To bless and sanctify an amulet involves a mage personally reciting sutras, imbuing the amulet with what is often referred to as its magical power.
However, it’s important to note that this so-called magic power isn’t true magic; rather, it embodies a form of merit and carries a beautiful significance.
After the consecration, Master Jingqing returned the amulet to Nanako, saying, “Please take care of this amulet. If the donor is interestedter, they can delve deeper into Buddhism. Given the donor’s talent, I am confident they will grasp its essence. Many contemporary individuals struggle toprehend this truth!”
Nanako understood Master Jingqing’s profound dedication to Buddhism, so she nodded and replied, “Rest assured, Master, I will make an effort to explore more.”
“Amitabha,” Master Jingqing responded, bowing slightly as he expressed his gratitude to Nanako.<h3 style="background-color:DodgerBlue">
In turn, Nanako bowed respectfully before bidding farewell to Master Jingqing. He walked her to the door, personally opening it to the Buddhist hall.
As he swung the door open, several “believers” were already gathered under the stone steps outside. They held amulets from the Dharma Material Cirction Office, patiently waiting for Master Jingqing to bless them. The first in line was a woman dressed simply and wearing a mask, making her age hard to determine.
This woman was Lydia (Ava), Charlie’s mother.
From the moment Nanako exited, Lydia recognized that she had attained enlightenment. Despite her surprise, a wave of relief washed over her.
As Sister Sun had mentioned, Nanako had indeed reached enlightenment, which meant that Charlie Wade would have a closepanion on his lengthy spiritual journey. This held significant andsting importance for someone traveling alone on this path.
As Nanako walked past Lydia (Ava), she didn’t pay much attention to the masked woman. Instead, her focus was on the youngdy she had encountered in the elevator, who stood in line behind Lydia (Ava).
Recognizing her instantly, Nanako was drawn to the young woman, momentarily unaware of Lydia (Ava)’s presence.
At that moment, the young woman was apanied by another woman of simr age. They were whispering to one another, and when the young woman spotted Nanako, she eximed in surprise, “Oh, it’s you!”
Nanako nodded in acknowledgment and replied, “I just received an amulet from Master Jingqing. Thank you very much!”
With a smile, the woman responded, “You’re wee! It was just a small effort.”
Noticing her friends nearby, Nanako decided not to prolong the conversation. After expressing her gratitude once more, she bid farewell and departed.
The woman, still warm in her invitation, encouraged Nanako to visit her home, to which Nanako simply agreed.<fn9b04> Readplete version only at find?novel</fn9b04>
As Nanako left, Master Jingqing was just instructing the next “believer” to enter the Buddhist hall, allowing Lydia (Ava) to step inside.
Once the door to the hall closed behind them, Lydia (Ava) turned to Master Jingqing and asked, “Jingqing, what are your thoughts on Miss Ito?”
Master Jingqing let out a soft sigh, expressing his feelings, “Madam, I feel quite humbled in the presence of Miss Ito. Throughout our interaction, my focus wavered multiple times. At one point, I considered introducing her to Buddhism; at another, I thought that letting go of emotions and desires was the key to enlightenment. It was only through Miss Ito’s insights that I realized my understanding of Buddhism has been built on a foundation rooted in Taoism. Had she not reminded me, I might have mistakenly attributed everything solely to Buddhism…”
Lydia (Ava) smiled and remarked, “Miss Ito is indeed very astute. She possesses a candid and determined spirit. For someone like you, who enjoys guiding others toward Buddha, her honesty can be a powerful tool, while her dedication is something beyond yourprehension.”