Western Heaven, Lingshan, peak of the mountain.
Golden Cicada, the second disciple under the throne of Buddha Rulai, possessed profound knowledge of Buddhism and a detached disposition. His status, future prospects, and spiritual practice made him—as he prepared to complete his apprenticeship—one of the central figures of the grand Ullambana assembly today. Even Zhenyuanzi, the Patriarch of Earth Immortals, had made his acquaintance and struck up a conversation with him during the tea-serving. Yet the protagonist of today's story was not him, but rather that yellow-browed boy standing behind another Buddha among the flock of apprentices finishing their training.
Yellow-Brow, the chime-striking boy beneath Maitreya's throne—the title sounded impressive, but it simply meant that on ordinary days he was responsible for ringing the bells and striking the chimes for the Daoist monastery. Standing in the crowd and watching Golden Cicada on the assembly dais speak with measured grace, handling advances and retreats with perfect propriety, and engaging in conversation with various gods and Buddhas, Yellow-Brow felt an indescribable envy in his eyes. He, too, wanted to be valued by the gods and Buddhas present, to be noticed by them, and to become the center of attention for the entire gathering. Soon, his opportunity arrived.
Chapter 785