Zhang Liuzhen said, "Those who truly delve into Daoist studies do not care about ordination certificates. So long as the Imperial Court is willing to loosen travel permits a little, making it easier for seekers of knowledge to roam mountains and rivers and study Daoist teachings. Those who want ordination certificates mostly want a safeguard for their lives."
Pan Yun's lips curled upward. "I came back this time to find a good path for my senior brothers and sisters, one that will let them enjoy the benefits granted by the state even without ordination certificates."
Zhang Liuzhen looked mildly surprised. "What?"
Pan Yun said, "I want to recommend them to the Ministry of Works—no, I want to create a department myself, under the Daoist Registry, called the Daoist Artifact Department. It will specialize in researching all kinds of Daoist artifacts that can be used for people's livelihood."
Zhang Liuzhen reached out and touched her forehead, then turned to ask Tao Ji, "Did she lose too much vital energy yesterday? Does she have a fever?"
Pan Yun slapped his hand away. "I'm serious!"
Zhang Liuzhen said, "Neither am I joking."
He spread his hands. "What Daoist artifacts would you have them make? Talismans to catch ghosts? But how many dead souls in this world linger among the living and turn into vicious ghosts? There are not even enough for Daoists to catch. Why trouble the common people over it?"
"Talismans to cure illnesses, then? Though talismans can help with certain ailments, they mostly straighten out the body's flow of qi or supplement it with a thread of spiritual energy. Minor illnesses are no issue, but for severe diseases, they provide only temporary relief. If you want a cure, go find a doctor."
Pan Yun opened her mouth to speak, but Zhang