Answer

Lian Qing was like a male lion chained in place. He let out a deep growl, baring two rows of fearsome fangs, while his sharp claws scraped lightly against the ground. He looked ready to break free at any moment.

He had never liked the Dragon King, and now he was even angrier. "Take back what you said," he demanded, his hands clenching into fists until his knuckles cracked.

Gu Shenwei stared fixedly at the old monk Fa Chong, refusing to answer Lian Qing's demand or heed Shangguan Ru's many hints. He believed self-interest was the only universal currency in this world. Even eminent monks could not remain entirely above worldly concerns. The monks had gone out of their way to "help" him time and again, healing his wounds and passing on their power. There had to be a motive behind it.

Fa Chong seemed to sense the Dragon King's gaze. He slowly opened his eyes and said to Lian Qing, "The Dragon King has said nothing that needs taking back. Why are you so impatient, nephew?"

"What? The Dragon King said... He slandered the Four Truths Blue Lotus..."

"I heard him. It was only a conjecture, and it wasn't entirely untrue."

"Martial Uncle..." Lian Qing's eyes widened in surprise. He could not understand what Fa Chong meant.

Shangguan Ru did not understand either. "Not entirely untrue? Zen Master... That can't be. The death of the Central Plains envoy had nothing to do with the Four Truths Blue Lotus."

Fa Chong showed them the string of beads in his palm. "What is this?"

His question was not directed at anyone in particular, but it was rather simple. Lian Qing answered honestly, "Prayer beads."

"What else?"

Lian Qing was taken aback. He scratched his forehead and gave an embarrassed smile. "Martial