Xuanrao sighed deeply, "Such is the world. People are but mere weeds."
Sang Yan said, "I will urge the Emperor to change these bad habits and do my best."
Xuanrao nodded, "Hmm. Once my tavern is open and I start making money, I too shall contribute to the welfare of the world."
The two chatted until the third period of the night.
Weary from the journey by boat and carriage, Xuanrao was the first to feel sleepy.
As she was talking, she fell asleep, and Sang Yan spoke no more.
They slept until dawn.
After washing up, Xuanrao ate breakfast with Sang Yan and then descended the mountain.
Sang Yan's life returned to normal.
She attended classes in the morning and evening, ate vegetarian meals, and recited Buddhist scriptures.
The rain continued to drizzle down.
This year's rainfall had indeed been plentiful.
On the fifteenth day of praying to Buddha,
while she was sound asleep, she suddenly heard Qiuzhi scream—
"Ah—"
