The more Ye Yaodong thought about it, the more he regretted coming back so early. A trumpet conch that big was worth a fortune. Still, it wasn't worth as much now as it would be later. Thinking of it that way... maybe it wasn't such a shame after all?
"Can't lots of sea snails be blown like horns?"
"It's different. This one supposedly drives out demons, wards off evil, and keeps you safe. Coastal and mountain folk used to blow them as horns to drive out demons."
In ancient times, not only did tribes and armies use conch horns, but Buddhist monks and Taoist priests in temples also used them as ritual instruments for preaching and proclamations.
Because its mighty, powerful sound carried far, symbolizing the flourishing of Buddhist rites and teachings, reaching the masses and subduing demons, the trumpet conch was called a "Dharma conch."
Lin Xiuqing shrugged. "Maybe we just weren't that lucky? The good stuff can't always end up in our hands."
Ye Yaodong thought she had a point. He was already luckier than plenty of people and ought to be content. Not every good thing could fall into his hands alone. Other people had their lucky moments too.
"Yeah, typhoon weather really does bring treasures to pick up. Shame we can't go out to sea. If we could, we'd definitely make a fortune."
"Don't even think about it. What's more important, your life or money?" Lin Xiuqing shot him a look and snapped.
"I was only saying. My life, of course..."
"Uncle Dong~ Let's go again when the tide goes out tomorrow, and you can help us sell everything again..." Ye Chenghai had just finished counting his share of the money. He kept his hand over his pocket, a satisfied grin on his face.
The others