"This humble monk is Sangji. Greetings, Mr. Lian!"
The little monk looked only eight or nine years old. Holding a copper bowl, he took a sip of milk tea, then childishly licked the tea from his upper lip before giving his name.
Looking at the half-grown child before him, Lian Youming truly did not know what to make of him now.
"I don't understand what you're saying!"
That was the secret buried deepest in his heart. Even if someone had seen through it, he would never reveal it lightly.
The little monk Sangji wore a peaceful expression. It was not a deliberate pretense, but a peace that sprang from his spirit, one that seemed capable of influencing those around him, dissolving their murderous intent and soothing their malice.
Yet this person could see his secret, and Lian Youming felt an urge to question him.
He too sipped his tea. After pondering for a long while, he said hoarsely, "Whether it's a dream or an illusion, true or false, no longer matters to me!"
The little monk Sangji clapped his hands and laughed. "Well said! The past is an illusion, the future a dream, and the present is real. Mr. Lian, you have deep roots of wisdom. But you harbor many doubts. Unless you understand their causes and effects, I fear your state of mind may never be whole!"
Lian Youming's gaze shifted uncertainly. "Can you resolve my doubts?"
The little monk Sangji shook his head. "Your confusion is not for me to resolve. You must do that yourself; the right moment has yet to come. If you can attain Mystic Connection, you will be able to see through the events of your past. Before that, however, I can offer you a little guidance."
Lian Youming reined in his breath. "What?"