Online: I Can See Health Bars Chapter 1324 - 590: Night Assault
Previously on Online: I Can See Health Bars...
Although she knew she had voiced something incorrectly, Guo Yuxin remained obstinate and refused to admit her error, opting instead to swiftly change the topic.
"Bald Pigeon↑Pigeon↓ cares about me the most, lead the way! I desire a grand bed!"
Master Quan Heng offered an apologetic glance towards Fang Yu, then escorted Guo Yuxin as they withdrew.
Fa Hongwen had already made arrangements for Monk Quan Heng’s lodging, placing him in a room adjacent to Fang Yu’s, which was ideal for ensuring Ding Hui’s safety. Fang Yu found this minor detail did not warrant his personal concern.
"Mr. Diao!"
Scarcely had Master Quan Heng departed when Fa Hongwen made his sudden appearance.
He entered the hall, surveyed the surroundings, and was immediately struck with astonishment.
"The master, where is the esteemed master?"
Fa Hongwen inquired with haste. He had intended to engage in pleasantries immediately after concluding his business, but to his bewilderment, no one was in sight.
"Master Quan Heng has retired to his chambers for rest."
Fang Yu regarded Fa Hongwen with a perplexed expression. Monk Quan Heng had arrived, yet this man was exhibiting more excitement than he had. What was the reason for this?
"Retired to his chambers for rest? Rest is indeed beneficial… no need to hurry, no need to rush, there is ample time ahead!"
Fa Hongwen’s enthusiasm remained palpable. Noticing Fang Yu’s bewildered gaze, he made a conscious effort to compose himself, though his voice still carried an excited undertone. "Mr. Diao, who could have possibly imagined that a friend of Mr. Diao’s would turn out to be a venerable monk from Zhongfu Temple! Mr. Diao truly possesses extensive connections! With a high monk from Zhongfu Temple gracing our presence, how could the Forest Snake Gang possibly falter in its ascent!"
A revered monk from Zhongfu Temple…
Fang Yu cast a doubtful look towards Ding Hui, who stood beside him.
"Zhongfu Temple… is it quite renowned?"
Upon hearing Fang Yu’s question, Fa Hongwen was rendered speechless.
Zhongfu Temple! The illustrious Zhongfu Temple!
It was not merely the inhabitants of the border regions who held it in high regard; even esteemed officials residing far away in the Capital frequently made pilgrimages to Zhongfu Temple to seek divine blessings and pay homage to Buddha.
Its fame and the prosperity of its incense offerings were so immense that it was nearing the status of the premier temple in this entire region!
Furthermore, Zhongfu Temple regularly dispatched its accomplished monks to assist less prominent temples in propagating Buddhist teachings, truly embodying a global network of spiritual guidance.
Additionally, each master dedicated themselves to the welfare of the common people, their deeds whispered and praised through word-of-mouth, earning them an impeccable reputation.
Given these many commendations, individuals encountering a master from Zhongfu Temple invariably displayed profound respect.
Should a faction manage to gain the favor of a master from Zhongfu Temple, its standing among the populace would experience a dramatic surge, as the saying goes, affection for a home extends to all within it.
This was akin to the Forest Snake Gang suddenly acquiring a significant reservoir of public approval! Henceforth, their endeavors, regardless of nature, would be considerably simplified, and even the recruitment of new members would attract a multitude of skilled individuals.
Consequently, when Fa Hongwen discovered that Fang Yu was unaware of Zhongfu Temple’s esteemed status, he felt a surge of anxiety.
"A master from Zhongfu Temple is no ordinary monk; he is a master among masters! Compassionate towards all beings, devoted to the well-being of the common folk…"
Fa Hongwen expounded with fervent passion but was abruptly interrupted by Ding Hui.
"A monk is merely a monk, irrespective of his origin; a monk remains a monk. Master Quan Heng’s willingness to journey here is a testament to our husband's friendship, not a reflection of his personal standing."
Fa Hongwen was momentarily silenced by Ding Hui’s words, completely unsure of how to respond. His own words seemed to catch in his throat, and he could only stammer affirmations, stating that it was indeed due to Mr. Diao’s exceptional connections.
"You may take your leave now; I have pressing matters to discuss with my husband. Should any adversaries be detected, inform us immediately."
In stark contrast to Fang Yu’s genial and approachable demeanor, reminiscent of a modern sense of egalitarianism.
Ding Hui, from the moment she spoke, adopted a tone and bearing that exuded an air of authority unique to someone of a higher station.
This subtle shift made Fa Hongwen feel rather uneasy, yet he dared not voice any dissent.
His entire fortune was now invested in Fang Yu, making it imperative that he heed the words of his wife.
With a respectful bow, Fa Hongwen retreated, intent on seeking out Qiu Xiaoping for a conversation.
In essence, tonight’s agenda dictated that he remain in Qiu Xiaoping’s company, or perhaps alternate his presence between Monk Quan Heng and Fang Yu, meticulously navigating between these three formidable individuals without a moment to spare.
Once Fa Hongwen had departed, Ding Hui remarked, "I had not anticipated Master Quan Heng originating from Zhongfu Temple."
"You were unaware?" Fang Yu inquired, a hint of surprise in his voice.
Ding Hui offered a negative shake of her head.
Previously, when they were in Tianyuan Town, her entire focus had been solely on the man standing before her.
The enigmas surrounding him held a far greater fascination for her than any concerns about ordinary disciples.
"There was an opportunity to ascertain Master Quan Heng’s background, but alas, consumed as I was by that naive and simple-minded affection for a certain gentleman, where could my thoughts possibly drift to others?" Ding Hui playfully heightened her tone and offered Fang Yu a knowing wink.
Fang Yu: "..."
Why are you looking at me like that, as if I am some scoundrel trying to tempt innocent young ladies.
Avoiding her gaze, Fang Yu was about to speak when he suddenly heard Ding Hui say.
"However, since Master Quan Heng hails from Zhongfu Temple, I believe it would be best for you to maintain some distance from him moving forward."
Fang Yu was taken aback upon hearing this.
"What do you mean? Is there an issue with Zhongfu Temple?"
"No issue, it's just that while the eminent monks of Zhongfu Temple are widely respected, perform many good deeds, and possess a stellar reputation, it's also true that... most accomplished monks harbor certain peculiar tendencies."
"Peculiar tendencies?" Fang Yu was startled: "In what way?"
He hadn't detected any strange inclinations in Master Quan Heng.
Ding Hui cast a glance at Fang Yu, then, instead of answering directly, posed a question back.
"If a perpetrator were to abduct a vulnerable woman, how would you go about rescuing her?"
"I'd catch him off guard, neutralize the criminal, and then rescue the woman," Fang Yu replied without hesitation.
"That's the typical approach, but the eminent monks of Zhongfu Temple operate differently," Ding Hui stated, her brow furrowing slightly. "Certain high monks from Zhongfu Temple might not prioritize the woman's safety. They could simply eliminate the criminal outright, disregarding the woman's life, perhaps leaving behind a Buddhist aphorism about universal equality before departing with a flourish. Others might even dispatch both the criminal and the woman, proclaiming nonsensical doctrines about all beings embodying sin, including the woman, all while shedding genuine tears and chanting sutras to guide souls. And then there are some...