in a hurry. Does that mean the war outside the pass is dangerous, which is why his mother came to pray for him?"

He wanted to say more, but was interrupted by Abbot Wuxin.

"Fa Jing, do not say more, Amitabha."

"Yes, Abbot, I was attached to appearances."

Fa Jing blushed and quickly lowered her head.

Then, the two flew off the roof and went to the vegetarian restaurant for a meal.

To the east of Jing'an Temple is a newly built courtyard. Rows of Zen monasteries are built along the mountainside, with white walls and gray tiles, nestled among the pines and cypresses, creating a serene atmosphere. The courtyard on the side facing the mountain lake is also the best located, right next to the mountain lake that the monks in the temple call "Jingxin Lake" (Pure Heart Lake).

The lake is not large, but it is extremely clear, reflecting the blue sky, white clouds and the surrounding green mountains. A gentle breeze blows, creating shimmering waves. Occasionally, mountain birds fly by, leaving behind small ripples. Outside the courtyard wall, the branches and leaves of several tall ginkgo trees reach into the courtyard. At this moment, autumn is deepening, and the leaves have been tinged with gold. This is where Lady Wang of the Marquis of Luoyun's mansion is staying.

The plaque hanging above the courtyard gate outside the house bears the three characters "Chengxinju" in vigorous calligraphy, exuding a Zen-like quality.

The courtyard is simply and elegantly laid out. Passing the blue brick screen wall, you will see a small courtyard with bluestone paving and a few clumps of bamboo planted in the corner. The bamboo shadows sway and rustle. There are three main rooms with bright and clean windows and plain-colored window screens. There are no colorful paintings. Under the corridor, there are two rattan armchairs and a low table. On the table is a set of simple and elegant celadon tea set and an open Buddhist scripture.

It was now after breakfast, and the noise in the temple had gradually subsided. Only the sound of the wind rustling through the pines and the faint chanting of monks in the distance made the place even more serene.

Lady Wang, dressed in a simple dark blue casual dress, without any elaborate ornaments except for a white jade hairpin in her hair, was sitting alone on the veranda, gazing absently at the shimmering waves of Jingxin Lake. She was still thinking about the secret letter her senior sister had sent, and she hadn't expected her senior sister to return to the capital so soon.

“Miss, Master Fayuan has delivered a fine copy of today’s Diamond Sutra, saying that the abbot specifically instructed that it be provided for your study.”

Lan Yue'er came over from outside, carrying a food box in one hand and a handwritten copy of Buddhist scriptures in the other. She had been here for more than seven days and had been thinking about her husband for a long time. Unfortunately, he had not returned yet, and the Marquis had actually returned to the border. After she and Shu'er told him, they were both a little upset.

Hearing Lan Yue's clear voice, Madam Wang snapped out of her reverie, took the scroll, and ran her fingertips over the neat and powerful ink marks, letting out a soft sigh:
"I've told you so many times, but you just can't remember. Call me Madam."

There was a hint of doting in his eyes, but then he turned his gaze back to her and said;

"I originally thought Jing'an Temple was a place for self-cultivation, but unfortunately, the karmic consequences of the mortal world are complicated. I wonder what Master Miaoyu's views are?"

Looking up, one could see Miaoyu, dressed in a Zen robe, already there. Her long, black hair fell over the robe, adding to her charm. Even Yue'er had a complex expression on her face when she saw her.

“Amitabha! Madam, how can you cultivate yourself in peace when the karma of the mortal world is not yet resolved? Buddhism emphasizes cause and effect and reincarnation. If you are entangled in many trivial matters, the Dharma will not be able to get close to you in the end.”

Miaoyu chanted a Buddhist prayer, feeling somewhat melancholy. The handsome face of Marquis Luoyun kept lingering in her mind, and she herself didn't know what to do.

“What Master Miaoyu said makes sense. Since the cause and effect cannot be eliminated, we can only stay in the mortal world. I see that Master Miaoyu’s cultivation must be tempered in the mortal world. Therefore, I did not let Master Miaoyu go to Qingyu Nunnery to cultivate. Please do not blame me.”

Looking at Miaoyu's familiar and beautiful face, Madam Wang had some thoughts in her heart. Could people in the world really look so alike? It was too shocking. She casually took out a copy of the Diamond Sutra and handed it over. Miaoyu's eyes lit up with joy, and she took it with both hands and replied.
"You're too kind, Madam. If I hadn't come to this Buddhist holy site with you, I would never have come into contact with so many Buddhist scriptures."

"That's good. Now that the Marquis has returned north, there are people to take care of the mansion. The scenery here is beautiful, so you can stay for a few more days. If Master Miaoyu still wants the scriptures, just say so."

Looking at the mountains and forests across Jingxin Lake, bathed in sunlight, their colors were vibrant. The maple leaves were beginning to turn slightly red, and the pines and cypresses were even more verdant, creating a unique landscape. Only a flock of birds flying by brought a touch of life to the scene. Madam Wang felt instantly relaxed and happy, while Miaoyu's face lit up with joy.
"Thank you, Madam. Miaoyu will go back and study it now."

He bowed and returned to his room, leaving Lan Yue to serve him. On the small table were pastries and tea.

“Miss, oh, Madam, according to the agreed time, the sect leader should have come to see you yesterday, but I have waited all day and have not seen him. I wonder what happened.”

Lan Yue'er was a little anxious, and as soon as she spoke, she brought over her customs from beyond the Great Wall. Madam Wang overheard this and glared at her.
"She can't even keep her mouth shut, still calling everyone 'Miss.' If she didn't come, she didn't come. Perhaps something delayed her. With her skills, there are few in the world who can stop her. It's just that Jin Yu left in too much of a hurry. The Jurchens still have ulterior motives regarding the matter beyond the Great Wall."

The Jurchens have always been a major threat. I wonder if Jinyu can stabilize the situation outside the pass this time. With a glance, I saw Yue'er's worried face. I sighed and advised her.

"Don't worry, the Jurchens are also severely weakened, they'll be fine. But you need to be extra careful at home, make sure nothing goes wrong."

"It's Miss, ah, it's Madam, this servant, cough, daughter-in-law understands."

These words amused Madam Wang, who beamed with joy.

at the same time,

At the foot of Beishan Mountain,

Along the official road, there were many simple teahouses and taverns bustling with activity. It was just past Chen Shi (7-9 AM), the time when merchants from the north and south, woodcutters and hunters from the surrounding area, and some men with a distinctly江湖 (jianghu, a term referring to the world of martial arts and chivalry) air would rest and have a snack. As soon as they stopped, many people would call out to the innkeeper to bring them food and tea. The teahouses were filled with the aroma of food and the noisy voices of people.

At a square table near the roadside window sat two unremarkable guests. One was a middle-aged merchant, around thirty years old, with a haggard face and a thin frame. Beside him sat a burly man, also dressed in coarse cloth, his face smeared with stove ash, looking travel-worn, like a guard or coachman. These two were none other than Bai Shuiyue, the disguised leader of the White Lotus Sect, and Ying Xiancai, the Right Protector. They ordered food and leisurely savored it.
"Shopkeeper, I was delayed on the way and arrived a day late. I don't know if Shopkeeper Wang is angry."

Right Protector Ying Xiancai wore a wry smile. Who could have imagined that while traveling, he would be delayed for a whole day at the Shili Pavilion because of the Taiping Sect's affairs? He didn't even know if he could still see the Holy Maiden. Bai Shuiyue immediately raised her head, her eyes sharp.
"Just go. Even if you don't see it, once you get there, just climb over the wall and go inside. How could you not see it?"

Upon hearing this, Ying Xiancai was speechless. But how could the guards of the Marquis's mansion be so easily broken in, especially under the noses of those bald monks at Jing'an Temple? Just as he was wondering whether he should announce his arrival again after reaching the top of the mountain, a voice suddenly came from a table nearby.

"Hey guys, have you heard? Things are about to get out of hand in Xihe County!"

At the next table sat a man with a full beard and a nine-ringed broadsword on his back. He had a loud voice that immediately attracted the attention of many people around him, and naturally, it also reached Bai Shuiyue's ears.

"What's going on, Master Niu? Xihe County has never been peaceful. How much more chaos can it cause? Now that Prince Bei Jing, Shui Rong, still has a large army there, how can we possibly cause any more trouble?"

It's not surprising that there were people around; Xihe County has been in chaos for quite some time now, with countless feuds between various sects and vendettas among江湖 (jianghu, the martial arts world).

"Hey! How dare you talk like that? Are you even listening to me?"

The man known as "Uncle Niu" was somewhat embarrassed and slammed his hand on the table.
“Listen, listen, of course I’m listening! Waiter, bring Master Niu another steamer of buns, on my tab, Master Niu, please say so.”

Some busybodies seized the opportunity to come over and offer a word of advice. Only then did the burly man's expression soften considerably, and he finally spoke.

"Before, the chaos was just minor skirmishes. Now, ever since the White Lotus Sect massacred the city of Xihe County, how can anyone in the martial world hide? Prince Bei Jing is staying there, but Xihe County is so vast, he can't possibly manage it all. Recently, you've all been kept in the dark, haven't you? The major sects in Xihe County, like the Iron Palm Gang and the Tiger Roaring Sect, suddenly closed their gates half a month ago, refusing all visitors! All their disciples who were out there, whether on important business or traveling, received messages by carrier pigeon and rushed back in a panic! The way they did it, tsk tsk, it was like they'd seen a ghost!"

"What? No way?"

Someone exclaimed,

"That's one of the top sects in Xihe County! Why are they sealing off their mountain?"

"And not just them!"

Another tall, thin man, carrying a thin sword on his back, spoke up, his voice lowered, which only added to his mystery.
“I just came from Yangping a couple of days ago. When I passed through Qingfeng Village, good heavens, the big village on Qingfeng Mountain was brightly lit day and night. The blacksmith shop was clanging and banging non-stop, as if they were rushing to make a large number of weapons! The number of guards patrolling the village had also tripled, and they looked at everyone as if they were thieves.”

Uncle Niu took a sip of tea and wiped his mouth:
"And there's something even more bizarre! The Xuanbing Palace, it's a bunch of women inside, hey, guess what? They used to accept offerings from the common people and sell medicinal wine, but now, the sect is closed to visitors. Even regular customers are thoroughly checked, tsk tsk."

A buzz of discussion immediately filled the teahouse. The martial arts world of Xihe County was always active, but such a large-scale and unusual event was truly rare.

The tall, thin man lowered his voice, his tone tinged with a hint of dread:
"Ladies and gentlemen, I've heard... that 'Peaceful Incense' is coming back!"

The moment the words "Taiping Xiang" were uttered, the teahouse fell silent for a few moments, before erupting into an even greater commotion and exclamations! The so-called Taiping Xiang was a name given by martial arts practitioners to the Taiping Sect, a nickname given to avoid attracting the attention of the imperial court. The White Lotus Sect, however, was different; as a century-old sect, they dared not utter such a name.

"The Taiping Rebellion?! Weren't they wiped out by the imperial court?"

"My God! What if those killers come back..."

"No wonder! No wonder all the major sects are like a swarm of wasps that have been disturbed! This is going to cause a huge mess!"

"Shh! Quiet! Are you out of your mind?!"

Some people hurriedly tried to stop it. The civil unrest in Jingnan was a massacre. Whether they were high-ranking officials or martial arts figures, they were all coerced into rebellion by the Taiping Sect. Some died and some were injured. But there were also some wise people. Jingnan was now deserted for thousands of miles. Even if they returned, it would not be a short time. Inside the tavern, there was chaos and everyone was saying their own reasons.

Meanwhile, Bai Shuiyue, sitting in the corner, lowered her eyelids, seemingly taking a keen interest in the rough teacup in front of her, while her fingertips gently caressed the rim of the bowl.

"Interesting. The Taiping Incense has just been lit, and the rumors have already spread throughout the capital. I wonder what the Taiping Sect Leader Chu will think when he finds out."

"The matter is never kept secret. Before it has even truly revived, it has already become known throughout the martial arts world. Is this intentional, or just a deliberate attempt to create a false impression?" Right Protector Ying Xiancai frowned and asked.

"Shopkeeper, it seems someone leaked the news. Right now, in the south, it's that person who's in charge of heading west."

He made a vague suggestion, but was stopped by Bai Shuiyue's gaze.

"Whether it is true or not, who can really guess? Let alone that one, even the people of the Taiping Sect cannot be trusted. The matter in the south has been settled. We will take one of the three counties in the south, and we will discuss the rest separately. Judging from what they are saying, it seems that someone is stirring up trouble in the martial arts world."

"Yes, boss."

The Right Protector nodded, then glanced at the person sitting next to him.

"Don't talk about chaos, I don't think there's peace anywhere!"

Another voice rang out, changing the subject. It was an old man who looked like a traveling merchant. He sighed.
"The area beyond the pass is truly dangerous! I heard that the Tatars are restless again, and the border is engulfed in flames. Marquis Luoyun is currently enjoying the Emperor's favor, but unfortunately, he has been forced to return. Those who travel the northern trade route know that the Jurchen army has already besieged Pingliao City, and the battlefield is littered with corpses. I heard that the Marquis's birth mother is praying to the gods in Jing'an Temple, and has been staying there for several days. This shows how dangerous the war is!"

The topic instantly shifted to Marquis Luo Yun, causing everyone to sigh in sympathy. How many people inside the pass had erected longevity monuments for Marquis Luo Yun, simply because he suppressed the rebellion of the cult? Now, trouble has arisen outside the pass, and it is unknown when peace will return.

"Yes, this world is really not peaceful. Considering the floods in Jiangnan, perhaps only the capital city can be safe."

Someone sighed again.

Bai Shuiyue's hand, holding the teacup, paused almost imperceptibly. Ying Xiancai, standing beside her, also sharpened his gaze for a moment.
"...So, there's no truly peaceful place in this world. When the gods fight above, the little devils suffer below. Whatever religion or sect they may be, we ordinary folks should just take care of our own little plot of land!"

The old man shook his head and summarized, drawing a chorus of agreement.

Bai Shuiyue put down her empty teacup, left a few copper coins, and whispered to the person next to her:

"Let's go, it's getting late. Let's go up the mountain to burn incense and pray for peace. We should also see our customers."

"Yes, boss."

Everyone quickly responded, then picked up their bags and walked out of Tingsong Tea House. A cool mountain breeze swept over them, dispelling the murky atmosphere from before.

Looking up, at the end of the winding mountain road, the upturned eaves of Jing'an Temple are faintly visible amidst the verdant mountains. The sound of bells and the faint chanting of Buddhist scriptures create a world completely different from the bustling teahouses at the foot of the mountain.

Bai Shuiyue took a deep breath of fresh air, her eyes regaining their calm. Although the mountain path was rugged, there were still stone platforms and a waterfall at the back of the mountain with a continuous flow of water. Looking at the gate of Jing'an Temple, she suddenly felt a strange feeling. Her junior sister really had the leisure to come up the mountain to "pay homage to Buddha." It was amazing that she could come up with such an idea.
(End of this chapter)