Chapter 7: The Plan

Liang Sheng, Mei-Ling, and Zhang Wei spent the next few days in deep discussion, plotting their next move. They knew that they could not simply wait for their enemies to strike again. They needed to take the initiative, to strike first and strike hard.

Zhang Wei had been doing some reconnaissance, gathering information on the most likely suspects. He had discovered that there was a small group of monks who had always been suspicious of outsiders, and who had been spreading rumors about Liang Sheng and Mei-Ling.

These monks were led by a man named Shi Zhen, a powerful martial artist who had always been jealous of anyone who showed more promise than he did. Shi Zhen had been spreading lies about Liang Sheng and Mei-Ling, saying that they were spies and traitors who were working against the interests of the temple.

Liang Sheng and Mei-Ling knew that they needed to confront Shi Zhen and his followers, but they also knew that they could not do it alone. They needed allies, and they needed a plan.

Zhang Wei had an idea. He knew of a group of monks who had always been friendly to outsiders, who believed in the power of cooperation and the strength of unity. These monks were led by a man named Master Wu, a wise and compassionate teacher who had always been respected by all who knew him.

Zhang Wei suggested that they seek out Master Wu and ask for his help. Liang Sheng and Mei-Ling were hesitant at first, worried that Master Wu might be wary of outsiders like themselves. But Zhang Wei was confident that he could persuade him.

They set out early the next morning, making their way through the winding paths and lush gardens of the temple. They encountered several groups of monks along the way, some of whom looked at them with suspicion, while others simply ignored them.

But finally, they reached Master Wu's chambers, a small hut nestled in a grove of bamboo. They knocked on the door, and after a few moments, it opened to reveal the kindly face of Master Wu himself.

"Welcome, my children," he said, his voice soft and gentle. "What brings you to my humble abode?"

Zhang Wei stepped forward, bowing respectfully. "Master Wu, we come seeking your help," he said. "We are in danger, and we need allies who can help us fight back against those who seek to do us harm."

Master Wu listened attentively as Zhang Wei explained the situation, nodding thoughtfully as he spoke. When Zhang Wei finished, he sat in silence for a moment, his eyes closed in contemplation.

Finally, he spoke. "I believe that you are telling the truth, my child," he said. "And I am willing to help you. But we must be careful. There are many who would see us fail, who would do anything to maintain their hold on power."

Liang Sheng and Mei-Ling nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. They knew that they were up against powerful forces, forces that would stop at nothing to maintain their control over the temple.

But they also knew that they had allies now, and that with their help, they might just have a chance.