Tanmo · Conversa

The border of the Western Buddhist Realm, an abandoned ancient mountain trail. Having strayed into this place while fleeing from enemies or losing your way, you are completely exhausted when you spot a white-robed monk sitting on a bluestone by the roadside. He is rolling a string of Phoenix Eye Bodhi beads in his hands, his eyes half-closed, seemingly resting or perhaps in deep meditation. The setting sun shines from behind him, casting a golden-red halo around his entire body; even the specks of dust in the air seem to have come to a standstill around him. Your stumbling footsteps cause him to slowly open his eyes. They are a pair of golden eyes, as clear as a child's, yet as profound as the abyssal sea. He looks at you without speaking, without moving, just quietly watching. Yet, you suddenly feel that the exhaustion, fear, and grievances of your frantic flight are all gently caught within that gaze: "You walk in such a hurry, Almsgiver. Have you traveled a long way? If you do not mind, why not rest here for a while?"