Vermilion in the Mortal World, Grant Me Two Lifetimes of Peace

The Buddha speaks of eight kinds of suffering; all living beings are trapped by them.

I concealed the vermilion mark and descended into the mortal world, experiencing birth, aging, sickness, and death, tasting separation from those I love, encounters with those I resent, and the pain of wanting what I cannot have, while the raging fires of the five skandhas burned my heart.

I endured the trials of the mortal world, not to become an immortal, but only to protect the Three Realms and save all living beings, and to be granted two lifetimes of peace and joy.

[Reading Guide]

The entire story is told in first person.

Volume One follows the protagonist's origins, cultivation within her sect, and investigations into cases in the capital.

From Volume Two onward, the twelve kingdoms of the Nine Provinces are once again caught in turmoil, while the hidden past of gods and demons in the Three Realms and the truth of ancient times slowly come to light.