The 10th episode: Righteousness amidst the wilderness, a monk leaps and shouts.
Regardless of how the authorities explain it, the majority of ordinary people and visiting tourists only believe one thing: that the mountain deity has manifested. This notion may not hold much weight in formal discourse, yet it circulates among the populace, with many firmly convinced, some preferring to believe in its existence rather than its absence, and others feeling that it does no harm to entertain the belief. It is unclear who initiated this trend, but during visits to the mountain deity's temple, some began to offer incense. Subsequently, the number of people burning incense and bowing in reverence increased, gradually becoming a notable sight on Mount Zhaoting, with the fervor of worship even surpassing that of Jiulin Temple and the ancient Guangjiao Temple.
Only the sound of a woman's light laughter, like silver bells, echoed through the forest. Someone replied, "This young master, there is no need for thanks. Did you not just say that I am your newly accepted younger sister? When my elder brother is in trouble, of course, I must lend a hand"
The impact of the message is not limited to Wucheng; media from surrounding provinces and cities have also widely reprinted it. Several television stations specifically came to this location to film a documentary. The television footage presents a stark contrast between the desolate mountain scenery and the vibrant spring atmosphere surrounding the Mountain God Temple, creating a significant visual impact on the audience. From the aerial shots taken by helicopter, the peach orchard blooming in winter forms a perfect circle, encircling the Mountain God Temple at its center within a radius of approximately ten zhang.
Where there are deities, there are also monsters; what is so surprising about that! However, the term "monster" is not entirely appropriate. Humans can cultivate, so why can't plants and trees, which gather the spiritual energy of mountains and rivers, also cultivate? In fact, it is not just plants and trees; if the circumstances are right, even birds and beasts can communicate with spirits, and through that communication, they can cultivate. Humans are not the only life forms in this world. As he spoke, the Wind Gentleman intentionally or unintentionally glanced at the little dog, Xiu Xiu, lying in my arms. In fact, it is not just plants and trees; if the circumstances are right, even birds and beasts can communicate with spirits, and through that communication, they can cultivate. Humans are not the only life forms in this world. As he spoke, the Wind Gentleman intentionally or unintentionally glanced at the little dog, Xiu Xiu, lying in my arms
Since you treat it like a dog, you should cultivate it into a new dog of socialism that is knowledgeable, cultured, idealistic, and disciplined... Shiye, don't laugh; what I mean is that you should teach it to read and write.
Since Xiuxiu let out that earth-shattering roar, it has been listless, now obediently curled up in my arms, drowsy. Looking at its pitiful little dog appearance, I can hardly believe that such a thunderous shout came from this small body. Feng Junzi mentioned that this dog is not an ordinary one, and today I finally discovered its extraordinary nature. Unfortunately, Xiuxiu cannot speak, so I can only ask Feng Junzi: "Did you hear Xiuxiu's roar? That monk also said it is a strange beast, does that mean Xiuxiu can cultivate as well?" Feng Junzi mentioned that this dog is not an ordinary one, and today I finally discovered its extraordinary nature. Unfortunately, Xiuxiu cannot speak, so I can only ask Feng Junzi: "Did you hear Xiuxiu's roar? That monk also said it is a strange beast, does that mean Xiuxiu can cultivate as well?"
The Wind Gentleman scratched his head a bit awkwardly and said: "Well, my situation is somewhat special; I cannot engage in combat with that big monk... I understand now, you helped out the night before last... I originally intended to perform a ritual only on a few trees nearby, but unexpectedly, this entire peach orchard has blossomed... I should have thought of this earlier; with that kid's magical power, how could he have such great abilities!"
Many experts have come forward to attempt to explain this rare phenomenon that occurs once in a millennium. Some attribute it to genetic mutations in plants, while others suggest it is due to geothermal activity. However, the authoritative explanation ultimately recognized by the authorities is as follows: The Mountain God Temple is located in the Zhaoting Valley, surrounded by mountains on three sides and facing the sun on one side, making its geographical position quite unique. Additionally, the perennial constant-temperature snow creek spring water seeping underground behind the temple has created this distinctive local climatic anomaly. This explanation may be difficult for even the experts who reached this conclusion in the *Illustrated Book* to justify, but regardless, this has become the unified public relations stance set by the municipal publicity department, and it has been widely cited as the scientific explanation by major mainstream media.
How is Xiu Xiu
The monk finally discerned the mocking tone in Feng Junzi's words, realizing that he was being compared to Fahai, the meddlesome monk from "The Legend of the White Snake." He opened his mouth to respond: "I am Fahyuan, the abbot of Jiulin Temple. Passing through this place, I witnessed a ghost causing trouble and draining this benefactor's vital energy, hence I took action to eliminate the harm. May I ask who you are?" As he spoke, he pointed at me. It seemed that this Fahyuan monk had misunderstood the situation; it was no wonder, as any esteemed figure witnessing this scene would likely think the same.
She trapped the monk with tree vines, which seems to indicate that it is a spirit of the plants and trees that has cultivated for a thousand years in Zhaoting Mountain. That mountain temple might have originally been her territory, but perhaps due to the decline in worship, she no longer stayed there. In any case, when we went, the statue lacked any spiritual essence; otherwise, I would have discovered it long ago.
Could it be that I have slept for a long time, from early winter all the way to the spring? No, as I lift my eyes to gaze at the surrounding mountains, the landscape ten zhang away still reflects the scenery of early winter. I begin to understand; this is likely the work of the Wind Gentleman. I have witnessed his miraculous ability to make chrysanthemums bloom with a snap of his fingers, so it is not impossible for him to cause flowers to bloom around this mountain temple in winter. However, the scale of this seems a bit exaggerated!
Lively! Lively! Truly lively! Monk, do you think having a loud voice makes you impressive? At that moment, a clapping sound suddenly came from the peach grove, and Feng Junzi emerged. As soon as he appeared, the monk's imposing aura faltered, and the invisible pressure surrounding me suddenly vanished, allowing me to realize that I was already covered in a layer of cold sweat
The appearance of the Wind Gentleman surprised the monk as well. He turned to face the Wind Gentleman and said, "What kind of divine being are you? How can you remain unfazed under my lion's roar"
Amitabha! Just as I was lost in thought, a voice chanting the Buddha's name suddenly came from not far away. A monk walked out from the peach grove. This monk appeared to be around forty years old, with a tall and upright posture, and well-defined features. The twelve戒疤 on his shiny shaved head were particularly striking. He approached, holding a staff with his left hand and saluting with his right, saying: "This humble monk passes through this place and sees the ethereal energy soaring into the sky, indicating that there must be a master performing a rite here, so I have come to pay my respects. However, upon arriving here, I realize that flowers bloom in winter. Although the benefactor possesses profound magical powers, all things have their own cycles of withering and flourishing, and such actions against the natural order are ultimately inappropriate."
What you said, I do not understand
Later, a wealthy farmer entrepreneur voluntarily offered to fund the renovation of the Mountain God Temple, a move that received strong support from the local government and tourism department. The temple was refurbished with a grand hall, and three courtyards along with the east and west side halls were rebuilt. The spring water from the Xuexi Spring, located behind the temple, was also enclosed within the courtyard. Rumors spread that the water from the Xuexi Spring was blessed by the Mountain God, and drinking it could ward off disasters and cure ailments, leading to an increase in the number of worshippers visiting the Mountain God Temple.
The monk's demeanor and conduct do not exude a sense of grandeur; his expression is calm yet carries an inherent dignity, which can be considered as a solemn presence. However, I failed to grasp this. For no apparent reason, I woke up to find winter flowers blooming, the gentleman of the wind was nowhere to be seen, and instead, an odd monk had appeared.
What should I do? As I watched the monk approach the temple door with an imposing demeanor, I had no idea where Feng Junzi had run off to. Just as I was at a loss, a thunderous roar erupted from within the temple. The sound was like thunder exploding in my ears, causing me to lose my balance and sit down abruptly. The entire mountain god temple shook, and a considerable amount of dust fell from the beams. I noticed Xiuxiu had appeared in front of the statue, squatting there like a spirited little rooster, arching its back, tucking its tail, and glaring with its small eyes at the monk. The roar was quite powerful, and the monk was also shaken back several steps before he steadied himself.
I do not know how long I had been in a stupor when I finally awoke, only to find that the daylight had brightened significantly. I was wrapped in a military coat, sleeping beneath the shrine, with Feng Junzi's travel bag serving as a pillow for my head. There was no one around; both Feng Junzi and Xiu Xiu seemed to have disappeared. I got up and walked towards the temple door, only to be suddenly stunned! The scene before me was simply unbelievable—on either side of the temple door stood two withered crabapple trees that had miraculously bloomed with flowers overnight! As I looked around, the wild peach forest, which had previously been bare and lifeless, had transformed into a vibrant scene, not only lush with greenery but also adorned with blossoms on every tree!
The Wind Gentleman looked at Xiu Xiu and said: "In theory, that is correct, but the cultivation of beasts and plants differs from that of humans. Humans are considered the spirit of all things because they have established a civilized society, possess cultural heritage, and have passed down the secrets of the Dao through generations. In contrast, plants and beasts lack these elements; their cultivation is a result of serendipity, belonging to their own enlightenment, and occurs in a state of unconsciousness or unawareness. As for Xiu Xiu..."
What? Not only was I taken aback, but even the Wind Gentleman was surprised! Just now, the Wind Gentleman claimed that the mountain deity here was his newly acquired younger sister, which was obviously nonsense. However, the woman in the forest also claimed to be the Wind Gentleman's newly acquired younger sister, implying that she is indeed the mountain deity here! Could it be that there really are mountain deities and land spirits in this world? I looked at the Wind Gentleman with a puzzled expression. The Wind Gentleman happened to turn back to look at me, noticing the question in my eyes. He smiled wryly and shook his head. Could it be that there really are mountain deities and land spirits in this world? I looked at the Wind Gentleman with a puzzled expression. The Wind Gentleman happened to turn back to look at me, noticing the question in my eyes. He smiled wryly and shook his head, then spoke to the forest: "Since you call me 'big brother,' then I have a request for you. Regardless of whether this mountain deity temple is your domain or not, I would like to borrow it for a few days. You saw what happened just now; that female ghost is truly pitiful, so if you can help her, please do... Also, if anyone causes trouble, I would appreciate it if you could protect the tranquility of this place." Then he spoke to the forest again: "Since you call me 'big brother,' then I have a request for you. Regardless of whether this mountain deity temple is your domain or not, I would like to borrow it for a few days. You saw what happened just now; that female ghost is truly pitiful, so if you can help her, please do... Also, if anyone causes trouble, I would appreciate it if you could protect the tranquility of this place."
The monk steadied his posture, took a deep breath, and said loudly: "No wonder the monsters in this place are rampant; it turns out there is such a strange beast as you guarding it. It is truly rare to be born with such spiritual anomalies, but it is a pity that no one has guided you, leading you astray. If you stand in my way again, I will subdue you along with it and take you back for proper discipline... you wretched creature..."
Seeing the monk silent, the gentleman of the wind said, "If you do not speak, I will take it as your agreement. A monk does not tell lies, so do not go back on your word." As he spoke, without waiting for the monk's response, he reached out and grabbed a leaf from the vine, shouting towards the peach grove, "If you do not let go, I will tear your clothes!"
The Wind Gentleman, with a playful smile, said: "Don't worry about who I am; I am merely an audience member. You may continue your performance..."
All of this, along with the *illustrated* book, was within the expectations of the Wind Gentleman, except for a minor unexpected event: the wealthy comrade who funded the renovation of the temple found the original mountain deity statue too antiquated and wished to create a new one. Fortunately, experts from the archaeological department identified this statue as a Tang Dynasty artifact, invaluable in nature, which is why it remained in the shrine. Otherwise, the efforts of the Wind Gentleman would likely have been in vain. Of course, these are all matters for later discussion. After returning to school with the Wind Gentleman, we were immediately faced with final exams. Thankfully, the archaeological experts confirmed that this statue is a Tang Dynasty relic, invaluable in nature, which is why it remained in the shrine. Otherwise, the Wind Gentleman's efforts would likely have been in vain. Of course, these are all matters for later discussion. After returning to school with the Wind Gentleman, we were immediately faced with final exams. Having followed him for the past two months, I had neglected my studies and fallen behind considerably, so I needed to focus on my studies during this time.
Seeing me silent, the monk raised his head and looked intently at me. His previously calm expression suddenly turned serious, and he pointed at me, saying: "It turns out it is not a high-level practitioner at work, but rather a malevolent spirit causing trouble. Young man, your complexion is dark and your spirit is weak, clearly indicating that you have been drained of your essence by this malevolent entity. The statue behind you is possessed by a dark spirit, which should be the source of the disturbance. Who are you, and how could you fall victim to such a creature? Heed my words and leave at once!" As he spoke, he lifted his staff and stepped forward, heading straight into the temple.
Ignorant and foolish people, still obsessed and unaware even when harmed by malevolent spirits, what kind of mountain deity is this? Once I break her vessel, I will ensure her soul is shattered. " As he spoke, the monk flicked his sleeve, and a force surged forth, causing me to be involuntarily pushed aside
"Gentleman Feng, who exactly was the person I just spoke with? From her tone, she claimed to be the deity of Zhao Ting Mountain"
The Wind Gentleman smiled again, his smile enigmatic yet full of self-satisfaction: "Incense offerings? They will come soon, you will know by tomorrow's newspaper."
On the following day, major newspapers in Wucheng published the extraordinary news of flowers blooming in winter around the Mountain God Temple at Zhaoting. On this winter solstice, not only did a grove of peach blossoms flourish around the temple, but even two begonia trees, which had been dead for many years in front of the temple, surprisingly bloomed as well. This remarkable event attracted countless curious individuals to Zhaoting to witness it for themselves. Some were skeptical and wished to see it with their own eyes, and indeed, seeing was believing. Consequently, the news spread rapidly, and visitors flocked to the Mountain God Temple, while the restaurants and taverns at the foot of the mountain were filled to capacity every day. This remarkable event attracted countless curious individuals to Zhaoting to witness it for themselves. Some were skeptical and wished to see it with their own eyes, and indeed, seeing was believing. Consequently, the news spread rapidly, and visitors flocked to the Mountain God Temple, while the restaurants and taverns at the foot of the mountain were filled to capacity every day
The Wind Gentleman has quite a thick skin, and he still has the audacity to bring up his matters at Jiulin Temple. I remember that the mat was stolen by him from there. Seeing the Wind Gentleman entangled in confusion, Fayuan was too lazy to continue the pointless conversation with him. He turned around, raised his staff towards the statue in the temple, and began to chant the Buddha's name with his head bowed.
"Reporter? How can there still be reporters?"
You little rascal, you really have a thick skin. Do you know how old I am? You actually agreed when I called you big brother! In fact, I came the night before last when you were performing your magic. I never expected that at such a young age, you would possess such abilities. However, with your great skills, why did you still need my help just now?
What about that kid's magical power? So it turns out that Feng Junzi was talking about me. The night before last? Have I really been in a deep sleep for a day and two nights? So much has happened before and after this sleep, I still need time to digest it. As I was pondering, the sounds in the forest had already faded away, and Feng Junzi came over to help me up: "Shiye, you need to rest well for a few days; let's hurry, the reporters will be here soon."
The Wind Gentleman seemed to be in a hurry, even uttering words about recruiting underlings and smashing venues, phrases straight out of Hong Kong gangster films and literature. The Law Source glanced at the Wind Gentleman, sighed, lowered his head to chant the Buddha's name, and slowly walked towards the mountain god statue, the nine iron rings on his staff clanging chaotically. The Wind Gentleman appeared to have no way to deal with him, retreating step by step until he had backed into the temple entrance, while Xiu Xiu, hiding behind the Wind Gentleman, could only breathe heavily with a soft "Xiu Xiu".
Ishino, how can you know if you don't try? Haven't you noticed that Xiuxiu understands human language? If it can understand human language, it should be able to learn human affairs
Are there really spirits of plants and trees in this world?
... ...
The Wind Gentleman replied with a smile: "So it turns out to be Master Fayuan, indeed associated with Haifa, as both names contain the character 'Fa'. I am merely a passerby here to watch the show, with no significant background. However, Master, could you do me a favor and not interfere with the matters here... Last time I visited Jiulin Temple, I put all the money I had on me into the merit box... I suppose that counts as giving you some face, doesn't it?"
"Aren't you performing the Legend of the White Snake?" The Wind Gentleman pointed at the monk, me sitting on the ground, and the statue in the temple, saying, "Fa Hai, Xu Xian, and Bai Su Zhen are all here, but wait? Who are we missing?" As he spoke, he noticed the sound of 'shoo shoo' from the temple door and pointed at it, saying, "There's also a little Qing, who is here as well"
After the monk left, the Wind Gentleman clasped his fist towards the peach blossom forest and said loudly: "I do not know which divine being has come to my aid; I am immensely grateful. If convenient, please reveal yourself and meet me!"
Although the suggestion made by the Wind Gentleman is absurd, upon careful consideration, it is not entirely impossible. I have already experienced enough peculiarities, so adding one more does not matter. His words truly moved me, and I planned to return and teach Xiuxiu to read and write. On the way back, I thought of another matter and hurriedly asked the Wind Gentleman: "Wind Gentleman, have you forgotten something? Originally, we were supposed to find a temple with incense for Yiyi, but that mountain god temple has no incense, does it?"
( Prologue: When mentioning the battle between fairies and high monks, most people think of Fahai and Bai Niangzi. From Fahai's perspective, he would not admit that his actions were wrong, as he believes he is upholding the heavenly principles. So where does the problem lie? Should the heavenly principles allow a certain individual to live more happily, or should they protect the overall peace of the world? If everywhere in the world were filled with transformed white snakes, the world would likely not be peaceful. The premise of the Legend of the White Snake assumes that "there is only this one Bai Niangzi" or "Bai Niangzi is a kind fairy." Xu Xian was originally living a very happy life, but when Fahai intervened, he brought disaster upon him. From this perspective, Fahai cannot be considered a truly enlightened monk. Fahai's logical error lies in determining good and evil based on one's origins. Although this error is easily identifiable, the same history continues to repeat itself. )
This is bad! This monk is probably a practitioner as well, and it seems there is a misunderstanding. Seeing this situation, I quickly waved my hand to stop the monk: "Master, you have misunderstood; it is not as you imagine. The mountain spirit is not a bad person; you must not harm her..."
"Teaching to read? Are you mistaken!"
The Wind Gentleman gritted his teeth, seemingly having made a decision in secret. He placed his hands on his waist and pointed at the monk Fa Yuan, shouting loudly: "Great monk, you are going too far! This is a Mountain God Temple, not a monk's temple. What business do you have meddling in matters that do not concern you? The Mountain God here is my newly recruited little brother, no, little sister. This Mountain God Temple is my territory. I have neither provoked you nor offended you, so why are you causing a scene!"
Some individuals expressed considerable dissent regarding the Zhaoting Mountain God Temple incident, but this dissent was countered by the tourism department. Ultimately, the Mountain God Temple became a scenic spot under the jurisdiction of the tourism bureau, with tourist shops established outside the temple gate, and entry to the temple now required purchasing a ticket. The former Wild Peach Forest was renamed Divine Forest, and Snow Creek Spring was renamed Divine Water Spring, with some individuals inviting renowned artists to inscribe stone tablets in the area.
It is rather strange; those vines seemed to be very afraid of the Wind Gentleman. As soon as the Wind Gentleman spoke, they immediately released the monk Fayuan, who shrank back and disappeared into the peach blossom forest. Monk Fayuan stood there, blushing and panting, while the Wind Gentleman silently looked at him with a smile that was neither here nor there. The two of them, with their peculiar large eyes, stared at each other for quite a while. Finally, Fayuan stamped his foot and said, "You are a person of great wisdom; I hope you will take care of yourself!" After saying this, he turned and left, moving much faster than when he had come.
As soon as the monk raised his staff and was about to step into the temple gate, an unexpected change suddenly occurred! I was sitting in the open space outside the temple gate and saw everything clearly: from several zhang away, in the peach grove, several silent vines flew out. As soon as these vines appeared, they tightly wrapped around the monk Fayuanshou from head to toe. Fayuanshou clearly did not anticipate this sudden change, and he exclaimed, "There are still monsters..." but suddenly fell silent. It was not that he wanted to stop speaking, but rather that the vines had entangled him so he could not utter a word. The monk raised his left hand in the air, turning his staff upside down in an attempt to strike at the vines. The vines seemed to be wary of the staff in his hand, skillfully avoiding it and instead coiling around his left arm. The monk and the vines were locked in a stalemate there.
You have been sleeping for a day and two nights. Today is Sunday. Can you guess what I just did? I went to find a place to call the newspaper. The people from the newspaper and the television station are expected to arrive shortly. We will pack our things and leave afterwards
As he spoke, the monk took another step towards Xiuxiu. The monk's voice reached my ears word by word, like a heavy hammer striking my heart, causing an indescribable discomfort. Compared to Xiuxiu's earlier loud roar, the monk's voice was even more peculiar, seemingly possessing a soul-stirring power. I wanted to raise my hand but found myself too weak to do so, only able to watch helplessly as the monk walked past again. Meanwhile, Xiuxiu surprisingly raised its front paws to cover its ears, looking equally distressed. I wanted to raise my hand but found myself too weak to do so, only able to watch helplessly as the monk walked past again. Meanwhile, Xiuxiu surprisingly raised its front paws to cover its ears, looking equally distressed.
Master, I never expected that the demon would actually be subdued by a monster, right? This is also your own fault for being overly concerned!" Feng Junzi took the opportunity to step out of the temple door, curiously glancing around before turning back to the monk and saying: "Master, please do not glare at me; I am not a monster, you should be able to tell... Can we discuss something? I will help you drive away this monster, and you will let the mountain deity in this temple go... I assure you, the mountain deity here will definitely not cause harm to anyone, and what happened today will absolutely not be spoken of by anyone... Can we discuss something? I will help you drive away this monster, and you will let the mountain deity in this temple go... I assure you, the mountain deity here will definitely not cause harm to anyone, and what happened today will absolutely not be spoken of by anyone...
... ...
As the sound of the Buddha echoed, Feng Junzi's expression changed, and he quickly stepped forward to stand between the Dharma source and the mountain deity statue. Seeing Feng Junzi act this way, the monk raised his head and said in a deep voice: "This benefactor, I can see that your background is certainly not simple. Since you are a practitioner, why must you stand up for these external demons and heretical paths? If you do not step aside, I will not show any mercy."