Legend of the Tang People - The Tale of Bu Jiang Zong and the White Ape (Part 2)

More than a month passed. Suddenly, a hundred miles away, amidst a thicket of bamboo, he found one of his wife's embroidered shoes. Though soaked by the rain, it was still recognizable. Hel You was even more grief-stricken and his search grew more determined. He selected thirty strong men, equipped them with weapons and provisions, and they lived like hermits, foraging in the wilderness. After another ten days or so, they reached a point about two hundred miles from where they had started. Looking south, they saw a mountain that stood out, lush and verdant. Upon reaching its base, they found a deep stream encircling it, so they wove wood to cross. Amidst the sheer cliffs and green bamboo, they occasionally saw red silk and heard sounds of laughter. Grasping vines and using ropes, they climbed to the summit. There, fine trees were planted in rows, interspersed with famous flowers. Below them, the green undergrowth was lush and soft like a carpet. It was a place of clear, profound silence, a world apart. There was a stone gate facing east. Dozens of women, dressed in bright, colorful clothes, were playing, singing, and laughing, coming and going. Upon seeing people, they all looked at them with disdain and stood still for a moment. When Hel You approached, they asked, "Why have you come here?" Hel You explained his situation. The women looked at each other and sighed, saying, "Your virtuous wife has been here for over a month. She is now ill in bed. You should go see her." Entering through the gate, they found doors made of wood. Inside, the space was wide and open, like three halls. Beds were set against the four walls, all covered with brocade. His wife lay on a stone couch, with thick cushions and layered mats, and precious foods piled before her. Hel You approached to look at her. She turned her head and glanced at him, then immediately waved her hand, signaling him to leave.