Chapter 222: 222
Fangzheng smiled, knowing what was on Wang Yougui's mind . "Patron, This Penniless Monk has a clear idea on such matters . It is good to know that the village will receive new roads, as for the mountain roads . . . It is a shame but This Penniless Monk will make do . "
"About that . . . don't worry . I'll settle the bill for you . The reason why the county is willing to mend the roads is mainly because City-Toppling Beauty came to our village recently . When they left, they were all up in praises of Mt . One Finger and the authorities probably believed that it would become a popular destination once City-Toppling Beauty is released . When the time comes, Mt . One Finger can use it as an opportunity to stir up some interest . It might not be a major scenic area but it shouldn't be a problem becoming a minor one . It can also be considered as an early investment . Your mountain path should also be within their plans . I was pulling your leg when I asked you to produce the money . But who knew, sigh . . . " Wang Yougui could only smile wryly .
Fangzheng was surprised . He never expected that the City-Toppling Beauty's filming would bring him such a boon . But on second thought, it was a large film crew and it was filming a blockbuster . Once it was released, Mt . One Finger would definitely become famous if the movie caused a stir . When the time came, the monastery's incense offerings would increase . With more people, there would be more people he could help . Wouldn't he earn merit in copious amounts when that happened?
Fangzheng beamed like a blooming flower .
Wang Yougui continued his chat with Fangzheng for a short while . He did not say much after realizing how the seemingly heartless young monk thought nothing of five hundred thousand . After hanging up, he went to Tan Juguo and Yang Ping to discuss the road mending .
Time passed quickly . The number of visitors began increasing . The amount of incense offerings One Finger Monastery received increased . Fangzheng sat under the bodhi tree everyday to welcome the visitors .
But one day, Fangzheng woke up especially early in the morning . It was pitch black outside .
When he opened the door to his room, Lone Wolf ran out of his kennel . As the monastery's number one protector, he was still great at his job despite being lazy most of the time . Realizing it was Fangzheng, Lone Wolf shook his head and poked it over, using his leg to scratch his head .
Fangzheng swept the temple hall as per normal . When Monkey saw Fangzheng awake, he did not laze around and ran out to begin sweeping . Days had passed with him sweeping the fallen leaves from the ground and listening to scripture, causing his impetuous disposition to change drastically .
Squirrel diligently helped in clearing the spiderwebs and dust from the roof frames .
After finishing their chores, the sky had gradually begun to light up . Fangzheng cooked a pot of rice as the three animals and Fangzheng ate breakfast . After that, Fangzheng descended the mountain . This time, he did not bring Lone Wolf and Squirrel along . Since the monastery was gradually earning more incense offerings, it could not be left without someone there . Lone Wolf's combat strength was the greatest and Squirrel was meticulous and wary . They were the best choice for protecting the monastery .
Fangzheng brought Monkey with him . Compared to Lone Wolf and Squirrel, Monkey's perception of the Buddhist Dharma was the highest . The only thing lacking about Monkey was his active personality and his lack of propriety . However, for Monkey to travel great distances to seek Buddha, it also indicated that he was inclined towards Buddha . Fangzheng would talk about the scriptures with Monkey whenever he had the chance . Fangzheng never thought of weening off Monkey's habits . All he wanted was for him to understand what should and should not be done .
On the way down the mountain, Monkey was puzzled . He asked, "Abbot, where are we going? What are we doing?"
"Tomorrow is the Tomp-Sweeping Day . It is a traditional Chinese festival for people to honor their ancestors . Everyone was born from a father and mother . Without their care, how is one to grow up? People need to be grateful . Even if one's parents are gone, they are to be commemorated . Today, we are going down the mountain to solicit donations . The things obtained can be used to honor our ancestors," said Fangzheng .
The commemoration was not very troublesome since he was a monk, all he needed to do was pray for his ancestors every time he recited the scriptures to honor Buddha . However, Fangzheng grew up in the village after all . Furthermore, Zen Master One Finger also placed great emphasis on traditional customs . The duo had always lived their days in such a manner .
Although Zen Master One Finger was no longer with him, Fangzheng had no plans on changing the practice .
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