Chapter 390: The Heavenly Realm

Mount Sumeru.

After the Western Ascetic Alliance relocated its headquarters here and undertook major renovations, the atmosphere of rampant demonic energy was gone.

Looking out, golden light streamed in ten thousand rays, rolling crimson rainbows; auspicious qi flowed in a thousand threads, spraying violet mist.

Countless magnificent palaces and towering monasteries were built along the mountain, layered and staggered, reaching straight into the clouds.

Upon the mountain’s body, spiritual peaks rose emerald green; rare flowers vied in brilliance; jade grass and divine blossoms covered the ground; ancient trees and twisted vines coiled like dragons.

Purest primordial spiritual energy, mingled with dense golden aura of merit and serene Buddhist intent, permeated every corner of the mountain.

Where the spiritual energy was thickest, it even coalesced into seven-colored auroras, falling as sweet dew to nourish all things upon the mountain.

In the void, immortal masters rode upon celestial cranes and auspicious clouds; tribal chieftains rode exotic beasts and divine steeds.

Upon the earth walked ascetic monks draped in saffron robes, holding prayer beads; countless beings from all races had come in admiration.

They came seeking the Dao, paying pilgrimage, or exchanging goods and knowledge.

As a result, the entire Mount Sumeru region radiated a thriving, prosperous scene of myriad realms paying homage.

At the peak of Mount Sumeru.

The Pure Land, jointly opened by Jieyin and Qiti, was even more sacred and majestic, far beyond ordinary realms.

This realm was anchored by the supreme merit lotus, ancient Bodhi tree, and Seven Treasures Grove—primordial spiritual roots that stabilized its fortune.

Countless beings endowed with wisdom gathered here to listen to the wondrous sounds of the Dao and cultivate the supreme methods.

The former Western Ascetic Alliance had since grown and formally established the “Mount Sumeru Academy.”

The academy opened its doors widely, accepting talents from all directions, becoming the undisputed sacred ground and beacon of civilization in the western Honghuang.

Within the academy, numerous branches taught the path of the śarīra, esoteric methods, artifact forging, pill refining, and unique Buddhist cultivation techniques.

Mount Sumeru Academy even opened branches in other Dao domains of the Honghuang, or jointly established exchange centers with other heavenly Dao academies.

Footprints of the Western Ascetic Alliance could be found in the Eastern Sea, the Northern Abyss, and Tiannan.

One could say that, aside from not formally establishing a sect, its operations were indistinguishable from those of a great sect.

This drew divine beings from the myriad realms to frequently send disciples for exchange and learning, sharing knowledge and resources.

Then, the shrewd Qiti casually expanded his academy’s operations into the myriad realms of the cosmos.

Any business he pursued, he closed successfully.

“Younger brother, our Mount Sumeru Academy has grown so rapidly—it’s all thanks to you!”

“Brother, don’t say that. This is the result of our western divine beings working together. What merit do I have?”

At this moment, beneath a quiet Bodhi tree atop Mount Sumeru, two Daoists sat facing each other.

On the left, a yellow-faced, gaunt man with a sorrowful expression was Jieyin Daoist.

On the right, a man with a pained countenance, holding the Seven Treasures Wonderful Tree, was Qiti Daoist.

Around them, Buddhist light swirled; behind their heads, golden wheels of merit faintly shimmered—they had reached profound cultivation, beyond comprehension.

“Two Daoist friends, our Western Ascetic Alliance has grown steadily. Should we not advance the timetable for establishing the Western Sect?”

Around the two Daoists, ten directions of Buddhist light converged, forming ten figures of Buddhas.

These were members of the Western Ascetic Alliance who had dissolved their forms and spirits to become the Ten Directions Buddhas of the academy.

The [Upper Vast Merit Buddha] spoke: “Now, the Honghuang’s Three Realms are governed by the Sacred Heavenly Emperor’s effortless rule.”

“The Taiwei Heavenly Court holds the Dao’s authority, overseeing the entire cosmos with perfect order.”

“All deities fulfill their duties in harmony, jointly promoting Honghuang’s prosperity.”

“This golden age is unprecedented.”

“This is precisely the best moment to establish our great sect!”

Of course, some Buddhas expressed reservations.

The [Lower Bright Merit Buddha] said: “The Heavenly Emperor governs; the Dao flourishes; all deities propagate the Dao under the name of Heavenly Dao Academies—our Mount Sumeru does the same.”

“The current educational results are excellent. Is there truly a need to establish a great sect now?”

The [Eastern Good Merit Buddha] nodded: “I agree with Bright Merit Buddha.”

“If we rashly establish a new sect with great fanfare now, we may gain temporary advantage but also invite unwanted attention and uncertainty.”

“Our Mount Sumeru Academy still has shallow roots compared to the former Demon Sect. We should not rush to stand at the storm’s center.”

“But establishing a sect was agreed upon before we took possession of Mount Sumeru!”

The [Upper Vast Merit Buddha] gazed at the increasingly flourishing scene below Mount Sumeru.

His tone carried urgency, as well as hope and hidden concern for the future.

At this moment, Qiti Daoist looked at the assembly of Buddhas and smiled: “Establishing a sect is not urgent.”

“The Sacred Heavenly Emperor once said the Purple Palace Assembly has three phases, each concerning the future development of Honghuang.”

“Let us wait patiently and see what conclusions the Heavenly Court and the deities reach after the next assembly.”

“Only then, acting at the right moment, will it be prudent.”

Jieyin Daoist also nodded: “Younger brother speaks wisely.”

“Now, with Mount Sumeru Academy as our foundation, we cultivate good karma and teach the Dao—this too accumulates the foundation and talent for future sect establishment.”

“This is subtle, transformative influence—nourishing silently, equally vital.”

“Establishing a great sect truly is not urgent.”

The [Upper Vast Merit Buddha], upon hearing this, pondered deeply and found the two deans’ words profoundly reasonable.

Indeed, Honghuang was now in a relatively balanced and rapidly developing period.

The Sacred Heavenly Emperor’s prestige shone like the midday sun; all major forces developed orderly within the Heavenly Court’s framework.

At this moment, any misstep could easily bring more loss than gain.

He nodded: “Your words as deans are correct—I was too hasty.”

“Then let us follow your advice: decide after the second Purple Palace Assembly.”

The Buddhas nodded slightly, their faces showing faint smiles of satisfaction.

“Amitabha Buddha, well said, well said!”

Now, the slogan “Amitabha Buddha” had spread with the rise of Mount Sumeru Academy.

Though its popularity did not rival the Xuanmen’s “Fusheng Wuliang Tianzun,” its recognition across the western lands was still very high.

With each recitation of “Amitabha Buddha,” the possibility of the [Dream Demon God] rising from the depths of the river of time grew ever smaller.

Even if he returned in the future, he would almost certainly become a true Buddha of the west.

At this moment, auspicious clouds drifted from afar, and three figures arrived together.

Leading them, beautiful in countenance, holding a jade pure water vase, was Cihang Daoist, disciple of Yuanshi Tianzun of the Chan Sect.

To his left, smiling with wisdom and insight, was Wenshu Guangfa Tianzun.

To his right, solemn in expression, holding a ritual implement, was Puxian Zhenren.

These three were among the finest of the Twelve Golden Immortals of the Chan Sect, sent by their master for short-term exchange and study at Mount Sumeru Academy.

Behind them followed a young monk, walking respectfully in step.

He wore simple monastic robes, yet his brow radiated a calmness and compassion far beyond his years.

This man was Dizang, one of Mount Sumeru Academy’s most outstanding disciples in recent years.

“Disciples Cihang (Wenshu, Puxian), bow before Dean Jieyin and Dean Qiti!” The three Chan disciples approached and bowed deeply.

Their demeanor was humble; though this was an exchange, they still addressed Jieyin and Qiti as deans.

“Disciple Dizang bows before Master and uncles.” Dizang also bowed respectfully.

Jieyin and Qiti both smiled warmly upon seeing them.

Jieyin said: “Three noble nephews, no need for such formalities—please rise.”

“What brings you here?”

Cihang Daoist stepped forward and said softly: “Honorable deans, we were sent by our master to exchange and study at Mount Sumeru Academy, and time has passed swiftly.”

“During this period, we have deeply felt the profundity and inclusiveness of Mount Sumeru Academy’s Dao.”

“It has many points of mutual verification with our Chan Sect’s orthodox Xuanmen teachings, greatly broadening our horizons and benefiting us immensely.”

“Today, we have come to bid farewell and express our gratitude.”

Wenshu Guangfa Tianzun added: “Indeed, the ‘Eighty-Four Thousand Methods’ taught by Mount Sumeru Academy differ from our Chan Sect’s ‘following Heaven and responding to humanity,’ yet they directly point to the Dao’s origin and provoke deep reflection.”

“Especially Brother Dizang—so young, yet already possesses profound insight into ‘emptiness’ and ‘suffering,’ and carries great compassion.”

“He is a true model for us, filling us with admiration.”

Puxian Zhenren also nodded: “Brother Dizang is gifted and has unwavering Dao resolve; he will surely achieve great things.”

“When we discuss Dao with him, we often experience sudden enlightenment.”

“Mount Sumeru Academy’s ability to cultivate such an outstanding disciple proves your teaching is exemplary.”

Jieyin and Qiti, hearing such praise from the three high disciples of the Chan Sect, were naturally delighted.

Qiti smiled: “Nephews, you flatter us.”

“You are high disciples of Yuanshi Palace, with deep roots and extraordinary insight.”

“Your coming to our Mount Sumeru for exchange is our academy’s honor.”

“Dizang’s opportunity to debate Dao with you three noble nephews and grow together is also his blessed fortune.”

Jieyin, too, beamed warmly at Dizang: “Dizang, your recent cultivation progress brings me great joy.”

“To receive praise from these three elder brothers, you must remain humble and diligent, cultivating deeply so as not to waste what you have learned.”

He then turned to Cihang and the others: “When you return, please convey our greetings to Master Yuanshi.”

“Should you ever have the chance again, you are always welcome to visit Mount Sumeru.”

"Thank you, Dean, for your kind offer; we shall certainly deliver your message." The three of Cihang bowed again.

At that moment, Ksitigarbha, who had been standing respectfully aside, stepped forward and bowed deeply to Jieyin: "Master, this disciple has received an invitation today."

"It is from Taishan Wang, one of the Ten Yans of the Netherworld, inviting this disciple to the Ghost and God Academy in the Netherworld for exchange and study."

"This disciple reflects that the Netherworld governs reincarnation and is the ultimate destination of all beings, its great Dao secrets boundless."

"If I may go to study there, it will surely be beneficial."

"Therefore, I humbly beg my Master and Master’s brother for approval."

"Oh? An invitation from Taishan Wang of the Netherworld?" Hearing this, Jieyin’s eyes flickered with a glimmer of light.

Zhunti Daoist’s expression showed surprise.

Since its creation, the Netherworld has been mysterious and inscrutable, governing reincarnation and serving as one of the central pillars of Honghuang.

The deities of the Netherworld are immensely powerful and rarely interact with the outside world.

For them to extend an invitation to Ksitigarbha for exchange now carries extraordinary significance.

Cihang, Wenshu, and Puxian also exchanged glances, their faces filled with astonishment.

【Taishan Wang】 Taiyi Zhenren’s invitation to Ksitigarbha? Of course, that’s thanks to the efforts of these three!

They meant no harm—simply saw Ksitigarbha as a talent and wondered if they could coax him into the Netherworld.

After a moment’s thought, Jieyin said: "I approve of this matter."

I have here a letter of recommendation. When you reach the Netherworld, deliver it to the Emperor of the Netherworld—he will take notice of you after reading it.

Jieyin handed over a letter, then cautioned Ksitigarbha: "Your journey to the Netherworld is not merely to study the Ghost and God Dao—you must also deeply contemplate the principle of reincarnation."

"Observe the transformations of life and death; comprehend the suffering of all beings."

"The Dao of reincarnation is unfathomably profound, yet it bears some connection to our Western Dao."

"If you can glimpse even a fraction of its true essence, it will be of immeasurable benefit to your own cultivation—and to the future of our Western path!"

His voice brimmed with expectation and solemnity.

Jieyin seemed to already see, in the distant future, Ksitigarbha draped in boundless merit-golden light, universally guiding all beings.

Ksitigarbha felt the weight and hope in his Master’s tone, and his heart tightened.

He bowed deeply: "This disciple, Ksitigarbha, solemnly obeys my Master’s decree! I shall not fail your great expectations—I shall spare no effort to unravel the mysteries of reincarnation."

"In hopes that one day I may offer even the slightest aid to our Western path and to all beings of Honghuang!"

"Excellent, excellent!" Jieyin Daoist nodded repeatedly, his smile unwavering.

Beside him, Zhunti gazed at his elder brother and Ksitigarbha, lost in thought.

The Seven Treasures Wonderful Tree swayed gently, scattering droplets of Buddha-light, as if bidding Ksitigarbha farewell.

In the void, the Ten Directional Buddhas bestowed blessings upon Ksitigarbha, who was about to depart.

"Ksitigarbha, this trip to the Ghost and God Academy must not bring shame to our Sumeru Academy!"

The Buddhas smiled warmly at Ksitigarbha and advised: "Remember, when it is time to lecture and expound the Dharma, do so."

"But if you encounter situations requiring the fierce, wrathful methods of the Vajra, do not hesitate."

"Our Sumeru Academy does not merely speak of Dharma—sometimes, we also speak with fists and feet!"

Ksitigarbha nodded seriously: "I assure you, Buddha, I shall not bring disgrace to the West!"

"Amitabha Buddha, excellent, excellent!"

Amid the Buddhas’ farewell, Cihang, Wenshu, Puxian, and Ksitigarbha departed together.

Under the guidance of the Taiwei Heavenly Court, Honghuang Zhenjie and the myriad worlds were entering an unprecedented golden age of development.

The radiance of the Dao illuminated every corner; the spark of wisdom ignited in the hearts of countless beings.

The resonant sounds of study from the Heavenly Dao Academy became the most beautiful melody of this era.

The gods governed the world; the myriad clans lived in harmony—a scene of flourishing prosperity, like a garden in full bloom.

Yet beneath this surface of prosperity, hidden currents stirred quietly.

The Great Luo Sovereigns who stood atop Honghuang had not been blinded by present comfort.

Though they knew not the Throne of Heaven was rotational, nor that Xiang Xuanqing’s term was nearing its end,

as the supreme beings of Honghuang, their intuition for the coming tides of fate remained razor-sharp.

"The Heavenly Court has emerged; the gods govern the world; the Dao of Heaven has flourished," whispered a Great One in his Dao hall.

"The Netherworld has been built; reincarnation has emerged; the Dao of Earth is nearing completion," another Sovereign calculated with his fingers.

"Heaven and Earth are now manifest—then next, it must be the elusive yet omnipresent Dao of Humanity!" This was the shared intuition of many top deities.

The Dao of Humanity was the collective will of all beings, the sum of all sentient desires.

It might not be as lofty and solemn as the Dao of Heaven, nor as profound and heavy as the Dao of Earth.

But it possessed the broadest foundation, the most vigorous vitality, and the most unpredictable future.

These Great Luo Sovereigns began, consciously or unconsciously, to make subtle moves in their own domains, preparing for the impending rise of the Dao of Humanity.

Some began observing newly emerged, highly promising races, seeking the seeds of the Dao of Humanity.

Others infused their lineages with concepts tied to "all beings," "order," and "civilization."

Some even began to speculate: if the Dao of Humanity were to rise, what form would it take, and what impact would it have on the current order?

These preparations were hidden and far-reaching—like seeds buried deep underground, awaiting the first thunderclap of spring.

Of course, while preparing for the future, the gods had not forgotten their sacred duties.

Under the wise leadership of Holy Heavenly Emperor Xiang Xuanqing, the order of Honghuang’s Three Realms remained stable and efficient.

Every deity diligently fulfilled their duties, steadfast in their essential roles.

The Ministry of Works’ great deities continued perfecting the celestial infrastructure of the myriad worlds, transforming divine materials into magnificent wonders.

The Judicial Heavenly Gods upheld the dignity of heavenly laws, ensuring fair and impartial rewards and punishments.

Star Lords and Divine Generals guarded their star domains, patrolling the myriad worlds without a moment’s negligence.

In their leisure, the immortals lived with great ease and contentment.

Sometimes they gathered with close friends atop the clouds, beside clear springs, sipping tea and discussing the Dao, exchanging cultivation insights.

The profound sounds of the Dao intertwined and clashed, often sparking new wisdom, advancing each other’s understanding.

At times, moved by inspiration, they would visit the Honghuang Heavenly Dao Academy or its branches across the worlds, serving as guest lecturers.

They imparted their insights on the Dao to eager young students thirsting for knowledge.

Seeing those vibrant faces, sensing their hunger for wisdom, even ancient deities who had lived for eons felt a quiet joy—pride in transmission.

Occasionally, a deity would be seized by sudden whim, taking on a mortal form to wander the mortal realm.

Experiencing birth, aging, sickness, death, joy, sorrow, separation, reunion—gaining insight into the myriad facets of human life, verifying their own Dao, seeking new breakthroughs.

Such days were peaceful and fulfilling—marked by cultivation progress, the joy of teaching, and hope for the future.

The entire Honghuang seemed immersed in this positive, steady atmosphere.

It seemed this golden age would endure forever.

Until one day, an edict from the highest divine palace of Taiwei Heavenly Court—the Heavenly Emperor’s Palace—shattered this tranquility.

Holy Heavenly Emperor Xiang Xuanqing summoned the Standing Members of the Heavenly Dao Committee, along with the prominent Great Luo Sovereigns and Taiyi Deities of Honghuang Zhenjie, to gather in the Heavenly Emperor’s Palace.

"Is this a Grand Court Assembly?"

"Counting the days, isn’t this the first complete Yuanhui since the Emperor’s ascension?"

"There must be something major—cannot miss it!"

The deities did not dare delay; they immediately set aside their affairs and transformed into streaks of light, converging toward the Heavenly Emperor’s Palace.

Though puzzled—wondering why the Heavenly Emperor had summoned them—

they mostly took it for granted, assuming it was another new policy or future development plan to be announced.

After all, in the long centuries past, every imperial summons had heralded a new opportunity for Honghuang.

Within the Heavenly Emperor’s Palace, divine light shimmered, Dao rhythms flowed.

Xiang Xuanqing sat upon the imperial throne, his face still veiled in mist, indistinct.

Yet the supreme authority of the Heavenly Emperor’s position, and the unfathomable depth of his Dao foundation, still inspired awe in the deities below.

On either side sat the Standing Members of the Heavenly Dao Committee—Nüwa, the Three Pure Ones, Jieyin, Zhunti, Hongyun—and other important deities.

After the formal greetings, all waited in silence for the Emperor to speak.

Xiang Xuanqing’s gaze slowly swept over every deity below, his voice calm and unruffled, yet carrying an undeniable power.

"My fellow Daoists, I have summoned you today to announce a matter of profound consequence to Honghuang’s future—and to myself."

Upon hearing this, all deities held their breath, listening intently.

For the Heavenly Emperor to call something a "matter of consequence," and one tied to himself, must be extraordinary.

Xiang Xuanqing paused, as if gathering his thoughts.

Within the Heavenly Emperor’s Palace, not even a pin could be heard; the atmosphere grew heavy.

Finally, he spoke again—and each word he uttered now exploded like thunder from the heavens, shaking the hearts of the deities!

"Since ascending the throne of Heavenly Emperor, I have labored tirelessly, never daring to slacken."

"Thanks to your united efforts and steadfast support, we have achieved today’s golden age of Honghuang."

"Yet the Dao of Heaven cycles—there is a beginning, and an end."

"After ten thousand years, I shall conclude my term as Heavenly Emperor and formally abdicate in favor of a successor!"

"BOOM——!!!"

The moment these words were spoken, the entire Heavenly Emperor’s Palace erupted!

Even these Great Luo Immortals and Taiyi Supreme Deities, with their unshakable Dao hearts and countless trials behind them—

At this moment, all were stunned into silence, their spirits shaken, unable to believe it!

“What? The Heavenly Emperor is abdicating?!”

“This… this can’t be possible?!”

“Your Majesty! This must not happen!”

“Honghuang cannot survive without Your Majesty’s guidance!”

After the shock came a tidal wave of uproar and confusion.

The gods rose one after another, their faces filled with shock and urgency.

“Your Majesty, you are still in the prime of your life—why abdicate now?” asked an old god with white hair, his voice trembling.

“Yes, Your Majesty! The glorious state of Honghuang today is entirely your doing—if you abdicate, where shall we turn?” cried another Star Lord anxiously.

“We beg Your Majesty to rescind this decree! We vow to follow you to our deaths and rebuild glory!” Some generals knelt directly on the ground, weeping bitterly.

In an instant, the palace echoed with pleas to retain him, emotions surging wildly.

Some gods were so overcome they broke into outright sobs, heartbroken.

All held deep reverence and admiration for Xiang Xuanqing as Heavenly Emperor.

Though everyone always hoped the Heavenly Emperor would bring them grand tasks, no one ever imagined he would abdicate outright!

“Your Majesty, without you, can Honghuang remain stable in the days ahead?”

“The Supreme Heavenly Court cannot afford to be without you!”

“All beings still need you—Your Majesty cannot abandon us!”

The gods truly wished to keep Xiang Xuanqing.

Especially those who genuinely served in the Heavenly Court.

For instance, the Heavenly Master Kunpeng.

【It’s over—Honghuang’s sky is collapsing. I’ve finally found a purpose to strive for, and now the Heavenly Emperor is stepping down?】Kunpeng was utterly baffled.

He still had grand plans—he wanted the Heavenly Emperor’s support to carry them forward!

Many gods shared his thoughts.

Yet no matter how desperately the gods pleaded, how tearfully they begged him to stay,

Xiang Xuanqing sat calmly upon the imperial throne, his expression serene, his resolve to abdicate as unyielding as a rock, not the slightest wavering.

“I deeply appreciate your heartfelt devotion, fellow cultivators.”

“But all feasts must end—this is the will of Heaven.”

His voice was not loud, yet it reached every god’s ears with absolute, unquestionable finality.

Seeing the Heavenly Emperor’s firm will, the gods, though filled with unbearable sorrow and dread, knew further persuasion was futile.

Grief and confusion spread through the Heavenly Emperor’s Palace.

“Then… after Your Majesty’s abdication, who shall lead Honghuang’s Three Realms and the countless beings?” asked a god, voice choked with tears, voicing the question on everyone’s mind.

Indeed—accustomed to advancing under the radiance of the Holy Heavenly Emperor, suddenly deprived of this pillar, where would they go next?

Who could possibly possess the prestige and capability to succeed the Heavenly Emperor and continue guiding Honghuang toward glory?

All eyes turned to Xiang Xuanqing, awaiting his answer.

Xiang Xuanqing fell silent for a moment, then spoke slowly, “After my abdication, the Taiwei Heavenly Court cannot remain leaderless for a single day.”

“After consultation with the Heavenly Dao Committee and deep deliberation, we have decided—”

“That Jin Yao, the Supreme Solar Lord, shall succeed as the next Heavenly Emperor!”

Xiang Xuanqing’s voice rang through the Heavenly Emperor’s Palace like a great bronze bell.

Each word clearly reached every god present.

The mention of this name was like a massive boulder cast onto an already turbulent lake, stirring even fiercer waves.

【Holy shit, wait—the Solar Lord?】

Kunpeng, who had been grieving, heard the title and snapped to attention, turning in disbelief toward Di Jun.

【This… this…】

Kunpeng, who had thought his future held no hope, was now engulfed in unprecedented joy.

After arriving at the Heavenly Court, he, weak and isolated, had merely made casual investments and formed a small circle.

He never imagined the members of that circle were the Heavens’ Crown Prince—the next Heavenly Emperor!

【I’ve hit the jackpot!】Kunpeng’s heart surged with wild delight.

————

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(End of Chapter)