Chapter 172: Crushing Buddhist Artifacts, Heaven's Mandate Dragon Pearl, Dynastic Power Struggles, The People Above

Above the heavens, blazing light burst forth.

The Buddha‑light canopy fell.

Two Buddhist artifacts fell.

Countless senior monks of the Buddhist sect widened their eyes, watching all this, their flesh aching.

These should have been the sect's sacred implements, but now Gu Jin Nian has taken them outright.

One is a precious vase.

One is a precious gourd.

"Mutton‑fat precious vase, five‑colored gourd."

Someone recognized what it was and couldn't help shouting.

The nine great Buddhist artifacts of the sect.

The Vajra Demon‑subduing Pestle, Bodhi prayer beads, Eight‑treasure Buddhist bell, the mutton‑fat vase, the five‑colored gourd, and other such items.

In the world, only three Buddhist artifacts can be seen.

Gu Jin Nian added two more.

The mutton‑fat vase and the five‑colored gourd surrounded Gu Jin Nian.

In an instant, Gu Jin Nian understood the abilities of these two items.

The mutton‑fat vase is a supreme treasure of the Buddhist sect; within it holds deep‑blue seawater, each drop weighing ten thousand jin, the deep‑blue water formed from the condensed faith of all beings.

Gu Jin Nian grasped the mutton‑fat vase, the rolling, unending force of belief infused within it; this is the sect's auspicious qi.

Soon the vase was filled to nearly one‑third, its weight like a mountain; if this artifact were activated, its power would be terrifying.

However, Gu Jin Nian could feel that all the artifacts had been restrained.

Sealed.

Whether Confucian Sacred Instruments or the Buddhist sect's supreme artifacts, though they possess tremendous power, they cannot be fully released; this is strange and not solely tied to cultivation realms.

"Heaven's Mandate!"

After a moment of thought, Gu Jin Nian realized what was happening.

Only after Heaven's Mandate is triggered will these treasures fully unleash their powers, and now activating them requires a great price.

For example, even if a Nirvana‑realm cultivator uses this Buddhist artifact, it likely cannot exert its full ability.

Unless that Nirvana‑realm cultivator stakes everything and makes a desperate gamble.

Thus it is not a matter of strength or realm, but a matter between heaven and earth; everyone is awaiting Heaven's Mandate.

The more so, the more curious Gu Jin Nian became about what Heaven's Mandate truly is and what the Age of Mandate can bring to the world. Regaining his composure, Gu Jin Nian absorbed the mutton‑fat vase into his body and turned his gaze to the five‑colored gourd.

The five‑colored gourd is even more remarkable; it can emit five‑colored divine light, nurture the flesh, return to simplicity, and enhance one's aptitude.

This is an extraordinary treasure, affecting not only humans but all things, driven by the power of faith and merit.

This thing is quite good; aside from other uses, it could later evolve fertile fields and grain paths, plus war horses, cattle, and sheep.

Gu Jin Nian's thinking is precise; for cultivators, they would first use the five‑colored divine light to boost their own aptitude, or improve the physiques of later generations.

But for Gu Jin Nian, this thing would be applied to crops, livestock, fertile fields, and the like.

That is the good thing.

However, unlike the mutton‑fat vase, the five‑colored gourd can be used directly, but its effect is optimal only after Heaven's Mandate is activated.

Regardless of the artifacts' true powers or whether they are good or bad, they must wait for Heaven's Mandate; so for now, just claim them.

After Heaven's Mandate is triggered, use them one by one.

After the two supreme Buddhist artifacts are merged into his body.

Finally, a voice sounded.

"Amitabha."

"Patron Gu, today's matter is ultimately a misunderstanding, a misunderstanding that all living beings under heaven do not wish to see; Da Xia is at fault, and the Buddhist sect is even more at fault."

"Now, Patron Gu, the vengeance you were to exact has been taken, and the Buddhist sect has received its due punishment."

"Our sect's auspicious qi has also been taken by you, Patron Gu, a measure of one dou; regarding these two supreme Buddhist artifacts, we hope you will graciously return them to our sect."

"The Buddhist sect vows that for the next thousand years it will not interfere in Da Xia affairs, and it can trade gold, silver, grain and other supplies with the Da Xia Dynasty to exchange for these two Buddhist artifacts."

"Even the Buddhist sect is willing to trade the Eight‑treasure Golden Lotus with Patron Gu; we wonder what your intention is."

At that moment, a voice came from the Great Treasure Glass Temple.

No one knew whose voice it was.

But everyone fell silent.

The reason is simple: although all under heaven know the Buddhist sect can be shameless and brazen, no one truly expected it to be this shameless.

"No, no, this is no longer shameless; it's disgusting, right? Gu Jin Nian's eradication of the Buddhist sect isn't about killing monks on sight; they said as long as you return to lay life and behave honestly, follow the rules, they won't kill you."

"But you are obstinate; any dynasty—look at the Fuyu Dynasty, look at the Great Jin Dynasty—if you swapped a soldier over, blood would flow like a river."

"Whether you return to lay life or not, it doesn't matter."

"Thus Gu Jin Nian is ultimately a scholar and still possesses some mercy."

"Looking back, your Buddhist sect set up a heavenly net and earthly net, even the Buddha's true body was dragged out—did you strike?"

"With the advantage on Gu Jin Nian's side, you keep pushing for peace, peace after peace, yet you still insist on stirring up trivial matters as if nothing were wrong."

"Seeking peace requires a posture of peace, but the Buddhist sect shows not the slightest posture."

"All that is irrelevant."

"Now Gu Jin Nian recites the Buddha's true sutra; honestly, it also adds some auspicious qi to your sect, taking away a dou, which is reasonable."

"Having received Heaven's blessing, the two supreme Buddhist artifacts are entirely due to his own ability; he did not seize the sect's supreme items."

"Now the Buddhist sect, instead of learning their lesson, still dares to utter such words."

Truly, you have taken shamelessness to the very limit.

Obviously, the Buddhist Sect is doing this: after having already recited the True Buddha Ancient Scripture to Gu Jin Nian, they think Gu Jin Nian is no longer viable, so they make a disgusting move.

Honestly, not to mention Gu Jin Nian, all major forces think the Buddhist Sect has become somewhat shameless.

"For you?"

"Fine!"

"I will take these Buddhist artifacts to the Western Desert; when the time comes, I hope you dare to receive them."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, standing with his hands behind his back, his voice calm.

Not far away, the Eastern Sword Saint watched Gu Jin Nian, a flash of surprise passing through his eyes.

"This kid is also fit for sword cultivation."

The Eastern Sword Saint muttered to himself.

However, when Gu Jin Nian's voice rang out, a voice of Amitābha resonated from within the Buddhist Sect.

In an instant, the Great Treasure Glass Temple erupted with terrifying Buddha Light, shining directly onto the heavens and earth.

The Vajra Demon-Subduing Pestle, the Bodhi Prayer Beads, and the Eight Treasure Buddhist Bell all seemed to sense it at that moment, trembling wildly, ready to fly toward the Western Desert.

That was sudden.

Everyone fully understood: the Buddhist Sect deliberately said those words to attract Gu Jin Nian's attention, then forcibly summon those three supreme Buddhist artifacts back.

They aren't truly after the Yakskin Treasure Bottle or the Five‑Colored Gourd.

Upon learning this reason, the major forces breathed a sigh of relief; they were truly afraid that the Buddhist Sect might covet Gu Jin Nian's treasure.

It's not that they're too greedy; it's that their minds are flawed—being at a disadvantage yet daring to say such things proves their thinking is defective, so how can we cooperate in the future?

After learning that the Buddhist Sect used this trick, the others actually gave their approval.

After all, it proves the Buddhist Sect's mind is sound; they merely wanted to attract everyone's attention in this way and then retrieve the supreme Buddhist artifacts.

But when the three great Buddhist artifacts trembled, Gu Jin Nian's voice could not help but sound.

"Since you're here, do you still want to leave?"

Gu Jin Nian said coldly.

He had long been prepared; at the very least, one of the three artifacts must stay behind.

Boom.

A Bodhi Ancient Tree materialized behind him, Buddha Light bathed everything, and the Vajra Demon-Subduing Pestle flew toward the sky, returning this artifact to the Western Desert realm.

However, the Eight Treasure Buddhist Bell and the Bodhi Ancient Tree were suppressed by Gu Jin Nian's Buddhist law.

The Buddha Seal at that moment appeared on his forehead.

Buzz—buzz—buzz! The Eight Treasure Buddhist Bell and the Bodhi Prayer Beads trembled wildly; they were summoned by the Great Treasure Glass Temple to return to the Western Desert, but under Gu Jin Nian's suppression they could not move.

"Patron Gu, that's enough, the Buddhist Sect has already paid its due price. These three Buddhist artifacts are the cornerstone treasures of our Western Desert Buddhist Sect; if you seize them, the Buddhist Sect will spare no cost and declare war on the Da Xia Dynasty."

At that moment, within the Great Treasure Glass Temple, that voice continued, carrying a chill.

Although the Buddhist Sect is not a dynasty, it is an extremely terrifying force; such a massive power, if united to declare war on the Da Xia Dynasty, would indeed be frightening.

The overall strength of the Buddhist Sect is not weaker than the Fuyu Dynasty, and even not weaker than the Great Jin Dynasty.

After all, the Buddhist Sect has too many disciples, and if it truly were to battle the Da Xia Dynasty, the Fuyu and Great Jin Dynasties would certainly be eager to join.

Now within the Eastern Wilderness, the Da Xia Dynasty's momentum is increasingly strong; the other two great dynasties are also developing positively, but they cannot match the Da Xia Dynasty.

Just consider the past year: the Da Xia Dynasty's development pace has far outstripped theirs by nearly tenfold.

If the Da Xia Dynasty continues to develop like this, the Eastern Wilderness will inevitably be occupied by the Da Xia Dynasty someday.

That is what they truly care about.

Thus, when the Buddhist Sect said those words, the Great Jin royal family and the Fuyu royal family were eager, even though they knew a war could not actually break out, but anything is uncertain.

What if a war actually erupts?

"I recite the Buddha's true sutra, gaining a bout of fortune for the Buddhist Sect; as one who holds the Sect's fortune, why can't I command more Buddhist artifacts? Who said those artifacts belong to your Buddhist Sect?"

"Declare war on the Da Xia Dynasty? What do you have to wage war with?"

Gu Jin Nian sneered coldly, continuing to suppress the two artifacts.

But it must be said that the Eight Treasure Buddhist Bell and the Bodhi Prayer Beads, having been nourished by the Buddhist Sect, have already recognized a master; thus even under Gu Jin Nian's suppression, they are hard to control.

Boom! The Eight Treasure Buddhist Bell rose into the sky, soaring toward the Western Desert.

Now only the final Bodhi Prayer Beads remain.

"With my twelve great vows, I suppress the Buddhist artifacts."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, and the mighty power of his twelve great vows manifested, instantly suppressing the Bodhi Prayer Beads.

Under the terrifying suppressive force, the Bodhi Prayer Beads could not move.

All within the Buddhist Sect felt extreme distress; none of the three artifacts could be missing, and now that the Bodhi Prayer Beads are suppressed by Gu Jin Nian, they sense a grave crisis.

"Monks of the Buddhist Sect, heed the command, recite the sutras, and welcome the return of the Buddhist artifacts."

The Holy Punishment's Voice rang out, emanating from the Great Treasure Glass Temple, spreading across the Western Desert; in an instant, countless monks chanted sutras, the terrifying verses gathering like a sea, summoning the Bodhi Prayer Beads.

In that moment, the Bodhi Prayer Beads trembled incessantly, as if they would fly away at any second.

Facing this situation, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but take a deep breath.

"Buddha Realm in my palm."

At the critical moment, Gu Jin Nian extended his hand; in an instant, a Buddha Realm appeared in his palm, countless boundless Buddha Realms manifested, directly seizing control of the Bodhi Prayer Beads.

The true form of the Medicine Buddha manifested within the palm Buddha Realm, instantly subduing the Bodhi Prayer Beads.

Buddhist law surged, endless mighty power bestowed upon the Bodhi Prayer Beads; threads of faith energy detached from the beads—these are the years of faith power accumulated by the Buddhist Sect.

It is because of this faith power that the Buddhist Sect can perfectly control the Bodhi Prayer Beads.

Now, after being cleansed by the true form of the Medicine Buddha, the Buddhist Sect's grip on the Bodhi Prayer Beads has diminished.

At the Great Treasure Glazed Temple, a monk sensed the problem.

A hurried voice sounded at once.

"Patron Gu, that's enough; you cannot continue."

"These three Buddhist artifacts are the foundation of our Buddhist Sect's establishment. If Patron Gu forcibly plunders them, the sect will strike back. Patron Gu, the sect is indeed at fault in this matter, but it has also received its due punishment."

"If you act so, it will only cause an inevitable clash between the Buddhist Sect and Da Xia; I still hope Patron Gu can be rational."

The voice sounded, exceedingly urgent.

Whether the Buddhist Sect fights Da Xia Dynasty or not is a later issue; the current problem is to seize back the three Supreme Buddhist Artifacts and retrieve them, and we can discuss later matters later.

If the Bodhi Prayer Beads are lost, the Buddhist Sect's strength would indeed decline sharply.

At that point, words would be useless; even if we fought Da Xia Dynasty, what would it achieve? Missing a Supreme Buddhist Artifact would surely be a huge loss.

"Then let's see whether the Buddhist Sect would declare war on Da Xia over a single Supreme Buddhist Artifact."

Gu Jin Nian spoke calmly.

He wasn't frightened by such intimidation; setting aside other matters, the Heaven's Mandate Struggle is about to begin. Confucianism and Taoism have been struck once; although he took a bout of Qi Luck from the Buddhist Sect, he didn't cut off the sect's bout of Qi Luck.

For the Buddhist Sect, the impact is minimal; it's merely that he now possesses a bout of Qi Luck.

Thus, under these circumstances, what reason does the Buddhist Sect have to declare war on Da Xia Dynasty?

One Supreme Buddhist Artifact? Could that be possible?

The answer is impossible; if the Heaven's Mandate Struggle begins, the Buddhist Sect would be even less daring to act rashly. All forces are actually biding their time, preparing, waiting for Heaven's Mandate to unfold.

Therefore, what the Buddhist Sect says now is purely to intimidate.

But one thing is clear: the Buddhist Sect is indeed powerful; provoking it truly would bring no good outcome for Da Xia Dynasty.

His momentary anger, to be honest, makes him think whatever he wants; that doesn't matter.

After all, this is a personal matter.

But if it involves the entire Da Xia Dynasty, one must think twice before acting.

The earlier shouts weren't about saving face, but about not losing momentum; the real game is certainly not that simple.

Gu Jin Nian has known this principle since childhood.

Faced with Gu Jin Nian's reply, the Buddhist Sect from top to bottom fell into complete silence.

Yet at that moment, a beam of soaring Buddhist light covered the sky, and a figure rose above the Great Treasure Glazed Temple.

It was Hui Jue, the Buddha.

One of the two great Buddhas of the Buddhist Sect.

His aura was terrifying; he is a master of the Six Realms Great Perfection and one of the Buddhist Sect's strongest forces.

At this moment, Hui Jue grasped the Vajra Demon-Subduing Staff, and above his head hung the Eight Treasure Buddhist Bell.

Clang.

The bell rang, shaking ten thousand miles.

"Patron Gu, return the Bodhi Prayer Beads."

He spoke calmly, not harshly, yet the words carried an undeniable tone.

"What if this lord refuses to give?"

Gu Jin Nian also surged upward; the ancient Bodhi tree behind him unfolded a Buddhist realm, and beneath his feet he stood within the Immortal King's Jade Palanquin, with a mutton‑fat treasure bottle above his head.

Five‑colored gourds surrounded his body, the Holy Ruler and the Ancient Chronicles encircled him, and the Twenty‑Four Layers of Circular Light illuminated the Great Brightness.

His stance was clear: if he doesn't give, he won't.

"If I don't give."

"I, the venerable monk, will go to Da Xia Dynasty to engage in a Buddhist Doctrine Debate, crush Confucianism and Taoism, and seize Da Xia's national destiny."

Hui Jue's voice rang out.

At this point, the Buddhist Sect clearly knew that Gu Jin Nian would not return the Bodhi Prayer Beads, yet remaining silent was also impossible.

They had to adopt the appropriate stance.

It was not a matter of face, but an escalation to a sectarian conflict.

The Buddhist Sect could abandon a Supreme Buddhist Artifact, but it could never simply let it go unresolved.

"Buddhist Doctrine Debate?"

"You again seek to enter my Da Xia Dynasty?"

"You need not come."

"After the Jixia Academy concludes, this lord will personally go to the Western Desert Buddhist Nation to debate Buddhist doctrine and crush all false Buddhas."

"Then we shall see temples destroyed, monks beheaded."

Gu Jin Nian heard this and couldn't help but sneer; what Buddhist Doctrine Debate? It's merely a ploy to find another way into Da Xia Dynasty.

But debates are a sharp matter; if you prevent them from coming to debate, they will claim you are cowardly and fearful, and it involves Confucianism, Taoism, and the Buddhist Sect's doctrine.

Such matters cannot be prohibited; the opponent is clever, devising new schemes when one fails.

But Gu Jin Nian is no fool. Do they think they can come whenever they like? Can they just debate whenever they wish? After the Jixia Academy concludes.

He will personally go to the Western Desert Buddhist Nation to debate Buddhist doctrine and shatter all of its self‑confidence.

Having been baptized by merit, Gu Jin Nian recalled every scripture in his mind.

The Heart Sutra, the Vajra Sutra, the Infinite Life Sutra, the Perfect Enlightenment Sutra, the Shurangama Sutra, the Brahma Net Sutra, the Sixth Patriarch's Platform Sutra, the Profound Secret Sutra, the Vimalakirti Sutra, the Lankavatara Sutra.

These ten Buddhist Sect scriptures, Gu Jin Nian believes he cannot debate these false Buddhas.

He is prepared.

Isn't Heaven's Mandate about to begin?

Whether in a year or three years, before that again, he will crush the Buddhist Sect hard.

Deal a heavy blow to the Buddhist sect.

To exterminate the Buddhist sect may be a bit of an exaggeration, but to suppress it is hardly extravagant.

In about a month, the Jixia Academy will begin; that is, barring any surprises, in two or three months it will be roughly the same.

Upon hearing Gu Jin Nian speak out in this way.

At this moment, the Buddhist sect truly fell silent.

It's not fear.

But they are weighing.

Gu Jin Nian coming to the Buddhist sect? That's a good thing—the Western Desert Buddhist sect is their turf.

To put it bluntly, even if Gu Jin Nian possesses the True Buddha Ancient Scripture, how much could he really have? The True Buddha Ancient Scripture isn't a timeless work—you can't just spout it out.

The Buddhist sect boasts many debate masters; though their cultivation may be lacking, they possess deep expertise in debate, and at every Buddhist sect assembly they are the ones who step forward to explain.

Even two Buddhas cannot match these people, much less a supreme true Buddha.

These people are born to debate.

Debate is no small matter; it isn't merely a gathering where each side lays out its reasoning.

Proper debate argues doctrine—whose teaching is superior, whose scripture is superior.

Usually it ends in a draw or a slight win; a total victory is unheard of.

Daoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism each cultivate a cadre of debaters, employing fallacious, clear, and subtle debate, as well as the most profound Zen debate.

Trying to reach a decisive outcome in debate is hard, for if one truly loses and the opponent wins outright, the consequences are dire.

Struggle for fortune.

Just as when Confucianism loses to Daoism, at least one unit of qi fortune is lost, affecting all Confucian scholars.

Thus debate must not be undertaken lightly, especially as it takes place within one's own field, with mutual debate.

Gu Jin Nian means to take Buddhist doctrine to the Western Desert Buddhist sect and debate with them.

This amounts to using what one has just learned to challenge what others excel at.

To the Buddhist sect, this is not merely arrogant but also foolish.

But they said nothing more, for Gu Jin Nian's action is tantamount to walking into a trap; if they raised a clamor now, wouldn't they scare him off?

For the Buddhist sect, if Gu Jin Nian really dares to come, not only could their Buddhist artifacts be reclaimed, but even the sect's qi fortune could be seized.

But to the major powers under heaven, Gu Jin Nian's move is impulsive; at the very least, his words are overly harsh.

That said, Gu Jin Nian is overbearing, displaying his own pride, the arrogance of a youthful heaven‑chosen.

This alone compels countless people to admire.

"After the Jixia Academy, the Buddhist sect will quietly await the Marquis's arrival for debate."

"Just fearing the Marquis won't dare to come."

Another monk spoke up, saying at this critical moment a word, lest Gu Jin Nian not dare to come.

"Just wait."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

Having said this, Gu Jin Nian ceased to heed those people, instead standing in the void with a voice that rang out immensely.

"Effective today, Da Xia shall have no Buddhism."

He spoke, employing the three great Buddhist artifacts and two holy implements to broadcast his voice.

After today.

Da Xia has completely exterminated Buddhism.

We have won this battle.

Moreover, the victory was straightforward—at least all Buddhist temples in the Da Xia dynasty have been torn down; though some Buddhist disciples may linger, they can no longer exert any influence.

To completely eradicate it is impossible; there will always be those who long for it, like remnants of the Jian De regime—even after the great‑grandson Li Ji took the throne, the Jian De remnants could not disappear.

It merely exists in another form.

The Da Xia extermination of Buddhism can also be seen as fully settled; any subsequent impact is a matter for later.

At least the Da Xia dynasty has no Buddhist sect present.

This struggle ended with the Da Xia dynasty scoring a complete victory; putting aside the offense to the Buddhist sect, it was indeed a total victory.

As for the Buddhist sect this time, to say they lost is a loss; to say they didn't lose is actually not much of a loss.

A supreme Buddhist artifact has been damaged—this is a concrete fact.

The Buddhist sect lost one unit of qi fortune to Gu Jin Nian—this too is a concrete fact—but compared to Confucianism and Daoism, it is a good thing, given that Confucianism‑Daoism had previously been struck down.

To cut it away is to truly lose it; having lost one unit of qi fortune, at least the qi fortune remains.

As for the Da Xia extermination of Buddhism, rationally speaking, the Buddhist sect never established a presence in Da Xia; only some Buddhist disciples took root in the Da Xia dynasty.

It looks like decades of deployment came to naught, but in fact the significance is not great.

Over the decades, Da Xia has had few Buddhist temples; if the Buddhist sect could truly establish itself in the Da Xia dynasty, with its capabilities it could restore such a scene within half a year.

The crucial point remains whether they can establish themselves in the Da Xia dynasty.

If they can, then the present sacrifice is wholly worthwhile.

If they cannot, then the present sacrifice is meaningless.

Thus one should not judge the final outcome by a temporary gain or loss; all major dynasties are the same.

When a force reaches a certain level, as long as it is not utterly destroyed, there is no clear victory or defeat.

However, if Gu Jin Nian truly goes to the Buddhist sect and uses Buddhist doctrine to suppress the Western Desert Buddhist sect, then it's hard to say.

"Since the Marquis has such confidence, please let him swear an oath; we Buddhist sect will quietly await the Marquis."

The Buddhist sect's voice rang out again; they hope Gu Jin Nian will come to the Western Desert Buddhist sect, but fear he is merely shouting empty words.

After all, if Gu Jin Nian dares to come, they are absolutely confident.

In the Da Xia Dynasty, their reach truly cannot extend, but when it comes to the Western Desert Buddhist Kingdom, they really don't believe Gu Jin Nian can stir up any waves.

Even if he recites another ancient sutra of the Buddha, what would that achieve? It only proves Gu Jin Nian's high Buddhist cultivation, not that his debating skill is strong.

He heard the voice of the Buddhist sect.

Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but sneer; this Buddhist sect is really straightforward.

"Since this Lord said he would come, he will not break his word. As for swearing an oath? Are you all even worthy of swearing an oath with this Lord?"

"Stop making noise here; if you dissent, this Lord is right here, the Buddhist Kingdom could raise an army to attack, and I, Gu, can endure it."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He will definitely go—it's only a matter of time—but to force himself to swear an oath, isn't that ridiculous?

Let me swear an oath, then I'll swear? What if something truly prevents me from coming? Ridiculous.

Sure enough, upon hearing Gu Jin Nian speak like that, the Buddhist sect's members all frowned; Gu Jin Nian dared not swear an oath, which to them seemed off, especially since the Bodhi prayer beads were now in Gu Jin Nian's hand.

If Gu Jin Nian swore an oath, they would have nothing to say and would agree outright.

But Gu Jin Nian does not swear; if he fails to come, that thing would truly be wasted.

"Lord, please swear an oath."

"The Buddhist sect believes the Lord, but believes the oath even more."

This is the voice of the Buddhist sect.

It is also their attitude.

"Swear to your mother."

Gu Jin Nian's reply rang out, giving a response.

Ma De, you're just looking for death, huh? If I didn't have other matters to handle, Gu Jin Nian would indeed rush straight to the Western Desert Buddhist Kingdom and severely drain the Buddhist sect's vitality.

But Gu Jin Nian knows clearly that although he possesses Buddhist sutras, merely reciting them isn't enough; they must be understood and realized.

The Medicine Master's Empowering Mantra was recited for the first time, hence the great commotion, and other sutras certainly won't be more powerful than the Medicine Master's Empowering Mantra.

Apart from the Heart Sutra and the Diamond Sutra, these two scriptures are supreme treasures, and their influence must surpass the Medicine Master's Empowering Mantra.

It's just that Gu Jin Nian does not want to waste them; reciting them without spiritual resonance is futile—only with sincere insight can their full power be unleashed.

Otherwise, he would now head to the Western Desert Buddhist Kingdom, where Confucianism and Daoism would take a hit, and the Buddhist sect would suffer an even harsher blow.

"Amitabha."

The voice sounded again.

But before he could speak, an even more magnificent voice rang out.

"Await the debating method calmly."

The voice was calm and ethereal.

When that voice sounded, all the Buddhist sect's monks were shocked; they pressed their palms together and bowed toward the Great Treasure Glass Temple.

This is the voice of the Ascending True Buddha.

However, the voice did not originate from the Great Treasure Glass Temple; no one knows where it came from, but one thing is clear.

The Ascending True Buddha already knows this matter.

His current voice is to soothe the conflict; since Gu Jin Nian said he would come to the Buddhist sect, he believes it.

With the Ascending True Buddha stepping forward, Gu Jin Nian will come even if he doesn't want to.

If he truly doesn't come, Gu Jin Nian would be utterly disgraceful.

"After the Academy."

"There is no Buddha in the world."

Gu Jin Nian spoke calmly, and when he spoke again, this sentence was even more domineering than the previous voice.

However, at this moment, Gu Jin Nian possessed the capital of dominance and arrogance.

This has nothing to do with personal strength or realm, but with Gu Jin Nian's deeds—each one is shocking.

Just.

At this moment.

Suddenly the heavens and earth darkened, and a great night enveloped the entire Shen Zhou continent.

Everyone fell silent, their eyes filled with curiosity.

"A single sentence caused such a celestial phenomenon?"

"Are you kidding? Just saying a sentence brings about such a phenomenon?"

"I've gone decades without seeing an anomaly, but ever since Gu Jin Nian became famous, I see them every few days. It was tolerable before—writing an immortal poem or an immortal essay could summon a celestial anomaly, and I could accept that. Now it's worse; even a single sentence brings such terrifying phenomena."

"Could Gu Jin Nian truly be the chosen one of Heaven? That a single sentence can summon such terrifying phenomena?"

Voices rang out one after another.

The crowd was genuinely bewildered; there was no other reason—if Gu Jin Nian wrote an immortal article or recited a Buddha sutra that caused such phenomena, they would have nothing to say.

But the problem is, Gu Jin Nian did nothing; he only uttered an extremely arrogant sentence.

This also summons a phenomenon? They truly think this is absurd.

Even Gu Jin Nian, at this moment, couldn't help but be curious, but he quickly realized that the phenomenon was not caused by him.

"This is not a phenomenon brought by Gu Jin Nian; it is Heaven's Mandate."

Someone suddenly frowned, pointing at the strange scene above the firmament, and said:

People looked up, unable to see who spoke, but the voice was familiar—it was Xu Qiyue's voice.

"Heaven's Mandate?"

"You even know about Heaven's Mandate?"

"A Heaven's Mandate omen appears at this moment? Does it mean the Heaven's Mandate Struggle has begun?"

Some clicked their tongues, others were surprised, asking Xu Qiyue why she knows so much, but most were very curious.

At this critical juncture, Heaven's Mandate is born; does that mean the Heaven's Mandate Struggle is about to start?

Since more than half a year ago, Heaven's Mandate surfaced in the world, and this has become the most anticipated event for all major powers.

No one knows what the Heaven's Mandate Struggle actually represents.

But the only thing that can be known is that the Heaven's Mandate Struggle heralds the arrival of a golden age, and when that time comes, anything is possible.

Thus all major powers are holding back, waiting for the Heaven's Mandate Struggle to begin.

Then they will fight for it.

After all, without fighting, how would one know if they can obtain Heaven's Mandate?

Crack!

And at that moment.

A bolt of lightning streaked across the heavens.

Immediately after, a raging storm poured down, the world trembled, and the scene surpassed even Gu Jin Nian's recent chanting of the Buddha's true sutra.

This is the mighty power of heaven and earth; even gods and Buddhas must yield.

Its impact is not limited to a single nation or region, but the entire world, the whole Shen Zhou continent.

Brilliant celestial might, shaking all living beings.

Above the heavens, the Heaven's Mandate stars quivered, eventually shooting out beams of light.

Everyone watched, unsure whether this signaled that the Heaven's Mandate Struggle had already begun.

Soon, a dragon pearl appeared, floating around the Heaven's Mandate star.

Roar.

A dragon's chant rang out, coming from the Central Continent Dynasty.

A five‑clawed Golden Dragon rose from the Central Continent Dynasty, its dragon silhouette towering ten thousand zhang, soaring through clouds and mist, spiraling in the void.

"Central Continent's national destiny Golden Dragon."

Someone who recognized what it was swallowed a mouthful of saliva and pointed at the Golden Dragon.

Indeed, a terrifying aura, centered on the Central Continent Dynasty, spread outward directly.

In the next moment, the Great Jin Dynasty saw a black true dragon appear; this was the Great Jin Dynasty's national destiny true dragon, its body three thousand zhang tall, still soaring through clouds and mist, gazing at the dragon pearl.

Soon, the Da Xia Dynasty, the Fuyu Dynasty, even the Xiongnu Nation, the Southern Barbarians Nation, and the Western Desert Buddhist Nation each gave rise to their respective national destiny true dragons.

The Da Xia Dynasty's true dragon was three thousand zhang long, nearly matching the Great Jin Dynasty's true dragon, but everyone knew that the Da Xia Dynasty's national destiny true dragon should not be so powerful; it was mainly because of Gu Jin Nian.

Otherwise, the Da Xia's previous national destiny true dragon was at most fifteen hundred zhang; it was Gu Jin Nian's founding of the nation, capturing twelve cities, plus today's destruction of the Buddhist nation, that caused the Da Xia's national destiny true dragon to receive a massive boost.

The Fuyu Dynasty's national destiny true dragon was twelve hundred zhang.

The Xiongnu Nation's national destiny true dragon was eight hundred zhang.

The Southern Barbarians Nation's national destiny true dragon was two thousand four hundred zhang.

And the Western Desert Buddhist Nation's national destiny true dragon was the weakest, about five hundred zhang.

The reason is simple: the Western Desert Buddhist Nation is not a true country; it is entirely a theocracy, and although it has a king, he is chosen by the Western Desert Buddhist Temple.

It is essentially a nation formed by its believers; whatever the Buddhist Nation does must obey the will of the Buddhist sect.

Naturally, its national destiny is so ordinary that without the Buddhist sect's blessing, it might not even have a national destiny true dragon.

Soon, one after another, national destiny true dragons were born, but most were around a hundred zhang, belonging to the level of slightly stronger vassal states.

A national destiny true dragon essentially measures a dynasty's overall strength; it represents comprehensive power, not solely military might.

Nevertheless, the Central Continent Dynasty stands like a colossal behemoth, towering over the Central Continent.

Ten‑thousand‑zhang Golden Dragon.

That is indeed remarkable.

Founding a nation immediately grants it a national destiny.

A strong country can form a true dragon national destiny; if it becomes a dynasty, it reaches a thousand zhang.

If a dynasty reaches terrifying prosperity, it can transform into a Golden Dragon.

The Central Continent Dynasty not only reached ten‑thousand zhang long long ago, but also transformed into a Golden Dragon; bluntly put, the Great Jin Dynasty, Da Xia Dynasty, Fuyu Dynasty, Xiongnu Nation, and all the nations of the Eastern Wilderness combined are the only ones that can match the Central Continent Dynasty.

If one arbitrarily picks a dynasty to fight the Central Continent Dynasty, the outcome will almost certainly be a gruesome death.

And at that moment, the dragon pearl in the heavens also moved toward the Central Continent Dynasty, finally settling above its sky, though not exactly at the center, slightly shifted toward the Eastern Wilderness.

That slight offset, however, holds little significance.

"What does this mean?"

"Xu Qiyue, do you understand this?"

"Why does this suddenly appear? Why are the national destiny true dragons of all nations appearing?"

Many voices rose.

Someone even directly asked the all‑knowing Xu Qiyue.

But this time Xu Qiyue's answer was somewhat vague.

"I don't understand well."

"But it has a great connection to Heaven's Mandate."

"The link between dynasties and Heaven's Mandate, I must go back and study, perhaps then I'll know."

"Everyone, I'm leaving."

Xu Qiyue spoke, and after saying that, his voice vanished.

Meanwhile, in the shadows, many figures moved; they had been searching for Xu Qiyue's trace, but found nothing.

The dragon pearl hung in the heavenly vault, hundreds of true dragon qi fortunes appeared, giving the sense of a multitude of dragons vying for the pearl.

Although unclear, many people could roughly guess a thing or two; this dragon pearl perhaps represents a kind of Heaven's Mandate.

And the true dragon is each nation's fortune; does it mean that whoever can obtain this dragon pearl.

Whoever would gain endless benefits; this possibility cannot be ruled out.

Soon, all phenomena completely vanished; the true dragon qi fortunes of the various nations also dissipated considerably, yet faint traces remained, still visible.

However, the dragon pearl on the heavenly vault did not dissipate; it seemed to be nurturing something, perpetually hanging in the heavenly vault.

What exactly is going on, no one knows.

But the only thing known is that the dynasties of all nations will likely have to pay extra attention.

Indeed, after the phenomena ended, the emperors of the various nations' dynasties immediately ordered investigations.

No one wants to fall behind, not even a step.

The great world's contention may truly be coming.

Gazing at the heavenly vault, Gu Jin Nian felt some anticipation, anticipating this great world's contention.

Soon.

Gu Jin Nian slowly landed on the ground, he gathered in all phenomena; the bodhi prayer beads were tightly held in his hand, played with—not for anything else, but because these bodhi prayer beads can open one's wisdom apertures; held in hand, like a wisdom pearl in hand.

Thinking came extremely quickly.

Young Master Jin Nian.

Heir.

In the next moment, right then and there, the Jade Pool Immortal Maiden and the Clear Shallow Immortal Maiden appeared, they showed some concern, coming to Gu Jin Nian's side.

Both of you have suffered.

Facing the two, Gu Jin Nian immediately spoke, their coming to Guiyang Commandery was his own intention.

Having endured these hardships, he also felt some guilt.

"It is not your intention, Young Master; it is these bald donkeys' scheming tactics. You do not shy from hardship, you do not fear the Buddhist sect, you saved me; I am willing to offer myself."

The Clear Shallow Immortal Maiden was somewhat weak, yet still spoke in that manner, truly leaving people helpless.

Beside her, the Jade Pool Immortal Maiden involuntarily frowned slightly, but she did not know what to say.

Just then.

Suddenly, a jade pendant on the Clear Shallow Immortal Maiden's body lit up, appearing somewhat scorching.

The latter immediately frowned.

"What's wrong?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, asking the latter.

"Nothing, my clan's holy master has business that calls me back for a trip."

"Moreover, it is an important matter."

The Clear Shallow Immortal Maiden gave this answer, but her eyes were full of incomprehension; this jade token, once lit, signifies an important matter seeking her, very important.

"Then you should hurry back."

Upon hearing this, the Jade Pool Immortal Maiden involuntarily spoke, urging the Clear Shallow Immortal Maiden to leave.

"Do I need my sister to remind me when to return?"

"Sister, you are so eager for me to leave; could it be you wish to use this opportunity to seduce Young Master Jin Nian?"

The Clear Shallow Immortal Maiden inquired, her gaze filled with doubt.

"Nonsense."

The Jade Pool Immortal Maiden was somewhat annoyed, but just then a voice also reached her ears.

"Jade Pool, there is an important matter, return."

It was the voice of the Exquisite Palace Master.

Upon hearing this, the Jade Pool Immortal Maiden startled, then immediately looked at Gu Jin Nian and said.

"Your Highness."

"I also have matters to attend to and must return."

"My master has issued an order."

She spoke, her heart somewhat reluctant.

Beside her, the Clear Shallow Immortal Maiden, upon hearing this, immediately relaxed her brows; as long as the Jade Pool Immortal Maiden left, she would not feel too uncomfortable.

"Since the two Immortal Maidens have important matters, please go ahead and return."

"However, just in case, I, Gu, will still escort you two."

Their sudden need to return is clearly related to the Heaven's Mandate; as for the specifics, he is not clear.

All he could do was escort the two away.

"No need, Your Highness has been busy for a long time; no escort required."

The Jade Pool Immortal Maiden spoke.

She did not truly not want Gu Jin Nian to escort her; rather, the Exquisite Immortal Palace is not especially far from Guiyang Commandery, while Green Hill Mountain is quite distant.

Following the route, it would naturally be to send her first, then the Clear Shallow Immortal Maiden; thus she declined the escort.

"That will do, two Immortal Maidens; take care on the journey."

Gu Jin Nian nodded; since that was their thought, he said no more.

The Clear Shallow Immortal Maiden felt somewhat disgruntled; she had wanted to say that Gu Jin Nian should escort her, but what the Jade Pool Immortal Maiden said was also correct—Gu Jin Nian was exhausted from this battle, and moreover the Heaven's Mandate had manifested a new omen. All major forces have stirred; now it is a race against time, and his time cannot be delayed.

Thus the Clear Shallow Immortal Maiden said nothing more.

"Until we meet again by fate."

Gu Jin Nian gave a slight bow toward the two.

Then he saw off the two beauties as they left.

"Both of you."

But just then, Su Huaiyu's voice rang out, and he stopped the two, his face showing a hint of helplessness.

Qingqian Fairy and Yaochi Fairy looked at each other with slight curiosity, not understanding what the other meant to say.

"Actually, to speak the truth."

"I, Su, have given a lot as well; at least I've lost a hundred‑year life essence. I'm not greedy; you two fairies already have beloved ones. I am a gentleman, I won't take what you cherish. Could you perhaps introduce a fox‑clan maiden, or a Linglong Fairy to me next time?"

Su Huaiyu felt a bit uncomfortable.

One by one, they thanked Gu Jin Nian and left.

But the problem is, I also consumed a hundred‑year life essence—this loss isn't small? Oh, even the act of showing off was all done by Gu Jin Nian.

All the benefits were taken by Gu Jin Nian.

Yet when looking back, I have nothing? Not even a single compliment?

Qingqian Fairy and Yaochi Fairy, Su Huaiyu doesn't get involved; they belong to Gu Jin Nian, he knows that, but helping me find a sister shouldn't be a problem, right? Hearing this, Qingqian Fairy smiled.

"Fine, next time you come, I will bring you an elder sister."

Qingqian Fairy said aloud.

And Yaochi Fairy also nodded.

"Thank you, Brother Su, for your help; I will go find a junior sister for you."

Yaochi Fairy also agreed.

Having received their agreement, Su Huaiyu finally smiled.

This is what a good person looks like.

Soon, the two prepared to leave, but another voice sounded again.

"To speak frankly."

"I, the Sword Saint, have also exerted considerable effort."

"If possible, could you ask a favor for a friend of mine?"

"He is a friend of mine."

The Eastern Sword Saint spoke in a faint voice; clearly he wanted to learn a bit himself, but insisted it was his friend—classic 'I have a friend.'

He cared a lot about face; when saying this, he didn't dare look at the two.

"Senior, don't worry, I will ask."

The two were startled, but immediately gave a response.

"On behalf of my friend, thank you both."

Receiving the answer, the Eastern Sword Saint was pleased; he smiled and said thus.

Thus, the two finally left.

"By the way, make it younger."

Watching their departing silhouettes, the Eastern Sword Saint continued, reminding them with a sentence.

In the end, the two vanished.

Inside the already abandoned Puhan Temple, only Gu Jin Nian, Su Huaiyu, and the Eastern Sword Saint remained.

The three exchanged glances.

They each understood each other's meaning.

A man remains a youth until death.

"Lord, what do you plan to do next?"

The Eastern Sword Saint spoke, asking Gu Jin Nian what he intended to do next.

"Senior, I, the junior, intend to return to Da Xia Capital."

"Let these soldiers handle the aftermath."

Gu Jin Nian replied.

Although the other addressed him as "Lord," Gu Jin Nian still had to address the other as "Senior."

"Alright, since that's the case, let's see the Buddha off to the west; I will accompany you back."

"I also have a few matters to discuss with you."

The Eastern Sword Saint spoke.

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but nod.

"Brother Su?"

Gu Jin Nian asked.

"Since we're together, let's go together."

"I happen to be resting; my injuries are too severe."

Su Huaiyu rubbed his chest, looking very uncomfortable, appearing severely wounded.

"Life essence weakened; shouldn't that be a decline of the primordial spirit? Why are you rubbing your chest?"

The Eastern Sword Saint was a bit puzzled and asked curiously.

"Uh…"

"Compared to the head, the chest hurts more."

Su Huaiyu fell silent for a moment, then explained.

It would be fine not to explain, but upon explaining, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but frown slightly.

He remembered that Su Huaiyu had said a single character at that time.

【Explanation】

Then he blocked the sixth strike of the Buddha's true form.

Not knowing why, Gu Jin Nian suspected that Su Huaiyu basically had no serious issue, just like himself, was merely pretending.

But he had insufficient evidence, and it was also awkward to ask further, so he simply let it go.

As long as he knew the situation in his heart, that was enough.

Thus, the three set off together, while the army remained in Guiyang Commandery, awaiting orders and needing to handle some aftermath, pacifying the people, etc.

"Xu Jin, Wang Peng."

"You two stay here; after the matter is settled, return to the capital to receive rewards."

Gu Jin Nian spoke up, saying he had deliberately left Xu Jin and Wang Peng here; after this matter is completely settled, he will help them seek rewards; being granted a title is definitely out of the question, but promoting them by two or three ranks is no problem.

Both also caught the implied meaning.

In a moment, both were overjoyed, hurriedly bowing to Gu Jin Nian and kowtowing to thank him for his favor.

However, Gu Jin Nian had already left.

And the thirty thousand cavalry also went to the local government office to file a report, awaiting the court's orders at any time.

The matter of Da Xia's eradication of Buddhism is completely over.

But a new matter has arisen.

This time, the eradication of Buddhism has caused the Da Xia Dynasty and the Buddhist sect to forge a grudge; no one knows what will happen in the future.

The Jixia Academy will start soon; it's nothing more than something happening in a month; after the Jixia Academy ends, that will be the greatest confrontation between the Buddhist sect and Gu Jin Nian.

Of course, some think Gu Jin Nian won't go; this is just empty boasting.

After all, Gu Jin Nian indeed possesses extraordinary talent, is versed in Buddhist teachings, a genius among geniuses; but debating the Dharma is not something that relies solely on talent, it involves too many things; if Gu Jin Nian uses Confucian-Daoist learning to debate the Dharma, they think it's not a big problem.

But Gu Jin Nian himself said he would use Buddhist teachings to defeat the Ximo Buddhist Kingdom; frankly, many are not optimistic, so they think Gu Jin Nian won't go.

Furthermore, the sudden appearance of the Heaven's Mandate omen has also left many puzzled, wondering what it signifies, what it means, and whether it will change the world's pattern.

No one can say for sure.

Therefore, this matter is also what the major powers are most concerned about; if there truly were any benefit, probably no one would bother to care about the struggle between Gu Jin Nian and the Buddhist sect.

If the cause is not found, the struggle between Gu Jin Nian and the Buddhist sect will remain the most watched topic going forward.

It must be said that Gu Jin Nian is now famous throughout the Eastern Wilderness; his every move draws the attention of countless forces, and even the Zhongzhou Dynasty is already paying attention to him.

Thus.

In the blink of an eye.

One day passed.

The matter of Da Xia's eradication of Buddhism has also spread throughout the Eastern Wilderness; if it weren't for the sudden manifestation of the Heaven's Mandate, this matter would have been the hottest topic.

Now the entire Eastern Wilderness is discussing the Heaven's Mandate, with various speculations.

Not only the Eastern Wilderness, but also the Zhongzhou, Xizhou, Nanzhou, and Beizhou regions are discussing this matter.

The two words "Heaven's Mandate".

The impact is too great to be ignored.

And just on this day.

Xizhou.

Ximo Buddhist Kingdom.

Inside the Great Treasure Glazed Temple, a bell rang; it was the sound of the Eight Treasures Buddha Bell.

As the Eight Treasures Buddha Bell rang.

Prominent figures of the Buddhist sect woke up one after another; they had been silent for a day, all waiting for this bell sound.

Soon, two Buddhas, four divine monks, five arhats, six dharma protectors, seven vajras, eight practitioners, and eight senior teachers arrived inside the Great Treasure Main Hall.

Inside the main hall, it had been completely sealed off, with a formation bolstering it; outsiders could hear nothing.

In the silent great hall, three Buddha statues stood tall; the statues were cast of gold, inlaid with various gemstones, possessing both the Buddha's majesty and nobility.

The two Buddhas sat in the front, the four divine monks on the left, the five arhats on the right, seated in order.

These are all true powerhouses of the Upper Vehicle Esoteric Sect; the lowest cultivation among them is the Golden Body stage, and one-third have reached the Arhat stage.

Among them, many have profound attainment in Buddhist teachings.

In the Buddhist sect, cultivation level is not necessarily the sole standard; for example, among the nine senior teachers, only two are at the Arhat stage, the rest are at the Golden Body stage; among the eight practitioners, there is even one who has entered the Meditative State as a Buddhist practitioner.

Everyone sat in silence, waiting for the emergence of the Upper Vehicle True Buddha.

About a quarter of an hour later.

Upon the main seat.

A Buddha silhouette slowly appeared; it was not the true form of the Upper Vehicle True Buddha, but a projection that had come across.

"Namo Amitabha, we pay respects to the Supreme True Buddha."

Upon seeing the Buddha silhouette appear, the monks all rose and paid respects to it.

"Namo Amitabha."

The voice of the Upper Vehicle True Buddha sounded, seeming ethereal and imbued with a Buddhist sentiment.

"May I ask, Your Excellency?"

"How should the Buddhist sect face this great calamity?"

With the appearance of the Upper Vehicle True Buddha, the malevolent divine monk among the four great divine monks could not help but speak out, asking the Exalted One how to resolve this matter.

Upon saying this, all the monks involuntarily looked toward the Upper Vehicle True Buddha, also anticipating a result.

"When did the Buddhist sect suffer such a great calamity?"

However, the voice of the Ascending True Buddha sounded, causing everyone to fall silent.

Everyone felt a bit bewildered, truly unable to grasp what the Ascending True Buddha meant, and when the Buddhist sect suffered a great calamity.

Did Da Xia wipe out Buddhism yesterday and forget it today? What does that mean? The crowd was puzzled, yet they also knew that since the Ascending True Buddha said so, there must be reason behind it.

"Please, Supreme One, answer."

The Malignant Divine Monk also did not quite understand the other's meaning, and could not help but ask.

"The Buddhist sect has not suffered a great disaster; on the contrary, its flourishing era is about to arrive. You all are being confused by the present karmic obstacles."

The Ascending True Buddha continued, and the words made the crowd even more silent.

The two Buddhas, however, remained very calm.

But the other monks truly did not understand.

Having come this far, how could it not be a loss? So many have died, decades of scheming turned to nothing, and now they say the Buddhist sect's flourishing era is right before our eyes? There's no need for that, right?

It's not that we can't afford to lose.

After sensing the crowd's reaction, the Ascending True Buddha finally spoke.

"You all have been blinded by karmic obstacles."

"I, the Buddha, have three questions; you answer them."

"First question: Has the Buddhist sect's fortune been diminished?"

He asked, directing his words to the crowd.

"Replying to the Supreme One: No."

The Malignant Divine Monk gave the answer.

"If it hasn't been diminished, how could the Buddhist sect suffer a great disaster? Moreover, our sect's fortune has not only remained intact but, with the emergence of the Buddha's True Sutra, has become even stronger. How can that be called a great disaster?"

The Ascending True Buddha's single sentence left the monks utterly silent.

Because upon careful thought, hey, you're right—it really is like that.

Da Xia's eradication of Buddhism did not severely damage the sect's fortune, after all the Buddhist sect had not been established in the Da Xia Dynasty for long.

To speak plainly, that's the case.

It does not affect the Western Desert Buddhist Kingdom.

Gu Jin Nian's eradication of Buddhism only caused the Western Desert Buddhist Kingdom some discomfort, unlike the Xiongnu Nation, which lost three hundred thousand elite iron cavalry.

The impact was certainly felt to some degree, but if we are strict, the effect is not significant; without dwelling on it, there truly is no major problem.

Moreover, Gu Jin Nian's Medicine Master Empowerment Mantra is ultimately a Buddhist scripture; since it is a scripture, the sect's fortune has been enhanced.

Thus it was indeed not a loss, but a gain—quite a substantial gain.

"But our sect's supreme artifact was taken by Gu Jin Nian, one piece, this…"

The Malignant Divine Monk continued, asking, even though there was no loss in fortune, the sect's supreme artifact had indeed been snatched by Gu Jin Nian.

Upon hearing this, the monks also nodded.

Indeed, the sect's supreme artifact, the Bodhi prayer beads, were truly taken, right? This cannot possibly be fully explained, nor could it be a profit? "This is my second question."

The Ascending True Buddha spoke lightly, gazing at the monks, who could not see his true visage.

"The Buddhist sect previously possessed three great Buddhist artifacts."

"Now there are five great Buddhist artifacts; is this a good thing or a bad thing?"

He asked.

Uh. The monks fell silent once again.

At first they thought this was not a good thing, but after calming down and thinking carefully, they realized it truly is a good thing.

Because previously there were three.

Now there are five.

Even a three‑year‑old knows this is a good thing, yet why does it feel a bit off?

An indescribable feeling.

"Supreme One, although there are five, three are currently in Gu Jin Nian's hands, and our Western Desert Buddhist Kingdom has only two. This shouldn't be a matter of quantity, right?"

The Malignant Divine Monk felt uneasy; although the reasoning is sound—two more artifacts have appeared—the problem is that three are in someone else's possession. Is that a good thing?

"No, it is not."

The Ascending True Buddha shook his head, looking at the Malignant Divine Monk, and said.

"Mortal beings in the world are all blinded in mind by karmic obstacles; mortals can only see the present, those who attain the Dao can see the future, and the Buddha can know what comes after."

"The Buddhist sect's three supreme artifacts were once lost abroad; five thousand years ago, those three belonged to the Great Thunder Temple. Why now are they each held by the Ascending Esoteric Sect, the Great Sound Temple, and the Little Yuan Temple?"

"I, the Buddha, ask you: if you traveled back five thousand years and learned that the Great Thunder Temple possessed the three supreme artifacts, would you feel anger?"

The Ascending True Buddha asked.

"No."

The Malignant Divine Monk answered without hesitation.

The Great Thunder Temple is a legendary Buddhist monastery, with ten thousand years of lineage and countless eminent monks, yet for unknown reasons it vanished without a trace.

Indeed, it disappeared without a trace; aside from a few monks who were outside, the rest of the Great Thunder Temple's monks vanished, leaving behind the three supreme artifacts. Later, an external monk inherited one and founded the Great Sound Temple.

The Little Yuan Temple obtained one, the Ascending Esoteric Sect also obtained one, and thus the three Buddhist sects of the Western Desert were established.

So upon hearing this, the latter shook his head and said, "I would not be angry."

He gave his answer, which was the most straightforward.

"Then why would you be angry that Gu Jin Nian obtained three artifacts?"

"He possesses the Buddhist sect's fortune, which means he is also a disciple of the sect; he simply has not been stationed in any temple."

The Ascending True Buddha spoke.

One sentence left all the monks utterly speechless.

What a fellow, you can still say that?

"Supreme Venerable, this is completely unreasonable, Gu Jin Nian is Gu Jin Nian, the Buddhist Sect is the Buddhist Sect; although he carries the Buddhist Sect's fortune, he fundamentally has no single-minded devotion to the Buddha, please forgive my transgression, I, the disciple, do not accept."

The Malevolent Divine Monk could no longer stay seated.

He does not accept this.

Not only him, others also do not accept.

Is there anyone who says such a thing?

It's basically just treating them like fools, right?

"Wrong."

Supreme True Buddha shook his head, looked at the other party, sighed, and spoke calmly.

"You are still wrong."

"Even if Gu Jin Nian does not have single-minded devotion to the Buddha, I, the Buddha, ask: how long can Gu Jin Nian live?"

"He is now young, in his prime, full of vigor; his conflict with the Buddhist Sect is merely youthful fervor. Once he matures, he will someday realize his actions were too impulsive. By that time, even if the Buddhist Sect says nothing, he will return the Buddhist artifacts to the Western Desert."

"Otherwise, what would he need so many Buddhist artifacts for?"

Supreme True Buddha explained thus.

"But what if he refuses to admit fault? May I ask, Supreme Venerable, what should our Buddhist Sect do?"

The Malevolent Divine Monk asked.

"Then he will surely die one day, right? Even if he cultivates the immortal path, even if he reaches the Seventh Realm, it's only three thousand years at most."

"After three thousand years, neither you nor I will be in this world, but the Buddhist Sect never lacks successors; after three thousand years, we will reclaim the Buddhist artifacts."

"At that time, even if the Da Xia Dynasty already rules the Eastern Wilderness Realm, they will still return the Buddhist artifacts to the Buddhist Sect; keeping them serves no purpose, and if the Da Xia Dynasty has already fallen, it will be even easier to retrieve the Supreme Buddhist Artifact."

Supreme True Buddha spoke earnestly.

"What if Gu Jin Nian enters the Eighth Realm?"

The Malevolent Divine Monk asked.

"Then we wait five thousand years!"

"Wait ten thousand years."

"It's merely storing things in others' hands."

"After ten thousand years, dynasties will change countless times, only our Buddhist Sect will manifest in the world."

Supreme True Buddha spoke with utmost sincerity.

This time, his words contained Buddhist principles, giving everyone a feeling of enlightenment.

The Malevolent Divine Monk was completely speechless.

He did not know how to answer.

Because he could find no fault.

No, it's not that he cannot find fault; he can find fault, but doing so would bring emotion, and emotion is the karmic force of the Buddhist Sect; if one speaks with emotion, even if it breaks the precepts, one cannot follow one's true heart.

Indeed.

Gu Jin Nian obtained the Buddhist artifact; speaking conventionally, after five hundred years, when Gu Jin Nian dies, the Da Xia Dynasty will hold the artifact, and the Buddhist Sect can then look for an opportunity to retrieve it.

The first attempt to retrieve it fails.

Then we try once a year.

One hundred years is not enough; how about two hundred years?

Two hundred years is not enough; how about three hundred years? Surely someday the Da Xia Dynasty will give it back? Could it be that nothing will happen to the Da Xia Dynasty within three hundred years? That's impossible.

"Disciple understands."

"Supreme Venerable means that this time the Buddhist Sect has gained two more Supreme Buddhist Artifacts; if things go quickly, at the time of Heaven's Mandate, the Buddhist Sect might be able to reclaim what belongs to it; if slowly, after a hundred or a thousand years, these artifacts will still belong to the Buddhist Sect."

"This amounts to saying that although our Buddhist Sect suffers a loss now, it is beneficial in the long run; in a sense, Gu Jin Nian is making a wedding dress for our Buddhist Sect."

A senior master spoke up, understanding the meaning of Supreme True Buddha.

"Wise."

Hearing this, Supreme True Buddha was also satisfied.

Upon saying this, many monks couldn't help but nod, feeling it made perfect sense.

After thousands of years, all Buddhist artifacts will still belong to the Buddhist Sect; after all, the Buddhist Sect's power is so vast that upon Gu Jin Nian's death, who will control these artifacts?

What use is it for the Da Xia Dynasty to hold Buddhist artifacts? Besides enshrining and storing them, what else can they do? At worst, the Buddhist Sect will endure the pain, give the Da Xia Dynasty some benefits, make a deal, and each take what they need.

In that case, for the Buddhist Sect, it is a great joy and a good thing.

From the original three Buddhist artifacts to five after a thousand years.

This is still considering the worst-case scenario.

If luck is good, at the time of the Heaven's Mandate struggle, when Gu Jin Nian dies, or if the Buddhist Sect truly rises, could we retrieve them earlier? Thinking this, everyone smiled.

Even after the Malevolent Divine Monk pondered for a long time, his tightly furrowed brows finally relaxed.

"Supreme Venerable, disciple has understood."

"However, Supreme Venerable, now that Da Xia has exterminated Buddhism, how should our Buddhist Sect deploy against the Da Xia Dynasty? In the Eastern Wilderness Realm, only the last Da Xia Dynasty remains; if the Buddhist Sect cannot station itself in the Da Xia Dynasty, the Central State Dynasty will not agree to our Buddhist Sect's requests."

"Please, Supreme Venerable, dispel our doubts."

The Malevolent Divine Monk sincerely asked.

"This is the third question."

"What is the true intention of our Buddhist Sect?"

Supreme True Buddha spoke.

This question is indeed quite abstruse; a monk has thought of something, but it's hard to say it outright, after all it would seem shallow.

"Save and enlighten all beings."

Guangyuan Buddha spoke and gave an answer.

"Good."

The Ascending True Buddha nodded, approving the statement.

"The fundamental purpose of the Buddhist sect is to save and enlighten all beings. In yesterday's battle, did you notice that our sect's faith has increased considerably?"

The Ascending True Buddha asked aloud.

When these words were spoken, the monks couldn't help but show surprise; originally they hadn't noticed anything, but now that it's mentioned, it does seem that way.

Indeed, the faith's power has increased considerably.

"Supreme One, it has indeed grown a lot; what does this mean?"

The evil divine monk asked curiously.

"Gu Jin Nian appears to be destroying the Buddha, but in fact he is aiding the Buddhist sect. He recites the Buddha's true sutra, then manifests the True Buddha to the world; countless common folk across the land now know that a True Buddha exists between heaven and earth."

"Therefore the power of faith flows continuously. Although this faith power has been taken by Gu Jin Nian, Gu Jin Nian is ultimately a noble of the Da Xia Dynasty; he is not a Buddhist sect disciple. Our sect only needs, at this moment, to aggressively recruit believers—aren't these beliefs just the sect's?"

"Although Gu Jin Nian has established three regulations in the Da Xia Dynasty, can't Buddhist sect disciples simply avoid going to Da Xia?"

"Let these believers go to Da Xia, thereby influencing more people to devoutly worship the Buddha."

"Have you all understood?"

The Ascending True Buddha said so.

When he finished speaking, everyone in the hall was completely convinced.

They also fully comprehended.

No wonder the Ascending True Buddha didn't feel uneasy when Gu Jin Nian took the Bodhi Prayer Beads; so that's how it is.

If all this is true, then the Buddhist sect has truly won far too much this time—won to the point of excess.

"Amitabha, Supreme One, you are greatly benevolent."

The monks all spoke together, and at that moment their hatred was completely released, replaced by a sense of ease.

"Supreme One, how should we deal with the Three Venerables?"

Soon, a monk asked about the matter of the Three Venerables.

"This Buddha has his own method of resolution."

"But we must wait until Heaven's Mandate is activated."

The Ascending True Buddha gave the answer.

"Then what should we do next?"

Another monk continued to ask.

"Go with the natural flow; whatever should be, will be."

The Ascending True Buddha spoke calmly.

The monks all nodded.

Then they fell silent, for there was nothing left to ask.

"If there are no doubts, Guangyuan, Hui Jue, stay behind."

The Ascending True Buddha said.

Upon hearing this, the monks rose, recited a Buddha's name, and left the hall.

After they had completely departed.

The hall was extremely quiet.

After a long while, the Ascending True Buddha's cold voice rang out.

"Three matters."

"First, Da Xia destroys the Buddha; using the Buddhist sect's vengeful souls, they are imbued into a Da Xia heavenly disaster, causing the Da Xia Dynasty to pay the karmic price."

"Second, have all senior monks of Ancient Heart Temple meticulously study Gu Jin Nian; after the Jixia Academy, Gu Jin Nian will certainly come to the Buddhist sect, and be subdued by Buddhist teachings. Great Sound Temple and Small Affinity Temple have already reached consensus with this Buddha."

"After he enters our Western Desert, the inevitable arrangement of the Seventy-two Temples includes the Heavenly Gang Exorcising Evil Formation; when this formation is activated, if his doctrinal debate fails, we can forcibly enlighten him."

"Third, assist the Xiongnu Nation in swiftly completing the sacrificial refinement; furthermore, the Eastern Wilderness Demon Cave vigorously repels Gu Jin Nian, spreading information to the Immortal Sect about the power of the three Buddhist artifacts, forcing them to guard against Gu Jin Nian."

The Ascending True Buddha spoke, his previously calm and gentle demeanor now replaced by coldness.

His earlier words were entirely an explanation to these monks, letting the hatred in their hearts dissolve.

It sounds like there is no problem, but in reality, is there any? How could he not know? The Buddhist artifacts have been stolen.

The fortune has been taken away.

His face has been completely embarrassed.

Isn't that already a loss? It's such a loss that even his mother wouldn't recognize him.

Upon hearing this, Hui Jue Buddha was fine, but Guangyuan Buddha couldn't help but frown and say,

"Supreme One."

"What you said earlier? Could it be..."

He truly believed the earlier words, so seeing the Ascending True Buddha change his usual manner, he was honestly a bit surprised.

"What was said earlier was not wrong."

"But some details were not disclosed."

"Gu Jin Nian has taken away a portion of the Buddhist sect's fortune; if he becomes a Confucian‑Taoist sage, he could absorb our sect's fortune. Moreover, the sect's fortune could help Gu Jin Nian dominate the top spot in the Heaven's Mandate contest."

"As for the five Buddhist artifacts, even after three thousand, five thousand, or even ten thousand years, the sect could retrieve them, but by then their value would be obsolete, especially the Five‑colored Gourd, which is highly valuable, as are the Bodhi Prayer Beads."

"Ten thousand years is too long; if there were no Heaven's Mandate contest, we could consider it carefully, but the contest is imminent—how could we simply hand it over?"

As for the power of faith, if one recites the Buddhist sutras authored by Gu Jin Nian, all faith will be occupied by him; even if my Buddhist temple accepts them as followers, half will be taken by Gu Jin Nian.

The Buddhist sect truly lost this time.

The Upper True Buddha spoke the truth.

He dared not say these words, nor could he; if spoken, they would affect the mindset of all monks of the Buddhist sect.

Amitabha.

The Broad Source Buddha was at a loss for words and could only chant a Buddha name.

But there is no need to worry.

Gu Jin Nian must not, absolutely must not, claim he will come to the Buddhist sect to debate doctrine.

Since ancient times, the Buddhist sect has always gone abroad to debate doctrine; he dares to come to the sect to debate, and even to use Buddhist teachings to debate Buddhist teachings—this is courting death.

Now we hope he will come to the Western Desert Buddhist Kingdom before the Heaven's Mandate dispute, so we can directly suppress and forcibly convert.

The Upper True Buddha spoke, placing all hope on Gu Jin Nian's westward debate.

But if Gu Jin Nian wins, what shall we do?

He can produce the Buddha's true sutra; what if he produces a second one?

The Broad Source Buddha was somewhat worried.

What can a second one do?

The first is the primary; he has already wasted it. Moreover, the Heavenly Gang Array is the Buddhist sect's strongest formation, and this Western Desert land harbors boundless great power; unless Gu Jin Nian can produce ten Buddha true sutras.

But is that possible?

The Upper True Buddha's expression was icy; though his appearance was unseen, his voice revealed genuine anger.

Nevertheless, what he said was also the truth.

The Western Desert land is far more terrifying than imagined.

Even the mighty Central Continent Dynasty dares not attack the Western Desert, because this land possesses unique great power; it is the birthplace of Buddhism, with a history of millions, even tens of millions of years.

Even if Gu Jin Nian were a true dragon, he would still have to coil upon arrival.

Amitabha.

May I ask, Upper Venerable, what does yesterday's Heaven's Mandate omen signify?

The Broad Source Buddha nodded, accepting the Upper True Buddha's words, and thus inquired about another matter.

It is still unclear.

However, all major dynasties have the Celestial Observation Office interpret the heavenly mechanisms; results will appear within two days.

When Heaven's Mandate was mentioned, the Upper True Buddha gave this reply.

Upper Venerable, does our Buddhist sect have a Heaven's Mandate holder?

At this moment, the usually reticent Hui Jue Buddha spoke, asking about this matter.

Yes.

A hundred years ago, this Buddha had already predicted the sect's child, who was born fourteen years ago, yet its exact position remained unknown.

Yesterday Gu Jin Nian produced a Buddha true sutra, which allowed this Buddha to notice a hint.

It is known that the true Buddha has reincarnated.

He spoke, revealing a secret that was not mere nonsense.

In an instant, the two Buddhas opened their eyes, their gazes filled with shock.

May I ask, Upper Venerable, is that the true Buddha's reincarnation?

Dichan True Buddha.

The Upper True Buddha spoke, uttering a magnificent name.

The voice rang out, and the two Buddhas seemed struck by lightning.

It is indeed the Dichan True Buddha reincarnated?

The Buddha of the heavens? Dichan Buddha Patriarch?

Both were so shocked they could not breathe, more shocking than Gu Jin Nian producing a Buddha true sutra.

Yes, but it is not only the Dichan Buddha Patriarch's reincarnation.

This Buddha speculates that Yin Tuo has also reincarnated; he reincarnated together with the Dichan Buddha, of the same age, seeking to seize the Dichan true body, so he must quickly locate the Dichan Buddha and help the Dichan Buddha eradicate Yin Tuo, after which the Buddhist sect will rise dramatically.

At that time, even if Gu Jin Nian produced a hundred sutras, it would be of no help; if the Dichan Buddha awakens, he will illuminate the heavens, obtain Heaven's Mandate, ascend to the Buddha realm, and the entire Buddhist sect will receive boundless blessings.

All sins and obstacles will become ash.

The Upper True Buddha's voice was filled with excitement at this moment.

The two Buddhas were also extremely excited.

Dichan is the supreme Buddha of the sect, the Buddha of the heavens, of extremely high status.

Yin Tuo was originally a true Buddha as well; scriptures record that after Dichan attained the Dao through supreme merit, Yin Tuo grew jealous, allied with the ancestor of all evils, and challenged the Great Heavenly Buddha Realm, leading to a cataclysmic war.

In the end, Dichan suppressed Yin Tuo; Yin Tuo died unrepentant, believing that Dichan, born into royalty, enjoyed ultimate worldly bliss, and after becoming a monk, had endless followers, facing no hardships.

He, having endured countless hardships to become a Buddha, did not expect Dichan to achieve enlightenment earlier, and was deeply resentful.

The Dichan Buddha Patriarch did not slay Yin Tuo, but placed Yin Tuo within his own Buddha-world, intending to use supreme power to gradually nurture Yin Tuo.

But because of this, the Dichan Buddha Patriarch relinquished the position of sect leader; the title "Buddha Patriarch" is granted by ten thousand Buddhas, yet Dichan also made a grand vow: as long as Yin Tuo's grievance remains, the Buddha Patriarch's body cannot be realized.

Now hearing that it is the Dichan Buddha reincarnated, they are indeed shocked.

Of course, there is much mythic coloration; after all, this is a story from the sutras, and no one knows whether it is true.

But it is undeniable that such a reincarnation would transcend everything.

If we truly could find the Dichan reincarnation.

The Buddhist sect would rise completely.

"May I ask, Supreme Honored One, where does the reincarnation of Emperor Shak reside?"

Guangyuan Buddha could no longer bear it; he looked toward Shangxing True Buddha and asked thus.

"Zhongzhou Dynasty."

Shangxing True Buddha slowly opened his mouth.

For a moment, the two were astonished.

And at the same time.

Zhongzhou Dynasty.

Inside the Four Seas Hall.

Black is the dominant hue of the Zhongzhou Dynasty.

The great hall was immensely spacious; in its center ran a square waterway, within which tiny black Jiao Dragons swam in the pool.

The entire hall appeared exceedingly solemn.

From the hall's entrance to the Dragon Throne spanned a full seven hundred twenty meters; the hall was rectangular and contained a round disc.

The Way of Heaven Round, Earth Square.

At this very moment, at the hall's entrance.

A black‑robed Taoist, bent over and not daring to lift his head, opened his mouth to speak.

"Your Majesty, the Heavenly Surveillance Department has thoroughly investigated."

"This Heaven's Mandate is linked to the dynasty."

"Above the firmament lies the Heaven's Mandate Dragon Pearl."

"If the True Dragon Nation's fortune can devour such dragon pearls, it will obtain Heaven's Mandate's blessing."

"It brings endless benefits."

"In this contest for Heaven's Mandate, there are two ultimate victors: one Heaven's Mandate Person who enters the Eight Realms."

"The other is the Heaven's Mandate Dynasty, whose emperor is a human sovereign, with longevity unending, wielding divine edicts, controlling the five thunderbolts, bringing national prosperity and everlasting immortality."

A voice sounded, informing the Zhongzhou Emperor of the nature of this Heaven's Will.

"How can one obtain the Heaven's Mandate Dragon Pearl?"

The voice sounded again.

Calm and indifferent, yet full of authority and dominance.

"Return, Your Majesty."

"After countless deductions, only the two words 'public opinion' remain."

The latter spoke.

Sweat beads formed on his forehead; after such prolonged deduction, he had arrived at merely the words 'public opinion'.

No one knows exactly how to devour the Heaven's Mandate Dragon Pearl.

"Public opinion?"

The Zhongzhou Emperor muttered to himself.

"Your Majesty, rest assured, Zhongzhou's national fortune has become a five‑clawed Golden Dragon, monopolizing the top position; with such a great advantage, these Heaven's Mandate Dragon Pearls must be within our Zhongzhou's grasp."

He spoke, swearing solemnly.

However.

Upon the Dragon Throne.

The Zhongzhou Great Emperor, clad in a black robe embroidered with dragon patterns, slowly opened his eyes.

"A day's inquiry yielded no results."

"The world is vast, the strong are as numerous as clouds, with hidden tigers and dragons; though the Zhongzhou Dynasty holds an advantage, it must not become arrogant."

"Your words, flattery and sycophancy, deserve punishment; lightly, they are slander, heavily, they harm the nation."

"Considering your merit, I will only strip your cultivation, grant you a Dragon Emperor Treasure Pill, and replace you in the position of Overseer."

He spoke, and at that point waved his hand.

The Taoist instantly flew a hundred zhang away, his cultivation was abolished on the spot, yet a Dragon Emperor Treasure Pill appeared in his hand.

And in the hall.

Only the two words echoed.

"Public opinion."

At this moment.

Within the Da Xia Dynasty.

Below a waterfall.

The Eastern Sword Saint gazed at Gu Jin Nian, and his voice slowly resonated.

"Jin Nian, young friend."

"Would you like me to teach you swordsmanship?"

(End of chapter)