Chapter 6, Drowned in the Room

Hong Ning inspected the window and found it securely nailed shut, so she asked, "Did anyone come looking for Young Master Zheng that night?"

Bai Ling pulled her away and said: "That is a white fox, be careful, do not be deceived by him"

Jinxiu Huanxiao: "I dare not."

Did the abbot not say that Zheng Ke likes this pond? But look at those water plants, those withered lotus leaves... The pond has never been cleaned. Hong Ning looked carefully for a long time, then raised her face and said, "There are indeed fish in there. Do you think the fish might be causing trouble?"

Indeed, he is a good official. Hong Ning expressed her gratitude and led Bai Ling inside.

The fragrance of flowers wafts gently, and in the palace city of Huazhao, it is spring all year round. Clad in splendid attire, I stand with my hands behind my back at the edge of the vermilion railing, gazing at the cluster of fiery red camellias below, seemingly lost in thought.

Bai Ling shook her head: "This temple has not been established for long, the aura of Buddhism is not strong, and the light of the Buddha is still weak"

Lu Yao said softly, "Thank you for your help with Lu Jiu's matter"

If you continue to entangle, do not blame me for being merciless

"That may not be the case; I have heard that Hai Gong was a highly renowned upright official in Mingzhou before." A voice interjected.

Tao Zhixian also sensed that something was amiss, but he was hindered by the need to maintain face in front of Hai Gong and could not express his concerns

The officials said: "We have been guarding the courtyard all along, but there has been no movement."

It must wait for it to reveal itself

Hong Ning let out a sigh: "Is there a pond inside?"

County Magistrate Tao sneered: "Do you mean he went to the pond by himself?"

The county magistrate Tao echoed a couple of sentences and repeatedly invited Lord Hai to the city for accommodation, but Lord Hai declined politely. He was well aware of his brother-in-law's usual conduct, and now seeing him die under such suspicious circumstances, especially in this place, he could not help but feel uneasy. As he stepped outside, he noticed that it was already late, so he hurriedly took his leave, leaving several yamen runners to ensure Lord Hai's safety. After all, if a court official were to encounter trouble on his own territory, it would be difficult to escape responsibility.

Hong Ning realized: "Yes, just now in our room, something happened. Didn't we mark everything? Why is there nothing here?"

A person drowned inexplicably in the room, which clearly suggests something amiss. Hong Ning was astonished: "Could it be a murder? Since this is a temple, there should be the protection of Buddhist law; such an incident should not occur. That thing is quite powerful?"

Hong Ning sighed: "Can't you hum a little more?"

County Magistrate Tao could not help but exclaim: "You two are still young; what ability do you have to capture the murderer? This is absurd!"

Haigongdao: "Since you two have such courage, then stay here."

Someone has died

Bai Ling turned to the side

Splendid and unexpected: "Heavenly Maiden"

The woman in white gritted her teeth and said, "Do not regret it."

Hong Ning listened clearly and felt a bit of sympathy for He Lanxue. Love can breed hatred; emotions are always the most elusive thing. No matter how much one invests, it may not yield a return. While feeling sentimental, she inexplicably felt a tinge of melancholy. ... Humans and demons cannot be together; the only solution is to cultivate immortality ...

When the servant discovered him, Young Master Zheng was lying in the middle of the ground, completely soaked as if he had been immersed in water. According to the coroner's examination, he had drowned

County Magistrate Tao felt uneasy: "Nowadays, it is about finding the murderer, not seeking any Buddha."

Hong Ning nodded: "That's right, he drowned in the water of the pond"

Beautiful smile: "How?"

Bai Ling remained silent

"Come out." Bai Ling's voice.

He has some water plants on him

The woman hesitated and said, "They all say... the Divine Lord is about to step down and return to the Central Heaven."

Hong Ning was uncertain and turned to look at Bai Ling

Hong Ning remained silent

The case is peculiar, and Hai Gong originally did not expect much from the two. He nodded and said, "Very well, let us rest for today."

The water in the pond is deep and tranquil, the surface of the pond is wide. As summer has not yet arrived, new lotus leaves are not yet visible; only in the shallow water are there many withered lotus stems leaning in various directions. The two individuals stand by the edge of the pond

With a wave of her long sleeves, she vanished completely

Bai Ling remained silent for a long time, then pushed her away: "I have already spared your life"

Upon seeing the appearance of the two individuals, Hong Ning was utterly shocked

Do not implicate the monk

Where is the water grass?

As the cloud dissipated, a figure appeared clad in a long snow-white dress, her beauty striking. Amidst her dignified demeanor, there was a hint of natural allure. Her pair of beautiful eyes seemed to convey both reproach and delight; she was none other than the Northern Yao Celestial Maiden.

The question was posed, and I initially thought that Bai Ling would not respond. To my surprise, he actually stopped in his tracks and unprecedentedly replied: "She is the Snow Princess of Kunlun Mountain"

Hong Ning was astonished: "How did he die?"

Hong Ning said: "In order to conduct a thorough investigation, it is essential to ask clear questions."

Silence

Red Ning lowered her eyelids: "One must demonstrate their abilities to be recognized. The common woman has just heard someone say that Master Tao of this county also became a successful candidate at the age of twenty. Is it not true that he too achieved great things at a young age?"

Xing Xian was taken aback for a moment, then suddenly said: "If we could become her maidservants, wouldn't that mean we could follow the Divine Lord?"

Lord Hai also stated: "Young Master Zheng remained in his room that night and did not go out"

Is he the newly appointed governor? Hong Ning pondered. Usually, when officials take office, they inform their subordinates in advance and are well-received with good food and accommodation. Yet, he is staying in a temple outside the city. On the surface, he seems quite upright, but it is hard to say; how many good officials are there these days? ... It is possible that he is just a lot of noise with little substance, pretending to be virtuous while seeking to gain a reputation...

Jinxiu Dao: "Meixian is right, even if I am not present, there will be a new Flower Deity. Since they belong to our kind, they will take care of you in the future. Moreover, it is still uncertain whether I can return to my position. You two must not let this matter interfere with your cultivation."

In the past, nothing ever happened in the temple; it feared the sight of the Buddha's name, so it certainly wouldn't be too severe

The woman in white is indeed Helan Xue, and that man, with a pair of soul-stirring eyes, is none other than the fox demon Lu Jiu

The sea lord shook his head

Bai Lingdao: "Isn't everything in the temple marked with the character 'Buddha'?"

Bai Ling slightly nodded and softly said: "Buddha"

The woman earlier flushed with anger and glared at her

Hong Ning did not notice, leaning over to glance in that direction, only to see He Lan Xue sitting in Lu Jiu's embrace, her hands wrapped around Lu Jiu's neck, her beautiful eyes, however, were gazing far away at Bai Ling. Seeing that he showed no reaction, she gradually could no longer maintain her act, revealing a look of hurt and anger. Who was Lu Jiu? He quickly noticed that the beauty was not in the right state and turned to look over. Hong Ning inadvertently met his gaze, and her heart began to feel dazed again, until Bai Ling turned sideways to block her view, which jolted her back to reality, secretly regretting.

Everyone was surprised

Lu Yao shook her head: "It is his fault for not practicing diligently and running down the mountain to cause trouble on his own. If you had not taught him a lesson, he would surely have caused a great disaster in the future, and at that time, even his father would not be able to save him." After a pause, she cast a sideways glance: "Since we are family, you should naturally discipline him. There is no need to be so distant; my father can only feel grateful and would never blame you."

Knowing that she had been discovered, Hong Ning hurriedly walked out from behind the tree and smiled, saying: "I saw that you all were busy, so I did not want to disturb you"

Jinxiu was about to speak, but then paused, turning her face to look at the auspicious clouds flying in from the horizon

I am not yet for you

Yes

Relying on having some money and with his brother-in-law being a county magistrate, he has been acting tyrannically every day. Now, dying in the presence of the Buddha, this is truly retribution; it is better that the truth remains unclear!

The sea lord's eyes indeed brightened, and he fell into deep thought

Although Zheng Ke is deserving of his punishment, one cannot guarantee that such a thing will not harm others again. Upon seeing Governor Hai turn to enter, Hong Ning decided to take a gamble. She stepped forward a couple of paces and said loudly, "Master, this humble woman and my senior brother happen to be passing through this place and would like to seek lodging at the temple for a few days. May I ask if the master could grant us this favor?"

Jinxiu was momentarily taken aback, then smiled.

Hong Ning whispered, "What should I do?"

Hong Ning could not help but laugh, pointing at him and about to speak, when she heard a familiar voice coming from the left. Turning her head, she discovered a couple in white clothing flirting over there

The deceased is the brother-in-law of the county magistrate; who would be willing to wade through this murky water? Moreover, with such a tyrant dead, the common people would only applaud in delight. Even if they know the clues, they would not assist in capturing the murderer, thus the crowd gradually dispersed

County Magistrate Tao found it difficult to say whether it was or was not, and lightly snorted: "He has a sharp tongue."

Hong Ning said: "I do not wish to conceal anything from you, my lord. We are practitioners, and as the saying goes, monks and Daoists are of one family; there is no place more suitable than here." After a pause, she added with a smile: "Perhaps I still have a way to capture the murderer."

Both of them laughed coldly

Bai Ling looked at her: "Hmm."

It is said that Tianhe Temple was originally a small temple, which has gradually expanded in scale over the past decade, with an increasing number of worshippers. Today, it has gained a certain level of fame, and at this moment, many citizens are gathered outside the steps, engaged in lively discussions

Bai Ling fell silent for a moment and said, "He was drowned in the room"

Hong Ning shook her head. A person who funded the construction of the temple found the character "Buddha" unsightly, as it was everywhere. Naturally, the shallow-minded monsters did not dare to cause trouble. He removed his protective talisman himself, and thus suffered misfortune; it was indeed the will of heaven

Hai Gong suspected: "Is it true?"

Hong Ning exclaimed: "As the saying goes, 'If one does not commit any wrongdoing, one need not fear the knocking of ghosts at the door.' Throughout my life, I have never done evil nor have I bullied others with my power. Who would harm us without reason?"

The sea lord spoke in a gentle and pleasant manner: "A murder has just occurred here, you all..."

Another monk nearby testified: "It was indeed Zheng Tanyue who ordered the change."

Meixian Dao: "She is the future queen consort of the Central Heaven, so she can naturally come."

Hong Ning could not squeeze in and asked Bai Ling: "What happened?"

Everyone turned to look at her

Hong Ning pondered for a moment: "It is most likely something aquatic causing trouble, can you feel it?"

A young monk hurriedly stood up with his palms together and said: "Zheng Tanyue said it was unsightly and asked the young monk to change it."

Xingxian was delighted: "Really?"

Hong Ning could not help but ask: "Is she the same as you?"

Red凝试探: "How will she get out of this in the future?"

Hai Gong was momentarily taken aback, as if deep in thought

Hong Ning said: "You are truly heartless"

"It has nothing to do with me?" The woman in white embraced his arm, tilting her face and shaking her head, "Do you think I enjoy harming others? Committing too many sins will only intensify the tribulations in the future. Do you think I am unaware? I am not afraid?" Gradually, a brilliance flickered in her beautiful eyes as she gazed into his, "We have cultivated together on Kunlun Mountain for over 200 years, and you often say I am timid, allowing them to bully me. But as long as you are here, I dare to do anything. You... you do not understand my feelings?"

The woman in white said, "Come back with me to Kunlun Mountain"

Zheng Ke, notorious for oppressing the common people, is willing to spend money to build a temple. Hong Ning secretly laughs and asks, "Did you see anything particularly special at that time?"

Bai Ling coldly said: "It has nothing to do with you"

Meixian expressed disdain: "Lacking great ambition."

The sea lord showed a look of appreciation but still shook his head: "You two are young and should prioritize your lives; go elsewhere."

The Northern Yao goddess did not offer any greetings, but instead walked slowly to his side: "Noble ones tend to forget things; have you even forgotten the name Lu Yao? If you continue to be so polite, next time I will have no choice but to pay my respects to the King of Heaven in the same manner."

The abbot hesitated slightly and replied: "It is from the lotus pond of this temple. Zheng Tanyue is fond of that pond and has stocked it with many fish, not allowing us to disturb them without permission"

You killed Xiao Ke

The official named Tao truly wields considerable power. Hong Ning merely gazed at Lord Hai and said, "I have long heard that Lord Hai loves the people as his own children. It is only because I dare to make this request that I hope Lord Hai will forgive me." Let us see if you are all in cahoots.

It has nothing to do with me

Hong Ning unexpectedly exclaimed, "Oh," and no longer pursued the question

Bai Lingnu: "Helan Xue!"

If one were to say that there are strange, inhuman entities in the pond, would this esteemed governor believe it? Hong Ning found it difficult to explain and retorted, "Could it be that the water from the pond flows into the room and drowns people, would you believe that, my lord?"

County Magistrate Tao snorted: "Absurd!"

The abbot sighed: "Amitabha, our temple was originally just a tiny place. Over the past ten years, thanks to the support of Zheng Tanye, we have reached this point. I never expected that he would not have a good end..."

A splendid gesture invites one to take a seat

Both individuals are rare figures, and in terms of appearance, they seem well-matched. However, if they are merely a superficial match without true connection, they do not appear as pleasing to the eye. Hong Ning sighed, and in her anger, He Lan Xue resorted to such a foolish method. Bai Ling, is she really someone who would feel jealous over her? In the end, apart from herself, no one else is affected.

Bai Ling had indeed seen it long ago, slightly furrowing her brow, but said nothing

"Then what? If she does not die, she will ruin you!" The woman in white exclaimed, raising her voice, "Humans and demons are on different paths; you are not of the same kind and cannot possibly be together. Otherwise, you will surely face divine retribution!"

Jinxiu turned to the side

A murder has occurred, yet the faces of the surrounding townspeople show no signs of sorrow; instead, there is a hint of glee. Hong Ning is puzzled by this when she suddenly sees a group of people emerge from within the door. Among them are several monks, a number of yamen runners, and two guards in blue robes. Leading the group are three individuals, one of whom is dressed in a scarlet official robe, appearing to be in his fifties, with a stern expression. To his left is the county magistrate, Tao, and to his right is the abbot of Tianhe Temple.

Bai Ling did not respond

Bai Ling glanced at her and turned to leave

Lu Yao's beautiful eyes glanced around, revealing a hint of a sly smile: "I have long heard that the scenery in Huazhao Palace is beautiful, and indeed it is. I originally intended to stroll around more, but I was afraid you would find me bothersome."

The two of them continued to talk, while Xing Xian served tea and then stepped back to stand beside Mei Xian, quietly complaining: "Why do they always come to bother the esteemed deity?"

Hong Ning said: "You are an official appointed by the court, of noble status, and yet you are not afraid; what do we have to fear?"

The woman lowered her head and said softly, "There is nothing, it's just that we will no longer be able to see the esteemed deity from now on..."

The sea master smiled and asked the resident monk beside him, "Are there any vacant guest rooms?"

Red condensation is inexplicable

Bai Ling looked at her, seemingly a bit stunned

In the distance, Bai Ling stood under the shade of a tree, accompanied by a woman in white. Hong Ning recognized her and hesitated to approach, quickly retreating behind the tree.

The woman in white looked at him for half a day, her voice filled with hatred: "She deserved to die. If it weren't for her, we could have cultivated together and transcended the tribulation. I only regret not having beaten her to the point of losing her soul!"

Drowned.

The person dressed in a crimson official robe clasped his hands towards the crowd and spoke loudly: "I, Hai, have been appointed by His Majesty as the Governor of Yuezhou and am on my way to take up my post. The other day, while passing through this county, I intended to stay overnight at a temple, but unexpectedly encountered such a heinous incident. This county is under the jurisdiction of Yuezhou, and my office cannot evade responsibility. I will thoroughly investigate this case, and anyone with information is welcome to come forward. If the information is verified, there will be substantial rewards!"

The two people beside are whispering

Upon arriving, Tao Zhixian had the intention to trouble the two individuals. Moreover, the deceased was his brother-in-law. He had heard that the governor was passing by and hurriedly brought him along to curry favor. Unexpectedly, this led to the loss of his life. His sister, unable to contain her grief, naturally became extremely distressed, thus she was eager to urge the capture of the murderer. Hong Ning did not decline either and proposed to go to the scene. The abbot then led everyone to Zheng Ke's room.

The abbot does not dare to make decisions independently, only looking to Master Hai for guidance

How could someone like Zheng Ke live in such a place? It must be that he inquired about the new governor passing by, and came along with his uncle to curry favor, not knowing how much silver he has given.

The Northern Realm King should not take offense

Hong Ning also felt that it was unnecessary to meddle, nodding and saying, "Understood"

Behind him, a woman dressed in a red and white light shirt, holding apricot blossoms, softly called out to him: "Your Excellency, the Divine Lord"

The abbot replied: "There are still a few rooms available"

The room is clean, somewhat simple, yet it is still evident that this is a superior guest room in the temple

"Promotion to the celestial realm is indeed a joyous occasion. Are you suggesting that the esteemed deity should remain here to watch over you?" The haughty woman beside her interrupted, waving her hand, causing a tree of red plums to bloom instantly, filling the air with a fragrant aroma. "As long as we devote ourselves to our cultivation, we will eventually ascend to the rank of immortals, and there will come a day when we reunite in the heavenly court. Your clinginess will only disturb the esteemed deity's practice."

County Magistrate Tao reprimanded: "Presumptuous! The Governor is here, how can idle people be allowed to stay!"