The monks' debate over whether the Heart Sutra was an apocryphal scripture did not affect Yaoying, though she sensed some still discussed it privately, just not daring to argue openly anymore.
Bore and Yuanjue were also drawn into the dispute. Yaoying encountered them several times looking flushed and angry, as if they had clashed with others.
As an outsider, it was not her place to inquire into temple affairs. Returning to her courtyard, she buried herself in her own tasks.
Old Qi, following her instructions, took in Hu women seeking help and replanted the land with melon candy and mare's milk purchased from the Hu merchant Kang Da. However, Kang Da said he had no seeds for Black Pearl grapes, as this variety was sour, slightly bitter, and small-berried—a discarded type rarely seen in the Western Regions.
Yaoying had Xie Peng relay a message to Old Qi, asking him to task Hu merchants with searching for Black Pearl grapes in the Gaochang area. While this grape variety was indeed less sweet and plump than others when ripe, it was well-suited for winemaking.
The weather grew increasingly hot, and melons and fruits were abundant. Yaoying and her guards enjoyed a variety of fresh produce daily. Foreign cucumbers, which in the Central Plains were only seen at royal palace banquets, were commonplace here. Xie Chong ate them daily and suffered from stomachaches for several days.
One day, Ashina Bisha's guard returned on a fast horse to report that Bisha would be delayed for a few days. Haidu Aling was too cunning; Bisha had found no opportunity to act and refused to return empty-handed.
Yuanjue informed Yaoying that the extreme heat made it a poor season for travel. By the time Bisha returned, the weather would have cooled, making it more comfortable for their mission to Gaochang.
Yaoying estimated the timeline and added several thick fur coats to her luggage. Though the days were scorching, the heat was not as stifling and humid as in Jingnan. It was cool enough in the shade or indoors, but the nights were genuinely cold—even in the height of summer, she needed a wool blanket to sleep.
With only her guards around now—a rough-and-tumble group of men, and Xie Qing not being a maid—Yaoying had to manage her own daily needs. She prepared her personal belongings carefully to avoid mishaps during the journey.
After several busy days, Yaoying remembered something. After morning lessons, she learned that Yuanjue was in the main hall and went to find him.
The guards, aware of her status, directed her inward. As she approached, a clamor erupted from behind a low wall.
Yaoying peered inside.
Bore stood in the courtyard, arguing with several monks. The sun beat down harshly, dizzying to the eyes. The group stood in the blazing heat, faces red and sweaty, shouting and gesticulating, occasionally pulling and shoving each other.
Yaoying retreated to the corridor and stood on tiptoe to watch.
The first time she saw monks quarreling here, she had been surprised. In the Central Plains, monks rarely grew so agitated and rude during debates. But in the Royal Court, it was different—monks argued fiercely, not only mocking and taunting each other but also permitted to grab and push.
Bore, outnumbered, struggled to hold his own. After a while, he was overwhelmed. By custom, he should have conceded, but he stubbornly refused, his eyes reddening with frustration.
Footsteps thudded from the other end of the corridor as Yuanjue approached. Seeing the scene, he quietly scolded Bore and told him to admit defeat.
Bore remained silent.
In the awkward stalemate, Yaoying coughed twice, stepped out from the cool corridor, and smiled at the group. "The summer heat is unbearable. It's rare to find such coolness."The word "cool and refreshing" carried profound meaning. Several monks paused for a moment, pressed their palms together toward her, and walked away without another word.
Bore glared at the monks' retreating figures, his face flushed with anger.
Yuanjue cupped his hands toward Yaoying in apology. She waved dismissively to indicate it was nothing, then glanced at Bore. "You knew you couldn't win the debate against them. Why didn't you just admit defeat?"
Bore snorted lightly and straightened his chest. "They showed disrespect toward the King! I would never admit defeat to them!"
Yuanjue scolded him under his breath, "Since you lost the debate, you should concede defeat! The King's reputation isn't built on you winning a single debate."
Bore fell silent, his face full of grievance.
Yaoying frowned slightly. "How did they show disrespect toward the Dharma Master?"
Her question only made Bore's eyes redden further.
"They were disrespectful toward the King!" he roared in the direction the monks had departed, then slowly explained what had happened.
Recently, monks in the temple had often gathered to discuss apocryphal scriptures, which led to conversations about Tanmoroqie's Brahmi translations.
Yaoying asked, "Do they not approve of his translations?"
Bore's eyes widened. "The King is proficient in Brahmi! How could they not approve of his translations?"
The corner of Yaoying's mouth twitched.
After glaring at her several times, Bore continued, "They said that although the King is well-versed in the Scriptures and could have achieved greater accomplishments—whether through writing or translation—he hasn't. He has neglected his spiritual practice."
It turned out the temple monks believed Tanmoroqie was exceptionally gifted and knowledgeable. Some senior monks had predicted he would become a great figure in Buddhism. However, instead of focusing solely on studying the Scriptures, he divided his attention by managing secular affairs of the Royal Court, sometimes even leading troops into battle. Moreover, he employed and indulged the cruel and ruthless Regent, thereby accumulating unnecessary karma through killing. These efforts were thankless and didn't accumulate merit like propagating the Buddhist Dharma would, thus wasting his innate wisdom.
Yaoying became thoughtful.
The monks' comments directly addressed a question that had been lingering in her mind.
Buddhism had numerous schools, and people from different regions interpreted the Scriptures differently. Some, aiming to promote their own ideas, developed their own theoretical systems based on Buddhist teachings, leading to various branches and sects such as Chan, Tiantai, Sanlun, and Faxiang in the Central Plains.
For a monk whose faith centered on delivering all living beings from suffering, the aspiration would be to compile a lifetime of insights into scriptures, establish a school, guide people, and help more souls cross to the other shore.
Tanmoroqie had long been renowned and was a noble prince. With such status, why were there no surviving discourses or writings from him?
During his lifetime, he was famous throughout the Western Regions, but after his death, he vanished like a wisp of smoke before the Buddha, leaving no trace behind.
Nothing remained.
That day, Yaoying had sat beside him as he translated Chinese Scriptures on the spot. Judging by the other monks' reactions, he not only translated quickly but also fluently, to the point where they believed an original Brahmi version must exist.
She was convinced that if he had wished, he could have started writing discourses long ago.
After age thirteen, he had shaken off aristocratic control and held real power—no one dared hinder his spiritual practice.
After much contemplation, Yaoying felt only one explanation somewhat made sense: Tanmoroqie's responsibilities were too heavy. Having taken saving all people as his mission, he naturally had no time to write scriptures or discourses.
Clearly, the monks thought the same, hence their discussions and complaints about him failing to live up to expectations and wasting his wisdom.After Bore finished recounting his argument with the monks, he sniffed: "How can they speak of our King that way?"
Yuanjue sighed and said, "Don't argue with them anymore. The King wouldn't care about such matters."
Yaoying snapped out of her thoughts and looked at Bore: "I heard your name was given by the Dharma Master?"
Her sudden change of topic left both Yuanjue and Bore bewildered. The latter nodded in confirmation.
Yaoying chuckled: "Bore means 'perfection of wisdom' in Brahmi. This name doesn't suit you well."
Bore stared blankly for a moment before understanding dawned, his face flushing bright red.
Before he could speak, Yaoying smiled gracefully and continued: "The monks speak of the Dharma Master this way because they hold high expectations of him. As a lay disciple, you shouldn't debate Buddhist doctrines with them - you can't win. They don't understand the Dharma Master's pursuits, so naturally they can't comprehend his choices. No matter how eloquently you argue, they'll always find reasons to refute you."
Bore glanced sideways at Yaoying, his eyes full of suspicion: "Does the Princess mean... you actually approve of our King?"
Yaoying nodded openly: "Next time you argue with the monks, don't get stuck on doctrinal debates. Whether to withdraw from the world or engage with it is a personal choice. While seclusion allows focused cultivation, if everyone only sought personal liberation, what would become of the Royal Court? What would happen to the common people? The Dharma Master is both a high monk and a monarch. He cares for all people, disregarding personal gains and losses. What he seeks is the liberation of all beings, not his personal reputation."
"For decades, the kingdoms have been in chaos, people displaced and lives treated like grass. Yet the Royal Court remains stable and peaceful, with all ethnic groups living contentedly. The markets are bustling with crowds, merchants gathering, goods from various kingdoms filling the stalls..."
Yaoying stood before the long corridor, her dark eyes bright and clear, enunciating each word: "These are the Dharma Master's interpretation of Buddhist Dharma! These are his achievements!"
In these troubled times, Tanmoroqie had sheltered countless lives.
Yaoying would always respect such people, because she knew too well the taste of struggling to survive in chaotic times.
Yuanjue and Bore felt deeply moved, gazing at Yaoying's radiant face in prolonged silence.
After a long while, they exchanged glances and sighed: "But the temple monks don't see it that way."
Yaoying couldn't help but sigh inwardly.
Those who gather firewood for the crowd should not freeze to death in the snow.
Yet the reality is that heroes remembered by the world are often lonely and isolated.
Yuanjue and Bore actually somewhat agreed with the monks' views, which was why they lacked conviction when arguing with them and naturally couldn't prevail.
Even as Tanmoroqie's most loyal guards, they couldn't fully understand him.
Although someone as aloof and rational as Tanmoroqie probably didn't need ordinary people's understanding, Yaoying still felt regret for him.
She turned to Bore: "You can refute the other monks from different angles. When they criticize the Dharma Master again, ask them: Ten years ago, who led the central army to defeat the Northern Rong? Who saved the people of the Royal Court? Who provides sanctuary for the Buddhist temples? Who supplies their food, clothing, and shelter? The Buddha embodies compassion - could the Dharma Master stand by and watch people die?"
Yaoying blinked.
"In our Central Plains, there's a saying: 'Lift the bowl to eat, put it down to curse the cook.'"
Bore's eyes lit up.
Yaoying continued: "If the monks say all this is illusory and only scripture provides ultimate salvation, have them consider Dharma Master Mengda Ti Po."Buddhism originated in the Land of Brahma, but due to various complex reasons and its failure to adapt to changing times, it gradually drifted away from the needs of the people. The result? The Buddhist Dharma in the Land of Brahma slowly declined. It was precisely this realization that drove Mengda Ti Po to travel thousands of miles through the Central Plains and Western Regions, seeking the truth that would allow the Dharma to endure.
Bore nodded in agreement, hesitated for a moment, then leaned over and whispered to Yuanjue in Brahmi with a serious expression, occasionally glancing up at Yaoying as he spoke.
Yaoying smiled and said in the Hu language, "What is it? Is Little Master Bore speaking ill of me again?"
Bore flushed crimson, snorted, and ran off in a huff.
Yuanjue pressed his palms together respectfully toward Yaoying. "Bore just said that since the princess has been residing in the monastery, she has cast aside worldly adornments, devoted herself sincerely to practice, and considered the king in all matters. This shows her sincerity toward him, and he admits he misjudged you before."
Yaoying was taken aback, then shook her head with a laugh. "What a pity. I've been diligently studying Brahmi these days and learned a few insults, preparing for a debate with Bore in Brahmi."
Yuanjue chuckled. "How could someone as noble as the princess learn vulgar language?"
Yaoying shook her head earnestly. "Little Master Yuanjue, I studied Brahmi with the guards precisely so I could understand when Bore insults me and retort on the spot."
Yuanjue laughed heartily.
Before the flower-covered wall, lush vines climbed densely. As the two walked along the corridor chatting and laughing, a golden arc suddenly flashed in the corner.
A low growl rumbled from beneath the shade of the trees.
Yuanjue immediately halted, raising his arm to shield Yaoying.
A shimmering golden light flickered in the shadows as a magnificent leopard leaped from the earthen wall—agile, with glossy fur and eyes reflecting the bright sunlight.
A flicker of surprise crossed Yuanjue's face. He quickly scanned the surroundings and reassured Yaoying in a low voice, "Princess, do not fear. Ali does not harm people without cause."
Yaoying whispered, "It's alright. This leopard saved me once."
That night, Su Dan Gu and the leopard had suddenly appeared and rescued her from Haidu Aling. Now, seeing the leopard again, she wasn't as frightened as before.
The leopard shook its body, wagged its tail, and lazily circled the two, as if patrolling its territory.
Yaoying lowered her gaze, avoiding looking at it.
The leopard glanced at her, perhaps recognizing her, and suddenly stretched forward, its claws catching the hem of her skirt as its furry head nuzzled against her dress.
Yuanjue gasped softly, clenched his fists, and stared tensely at the leopard, beads of sweat rolling down his temples.
Yaoying froze completely, holding her breath and not daring to move.
A dry breeze blew, loosening strands of hair by her temples that brushed against her cheeks, tingling slightly.
Yuanjue shook his head at Yaoying: Princess, don't move.
The leopard drew closer, so near she could hear its breathing. A shiver ran through Yaoying, but she gritted her teeth and let it approach.
Just as she was about to reach her limit, the leopard suddenly shuddered, turned its head to sniff the air, and leaped lightly back onto the earthen wall.
The vines rustled as the spotted figure vanished into the shadows.
Yaoying remained still a while longer, ensuring the leopard wouldn't return, then let out a long exhale.
Yuanjue apologized, "I didn't expect Ali to be hiding there. I'm sorry for frightening you, Princess."
Yaoying smiled and gestured that it was nothing.Yuanjue escorted her back, watching her retreating figure until she disappeared before turning around and striding swiftly through the corridor.
Ahead, golden light glimmered as a leopard gracefully crossed the courtyard, lightly climbed onto the veranda, and swished its tail while approaching a man. It lifted its head and rubbed against the man's leg.
The man looked down, revealing a pair of deep emerald eyes.
The leopard raised its head, gazing at him expectantly.
The man bent down, palm open, a rosary coiled several times around his wrist.
The leopard nuzzled his palm, emitting a cooing sound of affection, then contentedly lay on its side at his feet and began licking its paws.
Yuanjue followed into the courtyard, kneeling on one knee: "Your Majesty, Princess Wenzhao was just here."
Tanmoroqie looked up, uttering a soft "hmm." His light gray monk's robes accentuated his tall, straight posture.
"How did Ali end up here?"
Yuanjue replied, "I do not know. Perhaps the caretakers were negligent, allowing it to slip out unnoticed."
Tanmoroqie remained calm. "Return it to the Beast Garden. Do not let it frighten anyone."
Yuanjue understood that Tanmoroqie had witnessed the leopard teasing Princess Wenzhao earlier and respectfully acknowledged the order.
Tanmoroqie raised his hand, the rosary swaying gently as he made a gesture.
"Ali, go."
The leopard obediently rose and followed Yuanjue down the veranda.
As Yuanjue led the leopard quietly out of the courtyard, Tanmoroqie's voice suddenly came from behind.
"Why did Princess Wenzhao come?"
Yuanjue paused, turning back. "Princess Wenzhao said... that night when the Regent saved her, he seemed injured. She wondered if his wounds had healed and has been concerned. If the physicians find the medicine she sent useful, she can send more."
Tanmoroqie frowned slightly. "What medicine?"
Yuanjue whispered, "The princess, worried about the Regent's injuries, entrusted General Ashina to deliver some medicine... The general may have forgotten about it."
Tanmoroqie fell silent, his expression serene and detached.
Yuanjue waited a moment. Seeing no further instructions, he was about to take his leave when Tanmoroqie stopped him: "Tell the princess there is no need to send more medicine. I appreciate her kindness."
"Yes."
Yuanjue acknowledged and withdrew from the courtyard with the leopard.
While walking along the corridor, he suddenly halted before a flower-covered wall. Glancing back at the lush vines atop the wall, he frowned slightly.
Had His Majesty been standing behind this flower wall while Princess Wenzhao spoke with Bore?
Did His Majesty hear what Princess Wenzhao said?
Princess Wenzhao claimed the monks in the temple did not understand His Majesty—so who did?
Yuanjue stood dazed for a while until the leopard impatiently swatted at him. He laughed and scolded, "You frightened the princess again today!"
Man and leopard exited the temple via a secluded path, heading straight for the Beast Garden.
...
Ever since Yaoying taught Bore how to refute other monks, his attitude toward her changed completely. He began visiting her frequently for guidance.
He developed a keen interest in Chinese, especially after learning from Yaoying how to insult people eloquently without using profanity. His thirst for knowledge grew insatiable.
At first, Yaoying patiently instructed him, but eventually, she grew weary. When Bore came again, she dispatched her guards to teach him how to curse.
Bore, flustered, puffed out his chest and declared, "Is the princess not learning Brahmi? I can teach you Brahmi! You teach me vernacular Chinese—it's a fair trade! I will instruct you diligently."
Yaoying pondered for a while and decided the exchange was worthwhile, agreeing to continue teaching Bore.For several days, the two had been teaching each other, with Bore learning a few simple Chinese phrases and Yaoying picking up some Brahmi curses.
Just as the Royal Court citizens were harvesting the last batch of ripening grapes for drying, Sand City guards brought back news: Bi Suo, who had been on a diplomatic mission to Northern Rong, had returned—by carriage.
Yaoying immediately checked her luggage and replenished some supplies, ready to depart as soon as Bi Suo returned.
On the day of Bi Suo's return, Yuanjue went outside the city to greet him but didn't return to the monastery until nightfall.
He brought back grim news: Bi Suo had suffered a leg injury, hence his return by carriage.
Yaoying frowned: Would the journey to Gaochang be postponed again?
Before she could discuss the matter with Bi Suo, Yuanjue delivered several fine horses for her and her guards to select from.
"Princess, please finalize your personnel and prepare your luggage. We depart in three days."
Surprised, Yaoying asked, "Has General Ashina recovered from his injury?"
Yuanjue shook his head: "General Ashina injured his thigh and won't be able to ride for a month... The King said the matter is urgent. He will send the Regent to accompany you."
Su Dan Gu?
Yaoying was momentarily stunned, then nodded. Su Dan Gu had been to Gaochang before and knew the route well—having him as an escort was ideal.
Though Su Dan Gu appeared fierce and intimidating, she wasn't the least bit afraid of him.
He was no villain.
OpenNovel