Lion's Roar, chanting sutras

After a day of dedicated study, Guy had committed the Diamond Sutra to memory.

That evening, Chiriku returned to the meditation room.

He had intended to teach his new junior brother some of the sutra's deeper meanings, so he casually tested him with a few questions.

Guy answered without hesitation.

Not only could he recite the scripture word for word, but he could also offer some insights of his own.

A flicker of surprise crossed Chiriku's eyes, then turned to admiration.

"Junior Brother Fahai, you've already memorized it all, and even gained some understanding... You have quite an aptitude for the Dharma."

He paused, then pressed his palms together.

"In that case, come with me to the main hall for morning chanting tomorrow, during the hour of the tiger."

"Yes, Senior Brother Chiriku," Guy replied.

Early the next morning, before dawn broke, the morning bell rang out melodiously.

Guy followed Chiriku to the Fire Temple's main hall.

Candles lit the hall brightly. Dozens of monks were already seated cross-legged on cushions, chanting softly.

At the very front sat an elderly monk with white brows and a white beard, his expression solemn and his eyes closed.

He was none other than Chiriku's respected teacher.

Zhongjue.

Chiriku introduced him in a low voice. "That's my teacher, Zhongjue, the temple's head of scriptures and monastic discipline."

Guy took a few more looks at him.

He understood that this man had taught Chiriku Buddhist doctrine and scripture, and held considerable standing in the temple.

When Chiriku introduced Guy to Zhongjue, Guy pressed his palms together and bowed.

"Your disciple Fahai pays his respects, Master Zhongjue."

Zhongjue opened his eyes slightly, swept his peaceful gaze over Guy, and nodded without saying much.

He gestured for them to take their seats.

Guy followed Chiriku toward the