Chapter 166: The Army Crushes the Clouds, All Obstacles—Kill! Kill! Kill!

"By the Emperor's command, the army assembles, hurry and prepare, annihilate the Buddhists."

Accompanied by a series of incredibly stirring shouts, outside Da Xia Capital countless barracks boiled over.

These soldiers, each one in full gear, were ready to depart, morale soaring.

Meanwhile, inside the Marquis's residence.

Gu Jin Nian rushed straight to Grandfather Gu's study; at that moment Grandfather Gu was also in the study, handling some affairs.

"Grandfather."

Entering the study, Gu Jin Nian called out.

Immediately, Grandfather Gu nodded, and the soldiers in the study each left.

After they departed, Gu Jin Nian looked at Grandfather Gu and said.

"Grandfather, why has the Emperor this time appointed you to eradicate the Buddhists?"

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth, questioning Grandfather.

He had volunteered himself, yet the Emperor chose Grandfather to campaign against the Buddhist sect, which was not what he wanted to see.

Eradicate the Buddhists.

It is not only a matter of reputation; more importantly, it concerns the will of Heaven and Earth, since the Buddhist sect is blessed with Heaven's Mandate.

Directly annihilating the Buddhists would inevitably incur the wrath of Heaven and Earth, but he bears the Heaven's Mandate seal and does not fear this.

His personal luck indeed cannot match the entire Buddhist sect, but Gu Jin Nian believes his own luck can still suppress a Da Xia Buddhist sect.

Listening to Gu Jin Nian's doubts.

Grandfather Gu appeared calm.

"Grandfather and the Emperor have already discussed; the eradication of the Buddhists is something the Emperor has long wanted to do. Grandfather is a Marquis; such a huge matter does not fall to a junior like you to lead."

"Jin Nian, you are Da Xia's future; some matters should be handled by us old veterans."

"Stop nagging about this; the Da Xia Dynasty is not something you alone can uphold."

"Immediately muster thirty thousand elite troops and do what you wish. The Emperor has ordered that this eradication of the Buddhists is for you to decide. This is an Immortal Dao messenger talisman, worth ten thousand gold, extremely precious; you only need to write the command on it, and Grandfather will respond at once."

Grandfather Gu took out a talisman paper and handed it to Gu Jin Nian.

This messenger talisman is extremely valuable; the entire Da Xia Dynasty possesses only two or three of them. They were reluctant to use them in the border wars, but now they are given to Gu Jin Nian.

Grandfather Gu will immediately take control of the Da Xia Buddhist sect; thereafter it awaits Gu Jin Nian's orders.

"Thirty thousand elite?"

"Grandfather, take that many people?"

Gu Jin Nian was slightly silent.

Thirty thousand elite seemed a bit few.

"Thirty thousand is not few."

"The main force is to control other Buddhist temples, and the Emperor has summoned Mr. Dongfang to accompany you."

Grandfather Gu looked at his grandson with some irritation; thirty thousand elite is indeed a massive force, flattening a few Buddhist temples is nothing.

Moreover, Emperor Yongsheng has even brought a peerless master for Gu Jin Nian.

Mr. Dongfang.

"Mr. Dongfang? Is he the Eastern Sword Saint, ranked among the top three in the Sword Dao?"

Hearing those four words, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but be surprised.

"Yes."

"A master of the Sixth Realm of the Sword Dao, who has lost only once in his life."

Grandfather Gu said lightly.

"Who?"

Gu Jin Nian was curious; he had heard of Mr. Dongfang, a prodigy of the Sword Dao.

The Sword Dao lineage is a solitary system, nurturing the sword with Qi from childhood, detached from the Immortal Dao; many walk the path, but few achieve greatness.

Many pursue it because of the Immortal Dao's influence—it's stylish and powerful—but only a handful can truly ascend it, far fewer than any other system.

"Heavenly Demon Elder."

Grandfather Gu spoke slowly.

"Huh?"

"Do not meddle with these people; their strength is unfathomable. Once they reach the Sixth Realm, when Heaven's Mandate arrives, they all have a chance to enter the Seventh Realm. Jin Nian, you must also seize the time to advance your cultivation; the dynasty cannot bind you for long."

"When the contest of Heaven's Mandate arrives, personal martial power will overturn everything. If one day you can reach the Eighth Realm, all under heaven will be but floating clouds to you—whether Da Xia or Great Jin, even the so‑called invincible Central Continent Dynasty will be nothing to you."

Grandfather Gu spoke, urging Gu Jin Nian to raise his cultivation early and not devote all his thoughts solely to the dynasty.

"Grandson, I understand, but the Eighth Realm is, I'm afraid, quite difficult."

Gu Jin Nian grasped this: when personal strength reaches its peak, one can pride oneself over the world.

But the problem is, not to mention the Eighth Realm, even the current Seventh Realm is an invincible existence—only two or three people per era, and, as the Heavenly Demon Elder said, true Seventh Realm practitioners may not even exist today.

Those few remaining Seventh Realm masters hide one after another, each having only a single chance to act, showing how hard the Seventh Realm is to attain.

Therefore, the Eighth Realm cannot be contemplated; thinking of it only leads to nothing.

"That may be so."

"Alright, go prepare quickly."

"Jin Nian, this time, since you must act, act decisively; you need not worry about any problem, understand?"

Grandfather Gu continued, reassuring Gu Jin Nian to proceed boldly and without fear.

"Grandson, I understand."

"Grandson, I understand."

"But Grandfather Gu, monks who sign a blood oath to return to lay life should not be killed; if they remain obstinate, then they should be killed."

Gu Jin Nian nodded; since the matter had been brought to this point, he said little more, merely conveying his thoughts.

"Rest assured, Grandfather Gu knows his limits."

Grandfather Gu nodded, and Gu Jin Nian left the study directly, heading out of the Gu Family estate.

Just as he stepped out of the Gu Family, a figure appeared in Gu Jin Nian's sight—it was Su Huaiyu.

He was waiting for him at the Gu Family gate.

"Lord Hou."

Su Huaiyu called out.

"Brother Su, shall we go together?"

Gu Jin Nian asked.

"Yes."

"Let's make a trip; witnessing the fall of the Buddhist sect with our own eyes would be a great matter."

"The Heavenly Feather Army's 30,000 elite are already waiting outside the capital."

Su Huaiyu nodded.

"Very well."

Gu Jin Nian was decisive; after agreeing, he set off with Su Huaiyu toward the outskirts of the capital.

Outside the city.

It wasn't only the 30,000-strong Heavenly Feather Army; other camps each dispatched 500,000 troops, waiting in the distance.

"Subordinate Zhao Yu has seen Lord Hou."

"Subordinate Wang Peng has seen Lord Hou."

"Subordinate Xu Jin has seen Lord Hou."

At that moment, the commander of the Heavenly Feather Army hurried over, accompanied by several soldiers; Xu Jin and Wang Peng were among them, and Gu Jin Nian assigned the two to positions as deputy generals within the Heavenly Feather Army.

Just as in the Shan Kui Army before, the Heavenly Feather soldiers all knew that Wang Peng and Xu Jin were Gu Jin Nian's trusted aides, so they naturally enjoyed considerable prestige in the army—far greater than they had in the Shan Kui Army.

"Lord Hou, the 30,000 elite are ready; please issue your orders."

Zhao Yu spoke, clad in iron armor.

"Advance."

"Head straight for Guiyang Commandery, Puhan Temple."

"Wang Peng, investigate every temple along the way and slaughter them family by family."

"Xu Jin, lead 3,000 elite in a rapid march, inform every temple along the route that those who sign a blood oath to return to lay life will be granted a life by the Da Xia Dynasty; those who remain obstinate shall be slain without mercy when the army arrives."

Gu Jin Nian's voice was cold as he issued the two orders.

He intended to sweep forward, leaving no ancient temple standing wherever he went.

"Obey the command."

The two responded with a bow, and then Xu Jin led the 3,000 elite, racing toward Guiyang Commandery.

Gu Jin Nian also mounted a warhorse, refusing to ride in a jade carriage; he intended to lead the campaign personally.

Thus, the 30,000-strong army surged majestically toward Guiyang Commandery.

Inside the palace's great hall.

Civil and military officials gathered.

The dissent was loud.

"Your Majesty, the eradication of Buddhism must not be carried out."

"Indeed, Your Majesty, if Buddhism is destroyed it will bring disaster upon my Da Xia, so I implore you to retract the decree."

"The Da Xia Dynasty is a nation of propriety, inclusive of all, and even though the Buddhist sect has countless faults, it should not be wholly exterminated; if such news spreads, it would be a sin to the world. Moreover, the Buddhist influence is immense, and if Da Xia were to eradicate Buddhism, it would likely cause a grave blunder."

Within the court, several voices rose; the officials remained strongly opposed to the eradication of Buddhism.

After all, Buddhism had not yet infringed upon their interests, and the act of destroying it was no trivial matter, so they naturally sought to stop it.

"The Buddhist sect expands recklessly and disregards the law; why can't it be destroyed?"

Left Assistant Minister of Punishments Gu Leng's voice rang out; facing the crowd, Gu Leng stepped forward to support the eradication of Buddhism.

"The Buddhist sect's expansion hints at a desire to dominate Da Xia; even a single immortal sect brings many disputes. If Buddhism were to take hold of Da Xia, would the people then obey Your Majesty or the Buddhist monks?"

"The senior minister believes the eradication of Buddhism is imminent."

Yang Kai's voice also sounded, and both the Ministry of Punishments and the Ministry of Rites agreed to eradicate Buddhism.

"In truth, the senior minister thinks it is not necessary to eradicate Buddhism; if the sect is willing to pay taxes and abolish certain practices, that would constitute suppression enough. There is no need for total eradication; I ask Your Majesty to reconsider."

Minister of Revenue He Yan then spoke; he had previously agreed to eradicate Buddhism, but now his mind had changed, apparently after someone had approached him and discussed the matter.

Facing the officials' remarks.

Emperor Yongsheng remained calm; after the officials finished their exchanges, his voice rose slowly.

"The matter of eradicating Buddhism, my resolve is already made."

He spoke lightly, rendering the great hall unusually silent.

"Your Majesty."

"I believe this matter remains improper; if Da Xia eradicates Buddhism, the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty will surely use it as a pretext to attack Da Xia, and the Buddhist influence reaches across the world. Moreover, after Buddhism's destruction, it may harm Da Xia's national fortune."

"I ask Your Majesty to reconsider."

At that moment, Li Shan's voice rose; at this critical juncture, the emperor had already made up his mind, yet Li Shan still urged restraint.

It seems the Buddhist sect's influence is indeed vast.

"I have spoken; my decision on this matter is final."

Emperor Yongsheng showed no emotion, but coldly spoke again.

At that moment, the main hall fell completely silent; even Li Shan remained mute, not knowing what to say.

Just then, Emperor Yongsheng's voice rang out again.

"The matter of eradicating Buddhism shall be handled by the Duke of State Security; you all need not continue to discuss it."

"At present, there is another matter; I still need to ask the esteemed ministers."

The eradication of Buddhism is already a done deal; there is no need for persuasion, and the civil and military officials have nothing to say.

He is the emperor; his decision is final.

The officials fell silent; at that moment they felt Emperor Yongsheng's oppressive aura, a new kind of pressure.

It comes from Gu Jin Nian.

Yes, from Gu Jin Nian.

Over the past year, Da Xia's national fortunes have flourished, domestic conditions have steadily improved, the greatest enemy, the Xiongnu State, has been dealt a severe blow, twelve cities have been reclaimed, and Emperor Yongsheng's prestige has risen ever higher.

The higher a ruler's prestige, the greater his authority; naturally, no one dares to speak against Emperor Yongsheng.

Had this been a year ago, the eradication of Buddhism would have caused the officials to argue for three days and three nights, and even if Emperor Yongsheng were resolute, someone would likely risk a fatal remonstrance.

It is not that Emperor Yongsheng is weak; rather, for various reasons he must consider the ministers' opinions and his own reputation.

But now it is different.

Whatever he says becomes reality.

"In the Jiangnan region, this year's tax revenue is only seventy percent of last year's. I have personally inspected it. Since the founding emperor established the nation, unprecedented state resources have been spent to support Jiangnan. So why, since my ascension, have these taxes been declining year after year?"

"May I ask the esteemed ministers, why is this so?"

Emperor Yongsheng spoke up, bringing up another matter.

Jiangnan taxes.

This is no trivial matter; it is not a recent occurrence, but ever since his ascension the Jiangnan tax system has faced a serious problem, with revenue dropping each year.

Clearly the region is the most prosperous, yet in recent years the collected taxes have dwindled, despite no natural disasters or human calamities; the court has annually allocated funds to build bridges and roads, and Jiangnan is flanked by two great rivers.

In theory, even if the yearly increase is modest, it should never decline.

There must be something fishy about this.

Moreover, the forces involved are far from negligible; roughly half of the civil and military officials in the court are likely implicated.

Emperor Yongsheng understood.

But he remained patient, unable to act on the matter earlier; now he has time, foundation, and strength, so he will naturally address it.

For a moment, the main hall became exceedingly quiet; no one dared to speak.

"He Yan, esteemed minister, what do you think?"

Emperor Yongsheng continued to ask.

"Your Majesty, indeed Jiangnan boasts abundant fertile fields and riverways, and trade is thriving. However, since the founding emperor, Jiangnan taxes have enjoyed exemptions and incentives; moreover, Da Xia's commercial tax is not heavy—twenty taxes to one."

"Furthermore, merchants in Jiangnan are scattered; they are mostly independent traders. Though it appears prosperous, it is hard to manage, leading to yearly tax declines."

He Yan spoke, providing the official answer.

The tax exemptions in Jiangnan have a reason; originally Jiangnan was the Southern Kingdom, whose ruler was generous and magnanimous. When the founding emperor reclaimed the Southern Kingdom, he did so without drawing swords.

The Southern Kingdom's ruler had only one request: after Da Xia's founding, he hoped the founding emperor would treat the Southern subjects kindly and reduce grain taxes.

Thus the founding emperor swore that twenty years after the nation's establishment, Jiangnan would be prosperous and grain taxes would be reduced.

Later, the nation's effort indeed made Jiangnan wealthy, but while Jiangnan grew rich, the treasury became empty.

It is also a thorny problem.

However, listening to He Yan, Emperor Yongsheng couldn't help but let out a cold laugh.

"Truly laughable."

"'Mismanagement' is the reason?"

"He Yan, I now order you to overhaul Jiangnan's tax collection and investigate it thoroughly. If Jiangnan officials dare to tax this way, someone must be shielding them in secret, a collusion of officials and merchants."

"In three months, if there is no result, you, Minister of Revenue, will also be at your end."

"Dismiss the court."

Emperor Yongsheng rose, uttered the cold words, and then left directly.

Those words made the entire court of civil and military officials feel as if they had fallen into an ice cellar.

Especially He Yan.

He felt unprecedented pressure.

Although it is unknown whether Emperor Yongsheng used the Jiangnan tax issue as a shield for the eradication of Buddhism, in any case, Emperor Yongsheng was angry.

And at the same time.

Two hours have passed since Gu Jin Nian left the capital.

Four hundred li from the capital.

The great army surged forward, and dispatches of military reports arrived one after another.

"Lord, Wang Peng reports that within six hundred li along the route, all temple monks have returned to secular life, except for one temple that holds its ground stubbornly."

Xu Jin spoke, informing the situation ahead.

Wang Peng led three thousand elite troops, acting ahead at the front.

"Kill."

Gu Jin Nian said lightly, his eyes showing no trace of feeling.

Upon hearing this, Xu Jin felt nothing; Gu Jin Nian had already declared the eradication of Buddhism, and those who dared to seek death were unafraid.

"Obey the command."

Xu Jin didn't waste words and immediately ordered someone to send out the intelligence.

Thus, about an hour later.

Inside a temple, hundreds of monks fixed their gazes; they sat within the hall, utterly unafraid, and the abbot even chanted sutras.

At that moment, Wang Peng's voice was exceedingly cold.

"Transmit the Lord's command."

"Disobedients shall be killed without mercy!"

As the cold voice rang out, three thousand iron cavalry stepped straight into the temple.

The battleaxes were ruthless, blood splattering everywhere.

A wail rose at that moment, and some monks showed terror on their faces.

"Abbot, abbot, didn't you say they were only trying to scare people?"

"Abbot, save me, save me!"

"Amitabha, I, the old monk, am willing to return to the secular world, I am willing to return to the secular world."

In an instant, countless voices rang through the temple; some monks panicked completely, terrified to the point of losing their senses, while others fled in all directions, wailing incessantly.

But Da Xia's battleaxes showed no quarter.

The military order was as solid as a mountain.

In less than a minute, voices kept echoing.

"Report, General, the entire temple has no survivors."

As that voice sounded, Wang Peng spat on the ground from his warhorse and then spoke.

"Burn it clean, leave twenty to post notices, the rest follow me."

Wang Peng didn't waste words, seized the reins, and continued forward.

And so.

In the blink of an eye, a day passed.

The Da Xia Capital's destruction of Buddhism spread throughout the entire Eastern Wilderness Realm, and the Buddhist Sect had already learned of it.

In an instant, it was like a massive stone hurled into a calm pond, creating huge ripples.

"The Buddhist Sect did nothing wrong, why destroy Buddhism?"

"Buddhist monks transmute wandering souls; this is the righteous way of heaven and earth, why destroy Buddhism?"

"Why destroy Buddhism when everything is fine?"

At first, it was only a few voices of doubt; many people did not understand why Da Xia destroyed Buddhism. In the eyes of the world, the Buddhist Sect had done nothing wrong; on the contrary, its monks even performed rites for the dead and helped the common folk.

Naturally, people couldn't comprehend it, even the Da Xia populace was bewildered.

But later, some remarks emerged, deliberately crafted.

"The Buddhist Sect should never, ever offend Gu Jin Nian."

"It is Gu Jin Nian who holds a grudge with the Buddhist Sect; the sect is compassionate and does not wish for excessive bloodshed in the world, yet Gu Jin Nian, in pursuit of achievement, slaughtered an entire temple to secure the Lord's position, and now that the plot is exposed, he seeks to destroy Buddhism."

"Driven by personal greed, he launched the anti-Buddhist campaign; is this the style of Da Xia's First Marquis? If truly capable, why not eradicate demons or monsters?"

"Moreover, rumors say Da Xia's First Marquis, Gu Jin Nian, is linked to a peerless strongman of the Demon Sect."

"Is that true?"

"Not only that, rumors claim Gu Jin Nian's enlightenment wasn't accidental; a Demon Sect strongman cooperated with him, stole his talent, and opened his insight, which is why Gu Jin Nian became so brilliant. Otherwise, how could a playboy ten years ago suddenly become so wise?"

"That possibility does exist; just look at Gu Jin Nian's current state—filled with slaughter."

Many voices rose.

Among these voices, most were intentional, with someone stepping forward to confuse the public.

However, the world is not short of wise men.

Several people also spoke up, pointing out the Buddhist Sect's faults, analyzing the reasons for this anti-Buddhist action, and praising Gu Jin Nian.

Unfortunately, those voices were ignored by that group.

The reason is simple: that group deliberately set the tone, benefiting by slandering Gu Jin Nian. Yet their numbers were few, and when rumors spread, the Da Xia Dynasty issued an imperial edict.

It listed the Buddhist Sect's ten major crimes and then proclaimed them to the world.

The Buddhist Sect's transgressions, the most severe are three.

First, failure to pay taxes.

The Buddhist Sect claimed land; the dynasty approves such claims, generally only enough for their own sustenance.

But the Buddhist Sect expanded land wildly, effectively devouring the populace and draining the Da Xia treasury.

Second, a reduction in labor.

Young people become monks instead of farming; it seems righteous, but if everyone becomes a monk, who will till the fields? Where will food come from? Should the nation continue to develop?

Third, hoarding wealth.

The populace's silver coins pour into merit boxes, yet how many natural and man-made disasters has Da Xia endured? How much has the Buddhist Sect inside the realm donated? These coins are not being used by the sect for feasting and pleasure, right? These three points are the gravest; after the edict was announced, the situation reversed instantly, and many citizens endorsed the edict.

Support the anti-Buddhist campaign.

However, once public opinion was controlled, other situations arose.

When the edict was proclaimed worldwide, the Fuyu Dynasty, the Great Jin Dynasty, and envoys from many small states of the Eastern Wilderness Realm jointly pressured the Da Xia Dynasty.

They deemed that Buddhism must not be destroyed.

It contravenes the natural order.

Especially the Fuyu Dynasty, whose stance was the most hardline.

At this very moment.

Inside the Da Xia Imperial Palace.

The envoys of the various nations stood in the great hall, and the envoy of the Fuyu Dynasty stepped forward first, addressing Emperor Yongsheng.

"Your Majesty."

"Da Xia must not eradicate Buddhism; the Buddhist sect is a practice sanctioned by heaven and earth. Its monks are endowed with Heavenly Destiny Luck, and if Da Xia were to destroy Buddhism, it would inevitably diminish the nation's fortunes."

"Moreover, if Da Xia truly eradicates Buddhism, this luck will affect the entire Eastern Wilderness, and then natural disasters and human calamities will befall the nations. With such consequences, may I ask the Da Xia Sovereign, can you take responsibility?"

The Fuyu envoy's attitude was very forceful, giving the impression that he had not come to negotiate but to launch an accusation as if raising an army.

"Audacious."

"You dare act so brazenly before my Da Xia Sovereign, and speak so loudly?"

The Left Assistant Minister of Punishments, Gu Leng, spoke.

He rebuked the Fuyu envoy, his gaze icy.

A mere envoy, appearing before the Da Xia Sovereign, yet speaking so loudly in the court? That is a crime of gross disrespect.

Facing Gu Leng's rebuke, the Fuyu envoy frowned slightly; he too acted thus out of urgency.

But at that moment, the Great Jin envoy spoke up.

"Your Majesty of Da Xia, the Fuyu envoy acted rashly out of urgency; please forgive him. With your imposing presence, surely you will not hold this against us ministers."

"Your Majesty of Da Xia, my Great Jin sovereign hopes to mediate this matter and wishes Da Xia not to eradicate Buddhism."

The Great Jin envoy immediately stepped forward to smooth things over, bowing to Emperor Yongsheng, and then expressed the Great Jin Dynasty's stance.

On the dragon throne.

Emperor Yongsheng's face was expressionless.

Indeed, he does not mind the envoys' attitudes and is not petty, but that does not give the other side license to shout so loudly.

"Mediation?"

"Again, mediation?"

"The twelve border towns—you speak of mediation, yet Da Xia is destroying Buddhism; can you still speak of mediation?"

"This is Da Xia's state affair; when will you ever be allowed to intervene? The Great Jin Dynasty's hand is stretching too far, is it not?"

"Today the various nations have come; may I understand that you are here to threaten me? To threaten the Da Xia Kingdom?"

Emperor Yongsheng's expression turned icy as he looked at them and said.

"Please, Da Xia Sovereign, calm your anger; we truly have no such intention."

"The matter of eradicating Buddhism is of immense scope; if Da Xia truly does so, the impact concerns only Da Xia Kingdom. We would remain silent, as this is Da Xia's internal affair and we would not partake. Yet if Da Xia eradicates Buddhism, it could bring about heavenly disasters."

"Since it involves the Eastern Wilderness, may I ask, Your Majesty, what should be done?"

"Are you suggesting that the Da Xia Kingdom will provide compensation? If that is your meaning, we will depart immediately and return to our country to report."

The other side spoke, and in an extremely sharp and cunning manner, attempting to meddle in the matter this way.

"Ridiculous."

"Great Jin Dynasty has not been short of such deeds. In the second year of Da Xia's Kaiyuan era, the Great Jin Dynasty caused a flood, drowning countless civilians on both banks of Da Xia Kingdom. May I ask, has the Great Jin Dynasty ever compensated Da Xia Kingdom?"

Minister of Rites Yang Kai's voice rang out; he stepped forward without hesitation to inquire about the matter.

Hearing this, the Fuyu envoy could not help but speak up.

"How many years ago was that? Moreover, the Great Jin Dynasty did not act intentionally; after all, if they had not released the flood, the casualties would have been greater. My Fuyu Dynasty also suffered many losses. These are separate matters and cannot be conflated."

The Fuyu envoy spoke.

"When the Great Jin Dynasty commits a wrong, it is right."

"When the Da Xia Kingdom commits a wrong, it is wrong."

"Moreover, this is an internal affair of the Da Xia Kingdom; who can decide right or wrong?"

Upon hearing this, the civil and military officials in the hall turned pale, each cursing the Fuyu envoy in their hearts.

"You Fuyu people, whether you live or die is none of Da Xia's business. You are willing to be dogs, but Da Xia Kingdom is not willing."

Yang Kai's voice rang out; he could no longer hold back and angrily rebuked the other side.

With those words spoken,

the entire court was astonished, truly not expecting Yang Kai to utter such words.

Previously, Yang Kai had always been courteous and refined, especially in great-power diplomacy, always polite, weighing his words carefully, never speaking rashly.

But unexpectedly, now he seemed to have changed his nature.

Indeed, after saying that, Yang Kai seemed a bit unaware, and without waiting for the Fuyu envoy's accusation, he proactively spoke.

"Your Majesty, this old minister's words were inappropriate just now, perhaps because I was too close to Jinian; please pardon me."

Yang Kai spoke; his words were not an excuse but the truth.

"In the court, such remarks are indeed improper. Fine, I punish you by having you copy my poetry collection twenty times."

Regarding Yang Kai's words, Emperor Yongsheng found them quite agreeable.

Thus, he gave a symbolic, casual punishment.

All the civil and military officials in the hall couldn't help but want to laugh; wasn't this blatant bullying? Yet, at that moment,

a figure appeared outside.

"Report!"

"Scouts report: the main army has arrived at Yangnong Prefecture. This prefecture has twelve temples; the monks of the twelve temples have gathered, totaling 13,294 monks, who have piled dry firewood around the temples and sworn to fight to the death. The Heaven's Destiny Marquis has just arrived."

The figure appeared and then reported the situation ahead.

Twelve temples, over thirteen thousand monks gathered, actively piling dry firewood—this is a direct confrontation with Da Xia.

And the Heaven's Destiny Marquis has just arrived; it is unknown what the outcome will be.

For a moment, the great hall fell silent.

The envoys of the various nations were also silent.

They were curious about what Gu Jin Nian would do.

Over ten thousand monks.

If they were really killed, it wouldn't be a small matter.

Because up to now, the various powers actually dare not confirm whether Da Xia truly intends to exterminate Buddhism or is merely using this opportunity to intimidate the Buddhist sect.

If it's just to intimidate the Buddhist sect, that's actually fine; they wouldn't kill many monks, just give them a lesson.

If it's really to exterminate Buddhism, the impact wouldn't be limited to Da Xia but would extend to the whole Eastern Wilderness, and even more powers would be drawn in.

The hall was silent.

About two quarters of an hour later, another figure appeared.

It appeared extremely urgent.

At that moment, everyone in the hall held their breath, waiting for what came next.

"Report."

"The Heaven's Mandate Marquis has left Yangnou Prefecture."

As this voice sounded, for a moment, various emotions welled up in everyone's hearts.

The Fuluo envoy and the Da Jin envoy secretly breathed a sigh of relief, after all, no one was killed.

If they were really killed, the Eastern Wilderness would be in an uproar.

This also signified that Da Xia was truly about to draw the sword.

Then it wouldn't be negotiations anymore.

Possibly all countries would have to intervene.

As for Emperor Yongsheng, he couldn't help but frown slightly, wondering what Gu Jin Nian's departure meant: "What about those monks?"

Gu Leng spoke up, asking the latter.

"Sir, judging by the time, those monks have all been sent to the West by the Marquis."

The latter gave a reply.

For a moment, the hall fell silent directly.

This sending to the West is quite spiritual.

"Over thirteen thousand monks, all sent to the West?"

An official couldn't help but swallow his saliva, looking at the other party and asking.

"I, as a subordinate, don't know either; the information I received is that the Heaven's Mandate Marquis came before the temple, ordered the soldiers to set fire, and sent those monks to the West."

The latter lowered his head and said so.

He dared not be certain.

But the people in the hall aren't fools; since they dared to set fire, they wouldn't let a single person go.

Hiss.

Hiss.

Inside the hall, sounds of drawing breath rose one after another.

Whether civil and military officials or envoys from various countries,

everyone was shocked.

Over thirteen thousand monks, Gu Jin Nian said kill and they were killed—truly grand in spirit.

"Your Majesty, this absolutely cannot be done!"

"Please, Your Majesty, issue an edict to first halt the extermination of Buddhism, otherwise it will invite heavenly resentment."

At this moment, the Da Jin envoy and the Fuluo envoy hurriedly spoke up, saying that these thirteen thousand monks were absolutely just an appetizer; if this continued to be left unchecked, they feared that truly all would be exterminated.

"Shut up!"

On the dragon throne, upon learning that Gu Jin Nian had already taken action, Emperor Yongsheng rose directly, he looked at the group of various countries' envoys below the hall, and said in a cold tone.

"Da Xia's internal affairs are not for other countries to interfere; my resolve is fixed, you may return and report to your respective sovereigns."

"Whether Fuluo or Da Jin, we will meet any war with a response."

"Dismiss court."

Emperor Yongsheng's tone was cold.

This was his final announcement.

This was also his final statement.

First tend to your own affairs; stretching your hand too far makes you easy to be struck.

Upon these words, the faces of the various countries' envoys each turned somewhat unsightly.

"Long live the emperor, ten thousand years, ten thousand times ten thousand years!"

At this moment, the civil and military officials also gave the firmest response; since the emperor had decided, these subjects would not voice opposition.

Especially in front of outsiders.

This is the spirit of a great nation.

Decided, it's decided.

Thus.

Another day passed.

The matter of the temple being burned by fire also spread instantly; over thirteen thousand monks, not a single one survived.

They defied the imperial edict.

This is the outcome.

For a moment, when this news spread, it triggered discussion throughout the Eastern Wilderness region, and the Three Great Buddhist Sects could no longer remain seated.

The actions of Da Xia violate heavenly principle.

Such conduct, what difference is there from demons? Heaven's Mandate Marquis, your killing intent is too heavy; you will surely incur heavenly retribution.

I hope the Da Xia emperor will think thrice before acting, lay down the butcher's knife, and become a Buddha instantly.

The three great temples expressed their stance immediately.

The meaning of these three sentences is also very direct.

Small Fate Temple sighs, but is also already angry.

Great Sound Temple directly condemns, and even points the budding trend toward Gu Jin Nian.

As for the Upper Practice Esoteric Sect, his attitude is also the most profound.

Let the Da Xia Dynasty stop now; there are still negotiations to be had. If they persist in ignorance, the Buddhist sect may have to take action.

The Buddhist sect's performance, in the eyes of many forces, is extremely abnormal. Given this situation, the three great Buddhist sects merely shouted a few words verbally, but did not actually intervene.

It leaves people full of doubt.

And the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty also expressed their stance immediately.

The Fuyu Dynasty, leading 500,000 troops, marched to the border, hoping the Da Xia Dynasty would calm down; if necessary, the Fuyu Dynasty will spare no effort to rescue the Da Xia Buddhist monks.

The Great Jin Dynasty also led 500,000 troops rushing to the border, urging the Da Xia Dynasty to negotiate with the Buddhist sect rather than indiscriminate slaughter.

Both great dynasties have already dispatched troops; the situation has reached this point, though still within controllable limits.

Anyone can tell that if they accidentally really go to war, at that point no one can control the situation; it will only become more intense, likely triggering a great war in the Eastern Wilderness.

The war of the three great prosperous dynasties.

And for the Xiongnu State, this is a heaven-sent opportunity; if the three great dynasties fight each other, the Xiongnu State will surely gain more benefits.

They can even avenge past humiliation, retaking the twelve cities again, and even not just the twelve cities but more cities.

As for the Da Xia Dynasty.

It seems as if they know what the Xiongnu State is thinking.

On that day, the Ministry of Rites also issued a proclamation.

Again enumerating the Buddhist sect's sins, then condemning the actions of the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty, stating that the two great dynasties have no right to interfere in Da Xia's internal affairs.

The Da Xia Ministry of War also responded immediately; if war breaks out, the Ministry of War will absolutely dispatch troops directly to fight the two states.

If the two great dynasties dare to step even one foot into Da Xia Dynasty territory, it will be regarded as a declaration of war by the two great dynasties against the Da Xia Dynasty.

No chance for explanation will be given.

If there is war, we will respond.

At the same time, immediately, they will target the Xiongnu State, raise 800,000 troops to fight at the border, trample the royal court, sparing no expense.

When this news spread, the Xiongnu State could not laugh.

They originally thought they could profit from this, but they never expected the Da Xia Dynasty to have already seen through everything.

As soon as war breaks out, the Xiongnu State will surely be destroyed.

No chance given.

Want to reap the benefits as the fisherman? That's a foolish daydream.

As for the Ministry of War, up and down only transmitted two words.

【Prepare for War】

No extra explanation, no extra nonsense.

All soldiers prepare for war.

They will shed their hot blood on the battlefield, displaying the might of Da Xia.

This war is no longer a choice of whether to fight or not, but a choice of the majesty of a great nation.

When will it be the Da Xia Dynasty's turn to be pointed at and directed by other dynasties?

Internal matters, resolved internally.

Will it be someone else's turn to intervene?

This is the dynasty's bottom line.

And just on this day.

Less than a hundred miles from Guiyang Commandery.

Then another incident occurred.

Perhaps the Buddhist sect has become wiser.

Outside Guiyang Commandery, there is a Tianyun Temple; this temple is not particularly large, but for some unknown reason, all the monks of the surrounding temples have gathered here.

The number is even greater than before, fully over twenty thousand monks, but this time they have become wiser, not piling firewood themselves to await death.

Instead, they have gathered believers and commoners around the temple.

They intend to use the commoners to block the Da Xia iron cavalry.

This move is very sneaky.

It is also very frightening.

If it were merely a simple eradication of Buddhism, it wouldn't matter; but if it involves innocent commoners, then the matter becomes complicated.

By then, all factions will condemn the Da Xia Dynasty; moreover, if it proceeds as before with an overwhelming push, the Buddhist sect will certainly have other means, invoking heavenly punishment.

Therefore, this move can be called without solution.

This matter has also been watched by countless forces: the Da Xia Dynasty, the Fuyu Dynasty, the Great Jin Dynasty, the Xiongnu State, the Eastern Wilderness states, and even the forces of the Central Plains Dynasty.

Especially the Da Xia court, the controversy is extremely great.

If one were to say, previously it was unanimous support for Gu Jin Nian.

But when faced with this matter, too many people oppose it.

With civilians present, one truly cannot act recklessly; in the end, Emperor Yongsheng also issued a secret order, urging Gu Jin Nian to think twice before acting.

It involves innocent civilians; it cannot be treated as a game.

Outside Tianyun Temple.

At least a hundred thousand believers have gathered; they sit back‑to‑back, forming a circle, giving a sense of facing death as if returning home.

They are not at all afraid of Da Xia's iron cavalry.

The three thousand iron cavalry led by Wang Peng gathered here, their eyes filled with anxiety and hesitation.

Facing this scene, Wang Peng dared not act rashly and could only wait for Gu Jin Nian.

Thus.

About half an hour later.

Finally, a massive, majestic army formation appeared.

It was Gu Jin Nian.

Leading twenty‑seven thousand iron cavalry, he arrived at Tianyun Temple.

Among the army.

Gu Jin Nian had already learned the situation at Tianyun Temple.

He used the flesh and blood of the civilians to block the army's iron cavalry.

This move.

Is indeed ruthless.

But this move.

Is also indeed effective.

Even Gu Jin Nian felt a huge hesitation and inner conflict.

To kill—

Or not to kill?

(End of chapter)