My Wife Is The Leader Of A Demonic Cult

Chapter 232: Chapter 232: The National Religion Order of the Struggle Between Buddha and Demons (Thanks to my Alliance Hierarch who was deciphered)

Yujing City, Yuhua Courtyard.

In the courtyard, there were pavilions, towers, serene and beautiful water galleries, rockeries, opera stages, and other structures, particularly those exotic animals constructed along the surrounding walls and roofs, which seemed lifelike with their scales and claws fully displayed.

Zhao Chongyin, dressed in white garments brighter than snow, stood in the midst of the water gallery, gazing at the shimmering surface of the water as it was illuminated by the sunlight.

Although Zhao Chongyin was the current Crown Prince of Yan Country, he rarely resided within the East Palace, especially after the Great Yan Emperor went into seclusion; he was even less seen in the Imperial Palace. It seemed to be to avoid suspicion, or perhaps for other reasons.

Behind him, Bai Jing stood as always with her head bowed, ready for orders, her demeanor somewhat humble.

Zhao Chongyin asked, “Aunt Bai, where is the Buddhist mission now?”

Bai Jing replied softly, “The Buddhist mission has already arrived at the Beihuang Dao in You Mountain. After all, the Buddhist envoy this time is the Exalted Vajra, and there are very few people who dare to trouble the Exalted Vajra.”

The Exalted Vajra was a top-tier expert, well-known throughout the Jianghu as the foremost Vajra of the Buddhist sects, and one of the top three masters within Buddhism.

The Buddhist sect was divided into two main branches: the Lotus Sect and the Zen Sect, and these two branches were further divided into the Lingtai Temple, Holy Heart Zen Temple, and Leiyin Temple.

The Zen Sect’s Leiyin Temple had two Grandmaster-level experts: the Universal Literary Vajra and the Universal Benefit Bodhisattva, one at the peak of the Second Qi Realm and the other just entering the Master Realm.

The Zen Sect advocated for entering Great Yan and was also the main Buddhist faction that crossed over to the east last year.

However, those who truly understood Buddhism knew that within Buddhism, the Lotus Sect represented by Lingtai Temple and Holy Heart Zen Temple was the core strength. Tianyi Bodhisattva and the Exalted Vajra were two of the top masters in Buddhism; one had entered the Four Qi Grandmaster level a decade ago, and the other was a peak Three Qi Vajra, both regarded as the most prestigious members and top-ranking masters in Buddhism.

Beyond these, there was the most mysterious Buddhist expert, Xi Hafu.

Source: Webnovel.com, updated on Ɲονǥօ.сο

Thirty years ago, when Tianyi Bodhisattva was already the abbot of Lingtai Temple—and the Da Yan Vajra had not yet entered parinirvana—suddenly, a wandering monk who called himself Xi Hafu arrived at Lingtai Temple to discuss Buddhist Law.

This wandering monk was said to have a face always in smiles, with a large belly, his appearance quite odd, but his understanding of the Buddhist Law was so profound that many monks of Lingtai Temple admitted their inferiority. Eventually, they had no choice but to call upon Tianyi Bodhisattva, the abbot.

At that time, Tianyi Bodhisattva was already at the peak of the Second Qi Cultivation, with his Buddhist Law immensely profound, and his reputation in the Pure Land was long-standing. Yet after a debate on Buddhist Law with the ever-smiling Xi Hafu, he was left speechless.

All the monks at Lingtai Temple were taken aback, never anticipating that Tianyi Bodhisattva’s understanding of Buddhist Law would be defeated by Xi Hafu.

Suddenly everyone became curious about this mysterious Xi Hafu, speculating about his true identity.

Buddhism emphasizes formlessness. What you see is merely an image within the mind.

Thus, the figure of this large-bellied Buddha was not what it truly seemed.

Such a Buddhist image signifies that a big belly can accommodate, endure all the world’s difficulties; a smile upon opening one’s mouth, laughing at all the laughable people in the world.

Eventually, Xi Hafu drifted away as if he had never appeared, and although monks in the Buddhist Pure Land claimed to have seen Xi Hafu afterward, no one could find him when they tried to search for his trace. The legend of Xi Hafu spread throughout the land, and even reached the ears of other powers in heaven, with many secretly trying to find out if this mysterious master had reached the realm of a Five Qi Grandmaster or a Buddha Master.

Others might not know, but Tianyi Bodhisattva was aware that Xi Hafu had not reached Five Qi; he should be at the peak of Four Qi, truly considered the first master of Buddhism.

People of Buddhism searched, as did other powers.

Yet, Xi Hafu remained incredibly mysterious, like a divine dragon seen only in glimpses. Even the people of Buddhism could not trace his origins or whereabouts, and although he practiced Buddhist Law and martial arts, he never took part in managing Buddhist affairs.

As time went on, people of the world gradually forgot the existence of this master.

Thus, besides Tianyi Bodhisattva, the presiding monk of the Pure Land, to call the Exalted Vajra the second highest master of Buddhism was not an exaggeration at all.

Such elite emissaries, there were few in the world who had the strength and capability to block his path.

Zhao Chongyin nodded. The entrance of Buddhism into Great Yan was not only the far-sighted calculation of his father, the Emperor above him, but was also his own intention.

Last year, the smooth eastward crossing of the Zen Buddhist Sect was greatly aided by his efforts.

For him, who was at odds with the current National Religion Zhenyi Sect, courting Buddhism was clearly an excellent choice, and the two parties hit it off almost instantly.

Bai Jing pondered and then said, “It seems that the envoy from the Demon Sect has also set out. It is said to be a young tributor of the Demon Sect. I wonder if he can safely pass through Beihuang Dao.”

Zhao Chongyin’s eyes narrowed slightly. “This mission is no small matter. Has the Demon Sect not sent Duanmu Xinghua?”

The most formidable in the Demon Sect, aside from the mysterious Sealing Demon Platform, was naturally the previous Sect Hierarch, Jiang Shang, but he was elusive and unlikely to be an envoy to Yan Country. The second highest was Li Fuzhou, now confined in the Heavenly Prison.

Next came Duanmu Xinghua, who had recently broken through the Second Qi Realm. Logically, she should have been the one sent as the envoy to Yan Country on this occasion.

Bai Jing responded, “There was an incident with Duanmu Xinghua on her way here.”

“How interesting,” said Zhao Chongyin, his sharp intellect allowing him to catch on immediately. “It seems that Houjin plans to intercept the envoy of the Demon Sect. I think this group of envoys is likely just bait, and the real envoy from the Demon Sect may arrive in Yujing City even before the Buddhists.”

Bai Jing heard these words and became alert, nodding and saying, “It’s very likely.”

Every faction has its own schemes, and now that the Demon Sect is aware someone is plotting against them, naturally they won’t just proceed according to the plan.

After all, the present Demon Sect isn’t as formidable as before, even though they have slain Qiu Fengsheng and gained a fearsome reputation, their current situation remains extremely perilous.

“Thump thump…”

A man dressed in grey robes walked briskly from afar, “Your Highness the Crown Prince, there’s important intelligence.”

This person was none other than a spy from the Heaven and Earth Net.

Zhao Chongyin hadn’t yet taken over the entire Heaven and Earth Net, but he could mobilize most of the spies at any time – such was the advantage of holding the Crown Prince’s position.

Zhao Chongyin said, “Speak.”

The spy deeply inhaled before reporting, “A great battle broke out in Yunlin City last night, suspected to involve the Demon Sect’s envoy team attacked by Houjin experts and other faction’s masters. In the end, Houjin’s experts died, and the remaining faction’s masters fled. Houjin is suspected to have lost a Grandmaster, but since the head was severed, the identity couldn’t be immediately confirmed. The other factions are unknown, further investigation is needed.”

“Grandmaster!?”

Zhao Chongyin’s pupils shrank suddenly, then he asked, “What about the Demon Sect’s envoy group?”

The spy replied, “They continued on their journey the next day, but it seems they have changed their route towards Yun Hua Road.”

Zhao Chongyin ordered, “Find out the identities and backgrounds of the members of the Demon Sect’s envoy, and stay vigilant about the tracks of the Demon Sect’s envoy team.”

“Yes.”

The spy bowed and then quickly went on his way.

Bai Jing took in a cool breath and said, “A grandmaster has died; it seems that the people from the Demon Sect’s envoy are not to be taken lightly – could it be that old monster in disguise.”

How could someone capable of killing a Grandmaster be as young as the reports suggest?

Zhao Chongyin touched his Sun Temple, sighing, “There isn’t a single one who is easy to deal with.”

If something happened to the Demon Sect’s envoy, it might not be a bad thing given the current situation, because the National Teaching Order could peacefully fall into Buddhist hands. If the Demon Sect harbors great ambitions and desires to seize the National Teaching Order, there could be complications.

Although Zhao Chongyin knew that the National Teaching Order could only be given to the Buddhists and that only they could obtain it, nobody wants their affairs to encounter setbacks.

Bai Jing moved behind Zhao Chongyin and gently placed their hand on his forehead, whispering, “There must be a struggle between the Demon Sect and the Buddhists. If the Exalted Vajra arrives, the Demon Sect will likely have to deploy Jiang Shang unless…”

Zhao Chongyin remained silent, his eyes lightly closed, as if he was pondering or perhaps enjoying the soft finger technique.

…….

In Zhao Country, on the theater stage.

Compared to Yan Country, Zhao Country has a deeper heritage. After the fall of the Great Qin Dynasty, the world was divided between the Great Zhou Dynasty and Zhao Country. Although the Great Zhou Dynasty held an advantage, it never managed to annihilate Zhao Country and unify the world.

Later the Great Zhou Dynasty disintegrated, and due to internal strife in Zhao Country and a severe blow to the Black Ice Platform, they missed a golden opportunity for northern expansion.

So, in summary, Zhao Country has a much longer history than Yan Country, whether in opera, culture, humanities, language, and even retaining remnants of the Qin Dynasty.

This opera is also ancient, originating from the Qin Dynasty, and became popular during the Great Zhou Dynasty. It mainly consists of a series of arias that tell long stories, and many in Yan Country also enjoy Zhao Country’s opera, calling it Southern Opera.

Among them, “Virtuous Lady Zhou” and “Wang Kui” are extremely popular, sweeping across Yan Country, enduring through time.

At this moment, on the stage, the three performing actors sang with melodious voices and graceful figures, currently performing “Wang Kui.”

Below the spacious stage was quite desolate, with only one table and an old man with a full head of white hair sitting beside it.

This man was the pillar of modern Zhao Country and the most powerful person, Qi Xuan Dao.

Qi Xuan Dao’s expression was calm, but his aged and worldly eyes were deeply engrossed, the same music, the same stage, different people, different times.

As time constantly slips by, people always seek traces of the past to recall the inadvertent escape of years.

Looking back, things and people have changed; what was once familiar is now gone, with bittersweet, inexpressible feelings and the indescribable joys and sorrows of life.

Even for someone like Qi Xuan Dao, the past still has a profound and shocking impact.

“Brother Qi.”

At this moment, a figure approached from a distance and gave a salute to Qi Xuan Dao.

The newcomer was named Qu Renlin, also one of the top experts of the Black Ice Platform.

As Qi Xuan Dao was a late bloomer within the Black Ice Platform and consequently the eldest, even his peers had to address him respectfully as ‘Senior Brother.’

Before Qu Renlin could speak, Qi Xuan Dao said, “If I’m not mistaken, he should have agreed.”

Qu Renlin nodded and said, “Brother Qi, your insight is divine. Faced with this supreme authority, there are few in the world who would not be tempted.”

Qi Xuan Dao indifferently said, “Some paths, even though one knows there’s a wall ahead, people will still walk forward, banging their heads until they’re bloody and battered. That’s human nature.”

“The human heart is unpredictable, but human nature can be predicted.”

Qu Renlin empathized deeply and strongly agreed with Qi Xuan Dao.

Human hearts may be difficult to gauge, but human nature can be.

Thinking of something, Qu Renlin asked, “Brother, will the Demon Sect and the Buddhist affect our plans? The Exalted Vajra has already entered Yan Country, and Houjin has failed to assassinate the members of the Demon Sect. It is said that there’s a master hiding among them, and this master seems very young yet not inferior to Xiao Qianqiu…”

Qi Xuan Dao’s heart shook and he said doubtfully, “Oh?”

Just the mention of being on par with Xiao Qianqiu merited attention. The name Xiao Qianqiu was like a mountain in front of countless people, a talent so high that he was the one most likely to reach the Great Grandmaster realm.

Qu Renlin’s face turned grave, “This person is named An Jing. He’s quite young, only in his early twenties, and also happens to be the husband of the Demon Sect’s female demon leader. According to the intelligence, Sang Tianyou died by his hand.”

Even Qi Xuan Dao felt some ripples in his heart at that moment. A man in his early twenties who had slain a Second Qi Grandmaster – such a fierce record, indeed, made one look sideways. It was not only comparable to Xiao Qianqiu but perhaps even more terrifying.

However, such matters were still ephemeral and hard to believe. Further investigation was necessary to verify the truth.

Qu Renlin continued, “It’s just uncertain whether the Demon Sect has truly made some kind of secret conspiracy with Yan Country this time. That is what really worries me.”

After pondering for a while, Qi Xuan Dao said, “After all, the Demon Sect is a millennium-old faction with profound heritage, and that old fellow hasn’t died yet. They can at most form an alliance with Yan Country, merely an alliance of interests that would break on contact. There’s no need to pay mind to that. However, what does concern me is the rising talent in the Demon Sect.”

“This Sect Hierarch of the Demon Sect reached the Master Realm at just nineteen, even more formidable than Xiao Qianqiu. If she is given time, she might truly become an obstacle for us, as well as her husband, who has an uncommon background.”

Qu Renlin said, “Rest assured, brother. If our plans succeed, how could we give them the time they need?”

Qi Xuan Dao nodded, “Always keep an eye on the movements of Yan Country. The Demon Sect and the Buddhist gathering in Yujing City, who knows, may stir up trouble.”

“Alright.”

Qu Renlin agreed and then stood up and left.

Qi Xuan Dao looked towards the opera stage.

Life is like a play, and a play is like life. Everyone is a character on this stage; some stand in the center, others in the corners.

In the end, the day of the final curtain will come, but people remember more those at the center, the main characters, seldom the lonely ones tucked in the corners.

All the brilliance one had in life, it turns out, must ultimately be repaid with endless loneliness.

Listening to the familiar opera, Qi Xuan Dao felt wistful and said, “Brother, may you rest in peace on your journey.”

……

Delegations from the Buddhist and the Demon Sect dispatched to Yan Country brought changes and turmoil to the world.

Although the Buddhist don’t have an official ranking, everyone knows that the Exalted Vajra is the foremost Vajra in Buddhism, the strongest master behind the Tianyi Bodhisattva and the mysterious Xi Hafu.

The master sent by the Demon Sect, on the other hand, surprised many, for this Demon Sect Tributor was unheard of, leaving everyone with a trace of doubt and confusion.

What is the Demon Sect’s intention?! Sending an obscure Demon Sect Tributor?!

It was then that a bombshell spread like wildfire.

Dozens of Houjin masters entered Yan Country to intercept the Demon Sect’s delegation, but ended up completely annihilated, losing a multitude of masters and even a Grandmaster.

Yan Country was now in an uproar. Those who were skeptical before fell silent, and even began frantically investigating this Demon Sect Tributor named An Jing.

Those who wanted to fish in troubled waters and harbored ill-intentions towards the Demon Sect were now quieting down their drums.

Beihuang Dao extends northeast. Passing through Sword Gate leads to the core area of Yan Country, the Capital Road. Towards the northwest, crossing You Mountain leads to Yunlin Dao.

You Mountain is a wonderful place. A Grandmaster of the Great Zhou Dynasty once achieved enlightenment here, attaining a Half-immortal Body and Great Grandmaster status. Moreover, with its back to Yunlin Dao, it had once been chosen by predecessors of the Mystical Sect as a site to build a sect to bolster their presence, a plan that later fell through for unknown reasons.

You Mountain was divided into the front and back. Its peaks surrounded with undulating greenery; forests lush and verdant, with ethereal immortal energy, resembled a heavensent fairyland, drawing numerous literati, scholars, and Jianghu heroes to pause and stay.

When An Jing once pursued Qi Shu, he passed through You Mountain but did not stop there. Now, planning to first go to Yunlin Dao to meet his Uncle Luo Chongyang, An Jing came to the vicinity of this fairy mountain once again.

Not far from You Mountain was a small town named You City.

An Jing, in a white robe, rode atop a fine horse with a relaxed and gentle demeanor. At this moment, he was no longer the small doctor from Yu State City but more like a noble young master from a high-status family, graceful and refined.

Yu Qiurong and Qian Cishan, among others, followed behind, their expressions far less tense than when they first arrived at Yan Country.

After some thought, An Jing said, “Crossing through You City, we’ll enter Yunlin Dao. Let’s rest here in the city for a while.”

“Alright, I’ll arrange it right away.”

Qian Cishan nodded in response.

Once inside Great Yan territory, the Demon Sect’s scattered experts began to gradually exert their influence, especially the spies from the Human Sect, where accurate intelligence is always of crucial importance at any given time.

As a Guardian of the Earth Sect of the Demon Sect, he naturally had a special means of communicating with the Human Sect spies.

Upon entering the city, the group dismounted from their horses.

The streets were crowded with people, and the orange glow of the setting sun spread across the land, adding an unusual serenity to the bustling world.

An Jing paused in his steps, gazing at the setting sun before him.

Yu Qiurong, seeing this, couldn’t help but ask, “Son-in-law, what’s wrong?”

During their journey, the Earth Sect experts like Qian Cishan obeyed orders unconditionally due to their statuses, while Yu Qiurong, though not outwardly distant, was distant at heart and seldom spoke.

And this was one of the rare occasions where she initiated conversation.

An Jing couldn’t help but sigh, “Do not say that the lespedeza is late; the skies are still full of rosy clouds.”

Yu Qiurong chuckled, “Son-in-law has a way with words, pity you didn’t spend more time learning literature from the Sect Hierarch in the old days.”

An Jing asked, “How many years have you been with the Demon Sect?”

Yu Qiurong replied, “Fourteen years.”

An Jing glanced at her and said, “If you truly wanted to study, it’s not too late even now.”

Yu Qiurong shook her head, “No, I don’t have that much energy or mind to spare.”

An Jing inquired, “Where are you spending all your energy then?”

Without any hesitation, Yu Qiurong said, “In restoring the Demon Sect and achieving a great undertaking.”

“A great undertaking? That’s Qingmei’s dream, not yours; you should have your own dreams.”

“It can be considered mine as well.”

An Jing did not continue the conversation, feeling that Yu Qiurong harbored an indescribable emotion towards Zhao Qingmei.

Soon, Qian Cishan returned, “An Tributor, everything has been arranged.”

Just as An Jing was about to speak, a figure approached from afar.

It was a middle-aged man in a black long robe who bowed to An Jing and the others, saying, “Is this gentleman surnamed An?”

Both Yu Qiurong and Qian Cishan looked over, a thought stirring in their minds.

Yet An Jing remained composed as he responded, “Indeed, who might you be, sir?”

The middle-aged man answered, “I am You Shanshui, my master wishes to meet with you.”

With that, You Shanshui revealed a token engraved with two characters – ‘Heavenly Mechanism’.

An Jing, though he thought of something, kept a calm exterior and said, “Then please lead the way.”

Hearing this, You Shanshui quickly led the way. You City wasn’t large, and after passing through several streets and alleys, they arrived at a serene courtyard.

“Please.”

You Shanshui gestured with his hand.

Entering through the door and crossing the corridor and the antechamber, they arrived at the guest hall.

At the head of the guest hall sat a man of impressive appearance, around his forties or fifties, who smiled and rose to greet An Jing, “Son An, I have long admired your reputation.”

An Jing returned a faint smile and said, “I presume you must be the renowned Pavilion Master of Heavenly Mechanism Pavilion, correct?”

The two characters ‘Heavenly Mechanism’ naturally referred to the once-famous Heavenly Mechanism Pavilion of the Great Yan Martial World.

Because the Four Symbols Sect allied with the Demon Sect to assassinate the Crown Prince Zhao Chongyin and were ultimately betrayed by Jia Shiwu, they faced a crackdown by the Xuanyi Guard in the martial world. Even Xi Yuanjun’s personal intervention failed to capture the Pavilion Master of the Heavenly Mechanism Pavilion.

The Pavilion Master of the Heavenly Mechanism Pavilion saluted, “Qi Yuan, at your service.”

An Jing began to search his memory for the name Qi Yuan, but it yielded no impression.

Qi Yuan smiled and invited, “Please, Son An, have a seat.”

“Alright.”

An Jing sat down.

Qi Yuan personally poured a cup of tea and said, “Young Master An is truly extraordinary, only making a move when it counts, and making waves when he does. He is indeed a rare and outstanding youth in this world.”

The intelligence of the Heavenly Mechanism Pavilion is also formidable in Yan Country. Although it has suffered some setbacks, it is not to be underestimated.

“Even though Sang Tianyou is dead and the other two escaped, that can hardly be considered an accomplishment.”

An Jing calmly said, “Pavilion Master Qi invited me here, I assume it’s not just to sing my praises, right?”

At that time, if he had insisted on pursuing them, it might not have been certain that Daoist Yu Ying could kill them, and it was possible that Feng Lingyue might have been able to slay them. But if Feng Lingyue had become cornered like a desperate dog, it might have led to a backlash.

Looking at An Jing’s calm and steady face, Qi Yuan thought that if he hadn’t seen it for himself, he would have suspected the young man before him to be some old monster in disguise.

Not only is his cultivation profound and inscrutable, capable of slaying a Second Qi Grandmaster, but his temperament is also remarkably stable.

“Young Master An is a straightforward person, so I won’t beat around the bush.”

Qi Yuan smiled and said, “The main reason for inviting you is to inform Young Master An of a matter.”

An Jing took a sip of his tea and said, “Please, go on.”

“The Demon Sect’s emissaries have gone to Yujing City, but are you aware that a Buddhist expert has also crossed the ocean eastward?”

“I know, the Exalted Vajra, the foremost among the Buddhist Vajras.”

“Then, does Young Master An know the purpose behind Exalted Vajra’s visit?”

“It must be for the National Teaching Order.”

Qi Yuan nodded slightly and said, “The current Human Emperor has issued a National Teaching Order, and the holder of this order will enjoy the resources, status, and support of the Zhenyi Sect. Although the Buddhist has taken a dominant position in Yan Country, its status still falls quite short compared to the Zhenyi Sect. Therefore, the Buddhist experts covet this National Teaching Order. And for your sect, which seeks to establish itself in Yan Country, it’s a great challenge, especially since it has previously organized rebel forces to attack Yan Country. However, obtaining this National Teaching Order would not only enable your sect to take root in Yan Country, but also to receive the support and status of the National Religion—an opportunity the Human Emperor is offering your sect…”

An Jing thoughtfully pondered this information.

He had been aware of the National Teaching Order from the start, but it was clear that this opportunity was not really prepared for the Demon Sect; it seemed more like a trap.

Given the Court of Yan Country’s fear and suppression of the Demon Sect, how could it possibly offer such a valuable prize?

A closer look revealed that this was a public stratagem of the Human Emperor: not only to bestow the order to the Buddhist outright but also to use the Buddhist as a tool to suppress the Demon Sect. This way, the prestige of the Demon Sect would fall below both the Buddhist and the Zhenyi Sect, given the previous lessons learned and caution required.

In the end, once the overall situation was set, the Human Emperor would then throw a bone to the Demon Sect, such as agreeing to let the Demon Sect spread their influence in Yan Country. From this perspective, both the Buddhist and the Demon Sect would believe they had received the Human Emperor’s favor, thus binding the Demon Sect to Yan Country’s chariot.

At the same time, the conflict between the two major orders over the National Teaching Order would somewhat account for the Zhenyi Sect as well.

However, right from the start, Daoist Yu Ying from Zhenyi Sect never intended to allow the Demon Sect to spread in Yan Country; he had a forceful personality and did not want the waters of the Great Yan Martial World to be completely muddied by the intrusion of the Buddhist and the Demon Sect.

An Jing chuckled lightly, “This is a trap that must be jumped into.”

Qi Yuan said, “If the Demon Sect gives up on the National Teaching Order, not only might the potential alliance be hard to reach, but it could also diminish your sect’s reputation. Everyone in the world might think your sect is afraid of the Buddhist. Young Master An surely understands what’s most important in the martial world.”

Aside from strength, reputation is naturally important for those who roam Jianghu.

An Jing looked at Qi Yuan and asked, “Why tell me all this, Pavilion Master Qi?”

Qi Yuan calmly said, “Because of stance.”

An Jing nodded slightly, understanding something in his heart.

The Heavenly Mechanism Pavilion was backed by the Second Prince, Zhao Mengtai. He had previously conspired with the Demon Sect, so him sharing this information with An Jing was certainly not a genuine move to help the Demon Sect; after all, Zhao Mengtai did not lift a finger when An Jing marched on Dongluo Pass.

This could only mean one thing, that the Buddhist might be backed by Crown Prince Zhao Chongyin.

After all, the Zhenyi Sect was at odds with Crown Prince Zhao Chongyin, so it was normal for him to side with the Buddhist.

“Thank you for letting me know. I will take my leave now,” An Jing said.

An Jing stood up, ready to depart.

Qi Yuan gave An Jing a deep look and conveyed through a voice transmission, “The Second Prince has prepared a feast in Yujing City, and he hopes Young Master An can do him the honor of attending at that time.”

“Alright.”

An Jing bowed his fist and turned to leave.

Watching the young man in white depart, You Shanshui spoke softly, “Pavilion Master, between the Demon Sect and the Buddhist vying for power, who has a greater chance of success?”

Without any hesitation, Qi Yuan responded, “The Buddhist. But that An Jing is truly talented. The Demon Sect sending him as an emissary to Yan Country is not without reason.”

The high-level expert the Buddhist brought this time is Exalted Vajra. In Yan Country, openly, there aren’t many in the martial world who can be sure to defeat him, Xiao Qianqiu being the only one, perhaps.

And this National Teaching Order was given to the Buddhist sect by the Human Emperor, so it was decidedly impossible for the Demon Sect to take it away.

The Human Emperor plans to first slap the Demon Sect, then prepare a sweet date afterward.

You Shanshui heard this and spoke no more.

…..

An Jing stepped out of the courtyard, and he glanced at the twilight close at hand.

The Buddhist sect and the Demon Sect must struggle against each other; neither can retreat.

The Human Emperor intends to suppress the Demon Sect’s momentum, therefore the first Vajra of the Buddhist sect has come.

The pressure had imperceptibly arrived on An Jing’s side.

To win was virtually an impossibility, that was the first Vajra of the Buddhist sect, with profound and unfathomable cultivation, and moreover, the Yan Kingdom Court would not allow the Demon Sect to win. If the Demon Sect were to lose, its demonic prestige would fall dramatically. Even if it could ally with Yan Country, its momentum would be diminished by a third, which is exactly what the Human Emperor wished for.

“Son-in-law.”

Yu Qiurong said softly at his side.

It wasn’t just Yu Qiurong, Qian Cishan also had a worried expression, clearly also filled with concerns regarding this trip to Yujing City.

It was clear from the start that Yan Country had no intention of forming an equal alliance with the Demon Sect; after all, the Demon Sect was but a single sect, and even with a city, it was still insignificant in territory.

In the eyes of the Yan Kingdom Court, letting the Demon Sect send envoys to Yan Country was an opportunity granted by the Court itself.

An Jing smiled faintly and said, “Qian Cishan, lead the way. Let’s get something to eat first.”

Qian Cishan quickly replied, “Alright! This is the accommodation prepared in advance by our brothers from the Human Sect. It will definitely satisfy An Tributor.”

Following Qian Cishan’s lead, the group arrived at the accommodation prepared by the Human Sect.

The lodgings were not only clean and tidy but also featured delectable dishes.

“This is the advantage of having the backing of a major power.”

An Jing looked at the steaming rice and the full table of dishes in front of him.

If he were alone, he could only seek an inn for shelter, far from being this well-furnished and comfortable.

An Jing beckoned Qian Cishan, saying, “Sit down and eat with us.”

Qian Cishan rubbed his hands and laughed, “Then I won’t be polite.”

After several days of interaction, he had come to understand the nature of the young man before him, who was easygoing and not like other Demon Sect experts who adhered strictly to rank and supremacy.

Yu Qiurong raised her eyebrows slightly, about to speak, but then she held back.

In her opinion, someone in a superior position should maintain their authority like Zhao Qingmei, inspiring fear in the hearts of their subordinates.

An Jing said with a smile, “Bring some drinks.”

“They’ve already been prepared.”

Qian Cishan brought out the drinks and then poured a bowl for An Jing.

Yu Qiurong, with a blank expression, said, “You all eat. I’ll go and see how the horses are being fed.”

After speaking, she headed toward her room.

“This…..”

Seeing this, Qian Cishan couldn’t help but shrink his neck, as after all, Yu Qiurong used to be Zhao Qingmei’s personal maid and the leader of the Vermilion Bird Seat. She still held substantial prestige.

An Jing said indifferently, “If I tell you to sit, you sit.”

“Yes.”

Qian Cishan, having heard this, could only stiffly take a seat.

An Jing took a sip of the drink and asked, “Where is the Exalted Vajra of the Buddhist sect now? When will they arrive in Yujing City?”

Qian Cishan replied, “Going by the schedule, they should arrive in Yujing City three days before us, but if we take a detour to Xuanqing Mountain, the Buddhist sect will likely arrive five days before us.”

An Jing nodded slightly, his brain rapidly churning, considering how to break this predicament. He wanted to avoid damaging the Demon Sect’s reputation while also allying with Yan Country and securing Li Fuzhou’s release.

Yujing City was also churning with turmoil; the Second Prince and Crown Prince were at odds within the court.

Within the borders of Yan Country, regardless of court or Jianghu, the Demon Sect was infamously notorious. The Second Prince was currently showing interest, and although unreliable, they could still use each other.

“`

Right, An Jing suddenly thought of someone.

Lv Guoyong.

He could visit the top scholar of the Lv Sect when the time came, for he might obtain a great deal of useful information.

Qian Cishan seemed to have thought of something, “Right, there’s also news that the Seventh Prince of Great Yan, Zhao Zihan, is about to come out of seclusion.”

An Jing asked with curiosity, “The Seventh Prince?”

Qian Cishan said gravely, “That’s the martial arts genius who is deeply favored by the Human Emperor (Chapter 177). However, he has had past grievances with our Demon Sect, so we must be careful lest he tries to sabotage us during our visit to Yujing City.”

“How is his cultivation?”

“He was thirty-six years old before he entered seclusion, just stepping into the Grandmaster Realm. By now, he must have reached the realm of a One Qi Grandmaster.”

An Jing nodded slightly. A One Qi Grandmaster wouldn’t pose any threat to him, but he would still need to be cautious when the time came.

The two chatted idly for a while, and An Jing also gathered a good amount of information through the intelligence of the Human Sect, so he was no longer in the dark about where he went.

It wasn’t long before Yu Qiurong came back.

An Jing smiled and said, “Come on, sit down and eat. Otherwise, the dishes will get cold.”

Yu Qiurong shook her head, “No, I’ve already eaten.”

Clearly, she had not gone out to feed the horses but to dine.

“Alright then.”

An Jing didn’t ask any further but turned to Qian Cishan, “Is the room ready?”

Qian Cishan chuckled, “The room has been cleaned spotlessly. I’m sure An Tributor will be satisfied.”

With that, Qian Cishan stood up and led the way.

Leaving the guest hall and passing through the nearby corridor, they came to a luxurious and antiquely decorated chamber, the lights reflecting warmly inside.

Qian Cishan ingratiatingly said, “An Tributor, this is the west wing, and my room is just in the side wing. If you need anything at all, just let me know.”

You must get accustomed to such luxurious living.

An Jing said to himself, then stepped into the room.

Yu Qiurong turned to Qian Cishan, “Protector Qian, where’s my room?”

“Er!?”

Qian Cishan blanked out for a moment, then said instinctively, “Isn’t preparing one room enough?”

He remembered that in Yunlin City the previous time, Yu Qiurong shared a room with An Tributor.

Upon hearing Qian Cishan’s words, Yu Qiurong’s complexion turned icy cold in an instant.

Yu Qiurong was not one to show a harsh face to others, often even appearing with a smile, but she was quite resistant towards people internally. If her face turned icy, it usually meant that she was very displeased.

Yu Qiurong said, “Protector Qian, I will be using your room.”

Leaving those words, Yu Qiurong swayed her hips as she walked toward Qian Cishan’s room.

“Cishan, get some rest early. We have to hit the road again tomorrow.”

“Click—!”

An Jing closed the door without making a sound.

The night sky was clear, the waning moon hanging high.

Only Qian Cishan remained standing outside the door, feeling a slight chill in his heart despite the month of September.

It’s done. I’ve really gone and put my foot in it now.

……

The day after tomorrow, Yujing City, West Gate.

The rising sun cast thousands of arrows of light that pierced through the treetops, shining down upon the green hills and clear waters.

This gentle radiance warmed everyone’s hearts.

As the capital of Yan Country, Yujing City was always bustling. Every day at the city gates stood sixteen burly soldiers, the drawbridge was lowered across the moat, and people came and went in a ceaseless hubbub with the constant creak of wheeled carts.

“`

“`

One can’t help but marvel at the prosperous and flourishing scene of a golden age.

Today seemed just like any other day, as though nothing out of the ordinary was going to happen.

A sudden burst of golden light shone from the distance, extremely dazzling. It was not as gentle as the sun, yet even more intense, as if one could not keep their eyes open in its presence.

“What is this…”

Both the guards on duty and the passing civilians shielded their eyes.

“Buddha’s light, it’s Buddha’s light!”

A scholar exclaimed in a low voice.

Someone made a connection and said, “Buddha’s light, could it be that a saintly monk from the Pure Land has arrived?”

The eastward spread of Buddhism was growing more intense, and the recent rumors that a Buddhist delegation would come to Great Yan had set people abuzz.

After all, Buddhism belongs to an ancient sect with significant renown, possessing control over three thousand Buddha countries in the Western Pure Land.

“The Buddhists have come!”

The soldiers who realized this immediately said, “Quick, report this to the superior, hurry, go now!”

“The Buddhists have come!”

“Hurry to the west gate, the Buddhist delegation has already arrived!”

……

The surrounding civilians and some heroes of Jianghu also came to their senses, each of them starting to discuss among themselves.

Their voices swelled like the tide, sweeping through the city in wave after wave.

At the next moment, a chant drifted over from afar, like the striking of morning bells and evening drums, resonating in everyone’s ears.

“All dharmas arise from causes and conditions; what goes before is followed by what comes after, and cause and effect are continuous, never ceasing. Impermanence rules over birth and death….”

Everyone’s hearts suddenly skipped a beat, then a surge washed over them like a flash flood.

Blessings descend upon the pious and the respectful.

Just because the light of the Buddha has arrived today, to favor all beings.

…….

Lv Sect, study room.

“Hmm!?”

Just as Lv Guoyong finished watering plants and was about to resume his painting, the brush in his hand suddenly paused, and then he turned to look out the window.

At that moment, the originally gentle sunlight outside the window vanished in an instant, replaced by an extremely blinding light, even more piercing than the midday sun.

This was the Buddha light of the Lotus Sect, golden and effulgent, a dazzling brilliance.

“Buddhism has finally come.”

Lv Guoyong murmured softly, a wave of emotion rising in his heart.

Buddhism, this sect that had left its ancestral land over a hundred years ago, was now truly returning.

As Buddhism made its way east and founded various sects, it had already had a certain impact on the Zhenyi Sect. Once the distinguished masters of the Lotus Sect took their seats in Yan Country, that impact would surely become torrential.

With the Zhenyi Sect now commanding respect in Jianghu, Buddhism’s complete entry would undoubtedly lead to open rivalry and hidden conflicts.

But before that, a confrontation between Buddhism and the Demon Sect was inevitable.

The Demon Sect was vying for prestige, whereas Buddhism was vying for karma.

And as for this conflict between Buddhism and Demon Sect, the Human Emperor had already written the ending. It’s just that no one knew whether it would unfold according to the Human Emperor’s arrangement.

Now that Buddhism had arrived, the Demon Sect too would surely not be far behind.

All the clouds and winds were gathering in Yujing City, stirring from all directions.

…….

PS: Thank you to my Alliance Hierarch who cracked the code for the reward. It’s a generous gesture, boss. Everyone should treat themselves to an extra drumstick, no need to give a reward. Just subscribing will do, because I can’t update any more frequently.

“`