Why Get Involved in Such Troublesome Affairs?

"Why Get Involved in Such Troublesome Affairs?"

"So..."

Verdant Green Maiden's gaze fell on Xuanzang. "What was your choice?"

Xuanzang replied, "This Disciple refused. Once the Mahayana Buddhist Law has all been passed down, this Disciple will leave Chang'an and head for Mount Tai."

Yet upon hearing this, Verdant Green Maiden waved a hand. "That won't be necessary."

"Hm?"

Xuanzang looked at Verdant Green Maiden in even greater surprise. "Didn't Master previously say that once this Disciple had passed down the Mahayana Buddhist Law, I was to go to Mount Tai? Why is it no longer necessary now? Or is it that... Master believes this Disciple has done something wrong?"

"That isn't it."

Verdant Green Maiden shook her head. "I only sent you to Mount Tai because I had matters to entrust to you."

"Now that I am here, why must you take the long way around when the near way is at hand?"

Xuanzang blinked and paused.

"So that is how it is? Then I wonder... what exactly does Master wish to entrust to me?"

Verdant Green Maiden did not tell him directly.

"Wait until you have finished with the Mahayana Buddhist Law. Matters must be handled one at a time. I imagine you understand the principle that biting off more than you can chew will leave it unchewed."

"...Yes."

Xuanzang nodded.

He no longer disturbed Verdant Green Maiden's rest and took his leave.

That night.

A full moon hung high in the sky, not a cloud in sight.

Chang'an's moonlight was enchanting.

Leaning against the window, Verdant Green Maiden gazed at the moon above. Its light did not seem much different from what it had been thousands of years ago.

Only, beneath the same moonlight, different people were gazing upon it.

"A jade disk..."

"Is Chang'e Fairy truly