Chapter 224: Heart School Revealed, the Great Era Arrives, Opening a Radiant Sacred Path for Future Generations [Seeking Moon Tickets

Jixia Academy.

Inside the back hall.

Everyone stared at Gu Jin Nian, their eyes full of curiosity.

They did not understand what Gu Jin Nian intended to do.

Especially the Seven Sages of Zhushan and the Great Scholars of the various dynasties.

At this point, Gu Jin Nian had little choice.

Whether Chang Yuntian was Gu Jin Nian's man or not, intentional or not, the situation had already formed; these people extremely disliked Gu Jin Nian and did not want to stay here.

"What does 'hold on a moment' mean?"

The Great Scholar of the Xiongnu State was curious; he looked at Gu Jin Nian and couldn't help but frown.

"You all humiliate Lord Gu so, and now you say you'll leave at a moment's notice, giving Lord Gu no face at all."

"What do you intend to do with Lord Gu?"

Yet among the crowd, someone still spoke, and such remarks were nothing but ill‑intent.

However, that person hid in the shadows, appearing sneaky.

"Indeed, Jixia Academy has delayed Lord Gu for half a year; Lord Gu feels guilty in his heart."

"That's why we did not contend with you, repeatedly yielding to you; we never expected you to threaten Lord Gu with departure and disrupt the order of Jixia Academy."

"Do you think you are Great Scholars? It's truly laughable; compared with Lord Gu, what are you?"

"For Lord Gu's righteousness, we will go, giving them no chance."

The voice was fierce, angry, as if Gu Jin Nian had been gravely wronged, defending him.

Those two voices were extremely despicable, pure trouble‑makers.

"Li Ruo Yu, Lu Cheng Yan."

"The two are in league with Chang Yuntian."

"Jin Nian, don't get angry with them; let me handle it."

Su Wenjing instantly locked onto the two voices, then spoke, telling Gu Jin Nian not to be angry and that he would deal with those two dog things.

However.

Gu Jin Nian did not answer Su Wenjing, but stared at the Seven Sages of Zhushan and others.

"You've always demanded that I produce the Supreme New Learning, haven't you?"

"If you all leave like this, how can I, Gu, produce it?"

He spoke calmly, but his gaze was filled with resolve.

Hiss.

In an instant, the entire back hall erupted in a roar.

Honestly, they had been expecting Gu Jin Nian all along; even though he repeatedly claimed he had no New Learning, everyone's hearts still doubted him.

They believed even more that Gu Jin Nian withheld the Supreme New Learning for some reason.

Now Gu Jin Nian had spoken to this extent; how could they not believe? "I told you, there will certainly be a Supreme New Learning."

"Gu Saint's talent is extraordinary; how could he be like ordinary people?"

"Indeed, Confucius‑appointed ones are not ordinary; then why did Gu Saint not present it earlier, only bringing it out now?"

"It's not clear yet—Supreme New Learning, transcendent above all, even Lord Gu only comprehends part of it; that does not mean he fully understands, so he does not reveal it—this is the way of propriety."

"Now that matters have reached this point, he must present it to prove himself; otherwise, would he truly endure such humiliation?"

The younger scholars clenched their fists, visibly excited.

The older scholars and a group of Great Scholars had eyes full of anticipation.

They were curious about what New Learning Gu Jin Nian would produce.

Would it be supreme? Would it contain the true essence of Confucianism and Daoism? If it were anyone else, they wouldn't be so excited or expectant, but Gu Jin Nian was different.

Buddhist sutras, Daoist classics, including the Heaven's Mandate Saint Scriptures, Gu Jin Nian had all written down.

As Confucian‑Daoist scholars, could they expound the true essence of Confucianism and Daoism?

They were eager.

One by one they stared at Gu Jin Nian, not daring to blink for fear of missing any moment.

The Seven Sages of Zhushan fell silent.

They exchanged glances.

They did not expect Gu Jin Nian to say such words at this moment.

For a brief instant, they truly felt trapped, like riding a tiger and unable to dismount.

"Very well, then let's see what Lord Gu's Supreme New Learning actually is."

"I too wish to hear what knowledge can be called Supreme New Learning."

The Great Scholar of the Xiongnu State and the Great Scholar of the Fuyu Dynasty spoke up, clearly doubting Gu Jin Nian could produce the Supreme New Learning; if he truly could, he should have produced it earlier, not now hiding it.

At present it is simply a matter of being cornered, riding a tiger and unable to get off.

"Then everyone, take a good look at what my Supreme New Learning is."

Gu Jin Nian said calmly.

After speaking, his gaze instantly locked onto Li Ruo Yu and Lu Cheng Yan in the crowd.

Quickly, Gu Jin Nian gave them no chance, rushed forward, and seized the two.

"Lord Gu, what's happening?"

"Lord Gu, what are you doing?"

The two were panicked inside but pretended ignorance outwardly, curiously asking Gu Jin Nian what was going on. "Silence."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, a thunder‑like voice rang out, and then he said.

"You two, speaking from the shadows, pretended to help me but actually sowed discord."

"What are your intentions?"

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth; he did not directly reveal his New Learning, but stared at the two and said.

Upon hearing this, the two immediately shouted their innocence.

"Lord Gu, it truly is an injustice. The two of us are officials of the Da Xia Dynasty together with you. We came here today because of you. Hearing them insult you, we could not help but speak up for you. Please see through this, Lord Gu."

"Indeed, Lord, if you do not believe us, you may inquire within the Da Xia Dynasty. Since we entered the Da Xia Dynasty, we have constantly praised you and never uttered a single bad word about you."

"We spoke today solely because we could not stand these people's behavior."

The two complained.

Chang Yuntian saw this scene and could not help but speak at once.

"Lord Gu."

"I, as a student, can attest that the two fully recognize Lord Gu and thus have no ill intent. Their tone may be improper, but their hearts are good; they are your supporters and defenders. Lord Gu, you are angry; I understand, yet I still hope you calm down and think carefully before acting."

Chang Yuntian spoke, having anticipated that Gu Jin Nian would cause trouble for Li Ruoyu and Lu Chengyan, and therefore had prepared his remarks in advance.

"Close your mouth."

"Chang Yuntian, stop pretending here. This time Mr. Wen Jing came to the Jixia Academy to rally support for me, yet someone in the shadows forcibly amplified Gu, using every method that makes people nauseous."

"Earlier, while I was discussing scholarship with the Great Scholars, you stepped forward here on my behalf."

"This Lord asks you a question: do I need you to stand up for me?"

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth, stared at Chang Yuntian, and said.

"Lord Gu, please calm down. I, as a student, acted out of momentary goodwill. If speaking a few words for you is considered wrong, I understand and will never speak carelessly again."

Chang Yuntian spoke, his words now even more malicious.

That means helping Gu Jin Nian is wrong, so who would dare speak for Gu Jin Nian in the future?

"Hmph."

"I have long anticipated that the three of you would be dissatisfied."

"Since you are dissatisfied, let the Holy Ruler adjudicate justice."

"But dare you question your conscience?"

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth; as he spoke, the Holy Ruler hovered above his head, radiating layers of light.

"Lord Gu, we speak on your behalf. Now you demand a conscience test; this is rather unreasonable, is it not?"

"Lord Gu, our words were indeed impulsive and reckless, but we harbor no ill will. Just because we said a couple of lines for you, you demand a conscience test. I refuse not out of fear but out of dignity."

The two opened their mouths, pompously invoking the issue of dignity.

Nevertheless, it does make sense; at least to onlookers it is not an especially flimsy excuse.

"Lord Gu, aren't you supposed to present the Supreme New Learning? Why are you rambling here? Can't you be straightforward?"

At this moment, the voice of the Great Scholar Qi Daxian of the Xiongnu State rang out, evidently choosing this timing to shift attention.

"The Supreme New Learning, I, Gu, will present shortly, and I will be the first to speak it to you."

Gu Jin Nian glanced at the other side and said.

Then he gathered the Holy Ruler's power and poured it toward the two.

"Stop babbling."

"Proceed directly to the conscience test."

Gu Jin Nian was too lazy to explain; after the conscience test, all truth was revealed.

"Lord Gu, you are too overbearing. Today's events have unsettled you; I understand, but you cannot vent your anger on us. As fellow Da Xia people and court officials, we support you, yet this is the result we receive."

"We are not convinced."

Chang Yuntian spoke; seeing the situation about to erupt, he stepped forward, and a terrifying aura surged from his body, attempting to block the Holy Ruler's power.

"If your conscience is clear, why do you not dare the test?"

"What are you afraid of?"

Gu Jin Nian coldly spoke; as he did, a terrifying, righteous aura spread, and the Holy Ruler soon burst into brilliant light, instantly binding the two, while streams of righteous energy poured into their bodies.

"You are being too forceful."

"And overly overbearing."

"Clearly it is their fault, yet you shift the hatred onto us. Lord Gu, do you deserve to be a Great Scholar of Heaven and Earth?"

Chang Yuntian grew impatient, spoke, and even began to rebuke Gu Jin Nian.

"Whether you are worthy or not, we shall soon find out."

Gu Jin Nian spoke lightly, but his heart already harbored murderous intent.

Gu Jin Nian did not know the true background of Chang Yuntian, Li Ruoyu, and Lu Chengyan, but their deeds were extremely vile, worse than any previous foes.

Earlier enemies at least fought with real weapons; these three employ treacherous tactics, and a single ill‑chosen word could ruin one's reputation.

If that reputation is ruined, it would be a tremendous trouble.

"Better to shatter like jade than remain whole like tile."

"Lord Gu, the three of us hold you in utmost respect because you have established destiny for the people and defended the common folk, yet we never imagined you would act thus."

"Then let both jade and stone burn together."

Chang Yuntian roared.

As he spoke, at the same moment he transmitted his voice to the two.

"Commit suicide."

"Gu Jin Nian's murderous intent has arisen; if he is successfully subjected to the conscience test, the outcome will be even worse—unable to live nor die."

Within the Grand Dao Prefecture lies our lamp of immortality; when the heavenly mandate arrives, we still have a chance to be revived.

Chang Yun Tian sent a mental transmission to the two.

At this moment, Li Ruoyu and Lu Chengyan's faces turned ashen; they never imagined that such a situation would end with them being killed.

This surpassed their expectations, yet Chang Yun Tian was right—if Gu Jin Nian kills them, their fate will be grim.

They cannot live, nor can they die.

Yet asking them to choose suicide now is still unbearable.

"Don't hesitate, or it will only get worse."

"The Grand Dao Prefecture will surely allow us to be reborn."

"Believe in the Grand Dao Prefecture."

He spoke, his tone intensely fierce.

Because at this juncture, if we keep stalling, once the questioning is over, we'll lose everything.

"Ah!"

"Lord Gu, we have backed you wholeheartedly, yet we never imagined this result; we refuse to accept it. As fellow scholars, your questioning of us is nothing but an affront to our dignity."

"Our consciences are clear, yet we will not allow you to trample the dignity of the three of us."

Li Ruoyu and Lu Chengyan clenched their teeth; under Chang Yun Tian's relentless goading, they drew a deep breath, gritted their teeth again, and chose to take their own lives.

"Bang! Bang! Bang!"

Their meridians ruptured inch by inch, their eyes glinting with ferocity, conveying a sense of preferring death to submission.

The onlookers stared at the scene, momentarily speechless.

To blame Gu Jin Nian would be unfair; upon reflection, he hasn't really done anything seriously wrong.

Yet to claim Gu Jin Nian is innocent, considering his upright conscience and his stature as a great scholar, their resentment is also understandable.

The two met their end.

Blood trickled from their mouths as they stood rooted, gazing at Gu Jin Nian with eyes brimming with refusal.

"Holy Ruler, there is no strength in conscience."

Yet at that instant, Gu Jin Nian's voice rang out; he gazed at them, his eyes filled with disdain.

"Better to die than yield," Gu Jin Nian believed such people existed.

However, the issue is that relying solely on conscience to refuse to yield only leads Gu Jin Nian to think they are merely scared.

If they had truly endured humiliation and false charges, they would have wanted to vindicate themselves with their conscience right away.

But the two chose not to take that path, instead they stubbornly resisted to the bitter end—could that be fear? Upon hearing Gu Jin Nian's voice, Li Ruoyu and Lu Chengyan's eyes widened; they never imagined, even in death, that Gu Jin Nian would have set them up.

Forcing them to take their own lives.

"Senior Brother Chang Yun."

"Senior Brother."

The two still clung to life, gazing at Chang Yun Tian with eyes full of reluctance and anger.

Since Chang Yun Tian had not chosen suicide but merely watched them silently.

"Two junior brothers."

"Senior Brother will avenge you."

"Rest assured."

Sensing their gazes, Chang Yun Tian's face fell with sorrow, then he bellowed, fixing his stare on Gu Jin Nian; his aura surged, he stepped back hundreds of paces and summoned a dragon boat.

Though the two had not yet breathed their last, seeing Chang Yun Tian's behavior, even the dullest among them realized their senior brother had betrayed them.

This is truly astonishing.

To say they were abandoned and abandoned, with not even a shred of reluctance.

"Senior Brother."

"You really are."

Li Ruoyu nearly shouted, but mid‑sentence his strength failed; a gush of blood burst from his mouth, his head swam, and he collapsed to the floor, dead.

Lu Chengyan also collapsed; their bodies lay piled atop one another, a grotesque sight.

"Junior brother."

"Rest assured, senior brother will surely avenge you."

"Gu Jin Nian."

"You, driven by your own anger and hatred, have unleashed all your fury upon these two junior brothers of mine—you are nothing but a beast."

"The outside rumors are correct—you profess to seek justice for the populace, but it's merely a quest for fame; you are utterly unworthy of the title of Heaven‑Earth Grand Scholar, your mind is petty; I will harbor this grudge, and once the heavenly mandate descends I will make you suffer a lifetime."

Chang Yun Tian spoke with utter despair, as if greatly provoked, but Gu Jin Nian knew this fellow was merely putting on an act.

"I await our next encounter, when I will unveil your true face."

"I want to see where you come from."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, unusually calm.

"When we meet again, you will only be able to look up to me."

"Rest assured."

Chang Yun Tian spoke, brimming with confidence, but after saying that he fled on his dragon boat at top speed, having seen Gu Jin Nian preparing to give chase.

Chang Yun Tian's frantic escape left many unsure what to say, as did the suicides of Li Ruoyu and Lu Chengyan.

It also left them unsure what to say.

"Everyone."

"In this academy affair, those three were clearly working behind the scenes to sow discord, building momentum for me, merely to draw hatred."

I have no such intention, and it's impossible for me to form cliques and create an academic faction.

Please, everyone, exercise your clear judgment.

Of course, justice lies in people's hearts; if you all think I am such a person, I will not offer any explanation.

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He still gave an explanation, but after explaining, he would not continue to explain anything; those who believe will believe, those who don't can't be helped.

We believe in Lord Gu.

I believe in Lord Gu.

I also believe.

Fortunately, the vast majority of scholars are still rational; although Li Ruoyu and Lu Chengyan blocked with their deaths, they could also see some strange aspects.

After all, if these two truly had no hidden grudge, why wouldn't they dare to ask their conscience and prove themselves?

If they succeeded in self-verification, it would confirm that Gu Jin Nian is narrow-minded; everyone sees that, and it's not as if after self-verification everyone would not recognize him the same way? To block with death is itself problematic.

Of course, feeling wronged may be suffering a bit of injustice, but it's still better than being framed? The two deaths did not bring much impact to Gu Jin Nian.

However, just then, Qi Daxian's voice sounded.

Lord Gu.

You've caused a fuss, people have died; now it's time to bring out the Supreme New Learning, right?

Qi Daxian's voice sounded; regarding the deaths of these two, he showed no emotional fluctuation—death is death, and they are not his own people.

Yes, Lord Gu, I haven't seen this Supreme New Learning; instead I saw you forcing two Great Scholars to their deaths—is this the Supreme New Learning?

A Great Scholar from the Fuyu Dynasty also spoke up, seeming somewhat dissatisfied.

Leaving aside other matters, the Jixia Academy causing loss of life is truly unprecedented; under heaven, only Lord Gu could achieve this—no one else could.

At this time, a Great Scholar from the Great Jin Dynasty also spoke up, openly or secretly still targeting Gu Jin Nian.

As scholars, there's no need for such great hostility; this is inappropriate.

I think what Great Scholar Qi Daxian said is correct; our Confucian path should still emphasize rites.

Otherwise, I fear major trouble will arise.

Indeed, rites must be emphasized; otherwise, people die at the drop of a hat, and outsiders might think we are heretical demons, ready to kill over a disagreement.

Does this behave like a Great Scholar? Calling them demonic is not an exaggeration.

The Seven Sages of Zhushan then spoke up.

It's not aimed at Gu Jin Nian, but rather feels that the bloody incident is somewhat improper; this is an academic discussion—must it reach this extent? "What's all the noise?"

Jin Nian has been wronged; letting them ask their conscience to prove themselves, they appear to be refusing to yield even unto death, but in fact they are purely committing suicide out of fear of guilt.

If it weren't for jealousy in your hearts, would it have come to this?

This academic discussion, I originally thought that with Jin Nian's current reputation and prestige, there would be some improvement, but I never expected to underestimate your breadth of mind.

I just want to ask you all: if you weren't insisting on leaving, would this have happened?

This time Su Wenjing really couldn't bear it.

These bastards, each one truly shameless? Why does Gu Jin Nian do this? Why does he cling to these few people? Isn't it just to make this lot comfortable?

The three from Changyun Tian are here causing a ruckus, deliberately putting Gu Jin Nian over a fire to roast; these Great Scholars not understanding is fine, having resentment in their hearts is also acceptable.

Now Gu Jin Nian clarifies the facts, yet you're still here being passive-aggressive? Blaming Gu Jin Nian for being wrong?

To be frank, Su Wenjing really wants to go up and fight them hand-to-hand.

But he knows that if he really did strike, trouble would only increase, especially given his current status.

Half Saint truly lives up to the name; in just a few words, he actually piled all the blame on us—amazing, amazing.

At the end of the day, isn't it Mr. Wenjing, who previously forced a momentum for Gu Jin Nian?

The Supreme New Learning either exists or it doesn't; why bother creating momentum?

Yes, speaking bluntly, even if Lord Gu lacks the Supreme New Learning, we wouldn't blame him, nor would we look down on him, but all of this right now is still Mr. Wenjing's fault.

Now to force all this upon us is truly laughable.

Voices rose one after another, pointing the spear at Su Wenjing.

Upon hearing this, Su Wenjing's face looked somewhat grim.

Because what these people say is not wrong; mainly it's the trouble I myself caused.

If not for this reason, he would have already struck; why is he still here suppressing his anger? "Everyone."

Mr. Wenjing created momentum for me, albeit with some fault, but I have already made a corresponding response.

Without the Supreme New Learning, I immediately stated there is no deception.

Furthermore, in the academic dispute, I followed the rules, did not overstep; conversely, you all cannot tolerate even the slightest criticism.

Now, someone is stirring up discord; I also deal with such petty people promptly, without directing my anger at you all.

I also don't know why you all hold such great prejudice against me.

Moreover, I am curious: is the academic dispute really about scholarship, or just arguing? A dispute tinged with bias?

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

Even at this moment, Gu Jin Nian still thinks about reasoning.

It's a pity that human prejudice is inherently great; if reasoning could be made clear, would there still be conflict in this world?

You've been going on and on, beating around the bush; where is your Supreme New Learning now?

I've waited for you half a day; if you still won't speak of the Supreme New Learning, I'll leave.

Qi Daxian spoke, basically not listening to Gu Jin Nian's irrelevant talk here.

Gu Jin Nian, if you can't say anything, just speak plainly; we don't want to waste time here.

Several people followed up, fundamentally not wanting to waste time here.

Put bluntly, they don't want to hear Gu Jin Nian's reasoning.

Prejudice in people's hearts is a great mountain; can the power of words change it? "Yes, ultimately, whether there is supreme New Learning or not, just say it straight."

"This time, the Jixia Academy is truly disappointing."

They spoke up.

The reason for this is actually somewhat apparent; they have seen Gu Jin Nian's actions.

The three from Long Cloud Heaven indeed have some problems.

Therefore, if they continue to follow Gu Jin Nian's words, it will inevitably make them appear unable to distinguish right from wrong, which is disadvantageous for them.

Thus, they only hope that Gu Jin Nian will now produce the supreme New Learning, and through another matter, divert attention from this one.

Listening to the words of Qi Daxian and others.

Gu Jin Nian sighed.

He shook his head.

In that case.

Then let me say, what is my supreme New Learning?

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He appeared utterly helpless.

Having said that, his gaze suddenly shifted, he fixed his eyes on this group, and then took a step forward.

What are you going to do?

In an instant, the faces of Qi Daxian and others changed; they sensed Gu Jin Nian's murderous aura.

Before they could continue speaking, Gu Jin Nian's fist had already smashed over.

Bang bang bang.

Dozens of people, whoever had just been speaking sarcastically or was opposed to them, all received Gu Jin Nian's iron fist.

However, Gu Jin Nian exercised restraint and did not kill them.

But even without killing them, he made them suffer immensely.

They are all Great Scholars, cultivating themselves and nurturing their nature; although their bodies are not weak, they cannot withstand Gu Jin Nian's iron fist.

The scene once became very chaotic.

No one expected that Gu Jin Nian would dare to strike.

Even Su Wenjing couldn't help but click his tongue.

The dean of the Jixia Academy also widened his eyes.

How did they go from talking to suddenly striking out of the blue?

These guys may speak harshly, but is it really alright to start fighting?

Gu Jin Nian.

You are truly overbearing; do you want to beat us to death?

Gu Jin Nian, this old man will fight you to the end.

Is this your supreme New Learning? Striking people? Do you still have any semblance of a scholar's bearing?

With you like this, what supreme New Learning could you possibly comprehend?

Qi Daxian and others screamed in agony as Gu Jin Nian's fists struck their bodies, causing them immense suffering.

Yes.

This is my New Learning.

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth, and the emotions in his heart instantly burst forth.

Someone stirred up trouble.

That is certainly not good.

But he has already given an explanation, and when it came to the academic debate, he also voluntarily chose to withdraw.

Has everything been a concession? Yet these people remain unyielding here, launching all kinds of attacks; how could Gu Jin Nian tolerate it? If that's the case.

Then let him speak his heart and vent his anger.

He would not endure it any longer.

To hell with your Great Scholar.

What the hell to endure.

"Never heard of such scholarship?"

"You are truly unreasonable."

A Great Scholar spoke up, he was with Qi Daxian and others; however, since he had not previously spoken sarcastically about Gu Jin Nian, he did not get beaten.

Even if Gu Jin Nian resorted to violence, he was still reasoning: right is right, wrong is wrong.

But in others' eyes, such behavior ultimately disgraces the scholarly tradition.

"Then you, sir, just listen carefully."

"My New Learning today."

"Called."

"Unity of knowledge and action."

"Reaching innate goodness."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

But when his voice sounded.

All of a sudden.

Boom!

Between heaven and earth, a terrifying bolt of thunder streaked across the entire Shenzhou Continent.

Boom.

Boom.

Boom.

At this moment, between heaven and earth, dark clouds instantly spread, enveloping the world.

Da Xia Dynasty, Fuyu Dynasty, Great Jin Dynasty, Central Continent Dynasty, Southern Barbarian Dynasty, Western Desert Buddhist Kingdom, the Far North.

The entire Shenzhou Continent was shrouded by these terrifying clouds.

These clouds covered the sky and the earth.

Billions of fathoms of thunder, as if splitting heaven and earth, left everyone stunned.

Inside the Jixia Academy.

A terrifying gale lifted all the flying stones; the silence was dreadful, and Gu Jin Nian's garments flapped loudly in the wind.

Within the academy.

Everyone widened their eyes, staring at Gu Jin Nian with incredulous gazes.

Su Wenjing was momentarily speechless.

His eyes were filled with astonishment, not knowing what to say.

"Supreme New Learning, this is Supreme New Learning."

No matter how shocking, Su Wenjing swallowed, could not help but speak, proclaiming this new learning.

Everyone turned their gaze to Gu Jin Nian, trembling all over.

Under the terrifying celestial phenomenon, Gu Jin Nian's expression was calm, neither arrogant nor overbearing, but an unprecedented serenity.

"Lord Gu truly possesses Supreme New Learning; I have no regrets,"

The director of Jixia Academy spoke, clenching his fists and looking at Gu Jin Nian; even after a lifetime of countless storms, he could not hide his shock at this moment.

Supreme New Learning.

It means that Confucianism and Daoism will forge a brand‑new path, destined to bring them prosperity for ten thousand years.

Endless vitality.

On the martial stage, Qi Daxian and others were at a loss for words; they truly did not anticipate that Gu Jin Nian actually possessed Supreme New Learning.

Such a terrifying celestial phenomenon.

How could they not turn pale?

The Seven Sages of Bamboo Mountain were also dumbfounded.

The Great Scholars of the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty both showed shock and shame.

Recalling their previous remarks, they felt unprecedented shame.

Boom boom boom.

At this moment, the Heaven's Mandate Ancient Star resonated; previously it seemed odd, but now, with Gu Jin Nian's Supreme New Learning spoken, it changed.

Rays of light burst forth from the Heaven's Mandate Ancient Star.

Terrifying light erupted from the star, the first beam striking Gu Jin Nian, bringing two Heaven's Mandate Seals.

These are the Heaven's Mandate Seals that Confucius sealed; he once said that whoever could create a new learning would claim these two seals.

Now, Gu Jin Nian has founded Supreme New Learning, naturally obtaining the two seals.

The remaining light surged toward many places across the Shenzhou Continent.

One of them flew toward the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect.

The entire sect instantly brimmed with spiritual energy; countless spirit herbs grew wildly, the sect's waterfalls teemed with aura, and the underground spirit veins, empowered by the Heaven's Mandate Ancient Star, emitted a dragon‑like roar.

But the greatest beneficiary was the Xuanhuang Tower.

Above the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect.

The Xuanhuang Tower swelled ten thousandfold, covering the entire Tai Xuan Immortal Sect.

Clack clack clack.

A terrifying sound rang out, as if shackles were broken; the Xuanhuang Tower burst forth with ten thousand rays of rosy light, shrouding one hundred and eight thousand li.

Most importantly, a terrifying aura spread, the power of the Seventh Realm, even surpassing it.

Even a single wisp of this aura seemed capable of subduing Seventh Realm masters.

Within the Eastern Wilderness.

A figure stood among the mountains; it was the Heavenly Demon Elder, who instantly sensed the tower's terror.

His complexion turned exceedingly grim.

"Beyond the Seventh Realm, yet not reaching the Eighth, Heaven's Mandate has descended; I didn't expect the celestial artifact to transform instantly, breaking its shackles—now trouble arises."

"An artifact like this equals a peak Seventh Realm master; Heaven's Mandate is truly terrifying, and I don't know when it will be my turn as a demonic cultivator."

"However, the nine great demonic artifacts of demonic cultivation have yet to appear; this is odd. Future upheavals may exceed my expectations. For now I can only retreat to cultivation, break through the Seventh Realm soon; otherwise, in the great world conflict, failing to improve swiftly will only worsen things."

The Heavenly Demon Elder muttered to himself, feeling the terrifying aura; yet the Xuanhuang Tower's strength stemmed entirely from the Heaven's Mandate boost, not from the sect itself.

Everything is still because of Heaven's Mandate.

Meanwhile.

Inside the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect.

Shangqing Daoist felt the tower's might, inhaled deeply, his excitement impossible to conceal.

"Supreme New Learning, initiates the Heaven's Mandate Struggle."

"Yet no one would think the first beneficiaries would be my sect,"

"This is the opportunity; as long as we seize this opportunity, the immortal path will flourish for ten thousand years."

"Become the world's number one sect."

Shangqing Daoist spoke, and he was immensely excited.

Why are immortal sects no match for the great dynasties? Suppressed everywhere? In the end, there is still no absolute strength.

Now, the Xuanhuang Tower has broken its shackles and will reveal its true power.

This is an immortal artifact.

It possesses inconceivable power; once truly revived, a single casual strike can destroy heaven and earth, easily sinking mountains and rivers spanning thousands of miles.

Otherwise, how could it be called an immortal artifact?

"What a pity."

"Gu Jin Nian holds two immortal artifacts: the Xuanhuang Bell and the Primordial Five Elements Banner are in Gu Jin Nian's hands."

"If these two immortal artifacts were in my Tai Xuan Immortal Sect's possession, we could truly dominate everything—whether the Da Xia Dynasty, the Great Jin Dynasty, or the Zhongzhou Dynasty, all would submit beneath my Tai Xuan Immortal Sect."

"However, the biggest enemy at present is, first, Gu Jin Nian; he wields two immortal artifacts and has now founded the supreme New Learning, likely on the verge of becoming a saint. Yet even the Confucian‑Daoist lineage, even upon reaching the saint realm, cannot dominate."

"But we must guard against Gu Jin Nian turning to the cultivation path; he is an immortal spirit root. If he now chooses cultivation and, during the upcoming Great Age Conflict, gains many benefits, it would indeed be a tremendous trouble for the immortal sects."

"Second, the Buddhist sect; we fear the next Heaven's Mandate will fall to the Buddhists. Their power far exceeds that of the immortal sects, and if this Heaven's Mandate first chooses the Buddhists, the immortal sects will have no chance to suppress them."

"With the Great Age Conflict ignited, the dragon‑vein divine mountains will also revive; we must quickly obtain various divine metals, and then we can effectively suppress the Buddhist sect."

"Third are the internal immortal sects: the Longhu Dao Sect, the Yin Yang Immortal Sect, and the Wan Xing Ancient Sect. They all possess immortal artifacts; the Xuanhuang Tower must break its shackles at once, and then we can directly subdue them."

"A three‑way stalemate?"

"During the Great Age Conflict, such a notion simply does not exist."

"As for those hidden in the world, once the immortal artifact's shackles are fully undone, nothing will be feared."

"However, there is one matter the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect must undertake: unite with the Yin Yang Immortal Sect, the Longhu Dao Sect, and the Wan Xing Ancient Sect to reclaim other immortal sects lacking artifacts, make them submit, and eradicate their competitive ambitions."

"Especially the Zhongzhou Dynasty; the immortal sect cultivators of the Zhongzhou Dynasty are likely already restless. Contact them early; this force is extremely terrifying."

Shangqing Daoist muttered to himself, having already devised every countermeasure.

At the same moment.

Longhu Dao Sect.

A treasure furnace hovered above the Longhu Dao Sect.

The entire Longhu Dao Sect was suffused with a misty aura; the underground spirit veins turned into dragon veins, and the spiritual energy, like a great fog, enveloped the whole Longhu Dao Sect.

Just this aura alone boosted them by at least tenfold. Every cultivator of the Longhu Dao Sect was ecstatic; Heaven's Mandate had descended, choosing the immortal sect, which for them was a monumental joy.

Moreover, their sect's immortal artifact also underwent metamorphosis and evolution.

Above the heavens.

The Longhu Treasure Furnace transformed into a dragon and a tiger; the sounds of dragon's roar and tiger's roar spread across the Eastern Wilderness.

Headmaster Zhang Zhenren watched the scene, even more excited.

"The immortal artifact has indeed been unlocked."

"Shangqing Daoist did not deceive me."

He was thrilled; having the Longhu Treasure Furnace in his grasp, he could clearly comprehend its extraordinary nature, and naturally felt excited and agitated.

But at that moment, a figure appeared behind him and slowly spoke.

"The ancient texts are correct: the immortal artifact has locks, sealing its true power; once unlocked, it will shake the entire universe."

"Headmaster, this Longhu Treasure Furnace has only had the first lock opened; there is a second lock behind it, which is also the final lock."

"The Longhu Treasure Furnace with the first lock opened possesses power beyond the Seventh Realm, able to condense a true dragon and a White Tiger, with boundless might."

"But only when the second shackles are broken does it become truly invincible; the Longhu Treasure Furnace is the sole special immortal artifact among the nine great immortal artifacts."

"This furnace can turn waste into treasure; using inferior herbs, it can forge superior pills. Headmaster, do you know the Twelve Immortal Pill Record?"

A voice sounded; it was the Tai Shang Elder of the Longhu Dao Sect, his face also full of excitement, revealing the sect's profound secret.

"The Twelve Immortal Pill Record?"

"Our sect knows it."

"But isn't the Twelve Immortal Pill Record fictional? The pills listed there are each unparalleled, the ultimate medicines—aren't they said to be impossible to forge?"

The Longhu Headmaster was somewhat curious, and also filled with astonishment.

The Twelve Immortal Pill Record is the Longhu Dao Sect's supreme alchemical formula, detailing the methods to refine twelve kinds of immortal pills, yet these twelve pills are almost impossible to produce.

For any single immortal pill, the required herbs are exceedingly rare; besides that, the Longhu Dao Sect has yet to gather any such herbs, let alone the refining techniques.

"If the Longhu Treasure Furnace unlocks its locks, it can refine the Twelve Immortal Pills. In the future Great Age, those legendary herbs will also appear; even if the full set is lacking, using slightly inferior herbs, the furnace can enhance their quality."

"Even if we cannot forge flawless Twelve Immortal Pills, even incomplete ones would make the Longhu Dao Sect shine in the world."

"Among the Twelve Immortal Pills, two are the most terrifying: first, the Realm‑Breaking Pill, which can break realms below the Eighth Realm."

"The other is the Sixth Realm Pill; ingesting one can directly reach the pinnacle of the Sixth Realm. Though the price is eternal stagnation—never breaking further—how many in the world can even attain the Seventh Realm, let alone the legendary Eighth Realm?"

"If we could refine a thousand of them?"

The Tai Shang Elder spoke, appearing especially agitated, his words brimming with excitement and anticipation.

Upon hearing this, Headmaster Zhang Zhenren truly began breathing rapidly.

He seemed to envision a bright future for the Longhu Dao Sect.

However, after taking a deep breath, the Longhu Headmaster couldn't help but speak.

"It seems only the final shackles remain, yet this final lock is the most difficult. The Tai Xuan Immortal Sect, the Yin Yang Immortal Sect, and the Wan Xing Ancient Sect will all likely vie with us for it."

"Especially, there is Gu Jin Nian, who possesses two immortal relics. In this Great Age Conflict, his opportunity is even greater. Shangqing Daoist is correct; we must target the Da Xia Dynasty to prevent Gu Jin Nian from moving to contest these things."

"If we act a step ahead, everything becomes settled; one misstep leads to continual errors."

The Longhu Headmaster spoke; at this moment, he finally understood why Shangqing Daoist regarded Gu Jin Nian as the top enemy.

Because of the immortal artifact.

As long as the immortal artifact receives the addition of Divine Gold, the final shackles can be broken, so this Great World Struggle is fought over resources.

And Gu Jin Nian truly is their greatest competitor.

Meanwhile.

At the border of the Eastern Wilderness.

A holy mirror also floats above the firmament; the Yin Yang Immortal Sect, like a massive palace, now pervades the entire Yin Yang Immortal Sect with terrifying spiritual energy, similar to the Great Profound Immortal Sect or the Dragon Tiger Dao Sect, and the spiritual energy here has been amplified tenfold.

Moreover, this holy mirror pierces heaven and earth; its light bursts through the firmament, the stars tremble, and it bestows the power of the universe.

"Yin Yang Immortal Sect disciples, heed the command."

"Heaven's Mandate has manifested; it is the blessing of our sect. Yin Yang Immortal Sect, widely accept disciples, save the world's living beings, and seek a path of life for heaven and earth."

The head of the Yin Yang Immortal Sect spoke.

He was even more direct, openly recruiting disciples worldwide, directly initiating the Great World Struggle.

Similarly, the Ten Thousand Stars Ancient Sect, at this moment, announced to the world its wide recruitment of disciples.

The Great Profound Immortal Sect, Dragon Tiger Dao Sect, Yin Yang Immortal Sect, and Ten Thousand Stars Ancient Sect—the four great immortal sects—possess four immortal artifacts, and naturally reap the greatest benefits.

The terrestrial spiritual veins have already been blessed by Heaven's Mandate, almost all turning into dragon veins, so the entire Divine Continent is awash with spiritual energy, and countless deserts, under its influence, have become oases.

However, the spiritual energy of these four great sects has been amplified tenfold, while other sects only enjoy a three- to fourfold increase, far inferior to them.

Qing Wei Sacred Land.

The chief of Qing Wei gazed upon the lands of the Eastern Wilderness.

"Heaven and earth undergo great changes; the sects receive blessings, which is extremely detrimental to our sects."

"The four great sects wield four immortal artifacts; in the upcoming Great World Struggle, they hold the advantage."

"Moreover, the spiritual energy of heaven and earth will continue to increase, so these four great sects will forever reap the greatest benefits. Jing'er, you must immediately return to Da Xia Capital and visit your cousin Gu Jin Nian."

"Inform him that Qing Wei Sacred Land is willing to fully support Gu Jin Nian, asking that during the Great World Struggle, Gu Jin Nian protect our Qing Wei Sacred Land. Henceforth, Qing Wei Sacred Land will spare no effort to cooperate with the Da Xia Dynasty."

The head of Qing Wei Sacred Land spoke.

She understands how terrifying the forthcoming upheaval will be, and knows that each of the four great sects is a wildly ambitious entity; if she does not make the right choice now, the future outcome will be dreadful.

"Very well."

"Master, rest assured; I will certainly inform Cousin Gu Jin Nian."

Gu Jing nodded and agreed outright.

Linglong Immortal Palace.

Gazing at the dazzling descent of Heaven's Mandate, the lord of Linglong Palace let out a sigh.

"It arrived two years early; truly unlucky."

"Jade Pool."

"Contact Gu Jin Nian and tell him that in the upcoming Great World Struggle, Linglong Immortal Palace will fully support him, and we also hope Gu Jin Nian can protect our Linglong Immortal Palace in the future."

"Actually, the best solution would be for you to marry Jin Nian. Ah, what a pity—you lack the nerve to do so."

The lord of Linglong Palace spoke, also choosing the same path as Qing Wei Sacred Land.

However, this is reasonable; each of the four great sects is a sly old fox, each wildly ambitious. To put it bluntly, even if she aligns with the four great sects, they would likely treat Linglong Immortal Palace as cannon fodder.

Not that they disdain her outright, but they would use her completely, eventually kick her aside, even reducing her to their plaything.

But Gu Jin Nian is different; as a sage of Confucian and Daoist ways, his virtue stands there, and cooperating with him is undoubtedly the best choice.

At this moment.

The ancient star of Heaven's Mandate erupted again, sending down three hundred sixty‑five beams of light, becoming unusually massive.

The Eastern Wilderness Realm, Southern Barbarian Realm, Western Desert Realm, and Extreme North Realm each received twelve strands of Heaven's Mandate power.

The Great Profound Immortal Sect, Dragon Tiger Dao Sect, Yin Yang Immortal Sect, and Ten Thousand Stars Ancient Sect each obtained one strand of Heaven's Mandate power.

Yet the entire Central Continent Dynasty fell under a terrifying one hundred eight strands of Heaven's Mandate power.

This is absurd, provoking countless people's astonishment, their gazes filled with disbelief.

After all, the four realms of the Eastern Wilderness each only obtained twelve strands of Heaven's Mandate power.

The Central Continent Dynasty actually gaining one hundred eight strands of Heaven's Mandate power is indeed shocking.

The Da Xia Dynasty, Crown Prince Li Gao, watched all this, his eyes filled with complexity.

"Although the Da Xia Dynasty is not as strong as the Central Continent Dynasty, the entire Eastern Wilderness only has twelve strands of Heaven's Mandate power. The Central Continent Dynasty having one hundred eight strands of Heaven's Mandate blessing? This is truly unbelievable."

"What secret does the Central Continent Dynasty conceal?"

Meanwhile, the Eternal Prosperous Emperor, at this very moment, is forging iron and has not emerged, unaware of the events outside.

As for the dual emperors of the Fuyu Dynasty and the Xiongnu King, it's easier to say; they are merely shocked, without strong emotions, for in their understanding, the Central Continent Dynasty obtaining one hundred eight strands of Heaven's Mandate power is within reason.

But the Great Jin Emperor could not help but furrow his brows.

Heaven's Mandate.

These two words represent everything; no matter how strong you are, how limitless your methods, before Heaven's Mandate, you can only live if it allows you to live, and you can only die if it allows you to die.

The Eastern Wilderness Realm only received twelve strands of Heaven's Mandate, while the Central Continent Dynasty obtained so many; how could they not feel distressed?

"Why does the Great Jin Dynasty not receive Heaven's Mandate?"

"Even if the Great Jin Dynasty fails, together with the Da Xia Dynasty, aren't they still less than a tenth of the Central Continent Dynasty?"

The Great Jin Emperor felt somewhat helpless, yet mostly unwilling.

The main issue is that the gap between the two is absurdly large.

One has twelve strands.

The other has one hundred eight strands, nearly ten times more.

Yet another one hundred eight strands fell toward the Eastern Sea, causing it to boil and raise towering, terrifying waves.

"Why does the Eastern Sea possess one hundred and eight Heaven's Mandate blessings?"

At this moment, someone exclaimed, feeling it unbelievable.

The Zhongzhou Dynasty received one hundred and eight Heaven's Mandate; they could accept it, at least the Zhongzhou Dynasty is indeed invincible.

But the Eastern Sea also received one hundred and eight Heaven's Mandate blessings, which is thought-provoking.

"The ocean nurtures endless life; receiving one hundred and eight Heaven's Mandate is reasonable."

"After all, the ocean buries too many ancient things; perhaps it will give birth to endless wondrous treasures."

However, someone immediately gave an explanation, believing that the ocean contains endless living beings, plus the burial of many ancient things, receiving one hundred and eight Heaven's Mandate blessings is not a big problem.

After all, even the Zhongzhou Dynasty received one hundred and eight Heaven's Mandate; the ocean receiving one hundred and eight Heaven's Mandate is really nothing.

With this explanation appearing, it indeed dispelled many people's suspicions.

And at this time.

The four great realms obtained forty-eight Heaven's Mandate powers, the Zhongzhou Dynasty obtained one hundred and eight Heaven's Mandate, and the depths of the ocean also obtained one hundred and eight Heaven's Mandate.

There remained one hundred and one Heaven's Mandate powers.

Among these one hundred and one Heaven's Mandate powers, two were bestowed upon Gu Jin Nian.

The remaining ninety-nine.

They sank into the earth, unknown where they went.

No one can trace them.

The Zhongzhou Dynasty.

Outside the Four Seas Unite Hall.

The Zhongzhou Emperor, his spirit devouring mountains and rivers, gazed upon the descending one hundred and eight Heaven's Mandate power, his heart filled with passion.

"Where Heaven's Mandate belongs, this is where Heaven's Mandate belongs."

The Zhongzhou Emperor spoke, he appeared immensely domineering; the one hundred and eight Heaven's Mandate blessings upon the Zhongzhou land, to him, this is simply great news.

This also proves a point: even the heavens acknowledge the Zhongzhou Dynasty, acknowledge his rule.

This is where Heaven's Mandate belongs.

However, within the Zhongzhou Dynasty.

On the Star-Picking Terrace.

The Guigu Daoist gazed upon this one hundred and eight Heaven's Mandate, a hint of smile appearing on his calm face.

"Only one step remains."

"I will fulfill my ancestors' wish."

He spoke, muttering to himself.

The Qingqiu Mountain Range.

The Qingqiu Holy Maiden gazed at the Heaven's Mandate power falling toward the Jixia Academy direction, unable to hide her joy.

She stood outside the palace, unable to refrain from speaking.

"Clan Chief."

"Jin Nian alone occupies two Heaven's Mandate powers, while the four great immortal sects each get only one."

"I said, he is the future Heaven's Mandate person."

"Now, the four great immortal sects have received Heaven's Mandate, their immortal artifacts transforming; before long they will reveal their ambitions. It would be better for me to go find Jin Nian now and have him protect my Qingqiu clan."

"Thus, in the future great world struggle, my Qingqiu lineage will be able to gain the upper hand."

The Qingqiu Holy Maiden spoke, showing great eagerness, wanting to go find Gu Jin Nian.

However, inside the palace.

An old woman leaning on a cane walked step by step until she stood behind the Qingqiu Holy Maiden and spoke.

"The great world struggle is not as simple as you imagine."

"Gu Jin Nian's talent is indeed extraordinary, and he also possesses the qualification to contend for Heaven's Mandate, but the great world struggle is far from as simple as you think."

"Qingqiu has its own mission; your fate has long been predetermined."

"Qingqiu, many things the clan chief cannot tell you, but before long you will know everything."

"Moreover, do not overly involve yourself with Gu Jin Nian; anyone qualified to participate in the Heaven's Mandate struggle, you should not entangle with them, otherwise it will bring you endless trouble."

The Qingqiu clan chief spoke, she slowly uttered, saying some words that are hard to understand.

"Why?"

"Does this great world struggle still hide any secrets?"

The Qingqiu Holy Maiden was somewhat startled; she had thought that with the descent of Heaven's Mandate, the Qingqiu holy land should seek protection, but she never expected the clan chief to say such a thing.

"It hides a great secret."

"However, the time is not ripe, and I cannot tell you, but remember, the true Heaven's Mandate bearer has not yet appeared."

"The talent you see is not necessarily talent."

She spoke, without giving a detailed answer; merely her words make one unable to help but ponder deeply in fear.

"The true Heaven's Mandate bearer has not yet appeared?"

"Could there be a group of people hiding?"

At this moment.

Within the Eastern Wilderness.

The Jixia Academy.

Two terrifying Heaven's Mandate powers fell down, landing upon Gu Jin Nian.

One is because Gu Jin Nian's body contains two immortal artifacts.

Another aspect is because of Gu Jin Nian's Establishing Speech today.

The Primordial Five Directions Banner and the Primordial Yellow Bell flew out from Gu Jin Nian's body, hovering above the heavens.

The two immortal artifacts expanded to ten thousand times their volume, bursting forth with boundless light, permeating a terrifying aura; this aura suppressed the entire Eastern Wilderness Dynasty.

One immortal artifact itself is terrifying beyond compare; the aura of the two immortal artifacts mixed together is naturally even more terrifying, shocking to the extreme.

Heaven's Mandate empowered within; the two immortal artifacts broke their shackles, possessing power surpassing the Seventh Realm.

However, all immortal artifacts, whether Gu Jin Nian's immortal artifacts or those of other immortal sects, have merely broken their shackles; to truly activate the power of an immortal artifact, one must at least reach the Seventh Realm.

Or, by investing spirit crystals without regard to cost; otherwise, wanting to activate it is almost impossible.

In other words, this immortal artifact is like a nuclear weapon; its deterrence is stronger than its practicality.

The Four Great Immortal Sects each possess a certain amount of spirit crystals, and can revive immortal artifacts.

Once an immortal artifact is revived, it can easily shatter mountains and rivers for thousands of miles, possessing the power to destroy heaven and earth; however, using an immortal artifact inevitably leads to a life-and-death battle, with no winners.

Gu Jin Nian mastering two immortal artifacts can only be said to have a slightly greater chance of victory; he can simultaneously fight against the Two Great Immortal Sects, unless the Four Great Immortal Sects unite together, and no one betrays anyone, no one schemes against anyone.

Otherwise, if there is the slightest disagreement, then Gu Jin Nian's threat to them is the greatest.

Prioritize grasping a certain initiative.

But within the Jixia Academy.

Everyone does not care about the power of this immortal artifact, but rather Gu Jin Nian's Supreme New Learning.

On the martial arts platform.

Feeling the gazes of the crowd.

Gu Jin Nian sat cross-legged; his understanding of Heart Learning was not yet fully enlightened, and precisely because of this, Gu Jin Nian would not bring it out.

Before coming, Su Wenjing said, academic debate is just an argument; no matter what knowledge one brings out, others will criticize and question.

Therefore, the reason Gu Jin Nian does not bring it out is this.

Not fearing criticism, but rather not fully understanding oneself; what is the meaning of bringing it out? After being criticized, one cannot answer, merely becoming a laughingstock.

Just didn't expect that this academic debate is completely different from one's imagination.

Ultimately, it is still because of Confucianism.

The Fourth Generation Sage established Confucianism, enabling later scholars to become officials, to stand in high positions, in order to accomplish great deeds.

This idea is good, but as later people are driven by interests, many things have become corrupted.

Forgotten the original intention, only thinking of becoming an official, or becoming a person of prestige.

Thus Confucian Dao underwent a qualitative change; the Kong Family's Main Residence is the best answer, the Kong Family's Main Residence being the descendants of the sage, but why did the Kong Family's Main Residence later become like this?

Because no matter what happens, the Kong Family's Main Residence first considers pros and cons, rather than inner justice.

Today's Heart Learning happens to be able to reshape the Confucian Dao lineage.

"May I ask, Lord Gu?"

"What is the unity of knowledge and action, to attain true knowledge?"

At this moment, the Jixia Academy Chancellor spoke, he was extremely respectful, standing beneath the martial arts platform, bowing once to Gu Jin Nian.

Hearing the other's voice.

Gu Jin Nian did not hesitate.

"We scholars ought to know the good and evil in our hearts."

"Follow the way of the gentleman."

"Those who unite become one."

"Attain the good true knowledge of the gentleman."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, he conveyed his understanding to everyone.

Although he hasn't fully understood, the basic core he still grasps; if he were to truly express it, it wouldn't be too bad.

It's just that Gu Jin Nian himself likes to ponder and agonize.

After hearing this, everyone variously felt somewhat puzzled; it sounds like there isn't any great principle, merely urging people toward goodness.

But why such a heaven-shaking phenomenon? However, Su Wenjing instantly perceived the crux, he stepped forward a step and looked at Gu Jin Nian saying:

"May I ask, Lord Gu?"

"How to know?"

Su Wenjing asked; the unity of knowledge and action sounds simple, for ordinary scholars it seems to say, knowing good and evil, then doing good deeds.

But for people like Su Wenjing, they feel it's not the same.

The so-called Great Dao is utmost simplicity.

The true principle itself is very simple; the complexity lies in how to understand it and how to put it into practice.

In other words, everyone knows one plus one equals two, but the most complex problem is why one plus one equals two; this is the core of academia, to tell people why.

Although most people in the world won't study it, we must have this answer; otherwise, everything would appear absurdly ridiculous.

Listening to Su Wenjing's question.

Gu Jin Nian appeared even more calm.

"A body without good or evil inclination."

"Movement with good or evil intention."

"Knowing good and evil is true knowledge."

"Doing good and eliminating evil is investigating things."

Gu Jin Nian's voice was calm, but when he finished speaking these four-character true words,

In an instant, thunder rolled, splitting the dark heavens and earth.

Originally the terrifying heaven-and-earth phenomenon, at this moment instantly became tranquil.

The heavens and earth were entirely clear and bright.

"A body devoid of good or evil intent? An action possessing good and evil intentions? Knowing good and evil is innate conscience? Doing good and eliminating evil is investigating things?"

Inside the Jixia Academy.

Su Wenjing, the academy head, and many great scholars repeatedly savored the meaning of these four sentences.

However.

Within the Confucius Temple.

A sky-piercing radiance burst forth.

At that moment, the sage's statue also trembled again, bursting forth endless radiance.

The vast and righteous aura of the sage descended once more upon the Divine Continent.

This terrifying radiance swept across heaven and earth.

Inside the Jixia Academy.

Golden lotuses blossomed one after another from the ground.

Clusters of golden clouds filled the heavens.

Auspicious beasts appeared; golden dragons and phoenixes soared, qilin presented omens, illuminating a world of prosperity.

The silhouettes of the Hundred Schools of Thought appeared above the Jixia Academy, this radiance illuminating the Divine Continent.

The illusory image of Confucius appeared above the heavens, standing in the east.

However, this time the illusory image of Confucius was merely a sage's phantom, devoid of any will or consciousness.

It was condensed from Gu Jin Nian's holy words.

But soon.

A second sage's phantom appeared, standing in the south.

A third sage's phantom appeared, standing in the north.

A fourth sage's phantom appeared, standing in the west.

People exclaimed, gazing at this terrifying phenomenon.

"The four sages have manifested; a sight unseen from ancient times to the present—this truly is supreme new learning!"

"It startles heaven and earth, moves ghosts and gods; this new learning shall become the fifth school of the Confucian Way, surpassing the sages of old."

"Gu Jin Nian actually truly comprehended supreme new learning, especially at this critical juncture, with Heaven's Mandate revealed; in this great worldly struggle, I fear Gu Jin Nian will surpass all and become the Mandate's chosen one."

"The fifth Mandate-bearing sage of the Confucian Way is likely about to be born."

Between heaven and earth, some voices sounded; they were shocked by such a heavenly omen.

Within the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect.

The Shang Qing Daoist, upon seeing this omen again, grew ever more solemn; his earlier joy and excitement likewise calmed.

"Gu Jin Nian."

"He is the greatest obstacle to our immortal sect."

"In the great worldly struggle, we would rather our sect gain no advantage than let him gain any benefit."

At this moment, the Shang Qing Daoist understood this all the more; he knew how terrifying Gu Jin Nian was, and having set forth his immortal words, today Gu Jin Nian is likely to indeed become a sage.

Meanwhile, within the academy.

The scene that had astonished countless people appeared once again.

However, this time it was not Gu Jin Nian.

But Su Wenjing.

Holy light surrounded him, radiance piercing heaven and earth, as if he were about to become a sage.

And Su Wenjing, continuously reciting Gu Jin Nian's four sentences, sought to understand them, using his own half-sage's Way to grasp their true meaning.

Not only him.

Many others, the academy head and some great scholars within the academy, also repeatedly recited these four true words.

Including some great scholars who came to watch; they themselves possessed extraordinary talent, otherwise they could not have become contemporary great scholars.

Therefore, when Gu Jin Nian uttered these four-character true words, their understanding differed completely from that of ordinary talents; having a deeper comprehension, many gained improvement and substantive insight.

On the martial training platform.

Gu Jin Nian paid no heed to their changes, but continued to expound the study of the mind.

"Today I establish words."

"This is for the study of the mind."

"The Confucian Way, since the time humanity flourished, has already been born, as the Way of thought."

"Confucius's rites distinguish humans from beasts; without rites, humans are like beasts; the Way of rites is the foundation of all—revering parents above, loving children below."

"The rites of the lesser sage are the rites of the state, the rites of the nation, resolving wars and bringing eternal peace to myriad generations."

"The rites of the restored sage are the ruler's rites, to restrain tyrants and rein in foolish monarchs; the ruler's rites bring blessings to all creation."

"The sage's Way is the Way of Confucian learning, governing the state with heavy responsibility to bless a region's populace."

"Yet later scholars will misinterpret the sage's intent, pursue profit, due to office struggles they resort to any means, due to prestige struggles they form cliques, giving rise to the calamity of aristocratic houses and creating various social strata."

"Today, the Way of the study of the mind is to shape the literary heart of all scholars, forge their literary bones, fix their literary intent, and achieve their vast righteousness."

"A gentleman ought to clearly comprehend the Way of the study of the mind."

"Know good and evil, and steadfastly advance."

"Thus one can know before acting, not act before knowing."

"Today, I, Gu Jin Nian, set forth the seven layers of the study of the mind's realm; I hope later scholars will clearly comprehend its Way, everyone like a dragon, uniting knowledge and action."

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth.

The way of the Heart Study contains far too many principles; he can only narrate an opening segment, informing the crowd of this idea, while the rest, together with his own understanding and that of others, will be compiled into a book and gradually taught.

Any scholarship also requires the accumulation of time before it can become mainstream, become a discipline.

Rather than being proposed today and mastered by everyone tomorrow.

He spoke.

The holy ruler hung above his head, rippling with myriad righteous qi, and holy light spread everywhere.

"The first is the honing through adversity."

"We scholars ought to encounter difficulties; when faced with them, we should regard them as honing, not abandon ourselves, choose to confront, seek the ancients' scriptures to correspond, and carve a virtuous path for our thoughts, thereby achieving self‑realization."

"The second is the state of following and opposing the mind."

"We scholars should possess a mind free of reason, free of objects, free of affairs; the compliant ride the wind, the resistant settle, using a mind of no reason, no object, no affair to seek the true heart and witness one's nature."

"The third is to establish a correct heart and walk the right path."

"If the heart is not upright, the road is blocked; when the heart is correct, all becomes clear, clouds part, the ancients' radiance shines beneath the feet, marching forward unimpeded."

"The fourth is to establish the foundation."

"To comprehend the root, obey Heaven's will, seek the Way of nature, the Way of all things, understand all laws, let this clarity reside in the heart; use history as a mirror to discern rise and fall, to correct people's judgments, and to cleanse the world."

"The fifth is the heart dwelling lofty and distant."

"Free your thoughts; we scholars should focus on the future, not be bound by trivialities or momentary gains that cause us to forget our true self; if the heart is not lofty, how can one be a gentleman?"

"The sixth follows nature and truth."

"Unite with Heaven and Earth, unite with all things, seek the true self, discard the false self, and face the real world with a genuine face."

"The seventh is to keep a clean heart and do clean deeds."

"Conscience is easy, floating in the six voids; up and down are straight and soft, not necessarily constant, but change is appropriate."

"These are the seven realms."

"With enlightened knowledge, one can penetrate thoroughly."

"Understanding action allows one to arrive."

"If knowledge and action are united, choosing conscience, everyone can become saintly, like dragons, continuing the brilliance of the Confucian Way for ten thousand generations."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He explained the seven realms of the Heart Study, and regarding them, Gu Jin Nian considered himself in the sixth realm; as for the seventh, he still needed to settle, let go of everything, and through enlightenment of the true self, could reach it.

As the teaching reached this point,

in an instant,

the holy ruler above his head suddenly erupted infinite holy light, enveloping heaven and earth.

"This is the way of the saint."

Only, at that moment, a resonant voice rang out in the Jixia Academy.

It was a Great Scholar.

He pointed at Gu Jin Nian, his words trembling, showing an expression of disbelief.

"Such a celestial phenomenon is naturally the saint's way; not just the saint's way, but the Heaven's Mandate saint's way, I also believe it."

"This is definitely the saint's way; need not say more, just this terrifying celestial sign alone is understandable."

"Senior, this seems unnecessary to explain, right?"

Some voices sounded, and many young scholars frowned slightly.

With such a sign, they naturally understood it was the saint's way.

"Is this still needing to be said?" Yet the latter frantically shook his head, even grabbed a man's arm, unable to speak for a long while, too excited.

"No, you have misunderstood."

"The old man's meaning is that this Heart Study has opened a path for everyone to become saintly."

"This is a saint's way that can let scholars all become saints."

"If one truly comprehends this Heart Study, everyone can become saintly, possessing the power of a saint."

"Don't you understand yet?"

The elder, excited, spoke somewhat incoherently, taking a long time before uttering these words.

Upon hearing this, the crowd could no longer sit still.

"What does it mean? This Heart Study can let everyone become saintly?"

"Is it so exaggerated? A path for everyone to become saintly?"

"Is there such a saintly path under the heavens?"

"This can't be possible, can it?"

"Everyone becoming saintly—how could that be possible?"

A gasp rose; no one expected that this "saint's way" meant that everyone could become saintly.

"The old man makes no exaggeration."

"This is the true saint's way, directly pointing to saintly intent; everyone becoming saint is not an exaggeration but a fact—once one attains the seven realms, with knowledge‑action unity as aid, reaching the seventh level, one can become saintly."

The Great Scholar opened his mouth; as he spoke, his breathing became somewhat labored, and he was the first to truly realize the terrifying nature of this Heart Study.

Seeing the other's agitation, most scholars were both shocked and skeptical, for the prior hype had made them inclined to believe.

Of course, the main point was that they did not understand this Heart Study and required prolonged comprehension.

Thus they reacted in this way.

"Mr. Zhao You is not wrong."

"This truly is the saint's way."

Soon, various Great Scholars spoke, staring at Gu Jin Nian with astonished eyes; after Great Scholar Zhao You finished, they too grasped the terrifying nature of this Heart Study.

It is the Way of the sage, it is the Way of the sage.

No wonder it's the supreme New Learning; it turns out this is the Way of the sage.

Soon, another Great Scholar stepped forward to speak; their faces were shocked, showing no sign of pretense, and they were extraordinarily excited, their breathing appearing extremely rapid.

What a pity!

What a pity!

What a pity!

I, old man, am this year one hundred three and five years old; at most I have less than ten years of lifespan left. Alas, if I had been born thirty years later, I would have a certain chance to become a sage; even if I cannot become a sage, at least I could be a Half Saint.

With such learning existing, yet it gives me no opportunity; I hate it.

Soon, a Great Scholar burst into tears, looking grief-stricken, as if they had missed some peerless treasure.

By this point, most scholars already believed this heart learning was extremely terrifying.

This heart learning looks indeed terrifying, but where exactly does its terror lie? May I ask which senior can point out the way for us?

Someone spoke up, believing this heart learning was terrifying.

Just this phenomenon alone proves everything, but where exactly is the terror? They really don't understand.

Upon hearing this, the head of the Jixia Academy sighed deeply.

He was extremely knowledgeable about academia; in fact, he immediately knew the terror of this heart learning.

At that moment, he did not hide it, but spoke directly.

Gu Jin Nian's heart learning.

It is not merely the simple study of encouraging people toward goodness.

But rather it is to open the sage's path for future generations.

Therefore it causes such terrifying heavenly phenomena, and can be called the supreme New Learning.

He first spoke, praising the heart learning, and also praising Gu Jin Nian's deeds.

Only then did he explain to everyone.

Confucius opened the study of rites for scholars.

Later sages established state rites, ruler rites, and Confucian learning.

But the learning of the four sages all followed the Way of heaven and earth, reduced killing, understood the true principles, letting the world understand that the Way of Confucian learning is to understand the sages' intent and follow the Way of heaven and earth.

But the four Confucian teachings never taught the world how to become a sage; this is not because the sages hoarded secrets, but because the sage's Way is as difficult to attain as climbing to heaven, and furthermore they could not elaborate on the details of the sage's Way.

Therefore only the Three Immortalities can be established: establishing virtue, establishing words, establishing deeds; these are the standard for a sage.

However Gu Jin Nian's heart learning directly points out the seven realms of the sage; only by realizing the unity of knowledge and action and breaking through the seven realms can one directly point to the sage's great path.

The academy head spoke.

But after saying this, he could see many still did not understand, so he shook his head and continued speaking.

In other words, Confucius and the other sages established destiny for the people and expounded the Way of nature.

However, they lumped the scholars' cultivation path into the Three Immortalities.

Our scholars' cultivation differs from martial or immortal paths; by refining the heavenly and earthly spiritual qi, we can break through realms.

But it requires many methods: we must understand the principles, gather talent, and expand our thoughts in order to break through realms.

Even when breaking through, do you sometimes wonder why you were able to break through the realm, and why you broke through?

Gu Jin Nian's heart learning is precisely the outline of the promotion path; the seven sage realms just mentioned, if attained, will certainly allow one to become a sage.

It complements the views of all sages past and present, integrates them, and then provides a solution.

Gu Jin Nian has opened the sage's path for us and for future scholars.

Then he will tell us the method.

The unity of knowledge and action, realizing innate goodness, is the core of everything.

Therefore, upon realizing the unity of knowledge and action, and then step by step breaking through the seven sage realms, everyone can become a sage, everyone like a dragon.

Everyone, do you understand?

The academy head spoke.

He has already spoken very thoroughly.

Having reached this point, if one still hasn't understood, there's no need to understand.

However, those who are invited to participate, or who follow to attend the Jixia Academy, how could they be ordinary?

Each one is a top talent among their commanderies.

When the academy head had spoken to this extent.

They already fully understood the terror of this heart learning.

This amounts to pointing out a broad, smooth road for scholars under heaven.

Even the method to pass the trials is clearly explained.

Hiss.

The sound of drawing in cold air rang out.

Tens of thousands of students each had rapid breathing; they previously did not understand why this group of Great Scholars were so excited.

Now they fully understood.

Who wouldn't be excited if it were anyone?

Just kidding.

Which scholar doesn't want to become a sage? How hard is it to become a sage? Everyone knows.

But the main point is, everyone knows it's hard to become a sage, yet no one knows why it's hard.

Knowing it is useless, after all there is no method to solve it.

Now Gu Jin Nian's Mind Learning not only tells everyone why becoming a saint is difficult and where the difficulty lies, but also provides the solution.

How could this not excite people?

In other words, can everyone become a saint in their lifetime?

Of course, that's what is said.

But the number of those who can truly become saints in the future will not be too many; it can only be said to be more than now, not to the point of a saint appearing every few hundred years.

If Mind Learning is fully promoted, scholars worldwide will inevitably follow and learn; producing two or three saints within the next hundred years is no problem.

But wanting saints to walk the streets everywhere is impossible.

After all, although there is a method, when truly faced with adversity, how many people can calm down and refine themselves? Moreover, the core of breaking through the Seven Great Realms is the unity of knowledge and action, realizing innate goodness.

How to know? How to act? And how should one choose?

All of this is problematic, but it is far better than before; before, it was a vague blur.

Now, everything is clear.

In the future, it will vary from person to person; having a direction, naturally, someone will achieve it.

And just then, amidst the crowd's shock and excitement.

Another voice sounded.

Pointing at Gu Jin Nian's location.

"Look."

"Lord Gu is about to become a saint."

Someone spoke up, pointing at Gu Jin Nian.

At this very moment.

On the Martial Arts Platform.

Layers of holy radiance showered down around him.

Turning into layer upon layer of light.

Like ripples on a lake.

Layer after layer, spreading outward.

The light grew increasingly intense.

The ripples also grew larger.

Layer upon layer, reaching across thousands of miles.

Gu Jin Nian was enveloped in the holy radiance.

He appeared especially different.

And his aura.

Also underwent a transformation at this moment.

Yes.

Gu Jin Nian is about to become a saint.

He expounded Mind Learning to the world.

Thus he also gained some insights.

Furthermore, with the descent of Heaven's Mandate, the terrifying power of Heaven's Mandate allowed Gu Jin Nian to fully step onto the Saint's Path.

Boom.

Finally.

At that instant, a terrifying light pillar burst forth from Gu Jin Nian's body.

The aura of a saint.

At this moment, it instantly permeated the Eastern Wilderness.

(End of Chapter)