Chapter 30: Conspiracy at Lan Shan Temple

Yan Jingquan, are you jealous of Brother Yan?

It was mid-June, and the summer heat was at its peak.

In the capital city of Tianjing, the streets were sparsely populated during the day. Only in the evening, as the heat gradually subsided, did the markets and districts come alive. Inside the pleasure quarters, mist lingered, and the sound of music and singing never ceased, as if an endless feast were held every night.

Recently, Lingjue Dashi had come to Tianjing to propagate Buddhist teachings, attracting crowds of commoners. Lan Shan Temple, originally reserved for the imperial family and nobility, had opened its doors under Lingjue Dashi’s compassionate initiative. He specifically held the Dharma Assembly at the foot of the mountain, setting up shaded pavilions and offering cool tea to relieve the heat for those attending.

However, the Dharma Assembly was held only once every five days, and attendance was limited. The commoners at the foot of the mountain formed long queues, and as time passed, the situation grew increasingly chaotic. Fights over spots and disturbances became frequent occurrences. The Golden Crow Guards on duty were exasperated, forced to step in repeatedly to maintain order.

One of the Golden Crow Guards wiped the sweat from his forehead and grumbled under his breath, I really don’t understand what Lingjue Dashi is thinking. These commoners can’t possibly grasp the profundity of Buddhist teachings—they’re just here for the spectacle!

Another chimed in, Exactly! And some of them are refugees from Haozhou, swarming like locusts wherever there’s free food. They’re only here for the complimentary tea and snacks!

His Majesty is benevolent, but these people show no gratitude! When the imperial granary distributed food and noble families offered porridge, so many were saved. Yet they caused trouble and startled the carriage of the Northern Garrison Prince’s consort! They should have been driven away from the start!

As they spoke, they noticed two carriages slowly making their way toward the back of the mountain—one lavish, the other elegant, accompanied by several attendants of exceptional bearing.

The Golden Crow Guards hurried forward, bowing respectfully. Noble guests, please wait a moment. The original path to the back mountain is blocked by several goldenrain trees. You’ll need to take a side path to ascend.

Before they could finish, a young, haughty head peeked out from the lead carriage. The child appeared no older than five or six but carried an air of arrogance. He glanced disdainfully at the bustling crowd at the mountain gate, then casually tossed a piece of orange peel at the feet of the guards, his tone impatient.

Why is Lan Shan Temple open to just anyone? Clear these people away! I demand to enter through the main gate!

The Golden Crow Guards looked troubled. His Majesty places great importance on Lingjue Dashi’s propagation of the Dharma. The assembly is held at the foot of the mountain, and we are under orders to guard this area.

What nonsense—

Chun’er. A calm, serene woman’s voice suddenly cut off the boy’s outburst.

The boy pursed his lips and yanked the carriage curtain shut.

Then, a slender, jade-white hand emerged from behind the curtain. A pigeon’s-blood ruby on her index finger glittered in the sunlight as her delicate fingers lightly gestured, tracing patterns in the air.

This princess does not wish to cause trouble. Lead the way.

The two Golden Crow Guards grew even more deferential. Thank you for your understanding, Your Highness, the Eldest Princess!

The hand slowly withdrew, and silence returned to the carriage. The other, more understated carriage remained quiet, as if detached from the entire affair.

The two Golden Crow Guards quickly guided the way. At the foot of the mountain on the other side, several young novices greeted them with chants of Amitabha and escorted the carriages up the alternate path.

As the guards made their way back, they whispered to each other.

Who’s in the other carriage? Even after the Eldest Princess spoke up, they didn’t say a word—just waited for us to lead the way.

Are you stupid! Who else but the wives of noble families would receive such treatment from The Eldest Princess? Because of the one in the palace, both the Cui and Xie families often come to worship here. I just wonder who came today!

No wonder Her Highness The Eldest Princess was so accommodating today!

Stop talking! If you’re overheard, you’ll be watering flowers at the princess’ manor!

The Golden Crow Guard immediately shut his mouth.

The two returned to their previous post, but before long, another luxurious carriage headed toward the back mountain, followed only by two simple attendants. They hurried forward and repeated the news about the back mountain being blocked.

Suddenly, a small head popped out – a face of about six or seven years old brimming with unconcealed arrogance, the angry tone so familiar it felt like they had traveled back half an hour.

What kind of wretched place is this! The main gate is blocked by commoners, the back mountain is blocked by fallen trees. We’re not entering this Lan Shan Temple… Ouch—

Before finishing, the boy suddenly fell back inside, followed by faint thumping sounds. Soon, the boy fell silent.

The two Golden Crow Guards exchanged glances. Just as they were about to inquire, they heard a voice as gentle as the spring breeze.

Please, lead the way.

Unable to identify the visitor’s status, the guards simply provided basic directions.

Taking the alternative path up the mountain proved quite rugged. Even with a young monk familiar with the route, the carriage rocked violently along the way.

So violently that Yan Jingquan felt nauseous.

Bracing against the window to steady himself, he shot Murong Ji a resentful look.

What’s so great about this broken temple? It’s full of monks spouting nonsense nobody understands. We’d be better off amusing ourselves back at the manor.

Murong Ji glanced at him. This young master never asked you to come.

Yan Jingquan gripped the carriage wall. But you invited Yan Qing!

Indeed.

Grinding his teeth in frustration, Yan Jingquan lifted his leg to kick Yan Qing, but the carriage jolt disrupted his balance, sending him crashing onto the floor with a pained grimace.

Murong Ji laughed heartily. Look at your pathetic state! If you don’t want to ride, you can walk up to Lan Shan Temple or return directly to the manor and wait for us.

Yan Jingquan snorted coldly and resumed his seat.

After observing Yan Qing meditating across from him, he suddenly pulled Murong Ji out of the carriage.

Landing steadily, Yan Jingquan dusted his hands off and raised an eyebrow at Murong Ji.

Well? Has this young master’s skills improved or what!

With Ziyun back at the manor ‘comforting’ Mother and unable to join them, Murong Ji—though equally uncomfortable—lacked the physical stamina to climb on foot. Being abruptly dragged out had not only startled her but infuriated her.

She kicked at the boy angrily. Idiot! Why did you pull me down!

Yan Jingquan dodged swiftly, ready to boast about his agility, when he noticed Murong Ji staggering toward the now-stopped carriage, the small figure wobbling as if about to collapse any second.

Yan Jingquan strode over and slung an arm around the shorter shoulders. What’s so fun about sitting in the carriage! Look at these lush trees and fragrant flowers everywhere—we might discover something novel! And wouldn’t it be impressive if we walked all the way up?

Murong Ji turned slowly. Really.

Her real interest lay toward the back mountain, but that area was guarded and inaccessible. Now her only option was passing through Lan Shan Temple.

But this brat had to cause trouble!

Suddenly,

Murong Ji smiled. Since you’re so capable, could you carry me up on your back?

Yan Jingquan replied, Of course! But what’s the fun in just carrying you? It’s better if we play while walking! Don’t worry, I won’t leave you behind!

Oh, Murong Ji glanced at him, then waved to Yan Qing who was waiting by the carriage. Never mind, I think Brother Yan is more capable. He could definitely carry me up.

Murong Ji pretended to take a couple steps forward.

Sure enough, the next moment Yan Jingquan hoisted him onto his back and started walking while complaining incessantly.

What’s so great about him! He’s just one year older than me. When I reach his age, I’ll definitely be taller and stronger than him, and I’ll be able to beat him in a fight!

Murong Ji laughed. But by then Brother Yan will have grown even taller too.

Murong Ji! Why do you always take his side! That guy doesn’t look like a good person at all, always watching you every day. Who knows what schemes he’s plotting against you!

Murong Ji didn’t refute this last remark.

If her suspicions were correct, then Yan Qing’s purpose in staying by her side was indeed worth questioning.

But for now,

she still needed him.

As they passed the carriage, Murong Ji smiled and said, Brother Yan, let’s walk up. The carriage ride was too uncomfortable.

Yan Qing nodded and stepped forward, extending his hand. Let me take over.

Yan Jingquan took two steps back and glared angrily. Take over what! Can’t you see I’m carrying him?

Yan Qing said, Your legs are shaking.

Yan Jingquan retorted angrily, That’s because you’ve made me angry!

With that, he strode directly up the mountain path, deliberately bumping into Yan Qing as he passed.

Yan Qing couldn’t understand where Yan Jingquan’s hostility toward him came from. He hadn’t done anything wrong, and during their sparring sessions Yan Jingquan had been respectful, with both of them knowing when to stop. Yet recently, the other seemed angry every time they met.

After thinking for a while, Yan Qing attributed this behavior to the inexplicable nature of children.

Yan Jingquan, carrying Murong Ji ahead, continued grumbling discontentedly. Who does he think he is? Does he think everyone will like him?

Murong Ji lightly tightened his arm around the other’s neck. Yan Jingquan, are you jealous of Brother Yan?

Ridiculous! Why would I be jealous of him!

Yan Jingquan adjusted his grip on the person on his back, his steps steady. I just think he always acts so self-important, like he knows everything! It’s really annoying!

It seemed he was feeling overshadowed by someone else’s accomplished child.

Being around the same age but inferior in appearance, height, martial skills, and even intelligence – if this were the competitive Murong Ji from her previous life, she probably would have disliked someone like Yan Qing too.

As for now, she simply enjoyed the process.

Murong Ji patted Yan Jingquan’s shoulder, signaling for him to put her down.

As soon as her feet touched the ground, Murong Ji compared their heights. Yan Jingquan, you’re so much taller than me already! How come you still act like a child!

You’re the one who acts like a child!

The moment he said this, Yan Jingquan realized his mistake, and both he and Murong Ji burst into laughter.

Murong Ji nudged him with her elbow and whispered, To tell you the truth, if Grandfather hadn’t told me to stay close to Yan Qing, I wouldn’t want to play with him at all!

Yan Jingquan’s eyes widened. Really?

Hmm! Murong Ji nodded emphatically, sneaking a glance behind them. Besides, he’s Prime Minister Yan’s legitimate grandson. You know how formidable Prime Minister Yan is—he might even assist Grandfather in governing Great Jin someday, just like his grandfather! You’d better not offend him too much.

Hearing this, the anger in Yan Jingquan’s heart diminished considerably.

He snorted coldly. This young master isn’t necessarily inferior to him!

Murong Ji pacified the child. Yes, yes, you’re the most capable. I just wonder if we’ll make it back before evening.

It was only noon. Though Lan Shan Temple wasn’t as sweltering as the capital city, this was the time when everyone easily grew weary. If they delayed further on their way up, they would undoubtedly be returning after dark.

Yan Jingquan patted his own back, signaling for Murong Ji to climb on. Don’t worry. This young master’s speed is unmatched by ordinary people. I guarantee we’ll reach Lan Shan Temple quickly.

Murong Ji complied without hesitation.

From behind, Yan Qing watched Yan Jingquan, who seemed as if he had been injected with adrenaline, his expression growing even more perplexed.

About the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, the group finally stood outside the side gate of Lan Shan Temple.

However, the entrance was blocked by two carriages, with several attendants standing respectfully nearby—clearly, the occupants were of noble status.

Yan Jingquan, who had been pulling Murong Ji along, was both exhausted and irritable. Are you going in or not? If not, move aside! This young master needs to rest!

One of the attendants turned and rebuked sharply, How dare you! Whose child are you? How audacious to disturb Her Highness the Princess!

Yan Jingquan scoffed. You’re the one who’s audacious! Who gave you permission to speak to this young master!

You… The attendant, incensed, was about to retort when their master interrupted.

Chunlan, do not quarrel with a child.

As you wish. Chunlan bowed and stepped back.

Soon, three individuals descended from the carriage. The leading woman wore luxurious purple robes embroidered with exquisite peony patterns at the collar, her hair adorned with a golden buyao hairpin, exuding an air of grace and nobility. Behind her followed two six- or seven-year-old children with similar features, both wearing haughty expressions.

The young boy wrinkled his nose at the sight of Yan Jingquan, his face full of disdain. They stink! They must be lowly commoners who sneaked up from the foot of the mountain!

Yan Jingquan clenched his fists and stepped forward. You brat! Say that again!

The boy, who had never encountered anyone so uncouth, retreated two steps and clung to the Eldest Princess’s leg. Mother! He’s bullying Chun’er!

Having attended that Flower Viewing Banquet, the Eldest Princess recognized who they were. After glancing at the child behind Yan Jingquan, she smiled.

Yi Ruochun, what nonsense are you speaking? This is Yan Jingquan, the legitimate grandson of the Prince of Zhenbei. You may even study together in the palace someday.

At the mention of studying, Yi Ruochun’s face fell immediately.

Yan Jingquan’s expression also soured.

Then, the Eldest Princess cheerfully pulled her two children toward him, startling Yan Jingquan into stepping back repeatedly.

To his surprise, she bypassed him entirely and approached Murong Ji, who stood behind him.

Yan Jingquan couldn’t help but pat his chest in relief.

Today is indeed an auspicious day. Ji’er, you’ve come to Lan Shan Temple as well.

As she spoke, the Eldest Princess pushed the two children toward Murong Ji. This is your cousin-uncle Ruochun and cousin-aunt Ruoqing.

Murong Ji gazed at the group, sighing inwardly at the complexities of family hierarchy while Ziyun’s words involuntarily surfaced in his mind.

The Marquis of Anping from the Yi family, Lord Yi is fond of amusement and holds only a nominal position at court. Due to his handsome appearance, he married Princess Qingyang. They have fraternal twins who are often brought into the palace by Princess Qingyang.

Murong Ji suddenly recalled that on the day Xue Consort died, The Eldest Princess was also present. At that time, she was close to Consort Shen Liang, but one of her remarks inadvertently helped Xie Defei.

It seemed The Eldest Princess had far-sighted vision.

After greeting the two arrogant little brats, Murong Ji turned to The Eldest Princess: Grand Aunt, have you also come here to pray to the gods and worship the Buddha?

Just as The Eldest Princess was about to respond, people from another carriage approached.

On this day of Grandmaster Lingjue’s Dharma Assembly, what fortune to encounter Your Highness The Eldest Princess, and now to see the Imperial Grandson as well. This is truly an auspicious day.

The newcomer was dressed elegantly, carried herself with grace, and had a gentle countenance. Her smile was perfectly measured, so familiar that Murong Ji could immediately recognize her status.

Madam Cui of the Kong family pays respects to the distinguished guests.

This was how noblewomen from prestigious families addressed themselves. Murong Ji smiled and nodded: Greetings, Madam Cui.

But her gaze was suddenly drawn to the handsome young boy standing nearby.

Refined and elegant, with features as fair as jade – the very image of a modest gentleman.

Cui Heng pays respects to Her Highness the Princess, and to the Young Master.

Cui Heng – even his name was pleasant.

Just as Murong Ji was inwardly marveling, she was suddenly lifted into someone’s arms – not by Yan Jingquan, but by Yan Qing who had arrived a step later.

Your Highness, Madam Cui, my apologies. The Young Master is exhausted from walking up from the foot of the mountain. I shall take him inside to rest first.

———————–

Author’s note: Next chapter will be posted a bit later [heart]

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