Indeed. I never imagined having warm feet while sleeping would be this good.
As anticipated, the North Sea is unfit for habitation.
The disciples of Mount Hua, awakened by the intrusive sunlight piercing the tent, chatted as they stirred.
Waking up in the North Sea was like feeling my body shatter.
I have come to appreciate the value of warmth again.
All things in the world were relative.
Other people often spoke of their mouths going stiff in the cool meadow nights, but this land was merely pleasant for the disciples of Mount Hua, who had just returned from the North Sea.
But where is Chung Myung?
Wasnt he here earlier?
Upon hearing this, Baek Cheon straightened his attire and stepped outside to look around.
Chung Myung,
It was then that he found Chung Myung seated by the pond. Finnd new chapters at novel35.com
As if a bonfire had gone by recently, white smoke came from it, and Chung Myung sat there looking at the sky with no expression.
What is it?
Chung Myungs gaze shifted to Baek Cheon.
Uh?
Baek Cheon quizzically tilted his head at this mute response.
Did someone steal your money for you to pull such a face?
Sasuk.
Uh?
Quit spouting nonsense and grab something to eat.
Ah, what is wrong with this bastard?
Chung Myung heaved a sigh, gazing towards the Lamas tent. The sounds of chanting from within suggested they were awake as well.
Id rather die.
These words were spoken by the little boy known as the Great Living Buddha, words that Chung Myung hadnt understood the night before.
He attempted to follow the boy towards the tent, but the intimidation hed previously felt had already dissipated.
Hes gone.
He couldnt appease a child whose mind kept oscillating and had caused a mess. The childs rambling would muddle his thoughts if he just stood by.
He couldnt do this or that and just stayed up all night.
Chung Myung released a deep sigh, flicking his fingers as he saw Hae Yeon emerge from the tent.
Baldie! Baldie!
Taoist. My name is Hae Yeon.
I understand. Come over here.
Hae Yeon wore a sullen expression as he approached. Upon seeing him, Chung Myung initiated a dialogue.
What are your thoughts on the story we heard yesterday?
Which one are you referring to?
The one about reincarnation and Buddhas resurrection?
Amitabha. Yes, that one.
Hae Yeon swiftly glanced towards the tent where the Lamas resided, his face betraying a hint of fluster.
Even though we both follow Buddhism, our interpretations of the teachings are not identical.
Ohh?
The concept of reincarnation as told by the Panchen Lama doesnt differ much from Shaolins teachings. However, it contradicts our belief that people intentionally reincarnate and remember their past lives.
So, even if they are hailed as Buddhas, it doesnt make any sense.
Youre implying they are frauds then.
N-No, thats not what I intended to say.
A startled Hae Yeon threw a glance toward the Lamas tent and quickly lowered his voice.
T-taoist. Proceed with caution. Their Buddhist beliefs are highly regarded, as is their Great Living Buddha.
I understand.
Chung Myung spoke forcefully.
He had already observed the zealous devotion of their worshippers. Naturally, humans and Buddha were not the same, just as they differed from the Demonic Sect.
All my life, I have been refining my Dharma eye to identify the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama. To me, your uniqueness is evident. It is ineffable, but your Taoist nature sets you apart from ordinary individuals.
Chung Myung halted, turning to the monk beside him.
Lama.
Yes?
According to Buddhas teachings, individuals reincarnate to achieve enlightenment through sustained periods of training, correct?
Correct.
Could there be another reason for reincarnation?
The Panchen Lama simply shook his head.
I dont know.
The workings of the world are too complex. Anything could happen. How could I, a mere mortal, comprehend such profound truths?
Chung Myung nodded in agreement.
I have something to share with you, Taoist.
As Chung Myung maintained his gaze on him, the Panchen Lama clasped his hands together and chanted.
We all bear lifes pains because anguish is ingrained in our human nature.
Anguish, huh
Om Mani Padme Hum.
The Panchen Lama smiled.
Those who follow Buddhas path conquer their karma and learn the Dharma to rise above their attachments. It will not be for naught, even if you are in pain now.
It was akin to grasping a passing cloud in the sky.
Yet, hearing this granted Chung Myung a small reprieve.
In the end, you can only depend on yourself.
Isnt the Tao the same?
An enlightened person becomes a genuine Taoist. Nobody can compel the ignorant to awaken. You must come to understand it yourself.
you know of Taoist rules too?
Indeed, I am. If we consider the Taoism of the Central Plains, isnt it heavily influenced by Buddhism? Moreover, werent the Buddhist sects and disciples revered in the Central Plains originally from our land?
No, this man!
Chung Myung glared at the man, incensed by his disrespect, but soon burst into laughter.
This person, who initially seemed so otherworldly, appears human now.
Hahaha.
The Panchen Lama maintained a serene smile as he observed Chung Myung with warm eyes.
Taoist.
Yes.
There are no external answers.
When the time comes for you to seek answers, simply look within yourself. All the answers lie within you.
Upon hearing this, Chung Myung slowly put his hands together and said,
Amitabha Buddha.
Chung Myung would rarely utter these words; however, the Panchen Lama was a distinct exception. This signified the utmost respect Chung Myung could bestow.
Thank you, Lama.
It was nothing.
Following their discussion, the Panchen Lama glanced towards the tent.
Id like to converse further, but as a monk, its crucial that I escort my Dalai Lama back to the palace promptly.
Yes. My apologies for occupying your time.
The Panchen Lama shook his head.
All relationships hold meaning. Meeting the Taoist here might not just be a coincidence.
Please, overcome the agony.
The Panchen Lama clasped his hands together, bowed his head deeply, and left Chung Myung as he made his way to the tent.
Chung Myung, observing the mans retreating back, sat down where he was.
Relationships
He smiled.
There is nothing you cannot tell a Taoist, you know.
The soft sounds of the wind grazed his ears as he closed his eyes.