Chapter 2, The Emergence of Hidden Affections Encountering Turmoil
Liu Zhuiyi slightly raised her head and met Yun Yao's gaze, suddenly saying: "If you keep looking, I might just pluck out your eyeballs"
The fat man, upon seeing a slender little monk, disdainfully remarked, "I thought it was some great deity, but it turns out to be just a little monk."
"These are the fruits my grandson picked on the mountain today, take them with you." The old woodcutter placed the items on the ground and spread out a coarse burlap cloth. Liu looked inside and saw a pile of wild fruits lying there.
Master Mingyang said: "Indeed, in this world, there is no shortage of pitiful individuals; what is lacking are those pitiful individuals who are worthy of respect"
I do not understand what you young gentlemen are thinking. Liu Zhuiyi sat to one side, hugging her knees, and said, "Why abandon a fine mansion, not spend gold and silver treasures, and disregard beautiful young ladies, only to run away from home? If you had said earlier that you were not here to capture us, I would not have had to escape from Chang'an with the little monk.
Liu Zhuiyi looked at the villagers sitting around the campfire, turned to Bian Zhen'er and said, "Then you can eat some of the provisions you brought, I will distribute this meat to the villagers"
"Forget it, forget it," Liu Zhuiyi waved his hand and turned to look at Yun Yao. Noticing the knife wound on his arm, he said, "You two get in the car first. It's getting dark soon. We need to find a place to rest. If the knife wound is not treated, it could become infected."
Yun Yao kicked the man down to the ground, causing blood to spill from his forehead
However, on a small hill behind the chubby brothers, there lay another person
Knowing that Young Master Yun Er is afraid of death, I will not wrong you. Liu Zhuiyi struck the horse with a whip, and the horse immediately raised its hooves and ran.
The carriage gradually entered the main road, and Yun Yao lifted the curtain of the carriage, addressing the coachman: "Be more vigilant of your surroundings. If you see the little monk and his companions, be sure to alert me, and you will not be short of your reward."
Very well, just go along with her
That evening, the villagers specially prepared the two best rooms for Liu Zhuiyi and others to stay in
Bian Zhen'er opened her eyes, her gaze brightening as she stared at Yun Yao and asked, "Is it true?"
Liu Zhuiyi squatted beside Bian Zhen'er and said, "Let me take a look at your wound. These herbs can stop the bleeding and reduce bruising. I will apply a little bit."
The sky outside had turned completely dark, and Liu Zhuiyi had kindled a fire inside the cave. Bian Zhen'er sat beneath the opening, where the moonlight streamed through, illuminating her figure. Bian Zhen'er appeared contemplative as she gazed at the polished qin before her. With both hands resting on the strings, she began to play a melody.
Yun Yao's skills are more than sufficient to deal with these petty individuals, but there are too many of them, and he finds it somewhat overwhelming
"You can get off if you don't want to go." Liu reminisced, feeling annoyed.
As he finished speaking, he turned around and gently touched the bald head of Bian Zhen'er, saying: "Zhen'er, if one day I am no longer by your side, you must remember that the great kindness and virtue spoken of by others will never compare to the peace and stability in your heart. For everyone, you should only help according to your own abilities, and never force yourself. Not everyone can practice compassion for all living beings. Although you are my disciple, you have never entered the Buddhist path. You come from the mortal world and will ultimately return to it, so do not deliberately bear the weight of great compassion and mercy. Live your remaining days leisurely."
Wrapped in moonlight, Bian Zhen'er resembled someone from beyond this world, while Liu Zhuiyi watched beside her, lost in a daze.
Distinguishing the true from the false? Remember the truth and goodness in the world, discern right from wrong and the treacherous, good law and reputation!" Yun Yao praised, rising to walk beside Bian Zhen'er. He watched as Bian Zhen'er took the qin out from its cloth wrapping and carefully wiped the body of the instrument.
The chubby and slender brothers on one side watched the two gradually being surrounded as if they were watching a show, eager to reap substantial profits
Yun Yao sat beside Liu Zhuiyi and explained: "I am not afraid of death; we are not officials or great historians, just ordinary commoners. Helping others is a matter of sentiment, while not helping is a matter of duty. If one loses their life because they helped someone, that would be foolish."
"Are they your sons and husbands, disregarding you as they go to the county town?" Yun Yao asked
Bian Zhen'er turned around, intending to go to the carriage to get some food, when Liu Zhuiyi immediately called out to him: "Liu Lang!"
"If you do not kill them, they will kill us!" Yun Yao said urgently
A crisp and clear sound rang out behind him, followed by the iron axe spinning into the fat man's hand. Yun Yao turned his head in surprise and noticed a small stone on the ground; the earlier sound was produced by the stone striking the iron axe.
Liu reminisced with a furrowed brow and said, "You came by yourself? Can you apply medicine with one hand and bandage with one hand? Little monk, your master taught you not to indulge in evil desires and lust, but did he ever teach you to be grateful and not to sweat the small stuff? I saved you, and you owe me a life. I have not blamed you for abandoning me, yet you keep your distance from me at every turn. What is it? Are you afraid I will devour you, or are you afraid you might develop feelings for me?"
In the past, in the city of Chang'an, the young ladies who wished to curry favor with the Second Young Master Yun could line up from the east to the west of the city. This girl named Liu Zhuiyi, however, was oblivious to her surroundings, only concerned with a little monk who had once abandoned her.
Yunyao Dao: "This piece is called 'Jinse', and it depicts the longing between a man and a woman who cannot be together. It is said that only those who have experienced the pain of love can play it so movingly. Bian Zhen'er is a monk; why would he..."
Ten days later, Liu recalled that a group of people arrived in Qizhou
She developed a fondness for him, perhaps because he is different from others
Yun Yao lifted the curtain, feeling that he had lost face due to the countless affections he received since childhood. In a fit of pique, he sat on the opposite side of Bian Zhen'er, turning his back to Liu Zhuiyi.
Yun Yao was taken aback, and when Bian Zhen'er heard this title, she couldn't help but turn her head and stare at Liu Zhuiyi.
The path is rarely frequented by pedestrians, and the roadside is filled with blooming purple azaleas. From above the path, the sound of wheels can be heard, and upon closer listening, someone is leisurely humming a tune.
Liu recalled with a cold expression as she got into the carriage, muttering to herself: "Damn monk, it's my fault for being blind!" She urged her horse forward, sulking for half a day, and finally found a cave where she stopped and led the horse and carriage inside.
Liu reminisced with a tilted head and said: "Look at your little crew cut, how does it resemble a monk? Moreover, I am not trying to change your Dharma name; I merely gave you a secular name."
Bian Zhen'er moved her injured arm and said, "The pain is not as severe as before, I can move it."
As she watched Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao get injured, outnumbered, Liu Zhuiyi came up with a plan. She caressed the necks of the two horses and said affectionately, "I am sorry, my horses, but soon you will charge into the crowd and roll around as you please." Saying this, she lifted her outer skirt and took out a fire stick from a pouch she had sewn inside. She opened the lid and gently blew on it, causing flames to burst forth. Liu Zhuiyi carefully ignited the tail hairs of the two horses and immediately hid to the side
Yun Yao is sound asleep, while Bian Zhen has been awake all night.
The two startled horses rolled on the ground incessantly, managing to extinguish the flames on their tails. The bandits helped the two injured men, one fat and one thin, who had been hurt in the collision, and asked, "Elder brother, second brother, shall we continue the chase?"
"Yes," replied Bian Zhen'er.
The groom responded repeatedly
An old man leaned against the door and said, "The young people have all left, heading towards the county town. We, the old, the young, and the sick, cannot move, we will not go anymore." As he spoke, the old woman slightly turned her head and secretly wiped away her tears
Well, you all be careful. Bathing is one thing, but don't play too rough.
"But you are not a monk now." Liu Zhuiyi walked to Bian Zhen'er and said, "You are now my Liu Lang, hmm... what should we call you, Liu something? Yun Yao said the piece you played is called 'Jinse', so let's use the phrase 'Jinse Wuduan Wushi Xian' from Mr. Li's 'Jinse' to give you a name. Little monk, your secular name shall be... Liu, Wuduan!" Yun Yao said the piece you played is called 'Jinse', so let's use the phrase 'Jinse Wuduan Wushi Xian' from Mr. Li's 'Jinse' to give you a name. Little monk, your secular name shall be... Liu, Wuduan!
Liu Zhuiyi waited for them to return in the car. A quarter of an hour passed, and the old woodcutter, who had just left, returned again
Liu Zhuiyi quickly gestured for Yun Yao to help them up
Only Liu Zhuiyi knows how wonderful the sisters of Ruyi Tower are. Liu Zhuiyi has seen too many men who visit Ruyi Tower, and it is rare to encounter someone as pure as Bian Zhen'er.
In fact, Liu Zhuiyi herself had not seriously contemplated this matter; she had a fondness for Bian Zhen'er, a fondness that even she was unsure if it could be classified as love. She had never liked anyone before, but she had witnessed others expressing their affections for others.
Liu recalled in surprise: "The bearded man is not dead? Are you still going to travel with us?"
Yun Yao turned around with a smile and urged Bian Zhen'er, saying: "Let's hurry up, or the tigress will unleash her fury soon."
Yun Yao smiled lightly, completely ignoring Bian Zhen'er’s words, and said: "The big bearded man you accidentally killed is actually not dead."
Bian Zhen'er sat inside the car, listening to the conversation between Yun Yao and Liu Zhuiyi through the curtain. After a long while, he quietly closed his eyes and recited scriptures while meditating.
"Yes, big brother!" The fat man issued orders again, and his subordinates rushed towards Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao.
The three of them headed towards the area of Tanzhou, intending to take a look at the scenery of the Xiang River
The coachman looked around at the surrounding trees and said, "Sir, this is not good; I fear we may encounter bandits!"
The owner of the yard is an elderly man, and he did not confiscate much from them
"You horse, why are you not obedient at the crucial moment? I thought you were a steed that could travel a thousand miles, but it turns out you are a timid one!" Yun Yao said, slapping the horse's rear in anger
"Oh dear, monk!" Yun Yao raised his head and saw it was Bian Zhen'er. He immediately got up and ran behind Bian Zhen'er, pointing at the bandits across from them, saying, "Monk, kill them! Kill them!"
Liu Zhuiyi thought for a moment and hid all the fruits in a box under the car
I absolutely refuse! Liu Zhuiyi fiercely reached out and slapped Yun Yao's arm, right on the wound, causing him to cry out in pain immediately. Liu Zhuiyi didn't care about him at all, letting him cry out as he pleased
Yun Yao asked in surprise, "Are we really going?"
After traveling for so many days, I can finally sleep on a bed. Yun Yao rubbed his shoulders and turned to Bian Zhen'er, asking, "Bian Zhen'er, would you like to take a bath together? There's a river just outside Qizhou City that I checked when we entered; it's quite clean." Then, he said to Liu Zhuiyi, "I'll have my grandmother boil some hot water for you to bathe in later; it's not suitable for a young lady to wash in cold water."
Having said that, she walked to the side of the carriage, turning her back to them as she waited for them to board.
Oh dear, please don't! The coachman, seeing Yun Yao's arrogance, was afraid of attracting trouble and hurriedly tried to stop him. However, Yun Yao was ungrateful and shouted even louder. The coachman had traveled to many places and had a sense of danger, so he feared that this reckless young master would implicate him. He decided to abandon the carriage and ran away by himself.
Bian Zhen'er continued to perform a single-handed salute, stammering as he spoke: "Little monk... little monk... little monk did not intend to leave, it is just that I do not know how to interact with young ladies. Since my birth, I have always been with my master and have never... never..."
"Rest assured," Yun Yao stretched lazily and said with a smile, "The big bearded man is not dead. Moreover, I did not come here to capture you. I am looking for an opportunity to run away from home. Therefore, not only will I not take you back, but I will also accompany you on your journey."
"Which side is this grandson from!" The fat man was extremely furious; there were not many who dared to block his axe.
"You all get in the car, I will drive," said Bian Zhen'er, who was not accustomed to intimate roughhousing, as she climbed into the driver's seat.
"I am asking you a question, do not pretend to be deaf and mute." Liu Zhuiyi placed her hands on her hips and stepped in front of Bian Zhen'er. Bian Zhen'er slightly parted her lips, wanting to say something, but it ultimately turned into a sigh.
Liu reminisced as she watched the old woodcutter leave. Afterward, she moved the fruits onto the cart and opened them to take a closer look. The outer shell of the fruit was hard, and she used her fingers to peel it open. She tasted the flesh inside, which was juicy and just right for quenching her thirst
Before finishing her words, Liu Zhuiyi got out of the car and pushed aside the obstructing Yun Yao, rushing to Bian Zhen'er’s side, and angrily questioned: "Why did you run away? I called you and you ignored me!"
Liu Zhuiyi tightened the reins, and the horse came to a stop. Yun Yao hurriedly jumped down from the carriage and ran to the roadside to retch, while Bian Zhen'er also got out of the car and stood by the roadside, not daring to look up at Liu Zhuiyi
Bian Zhen'er pressed her lips together, remaining silent, as she crouched down to retrieve the wild fruits that Liu Zhuiyi had hidden under the car. Yun Yao approached Liu Zhuiyi, nudging him with his elbow, and asked: "When was he your ... ... "
Yun Yao squatted on the cart, grinning and said, "Brother, you heard wrong, there is nothing of the sort."
"Do you have any right to interfere?" Liu Zhuiyi did not understand Yun Yao's feelings, and Yun Yao fell silent, feeling extremely bored
Liu Zhuiyi watched the two leave, then went to the courtyard to his grandmother, boiled some hot water, and took a nice bath
"Bringing us along is just a burden; we might even die on the way," said the woman who had just been crying. At that moment, the sound of a baby crying came from the room, and the woman hurried in to hold the child in her arms, soothing him continuously.
"No, no, no." Yun Yao quickly waved his hand, then with a face full of flattery, he said, "I will definitely keep a close eye on him. Miss, where are you going? It's getting dark outside, and it's very dangerous to be alone."
I know you are here to capture me said Bian Zhen'er, closing her eyes lightly
Yun Yao glanced at the cave entrance, leaned closer to Bian Zhen'er, and said: "Let's exchange a secret. I will tell you something, and you will tell me about that young lady, alright?"
After bandaging Yun Yao, Liu Zhuiyi said: "Young Master Yun, your appearance here must not be a coincidence, right? I can tell you that today I, Liu Zhuiyi, saved you. If you still intend to take me and the little monk back, I assure you that you will not leave this cave safely tomorrow."
Yun Yao relaxed, propping one hand against the tree trunk. She turned her head to look at Liu Zhuiyi, who had a dark expression on the carriage, and walked over with a beaming smile, bowing slightly and saying: "Miss, we meet again. This time, it is thanks to you..."
Liu reminisced but said nothing more about him, took half of the herbs and chewed them in her mouth until they were crushed, then spat them into her palm. She lifted her blood-stained clothing and applied the herbs to the wound. Afterwards, she tore off a piece of her skirt and carefully bandaged the wound.
"Indeed," Yun Yao nodded and said, "After that young lady buried him, he actually woke up and crawled out of the grave himself"
The houses here are partially collapsed, and the population is sparse, with enormous cracks winding across the land. A woman is guarding a pitiful puddle of muddy water in the fields. Upon seeing a wealthy family's carriage entering the village, she hurriedly ran into the village, stepping on the hem of her pants, and picked up the child sleeping on the couch, fearing that bad people might come and snatch the child away
"No, no, stop grabbing!" Suddenly, the sound of a woman's crying echoed from a room, followed by a man rushing out of a room, throwing down a bowl, and fleeing over.
However, Yun Yao is quite perceptive; he quickly got up and obediently rolled up his sleeves, revealing the wound on his arm. Liu Zhuiyi, just like when treating Bian Zhen'er, carefully applied the medicine for him and thoughtfully rolled down his sleeves.
"If you don't eat, you will be hungry." Liu Zhuiyi said as he handed the chicken to Bian Zhen'er.
"Brother, will you also go help Liu Lang?" Liu Zhuiyi blocked Yun Yao's words, her smiling eyes wrapped in a fierce intensity, and Yun Yao recognized the color in her gaze
The flames scorched the hair on the horse's tail, and the two horses neighed loudly as they charged directly towards the two men, one fat and one thin. Upon hearing the sound, the two men turned their heads to look, but were unable to dodge in time and were knocked aside by the horses. The group of bandits surrounding Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao, seeing the two powerful horses lose control, were frightened and scattered in all directions
Liu recalled seeing a milky white liquid at the corner of the man's mouth
Two hours later, the carriage arrived at a small village in Tanzhou
"Two people were buried alive together." The thin man, who had remained silent for a long time, spoke coldly from the side
Liu Zhuiyi felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment at Yun Yao's frivolous words, and she urged, "You all hurry up, get your change of clothes ready, and go early and come back early"
Liu reminisced as he turned around and walked back, muttering to himself: "This little monk is really something; we've been together for so long, yet he is still so formal."
"Yes, yes, yes, I was wrong." Yun Yao sat next to Liu Zhuiyi, a smile playing at the corners of his lips, and asked, "How about this, Miss Liu, you come back to Chang'an with me, and I will provide you with a place to stay and treasures to spend?"
He could not withstand Liu Zhuiyi's spring-like tongue, nor could he resist her enthusiasm and initiative
Bian Zhen'er untied the zither from her back, placed the jiao wei qin on the couch, and followed Yun Yao as they walked outside
"Who said you are a daughter?" Yun Yao interjected
The coachman curled his lip and muttered, "Rich people are just so fierce."
This fellow knows a bit of martial arts, hm!" The fat man let out a cold laugh and swung the iron axe, which slipped from his hand, leaving a chain still gripped in the fat man's hand
A cough sounded from behind, and Liu Zhuiyi turned to look. Yun Yao stood behind, covering his mouth, and said: "Can you two stop hiding to whisper? There are so many people here who need care"
Upon hearing this, Yun Yao immediately leaped down from the carriage and kicked the man to the ground.
In his childhood, Bian Zhen'er once tugged at Master Mingyang's sleeve, pointed at a beggar on the street, and asked, "Master, he is so pitiful, why don't we help him?"
Bian Zhen'er then realized that she had let something slip, and hurriedly turned her head away, choosing not to speak.
Because of the close proximity, Yun Yao observed Liu Chuiyi in detail. She was clean and beautiful, far surpassing the ordinary and gaudy women of Chang'an in terms of looks.
Fortunately, both of them have poor memories and will reconcile in no time. The three of them traveled north for several days. Liu Zhuiyi was quite lively, getting involved in everything, but her enthusiasm was well-meaning, and both Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao were willing to assist her. However, what Bian Zhen'er found uncomfortable was that Liu Zhuiyi referred to everyone as her Liu Lang, which made it difficult for Bian Zhen'er to explain without feeling embarrassed.
A dignified man of seven feet should not resort to such despicable acts, even for the sake of survival
His mind was filled with some words that Liu Zhuiyi had said, those words swirling in his head like flies, impossible to forget no matter how hard he tried
The thin man, with keen eyes, spotted a little monk in a gray old robe standing not far in front of Yun Yao. The little monk stood quietly, hands clasped together, reciting: "Amitabha."
Bian Zhen'er, with a solemn expression, said: "This world is not as prosperous as you think."
Bian Zhen'er suddenly recalled the meat buns that Liu Zhuiyi had once tricked him into eating, and quickly hid to the side, saying: "Monastics abstain from meat"
"Robbers..." Yun Yao maintained a calm expression, showing no fear, and shouted, "Which robbers? Step forward, if you dare!"
The fat man looked in the direction where Liu Zhuiyi and the others had departed, spat on the ground, and said: "Bah!"
After a quarter of an hour, Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao returned, carrying some provisions in their arms, and the three water bags were also filled with water
Yun Yao gazed at Liu Zhuiyi, hoping for a compliment on his intelligence, but Liu Zhuiyi, knowing his intentions, chose not to show it. Frustrated, Yun Yao pouted in a sulky manner
"Miss Liu, you are truly beautiful," Yun Yao said softly, his thin lips gently pressed together
Then why do you still want to pursue me and Miss Liu
Liu Zuiyi jumped down from the carriage, walked over, and asked: "What happened, old man?"
In the carriage, Yun Yao and Liu Zhuiyi sat facing each other. Yun Yao always wore a greasy smile on his face, which made Liu Zhuiyi feel uncomfortable, so she turned her head to look out the window. Yun Yao, undeterred, moved closer to sit next to Liu Zhuiyi. When Liu Zhuiyi shifted away, Yun Yao followed her. Unable to endure it any longer, Liu Zhuiyi ran outside to sit with Bian Zhen'er, frowning as she said, "Yun Yao is a filthy rogue."
Pah
Indeed, Bian Zhen'er must be a person with a story; he arrived at Ruyi Tower, weary from his travels, carrying a lute and a tale, allowing her to encounter him
"You will eat these foods on your journey tomorrow, and we will also provide you with a water pouch. You will head south towards the county town. Although there are also disasters there, it is better than being isolated here. The county town has relief grain sent by the court, and the county magistrate will take care of you." Liu recalled as he wrapped the meat for the villagers.
In the evening, Yun Yao returned from an unknown location with three wild chickens, stating that these wild chickens thrive in arid regions. Liu Zhuiyi watched as Yun Yao plucked the feathers and skinned the chickens, then skewered them with branches for grilling
However, Bian Zhen'er did not intend to make them look good, as Yun Yao suggested. Bian Zhen'er was merely on the defensive, and whenever she was forced into a corner and wanted to counterattack, she would recall the scene of accidentally killing the big bearded man that day
Yun Yao shook his head, feeling that Liu Zhuiyi was stubborn
Bian Zhen'er has always been compassionate. He sighed and said, "I fear that many common people will suffer because of this; the heavens are not favorable, the heavens are not favorable"
Yun Yao climbed into the car and said, "Let me make it clear first, I can help others when I go to the Tanzhou area, but I cannot compromise my own interests."
The man immediately knelt down with a "thud" and said, "Hero! Please spare me! I had no other way to survive! I beg you, hero."
So you are not that familiar with her after all Yun Yao glanced sideways at Bian Zhen'er and calculated in his heart that it is better not to be familiar
"Who just said that I am cowardly and can only hide in the shadows?" The fat man rested the iron axe on his shoulder and shouted at Chong Yun Yao.
Liu recalled how Yun Yao took advantage of her, feeling the urge to hit someone but not daring to do so, fearing that Bian Zhen'er might actually think of her as a fierce tigress. She could only angrily say: "Hurry up! If you come back late, there will be no food left!"
When they left the city of Chang'an, it was early spring in March, and now, a full month has passed
With a hand on his clothes, Yun Yao helped the kneeling villagers up and said, "You... don't need to thank me, hehe, I..." He turned to look at Liu Zhuiyi and said, "I, along with my sister and brother-in-law, happened to pass through here. Being able to help you is also a way of accumulating virtue for myself. By the way, you should conserve this food so that you can safely reach the county town."
Liu Zhuiyi scratched his head and said, "I don't mind; wherever the little monk goes, I will go."
This Yun Yao, under the pretext of capturing people, has begun to enjoy himself here, even renting a carriage and hiring a coachman
Bian Zhen'er could hardly bear to look, as a person sat silently on one side
The commotion in the village attracted the attention of the villagers, and Liu Zhuiyi noticed that the few villagers present were mostly women, children, and the elderly
Thank you, heroine, thank you! Some villagers were moved to tears and knelt down in gratitude.
"Please, brother, exposing me like this will greatly affect the city's appearance. I will give you the money and the cart; you dig the pit, and I will jump in myself, is that acceptable?" Yun Yao still wanted to negotiate, but the bandits had already rushed in front of him. He turned over and jumped down from the cart, confronting these thugs.
Many men are also favored by the elder sisters, who wait devotedly at the Ruyi Tower, yet their ideal partners ultimately do not come to find them. They say that their families look down upon them, believing that women from the Ruyi Tower are unclean
She originally came in search of Bian Zhen'er, and from a distance, she heard the sounds of a fight. Thus, she cautiously hid to the side, and sure enough, she witnessed the scene of Bian Zhen'er coming to rescue Yun Yao.
Bian Zhen'er was driving, glancing left at Yun Yao and right at Liu Zhuiyi. He was at a loss for words, feeling clumsy. He couldn't help but wonder why these two, who were clearly older than him, were behaving like children, bickering playfully.
I have previously listened to the sisters play the piano at Ruyi Tower, but none played as beautifully as the little monk. Liu reminisced, entranced, and could not help but exclaim
Yun Yao raised an eyebrow and said, "I was just waiting for you to say that. If you want me to go out and find her, I would be more than happy to do so." As he spoke, Yun Yao walked towards the cave entrance, but just as he reached the mouth of the cave, he saw Liu Zhuiyi returning, holding several herbs in his hand.
The iron axe swung down towards Yun Yao's forehead, and Yun Yao exclaimed "Oh no!" as he tried to dodge backward, but he felt as if the iron axe was extending, relentlessly pursuing him. When there was nowhere left to hide, Yun Yao simply turned around and crouched down, covering his head and resigning himself to fate.
Yun Yao was beaten to the point of contorting his features in pain, yet his heart felt as sweet as honey
In the midst of the chaos, Liu Zhuiyi leaped onto Yun Yao's carriage, cracked the whip, and the horse reared its front hooves, charging forward.
"Her surname is Liu?" Yun Yao asked with wide eyes
"Wherever Liu'er goes, I will go too," Yun Yao quickly said, but before his words could finish, he was struck in the abdomen by Liu Zhuiyi's move. Liu Zhuiyi pouted slightly, her eyes reflecting a lingering childish stubbornness: "I told you not to call me Liu'er!"
The next day, Liu reminisced about the three people who had sent off the villagers, contemplating how to survive the drought-stricken area with the remaining provisions.
Liu reminisced, "Enough of the nonsense, hurry down and prepare more provisions and water, lest you find yourself dying in a foreign land!"
Yun Yao averted his gaze, smiling silently
Of course, we won't go!" Yun Yao waved his hand and said, "Isn't going there just asking for death? It's a drought!"
"Let me in!" Liu Zhuiyi turned his head and said to the two, while Yun Yao hurriedly climbed into the carriage. Liu Zhuiyi drove the carriage and departed swiftly.
Miss Liu, the Dharma name 'Bian Zhen Er' was given by the master and must not be changed. Bian Zhen Er quickly replied
"Young lady, young lady." The old woodcutter, wrapped in coarse cloth, called out to Liu Zhuiyi from a distance, carrying some round objects.
Although Liu Zhuiyi was always angry, her gaze fell upon the wound on Bian Zhen'er’s arm. It seems that Bian Zhen'er must have said something, but she probably did not listen attentively.
"Alright, alright, I won't call out, I won't say anything." Yun Yao extended a finger, placed it over his lips, and obediently fell silent
I exclaimed, "Of course I have to go! How could I feel at ease leaving the two of you behind?"
Liu recalled with a start, a smile embedded at the corners of her brows. She crouched down, carefully wrapped the coarse burlap and lifted it, slightly bowing to the old woodcutter, saying: "Thank you for your kindness, sir; I shall not stand on ceremony."
As soon as he finished speaking, the grass around him began to sway without any wind. Yun Yao suddenly jumped onto the carriage, intending to drive away himself, but to his surprise, the horse would not heed his commands at all; no matter how much he whipped it, it refused to move an inch
A woman with disheveled clothing rushed out right behind, crying as she fell to the ground, shouting: "How could such a sin be committed, how could such a sin be committed! That was the milk I had painstakingly expressed for my child!"
That evening, Yun Yao and Liu Zhui Yi went to the kitchen to get some cutting boards and small knives, sliced the chicken, divided half for the villagers, and wrapped the other half to serve as food for the villagers on their journey
So he is a person with a story, isn't he? Liu reminisced with a smile.
Yunyao would often privately ask Bianzhen'er: "Bianzhen'er, do you like Liu'er or not? You are a monk and cannot be emotionally attached, so why not let Liu'er be with me?"
He dares to point out my mistakes; I will skin him alive! Yun Yao exclaimed fiercely before diving back into the carriage
"Little monk, why are you holding back on your strength against my subordinates? What's wrong with you?" As Yun Yao dodged the robber's attacks, he shouted at Bian Zhen'er. The moment Bian Zhen'er was distracted, a cut appeared on his arm.
Yun Yao mischievously approached Liu Zhuiyi and said in a flirtatious manner, "Well... Liu, you must be someone with a story, right?"
However, before reaching Tanzhou, I was informed by the villagers along the way not to proceed any further
"Let the young monk come by himself," said Bian Zhen'er, extending his hand.
This cave is quite large, capable of accommodating dozens of people. In the inner chamber, there is an empty space at the ceiling, where one can easily see the sky outside upon looking up. Liu Zhuiyi pointed at Yun Yao and said: "You better keep an eye on the little monk; if he runs away, I will hold you accountable."
Bian Zhen'er is too indifferent, Yun Yao is too enthusiastic, and Liu Zhuiyi is caught in the middle, which is truly a headache. However, it is fortunate that Bian Zhen'er has not mentioned wanting to leave again, nor does she avoid Liu Zhuiyi as she did before
Yun Yao smiled and said, "Call me something nice, and this big chicken leg will be yours."
You need not look at me, for I will not leave. Go outside and take a look at Miss Liu, for it is getting late, and it is not safe for a young lady like her.
"But Liu Er likes you," Yun Yao said helplessly. "How could she possibly like a little monk?"
Young Master Yun Er, your actions are indeed quite decisive. I haven't had meat in a long time," Liu Zhuiyi said eagerly, leaning close to Yun Yao and swallowing his saliva.
Indeed, how could Liu Zhuiyi possibly have feelings for a monk
Liu recalled the wild gallop of the horse, which ran at great speed along the rough and bumpy road, causing Yun Yao, who was sitting inside, to feel nauseous. He lifted the curtain at the back of the carriage and, seeing that no one was pursuing them, hurriedly exclaimed: "Hey, hey, hey, stop, stop, stop, they haven't caught up!"
Upon hearing the name "Liu'er," Liu felt a shiver run through her body as memories flooded back. She glared fiercely at Yun Yao and said through gritted teeth, "Shut up! If you call me that again, I will kick you out!"
Bian Zhen'er stood up, walked to the edge of the sky where the night view was observable, took down the qin from his back, and said: "I have no name or surname. My master bestowed upon me the Dharma name Bian Zhen'er, instructing me to remember the true goodness of the world and to discern right from wrong and the treacherous. Therefore, you may simply call me Bian Zhen'er."
It is Liu's reminiscence
Yun Yao leaned closer to Liu and reminisced, saying: "If I set off with you, that little monk won't leave, will he?"
"Chase, chase, chase, chase your grandpa!" The fat man hit the questioner hard, looking at the thin man who was coughing incessantly, and said, "Take the big brother back and tie up a doctor to come and take a look!"
Liu turned around and called to the villagers, "Everyone come here, I have some fruits to share with you." She then turned to the woman holding the baby and said, "Take a small piece of the fruit pulp and feed it to the child; the pulp can satisfy hunger and quench thirst, and it also has a cooling effect."
Liu reminisced with a smile and said to him: "Take out the wild fruits from under the car, those suitable for the chicks to eat"
Then let us go. Liu Zhuiyi could guess the thoughts of Bian Zhen'er; he was a monk, compassionate towards all living beings, yet he was also concerned about implicating himself and Yun Yao. If he were alone, he would certainly head towards Tanzhou.
"Yes, yes, yes, we understand." The villagers nodded repeatedly
"That is good." Liu Zhuiyi stood up, carrying the remaining half of the herbs, and walked over to Yun Yao, looking down at him as he lay on the ground. With an unfriendly tone, he said, "You, get up, apply the medicine!"
Near the Tanzhou area, a drought is occurring. I have also heard that some people, in order to survive, are drinking the blood of those who have just died! If you go there, you will only meet your demise; it would be better to turn back." The elderly woodcutter kindly warned Bian Zhen'er and the others.
You are also stealing the child's milk, today Grandpa has taken justice into his own hands against you!" Yun Yao said as he moved forward to teach the man a lesson
"Amitabha, this humble monk does not kill." Bian Zhen'er refused.
Bian Zhen'er always explains: "The little monk is just friends with Miss Liu"
Yun Yao, understanding the situation, hurriedly got out of the car and followed Bian Zhen'er. He crossed his arms and muttered in dissatisfaction, "With your appearance, how could Bian Zhen'er possibly like you? Fierce woman!"
Bian Zhen'er got off the vehicle one step ahead and went in search of a water source. Yun Yao felt wronged and asked Liu Zhuiyi, "Could you not treat me the same way as Bian Zhen'er, Miss Liu?"
After the bandaging was completed, Liu Zhuiyi tilted his head and asked, "Try moving it."
Liu Zhuiyi moved slightly to the side, unwilling to sit too close to Yun Yao
"Why are you talking so much nonsense? Tomorrow morning at dawn, you will return from wherever you came from." Liu Zhuiyi gave Yun Yao a disdainful glance and turned to leave the cave
Liu Zhuiyi and Yun Yao squeezed into the car, while Bian Zhen'er drove away
Bian Zhen'er was pulled onto the carriage by Yun Yao, but he refused to say a single word from beginning to end
If only the master were here, then the master would tell him what was really wrong with him
As soon as he finished speaking, the horse suddenly became startled, rearing up on its front hooves and letting out a series of neighs. The groom exerted all his strength to steady the reins, and Yun Yao leaned out, asking irritably, "What now?"
Liu Zhuiyi was not swayed by this; she grasped Yun Yao's wrist, snatched the roasted wild chicken, and tore off a piece of meat to send to Bian Zhen'er, who refused it.
"I do not know her background, how can I tell you?" Bian Zhen'er retorted
"Yun Yao, stop hitting him." Liu Zhuiyi jumped down from the carriage, first calming the crying woman, then turning to the villagers and asking, "Are you the only ones left in the village?"
Yun Yao looked at the indifferent Bian Zhen'er, then tugged at his sleeve and said: "You are such a rigid monk, come on, with me around, what do you have to worry about what the girl might do to you? Besides, you are a man, and she is just a girl; if she is not afraid, why should you be afraid?"
Why have we been walking for so long and still haven't seen the two of them? Could it be that the citizen pointed us in the wrong direction?" Yun Yao looked around and pondered while resting his chin on his hand
Yes, yes, yes, I am being very careful.
Master. "Bian Zhen'er murmured softly, her eyes glistening with tears.
Yun Yao jumped off the carriage and shouted, "Hey, hey! Why are you running away?" In the blink of an eye, the coachman had vanished without a trace. Yun Yao couldn't help but scoff, "Coward!"
However, before Yun Yao could finish speaking, a group of people swaggered out from the bushes. At the forefront were a fat man and a thin man. The fat man had a fierce and menacing appearance, with two small mustaches on his face, while the thin man looked clean and delicate, appearing nothing like a robber.
"Little Monk, Young Master Yun, get on the horse!" Liu Zhuiyi shouted at the two who were at a loss. Bian Zhen'er was the first to react, pulling Yun Yao, her feet leaving the ground as she leaped up, landing steadily on the horse-drawn carriage.
Yun Yao said playfully: "It's just a shower, two men, what can we possibly play that is so intense?"
The old woodcutter said: "Just now, I also heard your conversation. You young people have kind hearts and cannot bear to see life and death. Take these fruits with you; when you are thirsty or hungry, eat a little. Water can be stored for a longer time, so keep it there for emergencies."
Thank you for the reminder, old man. After expressing gratitude, Liu turned to Bian Zhen'er and asked, "Do we still need to move forward?"
What happened to the daughter’s family? Can’t the little monk talk to the daughter’s family? Liu Zhuiyi did not believe in such superstitions; she simply enjoyed debating with Bian Zhen'er. One day, she would make Bian Zhen'er bravely look into her eyes.
Liu reminisced about her eloquence, realizing that the truth could not be articulated. With no other options, he had no choice but to turn his head and reveal his injured arm.
The coachman raised his head and asked, "Sir, we have been traveling for two hours. If we are heading south, most people would choose this route. Could it be that the person giving directions truly pointed us the wrong way?"
"It is!" The subordinate hurriedly assisted the thin man and they walked into the mountains
Yun Yao expressed his disbelief, saying, "How old are you? How would you know?" Then, he leaned closer to Bian Zhen'er and asked, "Hey, let me ask you, what is Miss Liu's name? Where is she from, and which family does she belong to?"
Bian Zhen'er turned her body and did not respond
"Little monk, hurry, hurry, hurry! They are coming!" Yun Yao hid behind Bian Zhen'er and exclaimed, "Quick, let them see your prowess!"
It seems that this is indeed the case, but Liu Zhuiyi still does not understand the reason why Yun Yao left home.
"If not, let's not head south; instead, let us go north." Bian Zhen'er looked at the dry pancakes in the car, unwilling to let Liu Zhuiyi and Yun Yao be affected because of her.
Is that so? The fat man snorted and turned to his subordinates, saying, "Brothers, go and rob the money from the cart and that fellow, then strip him and bury him alive!"
Yun Yao shrugged and continued, "My intention in capturing you is not truly to capture, but rather to escape from my annoying father and elder brother. I am only eighteen, and I have yet to experience the wonders of the world. They are forcing me to marry and take charge of the family business, which is so uninteresting. It is far better to take this opportunity to go out and have a look around."
Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao distributed the fruits to everyone. Fortunately, the old woodcutter brought some fruits, alleviating the urgent need. Although the quantity was small, each person was able to receive two or three pieces, making it no problem to get through the day.
Yun Yao gazed at Liu Zhuiyi's silhouette and said to Bian Zhen'er, "This girl is quite bold. By the way, tsk, I didn't realize it before, but you are just a monk; how would you understand women?" Yun Yao sat down beside Bian Zhen'er and asked, "Little monk, what is your name? I can't keep calling you little monk, can I? My name is Yun Yao, the second young master of the Yun family, one of the wealthiest in Chang'an!"
Not good. The argument is not justified.
Yun Yao has never truly paid attention to Liu Zhuiyi's attitude; he is someone who becomes more courageous in the face of adversity
Look at this attitude, it's simply like heaven and earth apart
"Aunt, I have wandered the rivers and lakes for many years, and I understand no less than you do." Liu recalled, with a roll of her eyes, as she continued to ride her horse.
Seeing the expressions of Liu Zhuiyi and Bian Zhen'er, Yun Yao had an inkling of what was happening. He walked over and acted as a mediator, saying: "Little monk, you should never provoke a woman to anger, do you understand? In this situation, whether you are wrong or not, you are still in the wrong. Hurry up and say something to apologize, and won't everything be fine?"
The old woodcutter waved his hand and said, "No need to be polite, let this old man accumulate some virtue, so that I may have a good place to go after death." As he spoke, he turned around and leisurely walked towards the village.
Miss Liu, I..." As soon as Yun Yao saw Liu Zhuiyi, he was eager to curry favor, but Liu Zhuiyi completely ignored him and headed straight for Bian Zhen. Yun Yao, feeling bored, fell silent and sat to the side, watching Liu Zhuiyi with a strong sense of jealousy
Even more, I find myself increasingly unable to withstand her every frown and smile
The young monk has gone to fetch water now, what about you? Hmm? Liu Zuiyi shot him a glance and said
Fortunately, the amount of silver they had combined was enough for the three of them to live for a few months. In order to save money, Yun Yao found a cheap private courtyard to stay in
Although the sisters at Ruyi Tower receive many guests and speak warmly, they genuinely despise the men who frequent the brothels. When speaking privately with Liu Zhuiyi, the sisters always advise her to choose her future partners wisely, as many of the men who visit the brothels are married and seek only pleasure.