Chapter 226: Enlightened to the Saintly Path, the True Meaning of Good and Evil, Gu Jin Nian Achieves Sainthood
The Jixia Academy.
No one would have thought that Su Wenjing would become a saint.
He was already a Half Saint, so becoming a saint was not surprising, but surpassing Gu Jin Nian by a step to become a saint was what surprised people.
However, the most shocking thing was why Gu Jin Nian did not achieve sainthood and instead suffered a thunder tribulation; this matter sparked many controversies.
Some think the incident at Jiangning Prefecture is related to Gu Jin Nian, and the Gu Family could very well be the mastermind behind it.
But such statements were immediately refuted.
Others believe Gu Jin Nian's New Learning was not his own thought, so it was sensed by heaven and earth, which then punished him.
That view exists, but it is not widely accepted; after all, Gu Jin Nian's talent is evident to all, and this supreme New Learning, if not Gu Jin Nian's, whose would it be? The most likely candidate is Su Wenjing, though the probability is even lower—Su Wenjing knows this kind of thing cannot be given to others, otherwise it would not be helping but harming.
Both of the above theories failed to gain acceptance.
But another theory spread and was accepted by many.
"Gu Jin Nian's saintly path is too simple; in just two years he approached the saintly realm infinitely, even achieving the three immortals of a saint, so in theory he could become a saint."
"But two years is too brief; this is Heaven's Mandate testing him, not truly suppressing Gu Jin Nian."
"Give him trials so he truly becomes a saint, possessing a saint's heart; then, in future Heaven's Mandate conflicts, he can march forward triumphantly."
These were the words of a Great Scholar, who, after leaving the Jixia Academy, pondered for a long time before giving this answer.
Moreover, after he finished speaking, he immediately earned the approval of countless scholars, especially within the Da Xia Dynasty, where nearly ninety percent of scholars believed this view.
Consequently, more and more Great Scholars stepped forward to endorse this theory and to support Gu Jin Nian, hoping people would not be suspicious.
It makes sense; Gu Jin Nian indeed spent only two years and is on the verge of becoming a saint.
If Heaven's Mandate had not descended, that would be easy to say.
The Seventh Realm is the peak of combat power.
But with Heaven's Mandate's arrival comes the implication of an Eighth Realm—each realm adds a layer of heaven—let alone the Seventh and Eighth realms; thus, the possibility of further trials is great.
Nevertheless, regardless of how one looks at it.
At this very moment.
Gu Jin Nian had already returned to the Gu Family.
All the relatives had returned, except the Lord Zhen Guogong and a few uncles stationed at the border; everyone else was back.
They had also heard of the matter and were filled with worry.
However, Gu Jin Nian offered no explanation; when facing his family, he remained gently smiling, as always.
During this period.
Gu Jin Nian was relaxed; he neither struggled nor acted, spending each day beside his mother, occasionally chatting with a few uncles about state affairs and folk anecdotes.
When night fell and the world grew quiet, Gu Jin Nian stayed in his study, drafting plans for Da Xia's Never‑Night City and future policies of the Da Xia Dynasty.
He did not know whether, after three months, he could break through his realm.
He was also uncertain about his future destiny.
Thus he prepared for everything, weighing both good and bad, so at least nothing would catch him completely off guard.
In this way.
For ten consecutive days.
Gu Jin Nian stayed within the Duke's mansion, letting down all guard, and these ten days could be called his most relaxed period.
He did not worry about this.
Nor did he contemplate that.
He peacefully fulfilled his duties as the crown prince, living a fairly carefree life.
Only, Gu Jin Nian knew that he truly needed to leave, to walk the final stretch.
Without a purpose.
He only knew that he must depart.
It was night.
The sky was as black as ink.
In the study.
Gu Jin Nian simply prepared a few items.
At that moment, a familiar voice sounded outside the study.
"Jin Nian."
"It's me, Sixth Uncle."
As the voice rang, Gu Jin Nian instantly snapped out of his thoughts.
He went to the door and opened it.
There he saw Gu Ningya holding a wine jar, grinning with a toothy smile.
"Sixth Uncle, why did you come in the middle of the night?"
Seeing Gu Ningya appear, Gu Jin Nian felt a bit curious.
"Nothing much, just wanted to have a few drinks with my elder nephew."
"Jin Nian, I wouldn't even deny you this small courtesy…"
Gu Ningya said cheerfully.
Hearing that, Gu Jin Nian said little, instead closed the door and immediately took out a wine flask and cups.
"This is aged Chen wine, sealed for seventy years, elder nephew, you are fortunate."
Gu Ningya laughed aloud, then poured the wine into the flask.
Afterward, the two poured a cup of wine.
After three rounds of wine, Gu Ningya began to talk about other matters, not state affairs, but simply chatting about childhood events.
Gu Jin Nian didn't speak much, just listening to Gu Ningya speak, occasionally echoing a few words.
It's not anything else; he simply understood that this sixth uncle must have noticed something odd about him and thus came to drink with him to relieve his boredom.
It lasted until deep into the night.
The wine in the jar was almost gone, and finally Gu Ningya spoke.
"Jin Nian."
"Sixth Uncle doesn't know what has happened to you lately; the outside rumors, Sixth Uncle has also heard."
"Many things, Sixth Uncle finds it hard to say; you now have such achievements, and you don't need our family to remind you."
"However, you are after all the heir of our Gu family; Sixth Uncle still wants to say a few words to you."
"No matter what happens, the Gu family will always stand behind you; whether it's Sixth Uncle or your father, the entire Gu family is of one mind; Sixth Uncle believes in you, and the Gu family believes in you—do what you want to do, don't let us hold you back."
That night.
In the study, Gu Ningya spoke calmly; he actually didn't want to say so much, but in the end he couldn't help coming to find Gu Jin Nian, hoping to ease Gu Jin Nian's mind.
"Sixth Uncle, rest assured, I understand."
Gu Jin Nian gave a faint smile.
"All right, it's getting late; you're setting out tomorrow, so Uncle won't disturb you any further."
Gu Ningya spoke, then rose and left.
"Sixth Uncle, take care."
Gu Jin Nian spoke.
Not long after, the night was deep; Gu Ningya had already walked for a while, and Gu Jin Nian gazed at the sky, silent for a long time.
Afterwards, he rose, intending to leave.
The time was indeed late.
However, Gu Jin Nian did not leave directly; instead he went to his mother's quarters. He did not disturb his mother's rest, but had the servants withdraw, then knelt outside the door and kowtowed three times.
Afterwards, he rose and left, heading outward.
He left the Gu family.
This time, departing, Gu Jin Nian made use of the night's darkness.
Only a moment later, the morning drums sounded repeatedly; as the capital's gates opened, Gu Jin Nian departed with the crowd.
In the blink of an eye.
Another ten days passed.
Throughout the Eastern Wilderness, two things occurred.
First, the Alliance is about to be formed, with a total of seventy-two states participating, including the Immortal Sect and the Buddhist Sect; the leaders are the Xiongnu State, the Fuyu Dynasty, and the Great Jin Dynasty.
Second, the first batch of the Great Jin Dynasty's Longmi treasure notes has been officially issued; in the Xiongnu State, the Fuyu Dynasty, and all the Eastern Wilderness states, Great Jin money houses have been established, the response has been good, at least better than the treasure notes previously issued by various states.
Regarding these two matters, the Da Xia Ministry of Rites again stepped forward; however, this time it was not only to give a strong warning, but more importantly, the borders are also mobilizing troops, with an intention to launch war.
The Alliance is clearly aimed at the Da Xia Dynasty, something everyone under heaven knows, and the Da Xia Dynasty cannot possibly take no measures.
However, the Da Xia Dynasty is mobilizing troops, and the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty are also mobilizing.
Everyone knows that the Da Xia Dynasty is targeting the Xiongnu State, as well as the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty.
Under these circumstances, civil war in the Eastern Wilderness could break out at any moment; for a time, undercurrents surged within the Eastern Wilderness.
For the common people, naturally they want war; now the Da Xia Dynasty's national strength is flourishing, grain is abundant, so they naturally do not fear war, but for the peoples of the other dynasties, with the establishment of the Alliance,
the states are bound together—shared honor, shared loss—and they also do not fear the Da Xia Dynasty taking the initiative to start war.
Thus the momentum for war has already appeared; some rejoice, some worry.
The Da Xia Dynasty.
Jiangzhong Commandery.
Liu Ping Prefecture.
Yishui County.
Gu Jin Nian's figure slowly appeared here.
He came before a grave.
It was Wang Wei's grave.
Back when Jiangzhong Commandery faced crisis, he himself was trapped in a deadlock, and Wang Wei sacrificed his life for the people of Da Xia.
Now, Gu Jin Nian intends, while traveling, to make another trip to Wang Wei's grave—first to see how Wang Wei's wife and children are, second to see how Jiangzhong Commandery is.
Once again, at Wang Wei's grave, there are various offerings.
After the Da Xia heavenly calamity, Gu Jin Nian has already cleared Wang Wei's name; Liu Ping Prefecture and the Jiangzhong Commandery administration have erected his statue, and the people know Wang Wei's deeds and offer sacrifices to his statue.
At the grave.
Gu Jin Nian said little; he performed three bows of worship, then inserted three sticks of incense for Wang Wei.
He remained silent for a long time.
Immediately thereafter.
Gu Jin Nian left this place, he disguised himself as an ordinary mortal, altered his appearance, and toured various places in Jiangzhong Commandery.
The fertile fields throughout Jiangzhong Commandery are full of vitality, the rice crops lush; this year is again a year of abundant harvest.
And in every prefecture and county of Jiangzhong Commandery, households are building homes; having silver, they naturally hope to live a better life, repairing their old houses or even rebuilding them outright.
Most of the people are quite happy, and from time to time one can hear remarks about themselves.
"Villagers, remember that we commoners can enjoy such good days today thanks to the Heaven's Mandate Marquis; without the marquis, we would still be leading a bitter life."
A loud voice rang out, causing the passing Gu Jin Nian to inexplicably feel relieved.
However, Gu Jin Nian did not linger.
He took a glance at Wang Wei's family.
Inside a residence in Si Shui County, Gu Jin Nian stood outside; the gate was tightly shut, the residence looked as if it had been renovated, and Gu Jin Nian did not disturb, intending to take a look and then leave.
But at that moment, abruptly, the gate opened, and a woman appeared before Gu Jin Nian.
Their eyes met, and Gu Jin Nian gave a slight bow.
The middle‑aged woman also bowed to Gu Jin Nian, then spoke.
"Sir, what brings you here?"
Gu Jin Nian's appearance had changed; he now looked like a middle‑aged scholar, with a gentle temperament, causing people to subconsciously lower their guard.
"I am a friend of Lord Wang, having heard of Lord Wang's deeds, I have come from a thousand li to pay my respects to the late friend,"
Gu Jin Nian said, his tone gentle.
"Brother, please come in quickly; traveling a thousand li is truly arduous. I will immediately prepare a family feast for you, and hope you will not find fault,"
The other party spoke, saying so.
Hearing that Gu Jin Nian was a friend of her husband and had traveled a thousand li, she was deeply moved.
"You are too kind, sister‑in‑law,"
"No need for elaborate arrangements; anything will do,"
Gu Jin Nian spoke.
Mrs. Wang said little, but invited Gu Jin Nian inside; in the main hall a spirit tablet of Wang Wei was placed, and Gu Jin Nian stepped forward to pay respects.
"Brother, you may go to my husband's study to rest for a while; I will be back shortly,"
After saying this, Mrs. Wang left with a basket, leaving Gu Jin Nian here.
The house was empty of furnishings, yet there was no fear of thieves.
After Mrs. Wang left, Gu Jin Nian could not help but sigh, then walked out of the main hall and entered the study on the left.
Wang Wei's study was small; upon entering, he found it filled with books. Though disorderly, it was clear that Wang Wei was truly a man of learning.
Some households pile books like mountains and arrange them neatly, yet such people often never read them.
Those who truly love reading usually place books casually, but can locate them instantly when needed.
Gu Jin Nian approached the desk and perused a few.
But soon, Gu Jin Nian saw two lines of small characters carved in the upper right corner of the desk.
【The people worry, and I worry】
【The people rejoice, and I rejoice】
Those simple ten characters made Gu Jin Nian even more silent.
"Lord Wang's great righteousness,"
A moment later, Gu Jin Nian took a deep breath and bowed to the desk; although the person was no longer present, such spirit deeply impressed Gu Jin Nian.
Not long after.
Mrs. Wang returned, having bought some vegetables, bustling about, and was cooking.
Gu Jin Nian was not unwilling to help, but because of the other party's status—this being ancient times—if he offered assistance, it would invite idle gossip.
Therefore, Gu Jin Nian could only tell Mrs. Wang not to overwork herself; anything is fine.
Nevertheless, when guests are present at home, one naturally does not neglect them.
After about half an hour, dishes were placed on the main hall dining table, and Gu Jin Nian took the opportunity to ask some questions.
Mostly concerning food and lodging, including aftercare matters, whether the prefect of Jiangzhong County had properly dealt with their orphaned children and widowed mothers.
After all, the sight of an empty house differed from Gu Jin Nian's imagination; it need not be gilded and splendid, but it should not be like this.
Regarding Gu Jin Nian's questions, Mrs. Wang shook her head and said,
"The government has provided considerable assistance, and the county's people have taken good care of us. However, my husband once instructed that we should not accept rewards without merit. Now the fertile fields of our home have been given to some villagers; they do not take our silver, and we receive some income each month,"
"The government also arranged my son's enrollment; everything is fine,"
Mrs. Wang spoke, explaining the reasons, and made Gu Jin Nian respect Wang Wei even more, as well as Mrs. Wang.
And at that moment,
a child walked in.
He was about thirteen or fourteen, covered in dust, with some scars on his face, as if he had fought with others outside.
Seeing this, Mrs. Wang immediately rose, her tone slightly reproachful, but she first wiped his wounds and brushed the dust from his body.
Soon, Mrs. Wang, bringing Wang Wei's son, entered.
"Yun'er, come quickly and meet uncle,"
Mrs. Wang said, letting Wang Yun meet Gu Jin Nian.
The child was a bit mischievous; after a glance at Gu Jin Nian, he shouted something casually, then sat at the table to eat, caring little otherwise.
Seeing this, Mrs. Wang felt a little embarrassed and couldn't help speaking.
"Brother, my husband is often busy with official duties and cannot tend to the mischievous child; he may lack proper manners, so please forgive him,"
Mrs. Wang said, though displeased with her son's behavior, she now had only this son, and from the bottom of her heart still loved him.
Seeing this scene,
Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but sigh, then spoke.
"Sister‑in‑law, I have some connection with Da Xia Heaven's Mandate Marquis Gu Jin Nian. If you believe me, after a few days I will discuss with Gu Jin Nian whether we should send Lord Wang's son to the capital for the Heaven's Mandate Marquis to look after, or send him to the Da Xia Academy for proper secluded cultivation,"
He said, speaking thus.
Regarding Wang Wei, Gu Jin Nian felt somewhat indebted; now that only an orphaned child and widowed mother remain, he naturally wished to help.
Hearing this, Mrs. Wang was somewhat surprised.
"This."
If it were other assistance, Mrs. Wang would surely refuse at once, but hearing that she could study alongside Gu Jin Nian or go to Da Xia Academy, as a mother she naturally does not want to refuse; after all, it is the best school in Da Xia.
Who wouldn't hope their son becomes successful? "Please rest assured, Sister-in-law, I have a good relationship with Gu Jin Nian; a few words from me can ensure that your son can go to Da Xia Academy and study well."
Gu Jin Nian spoke.
But Wang Yun at the dining table looked somewhat resentful.
"I won't go."
"Mother, I won't go anywhere."
Obviously, Wang Yun is in a rebellious phase.
"Do not speak recklessly."
Mrs. Wang glared at her son, but he ignored her, set his bowl down, and returned to his room.
Seeing this, Mrs. Wang felt helpless, yet her thoughts remained on Da Xia Academy.
"If my elder brother truly can send Yun'er to Da Xia Academy, I thank you here."
Weighing it briefly, Mrs. Wang hesitated little and agreed outright.
"Alright."
"Sister-in-law, attend to your matters first; I will handle everything, and in a few days the court will send someone."
Gu Jin Nian spoke.
"Thank you, elder brother."
"Your great kindness and virtue, I will never forget; my husband is truly blessed to have a friend like you."
Mrs. Wang became emotional, even about to kneel before Gu Jin Nian.
But Gu Jin Nian stopped her.
Afterwards, Gu Jin Nian ate a few simple bites, performed a brief tribute to Wang Wei, then left.
He went to the capital military camp of Jiangzhong County.
To see his grandfather.
Meeting Grandfather Gu again, Gu Jin Nian behaved as usual.
Grandfather Gu, as always, was overjoyed to see Gu Jin Nian and then took him on a tour of the camp.
"Jin Nian."
"The Alliance is about to be established."
"Will we fight this time or not?"
Grandfather Gu asked, posing the question to Gu Jin Nian.
"Fight."
"The Ministry of Rites has already warned three times now."
"All the warnings have been given; persisting alone will only bring self‑inflicted suffering."
Gu Jin Nian replied, his tone calm but his attitude resolute.
"Alright."
"No wonder you're of the Gu lineage, Jin Nian; Grandfather has a favor to ask of you."
"Later write a memorial strongly recommending that I go into battle, understand?"
Grandfather Gu said.
"Alright."
Gu Jin Nian nodded; he knew his grandfather had long wanted to campaign again, and he would handle it.
Receiving this answer, Grandfather Gu was instantly overjoyed.
He kept Gu Jin Nian in the camp for a day, and the grandfather and grandson talked freely the whole day.
The next day.
Gu Jin Nian set out to leave.
Grandfather Gu did not see him off.
Only after Gu Jin Nian left, within the great camp, this Da Xia iron‑blooded war god was already on the verge of tears.
As Gu Jin Nian's grandfather, could he not sense his grandson's unease? When he met Gu Jin Nian yesterday, he already sensed that Gu Jin Nian had encountered a problem.
But he said nothing, because Gu Jin Nian hadn't told him, not wanting his family to worry.
Now, after Gu Jin Nian left, Grandfather Gu could no longer hold back his emotions and wept alone in the camp.
In this world, nothing is more painful than an old man sending off a young one.
Nevertheless, Grandfather Gu believes.
He believes Gu Jin Nian will surely overcome the difficulty.
Thus.
In the blink of an eye.
Another ten days passed.
Since Heaven's Mandate descended upon the world, the entire Shen Zhou continent has been very calm; except the Immortal Gate, which has been widely accepting disciples, nothing else has occurred.
However, on this day, a piece of news spread from the Wen Palace in Central Continent, once again bringing up the matter of the Jixia Academy.
Why Gu Jin Nian suffered heavenly punishment.
The Wen Palace in Central Continent gave a comprehensive answer: it was Gu Jin Nian's lack of virtue.
The article, sprawling over ten thousand words, dissected why Gu Jin Nian could not become a saint and why he faced heavenly punishment.
Because Gu Jin Nian lacked virtue; the trouble in Jiangning County was not for the people but for his own achievements, to solidify the Gu Family's standing.
The matter of the White Heron Prefecture follows the same principle.
As for the Xiongnu Nation's marriage alliance, it is even more heavily criticized; analyzing the court situation, the status of military generals keeps weakening, and Gu Jin Nian, as the Gu Family heir, must therefore choose war, letting relations between the Da Xia Dynasty and the Xiongnu Nation deteriorate.
In this way, the generals' status will not decline excessively.
Moreover, the Kong Family affair further attacks Gu Jin Nian for lacking virtue, claiming everything he does is self‑serving or driven by some ulterior motive.
After this article was published, Gu Jin Nian was once again thrust into the eye of the storm.
If others said such nonsense, it wouldn't cause much uproar, but since the article came from the Central Continent Wen Palace, people inevitably paid attention.
Facing these doubts, Su Wenjing almost immediately fired back, writing a ten‑thousand‑word essay that explained Gu Jin Nian's actions as being for all the people of the world.
When a sage steps forward, it is naturally distinctive, but it must be said that controversy has already arisen.
As for the Fuyu Dynasty, the Great Jin Dynasty, the Xiongnu Nation, and the various Eastern Wilderness states, they all extol the Central Continent Wen Palace's article; although they do not refute Su Wenjing's piece, they lean more toward the Central Continent.
After all, the alliance formed by the nations makes it clear they are breaking with the Da Xia Dynasty; therefore, whether for political aims or personal jealousy, they naturally will not choose to support Gu Jin Nian.
Wherever there are people, there is the jianghu; many matters of right and wrong cannot be debated.
Because everything has two sides; Su Wenjing is not wrong, and the Central Continent Wen Palace is not wrong either.
At present, the proof is simple: Gu Jin Nian must become a saint; once he does, these rumors will vanish like smoke.
However,
Faced with all this, Gu Jin Nian paid no attention at all.
For him, immersing himself in Dao comprehension is the key.
On this day,
he arrived at Jiang Ning County.
Jiang Ning County had long been tranquil; after the flood disaster ended, the whole nation mobilized to rebuild the homes of its people.
Within Jiang Ning County, every prefecture, county and locale erected a stone statue of Gu Jin Nian.
In Jiang Ning County, Gu Jin Nian's prestige far surpasses anyone in Da Xia Capital, even exceeding saints and sages.
Moreover, the hottest operas in Jiang Ning County are all related to Gu Jin Nian.
Basically they are adaptations of Gu Jin Nian's deeds.
It can be said that in Jiang Ning County, someone who curses the court may only be locked up for a few days; if someone insults the emperor, they receive thirty lashes and three months' imprisonment.
And if anyone dares to call Gu Jin Nian a name, the authorities first imprison them; this is not much suffering, and after they are released, all the common folk will target them—lightly with insults, severely with isolation—making it impossible for them to have any footing.
At this moment,
Jiang Ning County, Tianping Prefecture, Chaolin County.
Gu Jin Nian walked through the streets, his expression calm.
Yet perhaps because his clothes were worn and he had traveled a long way, Gu Jin Nian looked exceedingly weathered.
Suddenly,
a young girl came forward, tugging Gu Jin Nian's sleeve and saying,
"Uncle, my father asks you to come eat."
The girl was childish but unafraid, pulling Gu Jin Nian and speaking thus.
Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian was a bit surprised; he looked in the direction the girl pointed and saw a courtyard where many people were setting a banquet.
At the courtyard entrance, some people held bowls and crouched on the ground to eat.
Others stood at the doorway, beckoning Gu Jin Nian.
This was surprising.
Gu Jin Nian stepped forward, exchanged a few simple words, and learned that someone had just entered into a happy marriage, so a wedding banquet was set, and neighbors had come to celebrate.
The banquet host, seeing Gu Jin Nian dusty and weary, proactively invited him, being generous and kind.
Upon learning the background, Gu Jin Nian gladly accepted the invitation.
Many people, upon seeing Gu Jin Nian, bowed repeatedly, for he looked like a scholar, and the common folk hold sincere respect for scholars.
Gu Jin Nian attended the banquet and enjoyed the festivities with the townsfolk.
Though he brought no gift, Gu Jin Nian wrote a short poem himself, counting as a present.
"Life and death bind us, we make a pact, I take your hand, and we grow old together."
After he set pen to paper, no strange phenomenon occurred, yet the crowd cheered repeatedly, and the banquet host regarded it as a treasure.
They were poor folk, so they naturally valued such a thing greatly.
During the banquet,
Gu Jin Nian held no airs, drinking, feasting, cheering, blending in, feeling immensely relaxed.
Until night fell and the newlyweds entered the bridal chamber.
When the banquet ended, someone brought out a wooden statue, and it was unmistakably his own likeness.
The bride and groom bowed to the wooden statue before they could enter the bridal chamber.
This left Gu Jin Nian feeling both helpless and curious.
After asking around, he learned that this is a custom of Jiang Ning County: whenever a major event is organized—except funerals—after the banquet ends, everyone must bow to the wooden statue.
It expresses respect for Gu Jin Nian and gratitude for his saving Jiang Ning County.
This custom is not limited to this county; the entire Jiang Ning County observes it, though poor families use wooden statues, wealthy families use stone casts, and some even have gold statues.
"Master, you may not know."
"Last year, the flood disaster in our county was how terrible."
"Countless people died in the flood; the surviving common folk fared worse than the dead—without food they ate trees, when trees ran out they ate soil, and some even sold their sons to eat other families' children."
"My wife starved to death on the famine‑escape road."
"I also saw an entire family starve to death on the road."
It's unbearably painful.
If Lord Gu weren't here, I couldn't survive; my son, my daughter, they couldn't survive either.
Even the big fellows find it hard to live.
It was Lord Gu who saved the people of Jiangning County; we simple folk haven't read many books nor understand great principles, but we of Jiangning County know who our benefactor is.
This gratitude, for a hundred years, a thousand years, ten thousand years, we will remember.
Someone spoke up, and when emotion rose, they couldn't stop shedding tears.
Watching this scene, Gu Jin Nian fell silent.
He felt somewhat moved.
An inexplicable stirring.
And after the newlyweds finished their bow, everyone rose to bow as well.
Facing the wooden statue, Gu Jin Nian was a bit silent; as an outsider, he could choose not to bow.
Especially since it was himself.
But Gu Jin Nian still rose and gave a deep bow to the wooden statue.
This bow.
Bowing to his former self.
Without any particular thought.
He also thanked his past self for stepping forward, for choosing to plead for the people's lives.
Later, the newlyweds entered the bridal chamber, and Gu Jin Nian left the place.
He walked alone.
Night deepened and the world grew quiet.
On a solitary mountain.
Gu Jin Nian stood beneath the moon.
A slight cool breeze blew, ruffling his sideburns.
No one looks at the moon with me.
I converse with the breeze about eternity.
The great world is silent.
When the bustle departs and silence strikes, Gu Jin Nian appears especially tranquil.
During this period, he did not contemplate the Sacred Dao.
He only looked back at certain matters.
To see what he had done before.
Now, he is quite satisfied.
Regardless, the outcome is good; he bears no guilt toward the world's living beings nor toward himself.
Yet, he still does not understand.
What is the Sacred Dao?
Having achieved the Three Immortals, why has he not become a saint?
If it is because the Heart School is not his own, then why did the heavens reward his earlier poems and essays? This also puzzles Gu Jin Nian.
He finds it hard to comprehend.
He cannot discern the reason.
For a long while.
When daylight brightened.
Gu Jin Nian set out again.
Thus.
The first month ended just like that.
With the month's end, the Heavenly Earth Sacred Seal within Gu Jin Nian released thunderous power.
Gu Jin Nian felt a slight decline, a backlash.
Meanwhile.
Da Xia Dynasty.
A dragon's roar sounded.
It was Da Xia's National Fortune Golden Dragon.
A five‑thousand‑zhang National Fortune Golden Dragon rose, astonishing countless people who did not know what had happened.
Then they saw this National Fortune Golden Dragon shrink in an instant, as if affected.
People could not understand why the National Fortune Golden Dragon, once fine, had declined.
Soon.
Various reports emerged.
Truth and falsehood intertwined.
Only, an article from Zhongzhou Wen Palace resurfaced; due to Da Xia's national fortune, the piece briefly garnered much support.
Earlier, some wavering individuals, with Da Xia's national fortune's decline, further endorsed the article's authenticity.
Although Su Wenjing spoke again, even as a saint he could not clarify the matter, and ultimately failed to gain more support.
But, not even two days passed.
Two events, in an instant, attracted countless eyes.
The first matter: a tsunami occurred in the East Sea, with thousand-zhang-high waves and a dragon-sucking-water phenomenon, many fishermen died; more importantly, the fishing boats that went out to sea were those of the Da Xia Dynasty, the Fuyu Dynasty, and the Great Jin Dynasty.
They actually had no catch at all; normally, even if going out to sea was unfavorable, they would at least get some fish and shrimp, but in the past four or five days, they simply couldn't catch any fish.
This matter, all the dynasties sent people to investigate.
Suspected to be caused by an undersea volcanic eruption, because the surrounding coastal areas felt tremors; fortunately, the tremors were not particularly serious, only noticeable.
The second matter.
In Fuyu Dynasty's Puyuan Mountain, a great change occurred: a strand of Heaven's Mandate surged out from the mountain body, condensing into seven-colored light that enveloped the mountain.
People learned that the Heaven's Mandate had changed, nurturing a treasure.
Someone outside Puyuan Mountain saw an ancient tree, on which grew many seven-colored fruits.
All kinds of rumors and hearsay circulated, saying that consuming these seven-colored fruits could grant one the Dao and immortality.
The Fuyu Dynasty immediately dispatched troops to guard it.
Meanwhile, the various immortal sects directly took action.
However, inside Puyuan Mountain there is a mysterious formation blocking people's advance.
These two matters caused a great uproar, to the extent that no one paid attention to Gu Jin Nian's matter.
After all, whether it's true or false is itself debatable, but these two matters are different: the ocean has changed, involving many people's interests, and the astonishing change at Puyuan Mountain even more so represents the advent of the great era.
Thus.
In the blink of an eye, half a month passed.
During this half month, one thing after another occurred.
From Fuyu Dynasty's Puyuan Mountain came a harsh sound; unknown what creature it was, but within the seven-colored light, a winged demonic beast's phantom could indeed be seen.
The seven-colored ancient tree was also confirmed to exist; its medicinal fragrance spread for thousands of li, attracting much attention.
And in the Great Jin Dynasty, Pan Mountain also changed: the ancient mountain body was shrouded in thunder and lightning, turning into a thunderous zone, and a low, eerie sound startled the Great Jin Dynasty.
The Xiongnu State also had a mountain undergo metamorphosis, named Tianqi Mountain; unlike the changes of the previous two mountains, inside Tianqi Mountain black and white enveloped the mountain, containing the aura of the Dao, and a huge yin-yang taiji diagram also appeared above the mountain, appearing marvelous.
Everyone knows this is an omen of the advent of the great era.
In every ancient mountain, a treasure is nurtured.
All the immortal sects under heaven were eager to act; even the Zhongzhou Dynasty could not refrain, dispatching experts to contend with them.
Puyuan Mountain, Pan Mountain, Tianqi Mountain.
They became the matters people cared about most.
Likewise, over this half month, the sea's problem remained unsolved; for half a month, fishermen caught not a single fish or shrimp, which is highly unusual, and moreover, the Four Seas have been under extreme weather—thunderstorms, dragon-sucking-water, shocking sea waves, and even finally sea holes appeared.
These things all portend the advent of the great era.
There are auspicious signs, and also strange and frightening ones.
Some believe that the sea also hides extraordinary treasures; the strange events occurring at sea now are actually nurturing treasures, about to emerge.
This news has gained widespread acceptance.
However, whether it is Puyuan Mountain, Pan Mountain, Tianqi Mountain, or the sea.
Apart from these strange occurrences, there is otherwise no movement at all; the three ancient mountains have heavenly-earthly formations blocking people from entering.
Initially it attracted countless gazes, but after waiting half a month with no movement at all, the enthusiasm also waned considerably.
But after several dozen days passed, a piece of news completely drew the attention of everyone under heaven.
That is Gu Jin Nian's matter.
The Da Xia Dynasty's national fortune Golden Dragon has declined to a True Dragon; although it still has a body of ten thousand zhang, it is no longer a five-clawed golden dragon.
The national fortune has declined by at least one-third.
This matter has become the current focus of everyone under heaven.
Previously it had declined once, already sparking controversy; now the decline is too terrifying, falling from Golden Dragon to True Dragon.
This matter has caused the Da Xia Dynasty as a whole to feel some panic.
Suddenly becoming like this must be unrelated to court affairs, because the court has done nothing recently.
Therefore everyone knows that the decline of national fortune is closely related to Gu Jin Nian, after all Gu Jin Nian is bound up with the Da Xia Dynasty's national fortune.
But what truly caused an uproar is not this, but a piece of news that was spread; no one knows who released it, but it indeed received recognition from all sides.
That is Gu Jin Nian's days are numbered.
Following the Great Jin Dynasty's Heaven Surveillance Bureau's immediate agreement with this view, otherwise the Da Xia Dynasty's national fortune could not have declined so terribly.
With the Great Jin Dynasty's Heaven Surveillance Bureau's approval, the Zhongzhou Wen Palace again sent out a sound.
Inform the world that Gu Jin Nian's Saint's Punishment has not ended, and Su Wenjing did not defy heaven to change his fate; she merely delayed it.
The reason the thunder penalty was withdrawn is because Su Wenjing became a saint, and heaven and earth gave her a bit of face.
Now, Gu Jin Nian will likely perish in the near future, perhaps in a few months.
This can also explain why the Da Xia Dynasty's national fortune is declining.
Of course, this is the conjecture of the Zhongzhou Wen Palace.
Therefore, all eyes are gathered on Su Wenjing, hoping to obtain an answer.
Faced with this matter, Su Wenjing gave no answer.
But intangibly, this further confirmed the truth of the matter.
Gu Jin Nian is about to die.
This matter is even more astonishing than a great change of heaven and earth.
After all, over the past two years, the most famous person on the Divine Province Continent is Gu Jin Nian.
It can be said that nobody is unaware, nobody is uninformed.
Heaven's Mandate has descended, the great era's struggle—almost seventy percent of people are optimistic about Gu Jin Nian, believing he is very likely to be the ultimate victor in this Heaven's Mandate struggle.
No one expected that the great era's conflict had just begun, and Gu Jin Nian would die? This is hard for everyone to accept.
Therefore, during this period, people no longer paid attention to other matters, focusing entirely on Gu Jin Nian.
However, no one knew where Gu Jin Nian was; although there were some rumors, most could not be verified.
But one thing can be sensed.
That is, the fortune of the Da Xia Dynasty is indeed declining each day.
This foretells that Gu Jin Nian has indeed encountered a major incident.
And Su Wenjing cannot explain it.
This makes the matter seem increasingly real, giving rise to many rumors.
But the happiest are the Xiongnu State.
The person they hate most is about to fall—how could this not be a good thing? The Immortal Gate and Buddhist Gate even let out a long sigh of relief, though they said nothing more, instead focusing entirely on dealing with the great change at Puyuan Mountain.
Seizing the initiative in the great era.
And at this very moment.
The border of Da Xia.
Gu Jin Nian's silhouette appeared among the mountains.
Indeed.
He suffered a backlash from the Heaven and Earth Sacred Seal.
His life is declining.
In two months, Gu Jin Nian managed to let go of everything.
He visited many places in the Da Xia Dynasty.
Now he has chosen to come to the border to view the rivers and mountains of Da Xia.
"Adversity is the best whetstone."
Within the mountains.
Gu Jin Nian sat cross-legged.
He contemplated the first realm of heart learning.
Now he himself is in adversity, using adversity as the whetstone.
And his state of mind had reached unity of heaven and man, without fear of death or fear of the future.
This is the second realm; whether things go smoothly or badly, good or bad, depends on the state of mind.
Traveling along the way, he went to Jiangzhong Commandery, Jiangning Commandery, Bailu Prefecture one after another, establishing righteous intent and walking the righteous path.
Two months of insight allowed Gu Jin Nian to vaguely grasp the pattern, the natural pattern.
Survival and extinction, everything follows the natural way; no one can be eternal, yet there will always be someone alive.
The foundation of learning is the way of transmission.
The foundation of the Confucian Dao is also transmission.
Gu Jin Nian stood on the mountains, gazing into the distance; his thoughts underwent a great transformation.
Looking back at these two years, his own actions, Gu Jin Nian believed he had lived as himself, not bowing to power, not yielding to profit.
Directly pointing at the problem in order to solve it.
Right now it is the seventh realm: keep a pure heart, do pure deeds.
The biggest problem facing Gu Jin Nian is one.
That is, the Heavenly Dao does not acknowledge it.
Although Gu Jin Nian cannot be entirely certain that the Heavenly Dao is so because all his learning comes from others, the information currently given is precisely this.
But if one carefully recalls, the initial heavenly and earthly omens proved that heaven and earth acknowledged him, all the way until he was about to become a sage, when they gave an obstacle.
This is quite strange.
If it were not acknowledged, it should have been so from the start; why wait until now? At the time there was no time to think, so he thought heaven and earth were targeting him.
But now, upon careful reflection, Gu Jin Nian faintly feels this is a trial, of course this is merely his current thought, self-consolation.
"No matter what."
"Wanting to truly comprehend the sage's way."
"Now only this method can be relied upon."
Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth; as he spoke, he took out the Great Dao to Sainthood Chart.
This was a divine object bestowed upon him by heaven and earth during the Da Xia heavenly disaster.
In the Half Saint Realm, one can use the Great Dao to Sainthood Chart to clearly comprehend the sage's way.
Earlier, when mentioning this Great Dao to Sainthood Chart to Mr. Wenjing, according to Mr. Wenjing's words, the chart very likely records the sage's path to sainthood; one can contemplate it to gain a clearer understanding of what the sage's way is.
In other words, this Great Dao to Sainthood Chart will let one relive the sage's path.
Thinking of this.
Gu Jin Nian infused his vast and righteous qi into it; having previously reached the Half Saint Realm, he could thus activate the Great Dao to Sainthood Chart.
Whether there is danger, Gu Jin Nian does not care; at the very least, he now has no chance at all.
As the vast and righteous qi was infused into it.
In an instant, the Great Dao to Sainthood Chart emitted a strange light; afterward, Gu Jin Nian's silhouette vanished, sucked into the ancient chart.
Dim.
No light.
Heavy.
No divinity.
Gu Jin Nian's consciousness faded bit by bit.
He felt like he was drowning.
This feeling was very unpleasant.
Consciousness was suppressed, as if in a dream, there was some awareness, but not much.
Memory was also gradually fading.
Just as Gu Jin Nian's consciousness was about to be completely worn away.
Suddenly.
A mass of firelight appeared in his vision.
Then, accompanied by intense heat.
Indescribable intense heat.
He opened his eyes.
It was a mountain fire, an incredibly terrifying mountain fire.
East Forest Commandery.
Gu Jin Nian immediately knew this was East Forest Commandery.
Among the mountains and forests.
Hundreds of soldiers had disheveled hair and dirty faces, their palms covered in grime, eyes bloodshot, looking extremely exhausted, with a piece of long cloth covering their faces.
These were Da Xia soldiers, currently fighting the fire.
They stood outside the firebreak.
And several hundred zhang away, the raging mountain fire was terrifying to the extreme, like a man-eating fierce beast.
Soon, dozens of figures emerged, having walked out of the mountain fire, their bodies smoking, their eyebrows almost burned off.
If not for them all wearing water cloths, their fate would have been even worse.
""Report.""
""Commander of a Hundred, there are still over a hundred civilians trapped inside, with a distance of over three hundred bu.""
""The fire has already spread, it's impossible to save, right now the mountain fire is intense, Sir, we should leave quickly, otherwise when the fire reaches us, we won't be able to escape.""
A soldier who had come out of the mountains and forests, with a grief-stricken face, spoke.
They were the soldiers responsible for rescuing civilians; after searching the mountains for seven days, they finally found some survivors, but they didn't expect to encounter the mountain fire just then, only managing to save a small number, while the majority were beyond help.
Now the mountain fire has already ignited, although it hasn't fully spread yet, but we can't rescue any further.
If we try to rescue further, they might also perish here.
Upon hearing this.
The Mountain Character Battalion's hundreds of soldiers remained silent, all looking toward Commander Wang Fu.
""Commander of a Hundred, shall we leave? After all, no one knows.""
""Yes, no one knows; we might as well leave. The civilians we just rescued have already run down the mountain; they don't know if anyone remains inside, and no one will know.""
Several voices sounded, those of some soldiers.
People fear death; this is understandable.
Especially when facing a fire.
Wang Fu did not blame them, merely gazing at the mountain fire and taking a deep breath.
""We, as Da Xia soldiers.""
""Now that heavenly disaster has struck and the nation is in peril, the court has sent us here precisely to rescue the civilians.""
""Now, knowing that civilians are suffering greatly, how could we stand by and not save them?""
Wang Fu spoke, his gaze firm, looking at everyone present.
""Commander of a Hundred.""
""It's not that the brothers don't want to rescue; the main issue is that people will die.""
""This is a mountain fire!""
""Sir, if we go in, let alone whether we can rescue the civilians, whether we can come back alive is a problem.""
""Civilians' lives are lives; are our lives not lives?""
Someone spoke up, advising Wang Fu.
However, his gaze instantly changed, becoming extremely sharp.
""What you say is correct; our lives are also lives.""
""But civilians' lives are more important.""We, as Da Xia soldiers, are military personnel, are soldiers."
""Even faced with life and death, we absolutely do not shrink back.""
""Mountain Character Battalion, hear the order!""
""Don the water cloths and follow me inside.""
""Spare no effort to rescue the civilians.""
""Life entails death; to die in the right place, what further regret could there be?""
""If there are those who are fearful,""
""I will not blame you.""
Wang Fu's voice sounded.
After saying this, he directly rolled up a layer of water cloth, soaked it in the turbid water source, then draped it over himself and walked straight toward the mountain fire ahead.
Having finished his words, he proceeded to fight the fire; as for anyone who wanted to flee, he could not control it, nor could he manage it.
After all, further delay would only cause more trouble, so whether to rescue or not is entirely up to the individual.
Seeing this scene, some soldiers fell silent.
But some also took a deep breath, picked up a roll of waterproof cloth, and walked toward the rear; some fear death, which is normal.
But watching Wang Fu's behavior, some soldiers couldn't help but let out a long sigh.
They picked up the water cloth, dragging their weary bodies, and walked inward.
The mountain fire was fierce.
From afar, it looked like a man-eating beast.
Thick black smoke blanketed the sky, scarlet and terrifying.
But facing such a horrifying scene.
Dozens of people, without any fear.
Some stepped a little quicker, some walked wearily, yet these people's steps were extremely resolute.
"Don't go."
"This is a dead end."
"Only by surviving can we follow the king's way."
"Old Black, what are you doing? You still have a child at home; if you die, what will your family do?"
Some voices rose, urging others to flee.
Yet, for unknown reasons, most people ignored them; they might be tired, fearful, or afraid.
But their steps were extraordinarily resolute.
This left the soldiers who wanted to flee standing in place, not knowing what to say.
Soon.
Roar after roar sounded.
These soldiers charged into the mountain fire.
Their figures vanished.
But shortly after, figures rushed out quickly from within the mountain fire.
They were the soldiers of the Mountain Character Battalion.
They brought the civilians out; to protect the civilians, the soldiers wrapped water cloth around them, enduring the flames themselves, and with terrifying willpower escaped.
But.
As soon as they emerged, they immediately turned back.
Especially Wang Fu.
His gaze was firm and terrifying.
Faced with the raging fire, he had not the slightest fear.
At this moment.
Those indifferent and hesitant soldiers each let out a bitter laugh.
They walked toward the mountain fire.
"Hahahaha."
"Wang Fu, I fuck your mother."
"You really think you're something?"
"You're just a centurion; you think saving so many people will get you promoted?"
"Why do you have to save them?"
"Aren't our lives also lives?"
"In the Donglin Commandery fire, people burn to death every day; how many can you save?"
"I fuck your mother."
Someone shouted loudly, burst out laughing; he had already fled, crossed the firebreak, but upon seeing Wang Fu's actions, he couldn't help but laugh loudly.
Laughing and laughing, tears streamed from his eyes as he loudly cursed Wang Fu.
He was a provisional centurion, rank just below Wang Fu.
Around him were a dozen or so people, all preparing to flee.
The next moment.
He once again crossed the firebreak, donned the water cloth, gritted his teeth, and charged into the forest.
Flames!
Scorching hot beyond compare!
Pain!
Piercing to the heart, drilling into the bones!
Yet the fear in his heart, along with the fire, was burned away together.
"Brothers."
"Save the people."
As he plunged into the forest, his roar rang out.
In an instant, the soldiers who had planned to flee with him fell silent, one by one.
Their eyes were fearful.
Yet they still donned the water cloth.
Their steps were slow.
Yet they still walked into the mountain fire.
Figures appeared one after another.
Figures entered one after another.
What they received were the trapped civilians, one after another.
Just that.
Fearlessness alone cannot bring miracles.
Someone still died.
They died there.
The fire raged, and tragic screams rang out.
But still, not a single soldier chose to flee.
They were like machines, utterly numb.
Their eyes no longer held any fear.
Their minds were exhausted.
Faced with the raging flames, the rescued civilians had no time to feel gratitude; they could only run down the mountain.
But there was a group who had to go against the current.
They were someone else's children.
They were also someone else's husbands.
They were also someone else's fathers.
But they.
They were even more, soldiers.
They were even more, warriors.
Defending home and country.
In times of national peril, they are never late nor absent.
Figures fell one after another beneath the mountain fire.
Until the fire spread.
No one came out anymore.
There was no miracle.
Gu Jin Nian stared blankly at all of this.
He remained silent.
He knew that East Forest Commandery had sacrificed many people, but he had not expected it to be so tragic.
But it was quick.
The next moment.
The surrounding scenery changed rapidly.
Boom—boom—boom.
It was a mountain flood.
The terrifying mountain flood poured down, filling people with fear.
A long river appeared before everyone.
Masses of civilians panicked, for the bridge had broken and they could not cross it.
If the mountain flood were to pour down.
They would surely die.
But at that very moment, a voice rang out.
"All troops, listen to the order!"
"Enter the water!"
"Use people as a bridge."
"Let the civilians cross the bridge."
As this voice sounded.
On a warhorse, a deputy general shed his armor, plunged straight into the water; he said nothing more, went directly to the center of the broken bridge, and forcibly propped up the broken timber.
In an instant.
Soldiers one by one took off their armor and jumped into the water.
The river was icy cold, piercing to the bone.
Yet not a single soldier felt fear; from the moment they entered the water, their eyes held only one thing.
Protect the civilians.
"Go!"
When the bridge was propped up, someone spoke, letting the civilians cross.
In a moment, masses of civilians stepped onto the broken bridge; when they reached the middle, the leading civilians wept uncontrollably, hesitating to go further.
Because beneath their feet.
It was not the broken timber.
Nor was it the bridge.
But it was human hands.
Hands opened, forming a bridge.
They almost used their own lives to exchange for others' lives.
Run!
A roar sounded.
The leading civilians no longer hesitated; they stepped on the palms, and after crossing the bridge, they could not help but burst into loud weeping.
Some civilians even knelt on the ground, kowtowing toward them.
Soon.
A large number of civilians left, and the terrifying flood was fast approaching.
Boom— boom— The sound of the flood pouring down grew ever closer; even if they left now, there was still a sliver of hope.
But another group of civilians did not leave.
Not a single soldier fled.
Even with the flood right before their eyes, they remained unmoved.
Beneath the river.
Someone closed their eyes.
Among the crowd, some also lay in eternal rest here.
The soldiers clung tightly, their wills steadfast, surpassing all.
After the civilians had completely left, the terrifying flood had already appeared before their eyes.
There was no escaping.
Almost no one survived.
Faced with this scene, the flank general who entered the water first nevertheless let out a loud laugh.
"Brothers."
"Do you not regret enlisting?"
He laughed as he asked.
Then, a resonant voice rang out in unison.
"No regret."
Upon receiving the answer, the flank general's laughter grew louder.
"Good."
"In the next life, we'll still be brothers."
"I'll lead the horses for you."
The flank general's voice rang out, drawing a burst of laughter.
But soon.
The terrifying flood submerged them all.
No survivors.
Underwater.
Only cold corpses remained.
Soon.
The scene changed once again.
It was Longxi Commandery.
In a ruin, thousands of soldiers moved huge stones away.
By some means, they confirmed that there were still living people beneath the ruin.
Therefore.
The soldiers had gone seventeen double-hours without closing their eyes, their hands stained with blood, constantly digging.
This place was originally a school.
After seventeen double-hours of effort, they rescued more than thirty children.
After another half double-hour passed.
As a huge stone was moved aside.
A scene that no one could forget appeared before everyone's eyes.
Beneath the ruin.
Was an old man.
He arched his body, hands braced on the ground, already stiff in death; this was a teacher.
Beneath him, a child lay unconscious, yet alive.
Everyone stared in shock at all this.
One scene after another.
Gu Jin Nian watched all this, his heart deeply moved.
Next.
He saw a student who had studied bitterly for ten years in a cold window; only after attaining top rank did he learn that his mother had already died of illness and even been buried, and, lest it disturb his exam preparations, she had, before her death, charged the neighbors to inform him only after the examinations.
He saw a teacher who took no money, ran a private school, educated children, enlightened wisdom; later, attending a celebration of classmates' promotions, he gained the opportunity to go abroad together to serve as an official, but ultimately chose to give it up and continue teaching children.
He saw an official who coughed up blood yet concealed his condition, going out each morning to handle affairs, returning late at night, writing until he finally died at his desk, eternally at rest.
He further saw a princess of a state, for the sake of national righteousness, marry far away to a distance of ten thousand li.
He also saw a ruler of a state, when the country fell and rivers and mountains were lost, hang himself, leaving a last will admitting all faults, hoping the enemy would spare the people.
He also saw an impoverished scholar who failed the exams, copied books to earn petty silver, and then donated it to other suffering people.
These scenes.
It let Gu Jin Nian seem to have realized something.
But just then.
All the scenes completely disappeared.
Darkness took its place.
Endless darkness.
Darkness as ancient as myriad ages.
"Gu Jin Nian."
"Do you know, what you just saw, that scene conforms to the sage's Way."
At this moment, an aged voice sounded.
It was Confucius's voice.
It came from ancient times.
As Confucius posed the question, Gu Jin Nian could not help but fall silent.
Did the scenes just seen contain the experiences of the sage? This was something he had not thought of.
"You only have one chance to answer."
"If you answer correctly, you will comprehend the sage's Way."
"If you answer incorrectly, you will be cut off from the world, forever trapped here."
Confucius's voice sounded again.
It formed an intangible pressure.
Answer correctly, and you can comprehend the sage's Way.
Answer incorrectly, and you will be cut off from the world, forever trapped here.
This indeed makes people feel deep pressure.
Gu Jin Nian took a deep breath.
He closed his eyes.
He recalled all the scenes just seen.
Just now there were over a hundred stories.
Seek out the sage's experiences.
This is indeed difficult.
But when Gu Jin Nian had recalled it all.
He slowly opened his eyes.
His gaze appeared especially calm.
"Reply to Confucius."
"The student believes."
"What was just seen all conforms to the sage's Way."
This was Gu Jin Nian's answer.
"Why?"
Confucius's voice sounded again, without telling Gu Jin Nian whether he was right or wrong.
"Knowing good and knowing evil is conscience."
"Doing good and eliminating evil is the investigation of things."
"This is the sage's Way."
Gu Jin Nian spoke, having grasped the core of these two sentences; at this moment he also grasped the Way of Heart Learning.
Unity of knowledge and action, achieving conscience.
Wang Fu knew it was a dead end, yet he sacrificed his life for the people.
The mountain fire was fierce, yet it could not burn out the goodness in people's hearts.
The soldiers of Southern Yue Commandery used their hands as a bridge, upholding the goodness in their hearts.
The Master of Longxi Commandery, with his own life, protected the students and guarded the goodness in their hearts.
Facing death, the mother did not fear, but feared affecting her own child.
This is goodness.
The impoverished Master, having obtained an opportunity, remained unmoved, still focusing on educating children.
This is goodness.
All of everything.
All is goodness.
Perhaps there is also not a little evil in this world.
But Gu Jin Nian, at this moment, has already comprehended good and evil.
"A few months ago, I traveled mountains and rivers, and I saw the evil of the mortal world."
"At that moment, I was curious: with so much evil between heaven and earth, how should I resolve it?"
"Even if my personal strength were as strong as possible, I could not resolve all the evil of the mortal world."
"But now I understand."
"Evil cannot attain resonance."
"Goodness, however, can infect the world."
"Wang Fu's goodness, the people he saved, who harbor good thoughts, although he has died, his goodness remains."
"The kindness of the Nanyue Commandery soldiers—those pairs of hands—support not just a bridge, but the bridge of kindness in every person's heart."
"What the Master of Longxi Commandery protects is not children, but his own kindness."
"One person's kindness, like a ray of light, infects everyone."
"Evil only makes people loathe."
"Therefore, scholars should spread kindness."
"To set one's heart for heaven and earth."
Gu Jin Nian's voice sounded; he spoke his realization, informing Confucius.
When his voice fell.
Figures appeared one after another before him.
Soldiers of the Mountain Character Camp, soldiers of Nanyue Commandery, soldiers of Longxi Commandery, masters, women, princesses, officials, emperors, all kinds of people appeared.
At this moment.
Their bodies were suffused with light, piercing this ancient darkness.
"Gu Jin Nian."
"You have attained great enlightenment."
"The doubts in your heart have been resolved."
"This trial comes from your inner self."
"You have discerned good and evil, and can prove the sage's path."
"Heaven and earth will play music for you."
"Sun and moon will shine forth for you."
"The sages of past and present walk with you."
At this time.
Confucius's voice sounded, carrying a smile.
The next moment.
The fierce light drove away this darkness completely.
Eastern Wilderness.
Da Xia Border.
Among the mountains and rivers.
Boom! A bundle of fierce, terrifying light burst forth from within Gu Jin Nian.
This light.
Piercing the ancient darkness.
Heaven and earth trembled instantly at this moment.
Boom boom boom! Boom boom boom! The sun and moon trembled wildly at this moment.
Bundles of terrifying light shone around Gu Jin Nian at this moment.
The next moment, the sun and moon hung in the sky.
In the universe.
Stars erupted with billions of divine light, transcending time and space, gathering within the mountains.
A terrifying aura, from this mountain range, instantly swept across the entire Divine Continent.
Only a single moment.
The Divine Continent instantly boiled.
The first to boil was the Da Xia Dynasty.
"Has someone become a sage?"
"Again, someone has become a sage?"
"Who is becoming a sage?"
"Gu Jin Nian! Gu Jin Nian! It must be Gu Jin Nian!"
A shocking voice sounded; people hadn't expected that someone had become a sage not long ago, and now, after only a short while, someone has become a sage again?
Countless people wondered who had become a sage, but soon someone spoke the truth, stating the only possibility.
Gu Jin Nian.
In the entire world, only Gu Jin Nian has the chance to become a sage.
Da Xia Academy.
When the sage's aura arrived, Su Wenjing's expression changed instantly.
"Jin Nian has become a sage."
"Jin Nian has truly become a sage."
Su Wenjing was overjoyed; he clenched his fists excitedly, having worried about Gu Jin Nian all this time.
Although he believed in Gu Jin Nian, he was still afraid.
Now, his hanging heart finally settled completely.
Soon, Su Wenjing took a deep breath, his smile radiant, walked out of the academy, and then spoke using the sage's way.
"Congratulations to my disciple, the Da Xia Heaven's Mandate Marquis, on becoming a sage."
Su Wenjing's voice sounded.
He did it intentionally.
These days, the Central Province Wen Palace has been criticizing Gu Jin Nian, but now he can finally give them a resounding slap in the face.
Aren't they saying my disciple's morality is no good?
Aren't they saying my disciple's learning is theft?
Isn't it said my disciple is the behind-the-scenes black hand? Now that he has become a sage, who dares to say another word? All rumors collapse on their own.
Satisfying.
This is damn satisfying.
But as soon as Su Wenjing spoke, the entire Da Xia Capital instantly erupted.
Inside the imperial palace.
The crown prince and civil and military officials were stunned, frozen in place, then immediately burst into joyful cheers.
In the end, the crown prince let out a loud, excited shout.
Quickly draft an edict: exempt the Da Xia Dynasty from grain taxes for one year, set today as the Da Xia Holy Celebration, and have the Ministry of Rites arrange it at once.
The crown prince was so excited his scalp went numb; at this critical moment, Gu Jin Nian's becoming a sage is simply a wonderful thing for the Da Xia Dynasty.
This is tremendous good news!
Soon, the Qin Prince's mansion also heard hearty laughter.
At the Zhenguo Gong's mansion, at this moment, everyone from top to bottom rejoiced and leapt with joy; Gu Jin Nian's mother was even overjoyed to tears.
Soon after, a large crowd rushed to the Zhenguo Gong's mansion, carrying cartloads of gifts, hurrying to offer congratulations as quickly as possible.
The Da Xia Dynasty.
Countless scholars and Confucianists were utterly shocked.
The human race has produced two sages in succession—what a glorious age! 'The flourishing of Confucianism and Dao!'
'The flourishing of Confucianism and Dao!'
The sound of uproar rose, and the entire Da Xia Dynasty was in an uproar.
The Xiongnu State.
The Xiongnu king stood dumbfounded, and the Confucians behind him were even more bewildered.
Gu Jin Nian's becoming a sage is, to them, simply shocking bad news.
They no longer know what to say.
The Fuyu Dynasty.
The two emperors stared in shock, standing outside the palace, gazing at this terrifying heavenly phenomenon, silent and speechless.
'The Da Xia Dynasty has produced two sages in succession.'
'This'
They were speechless, their eyes filled with shock.
The Great Jin Dynasty.
The Great Jin emperor's face was ashen; all his ambitions and aspirations were nearly wiped out at this moment.
All under heaven were hearing rumors that Gu Jin Nian might not have long to live.
But now.
Yet no one expected that Gu Jin Nian would actually become a sage.
This is simply a two-level reversal!
'Heaven blesses Da Xia!'
'I am unwilling!'
The Great Jin emperor gritted his teeth, unwilling.
The Zhongzhou Dynasty.
After hearing Su Wenjing's voice, the Zhongzhou great emperor was somewhat silent, but ultimately he said nothing and continued to quietly read his books.
Inside the imperial palace.
Guigu Mister gazed at the Da Xia Dynasty, looking at this terrifying heavenly phenomenon, his eyes also showing a hint of apprehension.
The second sage.
This meaning is completely different.
The Zhongzhou Wen Palace.
Chang Yun Tian stared blankly at all of this.
His inner pride.
His inner arrogance.
At this moment, it was completely shattered by Gu Jin Nian.
Gu Jin Nian actually became a sage.
At this moment, he couldn't help but recall the words he once said to Gu Jin Nian.
If they meet again, they will no longer be on the same level.
Now this statement has come true—only that he can't keep up with Gu Jin Nian.
'This is impossible.'
'How can he become a sage? Isn't he supposed to be dying?'
Chang Yun Tian spoke, his body trembling, unable to believe and unwilling to believe.
But no matter how angry he gets, the fact is already set.
And at the same time.
At the foot of Puyuan Mountain.
The Shangqing Daoist's face showed astonishment; he could hardly believe it, gazing toward the Da Xia Dynasty.
He was deeply astonished.
He didn't know what to say.
"Isn't it a person on the verge of death?"
"Why can they still become a saint?"
"Da Xia, two saints were born; isn't Heaven's Mandate bestowed upon my sect?"
"Why does my sect have only a single Seventh Realm cultivator, and that cultivator is in extreme decline, yet Gu Jin Nian and Su Wenjing both become saints—what on earth is this?"
The Shangqing Daoist's breathing rose and fell dramatically.
But at that moment, abruptly, Puyuan Mountain erupted, light shot skyward, and the formation was affected.
In an instant, the Shangqing Daoist immediately turned his attention to Puyuan Mountain.
His only hope now is Puyuan Mountain.
And the far north.
Inside the Ice Palace.
The Great Dao Prefecture Head, looking toward the Da Xia Dynasty, remained silent.
"Gu Jin Nian has become a saint."
"We can attempt to seek reconciliation."
"And cooperate together."
Finally, his voice rang out.
And the Da Xia border.
Endless light bathed the area.
The eternal darkness was illuminated by golden light.
Between heaven and earth, clusters of auspicious clouds rose, and beneath his feet, ten thousand li sprouted countless Golden Lotus.
Streams of Golden Dragon and Golden Phoenix appeared.
Celestial music rang out in waves.
Heaven and earth played music for it.
Sun and moon placed crowns upon it.
Stars burst forth with light.
Between mountains and rivers, flowers bloomed as if congratulating Gu Jin Nian's sainthood.
The aura of a saint.
Permeated everything in the world.
A great path appeared before Gu Jin Nian.
This scene reflected the entire Shen Zhou continent.
Everyone could see it.
Within the golden great way, one figure after another emerged.
They were ancient saints and sages.
Their faces full of smiles, they came to congratulate Gu Jin Nian's sainthood.
"Saints and sages of past and present, celebrate him."
"The Time River evolves and traverses all."
"Gu Jin Nian's sainthood is far stronger than Su Wenjing's."
Someone was utterly astonished, pointing at the scene, and said:
"Heaven and earth play music for it."
"Sun and moon place crowns upon it."
"The constellations shine for it."
"All saints and sages come to celebrate; what kind of person can receive such a blessing?"
"Honestly, I feel this is not sainthood; it seems like a proof of the Dao—Heaven's Mandate."
A Half Saint spoke, dazed and bewildered.
"To be frank, the celestial signs still depend on Gu Jin Nian; Su Wenjing's sainthood never had such a grand display."
People forced a wry smile, but it was the truth.
Indeed, compared with Su Wenjing's sainthood scene, Gu Jin Nian's sainthood was utterly distinct.
Surpassing all saints of past and present.
Perhaps even the proof of the Dao—Heaven's Mandate—is no more than this.
Beneath the radiance.
Gu Jin Nian closed his eyes, perceiving the meaning of a saint.
The Heavenly and Earthly Saint Seal within his body vanished at that moment.
In its place, a Heaven's Mandate Saint Seal settled on Gu Jin Nian's forehead.
Stepping onto the saint realm.
All things previously incomprehensible suddenly became clear.
The meaning of heaven and earth let him comprehend many truths.
At this moment, he understood why, in recent days, he had faced such a great tribulation.
It was not because his teachings were borrowed from others.
Rather, because at the very beginning he had sown evil intent.
This is karmic obstruction.
When I went to the Jixia Academy, I was trapped by evil and fell into great confusion, not knowing how to answer.
Later, I spoke of the Heart Doctrine, received Heaven and Earth's approval, and thus attained Half Saint.
But because of the confusion in my heart, Heaven and Earth bestowed this tribulation.
A predicament.
It is the finest honing.
All of this is the heavens' honing, not truly a wish for my death.
Unclear and incomprehensible.
One cannot become a saint; even if one does, it is only through Heaven and Earth's empowerment, not one's own ability.
Now.
My becoming a saint is because I have realized the true essence of good and evil.
And I have fully comprehended the Heart Doctrine.
The way of the Heart Doctrine varies per person; any Heart Doctrine rooted in benevolent thought counts as enlightenment.
Each person is a thousand faces.
No discipline can have only one answer.
What suits oneself is the right path.
Enlightened to all.
Gu Jin Nian's inner shackles also, at this moment, are completely released.
"The teachings of the ancient sages."
"Upon me."
"Inheritance is the foundation of Confucianism and Daoism."
"To spread the teachings of our predecessors to future generations—that is the essence of learning."
"To inherit the lost teachings of past saints."
All of everything.
Gu Jin Nian has already let go.
At this moment.
He will follow what he once said.
To establish the heart for Heaven and Earth.
To set destiny for the living people.
To inherit the lost teachings of past saints.
To usher in peace for ten thousand generations.
That is all.
And at this very moment.
On the Golden Avenue, these ancient sages clasped their hands in salute, except for the four Heaven's Mandate Saints.
The others also performed the salute.
"Congratulations on becoming a saint."
A vast voice rang out.
It spread across the Shenzhou Continent.
"Student Gu Jin Nian."
"Thank you, esteemed sages."
Gu Jin Nian spoke, and he performed a grand bow toward these saints and sages.
Then.
Gu Jin Nian's gaze was steadfast, he sat cross‑legged, his resonant voice echoed across the Shenzhou Continent.
"I am Gu Jin Nian, today I certify the saint's path, wishing to spread the saints' teachings, to transmit the Dao and receive disciples, to resolve the world's doubts."
"Three days later, here, I will teach for three months, with no distinction of nations, no distinction of peoples, indifferent to demons, indifferent to all beasts and spirits."
"I seek to act with a benevolent heart for all living beings, attaining peace for ten thousand ages."
Gu Jin Nian's resonant voice rang out.
He spoke, willing to preach here for three months, to spread his understanding of the saint's way, to disseminate the Heart Doctrine.
Let Saint Yangming's teachings blossom and bear fruit in this world.
As this voice sounded.
Above the firmament.
A terrifying beam of light descended, landing before Gu Jin Nian; a prayer mat appeared beneath his seat. This is a saint's prayer mat, allowing one to freely enter a state of unity between heaven and man.
It is also one of the Nine Sacred Instruments of Confucianism.
At this moment.
The world boiled over.
Countless people set out, rushing to this place.
In less than half an hour.
A large crowd had already gathered here, mostly scholars from the border, some common folk, and a few soldiers.
They came to behold Gu Jin Nian's holy radiance.
And as they appeared, prayer mats naturally manifested beneath their feet, enhancing their insight.
Looking at the crowd, Gu Jin Nian's expression was gentle.
It caused the crowd to feel no great pressure.
And the Da Xia Dynasty.
The once‑declining True Dragon also, at this moment, wildly expanded its body.
Five thousand zhang.
Eight thousand zhang.
Ten thousand zhang.
Transforming into a Golden Dragon.
Three thousand zhang.
Five thousand zhang.
Seven thousand zhang.
From the previous five‑thousand‑zhang Golden Dragon, it has now added another two thousand zhang to its body.
It should be known that when Su Wenjing attained sainthood, he increased the Golden Dragon by less than a hundred zhang, whereas Gu Jin Nian's sainthood caused the Golden Dragon to grow by two thousand zhang; although the two are linked, this still proves something.
Gu Jin Nian's sainthood far surpasses Su Wenjing's.
At the Da Xia frontier, Gu Jin Nian was contemplating the Dao, and after three days he would begin to expound the Dao and Confucianism.
However, there was one thing Gu Jin Nian had not forgotten.
Confucius had said before.
After attaining sainthood, one must summon his true spirit.
He had not forgotten this, but Gu Jin Nian did not intend to summon his true spirit now; he would wait until after the expounding was finished to meet Confucius.
As time passed slowly, figures gathered here one after another.
Among the mountains, people were everywhere, but as long as they were within Gu Jin Nian's sacred resonance range, a meditation cushion would appear beneath their feet, keeping them alert and enlightened.
Thus, after three days.
The entire Da Xia frontier gathered tens of millions of scholars from various nations, as well as demons, beasts, and spirits, all to hear Gu Jin Nian expound the great Dao of the saints.
It was also on this day.
Pu Yuan Mountain again experienced a disturbance. — This chapter was 35,000 characters, but I deleted 15,000 of them; I wrote 10,000 by noon, deleted it all, rewrote it, then in the afternoon wrote another 15,000, deleted 5,000, and now have finished the remaining 20,000 characters.
Dear readers, I don't know whether you can accept this chapter.
But July is not the type to play dead when criticized; I can accept good criticism, but there are many factors involved in writing.
Sometimes, indeed, to meet deadlines I produce filler, but most of the time July still maintains normal creation.
Nevertheless, there is filler, so I apologize to all readers here, truly sorry.
From now on I will try to fix this issue.
Moreover, let me say this: if July really wanted to earn money by churning out filler, the book wouldn't have ended directly; force‑writing a million filler words is truly not difficult.
Of course, a mistake is a mistake; just stand straight and take the beating.
I bow my head and apologize to all readers.
Starting tomorrow, one chapter will be ten thousand characters, but I will strive to update two chapters, aiming to continue normally until early October.
Thank you for the quick updates; it's truly urgent—Alliance Leader, please reward.
Big brother, the silver is coming soon; more updates will follow (end of chapter).
End of Chapter
