"Great Thunderclap Temple!" Cao Ya looked around; this was his first time visiting Mount Ling.
That towering peak, resembling an ancient sacred mountain, stands on the earth, its height unknown.
At the mountaintop, a temple was built, exuding an aura of vicissitudes, as if it had transcended time and space and come from ancient times.
"Whoosh." At this moment, countless immortals, gods, Buddhas, demons, monsters, and ghosts filed in, and light and shadow rose into the heavens.
There are immortals, Buddhas, and gods, that's fine, and there's no problem with demons, monsters, ghosts, or spirits in Ling Mountain either.
As for whether it can accommodate... to contain Mount Sumeru within a mustard seed, within the Great Luo Realm, is not a difficult matter, let alone this being a sacred place.
If the Buddha were so inclined, he could easily create a world and place it on Mount Sumeru.
"Whoosh." At this moment, Cao Ya and the others also took their seats.
The Daoist Duobao, the Holy Mother Wudang, and the Holy Mother Guiling from the Jie Sect were standing nearby, and the two sides exchanged greetings.
"Lord Jidu, you are also a Quasi-Saint at the Ninth Heaven, only one step away from the Weak Primordial Chaos Realm, right?" The Holy Mother Wudang smiled slightly, looked Cao Ya up and down, but could not see anything.
She is at the ninth level of Quasi-Saint, a peerless figure within the Jie Sect. If we disregard the sect leader, Lingbao Tianzun, only Jinling Shengmu is above her. Even Duobao Daoren is about the same level as her, and Guiling Shengmu is inferior.
Zhao Gongming and Yunxiao, who were originally on the same level, seemed to have divine authority and were at the ninth level of the Quasi-Saint realm, but they could no longer advance and were trapped by the Investiture of the Gods, so they were going to fall behind the Holy Mother of Wudang.
This is why, despite having saved countless years and being comparable to a weak Primordial Chaos God, the Holy Mother of Golden Spirit still fundamentally rejected the Investiture of the Gods.
With her own abilities, she has the potential to attain the Weak Hunyuan realm, so why limit herself to her own potential?
Moreover, after leaving the Dou Mansion, even the Golden Spirit Holy Mother couldn't maintain her weak Hunyuan status, and her position slightly declined.
How could a disciple of a great sect with exceptional talent and the nurturing of the Holy Realm not feel disgusted by such a situation?
Even though the Holy Mother of Wudang was so powerful that she didn't use any magic, her insight was top-notch in the Three Realms, yet she still couldn't see through Cao Ya's true nature.
Even the Holy Mother Wudang couldn't help but marvel at how extraordinary this Star Lord Jidu truly was!
"Lord Ketu." After greeting Emperor Ku, Emperor Zhuanxu, and others from Huoyun Cave, as well as the Great Emperor of the North Pole Ziwei, Daoist Duobao turned his head and nodded with a smile.
"Daoist Duobao, Holy Mother Wudang..." Cao Ya also cupped his hands in greeting.
Among the disciples of the Jie Sect, those who made the list have already reached a fixed level of cultivation, but only these two can still cultivate and improve, having reached the ninth level of Quasi-Saint. Even the Holy Mother of Ghost Spirit is somewhat inferior.
However, unlike the other two, who were unable to sense Cao Ya's strength, Cao Ya's divine sense was vaguely touched.
The Holy Mother of Wudang possesses extraordinary and unusual magical powers, while the Daoist Duobao... is naturally a treasure trove of spiritual treasures!
Even though Cao Ya's own cultivation level was only at the eighth level of Quasi-Saint, he was not as powerful as these two.
But if it really comes down to a fight, considering their overall combat strength... it's hard to say how it would go in a two-on-one situation. Perhaps it would only end in a draw, but in a one-on-one fight, Cao Ya would still be able to easily overpower them.
"Lord Ketu, it's been a long time," said the Holy Mother of Ghosts with a smile, smoothing her hair at her temples.
Cao Ya replied with a smile, "The Holy Mother of Ghosts has made progress again. In the future, the weak Hunyuan realm is promising."
The Holy Mother of Ghosts pursed her lips, smiled gently, and simply shook her head.
Those who are family know their own situation. Although they possess the Shangqing Immortal Technique, they can only reach the Quasi-Saint Realm. Reaching the peak means giving their all. The probability of becoming another unconventional saint is not entirely zero, but it is infinitely close to zero.
Of the vast Jie Sect, only five of its top disciples—Golden Spirit Mother, Wudang Mother, Yunxiao, Zhao Gongming, and Duobao Daoren—had the potential to reach the weak Hunyuan realm or even the Saint realm, including those listed on the Investiture of the Gods!
Unfortunately, only two people have the chance to achieve this.
For some reason, the powerful figures on this side, upon seeing Cao Ya and the Holy Mother of Ghosts conversing, smiled knowingly and did not come to talk to each other again, but instead chatted amongst themselves.
Emperor Ku and Emperor Zhuanxu of Huoyun Cave, Daoist Duobao and Holy Mother Wudang of Jiejiao, and Emperor Ziwei of the North Pole, chatted about all sorts of things. They were all experts with broad knowledge and no grudges. They also had a pleasant conversation when they occasionally talked about Taoist practices.
As for the Holy Mother Jinling and the others, they were located in other directions, closer to the Jade Emperor, the Queen Mother, and others.
The Chan Sect faction was surrounded by experts from the demon race and the Demonic Sect, all heading in the same direction.
The last group consists of figures from the Buddhist sect, the underworld, and the Wuzhuang Temple, among other forces.
However, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, who made the great vow "I will not become a Buddha until hell is empty," did not appear.
Basically, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva will not leave the Netherworld.
Other major powers, such as those that want to interfere in the underworld or Houtu, may be dissatisfied and want to directly fight back.
However, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's statement and various actions led Houtu to approve of it.
Moreover, the connection between Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva and Vulture Peak and the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is actually very weak.
Buddhism is so vast that even before it spread to the East, there were still countless powerful figures and numerous sects.
The Buddhas and Bodhisattvas do not necessarily have to follow the three holy masters.
"The seating arrangement at Lingshan is quite interesting," Cao Ya said, looking around and laughing.
The Holy Mother of Ghosts nodded and said, "We would really like to catch up with our fellow disciples, but for the time being, there is no opportunity."
Cao Ya looked around and saw that those who could be here were either Quasi-Saints or Great Luo Immortals.
Those below the Great Luo level, such as Golden Immortals, Mysterious Immortals, and Celestial Immortals, are not invited at all.
"After reaching the Great Luo Realm, one is already at the five-star level. In the [Primordial] Great World, one must have some prestige."
Cao Ya muttered to himself, but then he saw a group of experts on Mount Ling rise up. As the hosts, they brewed the finest immortal tea, its fragrance filling the air and calming the mind, aiding in enlightenment and the observation of the workings of the laws.
"Enlightenment Immortal Tea?!" Cao Ya's eyes flickered slightly. This stuff was very rare and extremely valuable.
Many Great Luo Realm cultivators, and even Quasi-Saints, had their eyes light up.
Putting everything else aside, this cup of Enlightenment Tea alone makes the trip worthwhile.
Cao Ya drank the tea and did have some insights, but unfortunately, at his level, it wasn't very useful.
"However, the ninth level of the Great Luo Realm, the third level of the Quasi-Saint Realm, and even the third level of the intermediate Realm will be of some help. Even if it is only for a moment, it is better than nothing."
Cao Ya nodded secretly; Lingshan's hospitality was still impeccable.
Suddenly, Cao Ya remembered something and looked in another direction.
As expected, Jin Chanzi passed on the Enlightenment Tea to Zhen Yuanzi.
"Thank you, Fellow Daoist Jin Chanzi." Zhen Yuanzi smiled. Although they hadn't met before, he must know that Jin Chanzi was the second disciple of the Buddha.
As for Zhen Yuanzi's name, it needs no further explanation; it resounded throughout the primordial world!
"Brother Zhen Yuanzi, you're too kind. It's only right." Jin Chanzi clasped his hands together.
However, there was a look of confusion on his face, not towards Zhen Yuanzi or any of the great masters beside him, but more like he was doubting himself.
"This scene has actually played out." Cao Ya smiled to himself.
If the Journey to the West were to actually happen, the calamity at Wuzhuang Temple would be quite a spectacle.
Cao Ya noticed Jin Chanzi's expression and secretly guessed what was going on.
"Jin Chanzi, have you begun to doubt Buddhism? Is that why you were banished to the mortal realm by the Buddha during the Ullambana Festival? As for becoming the master of the Journey to the West team, was it a coincidence, or... intentional?"
Cao Ya couldn't figure it out either. Before the havoc in the Heavenly Palace, there should have been no Journey to the West. But after Sun Wukong was imprisoned under the Five Elements Mountain, it was hard to say what would happen after that "Peaceful Heaven Assembly".
"What aspect of Buddhism did Jin Chanzi question?" Cao Ya was also curious.
Although Buddhism has three holy masters, it is clear that no path of cultivation is perfect.
Furthermore, Buddhism's so-called salvation of all sentient beings has had little effect; instead, many have used the opportunity to develop followers and expand their own power.
"Buzz." Suddenly, a radiant light spread and enveloped Mount Ling.
"Buddha." In an instant, everyone stood up and bowed in various ways, some with their palms together, some with their fists clasped, some with their hands clasped in front of them, and so on.
The arrival of a Primordial Chaos Realm expert is enough to command respect, even from a weak Primordial Chaos Realm expert, who would not dare to be negligent.
"Whoosh." The next second, a tall Buddha appeared in the arena, sitting on a lotus platform, his face sacred, seemingly smiling, yet full of majesty.
"Please sit down." The Buddha's voice was also extremely loud.
After the immortals and demons from all directions took their seats, they all fell silent and focused their attention on the Venerable One of Mount Ling in the center.
"All ages are filled with suffering, all spirits suffer, unable to achieve harmony, unable to transcend, and sinking into the sea of suffering."
"To transcend the Three Realms and escape the Five Elements is no easy feat. It requires superior cultivation techniques and innovation to forge one's own path, only then is there a certain probability of touching the edge of the Sacred Realm."
The Buddha wasted no time and immediately got straight to the point, mentioning the difficulties of becoming a saint.
He knew what the powerful figures were interested in.
Upon hearing this, the crowd became even more serious. Perhaps the Buddha would even demonstrate his supreme supernatural powers?
Whether one agrees with Buddhist teachings or not is one thing, but the magical arts of the sacred realm are something that everyone desires!
Since the World Honored One has clearly stated that only Hunyuan can escape the sea of suffering... wouldn't it be inappropriate for him not to provide something practical, to demonstrate the rules of the Holy Realm to the heroes, and to give them a concise overview?
This is far more meaningful than empty talk and grandstanding about Buddhism to gain their support!
As expected, the Buddha did not disappoint the powerful figures.
"However, the sacred realm is difficult to attain. Without great perseverance, great enlightenment, and great opportunity, how can one achieve it?"
"Which sage, past or present, has not endured hardship?"
"The true meaning of 'Buddha' is 'the Greatly Enlightened One,' the 'Completely Awakened One.'"
As he spoke, the Buddha opened one hand, its lines long and flowing with a shimmering, crystalline light.
Suddenly, a facet was conceived in the palm of the Buddha. From the creation of heaven and earth to the proliferation of life, to the golden age, it withered step by step, finally perished, the great era ended, and it turned into a dream, with only a wisp of chaotic energy remaining on the Buddha's palm.
Everything that just happened seemed like a lie.
But the heroes realized that they had witnessed two of the Buddha's great supernatural powers.
Everyone looked on with rapt attention, hoping to glimpse the Buddha's teachings.
Even after the Buddha closed his hand, many immortals and demons remained in a daze.
"As expected of a seven-star powerhouse, his casual spells are unparalleled in the universe."
Cao Ya was amazed. That wisp of chaotic energy contained the formation, existence, decay, and emptiness of a miniature universe, and the Dharma aura it carried was simply indescribable!
If facing an enemy, even a weak Hunyuan would find it difficult to withstand, and would inevitably suffer serious injuries!
However, at that very moment, Jin Chanzi, before all the other weak Hunyuan, spoke to the Buddha:
"Venerable One, I have a question."
"Since the Buddha is a 'perceiver' and an 'enlightened one,' why does he remain aloof and content, enjoying the offerings of his followers?"
"If things don't go smoothly, there will be punishment."
Before he could finish speaking, and before he had even finished half of his sentence, all the experts from the four directions fell silent, trembling with fear.
What is Jin Chanzi doing? Is he questioning the actions of the Buddha?
However, Jin Chanzi is the second disciple of Buddha Tathagata. This is an internal strife within the Great Thunderclap Temple. The heroes should refrain from interfering, lest they get themselves into trouble.
Who can withstand the wrath of the Holy Land?
Those around Jin Chanzi, such as Zhen Yuanzi and Hongyun Daoren from Wuzhuang Temple, as well as Guanyin Bodhisattva, Manjushri Bodhisattva, Samantabhadra Bodhisattva, Lingji Bodhisattva, Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva, and Weituo Bodhisattva who also belonged to Mount Ling, were all startled!
Has Jin Chanzi gone mad? He dares to question the World Honored One with such a question in front of heroes from all directions…
Guanyin Bodhisattva, Zhen Yuanzi, and others couldn't help but show worry in their eyes.
“Having great magical power does not mean that one has no great desires. In many cases, desires are even stronger.” Cao Ya thought to himself, “Buddhism can be regarded as a religion and a conventional path to transcendence without any problems. However, the emergence of many Primordial Beings has verified the feasibility of the Buddhist path.”
"But to promote it as a belief or something... well, forget it. Taoism and the like are the same."
"Good or bad depends on the person, not on the method of cultivation."
"Power itself is neither good nor evil. It is good when used right and evil when used wrong."
"Use what's useful, and set aside what's not."
"If it can help us become stronger and help us realize our glorious ideals, then it is meaningful."
"No matter what, there must be a bottom line, and one must not lose one's conscience."
"But...too many powerful individuals have abandoned their principles time and time again in their pursuit of breakthroughs."
"Because of its supreme power, it looks down upon all living beings, considering itself superior and deserving of worship..."
"As for this kind of character, if they haven't committed any sins, that's fine. But if they have committed acts of karmic retribution... Hmph, since they're already beasts, they deserve to die! Worse than pigs and dogs, their souls must be scattered!"
Thinking of this, a bitter look crossed Cao Ya's face.
Unfortunately, this is a seven-star [Primordial] universe, teeming with powerful figures.
His combat strength is indeed not bad.
But it absolutely cannot suppress the primordial chaos!
Unlike some other worlds, it has not been able to promote a humane order. Although it cannot immediately enter a utopian society, it is getting closer step by step and is on the right path.
In fact, even if Cao Ya advanced to the seven-star Saint Realm, it could not change the atmosphere of the [Primordial World].
Aside from a very few saints such as the Three Sovereigns, the Moral Celestial Venerable, and Nuwa, how many other beings would have this thought and act upon it?
Hongjun? As long as the Heavenly Dao remains intact, all things in the world are mere straw dogs; he doesn't think much of anyone.
Yuanshi Tianzun, Lingbao Tianzun, Houtu, and others may be worth trying to win over.
However, the majority of the Chaos Origin beings, such as the Demon Ancestor, Chaos Demon Insect, Chaos Demon Rabbit, and Chaos Ferocious Shark, generally scoff at this.
The law of the jungle prevails; it's only natural!
"To submit? That has never been my nature!"
"If you lack strength, then lay low and develop. One day, if you can attain the Seven Star Saint Realm... then it will be the time to make your move!"
Cao Ya lowered his eyelids, concealing the murderous intent in his eyes.
At the same time, the Buddha also reprimanded Jin Chanzi.
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