Outside Righteous Qi Manor, accompanied by the sound of drums and flutes, Pu Du Ci Hang's procession had arrived.
Commander Zuo strode out of the manor and came before Pu Du Ci Hang's palanquin. He knelt on one knee. "Commander Zuo pays his respects to the National Preceptor. This subordinate has determined that the wanted criminal Fu Tianchou is no treacherous minister or rebel, and has no intention of betraying the country. I ask the National Preceptor to uphold justice!"
Pu Du Ci Hang sat inside the curtained palanquin, his face hidden from view. A gentle, compassionate voice rang out. "In this day and age, too many people cannot distinguish right from wrong, and so they misunderstand the imperial court. Very well. Let this National Preceptor comfort these loyal ministers and righteous men on the court's behalf. Amitabha, Amitabha."
"Many thanks, National Preceptor!" Commander Zuo exclaimed, overjoyed, and hurriedly expressed his gratitude.
Before Pu Du Ci Hang's lotus throne, two Buddhist maidens scattered petals into the air. Then Pu Du Ci Hang emerged from behind the curtains and walked toward Righteous Qi Manor, stepping over the falling petals.
But Pu Du Ci Hang had taken only a few steps when Hao Shuai and Fu Tianchou's party emerged behind him.
Hao Shuai watched Pu Du Ci Hang strolling through the shower of petals. He wore a moon-white kasaya and a tall monk's hat. His face was old, yet beardless; at first glance, he looked kind and benevolent, with a gentle expression. A faint halo of Buddha-light flickered behind him, making him seem like a Buddha descending to the mortal world and inspiring the urge to bow in worship.
Hao Shuai felt no urge to bow. Instead, for no apparent reason, he thought of the Kidney-Deficient Young Master from the Conquering the