Chapter 1742
Chong An's question immediately brought that voice to a halt. Only after a long while did it say, "In truth, you should not cling to the distinction between you and me. I am you, and you are me. Once this life is cast aside, so long as your true consciousness remains intact, you can begin anew in the next life.
"When the right time comes, once you awaken, all memories of your past lives can return. You too can return to your original self. What is there to worry about?"
Chong An said, "Is that so?"
The voice said with utmost solemnity, "I would never deceive you."
Chong An pondered for a moment, then said, "If I wished to leave, what could I do?"
The voice sounded pleased. "There is one way. This temple master has not shown himself for hundreds of years, and you have handled all external dealings in his stead. Yet you received an imperial edict, even if it only made you the lowest-ranking Rain Master. You can use that as a pretext to go to the capital and seek a higher conferment. That way, you can leave this place.
"There is another way. Find a way to stir up some supernatural incident at the foot of the mountain, or spread rumors—make as great a commotion as possible. Once the local authorities below the mountain realize something is amiss, they will surely come begging for your help. Then you can use that as an excuse to descend the mountain openly and properly.
"Hmm, but that still is not secure enough. I shall pass on another technique to you. Once you reach a distant place, you can vanish in an instant. Then you need not fear Daoist Qingxuan finding you again."
Chong An said, "What technique