Ch 117: Is There Really Such a Good Thing? [QT]

The Taoist Bai He and Mao Ximing reiterated their purpose for visiting, and only then did Shen Yunxuan realize how much attention the trolls’ misfortunes had attracted.

Taoist Bai He curiously asked, “Master Shen, how did you do it? How were you able to influence events on the internet?”

If mystic techniques could be applied through the internet, wouldn’t dealing with enemies become much easier?

Shen Yunxuan feigned confusion and replied, “I didn’t really do anything. I just emphasized a few times that verbal malice would bring retribution.”

Seeing that Shen Yunxuan was unwilling to elaborate, Bai He didn’t press further. It was understandable—anyone with their own unique skills wouldn’t readily share them. If everyone did, the balance would be thrown into chaos. He nodded and said, “It’s true that good is rewarded and evil punished, but it can be hard to enforce this principle. If Master Shen ever encounters trouble, you can reach out to us just like reporting a crime. We will ensure that wrongdoers are swiftly apprehended.”

Shen Yunxuan smiled and nodded. “Thank you, Senior. Rest assured, my only goal is to rebuild the Temple and make it a respected and righteous sect. I’ll be cautious in my actions and strive to avoid unnecessary trouble.”

Her words conveyed both a reassurance of her good intentions and a subtle promise that any retaliation against the trolls would remain measured and not cross any lines.

Satisfied, Bai He continued chatting with Shen Yunxuan. After a while, he probed, “Master Shen, your aura is shrouded and indistinct, as though your destiny has undergone a significant upheaval. Have you experienced any major events?”

Shen Yunxuan waved her hand dismissively. “I’ve lived a relatively smooth life without major upheavals. However, I did start seeing spirits not long ago. Shortly after, I felt guided by fate to discover Idle Cloud Temple and inherit its teachings, which led to everything that followed. Perhaps that’s why my aura appears veiled.”

“You suddenly awakened to spiritual vision?” Mao Ximing asked in amazement.

Of course, Shen Yunxuan wouldn’t reveal the full truth. She knew the less she said, the better. Let them draw their own conclusions. As expected, both Bai He and Mao Ximing speculated that she might have had a fateful encounter or unlocked latent talents under specific circumstances, leading her to the path of cultivation. Either way, they regarded her as a prodigy they couldn’t afford to overlook.

Bai He, having reviewed her past livestreams over the past few days, had gained a good understanding of her character and was deeply impressed. He extended an olive branch. “Master Shen, would you be interested in joining us and contributing to the nation?”

Shen Yunxuan asked curiously, “Do other sects collaborate with your department? I’ve heard that Xuantai Sect is the largest sect—are they involved too?”

Bai He awkwardly rubbed his nose, while Mao Ximing chuckled and explained in a low voice, “The Xuantai Sect is notoriously arrogant. My master has some history with them, and their only condition for joining the department was that they wouldn’t work with Xuantai Sect.”

Shen Yunxuan looked at Bai He in surprise. He slapped the back of Mao Ximing’s head and scolded, “You talk too much! I just can’t stand those hypocrites Xuanqing and Xuanyang.” Turning to Shen Yunxuan, he added, “Don’t mind me, Master Shen. I’m a straightforward person and have no qualms openly expressing my dislike for them. If you admire them, I can arrange for someone else from the department to contact you.”

Shen Yunxuan quickly replied, “I don’t admire them. I was just asking casually. I don’t know much about their affairs. So, Xuantai Sect hasn’t joined the department?”

Bai He snorted, “They pride themselves on being the top sect in mysticism and look down on us. Whenever we need their help, they act superior and play hard to get.”

Mao Ximing added, “They’re always demanding excessive rewards, like cultivation resources, and positioning themselves above everyone else. We rarely work with them unless we’re dealing with a truly dangerous spirit or a highly complicated issue that requires input from multiple sects.”

Shen Yunxuan hadn’t expected such a coincidence. The subtle discord between the department and Xuantai Sect made her situation much more favorable. However, she still needed to learn more about the department before making any commitments. Politely, she said, “I’m still a newcomer to metaphysics and unfamiliar with many things, including what joining the department or leading an independent sect entails. How about I take some time to consider and learn more before giving you a reply?”

Bai He readily agreed and exchanged WeChat contacts with her. “Take your time, Master Shen. Once you’ve decided, just let me know. By the way, are you planning to help Dominating Tycoon and his siblings resolve their issue? It’s a serious matter. Would you like us to assist?”

Shen Yunxuan didn’t immediately agree. “I don’t mind, but this is ultimately their private family matter. Let me check with them first to see if they’re comfortable with outside involvement.”

“Fair enough.”

Dominating Tycoon and his five siblings—three brothers and three sisters—had all arrived and were extremely polite to Shen Yunxuan. Clearly, they had conducted thorough investigations over the past two days, confirming that they weren’t their father’s biological children and gaining a deeper understanding of Shen Yunxuan’s abilities. Their respect and courtesy reflected this.

When Shen Yunxuan mentioned that a special government department was willing to assist, they were immediately open to the idea. As they weren’t biologically related to their father, they had no leverage to fight him. Over the past two days, they’d received numerous calls urging them to return. If not for their father’s hesitation about confronting Shen Yunxuan directly, fearing it would escalate the situation, he might have already come to forcibly take them back.

The government, therefore, would be their best protector. They had no reason to refuse such an offer.

Shen Yunxuan introduced both parties to one another just as Idle Wanderer arrived with food. When Taoist Bai He saw Xianglan, he turned to Shen Yunxuan and asked, “I forgot to ask earlier—how long do you plan to keep this female ghost by your side, and what are your intentions for her?”

Mao Ximing, who had a favorable impression of Shen Yunxuan, kindly reminded her, “Only proper cultivation can be sustained long-term. Keeping a ghost is not the way of the righteous path.”

Shen Yunxuan smiled. “Don’t worry. Xianglan is my friend, not someone I’ve deliberately ‘kept.’ She’s encountered difficulties, and I’m working on breaking the curse that binds her. She’s an independent member of our temple, not something I’ve enslaved. Speaking of which, shouldn’t there be a system for registering ghosts? People have ID cards—shouldn’t there be something similar for good ghosts? Xianglan’s a benign spirit seeking help, so if she had proper registration, she wouldn’t risk being caught or exorcised by someone else in the future.”

“Registration?” Bai He and Mao Ximing exchanged surprised glances. Such a concept was unheard of. However, knowing Xianglan’s plight from Shen Yunxuan’s livestreams, they understood that sending her into reincarnation to face eternal misfortune would effectively destroy her soul—a decision incompatible with their righteous path.

Mao Ximing suggested, “Why not start with Xianglan? In the future, any ghost seeking help could be registered, with their case recorded until resolved. Once their situation is addressed, the case could be archived for future reference.”

Bai He shrugged. “Fine. Let’s bring it up with Minister Zhou when we get back and let him handle it.” He assured Shen Yunxuan that he would raise the matter with his superiors.

Meanwhile, Dominating Tycoon and his siblings turned pale. He cautiously asked, “Master Shen, is there… a ghost here?”

Mao Ximing mischievously pointed to a spot beside him. “Right there.”

Dominating Tycoon fell to the ground in shock, prompting Mao Ximing to burst into laughter. Xianglan covered her mouth to stifle a giggle and gently helped him up.

Shen Yunxuan chuckled. “Don’t worry. Xianglan won’t harm you, and her presence won’t affect you while you’re here in the temple.”

“Ah, alright, thank you,” Dominating Tycoon stammered, embarrassed. Sensing an invisible force helping him up, he nodded in Xianglan’s direction. “Thank you, Miss Xianglan.” He then composed himself and began discussing their situation.

The six siblings sat together, and both Shen Yunxuan and Taoist Bai He examined their features closely. Even without complete birth information, their circumstances became clear: all six had destinies that brought immense fortune and blessings to their families. Their adoptive father, Fang Dehai, had reaped enormous benefits by raising them.

If Fang Dehai hadn’t had such a poor fate himself, their combined fortunes might have made him the wealthiest man in the country. Despite being separated from their biological parents, the siblings’ birth charts revealed that their parents were still alive, healthy, and thriving—likely due to the siblings’ inherent good fortune.

Shen Yunxuan felt a pang of envy. As someone under the “lone star” fate, her life was the exact opposite of theirs.

Bai He frowned deeply. “Their fortunes have been deliberately concealed. Who could have done this?”

Shen Yunxuan suspected Xuanyang and seized the opportunity to suggest, “For something this well-hidden, it must have been done by someone with extraordinary cultivation.”

Mao Ximing looked puzzled. “But that doesn’t make sense. There aren’t many highly skilled practitioners left in the mystic world. I’m considered exceptional, and even I couldn’t achieve this. Anyone who could would need to be at my master’s level, and there are fewer than twenty such people.”

“What?” Shen Yunxuan was genuinely surprised. “You’re considered exceptional?”

Mao Ximing huffed playfully. “Master Shen, are you looking down on me? I’d say our strengths are about the same—we’d probably fight to a draw.”

Bai He smacked him on the back of the head. “You’ve got the nerve to say that? Your family lineage is renowned, with roots in the legendary South Mao North Ma traditions. You’ve had access to these teachings since childhood, yet you’re only on par with Master Shen, who hasn’t even been in the mystic world for six months!”

Mao Ximing’s face flushed, and he muttered, “Well, it’s not like there’s anyone left in my family to teach me. The lineage is fragmented…”

“Brat! Am I not here? You’re the one who’s unmotivated!” Bai He gave him another light smack. Yet Bai He knew the truth—this was the era of dwindling spiritual energy, where even the most talented practitioners struggled to advance. It wasn’t entirely Mao Ximing’s fault. Still, this made Shen Yunxuan’s rapid progress all the more remarkable. Clearly, she had unique opportunities fueling her growth.

For the first time, Shen Yunxuan began to grasp her position within the metaphysics community. She’d always assumed she was at the very bottom, but now it seemed she was already considered a standout. If she continued working hard, she might one day reach Bai He’s level, a position with significant influence.

Realizing that the gap between herself and Xuanyang or Xuanqing might not be as insurmountable as she’d feared, Shen Yunxuan’s hope ignited. Although she’d retaliated against them in her past life, the cost had been devastating, leaving her scarred and unsure of their ultimate fate.

Now, given this new chance, she was determined to grow stronger, accumulate faith energy, and surpass Xuanyang and Xuanqing. She vowed to topple the oppressive mountains they represented.

For now, though, she needed to play it smart. Shen Yunxuan proposed, “This is a serious matter. Why don’t we keep it confidential for the time being? We can discreetly monitor potential suspects while working to break the enchantments on them. Once the spell rebounds on its caster, we’ll know who assisted Fang Dehai in his misdeeds.”

Mao Ximing clapped his hands. “Great idea! Master, let’s do it! Don’t even tell Minister Zhou—let’s handle this covertly and make a big move!”

Taoist Bai He scolded him again. “Watch your words! If Minister Zhou finds out, you’ll be in trouble. But you’re right; this matter must stay confidential. I’ll report it only to Minister Zhou. Don’t worry, he’s more tight-lipped than anyone and will be more eager than anyone else to identify the perpetrator. A skilled practitioner causing trouble like this poses a significant threat to social stability.”

Dominating Tycoon asked nervously, “What should we do? If someone powerful is helping our father control us, are we in danger?”

This was the siblings’ primary concern. Shen Yunxuan instructed Idle Wanderer to bring talisman paper and cinnabar, then swiftly drew protective talismans. Her improved cultivation made these talismans even more effective. She handed them to the siblings, instructing, “These talismans are waterproof—never take them off. They can save your life in critical moments. The safest option, of course, is for you to go somewhere no one can find you.”

She turned to Taoist Bai He. “Senior, would you be able to take them into your protection?”

Taoist Bai He was momentarily stunned, staring wide-eyed. “You can just draw talismans like that? No incense lighting or handwashing rituals? You can create perfect talismans anytime, anywhere?” He examined the talisman papers in disbelief. “Not a single failure! What kind of genius are you? This is incredible.”

Shen Yunxuan glanced at Mao Ximing, who explained in a whisper, “Don’t mind him, Master Shen. My teacher loves talismans, and he’s completely in awe of you. It’s just admiration. But you are truly amazing—no one today can make talismans as effortlessly as you. You’re extraordinary!”

Shen Yunxuan was stunned by their praise and realized just how exceptional her inherited talents were. She inwardly thanked Zhou Yunxuan, who had swapped their fates in her previous life. Now, she could even use her “unlucky” destiny to counteract her detractors—an incredible blessing! She decided to keep this under wraps, lest Zhou Yunxuan discover and react poorly.

Noticing her smile, Mao Ximing exaggerated, “No way, Master Shen! You actually enjoy being praised? Look, I may not have inherited my full family legacy, but my lineage was known for powerful talismans too!”

Shen Yunxuan chuckled. “Perhaps your family’s legacy awaits you elsewhere. Fate often depends on luck. If you do more good deeds and explore widely, maybe one day you’ll inherit something remarkable.”

Mao Ximing nodded thoughtfully. Since joining the special department, he’d only traveled for assignments, spending his remaining time training under his master. Shen Yunxuan’s words resonated. Historically, metaphysic disciples were expected to venture out and learn through experience. How could opportunities find him if he didn’t actively seek them?

“Take you, for example,” he said. “If you had stayed in the entertainment industry after awakening your spiritual vision, you might’ve been scared to death by malevolent spirits. But coming to Idle Cloud Temple led you to inherit its teachings and become its leader. That was your opportunity! I’ve been blocking my own path all this time.”

He stood and bowed deeply to Shen Yunxuan. “Thank you for the guidance, Master Shen. I’ve learned a lot.”

Taoist Bai He smiled approvingly. Sometimes, advice from an outsider carried more weight than from someone close. He had little else to teach Mao Ximing and hoped his disciple would find good opportunities on his own. “I see Xianyun Temple has plenty of work to do. Idle Wanderer and Xianglan alone won’t be enough to manage it all. Why not have this kid stay and help you out? He can run errands, relay messages, and handle issues like Auntie Li’s, so you don’t have to.”

Mao Ximing laughed. “It would be an honor to assist you, Master Shen. Do you accept?”

“Of course,” Shen Yunxuan replied. “I was just thinking I could use more help. For now, the priority is handling temple visitors. Recently, people have started coming to idle cloud Temple to pray, draw lots, and buy talismans or fortune readings. I’ve been too busy to manage it. Would you take over receiving visitors, ensuring they leave satisfied? Additionally, for those interested in learning metaphysics, screen for good character and sort them into those genuinely wishing to join the temple and those only seeking lessons. My senior will teach the basics to those who qualify.”

Idle Wanderer nodded at Mao Ximing, who immediately understood. He could see that Idle Wanderer didn’t have much time left, and Shen Yunxuan was trying to ease his burden. Staying to help was the least Mao Ximing could do. Plus, the chance to assist someone as talented as Shen Yunxuan was a golden opportunity to learn from her.

After finalizing these arrangements, Taoist Bai He agreed to take Dominating Tycoon and his siblings to a secure location under the department’s protection. With this resolved, Shen Yunxuan suggested, “Since my recent livestream gained so much attention, and your situation was part of it, why not record a video explaining your story and expressing your wish to reunite with your biological parents? Share what you know about them, and I’ll help promote the video. It’ll likely go viral, and there’s a good chance your parents will see it.”

Dominating Tycoon, a fan of internet culture, led the decision-making among his siblings. After careful consideration, they agreed to his proposal. Taking a deep breath, he said, “Let’s do it! We were stolen or taken away as children, and our families must have been missing us all this time. We owe it to them to find them.”

“Exactly,” another sibling added. “Fang Dehai hasn’t treated us well. Whatever debt we owed him for raising us, we’ve repaid it in full with the fortune he gained from our presence. In truth, he owes us. We don’t need to consider his feelings. Let’s use this opportunity to find our real families!”

With the plan finalized, Taoist Bai He prepared to take them away. Before leaving, he offered Shen Yunxuan a well-meaning warning. “Master Shen, you were too quick to trust us today. If we had been imposters, you could have been in grave danger.”

Shen Yunxuan glanced at the faint golden glow of merit surrounding him, a sign of his many good deeds over the years. With her unique spiritual sight, she could discern the auras of virtuous individuals—though only those of considerable strength. While caution was essential, Shen Yunxuan felt confident in her ability to discern true intentions. She nodded politely. “Thank you for the reminder, Senior. I’ll make sure to exercise caution.”

After Taoist Bai He and his group departed, Shen Yunxuan stretched and made her way to the incense hall, where Idle Wanderer was enthusiastically greeting visitors. “So many pilgrims have come!” he exclaimed. “Idle Cloud Temple finally has devotees again. It’s wonderful!”

Shen Yunxuan patted his shoulder reassuringly. “Don’t worry. Together, we’ll make our Temple thrive. Before long, we’ll have more disciples, and as the temple’s elder, your status will only rise.”

Idle Wanderer, energized by the thought, couldn’t help but smile in anticipation. Yet he reminded her, “We mustn’t get complacent. Earlier, Ximing caught two individuals with ill intentions. They likely didn’t expect Ximing to have genuine fortune-telling skills and got exposed for their lies.”

Shen Yunxuan nodded thoughtfully. After ensuring Idle Wanderer took some rest, she returned to her room and quickly ordered a batch of hidden cameras. She’d never hidden Idle Cloud Temple’s location, and with the increasing number of visitors—some of whom might have malicious intentions—security was essential.

Even government agencies relied on evidence, after all. As the head of the temple, she needed to protect this sanctuary.

Thanks to the convenience of living in the nation’s capital, the cameras arrived the same day. Shen Yunxuan had them installed throughout the Temple, ensuring every corner was under surveillance. Each person at the temple was also equipped with a button-sized camera discreetly sewn into their clothing, capable of capturing everything directly in front of them.

Idle Wanderer and Mao Ximing were puzzled. “Why all this? It’s like filming a movie.”

Shen Yunxuan simply replied, “We’ll need evidence in case of disputes during disciple selection. These recordings will ensure transparency. Make sure to keep the cameras safe and functional.”

While the two thought it was an extravagant expense, they acknowledged it was Shen Yunxuan’s money and respected her decision. Besides, the setup was entertaining—they spent the evening monitoring the feeds like excited children with a new toy, completely forgetting about dinner.

Meanwhile, Shen Yunxuan enjoyed a lavish meal, satisfied that everything was in place. With all arrangements handled, she felt ready to focus on reaping the rewards of her efforts. Earning merit was vital for keeping her lingering bad luck at bay.

At the same time, Taoist Bai He reported the situation to Minister Zhou, who approved Shen Yunxuan’s proposed approach. That evening, during peak online traffic hours, Dominating Tycoon used his accounts across various platforms to release a video. In it, he and his siblings each shared their personal stories, describing their plight and their biological parents’ characteristics based on the fortune readings. They pleaded for help in reuniting with their true families.

Shen Yunxuan promptly reposted the video, adding a heartfelt caption:
“Please share this widely to help them reunite with their real families!”

Her followers, eager for updates, immediately noticed the post. Recognizing Dominating Tycoon, many were astonished, and the internet quickly erupted in a frenzy.

“Isn’t this the leaderboard king from her livestream?”

🌸˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧🩷˚⋆