BMN : Chapter 19

As the group arrived at Cuiwei Mountain, the setting sun cast a golden glow across the sky, painting the clouds in fiery hues above the verdant peaks. Birds, flying in scattered groups or in pairs, circled in the air before returning to the forest. A gentle breeze swept through the mountains, carrying the fresh scent of grass and trees, refreshing the travelers even before they entered the mountains.

 

A mountain path, wide enough for carriages, led to the palace. Though winding, it was smooth, allowing the travelers to enjoy the scenic beauty without discomfort from the journey.

 

The deeper they ventured into the forest, the more they saw wildlife, and as dusk fell, they heard the sound of a distant bell.

 

Fu Ming, listening intently, asked, “Is there a temple in these mountains?”

 

Jin Yi replied, “There is a temple in Cuiwei Mountain, the Liuli Temple. It is a royal temple, not as grand as the one in the capital, but it has a serene, meditative atmosphere.”

 

Fu Ming commented, “A temple in the bustling city attracts many worshippers, while one nestled in the mountains offers tranquility. Each has its own merits.”

 

Jin Yi inquired, “Most scholars in our dynasty adhere to Confucianism and do not favor worshipping gods and Buddha. You seem to have an affinity for Buddhism.”

 

Fu Ming explained, “It’s not exactly an affinity. I had a mentor, a physician, who was deeply immersed in Buddhist philosophy. Being around him, I grew to appreciate it.”

 

“A physician studying Buddhism?”

 

Fu Ming nodded. “This mentor of mine was highly skilled in medicine, but he believed that birth, aging, illness, and death are natural parts of life, and even the best physicians can’t always cure. When unable to heal, all they can offer is comfort. He said that the compassion and wisdom of Buddhism could help alleviate the suffering in people’s hearts.”

 

Jin Yi, reminded of the “Heart Sutra,” softly recited, “When Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara was coursing in the deep Prajñāpāramitā, he perceived that all five skandhas are empty, thereby transcending all suffering and distress…”

 

Fu Ming, hearing this, smiled gently and asked, “Do you often recite this? Have you gained any insights?”

 

Jin Yi shook his head. “If one must see all five skandhas as empty to escape the sea of suffering, how is that different from having a heart as cold as ashes?”

 

Fu Ming was silent for a moment before saying, “That’s why I prefer savoring the poems of Wang Wei, like ‘At the end of the water’s flow, I sit and watch the rising clouds.’” He lifted the carriage curtain higher and smiled back at Jin Yi, saying, “Look, we’ve arrived.”

 

Cuiwei Palace was built along the mountainside, with flying eaves and upturned corners peeking out from amidst rocks and lush trees. A clear stream flowed through, with mist rising and falling, giving it the appearance of an otherworldly paradise. The group disembarked from their horses and carriages, greeted by palace maids and guards, and walked towards the deep courtyard.

 

That night, the Third Prince hosted a banquet. Considering the fatigue from the journey, it was a simple meal before everyone retired to their quarters.

 

Fu Ming followed Jin Yi to Yunsheng Pavilion.

 

“Earlier, you seemed lost in thought. Is something on your mind?” Jin Yi asked Fu Ming.

 

“I felt the Third Prince looked familiar, and I kept trying to recall where I’d seen him before.”

 

“Did you remember?”

 

“Yes. It was last year’s Mid-Autumn Festival night. The official you mentioned, who accompanied you, turned out to be him.” At the banquet, Fu Ming pieced together the circumstances, understanding why Cui Rong targeted him with the Third Prince’s tacit approval and Jin Yi’s initial inaction.

 

Jin Yi also recalled last year’s events. He wanted to say that if faced with the same situation today, he would not stand by. But what’s done is done, and hypothetical scenarios are pointless. He struggled to find the right words, and in his urgency, he reached out and grasped Fu Ming’s hand tightly, trying to convey something through the touch.

 

When Fu Ming’s hand was held, his body tensed slightly, and his palm quickly became sweaty. Surprised and with mixed emotions, he slowly calmed down as they walked. Gradually, he understood Jin Yi’s intention, and a small smile formed on his lips as he gently squeezed the hand that refused to let go, even though it was damp with sweat.

 

Their fingers intertwined, and under the dewy moonlight, they walked together to Yunsheng Pavilion.

 

Yunsheng Pavilion was built on the edge of a deep ravine. The pavilion had a high platform beneath and another pavilion above, resembling a crane standing by the stream, wings folded.

 

Lu Feii and the other servants had already prepared everything. The servants stayed on the lower level, while the masters occupied the entire upper level.

 

The room had no walls, only doors and windows that could be opened or closed. Light, uncolored gauze curtains hung around, allowing the cool breeze, bright moonlight, mountain scenery, and drifting clouds to filter through, creating a welcoming yet detached atmosphere.

 

Fu Ming sat comfortably on a cushion, holding a cup of wine made from mountain fruits. He sipped slowly, looking out at the moonlit ravine, the wind-swept pines and bamboos.

 

Jin Yi knelt beside him, embracing him from behind. “Do you like it?” he asked.

 

“Yes, I like it,” Fu Ming replied softly, as if afraid to disturb something, but the happiness in his voice was unmistakable.

 

Jin Yi couldn’t help but laugh, the sound resonating in his throat like fine wine. He, too, felt a deep contentment. “It’s been a long day. Let’s rest early. Tomorrow, we can explore the mountains.”

 

Jin Yi stood up, and Fu Ming finished his drink, reaching out to Jin Yi. Jin Yi pulled him up, and they held hands as they walked to the bed, where they lay down and fell asleep in each other’s arms.

 

The sound of the stream lulled them to sleep, but the birds’ calls woke them.

 

When Fu Ming woke, the space beside him was still warm, but Jin Yi was gone. He got up and went to the door, seeing Jin Yi practicing swordsmanship by the stream below the pavilion. Despite the uneven terrain, Jin Yi moved gracefully, his sword strikes fluid and powerful.

 

The world praised Jin Yi as a worthy successor to his family’s martial legacy, gifted in martial arts. But few knew of his dedication to studying military texts by candlelight or his unwavering commitment to morning sword practice, regardless of weather.

 

Though it was midsummer, the morning air in the mountains was chilly. Fu Ming draped a long robe over his shoulders. When Jin Yi returned, sweat glistened on his forehead.

 

Moved by an impulse, Fu Ming approached, wiping Jin Yi’s sweat and offering him tea. After Jin Yi had cooled down and changed his clothes, they ordered breakfast.

 

The simple mountain dishes, prepared by royal chefs, became refined and delicate. After breakfast, Fu Ming and Jin Yi set out together.

 

Both dressed in sturdy attire, they chose a narrow path leading deep into the forest. Jin Yi carried a bow and quiver, while Fu Ming had a sharp dagger for protection.

 

Following the stream, the mountain path was rugged, but the lush vegetation and fragrant wildflowers made the journey enjoyable. When tired, they rested by the water, watching the stream flow around boulders, splashing and dancing. Occasionally, an egret would come to drink, only to be startled by the presence of people and fly away, landing at a distance.

 

Though the mountains were quiet, there was a vibrant vitality. Walking through them, even in silence, the sounds of nature and their footsteps created a harmonious melody, dispelling any loneliness and filling them with a sense of tranquil joy.

 

Fu Ming, inspired by the sights and sounds, felt a rush of emotions. He thought of bringing a zither but decided against it. It was better to immerse himself in the mountains’ embrace now and later savor these memories through music.

 

Jin Yi seemed to share Fu Ming’s sentiment. He spoke little, except to offer a “be careful” or a helping hand when the path was slippery.

 

When they reached the stream’s source, they found it emanating from a deep, shadowy cave. Water also dripped from the surrounding rock walls. Fu Ming caught a drop on his fingertip and tasted it, finding it crisp and refreshing. He smiled at Jin Yi, saying, “You should try it.”

 

Jin Yi imitated his gesture and remarked, “Indeed, it’s good water.”

 

Fu Ming said, “This water is rarer than snowmelt from plum trees. It’s a pity we didn’t bring any containers to take some back for tea.”

 

“That’s not a problem.” Jin Yi took Fu Ming’s dagger and cut a section of a nearby dry bamboo, fashioning a water container.

 

The water from the rocks dripped slowly, so they sat on the grass, waiting for the container to fill.

 

Jin Yi stretched his legs, and Fu Ming, understanding, lay down, feeling utterly at ease. Looking up at the sky, he saw wispy clouds drifting across the endless blue. Birds flew leisurely, their light and free movements making him long to soar like them.

 

For the first time, or perhaps for the first time in his life, Fu Ming felt so relaxed and carefree. He closed his eyes, placing Jin Yi’s hand on his chest, and smiled as he drifted into a light sleep.

 

After a short nap, refreshed from the journey, the bamboo container was full. Looking at the sky, Fu Ming said, “Let’s head back. This water can’t be stored for long. We’ll make tea with it and play the song I’ve composed in my heart.”

 

Jin Yi asked, “Aren’t you tired?”

 

Fu Ming smiled, “I feel light and refreshed!” Jin Yi picked up the bamboo container and offered his other hand to Fu Ming. Fu Ming took it without hesitation, and they walked back to Yunsheng Pavilion, sometimes walking side by side, sometimes one following the other.

 

Halfway back, Fu Ming turned to look, seeing the mountains clearer in the midday sun. The clouds had shifted, now forming billowing shapes like castles in the sky.

 

When they returned to Yunsheng Pavilion, they had a guest—Jin Yi’s colleague, An Jingzhi, whom he had mentioned to Fu Ming.

 

Sometimes, a good visit is all about timing. An Jingzhi’s visit coincided with the opportunity to taste excellent tea and hear wonderful music. On his way back, he ran into the Third Prince and enthusiastically shared his experience at Yunsheng Pavilion, praising it highly. Consequently, Fu Ming, initially just accompanying Jin Yi for leisure, found himself with a temporary task to prepare for an upcoming banquet.

 

Jin Yi said, “If you don’t want to, I can decline on your behalf to the Third Prince.”

 

Fu Ming considered briefly and shook his head. “It’s fine. The Third Prince is someone you wish to follow; there’s no need to refuse.”

 

Seeing Fu Ming’s calm and confident demeanor, Jin Yi felt a surge of warmth, thinking, “Such a person, doing so much for me, is a blessing indeed.(I’m so lucky)”

 

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