My Wife Is The Leader Of A Demonic Cult

Chapter 234: Chapter 234 Buddha Descends to Extinguish the Demon

Yujing City, Dragon Spring Temple, Zen Room.

Three meditation cushions were situated on either side; to the left, the Universal Literary Vajra and Universal Benefit Bodhisattva of the Zen Sect, and to the right was the Exalted Vajra of the Lotus Sect.

At this moment, the three gathered to discuss the grand scheme of Buddhism that would impact the Yan Kingdom’s framework and the struggle for the National Teaching Order that could even affect the entire world.

The Universal Benefit Bodhisattva spoke softly, “With the National Teaching Order, we would essentially bind ourselves to the fate of the Yan Kingdom, and our Buddhist teachings could potentially flourish once more.”

The Universal Literary Vajra lamented, “Buddhism has long suffered in desolation.”

Although Buddhism is the most intact of the three ancient teachings, it has consistently been suppressed and is located far in the barren lands of the Western Pure Land, with its poor soil, scarce resources, and sparse population.

In such a place, how could the teachings be spread and the law be passed on?

And now, this National Teaching Order represents an opportunity for Buddhism, a chance to break free from the present predicament.

Those who possess the luck of the ancestral lands shall thrive, the Zhenyi Sect being a living example, with countless disciples worldwide.

The Buddhists were keenly aware of the significance this National Teaching Order held for them; hence, the Exalted Vajra came personally from the Pure Land.

After a long silence, the Universal Benefit Bodhisattva said, “Outer Heaven has already arrived.”

Outer Heaven, a name even older than the Demon Sect, but now seldom mentioned by people, who tend to remember the name ‘Demon Sect’ more readily.

“According to His Highness the Crown Prince, if Buddhism wants to establish a firm foundation and satisfy the Human Emperor,” only by becoming a blade in the Emperor’s hand and curtailing the Demon Sect’s influence could this be achieved,” said the Vajra.

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The Universal Literary Vajra pressed his palms together and stated, “By doing so, we can not only obtain the National Teaching Order but also magnify the prestige of our Buddhist Sect.”

As an ambitious emperor of the human world with real power, his desire for control is naturally very strong; he would be willing to offer four peaches for five monkeys to fight over, but only because he chose to offer them, not because the haughty monkeys demanded them.

Regarding the Demon Sect, an organization historically known for its spirited independence and rebelliousness, the Human Emperor employs differing strategies.

Buddhism clearly understood the Emperor’s intentions but saw great benefit in the arrangement, even as the Emperor’s blade.

Besides, the grudges between Buddhism and the Demon Sect ran deep.

The Universal Benefit Bodhisattva’s eyebrows raised slightly as he said, “The emissary to the Demon Sect is said to be over twenty years old, but possesses a Grandmaster Realm cultivation. We had no prior information on this person, who seems to have emerged out of thin air. We must ponder this carefully.”

Even when fighting rabbits, a lion must use all its might, let alone when facing the Demon Sect, which is no mere rabbit, and the Buddhist Sect is not necessarily the lion.

“What we do not understand is what’s truly terrifying,” echoed the Universal Literary Vajra in a grave tone.

The Exalted Vajra nodded slightly, “However, rest assured my brothers, as long as Old Jiang of the Demon Sect does not make a move personally, this poor monk can handle it.”

“This National Teaching Order, we must achieve at all costs.”

Buddhism needed this National Teaching Order desperately, even if it meant making enemies with both the Demon Sect and the Zhenyi Sect.

Since the war of Buddhist extermination, it had been a long time since Buddhism had gained fame and prestige in the world.

After a moment of contemplation, the Universal Literary Vajra took out a skin scroll from his sleeve and said, “This is the Great Sun Tathagata Mantra and some insights I’ve gleaned, which my brother may wish to reflect upon.”

While Buddhism presents a united front, internal conflicts exist, like the thousands of years of open rivalry and covert battles between the Lotus Sect and the Zen Sect.

How could the Universal Literary Vajra easily hand over the Great Sun Tathagata Mantra to the Exalted Vajra?

An Jing speculated that the Exalted Vajra had already learned the Great Sun Tathagata Mantra, suggesting a fundamental misunderstanding of the internal forces within Buddhism, although his speculation turned out to be correct.

Now, for the sake of this National Teaching Order, not only did the Universal Literary Vajra offer up the Great Sun Tathagata Mantra, but he also shared his recent insights with the Exalted Vajra.

“Good,” the Exalted Vajra breathed deep and took the Great Sun Tathagata Mantra.

The Great Sun Tathagata Zen Scripture is a mental method surpassing the Heavenly Martial Level, rich in mysterious and unfathomable secret techniques, especially the Vajra Secret Skill which can significantly enhance one’s strength in a short period, as An Jing had personally experienced.

With the Great Sun Tathagata Mantra, the Exalted Vajra would have an invincible position in the competition for the National Teaching Order.

…..

The Demon Sect’s envoy entered Yujing City, and although their presence was not as magnificent as that of the Buddhist faction, the sensation they caused was nonetheless considerable.

Whether in the Jianghu or among the common folk, the Demon Sect had a notorious reputation, infamous and despised by all.

Now that the Demon Sect had sent an envoy to the Great Yan, it naturally caused a great stir.

But the Great Yan Court had given them due honor; the Minister of Rites, Zhu Yongfang, personally went to meet them outside the city and arranged for their accommodation in the largest hostel in the Outer City.

This hostel, managed by the Honglu Institute, was a compound with three courtyards, featuring pavilions, waterside pavilions, rockeries, and cool pavilions—everything one could wish for.

Zhu Yongfang smiled and said, “An Tributor, you may rest in the compound for the night. I have prepared delicacies from all across the Great Yan for you; please enjoy them to your heart’s content tonight.”

An Jing nodded slightly and said, “Then we are much indebted to Minister Zhu.”

He remembered that this Minister of Rites, Zhu Yongfang, was a member of the Crown Prince’s faction.

“Please.”

Zhu Yongfang gestured with his hand, then led An Jing and the others to the banquet hall.

Several tables were set up, each laden with delicious dishes from all over the Great Yan, and a number of beautiful maids stood by; they all bowed gracefully as An Jing and his group entered.

“You all are elite experts from Outer Heaven, heroes of the Jianghu who prize freedom and unconventionality, so please don’t be shy.”

Zhu Yongfang, a seasoned official skilled at reading people and situations, managed to keep the conversation flowing and the atmosphere lively, even though An Jing had a solemn expression.

He even personally served wine to An Jing.

After several rounds of wine and a variety of dishes had been served, Zhu Yongfang could not help but show a hesitant expression, as if he had more to say.

Is the old scoundrel getting to the main point at last?

An Jing smiled and said, “If Minister Zhu has something to say, feel free to speak openly.”

Zhu Yongfang waved his hand, and the court entertainers and maids slowly retreated.

“An Tributor, we have enjoyed our conversation. There are some matters I’ll discuss frankly,” said Zhu Yongfang, his brow knitted, after everyone in the room had left. “This alliance between your sect and our Great Yan is beneficial for both sides. However, there are some who do not wish to see such a beneficial arrangement.”

An Jing asked, puzzled, “Oh? Is Minister Zhu perhaps referring to Houjin?”

Zhu Yongfang hesitated for a moment before saying, “Yes and no. I’ve heard that An Tributor encountered an assassination attempt in Yunlin City, is that true or false?”

“It’s true.”

“I won’t say who was behind the attempt to kill you, but since you’ve managed to eliminate many experts from Houjin, I imagine you’re quite clear about it. However, there are others with ulterior motives that you must guard against.”

“Others with ulterior motives?”

Zhu Yongfang did not continue to answer but said gravely, “Aside from external forces, there are those within who do not want your sect to be stationed in the Great Yan. It was only thanks to the Crown Prince’s firm opposition to the dissenters that the current situation was brought about. He, too, does not wish to see a mutually beneficial situation be spoiled by those with malicious intentions.”

An Jing considered carefully what Zhu Yongfang had now explicitly said.

The ambush in Yunlin City was orchestrated by the Zhenyi Sect, which had been flirting openly with the Second Prince in the court circles—a fact that was hardly a secret.

An Jing cupped his fists and said, “Thank you for the warning, Minister Zhu.”

Zhu Yongfang replied earnestly, “Rest assured, An Tributor. The Crown Prince is committed to the alliance and also wishes your sect to return and spread its teachings in the Great Yan. He asked me to tell you that even if your sect does not obtain the National Teaching Order, he will do his utmost to mediate and help your sect achieve its wish.”

An Jing chuckled lightly, “Please convey my thanks to the Crown Prince for his kind intentions.”

Zhu Yongfang also stood up and said, “After a long journey today, An Tributor must be tired. I will now take you to rest, and tomorrow Minister Zhao will send someone to summon you to the Imperial Palace.”

An Jing said, “Much obliged.”

Zhu Yongfang then led An Jing and the others to their quarters in the inner courtyard. After everything was arranged, he left with a few guards.

Yu Qiurong watched Zhu Yongfang’s retreating figure and whispered a reminder, “Son-in-law, this Zhu Yongfang seems to have more meaning in his words.”

“His words today have a dual purpose.”

An Jing said with a faint smile, “First, he is showing goodwill on behalf of the Crown Prince. Although the Crown Prince has his own plots with the Buddhist community in secret, he doesn’t wish to become enemies with us, and secondly, he wants to put us at ease, hoping we will not put all our eggs in one basket by betting everything on the National Teaching Order and fighting the Buddhist community to the death over it.”

Qian Cishan nodded his head in agreement, saying, “What An Tributor says is very true. In other words, on one hand, he plays the good person, directing the enmity towards Zhenyi Sect and the opposing Second Prince, while on the other hand, he wants us to give up on the competition for the National Teaching Order. It’s likely he’ll put in a few good words for us and try to secure some benefits.”

Despite Qian Cishan favoring bootlicking, his mind is not simple; otherwise, he wouldn’t have been appointed to follow An Jing to Yujing City.

“You’re right.”

An Jing looked at Qian Cishan approvingly.

Yu Qiurong asked, “Son-in-law, what should we do now?”

Contending for the National Teaching Order could be very difficult. If we do not vie for this National Teaching Order, it would damage the reputation of the Demon Sect, but we could get a verbal promise from Crown Prince Zhao Chongyin.

An Jing laughed and said, “The thing to fear the most in doing anything is having to make a choice, because you do not have the initiative. Why does a mere National Teaching Order from the Great Yan Emperor, something intangible, cause such a stir in the world and lead many great forces to struggle for it?”

“It’s simply because the Great Yan Emperor has the initiative. He can allow other forces to make choices and manipulate them at will. If we want to break the game, it’s about not letting him control us and stepping out of the choices he gives us.”

“If we were to get our hands on this National Teaching Order, what do you think the Crown Prince’s feelings would be? What would the Human Emperor think? Wouldn’t the initiative still be in our hands by then?”

Yu Qiurong and Qian Cishan both felt a jolt in their hearts.

Seizing the National Teaching Order was something they desperately desired yet hardly dared to think about.

But with the Exalted Vajra from the Buddhist community present, could An Jing really snatch this National Teaching Order from the hands of the Exalted Vajra?

An Jing paused and looked towards the door.

Before long, an Earth Sect expert entered and said, “My lord, someone outside has sent an invitation.”

“The Lv Sect?”

An Jing took the invitation and a thought crossed his mind.

The invitation had just one big character ‘Lv’ on it.

An Jing put away the invitation and said, “I understand, you may leave.”

“Yes.”

The Earth Sect person bowed slightly and left the room.

After pondering for a moment, An Jing said, “You two rest first, Qiurong and I will go out tonight.”

“Yes.”

Qian Cishan promptly responded.

Dusk fell quickly, and only then did An Jing and Yu Qiurong leave the hostel, heading for the Inner City.

With nightfall, the streets began to empty of people, as the inner city of Yan Country had a curfew in place, with guards patrolling after evening.

Although the Inner City was under curfew, it didn’t pose much of a hindrance for An Jing and Yu Qiurong with their level of cultivation, unless they tried to enter the Inner Palace.

The Imperial Palace of Yan Country was not a place An Jing dared to intrude upon at the moment, especially with an eunuch of White Eyebrows caliber, who was not someone he could contend with.

Soon, the two arrived at the entrance to the Lv Mansion.

Yu Qiurong stepped forward to knock on the door, and before long, a gatekeeper poked his head out.

“Who are you?”

Yu Qiurong didn’t say a word but instead took out the invitation she held.

“Please come in.”

The gatekeeper, upon seeing the invitation, naturally understood that the person before him was a significant and esteemed guest invited by the master of the house.

Some led the way in front while others ran swiftly towards the back courtyard of the Lv Mansion to convey this message to the inner court as quickly as possible.

Soon, An Jing had arrived in the guest hall.

At that moment, the guest hall was brightly lit and gleaming.

Sitting at the top of the hall was an old man with a hunched back, none other than Lv Guoyong.

Sitting below him was his third student, Zhou Xianming.

When An Jing and Yu Qiurong crossed the threshold, Zhou Xianming’s face froze.

He seemed to have turned into a stone statue.

Zhou Xianming muttered to himself, “Teacher, I must be drunk or possessed by some demon.”

Isn’t that damn doctor supposed to be dead?

How could he possibly appear in Lv Mansion, it must be an illusion.

“An Jing pays respects to Lord Lv.”

An Jing bowed to Lv Guoyong, seated at the head, and then turned to Zhou Xianming, “Mister Zhou, it’s been a while. Are you well?”

“You… you.”

Zhou Xianming said in astonishment, “Are you Doctor An?”

After speaking, he held his breath and stared intently at An Jing.

An Jing smiled and said, “Could I possibly be someone else?”

Zhou Xianming stepped forward quickly, touching An Jing’s arm to feel for himself, and joyfully said, “You really are alive, Doctor An, you have no idea, I often reminisce about the joyous times we had listening to music in the brothels of Yu State City…”

An Jing glanced back at Yu Qiurong, shook off Zhou Xianming’s arm, and said, “Mister Zhou, please show some dignity. When have I ever frequented brothels to listen to music?”

Zhou Xianming also glanced over and winked, “Is this a new sister-in-law?”

Yu Qiurong did not speak, but her beautiful eyes narrowed into slits, sending a shiver through Zhou Xianming.

An Jing coughed gently, bowing to the senior Lv Guoyong and said, “The junior has received the invitation from Lord Lv and has hurried over, hoping I am not too late.”

Lv Guoyong looked at the young man in front of him, deep in thought as if confirming something in his mind, “Not late, your arrival is just in time, please take a seat.”

An Jing bowed with his hands clasped and took a seat.

Zhou Xianming kept a calm façade, but his heart was in turmoil.

The teacher said that the guest he invited today was someone from the Demon Sect, so it was that Doctor An.

He had originally thought that it was merely a coincidence of names, never having imagined this possibility, but now the reality struck him like a bolt from the blue.

Upon reflection, if Li Fuzhou could be the master of the Demon Sect’s Human Sect, how could Doctor An just be an ordinary person?

A tributor of the Demon Sect, dispatched to Yan Country, he truly is a formidable expert!

As he considered this, his gaze towards An Jing carried a hint of resentment.

We agreed to live as ordinary people, yet you soared to great heights behind my back, along with that youngster Han Wenxin.

Lv Guoyong chuckled softly and said, “I heard that the envoy from Outer Heaven this time is a young talent. I’ve been very curious, and now that I see you, the rumors certainly ring true.”

An Jing responded, “Lord Lv jests, please forgive my previous frivolous offense.”

Lv Guoyong waved his hand dismissively, “No matter. Representing Outer Heaven as an envoy to Yan Country, you must know the many difficulties involved. Have you thought about how to proceed?”

An Jing was thoughtful, “The junior is slow-witted; I wonder if the senior has any advice to give?”

Lv Guoyong laughed scoldingly, “You sly lad, you probably have a plan already in your heart. Why bother asking? If I told you to abandon the National Teaching Order and bow to the Human Emperor, would you be willing?”

“`

An Jing decisively shook his head and said, “I am unwilling.”

For him to kneel down and beg for peace was definitively impossible.

Upon hearing this, Lv Guoyong stroked his beard and said, “The National Teaching Order may not be a good thing for those in Outer Heaven, but it is a good bargaining chip.”

Upon hearing this, An Jing seemed to understand something and sincerely said, “Thank you, Mr. Lv, for the guidance.”

It had to be said, with just a simple sentence, Lv Guoyong had explained the essence of the matter, further strengthening what An Jing had in mind.

Lv Guoyong looked at the young man before him, pondered for a long moment, and then asked, “How is Tan Yun?”

“Very good.”

An Jing thought for a moment and said, “She might be one of the happiest people in the world.”

“That’s good.”

Hearing this, Lv Guoyong’s eyebrows relaxed slightly, a feeling he could not conceal.

He had summoned An Jing for two reasons: One was to verify what he had in mind, and the other was concerning this very matter.

“As one grows old, the body cannot withstand much turmoil.”

Lv Guoyong slowly stood up, supporting himself on the table as he walked towards the back hall.

An Jing rose and bowed with his hands folded in front.

As Lv Guoyong walked halfway, he suddenly paused and said, “I am old and do not have much time left to live. I have always fantasized about a scene with grandchildren all around, and I hope that Tan Yun can come back to my side.”

After saying that, Lv Guoyong’s figure slowly departed.

Zhou Xianming also understood why his teacher had given An Jing some counsel, realizing there was another purpose behind it.

An Jing watched Lv Guoyong’s receding figure, turned his head toward Zhou Xianming, and said, “Mr. Zhou, I will take my leave as well. Once this matter is concluded, we should have a good drink together.”

“Agreed.”

Zhou Xianming said, “Do what you can and leave the rest to fate. There are countless paths in this world; do not force things.”

An Jing smiled, got up, and walked out of the hall.

Yu Qiurong followed closely behind him.

Zhou Xianming thought of something and hurriedly shouted toward An Jing’s departing figure, “Brother An, with all your wealth, do you not have to pay back the silver you owe?”

…….

In the back hall, under the lamplight.

Lv Guoyong walked slowly towards his own residence in the annex.

Lv Fang and Lv Jingchun followed closely behind with small steps. Lv Fang’s eyebrows were tightly knitted, his expression one of hesitance.

In the end, Lv Fang could not hold back and asked, “Father, do you truly intend to bring Tan Yun back?”

There was no trace of emotion on Lv Guoyong’s face; he merely nodded slightly.

Lv Jingchun, on the other hand, appeared very nervous. He knew that his father and grandfather’s conversation must hold deeper meanings, but he was too lazy to ponder and delve into it.

However, the thought of Tan Yun made the fat on his body tremble.

…….

The next day, dark clouds covered the sky, and the weather was gloomy.

Taiqing Hall.

The place where Yan Country entertained foreign envoys was right here.

“`

At this moment, several officials were seated in the Taiqing Hall, including the Minister of Rites Zhu Yongfang, the eunuch Zhao Tianyi, the Crown Prince Zhao Chongyin, and others.

The Demon Sect was not considered a major power, nor a minor one. Especially in today’s world, the situation was quite unfavorable for Yan Country. There was no need for the Yan Kingdom Court to demean itself, but there was also no need to maintain an aloof and superior attitude.

However, Lv Guoyong and the Second Prince Zhao Mengtai from the Lv Sect were not present in the Taiqing Hall.

“Announce the Dongluo Pass envoys.”

As a shrill voice rang out, it slowly spread from the Taiqing Hall, and then echoed throughout the Imperial Palace.

Before long, a young man dressed in white entered step by step.

The moment the young man in white entered, the entire Taiqing Hall burst into discussion.

Many officials were whispering to each other, showing a hint of surprise on their faces.

So young!

He was really too young!

Even though they already knew in advance that the envoy sent by the Demon Sect was very young, they were still deeply shocked at this moment, especially knowing that this person named An Jing had killed a Grandmaster, which made it even harder for them to believe.

An Jing remained calm and gave a slight bow to the few at the top, saying, “An Jing pays respects to His Highness the Crown Prince and all the distinguished officials.”

“No need for formalities.”

Zhao Chongyin chuckled lightly, “I didn’t expect An Tributor to be so young and able to represent Outer Heaven as an envoy. It is indeed enviable.”

Zhao Tianyi didn’t speak, but he was sizing up the young man before him. From his demeanor and attitude, it was clear that being able to represent the Demon Sect was no small feat.

After all, with so many eyes upon him, to remain calm required experience no ordinary person would have.

An Jing responded, “Compared to Your Highness the Crown Prince’s accomplishments, I am not worth mentioning.”

Zhao Tianyi asked, “I wonder if An Tributor rested well last night?”

An Jing smiled, “It’s been a long time since I slept so soundly. I’m sure Lord Zhao also knows the hardships of the journey here. I’ve been extremely cautious and terrified, always fearing that if I fell asleep at night, I would never see the sun the next day.”

Zhao Chongyin’s eyes narrowed, and he swept a cold gaze around him, “Rest assured, in Yujing City, no scoundrel dare stir trouble.”

As Zhao Chongyin’s gaze swept over, some of the weaker-hearted officials who had dealings with the Zhenyi Sect felt a chill in their hearts.

“Let’s not dwell on pleasantries, I think it’s best we get straight to the point quickly.”

Zhao Tianyi said calmly, “An Tributor has traveled thousands of miles to form an alliance, bearing sincerity. What demands does your sect have?”

Everyone present tensed up and turned their eyes to An Jing.

An Jing chuckled lightly and said with a bow, “Regarding forming an alliance, firstly, we hope that trade with Dongluo Pass can be completely open and never blocked, secondly, that we can get necessary assistance from Yan Country when resisting Houjin, including supplies, troops, metal weapons, and thirdly, we hope Yan Country can release our Sect Master of the Human Sect, Li Fuzhou, and fourthly, that Outer Heaven can spread its teachings within Yan Country and enjoy the treatment of a sect.”

As An Jing’s words came to an end, the whole Taiqing Hall instantly became noisy.

“Impossible, Li Fuzhou killed the Great Commander of the Xuanyi Guard, and just sparing him from execution is already a grace, yet you still wish to release him?”

“The Demon Sect actually wants to spread its teachings and delude the people in our Yan Country? Isn’t that just laughable?”

“It seems the Demon Sect is not here to form an alliance but to extort us instead.”

……

The Yan Country officials were all abuzz, utterly enraged by the conditions An Jing had proposed.

Zhao Tianyi spoke expressionlessly, “Your request is truly exorbitant.”

“While the importance of Dongluo Pass may not be clear to others, I believe everyone here understands. It is a barrier for Yan Country. If Houjin wants to attack Yan Country in full force, they will definitely take Dongluo Pass first.”

An Jing took a deep breath and said, “If Yan Country wishes to use Dongluo Pass as a shield, yet doesn’t want to offer some benefits, isn’t that a daydream? Dongluo Pass can form an alliance with Yan Country, but it can also ally with Houjin.”

These words landed with resounding clarity throughout the Great Hall.

The Crown Prince Zhao Chongyin’s eyes narrowed into slits, revealing a sharp glint.

Zhao Tianyi said indifferently, “There’s some truth to your words, and Great Yan is indeed willing to firmly support Dongluo Pass in resisting Houjin, but the latter two conditions you’ve mentioned are simply impossible to realize.”

Whether it’s releasing Li Fuzhou or allowing the Demon Sect to spread its teachings in Yan Country, either would have a massive impact, especially the latter.

An Jing asked with a smile, “Is there truly no room for negotiation?”

Both parties had long been aware of each other’s bargaining chips and bottom lines, so the current negotiations were nothing more than a formality.

The Demon Sect cannot spread its teachings in Yan Country; resisting Houjin is a dead-end path, essentially being Yan Country’s doorkeeper. The court of Yan Country had also long been aware that the Demon Sect would propose the condition of spreading its teachings.

It’s not that the Demon Sect couldn’t spread its teachings in Yan Country; as long as they bowed down and pledged allegiance, perhaps the court of Yan Country might give them a chance.

To put it bluntly,

The Demon Sect cannot stand erect and spread its teachings in Yan Country, but they can do it on their knees.

Seen in this light, it appears to be an alliance, but in reality, it’s just a pawn of Yan Country.

Zhao Tianyi pondered for a moment, then said, “As for the possibility of negotiation, it’s not completely nonexistent. The Human Emperor can issue a National Teaching Order. If Outer Heaven has the capability to secure this National Teaching Order, then there may be a chance to spread its teachings in Yan Country.”

In an instant, the entire hall fell into silence, all eyes turned to An Jing with mockery gleaming in their eyes.

It’s not as though we’re not giving your Demon Sect a chance. Now, the court of Yan Country has given you an opportunity; it’s up to you whether you can grasp it.

“Good.”

An Jing nodded slightly, “Then may I ask when Sect Master Li Fuzhou of the Human Sect will be released?”

“Indefinitely.”

Zhao Tianyi spat out coldly, “There’s no room for negotiation on this matter; it is an imperial edict.”

An Jing’s brows furrowed. He hadn’t expected that, while they were given a seemingly impossible chance to spread their teachings, the release of Li Fuzhou was so categorically rejected without any room for discussion.

Pondering briefly, An Jing said, “Then please state Yan Country’s demands. I’m all ears.”

Zhao Tianyi stood up and said flatly, “Yan Country’s demands for forming an alliance are few. First and foremost, you must stand with Yan Country wholeheartedly in resisting Houjin, without any second thoughts. Second, without Yan Country’s permission, members of the Demon Sect are not allowed to enter Yan Country’s territory at will.”

An Jing looked directly at Zhao Tianyi, “Isn’t this second point somewhat of a joke?”

Zhao Tianyi replied, “When it comes to matters of the state, is there any room for jest?”

An Jing gave a faint laugh, “How then shall Outer Heaven spread its teachings in Yan Country if it is not allowed to enter?”

Zhao Tianyi’s tone was very calm, “Whether you can spread your teachings or not is another matter.”

An Jing bowed slightly, “In that case, there’s nothing more to discuss. Please, everyone, watch and see.”

Having said that, he turned and walked towards the exit of the hall.

The officials from Yan Country watched his retreating figure, their lips curling with a hint of cold mockery.

“It seems the Demon Sect is still harboring ill intentions.”

“Competing with the Buddhist Sect for that National Teaching Order? That will be a testament to his abilities.”

“After all, the abilities of the Demon Sect were completely obliterated by Jiang Shang twenty years ago.”

“The Buddhist Sect’s number one Vajra is not renowned for nothing.”

…….

Zhao Chongyin watched An Jing’s departing figure, his brows tightly knitted. He hadn’t expected An Jing to actually attempt to compete for that National Teaching Order.

“The Demon Sect still wishes to spread its teachings in Yan Country? What a joke!”

In a corner, a man clad in a python robe let out a cold snicker.

This man was none other than the Seventh Prince.

Zhao Tianyi looked unaffected, with a calm and composed demeanor, “If that is the case, then let the best man win.”

If the Demon Sect were to submit so meekly, that would be truly contemptible in his eyes. Even if they were to lose to the Buddhist Sect, at least they wouldn’t tarnish the prestige of a millennium-old faction.

……

Yujing City, Tianxiang Street.

The dreary weather seemed stagnant, as if suffocating, yet Yujing City bustled as usual.

The streets were crowded with people discussing the recent major events.

It was at this moment that an exclamation rang out.

“Look, a high-ranking monk from the Buddhist Sect is preaching.”

“That really is a high-ranking monk bathed in a golden light, it’s truly miraculous.”

……

The crowd surged, a multitude of people rushing towards Tianxiang Street.

In the middle of the street, an old monk was seen walking forward, his hands pressed together in front of his chest, and murmuring as if chanting Buddhist Scriptures.

Beams of golden light emanated from around him, spreading outwards in all directions.

To ordinary folks, such a miraculous phenomenon was akin to the descent of an Immortal, and with the mysterious allure of the Buddhist teachings, the surrounding people were even more drawn to it.

The Bodhisattva gazes downward to universally save sentient beings, while Vajra’s Furious Eyes subdue demons and exorcise evil!

And as for Vajra’s public lecture on the dharma, the implication is clear without being stated.

The golden light around him began to spread and eventually converged into a single point.

The weather wasn’t good that day; the sky was overcast with dense clouds, and a storm was brewing, causing many to hastily gather their clothes, and some even prepared umbrellas before going out.

Suddenly, a beam of golden light shot straight into the heavens from above.

This beam of golden light dissipated the dark clouds, covering the sky of Yujing City with a golden sheen, even more dazzling than the sunlight.

Boom! Boom!

In the next moment, a sound like morning bells and evening drums resounded throughout the ears of nearly half of Yujing City’s inhabitants.

Then, within the golden clouds above, a colossal Buddha appeared. If the Buddhas seen in temples were one detail short of two inches, exuding the aura of self-possession, this Buddha had golden eyes wide open and brows inverted.

Vajra’s Furious Eyes!

As this Buddha manifested, a terrifying awe emerged, as if a mountain was pressing down upon Yujing City.

Like a deity descending to the mortal realm, untouchable and inviolable.

Ordinary citizens were astounded, with many bowing devoutly. From a distance, the mass of kneeling figures was striking to behold.

“Is this… the Buddhist Vajra?”

At the gates of the Imperial Palace, Yu Qiurong’s mouth hung open, her voice trembling with emotion.

Qian Cishan was completely taken aback too. Even though he was a First Grade Expert, the sight still shook him to his core.

At that moment, the Buddha in the sky seemed to find what it was looking for, a single glance directed not at Yu Qiurong but at a young man in white emerging from behind her out of the Imperial Palace.

“If I become the Buddha, there will be no demons in the world!”

The Furious Eyes Vajra spoke, his voice booming like a thunderclap, reverberating throughout the heavens and earth, sweeping across all directions.

…..