Chapter 155: Forsaking My Next Life, a Buddhist Sect's Mighty One Appears Before the Temple, Determined to Eradicate Buddhism [Seekin

Changning Prefecture.

Outside the gate of Prince Ning's residence.

Gu Jin Nian's icy voice gave Prince Ning's residence no respect whatsoever.

Prince Ning's residence has, time after time, tolerated its descendants' lawlessness; today he will tear off that mask and make Prince Ning's residence pay the price.

Gu Jin Nian knows Prince Ning's background and also knows what role Prince Ning plays in Da Xia.

Since ancient times, feudal prince rebellions have always been a dynasty's greatest dread, internal latent contradictions, especially since Da Xia suffered a princely uprising thirteen years ago.

Frankly, Emperor Yongsheng came to power through a feudal prince's rebellion.

If he could rebel, could other feudal princes?

The reason for a nation of rites is to indoctrinate a certain ideology; Confucianism is chosen by the emperor not merely for its lofty ideas, but chiefly because it aligns with political needs.

Respect for rank and order of seniority.

The next emperor must be the emperor's eldest son; this way the realm can be secured and internal unrest prevented.

Emperor Yongsheng's successful rebellion brought much scorn, yet the throne remains in the Li family, making this the only acceptable compromise.

If a minister were to rebel, the condemnation would be far beyond this.

But once someone sets a bad precedent, many such incidents will follow.

Exactly for this reason, Emperor Yongsheng delayed moving against Prince Ning.

But that is no excuse for Prince Ning to protect his son.

No.

Listening to Gu Jin Nian's cutting remarks, Prince Ning's consort's face instantly fell; honestly, after all she is Prince Ning's consort.

Although Gu Jin Nian is Da Xia's First Marquis, can a marquis compare with a prince? If Gu Jin Nian hadn't been deeply blessed by the saint, would she be so courteous? "Gu Jin Nian."

"I, as the palace, regard you as fellow royalty; you and the prince are family. I have spoken to you with due respect, never expecting you to be so cutting. Humiliating my son is one thing, but you also degrade the prince as well."

"You have such nerve."

Prince Ning's consort couldn't hold back either, pointing at her nose and calling her a beast-born; could she still tolerate it?

"Wretched woman, shut up!"

This time it wasn't Gu Jin Nian who spoke, but Kong Xuan. He took a few steps forward, fixed his gaze on Prince Ning's consort, his eyes brimming with anger.

As a scholar who has personally witnessed the tragic deaths of civilians, how could he stay composed? How could he not be angry? Seeing Prince Ning's consort's attitude now, he couldn't help but erupt in fury.

"Who are you, again?"

"How could you insult this palace so?"

Prince Ning's consort could no longer bear it; Gu Jin Nian's insults were one thing, but now another person? Does she truly think this Prince Ning's consort is merely a ornament?

"I am Kong Xuan, a descendant of the Kong family."

"Prince Ning's heir's deeds have provoked both mortal and divine anger; I, Kong, have prepared a letter to the Kong family, which will announce this matter to the world."

Kong Xuan rose to his feet, fixed his gaze on Prince Ning's consort, his eyes showing no hint of fear.

However, upon learning the other is from the Kong family, Prince Ning's consort's demeanor shifted a bit.

The Kong family, after all, wields immense influence; despite having suffered a great disaster, it still retains considerable power. Moreover, with his son's actions being spread, whether the Kong family says it or anyone else.

"It will certainly lead to a major incident."

At that moment, Prince Ning's consort dared not raise her voice further, merely speaking calmly with a composed expression.

"Regardless of what happens."

"First, make it clear and investigate thoroughly; you two are raging, looking like you're raising an army to accuse, storming Prince Ning's residence, while the prince merely invited you into the residence."

"It's not as if you're doing something? Do you even dare not to meet the prince inside the residence?"

"You constantly insult my son; has my son committed any grievous wrongdoing?"

"Do you truly think this matter has been thoroughly investigated? Is it certainly my son's fault?"

"What matters can be fully discussed? Here you are being overbearing, what does that mean?"

Prince Ning's consort spoke, offering her own justification.

She believed that Gu Jin Nian and Kong Xuan arrived with an overbearing demeanor, giving the impression they were not there to resolve matters but to raise an army to prosecute.

Her tone carried dissatisfaction, even deeming Gu Jin Nian and Kong Xuan to be making a fuss over trivial matters.

"Wretched woman."

At this moment, atop the jade sedan, Gu Jin Nian could no longer restrain himself; he raised his hand and slapped Prince Ning's consort's face.

He finally understood why Li Lengqiu dared such boldness.

It is because of such a mother that he dares this.

"You!"

Having taken a solid slap, Prince Ning's consort instantly felt both angry and ashamed; in broad daylight, as Prince Ning's consort, receiving such a slap, anyone would find the humiliation unbearable.

"I, the Marquis, will say it once more."

"Let Li Lengqiu get out."

Gu Jin Nian's voice rang out again.

Ice‑cold to the extreme.

"Enough of this this‑and‑that chatter."

Get out quickly.

"Da Xia's First Marquis truly lives up to his name."

And at that moment.

A voice sounded.

It was Prince Ning's voice; he stepped out of the residence, appearing before Gu Jin Nian.

If Gu Jin Nian is Da Xia's number‑one Marquis, then Prince Ning may call himself Da Xia's number‑one Prince.

The appearance of Prince Ning instantly quieted the scene.

Watching Prince Ning arrive, Gu Jin Nian's expression remained unchanged.

"I, this Marquis, cannot compare to you, Prince Ning."

"Prince Ning, hand over Li Lengqiu; you cannot keep him, as I said."

Gu Jin Nian spoke coldly.

However, his coming here is not to argue with Prince Ning; his purpose is still to cause trouble for Li Lengqiu.

In short, in a word, if Li Lengqiu does not die, he will never let it go.

Hearing Gu Jin Nian speak thus, Prince Ning remained silent.

"If there is any matter, you may discuss it in the residence; I, the Prince, am not someone who cannot discern right from wrong."

"But you, so angry, do you really think I, the Prince, am afraid of you?"

Prince Ning was somewhat silent; after a while, he spoke, looking at Gu Jin Nian and said.

As Prince Ning said this,

Gu Jin Nian also paused briefly, restraining his inner anger, but did not choose to enter the residence.

"Prince, you should recall the incident at Ruins Village, right?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke, suppressing the fury in his heart.

"Remember."

"Li Lengqiu is already dead; his crimes are justly punished."

Prince Ning appeared very calm, but the princess beside him flashed a look of hatred.

This kind of reaction is quite normal.

"Prince Ning, the Crown Prince, after Li Lengqiu learned of this, he slaughtered all the villagers of the two villages."

"Prince Ning, do you know?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke again, questioning the latter.

"What?"

"Is there such a thing?"

"Gu Jin Nian, cut the false accusations here."

Hearing this, Prince Ning instantly became furious, outright refusing to believe, thinking Gu Jin Nian was lying here.

However, Gu Jin Nian said nothing; he saw Prince Ning's expression utterly calm—could Prince Ning not know such a matter? Stop fooling a three‑year‑old here.

"Do you have any concrete evidence?"

"If you have none, then cease the false accusations; if you do have, I, the Prince, will not be lenient."

Prince Ning spoke, looking at Gu Jin Nian, and said.

This statement has two meanings; one is the literal meaning.

The other is to probe, to test Gu Jin Nian's foundation.

"If there is no iron evidence, this Marquis will not appear in person."

Gu Jin Nian offered no concealment.

"Damn!"

"Damn!"

"Truly, damn!"

"Lengqiu, you truly deserve to die."

The next moment, Prince Ning roared, almost a bellow, his anger making him shake like thunder.

Gu Jin Nian quietly watched Prince Ning's performance.

After a while, Prince Ning finished his act.

Prince Ning's voice rang out again.

"What a pity."

"You came a step too late."

"Li Lengqiu has already gone to Ata Temple; I'm afraid he has already been shaved the monk's tonsure. Heaven's Mandate Marquis, if you truly possess evidence, I, the Prince, can assure you I will absolutely not intervene in this matter."

"I, the Prince, will not share the sky with sin."

"From now on, Li Lengqiu is no longer my son; expel him from Prince Ning's residence."

"I, the Prince, will immediately draft a document, submit it to His Majesty, and ask His Majesty to decide the punishment."

"But all this is based on the premise that you have absolute evidence."

"If you don't have it, don't blame me for being impolite to you."

Prince Ning spoke; his answer, unexpected, not only directly disclosed his son's whereabouts but also expelled Li Lengqiu from Prince Ning's residence.

This really was a bit unexpected.

"Ata Temple?"

However, Kong Xuan beside him couldn't help but frown; he seemed to know the origin of Ata Temple.

"What's the background?"

Gu Jin Nian, slightly curious, but on the surface he looked at Prince Ning and said.

"How does this Marquis know that Li Lengqiu is not in the residence?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke, looking at Prince Ning.

"Then you may search; I, the Prince, can let you search, but after the search, these matters I will also report to His Majesty. Heaven's Mandate Marquis, in rank you are a Marquis, I am a Prince; in bloodline I am the son of the Great Ancestor; in age you are my junior."

"I, the king, let you, not because I'm afraid of you, but to prove my innocence."

"But if you don't give in, even if your grandfather comes, I will not let you go."

Prince Ning remained calm; he let Gu Jin Nian go in to search, but there were still some words Prince Ning had to say.

Otherwise, do you really think I'm afraid of Gu Jin Nian?

Hearing Prince Ning speak like that, Gu Jin Nian believed him.

Prince Ning had no need to hide, because this matter would inevitably be reported to His Majesty; if he reported it, Prince Ning's sheltering his own son would be a crime of covering up.

At that time, it wouldn't just be Li Lengqiu that suffers misfortune; Prince Ning would also be unlucky.

"Prince, you've already said it to this extent."

"I, the lord, believe."

"Only, I hope this matter does not involve the Prince."

Gu Jin Nian fully believed that Li Lengqiu was not here, but to say that this matter had nothing to do with Prince Ning, he also did not believe.

But without evidence, Prince Ning directly severed the father‑son relationship with Li Lengqiu, and he himself had nothing to say.

Therefore, Gu Jin Nian had someone drive the jade carriage away from this place.

As Gu Jin Nian left, Prince Ning also turned and returned to his residence.

However, Prince Ning's princess consort immediately rose and came before Prince Ning.

"Prince, why did you directly inform him of Qiu'er's whereabouts?"

"Do you truly have no pity for Qiu'er at all?"

Prince Ning's princess consort, with a face streaked with tears, said.

"Qiu'er is under Master Luo Ze, Gu Jin Nian cannot harm him."

Prince Ning simply spoke lightly.

Then someone walked into the study.

About half a quarter hour later.

Lord Hou's figure appeared.

"Prince."

Seeing Prince Ning, Lord Hou bowed respectfully.

"Gu Jin Nian has already obtained absolute evidence; hasn't this matter been handled properly?"

Prince Ning's expression was grim as he asked Lord Hou.

"Replying, Prince, all matters have been fully dealt with; Gu Jin Nian could not possibly have absolute evidence."

"It is highly likely a bluff."

Lord Hou, without hesitation, spoke decisively.

He handled this matter single‑handedly; what evidence could Gu Jin Nian control? 'Impossible.'

"I can see that he must have absolute evidence."

"But the exact means, I do not know."

"Only, since Gu Jin Nian said this, I believe it."

"This matter must not involve me; otherwise it would be detrimental to the upcoming situation."

Prince Ning spoke, saying thus.

"Then may I ask the Prince, what should we do next?"

Lord Hou spoke, looking at Prince Ning, and asked thus.

"Observe the situation quietly, help me draft a memorial, saying that my supervision is lax, I do not know what Lengqiu did, and I have already expelled him from the royal residence, letting him fend for himself."

"Let His Majesty punish me."

Prince Ning spoke.

Without hesitation, he betrayed his own son.

"As you command."

"But Prince, if Gu Jin Nian goes to see the Crown Prince, will the Crown Prince truly encounter trouble?"

Lord Hou could not help but ask.

"Master Luo Ze is a peerless Buddhist master; with the blessing of mental power, his six realms are invincible. Unless a seventh‑realm strongman intervenes, no one can hope to harm Lengqiu."

Prince Ning spoke, expressing belief in Master Luo Ze.

However, after he finished speaking, Prince Ning's voice sounded again.

"But still give Master Luo Ze a heads‑up; if a crucial moment truly brings an uncontrollable situation, ensure Lengqiu is silenced forever."

"Create the scene that Gu Jin Nian forced my son to death; if Gu Jin Nian truly has absolute evidence, I am merely lax in supervision, but if Gu Jin Nian lacks absolute evidence…"

"That would be the best move for my attack, you know?"

Prince Ning's expression was cold.

Especially these words, utterly ruthless, not even sparing his own son.

"As you command."

Lord Hou showed no hint of surprise, as if he knew something.

"Alas."

Soon, Prince Ning sighed, unable to hold back.

"The only fault is those people are useless; if Gu Jin Nian had been killed back then, there would have been no such trouble."

"I truly cannot understand how Gu Jin Nian suddenly became so clever; I cannot see him as a ten‑year‑old boy."

Prince Ning, hands clasped behind his back, voiced a secret and expressed his inner doubts.

"This is very likely related to the celestial phenomena in the palace at that time, after all the sight of a white rainbow piercing the sun has no explanation even now."

Hearing Lord Hou's words, King Ning shook his head.

"No matter what, since things have come to this point, let's take it slowly."

"Go handle it."

King Ning spoke.

Soon, Lord Hou left, and only King Ning remained in the study.

He quietly stared at a painting in the study, which prominently depicted a great roc.

It displayed his rebellious heart.

Yes, he wanted to rebel.

To rebel, he could sacrifice everything, even his two sons, Li Lengqiu and Li Lengxin—why were they so decadent?

It was intentional; the Princess Consort spoiled the two, and King Ning turned a blind eye, regardless of what they did in the Western Territory, selectively opening one eye and closing the other.

No matter how big the commotion, what could be done?

The Princess Consort would surely favor them, so he could simply ignore it.

He was waiting for this moment.

Waiting for someone to trouble his sons.

But that was not his plan; originally his scheme was for the Emperor or the Duke of the Nation to discover his sons' deeds and, in fury, kill them.

Ideally, that person would be the Duke of the Nation.

As long as his two sons died, he could rebel with legitimacy, and the world would understand him.

Rebellion requires a well‑known cause; otherwise success is virtually impossible.

When Emperor Yongsheng rebelled, he was forced into a desperate corner; he had many chances to rebel earlier, but only after his fief was reduced and he was confined at home did he rise up.

Why? To let the Da Xia people know he was compelled, even though there were still many accusations, at least his actions were controversial.

Not a true treacherous minister.

He used his two sons as pawns, forcing Emperor Yongsheng to act against him; once acted, he would immediately surrender command, a command that Emperor Yongsheng dared not take.

Because they were all his men, and his true strength was more than just that command; over the years he had earned a lot of silver in the Western Territory.

That silver funded many soldiers; the Black Water Iron Cavalry were his private troops, and even if he handed over command, the Black Water Iron Cavalry would not be surrendered.

The core remains unchanged; what is there to fear? But now, the reason he wants to protect Li Lengqiu is that his son committed a foolish act.

Killing civilians to become bandits.

Plus the matter of Ruins Village.

Killing civilians to become bandits is manageable; at least there is no hard evidence, allowing rumors, and it is merely a charge Emperor Yongsheng casually pinned on him.

But the Ruins Village incident left solid proof; although he does not know what proof Gu Jin Nian has, he trusts Gu Jin Nian and dares not take the risk.

This matter would ruin his reputation; as a would‑be rebel, he must stand with the common people.

If the people learned his son acted thus and he sheltered him, he would lose popular support.

And Li Lengqiu and Li Lengxin caused chaos in the Western Territory; each time he arranged for clean‑up, leaving no trace.

Why? Simply to aid tyranny and reduce negative talk.

Therefore, if Gu Jin Nian went to Ata Temple, found his son, and something truly uncontrollable occurred, he would have Master Luo Ze kill Li Lengqiu outright.

A fitting death.

Relatives are nothing; the throne is what he desires.

Who dares to block him?

Whoever does will inevitably die.

However, this game is not only his; many forces have joined in.

Yet now is not the time to wrap up.

He must wait for two people to die, then he can rebel.

Or rather, waiting for one death suffices.

This time, it was already possible for one person to die.

Unfortunately, Gu Jin Nian's appearance caused a shift, and many hidden forces remained concealed.

"Gu Jin Nian."

"You truly are protected by Heaven's Mandate."

King Ning muttered to himself.

But said nothing further.

Outside Chang Ning Residence.

As Gu Jin Nian's jade carriage departed.

Kong Xuan's voice then sounded.

"Brother Jin Nian."

"If it's to Ata Temple, it will likely be troublesome."

Kong Xuan spoke, his expression somewhat solemn.

"What is it?"

Gu Jin Nian knows little about Buddhism; the only place he knows is Xiao Yuan Temple.

"Ata Temple is one of the Supreme Sect's temples, ranking among the top ten of the Seventy‑two Temples of the Esoteric Sect; its doctrine is 'abandon self for the next life,' and its head is one of the few great Buddhist scholars in the world."

"If Li Lengqiu truly is at Ata Temple, once his tonsure is completed, it will be hard for us to retrieve him."

Kong Xuan explained the background of Ata Temple.

"Six hundred thousand troops, still can't capture a single person?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke calmly; he just didn't believe it—six hundred thousand troops, still can't get even one person.

"Can't get one," Kong Xuan shook his head and sighed.

"Brother Jin Nian, it's not my foolish brother's nonsense. The place where Ata Temple was built happens to be the border between the Da Xia Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty; one could say the temple belongs to the Da Xia Dynasty, and also to the Fuyu Dynasty."

"If six hundred thousand troops head to the frontier, regardless of any internal issues, the Fuyu Dynasty would declare war on the Da Xia Dynasty at once."

"When that time comes, it won't be a matter of just an individual any more."

"Moreover, Luo Ze, the host, has likely already entered the Sixth Realm, or at least is a quasi‑Sixth‑Realm strongman, and with Buddhist Divine Power, the Martial King level is nowhere near enough; even if they're on the same realm, he might not be defeated."

Kong Xuan pointed out the difficulty.

Gu Jin Nian understood.

At that moment, the sound of horse hooves thundered, deafening, and distant yellow sand swirled as three hundred thousand border soldiers rushed in.

"First, ask my grandfather."

Seeing the border army arrive, Gu Jin Nian didn't waste words and headed straight toward them.

Soon, the two sides met; the Grandfather stepped down from the war chariot, looked at Gu Jin Nian and said.

"Has King Ning made things difficult for you?"

The Grandfather's voice was calm, but his expression was cold, as if a nod from Gu Jin Nian would prompt him to lead three hundred thousand troops to attack Changning Prefecture.

He let out a harsh sigh for Gu Jin Nian.

"No."

"Grandfather, things have changed."

Gu Jin Nian didn't waste words and told his grandfather the whole story.

"Ata Temple?"

After hearing what had happened, Grandfather Gu frowned; it was clear he understood the significance of Ata Temple better than Kong Xuan.

"Jin Nian, you must not get involved in this any further."

A moment later, the Grandfather spoke, telling Gu Jin Nian not to interfere.

"Why?"

Gu Jin Nian looked at his grandfather, puzzled.

"Ata Temple is different; its location is unique. If a great army goes to Ata Temple, setting aside whether it can suppress Luo Ze, even if it does, the Fuyu Dynasty will inevitably use the chance to strike at Da Xia."

"The truce was just reached; doing this would give them an opening to cause trouble."

Grandfather Gu spoke.

If it were a matter within Da Xia's borders, there would be no problem, but Ata Temple is different—very troublesome.

Especially since Luo Ze, the host, is extremely powerful—not just ordinary strong—so even the Grandfather must weigh his options.

"Grandfather."

"The army isn't needed; the grandson can go alone."

"The grandson has confidence and a way."

Gu Jin Nian was certain; after Kong Xuan finished speaking, Gu Jin Nian understood the problem and had already devised a plan.

The army will not go.

That way, the Fuyu Dynasty will have nothing to say.

And on his own, he truly couldn't defeat Luo Ze, the host, but the issue is he has a trump card.

A peerless demonic‑path strongman has promised to intervene three times.

"What method do you have?"

The Grandfather truly didn't believe this time, not understanding what Gu Jin Nian could do.

Luo Ze, the host, is an enemy he doesn't even want to face. Although Gu Jin Nian has reached the Divine Power Realm, even with Martial King‑level combat power, he likely can't wound Luo Ze, right? "Grandfather, look."

Gu Jin Nian produced a jade pendant for the Grandfather to see.

The latter's expression changed instantly upon seeing the pendant, then he told Gu Jin Nian to put it away.

"How did you get this?"

"That person is even harder to provoke."

The Grandfather truly hadn't expected Gu Jin Nian to possess such an item; for a moment he genuinely didn't know what to say.

But the main point is that this person is even more troublesome and dangerous.

"Grandfather."

"This person has agreed to act on my behalf three times; after the three times, I will take him as my master."

"This is the deal between me and him; this matter, the grandson must carry out."

"The villagers of Ruins Village died because of me; if the grandson cannot personally slay this beast, he won't be able to swallow that grievance."

Gu Jin Nian said earnestly.

Hearing Gu Jin Nian speak that way, the Grandfather fell silent.

After weighing the options.

Finally, Grandfather Gu sighed.

"Given your nature, I didn't intend to discipline you, but regarding this matter, I still advise you not to get involved yet."

"Let Li Lengqiu live a while longer; when you truly seize power and have entered the Fifth Realm, I will certainly not interfere."

Grandfather Gu still didn't want Gu Jin Nian to do so.

But Gu Jin Nian's gaze was firm, and he shook his head.

"Grandfather."

"Let the grandson be willful this once."

Gu Jin Nian clenched the jade pendant in his hand and said resolutely.

Seeing Gu Jin Nian like that, Grandfather Gu fell even more silent.

"Go."

"You have restraint; Grandfather won't stop you."

Grandfather Gu said nothing further; since Gu Jin Nian has a life‑saving trump card, he no longer worries about anything.

The reason for the obstruction was to prevent Gu Jin Nian from provoking powerful demonic cultivators, but since he is so persistent, Grandfather Gu no longer blocks him.

"Grandfather, if the Heavenly Feather Army arrives, let them return on their own."

"This time, the grandson will handle it."

Since the great army cannot be sent to suppress it, Gu Jin Nian intends to go alone to Ata Temple.

"Alright."

"These matters, Grandfather will take care of, but Jin Nian, you must remember that, no matter what, your own safety is paramount."

"As long as you live, your enemies will fear and dread you, understand?"

Grandfather said earnestly.

"Understood."

Gu Jin Nian nodded, then said little else, and rode the jade carriage toward Ata Temple.

But at the same time,

Northern Frontier.

Fuyu Dynasty.

Dust rose a hundred zhang as three hundred thousand elite troops gathered and rushed toward Ata Temple, led by a familiar face of Gu Jin Nian.

Third Prince of Shenluo.

He led three hundred thousand troops toward the border, because the court had received a secret report from Ata Temple.

Da Xia Dynasty mobilized three hundred thousand troops, and Tongguan City also mobilized three hundred thousand, heading to Ning Prince's residence.

The purpose of going to Prince Ning's residence was simple: to find Li Lengqiu. But Li Lengqiu is now at Ata Temple, which means, given Gu Jin Nian's temperament, they might dispatch six hundred thousand troops here.

Therefore, the Fuyu Dynasty specifically prepared here to prevent Gu Jin Nian from causing trouble.

Of course, the Fuyu Dynasty also knows that Gu Jin Nian will summon a Fire Stone, but after detailed calculations by the Fuyu Dynasty's Heaven Monitoring Office, they realize that Gu Jin Nian's summoning of the Heavenly Fire Stone is closely tied to Heaven's Mandate.

It requires an extremely heavy price, and after the Fire Stone is summoned, all the fallen soldiers will have their karmic debt transferred and bestowed upon Gu Jin Nian.

Since the Fuyu Dynasty and the Da Xia Dynasty have not declared war, Gu Jin Nian's summoning of the Fire Stone is merely pure slaughter.

Killing the Xiongnu nation is because the two countries are at war, and the will of heaven and earth responds.

Each may act according to their ability.

But if acted recklessly, the price will be greater.

The Fuyu Dynasty naturally fears Gu Jin Nian going mad, but if they can use three hundred thousand troops to eliminate one Gu Jin Nian, it isn't actually a bad thing for the Fuyu Dynasty.

Gu Jin Nian's current value surpasses three hundred thousand troops; after all, he is a saint of Confucianism and Daoism in later ages, a person of Heaven's Mandate, and holds a preeminent position in Da Xia.

This value truly is not weaker than three hundred thousand troops.

Thus.

Two hours later, three hundred thousand troops had already appeared at the border.

Only five li away from Ata Temple.

Should any incident occur, the army will rush to Ata Temple at once.

The Third Prince of Shenluo also, at once, with several hundred elite soldiers, headed toward Ata Temple.

The next day.

Morning.

As the sunrise rose slowly.

Inside Ata Temple.

Brahma chants echoed.

Thousands of monks were reciting sutras.

Golden sunlight streamed down, bathing the entire Ata Temple as if it were coated with a layer of golden light, looking exquisitely beautiful.

However, at that moment,

A jade carriage rushed toward Ata Temple.

About a quarter of an hour later,

The jade carriage appeared outside the Buddhist hall of Ata Temple.

The whole temple was grand and imposing, covering at least a thousand mu; it was more a palace than a mere temple.

Along the way, Gu Jin Nian learned the doctrine of Ata Temple from Kong Xuan.

The world's three great Buddhist sects.

Small Affinity Temple, Great Sound Temple, and Upper Path Esoteric Sect.

Upper Path Esoteric Sect is the largest in scale and the foremost of the three great Buddhist sects, because it emphasizes branching out, with no single Buddha method.

Any Buddhist teaching can be practiced, but it must be developed according to the three core principles of the Buddhist sects: benevolent heart, benevolent intent, benevolent people.

Upper Path Esoteric Sect has seventy‑two branches, each a renowned entity with followers easily reaching millions.

But each branch has its own rules; some allow marriage and children, some permit meat and wine, and others follow the way of yin and yang.

These are still reasonable; listening to Kong Xuan, the Upper Path Esoteric Sect seems rather odd, worshipping the Great Virtuous Master, a being beyond the usual masters.

They believe the Great Virtuous Master is the Buddha's reincarnation, of lofty status, so whatever he says is the Buddha's will.

Some Upper Vehicle Esoteric Sects, to craft magical artifacts, select people and peel their skin off while alive, and it must be done while the victim is conscious; most victims are women.

After the skinning, the victim is laid on an icy riverbank to freeze to death; this is called Peaceful Vow, meaning that once made into a magical artifact, you will harbor resentment and, unable to reincarnate because of that resentment, we soothe your resentment for your own good.

It sounds utterly contrary to common values, yet no one questions it.

Even some Esoteric Sects raise the slogan of Sweet Dew Anointing, abuse young girls, with dozens of teachers and students torturing them for three days and nights, finally shaving their skulls and refining them into magical artifacts.

The reason is simple: they believe this woman is either a demon reborn from the Ato Realm or accumulated too much sin in a past life and must repay it.

Yet some ordinary people actually believe this and voluntarily offer up their own family members.

Of course, there is also the possibility that one is powerless; if they do not actively send them away, the whole family will be labeled as demons, and their fate will be even worse.

As for the Buddhist sect.

Gu Jin Nian does not dislike it; if a Buddhist practitioner wholeheartedly does good, cuts flesh to feed eagles, and sacrifices themselves to save others, Gu Jin Nian admires them immensely.

But most Buddhist disciples are all extremely clever, they cultivate their reputation, treating all common people as straw dogs to be manipulated at will.

It is precisely this kind of Buddhist disciple that Gu Jin Nian hates.

The doctrine of Ata Temple is 'forsake me for the next life'.

That is, abandon this life, chant scriptures and pray for blessings, create blessings for the future self—that is, one's future self.

At the same time, Ata Temple's doctrine holds that no matter what wrong you have done, as long as you have a repentant heart, you may enter the temple.

By copying scriptures and reciting the Buddha's name daily to cleanse one's sins, one can eliminate karmic consequences on the one hand, and enjoy blessings in the next life on the other.

Such rhetoric makes Gu Jin Nian sneer incessantly.

Mistakes in this life, faults in this life.

What next life, no next life.

If there truly is reincarnation in the world, will the you of the next life still be you?

Gu Jin Nian finds this karmic theory utterly absurd.

Do evil in this life and reap retribution in the next? Do good in this life and receive blessings in the next? Having never had a good life in this one, you still think about the next life?

Wrong is wrong.

Right is right.

Those who do good seek the vast righteousness of heaven and earth, and transform by following the heavenly principle.

Those who do evil will eventually face retribution, lifetime after lifetime, generation after generation.

And just as Gu Jin Nian was thinking this.

The Jade Palanquin had already appeared outside Ata Temple.

Some monks were sweeping dust from the gate when, upon seeing the Jade Palanquin appear, their expressions changed instantly, as if they knew something.

"Amitabha Buddha."

"The temple is closed today; if you, patron, wish to burn incense and worship the Buddha, please come back in three months."

The monk at the gate spoke, calling out to the Jade Palanquin.

"Get Li Leng Qiu out here."

The next moment.

Inside the Jade Palanquin.

Gu Jin Nian's voice rang out, like the Yellow Bell Great Lü, startling the entire Ata Temple.

He did not waste words.

Nor did he bother with idle talk.

As this voice sounded.

Inside the temple, Li Leng Qiu was the first to be startled; seated within, he felt a bit uneasy, secretly thinking that Gu Jin Nian had come too quickly.

But the Abbot Luo Ze opposite him, however, slowly opened his mouth.

"Continue copying the scriptures."

These four simple words calmed Li Leng Qiu down.

Meanwhile, inside the temple, all the monks' gazes involuntarily turned toward the gate.

Some senior monks were also startled and walked out of the temple.

Soon.

Seven or eight figures appeared, all wearing kasaya robes; they were senior Buddhist monks, for otherwise they would not be qualified to wear the kasaya.

"Amitabha Buddha."

"May I ask who you are, patron?"

"Why do you disturb the Buddhist sect's purity?"

A senior monk spoke, his face full of doubt as he looked toward the Jade Palanquin.

"Don't put on an act here."

"Hand over Li Leng Qiu."

"This matter has nothing to do with Ata Temple."

Inside the Jade Palanquin.

Gu Jin Nian spoke again.

Although outside the Jade Palanquin there are Buddhist senior monks, in his eyes they are not yet qualified to converse with him.

Upon hearing these words.

The senior monks all furrowed their brows, really not knowing what to say.

Just then.

Within the ancient temple.

A voice also sounded, giving a reply.

Amitabha Buddha.

Patron.

Our temple has no Li Lengqiu; patron, have you come to the wrong place?

This voice sounded, though it is unknown from where it came, but it is not something an ordinary cultivator can do.

It is the voice of Abbot Luo Ze.

Playing tricks with spirits.

The son of Prince Ning, Li Lengqiu, is not inside Ata Temple?

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth and asked directly.

Patron, if you had come five days earlier, you could have found the heir of Prince Ning, Li Lengqiu.

But now, he is no longer here.

The other party replied calmly.

Not here?

Where did he go?

Gu Jin Nian frowned.

Li Lengqiu has gone to the land of hellish suffering.

Abbot Luo Ze replied.

Is he dead?

This time, Gu Jin Nian was somewhat doubtful.

Patron, you may understand it that way.

Li Lengqiu has already become so; this world no longer has Li Lengqiu, but instead has an added repentant monk.

Abbot Luo Ze gave the answer.

This time, Gu Jin Nian understood what it meant.

I am more than your mother.

Brain sickness.

Inside the jade palanquin, Gu Jin Nian could hardly hold back.

Is this person brain-dead?

Li Lengqiu left, and a repentant one came?

Just changing a name can wipe it out?

Impudent.

You dare to insult my virtuous master?

As Gu Jin Nian spoke so bluntly, the group of monks instantly flew into a rage and rebuked Gu Jin Nian.

Insult your virtuous master?

Do you believe or not that this marquis will today overthrow your Ata Temple?

At this moment, Gu Jin Nian walked out of the jade palanquin and gazed at these monks.

Amitabha Buddha.

Marquis.

The so-called cycle of vengeance, when will it end?

Li Lengqiu has already known regret, fled into the monastic life, and shaved his head to become a monk.

He has put down his slaughter knife; why must the marquis still clutch his slaughter knife and not let go?

With karmic blessings, life endless, how can peace be restored in this world?

Abbot Luo Ze did not become angry because of these few words from Gu Jin Nian; instead, he advised Gu Jin Nian to put down his slaughter knife.

This is the formidable power of the Buddhist sect.

Clearly it was Li Lengqiu who killed and set fires, massacring the innocent first; Gu Jin Nian sought justice for the people of Da Xia, but through his words it turned into Gu Jin Nian not putting down his slaughter knife, becoming the villain.

Formidable, formidable.

Wipe your dog eyes clean.

What this marquis holds is not a slaughter knife, but the sword of the people's hearts.

Luo Ze.

As a high monk of the Buddhist sect, you clearly know that Li Lengqiu has committed many evils, yet you actively protect him.

What kind of Buddha are you cultivating?

Is it laughable or not?

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth; he did not immediately summon the powerful demonic cultivators.

The reason is none other than...

He simply wants to see what the Buddhist sect is like.

This matter decides one thing for the Buddhist sect.

Whether or not.

Destroy Buddhism.

Yes.

Destroy Buddhism.

If the Buddhist sect is indeed such an existence, Gu Jin Nian does not mind setting the destruction of Buddhism as the main matter. —Thanks to Mai Bu Liao Houhui lord, alliance leader reward; thanks to Wo Ta Yue Se Er Qu lord, alliance leader reward; thanks to Lord Zhang Zhongyan reward!

Today's over, adjusting condition; everyone, don't wait later—come see again tomorrow night.

Yesterday I streamed and typed forty thousand characters; I felt completely drained, truly drained, in a daze, not thinking straight, sat in front of the computer constantly dazed, just like Wu Ya.

Feeling awful, brothers—sometimes have and a full meal—you all should know how to decide, right? Working ourselves to the bone for monthly votes!!! (End of chapter)