Mount Putuo in the South Sea.
Guanyin Bodhisattva sat high upon her lotus throne, answering the questions of the child attendants and disciples below. Today, the Bodhisattva happened to be teaching the theory of karma.
Mu Zha stood below with his palms pressed together, humbly seeking instruction. "May I ask, Bodhisattva, how should those of us at Mount Potalaka avoid becoming entangled in the karma of the Three Realms while carrying out our duties and patrols?"
His words had barely fallen.
Red Boy, who had long since changed his name to Niu Aimin, rushed to answer first, wagging his head as he launched into a lofty speech. "Senior Brother, isn't that simple? As long as we hold great love in our hearts, see all living beings in the Three Realms with love, and take the initiative to guide them to salvation, karma naturally won't cling to us!"
Guanyin Bodhisattva shook her head helplessly at his words.
"Aimin, boundless love is a grand aspiration, not a method for handling affairs."
"The karma of the Three Realms has tangled roots and intertwined branches. Tug a single hair, and the whole body moves. We cultivators of the Buddhist Sect must never involve ourselves lightly. When dealing with matters, we must hold the bowl of water level, leaning neither way. Only then can we safeguard ourselves."
"So that's how it is." Mu Zha nodded, only half understanding.
Niu Aimin clearly felt that the Bodhisattva's theory lacked the satisfying directness of great love, and was about to question her.
Just then, Dragon Maiden hurried over with quick, dainty steps and reported, "Great One! Taibai Jinxing and Lord Chen Wei of the Heavenly Court's Censorate are outside the mountain gate, requesting an audience."
Guanyin Bodhisattva froze slightly.
The words of her sermon were still caught in