https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-34-The-Underlying-Power-of-Black-Yan-City-/12984546/
https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-36-Bandits-at-the-City-Gates-Seeking-Readers-/12984548/
Chapter 35: The Monk of the Temple of Rebirth
Chapter 35: The Monk of the Temple of Rebirth
A white-robed monk with a handsome face, red lips, and white teeth.
As Qin Zheng's gaze landed on him, the monk also happened to look up and meet Qin Zheng's eyes.
"Amitabha Buddha, benefactor, we meet again," the monk said with a broad smile, nodding at Qin Zheng.
Qin Zheng's eyes flickered, and he returned the gesture with a respectful fist salute.
Did this monk recognize him? Earlier today, he had seen the monk in the eastern part of the city, but at that time, the monk had his eyes closed, chanting Buddhist sutras, and probably hadn't noticed Qin Zheng.
Perhaps, after Qin Zheng walked past, the monk opened his eyes and saw his back? Qin Zheng thought to himself, then recalled the Ghost Head Saber strapped to his back, which provided an explanation.
With this saber, he was indeed easily recognizable.
"So, Young Master Qin, you know the Venerable Unchanging?" Liu Shiye exclaimed with a smile upon witnessing this.
"I saw him earlier this morning in the east of the city," Qin Zheng nodded and replied.
"Excellent, excellent!" Liu Shiye's smile widened, and after seating everyone, he turned to the dancers and musicians, "Louder! More lively!"
Then, addressing the group, he said with a smile, "Everyone, the County Magistrate Gao will be here soon. Let's drink and enjoy the performance!"
"Good!"
"No rush, no rush!"
The crowd echoed in agreement.
Qin Zheng followed suit, turning his attention to the dancers on the stage.
It had to be said that the County Magistrate Gao had excellent taste.
The dancers on the stage were all stunning beauties with fair, radiant skin.
Their graceful movements and enchanting smiles were captivating.
During this, Qin Zheng noticed that the white-robed monk kept his eyes closed, silently reciting Buddhist sutras, as if unwilling to witness the sensual scene.
It was said that the Buddhist disciples had to observe the eight precepts, and this monk seemed to be one who followed the rules.
Qin Zheng only glanced at him briefly before shifting his gaze elsewhere.
After a while, as a song ended, Qin Zheng's ears twitched, and he slightly turned his head towards a certain direction.
After a few breaths, a slightly plump figure appeared, panting heavily.
Upon seeing the group, he clasped his hands together and apologized, "I'm late, my apologies, heroes. Please, allow me to take my seat."
He then proceeded to the head of the table, poured himself a cup of wine, and drank it in one go.
"County Magistrate Gao, you're too kind!"
"County Magistrate Gao, there's no need for such formality!"
With the arrival of the County Magistrate, the atmosphere reached its peak, and the festivities intensified.
This was Qin Zheng's first time seeing the parent official of Black Goose City.
He appeared younger than Qin Zheng had imagined, perhaps in his thirties, and not as old as expected.
His eyes were slightly narrow and long, giving him a shadowy look, suggesting he might be difficult to get along with.
Moreover, Qin Zheng's enhanced five senses were far superior to ordinary people.
At this moment, he detected the scent of rouge on County Magistrate Gao, along with an indescribable chaotic fragrance.
Qin Zheng's eyebrows furrowed imperceptibly.
The group had been waiting for him, and the urgent matter he spoke of was to be conducted within the yamen?
And it involved marrying eighteen wives?
No wonder he was a lustful man, having married eighteen wives.
As Qin Zheng thought this, Liu Shiye quickly welcomed County Magistrate Gao, "Please, everyone, enjoy the banquet!"
Then, turning towards the stage, he raised his hand and shouted, "Continue the music! Continue the dance!"
The atmosphere became even more lively.
The banquet lasted for nearly half a chime.
Although none of the guests were lacking in food or clothing, being martial artists, they had impressive appetites.
As they ate, the chef continuously served dishes.
After everyone was full, a servant cleaned the table, and the atmosphere turned solemn.
"I believe everyone is well aware of the situation in Black Zhuan City, so I won't elaborate further."
"I've gathered you all here today for this matter."
The county magistrate cleared his throat and scanned the crowd before speaking.
With these words, the atmosphere became tense, and one could hear the sound of breathing.
Everyone's gaze was fixed on the county magistrate, awaiting his next words.
The intentions of the government office were clear to those present, but they were waiting to see how much sincerity the office would show to convince them to risk their lives.
"The bandits outside the city are extremely rampant. They've surrounded Commander Ji's troops in the mountains and brutally murdered eighteen of our law enforcers, throwing their bodies into the river."
"What you may not know is that the bandit leader, Zhang Xiowen, has sent us a warning letter."
"He stated that if the city gates aren't opened within three days, they will lead their army to break through the gates!"
"They plan to unleash their army to plunder the city for three days!"
"What do you think? These lawless thugs dare to call themselves an army and threaten to break through our city gates, allowing their army to plunder for three days!"
The county magistrate's voice gradually rose, filled with righteous indignation, his face turning red with anger.
The crowd's expressions sank, becoming grave upon hearing this.
The various businesses in Black Zhuan City were all owned by those present.
If the bandits entered the city and rampaged, they would suffer the most significant losses.
Although each of their families had numerous gang members, they were no match for the bandits who could besiege the troops in the mountains.
As the county magistrate spoke, some who had initially wanted to hear the government office's sincerity before making a decision began to consider how to keep the bandits at bay.
Qin Zheng remained silent, observing the crowd.
"I've invited you all here today to discuss a solution to this matter."
"You are all pillars of Black Zhuan City. Without you, the city wouldn't be as prosperous as it is."
"However, if the city falls, things won't be as easy for you as before."
The county magistrate spoke while scanning the crowd.
"Why doesn't the county magistrate send a letter to the court for help?"
Just as his gaze was about to turn to Qin Zheng, a voice spoke up.
Qin Zheng turned to see it was Zhang Wei, the grand master of the Canal Mob.
The crowd's attention shifted to the county magistrate.
The city's magistrate shook his head and replied, "Since the incident, I've sent over thirty letters to the court for aid."
His expression darkened as he continued, "But they remain neatly stacked on my desk!"
The crowd's eyes narrowed.
"Among those bandits are several skilled archers."
At this moment, Liu Shiye spoke up, explaining to those who didn't understand.
"So, we can only rely on the city's strength, on all of you!"
The county magistrate looked at the crowd and said, "If you all can take action, the bandits outside the city won't be a problem!"
"The government office won't be stingy. We'll grant a three-year tax exemption to the forces that participate in driving out the bandits!"
"For individuals who join, the government office will reward a thousand taels of silver!"
His expression was stern, his gaze fixed on the crowd.
Just as the atmosphere became silent.
A figure in white slowly stood up.
"Amitabha Buddha! Leave this matter to the Temple of Rebirth."
(End of Chapter)
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