Chapter 173: You Took Someone Else’s Luck, It’s Time to Return It (1)
Translator: _Min_
The scene was enveloped in a serene quietude, almost veering towards solemn silence.
Even the young monk holding the lamp beside them seemed somewhat bewildered.
Master Miaoguang had certainly earned a reputation as a renowned master in
Anyone who visited the city of Lin in the Western State for tourism made it a point to offer incense and pay respects at the Liushan Temple.
However, there were certain truths that couldn’t be fully disclosed, and even Master Miaoguang would only hint at them in a rather obscure manner.
But even his vague hints were profoundly beneficial, spreading his fame to other cities.
Over the decades, with Master Miaoguang presiding over Liushan Temple, its popularity had surged.
He had numerous disciples, all highly respected.
Yet, when had they ever seen him treating a mere talisman with such reverence, addressing it as his senior?
What kind of entity could command such respect from Master Miaoguang to be called a predecessor?
The young monk, with his smooth, bald head, suddenly knelt with a “thump.” Mrs. Pei’s voice ceased abruptly.
She jerked her head up, staring at Master Miaoguang’s face, which was brimming with respect. A chord in her mind snapped, and her ears buzzed noisily.
Pei Mengzhi, equally astonished, stammered, “Master, you call this a senior?”
“Yes,” replied Master Miaoguang, gently squeezing the talisman. “This talisman was clearly crafted in an instant. It shows that the creator is not only skilled but also immensely talented.”
He brought his hands together in a prayer and bowed. “I’ve practiced for decades and still cannot achieve this. I’m ashamed.”
The young monk was even more astounded.
In this circle, the distinction between seniors and juniors was based on ability, not age.
Even someone advanced in years would respectfully address a younger master as a senior.
Mrs. Pei’s face stiffened, her voice trembling heavily from the depth of her throat, “Does the master mean… this talisman is genuine?”
“Indeed, it is,” affirmed Master Miaoguang, scrutinizing Pei Mengzhi. “This gentleman’s face shows signs of early demise, which he has been fortunate to avoid until now.”
“But as time progresses, it will become increasingly difficult to evade. This talisman could save his life at a critical moment.”
Pei Mengzhi nodded vigorously, “Exactly, that’s what she said.”
“Then, Master, is there a cure?” Mrs. Pei panicked. “Can my son be saved?”
“Your son has formed good karmic ties; there’s no need to worry,” Master Miaoguang stated bluntly. “However, the situation you, Mrs. Pei, is not so promising. Losing wealth is a minor issue; losing life is the major one.” Mrs. Pei felt as if struck by lightning, her face turning ashen.
Pei Mengzhi asked further, “Master, you’re aware of our family’s situation?”
“Apologies to both benefactors,” Master Miaoguang chanted a Buddhist mantra. “I’m not skilled enough. Both of you have been afflicted with a chronic cold evil, and I’m powerless to help.”
Mrs. Pei in disbelief, “Even you can’t do anything?”
“Perhaps if my teacher were to come out of seclusion, there might be a chance,” Master Miaoguang shook his head. “Alas, my teacher has been wandering around the world since the last century, and even I, as his disciple, don’t know his whereabouts. ”
After a brief pause, the sharpness in his eyes intensified slightly. “But since both benefactors have the help of a senior, why seek me?” he queried. Mrs. Pei forced a smile. “Master, this…”
At this moment, how could she admit that not only had she disbelieved, but she had also thought Si Fuqing to be a harbinger of misfortune?
Master Miaoguang had already understood. He shook his head, a gesture of lament. “What a pity, what a pity. Jingyuan, show the guests out.”
Mrs. Pei wanted to say more, but Master Miaoguang had already resumed his seat and closed his eyes.
She had no choice but to leave.
The next seeker of guidance was Zuo Qingya.
“Brother Mengzhi, what did you come to ask for?” she asked cheerfully. “I’m here to get a talisman for my grandmother.”
Pei Mengzhi cast a strange look at her.
What an idiot.
He refrained from voicing these three words.
Mrs. Pei glared at Zuo Qingya, her gaze chilly and unwelcoming.
Zuo Qingya, startled, stammered, “Auntie Pei, what’s the matter?”
“Let’s go, ” Mrs. Pei said coldly. “Don’t come to our house anymore. You’re not welcome. ”
As Zuo Qingya watched their retreating figures, she stood dumbfounded.
Before she could speak further, a young monk urged her forward.
She reluctantly proceeded.
“Master, I am Zuo Qingya,” she said, bowing respectfully. “Lately, I’ve been restless, plagued by nightmares, and feeling weak, though the hospital finds nothing wrong. Master, could you see if something unclean has attached itself to me?”
Master Miaoguang opened his eyes. After a brief moment, he spoke indifferently, “Jingyuan, show the guest out..”