Gone but Soon Back

The moment his words fell, a chorus of agreement erupted through the tent.

A white-haired old man rose, leaning on his staff.

"General, this old man may be lacking in talent, but I am willing to enter the city and probe its true state."

"Amitabha!"

A large, fat monk clad in a cassock also stood, pressing his palms together as he proclaimed the Buddha's name.

"Those who have left the secular world hold compassion in their hearts. Commander, why not let this poor monk go? I can perform rites for the fallen soldiers and, while I am at it, seek justice for them."

Before he had finished, someone beside him immediately sneered.

"What compassion? Aren't you after the gold, silver, jewels, and the Baleful Crystal Leyline?"

A young man dressed as a scholar also said sharply.

"Monk, when we suppressed Profound Truth Temple last time, you put in the work without putting in the effort, hiding at the back to watch the show. Why are you in such a hurry to jump out this time?"

The monk smiled as he recited a Buddhist invocation.

"This poor monk happened to be observing a fast last time, so it was unsuitable for killing."

Before his words had faded, someone else burst out laughing. "So you've returned to secular life now? Got yourself a wife yet?"

The tent immediately erupted in laughter.

The armored soldiers felt uncomfortable all over at the sight, but the commander was not angered. Instead, he laughed along twice and said,

"Since that is the case, I shall trouble Master Jingshu to make the trip. Do you need men to support you?"

The monk's smile faded. He pressed his palms together in salute once more and declared loudly,

"Rest assured, Commander. Whether the other party is man or ghost,