Chapter 352: Taohong and Liulu! (Peach red and willow green)
Within a flash of light!
It was just a matter of moments, so fast that one could only blink their eyes once.
But by the time they found the dust had settled, a weight lifted off their heart, they came to find that Cui Xiaoxin was lying in the arms of a stranger.
"No way?" Li Shinian stared wide-eyed in disbelief at this scene at present.
The reason she pulled Li Muyang over, was that she hoped that Li Muyang could be closer to Cui Xiaoxin. She knew that her brother had feelings for Cui Xiaoxin, and she knew what Cui Xiaoxin's departure back then meant to him.
The youngster that had an inferiority complex, when he met a certain girl his hidden enthusiasm and driving force to improve were ignited. He hoped that he would be more outstanding, he hoped that he could become closer to the girl, he hoped that he could match up to her.
Unexpectedly, the girl was too outstanding, her life and background too superior even if he did his best it was still unreachable.
There are some things that may not come true even if you try hard enough.
What a difficult thing it is for a common youngster to marry a daughter of an aristocratic family?
Not to mention that it is the daughter of the Cui family.
She said that Li Muyang needed to protect her. In fact, she did not need any protection, she only hoped that Li Muyang can be closer to protect Cui Xiaoxin.
Of course, it was just a precaution.
Unexpectedly, as though they had coordinated and planned, Cui Xiaoxin lost her footing and the others did not respond in time, and then they shamelessly hugged in public.
She had never thought that anything would happen to her good friend, because this sort of danger was one that no one can control.
However, seeing Cui Xiaoxin in the arms of her beloved brother, this result was acceptable to her.
"What's the situation?"
Song Tao's brows knitted together in a frown, looking closely at Li Muyang who was holding Cui Xiaoxin with a panic expression on his face. Was this intentional or unintentional?
However, such a thought was only fleeting.
A little cart driver, even if he had such an intention, what can he do?
Would the Cui family allow the 'Bright moon' of their family marry a nameless boy?
If the Cui family knew of this matter, then this kid would be in real trouble. For the Cui family, what is the difference between crushing this sort of powerless little man and killing an ant? With one hand they could make him disappear into thin air, and no one will be able to find any clues.
The guards gathered around one after another, but they dared not get too close.
Cui Xiaoxin's invaluable body, how could servants like them touch her?
Taohong and Liulu also finally reacted. Taohong dashed over with tears in her eyes, and plopped down on a stone step, crying: "Miss, you okay? Are you hurt?"
Liulu also ran over to kneel in front of her, crying in a panic voice: "Miss, Liulu deserves to die, please punish Liulu——"
If Cui Xiaoxin had really fell to the ground, scraped her face or broke her bones, or worst tumble down the hundreds of mountain steps——These two personal servant girls will surely be punished to death.
This is their fate.
Even if Miss was rescued, if someone reported back, they will still be heavily punished. So they were anxious and afraid, and hastened to kneel in front of Cui Xiaoxing and beg for mercy.
Cui Xiaoxin's face was pale. She was staring wide-eyed at the man who saved her and was holding her in his arms.
It was a stranger's face, and she was sure that she had never seen him before today.
It was an ordinary face, so ordinary that he would be ignored and go missing in a crowd.
However, there was a seemingly acquainted feeling.
The name was at the tip of her tongue, but it choked back in her throat.
"Who is it? Is it someone I’ve seen before? Why is there a feeling of familiarity? I feel that I have seen him somewhere——" "
Li Muyang was also gazing at Cui Xiaoxin .
Her beautiful and bright eyes, her pointy and cute nose, her delicate and clear skin, her rosy and pretty lips——that people could not help but want to kiss.
He breathed in the warmth of Cui Xiaoxin's breath, and he heard the intense heartbeat of Cui Xiaoxin's heart.
He hugged her like a scene that he dreamt of countless times before.
Song Tao came over, looked at Cui Xiaoxin and said: "Xiaoxin, are you okay?"
It was only then that Cui Xiaoxin shifted her gaze off from Li Muyang's face, looked at Song Tao and replied "I'm fine. Thank you, Third elder brother."
Song Tao nodded. "I'm glad."
Then, with a smile on his face, he looked at Li Muyang and asked, "What is your name?"
"Li Mu."
"Li Mu." Song Tao patted Li Muyang's shoulder, applying a vigorous force. Li Muyang dared not fight back, instead used his body to withstand this force. His knees went weak and he almost took a fall to the ground.
Of course, Song Tao was just testing him. Seeing that Li Muyang made no effort to fight back, he took his hand off his shoulder so that he would not kneel on the spot.
"Sharp-sighted, and agile. Much better than those trash. You’re not bad, kid." Song Tao said with a smile. "Thank you for saving Xiaoxin. You may not realise what you have just done. I will reward you with 100 gold coins. A person that does well should receive a reward."
The surrounding guards' eyes were red with jealousy. It should be said that their one year of salary was not as much as this.
They inwardly regretted not following behind Miss Cui. He took advantage, he took the money. Is there such good things in this world?
"No——" said Li Muyang, with a loud voice.
"No?" Song Tao's brows were raised, thoughtfully studying Li Muyang, "What no? No need to thank. Or no need for reward?"
"I mean——I just did what I was supposed to do. No need to reward me." Li Muyang looked up at Song Tao. 100 gold coins for ordinary people is not a small amount, if he really was only a cart driver, it is an astronomical figure. However, for the present Li Muyang, it was not needed.
"You deserve it. You don’t have to refuse." Song Tao said forcefully. His eyes shifted to where Li Muyang’s hands that were still holding Cui Xiaoxin. "But, are these hands okay?"
Li Muyang was shocked at the first moment, then understood the meaning of his sentence.
His hands were naturally okay. But if he does not act tactfully, they will be severed off. At that time they won't be okay.
Li Muyang's heart was surging and tossing like the waves, blood rushing through his body.
In the end he let Cui Xiaoxin down, picked up the dropped baggage and immediately moved back to one side.
"Xiaoxin, you okay?" Song Tao stepped forward to support Cui Xiaoxin, and then coldly swept a glance over at Taohong and Liulu, "You two stupid servants, why don't you get back up and support Miss?"
Taohong and Liulu struggled up from the ground, and each supported Cui Xiaoxin by one arm. No longer dared to be careless.
Cui Xiaoxin both feet was on the ground, but her body was still weak and numb.
She was still frightened from the danger. If she really did tumble down the steps, even if she survived, the fall would most likely disable her for life.
She waited till she calmed a little, then walked up to Li Muyang, and bowed deeply: "Thank you, Mister Li Mu, if it wasn't for your help, Xiaoxin would have suffered a disaster. I will remember your kindness. If one day you need anything, tell Shinian to let me know, or you can directly come to the Cui mansion to find me. I will certainly repay this kindness."
Li Muyang looked at Cui Xiaoxin, his face expressionless, as he said in a low voice, "Thank you Miss Xiaoxin. Just now Young master Song has given me 100 gold coins. That’s enough for me."
"That’s what he gave you. This is my reward. It's not the same." Cui Xiaoxin stubbornly said. "Remember what I said."
"Yes. I will remember." Li Muyang put on a bold face and answered.
Li Shinian came over and reached for Cui Xiaoxin's hand, asking: "Sister Xiaoxin, you okay?"
Cui Xiaoxin pursed her lips and smiled lightly, "Thank you Shinian. It's a good thing you told Mister Li Mu to follow closely behind to protect you. If not, I would have tumbled down."
"No you wouldn't." Li Shinian said with a smile. "If he didn't, I was going to, I wanted to save you, but he was just quicker."
Cui Xiaoxin knew of Li Shinian's competitive personality, said with a smile, "Then I'll let you come save me next time."
Li Shinian shook her head vigorously, "No, No. It's too dangerous. Can't allow a next time. From now on, I’ll be right behind you. Not even one step away."
"Then thank you Shinian." Cui Xiaoxin smiled.
Cui Xiaoxin and Li Shinian walked in front, holding hands, with Taohong and Liulu following on both sides.
Song Tao was guarding behind, and seeing Li Muyang walking side by side him, he couldn't help creasing his brows in a deep frown.
However, this was only a trivial matter, he was unwilling to send him away, which would make him seem petty in front of the two girls.
"Li Mu where are you from?" Song Tao initiated a question at Li Muyang. "
"Jiangnan native." Li Muyang answered.
"Oh? Miss Shinian's relative?"
"Yes." Li Muyang acted simpleminded and wooden.
"Do well as a cart driver, it's a promising career." Song Tao said with a smile. "Miss Shinian’s father was a driver like you. But later was married to the servant of the daughter of the Gongsun family——"
Li Muyang's fist clenched tight.
Li Shinians's father Li Yan was also his father. Li Muyang's father was indeed, because he was Gongsun Yu's cart driver, married to Li Muyang's mother who was Gongsun Yu's servant.
He didn’t think it was anything bad, and his father and mother were a model example of a loving couple. But when this remark was uttered from Song Tao's mouth, he saw contempt and ridicule.
"Shinian and Xiaoxin are good friends, if you could be Shinian's cart driver forever, you may also have the opportunity to marry a servant of Xiaoxin——Taohong and Liulu are both not bad, which one do you prefer?"
Chapter 353: The impending pain of the country!
Some people say that the world is like this: a good horse matches a good saddle, a good ship matches good sails, a bastard with a retard, and an idiot matches with a cripple.
Li Muyang was thinking that, in the eyes of Song Tao, is he a bastard or a cripple?
He asked him whether he likes Taohong or Liulu, but he was subconsciously reminding him to know his own status. You are just a cart driver, your future companion can only be Taohong or Liulu, such servant girls——of course, that is under the conditions that you are very diligent and hardworking, and Miss Xiaoxin is satisfied with you, then she will betroth her servant to you.
As for a woman like Cui Xiaoxin, you don't even have to think about it.
Li Muyang shook his head repeatedly, a face of panic: "No, I don't like it."
"What? You think they’re not beautiful enough for you?" Song Tao had a ruminative smile, finding Li Muyang's face quite interesting.
"No, no. They are both very beautiful. Also too good for me." Li Muyang showed a simpleminded look, as he cautiously said, "I heard——heard——"
"Heard what?"
"I heard that the servants of Miss must follow her to marry. Whoever Miss marries, the servant girls also have to——marry him." Li Muyang desperately shook his head, with an honest look as though he was saying I did not think about it and this sort of thing would absolutely not happen to me. "If you give me the servants, what about Miss?"
"You——" Song Tao looked at Li Muyang's cautious looking face, itching to punch it.
Yes, it's the custom of Tiandu. The personal servant girls of a young Miss will generally follow the young miss and marry into the husband's family. If the young miss and husband are both happy with it, then those servant girls will also take care of the husband, have and raise children for the husband. This is to prevent the husband of having thoughts of taking concubines.
Of course, these girls generally have no status in the family.
There are some occasions that the young miss is kind hearted or the husband does not want to marry too many, they will find a loyal and honest person for her personal servants to marry. This was the case for Li Muyang's mother Luo Qi.
In other words, when you buy a pearl you may be gifted a few fish eyes——how could someone buy a pair of fish eyes and also ask for an invaluable pearl?
In Song Tao's view, when Li Muyang asked what about the young miss if he marries her servants, it was the same as buying fish eyes and asking about the pearl.
However, it was difficult for him to state this clearly. Also this boy had a look of fear and refusal, it seemed that he really was worried he has to marry the young miss——How could such a person not be beaten to death yet and is still alive now?
"I really am not good enough for Miss Xiaoxin." Li Muyang stated.
Song Tao, shocked for a moment, then burst into laughter.
He reached out and patted Li Muyang on the shoulder, and smiled, "interesting. It's really interesting. Did not expect to meet such a strange person on my trip to White cloud mountain——You do not have to worry, someone will marry Miss Xiaxoin. But it will not be a goods exchanging trade. You just have to do your job."
"Yes. I will do my best." Li Muyang said loudly.
Between joking, the crowd had reached Thousand Buddha Temple.
Because someone had went up the mountain to notify the temple in advance, an attendant monk called Fazheng of Thousand Buddha Temple had already stood at the doorway along with several monks to welcome them.
Thousand Buddha Temple in Tiandu, did not pay attention to matters outside of the mountains and wholeheartedly serve Maitreya Buddha. But the descendants of the Song family and Cui family have personally came to worship the Buddha, they should be given enough respect and attention.
Besides, there were such important customers coming to pray for blessings, presumably they would donate a large amount of money?
Fazheng bowed to Song Tao and Cui Xiaoxin, and then learned that Li Shinian was Cui Xiaoxin's close friend, bowed to Li Shinian.
Fazheng led Cui Xiaoxin, Li Shinian and Song Tao inside the temple to pray, and ordered a few monks to take Li Muyang and other escorts to the back courtyard to settle down to rest. Because Song Tao mentioned to Fazheng that they plan to have a vegetarian meal in Thousand Buddha Temple and write scriptures, so they will be staying the night.
Li Muyang's status was low, so he was not qualified to follow.
Li Shinian walked over to remind Li Muyang, "Put my luggage in the room. Remember to take good care of my Snowball."
Then lowered her voice to a voice that only the two could hear. "My Snowball is in the cage. Bring it out to get some air. If there's anything that you need me, bring Snowball and say he's not well——"
Li Shinian hastily said a few words, then quickly followed Cui Xiaoxin and Song Tao to the front courtyard to pray.
Cui Meng came over and nudged Li Muyang with his elbow. "Brother, you're rich now? When you get back, you have to get Big brother a drink."
Li Muyang nodded, "okay."
"Wonderful." Cui Meng did not expect Li Muyang to be so loyal, he thought of the phrase 'don’t forget your friends when you become rich'. So, touched, he threw his arms around Li Muyng's shoulder, "Let's go, brother, we’re going to have a good time. I tell you, our young miss is the best master. She means what she says, she would certainly help you when you have trouble——How about this, you ask her to let Taohong marry you? Look how thin Little Taohong's waist is, it will be broken with one pinch——"
Li Muyang shot a glare at Cui Meng: "If you be quiet for a moment, I will buy you two drinks."
Thousand Buddha Temple was popular and attended by many worshippers, so many pilgrims stay overnight on the mountain, and Thousand Buddha Temple also specially provides many quiet rooms.
The rooms in the monastery were divided into front and back courtyard. The Master stayed in the front courtyard while servants and bodyguards in the back courtyard.
The attendant Monk saw that Cui Meng and Li Muyang were close, so he kindly allocated the two people to one room.
However, Li Muyang used fine wine as bait, and Cui Meng was finally no longer chattering non stop in front of him.
Li Muyang placed the luggage on the table, lifted the tarpaulin on top, and took Snowball out from a small wicker cage inside.
Snowball, with an upset expression, spat out a bubble at Li Muyang.
Li Muyang wiped his face, and it blew another bubble at him.
Li Muyang did not bother wiping his face anymore, allowing it to incessantly blow bubbles. The water elements very soon covered Li Muyang's face.
Cui Meng finally couldn't contain himself, curiously studied Snowball as he asked, "What pet is that? I’ve never seen one before."
"A rabbit."
"Pfff——"
Snowball was obviously not satisfied with its introduction.
Li Muyang wiped away the water stains on his face, then said with a wry smile: "a flying rabbit. Very rare."
"No wonder." Cui Meng laughed foolishly. "I was thinking why does it look so likeable?"
"The more you see him, the more likeable he is," said Li Muyang, reaching to stroke the head of Snowball. "At first sight I thought it was very cute, and the more I see him the more I think so, our family's Young miss often hits him——"
"Miss Shinian is so fierce?"
"Hitting is petting, nagging is loving, because it does not eat its vegetables——"
"I see. It deserves it."
"Pff——" Snowball spat out water.
In a quiet hall, Cui Xiaoxin, Li Shinian and Song Tao were kneeling on a praying mat, kowtow and praying to Bodhisattva.
Cui Xiaoxin put her palms together devoutly, the lashes of her closed eye were like little blades.
Her face looked serious and concentrated, although she did not say a word, she was silently praying in her heart.
Because her brother had safely returned, Li Shinian did not have anything she wanted to wish for. She asked Bodhisattva to protect her family, then asked Bodhisattva to bless her to be more and more beautiful, and also asked Bodhisattva to bless her that she won't become fat no matter how much she eats, before finally opening her eyes and stared at Cui Xiaoxin praying with a silly and happy expression on her face.
She waited until Cui Xiaoxin opened her eyes, then whispered: "Sister Xiaoxin, what did you ask for?"
"That my wish to come true." Cui Xiaoxin said in a quiet voice.
"Then what is your wish?" Li Shinian teasingly asked.
Cui Xiaoxin cast glance at Li Shinian and did not answer. She placed her hands on the floor and bowed to bodhisattva.
Li Shinian also bowed formally, and then followed Cui Xiaoxin up.
Song Tao was still knelt in the same place, murmuring.
Li Shinian couldn't tell what he was reciting, but it should be 'The Sutra of Bodhisattva's Fundamental Vows' or 'The Sutra of the Medicine Buddha', this kind of Buddhist scriptures that prays for the good health of a sick person.
As the two of them came out of the hall, Fazheng was waiting by the doorway, "Benefactress, Thousand Buddha Temple is famous for its one thousand Buddhas, 999 Buddhas are hidden between the mountains, cliff and rocks, each is lifelike, breathtaking. There is also a Buddha hidden in the mountainous forest, only one that has extreme talent with the Buddha can see it. It is still early, and if you two are interested, I can take you there to have a look."
Cui Xiaoxin and Li Shinian exchanged a glance, both were tempted.
Cui Xiaoxin looked at Monk Fazheng and said: "Thank you, Great master. However, I have already heard that the 999 Buddha statues are mysterious as though made by heavens, only those that are fated can be able to find them within the forest and rocks. If Great master accompanied us and guided us, it would lose the elegance of the visit. Why don't us two search ourselves."
"This remark is a great praise. Then Fazheng will take my leave."
Cui Xiaoxin took Li Shinian's hand, smiled and said: "We have to go search for the Thousand Buddhas ourselves."
"Sounds good." Li Shinian rolled her eyes, thinking about how she could get Brother Li Muyang to accompany them?
In the main hall, Song Tao, who was chanting the Sutras, suddenly sensed something and looked up.
The closed right eye of the Bodhisattva was opened and blood was flowing rapidly.
Thump!
Song Tao staggered back and fell down on a stone slate outside.
His face was pale and his body was as though struck by lightning.
The blood of the divine buddha, the impending pain of the country.
Chapter 354: Shinian sees Buddha!
High mountains and flowing rivers, thick clouds and lively wind.
Thousand Buddha Temple is famous for its one thousand Buddha statues, with 999 statues of Buddha hidden between the mountainous forest and cliffs. There are some carved from strange rocks, some raised peaks, and some thousand year old trees——some similar in shape, and some similar in expression. It is different for each individual.
Sightseeing, and looking for Buddhism connection. It is Pilgrim’s favourite thing to do after praying in the main hall.
Moreover, looking for the Buddha statues extremely tests one's intelligence and eyesight. Some people had exhausted themselves to only find dozens of statues, and some had taken several months to find a few hundreds. It is said that the famous monk Zhi Duhan had found 999 Buddha statues overnight, which caused a sensational in Tiandu. However, having been cultivating up on White Cloud mountain for so many years, he still had not found the 1000th Buddha.
Some people say that the 1000th Buddha statue is a cover, made up by the monks of Thousand Buddha Temple, in order to attract people to come and search out of curiosity.
However, several hundreds of years later, a talented Buddhist monk Chu Fayin came to pay a visit to Buddha, and it only took him half a day to find all 999 Buddha statues, and then another half a day to find the final 1000th Buddha statue. He at once abandoned his physical body and flew off as an immortal. Under the witness of countless people he ascended into an immortal, becoming a miracle of the divine continent.
It was at that time that the world believed that the monks of Thousand Buddha Temple did not lie, there are indeed 1000 Buddha statues on White cloud mountain.
"Sister Xiaoxin, that big rock must be Maitreya Buddha——look at that pudgy belly, and that little stone is his head——"
"Sister Xiaoxin, do you think this tree looks like a Buddha? What kind of Buddha is it? It looks familiar——"
"Sister Xiaoxin, that is Xianglong Luohan, he's so fierce——"
Li Shinian and Cui Xiaoxin agreed to search for Buddha statues together. They took Liulu and Taohong and headed to the back of the mountain, while climbing the mountain, they were pointing and discussing the signs of Buddha statues.
Li Shinian has an energetic personality, like a little pony, from time to time pointed to her discovery and shouted to Cui Xiaoxin.
Cui Xiaoxin was following after her and smiling at the beginning, and responded now and then.
But soon, she could not smile anymore.
Because Li Shinian was too clever, and had such powerful perception.
It should be said that, on this mountain, every tree, every rock, every waterfall and every lake could be a Buddha statue. Some of the statues are quite obvious and anyone can discern them at a glance. But some statues are hidden deep, mysterious and subtle, not anyone can find them.
However, it was no obstacle to Li Shinian. As she walked, she exclaimed, pointing out the Buddhas that she had seen one by one, without a single mistake or omission.
Cui Xiaoxin from a young age had begun to read extensively. She was familiar with the scriptures of both Buddhism and Taoism, and her knowledge far exceeded that of Li Shinian.
However, she was not the first to notice Thousand Buddha Temple, she was not the first to find Buddhism connection——Many times it was because of Li Shinian's reminder that she came to spot the hidden Buddha statues.
Cui Xiaoxin was a careful and intelligent girl, although she had no way to determine what this means, it was clear to her that the ability of Li Shinian was extraordinary.
"What is this Buddha? Seems like I had seen it on a mural before, but I can't remember the name——"
"Wei tuo Bodhisattva." Cui Xiaoxin answered. "
"Right, right. That’s him. And do you see that side of the cliff? The cliff and the bottom of the cold lake are connected, doesn’t it look like Manjusri Bodhisattva?"
"It is Manjusri Bodhisattva." Cui Xiaoxin replied. In her mind she was calculating the number of Buddha statues that Li Shinian had found, in such a short moment of time, she had found 167 statues already.
This was because she was walking too slowly, and held Li Shinian back. If she had let her walk alone, and not had to support her up the mountain, then this number would have been even more impressive.
The famous Great master Fayin took half a day to find 999 Buddha statues, because he studied Buddhism and cultivates Buddhism, and associates himself with Buddhism all day. He knows all the Buddhas like the back of his hand.
But, Li Shinian?
She couldn't even name the Buddha statues, yet she could spot them at a glance.
Perhaps, this is what people call Buddhism connection?
Because of this connection she has a second sight, a power to perceive things.
"Sister Xiaoxin, quickly look, which two Buddhas are they? It feels so strange——" Li Shinian asked with a puzzled face, pointing to the roots of two thousand year old trees intertwined together.
Cui Xiaoxin took a look and immediately blushed. She shook her head and said: "I do not know. There are so many Gods and Buddhas in the world that we don’t know their names."
"If they can become a Buddha, how would they not have a name?" Li Shinian still wouldn't let Cui Xiaoxin off. "Sister Xiaoxin, your knowledge is so profound, there is nothing you don't know——think again. I think these two Buddha statues are really strange. You see them cuddling together, they look like a couple——but is there a couple in Buddhas?"
"Shinian——" Cui Xiaoxin's face grew more red, not knowing how to answer Li Shinian's question.
"That is the joyful Buddha." A man’s voice suddenly sounded from behind.
Cui Xiaoxin and Li Shinian turned around to see Li Shinian's cart driver Li Mu and Cui family's cart driver Cui Meng coming toward them.
Li Mu's face was without expression, his head held high. While Cui Meng, who was bigger in size, was cowering and evasive, and wished to cover his head with a large leaf.
"Li Mu——Li Mu——don’t go over. Do not disturb the two Young Miss——" Cui Meng hid behind Li Muyang, constantly persuading him not to go any closer.
After they put down the luggage in the room, they had nothing to do and since that the Thousand Buddha Temple is so famous, Li Muyang suggested to go Buddha statue searching up the mountain. Cui Meng was not interested in looking for Buddha, but he was interested in Li Muyang the 'upstart' who the Young Miss valued.
So, Li Muyang, carrying Snowball, took Cui Meng to find Buddha.
They explored the mountains and river while looking for the Buddha statues, and when they saw Cui Xiaoxin and Li Shinian also in the search for Buddha statues, they did not go any closer, but carefully followed behind.
Cui Meng was constantly dragging Li Muyang back, in case the Young Miss would not be pleased seeing them. But Li Muyang, with a fearless expression, when he heard Cui Xiaoxin was stumped by Li Shinian's question, he stepped out to answer, and even walked over to the two Young Miss with Snowball.
"What if Miss misunderstands that we're following them?"
"What if Miss thinks us two rough fellows are disturbing their search for Buddha?"
Their Masters only need to say one word and they will be beaten till their skin torn and the flesh gapes open, and won't be able to get up for 10 days to half a month. At that time, it will be too late to regret.
Cui Meng was filled with worries, but it did not affect Li Muyang's decision.
Li Muyang walked directly over to Cui Xiaoxin and Li Shinian, looked at Li Shinian and explained: "Miss, this Buddha is called Joy Buddha. That is 'Heavens of desire' and 'God of love' in Buddhism. The male body represents Buddhist teachings, the female body represents wisdom, the male body and the female body are tightly hugging together, indicating that Buddhist teachings and wisdom form pairs, become one person, and that wisdom of Buddhism is infinite."
After listening to Li Muyang’s explanation, a blush rose to Li Shinian's pale cheeks.
Although Li Muyang did not explain too clearly, but the word 'joy' was enough to represent a lot of things.
Furtively glancing over at Cui Xiaoxin, she found that her face was also slightly red, staring at Li Muyang with bright eyes.
Li Shinian then understood that Sister Xiaoxin must have known the name of these two Buddhas, and was just too embarrassed to say it.
So, Li Shinian deliberately pretended to be angry, pointing at Li Muyang and yelling, "How dare you make things up, utterly vulgar. There is no such Buddha? You must have made that up, right? How dare you tarnish the name of Buddha."
"Shinian——" Cui Xiaoxin interrupted. "He is right."
"What is right? How could there be such a Buddha?"
"The teachings of the Buddha contain myriad, because the heart sees Buddha, there are no boundaries."
Li Shinian deliberately pretended to look at Cui Xiaoxin puzzledly: "Sister Xiaoxin, you just said you don't know what that Buddha is? How do you know that now?"
"I——" Cui Xiaoxin knew that this mischievous friend was playing tricks on her, she said blushing, "After listening to Mister Li Mu's reminder."
"Oh. I see." Li Shinian nodded understandingly, then pointed to Li Muyang. "It seems that you and this Mister Li Mu are really fated. He saved your life when you almost fell, and now he helped you solve a puzzle. The people from the ancient times have the saying 'one who can correct a misread or misspelt character and thus be your master', Sister Xiaoxin——what is the relationship between you two now?"
"Shinian——" A stern look crossed Cui Xiaoxin's face. "Don’t talk nonsense."
Li Shinian knew that Cui Xiaoxin had a cold personality and kept a certain distance with everyone. She stuck out her tongue and said with a smile, "Sister Xiaoxin, I’m joking. Don't be angry."
"I'm not angry. Just need to be cautious with some words." Cui Xiaoxin was very fond of Li Shinian, her face eased a little, as she said softly.
"Yes I will remember." Li Shinian cutely nodded but she was inwardly anxious, she was certain that Cui Xiaoxin has a good opinion of her brother.
Only that her brother's identity was too sensitive, it was impossible to expose him in Tiandu at this time. Otherwise it would lead to a fatal disaster.
If he does not expose his identity and let Cui Xiaoxin know, it will be difficult for their relationship to progress to the next step.
"Too impatient." Li Shinian said to herself.
Cui Xiaoxin looked at Li Mu, saying, "Thank you Mister Li Mu for guiding me, Xiaoxin understands."
Because Li Mu was Cui Xiaoxin's saviour, she was very courteous.
Otherwise, why would she have to thank a cart driver?
Li Muyang indifferently looked at her flower-like face, saying in a low voice, "I just happen to pass by. Miss, no need to be so polite."
Cui Xiaoxin carefully studied Li Muyang then asked: "Mister Li Mu understands the Buddhism scriptures?"
"I wouldn't say understand, I just know a little." Li Muyang explained.
Kong Li was his Master, so he is considered half a Buddhist disciple. How could a Buddhist disciple be ignorant of the origins of his own sect? For this reason, Li Muyang had been studying in Starry Sky library for a long time.
"Mister Li Mu is modest." Cui Xiaoxin said. She could tell that the cart driver was very knowledgeable, but was too humble to show it.
"A person like him, how many are there on this world?"
For some reason, Cui Xiaoxin could not help but let out a soft sigh.
Li Shinian blinked, looking at Cui Xiaoxin: "Sister Xiaoxin, how about we let him follow us, if we could not recognise a Buddha, he could help explain the origin, what do you think?"
Cui Xiaoxin gave it a brief thought and also felt it was a good idea. If the mischievous Li Shinian asked some embarrassing questions again that she could not answer, there would be someone that can help her out.
Then, Cui Xiaoxin nodded: "Have to trouble Mister Li Mu."
Li Muyang was thrilled, suppressing a smile he said in a low voice: "To serve Miss, is an honour for Li Mu."
Li Shinian walked right over to Li Muyang and made a wink at him, but her voice was extremely cold when she reminded him: "Then you can follow us. Just like when we were going up the mountain, you must protect me and Sister Xiaoxin at all times. Understand?"
Li Muyang nodded, answering earnestly: "Understand."
The corners of Li Shinian's mouth drew back into a grin: "I knew you will certainly understand."
She turned, smiling as she linked her arm through Cui Xiaoxin's, "Sister Xiaoxin, let's continue to search for Buddha. How many have we found?"
"175." Cui Xiaoxin said aloud. She had been keeping count for Li Shinian.
"Sister Xiaoxin, you remember." Li Shinian said, overjoyed. "Then we have to find all 1000 Buddha statues today. All right?"
"Yes." Cui Xiaoxin nodded. People that have been living up on this mountain for years still have not found all 1000 Buddha statues. If someone was able to, they would ascend into an immortal.
Cui Xiaoxin was slightly looking forward, what if Li Shinian really was able to find all Buddha statues?
Li Muyang was also very surprised.
He and Cui Meng also came to seek the Buddha statues. They knew well how difficult it is to find the Buddha statues within the forest.
Li Shinian had only been searching for a while, yet already found 175 statues?
Although he had always known that his sister is a talented girl, but he did not expect her to be gifted to this extent?
More importantly, from a young age, she had been cultivating Taoism's 'The art of Breaking body', and had never dabbled in Buddhist Scriptures, why would she have so much understanding on Buddhism?
Li Muyang was completely bewildered, but due to his identity it was impossible for him to immediately come forward to ask her. He had to follow behind Cui Xiaoxin and Li Shinian, watching Li Shinian create non-stop miracles.
"Ah, look, there is a Buddha above us——"
"That Buddha is so cute, it is a tree tumour——"
"Hey, look at that valley, doesn't it look like a big Buddha——"
"240 statues——"
"321 statues——"
"397 statues——"
Li Muyang and Cui Xiaoxin followed behind Li Shinian, watching her exclaim excitedly and the number in their heart constantly climbing.
It had reached an alarming number.
If the old monks of Thousand Buddha Temple know Li Shinian has found 400 Buddha statues in such a short amount of time, even the head of the temple himself will come out to treat her as a distinguished guest.
"For hundreds of years, most likely that only few people have been able to do that." Cui Xiaoxin thought. "Li Shinian, you really like to surprise people."
Li Muyang was also more and more astounded, his sister can not be describe with the word 'genius' anymore. She is simply an——evil-doer.
Li Shinian continued seeking the Buddha statues.
Even Li Shinian herself had not noticed that, she had now entered a kind of forget-everything realm.
At the beginning, she was searching the Buddha statues with an attitude of playing a game.
She wanted to find Buddha statues, and had no time to admire the scenery.
But now Li Shinian had concentrated all her mind on finding the Buddha statues, entering into a state of obsession and fascination. She saw no mountains, no water or friends.
The mountains were gone, the trees were gone, the clouds were gone, and the wind was gone.
In her eyes, there were only statues of Buddha all over the place.
The Buddha statues sparkled like little stars on the endless firmament.
Chapter 355: Buddha lit up!
Li Shinian's countenance also underwent a change, on her face there was no sadness nor happiness; it was solemn and respectful.
Her light pink robe billowed out around her, like a gust of wind had blown and was about to take the intelligent and charming little girl away.
Li Muyang, finally noticing the strangeness of his sister, yelled out, "Shinian——"
Cui Xiaoxin although she felt that the way Li Muyang addressed Li Shinian was not appropriate, and sounded strange, but when she noticed the look on Li Shinian's face, she also couldn't help but feel terrified.
Ascending to an immortal or being possessed by a demon, only takes one thought.
Li Shinian had entered into a hypnotised state, a little carelessness and she may encounter danger, her soul scattering off. Such consequences are not what they were willing to bear.
She wanted to call for help, but right now the only people that can help Li Shinian were Song Tao and the monks in Thousand Buddha Temple. As they searched for Buddha statues, they had almost reached the summit of White cloud mountain. Even if she tries to run back, it most likely would be too late.
Cui Xiaoxin did not cultivate martial arts; she only attached importance to scholarly knowledge. By her side there was only Taohong and Liulu and the two cart drivers, there was not one person that she could discuss what to do with.
She was burning with worries but was afraid of disturbing Shinian, fearful that it would make things worse and would push Shinian into being possessed by demons.
Taohong and Liulu noticed a very worried look on her face, though did know how to comfort her. Even now they still did not know what was going on.
"Miss Shinian is very clever——"
"Miss Shinian is very powerful——"
"Miss Shinian was just standing there, nothing had happened——"
These were the thoughts that the two little servant girls had all along. They have long been impressed by Li Shinian's ability to find the Buddha statues.
Li Muyang came forward to stand next to Cui Xiaoxin, his voice low and comforting as he said, "Nothing will happen."
Cui Xiaoxin's brows were furrowed deeply, asking with a questioning tone of voice, "How do you know?"
"Look carefully at Miss Shinian's expression." Li Muyang said.
Cui Xiaoxin carefully studied her face, finding that Li Shinian was still in that trance state.
"Her eyes are clear and bright, with no signs of pain or discomfort on her face." Li Muyang explained. "Just like when you are absorbed in a book, absorbed in writing, and absorbed by the beauty of cherry blossoms. She is just absorbed in searching for the Buddha statues."
It was only then that Cui Xiaoxin felt a little relieved, glad that Li Shinian was fine. Otherwise, she wouldn't know how to explain to the parents of her good friend.
The news of the big brother's death had just came and now the little sister had went crazy from searching for Buddha statues. Any parent would not be able to bear such a blow.
However, after listened to Li Muyang's explanation, that extremely weird feeling in Cui Xiaoxin's heart was hitting her again.
She had always felt that the Cart driver Li Mu was somewhat strange, though she was not sure in what ways.
Perhaps, that was his nature?
Or perhaps, it was because of the fact that he had saved her? So she always felt a little uncomfortable deep inside?
Li Shinian was not aware of the thoughts of others, but she did not need to trek up the mountain to search for Buddha statues anymore.
Because in her eyes, the Buddha statues all across the mountain were clearly present.
The foot of the mountain, by the mountainsides. Near and far. As well as the unreachable mountain summit, she had never seen their true face.
Collecting shells at the seashore, the seashore suddenly vanished.
The stars in the sky, the sky was empty as before.
Li Shinian was no longer searching for Buddha, but counting the Buddhas.
Her small face looked up, scanning across the countless Buddha statues, and pointing to each one with her finger.
"——One——"
"——Two——"
"——Three——"
The most astonishing thing happened.
Every time Li Shinian pointed to a Buddha statue in the void, the corresponding position that the statue was at would produce a huge blaze of divine light, a beam of golden light suddenly exploded out, passing through the mountain and piercing through the forest, and directly shot to the sky.
Each Buddha statue that she pointed at, there was an explosion of golden light.
She counted a dozen of Buddha statues in a row, and a dozen beams of golden light shot up into the sky.
There was a sweet sounding sound, and then an exotic fragrance.
Outside of the Ninth Heaven there were claps of thunder, like a giant gate was rumbling open.
Everybody stood astonished at the sight of this scene.
In the back courtyard of Thousand Buddha Temple backyard, Priest Moaoxin trotted out a room, ignoring the distinguished guests around, and gazed at the beams of golden light above White cloud mountain with a joyful look on his face.
"The Buddhist connection is deep——the Buddhist connection is deep——"
On the summit of White cloud Mountain, an old monk in hemp garments was walking slowly along the mountain path carrying firewood.
When he saw a Buddha statue hidden in the grass suddenly exude a golden light, he threw away the firewood, straightened his curved back, eyes flashing, and his grey clothes impacted by the golden light, was glowing a divine light.
He looked up to the sky with a hopeful face, unable to conceal the excitement in his voice as he murmured: "Flowers bloom to see the Buddha, leaves fall to see Buddha. The spring breeze and winter snow all have Buddha nature. The heavenly maids scatter blossoms, Buddha lit up. A rare spectacle——My Buddhism has a successor."
Li Muyang stared wide-eyed at Li Shinian, thinking what is this situation? His sister is also a dragon?
"Is the Heaven playing a joke on me? It's fine that I'm a dragon, but you also had to make my sister a dragon. If so, we will inevitably suffer slaughtering from the humans. Even if I risk my life, I will protect her from any harm." Li Muyang could hardly contain his indignation. "
"No, she can’t be a dragon. If she were a dragon, she would know the way to hide. Moreover, Buddha is a deity, while the Dragon is only a half-divine being. I have never heard that a half-divine being can command the deities——but, who can tell me what this is all about?" ——
Li Shinian was still counting.
Her slender, fair fingers pointing out, her red lips softly murmuring: "101, 102, 103——"
Cui Xiaoxin was trembling nervously, then subconsciously grasped Li Muyang's arm, and said: "Will Shinian be okay? Will she be okay?"
"She'll be fine——" Li Muyang said unconfidently. It was a realm of deities, a world he had never seen before. How could he know whether she would be fine or not?
Any mortal who wants to pry into the realm of deities has to pay a heavy price.
If lucky, one would only turn crazy; the worst case is being struck by lightning.
Who's to say it's going to be okay?
Li Muyang was secretly storing power, no matter what, he will protect Li Shinian from any harm. Even if it means he has to expose his Dragon identity.
Li Muyang was also beginning to tense up. He feared that his silly sister had unconsciously entered into a realm that he did not know of. Then bringing trouble to herself, and putting her life at risk.
Li Shinian was still counting.
"210——"
"211——"
"212——"
Clang—
Inside of Thousand Buddha Temple, the thousand-pounds ancient bell hung next to a rock statue was ringing by itself.
It was imposingly deep and resounding, but also very sweet-sounding.
Long and distant, as if from the ancient times.
Clang——
Another bell rang——
"Miss Xiaoxin——"
"Miss Xiaoxin——"
A man in blue strode towards this side.
Everyone recognised that it was the uniform of the bodyguards of the Song family.
The man in blue strode over to before Cui Xiaoxin, shouting, "Miss Xiaxoin, our family's Young Master has an urgent matter that he needs to return to Tiandu for, I came to let you know——"
When he bowed, his line of sight coincidentally fell on the hand of Cui Xiaoxin who was clutching the sleeve of Li Muyang. He stared blankly for a second before his eyes flashed an ominous glint.
"What exactly is this cart driver’s identity? Why would he be so close to the young Miss of the Cui family?" The man in blue speculated in his mind.
"What? Third elder brother has to return?" Cui Xiaoxin was now worrying about Li Shinian’s situation, and to hear from a bodyguard that Song Tao needs to head down the mountain to attend to an urgent matter, she felt utterly confused.
He said that he wants to stay a few days at Thousand Buddha Temple to write out 1000 copies of 'The Sutra of the Medicine Buddha' to pray for blessings for his Grandfather.
Cui Xiaoxin also planned to stay a few days at Thousand Buddha Temple with Li Shinian to pray for Li Muyang's safe return.
What had happened in Tiandu that he needed to hurry back?
"Yes." The bodyguard answered. "Young master told me to notify you, perhaps he has left already now."
"Do you know what is the matter?"
"Subordinate does not know.""
That bodyguard's footsteps were heavy, and his voice undisguised, which naturally alarmed Li Shinian who was in a trance state.
She blinked her eyes, and the sea of stars before her instantly vanished, and the bells ceased.
Within the surroundings of White cloud Mountain, the hundred beams of golden light also vanished at the same time.
The mountain before them was still a mountain, the tree in front was still a tree. The moon was rising and black clouds rolled across. Everything had returned to its former state.
Li Shinian noticed the strange gaze that the bodyguard and the others looked at her with, and asked: "What? What’s going on?"
Cui Xiaoxin had no time to explain to Li Shinian, reached to grasp her sleeve and said: "Third elder brother said he's going back. Let’s go over and see."
"Ah? Third young master Song has to go back, great——" Li Shinian was still in a state of confusion, and almost shouted out her thoughts. It was when Cui Xiaoxin looked her with a puzzled face that she knew she had said something wrong, and hurriedly corrected the sentence. "If third young master has to go back, then Sister Xiaoxin will be mine's alone."
Cui Xiaoxin grasped Li Shinian's hand, saying: "Third elder brother is leaving in such a hurry, something must have happened in Tiandu. Quickly come with me to see."
"Yes." Li Shinian said as Cui Xiaoxin dragged her along, Taohong and Liulu following closely behind on both sides.
Li Muyang and Cui Meng these two cart drivers also followed behind. Their master was running, they naturally had to follow them.
The man in blue looked at the rear figures of Li Muyang and Cui Meng, frowning, but did not say anything else and just followed the crowd towards the temple hall.
At the summit of White cloud mountain, a grey-robed elder body stood by the edge of a cliff, gently sighing: "Unfortunate. Unfortunate——if all one thousand Buddhas are lit overnight, another Buddha will descend to my Buddhism."