They had run into trouble not far from Fahua Temple, and the fact that a handsome monk had appeared in the temple just within the last two days felt like too much of a coincidence. Furthermore, having lived in Nanxin for sixteen years, Deng Youning could tell that the monk, Wuyuan, had the distinct features of a Nanxin native.
The three of them did not dwell on these suspicions; following the advice of the elderly monk who practiced medicine, they simply focused on getting some rest. Having endured both fear and a grueling journey on foot, the Empress Dowager and Jun Wenying were exhausted and soon fell fast asleep. Deng Youning, however, remained vigilant, forcing herself to stay awake to keep guard.
After the evening drums sounded, the monks’ evening prayers drew to a close. A faint, hushed whispering among those returning to their rooms jolted the drowsy Deng Youning into full alertness. She glanced out the window; in the pitch-black night, the temple lights seemed particularly dim. It had to be past the second watch, yet there was still no word from the monks sent to the Capital.
Chapter 213