A True Master in Person

Meanwhile, Li Ping and the Li family hurried toward the main gate as well, moving no slower than when they had followed Ji Yuan to the rear courtyard earlier.

By the time they reached the main entrance, Li Ping, having hurried and even jogged twice along the way, was drenched in sweat. Yet Old Madam Li had not fallen far behind either, hurrying up as Li Ping straightened his clothes.

After tidying their attire and roughly wiping the sweat from their faces with handkerchiefs, they walked from beside the gate to its entrance. At first glance, they saw a kind-faced old monk standing outside. He wore a kasaya robe embroidered with red patterns and gold thread, prayer beads in hand, his eyes slightly lowered as he chanted sutras.

"Master..."

The servant by the gate bowed and wanted to say something, but Li Ping raised a hand to stop him. He then glanced at his old mother and concubine behind him, slightly lifted the hem of his robe, crossed the threshold, and slowly walked outside, only stopping two paces before the old monk after descending the steps.

"This commoner Li Ping pays respects to the Imperial Advisor!" "This commoner woman pays respects to the Imperial Advisor!"

Led by Li Ping, everyone in the Li family, servants included, bowed deeply to the old monk.

Only then did the old monk raise his head and look at the Li family.

"Great Ming King Buddha. Lord Li and all you faithful believers, please rise quickly. This old monk is Moyun, come from the Capital City. His Majesty sent me to treat Madam Li's illness."

"His Majesty still remembers me, His Majesty... Li is but a commoner, yet I have received such favor from His Majesty. Even ten thousand deaths would not be enough to