The Demon Crosses the Magnolia Ballad

[Originally titled “Venerable Monk, Please Stay”] I. Jin Lan, a genuine foodie of a flower demon, refuses to admit that she became a monk’s sidekick because she was seduced by his good looks. She serves him tea, runs errands, fights monsters, and even has to fend off all his admirers. With such a handsome man before her, even the toughest chores get her fired up! Of course, she always gives the same explanation to outsiders: “I’m a magnolia flower demon who strives to improve. Master Shi An is a venerable monk skilled at vanquishing demons. I serve at his side only because I want to learn Buddhist teachings and attain immortality sooner.” As for the real reason, not only does she know it, but the other person involved, Master Shi An, knows it perfectly well too! If he weren’t so exceptionally well-mannered, he would have kicked this greedy, lustful flower demon far away from him long ago! II. “I am the flower demon Bai Jinqi. In this life, I save only those in love, not those who practice compassion.” “She saved me to help me attain Buddhahood, yet the Buddha drove me to fall into demonic ways!” “Shi An, the Buddha can save all living beings and all things, but he cannot save love. I want you to be well. In the next life, come save me.” From that day on, the world knew neither the venerable monk Shi An nor the demon-saver Bai Jinqi. They cultivated love for two lifetimes, yet never reached a happy ending.