Chapter 8: How Can the World Have a Perfect Solution (8)

Chapter 8: How Can the World Have a Perfect Solution (8)

Zhen Shan shook her head. "A few days ago, I did entertain thoughts of ending my life. But now, after reading Buddhist scriptures and understanding the value of life, I would never degrade myself again. This morning, unable to sleep, I went out for a walk alone. Seeing the withered lotus leaves in the pond, I felt sad. But then I thought, even if the leaves and flowers are gone, there's still the lotus root—life continues. I only intended to take a closer look, but I didn't want Master Wuchen to misunderstand."

Wuchen's clear eyes glistened as he softly chanted a Buddha's name. "Venerable Zhen Shan has attained great enlightenment; this monk is ashamed."

"A monk should not harm even an ant while sweeping the floor or shield a moth from a lamp out of compassion. Why should Master Wuchen feel ashamed of his kindness?"

"Nam-myoho-renge-kyo."

"Master Wuchen mentioned earlier that you were going to gather herbs, correct?"

"Yes, that's right."

"Would it be possible for this humble maiden to accompany Master Wuchen on your journey?"

"Well, the mountain path is rugged and Venerable Zhen Shan's health has yet to fully recover. It would be best not to overexert yourself."

"Is Master Wuchen implying that I'm a burden?" Zhen Shan slightly furrowed her brow, and her bright and gentle phoenix eyes dimmed.

"No, Venerable Zhen has misunderstood. This monk did not mean that."

"I've been plagued with illnesses since childhood, making medicine as common as daily meals. I always wished to learn medicine so I could heal myself. But my father insisted that I only study women's virtues and morals. Now... I am free, but everything relies on myself. I've heard that Master Wuchen possesses unparalleled medical skills. Would it be possible for a humble maiden like me to have the honor of learning from you?"

Zhen Shan bit her lip gently, her exquisite face filled with anticipation and anxiety. If she were any ordinary man, he would not only refuse but willingly give his life for her sake.

Unfortunately, the reincarnated deity before her had only Buddhism and the salvation of all sentient beings in mind.

Nonetheless, due to Wuchen's compassionate nature, he didn't immediately decline. Instead, he said, "Studying medicine is tedious and arduous. Venerable Zhen should ponder this carefully."

"I will definitely study diligently and not cause any trouble for Master Wuchen," Zhen Shan replied with a smile, her lips pressed together. Compared to her previous gentle composure and elegant smiles, she now appeared as any other charming maiden.

Wuchen nodded with a composed expression, clasping his hands together.

...

Zhen Shan followed Wuchen along the mountain path.

The young monk was quite adept at taking care of others. He found her a slightly thicker branch to lean on and often reminded her of the uneven ground while they walked.

Nonetheless, Zhen Shan was well aware that this wasn't a man's tender affection for a woman; rather, it was a monk's compassionate care for a vulnerable person. If someone else were in her place, Wuchen would have shown the same concern without any distinction.

In his eyes, she was now no different from any other plant or tree.

Yet, love demanded exclusivity, a presence deeply rooted in one's heart and mind.

If she couldn't break through the notion in Wuchen's heart that she was no different from any other living being, how could she ever make this Buddhist disciple fall in love with her?

"These are snake berries, also known as red-capped fruits. The entire plant is used in medicine. It has cooling properties, detoxifies, aids in blood circulation, and stops bleeding. It can even treat venomous snake bites..."

Gazing at the cluster of plants with their red berries, the Empress listened attentively to the young monk's explanation. She didn't act delicately, avoiding the herbs or the dirt on the ground. Instead, she followed his lead and started picking the herbs herself.

Throughout the day, Zhen Shan diligently collected various common medicinal herbs without once complaining about fatigue or dirtiness. Even though her clean clothes and embroidered shoes were now covered in dust, she never grumbled.

She listened intently to his teachings on herbal knowledge and asked him how to distinguish between different herbs, seemingly genuinely determined to learn the art of medicine.

As noon approached, Wuchen led Zhen Shan back to the Imperial Temple.

Her complexion was somewhat pale, and her breathing slightly uneven, revealing that this pampered lady had never endured such hardship before.

Yet, behind her phoenix-like eyes shone a bright, faint smile. There was less distress and more hopefulness, as if she had discovered something that could illuminate her dreary life.