Chapter 2434: The Prosperous Jisaiguo

The travelers moved forward for a while longer and soon arrived before the Imperial Palace.

The palace was grand and imposing, revealing an exotic style. More than a dozen guards were patrolling the palace entrance.

Tang Seng dismounted before the palace gate, walked up to the guards, performed a Buddhist salute, and said, "Pardon me, Benefactors. This poor monk has come from the Great Tang in the East, heading to the Western Heaven to obtain the scriptures. I ask that you allow us to meet the King to exchange our travel documents so we may continue our journey west."

The guards looked at Tang Seng, smiles appearing in their eyes without a hint of hostility. One of the guards, the leader, said, "Since you are monks from the Great Tang in the East, we shall report this to His Majesty immediately!"

And so, Tang Seng and his group waited outside the palace gate.

A moment later, a guard ran out from inside and said, "His Majesty wishes to summon you!"

Subsequently, the two vermilion gates were pushed open with a boom by several guards, and the view inside suddenly opened up, a vast expanse of light meeting their eyes.

"This Jisaiguo really does look quite grand."

General Juan Lian could not help but remark.

"I believe that once we enter the palace, the Emperor will surely treat us to many steamed buns and fine vegetarian dishes!"

Marshal Tianpeng's face broke into a smile as he spoke immediately.

"You only know how to eat!"

Sun Wukong shot Marshal Tianpeng a glare and said irritably.

Stepping into the vast inner courtyard of the palace, the ground was paved entirely with snow-white white marble. Beside the city walls, various flowering trees were planted, looking quite magnificent and luxurious.

Looking toward the main hall of the palace, just a few hundred meters straight ahead, the King of Jisaiguo had already come out with a grand ceremonial guard to welcome Tang Seng and his group.

"Ah, esteemed high monks, you have come from afar, you must be exhausted!"

The King of Jisaiguo was all smiles, followed by a crowd of guards and palace maids. He walked up to Tang Seng and said with a radiant face.

"Greetings, Your Majesty! We have disturbed you!"

Tang Seng was about to kneel and pay his respects, speaking hurriedly.

Just then, the King stepped forward quickly, grabbed Tang Seng's arm, and said, "No need for such formalities! I have heard that the high monk is the sworn brother of the Tang Emperor Li Shimin, so there is no need for such a grand salute!"

This King of Jisaiguo appeared extremely enthusiastic.

Sun Wukong stood to the side and carefully observed his appearance. He looked to be about forty years old, with a glowing, ruddy complexion, a kind, round face, a light beard, and a medium build, yet he appeared quite robust.

Supported by the King of Jisaiguo, Tang Seng stood up, looked at the King, performed a Buddhist salute, and a smile appeared on his face as well.

Subsequently, the King of Jisaiguo held a welcoming banquet for them.

It was evident that the King was quite thoughtful; the table was filled with all kinds of vegetarian food, fresh vegetables, and various melons and fruits.

At this large round table, there were no others, only the King and the Queen, and the travelers heading west. It was clear that the King held Tang Seng and his group in high regard.

At the table, the King of Jisaiguo seemed very interested in Tang Seng, constantly discussing Buddhist dharma with him. From his words, one could tell he had quite a deep study of Buddhist dharma.

"I wonder, in the Buddhist dharma of the Tang Dynasty, how is karma viewed?"

The King of Jisaiguo looked at Tang Seng and said with a smile.

"I think it should be the same as in your esteemed country."

"Karma is predestined; the good and evil deeds of this life are all transformed into blessings or punishments."

Tang Seng wore a faint smile and said. ===== CHAPTER 2436 =====