《Journey to the West: Tang Monk Conquers Everything》


 Chapter 1 Incense Offering Ceremony

    "Jiang Liu, this is a handful of coarse salt. Your task tonight is to purify it into table salt. Since your dad asked you to learn cooking from me, you should start with the seasonings. I don''t care how those restaurants outside attract customers.


    I''m telling you, only third-rate chefs use a mess of spices; first-rate top chefs use just salt..." a tall man said, dressed in a spotless chef''s uniform and wearing a tall chef''s hat, his expression stern.


    "The process from coarse salt to table salt involves purification and filtering impurities..." In front of the boyy items such as filter paper, beakers, and ss cups, while he held a smartphone in his hands, searching for information he needed. Just then, a voice message came through: "Brother Liu, hurry and log in. Tonight we''re taking on the ultimate BOSS, Demon King Ox.


    We can''t do it without you."


    In a dimly lit inte caf¨¦, three empty mineral water bottles sat on the table. The youth''s eyes were bloodshot, yet he was excitedly fixated on theputer screen, watching the game''s big BOSS''s health bar nearly depleted, feeling incredibly thrilled.


    Finally, when the BOSS fell, countless rays of light scattered in all directions. The boy''s tense nerves suddenly rxed, his vision darkened, and he lost consciousness.


    ...


    Cock-a-doodle-doo!


    Half-asleep, the faint sound of a rooster crowing reached him, and Jiang Liu slowly opened his eyes and sat up.


    His gaze swept past the window, taking in the still dim scenery outside. He could vaguely make out the outlines of mountains and trees and sighed to himself: Has I been in this world for almost half a month already, still hoping to wake up back in the modern era?


    Groping in the dark, he lit an oilmp, the faint light barely dispelling the gloom in the Zen room.


    By the light of themp, he could see everything in the Zen room was quite simple: a bed made of nks, shortened by a stone under one end, a table, and apletely unattractive stool woven from bamboo...


    He picked up a light gray, worn monk''s robe from the head of the bed, put it on, took some snow-white salt from a y jar under the bed, and added it to a bamboo cup to rinse his mouth with the saltwater.


    There was no helping it. In this world, there were neither toothpaste nor toothbrushes avable, so he had to make do with salt water for oral hygiene.


    He had been just a chef apprentice back home, dragged into ate-night gaming session at a caf¨¦ by a friend, and unexpectedly, after a nightlong battle, when he opened his eyes again, he found himself here.


    Having been in this world for nearly half a month, although it was hard to ept at first, the days had calmed down since. Now, Jiang Liu hade to understand the world he was in.


    He was in a ce called Jinshan Temple, a small, rundown temple that had only a few people in total.


    The temple was not popr among devotees, but fortunately, he had started a vegetable garden and a farm, which made them self-sufficient.


    However, going online to y games was out of the question, for he was now in the Tang Dynasty, and the Emperor was none other than Li Shimin.


    Of course, if he could live for another thousand years, perhaps he''d see the dawn of the inte era?


    Shaking his head, he gargled a few times and spit out thest mouthful of saltwater. Jiang Liu collected his scattered thoughts, went to the kitchen, and took out the dough he had prepared the night before, stuffing it with chives and slowly steaming it in a pot.


    Then, he painstakingly set up a stone mill and began to carefully grind the soybeans that had been soaked all night...


    After his unexpected arrival at Jinshan Temple, his identity was that of a novice monk doing odd jobs, and managing the temple''s meals was his duty.


    Although back in the modern world he was just a chef apprentice, his cooking skills were considered excellent for this era.


    For instance, the oilmp in the Zen room was a reward from the old abbot for the recent tasty meals, something that no one else in the temple, aside from the abbot and himself, had.


    Thump... thump... thump...


    After a busy hour or so, the other monks in the temple had also woken up.


    When the ancient bell of the temple was struck, it was fully daylight, and the distant sound of the bell carried far and wide.


    The bell signaled the official start of the day''s activities in the temple: morning prayers, breakfast, and then farming.


    Unlike the monks depicted on television who seemed only responsible for chanting scriptures and weing worshippers, the monks in the temple also had to farm to support themselves, at least in this dpidated Jinshan Temple that had been crossed over to.


    At the foot of Jinshan Temple, there was a small mountain vige, but Jiang Liu had never gone down to it; he could only see it from atop the mountain.


    Every day when the bell rang, the vige below gradually began to stir, as if the bell served as an rm for the vigers.


    Of course, the main purpose of the bell was to announce that Jinshan Temple was now open to receive worshippers.


    Although, it had been a long time since any worshippers hade to the temple...


    Soon, the soy milk was ready, served in five bowls, each containing one bowl of soy milk and two vegetable buns¡ªthis was everyone''s breakfast.


    Shortly, the monks, having finished their morning prayers, gradually gathered.


    Leading them was an old monk with a white beard, who exuded a kind and gentle demeanor; he was Faming, the head of the temple.


    There were also three young monks, all dressed in greyish-white robes patched here and there, plus Jiang Liu, the novice monk, making everyone at Jinshan Temple present.


    "Everyone, please eat," Faming said as he sat down, took a sip of his soy milk, and then the other monks began to eat.


    "Mmm, Liu''er ever since he fell into the water half a month ago, his cooking has been improving day by day. Even these steamed buns taste better than those made in the vige below."


    "I really wish Liu''er would stay in the temple and cook permanently."


    "This soy milk is delicious too; steamed buns with soy milk are truly unmatched."


    ...


    After they began eating, the monks were full of praise for the breakfast Jiang Liu had prepared. Though it was just a simple meal of vegetable buns with soy milk, it tasted much better than before.


    To the monks of Jinshan Temple, the meals in the recent half month had given them a true concept of gourmet food, rather than just sustenance.


    The so-called steamed buns were actually buns; this was how they were referred to during the Tang Dynasty.


    "Buns with soy milk might be a perfect match, but fried dough sticks with soy milk are the real deal. Unfortunately, the current state of Jinshan Temple is so poor, I wouldn''t dare use so much oil to fry dough sticks," Jiang Liu quietly mumbled to himself, hearing the praises of the monks nearby.


    Although, fried dough sticks did not appear until the Song Dynasty.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Enough talk, more words would lead to fatigue. Eat without speaking, sleep without talking," Abbot Faming looked at everyone, silencing them.


    After leisurely finishing his breakfast, Senior Abbot Faming set down his empty bowl and turned his gaze toward Jiang Liu.


    "Liu''er, you turned fifteen this year, right?".


    "Yes, Abbot, I turned fifteen this year," not understanding why the Abbot suddenly mentioned his age, Jiang Liu still nodded.


    "Hmm, fifteen is the age for tying the hair knot in ordinary families. ording to the rules, you should participate in the Incense Offering Ceremony. In half a month, it will be the annual Incense Offering Ceremony at the Great Buddha Temple. Have Senior Brother Xuankong apany you then."

 Chapter 2 Slaying Monsters and Looting

    "The Incense Offering Ceremony?" Upon hearing this, Jiang Liu''s inquisitive eyes turned to Senior Abbot Faming, not understanding what the so-called Incense Offering Ceremony meant.


    "It seems that the drowning incident really caused you to lose your memories; indeed, you have forgotten many things."


    Responding to Jiang Liu''s searching gaze, Senior Abbot Faming sighed softly, going on to exin, "A novice monk like you cannot be considered a part of the Buddhist Sect, as you have not undergone the Incense Offering Ceremony. Only afterpleting the Incense Scar Initiation can you be counted as a true member of the Buddhist Sect."


    "Ah?" Jiang Liu internally rejected the words of Senior Abbot Faming.


    Having been transported to this world, he found himself in Jinshan Temple without a choice. Lacking understanding of this world and having nowhere else to go, he had temporarily decided to stay.


    Hearing about receiving incense burns to be a real monk naturally made Jiang Liu resistant.


    Firstly, without any reason, who would want to be a monk? Monks can''t eat meat or drink alcohol, can''t get married¡ªthis is nothing like the professionalization of monastic life seen in modern times.


    Secondly, he feared pain!


    Yes, the thought of burning incense scarring several marks into his head was terrifying just to contemte.


    Of course, despite his reluctance, Jiang Liu didn''t show it outwardly; instead, he secretly pondered whether he should take the opportunity to sneak away from the temple.


    With his culinary skills, entering Chang''an City some twenty or thirty miles away and finding a job in a tavern surely would sustain him, right?


    After saving some money, he could even start his own restaurant, marry a wife¡ªdefinitely ascending to the peak of life.


    "Liu''er, I hope you, you can seed in the Incense Offering Ceremony and decide to stay¡­" Just as Jiang Liu''s mind wandered and yearned for a different life, suddenly, a short and chubby monk beside him said in a low voice.


    "Ah? Can someone fail the Incense Offering Ceremony?" This question interrupted Jiang Liu''s thoughts, and he turned his head, looking at his Senior Brother Xuanming with surprised uncertainty.


    "Have you really forgotten everything?"


    This expression from Jiang Liu left Xuanming startled for a moment, and then he whispered in exnation, "The Buddha said that all living beings are equal, but the Buddha only ferries those with destiny. Only those who are predestined with the Buddha can seed in the Incense Offering Ceremony and be true monks; otherwise, they won''t even get a single incense scar and will have to leave.


    The food you make is very tasty, I would indeed miss it if you left."


    "It''s true, our Buddhist Sect values the principle of destiny. The deeper one''s connection with the Buddhist Sect, the more incense scars one can receive. Over the past decade or so, Jinshan Temple has seen dozens of novice monkse and go, but in the end, only the three of us remained," added another monk, Senior Brother Xuankong, with a robust body, speaking in a simrly quiet voice.


    As he spoke, he purposefully pointed to his own head.


    In Jinshan Temple, aside from Senior Abbot Faming with his two incense scars, the other three younger monks each bore a single incense scar on their heads.


    Although Jiang Liu had noticed the presence of scars on the monks'' heads during these days, he hadn''t thought much about it.


    He never imagined that they held such significance.


    "What kind of world is this, exactly?" Now aware of the Incense Offering Ceremony, Jiang Liu was utterly bewildered.


    Ever since he learned he was in the Tang Dynasty with Emperor Li Shimin, Jiang Liu had thought he had simply traveled through time to an era of the Tang Dynasty.


    Yet, after learning about the Incense Offering Ceremony, Jiang Liu realized this version of the Tang Dynasty might not be the one from the history of his original world?


    The Incense Offering Ceremony, the monks getting incense scars, Jiang Liu knew about it.


    But the fact that some people couldn''t receive them, and using the number of incense scars to judge the depth of one''s connection with the Buddhist Sect¡­


    Isn''t that a bit too fantastical?


    Jiang Liu was stunned by this fantastical turn of events, and the monks beside him thought he was worried upon suddenly hearing the news.


    Senior Abbot Faming spoke up, "Liu''er, if you can''t get through the Incense Offering Ceremony, you should also pack up your things and leave the mountain. Fortunately, you have some skills in the kitchen, and I believe you would be able to make ends meet once you''ve left the mountain."


    Having said this, the senior abbot uttered a low Buddhist chant and stood up to return to the Zen Room to recite scriptures.


    Several senior brothers came forward tofort Jiang Liu after seeing his expression.


    However, his mind was somewhat disordered at this time, and Jiang Liu only managed to respond with a few half-hearted sentences.


    Seeing Jiang Liu''s demeanor, the senior brothers understood that he needed some time to digest this matter, so they dispersed.


    After everyone had left, Jiang Liu got up, tidied up the bowls, and was filled with countless thoughts.


    In fact, not being able to be a monk actually filled Jiang Liu''s heart with joy.


    What was so good about being a monk? There were so many rules and precepts, and Jiang Liu had already considered, when the time was right, he would leave the mountain to make a living.


    Just as the senior abbot had said, his kitchen skills were not bad, and he had even secretly contemted whether to run away from the mountain


    However, after learning about the Incense Scar Initiation, Jiang Liu felt that he should witness it himself.


    An incense scar that couldn''t be lit? Such a fantastical scene, he should see it with his own eyes.


    As for his destiny with the Buddhist Sect? Jiang Liu was clear that he would most likely not be able to light the incense scar, considering he had no devotion to Buddha.


    More importantly, as someone who had crossed over from modern society, he was an outsider to this world, and naturally, he would have no fate with the Buddhism of this world.


    Moreover, from what he had heard from his senior brothers, the elimination rate for the Incense Offering Ceremony was well over ny percent.


    "Hmm, if I think about it, it seems pretty good, doesn''t it? If I can''t light the incense scar, I''ll have a legitimate reason to leave the mountain," Jiang Liu mused for a moment, then nodded, putting the matter to the back of his mind for now.


    Before long, Jiang Liu had finished the cleaning work in the kitchen and stepped outside to look around.


    The senior abbot was reciting scriptures in the Zen Room, Senior Brother Xuankong and Senior Brother Xuanwu were busy in the fields and vegetable garden, while the plump Senior Brother Xuanmingy in the main hall acting as the Reception Monk, waiting for pilgrims toe to the temple.


    Though it was normal for Jinshan Temple to go several days without any pilgrims.


    After looking around and seeing there was nothing else for him to do, Jiang Liu returned to the kitchen, picked up a kitchen knife, and turned to head towards the back mountain of Jinshan Temple.


    At 15, it was the peak time for growth, and a vegetarian diet every day at Jinshan Temple just wouldn''t do. Jiang Liu wanted to go to the back mountain to see if he could improve their meals.


    He had never intended to be a monk and abide by all the strict precepts, and now that he knew about the fantastical test of the Incense Offering Ceremony and was one hundred percent certain that he wouldn''t pass, he felt even less guilt about breaking the rules.


    Besides, as of now, he wasn''t technically a disciple of the Buddhist sect, right?n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    When he arrived at the back mountain, he checked several small traps he had prepared earlier, and finally, his eyes lit up when he saw a white rabbit caught in one of his homemade snares.


    Without much hesitation, Jiang Liu picked up the kitchen knife and swiftly gutted the rabbit.


    Ding, you''ve earned Experience Points 1, you''ve earned 1 copper coin.


    However, as Jiang Liu killed the rabbit, a prompt suddenly sounded in his mind.

 Chapter 3 The Girl Gaoyang

    The sudden prompt that appeared in Jiang Liu''s mind left him stunned.


    Had he actually gained experience points for killing the small rabbit? Did he just imagine things?


    However, as Jiang Liu looked down and noticed a copper coin next to the rabbit, he was certain he had not been hallucinating.


    Besides gaining experience points, he had also received a bit of money¡ªwere these the items usually dropped after defeating monsters?


    In modern society, the concept of traveling through time was a popr theme in novels, movies, TV shows, and even animations. Therefore, when Jiang Liu found himself in the Tang Dynasty, he took some time but was eventually able to ept it.


    Naturally, ording to the routine of novels, one typically received a "Golden Finger" after time traveling.


    However, having been in this world for almost half a month without any sign, Jiang Liu had thought hecked a Golden Finger.


    Now, it appeared he did have one.


    "When I initially traveled through time, I was ying a game in an inte cafe, so, does the Golden Finger I received give me abilities simr to those in a game? Like defeating monsters to level up?"


    Picking up a copper coin from beside the rabbit, Jiang Liu started to form a rough idea of his abilities.


    It was forbidden to kill living beings in the temple. No wonder he had not triggered the ability to upgrade by defeating monsters in nearly half a month.


    Although his mind was flooded with thoughts, Jiang Liu''s hands did not stop. He quickly dealt with the snow-white rabbit, spread his own prepared sauce on it, lit a bonfire, and began to barbecue the meat. He rotated it slowly on a wooden stick to evenly cook the rabbit meat.


    Having arrived in the world of the Great Tang, regardless of whether this Tang Dynasty was the same as the one in his original timeline''s history, at least after arriving in this world and gaining a Golden Finger, he had a means to establish himself.


    However, the Golden Finger he possessed operated like a gaming system that required defeating monsters to be powerful.


    Thus, was he really not suited to remain in the Buddhist Sect?


    "Hmm, there''s about half a month left until the so-called Incense Offering Ceremony. I''ve experienced a timeline shift and the gaming system''s Golden Finger has appeared. Perhaps, this world truly is a fantastical one? I must check it out. After all, if I fail the Incense Offering Ceremony and then leave the monastery, it will all be justified¡­"


    Holding a stick in one hand and fiddling with the copper coin that had just dropped in the other, Jiang Liu quietly nned his future path.


    "Wow, you, Little Monk, dare to break your vows and secretly eat meat..."


    Just as Jiang Liu was deeply immersed in his thoughts and contemting his future path, suddenly, a crisp shout startled him.


    Turning towards the voice, Jiang Liu saw a youngdy quickly striding towards him, her demeanor aggressive as if she were chasing a thief.


    Looking at the youngdy, who appeared to be about fifteen or sixteen years old, with a delicate face, dressed in a snug gown and dainty deerhide boots, and with a long leather whip coiled at her waist, she exuded the air of a heroine, dressed as if she were ready for adventure.


    "You, Little Monk? You''ve been caught breaking your vows and you''re not running away?" the youngdy approached Jiang Liu, her face showing surprise as he just stared back at her without even trying to get up.


    "I think you''re trying to scare me away so you can enjoy my roasted rabbit," Jiang Liu responded, not very pleased.


    A sh of embarrassment crossed the youngdy''s face when she realized her little scheme had been seen through.


    Yet, despite feeling embarrassed, the youngdy did not back down. She retorted, "You, Little Monk, sneaking around breaking vows by eating meat, and you still argue? Which temple''s Little Monk are you? Don''t believe I will go right now andin to your superior."


    "Sorry, I am still just a Novice Monk, not truly a monk yet," replied Jiang Liu unapologetically.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    The youngdy was momentarily speechless, nced at Jiang Liu''s bald head which indeed didn''t bear any ceremonial scars, then huffed and said, "With your behavior, you''re definitely going to fail the Incense Offering Ceremony."


    "Thank you for your concern," Jiang Liu replied nonchntly.


    He had never truly thought he would pass the Incense Offering Ceremony, nor had he considered bing a monk.


    Seeing Jiang Liu''s indifferent expression as if he were a pig not afraid of boiling water, the young girl felt angry yet helpless.


    Just then, her stomach growled loudly, causing her pretty face to flush slightly.


    "Well, this rabbit meat is at least two or three pounds. I can''t finish it all by myself. Do you want to share some?" Jiang Liu asked, hearing the girl''s stomach and looking up at her.


    "I won''t eat it. I''ve tasted all sorts of delicacies; why would I eat your crude wild food? I''m going to the Tianran Residence to order a feast of delicacies. It''s the best restaurant in Chang''an City."


    If it had been earlier, the girl thought she might have epted Jiang Liu''s offer gracefully. But now, after being humiliated twice and with her stomach betraying her at such an awkward moment, she felt it would be even more embarrassing to ept.


    Even if she were to eat, the other party should invite her a few more times so that under the guise of politeness, she could reluctantly agree.


    Shrugging his shoulders, Jiang Liu said no more.


    Seeing the girl hungry and knowing he couldn''t finish the entire rabbit himself, he had been willing to share some with her. Since she was ungrateful, Jiang Liu certainly had no intention of persuading her to eat.


    After waiting a moment, Jiang Liu merely mentioned it once and did not continue to invite her after she refused. This caused the young girl to stomp her feet in frustration and turn to leave, feeling extremely annoyed by the young novice monk.


    At this point, the girl was starting to regret her refusal.


    Unfortunately, the words of refusal had already been spoken. To go back on her words now¡ªwould she have no pride left?


    Even if it meant skipping a meal, she absolutely would not eat his rabbit meat!


    However, just a few steps away, the girl''s nose twitched slightly. A strange aroma directly entered her nostrils, causing her leaving steps to halt,


    Half an hourter¡­


    "Delicious."


    The girl sat next to Jiang Liu, with half a piece of rabbit meat lying on arge leaf. She took out a small knife with a purple sandalwood handle and cut the rabbit meat into many small pieces.


    Although she appeared to eat elegantly, she devoured the pieces quickly.


    Compared to the girl, Jiang Liu was a lot less refined and directly bit into the half rabbit he was holding.


    "It''s a pity, even though I ground star anise and cinnamon bark to enhance the vor, barbecued foods without cumin and pepper justck soul," Jiang Liu murmured regretfully, tasting the rabbit meat.


    "Little monk, your cooking skills are truly exquisite. Miss Gao has tasted various delicacies across the entirend, but the vor of this rabbit meat is quite unique," the girl said elegantly yet rapidly eating, finding time to truly praise Jiang Liu.


    In the middle of speaking, the girl formally introduced herself: "Hello, my name is Gaoyang."


    "Miss Gao, hello, my name is Jiang Liu. I am not yet a fully fledged monk, so I do not have a monastic name yet," Jiang Liu responded, ncing at the girl as he introduced himself.


    "You? You probably won''t have a monastic name in this lifetime."


    Though it''s said that one who has been treated kindly is soft-spoken, the straightforward nature of Gaoyang seemed evident as she looked at Jiang Liu holding the half rabbit and doubted his ability to go through the Incense Offering Ceremony.


    Jiang Liu did not mind her words; in fact, he felt a slight thrill inside.


    If he were bound by formal vows, leaving the monkhood would indeed be troublesome.


    "Hmm? Wait a second¡­"


    Right then, Gaoyang''s gaze sharpened as she noticed the white rabbit skin Jiang Liu had pulled off. Her pretty face changed: "Is, is that a snow rabbit?"

 Chapter 4 Are There Demons in This World?

    "Snow Rabbit?" Jiang Liu looked at Gaoyang with a hint of surprise.


    Most wild rabbits are predominantly grayish brown, with pure white ones being rtively rare, but what did she mean by "Snow Rabbit"?


    In modern society, wild beasts with the word "snow" in their names, such as snow rabbits, snow wolves, snow leopards, and so on, generally live in the cold regions of ice and snow, don''t they?


    The back mountain of Jinshan Temple isn''t far from Chang''an City; how could there be snow rabbits there?


    Surely, not every white rabbit can be called a snow rabbit, right?


    "Don''t you know? Near Chang''an City, there is only one group of snow rabbits, ruled by the Demon Marshal Shuangxue," Gaoyang said.


    Gaoyang looked at Jiang Liu curiously. Normally, as a monk, one would be aware of suchmon knowledge, right?


    "Demon Marshal? Are you talking about demons? Are there demons in this world?" Jiang Liu asked in astonishment upon hearing this.


    Although the Incense Offering Ceremony mentioned by the senior abbot had seemed quite fantastical to Jiang Liu, who thought to witness it for himself when the time came, the sudden knowledge that there were demons in this world still took him by surprise.


    "Which temple''s novice monk are you? How can you not know these things?" Jiang Liu''s startled response made Gaoyang even more perplexed.


    Temples existed not only to serve worshippers but also often had another job: assisting many people in exorcising evil and performing soul liberations.


    How could someone from the temple not know about the existence of demons?


    "This cannot be the Tang Dynasty from history; have Ie to a parallel universe filled with demons and ghosts?" Jiang Liu thought.


    Once Gaoyang confirmed the existence of demons in this world, Jiang Liu became convinced that the Tang Dynasty he was now in was not the familiar one from his own timeline.


    However, upon reflection, it made sense. After all, he had experienced transmigration himself, and moreover, he had brought along a game system that allowed him to level up by fighting monsters.


    Thus, the existence of demons and ghosts in this world seemed quite reasonable, didn''t it?


    "Let''s not talk about this any longer. We should quickly bury this rabbit skin; otherwise, if it''s discovered by other Snow Rabbit n members, it could cause trouble..." Gaoyang said in a hurry, and as they spoke, they dug a hole and buried the snow rabbit''s skin.


    After dealing with it, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang extinguished the campfire, covered it with ayer of old soil, and then left separately.


    The two only exchanged names briefly and didn''t learn much about each other.


    Upon returning after a walk of about half an hour, it was almost noon. Jiang Liu went to the kitchen to wash the rice and start cooking, then went to the vegetable garden to cut a head of cabbage and picked a few leaves of baby bok choy...


    In modern society, a dish of steamed pork with rice flour is savory and popr.


    However, in the temple, one must abstain from meat, so Jiang Liu made some steamed meat powder himself, using rice and spices like five-spice and star anise, to stir-fry with the baby bok choy leaves, which was very tasty and fragrant.


    Cabbage, stir-fried rice flour with baby bok choy, and a vegetarian soup were on the menu. Although the meals were light, Jiang Liu''s cooking brought out a unique vor.


    Before long, Senior Abbot Faming and several fellow monks arrived in session.


    "Mmm, it smells so good..." The somewhat chubby Brother Xuanming, upon walking in, twitched his big nose and couldn''t help but loudly express his admiration.


    Brothers Xuankong and Xuanwu, on the other hand, didn''t speak, but their eyes brightened as they sat down at the dining table.


    After the senior abbot picked up his chopsticks first, the other three monks began to eat heartily.


    As a chef, seeing others enjoy the dishes one cooked was always a matter of great pleasure.


    Seeing how the fellow monks enjoyed the meal, Jiang Liu felt satisfied, and he cherished the remaining half-month left of his life.


    In the dpidated temple, Jiang Liu''s work was that of an odd-job person. Besides working in the kitchen, he asionally swept the main hall; time flew by swiftly.


    By evening, after dinner was prepared, Jiang Liu shelled some beans and soaked them in water to sprout, looking to offer a change of taste for his fellow monks at the temple.


    Thankfully, before his transmigration, his uncles had strict and almost exacting expectations of him concerning anything rted to culinary arts, which Jiang Liu hade to understand.


    To speak of it, sprouting beans wasn''t particrly challenging...


    Once all these chores were taken care of, he took a bath, scrubbing his grey monk''s robe a few times and hanging it to dry, estimating it was probably around 8 in the evening. In this ancient realm with itsck of entertainment, Jiang Liu went to bed early.


    Lying on the hard wooden bed, Jiang Liu held a new copper coin in his hand, his thoughts deep and contemtive.


    This world was a fantasy realm, popted by demons, ghosts, and other creatures, suggesting he needed to be even more cautious.


    However, with a game system at his disposal allowing him to level up by defeating monsters, it represented a path to bing stronger.


    Yet, regarding this leveling up by defeating creatures, where should he go to fight now?


    Was he supposed to brutalize small animals like he had done earlier with the rabbit? If the abbot and his senior brothers knew, they would surely admonish him severely.


    Should he wait until the half-month passed and hepleted the Incense Offering Ceremony before figuring out a n after he returned to secr life?


    "Gaoyang? Who is that girl, and why was she alone in the back mountain? Moreover, considering her attire and the manner in which she dined, she seems toe from a wealthy or noble background."


    Holding the new copper coin, Jiang Liu''s mind was filled with endless thoughts and he drifted off into a drowsy sleep.


    ...


    The night was deep, and all was quiet.


    At the back of Jinshan Temple, amidst the mottled tree shadows, the darkness enveloped everything, with only a few lucky strands of moonlight piercing through the dense leaves to hit the ground.


    Suddenly, in that secluded ce, apletely white rabbit appeared. Considering its size,parable to that of a young wolfhound, it was clearly not an ordinary rabbit.


    In the dim night, one could see an uncanny crimson light shining in the rabbit''s eyes as it sniffed about with its nose twitching slightly.


    After smelling around, it came to a clearing, lightly scratched the earth a few times with its paws, digging it up, and revealing a blood-stained white rabbit pelt underneath.


    Chirp.


    In the silent and gloomy copse, a sharp and piercing cry echoed, sounding like a steel needle being scraped across an iron sheet, its prative noise stark in the quietude.


    ...n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    For Jiang Liu, the night passed without incident, and as the cock''s crow heralded dawn, he rolled aroundzily in bed a few times before sitting up.


    He felt somewhat groggy; the previous night''s sleep hadn''t been restful.


    Whether it was learning about the Incense Offering Ceremony, hearing news of the demon, or learning about the ''Golden Finger'' that would enable him to level up by fighting creatures...


    All these revtions had made for a restless and confused night''s sleep for Jiang Liu.


    After yawning, he found his monk''s robe, now dry, outside. Putting it on, Jiang Liu quickly searched and found the new copper coin he had ced under his mattress.


    "Hmm, it''s still here. So I''m not dreaming..." With the copper coin in hand, a smile spread across his face, followed by a kiss before he tucked the coin into his chest.


    After washing up, he kneaded a ball of dough in the kitchen and then headed towards the vegetable garden.


    This morning, he nned to pick some baby bok choy and scallions to cook a pot of bok choy and scallion noodles.


    However, when Jiang Liu reached the vegetable garden, he was utterly dumbfounded.


    The garden was inplete disarray, as if trampled by a dozen wild pigs...

 Chapter 5 Forming a Team

    The vegetable garden of the monastery had been ravaged and destroyed by wild animals, a fact that Jiang Liu naturally reported to Senior Abbot Faming.


    Before breakfast, everyone in Jinshan Temple, including Jiang Liu himself, all five of them went down to see the garden.


    "Could it have been a wild boar?"


    Looking at the chaos in the vegetable garden, the somewhat plump Xuanming spected. Even ordinary wild beasts, merely sneaking in to nibble on some vegetables, wouldn''t destroy the gardenpletely.


    "Amitabha, Xuankong, I leave this matter for you to handle," seeing the disordered state of the garden, Senior Abbot Faming quietly chanted the Buddha''s name before giving the task to the physically robust Xuankong.


    "Master, I understand," said Xuankong, his face showing anger as he nodded firmly.


    Most of the tasks in the monastery''s vegetable garden and farnd were overseen by Senior Brother Xuankong, so much of his efforts were poured into thend. Seeing the garden destroyed, it was natural for Xuankong to be infuriated.


    "Remember, as monks, we must holdpassion in our hearts. If you catch the culprit, just scare it off so it doesn''t dare to return, but do not harm its life," noticing the anger on Xuankong''s face, Senior Abbot Faming reminded him once more.


    Though the situation in the garden did result in some losses, it was merely chaos caused by wild animals. After understanding the situation, everyone returned to the kitchen.


    Each person had arge bowl of noodles with green vegetables and scallions. Even without any other dishes, everyone enjoyed their meal immensely.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Especially the somewhat overweight Senior Brother Xuanming, who couldn''t resist praising Jiang Liu every time, especially his cooking, which never had a bitter taste.


    At Senior Brother Xuanming''s praise, Jiang Liu merely smiled faintly.


    Havinge to Jinshan Temple, whether due to the limitations of the era or because the temple was too poor, the salt used in the kitchen was very coarse. Though it was sufficient for supplementing dietary salt, it inevitably gave the dishes a bit of a bitter taste.


    Therefore, Jiang Liu procured some equipment and purified the salt used in the kitchen.


    "By the way, master, I need to go down the mountain today. There is unrest at the Esquire Zhang''s residence at the base of the mountain, suspected to be due to lingering lost souls. He has offered two taels of silver for me to recite sutras and perform a ritual..." At the dining table, the usually quiet Senior Brother Xuanwu suddenly spoke up.


    "Oh? Is that so? Then go ande back quickly," hearing this, Senior Abbot Faming''s eyes brightened, and he nodded emphatically.


    Jinshan Temple was indeed too poor. It wasmon to go three to five days without any temple visitors, let alone any incense money donations.


    Performing rituals naturally brought in more than what was donated through incense money. Even if it were just a simple ritual for transcending lost souls.


    "Two taels of silver? Esquire Zhang truly is a wealthy family known in Jinshan Vige at the foot of the mountain. That is one thousand two hundred copper coins! One steamed bun costs two copper coins, six hundred steamed buns¡ªhow many days could I eat with that..." Senior Brother Xuankong murmured, counting on his fingers.


    "All you know is to eat, eat, eat. Get yourself to the Buddha Hall quickly. It has been five days since any temple visitors came," Senior Abbot Faming spoke irritably upon hearing what Xuanming said.


    As the Reception Monk of Jinshan Temple, Xuanming was responsible for weing temple visitors. It wasmon to have no visitors, so he was used to it.


    But today, when Xuanwu had a ritual to perform and could get two taels of silver while Xuanming hadn''t had any visitors in five days, the disparity was clear.


    "Really?" Jiang Liu did not interrupt the conversation between the abbot and his senior brothers, but inside, he was silently contemting.


    Senior Brother Xuanwu was going down the mountain to recite sutras and transcend lost souls. So, were there truly demons, ghosts, and supernatural entities in this world?


    Originally, Jiang Liu was very interested in these fantastical supernatural phenomena and had wanted to go down the mountain to see the world.


    However, thinking of Senior Brother Xuanwu transcending lost souls and dealing with them made Jiang Liu shudder slightly. He immediately shook his head, and the idea vanished.


    "Right, Xuanwu, after you get the silver, remember to buy somemp oil and incense," after chatting for a while, Senior Abbot Faming suddenly reminded him.


    "Also, we are running low on vegetable oil, salt, and soy sauce in the kitchen," Jiang Liu chimed in.


    "My hoe has broken too, junior brother, please buy a new hoe for me on your way," Senior Brother Xuankong quickly added.


    The temple was poverty-stricken, and as soon as they heard about the iing silver coins totaling 1.2 tael, everyone voiced their own needs.


    Xuanwu silently calcted that if they really were to replenish those items, at least half of the silver would be needed, and he shook his head in reluctant resignation.


    After breakfast, their discussions had more or less concluded, leaving only Jiang Liu in the kitchen to wash the dishes, while the other senior brothers each busied themselves with their own tasks.


    Senior Abbot Faming continued his scripture recitation in the Zen Room; Senior Brother Xuanwu tidied up a bit and went down the mountain to perform a ritual; Senior Brother Xuankong took his rest in the vegetable garden.


    As for Senior Brother Xuanming? Well, he was sleeping in the main hall, as the Reception Monk.


    With no pilgrimsing up the mountain to be received, he was the most rxed person in the temple.


    By evening, Xuanwu returned looking a bit weary, bringing back many items, and of course, the remaining five coins of silver.


    An uneventful day passed without any significant happenings, for Jiang Liu, it was just another day closer to his Incense Offering Ceremony and a day closer to renouncing secr life.


    That night, instead of returning to the Zen Room to rest as usual, Senior Brother Xuankong stayed to guard the vegetable garden.


    After washing up, Jiang Liu thought it over, and instead of rushing to sleep, he decided to go over and sit beside Senior Brother Xuankong at the garden.


    He said it was to keep himpany and alleviate his boredom, but in reality, Jiang Liu also wanted to learn as much as possible about the world from him.


    For instance, do demons, ghosts, and goblins really exist?


    Or if there were cultivators and immortals on this...


    "Demons, ghosts, and goblins have always existed; what''s so unusual about that?"


    "Immortals?"


    Upon mentioning this, Senior Brother Xuankong''s expression turned much more serious as he stared intently at Jiang Liu, "Of course, there are immortals and Bodhisattvas. Do you doubt that Bodhisattvas and Buddha are mere illusions? If you harbor such thoughts, you will not pass the Incense Offering Ceremony. Remember this!"


    Seeing Senior Brother Xuankong so serious for the first time, Jiang Liu nodded, preparing to admit his mistake.


    However, before he could speak, Senior Brother Xuankong suddenly covered Jiang Liu''s mouth and made a silencing gesture.


    Rustling...


    In the moonlight, they could see a pristine white rabbit as big as a dog, with eyes red as blood, leaping several feet high, effortlessly jumping over the fence of the vegetable garden and wreaking havoc.


    "What a huge rabbit!" Jiang Liu was secretly astonished upon seeing the rabbit.


    He had never seen nor heard of such arge rabbit before.


    "This white rabbit? Could it be..." As he looked at the unusuallyrge rabbit, thoughts of what the girl Gaoyang had mentioned earlier shed through Jiang Liu''s mind.


    Snow Rabbit n, there are supposed to be demons, and even a so-called Demon Marshal?


    What level of demon a Demon Marshal was, Jiang Liu did not know, but it sounded quite formidable.


    "Such a huge rabbit? It must be enchanted, huh? How dare it disturb the peace of Jinshan Temple!" As he watched the rabbit, big as a dog, destroy the neatly fixed garden, Xuankong showed no fear but was visibly upset.


    As he spoke, Xuankong stood up, a faint golden glow emanating from his palms...


    System prompt: Would you like to form a team? Team target¡ªXuankong.

 Chapter 6 Upgrade Skill Book

    The sudden prompt left Jiang Liu stunned.


    In online games, team modes aremon, and Jiang Liu was well aware of this; however, he hadn''t expected that the game system he acquired after crossing over would also have a team mode.


    Though he was bbergasted, Jiang Liu''s reaction was swift, and he immediately agreed.


    Afterward, Jiang Liu noticed that the world in front of him had suddenly undergone aplete change.


    For instance, in front of him, a small icon perpetually floated in the corner, depicting a person''s face, specifically Senior Brother Xuankong¡ªthis must be the sign of a sessful team formation.


    At the same time, he could see a health bar hovering above both Senior Brother Xuankong''s and the giant snow rabbit''s heads, giving off the impression of being in a 3D game.


    If he hadn''t been in this world for over half a month now, Jiang Liu would doubt whether he was dreaming of ying a game.


    Setting aside Jiang Liu contemting this end-of-the-world team mode and the imagery that suddenly emerged, at that point, Senior Brother Xuankong had already charged at the giant snow rabbit.


    As Senior Brother Xuankong moved, the snow rabbit naturally noticed him.


    Man and rabbit shed, bing embroiled in a tussle.


    The snow rabbit was huge and incredibly strong, unlike any rabbit, and more akin to a fierce tiger.


    And Senior Brother Xuankong? His body was robust, his hands radiating a faint golden glow, his palms seemingly turning to cast iron, formidable and weighty.


    With a kick of its legs, the snow rabbit immediately created a small pit in the ground, flinging soil around.


    Senior Brother Xuankong''s palm strikes left cracks even in stones.


    Jiang Liu was keenly aware that if such power hit him, he would break at least a couple of bones. He was utterly unable to intervene in their struggle.


    Although unable to help, at least his observational skills were sharp. It was apparent that as a herbivore that had attained sentience, the rabbitcked both ws and sharp fangs, resulting in rather weakbat prowess.


    From what he could see, Senior Brother Xuankong did seem to have the upper hand.


    After fighting for a spell, it became clear to the snow rabbit that it was no match for the human and started to think of fleeing.


    "Hmph, thinking of escaping?" Belting out a voice as deep as a temple bell, Senior Brother Xuankong grunted in anger as the snow rabbit turned to flee.


    He stepped rapidly, dirt flying, charging like a wild bull in pursuit.


    "Senior Brother Xuankong, wait, don''t kill it."


    Seeing that the snow rabbit''s health bar was left with only about twenty percent, Jiang Liu yelled out high and loud, aware that the cause of it all was him killing a snow rabbit for its meat and feeling guilty within.


    However, Senior Brother Xuankong paid no heed to Jiang Liu''s shouting, rushing forward andnding a palm directly on the rabbit''s head.


    The snow rabbit fell to the ground, its legs twitching unconsciously a few times before ity still.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, the snow rabbit''s health bar had been emptied.


    Seeing this, Jiang Liu rushed over, looked down at the snow rabbit with aplicated expression, "Senior brother, did you kill it?"


    "No, it has only fainted," said Senior Brother Xuankong as he shook his head, looking at the snow rabbit that had been knocked unconscious.


    In the midst of speaking, he raised his palm again and struck another blow, showing none of the merciful spirit expected of a monk.


    With a smack, the snow rabbit''s head caved in slightly; its skull was crushed, and it was truly dead beyond all doubt.


    Notification: Gained 102 Experience Points, 15 copper coins.


    Notification: Level increased, currently level 1.


    With the death of the snow rabbit, the apanying notifications arrived as expected. The level increase made Jiang Liu feel a refreshing stream flow through his body, as if his flesh and bones had been thoroughly cleansed from the inside out, leaving him with a sense of total rxation.


    Faintly, he felt that his strength had increased somewhat, and his consciousness had be a lot clearer.


    "Liu''er, why did you stop me just now?", without time for Jiang Liu to experience the sensations that came with leveling up, Senior Brother Xuankong, having just killed the snow rabbit, spoke up and asked.


    "Senior Brother, didn''t the abbot previously say that monks should bepassionate and that you must not harm any living creature?"


    Although he hadn''t done anything in the team and had just gained experience and leveled up, Jiang Liu didn''t feel too joyful; instead, he felt a sense of guilt in his heart.


    "What the abbot said referred to wild beasts, not to demon creatures," shaking his head, Senior Brother Xuankong didn''t take it to heart.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "But are demons necessarily bad?" Jiang Liu muttered quietly in response to Senior Brother Xuankong''s answer.


    Havinge from the modern world, with various TV shows and novels spawning endless tales of romances between humans and demons, or humans and ghosts¡ªsuch as the Legend of the White Snake or A Chinese Ghost Story.


    Not all humans are good people, and likewise, not all demons and ghosts are purely evil, right?


    "Liu''er, humans and demons are ipatible; you must never harbor such thoughts! Remember this!"


    Although Jiang Liu''s words were just quiet mutterings, Senior Brother Xuankong clearly heard them and rebuked him sternly, with a somber expression.


    "Alright, Senior Brother, I realize my mistake," seeing Senior Brother Xuankong''s stern demeanor, Jiang Liu had no intention of arguing and quickly admitted his fault.


    After all, he would have to descend the mountain and return to secr life in less than half a month.


    "Alright, I''m going to rest now. I''ll take care of the vegetable garden tomorrow; bury this demon," after seeing Jiang Liu admit his mistake, Senior Brother Xuankong''s expression slightly eased, and he turned to head back to his Zen Room.


    As Senior Brother Xuankong left, Jiang Liu fell silent for a moment, looking at the snow rabbit at his feet that was as big as a wolfhound and lifted its body.


    Indeed, underneath the body of the snow rabbit, there was a copper coin. But beyond that, there was also a thin booklet.


    ...


    Night had fallen deep.


    In Jiang Liu''s room, the oilmp was lit, a bean-sized me casting a faint light, barely dispelling the darkness within.


    An old table wasid out with a row of copper coins¡ªthese had just burst out and there were precisely fifteen.


    Beyond that, there was also the thin booklet.


    Holding the booklet closer to the oilmp for a better look, three big characters were written on it: Silencing Zen.


    "Is this a Skill Book that just dropped?", seeing the characters written on this booklet, Jiang Liu understood.


    Prompt: Do you want to consume 1 Skill Point to learn the Skill "Silencing Zen"?


    As Jiang Liu flipped through the booklet, the prompt appeared.


    Of course, there was no hesitation, and he chose to learn.


    The Skill Book in his hand instantly turned into twinkling starlight and then slowly merged into Jiang Liu''s body. Simultaneously, a sense of sudden enlightenment emerged from the depths of his heart.


    It was like remembering something that had been forgotten, and Jiang Liu gained understanding of the Silencing Zen Skill.


    Silencing Zen: Requires Level 1, long-distance cast, can silence the target for 2 seconds, during which the target cannot use any skills, cooldown time 30 seconds.


    "Indeed, just like the online game I yed before transmigration, the first Primary Level Skill of the Monk Profession is a silencing type of skill."


    Feeling the characteristics of the Silencing Zen Skill, memories of nights spent ying online games in inte cafes before his transmigration couldn''t help but sh through Jiang Liu''s mind.


    However, ying a monk in a game was stress-free, but after transmigrating and bing a monk himself, Jiang Liu felt somewhat troubled; in the game, monks were primarily a support upation. Even though there werebat-rted professions to choose fromter, the Monk upation generally leaned towards support and control.


    Compared to that, the Swordsman Profession, which is just after quick revenge, or the Taoist Profession thatmands wind, fire, thunder, and lightning, seemed much cooler.

 Chapter 7 The Demon That Speaks Human Language

    Before transmigration, Jiang Liu stayed up all night strategizing over boss raids, so he naturally had a clear understanding of everything in the game.


    In the game, there are three major professions: Monk, Taoist, and Swordsman, each with its own characteristics.


    Taoists mainly focus on spell-based attacks and can advance into pure "Magic Cannons" known as Heavenly Masters or into the Demon Path, which specializes in evil curses.


    Swordsmen primarily rely on physical attacks and can advance into the aggressive Sword Heroes or the defensively skilled Shield Swordsmen.


    As for monks? Jiang Liu was of course the most familiar with them because before transmigration, his profession in the game was as a Monk.


    The Monk upation is more support-oriented, and in thete stage, they can advance into the pure healing profession of Compassionate Bodhisattva or be an Immovable Vidyaraja, adept at various control andbat techniques.


    Jiang Liu''s profession was originally a Compassionate Bodhisattva, adept at all sorts of healing skills, buffs, and even the Resurrection Technique, but that was all in the game. Now that he had transmigrated into a living world, Jiang Liu felt it would be better to advance as an Immovable Vidyaraja in the future.


    After all, in the game, you could be resurrected after death, but in this real world, can you be resurrected after death?


    Jiang Liu wasn''t sure, and he didn''t want to gamble with his own life.


    "In the early stages of the Monk profession, the main role is still support, so I need to work hard to level up and advance to level 20 as soon as possible," Jiang Liu thought about his future job advancement, feeling the journey ahead was long, especially since he was only level 1 now.


    There was no conversation that night, and the next two days passed very peacefully. Cooking meals and cleaning every day, Jiang Liu treasured thesest quiet and peaceful days at Jinshan Temple.


    One day, after eating lunch and scrubbing the pots and pans, with nothing else to do, Jiang Liu tidied up a bit and headed to the back mountain again.


    Being in the midst of growing up, meat was essential to his diet; he just hoped that this time, he wouldn''t run into a snow rabbit again.


    In the back mountain, a young girl named Gaoyang, dressed in a sturdy outfit exuding an air of heroism, walked through the dense grass, deliberately making a lot of noise to startle the snakes.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Sure enough, after a while, a pheasant took flight in rm and fled into the distance.


    A sh of cold light appeared, and Gaoyang''s flying dagger shot out, urately hitting the pheasant''s neck and bringing it down.


    Holding the pheasant in her hand, Gaoyang let out a soft sigh, involuntarily thinking of the Novice Monk she had encountered a few days ago.


    His cooking skills were truly good, but unfortunately, the Novice Monk hadn''te to the back mountain for several days, and she only found a few animal traps he had left behind.


    "Gurgle..." Thinking of Jiang Liu, Gaoyang felt her mouth water and her stomach grumble.


    Touching her own belly, Gaoyang felt helpless again.


    Thest time she caught some game, she thought that the Novice Monk made roasting it look so easy, but to her dismay, it ended up burnt, ck and bitter, and hard to swallow.


    These past few days, she had only been able to get by on some wild fruits from the mountain.


    "I don''t believe this young heroine can be thwarted by such a small matter! Today, I must roast this pheasant well!" Gaoyang thought of her recent dining troubles, feeling almost tearful from frustration.


    Ah, ah, ah...


    However, just when Gaoyang was determined, silently cheering herself on to roast the pheasant well this time, suddenly, loud shouts erupted in the tranquil mountains, drawing Gaoyang''s attention.


    "Ah!!!" Funnelling his hands into a megaphone shape, Jiang Liu shouted loudly a few times toward the open mountains, feeling exhrated.


    Walking for almost half an hour, he was tired but the mountain air was good; shouting aloud to clear his lungs felt quite nice.


    After nearly an hour''s trek, Jiang Liu finally arrived at his destination and began to check the simple animal traps he had set up.


    Several days had passed, and he wondered if he had sessfully captured any prey.


    This time, it seems like luck was on Jiang Liu''s side. After checking only a few, his eyes lit up slightly.


    One of his animal traps had sessfully caught a wild pheasant.


    Jiang Liu walked over and looked at it, sighing helplessly in his heart. It was a pity it was already dead; otherwise, if he had killed it himself, he could have gained another Experience Point.


    "Ordinary small animals, like the snow rabbit originally caught by the trap, yield only one Experience Point after being killed, but the Demon Snow Rabbit that Senior Brother Xuankong killed before gave over 100. It seems that to get a high number of Experience Points, one needs to kill some strong beasts or even Demons," he mused.


    Despite his regrets, Jiang Liu''s movements were quick. He took the pheasant and went to a nearby mountain stream to process it.


    He slit open the body, removed the guts, plucked the feathers¡ªall with swift movements. As he washed the pheasant, its blood merged into the stream water and flowed downstream.


    "Eh? What''s this?" After he plucked the feathers off the wild pheasant, Jiang Liu suddenly froze for a moment.


    It turned out that aside from the wound left by his rudimentary animal trap, there was also a hole in the pheasant''s neck.


    "Well, well, you little monk, you''re killing again, wanting to eat meat, and you''ve been caught by me again, haven''t you?" came a familiar, scolding voice from behind Jiang Liu.


    Turning his head, he saw the girl staring at him just like before, saying almost the same words as that day.


    "If you wanted to eat it, you could have just said so. You specifically hunted this pheasant and then secretly ced it in my trap, didn''t you?" Seeing the girl who hade over, how could Jiang Liu not understand what the bloody hole in the pheasant''s neck was all about?


    Having her little trick exposed again, a sh of embarrassment crossed Gaoyang''s face.


    But since she had been found out, Gaoyang didn''t deny it: "You couldn''t finish this wild pheasant by yourself. Finder''s keepers."


    "What if I say I can finish it?" Jiang Liu muttered inwardly at the girl''s words.


    There''s a saying that goes, a teenage boy can eat his poor old father into the ground¡ªand at the ripe old age of 15, one is at their most ravenous. A wild pheasant only weighs a little over two pounds. After plucking and bleeding, a person really could finish it all by themselves.


    Of course, such words, Jiang Liu naturally would not speak out loud.


    The pheasant was hunted by Gaoyang, and rightfully she deserved a share as well.


    With adept movements, Jiang Liu had Gaoyang gather some dry branches to return with, lit a bonfire, and then started to prepare the pheasant.


    Gaoyang''s eyes widened as she carefully observed Jiang Liu''s actions, finding them very novel.


    Jiang Liu''s process didn''t seemplicated, but why was it that the food he grilled tasted so good when hers always ended up burnt?


    Cooking, Jiang Liu''s expression was very serious. Perhaps it was due to the nearly rigorous demands of his uncles, insisting that cooking required undivided attention.


    There''s an adage that says, a man who is serious can be most charming.


    Jiang Liu was focused on cooking, while Gaoyang''s attention was on him. For a moment, everything became quiet.


    Downstream, a wolf came to the water''s edge. If someone else were to be there, they would have certainly screamed.


    This wolf was not prowling on all fours like other wild animals; instead, it walked upright on two legs.


    Even though it looked like a wolf from head to toe, the way it stood and walked was like that of a human.


    It crouched down by the stream, took a few sips of water, and then suddenly, the Wolf Demon brightened up, looking toward the upper part of the stream and spoke human words.


    "Is there blood in this water?"

 Chapter 8 Demon Soldier

    Jiang Liu, sitting atop a green rock, wore a tattered gray-white monk''s robe, a roasted pheasant skewered on the wooden stick in his hand, with a pretty young girl sitting beside him.


    It was both a vition of the meat prohibition and the lust prohibition. If seen by other monks, he might be regarded as a debauched monk and expelled from the monastery.


    The licking mes scorched the pheasant, slowly infusing the seasoning smeared on it into the meat, mingling with the original vor of the meat and emanating a peculiar aroma into the air.


    The girl beside him, Gaoyang, slightly twitched her nose and quietly swallowed her saliva.


    "Hehehe, such delicious meat¡­" Just then, suddenly, a slightly ominous and hoarse voice rang out.


    Jiang Liu turned towards the voice and saw a sturdy grey wolf, the size of a young calf, emerging from the grass beside him.


    Examining the grey wolf, it was strong and hearty, but it bore numerous scars, and a w mark over its left eye had blinded it, revealing it as a one-eyed wolf demon.


    "Was that this wolf who just spoke?" Jiang Liu startled at the sight of the emerging wolf.


    Although he knew demons existed in this fantastical world and had heard of the Incense Offering Ceremony and demons, he had never witnessed them firsthand. The snow rabbit that attacked Jinshan Temple a few days ago was nothing more than unusuallyrge.


    And now this one-eyed wolf could actually speak humannguage?


    Jiang Liu was taken aback, first by the appearance of the wolf and second because the wolf could actually speak.


    "Hmph, just a mere demon, daring to appear so boldly? Are you not afraid of being vanquished?" Compared to Jiang Liu''s shock, the girl, Gaoyang, showed no trace of panic, instead chiding sharply.


    "Hehehe, though the chicken is fragrant, human flesh is far sweeter and more delicious. Devouring you two, not only would my injuries fully heal, but my cultivation level would surely advance further¡­"


    The grey wolf''s gaze swept over the pheasant roasting on the me Mountain, but his greedy eyes finally rested on Jiang Liu and Gaoyang.


    "Daring to consume human flesh? You must be executed!" Gaoyang eximed furiously, abruptly standing up, and with a raise of her jade hand, two shes of cold light appeared, shooting directly towards the grey wolf¡ªboth were flying daggers.


    However, the grey wolf leaped deftly, its agile form easily dodging the flying daggers and, at the same time, pounced towards Gaoyang like a fierce tiger.


    Gaoyang reacted swiftly as well, her whipshing out from her waist, snapping like a flood dragon as it fiercely struck towards the grey wolf.


    The fight between the young girl and the grey wolf was intensely back and forth.


    Although unable to intervene, Jiang Liu could tell that both the grey wolf''s and Gaoyang''s strength were somewhat stronger than the previously seen snow rabbit and Senior Brother Xuankong.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "How do I intervene?" With the team status below, the scene before Jiang Liu hadpletely changed, watching the battle between the grey wolf and Gaoyang, he felt a sense of urgency within.


    At first nce, the fight between the grey wolf and Gaoyang seemed evenly matched¡ªone ps a paw, the other snaps a whip. However, Jiang Liu could clearly see that although the grey wolf appeared to be struggling, its health bar was decreasing very slowly.


    On the other hand, Gaoyang''s health bar had dropped by about a third after a short while.


    Feeling urgent, Jiang Liu naturally wanted to lend a hand.


    Although demons were terrifying, there was no reason for a woman to fight while he, a grown man, hid behind her.


    However, despite wanting to help, Jiang Liu found absolutely no opportunity to intervene.


    In such an intense battle, a mere level 1 like himself was no different from an ordinary person; charging in would probably only burden Gaoyang further.


    From what was visible, this wolf already bore injuries, so its battle with Gaoyang was closely matched.


    Even as time passed, the signs of defeat seemed to appear.


    However, Jiang Liu could see that the wolf originally had about 70 to 80 percent of its health, and now it still had over 60 percent. As the battle continued, the decrease in health was not significant.


    In contrast, Gaoyang seemed quite miserable, with many parts of her body scratched by wolf ws, blood drenching her body, especially the health bar above her head that only Jiang Liu could see, which was now only about half full...


    This situation made Jiang Liu somewhat surprised; on the surface, it looked as if Gaoyang was on the brink of victory, yet ording to the health bar, Gaoyang waspletely suppressed. What was going on?


    Amid his surprise, Jiang Liu''s mind suddenly recalled a text he had learned in middle school.


    "The Wolf," written by Pu Songling, was a text excerpted in the middle school Mandarin textbook, which narrated the story of a butcher encountering two wolves on his way home after selling meat, a tale filled with strategies and wits.


    This text had vividly revealed the cunning nature of wolves.


    "Gaoyang, be careful, this wolf is feigning weakness!", a thought shed through Jiang Liu''s mind, and he shouted at Gaoyang.


    The injured Gaoyang, holding a whip, resembling a blood-soaked female general, slightly changed her expression upon hearing Jiang Liu''s shout.


    The Grey Wolf nearby also had a glint in its eyes; its formerly gging spirit suddenly rejuvenated, and it even stood on its hind legs.


    Its paws viciously tore at Gaoyang.


    "Can stand upright? Are you a Demon Soldier?", Gaoyang eximed as she saw the Grey Wolf stand up.


    With a ripping sound, blood sttered, and the girl''s shoulder was deeplycerated by the wolf''s ws, hurling her next to Jiang Liu.


    With blood-stained paws, the Grey Wolf remained standing, stepping towards Gaoyang and Jiang Liu like a human.


    As it walked, it extended its tongue to lick the blood off its paws, its eyes gleaming with an even greater greedy fervor.


    "Indeed, this wolf is full of tricks; it was just pretending to be weak!", Jiang Liu''s suspicion was confirmed upon witnessing this scene, his heart sinking.


    "Demon, is this what a true demon looks like? Able to stand and walk like a human, and even speak", Jiang Liu truly realized what a demon looked like, watching the Wolf Demon.


    With a whoosh, a ck shadow suddenly smashed towards the Wolf Demon.


    The Wolf Demon urately caught the ck shadow with its paw; it was the roast chicken Jiang Liu had just prepared.


    A look of disdain shed in the eyes of the Wolf Demon. It initially intended to discard the roast chicken, but its nose twitched slightly, and it promptly licked it with its tongue.


    After tasting it, the Wolf Demon''s eyes brightened: "Hmm, this little monk makes tasty roast chicken. I could eat this girl to recover from injuries, and as for this little monk? No rush to kill him, let him cook roast chicken for me every day, and once I tire of it, then eat him...".


    Having used the roast chicken to momentarily distract the Wolf Demon, Jiang Liu helped Gaoyang up and turned to run into the distance.


    "Jiang Liu, it''s useless, the Wolf Demon is very fast, we can''t escape...", supported by Jiang Liu, Gaoyang, pale from blood loss, spoke in a weak voice, shaking her head.


    "I know we can''t escape, but we can''t just sit and wait for death, can we?", Jiang Liu said urgently while supporting Gaoyang.


    Watching Jiang Liu and Gaoyang''s fleeing figures stagger into the distance, the Wolf Demon was not in a hurry to pursue; after rapidly consuming the roast chicken bones and all, it then crouched down and, moving like a sh of lightning, chased after them.


    Naturally, its speed was much faster than that of Gaoyang and Jiang Liu...

 Chapter 9 Fine Quality Equipment

    Jiang Liu supported Gaoyang as they raced forward, but how could they outrun a Wolf Demon on all fours?


    Coming up behind the two, the Wolf Demon raised its paw and aimed a heavy, forceful blow toward Gaoyang''s back.


    The girl, naturally, would not sit still and await death. Feeling the bone-chilling wind at her back, a cold gleam appeared between her fingers, then a Flying Dagger materialized, ready to be thrown at the Wolf Demon''s throat.


    To eliminate this Wolf Demon, she could only target its throat and eyes¡ªthese lethal spots.


    Awoo!


    However, just as Gaoyang raised her hand, the Wolf Demon suddenly let out a piercing Wolf Howl from its mouth.


    The intangible soundwaves, as if tangible, mmed into the heads of Jiang Liu and Gaoyang.


    Jiang Liu felt as if his head had been hammered, his consciousness blurred for a moment, followed by dizziness and the world spinning around him.


    By the time Jiang Liu regained his senses, he was already lying on the ground, feeling as if he had just been hit by a train, his body seemingly falling apart.


    As for Gaoyang, lying next to him, her situation was even more dire, herplexion as pale as paper with a trail of blood at the corner of her mouth.


    In particr, the Health Bar above the girl''s head was only about one-tenth full, perilously close to death.


    "Cough, cough...", the girl coughed twice, spitting out more fresh blood, staring in horror at the Wolf Demon before her.


    She hadn''t expected the Wolf Demon to be able to disorient its prey with a howl.


    Indeed, the battle she just had with it had been a feigned weakness, intended to lull her intocency.


    The Wolf Demon rose to its feet, sparing Jiang Liu a nce but not in a hurry to kill him.


    Its one eye gleamed greedily at Gaoyang, before extending its blood-red tongue to lick its lips.


    Human flesh was a great tonic for those of the Demon n.


    "Gaoyang, can you still move? Try once more, aim for its eyes," Jiang Liu whispered to Gaoyang, even though they were both nearly immobile, the situation critical.


    "No, it''s no use, its Wolf Howl, it will...," Gaoyang weakly shook her head, her voice frail, obviously at the end of her strength.


    "Listen to me, try it!" Seeing the Wolf Demon approaching step by step, Jiang Liu didn''t have time to exin, softly urging her.


    The girl didn''t respond, lying on the ground breathing more out than in, seemingly at her end.


    The Wolf Demon could tell Gaoyang had little strength left to resist; it was well aware of the gravity of the injuries its previous attack had caused.


    Approaching Gaoyang, the Wolf Demon opened its jaws wide and viciously bit down toward her neck.


    Its sharp wolf teeth could break even iron, it believed.


    In that moment, Gaoyang held a Flying Dagger in her hand, marshalling herst bit of strength, she thrust it towards the Wolf Demon''s remaining eye.


    Although she didn''t understand why Jiang Liu asked her to try, when survival was at stake, they were in the same boat¡ªshe had to trust him.


    Watching Gaoyang''s desperate counterattack, a mocking light flickered in the depths of the Wolf Demon''s eye. To it, this was nothing but a useless struggle in the face of death.


    As the Wolf Demon''s mouth opened slightly and inhaled, demonic power surged, preparing to unleash a Wolf Howl.


    "Silencing Zen!" At that exact moment, Jiang Liu suddenly pointed a finger at the Wolf Demon.


    Instantly, the Wolf Demon found the demonic power within its body as still as dead water, unable to be summoned.


    The Wolf Howl that was about to emerge simply became a in howl,pletelycking the ability to disorient.


    With a "puchi" sound, unaffected by the Wolf Howl, the girl''s dagger plunged into the Wolf Demon''s eye at this critical juncture. It was toote for the Wolf Demon to react; the Flying Dagger sank straight into its solitary eye, hilt deep.


    That strike, likely piercing through the eye socket, may have reached the Wolf Demon''s brain.


    A scream of agony, blood sttering everywhere¡ªthe Wolf Demon, having only one eye to begin with, now had that pierced through, clutching its eye and howling in pain.


    The Health Bar of the Wolf Demon, which had been about half-full, visibly shrank by arge margin with that fatal blow to the eye.


    Even as the Wolf Demon howled in pain, its health bar was slowly diminishing...


    In just a few minutes, the howls of the Wolf Demon grew weaker until, eventually, ity on the ground, its limbs twitching unconsciously a few times before it stopped moving altogether.


    Although after transmigrating Jiang Liu had acquired a game system''s abilities, and battling demons seemed like ying a game, this was, after all, the real world. If one''s head was chopped off or throat cut in a fatal injury, one would still die.


    Notification: Gained Experience Points 2800, acquired 1 tael of silver.


    As the Wolf Demon perished, a notification promptly arrived, and at almost the same moment, several cool breezes passed through Jiang Liu''s body, instantly healing all wounds and fatigue.


    Jiang Liu stood up, full of vim and vigor, showing no signs of injury whatsoever.


    ncing down at himself, he could see changes in his character panel. His level, which had been 1, had now reached 4. Was it possible that by killing the Wolf Demon, which was of a higher level, he had actually jumped three levels at once?


    "Could it really be the game system? A character''s level up usuallyes with a full restoration of health and mana bars, so this setting hase along as well?"


    With the level up, his injuries instantly healed, and Jiang Liu understood what was happening.


    You''re alright?" Gaoyang, standing by the side, watched as the Wolf Demon was killed. Though she had just breathed a sigh of relief, seeing Jiang Liu instantly sprightly and full of life left herpletely dumbfounded, her face a picture of bewilderment.


    "How are you feeling? Your injuries looked serious," Jiang Liu went over to Gaoyang''s side and helped her to sit up.


    Her health bar was only about ten percent full; such injuries were naturally very severe.


    "I''m fine, I''m just going to rest a bit," the young girl, having narrowly escaped death and seriously wounded, let go of her tightly wound nerves and fell into a deep sleep.


    Watching the girl fall asleep, Jiang Liu hesitated. Her injuries were serious. The Wolf Demon''s ws had left several horrific wounds, and she was bleeding profusely. Falling asleep like that, could she die from excessive blood loss?


    After a brief hesitation, and getting no response from the girl when he nudged her, Jiang Liu silently uttered "Amitabha Buddha," and carefully extended his hand, trembling slightly as he tore her clothes into several strips to dress her wounds.


    After a moment''s busy work, the dressing was decidedly unsightly, but it seemed to have stopped a lot of the bleeding. Wiping the sweat from his brow, it seemed this was more tiring than fighting demons.


    Not daring to look again at the disheveled girl, Jiang Liu thought for a moment and went over to the Wolf Demon''s corpse, moving it aside with effort.


    Indeed, there was something underneath the Wolf Demon''s body.


    A silver ingot, weighing a full tael, which Jiang Liu gleefully pocketed.


    The purchasing power of a tael of silver was considerable. Just looking at how the monks from Jinshan Temple, like Xuanwu, would happily leave the mountain to perform rituals for a pay of one tael and two coins of silver made it clear.


    Besides that, Jiang Liu also spotted two red potion bottles, one blue potion bottle, and also, two skill books, a white ring as pure as jade, and a string of Buddha beads.


    The two red potion bottles were Blood Bottles, which could replenish Health Points, or in other words, heal injuries.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The blue potion bottle was for replenishing mana, in other words, restoring strength.


    Both types of potions were quitemon in games.


    As for the two skill books, Jiang Liu picked them up for a look. One was a Swordsman ss skill called "Flowing Clouds and Streaming Water".


    The other was a skill book he could use, Monk''s level 5 skill "Vajra Mantra".


    He was now just one step away from reaching level 5.


    Jiang Liu then turned his attention to the other two pieces of equipment.


    White Jade Ring (Normal Quality): Attack Power +10, Durability 10/10.


    Sandalwood Buddha Beads (Fine Quality): Buffs from skills increased by 15%,es with the skill "Starry Sky Spread": Shoot all 108 beads at once, repelling targets within a fan-shaped area, Cooldown Time 1 day, Durability 10/10.


    "So it''s true then? Whether in the game or the real world, only defeating enemies above one''s level is the way to wealth and prosperity..."


    Having killed the Wolf Demon, his level shot up to 4 in an instant, and he had gained such an array of great loot, which made Jiang Liu overjoyed.


    This was the only major loot Jiang Liu had obtained since his transmigration.


    It was not just potions and skill books, but also equipment...

 Chapter 10 How about I leave the monastic life and marry you?

    High risk, high reward, this statement couldn''t be more urate.


    Jiang Liu''s eyes were keen, and the young girl Gaoyang''s strength was obviously a notch stronger than Senior Brother Xuankong''s. Yet even so, she was far from being a match for the Wolf Demon, which attests to the demon''s formidable strength.


    Moreover, after teaming up and killing the Wolf Demon, the substantial gain of 2800 Experience Points that allowed him to level up three times was proof enough of everything.


    The Sandalwood Buddha Beads, being Fine Level Equipment without any level requirement for wearing, were naturally donned by Jiang Liu.


    With a 15% enhancement to Buff effects, it was undoubtedly the perfect equipment for a Monk with a support-oriented profession.


    What was even more crucial was that it came with a Skill Special Effect, which was precisely what Jiang Liu needed most at the moment.


    As for the Level 5 Skill Book "Vajra Mantra," Jiang Liu, who was only Level 4, fell slightly short and therefore tucked it away to study once he reached Level 5.


    Another Skill Book, "Flowing Clouds and Streaming Water," was for the Swordsman ss and a Body Technique Category Skill that could increase movement speed to a certain extent.


    Jiang Liu thought that once Gaoyang woke up, he would see if she could learn it.


    Could others learn Skill Books dropped by the gaming system? Jiang Liu was curious and hopeful.


    Last, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell upon the White Jade Ring. Although it was only amon quality Equipment and merely increased Attack Power by 10, it was better than nothing, right?


    However, considering his profession leaned towards support, he probably wouldn''t actively engage inbat, so the ring might not be that useful for him.


    "Hey, Jiang Liu, what have you done to me?" Gaoyang, who had been unconscious for a short while, wasing around and startled by her disheveled appearance, cried out in rm.


    "Awake? If you can shout that loudly, it seems that you''re all right," Jiang Liu said, turning to her.


    After a brief slumber, Gaoyang''splexion did look a little better. Perhaps, just like in the game, one''s Health Points and mana could recover while resting?


    "Hurry up and tell me, what exactly did you do to me?" Frantic and fuming, the young girl stood up, clutching her tattered clothing tightly with one hand while wielding her whip with the other.


    "Nothing, I didn''t do anything. I just saw you''d passed out, bleeding, so I... bandaged you up a bit."


    Seeing the girl raise her whip, Jiang Liu vividly remembered how her singlesh could crack stone, and with his flesh and blood body, a single strike would certainly result in a fracture, so he hurriedly exined.


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s exnation, Gaoyang took a moment to survey her own condition.


    Indeed, where she had been injured by the wolf''s ws, there were several unsightly knots tied with cloth clearly torn from her own garments.


    Gaoyang''s face turned at intervals from green to white withbored breathing; she was at a loss as to what to do with Jiang Liu.


    Should she thank him? As a young girl whose body had been seen, was she supposed to show gratitude?


    Yet if sheshed out in anger? After all, he had tried to save her.


    On top of that, the fact that he had not abandoned her and run for his life in the face of the Wolf Demon also moved her somewhat.


    "Well, you know... I''m a Monk, and saving you could be considered a vition of my precepts against lustful conduct. The sacrifice I''ve made is substantial..." Jiang Liu said, seeing that she was conflicted about how to deal with him and feeling it was necessary to speak up on his behalf.


    Even though it felt a bit like throwing the first punch as a preemptive defense.


    "You..." Gaoyang''s face flushed with anger as she stepped forward and grabbed the front of his robes. "You, a Monk who eats meat and takes life, and now you''ve broken another precept. You''ll never be able to be a Monk in this life. You will definitely not pass the Incense Offering Ceremony."


    For other novice monks, Gaoyang''s words could have been seen as a vicious curse, but for Jiang Liu, they were like the sound of heavenly music.


    "Thanks for your good wishes. I, too, hope I fail the Incense Offering Ceremony, then leave the monastic life, open a restaurant, marry a wife, and lead a peaceful life," Jiang Liu admitted honestly. That had been his n all along.


    "You¡­," Gaoyang stuttered after hearing Jiang Liu''s sincere reply, looking at him, momentarily lost for words.


    However, after a moment of silence, Gaoyang''s smile returned, "Well, if that''s really the case, then you''ll have to marry me before you can marry anyone else."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Ah!?," Jiang Liu was taken aback by Gaoyang''s bold statement.


    "While I was unconscious just now, you stripped off my clothes. Are you considering not taking responsibility?" Gaoyang asked seriously, staring at Jiang Liu.


    Jiang Liu was momentarily speechless but then came to a realization.


    In modern society, bikini-d girls on the beach would let you look all you wanted and changing boyfriends every other day was nothing unusual.


    But this was ancient times, after all, even if the Tang Dynasty was the most liberal era, women still ced great importance on chastity.


    What he did would have beenpletely eptable in modern times, but in this era¡­


    As realization dawned on him, Jiang Liu scrutinized the girl before him. He had to admit, the teenage girl in the flower of youth was also stunningly beautiful. If he really did marry her, perhaps it wouldn''t be so bad?


    "So, are you willing to marry me?" Jiang Liu asked after some thought, nodding to himself inwardly.


    "I am not!" Gaoyang vehemently shook her head in refusal to Jiang Liu''s question.


    This response made Jiang Liu roll his eyes, "Hey, aren''t you being a bit unreasonable? You don''t want to marry me, yet you won''t allow me to marry someone else?"


    "You silly bald donkey, we''ve only met twice, and you expect me to agree to marry you? Do you have the approval of our parents or a matchmaker''s words? Besides, aren''t you still a monk? Are you even eligible to marry?" Gaoyang retorted indignantly.


    "Oh¡­" Jiang Liu said, suddenly understanding, "So, what you mean is, after I leave the monastic life, I can marry you openly and above board?"


    "Well, at least I would have to agree to it first¡­" Gaoyang said, her face flushing with shyness as she lowered her head, unable to meet his gaze.


    Although Jiang Liu wasn''t particrly emotionally intelligent, having never been in a romantic rtionship either in his past or present life¡ªotherwise, he wouldn''t have been gaming all night leading to his transmigration¡ª


    But from Gaoyang''s demeanor, Jiang Liu understood that although she hadn''t agreed to marry him, at least she didn''t object to him.


    After all, they were just a boy and a girl with no experience in love, and discussing marriage after meeting only twice was indeed a bit early. At the very least, she was willing to keep in contact and give it a try.


    With neither one experienced in romance, the conversation had be somewhat embarrassing, and the atmosphere suddenly felt a bit awkward and charged.


    After a moment of silence, Jiang Liu took out two Blood Bottles he had just exploded onto from his robes and handed them over, saying, "I have two bottles of healing medicine here. Drink them quickly; they''ll help your recovery."


    Gaoyang didn''t bother with niceties and took them.


    After drinking one, herplexion immediately became rosier, and even her injuries started to heal significantly¡ªa real instantaneous effect.


    "What a miraculous potion!" Feeling the effects of the potion, Gaoyang was astonished as she held the Blood Bottle. At the same time, she unwrapped a bandage from her arm.


    Sure enough, the formerly gruesome wound had already started to scab over.


    "If you had such good potions, why didn''t you use them earlier? And why did you have to tear my clothes¡­"


    "Look, do you believe me if I say that I only got these potions just now?"

 Chapter 11 Even the Childs Name is Decided

    After taking the Blood Bottle, Gaoyang''s injuries had healed considerably.


    She didn''t have the heart to consume the second bottle, and instead saved it, saying that such a miraculous potion should be reserved for life-saving moments in critical times.


    Jiang Liu agreed with Gaoyang''s decision, and after pondering for a short while, he took out the skill book "Flowing Clouds and Streaming Water" and the White Jade Ring, presenting them to Gaoyang, "These are for you."


    "What''s this? A skill manual for movement techniques?" Gaoyang flipped through the skill book casually and understood what it was.


    When she saw the other White Jade Ring, Gaoyang''s cheeks grew somewhat warm, but she didn''t show the shy expression of a young girl. Instead, she epted it with grace and slipped the White Jade Ring onto her fair finger.


    "See if you can cultivate sessfully with this manual. As for this ring, though it''s just ordinary equipment, if Ie across something better in the future, I''ll give it to you," Jiang Liu said, after passing the skill book and White Jade Ring to Gaoyang.


    "No, I really like this ring and will wear it for life," Gaoyang lifted her hand and gazed at the White Jade Ring on her finger. She liked it more the more she looked at it and shook her head, declining, no longer intending to take it off.


    Giving her the White Jade Ring was simply because the ordinary piece of equipment added 10 attack power. Seeing Gaoyang''s reaction, it was clear that she had misunderstood something.


    However, hearing her words, Jiang Liu felt warmth in his heart and decided, since it was a beautiful misunderstanding, there was no need to rify the truth.


    "By the way, Jiang Liu, how did you manage to nullify that wolf demon''s howling just now?" Curious about the frightening scene they had just experienced, Gaoyang asked Jiang Liu.


    "That''s my ability, which can prevent others'' abilities from taking effect," Jiang Liu exined the effect of the "Silencing Zen" skill simply.


    "It turns out you''ve not only bypassed the Incense Offering Ceremony, you''ve even secretly learned the secret techniques of the Buddhist Sect. You really are someone who doesn''t abide by the rules and precepts," Gaoyang said with augh upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    Generally, Buddhist Disciples could not study divine skills for subduing demons without going through the Incense Offering Ceremony. Jiang Liu, being a Novice Monk, would naturally seem to have learned such techniques illicitly to Gaoyang.


    Not wanting to linger on the topic of his gaming system, Jiang Liu changed the subject, "By the way, I remember you mentioned that the wolf demon was a Demon Soldier? Is there a ssification for the strength of demons?"


    "Of course, there is. I once read an ancient tome stating that fish, insects, beasts, and everything that absorbs the essence of heaven and earth can be demons. Based on different manifestations, there is also a rough ssification for demons," nodded Gaoyang as she gave a brief exnation about demons.


    "The lowest level of demon is known as the Demon. As the name suggests, it refers to animals that have be enlightened. They typically exhibit unusuallyrge body sizes contrary to the norm and possess a certain level of spiritual wisdom. This level is known as the Demon."


    "I see," Jiang Liu nodded in understanding upon hearing the description of the Demon.


    He recalled the Snow Rabbit Demon that Senior Brother Xuankong had killed the other day. That should have been a Demon, right?


    "Next, as demons cultivate deeper and their spiritual wisdom increases, gradually achieving human-like understanding and, by refining their throat bones, managing to speak humannguages, they are entitled to be called Monsters. Hence, this level of demons is referred to as Monsters..."


    "And then, with even deeper cultivation, not only can they speak humannguages, but they can even imitate human bodily movements, standing upright to walk. Demons at this level are called Demon Soldiers, with ''soldier'' signifying their human-like characteristics."


    "No wonder, when that wolf demon spoke humannguage earlier, Gaoyang was confident enough to confront it in battle. Yet when the wolf demon stood up and walked like a human, Gaoyang admitted to not being a match," Jiang Liu mused.


    Hearing the ssification of Demon, monster, and Demon n, Jiang Liu had an epiphany and also gained a rough idea of Gaoyang''s strength.


    "What about the levels beyond that?" After pondering for a moment, Jiang Liu asked curiously.


    "Beyond that, I''ve heard that above a Demon Soldier, there''s a Demon General, and above a Demon General is a Demon Marshal and the like. I''ve even read in some fantastic stories that there are legends of Demon Saints who can y immortals and extinguish Buddhas, but those are just fanciful tales..."


    Gaoyang shook her head to indicate that she wasn''t very familiar with the higher levels.


    "Alright, those do seem rather distant," Jiang Liu said, no longer minding since Gaoyang wasn''t very clear on the matter.


    Forget about so-called Demon Generals and Demon Marshals, even if another wolf demon like the one just now were toe, I wouldn''t know when I could overpower it. Understanding more doesn''t have any significance.


    Having experienced the incident with the wolf demon, the two of us have had a life-and-death experience together. Adding to that and the fact that we''ve spoken about the Incense Offering Ceremony, Jiang Liu, who had left the monkhood, could now marry; therefore, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang are now considered a couple.


    Gaoyang''s injuries had also healed quite a bit, and after he''d caught another game, Jiang Liu cooked it thoroughly once more and offered it to the "Five Viscera Temples".


    Having agreed to meet at the old ce every afternoon for the next ten days or so, Jiang Liu then walked back to Jinshan Temple with a light step.


    "Who would have thought, following the guide, the true destiny I met here would be a monk..." Gaoyang muttered to herself, a touch of sorrow on her delicate face as she sat alone following Jiang Liu''s departure.


    However, when she saw the white jade ring on her finger, a smile of happiness slowly returned to her beautiful face.


    "Well, he''s just a Novice Monk for now, not a real monk. After a few more days, once he goes through the Incense Offering Ceremony, he''ll formally resume secr life..."


    Which girl doesn''t harbor romantic dreams? Thinking about her wedding day with Jiang Liu after his return to secr life filled Gaoyang with anticipation and sweetness.


    As for whether Jiang Liu would be a true monk after the Incense Offering Ceremony? Gaoyang harbored no doubts about that; the Novice Monk who didn''t adhere to the precepts wouldn''t possibly pass the ceremony.


    Even if he were to be branded with incense scars, as long as one wished to, returning to secr life was still possible.


    "In the future, we should at least have a boy and a girl, right? What should we name the boy? And what about the girl?" the girl sat in contemtion, already pondering the names of their future children.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    ...


    Putting aside the events at the back mountains where Gaoyang had even decided on the names for her future children with Jiang Liu, down in the vige at the foot of the mountain, the house with thergest repair belonged to Esquire Zhang''s family.


    Though just vigers of Jinshan Vige, Esquire Zhang possessed a store in Chang''an City, making him the wealthiest family in the vige.


    A few days earlier, his household was haunted, leading to unrest, and Esquire Zhang had invited Monk Xuanwu from Jinshan Temple to recite scriptures and conduct an exorcism.


    Several days had passed, and it seemed the troubled spirit had indeed vanished. Esquire Zhang''s wife insisted on bringing offerings and visiting the temple to fulfill their vows.


    Esquire Zhang, half-heartedly and under the persistent pulling of his wife, made the trip to the temple, followed by their servants and maids.


    Although Jinshan Temple was only midway up the mountain and not particrly high, for Esquire Zhang, who was unustomed to physical exertion, it still proved to be quite a burden. After a short walk, he was already panting.


    "Ah, I''ve invited Monk Xuanwu, and didn''t he resolve the matter? Moreover, I spent over a tael of silver. Why bother making a vow anding up the mountain for no reason? It''s just a waste of money..."


    Faintly in the distance, Jinshan Temple came into view. There was a reluctant tinge to Esquire Zhang''s panting voice.


    "Visiting the temple to fulfill a vow is to show respect to the Bodhisattva. How can you call it a waste of money? My Lord, since we''re already here, let''s hurry up, we''ve arrived," said the wife, in contrast to Esquire Zhang. She held firm belief in the Buddhist teachings and patiently urged him along until the group of four finally reached the gates of Jinshan Temple.


    Anxiously waiting for days with no visitors, Monk Xuanming naturally perked up at the sight of pilgrims arriving, and quickly went over to receive them.


    Meanwhile, Jiang Liu, having returned from the back mountains, pondered to himself about spending more time meeting with Gaoyang; perhaps the two could form a team, fight monsters and level up together. After his return to secr life, they might even be a couple renowned in the martial world?


    However, as soon as Jiang Liu returned, Senior Brother Xuankong quickly found him.


    "Liu''er, quick, go and cook in the kitchen. Today, Esquire Zhang is here to fulfill his vows. Judging by the time, they''ll likely have vegetarian meals on the mountain. You must perform well today..."

 Chapter 12 Guilty of Possessing a Precious Jade

    Pilgrims ascend the mountain, and after paying homage to Buddha, they generally leave behind incense money. Naturally, if the pilgrims stay on the mountain and partake in a meal, they will leave a bit more incense money.


    After all, isn''t dining free?


    Esquire Zhang is considered the wealthiest person in Jinshan Vige at the foot of the mountain. As he came to fulfill his vow this time, he naturally left behind incense money and deserved to be treated well with a meal.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Upon receiving words from Senior Brother Xuankong, Jiang Liu nodded and then went busy in the kitchen.


    Soon, Jiang Liu rinsed the rice and put it in the pot, and then, stir-fried several colorful and fragrant vegetarian dishes.


    Especially the bean sprouts that had sprung up a few days ago, crisp and refreshing as they may be, even a simple stir-fried te was undoubtedly a novelty for the people of this era.


    Though preparing vegetarian dishes is usually fast, this time, Jiang Liu put quite a lot of effort and was very meticulous. By the time he had finished, it was almost dusk.


    Just at that time, Esquire Zhang and his group were done, and Senior Brother Xuankong quickly came over, carrying some dishes out.


    He mentioned that Senior Abbot Faming was currently entertaining Esquire Zhang, and they were dining together.


    After the meal for the Senior Abbot and his guests was served, Xuankong, Xuanming, and Xuanwu, the three Senior Brothers, also came over and joined Jiang Liu for the meal.


    During the meal, each of the Senior Brothers nodded, signaling that today''s meal was indeed more thoughtful than usual.


    Especially the bean sprouts, crispy and refreshing, clear and translucent, aplete novelty that they had never tasted before.


    However, it wasn''t long before a rush of footsteps was heard, and soon, Jiang Liu saw Senior Abbot Faming approaching, apanied by several people.


    Among them were two individuals dressed as servants and maids, naturally alongside a middle-aged couple around forty years old, likely Esquire Zhang and his wife who hade to Jinshan Temple to fulfill their vows.


    Seeing Senior Abbot Faming bring in Esquire Zhang and his party, each of the Senior Brothers put down their bowls and stood up.


    "Esquire Zhang, today''s vegetarian meal was prepared by Liu''er..." said Senior Abbot Faming, his face wearing an affable smile as he introduced Jiang Liu enthusiastically.


    Esquire Zhang, appearing to be in his forties and slightly portly, wore clothes that were not silk or satin, but the fabric looked decent, at least not coarse cloth.


    While Jiang Liu scrutinized him, Esquire Zhang was also thoroughly examining Jiang Liu.


    "Young Brother Liu''er, the dishes you cooked are very tasty. May I see your kitchen?", Esquire Zhang asked after a moment''s scrutiny.


    However, while he spoke as if asking for permission, he didn''t wait for Jiang Liu''s response and directly strode into the kitchen.


    "What''s going on here?", puzzled by Esquire Zhang''s hurried dash into the kitchen, Jiang Liu wore a baffled expression and looked questioningly at the Senior Abbot.


    Wasn''t the Senior Abbot supposed to be dining with Esquire Zhang? Why did he suddenly bring him here without any obvious reason?


    "Liu''er, Esquire Zhang not only owns shops in Chang''an but also partnered with friends to open a tavern," noticing Jiang Liu''s questioning gaze, the Senior Abbot didn''t exin much but whispered briefly and then followed into the kitchen as well.


    The words of the Senior Abbot brought a sudden realization to Jiang Liu.


    Though the temple as a whole hoped he could surpass the Incense Offering Ceremony, the elimination rate was after all over ny percent, so was the Senior Abbot considering an alternative path for him?


    If he failed to pass the Incense Offering Ceremony and had to leave Jinshan Temple, he could then seek a job at Esquire Zhang''s tavern.


    Feeling somewhat touched, Jiang Liu followed the Senior Abbot into the kitchen.


    Inside, Esquire Zhang seemed particrly interested in Jiang Liu''s seasonings, such as the meat powder ground from rice and star anise, some of his own mixed sauces, and the jar of glistening snow-like salt.


    Esquire Zhang''s final gaze fell on the small jar of salt, and he extended his hand, gently pinched a bit, and tasted it in his mouth.


    "Young Brother Liu''er, where did you obtain this fine salt? As far as I know, even Chang''an City does not sell salt of such quality," Esquire Zhang turned around, his eyes gleaming as he stared at Jiang Liu and asked.


    "This¡­," Jiang Liu was at a loss for words regarding Esquire Zhang''s question.


    This was salt he had filtered and refined himself within the temple, but for this era, this technology was indeed extraordinary, wasn''t it?


    Jiang Liu hesitated and did not speak. Esquire Zhang quickly realized that these salts were definitely not purchased; otherwise, what was there to hide?


    "Young Brother, I am willing to pay ten liang, no, twenty liang of silver. Would you be willing to teach me the method to produce this fine salt?" Esquire Zhang, with glowing eyes, stared at Jiang Liu and asked.


    Twenty liang!?


    Upon hearing this, several brothers in the temple gasped in shock, their faces filled with astonishment.


    So much money could cover the expenses of Jinshan Temple for more than a year.


    "I''m sorry, I happened upon this salt by chance; I do not possess the method of production," Although twenty liang was a lot of money, Jiang Liu felt that he could make money by fighting monsters and wasn''t in a hurry for this money.


    Moreover, although refining fine salt was not a difficult task for him, for this era, it was a method that money couldn''t buy.


    Just twenty liang of silver for such valuable knowledge? Was this an attempt to cheat him?


    "Well, that''s truly a pity¡­" Hearing Jiang Liu''s response, Esquire Zhang shook his head with a regretful expression.


    Even the brothers nearby wore a disappointed look.


    In their view, just trading a method for twenty liang of silver was an unexpected fortune for Jinshan Temple.


    Unfortunately, Jiang Liu did not know such a method.


    For Jinshan Temple, Esquire Zhang''s visit to the kitchen was merely a minor episode.


    As it was gettingte, Esquire Zhang and his party did not stay long. Seeing that Jiang Liu did not know the method of refining fine salt, they did not linger and left the mountain with regret.


    "Lord, was that salt that good? You were actually willing to pay twenty liang of silver, an amount that could buy a house," on the way down the mountain, Mrs. Zhang couldn''t help but ask curiously.


    "What do you understand, woman? If I could master this method, what is twenty liang of silver? We could even consider buying a big mansion on Zhuque Street," Esquire Zhang answered his wife''sment.


    "Zhuque Street? That''s the most prosperous area in Chang''an. A big mansion there? At least a thousand liang of silver is needed!" Mrs. Zhang eximed, shocked by Esquire Zhang''s response.


    A thousand liang of silver? That was a breath-stopping figure.


    Although the Zhang Family was considered the richest in Jinshan Vige, they had only a bit over a hundred liang of silver at home, and even summing up their properties, they barely had three or four hundred liang in total.


    A mansion costing over a thousand liang of silver? That was beyond their wildest dreams.


    "It''s regrettable that the novice monk didn''t know the method," realizing the value of this method, even Mrs. Zhang felt incredibly sorry.


    "Doesn''t know? Does he truly not know?" Without saying anything, Esquire Zhang looked back towards Jinshan Temple as he descended the mountain path, his eyes flickering.


    In the end, they were dominated by greed and fierce colors¡­

 Chapter 13 Non-System Skills Arhat Fist

    The night had deepened.


    For Jiang Liu, the appearance of Esquire Zhang was merely a minor episode.


    As the night fell, Jiang Liuy quietly on his wooden bed, his mind filled with myriad thoughts.


    He thought about his own ability issues. The Vajra Mantra was a level 5 skill, and he was still a bit short of that level to learn it, but after leveling up three times, he also had 3 skill points. Should he really put them all in Silencing Zen?


    It was just a silence-type control skill. Even at a high level, it just extended the silence duration a bit; it wasn''t very useful.


    Furthermore, after thinking about the skills issue, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but think of the "Flowing Clouds and Streaming Water" movement technique.


    A skill book dropped by the system, he could instantly learn it by using 1 skill point.


    But what about giving it to someone else? Could others also learn it?


    Thinking of "Flowing Clouds and Streaming Water," Jiang Liu''s thoughts inevitably drifted to Gaoyang, a slight smile curling the corners of his mouth while his heart began to feel some anticipation.


    He thought about hurrying for dawn toe, and for the afternoon to arrive so he could meet her behind the mountain again.


    "Liu''er, are you asleep?" Just as Jiang Liu''s mind was flooded with thoughts, suddenly, a familiar voice rang from outside the Zen Room.


    "Senior Brother Xuankong, I haven''t slept yet, what''s up?" Jiang Liu got up to answer, and with a creak, he pulled open the wooden door of the Zen Room.


    "In nine days, the Incense Offering Ceremony will start. Come with me," Senior Brother Xuankong''s gaze fell on Jiang Liu, his tone somewhat mysterious.


    As soon as he finished speaking, he didn''t wait for Jiang Liu to respond and turned to leave.


    Jiang Liu: "???"


    Senior Brother Xuankong''s reaction was a bit strange, and with a puzzled heart, Jiang Liu followed him.


    They walked all the way to an open field next to Jinshan Temple''s farnd. Under the night sky, only a crescent moon was visible, so under the dim night, Senior Brother Xuankong''s face was indistinct, barely visible as a silhouette.


    "Liu''er, in nine days the grand ceremony of the Incense Offering Ceremony will take ce. You are still young. When you go down the mountain, make sure no one bullies you. I will teach you Arhat Fist, hoping you will have a means to protect yourself after you leave the mountain," Senior Brother Xuankong''s indistinct figure said under the night sky, his voice echoing.


    "Brother, do you all really have so little faith in me? Do you think that I definitely won''t make it through the Incense Offering Ceremony?"


    Although Jiang Liu had no intention of bing a monk, just before, the head monk had made arrangements for him to work at a tavern in the future, and now Xuankong was secretly teaching him martial arts so he would have some means of self-protection after leaving Jinshan Temple.


    These actions made him quite ufortable.


    "You rascal, on usual afternoons when you have nothing to do, you sneak into the back mountain¡ªdo you really think I don''t know? Secretly killing living beings, eating meat, you don''t look like a Buddhist disciple at all," Senior Brother Xuankong said with displeasure.


    "Err..." These words made Jiang Liu feel awkward, and he was momentarily lost for words.


    Fortunately, he only knew about his killing and eating meat, not about his dealings with Gaoyang; otherwise, it would have been even more embarrassing.


    "Enough of that, stop wasting words. This Arhat Fist is typically only taught to Buddhist disciples who have passed the Incense Offering Ceremony as a temple-guarding martial art. However, our Jinshan Temple doesn''t stick strictly to all these rules, so I''ll secretly teach it to you. I hope you will practice diligently after you leave the mountain.


    You don''t need topete with others, but at least it will strengthen your body," he said, waving his hand and dismissing concerns about Jiang Liu breaking the precept of eating meat, and returned to the main matter.


    "Thank you, Brother!" Although he could level up by fighting monsters and directly learn skills from skill books using skill points, Jiang Liu still felt the goodwill from Senior Brother Xuankong.


    Furthermore, aside from system skills, could he also learn other skills? Jiang Liu grew curious as well.


    Without any unnecessary words, practicing the Arhat Fist wasn''t particrly difficult. As Senior Brother Xuankong put it, the most important thing in practicing the Arhat Fist was consistent practice. The longer one practiced, the deeper one''s skill naturally became.


    However, even for a few seemingly simple stances, Jiang Liu followed along in learning for a long time, yet he hadn''t fully mastered them.


    As for some of the breathing techniques that apanied the fist movements, Jiang Liu waspletely baffled and didn''t understand much at all.


    This instruction went on until thete night, over two Chinese Hours. Watching Jiang Liu struggle even with the basic movements, Senior Brother Xuankong remained silent for a long time. Under the night sky, his expression waspletely obscured.


    "Senior Brother, do I perhaps have poor aptitude?" Seeing that Senior Brother Xuankong had been silent for quite some time, Jiang Liu also started feeling somewhat embarrassed.


    "It seems you''re not very suitable for martial arts, your aptitude..." Senior Brother Xuankong shook his head slightly and paused when he broached the topic of Jiang Liu''s aptitude, hesitating to continue, which was revealing of what he thought of Jiang Liu''s capabilities.


    "Alright, that''s it for the Arhat Fist. You''ve barely memorized the movements, and fortunately, I have made a booklet of the relevant breathing techniques and movements for you to take. When you have time, you should study it thoroughly."


    Clearly having lost all confidence in Jiang Liu''s martial arts talent, which was as uninspiring as a block of wood, Senior Brother Xuankong pulled out a booklet he had prepared beforehand and handed it to Jiang Liu before turning and walking away.


    "Ah..." Watching Senior Brother Xuankong''s figure quickly disappearing into the night, Jiang Liu sighed helplessly.


    If possible, who wouldn''t want to be a martial arts prodigy?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    But looking at it, it seemed like he would never be one in his lifetime.


    However, thinking about how he could level up by fighting monsters and directly learn skills using skill points, Jiang Liu shook his head and threw that disappointment to the back of his mind.


    Inparison, his "Golden Finger" was perhaps his greatest reliance on bing stronger, right?


    After securing the booklet of the Arhat Fist, Jiang Liu returned to his Zen Room and went to bed fully clothed.


    After practicing martial arts all night, lying on the hard wooden bed left his body exhausted, which dispelled much of his restless thoughts, and soon, he fell into a deep sleep.


    The night passed without further incident, and following the crowing of the rooster, Jiang Liu woke up feeling unusually refreshed from his sleep after practicing martial arts.


    After getting up and washing up, taking advantage of the faint light of dawn, Jiang Liu was about to head to the kitchen to get busy. While folding his quilt, he saw the booklet on his bed, casually picked it up, and flipped through it.


    Sure enough, it was a handwritten copy by Senior Brother Xuankong, with some breathing techniques written and several simple Arhat Fist stances illustrated.


    How should I put it? Senior Brother Xuankong''s drawings were quite abstract. If it wasn''t for having practiced along the previous night for two Chinese Hours, he definitely couldn''t have made out what the Arhat Fist stances meant.


    Notification: Do you want to spend 1 skill point to learn the Arhat Fist?


    Just as Jiang Liu was flipping through the Arhat Fist booklet, suddenly, a system notification appeared.


    The sudden notification stunned Jiang Liu, then filled him with great joy.


    He indeedcked talent in martial arts. If taught through direct instruction, he could hardly learn anything, but if the martial arts were written down, turned into a martial arts manual or, in other words, a skill book, could he instantly learn them by spending skill points?


    "Is this true? Besides the skill books dropped by the system, can other skill books also be learned by spending skill points?"


    "In a way, it turns out I am a martial arts prodigy too!"

 Chapter 14 Shadows

    ```


    Arhat Fist (Primary Level): Increases own attack power by 15%, duration 150 seconds.


    After using 1 Skill Point to instantly learn the Arhat Fist technique, Jiang Liu could clearly see the skill description of Arhat Fist.


    Although it was just a status skill, Jiang Liu knew very well that it was his only offensive skill at the moment.


    Before his ss change to the Immovable Ming King, his means of attack were far too few.


    Now at level 4, having learned Silencing Zen and Arhat Fist with skill points, Jiang Liu pondered for a moment and then invested another skill point into Arhat Fist, elevating the skill to a middle level.


    Indeed, with the increase in skill level, the effects had also improved greatly.


    Arhat Fist (Middle Level): Increases own attack power by 20%, duration 180 seconds.


    After the skill reached the middle level, not only did the attack power bonus increase, but the duration of the status also extended, which made Jiang Liu nod in satisfaction.


    After a brief consideration, he decided against enhancing Arhat Fist to a high level.


    Since the martial arts from the real world could be improved with skill points, it seemed necessary to save some skill points for ordinary times.


    Besides, as the skill points were on his person, if he found himself in a critical situation, he could always upgrade his skills at any time.


    Having learned an offensive skill, Jiang Liu stepped out of his Zen Room with some anticipation, looked around, and promptly selected a stone the size of a paving brick.


    Jiang Liu thought for a moment and threw a punch at the stone.


    There was a smack; Jiang Liu felt a rebound pain in his fist, but a crack also appeared on the stone.


    At level 4, his strength had increased quite a bit, being able to crack a stone, which was clearly not something an ordinary person could do.


    After properly testing his normal attack power, Jiang Liu nodded to himself and then activated the Arhat Fist state.


    To the naked eye, a faint golden glow flowed between his hands for a moment, which reminded Jiang Liu of the scene when Senior Brother Xuankong fought the Snow Rabbit Demon that day.


    At that time, Senior Brother Xuankong''s hands were glowing with golden light, probably due to this Arhat Fist state, right?


    With the enhancement of the Arhat Fist state, Jiang Liu could feel a slight stiffness in his fist, as if he were wearing a pair of gauntlets made of refined steel.


    Then, Jiang Liu raised his fist and hit therge stone in front of him hard again.


    There was a crack, and the stone that already had a crack split apart instantly under his fist.


    The force of this punch was like swinging a heavy sledgehammer down hard.


    "Hmm, pretty good. With the boost from Arhat Fist, even if I encounter some fierce beasts, I''ll have the power to fight..."


    Seeing that he had split a stone with a single punch, Jiang Liu felt a new confidence in his strength.


    At least, if he encountered any poisonous insects or fierce beasts in the future, he would not be devoid of means to fight.


    Over the next three days, Jiang Liu felt the time flew by. In the mornings, he was busy with odd jobs at the temple, and if there was nothing else in the afternoons, he would go to the back hill to meet Gaoyang. Each time Jiang Liu went, he also sneakily carried a food container to bring Gaoyang meals.


    Their rtionship warmed up quickly, as is often the case with young lovers, wishing they could spend every second together.


    In the back hill, there were many animals, from small ones like rabbits and pheasants to more threatening bears and fierce tigers.


    In this ancient ne of existence, everything seemed very primal, and the variety of wildlife was far beyond anything in modern society.


    These days, working and spending sweet moments with Gaoyang, the two of them would also team up to fight monsters and level up, living a quitefortable life.


    After three days of monster fighting and leveling up, Jiang Liu also discovered an important matter.


    ```


    ```


    When in a team fight against monsters, if one took initiative in attacking, a monster whose health bar emptied would not die but be severely injured and fall unconscious.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    In this state, if another strike was delivered, it would undoubtedly be fatal.


    Conversely, for those threatening targets thatunched an attack on their own initiative, an emptied health bar meant death.


    It was just like the difference between the Snow Rabbit Demon in the vegetable garden and the Wolf Demon that attacked him initially.


    This discovery made Jiang Liu feel that the game system seemed quite humane.


    After all, this real world was not an online game; monsters that were killed couldn''t respawn, so for the monsters he attacked proactively, he''d stop after knocking them out, possibly to farm them multiple timester?


    Tip: Gained 120 Experience Points, earned 15 copper coins.


    With the system prompt, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang joined forces to defeat another hefty python, and simultaneously, a refreshing sensation surged within their bodies, spreading to their limbs, as if they woke up on a hot summer day and took a cool shower, feelingpletely rxed andfortable.


    Jiang Liu was well aware that he had leveled up to 5.


    Looking at the sky, it was gettingte. After three days of leveling up, he finally reached level 5. Jiang Liu waved his hand and said goodbye to Gaoyang, "It''s gettingte, I''m heading back first."


    "Okay, see you tomorrow," hearing the farewell, Gaoyang''s delicate face showed reluctance, but she didn''t say much more.


    With the Incense Offering Ceremony just a few days away, Gaoyang was also looking forward to the day it was over so she could live with Jiang Liu openly and rightfully.


    After saying goodbye to each other, Gaoyang turned and left. Jiang Liu watched her go before searching the python''s body and finding fifteen copper coins.


    Unfortunately, besides the money, there were no other drops, not even a single potion.


    Although he had been hunting with Gaoyang these past days, Jiang Liu had always kept this aspect of item drops from her.


    It wasn''t a deliberate concealment but rather that this matter was just too irrational.


    Moreover, doesn''t everyone have their little secrets unknown to others? Even between spouses, Jiang Liu believed, Gaoyang would have her own as well.


    For example, what exactly was Gaoyang''s identity? For as long as they had known each other, she had never mentioned her family situation.


    For example, why was she alone in the back mountains of Jinshan Temple? She never exined that either.


    But Jiang Liu didn''t intend to pry.


    Respecting each other''s secrets and not delving too deep was the key to a more rxed and natural rtionship. When the time was right, Jiang Liu believed Gaoyang would naturally tell him everything.


    After collecting the copper coins, Jiang Liu also returned to Jinshan Temple with a spring in his step and prepared dinner.


    After busying himself with his tasks, Jiang Liu returned to his Zen Room and took out the Vajra Mantra Skill Book to study it directly.


    Vajra Mantra (Primary Level): Summons the mystical power of Vajra to bless a friendly target, reducing the damage of the next hit by 80%, with a cooldown of 50 seconds.


    Jiang Liu nodded in satisfaction concerning the Vajra Mantra''s effect.


    With this Vajra Mantra skill, whether for himself or when teaming up with Gaoyang, their safety margin would significantly increase.


    But let''s not speak of Jiang Liu''s side, who was full of anticipation about wandering the world with Gaoyang as a justice-serving, monster-ying leveling-up couple; some ten miles away from Jinshan Temple, in a mountain ravine, there was a den of bandits.


    That night, the banditir was aze with fire, and a man with a scarred face was seated on a tiger skin with an authoritative pose.


    In front of him, two fierce-looking men approached.


    "Big brother, we''ve scoped it out clearly. The little monk from Jinshan Temple goes to the back mountain alone every afternoon. That''s the perfect opportunity for us to strike."


    "Heh heh, good, just a little monk. Easy pickings, and we''ll thirty silver just like that."


    ```

 Chapter 15 The Perilous Nature of Human Hearts

    After lunch, Jiang Liu, with Sandalwood Buddha Beads around his neck, strode eagerly to the back mountain, unsure whether he was more excited to meet Gaoyang or to battle creatures and earn experience, striving to boost his own strength.


    The main function of the Sandalwood Buddha Beads was to enhance the effects of Buff skills, but unfortunately, the three skills Jiang Liu had learned, Silencing Zen, Arhat Fist, and Vajra Mantra, were not Buff-type.


    Therefore, for Jiang Liu, the primary importance of the Sandalwood Buddha Beadsy in their apanying skill effects.


    The silent forest was crisp and clear, making one feel refreshed and joyful while walking through it.


    Unknown wildflowers bloomed alongside the path, birds chirped merrily on branches, and asionally, one could see a few squirrels and even monkeys leaping from limb to limb, creating a serene and natural scene.


    Ouch...Ouch...


    However, just as Jiang Liu was briskly walking forward, sudden low moans caught his attention.


    Following the sound, he saw a woman in her thirties lying on the ground with a medicine basket on her back, containing several unidentified herbs. Judging by the bloodstains on her legs, she was already injured.


    "Big sister, how are you?", upon seeing an injured person in the wilderness, Jiang Liu naturally couldn''t turn a blind eye and quickened his pace to approach her.


    "Little Monk, Ie from Jinshan Vige at the foot of the mountain. My husband is ill, and I came up to gather some herbs for him. Can you help me down the mountain?", the woman''s face was filled with pleading.


    The woman''s words slightly hesitated Jiang Liu.


    At this time, Gaoyang should still be waiting for him at the usual spot, right? But, to just leave the woman here? He couldn''t bring himself to do that.


    After a brief hesitation, Jiang Liu nodded and bent down to help the woman up.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Snap!


    But just as he barely lifted the woman from the ground, a fierce gleam shed in her eyes, followed by a chopping motion of her hand heavily striking Jiang Liu''s neck, knocking him unconscious.


    "Truly a naive youngster...", the woman, with a smile of sessful deceit, looked at the unconscious Jiang Liu.


    Meanwhile, two burly men with knives appeared from the woods, their faces stern and eyes fierce, clearly up to no good.


    "We''ve got him, let''s go", the two bandits grinned as they looked at the unconscious Jiang Liu.


    Just a novice monk, and they had easily captured him, scoring thirty taels of silver almost effortlessly.


    "Who are they? They look like bandits or something simr. Why are they attacking me?", carried on the shoulder of one of the men, Jiang Liu secretly opened a slit of his eyes and muttered to himself.


    Indeed, Jiang Liu hadn''t actually passed out.


    Although the woman had chosen an opportune moment to strike and certainly caught Jiang Liu off guard, due to the game system, the moment the woman struck, the scene before Jiang Liu changed and a health bar appeared over her head, evidently entering abat state.


    Almost reflexively, Jiang Liu applied a Vajra Mantra defense on himself.


    Capable of negating 80% of damage, the woman''s chopping strike on his neck was ineffective, but Jiang Liu decided to pretend to be unconscious.


    The bandits'' motive was presumably just to rob, but what wealth could a novice monk from a rundown temple possibly possess?


    Since they hadn''t searched him after knocking him unconscious, it was clear they weren''t after his wealth.


    If it wasn''t for money, could it be for revenge?


    But as a novice monk who rarely left the temple, how could he have wronged anyone?


    If not for money or revenge, the most likely exnation was that they were hired by someone. Seeing that they had only knocked him unconscious without any intention of killing him, Jiang Liu felt this must be the case.


    Who exactly would want to hire bandits to attack him?


    Soon, a figure emerged in Jiang Liu''s mind: Esquire Zhang!


    It wasn''t that Jiang Liu was exceptionally clever, but rather that he had lived a cloistered life at Jinshan Temple. The only one with a motive against him was Esquire Zhang.


    "Indeed, no businessman is without deceit..." Thinking of this, Jiang Liu was nearly certain that Esquire Zhang was orchestrating things behind the scenes, his heart burning with anger.


    At first, he only wanted to cheat twenty silvers for his skill. Now, had he hired bandits to strike at him?


    Lying silently on the back of one of the bandits, Jiang Liu remained motionless, actually waiting for the cooldown of the Vajra Mantra skill.


    Surrendering without a fight was naturally out of the question. If he were really taken to the bandits''ir, there was no way he could escape. Thus, his only choice was to make a move on the road.


    The Vajra Mantra skill was a lifesaving one, indispensable inbat, so Jiang Liu quietly waited for the skill''s cooldown time to pass.


    A 50-second cooldown time was not short.


    For Jiang Liu, who had passed out, the three bandits¡ªtwo men and a woman¡ªwere obviously unguarded. Lying on the back of one bandit, Jiang Liu''s hands circted with a faint golden glow.


    In this critical life-and-death moment, Jiang Liu naturally could not be careless. The skill points he had reserved were instantly invested into the Arhat Fist skill, elevating it to a high level.


    Arhat Fist (High-Level): Increases attack power by 25%, duration 180 seconds.


    Everything ready, Jiang Liu abruptly made his move.


    His palms, radiating golden light, clutched the throat of the bandit carrying him. In a matter of life and death, he naturally showed no mercy, twisting his wrist.


    With a snap.


    A level 5 character, augmented by the Arhat Fist, Jiang Liu''s grasp was strong enough to twist even a wooden stick. As expected, the bandit''s throat was directly snapped.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, one could see the health bar above the bandit''s head instantly drop significantly, and it continued to fall.


    Though it was a game interface, after all, this was the real world. With his throat broken, the bandit was undoubtedly doomed.


    The bandit whose neck was twisted made a guttural noise twice, trying to scream, but unable to make a sound. Hey on the ground, struggling ceaselessly.


    "Audacious!" The sudden turn of events shocked the male and female bandits nearby, changing their expressions dramatically.


    In their eyes, the young novice monk should have been as harmless as a kitten, easy to capture. Indeed, the ease with which they had knocked him out seemed to prove their assumption.


    But who could have expected? This fellow, who had been knocked out, suddenlyshed out violently, giving them a fright.


    Where was this any kitten? It was more like a fierce tiger disguised as a harmless kitten!


    With a ng, the male bandit beside him quickly drew his long sword and chopped down at Jiang Liu. The de was swift and urgent, leaving no time to dodge.


    In this life-or-death situation, the bandit no longer cared about any so-called mission.


    Facing the overhead sh of therge sword, Jiang Liu maintained his Vajra Mantra stance and raised his hand to block.


    "Seeking death!" Seeing Jiang Liu actually using his hand to block his attack, the bandit felt ruthless.


    This sh was enough to sever his arm, wasn''t it?


    With a stter, blood shed.


    However, when the de struck Jiang Liu''s arm, it only left a shallow, superficial wound and was not serious.


    Clutching his sword, the bandit stared as his de, which had struck flesh and bone yet was resisted as if chopping on thick cowhide, his eyes filled with astonishment: "What is this? Golden Bell Shield Iron Cloth Shirt!?"

 Chapter 16 Daring to Mess with the Lady Knights Man?

    The female bandit beside him reacted quickly as well, pulling a short dagger from her bosom and stabbing towards Jiang Liu.


    With the defense enhancement of the Vajra Mantra, he blocked the knife in front of him, but naturally, he couldn''t block the daggering from behind.


    However, there wasn''t much panic in Jiang Liu''s heart. Perhaps it was because he had umted somebat experience from fighting monsters and leveling up with Gaoyang these days, or maybe because he had already rehearsed the battle in his mind while pretending to be unconscious just now.


    Feeling the attack from the female bandit beside him, Jiang Liu quickly took off the Sandalwood Buddha Beads from around his neck with his other hand and activated the skill attached to the beads: Starry Sky Spread.


    One hundred and eight sandalwood Buddha Beads instantly transformed into a fan-shaped barrage, enveloping the rushing female bandit.


    The impact force of the Buddha Beads directly sent the female bandit flying.


    In the heat of the moment, a fist emanating a golden glow smashed down on the bandit in front of him.


    Although this bandit had spent years living on the edge of the knife and hisbat skills were decent, as a level 5 character,bined with the skill amplification of the Arhat Fist, and having just witnessed the spectacle of being immune to des and spears, the bandit waspletely outmatched and taken by surprise.


    Bang, bang, bang.


    Arhat Fist, punch after punchnded on the bandit, and after several consecutive strikes, the bandity on the ground, struggling for a few moments before bing motionless.


    Prompt: Gained 95 Experience Points, gained 10 copper coins.


    Prompt: Gained 120 Experience Points, gained 13 copper coins.


    Almost at the same time, the system''s prompts appeared, signifying that Jiang Liu had dealt with both targets. Immediately, his gaze turned to the female bandit beside him.


    "You, you¡­" Watching Jiang Liu''s gaze, the female bandit''s face showed a horrified expression, and she stepped back.


    No one expected that this Novice Monk could be so ruthless in his actions.


    Nor did they expect him to have such high martial arts skills, having defeated twopanions in the blink of an eye.


    "Why did you attack me? We have no grudges between us, right?" With only thest female bandit remaining, Jiang Liu didn''t rush to act but instead looked at her and asked.


    "If I tell you, will you let me go?" The female bandit nced at her twopanions lying on the ground and swallowed hard.


    "As long as you tell me, I am willing to let you go. Rest assured, a person who has left home does not lie, Amitabha Buddha," Jiang Liu said calmly with his hands joined together, even softly chanting a Buddhist mantra.


    The identity of a person who has left home is somewhat trustworthy, and more importantly, she didn''t have many options left.


    The female bandit hesitated briefly before speaking, "It was Esquire Zhang from Jinshan Vige. He paid thirty taels of silver for us to capture you alive for him."


    "Just as I thought..." Jiang Liu wasn''t surprised since he had already suspected it; it merely confirmed his guess.


    "I''ll ask you again, what''s the situation with your bandit stronghold? Where is it, and how many people are there?" After understanding the situation, Jiang Liu continued to inquire.


    "What do you want with that info? What are you nning to do?" The question made the female bandit watch him warily.


    "You just need to answer me," Jiang Liu said sternly, his expression darkening.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "No, I won''t tell," Jiang Liu''s questioning clearly had no good intentions, and the female bandit shook her head with a resolute expression.


    "If you refuse to talk, then it''s time for you to go," Since she was unwilling to speak, Jiang Liu didn''t insist on forcing her, picked up the knife from the ground, and chopped towards the female bandit.


    Because he had taken the initiative to strike, the three bandits, two men and one woman, didn''t die after their health bars were depleted; they justy on the ground, motionless, having fallen into a dyinga.


    After a slight hesitation, Jiang Liu raised the knife in his hand and, one by one, delivered a final blow to kill the three people.


    It wasn''t that he was naturally bloodthirsty, but when others were about to act against him, was he still expected to hold onto the heart of mercy?


    Even if he spared these few bandits now, would they be willing to spare him in the future?


    Killing three people in one breath wasn''t like ying demon creatures; they were living, breathing humans. Looking at the three corpses before him, Jiang Liu felt his stomach churn.


    He tossed the knife aside, leaned against a tree, and retched. After a long while, he had nearly vomited up stomach acid.


    Although he had killed many wild beasts and even demon creatures these days, this was his first time taking the life of another human being.


    Although he didn''t regret his actions, the first kill was still hard to endure.


    After a long time, Jiang Liu''s emotions finally began to settle, and then he walked over to the corpses and picked up the copper coins they were lying on.


    Killing three people onlyted him about 300 Experience Points; clearly, the strength of these three bandits wasn''t strong.


    However, apart from some copper coins, Jiang Liu found that a weapon had also dropped.


    Ancient Ebony Stick (Ordinary Quality): Requires level 5, Attack Power +25, Durability 8/10.


    Looking at the stick, which was somewhat worn, the data information also appeared before his eyes. With a 25-point increase in Attack Power, he was quite satisfied; as expected of a primary weapon, it was significantly better than the White Jade Ring from Gaoyang, which added 10 Attack Power.


    Jiang Liu secretly hoped that if he could drop Fine Quality, Perfect Quality, or even Legendary Quality and Epic Quality equipment in the future, what would the added Attack Power be like?


    Shaking his head, he momentarily put those thoughts aside and looked at the three bodies on the ground, then picked up a knife beside him and started digging a hole.


    These people had wanted to harm him, but after all, the dead deserved respect, and leaving bodies exposed in the wilderness was not right.


    As he dug the hole with the knife, his gaze also fell on the knife.


    Just like the stick, the data information for the knife also appeared before his eyes.


    Knife (Ordinary Quality): Attack Power +3, Durability 7/10.


    "Only a 3-point increase in Attack Power? Are the equipment drops from the game of better quality? Or is it because this knife is simply a low-level weapon, evencking a level requirement?" While digging the hole, Jiang Liu murmured to himself.


    "Hey, Jiang Liu? What happened here?" Just as Jiang Liu was sweating profusely digging graves for the bodies, a familiar female voice arose.


    Seeing the three corpses on the ground, Gaoyang also got a bit of a fright and asked Jiang Liu.


    As usual, waiting for him at the usual spot, but when he didn''t show up after a long time today, Gaoyang took the initiative toe and look for him.


    She hadn''t expected to find this scene.


    Jiang Liu stopped what he was doing and had no intention of hiding anything. He simply told her the cause and effect of the incident.


    Upon learning the ins and outs of the situation and realizing that Jiang Liu had almost been killed, Gaoyang furrowed her brows and her pretty face darken with anger.


    "Hmph, what a treacherous merchant, daring toy a hand on this woman warrior''s man?"

 Chapter 17 Dumbfounded

    Gaoyang''s temperament was frank and straightforward, akin to that of a heroine. Upon learning what had happened to Jiang Liu, she naturally filled with rage toward Esquire Zhang of Jinshan Vige.


    Regardless of her rtionship with Jiang Liu, even if Jiang Liu had been aplete stranger, she would not have stood idly by if she had known about the incident.


    Jiang Liu was not surprised by Gaoyang''s reaction. After all, they had known each other for many days and had spent some time together. He had some understanding of her heroic nature.


    It wasn''t just Gaoyang who felt angry, Jiang Liu himself was irritated as well.


    The thought of the unkind rich man brought to Jiang Liu''s mind the phrase: "Wealth does not breed benevolence." He reflexively thought of this term regarding Esquire Zhang from the vige below the mountain.


    At the same time, he also recalled the incident from a few days ago when Senior Brother Xuanwu had descended the mountain to help the Zhang family''s resentful spirit. Could it be that his family''s haunting was not a mere ident?


    Could it be that he had done something that vited the natural order?


    After all, there''s amon saying: "Those who have done no wrong do not fear ghosts knocking at their door."


    "Jiang Liu, let''s go down the mountain," Gaoyang dered with righteous indignation, seemingly eager to right wrongs. She grabbed Jiang Liu and headed down the mountain.


    "Wait, let''s talk about thister..." However, as Gaoyang was pulling him down the mountain, Jiang Liu shook his head and spoke.


    "What, are you chickening out? If you are, I, this heroine, will go by myself," Gaoyang turned to look at Jiang Liu with a displeased expression.


    "It doesn''t seem right to do this in broad daylight. I''ll be leaving the monastic life soon, but if I just leave like this, won''t it affect the other people in the temple?" Jiang Liu analyzed as he looked at Gaoyang.


    If one is to act on something, they should consider the consequences. Would he, who acts on impulse, involve the temple in his actions? Jiang Liu could not do such a thing.


    Sure enough, after listening to Jiang Liu''s analysis, Gaoyang hesitated for a moment and then nodded slightly.


    Through her interactions with Jiang Liu over these days, Gaoyang also knew that Jinshan Temple was just a rundown little monastery. Such vengeful actions under the light of day could indeed have a negative impact on Jinshan Temple.


    "Alright then, we''ll go tonight," she nodded, forcibly suppressing her eagerness to deliver justice.


    They spent the afternoon together, chatting and ying monsters, and time passed quickly.


    Unlike before, when it was Gaoyang taking the lead and Jiang Liu merely assisting, that afternoon with an ebony stick in hand and the power of the Arhat Fist to boost him, Jiang Liu was not weak when he made his move.


    With a thrust of his stick, even a piece of green rock would crack open. The power to split stones and break tablets seemed to be no weaker than what Senior Brother Xuankong had demonstrated that night.


    "Jiang Liu, you truly are a martial arts prodigy!" Gaoyang, who had been with Jiang Liu for several days and deeply felt the improvement in his strength, spoke with a look of surprise on her face.


    "It''s alright¡­" Jiang Liu smiled modestly, but there was a secret joy in his heart.


    The Arhat Fistbined with the ebony stick offered a significant boost to his attack power. Looking at attack power alone, he was already more than a match for any ordinary demon.


    "It''s gettingte. Let''s meet at the foot of the mountain when the hour of Wu and Hai ovep," Jiang Liu said as he looked at the sky.


    The ovep of Wu and Hai would be around 9 p.m. modern time.


    For ancient times without much in the way of entertainment, people would have mostly been asleep by this time.


    "Alright," Gaoyang nodded in agreement and then turned to leave.


    Watching Gaoyang''s figure disappear into the distance, Jiang Liu also folded back to Jinshan Temple.


    But upon entering the temple, Jiang Liu did not rush to the kitchen to cook, instead, he sought out Senior Abbot Faming, and at the same time, Senior Brother Xuankong was unexpectedly also present.


    Fortunately, Senior Brother Xuankong was the protective martial monk of the temple, and it was indeed necessary to inform him of the matter.


    "Liu''er, what''s the matter?" Senior Abbot Faming, still with his kind and benevolent expression, nced unobtrusively at Jiang Liu''s ebony stick and asked with a smile.


    "Abbot, there has been an incident," Jiang Liu did not beat around the bush, briefly and sinctly recounting his encounter with bandits in the back mountain earlier that day.


    "Esquire Zhang''s nature is so vicious? To seek your Salt Refining Technique, he actually colluded with bandits to kidnap you?" Abbot Faming''s face darkened slightly, his eyebrows knitting together.


    "Hmph!" Senior Brother Xuankong did not speak, but let out a cold snort, clearly expressing his stance.


    Although Jinshan Temple was merely a dpidated small temple, it was not a ce that could be bullied at will.


    What''s more, he was the protective martial monk of the temple, yet Jiang Liu had almost fallen victim to someone''s scheme; Xuankong naturally felt he had neglected his duty.


    "Abbot, I have no other intention in saying this, I just want everyone to be more vignt. Those bandits mighte to seek revenge," Jiang Liu followed up his recount of the assault with a reminder.


    "Seek revenge? Liu''er, those bandits who attacked you, they¡­"


    Abbot Faming and Senior Brother Xuankong initially thought Jiang Liu had simply been lucky to escape from the bandits, but upon hearing "seek revenge," both were startled, realizing something.


    "During my resistance, I went too far and identally killed a few of them," Jiang Liu scratched his head, speaking somewhat awkwardly and embarrassedly.


    "You, a Novice Monk, how could you have ovee those fierce bandits?" Abbot Faming asked, looking at Jiang Liu in astonishment.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Just a fifteen-year-old boy, who had lived in the temple since childhood, Faming thought he knew him well, yet Jiang Liu had unexpectedly in several fierce bandits, which was shocking.


    Facing the Abbot''s query, Jiang Liu hesitated slightly and nced at Senior Brother Xuankong before stretching out his hands.


    A golden glow swirled between Jiang Liu''s palms, a sign of the Arhat Fist being deployed: "Abbot, please forgive me. I previously spied on Senior Brother Xuankong practicing martial arts and secretly learned some."


    Watching the golden glow between Jiang Liu''s palms, Abbot Faming was taken aback. The bright radiance indicated that the Arhat Fist had been trained to a highly profound level.


    Although not a martial monk, Abbot Faming had a keen eye, and judging from the brightness of the glow, Jiang Liu''s secretly learned Arhat Fist appeared to even surpass that of Xuankong?


    How long had he secretly learned it to achieve such sess? Could he be a martial prodigy?


    Faming''s heart was secretly shaken and amazed, while Senior Brother Xuankong''s eyes widened, looking at Jiang Liu''s hands, then back to Jiang Liu''s slightly youthful face, with an expression as if he had seen a ghost.


    Abbot Faming might have thought that Jiang Liu had been secretly learning the Arhat Fist for some time, but Xuankong was very aware that he had only passed on the Arhat Fist to him secretly for a mere few days, hadn''t he?

 Chapter 18 Gratifying Grudges

    ```


    Although surprised at Jiang Liu''s mastery of the Arhat Fist, he was, after all, guilty of secretly learning martial arts, so Senior Abbot Faming still imposed a mild punishment to serve as a severe warning. He assigned Jiang Liu the next few days'' work of irrigating the fields.


    Jiang Liu raised no objections to this punishment¡ªhe was well aware that Jinshan Temple was just a small temple with few people and thus had fewer rules. In other more popr temples, the punishment would definitely not have been so lenient.


    As for the matter of bandit retaliation, naturally, Senior Abbot Faming and Xuankong had a brief discussion and decided to be on guard against the bandits'' revenge in theing days.


    And as for Esquire Zhang from the foot of the mountain? He was just an ordinary person, after all. Once they dealt with these bandits, they would go down the mountain to seek a resolution.


    Having reminded of what needed to be said, and with nothing else to attend to, Jiang Liu took his leave.


    However, just as he stepped out of the abbot''s Zen Room, Jiang Liu was only a few steps away when Senior Brother Xuankong stopped him.


    "Liu''er, tell your senior brother honestly, have you really never practiced Arhat Fist before?" Xuankong asked seriously, holding Jiang Liu back.


    Jiang Liu didn''t answer, just looked back at him, keeping silent.


    "Ah, all right. You''d better go and get busy," Xuankong said with a long sigh, after staring at Jiang Liu for quite a while and then waving his hand dismissively.


    Xuankong knew his question was pointless; Jiang Liu had grown up in the temple from childhood to adulthood, so how could Xuankong not know whether he had secretly learned his Arhat Fist?


    Besides, that night when he secretly taught Jiang Liu the Arhat Fist, it was clear that the boy had no foundation in martial arts whatsoever.


    It was just that, even though he had practiced Arhat Fist for ten years, his decade of achievement couldn''tpare to Jiang Liu''s few days of cultivation. This fact was hard for him to ept.


    "Thank you, Senior Brother Xuankong, for your teaching," Jiang Liu said, his hands pressed together in a sign of gratitude as he bowed respectfully to Xuankong.


    Perhaps the Arhat Fist might not mean much to him in the future, but at present, this skill was quite useful to him.


    Of course, what weighed even more heavily was Senior Brother Xuankong''s kindness and care for him.


    "Well, no matter what, Liu''er, the fact that you have such a gift for martial arts is a reason to rejoice. I''m not worried anymore that you''ll be bullied in the future," Xuankong said, visibly relieved after Jiang Liu earnestly thanked him. He helped Jiang Liu rise and then turned to leave.


    Watching Senior Brother Xuankong walk away, still somewhat dispirited, Jiang Liu could roughly understand his feelings.


    Turning back, he went to the kitchen, where he deftly prepared dinner as if it was routine for him.


    Ordinarily, Senior Brother Xuankong didn''t talk much, so neither Xuanwu nor Xuanming noticed anything unusual about him at the dinner table.


    After supper, everyone went their separate ways. Jiang Liu tidied up the bowls and chopsticks and then returned to his own Zen Room.


    He took out a cloth and sat quietly on his wooden bed, meticulously wiping an old ebony stick with the utmost care.


    In contemting his impending visit to Esquire Zhang''s ce to seek revenge, Jiang Liu''s feelings wereplicated¡ªhe was both eager for vengeance and fraught with trepidation.


    If it were up to him, as someone from a modern,wful society, he would prefer not to resort to violence to solve problems.


    But having been transported to this uncivilized ancient world, where vigers would collude with bandits for profit andmit murder for wealth, he knew that showing weakness would only lead to being bullied in the future.


    To endure might bring temporary calm, but such situations were, after all, the minority.


    More often than not, enduring leads to further encroachment!


    After all, even the Buddhist Sect, which always boasts kindness andpassion, has its moments of wrathful Vajra, doesn''t it?


    ```


    Devoid of any inkling of sleep and estimating that the time was about right, Jiang Liu securely fastened the sandalwood Buddha beads around his neck, tightly gripped his ebony stick, and carefully pushed open the door of the Zen Room, descending the mountain.


    The hill where Jinshan Temple was located was but a minor peak. Following the faint moonlight, within a short half hour, he had already reached the foot of the mountain.


    In the moonlight, a beautiful silhouette could be seen already waiting there¡ªit was Gaoyang.


    ...


    Down the mountain, resided Jinshan Vige.


    A small courtyard, belonging to Esquire Zhang, was set amidst the vige, possibly the only home within Jinshan Vige to boast a yard of its own.


    The courtyard gate faced south, with living quarters and guest rooms on the east and west sides for amodating guests and maids, while the main house sitting facing north was where Esquire Zhang and his family resided.


    However, on this day, an unexpected visitor hade to Esquire Zhang''s home¡ªa novice monk, appearing to be about fifteen or sixteen years old, dressed in a monastic robe the color of crescent moon white, holding a Demon-Subduing Pestle in his hand, and with a serene expression, he arrived at Esquire Zhang''s ce and lightly knocked on the courtyard door.


    "Who''s there? Who isn''t sleeping in the middle of the night...", amidst the silent wilderness, apanying the knock, a male voice sounded from within the courtyard; momentster, the door was opened, and a servant peeked out.


    "Benefactor, this humble monk is from Daming Temple, here to attend the Incense Offering Ceremony at Great Buddha Temple and seeks shelter for the night," the young monk said politely with his hands sped together.


    "You wait here, little monk, while I go and inform the master of the house," the servant nodded, taking note of the monk''s attire which seemed out of the ordinary, and then withdrew his head.


    Shortly after, the courtyard door was opened again, and Esquire Zhang, dressed casually, stepped out.


    After sizing up the monk, he shook his head and said, "Little monk, it''s not that I am unwilling to shelter you, but I have women in my family, which really makes it inconvenient. You should try elsewhere, and, by the way, there is a Jinshan Temple on the mountain, you..."


    However, before Esquire Zhang could finish, the young monk picked up a small stone from the corner of the wall.


    With a slight exertion of his fingers, the stone instantly split into several fragments and fell: "Benefactor, please grant this amodation, and you will surely receive blessings in the future."


    "Hiss...", shocked by the little monk''s finger strength, Esquire Zhang drew in a breath of cold air and quickly changed his tune: "Master, pleasee in. I will have a guest room prepared for you right away."


    "Then I shall impose," the young monk casually threw away the stone and, still serene and polite, entered on the invitation of Esquire Zhang.


    ...


    The night was deep.


    Jiang Liu and Gaoyang walked hand in hand, entering into the midst of Jinshan Vige. Although Jiang Liu had traveled through time and had note down the mountain before, he knew that Esquire Zhang''s house was the wealthiest in Jinshan Vige.


    In Jinshan Vige of merely a hundred or so households, after a brief search, they found the best-looking house, which was presumably Esquire Zhang''s home.


    Since they hade to cause trouble, there was no reason to knock and enter. With a light leap, Gaoyang agilely vaulted over the walls of the courtyard and jumped inside. Then, he quietly opened the gate, and the two of them stealthily infiltrated the premises without making a sound.


    Although arge dog in the yard was startled awake by their movements, before it could even bark, a cold light shed.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Gaoyang''s flying dagger urately thrust into the dog''s mouth, nailing it dead.


    Notification: You have gained 10 Experience Points and 4 coins.


    Ignoring the game system''s notification, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang silently snuck into the main house.

 Chapter 19 The Young Monk Daoji

    ```


    Since they had chosen toe at night, naturally, they had no intention of causing amotion. After dealing with the guard dogs, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang quietly pried open the doortch of the main house and walked in.


    In the master bedroom, Esquire Zhang was sound asleep, embracing a young and beautiful woman, while his legal wife was sleeping alone in the adjacent side bedroom.


    Gaoyang made his move, putting both the wife and concubine into a deep slumber, and then woke Esquire Zhang.


    Esquire Zhang,ing to his senses, realized that there were two strangers in his room. Shocked, he attempted to cry out loudly.


    However, the cold touch of a Flying Dagger pressed against his throat while Gaoyang, with a low and intentionally fierce voice, said, "Don''t yell, or my hand might just slip."


    Feeling the icy sensation of the Flying Dagger at his throat, Esquire Zhang''s heart skipped a beat. The words he had opened his mouth to shout were immediately swallowed back, his voice trembling, "Both of you, let''s talk this out. If it''s money you want, I''m willing to give five silver taels, no, ten..."


    As Esquire Zhang spoke, Jiang Liu lit the oilmp on the table, and the faint light dispersed the darkness within the room.


    Lamp in hand, Jiang Liu approached Esquire Zhang.


    "Jiang, Jiang Liu, is that you!?" Esquire Zhang eximed in rm, seeing Jiang Liu approach with themp.


    A Novice Monk that had grown up in Jinshan Temple, now breaking into his residence in the dead of night with a weapon¡ªthis was something Esquire Zhang had never imagined.


    "It seems that Esquire Zhang''s life isn''t worth much," Jiang Liu said calmly as he held themp and moved closer to Esquire Zhang, "To catch me, you were willing to pay thirty silver taels and collude with bandits, but to save your own life, you''re only willing to pay ten?"


    "How, how did you..." Jiang Liu''s words pierced right through his collusion with the bandits, leaving Esquire Zhang staring at him in astonishment.


    Could it be that he had underestimated the fifteen-year-old boy?


    Since Jiang Liu mentioned the thirty silver taels and the bandits, it was clear that he had already investigated thoroughly. Esquire Zhang realized it was pointless to deny it any further and quickly admitted his mistake.


    "Master Jiang Liu, my apologies, I was blinded by greed. I beg your pardon; I am willing to give you the thirty silver taels to make amends for my fault. Monks are known for theirpassion. Please, Master, on ount of our being fellow townspeople, forgive me."


    Esquire Zhang wept bitterly, the very picture of remorse as he begged for mercy.


    His words appeared sincere, offering thirty silver taels and appealing to Jiang Liu''s status in the Buddhist Sect while also ying the card of their shared hometown affiliation.


    If one were slightly softer-hearted, seeing his tearful anguish might make it difficult to continue troubling him.


    The thirty silver taels truly pained Esquire Zhang, but when faced with the threat to his life, the silver lost its value.


    Esquire Zhang was aware of the situation at Jinshan Temple¡ªthirty silver taels should be enough to sway the other party.


    By offering money and admitting his error in earnest, as long as he could stabilize the situation, he should be fine, or so he thought. The immediate crisis was the primary concern.


    For a fifteen-year-old youth, fiery with the vigour of youth, who knew what he might do in a real fury? Esquire Zhang had no intention of gambling with his life.


    Yet, while Esquire Zhang''s thoughts and choices weren''t bad, Jiang Liu did not seem swayed at all.


    "What, you think I''m here for the money?" Jiang Liu said.


    ```


    Jiang Liu was very clear about his purpose, he was here for revenge, not for wealth.


    "You, do you really have to be so ruthless? Aren''t you afraid that Senior Abbot Faming will punish you?" Jiang Liu''s attitude startled Esquire Zhang, who had moved on from pleading to invoking Senior Abbot Faming''s name.


    Monks arepassionate at heart, even if they are at fault, a sincere apology, he believed, would surely not be met with approval from Faming for a vengeful killing, right?


    "He who kills, will be killed in turn. Since you''d decided to collude with bandits against me, naturally, you should be prepared for the possibility of failure and my subsequent revenge.


    You are an adult now; everyone must take responsibility for their own actions," Jiang Liu said without any intention of wasting words, his gaze fixed on Esquire Zhang as he lifted the ebony stick beside him, murder intent emanating instantly.


    "Amitabha, monks should harborpassion. Since this benefactor has sincerely repented, why should this younger brother wallow in hatred? As the saying goes, ''Lay down the butcher knife, and you will achieve Buddhahood on the spot''."


    However, before Jiang Liu could smash the ebony stick down, suddenly, a chant of Buddha''s name sounded, and a young monk clothed in crescent white entered the scene.


    Jiang Liu and this monk both looked very young, like teenagers around fifteen or sixteen years of age.


    However, Jiang Liu was dressed in a tattered grey-white monk''s robe, while the iing monk wore an affluent crescent white robe that was quite imposing.


    "Great master, save me!" Seeing the young monk enter, Esquire Zhang''s eyes lit up, and he called out joyfully.


    The image of the monk casually crushing a rock when he had sought lodging seemed just like yesterday; it seemed possible that he might be the one to save him.


    "Who are you?" Jiang Liu frowned slightly as he watched the young monk step forward.


    At first nce, the young monk exuded an extraordinary presence; handsome, well-dressed, and dignified, clearly not your average monk¡ªprobably from a major temple.


    Compared to him, it seemed Jiang Liu''s only advantage was his good looks.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "This humble monk is Daoji from Daming Temple. I am here for the annual Incense Offering Ceremony at Great Buddha Temple. Having overheard some of the grievances between you two, since this benefactor has sincerely repented, why not give him a chance?" spoke the young monk eloquently and politely.


    "Daoji? Could this be Ji Gong?" Jiang Liu couldn''t help but scoff inwardly.


    Of course, that wasn''t possible; the legendary monk Ji Gong wasn''t from the Tang Dynasty.


    "You are unreasonable. We both are participating in this year''s Incense Offering Ceremony, so we should be peers. I grew up in a temple since childhood; who is the senior and who is the junior between us is still unclear."


    Jiang Liu''s gazended on the other party, pausing for a moment, then he continued, "Easier said than done, I understand the concept of achieving Buddhahood byying down the butcher knife, and I also understand thepassionate heart of a monk; however, having not experienced another''s suffering, don''t be quick to preach magnanimity to them."


    "Amitabha, it seems the younger brother is deeply entrenched in his obsession. Well, if you have a grudge against this benefactor and wish to seek vengeance, it cannot be considered unjust. But since this benefactor has shown me a kindness, I cannot just stand by idly. If that''s the case, I am willing to engage in a match with the younger brother to see our respective demon subduing techniques."


    "I''ve said it before, I am the senior!" Jiang Liu retorted as he raised the ebony stick in his hand, a dazzling golden light shining between his hands.


    As the light merged into the ebony stick, he aimed it at his opponent, striking first to gain the upper hand.


    "Amitabha, Arhat Fist? Excellent. This humble monk also has some knowledge of it..." Daoji murmured as he saw the golden light emanating from Jiang Liu''s palms.


    It was uncertain whether it was an illusion, but as the sound of a dragon''s chant arose, the golden light in Daoji''s palms subtly transformed into dragon-shaped phantoms, wrapping around his fists.


    Confronting the ebony stick pointed by Jiang Liu, Daoji faced it head-on with his fists aglow with brilliant golden light.

 Chapter 20 Another Piece of Fine Equipment

    The levels of skills are generally divided into four categories: Primary Level, Middle Level, High-Level, and Great Perfection.


    After investing three Skill Points, as the sole offensive technique, the Arhat Fist had reached the High-Level, granting a 25% increase in Attack Power for 180 seconds. Paired with the amplification from the Ebony Stick, when he swung it, a barrage of shadows spread out as if it were an Iron Stick, capable of splitting stone and cleaving tablets effortlessly.


    Daoji seemed to be of a simr age to Jiang Liu, and he also cultivated the Arhat Fist, but even though hecked a weapon, the golden glow of his fists, loosely wrapped by the shadow of a dragon, seemed to pack more power than Jiang Liu''s.


    Upon contact between stick and fist, Jiang Liu felt a numbing sensation in his wrists.


    "Is this guy better at cultivating the Arhat Fist than me, or is his Cultivation Level higher? Or is it both?" Jiang Liu mused privately, sensing that the other''s Arhat Fist was even stronger than his own.


    From the standpoint ofbat, Jiang Liu and Daoji were evenly matched.


    Despite theck of level and skill, having a weapon for amplification meant the oue of Daioji and Jiang Liu''s battle remained uncertain.


    An Arhat Fist came flying towards him, Jiang Liu dodged by tilting his head, avoiding the punch.


    However, when the punch hit the wall behind Jiang Liu, it resounded with a loud smack, spraying debris and leaving a deep imprint on the wall, causing Jiang Liu''s temples to twitch.


    With a swoosh, the golden Ebony Stick swept towards Daoji, casting a golden shadow.


    Daoji lightly stepped aside and twisted his body to dodge, and with a bang, the nearby table shattered instantly, making Daoji inhale sharply, his mind filled with wariness.


    Esquire Zhang, watching the ferociousness of Jiang Liu, turned pale.


    No one had expected a fifteen-year-old Novice Monk from Jinshan Temple to be so formidable. Had they known this, even with several more guts, they would not have dared to conspire with the bandits to oppose him.


    Gaoyang also watched Jiang Liu''s battle with some nervousness, but seeing that it was a dispute between two Buddhist Disciples, and it was decided to be a one-on-one fight, Gaoyang, out of respect for Jiang Liu, didn''t intend to intervene.


    However, if Jiang Liu were truly at risk of defeat and endangerment, she would not stand idly by.


    The intensely fierce battle did notst long, and after a few minutes, Jiang Liu''s Arhat Fist effect expired, and the brilliant golden light in his hand also faded.


    Simrly, as someone who also practiced the Arhat Fist, Daoji''s state of Arhat Fist also ended, leaving the two without a decided victor after several minutes of fighting.


    "Amitabha, Junior Brother, neither of us can overpower the other, so how about we stop here?" Hands joined in prayer, Daoji spoke softly.


    "Hmph, I told you, call me Senior Brother!" Jiang Liu swung his Ebony Stick as he spoke.


    Without the Arhat Fist''s amplification, he still had the weapon''s amplification from the Ebony Stick, while the other had nothing. In Jiang Liu''s eyes, he should have a better chance of winning.


    "If that''s the case, then don''t me your Senior Brother for being ruthless! Watch out for my Green Lotus Finger Strength," seeing Jiang Liu''s relentless attitude, Daoji frowned and extended a finger.


    At the tip of his finger, one could see a green energy forming into the shape of a lotus, ready to strike.


    "Silencing Zen!" Just as he viewed the approaching attack with caution, Jiang Liu immediately activated the Silencing Zen skill.


    The silence-based skill instantly caused the green lotus that bloomed from Daoji''s fingers to dissipate.


    "What? How is this possible!?" Suddenly, the Green Lotus Finger that he had gathered disappeared into thin air, and Daoji looked at his fingers in disbelief.


    Daoji could feel the True Yuan flowing within him, still at hismand, but he found it difficult to form into an attack, an urrence that was extremely rare in his experience.


    Bang!


    However, Jiang Liu didn''t have much time to be surprised, as the ebony stick had already smashed down,nding on Daoji''s body and causing him to cry out in pain.


    Ah! Ah! Ah!


    The continuous screams, his True Yuan unable to form an effective skill, made the current Daoji appear no better than an ordinary person.


    The ebony stick continuously hit Daoji''s body, leaving him with a swollen face and no longer caring about his graceful demeanor as he scurried towards the outside of the house.


    "Tell me, who is the elder brother, tell me, say it, say it fast..." Jiang Liu shouted loudly, feeling immensely satisfied as the stick kept raining down.


    "It''s you, you are the elder brother!" Amidst the continuous cries of pain, Daoji immediately gave in.


    "That''s right, little brother, will you still dare to meddle in elder brother''s affairs in the future?" The ebony stick did not stop, continuing to fall.


    "I dare not, elder brother, I, I won''t dare anymore..."


    Although he was begging for mercy, the silence period of Silencing Zen was not long, and seizing an opportunity, Daoji pointed his finger out.


    A stream of Finger Force, shot through the air towards Jiang Liu, with a green lotus vaguely visible at the fingertips. Although it wasn''t as clear as when it was fully charged, it was still swift.


    "Vajra Mantra!" Seeing the iing attack, Jiang Liu was surprised that the opponent could project energy from his body, but his reaction was also fast, activating the Vajra Mantra skill immediately.


    This finger force, hastily released, had insufficient attack power, which was then reduced by 80% by the Vajra Mantra. The remaining attack,nding on Jiang Liu''s body, did cause him some pain, but it was not enough to injure him.


    Feeling pain from the attack, Jiang Liu''s anger also surged, and he raised the ebony stick and smashed it onto Daoji''s head, stunning him.


    With a bang, in Jiang Liu''s eyes, the health bar over Daoji''s head instantly emptied.


    The copsed Daojiy motionless on the ground, falling into a near-deatha.


    Notice: Gained 325 experience points, gained 80 copper coins.


    Notice, level increased by 1, current level 6.


    As Daoji was knocked unconscious by him and notifications appeared, a refreshing flow passed through his body, instantly healing all injuries and restoring his energy, making him feel rejuvenated.


    Seeing that he had defeated Daoji, Jiang Liu walked over, turned his body over, and unceremoniously collected the string of copper coins pressed under him.


    Besides, there was also a red wooden ring.


    "Equipment drop!" Seeing the red ring, Jiang Liu was delighted, picked it up, and inspecting it, the attributes of the ring caught his eye.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Redwood Ring (Fine Level Quality): Requires level 5, Attack Power +20, Passive: Full Power Strike, doubles the damage of the first attack after exitingbat for 300 seconds, Durability 9/10.


    "Nice stuff!" Looking at the data of the Redwood Ring, Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up.


    Worthy of being fine level quality equipment, huh? This increase in attack power almost catches up with the ebony stick, his main weapon.


    "Jiang Liu, what happened?" Because of the angle, Gaoyang only saw Jiang Liu facing him, seemingly searching through the things on Daoji''s body.


    Taking advantage of having knocked him out to search for spoils of war?


    "It''s nothing, just checking," Jiang Liu said, slipping the copper coins into his pocket and fitting the Redwood Ring directly onto his finger, then stood up.

 Chapter 21 Jinshan Temple Under Attack

    Thud, thud, thud!


    In the quiet night, the sound of gongs and drums was very clear.


    In Esquire Zhang''s household, the servant watched as the residence burst into raging mes and shouted loudly, "Water''s gone, the water''s gone!"


    The vigers of Jinshan Vige, woken up by themotion, watched the fire engulf Esquire Zhang''s residence. Though many dressed and got out of bed, the number of people genuinely willing to help was, after all, small.


    Even in the eyes of many, there was a sense of relief.


    Vigers, with their simple and frank nature, followed a simple principle: if you are good to me, I will be good to you; if you treat me poorly, do not expect me to be kind to you.


    Although Esquire Zhang was wealthy, his reputation in Jinshan Vige was not very good. If it hadn''t been for his wife managing some of the neighborhood rtions over the years, perhaps even the few who came to help wouldn''t have.


    "What''s the situation? Are the people inside safe?" Some vigers who ran faster approached the servant beating the gongs and drums and asked.


    "Thedy and the seconddy have been rescued, but the master, he is missing. What can we do¡­"


    The head of the family, Esquire Zhang''s absence was like missing the backbone.


    ...


    Atop a hillside, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang reached halfway up the mountainside and looked back; in the pitch-ck night, the fire at Esquire Zhang''s house was clearly visible.


    Watching the fire at Esquire Zhang''s house, Jiang Liu pressed his lips together, saying nothing, yet he felt profound emotions.


    In the mere half a month since he had time-traveled to this era, there had been murder and arson, which would be unthinkable in modern society with its rule ofw.


    Had he changed, or was the era to me?


    "Jiang Liu, is it really okay to let that monk named Daoji go?" Gaoyang nced at the fire at Esquire Zhang''s ce and thought about the unconscious Daoji they hadn''t killed, asking somewhat uneasily.


    Murder and arson were not light matters, and the monk called Daoji was the only witness. Logically, they should have eliminated the witness by killing him.


    "Those who deserve death should be killed, like Esquire Zhang, but Daoji bears me no ill will. His previous actions were merely because he had received some favors from Esquire Zhang. If I kill someone just to silence them, how am I different from Esquire Zhang who sumbs to greed and contemtes taking lives?"


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu seriously responded, reaffirming that there must be a bottom line in being human.


    "But aren''t you afraid that after Monk Daoji wakes up, he''ll go to the government office to use you? By then, the trouble for us, and even Jinshan Temple, will be no small matter."


    "As I understand it, the so-called principle of evildoers is to kill rather than to let go, whereas the principle of upstanding people is to let go rather than to kill by mistake," Jiang Liu answered earnestly without exining too much, stating his bottom line.


    Without the intention of bing a great benefactor or a paragon of virtue, Jiang Liu did not wish to be a viin who takes lives without regard.


    Pause for a moment, Jiang Liu continued, "Besides, I believe Daoji is not a fool. He should know what to do."


    When he was beaten severely, he promptly admitted defeat, which showed that Daoji was someone who understood the situation well.


    Since he understood the situation, without reason, he would not likely want to invite unnecessary trouble.


    "Alright, what you say makes sense. I, as a heroine, have no desire to be an evildoer!"


    Jiang Liu spoke of the upstanding people''s principle "to let go rather than to kill by mistake," and Gaoyang nodded in agreement.


    As the two talked, they turned around and continued walking up the mountain.


    However, it was now thetter half of the night, and the mountain path was pitch ck. Suddenly, Gaoyang slipped, and with a startled cry, she fell to the ground.


    "Are you alright?" Seeing Gaoyang with a twisted foot, Jiang Liu quickly crouched down, asking with concern.


    "I can''t go on, my foot hurts. You, you''ll have to carry me," In the dark, Gaoyang''s expression was invisible, only her faint voice could be heard.


    ```


    "Okay," without giving it much thought, Jiang Liu nodded and turned around, letting Gaoyang lie on his back.


    Jiang Liu''s character level had already reached level 6, and whether in terms of strength or stamina, he had surpassed ordinary people by a great deal, so carrying Gaoyang didn''t feel heavy. The mountain path was rugged, yet Jiang Liu''s steps were steady.


    As Gaoyangy on Jiang Liu''s back, her hands wrapped around his neck and her cheeks lightly resting on his back, she felt very secure.


    However, feeling Jiang Liu''s somewhat stiff movements, Gaoyang curled her lips slightly in the darkness, "Hey, have you never carried another girl before?"


    "That, that''s not true, I used to hug and cuddle with other girls quite often..."


    Leaning on Jiang Liu''s back, Gaoyang only felt that his words were bluster.


    "What about you? Have you often been carried by other men?" After a moment of silence, Jiang Liu, intent on turning defense into offense, asked quietly.


    "No, other than my father, who carried me when I was little, you''re the first..." sping Jiang Liu''s neck a little tighter, Gaoyang''s voice was as faint as a mosquito''s.


    Neither the young man nor woman spoke again; in the silent night, only the sound of Jiang Liu''s footsteps grinding against the pebbles on the mountain path could be heard, making the atmosphere in the darkness charming.


    Leaning on Jiang Liu''s back, the young girl felt her own heartbeat seemingly growing louder.


    "By the way, the Incense Offering Ceremony is in a few days. Even if you''re initiated then, you won''t let the monks know, will you? Otherwise, this heroine will tear down your temple," Gaoyang said.


    "Don''t worry, I never nned on bing a monk. I still want to marry you and have lots of little babies. Yeah, let''s have enough to make a ser team. Let''s happily decide on that," replied Jiang Liu.


    "Ser team? What''s that?" Gaoyang asked.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    ...


    In the pitch-dark night, shoulder-borne by Jiang Liu, as they walked and talked, their feelings for each other warmed rapidly.


    However, as Jiang Liu arrived at the entrance to Jinshan Temple, a scream rang out, causing his heart to tighten.


    The familiar voice belonged to Senior Brother Xuankong.


    "Something''s wrong!" With a scream in the middle of the nighting from the temple, Gaoyang also understood that something had urred. Without a second thought, she leaped from Jiang Liu''s back, quietly approaching whaty ahead.


    Watching Gaoyang''s agile movements, the corners of Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly.


    Had her foot injury already healed? Or was she deceiving him from the beginning?


    But now was not the time to ponder such things. Jiang Liu too crouched down and walked forward cautiously.


    A few torches lit up the small square outside the main hall of Jinshan Temple. Senior Abbot Famingy on the ground, his life hanging by a thread.


    Xuanming and Xuanwu, two fellow monks, had both been severely beaten, their faces swollen and bruised.


    Senior Brother Xuankong was in the most dire state, clutching his shoulder, lying on the ground with a right arm in a pool of blood, clearly having been severed.


    In the square, seven or eight men wielding steel knives looked fierce and malevolent; it was in to see they were no good men.


    Among these men, several bore various injuries, clearly sustained while fighting with Senior Brother Xuankong.


    The leader, a man holding a feather fan and dressed like a schr, sat on a chair. Evidently, this seemingly weakest man was the leader of these viins.


    "No one can kill our ck Bear Stronghold''s people and live freely," said the schr sitting in the chair, shaking his feather fan with a pretense of refinement.


    As his words fell, the schr made a horizontal cutting gesture with his fan and said, "Since that Novice Monk Jiang Liu was lucky enough to escape down the mountain early, then consider these bald donkeys as interest¡ªkill them all."


    "Stop!" Without caring whether he could defeat these men, Jiang Liu shouted as he saw the people of Jinshan Temple about to be ughtered and leapt out, wielding an ebony stick.


    Seeing the situation and listening to the schr-dressed fellow, Jiang Liu could guess: these men must be the bandits previously hired by Esquire Zhang, now seeking revenge.


    ```

 Chapter 22 Demon General

    "Liu''er, you..." Holding his severed arm, Senior Brother Xuankong looked at Jiang Liu, who had abruptly jumped out, and his expression couldn''t help but change.


    Jiang Liu had thought that he had quietly left Jinshan Temple, but to his surprise, at this critical moment, he jumped out.


    "You are a brave youngster," watching Jiang Liu, this schr sitting in the chair gently shook the feather fan in his hand, putting on an affected air of elegance. He wanted to say a few words to exhibit his demeanor.


    However, before he could finish speaking, his face suddenly changed, eximing, "How audacious!"


    Once they started to fight, there was no dragging their feet, especially now that they were outnumbered.


    Thus, Jiang Liu, ignoring the schr''s attempt to speak, directly pointed his ebony stick at one of the bandits, aiming to take the initiative by targeting an already severely injured bandit first.


    Watching Jiang Liu swing his stick down, this bandit raised his steel knife trying to block it.


    However, the ebony stick in Jiang Liu''s hand seemed to be forged from steel as golden light twined around it.


    With a single strike, what was horrifying was that the bandit''s steel knife snapped with a crack.


    Then this stick hit the bandit''s head fiercely, his eyes rolled back, and he fell into aa without any grace.


    The passive effect of the Redwood Ring doubles the damage on the first strike, hence the blow from the ebony stick could shatter the steel knife in one move.


    Notification: Earned 32 Experience Points, z6 coins.


    The prompt from the game system arrived as expected, but Jiang Liu, having knocked one bandit out cold with a strike, did not pay attention to it. His ebony stick swept toward several other bandits again.


    After all, the skill of Arhat Fist onlysted for 180 seconds, and without it, his attack power would greatly reduce.


    Hence once he acted, Jiang Liu naturally did not waste any time.


    However, the nearby bandits, seeing Jiang Liu jump out and knock out arade in seconds, and then observing the knife broken by the ebony stick on the ground, were all shocked and became hesitant to advance, even retreating quickly.


    Gaoyang, naturally moving forward and back with Jiang Liu, watched Jiang Liu make his move, and with his figure light as a startled swan, he whipped his leather whip.


    With a snap, it urately hit another bandit''s arm, who screamed as the heavy force instantly broke his arm.


    These bandits, though ferocious and even used to living on the de for many years with decent martial arts, were intimidated in spirit, how could they still be opponents for Jiang Liu and Gaoyang?


    Gaoyang''s martial arts were already very advanced, sufficient to battle demons.


    And what about Jiang Liu? Although he was only level 6, the enhancements from Arhat Fist, the Redwood Ring, and the ebony stick meant his strength was much greater.


    For these bandits, the prowess of Jiang Liu and Gaoyang was clearly a cut above theirs.


    "Has Liu''er''s martial arts be this formidable?" Senior Brother Xuankong, watching from the side with his severed arm, initially wanted to muster strength to help, but a nce at the ground, seeing the knife shattered by the strike, startled him, and he realized this was beyond his ability.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    Like a tiger among sheep, these bandits were beaten to aplete rout in moments, nearly all of them falling into unconsciousness.


    "Second, second inmand, save, save me..."


    Thest bandit, his steel knife also broken by Gaoyang''s whip, with a flying dagger stuck in his shoulder, panickedly retreated to the schr who affected an air of elegance.


    "s, trash will always be trash. It seems I will have to rely on myself after all," putting down his feather fan, the schr stood up.


    Watching this schr-dressed fellow, Jiang Liu''s expression also grew much more solemn.


    Since he was the leader of these bandits, it was obvious that this guy must have been quite strong, and in a world filled with demons and ghosts, judging someone''s strength merely by their physical appearance was clearly unreliable.


    With a smack, to Jiang Liu and Gaoyang''s surprise, the schr made a move, but it was not directed towards them. Instead, he performed a precise chop with the edge of his hand on the neck of thest remaining bandit, knocking him unconscious.


    Tip: Gained 5 Experience Points.


    Jiang Liu and Gaoyang looked at each other, both stunned.


    However, Jiang Liu''s shock was not just about the schr''s action; he was also surprised that the knocked-out bandit had only given him 9 Experience Points in total.


    It seemed his monster had been stolen, so, had his Experience Points sharply decreased?


    "Cackling...


    As thest bandit was knocked unconscious, a sharp and piercingugh suddenly erupted from the schr''s mouth, reminiscent of a night owl,pletely contrary to his previously feigned schrly demeanor, "Now that all these guys are unconscious, no one remembers my true face anymore."


    Following the schr''s slippery words, an eerie throbbing appeared at the spot over his chest inside his robe.


    Suddenly, the area over his chest burst open, and a pitch-ck crow, with a third eye on its forehead, bizarrely emerged from the schr''s chest.


    "A demon!?" As they saw the three-eyed ck crow emerge, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang''s expressions involuntarily changed.


    "Able to burrow into a human body and control its actions without detection? Has it reached the level of a Demon Soldier?" Gaoyang said gravely as he looked at the three-eyed crow.


    Demon Soldiers are beings that can mimic human behavior, like the Wolf Demon that could walk upright, or like the Three-Eyed Crow before them, which could control human actions wlessly without giving away any ws.


    "A Demon Soldier?" As Jiang Liu watched the three-eyed crow fly out, his mind was heavy with concentration, yet tinged with some anticipation.


    Although they were both Demon Soldiers, the crow''s strength should be less than the Wolf Demon''s, given that wolves were inherently ferocious beasts.


    Moreover, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang had both improved in strength since then; perhaps they could kill this Three-Eyed Crow?


    After ying the Wolf Demon previously, not only had a lot of items burst forth, but there had also been a massive amount of Experience Points that allowed him to level up three times.


    If he seeded in killing this Three-Eyed Crow, he should be able to make a significant advance, right?


    "Usually hiding inside the bandit stronghold, it''s really troublesome trying to opportunistically eat a few humans'' brains. This time I must thank you all for knocking them unconscious, letting me feast well..."


    The Three-Eyed Crow, pping its wings, whose three eyes filled with ominous and evil auras, stared at Jiang Liu and the others.


    "One, two, three..." Its gaze swept across Jiang Liu, Gaoyang, and even Senior Brother Xuankong and the others behind them, its voice sharp, "Cackle, cackle, cackle, it looks like I''ll have a feast today, six people''s brains for me to eat."


    "Think you can eat us? Just afraid you don''t have that big of an appetite!" Taking advantage of some time left in his Arhat Fist skill, Jiang Liu lifted his Ebony Stick and smashed it fiercely towards the crow.


    Crack!


    However, facing Jiang Liu''s attack, the crow opened its beak and pecked at it.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Then, the Fine Level Quality Ebony Stick was actually directly snapped by the Three-Eyed Crow''s peck.


    "A mere beginner in Qi Cultivation and the girl next to you, only at the Meridian Unblocking Stage, dare to act recklessly in front of me, the Demon Eye General..."


    After pecking Jiang Liu''s Ebony Stick in half, the Three-Eyed Crow leisurely preened its feathers with its beak, speaking calmly.


    "Demon Eye General? You are a Demon General!?"


    The words of the Three-Eyed Crow made Gaoyang''s face turn deathly pale.

 Chapter 23 Gaoyangs Identity

    Demon General!?


    Learning that the Three-Eyed Crow in front of him possessed the strength of a Demon General, Jiang Liu''s heart also sank.


    Although he wasn''t clear about what level a Demon General''s strength actually was, the Wolf Demon that had almost killed him and Gaoyang before was merely at the level of a Demon Soldier.


    Clearly, the strength of this Demon General was much stronger than that of the Demon Soldier from before.


    With the strength he and Gaoyang had recently gained, if they encountered a Demon Soldier, Jiang Liu could still muster the courage to fight.


    But now, knowing that this Three-Eyed Crow was as powerful as a Demon General, Jiang Liu felt utterly disheartened.


    "Jiang Liu, run!"


    Facing the Demon General, although Gaoyang also knew there was absolutely no chance of winning, she didn''t intend to surrender without a fight. Instead, she drew her long whip andshed it towards the Three-Eyed Crow while shouting loudly.


    "Run? Flee for our lives?" Hearing Gaoyang''s words, and in this moment of life and death, the thought of escaping indeed arose in Jiang Liu''s heart.


    After all, one only lives once. Fear of death is natural, and facing an insurmountable demon, Jiang Liu felt that fleeing wasn''t a disgraceful act.


    However, after reflexively taking a step, Jiang Liu looked at Senior Brother Xuankong, who had lost an arm, and nced at Senior Abbot Faming and Brother Xuanming, who were powerless to resist. His feet suddenly felt as heavy as lead. He wanted to run, but he just couldn''t move forward.


    Jiang Liu clearly understood that if he ran away, these people would undoubtedly die.


    That day, Senior Abbot Faming tried to facilitate Esquire Zhang epting him so that after a failed Incense Offering Ceremony, he could have a livelihood. Jiang Liu kept this favor in his heart.


    That day, Senior Brother Xuankong secretly found him and taught him the martial art of Arhat Fist so that he wouldn''t be bullied after descending the mountain. This kindness, too, Jiang Liu remembered well.


    Moreover, the vows made between him and Gaoyang to marry after the Incense Offering Ceremony and have many children¡ªhow could Jiang Liu possibly run away from thismitment?


    Although Gaoyang''s spirit was strong, the gap in strength could not be bridged by mere conviction.


    Facing Gaoyang''s attack, the Three-Eyed Crow merely pped its wings, and with its movement, blue Wind des appeared, not only severing Gaoyang''s whip into several pieces but even throwing Gaoyang backwards, leaving her with several deep wounds that bled profusely.


    Jiang Liu moved quickly to catch Gaoyang and looked at the cuts inflicted by the Wind des with great distress, which also ignited a raging anger within him.


    "Jiang Liu, you, you must run. We are no match for this Demon General. A Demon General is a demon creature that has learned spells, not something ordinary martial skills can withstand¡­" In Jiang Liu''s arms, seeing that he hadn''t taken the opportunity to escape, desperation filled Gaoyang''s expression.


    In response to Gaoyang''s words, Jiang Liu remained silent, simply pulling out a blood-red potion from within her embrace and pouring it into her mouth.


    This was from the time they had killed the Wolf Demon, which had dropped a Blood Bottle that Gaoyang had kept. Now, as she was severely injured and her health bar was only about a quarter full, Jiang Liu gave it to her to drink.


    "It''s, it''s useless¡­" As the potion was consumed, although her injuries were rapidly healing, the Demon General was still present, and drinking the potion seemedpletely ineffective.


    "It seems that today, dying together as lovers doesn''t seem so bad," Jiang Liu whispered while looking into Gaoyang''s anxious eyes.


    As he spoke, Jiang Liu stood up and rushed towards the Three-Eyed Crow.


    "Courageous indeed, your brain must taste the best!" Watching Jiang Liu charge over, the Three-Eyed Crow cawed loudly, its voice grating.


    As it spoke, the crow''s wings vibrated.


    Although they were merely small wings, as it moved, they stirred up a violent wind. These windspressed, forming several huge Wind des.


    "Silencing Zen!" Watching the Three-Eyed Crow''s movements, Jiang Liu shouted inwardly and pointed at the crow.


    The Silencing Zen skill activated, and the silencing effect instantly caused the gathered Wind des to dissipate into nothing.


    "What!? How is that possible!? Just a minor Qi Refinement Realm youngster¡­" The Three-Eyed Crow cried out in disbelief, seeing its spell disappear without a trace.


    Capitalizing on the moment the Three-Eyed Crow was stunned, Jiang Liu charged to its front and then threw a fierce punch at the crow.


    Although it possessed the strength of a Demon General, the Three-Eyed Crow was notrge in size; otherwise, it wouldn''t have been possible to infiltrate and control a human body.


    With a loud thud, Jiang Liu''s fist solidlynded on the Three-Eyed Crow''s body, and then Jiang Liu felt as if his punch had struck something incredibly tough.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    A rock could be shattered, but the crow in front of him seemed utterly unharmed.


    At the same time, Jiang Liu also noticed that the health bar above the Three-Eyed Crow''s head had slightly moved; it looked to be about 60% full.


    It wasn''t that Jiang Liu''s punch had reduced the Three-Eyed Crow''s health bar to 60%, but rather that the Three-Eyed Crow''s health bar had already been around 60% to begin with.


    This also indicated that the Three-Eyed Crow had been in a wounded state from the start.


    As for Jiang Liu''s attack? It seemed to have done no significant damage to the creature.


    "Interesting ability, but too weak..." Despite being punched by Jiang Liu, the Three-Eyed Crow appearedpletely unscathed and spoke in a shrill, piercing voice.


    As it finished speaking, a strong gust of wind hit him head-on, and Jiang Liu felt like he had been struck by a high-speed train.


    The world spun around him. He fell to the ground, his body aching all over, feeling as if his skeleton hade apart. He struggled to stand up, but failed.


    And his health bar instantaneously dropped to about 10%.


    Strong. The strength of a Demon General was truly terrifying.


    Even a wounded Demon General had almost instantly defeated him!


    "Gaga, your ability is quite magical. Then let me start by eating your brain!" Flying up, the Three-Eyed Crow, with a greedy look in its eyes, focused on Jiang Liu and swooped down toward him.


    It was a strange feeling. Although the Three-Eyed Crow looked no bigger than a palm, as it swooped down, Jiang Liu felt as if a massive beast was descending.


    He felt like he had be an incredibly tiny insect.


    With only 10% of his health remaining, if this hit were tond, Jiang Liu would surely die.


    Whoosh!


    Just then, a figure suddenly rushed out and stood in front of Jiang Liu.


    "Princess Gaoyang!" Seeing the girl who had dashed out, Jiang Liu was shocked.


    The fatal attacknded on Princess Gaoyang, making Jiang Liu''s eyes widen in horror.


    However, in his current state, Jiang Liu was already struggling to protect himself and could only watch helplessly at this scene.


    Just as it seemed that Princess Gaoyang''s head was about to be pecked open by the Three-Eyed Crow, suddenly, a faint sound of dragons chanting filled the air, and a strand of golden light emerged from inside Princess Gaoyang, forming a dragon-shaped protective shield around her.


    The seemingly thin light sessfully blocked the Three-Eyed Crow''s attack.


    "What is this? Young Dragon Talisman? You are from the Li family!" Its attack thwarted, the Three-Eyed Crow shrieked, as if it had seen something unbelievable.


    In the midst of its screeching, the Three-Eyed Crow turned and fled hastily into the distance, decisively choosing to escape.


    "Young Dragon Talisman? What is that? A person from the Li family? Isn''t Princess Gaoyang''s surname Gaoyang?"


    Watching the previously invincible Three-Eyed Crow suddenly turn and flee, and hearing its screaming words, Jiang Liu felt a deep sense of bewilderment.


    Swish!


    Just then, in the night sky, a dazzling sword light swept across like a falling star, distinctly visible against the dark.


    Although it was still far away, it reached Jinshan Temple in the blink of an eye.


    A screeching cry resounded as the Three-Eyed Crow, attempting to escape mid-air, was instantly killed by this sword strike, its health bar also instantly emptied.


    As the sword light retracted, itnded in front of Jiang Liu and Princess Gaoyang; it was an elderly man with a vigorous spirit, carrying a long sword on his back.


    "Greetings, Princess Gaoyang!" The elder bowed slightly.

 Chapter 24 Special Equipment - Skill Bookcase

    "Princess!?" Upon hearing the elder refer to Gaoyang, Jiang Liu was deeply shaken.


    Although he had always found Gaoyang''s identity to be mysterious, Jiang Liu respected her secrets, never intending to pry. However, suddenly learning that Gaoyang was a princess, Jiang Liu still felt profoundly moved.


    Within the boundaries of the Great Tang, being called "princess" made Gaoyang''s status clearly evident.


    Moreover, the Three-Eyed Crow that was just instantly killed had eximed that Gaoyang was from the Li Family, which seemed to exin a lot as well.


    "Elder Sword, could you let us speak alone for a few moments?" Gaoyang appeared somewhat frail as she said this to the old man with the long sword.


    The elder turned his head, nced at Jiang Liu, who was severely injured, and after a moment of silence, he nodded, saying, "Then I will wait over here, Princess. You know that in these days since you''ve run away, His Majesty has missed you dearly."


    As his words fell, the elder walked off into the distance.


    "I''m sorry, Jiang Liu, I... I didn''t mean to deceive you," Gaoyang said, lowering her head like a child who had done something wrong.


    "This isn''t deception, it''s just that, you being a princess, what about afterward..."


    Looking at Gaoyang, Jiang Liu didn''t feel angry; after all, he also had secrets he was keeping from her, didn''t he? But the memory of their vows of love made his heart turn a bit bitter.


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Gaoyang understood what he meant, her cheeks reddening slightly: "I''ll find a chance to sneak out again. After we secretly leave, we won''t return to the pce ever again."


    Her words warmed Jiang Liu''s heart, yet his expression became serious, he said, "Only a man without ability would elope with a woman. Rest assured, I will, in the future, propose to the Emperor formally and rightfully marry you!"


    Indeed, marrying a princess was no easy feat, but armed with the game system, Jiang Liu was confident about his future.


    As long as he kept defeating monsters and leveling up, once he became powerful enough, marrying a princess might not be impossible.


    Jiang Liu''s words made love swell in Gaoyang''s heart, and she couldn''t help but wrap her arms around Jiang Liu, nting a light kiss on his cheek before turning and running off.


    Still, her joyous voice floated back to him like the chime of silver bells: "I''ll be waiting for you."


    ...


    Giggle, giggle, giggle!


    The sound of the rooster crowing signaled dawn, although Jiang Liu had already awoken and sat quietly by his desk.


    The desk wasid with numerous items that had exploded from the bandits the night before, yet he wasn''t in a hurry to tally them up; instead, he sat in a daze.


    Having learned from Senior Abbot Faming about Gaoyang''s true identity, that she was the daughter most cherished by the current Emperor, known as Princess Gaoyang.


    "Liu''er, we are butmon folks, for us to marry a princess is as difficult as reaching the heavens..."


    In his mind, Jiang Liu recalled Senior Abbot Faming''s earnest words from the night before. Even though the abbot didn''t make it explicit, Jiang Liu understood what he meant¡ªthe difference in their social statuses was too great; marrying a princess was an impossibility.


    "It seems I must work hard to level up!" Jiang Liu thought of the promise he had made to Gaoyang the previous night, and his will became resolute.


    He redirected his gaze back to the items on the desk. The previous night''s battle, after all, had yielded quite a haul.


    Even though the Three-Eyed Crow was not killed by Jiang Liu''s hand, he had participated in the battle, so after its death, the crow still granted him 500 Experience Points.


    "It seems that in a team status, one can receive a high amount of experience, but isn''t it that outside of a team status, the experience points are drastically reduced?" Jiang Liu roughly understood the situation considering the Wolf Demon had given him 2,800 experience whereas the Three-Eyed Crow only 500.


    Besides, the veryst bandit who was knocked out by the monster the previous night only provided a few single-digit experience points.


    Shaking his head, he set aside the matter of experience points for the moment. Although the kill was snatched away, the in Three-Eyed Crow did drop quite a few good items.


    First, two Blood Bottles and two Blue Bottles, and in addition, there was a Skill Book for the Taoist profession, "Swift Fire Bead".


    Due to his profession, Jiang Liu naturally couldn''t learn it right now.


    Beyond the potions and Skill Book, the Three-Eyed Crow also dropped two pieces of equipment.


    Demon Subduing Staff (Perfect Quality): Requires level 10, Attack Power +70, Passive: Damage to demon and ghost-type targets increased by 30%, Durability 8/10.


    Skill Bookcase (Special essory): Can ce three Skill Books of other professions inside to acquire the conditions for skill learning.


    "So it seems, to obtain good loot, should I hunt higher-level monsters? The bigger the level difference, the better the loot!" With these thoughts, Jiang Liu felt both surprise and tion at the items before him.


    Setting aside the Demon Subduing Staff for now, its Perfect Quality notwithstanding, it required level 10 to equip, but the increase of 70 in Attack Power was significantly higher than the 25 from the Ebony Stick he currently held.


    Not to mention the utility of the Skill Bookcase, this special essory.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Special Equipment is inherently harder to drop than other mainstream equipment, and the function of this Skill Bookcase was significant.


    In the game interface, the number of items that could be equipped was finite.


    Main weapon, two rings, two bracelets or gloves, a helmet or headband, armor, shoes, belt, ne¡ªa total of ten equipment slots.


    Beyond these ten slots, there were three additional special equipment slots.


    The equipment for these three special slots may not necessarily increase Attack or Defense, but their effects are often quite unique, just like this Skill Bookcase.


    In short, as a Monk, I can learn three skills from other professions just by cing Skill Books in it, can''t I?


    And simply cing the Skill Books in it means they canter be swapped out.


    By killing the Banditsst night, defeating Daoji, and getting the 500 Experience Points reward from the Three-Eyed Crow, Jiang Liu had leveled up to 7, and naturally, he also had 7 Skill Points.


    Silencing Zen 1 point, Arhat Fist 3 points, Vajra Mantra 1 point. Currently, Jiang Liu still had 2 Skill Points remaining.


    Without much contemtion, Jiang Liu ced the "Swift Fire Bead" skill into the Skill Bookcase, then equipped the Skill Bookcase in the special essory slot.


    Prompt: Would you like to spend 1 Skill Point to learn the skill "Swift Fire Bead"?


    "It''s possible!" Receiving this prompt from the game system, Jiang Liu was overjoyed.


    Without any hesitation, he chose to learn it. Then, after some thought, Jiang Liu invested hisst Skill Point into the Swift Fire Bead skill as well.


    Swift Fire Bead (Middle Level): Fires a ball of me that can cause single-target damage to any target within a 10-meter radius, Attack Power +60%, Cooldown Time 10 seconds.


    "Such high destructive power!" Marveling at the powerful effect of the Swift Fire Bead skill, Jiang Liu was internally amazed.


    Even with Arhat Fist reaching High-Level, it only added a 25% increase, yet the Swift Fire Bead skill at Middle Level already added a 60% increase.


    While Arhat Fist is a status-boosting skill with a sustained duration, a 60% increase was still terrifying.


    Indeed, among the three main professions in the game, the Taoist ss had the highest destructive power.


    The Monk ss mainly excelled in control and support abilities, such as the system skill Silencing Zen and Vajra Mantra. Now, without Princess Gaoyang and soloing monsters for leveling up, not having a potent Attack skill would significantly slow down his progress.


    The Swift Fire Bead, a skill from the Taoist ss, was like timely aid to Jiang Liu in his current situation.

 Chapter 25 New Features Unveiled - Package Space

    Jinshan Temple, at the back of the mountain.


    Clenching his fists, Jiang Liu activated the state of Arhat Fist, and smashed his fist forward.


    In front of him, an injured ck bear was shaken and staggered backward, roaring repeatedly.


    After being pushed back, the blind bear suddenly crouched on all fours and then charged towards Jiang Liu. Its huge paw was lifted and swatted down at Jiang Liu''s body.


    The thick bear paw bore a tremendous force.


    "Vajra Mantra," looking at the ck bear''s health bar overhead, which was not much left, Jiang Liu muttered internally.


    The originally heavy and powerful bear paw struck his shoulder, and Jiang Liu only felt a slight weight on his body, but he wasn''t injured.


    Seizing the opportunity, Jiang Liu''s golden fist smashed down again, cleaving onto the ck bear''s head and causing its health bar to drop a bit more.


    He then quickly retreated, raising one hand in the process. Instantly, crimson mes gathered in his hand.


    The mes, sized like a basketball, wereunched at the ck bear by a push from Jiang Liu and hit the bear precisely.


    A piercing scream was heard as the ck bear''s health bar above its head instantly emptied, and it copsed to the ground, entering a severely wounded and dying state.


    Notification: Gained 60 Experience Points, 20 copper coins.


    Notification: Level increased by 1, current level 10.


    With the game system''s notification, Jiang Liu collected 20 copper coins from under the ck bear and pocketed them. Seeing that it was also gettingte, he turned and headed back.


    Since the day when Jinshan Temple was attacked and Gaoyang was taken away, a week had already passed. During this week, Jiang Liu hunted wild beasts in the back mountain every day to level up. Fortunately, he didn''t encounter any powerful demon creatures; they were mostly just demons.


    Only the day before yesterday did he encounter a demon that could speak humannguage. Fortunately, the current Jiang Liu was not as he used to be. With the boost from the Redwood Ring as well as skills like Arhat Fist, Vajra Mantra, and Swift Fire Bead, although he was injured, he managed to sessfully y the demon.


    Not only did he gain arge amount of experience points, but he also obtained a pair of shoes of normal quality.


    Hemp Shoes (Normal Quality): Defense +5, Movement Speed +10%, Durability 8/10.


    Although they were only shoes of normal quality, the additional attributes were better than nothing.


    After about a week of hunting and leveling up, Jiang Liu''s level had finally progressed from level 7 to level 10.


    As his level reached 10, previously, equipment of Perfect Quality had dropped from the Three-Eyed Crow, namely the Demon Subduing Staff.


    Thinking of that Demon Subduing Staff, Jiang Liu quickened his pace a bit. Due to his inability to equip it yet, he had left it in the Zen Room, and now he was eager to pick it up and try it out.


    An increase of 70 Attack Power was enough to greatly enhance his strength.


    Notification: Level increased to 10, new feature "Inventory Space" unlocked; simply think about it to open it.


    However, just as Jiang Liu quickened his steps to return, suddenly, without warning, another notification from the game system appeared, causing Jiang Liu to pause slightly, somewhat startled.


    Inventory Space opened? Could it be? The bag feature from the game?


    Following the game system''s previous notification, Jiang Liu silently recited "Inventory Space" in his mind.


    Suddenly, a semi-illusory space opened up in front of Jiang Liu, a barely visible bag space that only he seemed to be able to see.


    A 5*8 bag space wasn''trge, but it had 40 slots, clearly capable of holding 40 items.


    With curiosity, Jiang Liu ced the pair of shoes he had into it.


    A slight suction appeared, and when Jiang Liu released his grip, indeed, the shoes shrank and were stored inside the inventory space.


    "Just like in the game, the bag space function, do I need to wait until level 10 to unlock it? Then, what about other functions? Like the quest function? Or life professions? Or the marketce¡­" he silently went over other functions in his mind.


    Well, that had no effect whatsoever. Perhaps these functions did not exist at all, or they required reaching a certain level to unlock, just like the bag space?


    He walked back to Jinshan Temple, taking the shoes in and out of his bag space repeatedly, amusing himself greatly.


    To onlookers, it seemed magical that with just a lift of his hand, a pair of shoes would appear in his hand, and then, with another lift, disappeared into thin air.


    Upon returning to Jinshan Temple, Jiang Liu headed to the kitchen to prepare dinner for everyone.


    However, before he entered, he could hear noise from the kitchen, along with coughing sounds.


    Walking into the kitchen, he found his senior brother Xuanming bustling about, his chubby face slightly ckened from tending the fire for cooking.


    But he looked rather awkward in his attempts.


    "Senior Brother Xuanming? What happened to you?" Jiang Liu asked, surprised by Xuanming''s appearance.


    "Liu''er, you''re setting off for Chang''an tomorrow to attend the Incense Offering Ceremony. Unless something unexpected happens, you won''t likely return. So, I have to learn to cook, right? Xuankong has lost an arm, and Xuanwu often leaves the mountain to perform ceremonies. Naturally, the cooking duties will fall upon me," Xuanming said with a smile, wiping his face.


    Xuanming''s words left Jiang Liu in silence.


    Indeed, attending the Incense Offering Ceremony tomorrow was merely a formality for Jiang Liu. Regardless of whether he could light the incense scar or not, he had no intention of continuing as a monk, and someone at Jinshan Temple would need to take over the cooking. Senior Brother Xuanming seemed most suited for the task.


    "Since I''m leaving the mountain, let me cook onest meal for everyone," Jiang Liu said after a moment of silence.


    "No need, Liu''er. You''ve been cooking for us for so long. Let me cook for you today. Just to be clear, you''re not allowed to mock my cooking skills."


    "Absolutely not!"


    Dinner was hard to swallow: the rice was half-cooked, the dishes were either too salty, too nd, or burnt.


    Yet, thisst supper at Jinshan Temple was consumed in silence by all¡ª the atmosphere was somewhat solemn.


    Even the half-cooked rice was eaten carefully, ensuring that every grain was finished.


    "Liu''er, I originally wanted Xuankong to apany you down the mountain, but he is injured. Let your Senior Brother Xuanwu apany you," Senior Abbot Faming said after dinner.


    "Thank you, Senior Brother Xuanwu," Jiang Liu sincerely thanked Xuanwu.


    "No need for formalities between us, Liu''er. Don''t feel too much pressure. The Incense Offering Ceremony is a matter of destiny, not something that can be influenced by human effort. Just take it easy tomorrow as if you''re there to watch the festivities," Xuanwu said, waving off the thanks with indifference and offering words offort.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "That''s right, the Incense Offering Ceremony at the Great Buddha Temple is a grand event for the Buddhist Sect. Temples within a hundred miles will bring many to attend, and it''s quite lively. When I went to participate¡­" Xuanming seemed to reminisce about his days at the ceremony, a look of reminiscence on his face.


    "Enough talk. Liu''er, you should rest early tonight. The Great Buddha Temple is more than twenty miles from here, and we need to get up early tomorrow," Senior Abbot Faming interrupted Xuanming and admonished Jiang Liu.


    Xuanming cleaned up thest of the dishes, and as the sky darkened, Jiang Liu returned to his Zen Room.


    He roughly packed up the things he needed and stored them inside the bag space.


    Lying quietly on his bed, Jiang Liu contemted the uing Incense Offering Ceremony in his heart.


    After tomorrow, he would leave Jinshan Temple. From then on, he would have to fend for himself, diligently leveling up by defeating demons.


    After all, Gaoyang was still waiting for him.


    With his thoughts running rampant, consciousness slowly slipped into sleep¡­

 Chapter 26 The First Monk of the Great Tang

    Jiang Liu, carrying a small bundle on his back, descended the mountain with his senior brother, Xuanwu, heading towards Chang''an City.


    Though he had a storage space for items, Jiang Liu didn''t show any intention of putting the bundle prepared by Senior Abbot Faming into it in front of Senior Brother Xuanwu. Otherwise, this power akin to the "Sleeve Universe" spell would be rather difficult to exin.


    The Incense Offering Ceremony was an indispensable and very meaningful step for monks.


    In Jiang Liu''s view, if all monks in the world were like students, then the Incense Offering Ceremony would be akin to the importance of a college entrance exam.


    Almost no monk would miss this grand event.


    Although Jiang Liu no longer intended to be a monk, he still had to participate in the Incense Offering Ceremony, otherwise how could he exin himself to the monks and the abbots at Jinshan Temple?


    It was like a student with poor grades who, even though he knew he wouldn''t get into university and had ns to work after failing the exams, would still take part in them.


    Not just any temple could host the Incense Offering Ceremony; the Great Buddha Temple, as the head of the thousands of temples during the Tang Dynasty, naturally became the liveliest location for the ceremony.


    All temples within a hundred miles of Chang''an City, provided they had eligible novice monks, would send them to the Great Buddha Temple as the examination site for the Incense Offering Ceremony.


    This, in Jiang Liu''s eyes, was simr to the regional division of modern society''s college entrance examination.


    Today was the day of the Incense Offering Ceremony, and so, when Jiang Liu and Senior Brother Xuanwu arrived in Chang''an City, they could see the bustling excitement.


    On the road, they could see many young monks with bare heads yet without a single incense scar, clearly here for the Incense Offering Ceremony.


    Young monks usually were apanied by older monks or elders from their temples.


    Some monks, in coarse sackcloth, bore one or two incense scars and were obviously of shallow Buddhist faith. They were apanied by three to five thin and sallow-faced youths, walkingboriously on.


    Other monks, in silk kasayas and with aposed demeanor, had four to five incense scars, indicating profound Buddhist connection. They were followed by a multitude of young monks on tall, strong horses.


    Observing these fellow monks around him, Jiang Liu silently sighed.


    Other temples, no matter what, had several young monks, but Jinshan Temple had only Jiang Liu himself.


    This clearly showed the declining number of monks at Jinshan Temple, which was almost at the brink of extinguishing its incense fires.


    Furthermore, aftering down the mountain with a cursory nce, Jiang Liu understood that a monk''s social status was greatly linked to the incense scars on their heads.


    However, it seemed reasonable that monks with profound Buddhist connection had more incense scars, and naturally, their temples enjoyed thriving incense fires. Even if they did nothing all day but wee worshippers, wealth would pour in endlessly.


    On the other hand, monks of shallow faith wouldn''t have many visitors, simr to Jinshan Temple, which had to rely on farming to sustain itself, leading to a life of hardship.


    "This Great Buddha Temple is truly impressive..." Following the crowd, Jiang Liu and Senior Brother Xuanwu arrived at the Great Buddha Temple, marveling at the vast extent of the temple grounds.


    As the capital of the Great Tang, the fact that such a huge temple could be established within Chang''an City was telling of its influence.


    "Liu''er, this is thergest temple within our Great Tang territory, the Great Buddha Temple, wherein the Tathagata Buddha is worshipped," said Xuanwu, his face showing a profound sense of awe even though it was not his first visit to the Great Buddha Temple, especially whenparing it to the dpidated tile-roofed houses of Jinshan Temple.


    "Indeed, a top-tier monastery," Jiang Liu nodded slightly, sharing the sense of astonishment.


    It seemed incredible that Emperor Li Shimin of Tang would agree to set aside such a vast space within Chang''an City to build a monastery.


    Perhaps he had underestimated the power of the Buddhist sect in this world?


    "It is said that the abbot of the Great Buddha Temple, Saint Monk Longhai, once received enlightenment from the Tathagata Buddha in a dream, and thus he bears nine incense scars, a sign of such fate.


    With such good fortune, when Saint Monk Longhai enters nirvana, he will surely ascend to the Western Spirit Mountain and expound scriptures under the Tathagata Buddha," Xuanwu stated, his face filled with deep envy.


    Ordinary monks had one or two incense scars, like those at Jinshan Temple.


    Those with profound Buddhist connection might have three to five incense scars, and such individuals could generally reach positions of abbot or high-ranking roles in most temples, and also be revered as masters by theity.


    And those who have six or seven incense scars are inevitably renowned masters, or even living Buddhas.


    It is rumored that Vajras and Biqius from the Western Spirit Mountain who had erred once came to the human world to cultivate and only then could they form such profound connections with Buddhism.


    As for those with eight incense scars from the Incense Scar Initiation, they are few and far between, no longer mere mortals, but reincarnations of the disciples of the heavens'' Bodhisattvas.


    Master Longhai of the Great Buddha Temple was envisioned in a dream by the Tathagata himself, forging a predestined teacher-student bond with the Buddha in the mysterious ways of the cosmos.


    Therefore, with exactly nine incense scars, he was the sole such individual in the world, almost serving as the spokesperson for the Tathagata within the Great Tang''s domain.


    "So that''s how it is..." Upon hearing Senior Brother Xuanwu''s words, Jiang Liu gained some necessary understanding of this Buddhist karma.


    Which means, monks with three to five incense scars of the Incense Scar Initiation might still bemon people, but beyond that, they''re almost certainly deeply connected to the Western Spirit Mountain.


    They are either disciples of Buddha and Bodhisattvas in the mortal world, or perhaps they are directly Arhats, Vajras, and Biqius from the Western Heaven reborn on Earth.


    "Do the Buddhas of the Western Heaven really exist in this world?" Jiang Liu mused silently upon hearing these words, yet he did not voice the question.


    Back at Jinshan Temple, he had asked the same, only to be scolded by Senior Brother Xuankong.


    Moreover, demons and ghosts exist in this world, which is a fact.


    Since demons exist, then it seems not so strange for gods and Buddha Bodhisattvas to also be real, right?


    The Great Buddha Temple was immense, and on the first day of the Incense Offering Ceremony, it was bustling with people.


    Novice monks who met the age requirements from temples within a hundred-mile radius had toe here, along with the older members of their monastic orders, making the Great Buddha Temple exceptionally lively.


    However, the Great Buddha Temple was well prepared for the Incense Offering Ceremony, and after all the novice monks were registered, they were guided by temple staff to a huge square to queue up in line.


    The apanying senior monks from their respective orders were provided spots around the square to observe the ceremony.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Jiang Liu nced around, noting the vastness of the square, reminiscent of a modern university sports field.


    In the surroundings, there were many onlookers; some, like Senior Brother Xuanwu, squeezed amongst the crowd.


    Others sat on chairs, these people either dressed in luxurious silk or being esteemed monks with at least four or five incense scars on their heads.


    Finally, at the front of the square, there were several opulent seats, all currently unupied, clearly reserved for honored guests.


    Young novice monks continued to enter the square in a steady stream, taking their ces as arranged.


    A cursory nce revealed that there must have been hundreds of them, giving Jiang Liu the sense of a schoolyard filled with students preparing for morning exercises in modern society.


    After a short wait, as the sun climbed higher, a Buddhist chant resonated, akin to the bell tolling of dusk and dawn, instantly silencing all mor.


    "Amitabha, Master Longhai has arrived!"


    With this chant, a hush fell over the entire square.


    All eyes turned upwards to see a procession of monks, young and old, all d in bright red kasayas, each with a distinguished bearing, and at least six incense scars on their heads.


    The leading monk appeared to be in his seventies, with a neatly groomed white beard, feet shod in straw shoes, wearing a kasaya edged with gold, and upon his smoothly shaven head were nine neatly arrayed incense scars, exuding an aura of majesty.


    "Greetings to Saint Monk Longhai!" Seeing this leading old monk, everyone spoke in unison, whether the surrounding monks or the richly dressed dignitaries.


    Saint Monk Longhai could be regarded as the premier monk within the Great Tang!


    "The Emperor of Tang has arrived! Princess Gaoyang has arrived!"


    However, just as Saint Monk Longhai returned a greeting, before he could continue to speak, suddenly another announcement rang out.

 Chapter 27 Incense Offering Ceremony

    Along with the respectful salutations, a guard of honor was arranged, and within it, one could see a man of about thirty-five or thirty-six years of age, striding like a dragon and pacing like a tiger, who was undoubtedly the present Emperor of the Great Tang, Li Shimin.


    Jiang Liu turned his head and observed Li Shimin carefully.


    No matter whether the world he was in was the Tang Dynasty that he knew from history, Li Shimin was a renowned Emperor whose reign he currently resided under, and it was natural for Jiang Liu to take a few extra nces.


    Following by Li Shimin''s side was a young girl, about fifteen or sixteen years old, dressed in a gorgeous long gown, which seemed to exude wealth and nobility, and each of her steps appeared to be carried out with impable etiquette.


    With her delicate features and unapproachable status, her noble demeanor made others feel inferior.


    Perhaps it was because they were of a simr age, but nearly all of the young monks on the square had their eyes on Princess Gaoyang.


    Jiang Liu''s gaze naturally fell upon Gaoyang, and having not seen her for just one week, he found himself missing her deeply.


    Unlike what others saw, merely Princess Gaoyang''s grace and nobility, Jiang Liu perceived the constraints that so-called royal demeanor ced upon her, which was nothing like the liveliness and naturalness she exhibited during those days behind Jinshan Temple.


    "We have seen the Emperor! We have seen the Princess!" In the center of the square, as Li Shimin arrived with Gaoyang, led by Saint Monk Longhai, all the monks of the Great Buddha Temple spoke out and bowed to show their respects.


    "Saint Monk Longhai, please, there''s no need for formalities. You have worked hard over these years, and today is the great day of the annual Incense Offering Ceremony, so naturally I came to personally attend," Li Shimin said without any pretense of superiority, stretching out his hands to personally help Saint Monk Longhai, who was bowing, to rise.


    "It is a great honor for the Great Buddha Temple to have the Emperore in person. Your Majesty, please take the seat of honor," Even though he bowed his head, Saint Monk Longhai spoke without any servility or haughtiness, and while speaking, he led Li Shimin towards the main seat.


    "The Saint Monk is the host of this Incense Offering Ceremony, and I am merely here as an observer; the main seat should be reserved for the Saint Monk," Li Shimin shook his head and did not take the seat of honor, instead taking a seat with Princess Gaoyang on the secondary seat.


    "We have seen the Emperor! We have seen the Princess!" Following the Emperor and Princess taking their seats, all the young monks on the square of the Great Buddha Temple, and even those on the sidelines who came to watch the ceremony, kneeled down in unison and called out loudly.


    "Everyone, please rise," Li Shimin said, raising his hand.


    Jiang Liu stood up and looked at Li Shimin''s seat, feeling secretly astonished.


    Even the Emperor had to sit in the secondary seat when he came here? It seemed that he had underestimated the Great Buddha Temple and Saint Monk Longhai''s capabilities.


    But upon further reflection, there had always been a struggle between royal and divine power, and considering that this was a world with real Immortals and Bodhisattvas, was it not understandable that even Emperor Li Shimin should defer to the highest-ranking Holy Monk of the Great Tang, Longhai?


    Furthermore, what exactly did Li Shimin mean by the hard work that Saint Monk Longhai had endured? Was he referring to the Incense Offering Ceremony? But this was a matter internal to the Buddhist Sect, so why would Li Shimine to offerfort?


    "Amitabha Buddha..." A Buddhist chant was intoned, not very loud, but it clearly resounded in everyone''s ears. As Saint Monk Longhai began to speak, everyone fell silent.


    "From my youth, I received the teachings of the Tathagata in my dreams. Having obtained the Buddhist Law, it is my duty to propagate it to enlighten all sentient beings. Yet, life is suffering for all, and our Buddhist Sect is modest..."


    The words spoken by Saint Monk Longhai were not filled with pompous titudes but gave off a very sincere vibe.


    However, Jiang Liu''s mind was not on these words. He was only stealthily watching Gaoyang, soothing the pangs of longing in his heart.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Under Jiang Liu''s attentive gaze, although Princess Gaoyang sat poised, her eyes swept across the square, searching inconspicuously, and Jiang Liu understood that she was also looking for him.


    However, there were hundreds of young monks in the square, each with a shaved head; clearly, she wouldn''t be able to find him right away.


    "Today, at our Great Buddha Temple, there are 810 disciples participating in the Incense Offering Ceremony. I hope that each one of you will be able to light the incense scar and be a true disciple of the Buddhist Sect!" the words of Saint Monk Longhai were brief, but he concluded with this statement.


    As Saint Monk Longhai spoke, the six venerable monks beside him all stood up, each holding arge red incense stick.


    Carved with the swastika, the symbol of Buddha, these incense sticks were as thick as a finger; they ignited without fire, turning into twinkling stars.


    With themencement of the Incense Offering Ceremony, young monks, one after another, ascended the tform to partake in the ritual.


    The six venerable monks carried out the ceremony simultaneously. Of the six young monks in the first round, only one managed to light an incense scar, while the other five, upon having the burning Great Incense touch their heads, saw the mes extinguish, naturally signifying their failure.


    The disciple who had managed to light an incense scar stayed to the side, a joyful expression upon his face.


    Those who hadn''t, descended with faces dimmed in despair; some even began to sob quietly.


    A fifteen-year-old boy''s failure in the Incense Offering Ceremony meant he had to leave the monastic life and fend for himself in the world, which was akin to a teenager in modern society having to leave their parents and earn a living. Naturally, they were filled with confusion about the future.


    The Incense Offering Ceremony brought joy to some and sorrow to others. Jiang Liu silently watched from the crowd, without saying a word.


    However, after about a dozen rounds of the ceremony, Jiang Liu noticed that the sess rate of the Incense Offering Ceremony was indeed not high.


    Out of fifteen rounds, ny young monks had stepped up, but only eight managed to light an incense scar, and six of them had achieved only one scar each. The vast majority ended in failure.


    Yet with such a low passage rate, it could almost be deemed a failing start. Still, Jiang Liu saw that both the onlookers and the young monks on the square seemed quiteposed.


    Clearly, the scene before him was considered normal.


    "Amitabha, Junior Brother, it''s been several days since our parting, yet your grace remains unchanged¡­," as Jiang Liu observed the Incense Offering Ceremony, a voice rang out behind him.


    Jiang Liu turned around to see a young monk dressed in a crescent moon-white robe standing behind him. He looked serenely at Jiang Liu; it was Daoji, whom he had encountered at Esquire Zhang''s house before.


    "Have you forgotten? You should call me Senior Brother!" It was not surprising that Daoji came to the ceremony, but Jiang Liu hadn''t expected him to pick him out in such a crowd.


    Even more unexpected, he had the audacity¡ªafter being knocked unconscious by Jiang Liust time, repeatedly calling out "Senior Brother," he addressed himself as "Junior Brother" again upon meeting him today.


    Jiang Liu''s words reminded Daoji of the time he was beaten, hisplexion turning a bit unnatural, but then he whispered, "Over the past few days, while lingering in the Great Buddha Temple, I''vee across apt opportunities and learned a new Demon Subduing Technique. After the incense offering, I should like to spar a few moves with you, Junior Brother."


    "It seems you''ve learned some new martial arts in these past days and wish to regain face?" Daoji''s words caused Jiang Liu to smirk internally.


    In these few days, had he just been idly wasting time? With the Redwood Ring and the Demon Subduing Staff, and his level upgraded to 10, he was still very confident in his heightened abilities during these days.


    And for this experience points walking right up to his doorstep, Jiang Liu naturally weed it with open arms.


    However, changing the subject, Daoji continued, "Of course, all of this depends on whether you can pass the Incense Offering Ceremony. Otherwise, even if I wanted to call you Junior Brother, there will no longer be a chance."

 Chapter 28 Everyone is Shocked

    "It seems you are quite confident about passing the Incense Offering Ceremony," Daoji''s words prompted Jiang Liu to ask.


    With such a high elimination rate of about ny percent, who could be sure they would absolutely pass?


    In response to Jiang Liu''sment, Daoji did not argue, but simply asked, "Junior Brother, you don''t think that the method of testing one''s Buddhist fate is limited to the Incense Offering Ceremony, do you? I''ve been lingering at the Great Buddha Temple for the past few days, and Master Longhai once said, ''My Buddhist fate is profound; I could mark at least five incense scars''."


    If one could mark three to five incense scars, they could rise to the higher echelons of most temples, even to the position of an abbot, and be called a master.


    At least five? Does that not mean there is a chance to mark a sixth?


    By this stage, one almost belongs to the reincarnations of Vajra or Biqiu from the Western Spirit Mountain, right? Such profound Buddhist fate Daoji has!


    Jiang Liu wore a look of astonishment on his face, which greatly pleased Daoji.


    Since there was plenty of time, Daoji didn''t mind chatting a bit more.


    "The Jinshan Temple you are affiliated with, I know a bit about it. Perhaps, you''re not too familiar with the significance of the number of incense scars? The annual Incense Offering Ceremony is held simultaneously in seventy-seven temples within the Great Tang territory. Based on past urrences, each temple might sessfully conduct the ceremony for about fifty to sixty disciples.


    Therefore, over the course of a year, less than three thousand disciples sessfully receive the incense," he said.


    "Amongst them, the vast majority have one or two incense scars; the higher the number goes, the fewer the people. Those capable of marking five incense scars can be counted on one''s fingers, and as for six scars, it might take several years to encounter one in the entire Great Tang territory."


    Boasting, in front of Jiang Liu, Daoji was indeed boasting. With Master Longhai personally stating he could mark at least five incense scars, he felt that he ought to be the main star of today''s Great Buddha Temple''s Incense Offering Ceremony without a doubt.


    Daoji''s words made Jiang Liu realize what was going on.


    If it''s said that all the monks attending the Incense Offering Ceremony are like taking a direct entrance exam, then Daoji might as well have secretly taken a practice exam beforehand and scored highly, so he was full of confidence in himself.


    However, these boasts sounded rather meaningless to Jiang Liu, for unlike other monks, he had never considered bing a monk.


    Whoosh!


    While Jiang Liu and Daoji were talking, or rather while Daoji was boasting, suddenly, the whole venue erupted into murmurs.


    A young monk on the stage had already marked five incense scars on his head and was about to mark the sixth when the incense extinguished.


    The sudden appearance of a monk with five incense scars caused a stir in the crowd, many casting envious nces.


    With such Buddhist fate, if he were in any ordinary temple, he would surely be an abbot in the future.


    "Amitabha, your disciple has profound Buddhist fate. Would he like to join our Great Buddha Temple and delve deeply into Buddhist doctrines?" Seeing the disciple with five incense scars emerge, even the Holy Monk Longhai himself took two steps forward, his face benevolent and kindly as he spoke softly.


    "Disciple, I am willing!" Hearing that Holy Monk Longhai personally invited him, almost wanting to take him as a pupil, the young monk was overjoyed, trembling with excitement.


    "Your Majesty, this disciple has profound Buddhist fate. Would you bestow upon him a Dharma name?" After epting this disciple, Holy Monk Longhai then addressed the Emperor.


    "Hmm, a disciple with five incense scars, which is rare to see over many years. I will grant you the Dharma name Xuanfan. I hope you will delve into Buddhist doctrines deeply and master the divine skills of subduing demons and eliminating evil," Emperor Li Shimin nodded, also looking with what admiration at the young monk with five incense scars, pausing slightly before bestowing the Dharma name.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Receiving a Dharma name directly from the Emperor himself, the young monk expressed his gratitude excitedly.


    "It appears there is more than one monk who can mark five incense scars."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Watching the young monk, who because of his five incense scars momentarily became the focus of countless onlookers, Jiang Liu wasn''t too envious, merely teasing Daoji with augh.


    Within the Great Tang territory, as seventy-seven temples simultaneously hold the Incense Offering Ceremony, those who can mark five incense scars are few and far between.


    Assigned to each of the seventy-seven temples, isn''t that a rarity seen only once in several years?


    "I, I could at least mark five incense scars, perhaps I could mark six, or even seven?" Watching the young monk who had marked five incense scars, Daoji could hardly boast in front of Jiang Liu anymore, his expression growing serious, yet he stubbornly spoke.


    Regarding Daoji''s stubborn words, Jiang Liu simply smiled lightly, saying nothing more.


    To him, attending the Incense Offering Ceremony was merely to join in the excitement and to legitimately renounce the world and descend the mountain, simply to provide an exnation to Jinshan Temple and nothing more.


    Following the appearance of the monk with five incense scars, the atmosphere of the Incense Offering Ceremony seemed to reach its climax, bing much more fervent.


    Round after round of youths went on stage, offering incense under the watchful eyes of all, and consecutively, several monks sessfully offered incense, bing true Buddhist Disciples.


    About half an hourter, it was finally Daoji''s turn to go on stage.


    Dressed in a monk''s robe as white as the crescent moon, Daoji''s face bore a calm smile as he walked slowly, exuding an extraordinary grace.


    "This disciple seems out of the ordinary..." said Emperor of Tang Li Shimin in a low voice as he watched Daoji ascend the tform.


    "Your Majesty, this is a new disciple I took under my wing a few days ago, his dharma name is Daoji," the Saint Monk Longhai responded softly as the Emperor of Tang Li Shimin spoke.


    "So he is the direct disciple of the Holy Monk, no wonder," hearing this, Emperor of Tang Li Shimin looked even more amazed at Daoji.


    Before even offering incense, Longhai had taken him as a disciple, revealing the extent of Daoji''s affinity with Buddha.


    Jiang Liu''s gaze also fell on Daoji, his heart curiously stirred.


    Daoji, humble and polite, bowed to the master performing the Incense Offering Ceremony for him.


    This high-ranking monk, evidently aware of his identity, responded with a gentle, pleasant smile.


    Daoji knelt down and slightly lowered his head; in front of him, the master lifted the Great Incense, which ignited by itself, sparkled with starlight. The lit incense was pressed against Daoji''s head.


    With his head bowed, it was impossible to tell whether Daoji''s expression bore any pain.


    However, a momentter, the Great Incense was lifted, leaving one incense scar on his bald head.


    The incense continued to burn; the Great Incense was applied again, and then, the second incense scar appeared.


    By this time, the incense for the other five young monks had already extinguished, and everyone''s attention was focused on Daoji.


    Now there were two incense scars.


    The monk in front of Daoji, unhurried, proceeded to apply the third and fourth incense scars...


    "There are already four incense scars!" All were holding their breath in anticipation, uncertain if it could continue.


    The Great Incense was pressed down again, not extinguishing, and as the hand was lifted, the fifth incense scar appeared on Daoji''s head.


    "Hiss! Another person has achieved five incense scars!" Observing the five incense scars on Daoji''s head, the Great Buddha Temple was once again astounded!


    The master in front of Daoji paused for a moment, and then, the Great Incense was applied again to Daoji''s head.


    At that moment, Emperor of Tang Li Shimin straightened his body, Master Longhai''s eyebrows lifted, and countless people stretched their necks, looking on eagerly.


    The Great Incense still was not extinguished.


    As the hand was lifted, the sixth incense scar appeared before everyone.


    Sensational!


    Seeing the six incense scars on Daoji''s head, the entire Great Buddha Temple was abuzz.


    The audience on the stands and the monks in the square were all at a loss for words.


    Emperor of Tang Li Shimin beside them also wore a look of shock.


    Saint Monk Longhai suddenly stood up and took the still-burning Great Incense from the master in front of Daoji.


    "My disciple, your master will personally offer you the incense!" Looking at the six incense scars on Daoji''s head, Saint Monk Longhai''s eyes also carried a look of anticipation.

 Chapter 29 Unprecedented, Twelve Fragrant Scars

    At this moment, the progress of the Incense Offering Ceremony seemed to have paused, as everyone''s gaze fell upon Daoji.


    He had already been marked with six Scars of Precepts, and as a disciple of the Holy Monk Longhai, everyone wondered if the scarring could continue.


    The few high monks performing the incense ceremony also stopped, their eyes on Daoji, and the hundreds of young monks remaining in the square looked on eagerly.


    Even Li Shimin, the Emperor of Great Tang, stood up.


    The situation with six incense scars was indeed a grand event.


    Moreover, there was a possibility that the scarring could continue!


    Everyone wanted to know how many incense scars could ultimately be reached.


    With his head bowed, having sessfully received six incense scars, Daoji felt a surge of excitement in this moment of universal attention. Suddenly, he became the center of attention, a feeling that was intoxicating.


    However, with his head bowed, nobody could see his expression; they only heard his voice slightly trembling with excitement, "Thank you, Master!"


    The Holy Monk Longhai did not speak, and the great incense in his hand fell on Daoji''s bald head.


    His wrist lifted, the incense fire did not extinguish, and the seventh incense scar sessfully imprinted.


    Seven! There were seven incense scars now!


    Ignoring what the others might be thinking, the Holy Monk Longhai hesitated slightly, took a deep breath, and then continued to ce the great incense on Daoji''s head.


    His wrist lifted again.


    The incense fire, as if it would never extinguish, had now marked the eighth incense scar on Daoji''s head.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    The entire venue was so quiet that it seemed one could hear a pin drop.


    Everyone was agape, staring at the eight incense scars on Monk Daoji''s head.


    With such a connection to Buddha, he was second only to the Holy Monk Longhai.


    Such a significant event, rarely seen in decades.


    Looking at the incense in his hand, the hands of Holy Monk Longhai trembled slightly; then he slowly moved to imprint it on Daoji''s head again.


    If sessful, Daoji would be the second monk within the Great Tang to achieve nine scars, and in the eyes of Holy Monk Longhai, he was about to be his sole heir.


    Everyone held their breath, watching the movements of Holy Monk Longhai.


    Under the gaze of all, the incense fire fell upon Daoji''s head for the ninth time.


    After a long while, Holy Monk Longhai lifted his wrist.


    On Daoji''s head, nine incense scars were clearly visible!


    Nine incense scars!


    Countless people gasped; after decades, the Great Tang finally saw the emergence of another monk with nine incense scars!?


    And everyone present was a witness to this grand asion.


    The Holy Monk Longhai, though a highly attained monk, faced with such a grand asion, was so excited that his face turned red, his hand holding the great incense trembling slightly, then he moved to imprint on Daoji''s head once more.


    But this time, the incense fire went out.


    He sighed deeply; the incense fire finally extinguished. Holy Monk Longhai didn''t know what to feel at that moment, as if he was relieved yet also sighed with regret.


    After a moment of silence andposing his emotions, the Holy Monk Longhai returned the extinguished incense to a nearby high monk and looked at Daoji with eyes that were both joyful and loving, "Amitabha, good disciple, your connection to Buddha is profoundly deep. From now on, you will be my direct disciple, and in the future, you will take over the Great Buddha Temple," he said.


    "Thank you, Master!" In front of everyone, these words from Holy Monk Longhai filled Daoji''s heart with great joy.


    Nine incense scars were enough to prove his connection to Buddha, and if he were to assume the position of abbot of the Great Buddha Temple in the future, he would undoubtedly be the foremost monk of the Great Tang.


    "Congrattions, Holy Monk, on obtaining a fine disciple! Congrattions, Brother Daoji!" Following the words of Holy Monk Longhai, all the monks in the audience shouted in unison.


    Everyone only felt envious that Daoji could be a disciple of the Holy Monk and the designated sessor of the Great Buddha Temple; there was no jealousy.


    After all, the connection to Buddha through nine incense scars said it all.


    "Brothers, I am spiritually exhausted. I''ll leave the subsequent matters to you," said Holy Monk Longhai, helping Daoji up and speaking to the surrounding high monks.


    Suddenly having acquired a disciple like Daoji, who also had nine incense scars, Holy Monk Longhai felt emotionally stirred, somewhat eager to transmit profound Buddhist teachings and Demon-subduing divine skills to him.


    Buddhist Sect''s Divine Skills, unlike other cultivation techniques, require one to have sufficient Buddhist fate to cultivate higher levels of Buddhist Divine Skills!


    "Senior brother, please feel free!," said a few high monks respectfully in response to Saint Monk Longhai''s words.


    After decades of waiting, he finally found a sessor to inherit his mantle, a moment everyone could understand Saint Monk Longhai''s excitement.


    "Your Majesty, please forgive me! I must take my leave along with my disciple," Saint Monk Longhai exined before addressing Emperor of Tang, Li Shimin.


    "Holy Monk, please proceed, congrattions on finding a sessor for the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound!" Emperor Li Shimin sincerely congratted him and did not try to make him stay.


    After apologizing, Saint Monk Longhai left the scene of the Incense Offering Ceremony with Daoji.


    Nobody thought their departure was inappropriate.


    Another monk with nine Scar of Precepts has emerged; soon, the whole Great Tang will know of this event, a spectacle rarely seen in a hundred years for the Buddhist Sect within the Great Tang.


    However, despite the stirring event, the work of the Incense Offering Ceremony must continue.


    Yet, after Saint Monk Longhai had left, although the Incense Offering Ceremony had not yet ended, it seemed rather insignificant now.


    The matter of Daoji having nine Scar of Precepts was so captivating that the interest and enthusiasm of the young monks who continued the ceremony were not as high as before.


    "Gaoyang, let''s also return; we have seen enough..."


    Even Saint Monk Longhai had left, and Emperor Li Shimin had no desire to remain, he whispered to Princess Gaoyang beside him.


    "Father, this Incense Offering Ceremony is almost over, might as well see it through to the end," without turning, Princess Gaoyang scanned the remaining three to four hundred young monks and replied.


    "Very well, as you wish," Li Shimin smiled indulgently and nodded in agreement.


    Jiang Liu, still quietly among the crowd, watched as the Incense Offering Ceremony proceeded normally without any particrly noteworthy monks appearing.


    Even when a disciple with four scar appeared, it seemed no one was too interested anymore.


    "Next, from Jinshan Temple, Jiang Liu."


    After a moment, Jiang Liu heard his name called and moved toward the stage.


    Simrly, upon hearing this name, Princess Gaoyang straightened up, her beautiful eyes fixed on Jiang Liu.


    Her gaze, like a ma, lingered long and hard.


    ...


    At the Great Buddha Temple, inside the grand hall.


    Saint Monk Longhai and Daoji offered several sticks of incense to the Golden Elephant of Tathagata and then, Saint Monk Longhai''s gaze fell on Daoji, his expression much calmer.


    "Disciple, you have lit nine great scars, which speaks to your deep connection with Buddha, a joyful yet poignant matter."


    "Please enlighten me, Master."


    Joyful he could understand, but poignant, Daoji found perplexing as he looked at Longhai in surprise.


    "There is a saying, ''The higher you stand, the colder it gets.'' The higher your position, the greater your responsibility. Setting that aside for now, do you know why our Great Buddha Temple is located within Chang''an? It is because, at the founding of Chang''an City, there was a Demon Cave beneath it that connected directly to the Demon Realm.


    Our Great Buddha Temple suppresses it, ensuring peace in this region."


    "As the Demon Path grows rampant, constantly assaulting us, even my Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound seems barely sufficienttely. Now that you are my disciple, I will pass on the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound to you in hopes you will help me and the entire world bear this burden..."


    Suddenly hearing such a profound secret, Daoji looked shocked.


    However, driven by noble duty, he felt a surge of emotion: "Master, rest assured, disciple..."


    Thump, thump, thump!


    But before Daoji could properly express his stance, suddenly, a series of ancient bell sounds resonated through heaven and earth, as if from a very distant ce, yet strikingly clear.


    "What''s happening? Why would there be bell sounds during the Incense Offering Ceremony!?" Daoji wondered in surprise, feeling a sense of rity in his mind upon hearing the bell.


    "Abbot! Abbot!"


    Just then, a young monk rushed into the grand hall and came before Longhai, even falling to the ground in his haste.


    "What happened?" asked Saint Monk Longhai, looking at his disciple who appearedpletely disheveled.


    "Ten...twelve Scar of Precepts... Someone has lit twelve Scar of Precepts..."

 Chapter 30 I Want to Return to Secular Life (Please Vote for Recommendation)

    Boom!


    As soon as the words "twelve incense scars" came out, it was as if a p of thunder had struck, leaving Saint Monk Longhai and Daoji standing beside him dumbstruck, barely able to believe their own ears.


    Twelve incense scars? Such a sight was unheard of, unseen before.


    As expected of the foremost monk of the Great Tang, Saint Monk Longhai reacted swiftly. Although the news had stunned him into stillness, he quickly regained hisposure. Without a word, he hurried toward the exit of the main hall.


    When he reached the outside of the hall, his footsteps halted.


    From a great distance, ethereal bell sounds could be heard in the sky, and between heaven and earth, chan sounds could be heard, as if whispering in one''s ear.


    Golden Buddhist light fell from the sky, transforming into a column of light. Around the column, flowers rained down in chaos, and Earth-Spawned Golden Lotuses surged from the ground.


    Such celestial and terrestrial phenomena were unprecedented.


    "Could such phenomena indicate that a Bodhisattva is descending to the mortal realm?!", trailing behind Saint Monk Longhai, Daoji also arrived at the main hall''s entrance, gazing at the extraordinary sight as he stood there, equally stupefied.


    Could such phenomena appear during the Incense Offering Ceremony? It was unprecedented.


    The bell sounds mixed with the chan sounds seemed to contain some kind of Great Illumination, a supreme rationale of Great Yang, imparting a sense of rity and emptiness to the spirit.


    Between heaven and earth, lotus flowers budded and then vanished, turning into golden specks that drifted away, touching one''s skin with a warm sensation, as if one''s body became lighter and minor internal ailments slowly disappeared.


    No longer concerned with the decorum befitting a holy monk, Longhai hurriedly ran toward the square where the Incense Offering Ceremony was held.


    To have gained a disciple with nine rare scars, he had felt he had reaped the greatest harvest, yet there now appeared a disciple with an unprecedented twelve scars.


    His heart was filled with immeasurable regret at not having witnessed the birth of the twelve incense scars.


    In Chang''an City, countless people had witnessed this spectacle, with Buddhist light shining everywhere and golden lotuses vanishing, leading them to mistakenly believe a Bodhisattva had descended, causing a sensation that made innumerable people kneel down in worship toward the direction of the Great Buddha Temple.


    The annual Incense Offering Ceremony held at the Great Buddha Temple was well-known to the inhabitants of Chang''an City. Though it was a grand event, it primarily concerned the Buddhist Sect, so most of the popce did not pay much attention to it.


    But today, these celestial phenomena were undoubtedly miraculous, entirely different from the usual.


    Within the Imperial Pce of Chang''an City, an elder dressed in an Eight Trigrams Taoist robe, with white hair but a youthful face, gazed long at the phenomena above the Great Buddha Temple, speechless for an extended period.


    After a long while, when the celestial and terrestrial phenomena finally began to slowly fade away, he sighed deeply, "s, with such grand scenes, the Buddhist Sect strengthens day by day, while our Taoist Sect is bound to wane¡­"


    Within a hundred miles of Chang''an City, many spiritually aware demon creatures observing the phenomena also bore a serious look in their intelligent eyes.


    ...


    Disregarding the reactions of the surrounding popce to such celestial and earthly phenomena, the square of the Incense Offering Ceremony was utterly silent at the moment, with everyone shocked as they stared at Jiang Liu on the stage.


    Upon his bald head, there were distinctly twelve incense scars.


    The birth of Daoji''s nine incense scars had already sent shock waves through the crowd, and now, seeing the twelve incense scars on Jiang Liu''s head, everyone felt their minds go nk.


    With a tter, right in front of Jiang Liu, the monk holding the Great Incense dropped the extinguished Great Incense to the ground, his body slightly trembling.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    With his own hands, he had created twelve incense scars, which was a tremendous shock to him.


    Next to him, the Emperor of Great Tang, Li Shimin, also widened his eyes, seriously examining the incense scars on Jiang Liu''s head, his expression incrediblyplex.


    By Li Shimin''s side, Princess Gaoyang was covering her lips with both hands, watching Jiang Liu in disbelief.


    Unlike the shock of others, what filled Princess Gaoyang''s heart was even more so despair...


    Originally, Princess Gaoyang and Jiang Liu had privately vowed to be together for life, agreeing that after the Incense Offering Ceremony, they would elope and be a pair of martial lovers.


    Yet, looking at the twelve incense scars before her, despair filled Princess Gaoyang''s heart.


    At this moment, Jiang Liu was also stunned, feeling his mind go nk. The simultaneous chanting and ringing of bells, the flowers falling from the sky, the appearance of the Earth-Spawned Golden Lotus¡ªas the main character of all these events, Jiang Liu himself was taken aback.


    Had something gone wrong with the Incense Offering Ceremony?


    Otherwise, how could he possibly have received incense scars, let alone twelve of them?


    The meaning of the incense scars was to represent one''s destiny with the Buddhist Sect in this world. He wasn''t even from this world, but had transmigrated from another, so how could he have a destiny with the Buddhism of this world? Therefore, Jiang Liu had always believed that he would not receive any incense scars, and indeed, he had never considered bing a monk.


    However, the scene that unfolded today, all these urrences before his eyes, were beyond Jiang Liu''s belief.


    A full twelve incense scars made Jiang Liu feel as if his mind was nk, almost insufficient.


    With a mind devoid of thought, Jiang Liu almost reflexively raised his head to look towards Princess Gaoyang.


    In his view, Princess Gaoyang covered her lips with her hands, tears streaming down her face, her eyes filled with the color of despair.


    Watching Princess Gaoyang, scenes of them fighting side by side against the Wolf Demon, supporting each other, descending the mountain to seek vengeance at Esquire Zhang''s home, and the attack of the Three-Eyed Crow, with Princess Gaoyang risking her life to save him...


    Every moment of their time together, along with the promises he had made, all surfaced in Jiang Liu''s heart.


    He had once promised that even if he received incense scars during the Incense Offering Ceremony, he would leave monastic life and be a couple of martial lovers with Princess Gaoyang.


    He had also vowed that even if she were of royal identity, he would defeat demons to level up and be strong, strong enough tomand respect from Emperor Li Shimin of Tang, willing to betroth Princess Gaoyang to him.


    "Congrattions... Jinshan Temple''s Jiang Liu, you, you have received twelve incense scars, in the future, you will surely be able to..." ¡ªIn front of Jiang Liu, the monk who had performed the Incense Offering Ceremony was so emotionally stirred that his speech faltered, but his words of congrattions came from the heart.


    Twelve incense scars, there had never been anyone with such a Buddhist destiny; could this person be a reincarnation of a Bodhisattva or even the Buddha from Western Spirit Mountain? Otherwise, who could have such a Buddhist fate?


    "Wait a moment!" ¡ªBut hearing the monk''s words, before he could finish speaking, Jiang Liu abruptly shouted, interrupting him, and at the same time, he stood up.


    In the za, whether it was monks, wealthy individuals, or even the Emperor, everyone looked at Jiang Liu with surprise, not understanding what he was doing.


    Under the gaze of the crowd, Jiang Liu stood up, stripped off his grey and worn monk''s robe, and scanned his eyes over everyone present, pausing slightly on Princess Gaoyang.


    His words were startling, like a p of thunder.


    "I am leaving monastic life!"


    (PS: A new book is like a tender sapling that needs the irrigation of rmendation tickets to grow. Dear readers enjoying the updates, please sneak a few rmendation tickets my way, thank you...)

 Chapter 31 I am Tang Monk!? (Please Vote for Recommendation)

    Jiang Liu''s words, like a p of thunder, left everyone present in disbelief, staring at him.


    Twelve incense scars, unprecedented. The recent marvel of chaotic blossoms and the faint sound of Zen had everyone tongue-tied. In everyone''s eyes, Jiang Liu was destined to be a leader akin to the Buddhist Sect, possibly even a reincarnation of a Bodhisattva from Western Spirit Mountain.


    To have such a destiny with Buddha, yet to proim a desire to return to secr life?


    In contemporary society, this would be akin to the top national university entrance exam scorer suddenly dering a wish to drop out and work¡ªit was inconceivable!


    "No way!" A roar like a lion''s bellow erupted, and in an instant, the Saint Monk Longhai moved like the wind to stand before Jiang Liu, staring earnestly at the twelve incense scars on Jiang Liu''s head, his eyes filled with shock.


    "Saint Monk Longhai, whether to renounce the world or return to secr life should be a matter of personal choice, right?" said Jiang Liu, standing firm in front of Longhai.


    "Ordinary monks may leave the order, but you cannot!" Longhai took a deep breath, forcefully suppressing his astonishment at the twelve incense scars, and said with unwavering conviction.


    As a monk with a record-breaking twelve scars, to return to secr life?


    Allowing such a wish toe true would be a huge blow to the Buddhist Sect''s prestige. Could the Buddha and Bodhisattvas of Western Heaven forgive me for it?


    Firstly, with a stern countenance, Longhai refused Jiang Liu''s desire to leave the monastic life, signifying there was absolutely no room for negotiation. Then, Saint Monk Longhai''s expression softened, revealing a gentle smile.


    It might have been a misperception, but it almost seemed like he was trying to appease or tter: "You are from Jinshan Temple, right? Leaving the order is impossible, but if you have any conditions, just state them. As long as it''s within my power¡­"


    With a silent sigh, Saint Monk Longhai also felt a tremendous pressure at that moment.


    Known as the number one monk within Great Tang''s realm, if this disciple with twelve scars were to leave the order in his presence, all the responsibility would fall on him.


    Therefore, he must use every means possible to rid Jiang Liu of the thought of returning to secr life.


    Looking at Longhai''s conciliatory smile, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but think of the face of a parent from modern society, cajoling an unwilling child to go to school, strikingly simr to the present Saint Monk Longhai.


    "I don''t want to be a monk. I want to drink wine and eat meat¡­" Since Saint Monk Longhai had asked what requirements he had, Jiang Liu held nothing back and expressed his honest thoughts.


    As he spoke, Jiang Liu''s gaze nonchntly swept over Princess Gaoyang standing nearby, and he continued, "Moreover, I want to take a wife and have children."


    "This¡­" Jiang Liu''s words stunned Saint Monk Longhai into silence, leaving him unsure how to respond.


    Had it been any other matter, as long as he was capable, he would have agreed to stabilize Jiang Liu. However, these were requests that Longhai found difficult to fulfill.


    As a monk with twelve scars who was destined to be an example to monks everywhere, how could he drink alcohol, eat meat, and marry?


    Could he agree to such a request? Did he dare agree to it?


    What''s more, even if he stepped back ten thousand paces and agreed, could he do so under the scrutiny of all these witnesses?


    "Amitabha, this cannot be done! You should stay in Great Buddha Temple and calm down for a few days," said Longhai, not wanting to continue the conversation in front of the eager crowd, cing his hand on Jiang Liu''s shoulder.


    As he spoke, Saint Monk Longhai''s eyes swept over all those gathered and said, "The Incense Offering Ceremony shall continue without interruption. However, I have important matters that require consulting Buddha Tathagata, so I must take my leave first."


    The appearance of a disciple with twelve scars and an unprecedented deep connection with Buddha might even be a reincarnation from Western Spirit Mountain.


    For Saint Monk Longhai to seek the will of Buddha regarding this affair seemed reasonable.


    After giving his instructions and without the inclination to bid farewell to Emperor Li Shimin, Saint Monk Longhai, with his hand still on Jiang Liu''s shoulder, turned and walked towards the main hall, quickly disappearing from view.


    As the Saint Monk Longhai''s hand rested on his shoulder, Jiang Liu felt as though he had be a puppet on strings, his movements no longer under his control.


    It wasn''t until Longhai had virtually pushed Jiang Liu into the grand hall and released his hand that he let go.


    The spacious hall, likely covering thousands of square meters, was dominated by a colossal Tathagata Statue exuding a solemn and majestic aura. Inside the hall, a young monk was already present¡ªit was Daoji, the one with the nine incense scars.


    "Greetings, Elder Brother!" Daoji lowered his head and brought his palms together in a respectful salute upon seeing Jiang Liu.


    After ncing at Daoji, Jiang Liu had no desire to speak with him and took no pleasure in teasing him for addressing him as Elder Brother. Instead, he turned his head and red at the Saint Monk Longhai.


    Unperturbed by Jiang Liu''s re, the Saint Monk Longhai simply walked to the statue of the Tathagata, knelt down, and lowered his head as if whispering something.


    Standing behind the Saint Monk Longhai, Jiang Liu and Daoji exchanged looks, puzzled by what he was doing.


    Jiang Liu opened his mouth, ready to speak, resolved to leave the Great Buddha Temple and adamant about returning to secr life.


    But just then, the venerated Tathagata Statue suddenly shone with dazzling Buddhist Light, and the statue''s eyes, which had been looking down, seemed to lift slightly, opening its eyes.


    "The Buddha has revealed his spirit!" Daoji quickly knelt down upon witnessing the miraculous change in the Tathagata Statue.


    However, although the statue had revealed its spirit, the Tathagata Statue did not speak. Suddenly, a piece of paper appeared in mid-air and drifted down like a snowke, gentlynding in front of the Saint Monk Longhai.


    With his consciousness slightly blurred, as if just awakening from sleep, Jiang Liu looked again at the Tathagata Statue. Where was the Buddhist Light? The statue remained as majestic and solemn as before, as if everything that had just happened was merely a dream, an illusion of his own making.


    But when Jiang Liu noticed Daoji still kneeling on the ground, he realized that what had just urred was certainly no dream.


    By this time, the Saint Monk Longhai had also stood up and turned to walk over.


    "Master, just now..." Daoji also stood, his expression one of surprise as he questioned Longhai.


    He had clearly witnessed a divine manifestation, but it felt as though it had been a dream, and he didn''t understand what was happening.


    The Saint Monk Longhai did not answer, but simply raised his hand slightly, silencing him.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Walking straight up to Jiang Liu, Longhai''s gaze fell upon him and he said, "From today onward, you will stay here at the Great Buddha Temple for solitary practice. The name Jiang Liu is just a secr moniker. In your generation at Jinshan Temple, you are of the ''Xuan'' generation."


    Upon saying this, the Saint Monk Longhai paused for a moment before adding, "From now on, your Dharma name will be Xuanzang."


    They didn''t give him a chance to choose, forcibly keeping him in the Buddhist Sect andpelling him to be a monk, which infuriated Jiang Liu.


    However, just as he was about to vocally refute, upon hearing the Dharma name given by the Saint Monk Longhai, Jiang Liu froze, taken aback.


    Xuan... Xuanzang!?


    With a thunderous realization, this Dharma name struck Jiang Liu as if lightning had hit him.


    In an era of the Great Tang, with Li Shimin as Emperor and a world filled with demons, ghosts, and myriad deities and Buddhas, his Dharma name was Xuanzang, and his nickname Jiang Liu?


    All of this, it seemed, corresponded perfectly with the Tang Monk from Journey to the West...


    "Could it be!? Am I the Tang Monk!? And this body, is it the reincarnation of Tathagata''s second disciple, Master Golden Cicada!?"


    In disbelief, Jiang Liu thought, while the reason he could bear twelve incense scars seemed to make sense.


    (PS: Asking for rmendation tickets, let''s surge up the new book rankings together; with two updates every day, striving to keep updating...)

 Chapter 32 Buddhist Treasure Vidyaraja Crown (Seeking Recommendation Tickets)

    "Amitabha, Xuanzang, there''s no need to speak again of leaving the monastic life,"


    With his hands joined together, Saint Monk Longhai''s expression remained calm, but his words carried an undeniable firmness, "As you say, whether to secrize is indeed a matter of personal will, but you have received twelve incense scars, and your fate with our Buddha Sect is profoundly deep. If you were to leave the monastic life, where would our Buddhist Sect stand with honor in Great Tang?


    You should calm down for a couple of days before we discuss this again."


    Having dropped this line, Saint Monk Longhai didn''t say anything more and turned to leave the hall.


    Watching Longhai''s departing figure, Jiang Liu''splexion was unsightly.


    The situation had developed to this unforeseen stage¡ªwho would have thought that with a more than ny percent failure rate of the Incense Offering Ceremony, not only had he passed, but he had also received twelve incense scars?


    Although he very much wanted to secrize, Jiang Liu had to admit that there was some truth in what Longhai said; the more incense scars one had, the more difficult it was to secrize.


    Having received twelve incense scars, his bond with the Buddhist Sect was incredibly deep; secrizing would be even more difficult than marrying Princess Gaoyang, wouldn''t it?


    "Brother, you, you actually want to secrize?" With nine incense scars on his head, Daoji looked at Jiang Liu in disbelief, clearly startled by Saint Monk Longhai''s words.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    To have received twelve incense scars and still wish to secrize?


    "Now you call me ''brother''? Weren''t you quite tough before?" Looking at Daoji, Jiang Liu spoke irritably.


    "Previously this disciple was impolite. I hope elder brother will not remember the transgressions of this junior, and also, I thank elder brother for your mercy that day," Daoji bowed his head, with no trace of his former toughness left. The unprecedented twelve incense scars made Daoji lose any intention to argue with Jiang Liu.


    "Alright, you may go. I want to be alone for a while," Jiang Liu waved his hand, having no intent to continue the conversation with Daoji.


    At this time, Jiang Liu''s mind was somewhat in chaos, while his heart was filled with anger and helplessness.


    With an appearance of humility and politeness, Daoji made a gesture of respect to Jiang Liu and then turned to leave the hall.


    Sitting silently on the side of the hall, Jiang Liu''s thoughts were cluttered. Today''s events were indeed unexpected, but, since they had happened, naturally, he had to think of a way to resolve the present issue.


    First and foremost, the urgent task was the matter of his secrization. Merely speaking of it, Longhai would certainly not agree; what could he do to achieve it?


    Or rather, to take a step back, how could he escape from the Great Buddha Temple?


    Next, there was the issue of his identity. With the Dharma name Xuanzang, was he really the Tang Monk?


    The world to which he had crossed over, could it be the world of the Journey to the West?


    Regarding this point, he also needed to investigate clearly.


    ...


    Two days passed in the blink of an eye. During these two days, the whole of Chang''an City was thoroughly astir, shocked by the news of a monk with twelve incense scars.


    Moreover, the phenomenon of flowers raining disorderly and the Earth-Spawned Golden Lotus that everyone in Chang''an City had seen made the situation all the more sensational.


    Therefore, the past couple of days saw countless citizens rushing to the Great Buddha Temple to offer incense and worship Buddha, and even many high monks came to visit the temple, wanting to see Jiang Liu for themselves, but all these matters were blocked by Saint Monk Longhai.


    Early this day, Saint Monk Longhai had someone send Xuanwu out of the temple, not only forcibly keeping Jiang Liu in the Great Buddha Temple but also having Xuanwu stay for two days. From his mouth, Longhai learned in detail about Jiang Liu''s affairs.


    "Ah, such is the power of love..." After sending Xuanwu away and learning about the rtionship between Jiang Liu and Princess Gaoyang, Longhai sighed softly to himself.


    "Master, the feelings between Brother Jiang Liu and Princess Gaoyang are indeed profound; this matter will not be easy to handle, will it?" Beside him, Daoji spoke up.


    Daoji had thoroughly recounted to Saint Monk Longhai the incident where he had encountered Jiang Liu with Princess Gaoyang.


    Nine incense scars had made him a direct disciple of Longhai, and for the past two days, Daoji had been constantly by Longhai''s side.


    "Hmm, indeed not easy to deal with, and thus forcefully keeping someone at the Great Buddha Temple also goes against reason, it seems we can only stabilize him for now," with a silent sigh, Saint Monk Longhai felt somewhat vexed.


    Why wasn''t it good for someone like Daoji, who had many incense scars, to obediently be a monk?


    Or to say, if it were anyone else who wanted to return to secr life, Longhai couldn''t be bothered to care.


    But Jiang Liu, of all people, after receiving twelve incense scars, was making a fuss about returning to secr life. Over thest couple of days, he had tried several times to escape from the Great Buddha Temple, which left Longhai feeling helpless.


    Having a monk with twelve incense scars was indeed a cause for celebration, but for him, it was a troublesome matter of life and death.


    And it was trouble that he couldn''t avoid.


    "Master, if you ept him as your disciple, he will be a disciple of our Great Buddha Temple. Even if we keep him here by force, it would still be reasonable, right?" Daoji asked with a look of surprise, not understanding why his master wouldn''t take Jiang Liu as a disciple as well.


    "No, under the heavens, which monk is qualified to take him as a disciple? Even I am not qualified," Longhai shook his head, rejecting Daoji''s proposal.


    Longhai''s words startled Daoji, yet they seemed to make sense.


    Under the heavens, indeed, there was no one qualified to be the master of a monk with twelve incense scars.


    "Let''s go. The heart of the youth is soft to persuasion but resistant to force. I''vee to understand him somewhat. I hope we can stabilize him," after a moment of silence and carefully organizing the information he had gathered about Jiang Liu these past two days, Longhai took Daoji with him and turned to look for Jiang Liu.


    It wasn''t topel him to agree to be a monk, but simply to temporarily dispel his thoughts of returning to secr life for now; they would figure out the restter.


    ...


    "Hey, Longhai, when will you let me go!?" Having been in the Great Buddha Temple for two days and having tried to escape several times, only to be stopped by the Martial Monks each time, Jiang Liu didn''t mince words when he finally saw Longhai again, directly getting to the point.


    "Amitabha, it seems you are truly determined to return to secr life. In that case, go ahead then..." with his hands pressed together, Saint Monk Longhai let out a low sigh, gesturing to let Jiang Liu leave.


    Jiang Liu was stunned by Longhai''s words.


    Forced to stay for two days, he didn''t expect to suddenly be given permission to leave.


    Daoji, too, looked at his master with surprise, unsure what his master was nning.


    "So, I can just leave?" Despite being surprised, since Longhai was willing to let him go, there was no reason for Jiang Liu to stay. He said as he got up.


    "Of course, you can leave whenever you wish, but before you do, there is one thing I would like to ask. Once you step out of the Great Buddha Temple, where do you n to go?"


    "Go where?" This question stopped Jiang Liu in his tracks.


    He had been pondering over the identity of Tang Monk and his own desire to leave the monkhood these past two days; he had not really considered where to go after leaving.


    "Don''t worry about where I''m going. I''m leaving the Great Buddha Temple, that''s all there is to it," Jiang Liu said, waving his hand.


    "In the past two days, I havee to hear of your situation. You wish to leave the monkhood, presumably because of a promise made to Princess Gaoyang, right? Do you think that after leaving, the Emperor will consent to give Princess Gaoyang to you in marriage? Let alone the fact that you have received twelve incense scars, which binds you deeply to the Buddhist Sect.


    Even as an ordinary person, a union with the Princess would be impossible."


    After a brief pause, without waiting for Jiang Liu''s response, Longhai continued, "Furthermore, if you are willing to stay, I can impart all the Martial Arts and Divine Skills of the Great Buddha Temple to you. You must understand that without sufficient strength, any ambition you harbor is but an empty dream."


    With these words, Longhai brought out a Monk Hat and said, "This is the Vidyaraja Crown, a Defense Buddhist Treasure. Regardless of whether you stay or not, you are after all connected with Buddha; this Vidyaraja Crown is given to you for your protection."


    (PS: Please vote for rmendation, thank you. Let''s work hard together. Also, tentatively two updates a day, at 8 a.m. and 8:30 p.m....)

 Chapter 33 Legendary Level Growth Equipment (Vote for Recommendations)

    Reason it out to them, and appeal to their interests.


    Even Saint Monk Longhai felt a sense of helplessness in his heart. Ever since he became a holy monk, almost everyone had sought him out for favors. But today, it was he who was imploring Xuanzang, asking him not to leave the monastic life, which was truly a painstaking effort.


    Longhai was well aware that if he insisted on leaving the monastery, and if he himself were to adamantly refuse, or even resort to using force to suppress him, this would only cause the other party to feel more repulsed and rebellious.


    Therefore, he could only indulge him for now, stabilizing the situation temporarily, and then gradually make ns for the future.


    As he looked at the Vidyaraja Crown that Saint Monk Longhai had taken out, Jiang Liu didn''t rush to ept it. Instead, he looked earnestly at Longhai and said, "Are you implying that you are willing to teach me Divine Skills, agree to everything, and even, when I be stronger in the future, you would allow me to marry the princess?"


    "Amitabha, if you wish to marry the princess, naturally I would oppose it. But if in the future you manage to defeat me, then that naturally would be your own capability, and I, the poor monk, would no longer be able to stop you," Longhai intoned a low Buddhist chant and then looked solemnly at Jiang Liu as he spoke.


    In Longhai''s eyes, even though Jiang Liu had twelve prayer scars and a deep Buddhist connection, the practice of cultivation was something that umted over days and months.


    To reach his current level, he himself had spent decades. Even with his guidance, for Jiang Liu to grow to his current level, or even to catch up and defeat him, would likewise need decades, wouldn''t it?


    With such a long time, he would have plenty of ways to properly train him.


    The response from Longhai caused Jiang Liu to quietly reflect. He had already promised to court Gaoyang in an honorable manner and had resolved to diligently level up by fighting monsters and be strong enough to be worthy of Gaoyang.


    Looking at it this way, staying temporarily at the Great Buddha Temple and utilizing its resources to enhance his strength didn''t conflict with his original ns, did it? It might even be beneficial?


    Although he understood Longhai''s intentions, Jiang Liu could still appreciate that his words had merit.


    Even if he left now, attempting to court Gaoyang would be an impossibility!


    After making up his mind, Jiang Liu reached out and took the Monk Hat from Longhai''s hands. As a Buddhist Treasure meant to impress him, this Monk Hat looked quite luxurious, with a blend of gold and red, and several gemstones embedded on it.


    Naturally, as Jiang Liu''s gaze fell upon the Vidyaraja Crown, the relevant attribute information also appeared before him.


    Vidyaraja Crown (Legendary Quality): No level requirement, Defense +100 (10-100,000, depending on one''s own level), with a special effect: Can convert 10% of the damage inflicted upon the target into one''s own health, Durability 67/100.


    Looking at the attribute information of the Vidyaraja Crown in his hand, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but take a sharp intake of breath. Generally, equipment with good attributes has level requirements. For instance, his Demon-Subduing Staff was equipment that required level 10 to use.


    Unexpectedly, the Vidyaraja Crown turned out to be a piece of equipment with no level requirement.


    His Demon-Subduing Staff, the only Perfect Quality equipment he had, only increased his Attack Power by 70 points, whereas the additional Defense from the Vidyaraja Crown was already 100 points, not to mention that it''s a growth-type equipment. As his level increased, the Defense would be even stronger, potentially reaching up to 100,000 points.


    Moreover, the apanying special effect was extremely practical¡ªa 10% damage conversion into personal healing effect, which was essentially a life-stealing effect!


    Overall, given the Legendary Quality of this Vidyaraja Crown, it was undoubtedly a great treasure. Longhai was willing to give the Vidyaraja Crown to him, which showed that his sincerity was indeed full.


    "In that case, I thank the holy monk. In the future, I will inevitably spar with the brothers at the Great Buddha Temple. I hope that when the timees, the holy monk can grant me this favor..." After epting the Vidyaraja Crown, Jiang Liu immediately put the Monk Hat on his head and spoke.


    Acquiring a powerful piece of equipment was not enough; he also intended to use the monks of the Great Buddha Temple as materials for leveling up. As he spoke these words, even Jiang Liu''s face flushed slightly, feeling somewhat embarrassed.


    However, as he was speaking, Jiang Liu''s gaze lingered for a moment on Daoji.


    In his view, Daoji seemed to be a good target for leveling up, and being taken as a disciple by Saint Monk Longhai, his growth rate in the future should also be quite fast.


    ```


    Does this mean he will be a human-shaped monster with the potential for growth? Can I grind a few more runs on it? Dozens of runs? Hundreds of runs?


    "Senior brother, why are you looking at me like that?" Although Daoji had no idea what was going through Jiang Liu''s mind, he couldn''t help but tremble slightly from the gaze that Jiang Liu was giving him, instinctively feeling a bit uneasy.


    "Certainly, since you''ve decided to stay at Great Buddha Temple, if you want to learn supernatural powers like Subduing Demons and Eliminating Evil, I''m naturally willing to teach you everything I have!" The Saint Monk Longhai was thrilled. Jiang Liu''s words clearly indicated that he had agreed to stay.


    Longhai had already learned that, although Jiang Liu had not yet officially be a disciple of the Buddhist Sect, he had learned martial arts like Arhat Fist, which showed his keen interest in martial arts.


    By offering the Vidyaraja Crown and promising to teach him Divine Skills, Longhai was catering to Jiang Liu''s interests, and it seemed to be working quite well.


    "Since you''re ready to teach me everything, why not start right now?" Jiang Liu asked Longhai earnestly, his face full of anticipation.


    Silencing Zen (Primary Level): Requires level 1, long-distance release, can silence the target for 2 seconds; during this state, the target cannot release any skills, cooldown time 30 seconds.


    Arhat Fist (High-Level): Increases attack power by 25%, duration 180 seconds.


    Vajra Mantra (Primary Level): Summons the mysterious power of Vajra to bless an ally, reducing the next damage taken by 80%, cooldown time 50 seconds.


    Swift Fire Bead (Great Perfection): Fires a ball of me, which can cause single-target damage to any target within a 10-meter radius, attack power +100%, cooldown time 10 seconds.


    Skills are generally divided into four levels: Primary Level, Middle Level, High-Level, and Great Perfection. These four skills totaled up to using 9 skill points.


    Having reached level 10, Jiang Liu had 10 skill points, and with one skill point still unallocated, he naturally wanted to see if Saint Monk Longhai had any powerful skills to teach him.


    There was no help for it; monk professions mostly focus on support and control, seriouslycking in offensive abilities. If it weren''t for the State Amplification of Arhat Fist and the Skill Bookcase allowing him to use the spell attack of Swift Fire Bead, his leveling speed would definitely be even slower.


    "Ah? Now!? Even the usuallyposed Saint Monk Longhai was taken aback by Jiang Liu''s words.


    Although Longhai had long known that Jiang Liu was extremely interested in martial arts, he had not expected him to be so impatient.


    "What''s wrong? You don''t want to do it now? Then when should we wait until?" Jiang Liu replied with a question.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "No, there''s nothing wrong with it, if you want to learn, I am naturally willing to teach you," Saint Monk Longhai said upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    If he had already decided to impart the Divine Skills of Subduing Demons and Eliminating Evil to them, what difference did it make whether it was sooner orter?


    Without wasting any more time, Saint Monk Longhai, along with Jiang Liu and Daoji, moved to a spacious and quiet courtyard, where he became visibly more solemn.


    "To talk about the Divine Skills of Subduing Demons and Eliminating Evil, our Great Buddha Temple naturally takes great pride in the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound. This cultivation technique not only has the ability to suppress demons with Zen sounds, but during regr cultivation, it can also help improve one''s cultivation level.


    However, the more powerful a Buddhist Divine Skill is, the deeper the affinity required to practice it, and so far, I have not found a suitable sessor. Today, I shall pass on the first two levels of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound to both of you."


    "Thank you, Master!" Daoji was overjoyed to hear that he was going to be taught the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound and bowed in gratitude.


    Daoji had certainly heard of the resounding reputation of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound from the Great Buddha Temple.


    Although Jiang Liu had never heard of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, seeing how excited Daoji was, he knew that it must be a renowned supernatural power. He felt happy and was also secretly looking forward to learning it.


    What exactly is the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound like?


    (PS: It seems like our ranking on the new book list is continuously dropping, brothers and sisters, let''s rally, rise up, and hold steady...)


    ```

 Chapter 34 Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound (Request for Recommendation Tickets)

    Jinshan Temple, located about twenty li outside of Chang''an City on a small mountain, looked somewhat dpidated. Besides Senior Abbot Faming, who had two incense scars, the others¡ªXuankong, Xuanwu, and Xuanming¡ªeach only had one. As a result, Jinshan Temple was not flourishing, the monks lived in straitened circumstances, and it was almost at the point of closing down.


    However, Jinshan Temple had changed now. With Jiang Liu having revealed twelve incense scars a few days ago during the Incense Offering Ceremony at the Great Buddha Temple, it seemed as if one man had found his path to enlightenment, and even the chickens and dogs ascended to heaven with him.


    Two days ago, a monk from the Great Buddha Temple with six incense scars personally delivered a batch of supplies and silver coins, saying that from now on, Jiang Liu would stay at the Great Buddha Temple to cultivate beside the Saint Monk Longhai.


    It was not just the monks from the Great Buddha Temple who personally delivered supplies; even in these recent few days, a continuous stream of worshippers came to offer incense and prayers at Jinshan Temple, naturally leaving behind much incense money, making the temple incredibly lively.


    Some wealthy families, full of extravagance, waved their hands generously, ready to renovate every part of Jinshan Temple.


    With the emergence of a monk with twelve incense scars, the entire Great Tang was shaken, and naturally, Jinshan Temple, where Jiang Liu had lived from childhood, also rose to fame.


    In these recent days, Xuanming, the reception monk, was so busy receiving worshippers that he was more tired than an ox.


    From being the most rxed person in the temple, he became the busiest. Whether a psychological effect or not, Xuanming felt that he had lost a few pounds in these past few days.


    Although it was Jiang Liu''s newfound fame that led to Jinshan Temple''s current unprecedented bustling scene, as time passed and the fervor diminished, Jinshan Temple''s situation would inevitably decline significantly.


    However, whatever the case, it was certain to be much better than before Jiang Liu had left, that was inevitable.


    ...


    Leaving aside the changes at Jinshan Temple for a moment, these past few days, both Jiang Liu and Daoji had been in the Great Buddha Temple, cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound''s Divine Skills under Saint Monk Longhai.


    After several days of cultivation, Daoji had made progress in the art of cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    Watching Daoji seated in meditation, circting his internal breath, it almost seemed like one could faintly hear the sound of a dragon''s roar. Saint Monk Longhai, looking pleased, slightly nodded his head.


    Daoji, having marked nine incense scars, seemed to be cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound even quicker than Longhai himself had in his younger years.


    If all went well, it would take another ten days or half a month to master the first level of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    However, when Saint Monk Longhai''s gaze shifted to Jiang Liu, who was sitting cross-legged without any reaction, the corners of his mouth twitched slightly.


    Inparison to Daoji, Jiang Liu''s cultivation was deplorably poor.


    The reason was that when he was taught to cultivate, he did not even recognize the meridians and acupoints.


    This made Longhai doubt how he had managed to cultivate the Arhat Fist.


    It had taken two full days to make him remember the conditions of the meridians and acupoints throughout his body. Now, despite having been taught the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound for several days, he had gained nothing; he seemed just like an ordinary person, not at all like a disciple who had marked twelve incense scars.


    After a long while, a somber bell rang, signaling that it was time for lunch.


    Dalji, who had been cultivating, opened his eyes, halted his practice, and the faint sound of the dragon''s roar also dissipated. He stood up, looking spirited.


    "Master, I feel like I have begun to grasp the firstyer of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound. With a bit more time, I should be able to master it," said Daoji cheerfully as he stood up and spoke to Longhai.


    "Hmm, your progress in cultivation is slightly faster than what I achieved in my time, very good," said Saint Monk Longhai with a smile on his face as he nodded.


    Pleased at heart, for a master, it was certainly a joyous matter to encounter a smart disciple who cultivated rapidly.


    Receiving his master''s praise, Daoji felt even more joyful, only ncing at Jiang Liu, who was still sitting quietly beside him, he hesitated slightly, "It''s just that, my elder brother Xuanzang..."


    "It seems that although Xuanzang is deeply destined with our Buddhist Sect, his aptitude for cultivation is poor," Longhai said in a low sigh, looking at Jiang Liu sitting in meditation with his eyes closed.


    Hu... Hu...


    However, as Longhai and Daoji approached, the faint sounds of snoring left Daoji dumbstruck.


    Even Longhai''s mouth twitched unbelievingly. He must have fallen asleep, right!?


    Practicing the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, he had actually fallen asleep?


    "Brother! Brother!", following Longhai''s hint, Daoji stepped forward, patted his shoulder, and woke Jiang Liu.


    "Ah?", rubbing his eyes, Jiang Liu opened them and looked around in a groggy manner.


    Seeing his lethargic appearance, Longhai''s face turned angry, and he opened his mouth to scold him but paused briefly and then spoke earnestly, "Xuanzang, one must not bex in cultivation. With your approach, when will you ever master the first level of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound?"


    "Holy Monk, I was not actually sleeping; I have mastered the first level of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound in my dream...", seeing the Holy Monk Longhai wanting to scold but holding back, Jiang Liu felt somewhat ashamed, yet he defended himself.


    The cultivation of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound required emptying the mind to contemte the sound of the dragon''s chant within it.


    However, for Jiang Liu, sitting cross-legged, closing his eyes, and emptying his mind to imagine the sound of a dragon? He would fall asleep in just a moment.


    Thus, having practiced for many days, there had been no progress in his cultivation of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound until now.


    "Ah? You''ve mastered it?", hearing Jiang Liu''s words, both Holy Monk Longhai and Daoji wore expressions of surprise.


    Hadn''t he made no progress at all? And yet he imed to have mastered it?


    "Xuanzang, monks do not lie. If you haven''t mastered it, you should simply practice diligently," Longhai shook his head, clearly disbelieving Jiang Liu''s words, as he had witnessed Jiang Liu''sck of progress over these days.


    "Yes, brother, if you just diligently cultivate, with your twelve Scar of Precepts, I believe you can soon catch up to my progress, as long as you stop sleeping," Daoji, clearly disbelieving that Jiang Liu had already mastered it, chimed in.


    Of course, given Jiang Liu''sck of progress while he had already started to grasp the principles, Daoji''s expression was somewhat smug as he spoke.


    What did twelve Scar of Precepts matter? Wasn''t his progress in cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound still slower than his own?


    "Junior brother, you are dangerously tempting fate here. How about we spar and see?", seeing Daoji''s smug look, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on him, and he suggested.


    "Sure, brother, you spar with other junior brothers every afternoon, I would also like to learn a few moves from you," nodding his head, Daoji appeared eager to try.


    During the previous Incense Offering Ceremony, Daoji had challenged him, seeking to avenge that day''s defeat.


    Despite his identity as one with twelve Scar of Precepts causing awe, when it came to fighting, it depended on each person''s cultivation and techniques, not the quantity of scars.


    "Amitabha, let''s have lunch first", regarding the sparring between Jiang Liu and Daoji, Holy Monk Longhai showed no intention of stopping it, just suggested everyone finish lunch first.


    The trio then left the great hall.


    However, Jiang Liu found an excuse, saying he needed to use the restroom, and told Holy Monk Longhai and Daoji to go ahead first.


    He turned back to his Zen Room, sat down on the rosewood chair, and picked up the ivory brush beside him to write vigorously.


    Although there had been no progress in cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, having taught it for a few days, Jiang Liu had already memorized the first two levels of the technique.


    After spending some time, Jiang Liu then wrote down the cultivation technique of the first level of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound from memory.


    Notice: Would you like to spend 1 skill point to learn the first level of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound?


    As Jiang Liu finished writing, the game system''s prompt, as expected, appeared.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    (PS: Please vote for rmendation, seeking lots and lots of votes...)

 Chapter 35 The Realms of Cultivators (Seeking Recommendation Tickets)

    Under the guidance of Saint Monk Longhai, Jiang Liu had been cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound for some days. He had not intended to use Skill Points to learn it, wanting to see if he could learn a non-system skill through cultivation, just like anyone else.


    However, after so many days of cultivation, he had gained nothing, which filled Jiang Liu with a sense of helpless frustration.


    It seemed that he should just use Skill Points to learn skills honestly. It was convenient and fast, and there was no need to spend so much effort and cause himself unnecessary trouble.


    With the system''s prompt, Jiang Liu didn''t hesitate to make his choice. After spending 1 Skill Point, a sense of enlightenment rose in his mind, and he sessfully learned the firstyer of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound (First Layer): Emit a dragon chant from the mouth that can repel all targets in the vicinity, Attack Power +50, Cooldown Time 300 seconds; In the normal state of cultivation, gain 1 Experience Point every 10 seconds, to improve to the next level, Level 11 is required.


    "Hmm, indeed, learning skills this way is definitely the most convenient for me¡­" Jiang Liu nodded in satisfaction after reviewing the new skill he had acquired.


    Indeed, spending time on cultivating skills didn''t suit him at all. With that time, he would rather y demons and level up morefortably.


    Of course, Jiang Liu also found the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound skill very powerful. It was his first area-of-effect attack skill that could not only repel targets but also add an increase to Attack Power.


    What''s important is that the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound is not just a simple skill but also a cultivation method.


    Could it be that when he meditates and cultivates, he would gain Experience Points, which in essence means increasing his Cultivation Level?


    The repelling control effect, the area effect of the attack, the additional 50 Attack Power, plus the increase in Cultivation Level during meditation...


    The benefits of the firstyer of Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound were quiteprehensive and powerful, rightfully so, as it was a famous supernatural power of the Great Buddha Temple.


    Moreover, the skill levels of other skills generally are divided into Primary Level, Middle Level, High-Level, and Great Perfection, but Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound disyed it as the "First Layer."


    It looks like I''ll need to keep spending Skill Points to improve.


    "Eh, wait, can the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound level up further?" Jiang Liu focused his attention on the skill, and then he suddenly realized that, like other skills, the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound could continue to be enhanced by investing more points.


    "The one I silently recited was just the method for the firstyer of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, right? I can learn it by just learning the firstyer? I don''t need to see the method for the secondyer and can directly improve to the secondyer by adding points?" Jiang Liu was shocked and amazed as he saw the option to elevate the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    If that''s really the case, then in the future, if he came across other divine skills, even if they were iplete and he just had the firstyer, he could learn theplete version?


    He had been at the Great Buddha Temple for some days. Every morning, he would follow Longhai to cultivate the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, and in the afternoon, he would spar with the disciples of the temple. During these days, by defeating many disciples, Jiang Liu had gained a fair amount of Experience Points, just enough to raise his level to 11.


    After a brief moment of contemtion, Jiang Liu decided to use hisst Skill Point to try to raise the level of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    Prompt: Not enough Skill Points, 2 Skill Points needed.


    "What?" Jiang Liu was taken aback by this pop-up prompt.


    This was the first time he had encountered a skill that required 2 Skill Points to level up. His previous skills, whether it was the Arhat Fist or the Swift Fire Bead, only needed 1 Skill Point to improve.


    ¡­


    A dining table was set with a delicious vegetarian meal. Saint Monk Longhai and Daoji sat opposite each other.


    Daoji ate with his head down, quickly, while Saint Monk Longhai dined in a leisurely manner.


    "Disciple, what do you think are your chances of victory in the uing spar with Jiang Liu?" With Daoji''s meal nearly finished and Jiang Liu yet to arrive, Longhai initiated the conversation.


    This question made Daoji involuntarily recall the scene when he had fought against Jiang Liu at Esquire Zhang''s ce.


    Even though my cultivation level was higher, I suddenly lost the ability to use my martial arts skills, which led to one wrong move, ending in total defeat. Today, my cultivation is deeper, and I''m on guard...


    "Master, if Brother Jiang Liu''s martial arts are the same as that day, I''m fully confident, a hundred percent sure. However, his cultivation level has also improved a lot these past days, and he has reached the Meridian Unblocking Realm. To be cautious, let''s say I''m eighty percent sure," Daoji said, appearing very confident.


    "Hmm, your cultivation level has long since reached the Meridian Unblocking Realm, while Jiang Liu has only reached this realm a few days ago, indeed your chances of winning are greater.


    However, strength is not solely determined by cultivation level; Dharma treasures, spells, and even the environment, temperament, strategy, and luck, etc., all these are crucial to the oue," Saint Monk Longhai nodded slightly as he offered his advice.


    "Thank you for your teachings, Master," Daoji nodded and replied.


    The dining hall of the Great Buddha Temple was vast,rge enough to amodate thousands of people dining at the same time. Normally, without any important matters, Longhai wouldn''t dine in his Zen Room.


    Although the area where he and Daoji sat was undisturbed by others sitting nearby, a few monks passing by still unconsciously listened to the conversation between the master and disciple.


    Soon, many monks and disciples in the dining hall began to whisper among themselves, and the news about the uing match between Jiang Liu and Daoji spread quickly.


    After hearing this news, many people perked up.


    In these days, Jiang Liu had been sparring with several young disciples every afternoon; everyone had more or less a concept of his martial arts abilities. But what about Daoji, as the direct disciple of Saint Monk Longhai? This made many people curious.


    After lunch, many young monks were not in a hurry to leave; they gathered in groups of three or five to chat idly, also waiting to see the two begin their match.


    It wasn''t long before Jiang Liu, wearing a blue monk''s robe, walked into the dining hall.


    He got himself a meal and sat down at the table beside Longhai, bowing his head to eat while also deeply contemting his own situation.


    Having stayed at the Great Buddha Temple for some days now, Jiang Liu had gained an understanding of the cultivation path in this world.


    For instance, demon creatures, as Gaoyang once said, differ in strength and are categorized as Demons, Demon Soldiers, Demon Generals, etc.


    Simrly, the cultivation path for humans is divided ording to the level of cultivation:, Qi Refinement, Meridian Unblocking, Body Tempering, Controlling-Law...


    So far, these are all Jiang Liu knows about the human cultivation path, he didn''t inquire about the realms beyond since they were still too distant for him.


    The Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, as Saint Monk Longhai has said, is divided into six levels.


    The first level can be cultivated in the Qi Refinement Realm, the second level requires the Meridian Unblocking Realm, the third level necessitates the Body Tempering Realm, and so on.


    Having learned the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, the skill disy showed that raising the skill level required level 11.


    Does that mean level 11 corresponds to the Meridian Unblocking Realm?


    And levels within 10 correspond to the Qi Cultivation Realm...


    Could it be? Is my character level, every 10 levels, corresponding to a different realm?


    Deep in thought about his own situation, he ate silently, without a word, and neither Longhai nor Daoji next to him showed any intention of disturbing him.


    Just like that, half an incense''s time quickly passed, and Jiang Liu''s meal waspletely finished.


    "Brother, please!"


    Having waited for so long and now seeing that he had finished eating, Daoji directly spoke up, issuing a challenge to Jiang Liu.


    (PS: Asking for rmendation tickets, I need lots and lots of them. Waking up at 5 a.m. to write, I suddenly found that my new book has dropped another rank, it breaks my heart...)

 Chapter 36 Jiang Liu VS Daoji (Seeking Recommendation Tickets)

    "Alright, let''s go!" Hearing Daoji''s challenge, Jiang Liu stood up, knowing that someone would take care of the bowls and chopsticks on the table.


    Jiang Liu and Daoji got up and walked towards the Martial Arts Ground, with Saint Monk Longhai curiously harboring doubts in his heart.


    Although he didn''t believe Jiang Liu had truly learned the first level of Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, Jiang Liu''s demeanor didn''t seem like that of a liar.


    Half-convinced and half-doubtful, Saint Monk Longhai naturally followed them.


    In the dining hall, many monks were quietly discussing what they had heard about the challenge. They paid varying degrees of attention to the situation, noticing the two getting up to leave. These monks who had been waiting quietly also stood up and followed.


    The Martial Arts Ground was veryrge, about thirty meters long and wide. Jiang Liu stood still, wearing hemp shoes on his feet, a Vidyaraja Crown on his head, holding a Demon Subduing Staff in his hand, a Redwood Ring between his fingers, and around his neck hung a string of Sandalwood Buddha Beads.


    Though he was only level 11, Jiang Liu believed that with the boost from his equipment, he was very strong.


    Standing in front of Jiang Liu, Daoji was dressed in a white monk''s robe, with Shoes on his feet and a string of Chant Beads in his hand. His eyes discreetly paused for a moment on the Demon Subduing Staff in Jiang Liu''s hands.


    Other pieces of equipment were one thing, but during the meal, he had clearly seen Jiang Liu empty-handed. How did he suddenly have a staff in his hand in the blink of an eye?


    "As your senior brother, I''ll let you make the first move," Jiang Liu said, the Demon Subduing Staff in hand. With a thought, he executed the Arhat Fist Skill, his hands emitting a brilliant golden glow that attached to the staff, turning it into a golden rod.


    "Alright, then I won''t hold back!" Daoji nodded and without any intention to be courteous, also released the Arhat Fist Skill.


    A faint dragon-shaped aura coiled around him, showing that his Arhat Fist had reached the Great Perfection Realm.


    Daoji, with his higher level of cultivation, didn''t need fancy techniques. His n was to overwhelm with pure strength.


    Daoji moved quickly towards Jiang Liu, attacking with a palm strike that brought a fierce wind toward his face.


    Jiang Liu lifted the Demon Subduing Staff, blocking horizontally and holding it to his chest.


    Daoji''s palm struck the staff with a bang, the force of the blow making Jiang Liu stagger back several steps.


    "Such powerful strength; his cultivation is much higher than mine!" Feeling the opponent''s strength overpowering his own, Jiang Liu thought to himself.


    Of course, being shaken back was one thing; his arms were slightly numb, but he hadn''t been injured. The defense of 180 provided by the Vidyaraja Crown was no joke.


    Indeed, once Jiang Liu had leveled up to level 11, the defense of the Vidyaraja Crown had risen significantly.


    Seeing Jiang Liu being shaken back by his attack, Daoji raised his hand and a green lotus appeared faintly at his fingertips. Then, a streak of Green Lotus Finger Force shot towards Jiang Liu like a whip.


    Daoji timed his attack perfectly, striking while Jiang Liu was still unable to control his stance, making it difficult for him to dodge.


    "It''s my turn to attack," Jiang Liu thought as the Green Lotus Finger Force approached, remembering that the passive effect of the Redwood Ring was double damage. He didn''t waste any time with his first move; as soon as he stabilized his stance, he charged at Daoji, ignoring the approaching Green Lotus Finger Strength.


    Vajra Mantra!


    Of course, just as the Green Lotus Finger Force was about to hit him, Jiang Liu activated the Vajra Mantra skill.


    With his defense plus an 80% damage exemption, the Green Lotus Finger Force had struck Jiang Liu without him feeling much of anything.


    Despite the attack from the Green Lotus Finger Force, Jiang Liu charged straight to Daoji''s front, raising the Demon Subduing Staff high and smashing it down fiercely towards Daoji.


    However, the existence of the Vajra Mantra was already known from the battle at Esquire Zhang''s home, so Daoji was not surprised.


    Watching the Demon Subduing Staff strike down, he threw another punch, again trying to overpower with strength¨Cthe belief that greater strength allows one to do as one pleases!


    The fist and the Demon Subduing Staff collided once more.


    This time, Jiang Liu stood unmoved, but Daoji was sent flying back as if struck by a vehicle, an unprecedented force making him retreat a great distance.


    "What!? How is this possible!?" His own strength was superior, his cultivation level higher, but this time it was he who was sent reeling back, leaving Daoji shocked and in disbelief.


    The terrifying force numbed his arms, almost as if they no longer belonged to him.


    "I''ll try using your move!" Jiang Liu said, looking at the retreating Daoji, raising his hand as he spoke.


    Then, a cluster of fiery red mes took shape, forming a fireball the size of a washbasin and hurtling towards Daoji.


    With the Great Perfection Realm''s Swift Fire Bead, which came with a 100% increase in attack power, the destructive force was naturally immense.


    With a thunderous boom, the Swift Fire Bead exploded upon Daoji like a bomb, causing a burst of mes and sparks.


    Although mes and sparks flew in every direction, Jiang Liu could see that the Swift Fire Bead, upon hitting Daoji, instantaneously reduced his health bar significantly.


    Seizing the opportunity, Jiang Liu once again raised the Demon Subduing Staff, striking down like raindrops while Daoji was injured, forcing him to continuously retreat.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, Daoji''s health bar kept decreasing rapidly, soon leaving only a small fraction.


    Beaten to a bruised and sorry state, the thrashing reminded Daoji of the beating he had endured at Esquire Zhang''s home, filling him with both shock and fear.


    Another hitnded, and Daoji''s hands shone with golden light as he raised them, reaching for the Demon Subduing Staff.


    With a snap, he staggered back two steps, but he firmly grasped the Demon Subduing Staff, clinging to it and seizing a moment of vulnerability to finally catch hold of Jiang Liu''s weapon.


    "The master bestowed the Vidyaraja Crown upon you, and I too have been granted a Buddhist Treasure!" Daoji proimed, bruised and battered, clutching the Demon Subduing Staff and staring at Jiang Liu.


    As he spoke, he lifted his other hand and the Chant Beads in his grasp suddenly swelled with the wind, transforming into a long rope, coiling around Jiang Liu several times, binding him securely.


    Watching Jiang Liu tied up, unable to move, Daoji inwardly sighed with relief as his golden, glowing fist rose once again, with the Arhat Fist bearing down on Jiang Liu.


    "Hmm, it seems Daoji has won. His temperament is good, enduring the pain and waiting to use the Buddhist Treasure at a critical moment," the Saint Monk Longhai, watching Jiang Liu bound and helplessly receiving blows, nodded to himself, approving of Daoji''s spirit.


    Of course, although Jiang Liu''s cultivation level was much lower, he managed to leave Daoji battered and bruised, demonstrating that his strength should not be underestimated either.


    Not only did Saint Monk Longhai think this, but the Buddhist Disciples watching the battle thought the same. With Jiang Liu bound by the Dharma Treasure and unable to move, how could he still be a match for Daoji?


    However, as Daoji''s Arhat Fist came down, Jiang Liu''s gaze intensified slightly and he opened his mouth to speak.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    A dragon chant suddenly broke out!


    (PS: As always, rolling on the ground begging for rmendation tickets, a new book is like a young seedling, needing the irrigation of rmendation tickets...)

 Chapter 37 Tremors at the Great Buddha Temple (Vote for Recommendations)

    Jiang Liu''s body was bound by Daoji''s chant beads, rendering him immobile. To onlookers, it seemed Jiang Liu had naturally lost the fight.


    However, just as Daoji''s Arhat Fist was about tond on Jiang Liu, suddenly, a dragon''s roar resounded, its momentum awe-inspiring.


    The prating roar of the dragon gripped the soul, and nearly visible sound waves emanated from Jiang Liu''s body, spreading rapidly in all directions.


    Under the impact of these sound waves, Daoji''s fist could no longer advance in front of Jiang Liu''s face, and even the powerful wave attack forced Daoji''s body to be directly pushed back.


    Crack! Crack! Crack!


    As the sound waves attacked, the ground of the Martial Arts Ground within a dozen meters around Jiang Liu cracked open, showcasing the immense force of the sound waves.


    The first level of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound''s Divine Skills, it wasn''t just capable of repelling the target but also served as an area of effect attack, which appeared truly imposing.


    Not only was everything around the ground affected by the impact, naturally, Daoji''s face turned pale from being pushed back.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, he could see that Daoji''s health bar had decreased a bit more, leaving only a sliver of health.


    At that moment, the chant beads that bound Jiang Liu scattered, automatically returning to Daoji''s hand, indicating that the binding effect of the beads was time-limited.


    Jiang Liu stomped his foot and charged at Daoji like a tiger descending a mountain, striking down with the Demon Subduing Staff, depleting Daoji''s health barpletely, and causing Daoji to faint.


    Notification: Gained Experience Points 460, money 50.


    Notification: Acquired equipment Bronze Bracelet, please check your inventory space for details.


    As Daoji was knocked out, the game system''s notifications duly arrived, and Jiang Liu nodded inwardly in satisfaction.


    He remembered clearly that when he had defeated Esquire Zhang at his home, he had gained just over 300 experience points. Now it had increased to over 400, which suggested that as the strength of his opponents increased, so did the experience points gained.


    Moreover, after reaching level 10, he had unlocked inventory space, and now when defeating monsters for loot, equipment, and money would automatically appear in his inventory space without the need to search corpses.


    "Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound? That was the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound just now, wasn''t it?"


    While Jiang Liu''s thoughts were on the experience points gained, the monks of the Great Buddha Temple, upon witnessing Daoji fainting and then turning to Jiang Liu, went from a dead silence to a sudden outburst of shock andmotion.


    The Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound was indeed a renowned Divine Skill of the Great Buddha Temple, so powerful that only Saint Monk Longhai had learned it under heaven; others,cking the necessary affinity with Buddha, could only sigh in longing.


    It wasn''t surprising that Daoji and Jiang Liu would learn the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    But they had only been at the Great Buddha Temple for a few days. Had they really mastered the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound already?


    "Indeed, it''s the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound..." Saint Monk Longhai, who was also nearby, recognized it as well, staring at Jiang Liu with a mixture of astonishment and joy, disbelief written all over his face.


    During the past few days, as Jiang Liu practiced the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, he himself had been close by, and indeed, Jiang Liu had shown no signs of sess, often even falling asleep. How could he have possibly mastered it like this?


    So even when Jiang Liu imed he had learned it, Longhai had been skeptical.


    But unexpectedly, without any warning, Jiang Liu had employed the Divine Skills of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    As the only person who had learned the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, Saint Monk Longhai could see more clearly. Judging from the use of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound by Jiang Liu just now, it didn''t seem at all like that of a beginner who had studied only a few days. The execution seemed very skillful, and Longhai had also noted the strength of the attack.


    For him to unleash such power at the beginning of the Meridian Unblocking Realm, it would normally require at least a year and a half of arduous cultivation.


    Longhai checked on Daoji''s condition and found that he had only fainted and wasn''t seriously hurt, after which he had someone take Daoji back to rest. Meanwhile, he looked at Jiang Liu in amazement and asked, "Xuanzang, when did you learn the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound?"


    "I learned it in the past few days," Jiang Liu responded to Saint Monk Longhai''s inquiry.


    "The past few days? He has been learning the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound for only about six or seven days, could his talent truly be so remarkable? Or is it because of the blessings from the twelve scent scars?" Jiang Liu''s response left Saint Monk Longhai even more astonished.


    ...


    After the match, all the monks of the Great Buddha Temple, both young and old, were awed by the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound disyed by Jiang Liu.


    To learn the first level of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound in just a few days, such talent left everyone dumbfounded, a genius unparalleled.


    Even some of the older monks confided that when Saint Monk Longhai first came to Great Buddha Temple, it took him a whole month to learn the first level of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    Two Chinese Hourster.


    Saint Monk Longhai sat in the great hall, with several high monks of the Great Buddha Temple sitting below him, obviously discussing something important.


    "Amitabha, Abbot Brother, are you suggesting that Xuanzang should enter the Demon-Suppressing Hall to cultivate?" asked a monk with seven scent scars on his head, his face filled with shock, as he questioned Saint Monk Longhai.


    Simrly, the other high monks beside him showed varying degrees of surprise on their faces.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Indeed, Xuanzang''s talents are so extraordinary, and actualbat is the best form of cultivation. Moreover, these past days, he has been sparring with the temple''s disciples every afternoon, often knocking them unconscious. He clearly understands this. So, why not let him enter the Demon-Suppressing Hall early to temper himself?" Saint Monk Longhai nodded slightly.


    "However, Abbot Brother, normally, disciples of the Great Buddha Temple must reach the Body Tempering Realm in their cultivation level before entering the Demon-Suppressing Hall to temper themselves. As I see it, Xuanzang''s cultivation level has just barely reached the Meridian Unblocking Scripture, right? Why not wait a bit longer?


    If something were to happen to him, how would we exin it to the Buddha in Western Heaven?" said the other high monks, who were rtively less agreeable.


    After all, the identity of someone with twelve scent scars put heavy pressure on the high monks. No one could bear the responsibility if anything went wrong.


    "Alright, let''s leave this matter to his own will. If he goes, with the protection of the Vidyaraja Crown, he should not face too much risk..." Seeing that his younger brothers were hesitant to take responsibility, Saint Monk Longhai no longer insisted and conceded.


    The other high monks exchanged nces and then nodded in session.


    Indeed, this matter should be left up to Xuanzang''s own desire.


    "Ah, if only I hadn''t shown off..." On the other side, staying in his Zen Room, Jiang Liu sighed to himself at this moment.


    In these past days, he had been training with Longhai in the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound every morning, and in the afternoon, Jiang Liu would spar with the monks of the temple to gain experience. Thanks to his identity as the one with the twelve scent scars, the disciples were quite willing to spar with him, and life was rather pleasant.


    However, after he publicly used the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, although he had sessfully shown off, it had be difficult to find other disciples willing to spar with him as many started making excuses to refuse.


    Despite his low cultivation level, the reputation of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound was too great.


    "What should I do? Many disciples of the Great Buddha Temple are now afraid to engage with me. Where should I go to ''fight monsters and level up''?" Thinking back to the times he had been politely refused when asking other disciples to spar, Jiang Liu felt a sense of urgency.


    Will I have to rely solely on the cultivation state of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound to gain experience points from now on?


    Yet, just at that moment, there was a knock at the door of the Zen Room, followed by Longhai''s voice outside.


    "Xuanzang, may Ie in?"


    (PS: As always, asking for votes, hurry up and cast your votes, keeping them to yourself won''t give birth to kids anyway¡­)

 Chapter 38 News of Sun Wukong (Seeking Recommendations)

    "Saint Monk Longhai is looking for me, is there something important?" Jiang Liu asked after letting Longhai in.


    Could it be that he came because he had learned of Jiang Liu mastering the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound?


    "There''s nothing particrly important, I just wanted to chat with you for a bit," Longhai said as he sat down on the chair next to Jiang Liu without much courtesy, poured himself a cup of tea, and took a gentle sip.


    "Yeah right, I believe you," Jiang Liu thought to himself, rolling his eyes internally at Longhai''s words.


    Of course, no matter what he thought inside, Jiang Liu''s exterior did not show any sign of it.


    Jiang Liu also sat down in front of Longhai, poured himself a cup of tea, and was in even less of a hurry to speak. The room fell silent for a moment.


    After waiting a little while, seeing that Jiang Liu had no intention of starting a conversation, Longhai had to take the initiative and said, "Xuanzang, you have grasped the firstyer of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound so quickly. I havee to understand your talents, but cultivation cannot be aplished in istion. It requires trial by fire and blood to fully master it.


    You''ve been seeking out your fellow disciples in the afternoons to exchange martial arts, is that what you''re thinking?"


    Instead of answering Longhai''s question, Jiang Liu just gazed steadily at him, indicating for him to continue speaking.


    Seeing that Jiang Liu had no reaction, Longhai was not annoyed and continued, "Most temples are located deep in the mountains, in cave heavens and blessednds, yet our Great Buddha Temple is built right within Chang''an City, enduring the city''s mor. Do you know why?"


    "I do not know!" The topic had indeed piqued Jiang Liu''s interest.


    Indeed, it was quite strange that within Chang''an City the Great Buddha Temple upied such arge area. After all, since ancient times, there has always beenpetition between royal authority and religious authority.


    "That is because Chang''an City is not a ce of solely good. Beneath it lies a Demon Cave, filled with demons. Our Great Buddha Temple is built right above this Demon Cave, securing the safety of Chang''an City," Saint Monk Longhai stated straightforwardly without any intention of keeping it a mystery.


    "So that''s how it is¡­" Jiang Liu nodded in realization and then looked at Longhai with further questions, "I wonder why the Holy Monk would tell me this?"


    "There''s a saying, ''It is better to dredge than to block.'' Our Great Buddha Temple is suppressing the Demon Cave but has not sealed it entirely. Otherwise, the demons inside might grow strong enough to overthrow the temple one day, causing an even greater disaster. Therefore, there''s a small gap left in the seal, through which we constructed the Demon-Suppressing Hall.


    The demons that escape enter this hall, and the temple often arranges for disciples to train there," Longhai said.


    Upon having said this, Longhai paused briefly and then added, "First, this is to eliminate the demons from the Demon Cave safely before their numbers be too overwhelming. Second, it also serves the purpose of training the temple''s disciples."


    "Isn''t this just like a level-grinding dungeon!?" Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up upon hearing about the existence of the Demon-Suppressing Hall.


    This was indeed timely information. Having shown his prowess with the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, Jiang Liu had been worrying because few disciples were willing to ept his challenges anymore. But now, he learned of the Demon-Suppressing Hall within the Great Buddha Temple.


    To him, wasn''t the Demon-Suppressing Hall the perfect ce for grinding levels?


    "So, the Holy Monk means to suggest that I should go there to train?" Jiang Liu asked excitedly, his eyes wide as he gazed at Saint Monk Longhai.


    Seeing the changes in Jiang Liu''s expression, Longhai could understand his thoughts. This was truly a martial arts fanatic.


    However, Longhai still had to say what needed to be said, "I have simply informed you of the Demon-Suppressing Hall. Whether you choose to go or not is up to you."


    "Willing? I am naturally willing to go," feeling as if he''d been given a pillow just as he''d gotten sleepy, how could Jiang Liu refuse?


    Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s response, Saint Monk Longhai nodded slightly, indicating that he understood and was not at all surprised.


    Previously, knowing that Jiang Liu had a great passion for martial arts, it was Longhai that had brought out the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound to steady his thoughts of returning to secr life. These past days, he had even been pulling the monastery''s disciples together to spar daily. Therefore, Longhai was not surprised by his agreement to proceed.


    "Very well, Daoji''s cultivation level is also about to break through to the Body Tempering Realm. In another two days, the two of you can enter the Demon-Suppressing Hall together for training," Longhai spoke, solidifying the arrangement.


    Although Longhai had said that he was just there for a casual chat with Jiang Liu, once the matter at hand had been discussed, Longhai did not intend to stay any longer, and he got up to leave.


    "Ah, wait a moment..." However, as Longhai stood up, Jiang Liu spoke up to stop him.


    Longhai turned back, looking at Jiang Liu with an inquiring gaze.


    "I''ve been having a recurring dreamtely, a very vivid one. Can the Holy Monk help me understand it?" Jiang Liu''s face carried a troubled expression, as though he was tormented by the dream.


    In modern society, it would not be a significant issue to simply have a dream, but in this mythical world, being one of the twelve incense scarred Buddhist Disciples and having the same dream for several days in a row was a serious matter. Saint Monk Longhai''s expression grew solemn, and he sat back down: "What did you dream about?"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "It''s quite strange. I dreamt of a monkey, a monkey that could ascend to the heavens and explore the earth. I dreamt of a monkey being suppressed under a great mountain, calling out daily, asking me to rescue it. Do you have any idea what that means?" Jiang Liu asked earnestly as he stared at Longhai.


    The supposed dreams and cries for help were naturally fabricated; Jiang Liu was just using this excuse to inquire about the existence of Sun Wukong.


    Being in thends of Great Tang in this mythical world, his Dharma name being Xuanzang, and having twelve incense scars...


    All of these details seemed to imply that he was indeed in the world of Journey to the West and that he was Tang Monk. However, Jiang Liu still wanted to investigate thoroughly.


    "A monkey that can ascend to the heavens and plunge into the earth? Suppressed under a great mountain?"


    A contemtive look crossed Longhai''s brow and after a moment of thought, he said, "Speaking of which, there is a legend that during Wang Mang''s usurpation of the Han Dynasty, a Divine Mountain known as Five Elements Mountain descended from the sky. Under this mountain was a Divine Monkey impervious to the cold and hunger.


    Later, the Emperor of Great Tang established his rule in the west and renamed it Mount of the Two Realms. The monkey you speak of being suppressed, could it be rted to the Divine Monkey under that mountain?"


    There it was, confirmation!


    Saint Monk Longhai''s answer made it clear to Jiang Liu that he was correct. With Five Elements Mountain appearing and the Divine Monkey suppressed beneath it, wasn''t that Sun Wukong?


    "Indeed, is the world I''ve traveled to truly the one of Journey to the West? And my identity, is that of the scripture-seeking Tang Monk?" Having confirmed his presence in the world of Journey to the West and his identity as Tang Monk, Jiang Liu didn''t feel joy but a sense of sinking.


    He had no desire to be a monk; he only wanted to marry Gaoyang and be an ordinary couple. He didn''t want to be entangled in the grand affair of journeying to the Western Heaven.


    Moreover, modern interpretations of Journey to the West had long since suggested that the entire quest was a colossal setup.


    The chessmasters were naturally the great Immortals and Buddhas, and the consequences of getting involved were unpredictable.


    (PS: Please vote for rmendations. If you''re enjoying the story, don''t forget to cast your rmendation votes...)

 Chapter 39 Entering the Imperial Palace, Seeing Gaoyang Again (Request for Recommendation Tickets)

    Jiang Liu, having confirmed that he indeed was in the world of "Journey to the West" and that he was none other than Tang Monk, did not feel joy in his heart.


    As the core figure in the Journey to the West for Scriptures, his existence naturally drew the attention of all the heavenly deities and buddhas. If the spread of Buddhistw to the east were a grand strategic gameid out by the Buddhist Realm, then he himself was the most important piece on the board.


    Yes, Jiang Liu understood that in the matter of the Scripture Seeking in the West, he was just a piece on the board, and the most important one at that.


    With this, his desire to marry Princess Gaoyang and have children seemed more difficult than ascending to the heavens.


    After all, the Buddha and Bodhisattvas of Western Heaven would surely not allow him to abandon the pursuit of Scripture Seeking to marry and have children, right?


    "Xuanzang, what''s wrong? Did you find out something? You look rather upset," asked Longhai, who was beside him, looking curiously at Jiang Liu''splexion.


    "Oh, it''s nothing. It seems this dream must be my own fate. If I ever get the chance, I really should visit the Five Elements Mountain," said Holy Monk Longhai, interrupting Jiang Liu''s thoughts. Afterposing himself a bit, Jiang Liu shook his head and responded.


    Hearing Jiang Liu say that this was his own fate, Holy Monk Longhai decided not to meddle in the matter of the Monkey under the mountain.


    However, just as he was about to leave, he heard Jiang Liu make a difficult request of him.


    "Holy Monk, I have a favor to ask. I wish to visit the Imperial Pce," Jiang Liu said earnestly, gazing at Holy Monk Longhai as he made his request.


    "This..." Faced with such a request, Holy Monk Longhai appeared troubled.


    Originally, Longhai was very pleased when Jiang Liu made a request, as the more he helped him, the more Jiang Liu would owe him in return.


    But Jiang Liu wanting to go to the Imperial Pce, what could his intentions be? Longhai naturally understood.


    "Holy Monk, it has been many days since the Incense Offering Ceremony, and Princess Gaoyang saw me with her own eyes insert twelve incense scars. These days, she must be living in agonizing uncertainty. I''m not in a hurry to renounce my religious life, can you not allow me just one meeting with her?" asked Jiang Liu, his gaze firm, clearly showing his determination to go to the Imperial Pce.


    Perhaps it was because Jiang Liu''s unyielding attitude that Longhai was wary of provoking a strong adversarial reaction, or perhaps it was Jiang Liu''s mention of not being in a hurry to renounce his religious life that reassured Longhai somewhat.


    After pondering for a moment, Longhai said, "Only this once, never again."


    "Thank you, Holy Monk!" Hearing Longhai agree, Jiang Liu was overjoyed and sincerely thanked Holy Monk Longhai.


    ...


    Following beside Longhai, Jiang Liu entered the Imperial Pce, curiously looking around; this was his first time entering the Imperial Pce.


    Seeing the interior, the vermilion high walls, the guardsing and going, and the eunuch bowing and leading the way in front of them.


    With Holy Monk Longhai''s arrival at the Imperial Pce, the people inside naturally treated him with utmost respect. Soon, a young eunuch quickly ran out to inform the Emperor.


    By the time Jiang Liu and Longhai reached the entrance of the great hall, they could see Emperor of Tang Li Shimin had alreadye out to meet them personally.


    After exchanging greetings, Li Shimin''s gaze fell on Jiang Liu, and then he greeted Jiang Liu, "Master Xuanzang, wee."


    Jiang Liu was startled when Li Shimin greeted him, but soon remembered the incident of lighting twelve incense scars, which both Princess Gaoyang and Li Shimin had witnessed. Thus, it made sense that Li Shimin remembered him.


    Jiang Liu pressed his palms together, bowed, and returned the greeting, "Thank you, Your Majesty!"


    "Please have a seat," Li Shimin said as he personally weed Jiang Liu and Longhai into the grand hall and motioned them to sit down. Without any further ado, he said, "Holy Monk, apanied by Master Xuanzang, must have important matters to discuss, as one does not visit the Hall of Supreme Harmony without reason."


    "Indeed, I havee today firstly to discuss with Your Majesty the friction between the Great River King of Flood Dragon and the Blood Tiger King, as their increasing conflicts have greatly stirred up the evil spirits within a hundred miles, causing significant distress to the surrounding residents.


    Secondly, by coincidence, I have crafted several jade pendants for protection and ornamentation, which I would like to offer to your Princes and Princesses," the words flowed from Longhai.


    As he spoke, Saint Monk Longhai produced several jade pendants from his robes.


    "Thank you, Holy Monk," Li Shimin expressed his gratitude upon seeing that Longhai had brought gifts and then gave a few instructions to a nearby eunuch.


    Soon after the eunuch left, he returned with several young men and women, among whom was Princess Gaoyang.


    Having not seen her for many days, Jiang Liu''s heart leapt with joy upon seeing Princess Gaoyang again. He could see she looked thinner than before, her expression solemn, no longer as carefree and merry as she once was.


    Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on Princess Gaoyang and naturally, as she stepped into the grand hall, she also noticed him.


    Their eyes met, and it seemed as if everything else around them ceased to exist.


    "Princess Gaoyang, won''t youe over? This is the jade pendant given by Saint Monk Longhai for your protection," Li Shimin called out to her, breaking the gaze between her and Jiang Liu.


    Coming back to herself, Princess Gaoyang no longer gazed at Jiang Liu, silently walked over to Li Shimin''s side, took the jade pendant, and curtsied, "Thank you, Father, thank you, Holy Monk."


    "Alright, you all may go now..." Li Shimin said with a fond look in his eyes for Princess Gaoyang, and after distributing the jade pendants, he waved his hand, dismissing the Princes and Princesses.


    "Xuanzang, since I need to discuss some matters with His Majesty, if you find yourself at leisure, feel free to explore the Imperial Pce," Longhai turned slightly and suggested to Jiang Liu after the Princes and Princesses had left.


    "Then I shall not disturb Your Majesty and the Holy Monk any further," Jiang Liu stood up to leave following Saint Monk Longhai''s words and then turned to exit the grand hall.


    Jiang Liu was well aware that Saint Monk Longhai''s pretext of giving gifts was actually to let Princess Gaoyang know he was in the pce and then conveniently leaving him alone to create an opportunity for them to be alone.


    Walking naturally, Jiang Liu left the grand hall and, just as he stepped outside, he happened to see the distant figure of Princess Gaoyang turning a corner and disappearing.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Quickening his pace, Jiang Liu jogged towards the direction where Princess Gaoyang had gone.


    After a short chase, when he saw Princess Gaoyang disappear near a rocky hill, Jiang Liu ran up and searched around but saw no one.


    "Hey, silly, I''m here," just as Jiang Liu was at a loss, a lightugh sounded from nearby.


    Turning towards the sound, Jiang Liu saw a cave beside the hill with Princess Gaoyang poking her head out, waving at him.


    With a joyful smile, Jiang Liu followed Princess Gaoyang''s direction, squeezed through a gap in the rocks, and followed her into the cave...


    (PS: A new day, asking for rmendations and support...)

 Chapter 40 Love for Beauty Over Power (Seeking Recommendation Votes)

    Inside the artificial hill, there was a small space, but Jiang Liu and Princess Gaoyang did not find it cramped as they hid there.


    The tiny private space allowed them to be very close, almost as if they could clearly hear each other''s breathing.


    "Princess Gaoyang, I''m sorry, I..."


    The light was dim, and the young girl in front of him looked weary and slightly thinner. Jiang Liu''s longing over the past days had turned into a feeling of guilt, and he couldn''t help but gently grab Princess Gaoyang''s tender hand, whispering softly.


    However, Jiang Liu had not finished speaking when Princess Gaoyang covered his lips with her other hand.


    Princes Gaoyang''s eyes shimmered as she slightly lifted her head, looking intently at Jiang Liu, "You don''t need to apologize. Getting the Scar of Precepts wasn''t your choice, and no one expected you to receive twelve of them."


    "Had I known, I would have not participated in the Incense Offering Ceremony. Perhaps then, we both..." Thinking about the twelve Scars of Precepts on his head, Jiang Liu showed a regretful expression.


    He had participated only to formally renounce secr life and give an exnation to Jinshan Temple, but who could have imagined this oue?


    If he hadn''t attended, perhaps he and Princess Gaoyang would be together by now?


    But with this thought, Jiang Liu gave a bitter smile and shook his head, "No, even if I hadn''t participated, we couldn''t be together now. Because I am just a mere man, unworthy of you."


    "Now, it is I who am unworthy of you...", Princess Gaoyang softly gripped Jiang Liu''s hand in return, whispering back.


    The twelve Scars of Precepts indicated a reincarnation of a Bodhisattva from Spirit Mountain. If all went as expected, Jiang Liu was to be the spiritual leader of all monks in the Great Tang.


    Although Princess Gaoyang''s status was noble, it paled inparison to Jiang Liu''s.


    Regrettably, despite Jiang Liu''s distinguished status, he was a monk, unable to marry or have children. Otherwise, with his status now, he would be more than worthy of a princess.


    Bowing her head, Princess Gaoyang kept silent for a moment before whispering, "Jiang Liu, if there''s no chance for us to be together in the future, maybe we should stop here. You will undoubtedly be a renowned Holy Monk, more esteemed even than Saint Monk Longhai. I don''t want to be a burden to you, or hinder your future..."


    "Don''t say that. I am a man who chooses love over power," Jiang Liu immediately interrupted Princess Gaoyang, his expression resolute.


    Breaking up had never crossed Jiang Liu''s mind.


    Whether when he first learned of Gaoyang''s royal status and felt unworthy of her; or when he received the twelve Scars of Precepts, realizing the difficulty of being together; or now, having realized his identity as the Tang Monk, Jiang Liu had never thought about parting ways with Princess Gaoyang.


    Jiang Liu merely considered how difficult it was to be together and thought of ways to ovee these difficulties.


    "I, I thought your entry into the pce was to..." Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s definitive words, Gaoyang understood his feelings, and felt warmth in her heart as she whispered softly.


    Hush!


    But before Gaoyang could finish, Jiang Liu immediately gestured for her to be quiet.


    Indeed, shortly after, footsteps approached; two pce maids talking as they passed by the artificial hill.


    The two hid inside the hill, holding their breath, daring not to make any sound.


    After a moment, once the pce maids passed by, they both exhaled deeply, smiled at each other, their hearts pounding loudly. Then, they gently embraced.


    "What did you think I came to the pce for? Did you think I was here to cut off our bond? Did you think I wanted to establish boundaries with you to be a revered leader of the Buddhist sect, to be a saint admired by thousands? No, I came because I was worried about you. Look at you, how thin you''ve be."


    "Indeed, as you said, given my identity, it is extremely difficult for us to be together, but no matter how difficult it is, I won''t let go. Rest assured, I will strive to be stronger, strong enough that no one can stop us from being together...,"


    ...n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Jiang Liu and Saint Monk Longhai left the Imperial Pce together, and as they reached the outside, Jiang Liu turned back for onest look.


    Today''s visit to the pce, where he whispered sweet nothings with Princess Gaoyang in the rockery, helped Jiang Liu resolve some of his inner conflicts.


    Due to the twelve Scar of Precepts, Jiang Liu had been worried about Princess Gaoyang''s condition these past days. Indeed, seeing her again, she had be more reticent and thinner. Today, having said all that needed to be said, he could see that her spirits had lifted quite a bit.


    As Tang Monk, it was clear to him that the Buddha and Bodhisattvas of Western Heaven would never allow him to marry and forsake the great undertaking of the Journey to the West.


    Therefore, Jiang Liu did not show any strong desire to renounce his monastic life.


    Otherwise, who knows whether the Buddha and Bodhisattvas might harm Princess Gaoyang?


    However, to be with Princess Gaoyang, he must grow quickly enough to take control of his own destiny and reach a point where he is no longer at the mercy of the Heavenly Deity.


    Jiang Liu understood that all this was very, very difficult.


    However, possessing a gaming system that allowed him to level up by defeating monsters, he had reached level 11 in just over half a month, a feat that would take others many years of hard cultivation.


    At least, there was still hope, wasn''t there?


    From behind the battlements on top of the pce walls, Princess Gaoyang secretly watched the departing figures of Jiang Liu and Saint Monk Longhai. Thinking of the words Jiang Liu had said today, a slight smile appeared on her lips.


    "In love''s longsting bond, time does not matter, a truly good line of poetry. Although we cannot be together day and night now, at least he has not given up hope. He is willing to strive for our future...," Princess Gaoyang murmured softly,forted by the poem Jiang Liu had recited to her in the rockery, feeling a sweet sensation in her heart.


    Saint Monk Longhai walked alongside Jiang Liu, slightly turning his head to nce at him.


    Although Jiang Liu had been silent throughout, Longhai could feel that Jiang Liu was much more rxed than when they had arrived, suggesting that he and Princess Gaoyang had shared some very important words, but certainly not a farewell.


    Longhai did not inquire about the specifics of their conversation.


    "By the way, Holy Monk, there is still some time, may I visit Jinshan Temple tomorrow? It''s been several days since I came to the Great Buddha Temple, and I haven''t yet gone back to check on it," Jiang Liu asked as he walked alongside Longhai.


    Although he had only been in this world for a short time, Jiang Liu had quite liked the days he initially spent at Jinshan Temple, where Senior Abbot Faming and the others had taken very good care of him¡ªit felt like home in this world.


    "Of course, I''ll arrange for Master Huihai to apany you tomorrow," Longhai nodded without any intention of refusal.


    He knew that Jiang Liu had lived in Jinshan Temple from a young age, so his desire to go back and see it was only natural.


    Perhaps it was to ensure his safety, since a monk with twelve Scar of Precepts could be targeted by someone, or even by demons.


    Or perhaps it was the fear of him running away.


    But Jiang Liu did not refuse the arrangement for Master Huihai to apany him.


    (PS: I seek your rmendations, I need all the votes you can give to support...)

 Chapter 41 Returning Home in Glory (Seeking Recommendation Votes)

    Dawn was breaking, and the crowing of mighty roosters could be heard in the distance. At the entrance of Chang''an City gates, several city guards took down the enormous bolts from the gates.


    Apanied by a heavy "creak," the massive gates were slowly pulled open, as many citizens who had been waiting at the entrance eagerly entered and exited upon seeing the gates unlocked.


    Ding ding dong dong!


    Just then, suddenly, a series of clear bell and Buddhist drum sounds arose, and a faint chanting of Buddhist mantras could be heard from afar, drawing closer.


    The guards and citizens at the gate looked toward the source of the sound.


    On the streets of Chang''an in the early morning, a procession of monks was making their way, their ranks impressively arrayed, numbering in the dozens. These monks each carried a magic artifact in their hands, softly chanting Zen Buddhist Scriptures, making all who heard them feel a sense of tranquil calm.


    In the middle of this procession, there was a luxurious pnquin carried by sixteen men, which appeared like a small house as it approached. As this entourage passed, citizens along the roadside spontaneously knelt down and worshiped.


    "Is that? The Buddhist Pnquin of Saint Monk Longhai?" Watching the procession approaching, several guards at the city gates tensed up, hurriedly asking the nearby citizens to step back, clearing the way, and then they all kneeled along the sides of the road, reverently weing the pnquin of Saint Monk Longhai.


    The pnquin was carried by sixteen bald, robust monks. Seeing their bronze skin and the steadiness of their stride, one could tell their cultivation levels were not low.


    As the pnquin passed, the kneeling guards stealthily raised their heads for a nce.


    Sitting within the pnquin was a young monk, draped in a bright red kasaya, his head crowned with a luxurious monk crown, exuding an air of supreme nobility.


    "Eh? That''s not Saint Monk Longhai? Who is that young monk?" The guard wondered to himself as he watched the pnquin slowly move away.


    What young man could possibly be riding in Saint Monk Longhai''s pnquin? Even Daoji, who was a fellow disciple with the nine incense scars, wouldn''t be allowed, right?


    "Wait, if even Daoji, who also has nine incense scars, is not allowed, then, the one sitting on the pnquin must be the legendary Master Xuanzang with the twelve incense scars?"


    Realizing the identity of the young monk in the pnquin, the guard was inwardly shocked, never expecting that, by a stroke of fate, he would actually be able to see the true face of the legendary Master Xuanzang.


    Sitting atop the Buddhist Pnquin of Saint Monk Longhai, and seeing everyone kneeling to wee and honor him, apanied by the ranks of monks around him¡ªeven the monks carrying the pnquin had several incense scars on their heads¡ªJiang Liu couldn''t help but feel a deep sense of reflection.


    This damned disy of pomp, this dreadful hierarchy, it fills one with an immense sense of vanity.


    Riding atop the grand pnquin, being carried by others, with music ying all around, he was en route to Jinshan Temple¡ªa far cry from his arrival in his threadbare monk''s robe.


    The entourage of Saint Monk Longhai was made up of monks with cultivation, the journey of barely twenty li was not at all far.


    By the time the sun was well up, looking at the sun in the sky, he guessed it should be around ten in the morning, and the entourage had already arrived at the foot of Jinshan Temple.


    As the procession ascended the mountain, pilgrims along the mountain path began to kneel, loudly calling out the name of Master Xuanzang.


    Sitting in the Buddhist Pnquin, looking at the familiar mountain path, what had been a rarely trodden trail had be livelier than before, bustling with many pilgrims on the road.


    What used to be a mountain path cluttered with weeds now appeared clearer, possibly because more people had been traveling it these days, so much so that even the weeds had vanished.


    Inside Jinshan Temple, Senior Abbot Faming and others were receiving temple visitors. Some of the visitors, after being received, wandered freely within the temple grounds. The dpidated Zen Room where Jiang Liu once lived now drew queues of visitors wanting a peek.


    Clearly, it was the effect of fame; these visitors all wanted to see what the life of Master Xuanzang, who bore the twelve incense scars, was like before the Incense Offering Ceremony.


    "Hmm? Xuanming, go out and see what''s causing such amotion," as Jiang Liu''s procession approached the mountain with music and fanfare, even drawing the cheers of many people, Senior Abbot Faming, who was in the Buddhist hall receiving visitors, was slightly startled and immediately said to Xuanming beside him.


    "Alright, Master," Xuanming nodded and strode outside.


    It wasn''t long before Xuanming hurried back, flustered.


    "Master, it''s Liu''er, no, I mean Master Xuanzang has arrived..." Xuanming''s somewhat plump face was a mix of shock and joy as he spoke urgently.


    Hearing that it was Master Xuanzang''s arrival, the visitors in the Buddhist hall excitedly headed outside, and even Faming himself stood up with joy.


    Putting aside his identity as the one with the twelve incense scars, Jiang Liu was someone they had watched grow up. He had achieved fame overnight, known throughout thend, but left behind at the Great Buddha Temple¡ªeveryone deeply missed him.


    Seated upon the Buddhist pnquin, Jiang Liu soon arrived in front of Jinshan Temple. Looking at the temple, which had undergone some changes with many parts newly repaired and rejuvenated, even the shabby temple signboard had been reced with a brand new one, Jiang Liu felt a surge of delight.


    "We pay our respects to Master Xuanzang!" With the Buddhist pnquining to a halt in front of Jinshan Temple''s gate, many visitors who had heard the news kneeled down en masse in front of Jiang Liu, shouting aloud in greeting.


    "Please, rise," Jiang Liu said to the kneeling visitors.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Havinge through time from the modern society, where there wasn''t much of a concept of hierarchy and definitely not one for kneeling as a form of greeting, Jiang Liu, despite reveling in the vanity while riding pompously on the Buddhist pnquin, was not ustomed to others kneeling before him.


    "I am the old monk Faming, paying respects to Master Xuanzang..." Following the visitors, Senior Abbot Faming¡ªassisted by Xuanming and several other fellow monks¡ªmade his way to the temple gate as well and knelt down.


    "Master, what are you doing?" Jiang Liu was startled to see Faming preparing to kneel before him and hurriedly hopped down from the pnquin to support the elderly abbot.


    "Master Xuanzang, I, I am not worthy to be your master, I¡­" Looking at Jiang Liu, Faming was moved, yet he also felt somewhat frightened.


    "What Xuanzang? Are you saying a few scars on my head have turned me into another person? Master, please just call me Liu''er, like before. I would prefer it," he said, supporting Faming as they walked into the temple.


    The apanying brother Xuanming and others quickly gestured for the members of the Great Buddha Temple''s procession toe in and rest.


    ...


    At the base of Jinshan Temple mountain, a young Taoist strolled up at a steady pace.


    This Taoist looked to be about fifteen or sixteen years old, dressed in a blue Taoist robe with a treasure sword strapped to his back, his hair tied up into a topknot. As a light breeze blew, his robe fluttered elegantly, exuding an extraordinary presence.


    "This Buddhist disciple is known throughout the world. It is inevitable that Buddhism will flourish greatly in the future, while the Taoist Sect declines. Today, I shall make him lose face before all under heaven¡­" the young Taoist murmured under his breath, his expression resolute as he proceeded with vigorous strides up the mountain.

 Chapter 42 The Unwelcome Guest (Vote for Recommendation)

    "What to do, what should we do..." Inside the hall of Buddha, Senior Abbot Faming fretted like ants on a hot pan, his expressionplex.


    There was joy, urgency, and also fear...


    It wasn''t just Senior Abbot Faming who felt this way; Xuankong, Xuanwu, and Xuanming beside him also wore simr expressions.


    Even the monks who hade from the Great Buddha Temple were all exchanging looks of astonishment.


    The reason was, after returning to Jinshan Temple, it was perfectly normal for Master Xuanzang to chat with these brothers¡ªaftering back, one must have some conversation, right?


    However, as noon approached, he disregarded everyone''s objections and went off to cook in the kitchen. This left everyone dumbfounded and resulted in this scene where Senior Abbot Faming and the others were filled with trepidation and urgency.


    Who is Master Xuanzang? Known far and wide, the first monk in history to receive the Incense Scar Initiation twelve times, a monk with profound Buddhist connection, even rumored to be the reincarnation of a Bodhisattva.


    Before, it might have been alright not knowing his status, but now, with such a status, he personally cooking for them? This caused Faming to be both fearful and anxious.


    "Amitabha, since Master Xuanzang has such a pure heart, Abbot Faming, you should just graciously ept it..." said Master Huihai with a whisper of Buddha''s name and a smile on his face.


    Though famous at a young age, and well-known everywhere, he remained true to his original heart, not getting lost in the lure of fame and fortune, which made Master Huihai nod in approval internally.


    Indeed, worthy of someone who had received the twelve Scars of Precepts. How many people could do the same?


    How many people in the world loudly dere that they see wealth as mere dirt and fame as fleeting as smoke, yet of those who proim so vehemently, how many actually live up to it?


    Everyone they meet speaks of resigning their official post, but in the tranquil woods, we never see even one who does.


    It''s like those in officialdom allment the difficulties of office when meeting others, expressing a wish to resign, but who has truly gone through with it?


    Previously at Jinshan Temple, cooking was quite fast. After all, there were only a few people in the monastery. But today, Jiang Liu was busy in the kitchen for a long time.


    After all, since he was cooking, it wouldn''t be polite to only cook for his fellow brothers and Master at Jinshan Temple, right?


    The people from the Great Buddha Temple had apanied him, and it would only be reasonable and proper to provide some food for them. Although there wasn''t enough for a full meal, they could at least have a little, thereby fulfilling the social niceties.


    There were also the pilgrims, who hade to offer incense at Jinshan Temple, and they came for his sake. Since he had cooked, he should also prepare a bit for them.


    In doing so, he was also fostering a good reputation for Jinshan Temple.


    After spending more than an hour, he cooked arge pot of rice and almostpletely harvested the vegetables in the garden, feeding several dozen people.


    As a high monk of the Great Buddha Temple, Master Huihai naturally sat at the same table with the people from Jinshan Temple.


    A Martial Monk, who was a pnquin bearer, quietly walked aside and took out two tbreads from his robe.


    Even though he was a monk of the Great Buddha Temple, he was after all just a bearer. In those ancient times, bearers, servants, and maidservants had a lower status, and today, since Master Xuanzang himself was cooking, there naturally wasn''t a portion for them.


    "Hey, go to the kitchen and carry out the food, I''ve made some for you all as well," he said.


    However, just as the pnquin-bearing monk was looking down nibbling on his tbreads, a voice rang out. The monk lifted his head to see Master Xuanzang speaking to him and was stunned; the tbreads in his hand fell to the ground.


    Soon, several buckets of rice and dishes were carried out, along with arge bucket of green vegetable tofu soup. These martial monks and the ceremonial guard each had half a bowl of rice, a few slices of green vegetables, and finally a bowl of soup. Although they were not full, they felt an immense sense of satisfaction in their hearts.


    Looking into Jiang Liu''s eyes, it wasn''t just respect they felt, but also gratitude.


    Half a bowl of food and a bowl of soup may not be anything precious, but the fact that Master Xuanzang himself cooked and didn''t forget about them made them feel valued and grateful.


    "Thank you, Master Xuanzang!" The pilgrims nearby also received a share and shouted out their thanks in a chorus.


    Food prepared by Master Xuanzang, who bore the twelve Scars of Precepts, was a privilege that not just anyone could enjoy. Even a single grain of rice from him was incredibly precious.


    "Amitabha, the Buddha said all beings are equal. We understand the teachings, but how many truly live by them¡­" Master Huihai whispered a Buddhist invocation upon witnessing the scene.


    Indeed, Xuanzang had not bound the Scar of Precepts for long, nor had he read many Buddhist scriptures, but the principle of equality among all beings was something he understood inherently.


    If anyone imed he was not the reincarnation of a Bodhisattva, Master Huihai would be the first to disbelieve.


    Master Huihai and the people from Jinshan Temple sat at the banquet eating, while the ceremonial monks and pilgrims received some food too and were quite content. The meal was consumed with great enthusiasm.


    Especially the pilgrims, who wished they could lick their bowlspletely clean.


    "Immeasurable Heavenly Venerable, it sure is lively here¡­" Just then, a clear and sonorous voice rang out, and a young Taoist dressed in a Taoist robe approached.


    "Eh? You are a disciple of the Heavenly Master Yuan, Li Chunfeng?" Master Huihai slightly raised his eyebrows, obviously recognizing the young Taoist who approached.


    "Li Chunfeng?"


    Jiang Liu was conversing with Senior Abbot Faming when he heard the name Li Chunfeng. He set down his bowl and scrutinized the young Taoist.


    Although his knowledge of history was not strong, Jiang Liu had still heard of the master-disciple duo of Yuan Tiangang and Li Chunfeng in the Tang Dynasty.


    Setting aside that this was the mythological world of Journey to the West, even in the real world, Yuan Tiangang and Li Chunfeng were mythologized much like Liu Bowen and Zhuge Liang, esteemed as almost immortal-like figures in history.


    "Greetings, a chance meeting is a predestined affinity. Please, take a seat and join us for the meal," Jiang Liu courteously invited Li Chunfeng to sit, upon unexpectedly meeting such a famous historical figure.


    "Then I won''t stand on ceremony," replied Li Chunfeng, epting Jiang Liu''s invitation without hesitation and seating himself.


    "This Jinshan Temple is quite remote, and you are not of the Buddhist Sect, so what brings you here all of a sudden?" A portion of food was served up in front of Li Chunfeng, and Jiang Liu asked in a casual manner.


    Picking up the chopsticks before him, Li Chunfeng answered, "My visit is on ount of you."N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "For me?" Jiang Liu looked at Li Chunfeng in surprise, not understanding.


    "The world says you are the reincarnation of a Bodhisattva, having received the twelve Incense Scar Initiations, which is unprecedented. So today, I wish to debate with you¡­"


    "So you''vee to pick a fight?" Jiang Liu''s smile gradually faded upon hearing Li Chunfeng''s response.


    As they spoke, Jiang Liu moved the bowl of food in front of Li Chunfeng to the side.


    "Since you''vee to pick a fight, as an unwee guest, you shouldn''t eat this bowl of rice."

 Chapter 43 Formless Gatha (Including Reader Group Number)

    At this moment, Li Chunfeng''s mood was heavy.


    In recent days, the entire Chang''an City had been shaken by the news of a monk with twelve incense scars appearing, and the news had spread swiftly in all directions, like a hurricane.


    Li Chunfeng just so happened to overhear his master, Yuan Tiangang, chatting about how a monk with such profound Buddhist karma had emerged within Great Tang''s borders, surely a reincarnation of a Bodhisattva.


    With a Bodhisattva''s reincarnation, naturally, the influence of the Buddhist Sect in Great Tang would grow everrger, and correspondingly, the influence of the Taoist Sect would inevitably be squeezed.


    As one of the disciples of the Taoist Sect, Li Chunfeng felt an obligation to stand up. So, after hearing about Master Xuanzang swaggering off from Chang''an City, Li Chunfeng followed him.


    His goal was simple, which was to challenge Xuanzang to apetition. If he won, he could naturally embarrass him and suppress his influence.


    "Everyone says Master Xuanzang is the reincarnation of a Bodhisattva, yet he''s so stingy with a bowl of food. Isn''t that a bit too petty?" as he was about to eat with his chopsticks, Li Chunfeng watched Jiang Liu directly take the food away. There was no sign of anger on his face as he calmly spoke.


    "There''s a saying that goes, ''treat friends with a feast and enemies with weapons.'' If you''vee specifically to cause trouble, are you expecting me to hypocritically treat you with courtesy? I don''t have such insincerity," Jiang Liu rebutted Li Chunfeng''s mockery with a sneer.


    After a slight pause, he continued, "If you think I''m being petty, then I think you''ve got a thick face indeed. Youe looking for trouble and still expect to be treated well with food and drink? Where''s the logic in that?"


    Jiang Liu''s words left Li Chunfeng momentarily at a loss for words, feeling that his approach was unconventional.


    Great Tang was known as a nation of rituals, regardless of whether they were nobles or monks and Taoists. Anyone with a bit of status tended to cherish their reputation, so even in the face of an enemy, they would try to appear magnanimous and polite.


    Yet unexpectedly, Jiang Liu wasn''t interested in keeping up appearances at all. Not only did he admit to being petty, but he also mocked him for being thick-skinned.


    And yet, what he said made a lot of sense.


    "This little Taoist priest is so unreasonable. Master Xuanzang treated him well, so how can he be petty?" a female worshipper muttered under her breath nearby.


    "Indeed, Master Xuanzang was very polite to him, personally cooking meals for him; yet hees to cause Master Xuanzang trouble. Is there any sense in that? Isn''t this just repaying kindness with ingratitude?" a wealthy man d in silk also nodded and said.


    "I, Tie Niu, think the master''s words make sense. I can''t stand those schrs who are full of pretense, smiling in the face of troublemakers. Isn''t that the very definition of hypocrisy?" a dark-skinned man in coarse clothes also nodded in agreement.


    ...


    Choking on Jiang Liu''s words and now hearing these discussions around him, Li Chunfeng''s face was tinged with embarrassment, feeling that Jiang Liu was quite crafty at winning people''s hearts.


    As a Buddhist Disciple with twelve Scars of Precepts, he personally cooked meals to entertain these folk, so it was no wonder they all sided with him.


    Master Huihai, who was nearby, did not speak. The primary reasons he apanied Jiang Liu were twofold: first, to prevent him from suddenly running away, as he was aware of his attempts to escape from the Great Buddha Temple in the previous days, and his deration to leave the monastic life during the Incense Offering Ceremony was rming; second, to protect Jiang Liu from any demon attacks.


    As for Li Chunfenging to trouble Jiang Liu, Master Huihai had no intention of intervening.


    The young disciple of the Taoist Sect wants topete with Master Xuanzang? As an elder, it was not his ce to interfere.


    "Enough, stop wasting words."


    However, Jiang Liu''s eyes gleamed with anticipation as he stared at Li Chunfeng, seeming eager to start, and he stood up and said, "Since you''vee looking for trouble, then let''s get to it now, shall we?"


    Having the ability to level up by defeating opponents, Jiang Liu dly epted anyone who came looking for trouble.


    Considering Li Chunfeng''s youthful appearance, his cultivation level couldn''t be too exaggerated. Defeating him would mean obtaining Experience Points, Equipment, and even Skill Books that were handed to him on a tter, wouldn''t it?


    Seeing the eager glint in Jiang Liu''s eyes, as if he wished they would start that very moment, Li Chunfeng tensed up slightly in his heart.


    It was obvious that he had great confidence in his demon subduing techniques, and furthermore, he had been rumored to have mastered the Divine Skill of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound in just a few days...


    "Master Xuanzang, you misunderstand. I''m not here to fight, but hearing of your reputation, I had some doubts in my heart, and so I came to discuss the Dao with you," Li Chunfeng gave a salute and replied.


    "Not going to use force?" Hearing Li Chunfeng''s response, Jiang Liu showed a look of disappointment, "If it''s just about debating, then there''s nothing worth discussing. Besides, you are from the Taoist Sect, and I am from the Buddhist Sect, each with its own biases."


    If it came to a physical confrontation, Jiang Liu would naturally be happy; but if it was just a debate, wasn''t that just idle chatter?


    What sounds nice is debating, but what sounds bad is like shrews hurling abuse at each other, to see who can outdo whom. Win or lose, what significance does that have?


    "Whether it''s the Taoist Sect or the Buddhist Sect, the purpose of our scriptures is to lead people to goodness, with all roads leading to the same end. How can we not debate?" Seeing Jiang Liu''s reluctance, Li Chunfeng felt a secret joy in his heart.


    It seemed that Jiang Liu did not know much about the scriptures and Buddhist principles; this made Li Chunfeng believe his chances of winning were even greater. He provocatively said, "Could it be that Master Xuanzang, you dare not?"


    "Right, right, right, I don''t dare, you win, okay, now go..." However, Jiang Liu was not biting Li Chunfeng''s taunt, he waved his hand and settled back down with an indifferent attitude.


    It was like punching cotton; this feeling made Li Chunfeng very ufortable.


    Seeing his indifferent attitude, does he not understand what it means to lose a debate to me? To concede in such an indifferent manner.


    Master Huihai at his side also frowned slightly.


    If Li Chunfeng left now, and it spread that he had debated with Master Xuanzang and made Master Xuanzang retreat in difficulty, admitting defeat, that would be detrimental to the reputation of the Great Buddha Temple and even the entire Buddhist Sect.


    Turning alternately pale and red, to leave now would be a pyrrhic victory.


    Although Jiang Liu made it clear that he did not wish to debate, Li Chunfeng still forced himself to ask, "Master Xuanzang, I only ask you one question as you are a disciple of the Buddhist Sect, you should know, what is the meaning of cultivating Buddhism?"


    What is the meaning of cultivating Buddhism?n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    This question changed Master Huihai''s expression.


    The meaning of cultivating Buddhism, how could it be so easily articted? Many monks who have struggled in their Zen practice cannot rify it. Although Master Xuanzang bears the twelve Scars of Precepts, after all, he is a young monk, how could he rify it?


    It''s like asking others, what is the meaning of life? Who can answer that?


    However, Master Huihai''s spirit was heavy, but many of the pilgrims were curiously looking at Xuanzang, their eyes filled with anticipation.


    Indeed, what is the meaning of cultivating Buddhism? How would Master Xuanzang answer?


    The meaning of cultivating Buddhism?


    Of course, Jiang Liu did not have an answer to this question; until now, his whole mind had been set on returning to secr life, and he had read only a few Buddhist scriptures.


    However, at this moment, a sh of inspiration crossed his mind.


    Coming from a modern era that has experienced an explosion of information on the inte and being a thousand years ahead in terms of knowledge and insight, he had an advantage that people of this era could not understand.


    "Brother Xuanming, please fetch me some writing materials," Jiang Liu said to his fellow monk Xuanming sitting beside him.


    "Alright, I''ll get them," not knowing why Jiang Liu wanted them, but Brother Xuanming nodded, hurried down his bowl, and ran out to get the writing materials quickly.


    Taking the writing materials, Jiang Liu stepped outside of the dining hall.


    Behind him, Senior Abbot Faming, Master Huihai, Li Chunfeng, and many pilgrims and the procession of monks followed with curiosity, not knowing how he would answer the question raised.


    Without further words, Jiang Liu picked up the brush and on the wall outside of the dining hall, he wrote down only twenty characters.


    The body is the Bodhi tree, the mind is like a bright mirror''s stand. Be diligent at all times in wiping it, do not let it gather dust.


    "Abbot, this Formless Gatha is my gift to Jinshan Temple," Jiang Liu said, putting down the brush and turning to the Senior Abbot Faming beside him.


    PS: At the request of some friends, I have created a reader group, the group number is: 364511861, please add the group by verifying with the book name.

 Chapter 44 Open Conspiracy

    "This, merely twenty words, almost encapstes the essence of cultivating Buddhism..." Master Huihai, staring at the Formless Gatha written on the wall, murmured softly with wide eyes.


    Indeed, what is the meaning of cultivating Buddhism? Is it not just as written here: constantly wipe clean, let not dust settle, lest your mind be obscured by the mundane world?


    "Excellent poem, merely twenty words,paring oneself to the Bodhi Tree, and the heart to the Mingjing tform, containing endless Buddhist principles, yet so simple and understandable," a schr in tattered robes loudly admired next to him, incapable ofposing such poetry himself, yet unimpeded in his appreciation.


    "This, this..." As for Li Chunfeng, looking at the Formless Gatha on the wall, he was stunned like a wooden chicken.


    His discernment was naturally present, and he understood even more what the poem implied.


    Who would have thought, this Xuanzang was but a youth, yet his understanding of Buddhist principles was so profound? Was this the monk with twelve scars?


    ...


    The people nearby, whether they were the monks apanying from the Great Buddha Temple, the senior brothers from Jinshan Temple, or the visiting pilgrims, all were amazed by the twenty words of the Formless Gatha on the wall.


    However, for Jiang Liu, creating this scene was just a moment of sudden inspiration.


    Firstly, the Formless Gatha, this Buddhist poem, could perfectly answer the challenging question posed to him by Li Chunfeng. Secondly, by leaving this poem behind, it would surely be passed down, and being written at the Jinshan Temple, it would be considered the original.


    In the future, many people, including Buddhist disciples, would specificallye to see the original site of the Formless Gatha. That wall would be considered a very important attraction.


    In modern pance, this act also helped promote the development of tourism for Jinshan Temple.


    He had been staying at Jinshan Temple since he first crossed over. The senior brothers and masters in the temple had taken good care of him; even Senior Brother Xuankong had lost an arm, partly because of him. If possible, Jiang Liu was very willing to assist Jinshan Temple.


    He understood the principle of repaying even a drop of water with a gushing spring.


    After putting down his brush, Jiang Liu turned his head, looked at Li Chunfeng, and after a brief ponder, said, "Since you called it a discussion of Tao, you posed a question to me. ording to courtesy, I should also pose a question to you, shouldn''t I?"


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Li Chunfeng came back to his senses, moved his gaze away from the poem on the wall, sorted out his emotions, and said, "Please, Master Xuanzang, pose your question."


    "I once saw something but did not understand it, and I hope you can help me solve this puzzle," since the other party had specificallye to challenge him, Jiang Liu naturally had to pose a difficult question for him to answer.


    Buddhist principles? Taoist teachings? In the modern view, both are aspects of life philosophy. After pondering briefly, Jiang Liu had thought of his question.


    "I once saw a runaway carriage, frighteningly fast. Several children, ignoring their parents'' advice, were ying on the road. It looked like the carriage would crash into them, destroying both the vehicle and the children.


    Fortunately, if one just pulled the reins, the carriage would veer towards the roadside, but there was another child ying obediently beside the road, heeding his parents'' guidance. So, do you think one should pull the reins or not?"


    This is a rather famous moral dilemma in modern times, originally involving children ying on railway tracks and an oing train, slightly modified here to involve a carriage.


    "ording to themon mindset, it would be better for one to die than many, wouldn''t it? But the error lies with the group of children; the child ying by the roadside did nothing wrong. If the innocent child must die, how unjust, how unfair would that be? So, do you think the reins should be pulled?" Jiang Liu gazed seriously at Li Chunfeng and asked.


    The question posed by Jiang Liu made everyone present look at each other, their expressions troubled, not knowing how to answer.


    Indeed, whenparing one child to a group, everyone knows what choice to make: losing fewer is a win.


    But clearly if the single child did nothing wrong and the group of children did, how could it be right for the innocent child to end up dead? That simply makes no sense.


    Everyone present, even including Master Huihai from the Great Buddha Temple, did not know how to answer this question for a time, and many pilgrims were looking expectantly at Li Chunfeng.


    However, unlike the inquisitive and expectant gazes of others, Master Huihai''s eyes carried a hint of an amused smile.


    Under the stare of everyone, Li Chunfeng''s face turned alternately pale and flushed, and in the end, he could only shake his head, "I, I don''t know..."


    ¡­


    Jiang Liu, riding in the Buddhist Pnquin, returned to the Great Buddha Temple. After getting off the pnquin, Jiang Liu pressed his palms together and bowed to the procession of monks behind him, "Thank you all for apanying me."


    "Master Xuanzang is too polite. This is what we should do!" Seeing Jiang Liu thanking and bowing, the monks in the procession quickly returned the gesture, answering in unison.


    After bidding farewell to Master Huihai, Jiang Liu went back to his Zen Room to rest.


    Although he had been carried in the Buddhist Pnquin, in an era without cars, traveling back and forth over fifty li, including many mountain roads, still took quite a while, and Jiang Liu felt somewhat exhausted.


    After returning to his Zen Room, Jiang Liu sat cross-legged and activated the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound Divine Skills.


    As the Divine Skills of cultivation technique operated, Jiang Liu could feel his internal strength improving bit by bit. Although slow, it was steady.


    Tip: Earned 1 Experience Point.


    Tip: Earned 1 Experience Point.


    Tip: Earned 1 Experience Point.


    ¡­


    Elsewhere, Master Huihai went to where Saint Monk Longhai was located and recounted in great detail everything that had happened at Jinshan Temple that day.


    "Amitabha, the Formless Gatha, huh? I never expected him to have such literary talent, and even more unexpectedly, his understanding of Buddhist principles," Saint Monk Longhai felt quite moved by the poem and murmured softly to himself.


    After murmuring to himself for a moment, Saint Monk Longhai thenmanded, "Disciple Huihai, have someone carve a stone tablet. ce it in the most conspicuous part of our Great Buddha Temple''s za, and inscribe this Formless Gatha on it, to remind all disciples that, in cultivating Buddhism, one must always be diligent in purification."


    "Alright, Senior Brother, I''ve noted it," Master Huihai nodded earnestly in response.


    After nodding, Master Huihai continued, "This Formless Gatha will surely be passed down as a timeless Buddhist poem, and the schrly debate between Li Chunfeng and Xuanzang will probably spread far and wide. For us, this is a good thing..."


    "Indeed, since that is the case, we should add fuel to the fire," nodding his head, Saint Monk Longhai then said.


    "Oh? Please enlighten me, Senior Brother, how should we add this fire?" Hearing this, Master Huihai asked curiously.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Li Chunfeng''s question was perfectly answered by Xuanzang, but, the question posed by Xuanzang remains unanswered, doesn''t it? Promote it as a doubt in Xuanzang''s mind. If someone can answer it, our Great Buddha Temple is willing to offer ten thousand taels of gold as a reward."


    "A splendid n! This is a manifest strategy. By doing so, the doctrinal debate between these two young figures will be spread even farther, greatly enhancing our Buddhist Sect''s prestige!" Master Huihai''s eyes brightened, and he eximed in admiration.


    "Amitabha, such a trivial matter, I will just teach it all to Disciple Huihai. Next, I need to arrange for Xuanzang and Daoji to enter the Demon-Suppressing Hall for their training..."


    (PS: It''s about to be a new week, and we need your rmendation tickets to make a surge in the new book ranking, thank you.)

 Chapter 45 Demon-Suppressing Hall

    A hall that doesn''t seem particrly grand, even slightly dpidated, but it exudes a sense of antiquity.


    Beneath the hall, the thick lines resemble some sort of Sanskrit, faintly revealing the character for "demon," suppressed underneath by this hall. This is the Demon-Suppressing Hall, suppressing a Demon Domain below it.


    "Xuanzang, Daoji, be extremely careful when you enter. The demons inside are treacherous, cunning, brutal, and bloodthirsty. Over the years, countless outstanding disciples of our sect have lost their lives there," Saint Monk Longhai cautioned outside the Demon-Suppressing Hall, after all, both disciples were too important to the Buddhist Sect, neither could afford to be lost inside.


    "Master, rest assured, your disciple understands," After two days of healing and rest, Daoji''s injuries had healed, and he nodded solemnly.


    "Holy Monk, when do we go in?" As for Jiang Liu beside him, he seemed a bit impatient.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Practicing Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound might also increase Experience Points, but just over 300 points per hour. To Jiang Liu, the speed of gaining Experience Points was too slow. Given a monster-farming sacred ce like the Demon-Suppressing Hall, naturally, he could hardly wait to get in.


    Seeing Jiang Liu''s impatience, it didn''t seem like he was about to face a life-or-death crisis, but rather as if he were about to go treasure hunting, causing the corner of Longhai''s mouth to twitch slightly.


    However, seeing that Daoji was carrying a pack while Jiang Liu had empty hands, he said, "Xuanzang, don''t you need to prepare before entering the Demon-Suppressing Hall? If you''re to stay for a few days, shouldn''t you get ready food and daily necessities?"


    "Don''t worry, Holy Monk, I''ve prepared everything," Jiang Liu replied without going into too much detail. Naturally, he had stored all the essential supplies in his storage space.


    Since Jiang Liu spoke so, Longhai didn''t press further and raised his hand, gently pointing forward.


    The great doors of the Demon-Suppressing Hall slowly opened, and from outside looking in, one couldn''t see clearly into the dimly lit interior. Immediately afterward, Jiang Liu and Daoji entered the Demon-Suppressing Hall one after another.


    Once inside, they could see that the hall was filled with a mist that seemed to be there yet not, hampering one''s vision, making it hard to see far.


    From the outside, the Demon-Suppressing Hall didn''t appear to be veryrge, but once inside, they realized it seemed to form its own space, as walking hundreds of meters forward had not brought them to any walls.


    "Senior Brother, I''ve heard that the demons inside the hall are cruel and bloodthirsty. We must support each other to get through," Daoji said in a low voice, remaining vignt of his surroundings.


    "Indeed, that''s a given¡­" Looking at Daoji by his side, Jiang Liu nodded as well.


    If they were to enterbat, he would be his teammate. Naturally, in a team state fighting the enemy, they had to take care of each other.


    Chirp chirp...


    After walking for about fifteen minutes, suddenly, a sharp noise came from within the mist, like a steel needle scraping on iron, extremely unpleasant to the ears.


    Then, a ck beast resembling a hyena with a single horn emerged from the thick fog.


    "This guy sure is ugly," Daojimented as he eyed the two creatures.


    The monster did not respond to Daoji''s words, its greedy eyes fixated on the two men, and then with a leap, it pounced towards them.


    "Can''t speak, huh? Looks like it''s just the lowest rank of monster," Daoji mocked, observing that the hyena-like creature did not verbally retaliate, he murmured softly.


    As he spoke, he lifted his finger, and an image of a lotus appeared at its tip. Then, a Lotus Finger Power shot out like a silken ribbon towards the creature.


    With a puff, the Finger Power instantly pierced through the brain of the creature, causing it to fall to the ground, twitch for a few moments, and then lie still.


    Notification: Gained 25 Experience Points, 4 gold.


    Teamed up with Daoji, Jiang Liu did nothing initially, but as soon as Daoji killed the monster, a system prompt appeared, and Jiang Liu nodded in satisfaction. Indeed, teaming up to y monsters was the best way to earn Experience Points.


    Moving forward, single-horned monsters resembling hyenas became more frequent. It was apparent that the two had ventured into a monster colony within the Demon-Suppressing Hall.


    At first, Jiang Liu was happy to let Daoji take the lead while he simply reaped the Experience Points. As the number of hyenas increased, sometimes ten or eight at a time, Jiang Liu had to join the fight.


    "Heh heh heh, humans, did another two baldiese here to be our meal?" After Jiang Liu and Daoji had in dozens of monsters, sinister voices finally spoke up.


    Out of the dense fog, severalrge figures slowly emerged. They were still hyenas, but these were farrger than the ones they''d initially encountered.


    The ones they''d met before were only the size of dogs, but these were asrge as Fierce Tigers, baring their teeth, their eyes filled with greed.


    "They can speak humannguage? Eight monsters!" Daoji''s expression grew solemn upon seeing these talking hyena monsters.


    Solo fights wouldn''t be a problem, but facing eight all at once was a different story.


    "Monsters that speak are demons, so these hyena monsters are around level 10-20?" Jiang Liu was serious, but mostly excited.


    After killing so many minions, it was time for some more worthy monsters.


    "Senior brother, it seems we''re in for a tough battle," Daoji said, gripping his Chant Beads and activating the power of Arhat Fist as he stood beside Jiang Liu.


    "A tough battle? I''d just call it a bit of a nuisance..." Jiang Liu responded confidently,pared to Daoji''s solemnity.


    Although he might be slightly behind in level, he had plenty of Skills and various Equipment that enhanced his strengths. To Jiang Liu, these monsters were just experience on legs.


    "Attack together, eat them!" The monsters didn''t give Jiang Liu and Daoji much chance to talk. Drool dripping from their mouths, one particrly huge hyena, strong as an ox, roared, and all eight charged at them.


    Swift Fire Bead!


    Thanks to the passive effect of the Redwood Ring, which doubled the damage of the first attack, Jiang Liu naturally used his strongest single-target Attack Skill.


    A fireball the size of a washbowl sted out, exploding on one of the hyenas, and amidst its yelps, the creaturended on the ground, charred.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, the Health Bar of this hyena dropped by more than half instantly.


    "Starry Sky Spread!" As the remaining monsters closed in, Jiang Liu yanked off the Sandalwood Prayer Beads from his neck, scattering the 108 Buddha Beads in a fan shape that hit and repelled all the hyena monsters.


    Seizing the opportunity, Jiang Liu sprung forward, not retreating but advancing towards the charred hyena, lifting his Demon Subduing Staff, and smashing it down on the hyena''s head.


    The Health Bar emptied in an instant, and the hyena let out a half cry of distress before copsing and remaining motionless.


    The battle had just started. Out of eight monsters, Jiang Liu swiftly slew one.


    Notification: Earned 220 Experience Points, 30 gold.


    Notification: Acquired Arhat Mace. Please check your inventory.

 Chapter 46 The Adorable Little Witch

    "Hiss, how formidable. Is he really just at the beginning of the Meridian Unblocking Realm?" Daoji hadn''t even had the chance to act when he saw Jiang Liu instantly y one of the monsters, and couldn''t help but take a sharp breath of cold air.


    It seemed like in just two days, his strength had increased even further?


    "Indeed, this Demon Subduing Staff is such a great treasure for ying monsters in the Demon-Suppressing Hall."


    Daoji felt that Jiang Liu''s strength had improved, but Jiang Liu himself knew that it was all thanks to the Demon Subduing Staff¡ªnot only did it add 70 points of Attack Power, but more importantly, it was the staff''s passive effect.


    It could deal 30% extra damage to demon, ghost, and monster type targets. Naturally, when fighting the monsters in the Demon Cave, Jiang Liu''s disyed strength was much higher than when he was sparring with Daoji before.


    With a beckoning motion, the 108 Sandalwood Buddha Beads he had shot out returned to Jiang Liu''s hand, reassembling into a ne that he wore around his neck. Jiang Liu raised his Demon Subduing Staff again and turned his head to shout, "What are you spacing out for? Aren''t you going to act?"


    "Oh, right." Chided by Jiang Liu, Daoji snapped back to reality, nodded, and hurriedly followed behind Jiang Liu as they charged forth.


    Sometimes, battle was a contest of momentum. Jiang Liu had instantly in one of the monsters just now, startling the others. So, as the two of them charged over, mentally overwhelmed, the monsters found themselves suppressed by Jiang Liu and Daoji.


    These monsters were indeed very powerful, and after an intense fight, Jiang Liu had been bitten several times and shed by their ws.


    However, the Defense bonus of his own equipment was quite strong, especially the Vidyaraja Crown which added 180 Defense and also had a life-stealing effect.


    Thus, as Jiang Liu alsonded hits on these monsters, his injuries gradually healed.


    As time passed, the monsters were killed one by one, and the pressure on Jiang Liu and hispanion slowly eased.


    When thest andrgest hyena-like monster was finally in, both were left gasping for breath with weariness.


    Tip: You have gained 820 Experience Points and 100 money.


    Tip: You have obtained a Bodhi Ring, please check your inventory to receive it.


    Tip: Your level has increased by 1, current level is 12.


    A refreshing surge flowed through his body, instantly dispelling all fatigue, asforting as drinking a cup of ice-cold water on a dog day.


    Since Jiang Liu wasn''t seriously injured to begin with, there was no talk of his wounds beingpletely healed, but he did inwardly sigh over his level increase.


    As his level grew higher, leveling up became slower. Calcting roughly, he had gained over 8000 Experience Points from killing monsters in the Demon-Suppressing Hall and from his cultivation sessions with Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound to move from level 11 to 12.


    Who knew how many Experience Points it would take to get from level 12 to 13.


    However, as the level increases, the amount of Experience Points required for future levels would naturally rise¡ªthis was to be expected.


    Having just in eight monsters, two pieces of equipment seemed to have dropped, and Jiang Liu opened his inventory space to check.


    Indeed, the first monster had dropped a weapon, the Arhat Mace, and thest monster dropped a Bodhi Ring; another monster had also dropped a Healing Potion. The drop rate didn''t seem too bad.


    His gaze fell on the two pieces of equipment, and their attributes quickly appeared before Jiang Liu''s eyes.


    Arhat Mace (Fine Quality): Requires level 15, Attack Power +50, Passive: Sacrificial Strike, consumes 60% of current Health Points to deal 800% damage to the target, Durability 8/10.


    Bodhi Ring (Common Quality): Requires level 10, Attack Power +15, Durability 1/10


    The Arhat Mace was a weapon but paled inparison to his Demon Subduing Staff, and he couldn''t equip it until level 15, making it somewhatckluster for Jiang Liu.


    The passive effect might be strong, but the cost was too great. After pondering, Jiang Liu took out the Arhat Mace.


    "Daoji, I see you don''t have a fitting weapon. I have a Buddhist Treasure here for you," said Jiang Liu. If Daoji became stronger, it meant more Experience Points for Jiang Liu as well¡ªit was for his own good.


    Lacking the Defense of Jiang Liu''s equipment or the life-stealing effect of the Vidyaraja Crown, Daoji was currently tending his wounds. Surprised by the Arhat Mace Jiang Liu handed to him, he stared at Jiang Liu in astonishment: "Brother, are you really giving me this Buddhist Treasure?"


    "Cut the crap, you want it or not?" Jiang Liu rolled his eyes in annoyance.


    "I''ll take it, of course, thank you, brother, thank you!" Seeing Jiang Liu''s serious expression, not at all joking, Daoji hurriedly reached out to take the Arhat Mace.


    Grasping it in his hand, he could clearly feel the formidable power contained within the Arhat Mace. With it, his strength was certain to increase significantly, filling Daoji with gratitude.


    Having given the Arhat Mace to Daoji, Jiang Liu then took out a Bodhi Ring, sighed softly, and slid it onto his finger.


    The Bodhi Ring added 15 Attack Power, which was decent enough, better than nothing.


    But seeing that it only had 1 Durability Point, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched. Was this seriously a piece of defective equipment? Maybe it would be junk in less than two days?


    Without a Life Profession, he had no way to repair the durability of his Equipment.


    After putting on the Bodhi Ring, Jiang Liu looked over himself. He could see all the equipment he was wearing at a nce.


    Weapon: Demon Subduing Staff (Perfect Quality): Requires Level 10, Attack Power +70, Passive: Deals 30% additional damage to demons and monsters, Durability 9/10.


    Clothes: None


    Helmet: Vidyaraja Crown (Legendary Quality): No level requirement, Defense +260 (10-100000, varies with user level), Special Effect: Converts 10% of the damage dealt to a target into the user''s Health Points, Durability 66/100.


    Ne: Sandalwood Buddha Beads (Fine Quality): Increases Buff Skill effects by 15%,es with the Skill - Starry Sky Spread: Shoots out 108 Buddha Beads at once, causing a knock-back effect in a fan-shaped range, Cooldown Time 1 day, Durability 10/10.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Belt: None


    Ring: Redwood Ring (Fine Quality): Attack Power +20, Passive Effect: After 300 seconds out ofbat, the first attack deals double damage, Durability 9/10.


    Ring: Bodhi Ring (Common Quality): Requires Level 10, Attack Power +15, Durability 1/10


    Bracelet: Bronze Bracelet (Common Quality): Requires Level 10, Defense +20, Durability 9/10.


    Bracelet: None


    Shoes: Hemp Shoes (Common Quality): Defense +5, Movement Speed +10%, Durability 8/10.


    Special essory: Skill Bookcase (Special essory): Can ce three Skill Books from other Professions inside, gaining the conditions to learn the skills.


    Special essory: None


    Special essory: None


    Before he knew it, he already had quite a lot of equipment. Among the ten main equipment slots, he was only missing a bracelet, a piece of clothing, and a belt to be fully equipped.


    ...


    Demon-Suppressing Hall, deep within.


    A three-meter-tall, crimson-bodied demon, holding a steel trident, looked solemnly at a little girl in front of him, who appeared as immacte as a porcin doll and seemed to be about three or four years old.


    "Hey, I''m asking you, am I cute?" the little porcin-doll-like girl asked, bouncing over to the demon with cheerful innocence.


    "Cu-cute..." the demon answered apprehensively, swallowing hard.


    Boom.


    The demon''s body suddenly turned to ashes and dispersed like smoke.


    The little girl turned to leave, her voice a bit choked up: "I, I don''t want to be the cute one, I... I want to be an ugly and cruel witch, sniffle sniffle..."

 Chapter 47 Chapter 47 Terrifying Humans

    A fierce tiger rose to its feet, its massive and heavy paws continuously swinging, casting cold streaks of light with each swipe.


    In front of this upright walking fierce tiger, Jiang Liu wielded his Demon Subduing Staff like a dragon, and the shes between the tiger''s paw and the staff sent out bursts of energy. The back-and-forth battle between man and demon was extremely intense.


    Bang, bang, bang!


    Swinging his Demon Subduing Staff, Jiang Liu kept retreating. In terms of strength, even though he had no skills or equipment, the power of the Tiger Demon was still overwhelming, befitting its ability to walk upright,parable to a Demon Soldier.


    Had it not been for the amplification from his equipment, which greatly enhanced both his defense and attack, he would have had no chance against the Tiger Demon''s strength.


    However, strong as the Tiger Demon was, defeating Jiang Liu was not so easy. Daoji, though injured and lying on the ground, was not without the power to fight back. Raising his finger from afar, a Lotus Finger Power shot toward the Tiger Demon, forcing it to divide its attention to guard against his attack.


    In the fierce battle, Jiang Liu was scratched several times by the tiger''s ws, but one could see in his eyes that the health bar of the Tiger Demon had also dropped to a very low level.


    "Senior brother!" suddenly, at that moment, the severely injured Daoji on the ground shouted out.


    Jiang Liu understood immediately and, instead of blocking the thick tiger pawing down with his Demon Subduing Staff, he raised his fleshly palm to meet it head-on.


    At the same time, he internally chanted softly, Vajra Mantra!


    An invisible Vajra Power blessed Jiang Liu''s body, and upon contact with the tiger''s paw, he felt a sharp pain in his palm, as if it were being pricked by needles.


    But despite the stinging pain, Jiang Liu firmly grasped the Tiger Demon''s paw, not allowing it to break free.


    Almost at the same time, a string of chant beads swelled in the wind and flew over like a flood dragon from behind, wrapping around the Tiger Demon. It was the effect of Daoji''s Buddhist Treasure Chant Beads.


    As the Tiger Demon was bound, Jiang Liu''s Demon Subduing Staff harshly smashed down on its head, sending it flying away.


    Simultaneously, he raised his palm and released a ball of me that exploded on the Tiger Demon, clearing out itsst bit of health bar.


    System Notification: You''ve gained 1760 Experience Points and 300 coins.


    System Notification: You''ve obtained "Guanyin Mantra." Please check your inventory space to view it.


    System Notification: Level up by 1, current level: 13.


    With the Tiger Demon in, a series of notifications appeared.


    After the intense battle, Jiang Liu''s injuries were not light, but with the leveling up, a cool sensation swept through his body, erasing all fatigue andpletely healing his wounds.


    The ces where the Tiger Demon''s ws had torn his flesh, previously gaping wounds, now did not even bear a scar.


    "Three days'' time, and I''ve leveled up again?" Receiving the system notification and seeing his level increase again brought a surge of delight to Jiang Liu''s heart. Your journey continues with empire


    He quickly estimated that in these three days of monster fighting, he had gained about 20,000 Experience Points in total. The level up was hard-earned.


    He was fortunate to be in the Demon-Suppressing Hall; otherwise, earning 20,000 Experience Points outside would have been no easy feat.


    Of course, leveling up was indeed joyful, but what made Jiang Liu even happier was the visible rate of strength improvement.


    Back at Jinshan Temple, when he encountered an injured Wolf Demon capable of walking upright like a Demon Soldier, both he and Gaoyang had nearly lost their lives.


    But now, inside the Demon-Suppressing Hall, he had managed to honorably y a bipedal Tiger Demon together with Daoji.


    Comparison of the two scenarios allowed Jiang Liu to clearly perceive the improvement in his own strength.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Opening his pack space, indeed, following the death of the Tiger Demon, a Skill Book, specifically suited for Monk professions, had appeared in his inventory.


    With his back towards Daoji, Jiang Liu took out the Guanyin Mantra Skill Book, a level 10 skill that he could now learn.


    After spending 1 Skill Point, the Guanyin Mantra Skill Book transformed into myriad points of starlight, merging into Jiang Liu''s body.


    Guanyin Mantra (Primary Level 1): Restores 10% of maximum Life Value, with a Cooldown Time of 600 seconds.


    Having learned the skill, Jiang Liu approached Daoji, saw that his Health Bar was at about one-third, thought for a moment, and activated the Guanyin Mantra.


    With a wave of his hand, a faint green light slowly fused into Daoji''s body, and subsequently, a small portion of Daoji''s Health Bar recovered.


    "What an amazing ability, I feel much of my injuries have eased," feeling the change in his wounds, Daoji looked at Jiang Liu in astonishment. He had such a technique? Why hadn''t he seen Jiang Liu use it before?


    "How is it? Feeling alright?" Jiang Liu asked, after casting Guanyin Mantra on Daoji, and helped him up from the ground.


    "With that ability just now, a few more times and I should be fine," Daoji replied with a hopeful look in his eyes.


    "After using it once, we have to wait a while before using it again," Jiang Liu shook his head, with a Cooldown Time of 600 seconds, which was indeed quite long.


    Hearing that it would take a while before it could be used again, Daoji nodded in understanding, and after a brief moment of silence, he suggested, "Brother, we''ve been inside for three days now, and I feel that I''m about to make a breakthrough to the Body Tempering Realm. The food and water we brought are also almost depleted..."


    Daoji meant he wanted to leave the Demon-Suppressing Hall. Jiang Liu of course understood, but having found such a Holy Leveling Ground, he naturally did not want to leave.


    However, before Jiang Liu could respond, suddenly, the sound of frantic footsteps arose. At the same time, an upright walking tortoise was seen scurrying over at an incredibly fast pace.


    "Another Demon n-level creature?!" Seeing the swiftly running tortoise, Daoji tensed up. The previous encounter with the Tiger Demon had already left him severely wounded; now facing such a creature, his fate seemed grim.


    Bang!


    Almost at the same time, a ck me moved even faster, instantlynding on the tortoise, and amidst the piercing scream, the creature turned into ashes in the blink of an eye. The Demon Creature of Demon n-level was instantly killed with a single strike.


    This scene left both Jiang Liu and Daoji astonished. Was there a Great Demon Head hidden behind them?


    From the direction where the ck me had shot over, footsteps were heard, and soon after, a tiny, doll-like girl, about four or five years old, came hopping over.


    However, upon seeing Jiang Liu and Daoji, the little girl stopped.


    Jiang Liu and the little girl stood off against each other, and for a moment, the atmosphere was dead and eerie.


    "Brother... This being that canmand Spell Supernatural Abilities is at least of Demon General level," Daoji said in a whisper, his face gone pale as he watched the hopping little girl.


    However, just as Jiang Liu and Daoji were fearfully looking at the little girl, wondering how to escape with their lives, the little girl herself began to scream in horror, turned around, and fled desperately.


    "Ah! Humans! It''s humans, how scary! There are humans here! And it''s the terrifying kind of human with a bald head!"

 Chapter 48 Chapter 48 The Inverted Worldview

    Although she appeared to be just a little girl around four or five years old, she had killed a Demon Soldier level creature with a single move and was able tomand spell-like powers, which unequivocally showcased that the little girl possessed the strength of a Demon General.


    Yet, having such strength, she was so timid? Instead, she turned around and ran away?


    This situation left Jiang Liu and Daoji looking at each other in dismay, utterly stunned.


    "Senior brother? Are we that scary?" Daoji turned his head, looking utterly baffled as he asked Jiang Liu.


    "This little witch, although her strength is terrifying, she must have some problems with her mind," Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly, and he continued, as if this was the only exnation that made sense.


    Initially, seeing that the little witch''s strength was terrifying, both Jiang Liu and Daoji had been preparing to find a way to escape with their lives, but now, since she had turned to run away first, they secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    Perhaps due to being overly frightened, the little witch, in her haste to escape, actually stumbled and fell to the ground, rubbing a swelling bump on her head, and began crying softly.


    Looking at the little girl who seemed only four or five years old, sitting on the ground crying alone, Jiang Liu thought for a moment and decided to walk over and talk to her.


    Since this little witch was so scared of him, he needed to figure out why, after all.


    "Senior brother, be careful, our master said that the demons in the Demon-Suppressing Hall are all cruel and cunning. Her appearance might be a trick to deceive us."


    Although it seemed safe for the moment, this little witch still possessed an unmatched power, so Daoji felt it was better to keep a respectful distance, who knew if she was deceiving them?


    "Rx, if she was really deceiving us, why would she have shown such a powerful force just now? Isn''t that just making us wary of her? Moreover, if she really wanted to harm us, would she need to be so roundabout?" patting Daoji''s shoulder, Jiang Liu replied.


    This statement made Daoji pause, it did seem reasonable.


    "You, you stay away, I, I''m not afraid of you, don''te closer, I, I''m super fierce..." the little witch, sitting on the ground and crying softly, seeing Jiang Liu approaching, scrambled backward and, with the frailest expression, uttered the fiercest words.


    While she spoke, she deliberately bared her teeth to look fierce, showing two tiny sharp canines, which instead gave her a cute appearance.


    Although this little witch was timid and seemed very scared, she still possessed a power that he couldn''t resist, so Jiang Liu didn''t get too close.


    After stopping in his tracks, he tried to show a rather kind smile, "Little girl, don''t be afraid, I mean no harm, I''m a good person, I just want to talk to you."


    "Wow, just, just like this, so scary, I know you are a good person, you are the most terrifying good person people talk about...".


    Although Jiang Liu showed a kind smile and spoke softly, it did notfort the little witch at all; instead, her reaction grew more intense, as if this kind demeanor was even more terrifying than a fierce and ferocious expression.


    "A terrifying good person? What the hell is that¡­" Jiang Liu''s face darkened, listening to the little witch''s words, as if being a good person was the most terrifying thing?


    "Alright, no more nonsense, I told you, I am a bad guy, if you don''t behave, I will be rude!" His kind smile fading, his expression turned dark, and Jiang Liu menacingly threatened.


    This time, the little witch quieted down, though she still looked terrified, she dared not move around or make a sound anymore.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Indeed, calling himself a good person only made her more fearful, but showing the demeanor of a viin actually calmed her down.


    Jiang Liu inwardly ridiculed this, yet his expression remained unchanged. He asked sternly, "First, tell me, why are you so afraid of humans?"


    "Ever since I was little, my father always warned me that humans are terrifying, especially monks like you who are bald. You all love to convert demons, making us into good demons. Just a few years ago, I saw Uncle Yellow Lion King being converted..."


    The Little Witch looked at Jiang Liu with fright, not daring to hide anything, and candidly answered, recalling the scene when a powerful demon had been converted, looking quite terrified.


    Upon saying this, the Little Witch fell silent for a moment, her gaze sweeping over the nine incense scars on Daoji''s head, and said, "Also, my father said, the more spots a monk has on his head, the more terrifying he is."


    "So, in the cognition of demons in this Demon Cave, is evil considered the nature, and goodness a disgrace? Thus, the values of these demons arepletely opposite to those of humans, aren''t they?"


    In just a few words,bined with the Little Witch''s attitude, Jiang Liu was able to roughly understand what was going on.


    In simple terms, humans pride themselves on being kind and fear those who are evil and cruel, avoiding them with respect. If there truly is a demon capable of reversing the nature of humans, turning kind people into those who are evil and cruel, then such a demon is indeed very terrifying.


    Simrly, the demons in the Demon Cave pride themselves on being evil and cruel, and consider goodness shameful.


    Moreover, Buddhist monks like to convert demons, so in the eyes of these demons, monks who can change the nature of cruel demons into kind demons are seen as the most terrifying people?


    Moreover, this Little Witch had witnessed her so-called Uncle Yellow Lion King, presumably a malevolent and strong demon, being converted right before her eyes, which could be said to have caused a psychological shadow; therefore, seeing Daoji and himself had terrified her into fleeing.


    Especially since Daoji''s head is marked with nine incense scars.


    As for Jiang Liu? Because he was wearing a Vidyaraja Crown, it wasn''t visible; otherwise, Jiang Liu really wondered if his twelve incense scars could have knocked her unconscious from fear.


    Jiang Liu''s question had already been answered, and seeing Jiang Liu pondering, the Little Witch spoke, "I''ve answered everything you asked, can I go now? I told you, my demonic aura is formidable, righteous aura cannot invade me, you, you won''t be able to convert me..."


    "Brother, let her go..." Daoji, seeing Jiang Liu hesitating and seemingly not prepared to let the Little Witch leave, whispered softly.


    After all, the Little Witch''s cultivation level was much more terrifying than either of theirs. Although she was afraid of them, who knew if she might suddenly attack?


    Staying with her, one always felt ack of security in life.


    Jiang Liu harbored his inner hesitations and did not respond.


    Indeed, keeping the Little Witch by his side was very dangerous, but at the same time, in Jiang Liu''s view, it also had its benefits.


    If he could keep her by his side, wouldn''t fighting and leveling up in the Demon-Suppressing Hall be like sweeping away everything? Discover more stories at empire


    From the perspective of a video game, it was like having someone power-level him.


    As the saying goes, high risk has high return; faced with the risk and immense benefits, Jiang Liu''s inner self wavered...

 Chapter 49 Chapter 49 The meat and wine pass through the bowels, but Buddha keeps them in his heart.

    "Senior Brother, do you really want to keep her by your side?" In the Demon-Suppressing Hall, the Little Witch was scouting ahead while Jiang Liu and Daoji followed behind, whispering.


    It was hard to understand, why on earth did his Senior Brother decide to keep such a powerful witch by his side?


    "Junior Brother, haven''t you heard that all beings are equal? This witch may have high cultivation level, but there''s still the possibility that she could turn over a new leaf. If she can be converted, wouldn''t that be a meritorious deed? The Buddha once cut flesh to feed eagles; what I am doing is merely emting the Buddha," Jiang Liu responded softly to Daoji''s words.


    Prevarication¡ªthat was all Jiang Liu''s answer was.


    But without hauling out this big banner of the Buddha, should he tell Daoji that he wanted to keep the Little Witch by his side to help him level up by fighting monsters?


    "Senior Brother, you are truly great! Your words and actions are enlightening; I have learned much," however, Jiang Liu''s evasive words seemed to fill Daoji with admiration.


    Daoji harbored no suspicions about Jiang Liu''s evasive words. After all, apart from this exnation, he could see no other reason that could usibly ount for Jiang Liu keeping the Little Witch by his side.


    The Little Witch walked alone ahead, cautious in her demeanor, devoid of the cheerfulness she had when alone. She always felt as if there were a monstrous flood or predator lurking behind her.


    Being forced to walk with the bald-headed human, she felt as if she had been kidnapped. Should she try to escape?


    With a thought, the Little Witch stealthily looked back.


    Daoji''s head with nine distinct incense scars was clearly visible, and Jiang Liu, who had removed his Vidyaraja Crown, also had twelve conspicuous incense scars.


    Seeing this, the Little Witch shuddered and quickly averted her gaze, frightened by the sight.


    After walking for a while, they soon encountered a huge Wolf Demon in the Demon-Suppressing Hall, blocking the way forward for Jiang Liu and the others.


    Apparently considering the Little Witch, who looked no older than four or five, an easy target, the Wolf Demon fixed its gaze on her. As it crouched on all fours it spoke in human tongue, "What a cute little one, you must taste delicious."


    A jet-ck me shed by, and as soon as the Wolf Demon finished speaking, it instantly turned into a charred corpse, utterly annihted.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Hmph, cute? You''re cute, your whole family is cute!" Pulling back her raised hand, the Little Witch still seething, spoke resentfully to the scorched corpse of the Wolf Demon.


    "Huh?" After the Little Witch dealt a one-hit-kill to the Wolf Demon, Jiang Liu was stunned to find that he had not gained any experience points.


    This made him tense up. Looking at the team status, indeed, in his field of view, there were only Daoji''s teammate icons and not the Little Witch''s.


    "What''s happening? Can''t the Little Witch be in my team?" This discovery made Jiang Liu''s countenance fall.


    If they couldn''t be in a team, then what was the point in keeping her by his side?


    "Could it be? Is it because she holds no fondness for me in her heart, that we can''t form a team?" Jiang Liu pondered to himself.


    Over the days, fighting monsters and leveling up, Jiang Liu had teamed up with Gaoyang, Senior Brother Xuankong, and Daoji. Thinking about it, he had some sort of rtionship with these three, which allowed them to form a team, right?


    Otherwise, like the incident with the Old Man Sword who rescued Gaoyang and took him away, even though they fought the Three-Eyed Crow together, Jiang Liu was only kill-stealed and received little experience.


    And the Little Witch, having even less of a rtionship with him, couldn''t form a team for that reason?


    Moreover, whether it was Gaoyang, Senior Brother Xuankong, or Daoji, their levels were quite simr to his, whereas the Little Witch, with her Demon General level cultivation, would be at least level 30 by that standard. So, was it because her level was too high that they couldn''t form a team?


    If he thought it through, the cultivation level of the old man who killed the Three-Eyed Crow must also have been far beyond his own, so this possibility existed as well.


    Whether it was due to the gap in strength or an issue of character favorability that prevented them from teaming up, Jiang Liu wasn''t sure. However, not being able to team up with the Little Witch was certainly not good news for him.


    But, having already decided to keep the Little Witch by his side, even if they couldn''t team up right now, Jiang Liu had no intention of sending her away. He felt he should at least figure out why he and the Little Witch couldn''t form a team.


    ```


    Having rified the reason, in the future, he would be able to more urately select targets capable of forming a team to hunt monsters.


    Along the way, they encountered several monsters, some were in by Jiang Liu himself, and others were instantly killed by the Little Witch.


    However, for those killed by the Little Witch, he gained no experience points, which clearly indicated that there was indeed no possibility for the two to form a team.


    "As for the inability to form a team, I should properly verify my own conjecture...," Jiang Liu murmured to himself after killing several monsters in session.


    "Alright, everyone sit down and take a rest," just as they had killed a bovine demon, Jiang Liu took out a knife, cut off arge chunk of beef, and began to prepare the seasoning.


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Little Witch naturally had no objections. She stopped, sat down at a distance from Jiang Liu and Daoji, not daring toe close but also not daring to run away.


    "Senior Brother, what... what are you doing?" asked Daoji, eyes wide in disbelief, as he watched Jiang Liu take out the seasonings and start to prepare the beef.


    "As you can see, I''m preparing food. Your food is finished, isn''t it? And I don''t have much left, what else should we eat if not this?" Jiang Liu said naturally, seeing the exaggerated expression on Daoji''s face.


    "But we are disciples of the Buddhist Sect, and you, Senior Brother, are an exemr to monks everywhere. How can we eat meat!?" Daoji said, shaking his head with a resolute expression, unwilling to break his religious precepts.


    "Junior Brother, let me ask you, what do you think is more important in cultivating Buddhism, the cultivation of practice or the cultivation of the heart?" Jiang Liu asked Daoji as he ignited a me and put the meat over it.


    Daoji fell into a brief silence before answering, "The cultivation of the heart."


    "That''s right. The so-called rules and precepts are but external forms. As long as the Buddha in one''s heart doesn''t change, what does it matter if we eat meat?" Jiang Liu said, pausing slightly before continuing, "I''ll give you a phrase, ''Though wine and meat pass through the gut, Buddha stays in the heart''."


    Looking at Daoji, Jiang Liu shook his head inwardly.


    When he first heard the Dharma name Daoji, Jiang Liu could not help but ridicule in his heart as it was the same as that of Ji Gong. But since the era in which the living Buddha Ji Gong lived was not the Tang Dynasty, Jiang Liu dismissed it as simply a coincidence of names.


    However, after the Incense Offering Ceremony and receiving nine incense scars, Jiang Liu grew more skeptical. Could it be that this Daoji was really the reincarnation of the Dragon Subduing Arhat?


    Yet, seeing his reluctance to drink alcohol or eat meat, where was the image of Ji Gong as Jiang Liu remembered him?


    "Though wine and meat pass through the gut, Buddha stays in the heart?" Daoji muttered the Zen phrase to himself, head bowed.


    Within that short phrase of just ten characters, there seemed to be an exceedingly profound Buddhist wisdom.


    If someone else had said these words, Daoji naturally would have ignored them, but these were spoken by Jiang Liu. As a monk bestowed with twelve incense scars, Daoji certainly could not disregard his words.


    After pondering for a moment, Daoji stood up, straightened his monk''s robe, and respectfully bowed to Jiang Liu, "Amitabha, thank you for your teaching, Senior Brother. It has enlightened me."


    "I had previously heard that Senior Brother debated with Li Chunfeng at Jinshan Temple and left behind the Formless Gatha that won the praise of thousands. Today, with this Zen phrase, I sincerely admire your understanding of the Buddhist Law," he added.


    "Hmm, it''s good that you understand," Jiang Liu said, flipping the meat in his hands and nodding slightly with an inscrutable air, though in his heart, he knew that his words were merely a justifiable reason to eat meat.


    "Hey, do you want some beef?" After roasting it for a while and seeing that the beef was already sixty to seventy percent cooked, Jiang Liu asked the Little Witch, who was sitting several yards away.


    "No!" She shook her head with a determined look, and said she dared not eat his food.


    Yet, as her nose twitched subtly, the Little Witch secretly swallowed her saliva.


    Delicious!


    ```

 Chapter 50 Chapter 50 Team Formation Restrictions

    In front of Jiang Liu, arge piece of beef was neatly sliced one piece after another. He gently picked up a slice, put it into his mouth, and the rich aroma of meat instantly filled his mouth, making his eyes squint with satisfaction.


    Having stayed at the Great Buddha Temple so long, eating vegetarian food every day, his taste buds had grown dull. Finally, he had the chance to savor meat again, which was not easy toe by.


    Daoji nced at Jiang Liu''s refined movements and then at the Little Witch beside him, who was gleefully devouring arge chunk of beef. Finally, his gaze settled on arge piece of beef in his own hands. He hesitated but, driven by unbearable hunger and the tempting smell of the meat, he swallowed and tore off a small strip.


    "Amitabha, ''the meat and wine pass through but the Buddha stays in my heart.'' What my fellow monk said makes sense, I do this out of necessity...", watching the small strip of beef he had torn off, Daoji quietly justified his action to himself.


    He didn''t care anymore that the scriptures described wine as sour and meat as foul. Slowly, he opened his mouth and put the small strip of roasted beef inside.


    His eyes lit up instantly. After chewing quickly a few times, Daoji tore off another big piece¡­


    Observing Daoji and the Little Witch enjoying their meal, Jiang Liu smiled secretly to himself but said nothing.


    In the Demon-Suppressing Hall, the two men and the demon ate their meat in peace, creating a quiet yet harmonious atmosphere.


    "By the way, Little Witch, you mentioned your father earlier. Where is he?", perhaps the quiet was a bit too much, while eating his meat, Jiang Liu turned to ask the Little Witch beside him.


    The Little Witch had a Demon General Level cultivation from such a young age, so her so-called father''s cultivation must be even more extraordinary. Jiang Liu didn''t want to be walking along nicely only to be killed by a powerful demon.


    Fooling the Little Witch was easy, but her father was likely not going to be deceived.


    "I was abandoned by my father because I''m cute, thrown from the Demon Realm into this Demon-Suppressing Hall...", upon hearing Jiang Liu''s question, the Little Witch paused in her eating, and then, seemingly unconcerned, she replied.


    "Ah? Abandoned because you''re cute?", the Little Witch''s words stunned Jiang Liu for a moment.


    However, considering that the Demon Realm''s values were almost entirely opposite those of the human world, Jiang Liu came to ept it.


    And no wonder the Wolf Demon hadmented on her cuteness, making the Little Witch re up immediately.


    "Yes, being pretty, being cute, what''s the use? You need to be strong, right?", the Little Witch nodded and calmly answered.


    In her mind, being abandoned because of being cute was not difficult to understand.


    In modern society, many matters are often discussed over a meal, as it indeed seems more convenient to chat while eating.


    Perhaps because they were sharing meat, her fear of Jiang Liu seemed to have lessened a bit, and she even dared to initiate conversation with him, her eyes curious, "I remember reading in books that in your Human Realm, men prefer women who are gentle and boneless, with slim figures, right?"


    "Quite right," Jiang Liu nodded.


    "Women who are weak are more liked by men? Humans are really strange, aren''t they? Aren''t such women just burdens? In our Demon Realm, the stronger a woman is, the more people pursue her. Even among ordinary demons, if a female is interested in a male, she usually shows off her strength to attract him.


    For example, a robust witch carrying a big rock to show her power, that''s what catches more attention," the Little Witch exined.


    Imagining a robust woman carrying a big rock walking past, looking more manly than real men, surrounded by a horde of men ardently wooing her¡­


    Jiang Liu shook his head and cast the image from his mind, feeling it was too beautiful to behold.


    Simultaneously, his understanding of the starkly contrasting values between the Demon Realm and the Human Realm deepened.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "The fearsome Demon Realm, no wonder humans have always found demons terrifying," Daoji murmured in a low voice beside him, obviously startled by the utterly different perspectives of the Demon Realmpared to the Human Realm.


    After chatting casually with the Little Witch for a while, Jiang Liu not only gained some understanding of the situation in the Demon Realm but also learned more about her situation.


    Beneath the Demon-Suppressing Hall, therey a Demon Cave, something Jiang Liu had known for a while, and some demons from the cave would enter the Demon-Suppressing Hall to serve as training for the disciples of the Great Buddha Temple, which Jiang Liu also understood.


    The Little Witch was originally a demon from the Demon Cave, but because she looked cute, her father felt it was disgraceful, so he simply threw her into the Demon-Suppressing Hall to fend for herself.


    In the eyes of the demons in the Demon Cave, those in the Demon-Suppressing Hall were always in imminent danger, given that bald monks would periodicallye in and kill a batch...


    "Alright, we''ve rested enough, let''s continue,"


    Having eaten and discussed what needed to be discussed, and with time moving on, Jiang Liu stood up and continued walking through the Demon-Suppressing Hall with Daoji and the Little Witch in tow.


    Along the way, they encountered several monsters, but Jiang Liu did not rush to y them. Instead, he let the Little Witch take action and subdue them.


    Once at the demon level, they could speak humannguage, so it was possible tomunicate with them.


    Under the Little Witch''s force, these monsters faced life-or-death decisions and,pletely devoid of any sense of dignity, they readily agreed to be Jiang Liu''s minions.


    Apanied by several monsters, Jiang Liu also experimented to see that all demon-level monsters could team up with him.


    As for the Demon Soldier level monsters, the stronger ones could not, but the weaker ones could...


    "The realm of Demon Soldiers spans levels 20-30. The stronger ones are probably above level 25, while the weaker ones are likely below level 25..."


    After capturing and experimenting with several more monsters, Jiang Liu pondered the team formation situation internally.


    It appeared that if the Demon Soldier level monsters were weak, they could team up with him. So did that mean teaming up had nothing to do with so-called favorability but was mainly about the power gap?


    Given that he was now level 13, it seemed that he couldn''t team up with monsters more than about 10 levels higher than him.


    At that thought, Jiang Liu sighed somewhat helplessly. He had originally hoped the Little Witch could help him fight monsters and level up quickly. It looked like that would bepletely impossible for a while.


    At this moment, Jiang Liu finally understood the conditions and restrictions for forming a team.


    Let''s not discuss the specifics of Jiang Liu and his party walking through the Demon-Suppressing Hall and leveling up through fighting monsters.


    Meanwhile, in the deepest part of the Demon-Suppressing Hall, a huge altar suddenly burst into intense light.


    Hisss hisss hisss...


    Blue lightning appeared out of nowhere, and within this lightning, a leopard, cow-calf-sized with bizarre purple-red fur and elegant steps, emerged, walking like a human being.


    "I never expected this, the old master actually left a seed of Demon Fire in the miss''s body and hid her in this Demon-Suppressing Hall. If I can find her first, it''ll be a great aplishment,"


    "However, there''s a high chance I''ll encounter Baldy monks in this Demon-Suppressing Hall, so I better be careful,"


    Bathed in blue lightning, the purple leopard looked around vigntly, then its figure shed like lightning and disappeared in an instant.

 Chapter 51 Samadhi Demonic Fire

    Demon-Suppressing Hall, the night was deep.


    The Little Witchy quietly resting on one side, stealthily opening her eyes to nce at Jiang Liu and Daoji, who sat cross-legged in meditation beside her.


    Having been by the sides of these two bald monks for several days, they all seemed to be getting familiar with each other. As a result, the Little Witch could distinctly feel that in recent days, the surveince from the bald monk had almostpletely vanished.


    At first, the Little Witch even thought it was a deliberate act on their part, a test to see if she would really attempt to escape, sure that if she did, they would catch her, after all, her father had often said that bald monks were all cunning and deceitful.


    Therefore, these past few days the Little Witch had been patiently abiding, exhibiting not a single act of misconduct.


    But after observing them closely for a few days, she realized that the monks seemed to have genuinely stopped watching her. Stay updated through empire


    Without a sound, the Little Witch got up and tiptoed away towards the distance.


    After several days of observation, the Little Witch was ready to test the waters. If they called out to her, she would say she was just stepping away for a moment...


    ncing back three steps at a time, she looked to see if Jiang Liu had opened his eyes, but even as she moved much farther away, out of sight, they didn''te after her.


    This delighted the Little Witch''s heart. Could it really be? Was she now free to escape?


    She started to run, feeling a sudden lightness wash over her.


    This was the feeling of freedom; it meant that she could go wherever she wished.


    However, after just a few steps, the Little Witch''s stomach started to grumble.


    Stopping in her tracks, she rubbed her little belly, feeling hungry, and reflexively thought of the food that Jiang Liu had prepared for her these past days, the very delicious food.


    "Do I really want to leave? These days of interaction didn''t seem to show that they intended to harm me. Could they actually be the good people of legend? Laughable, good people. If I leave now, does that mean I''ll never again taste such delicious barbecue?"


    "No, I must leave. Though delicious, freedom is of higher value. Indeed, monks must be deceitful, using grilled meat to tempt me, so I won''t leave them? But he underestimates me. For the sake of freedom, what does even the most delicious grilled meat matter?"


    ...


    "Elder brother, she has been gone for quite a while. Aren''t you afraid that she''s already escaped?" On the other side, Daoji, who had been closing his eyes, suddenly opened them and softly questioned Jiang Liu.


    Although the Little Witch seemed easy to deceive, she still possessed a Demon General Level of cultivation, so Daoji was naturally a bit on guard in front of her. Therefore, he had noticed the Little Witch''s departure.


    "Even though I wish to convert her, if I were to pressure her with a stern demeanor, how would she ever convert sincerely? Buddha brings salvation to those with fate. If she returns, that means there is still a thread of chance. But if she leaves, then perhaps the fate has ended," Jiang Liu opened his eyes and answered calmly, an inscrutable look on his face.


    What a load of nonsense, Jiang Liu himself clearly understood all his talk was nothing but ther.


    What fate? It was all just an excuse. He had kept the Little Witch by his side only because he wanted her to help him level up more quickly inbat.


    Now that he confirmed they couldn''t team up, Jiang Liu naturally had no intention of keeping her. As the saying goes, high riskes with high reward, but now there was only high risk and no reward.


    If it weren''t for the fact that he couldn''t defeat her, Jiang Liu might have already driven her away.


    After waiting for three days, deliberately not restricting her movement, thankfully she had finally left.


    "Amitabha, elder brother is truly wise, I admire you!" Daoji bowed deeply, feeling that following Jiang Liu these days had been greatly beneficial.


    He took Jiang Liu''s words to heart, and thinking back to when Jiang Liu himself had wanted to leave the monkhood, yet their master kept him at the Great Buddha Temple without using force, he thought that this approach shared a mysterious simrity with Master Longhai.


    "Daoji, are you really that easy to fool?" Watching Daoji genuflect with sincere admiration, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly. Perhaps his skill in smooth talking was maxed out?


    Amid his surprise, Jiang Liu secretly shook his head, figuring it must be his identity as someone with twelve incense scars that made people so convincing, right?


    It somewhat resembled a celebrity quote, the same words spoken by an ordinary person versus someone of status are perceived entirely differently.


    Mentally criticizing the situation, Jiang Liu remained impassive on the surface, nodded slightly, and continued to meditate in ce of sleeping, feeling a long sigh of relief that he could now sleep soundly in the future.


    Tap tap tap!


    However, just as Jiang Liu had this thought, suddenly, a series of footsteps became audible, startlingly clear in the quiet night.


    Opening his eyes, he could just make out a little girl about four or five years old walking back ¡ª if not the Little Witch, then who?


    "She, she''s back? Does she not want to leave?" Seeing the Little Witch who had returned, Jiang Liu was dumbfounded.


    "Senior brother is indeed impressive, I admire you so much I''m bowing down in respect," at the same time, Daoji''s voice sounded softly from nearby, his face full of admiration as he looked at Jiang Liu, almost like a fervent fan.


    Jiang Liu: "..."


    "Jiang Liu, did you fall asleep? I''m getting a bit hungry, do you still have any roasted meat?" Approaching Jiang Liu, the Little Witch asked softly.


    As if to prove her point, her stomach growled loudly.


    "Senior brother, speaking of roasted meat, I''m feeling a little hungry too," Daoji chimed in from the side, his eyes shining.


    In just a few days, Daoji had gone from initially resisting roasted meat to bing a monk who couldn''t be happy without it.


    "Enough, you are going to make eatingte-night snacks a habit..." Observing the Little Witch and Daoji, Jiang Liu''s face darkened a bit and he stopped cultivating to prepare to take the roasted meat out from his storage space.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Miss, so you were here. What a challenge to find you..."


    However, at this moment, suddenly, a somewhat sinister voice rang out.


    At the same time, within the pitch-dark Demon-Suppressing Hall, one could see shes of blue electric light twinkling continuously.


    Following the sound, Jiang Liu and the others saw a tall figure stepping forward within the blue electric light.


    As this figure approached, they realized it was an upright walking leopard adorned with electric light on its purple fur.


    "Able tomand the power of spells? A Demon General Level demon creature!?" Seeing the blue electric light around the leopard, a sinking feeling washed over Jiang Liu.


    "Miss, the old master nted the seed of the Samadhi Demonic Fire within you, shouldn''t you return it now? A new king has ascended to the throne, and it won''t do without the Samadhi Demonic Fire..." The Electric Light Leopard said to the Little Witch, grinning and showing its sharp fangs.


    "Senior brother, let''s leave," upon seeing the leopard that was clearly of a Demon General''s cultivation level, Daoji said softly.


    Fighting within the demon''s den, where the demon creatures are terrifyingly strong, it was not worth risking their lives to get involved.


    Jiang Liu nodded in agreement, the Little Witch herself had a cultivation level of a Demon General, likely more than able to handle the situation, and since they couldn''t join forces, there wasn''t much to be gained by staying.


    When the risk didn''t match the reward, leaving was obviously the better choice.


    However, as the two of them moved, the Electric Light Leopard''s gaze swept toward them.


    "Eh? There are two Little Monks here too!? Sssh, nine incense scars!?"

 Chapter 52 Subduing the Demon

    The two Demon Generals seemed poised toe to blows, yet Jiang Liu and Daoji had no intention of intervening, preparing to retreat quietly, but the gaze of the Electric Light Leopard had locked onto them both.


    Jiang Liu was fine, with the Vidyaraja Crown on his head preventing his Scar of Precepts from being seen, but the nine Scars of Precepts on Daoji''s head were distinctly visible.


    "Excuse us, we''re just passing by and have no intention of getting involved in your dispute, we''ll be on our way..." Daoji''s face managed a forced smile as he slowly backed away, wanting to leave.


    "Nine Scars of Precepts? Just like that old baldy Longhai?" The Electric Light Leopard spoke with a weighty tone, its attention firmly on the Scars of Precepts atop Daoji''s head.


    Always oppressed by the Demon-Suppressing Hall, Longhai''s formidable reputation posed a massive deterrence to the Demon Cave. Witnessing the nine Scars of Precepts on Daoji''s head, the Electric Light Leopard''s killing intent surged.


    This Little Monk¡ªif he were to grow in strength¡ªit would pose yet another fearsome threat to the Demon Cave.


    The Little Witch, although not the brightest, was certainly not dumb. Recognizing that the Electric Light Leopard meant ill, and seemingly also intimidated by the nine Scars of Precepts on Daoji''s head, blurted out a telling piece of information, "Hmph, although his nine Scars of Precepts are formidable, Brother Xuanzang has twelve, even more impressive! Aren''t you leaving yet?


    Aren''t you afraid he''ll convert you, making you turn over a new leaf?"N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Twelve Scars of Precepts!?" Indeed, upon hearing the Little Witch''s words, the Electric Light Leopard looked at Jiang Liu in horror, and hearing the word "convert," it reflexively stepped back, viewing Jiang Liu with the same trepidation a person might view a fearsome flood or beast.


    An ordinary Cultivator''s greatest fear in cultivation was the Heart Demon, which could have unforeseeable consequences and even invert one''s character.


    And for the demons of the Demon Cave, a monk was akin to a walking Heart Demon.


    A monk with twelve Scars of Precepts? Wouldn''t that be the epitome of a Heart Demon?


    "I''m doomed..." Listening to the Little Witch''s boastful words, hoping to use his identity to scare away the Electric Light Leopard, Jiang Liu internally rolled his eyes.


    "You two bald donkeys, nine fragrance scars and twelve fragrance scars? No matter what, you must die today!"


    Though also harboring some fear, the Electric Light Leopard''s eyes brimmed with killing intent at the thought they were still just young Little Monks. At the same time, crackles of lightning began to gather on its ws.


    "No choice now, let''s take action!" At this point, any further words were superfluous. Jiang Liu raised his hand, and the Demon Subduing Staff appeared in his grasp.


    Daoji too wasted no words, extending a finger as a lotus bloomed at its tip. In an instant, his Finger Force transformed into a whip-like ray that shot out.


    If this battle was inevitable, then they had to strike first.


    The streak of Finger Force that struck the Electric Light Leopard caused the surrounding electric light to flicker momentarily, and that was it.


    Having taken Daoji''s Lotus Finger Power head-on, the Electric Light Leopard appearedpletely undamaged.


    "Terrifying, utterly ineffective?" Unlike others, due to being in a party, Jiang Liu saw more clearly that the Electric Light Leopard''s Health Bar over its head had only decreased by a mere fraction; someone less attentive would hardly notice it.


    "Let''s kill one first!" Perhaps because Daoji acted first, attracting its attention, the Electric Light Leopard moved as fast as lightning. A flicker in mid-air, and it seemed almost to teleport in front of Daoji, its ws striking straight toward Daoji''s chest.


    "Vajra Mantra!" Seeing that Daoji had no chance to dodge, Jiang Liu reacted swiftly, instantly casting the Vajra Mantra skill towards Daoji.


    An invisible Vajra Power instantly protected Daoji, boosting his defense ability.


    Vajra Mantra (Primary Level): Summons the mysterious Vajra Power to protect an ally, mitigating the next instance of damage by 80%, with a cooldown time of 50 seconds.


    With a thud, Daoji was sent flying, coughing up a mouthful of blood mid-air.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, Daoji''s Health Bar instantly dropped by about one-third.


    "Hiss..." Witnessing this, Jiang Liu inhaled sharply.


    Just how terrifyingly strong was this Electric Light Leopard? Even with the Vajra Mantra averting 80% of the damage, Daoji''s Health Bar had still plummeted by a third. Without the Vajra Mantra''s protection, would Daoji have been annihted instantly? Discover hidden tales at empire


    "Although I don''t know why you want to kill me, you can go die!" The Little Witch also spoke up, evidently recognizing the Electric Light Leopard. Her delicate hand raised, she flung a pitch-ck fireball towards the Electric Light Leopard.


    Facing Daoji''s Lotus Finger Power, this Electric Light Leopard could endure without dodging, but when faced with the ck mes of the Little Witch, it was extremely wary and hastily retreated to dodge them.


    Turning its head back, the Electric Light Leopard''s eyes were filled with astonishment and gravity, "You, you can already control the Samadhi Demonic Fire? Is this the talent of an Innate Taoist Body?"


    "Guanyin Mantra," "Arhat Fist," "Swift Fire Bead"¡­


    Since they had engaged inbat, Jiang Liu naturally acted quickly. Seeing that Daoji was hurt, he first cast the Guanyin Mantra to heal him with the effect of a 10% maximum life value restoration, which wasn''t particrly strong but had some effect.


    Then, he augmented his own attack power with Arhat Fist and transformed the Swift Fire Bead into a basin-sized ball of me, hurling it towards the Electric Light Leopard.


    The Swift Fire Bead skill at Great Perfection, boosted by the attack power of Arhat Fist and the Demon Subduing Staff, especially since the Demon Subduing Staff had an additional 30% damage to demon-type creatures, and doubled damage from the Redwood Ring¡­


    With so many enhancements, the attack power of this Swift Fire Bead fireball was very formidable.


    Taking advantage of the Electric Light Leopard''s attention being drawn by the Little Witch''s so-called Samadhi Demonic Fire, the fireball struck the leopard directly.


    The st of firelight was visible to the naked eye, and the health bar above the Electric Light Leopard''s head went down¡­


    About 3%.


    "Are you kidding me? Even if it were at the level of a Demon General in cultivation, it couldn''t possibly be this monstrous, right?" The mere 3% drop in health points, a mere trifle, was enough to induce despair.


    "It seems that the main effort of the attack can only be ced on the Little Witch now, our attacks seem to be no more bothersome to it than a tickle."


    His strongest attack causing only such minor damage, Jiang Liu could only pin his hopes for an attack on the Little Witch.


    The Little Witch raised her hand, the ck mes continued to surge towards their target.


    Shaking its head, the Electric Light Leopard had taken Jiang Liu''s Swift Fire Bead head-on and still looked lively, but when faced with the ck Samadhi Demonic Fire, it became as evasive as a snake from venom, its body flickering with electric light, preparing to dodge again.


    "Silencing Zen!"


    It was apparent that the Electric Light Leopard''s super high-speed movement seemed to rely on the lightning powers engulfing its body, which likely belonged to a skill-based ability, hence the control ability of Silencing Zen was activated.


    The electric light dissipated.


    Under the control of Jiang Liu''s Silencing Zen skill, the silencing effect caused all the lightning around the Electric Light Leopard to vanish, and the power within its body became as stagnant as dead water at that moment.


    "What''s going on?" Suddenly losing control of its power, the Electric Light Leopard was startled.


    Though it twisted its body in an attempt to dodge, a wisp of the ck me still brushed against its wrist.


    The spot grazed by the Samadhi Demonic Fire ignited a feeble me which then rapidly spread outwards.


    Amid cries of pain, the Electric Light Leopard frantically pped at the spreading fire on its wrist to no avail, and as the fire spread, it grew more ferocious.


    Grinding its teeth, the Electric Light Leopard made a decisive move, raising its other paw to slice down without hesitation.


    With a scream, blood sttered as it chopped off its half-arm, which was engulfed in mes, and let it fall to the ground, where it soon turned to ash.


    Jiang Liu watched the health bar above the Electric Light Leopard''s head, which dropped about 20% with just that one blow¡­


    "The legendary Samadhi True Fire, evesting and not easily bearable, even by Sun Wukong. Though I''m uncertain what variant this Samadhi Demonic Fire is, if it bears the name Samadhi, it must be terrifyingly powerful. Just a graze has caused such high damage?"


    Observing the change in the Electric Light Leopard''s health bar, Jiang Liu was both shocked and ted.

 Chapter 53 Sacrificial Strike

    It was terrifyingly strong. His most powerful attack barely decreased the Electric Light Leopard''s health by a tiny fraction, and Daoji''s attacks seemed to hardly affect its health bar at all. The strength of this creature was rming to Jiang Liu.


    A Demon General Level strength should not be this horrifying, should it? At the very least, it was among the top tier of Demon Generals.


    Fortunately, even though his own attacks were hardly effective against the Electric Light Leopard, the Little Witch''s attacks were still quite effective, especially that ck me, which the leopard avoided like the gue.


    Merely a ncing blow reduced its health bar by about 20 percent. This formidable power gave Jiang Liu hope for victory.


    Since his own attacks were not very effective, he was content to take on a supporting role. After all, in the game, a Monk''s profession was originally positioned as a support...


    Having been grazed by the Samadhi Demonic Fire once, the Electric Light Leopard became even more wary, cautiously releasing lightning attacks from a distance and showing no intention of closing in for directbat.


    Although the Little Witch could also release Samadhi Demonic Fire, it was clear from the situation that her long-range attacking skills were far inferior.


    "Vajra Mantra."


    "Silencing Zen."


    "Swift Fire Bead."


    Though Jiang Liu was content to assume a support role, skillfully alternating between Vajra Mantra and Silencing Zen at the right moments, he would not pass up an opportunity to interfere with an auxiliary attack using the Swift Fire Bead, which had a short cooldown time of only 10 seconds.


    Continue reading on empire


    Though the attack didn''t cause much damage, it was better than nothing.


    Likewise, Daoji, despite his injuries, forced himself to stand and kept at a distance,unching Lotus Finger Power attacks from afar.


    Under the three-person assault, particrly the Little Witch''s greatly feared Samadhi Demonic Fire, the Electric Light Leopard, despite its strength, had its health bar slowly whittled away: 75%... 66%... 52%...


    About half an hour into the battle, the Electric Light Leopard''s health bar had finally been reduced to a dangerous quarter remaining.


    It looked miserable, and its defeat seemed only a matter of time.


    "This really feels like a BOSS fight, and we''re finally winning. Both of us are of Demon General rank, but with our support, why is it taking so long to defeat it? Is there really such a huge gap in strength between one Demon General and another?" Jiang Liu silentlyined about the BOSS-level Electric Light Leopard, while also feeling a sense of anticipation.


    Even though he and the Little Witch could not form a team, if they really managed to y this creature, based on contribution, he would still get Experience Points, and items might even drop.


    Just like that time when the Three-Eyed Crow was in by the old man with the sword


    The Swift Fire Bead, Demon Subduing Staff, and Skill Bookcase were all great treasures that dropped the first time he defeated a Demon General. Who knew what great items would drop this time?n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Roar!" Just as the Electric Light Leopard seemed fatally wounded, all of a sudden, it let out a ferocious roar from its mouth, shattering Jiang Liu''s fantasy.


    A blood-red barrier appeared, enveloping its entire body. Boiling Demonic Qi burst from the Electric Light Leopard''s body, striking the blood-red barrier and causing it to instantly fill with cracks, as if the assault were trying to break some sort of a seal.


    "You''ve got to be kidding me? In the game, when a BOSS''s health bar drops to a certain level, they can undergo a transformation, could this be the same?" Jiang Liu secretlyined as he watched the leopard seemingly go berserk.


    The blood-red barrier, like a kind of restrain, quickly showed cracks under the impact of the strong Demonic Qi and then shattered into pieces.


    As the blood-red barrier copsed, the Electric Light Leopard''s appearance also underwent a major change...


    Initially, although the leopard walked upright like a human, it was covered in fur from head to toe and looked much like a regr leopard when on all fours.


    But now, the leopard''s appearance changed drastically.


    While its head remained the same, its body had transformed into that of a human. Even its sharp ws had turned into human hands, clutching a Leopard Tail Whip...


    "This guy, has it turned into a human?" Jiang Liu wondered in shock as he saw the Electric Light Leopard''s transformation; it was his first time seeing such a form of a demon.


    "A beast with a human body, it''s almost cultivated into a human! Has it broken through to the Demon Marshal realm? But aren''t there supposed to be no Demon Marshal level creatures in the Demon-Suppressing Hall?" Daoji, seeing the transformation of the Electric Light Leopard, was equally astonished and eximed.


    "Demon Marshal?" Hearing Daoji''s cry, Jiang Liu''s heart sank.


    That''s a creature above level 40! Please, he was only level 13, and the disparity in strength was as vast as the chasm between heaven and earth.


    "Laozi was originally a Demon Marshal. How could I have entered the Demon-Suppressing Hall without sealing my own Cultivation Level? Today, you all must die!" Hearing Daoji''s cry of rm, the heavily injured Electric Light Leopard roared, its eyes revealing a fierce light.


    "Hey, don''t you recognize it? Didn''t you know it has the strength of a Demon Marshal?" Jiang Liu turned and asked the Little Witch.


    "I knew, but you never asked me," the Little Witch said with a look of grievance.


    "Brother, with the appearance of a Demon Marshal, the rm of the Demon-Suppressing Hall must be triggered. Someone wille to rescue us soon," Daoji said to console Jiang Liu, his voice showing how serious the situation was.


    "You''re not wrong, but, to wait for someone to rescue us, we also need time, right? Will this monster give us that much time?" Jiang Liu said, his face showing little joy at the thought.


    Indeed, the Electric Light Leopard, knowing full well how to seal its own power to enter the Demon-Suppressing Hall, also knew the consequences of unsealing it.


    Now cornered, it didn''t waste any time after releasing its sealed power, attacking with full force.


    With a flick of its Leopard Tail Whip, itshed viciously toward the Little Witch, and twisted its body, moving so fast it was akin to teleportation. The Little Witch''s Samadhi Demonic Fire might be strong, but it was useless if it couldn''t hit its target.


    With a smack, the whip struck the Little Witch, who screamed and was sent flying.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, the Little Witch''s health bar, previously around 60%, plummeted drastically to about 30% in an instant.


    After one blow hadnded, the Leopard Tail Whip was raised again, striking like a Spirit Snake towards the Little Witch''s flying body.


    Rustle!


    Daoji''s Chant Beads flew out, intelligently wrapping around the Electric Light Leopard, binding it tightly.


    However, with a powerful struggle, the Chant Beads binding it snapped instantly, breaking into numerous Buddha Beads scattered on the ground.


    The Leopard Tail Whip struck the Little Witch again, sending her tumbling to the ground, unable to move.


    This strike was obviously less forceful, so it didn''t deplete her health barpletely, leaving about 5% left.


    The Electric Light Leopard hadn''t forgotten that its target was the seed of the Samadhi Demonic Fire; if the person died, it wouldn''t be able to retrieve it.


    After neutralizing the threat of the Little Witch, the Electric Light Leopard turned its gaze to Jiang Liu and Daoji; now was the perfect opportunity to eliminate these two Little Monks.


    Its figure was like lightning, appearing before Jiang Liu in the blink of an eye, not wasting words. The Demon Whip was like a dragon, striking toward Jiang Liu''s chest.


    "Vajra Mantra!" Startled and retreating, Jiang Liu once again fortified himself with the defense of the Vajra Mantra.


    With a bang, Jiang Liu was sent flying, feeling as if he had been hit by a train; his internal organs all shook violently.


    A mouthful of fresh blood spewed out, and arge dent formed in his chest; clearly, several bones there had been broken.


    His health bar, which was nearly full, suddenly dropped to around 10%.


    The Vajra Mantra mitigated 80% of the damage, andbined with the defense of the Vidyaraja Crown, he was nearly instant-killed ¨C the attack power of this Demon Marshal was terrifying indeed.


    "Eh? Not dead?" The Electric Light Leopard was surprised to see Jiang Liu still alive.


    But it was no matter; another strike would finish the job. It raised its Leopard Tail Whip again, continuing to fall.


    This whip, if itnded, meant certain death!


    Boom!


    Just then, suddenly, a powerful aura erupted. Blood-red power surged from Daoji''s body, as if he was a blood-soaked deity.


    Wielding the Arhat Mace, Daoji charged toward the Electric Light Leopard with a resolve to die.


    The Arhat Mace''s effect took hold: Sacrificial Strike!

 Chapter 54 The Good Guy Card

    Sacrificial Strike was a skill that came with the Arhat Mace Jiang Liu gave Daoji, consuming one''s own Health Point to boost the Attack Power, simply put, it was a move that hurt the enemy severely at a great cost to oneself.


    Seeing Jiang Liu gravely injured and about to be killed, Daoji couldn''t care less and immediatelyunched the attack.


    The formidable power burst forth, blood evaporated into a mist of crimson, resembling a blood-soaked demon god, and mmed fiercely into the Electric Light Leopard.


    With an increase of 800% in Attack Power, Daoji''s strike was earth-shattering.


    Even the Electric Light Leopard, with its Demon Marshal Level Cultivation, was savagely thrown away, struggling to rise from the ground but failing twice in its attempts.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, the Electric Light Leopard, which already had only about 20% of its Health Points remaining, now looked even more pitiful after the attack, with arge chunk of its health bar missing, barely hanging on by a sliver.


    Inside the Demon-Suppressing Hall at that moment, both the men and demons were gravely wounded and on the brink of death.


    The Little Witch had only 5% of her Health Points left, seemingly could be killed with just one more attack. Stay updated through empire


    The Health Points of the Electric Light Leopard seemed not much different from that of the Little Witch, just a shred of Health Points remaining, nearly killed by Daoji''s Sacrificial Strike.


    Jiang Liu''s chest was severely caved in, and the health bar above his head was also left with about 10%, hardly able to move.


    As for Daoji? Already injured, he fell unconscious on the ground after using the Sacrificial Strike, with only a sliver of Health Points remaining above his head.


    Struggling twice and failing to rise, the Electric Light Leopard felt a crushing despair, knowing its death was inevitable.


    It wouldn''t be long before an even stronger monk would be alerted by his Demon Marshal Cultivation and enter the area.


    At this moment, the Electric Light Leopard regretted the situation, if it had known this monk would fight to the death, it wouldn''t have stayed to kill them both; it would have been better to take the subdued target back to the Demon Cave right away.


    However, despite feeling desperate, the Electric Light Leopard was driven by a fierce will to survive, even in death, it wanted to take the two little monks down with him.


    These two little monks had so many Precepts Scars on their heads, even in death, pulling them down with him didn''t seem like a loss.


    Unable to stand anymore, the Electric Light Leopard simply didn''t try to rise, slowly raising its hand, channeling thest of its strength as electricity gathered at its fingertips.


    Watching the Electric Light Leopard''s fingers pointing at him, as electricity gathered there, Jiang Liu''s heart sank.


    He too was unable to move,pletely powerless to dodge.


    "Guanyin Mantra!" But at that moment, Jiang Liu noticed that the Guanyin Mantra, with a cooldown time of 600 seconds, was ready again.


    Without any unnecessary words, he cast the skill directly on the Little Witch.


    Although a 10% recovery of the maximum Life Value wasn''t very strong, in their current critical state, every little bit of recovery was precious.


    As the Guanyin Mantra skill activated, visibly, the Little Witch''s remaining 5% of Health Points on her health bar instantly recovered a small portion.


    "Silencing Zen!" After giving the Little Witch a Guanyin Mantra, Jiang Liu followed it up with a Silencing Zen skill on the Electric Light Leopard, causing the electricity gathering at its fingertips to scatter instantly into nothingness.


    Having slightly recovered her injuries, although the Little Witch was still severely wounded, she was capable of taking action.


    Looking at the Electric Light Leopard that alsoy on the ground unable to move, the Little Witch raised her hand and a pitch-ck me ignited, flying towards the Electric Light Leopard.


    Although the me was weak, being only the size of a soybean, itnded on the Electric Light Leopard and spread out rapidly.


    With only a sliver of Health Points left, the Electric Light Leopard could only watch helplessly as the me spread, engulfing itpletely, its screams echoing as it turned to a charred corpse.


    The died Electric Light Leopard also reverted back to its original leopard form.


    Notification: Gained 1680 Experience Points.


    As the Electric Light Leopard was killed, the game system''s notification sounded.


    Indeed, because he could not form a team, the death of the Demon Marshal only yielded a mere 1600 Experience Points.


    You should know, that standing human-like and injured Wolf Demon had given himself a full 2800 Experience Points.


    However, surviving was already good enough, and Jiang Liu didn''t expect too much. He took out a Healing Potion from his inventory and gulped it down; a warm power circted within his body, and his injuries immediately recovered partially.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Barely standing up, Jiang Liu walked over to the Electric Light Leopard''s corpse and rummaged through it.


    Sure enough, under the corpse were some items: there was Equipment, Skill Books, and Potions.


    Equipment from monsters he killed, or those killed by a team, would automatically appear in the inventory space.


    However, for monsters killed by others, Experience Points were distributed based on Contribution Points, and the dropped items would appear under the corpse, belonging to whoever picked them up.


    With just a nce, the attributes of these dropped items appeared in front of Jiang Liu.


    Enhanced Healing Potion: On consumption, instantly restores 20% of maximum Life Value. Potion cooldown time 60 seconds.


    Mana Potion: On consumption, restores 10% of maximum Mana. Potion cooldown time 60 seconds.


    Golden Cicada Buddha Robe (Perfect Quality): Required level 15, Defense +400, Passive Skill (Golden Cicada''s Shedding): When sustaining a fatal attack, transfers the damage to the Buddha Robe, consuming Durability 5, Durability 14/15.


    "Demon-Subduing Mantra," a Monk ss Skill Book, required level 15.


    Azure Crown (Fine Quality): Required level 20, Defense +220, Passive Skill (Salvation of All Beings): Consumes 10% of user''s max Life Value to restore 20% of target''s max Life Value, Cooldown Time 60 seconds, Durability 18/20.


    As expected of a Demon Marshal level monster, the dropped items were plentiful indeed, including a Potion, a Skill Book, and two pieces of Equipment.


    Without wasting words, Jiang Liu raised his hand and collected all these items into his inventory space.


    Just then, he faintly heard the distant sound of Zen chanting; it seemed the rescue from the Great Buddha Temple''s high monks had arrived.


    From the moment the Electric Light Leopard exhibited the power of a Demon Marshal until its death, although many things had happened, it all urred in little more than about two minutes; the arrival of the high monks from the Great Buddha Temple was indeed quite swift.


    However, looking at the Little Witch struggling to stand up, yet wobbling unsteadily, Jiang Liu hesitated for a moment before tossing over the newly acquired Enhanced Healing Potion from his inventory space.


    "Drink it and go quickly. If you don''t leave now, once other high monks arrive, you won''t be able to escape."


    Taking the Enhanced Healing Potion Jiang Liu had tossed to her, the Little Witch looked deeply at him, did not hesitate, and drank all of the potion.


    Instantly, her injuries recovered further, and her Health Bar also returned to about 35%.


    Though still injured, her movements were not greatly affected anymore.


    "Brother Xuanzang, you really are a good person," feeling her injuries healing, the Little Witch said to Jiang Liu.


    "Don''t. In our homnd, being given a ''good person card'' is like being pitied; it''s almost like cursing or insulting someone," receiving a ''good person card'' from the Little Witch, Jiang Liu said somewhat irritably.


    As the sound of Zen chanting drew closer, the Little Witch suddenly grinned mischievously, turned, and ran off, but her voice carried from afar.


    "That''s really amusing. In our Demon Cave, it''s also a way of cursing or insulting, hee hee hee..."


    "That''s why I say, bratty kids are so annoying," having spent a few days together, it was the first time he saw the Little Witch''s mischievous behavior, Jiang Liu silently shook his head.


    Of course, Jiang Liu understood that after this battle, the Little Witch hadpletely let go of her wariness towards him, which is why she behaved this way.


    Not long after the Little Witch left, the Buddhist Light shone resplendently, supreme and fiery.


    Saint Monk Longhai personally appeared in front of Jiang Liu...

 Chapter 55 Speaking of the Demon Clan

    ```


    Hint: Gained 2 Experience Points.


    Hint: Gained 2 Experience Points.


    Hint: Gained 2 Experience Points.


    ...


    Sitting cross-legged, Jiang Liu silently cultivated the secondyer of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique, with system prompts continuously appearing, gaining Experience Points at a speed exactly double.


    The firstyer of the technique only yielded 1 Experience Point every 10 seconds.


    Having reached level 13, Jiang Liu had exactly 2 Skill Points left, and he used them to learn the secondyer of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    For Jiang Liu, on days he wasn''t leveling up through battle, cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound allowed him to gain roughly 700 Experience Points per hour, which he considered not bad at all.


    Ever since the life-and-death crisis in the Demon-Suppressing Hall, he and Daoji, wounded, had been taken away by the Saint Monk Longhai. In the blink of an eye, three days had already passed.


    As the sun rose high, Jiang Liu stopped cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound and got up to wash and eat breakfast in the dining hall.


    Along the way, countless disciples greeted Jiang Liu with a bow. None doubted his identity as a reincarnation of a Bodhisattva, with the twelve scars of a Buddhist disciple.


    Entering the dining hall, Jiang Liu scanned the room and soon spotted Daoji and the Saint Monk Longhai eating together.


    The master and disciple sat facing each other, seemingly engaged in conversation. Jiang Liu got himself a bowl of porridge and two vegetable buns and went over to them.


    "Not bad, it looks like your injuries have mostly recovered," Jiang Liu observed Daoji''s rosy cheeks, which bore no sign of injury, and nodded in approval.


    "Brother, you''ve arrived just in time..."


    After their shared ordeal in the Demon-Suppressing Hall, Daoji''s bond with Jiang Liu had deepened, "Just now, Master mentioned that recently around Chang''an City, the evil spirits have be more active. He ns to arrange for us disciples from the Great Buddha Temple to go and subdue demons and eliminate evil, to save themon people."


    During these three days spent cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound in the Great Buddha Temple, hearing that he could now leave to battle and level up brightened Jiang Liu''s eyes, and he turned to look at the Saint Monk Longhai.


    The Saint Monk Longhai wasn''t surprised by Jiang Liu''s eagerness for battle and nodded slightly, "Xuanzang, your timing is perfect. Two hundred li to the west of Chang''an, there is arge river where a King of Flood Dragon stirs the waters, and three hundred li to the east lies Foutu Mountain, home to the Blood Tiger King that roars over the forests.


    The friction between these two Great Demons has been escting, causing demons to rampage widely and harming many people within several hundred li. Therefore, the Emperor of Tang has summoned cultivators from across thend for subduing demons and eliminating evil..."


    Demon King!?


    Upon hearing this, Jiang Liu inwardly gasped.


    Even creatures of Demon General Level were difficult to handle, let alone those of Demon Marshal Level? Previously, the severely wounded Demon Marshal, the Electric Light Leopard, from the Demon-Suppressing Hall had almost led to hisplete defeat.


    And now there existed Demon Kings?


    He had already encountered demons at Jinshan Temple, more than one, in fact.


    Although Jiang Liu knew that in the primitive world of ancient times, there were many wild animals and fierce beasts, and thus, many demons as well, he hadn''t expected that within the territory of Great Tang, separated by merely about five hundred li, there would be two Great Demons. Moreover, one to the east and one to the west, with Chang''an City in the middle?


    "Holy Monk, are there many demons within the border of Great Tang?" Jiang Liu, amazed, realized he hadn''t properly understood the situation within Great Tang and promptly asked.


    "Our Great Tang is a supreme nation under Heaven. Though there are many demons, there are even more cultivators, more than enough to suppress countless demons. It is not a concern. Outside of Great Tang, those remote small countries are in a more difficult situation.


    Some of them don''t even have imperial families, or they are overtly or covertly controlled by demons; themon people live in extreme distress..." In response to Jiang Liu''s question, the Saint Monk Longhai naturally did not hold back.


    This exnation made Jiang Liu nod silently to himself.


    ```


    ```


    Not to mention other things, just looking at the situation in "Journey to the West", the three demons of tiger, deer, and sheep became state preceptors, the Yellow-Robed Monster kidnapped a princess of a nation, some kings were pushed into wells and demons took their thrones, and the Lion Camel Kingdom was a gathering of countless demons, truly a demon-infested realm¡­


    In these countries, even emperors struggled to protect themselves from the rampant demons, as one can see.


    "Since the cultivators within the borders of Great Tang are sufficient to suppress demons, why not exterminate thempletely and create a peaceful and just world for themon people?" With doubts in his mind, Jiang Liu followed up with a question.


    "Dayu controlled the waters not by blocking but by channeling. Xuanzang, where do you think these demonse from?" With a low utterance of a Buddhist chant, Saint Monk Longhai countered with a question.


    "Mountain spirits, wild monsters, nts, and even jade and refined iron, after absorbing the essence of the sun and moon, transform into demons, right?" After some thought, Jiang Liu gained some enlightenment and replied.


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    "Indeed, everything under heaven and earth can be a demon, whether it be animals in the mountains or trees. Tell me, how could one possibly exterminate them all?"


    "Could it be that all trees must be cut down, all animals ughtered?"


    Saint Monk Longhai shook his head slightly and exined, "When these demon creatures are just born, if not restrained, they cause greater harm to themon people."


    "So, the Emperor of Tang intentionally left certain great demons alive, allowing these demons to control their lesser kind, thereby secretly managing the Demon n?" Daoji, upon hearing this, couldn''t help but exim in a low voice.


    For him, the existence of demons throughout the world being intentionally preserved by the Emperor of Tang was indeed a shocking truth.


    "Correct. Everything under heaven can be a demon. If these demons are born without control, they cause greater harm to themon people.


    Since the Demon n cannot bepletely eradicated, to some extent, using demons to govern demons is indeed the best method," Jiang Liu said, butpared to Daoji''s shock,ing from a modern society of information overload, Jiang Liu could understand this approach much better.


    "Indeed, rare is it for you, Xuanzang, to have such insight. As long as we can control the Demon Kings of the ten directions, and they, in turn, control their respective hordes of demons, these demons won''t be able to stir up much trouble."


    "However, the recent strife between the King of Flood Dragons and the Tiger King has intensified, causing great harm to themon people. Therefore, the Emperor of Tang decreed a campaign to subdue demons and eliminate evil," said Saint Monk Longhai, nodding with satisfaction as Jiang Liu quickly grasped the true nature of the situation.


    Jiang Liu also indicated his understanding with a silent nod.


    To put it simply, the Emperor of Tang could allow the existence of the Demon n within Great Tang''s territory since they could not be eradicated. So long as boundaries were set and the Demon Kings could control their underlings without causing excessive harm to the people, that would suffice.


    However, the conflict between the two great Demon Kings had now crossed the Emperor''s line, hence the initiative to subdue demons and eliminate evil.


    When Jiang Liu had previously asked Saint Monk Longhai to take him to the Imperial Pce to see Princess Gaoyang and meet Emperor Li Shimin, Saint Monk Longhai had broached the topic of the friction between the King of Flood Dragons and the Tiger King, wanting to discuss countermeasures with the Emperor.


    Jiang Liu had thought it was merely a pretext for him to enter the pce, but now it seemed the issue was real.


    With a slight hint, Jiang Liu could grasp the truth behind this issue, and Saint Monk Longhai nodded to himself. Such wisdom was difficult for ordinary people to reach.


    Only, observing Daoji next to him, with a face full of shock, clearly startled by this truth, Saint Monk Longhai felt somewhat disappointed.


    But perhaps this was the reaction normal people should have?N?v(el)B\\jnn


    To an ordinary disciple, such truths would not be discussed openly, but Jiang Liu and Daoji, who were bound to be leaders of the Buddhist Sect, would inevitablye into contact with these matters sooner orter.


    "Alright, you two get ready. Tomorrow, the disciples of the Great Buddha Temple will be led by Brother Fanhai on a mission to subdue demons and eliminate evil..."


    This shocking truth was something Daoji had to digest andprehend on his own time. Having more or less exined everything necessary, Saint Monk Longhai gave a final reminder and left.


    Meanwhile, in the Great Tang Imperial Pce.


    Dressed as a heroine, the spirited Princess Gaoyang came before Li Shimin.


    "Father, with demons causing chaos, as a member of the imperial family, your daughter wishes to be the vanguard in subduing demons and eliminating evil, to save the people from peril," she stated.


    ```

 Chapter 56 Flight

    Bowing his head, Jiang Liu sipped his porridge and nibbled on his vegetable bun, remaining silent.


    Daoji merely sat in a daze, evidently feeling that his worldview had been greatly shaken by the situation between the Demon n within the borders of the Great Tang and the Emperor of Tang.


    In Daoji''s mind, he had always thought that the Demon n and the Human n were irreconcble enemies, nearly always engaging in a fight to the death upon meeting, yet he hadn''t expected the truth to be like this, that the Emperor of Tang wanted to keep some Great Demons to restrain the other demons.


    "Brother, do you think what''s being done is right?" After a long silence, Daoji''s gaze fell on Jiang Liu, hoping to find an answer from him.


    "There''s no absolute right or wrong," Jiang Liu silently sighed upon hearing Daoji''s inquiry, thinking it seemed he would have to give him some proper guidance. Well, what could he do? wasn''t he the elder brother?


    "Setting aside whether the method is right or wrong for now, let''s look at the situation. Just as Saint Monk Longhai mentioned, at leastpared to other small countries on the border, the people within the Great Tang do live and work in peace and contentment. If the oue is good and doesn''t harm others'' interests, there is nothing wrong with it..."


    This made Daoji lower his head in thought. It was only after some time that he looked up and said, "So, that day in the Demon-Suppressing Hall, you let the Little Witch go on purpose, Brother? Were you thinking of doing the same as the Emperor of Tang, using the Little Witch to control the situation in the Demon Cave?"


    "He knew that I had intentionally let the Little Witch go?" Daoji''s words secretly rmed Jiang Liu.


    He had thought Daoji waspletely unconscious at the time but hadn''t expected that he was still somewhat aware.


    However, since Daoji hade up with his own story, Jiang Liu kept a straight face and nodded slightly along with Daoji''s words, "Indeed, the Little Witch possesses the Samadhi Demonic Fire and she may very well return to the Demon Cave and take the Demon King''s throne. In time, with our rtionship, she might y some role, no matter how small."


    "Amitabha, Brother, your foresight and strategy are truly admirable. I am utterly convinced!" Daoji said, looking up to Jiang Liu with sincere admiration.


    The days he had spent with Jiang Liu, everything he had seen and learned, made him feel that Jiang Liu was unfathomably profound, to the point that Daoji had turned into an adoring fanboy.


    "By the way, we''re setting off to subdue demons and eliminate evil tomorrow. I have a Buddhist Treasure here, which I would like to give to you..." Jiang Liu ced his palm behind himself and then drew it forth, his hand now holding a beautifully crafted monk''s hat, the Azure Crown they had obtained from the Electric Light Leopard.


    Although the Fine Level quality was decent, for Jiang Liu who already possessed the Vidyaraja Crown, this piece of equipment was now useless.


    And since it required level 20 to equip, in Jiang Liu''s view, giving it to Daoji could not be more appropriate.


    Isn''t Daoji about to break through to the Body Tempering Realm? From a level perspective, the Body Tempering Realm corresponds to being above level 20, right?


    "Ah? You''re giving me another Buddhist Treasure?" Daoji was both surprised and delighted to see the Buddhist Treasure Jiang Liu had brought out, recalling how just a few days ago, in the Demon-Suppressing Hall, he had received an Arhat Mace from him.


    "Do you want it or not?" Seeing Daoji''s reaction, Jiang Liu didn''t beat around the bush and made as if he was going to take it back.


    "I want it, I really do. Thank you, Brother!" Even though he knew Jiang Liu was just putting on an act, Daoji quickly reached out to grab the Azure Crown.


    He looked it over joyfully, then ced it atop his head.


    As soon as he donned the Azure Crown, he could clearly feel the power contained within the Buddhist Treasure, significantly boosting his defensive abilities.


    "By the way, Brother, I saw you take that hat out from behind you. Do you have a pocket back there? Where exactly did you keep such a big hat?"


    "This..."


    "Also, ever since the time at the Demon-Suppressing Hall, I''ve felt something odd. I don''t know where you hide your Demon-Subduing Staff, but whenever you need it, you just take it out."


    "And the Arhat Mace you gave me, the potion you used to heal the little witch¡ªI''ve never seen where you stow them away either."


    "Furthermore, when I went in, I packed a bag, but the essentials for eating, dressing, and daily life ran out quickly. You clearly didn''t bring anything, so how do you still have so much?"


    ...


    Within the boundaries of Great Tang, sects stand in great numbers, including Buddhist Sects that cultivate Buddhism and Taoist Sects that cultivate Taoism. However, no matter the sect, they all belong to the citizens of the Great Tang.


    Consequently, after the Emperor of Tang made clear his intentions to subdue demons and eliminate evil, not only the Imperial Heavenly Master Hall would take action, but cultivators from other sects would also contribute, more or less.


    The next morning, Great Buddha Temple summoned eighty-one martial monks, including Jiang Liu and Daoji, to prepare for departure, personally led by Master Fanhai.


    The journey to subdue demons spanned several hundred li beyond Chang''an City, and walking on foot, one could not know how long it would take. Thus, Master Fanhai threw something with his hand, and a palm-sized boat swelled with the wind, transforming into a huge ship that appeared before everyone.


    "Wow, is this therge Dharma Treasure, the Heavenly Dragon Ship? I''ve long heard of it, but today is my first time seeing it," Daoji eximed with wide eyes, astonished.


    "Gentlemen, board the ship. With the speed of the Heavenly Dragon Ship, we will reach our destination in roughly one Chinese Hour," Master Fanhai said, nodding with a satisfied expression in response to Daoji''s amazement. He beckoned the disciples to board the ship, and once they were aboard, the giant vesselunched and soared through the skies.


    "So, it''s truly worthy of being the most powerful temple within Great Tang, isn''t it? Having such treasures for travelling..."


    Even Jiang Liu, standing at the edge of the Heavenly Dragon Ship, watched Chang''an City grow smaller and more distant, couldn''t help but feel inwardly moved.


    Although he had taken a few flights in the modern era, the experience of flying in the ancient skies aboard a Dharma Treasure was entirely different.


    "Xuanzang, Daoji, once wend, try not to stray too far from me," said Master Fanhai as he approached the two, speaking while Jiang Liu was gazing down at the rapidly retreatingndscape.


    "Although this demon-ying mission has Great Buddha Temple merely responding to the call of the Emperor of Tang, and the main force will be the Heavenly Master Hall, it is still the sh of two Great Demon Kings, and the oue is uncertain. I cannot easily exin if anything happens to any one of you..."


    "Understood," Jiang Liu and Daoji nodded in agreement.


    Elsewhere, high in the sky, a massive flying vessel, like a pce, sailed through midair, carrying cultivators of various forms.


    Some cultivators wore Taoist robes and held horsetail whisks, meditating in stillness.


    Some cultivators shouldered long swords, their stances tall and upright.


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    There were even cultivators who had set up a pill furnace, busying themselves with bottles and jars.


    Dressed in tight-fitting clothes with flying daggers at her waist and wielding a long whip, Princess Gaoyang also stood on the flying vessel, gazing at the sea of clouds on the horizon.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "With this demon-ying mission, given Jiang Liu''s disposition, he will surely participate, right? How wonderful, I will see him again..."

 Chapter 57 Foutu Mountain

    Blossoms fell like a shower from heaven, and golden lotuses surged from the earth.


    At the Great Thunder Monastery on Spirit Mountain in the Western Heaven, the Tathagata, with His eight-foot Golden Body, sat solemnly upon the Lotus tform, with marvelous chants of Zen wisdom flowing from His lips.


    The numerous Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats seated below were spellbound, immersing themselves in the exquisite subtleties of the Buddhist Law, creating an aura of peace and majesty.


    Lost in the profundities of the Buddhist Law, unconcerned with the passage of days and months, they scarcely noticed time passing until the anomalies in the heavens and earth faded away, and the sacred chants of the Tathagata ceased as well.


    The Bodhisattvas and others of the Buddhist Realm all bowed deeply to the Golden Body of the Tathagata on the Lotus tform, and then orderly and respectfully took their leave.


    "Great Bodhisattva Guanyin, please, remain a moment," just as Guanyin was also preparing to leave, the Tathagata suddenly spoke.


    "May I ask what instructions the Buddha has for me?" Guanyin turned around, her fingers forming the gesture of holding a lotus, and asked with a serene expression.


    "Once, the Golden Cicada was reborn in the Lower Realm to embark upon the great mission of spreading the Buddhist Law to the East. He must be nearing adulthood now, correct?" said the Tathagata, the eight-foot Golden Body as stable as a mountain, His expression calm.


    "The Lower Realm has already held the Incense Offering Ceremony, and he has formally rejoined the Buddhist Sect. All preparations for spreading the Buddhist Law to the East have been made," Guanyin acknowledged with a slight nod.


    "From the Great Tang in Eastern Land, over one hundred eight thousand leagues, with treacherous mountains and rivers, and countless demons¡­" the Tathagata looked down at Guanyin as He spoke.


    "The treachery of the mountains and rivers is too much for an ordinary horse. I have prepared a White Dragon, the son of the Western Sea Dragon King, who can transform into a Dragon Horse to give him strength on his feet. As for the countless demons, I have decided on three protecting escorts, all possessed of extensive Divine Skills.


    The first is the Great Sage Equalling Heaven, the second is Marshal Tianpeng, and the third is General Juanlian..." Guanyin was well-prepared and responded smoothly.


    "Ah, furthermore, on the Journey to the West, the years are long and old. Aside from external forces like the treacherousndscape and demonic afflictions, there will also be changes within the heart. On the journey, he will encounter beautiful demons, and peerless beauties..." The Tathagata nodded slightly and then continued.


    "Amitabha Buddha, as themon saying goes, ''Once you''ve seen the vastness of the sea, shallow waters will no longer appeal; when you''ve seen the clouds over Mount Wu, ordinary clouds seem unremarkable.'' Matters of the heart are most valuable when singr. If, in this life, the Golden Cicada falls in love with a single woman, devoting his heart to her, then he would be inessible to others.


    Thus, along the path to the West, other temptresses will not easily sway his heart. I have already obtained a strand of the Red Thread from the Matchmaker God a few days ago..."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Well then, this is mostmendable."


    ...


    "Is that Foutu Mountain? What a massive mountain..." Aboard the Heavenly Dragon Ship, Jiang Liu gazed down at the destination of this journey, silently marveling to himself.


    By estimation, the mountain seemed almost ten thousand meters tall. In the territory of the Great Tang, the climate was generally pleasant, but due to its altitude, the peak was covered in pure white snow.


    "Let''s descend!" Having reached the territory of Foutu Mountain, Master Fanhai, controlling the Heavenly Dragon Ship, began its gradual descent.


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    After all, this demon-suppressing mission was led by the Imperial Court, and he was merely there to assist.


    As the Heavenly Dragon Ship descended, one could see many Cultivators already gathered at the base of Foutu Mountain.


    Not only the people from the Great Buddha Temple but also other sects'' Cultivators from ces such as Dragon Tiger Mountain and Zhongnan Mountain had responded to the Emperor of Tang''s Imperial Decree toe and offer their support.


    Within the borders of the Great Tang, the territory was vast, and there were many Cultivator sects and even more demon forces, but when it came to the most influential force, it naturally had to be the Great Tang Imperial Court...


    As the Heavenly Dragon Shipnded, the Cultivators below came forward to greet them. As the foremost temple of the Buddhist Sect, the fame of the Great Buddha Temple was indeed well-known throughout the Great Tang.


    Setting aside other factors, just witnessing the people from the Great Buddha Temple descending from the Heavenly Dragon Ship indicated their stature; other sects did not have such an impressive Dharma Treasure for travel.


    Master Fanhai and the surrounding cultivators had all paid their respects to each other, with many acquaintances engaging in conversations.


    Of course, disciples from other Buddhist Sects and even those from the Taoist Sect, during their conversations, had mentioned Daoji with his nine incense scars and Xuanzang with his twelve incense scars from the Incense Offering Ceremony.


    Among them, Xuanzang drew the most attention.


    A Buddhist Disciple with twelve incense scars was unprecedented; it certainly meant a reincarnation of a Western Bodhisattva.


    Furthermore, the debate between Jiang Liu and Li Chunfeng, which resulted from Saint Monk Longhai''s reward of ten thousand taels of gold, had spread far and wide. The Formless Gathaposed during that event was now treated as a Supreme Treasure by monks all over the world.


    "Master Fanhai, it is said that Master Xuanzang returned to Jinshan Temple, left behind the Formless Gatha, and then vanished without a trace. How is he faring now?" A high-ranking monk asked Master Fanhai with his hands sped together.


    Although Jiang Liu was still a young monk who had just undergone the Incense Offering Ceremony, his existence with twelve incense scars made even high-ranking Buddhist monks refer to him as "Master Xuanzang."


    "Amitabha, since his return from Jinshan Temple, Xuanzang has been in deep retreat at the Great Buddha Temple, undergoing arduous cultivation," Master Fanhai answered the inquiring monks.


    To practice in seclusion was indeed correct, and entering the Demon-Suppressing Hall counted as such a retreat. The difference was that he wasn''t cultivating Buddhist Law, but methods for Subduing Demons and Eliminating Evil.


    "I see. Upon the day Master Xuanzang emerges from seclusion, I will surely visit the Great Buddha Temple to pay my respects," the high-ranking Buddhist monk said, nodding in understanding. From Master Fanhai''s words, he clearly believed that Master Xuanzang was still in seclusion and had not emerged.


    In response to these words, a slight smile appeared on Master Fanhai''s face, and he offered no further exnation.


    Indeed, his statement was purposely ambiguous, hinting that Xuanzang was still in retreat. After all, Xuanzang''s current task to subdue demons on Foutu Mountain wasn''t something to be widely publicized.


    Not to mention what the demons would think if they learned of this news, but thepetition between the Buddhist and Taoist Sects was also something to be wary of.


    Jiang Liu stood silently behind Master Fanhai, clearly hearing these conversations. The topic would inadvertently shift to him in just a few words, allowing Jiang Liu to genuinely sense his current fame.


    Although some time had passed since the Incense Offering Ceremony, and he had been living a life of seclusion ever since, the current situation seemed to say that although the brother was not in the World, tales of his legend continued to circte in the World.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Setting aside the exchanges happening at the foot of Foutu Mountain for the moment, before long, the sound of war drums echoed from the horizon, followed by the appearance of a pce-like flying vessel, resplendent and imposing¡ªnone other than the Heavenly Master Hall of the Great Tang had arrived.


    Since their purpose was to Subdue Demons and Eliminate Evil, naturally, the Heavenly Master Hall had no intentions of sneaking around. Coming with the Emperor''s Imperial Decree, why would they act covertly?


    Hence, before the flying vessel came close, the sounds of war drums announced their arrival, exuding the grandeur of royalty.


    Simrly, the flying vessel of the Heavenly Master Hall descended near Foutu Mountain, and a session of cultivators from the Heavenly Master Hall followed, disembarking from the vessel.


    Jiang Liu watched the people from the Heavenly Master Hall, his eyes suddenly brightening as he was captivated by the sight of a figure dressed in fiery red garments, with a valiant figure¡ªnone other than Princess Gaoyang.


    Equally, Jiang Liu caught Princess Gaoyang''s attention. As their gazes met, it seemed as if the surroundings faded into insignificance¡­

 Chapter 58 Tribulus Fruit

    Atop Foutu Mountain peak, the white snow nket spans vast, by a cliff''s edge, there grew an immortal herb, standing tall amidst the icy winds, swaying with the breeze.


    This immortal herb was but an inch tall, unassuming, yet atop this very herb dangled an amber-hued fruit, roughly the size of a dragon''s eye, which emitted an odd fragrance that, upon a whiff, refreshed the spirit and heart.


    What was most peculiar was that the scarlet fruit bore natural golden patterns, mysteriously forming three tiny "¼×" characters.


    Beside this tiny herb sat an old man, in repose, who appeared to be in his seventies or eighties with both hair and beard tinged blood-red, giving off a savage and fierce aura.


    The old man sat quietly by the herb, his greedy gaze frequently sweeping over the small fruit above.


    Footsteps echoed in the distance, and soon after, a demon in a white cape approached.


    This demon, with the head of a rabbit and the body of a man, had ears both pointed and long; its snow-white fur actually conveyed a sense of beauty.


    "Shuangxue, how is the situation outside?" asked the old man with the crimson hair and beard, without turning his head away from the fruit at his side.


    "Great King, not only has the King of Flood Dragon led his followers here, but the Heavenly Master Hall from Great Tang has also arrived," replied the demon Shuangxue, hesitating slightly before adding, "Forgive my candor, but after living on Foutu Mountain for so many years, we''ve never seen a Tribulus Fruit. Suddenly, one nears maturity without any precedent; I fear something is amiss."


    "Regardless of any intrigue, I am determined to have this Tribulus Fruit. Just a few more days till it matures, after consuming it, I will gain another Tribulus'' worth of longevity. With that, my cultivation level will surely advance another step, shedding my mortal coil.


    At this critical moment, no one shall stand in my way," dered the old man with a wave of his hand, amanding tone in his voice.


    "s¡­" Hearing the determined words of the aged man, the Demon Shuangxue beside him secretly sighed.


    Longevity is indeed a subject that billions of beings can''t avoid, not even us demons, let alone the immortals in the heavens, who are also subject to the Five Decays of Heaven and Man. Once one''s timees, even immortals must fall.


    The Great King''s life is nearing its limit, and the tempting promise of added longevity from the Immortal Fruit is indeed undeniable.


    "Shuangxue, since that Old Loach and the folks from the Heavenly Master Hall have arrived, lead the demons of Foutu Mountain into battle. Strike first to gain the upper hand. I refuse to believe that the Old Loach''s demons and the men of the Heavenly Master Hall could join forces against us.


    We hold the home advantage on Foutu Mountain, just hope that you can hold the fort long enough for the Tribulus Fruit to mature," the old man instructed after another moment of silence.


    ...


    Meanwhile, down at the base of Foutu Mountain, the people from Heavenly Master Hall had arrived. Leading them was a sword-bearing elder, none other than Elder Sword, the same one who had vanquished the Three-Eyed Crow with a single sword strike during the assault at Jinshan Temple.


    Individuals like Master Fanhai had all greeted Elder Sword.


    As a representative of the Emperor of Tang, Elder Sword also expressed gratitude on behalf of the Emperor for the cooperation of the major sects.


    Now at the foot of Foutu Mountain, there was not much left to prepare. ording to intelligence, the demons led by the King of Flood Dragon had already assembled on the mountain as well.


    "Amitabha, Elder Sword, I am puzzled by a matter and wish for you to clear my confusion. Although the Demon Kings friction over territories is asional, they usually exercise restraint.


    Why, then, have the Tiger King and the King of Flood Dragon escted to a life-and-death feud this time?" Before ascending the mountain, Master Fanhai intoned a Buddhist chant and then addressed Elder Sword with this question, which also echoed the doubts in everyone''s minds.


    "Truthfully, I am unaware of the cause," replied Elder Sword, his face cloaked in bewilderment. He shook his head, admitting, indeed, the struggle between the King of Flood Dragon and the Tiger King was mysteriously a fight to the death.


    "Well, whatever the truth may be, I suppose we will understand once we ascend the mountain and confront the Tiger King and the King of Flood Dragon," stated Master Fanhai, nodding after a moment of silence, taking Elder Sword''s genuine bewilderment at face value.


    Immediately, a group of people, led by those from Heavenly Master Hall, made their way straight up Foutu Mountain.


    Jiang Liu was next in rank only to Master Fanhai in the Great Buddha Temple''s team, so he was very close to the front, while Gaoyang in the team of Heavenly Master Hall, deliberately slowed his pace, staying at the very end...


    Although everyone was watching, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang did not greet each other or speak, but, intuitively, within the scope of what was possible, they moved closer to each other.


    "Gentlemen, this is the territory of Foutu Mountain. I advise you to back down...", however, just as the group was midway up the mountain, suddenly, a beautiful female voice rang out.


    Following that voice, a tide of demon creatures of various forms surged forth on Foutu Mountain, blocking everyone''s path.


    Among these demons, there were prides of lions, fierce tigers, as well as goats and rabbits, a wide variety. Explore stories at empire


    Some demon creatures were gigantic in size, some demon soldiers could walk upright, and some demon generals even wielded bizarre spells of wind, fire, thunder, and lightning, demonstrating their strength in the hope of deterring their opponents.


    In front of this collection of oddly shaped demon creatures, three beast-headed humanoid Demon Marshals stood blocking everyone''s path.


    One lion, one goat, and one rabbit¡ªthe beast-headed trio of marshals, clearly all had reached the level of a Demon Marshal.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "So it''s the three Great Demon Marshals under the Blood Tiger King, of renowned fame...", seeing these demon creatures blocking the way, many cultivators braced themselves, wielding their weapons, while Elder Sword stepped forward a few paces to initiate a greeting.


    "Hahaha, how arrogant the demons of Foutu Mountain are," just then, suddenly, another round of heartyughter echoed, and a group of demons emerged as well.


    Leading them was a Demon Marshal with a human body but a shrimp head,ughing loudly, "As the saying goes, all thend under the sky belongs to the Emperor, Heavenly Master Hall represents the will of the Emperor of Great Tang, and yet you dare to forbid their ascent, it seems you do not hold the Emperor of Tang in regard?"


    "Do not sow discord!" seeing this emerging group of demons, the three Demon Marshals of Foutu Mountain were both shocked and furious.


    These demons all belonged to the King of Flood Dragon''s forces; it was unexpected that they would appear here. Where then was the King of Flood Dragon? The three Great Marshals were feeling somewhat uneasy.


    "Have youe to Foutu Mountain seeking death? It seems your King of Flood Dragon fears death so much that he''s shrunk back like a loach, sending you to die in his stead," Demon Marshal Shuangxue sneered at these Water n demons.


    "Do you want to know where our Great King is? Why don''t you take a guess?" But these Water n creatures were not dull and clearly understood the implication behind Demon Marshal Shuangxue''s mocking words.


    ...


    Jiang Liu wasn''t concerned about the verbal exchanges between these demon creatures and the people from Heavenly Master Hall, but the current situation did surprise him.


    Human cultivators, Foutu Mountain''s demons, and the Water n''s demons now stood in a three-legged standoff.


    Yet, there they were, trading barbs in the way one would banter, was it their nature to talk nonsense during battle? Or was someone intentionally trying to buy time?


    Boom!


    Suddenly, the earth shook, and the terrifying sound of an explosion erupted on Foutu Mountain, drawing everyone''s attention.


    As they looked upwards, Foutu Mountain Peak was a scene of a dragon and tiger inbat!


    "The King of Flood Dragon and the Tiger King, they''ve started fighting!?", Master Fanhai and others, showed faces of shock.

 Chapter 59 Massive Experience Points

    Elder Sword and Master Fanhai exchanged nces, looking at each other in astonishment.


    It was already surprising that the Heavenly Master Hall and the Water n''s demon groups hade, yet the Blood Tiger King had hidden inside Foutu Mountain and did not appear.


    Now, the Water n''s demon group had also arrived at Foutu Mountain, and simrly, the King of Flood Dragon had not stayed behind but had stealthily climbed to the peak of Foutu Mountain to fight the Blood Tiger King alone?


    It seemed that both the King of Flood Dragon and the Tiger King had intentionally kept the people from the Heavenly Master Hall midway up the mountain. So, what secret did they have that they could not let others know?


    After exchanging a look, both Elder Sword and Master Fanhai could feel that the Blood Tiger King and the King of Flood Dragon had a secret they purposely concealed, and this secret should be visible upon reaching the peak.


    Thus, nodding in agreement, neither Elder Sword nor Master Fanhai wasted any more words. They took action together, leading the Heavenly Master Hall and the other cultivators as they rushed towards the mountain peak.


    Whether it was the Foutu Mountain or the Water n''s group of demons, they were actually quite willing to chat idly to bide time. However, seeing these humans take action directly, the demons naturally did not just wait to be killed, and they also struck back with cries.


    Suddenly, a three-way melee ensued, turning Foutu Mountain into a chaotic battlefield¡­


    Several Demon Marshals, with beast heads and human bodies, all possessed strong powers, not the slightest bit weaker than the Electric Light Leopard from the Demon-Suppressing Hall, even stronger perhaps.


    The three Demon Marshals of the Water n focused on Master Fanhai, holding a peculiar pearl emitting myriad glows that transformed into countless threads wrapping around Master Fanhai.


    They could not defeat him, but with the power of this pearl, the three Great Demons could sufficiently entangle his movements.


    On the other side, the three Great Demons of Foutu Mountain also entangled Elder Sword.


    Perhaps representing a higher Cultivation Level or maybe because the Sword Cultivator''s attacks were much sharper, Elder Sword disyed strength that surpasses Master Fanhai. Although obstructed by the three Great Demons, they could barely hinder his movements.


    Raising his hand, sword light rained down, repelling the nearby Tiger Demon and Sheep Demon Demon Marshals. Then, merging with his sword, he broke through the encirclement of the three demons.


    Demon Marshal Shuangxue screamed tragically. It wanted to block him, but how could it stop him? The fierce sword light left a cut, and the fierce Sword Qi wreaked havoc within its body.


    Elder Sword only nced back at Master Fanhai, noticing he was entangled. Without any pause, he took the lead and headed straight for the peak of Foutu Mountain.


    ¡­


    As for these battles among the powerhouses, Jiang Liu merely nced at them and did not pay much attention.


    After all, although his own strength was not weak now, he could not intervene in battles of the level of Demon Marshals.


    Holding the Demon-Subduing Staff, with Daoji and Gaoyang by his side, the three entered a team mode, specifically targeting demon creatures and Demon Soldiers.


    Gaoyang was at the Meridian Unblocking Realm, ranking approximately between levels 10-20. Daoji was about to break through to the Body Tempering Realm, likely around level 20, while Jiang Liu was at level 13.


    The three working together faced little difficulty against Demon Soldiers, while for demons? They were naturally easy to capture.


    With Gaoyang by Jiang Liu''s side, his long whipshed out, interspersed asionally with Flying Daggers shooting forth, demonstrating exceptional martial skills. Daoji also stayed by Jiang Liu''s side, fighting with the Arhat Mace in closebat, his force steady, and with the addition of the Azure Crown''s equipment increasing Defense, he was well-matched against Demon Soldiers.


    In their team state, one demon creature after another fell at the hands of the trio, providing Jiang Liu with a good amount of Experience Points.


    Even asionally, one or two items burst forth, automatically falling into the inventory space.


    However, with the fierce battle ongoing, Jiang Liu did not bother to check.


    Foutu Mountain hadpletely turned into a battlefield, with the three factions shing mid-mountain, and likewise at the mountain peak, a three-way battle raged on¡­


    Tip: Gained 220 Experience Points.


    Tip: Gained 480 Experience Points, acquired Healing Potion.


    Tip: Gained 330 Experience Points.


    Notification: Level increased by 1, current level 14.


    ¡­


    Continuous system notifications appeared, filling Jiang Liu''s heart with delight. Indeed, the chaotic battles on the battlefield were the fastest way to gain experience points.


    Although the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound meditation could yield approximately 700 experience points in an hour, it was much slowerpared to the ughter on the battlefield.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    After not much time of ughter, he had amassed over 10,000 experience points, and Jiang Liu''s level was finally elevated once again.


    Since ascending to level 13 in the Demon-Suppressing Hall, he and Little Witch, along with others, had killed a significant number of demon creatures, including the Electric Light Leopard. After that, he cultivated the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound for three days, and today on the battlefield, he acquired over 10,000 additional experience points.


    All in all, it took about 40,000 experience points to advance to level 14, and the speed of leveling up had indeed slowed down considerably¡­


    Although the chaotic battlefield was fraught with dangers, whenever one of them encountered a risk, Jiang Liu would cast the Vajra Mantra defensive skill, which provided strong protection.


    Even if the injuries became severe, he would toss a Guanyin Mantra skill for recovery, and if that wasn''t enough, they had healing potions to use as well.


    Thus, after about half an hour of fiercebat, the injuries that the trio sustained were not particrly severe.


    Although he hadn''t calcted it carefully, since he had leveled up to 14, Jiang Liu must have gained around 20,000 experience points. Looking around, the battlefield was littered with corpses, not only of demons but also of many humans.


    Life here was treated as mere weeds, showcased in a thoroughly vivid disy.


    Master Fanhai, too, bore severe wounds, and in Jiang Liu''s eyes, his health bar had only about one-third remaining. However, equally, one of the three great demon marshals of Foutu Mountain, the Sheep Demon, had fallen. Simrly, a demon marshal from the Water n had been in by a Daoist from Dragon Tiger Mountain.


    Roar!


    Meanwhile, the fight among the three titans at the Foutu Mountain peak seemed to be reaching its conclusion, with a mournful roar of a tiger echoing.


    As the demons at the mountain base lifted their heads, they saw a blue flood dragon twisting agilely high in the sky, its mouth firmly mping a gigantic blood-red fierce tiger.


    Ultimately, the tiger was fiercely flung down by the flood dragon, itsnding location and whether it survived unknown.


    After casting the fierce tiger to the ground, a dragon''s cry resonated in mid-air, and the King of Flood Dragon, without a moment''s hesitation, fled toward the horizon.


    However, just behind the King of Flood Dragon, a dazzling sword Qi streaked across, pursuing relentlessly.


    "The Great King has seeded, we retreat!" With the dragon''s cry, the Water n demon creatures loudly dered, then swiftly began their retreat, descending the mountain.


    The battle at the peak had ended, and naturally, those entangled in the fray on the mountainside saw no reason to continue fighting.


    Seeing the Water n''s demons retreat, those from Foutu Mountain gathered together, restlessly observing the human cultivators.


    One reason was uncertainty about whether the fighting should continue at this juncture, and the other, the conditions of the Tiger King seemed worrisome. It appeared the Tiger King was defeated, and those demons from Foutu Mountaincked any enthusiasm for battle.


    To subdue demons and eliminate evil entirely, having engaged them this far, it was clear these Foutu Mountain demons offered little resistance. The human cultivators, not satisfied with merely stopping, also regrouped and pressed forward¡­


    Thump thump thump!


    However, at that moment, suddenly, a series of heavy footsteps resounded.


    A pitiful-looking fierce tiger, covered in blood, emerged. Its tail waspletely severed, and it was blind in one eye, but the remaining eye was filled with violent ferocity, ring at everyone with a ruthless aura that sent shivers down their spines.


    "Today, all of you humans shall die!" the Blood Tiger King roared in a low growl, brimming with hatred.


    If it had not been for the human''s interference, how could he have lost to the King of Flood Dragon in a fair fight? How could the Tribulus Fruit have been dug out by the King of Flood Dragon?

 Chapter 60 The Strongest Support

    ```


    The Immortal Fruit that could add three Tribulus lifespans was not only the hope for his continued survival, but also his hope to transcend the realm of a Demon King. Now that it had been snatched away, Blood Tiger King was so enraged that his rage and hatred hadpletely filled his reason.


    His eyes, revealing a murderous glint, were fixed on all the humans; the water n demons had all fled, naturally, leaving Blood Tiger King''s fury to be vented upon these humans.


    "Daoji, Xuanzang, you must flee quickly...", Master Fanhai, who was also gravely wounded at this moment, whispered to Jiang Liu and Daoji, urging them to escape as quickly as possible.


    Master Fanhai could see that something was terribly wrong with Blood Tiger King, who seemed to have be desperate. The consequences of a Demon King going mad with desperation were unimaginable.


    After whispering to Jiang Liu and the others, Master Fanhai took a deep breath, temporarily suppressing his internal injuries, and moved forward a few steps.


    "Amitabha, Tiger King, I am unaware of the cause of the strife between you and the Benefactor, King of Flood Dragon, yet now that things havee to this pass, I still advise you toy down your butcher''s knife; otherwise, if everyone here falls today, not only will the Emperor of Tang not spare you, but neither will Zhongnan Mountain, Dragon Tiger Mountain, nor even our Great Buddha Temple.


    Then, no matter how vast the world is, there would be no ce left for you," he said.


    Although Master Fanhai''s words were a threat, they were also reasonable. Usually, the powers of the various great cultivators and Demon Kings kept to a restrained friction, maintaining a certain bnce.


    But now was not like other times. In response to Fanhai''s threat, Blood Tiger King grinned, revealing his ghastly white teeth: "I have guarded a Tribulus Fruit, hoping to extend my life by another Tribulus lifespan. If it weren''t for you attacking my Foutu Mountain, how could I have ended up like this? And now you ask me to put down my knife?


    Ha-ha-ha, my lifespan is short anyway; if I kill all of you today and get subdued and driven out by your bald heads someday, I still wouldn''t be at a loss!"


    Tribulus Fruit!?


    Hearing Blood Tiger King''s words, the cultivators present couldn''t help but their expressions change.


    In this world filled with countless treasures, which treasure would be the most precious? Naturally, it would be those that could extend life.


    Let alone those of us with mortal flesh; even the gods and Buddhas in heaven desire such treasures.


    No wonder Blood Tiger King and King of Flood Dragon fought at the mountaintop, not wanting others to know about the Tribulus Fruit; no wonder that even though King of Flood Dragon had escaped, Elder Sword turned into a beam of light and refused to give up; likewise, no wonder Blood Tiger King was now red with rage, letting evil courage fill his heart...


    "My minions!", Blood Tiger King, enraged and full of killing intent, didn''t have the luxury of time for everyone to be surprised. Maintaining the form of a blood tiger, he shouted loudly: "I have always restrained you from harming human lives or eating humans, but today, these humans came up the mountain to kill us. Therefore, today''s rules of Foutu Mountain are all null and void!"


    "Kill!", with Blood Tiger King there, the demons of Foutu Mountain seemed to have found their backbone. Upon hearing their Great King''smand, the mountain''s demons cried out and then ferociously pounced towards the humans.


    Blood Tiger King lunged directly at Master Fanhai. Although they were both injured, Blood Tiger King was still stronger than Master Fanhai.


    Ignoring the fractures in his tiger''s paw, Blood Tiger King pped aside Master Fanhai''s Dharma Treasure and bit directly into his arm with his formidable jaws, tearing a limb off. Blood Tiger King, now frenzied, fought with the ferocity of a life-for-a-life.


    The madness of the Demon King momentarily overpowered the minds of the nearby cultivators.


    Flee!


    Facing a group of demons gone wild, especially with Blood Tiger King in a suicidal state, the morale of the human cultivators plummeted, and they each turned to flee for their lives.


    "Jiang Liu, we should flee too!", as the saying goes, when an army copses, it is beyond human power to retrieve it. Gaoyang turned his head and urgently said to Jiang Liu.


    "No! If we flee, death is certain. I will stay and help. Only if Master Fanhai can kill Blood Tiger King will we have a chance of survival!" Among the demons were many avian species, flying in the midair, and not a few at the Demon General level. How could they possibly escape? Jiang Liu shook his head, his gaze fixed on Master Fanhai.


    Master Fanhai''s cultivation level had just entered the Returning Void Realm. In terms of rank, he might be slightly lower than Blood Tiger King, but not by much.


    Although the prospect of defeat was clear, with his own support, it would be a different story. On the brink of life and death, it was the only chance for a counterattack.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    ```


    "Help!? How on earth can we assist in a battle between a Demon King and a Great Cultivator of the Returning Void Realm!?" Jiang Liu''s words left Gaoyang and Daoji beside him astonished, disbelieving.


    The battle was urgent, with changes happening in the blink of an eye, and Jiang Liu had no time to exin in detail.


    As abatant, the Monk Profession indeed isn''t much to speak of, with system skills that seemckluster: the Level 1 Silencing Zen, the Level 5 Vajra Mantra, the Level 10 Guanyin Mantra...


    These three system skills are all support skills,pletelycking any offensive abilities.


    But it was precisely because of this that the Monk Profession''s support abilities were incredibly overpowered, even defying differences in strength.


    Master Fanhai had lost an arm, and his Health Point was even lower. Jiang Liu allocated the Skill Points he just gained from leveling up to 14 to the Guanyin Mantra, upgrading it to Middle Level, and simultaneously raised his hand, casting the Guanyin Mantra. Lush, life-filled green light surged on Master Fanhai''s body.


    The wound at his severed arm immediately scabbed over, and the Health Bar above his head also increased a notch, offering some relief to his injuries.


    Guanyin Mantra (Middle Level): Restores 15% of maximum Life Value, Cooldown Time 600 seconds.


    Seeing Xuanzang not only not fleeing but instead running over, Master Fanhai was both shocked and anxious, wanting to rush him away. However, the words that reached the tip of his tongue turned into astonished exmation, "Xuanzang, what Divine Skill is this!?"


    "Master, less talk, drink these two potions!" After casting a Guanyin Mantra, Jiang Liu followed by taking out a Healing Potion''s red bottle and a Mana Potion''s blue bottle.


    The Healing effect was, of course, most notable when the potionsbined with the Guanyin Mantra.


    "A mere Little Monk from the Meridian Unblocking Realm? Seeking death..."


    Watching Jiang Liu dare to intervene in his battle with a Great Cultivator of the Returning Void Realm, the Blood Tiger King was stunned for a moment, but then uttered with a frosty voice.


    While speaking, he opened his tiger mouth, and blood-red Demon Qi condensed.


    "Xuanzang, be careful!" Master Fanhai, who was drinking the potions, saw this scene and was rmed.


    "Silencing Zen!" Seeing the blood-red Demon Qi gathering in the Blood Tiger King''s mouth, Jiang Liu turned around, pointed at the Blood Tiger King, and the Silencing Zen skill was activated.


    The blood-red Demon Qi in the Blood Tiger King''s mouth instantly dissipated into nothingness.


    This left the Blood Tiger King horrified. When he tried to stir the Demon Qi inside his body, he found it was as still as dead water...


    While the Monk Profession''sbat strength is very low in the game, it is precisely because of this lowbat strength that it is filled with control and support skills, like a BUG.


    "What kind of Divine Skill is this? A mere Meridian Unblocking Realm cultivation, and yet capable of mastering such Divine Skills? Who is this little monk?" Unable to mobilize his own Demon Qi, the Blood Tiger King experienced this for the first time in his thousand years of life.


    Beyond the shock, the Blood Tiger King''s gaze fell on Jiang Liu. He wore a Buddhist Hat which obscured the prayer scars on his head.


    At that moment, a light bulb went off in the Blood Tiger King''s head. He recalled that a few days ago, there were rumors about a young monk at the Great Buddha Temple who had lit twelve prayer scars, a marvel that shook all of Great Tang.


    Could it be...

 Chapter 61 Flesh of Longevity

    Mortal cultivators, when they reached the Returning Void Realm, they had already be great cultivators, and ascending beyond that meant shedding the mortal body to achieve the Path of Heavenly Immortal.


    Yet, in a battle between a great cultivator at the Returning Void Realm and a Demon King, how could a little guy from the Meridian Unblocking Realm dare to intervene?


    However, Jiang Liu not only intervened but also yed a role. The healing effects of the Guanyin Mantrabined with the potions quickly healed arge portion of Master Fanhai''s injuries.


    Even the demon Qi gathering in the mouth of the Blood Tiger King dissipated due to the control skill of Silencing Zen, a scene that left everyone speechless.


    Daoji and Gaoyang couldn''t believe it. Although they all knew Jiang Liu possessed extraordinary abilities, they hadn''t expected that his skills would help in a fight between the Demon King and a great cultivator of the Returning Void Realm.


    Master Fanhai was also stunned. As the one who truly experienced the healing effects of the Guanyin Mantra and drank the healing potion, he clearly felt his injuries significantly recover.


    This almost world-altering supernatural power, unbelievably wielded by someone from Meridian Unblocking Realm, could this be the foundation of the disciple with twelve Scar of Precepts?


    The Blood Tiger King also acutely felt the effect of the skill, Silencing Zen. While shocked at heart, he also began to specte about Jiang Liu''s identity, his ferocious eyes briefly scanning the Vidyaraja Crown on Jiang Liu''s head, brimming with killing intent.


    If this child was indeed the disciple of the much-talked-about bearer of twelve scars, then killing him would indeed be hugely profitable.


    If even the reincarnation of the Bodhisattva was killed, how would the people of the Great Buddha Temple exin it to their Buddha? Snaring such a fellow as a funeralpanion would mean a big gain for himself!


    Once the identity of Jiang Liu became clear, the Blood Tiger King, originally aiming only to involve Master Fanhai in a mutual downfall, switched his target to Jiang Liu, then lunged at him with a mighty leap.


    Since the control effect of Silencing Zen prevented the usage of demon Qi, the physical strength alone of the Demon King, even just the strength of flesh and blood, was immensely powerful.


    "Xuanzang, be careful!" Seeing the Blood Tiger King''s movements, Master Fanhai screamed out in rm and quickly rushed over to rescue.


    The might of the Demon King was earth-shattering; despite the inability to manipte demon Qi, facing the gaping maw of the Demon King, Jiang Liu couldn''t dodge and could only watch as the enormous mouth approached his face¡­


    Even with the defense of the Vidyaraja Crown and the exemption of the Vajra Mantra, Jiang Liu knew very well that it was impossible for him to withstand a strike from the Demon King.


    With a bang, the one-armed Master Fanhai, at the very brink of disaster, collided harshly with the Tiger King, both rolling into a tangled heap.


    In this mission to subdue demons and eliminate evil, Master Fanhai knew his primary goal was to protect his disciple Xuanzang.


    Now, as the Blood Tiger King resolutely sought to pull Xuanzang down with him, having no way out, Master Fanhai had no choice but to fight desperately against the demon.


    Both the great cultivator from the Returning Void Realm and the Demon King were injured, fiercely battling each other. For a while, the earth shook and the sky trembled, making it impossible even for the Demon Marshal to approach.


    Although the effect of Silencing Zen was strong, itsted only two seconds after all.


    Shush!


    Upon seeing this scene, Jiang Liu took a deep breath, wanting to help, but a spell directly turned into Buddhist chains, tying up around Jiang Liu, restraining his movements.


    "Daoji! I''m giving you a mission, take Xuanzang away from Foutu Mountain! Leave immediately!"


    Though his health bar was fuller than that of the Blood Tiger King due to the healing effects, in terms of strength, Blood Tiger King was superior to Master Fanhai. As they battled desperately, the one-armed Master Fanhai was still no match.


    "Brother! Let''s go!" Biting his teeth, Daoji also clearly understood the situation at hand; he immediately hoisted up Jiang Liu bound with Buddhist chains and turned to flee down Foutu Mountain.


    Without a word, Gaoyang followed closely, continuously whipping his long whip and shooting flying daggers to clear the path for Jiang Liu. Not seeking to kill enemies but only to escape, they gradually broke out of the encirclement.


    Carrying Jiang Liu swiftly down the mountain, it took nearly half an hour for them to rush from the middle of the mountain to the base. The small demons intercepting them were almost nowhere to be seen; both Daoji and Gaoyang bore many wounds on their bodies, looking extremely wretched.


    At the foot of the mountain, the Buddhist Mantra Seal that had been binding Jiang Liu dissipated, finally granting him his freedom.


    "Brother, Uncle Master Fanhai risked his life to help both of us escape; you mustn''t go back," said Daoji anxiously as he stepped in front of Jiang Liu, who remained silent, staring towards Foutu Mountain, his demeanor one of resolute obstruction.


    Daoji, standing before Jiang Liu, was dressed in tattered monk robes, with a long scratch across his face and blood stains covering his visage; even his health bar was only a fraction of what it once was.


    Jiang Liu sighed internally, cast a Guanyin Mantra for Daoji, and then slowly turned around to pay his respects toward Foutu Mountain.


    Though he was stopped by Saint Monk Longhai from leaving the monastic life after the Incense Offering Ceremony, Saint Monk Longhai hadn''t used force to keep him, and during his days in the Great Buddha Temple, he had indeed received much care.


    Today, Master Fanhai had desperately protected his safety. Jiang Liu engraved this kindness and guilt deeply in his heart, feeling both moved and guilty.


    "Ah, Jiang Liu, you''re hurt..." said Gaoyang worriedly, taking out a silk handkerchief to dress Jiang Liu''s wounds.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    It turned out that a long gash was exposed on Jian Liu''s chest through his torn monk robes, as if a piece of flesh from his chest was missing, causing Gaoyang immense heartache.


    Only now, as he rxed, did Jiang Liu notice the severe pain in his chest. It must have been from when he was bitten by the Blood Tiger King. Although Master Fanhai had knocked the Blood Tiger King away at the critical moment, its sharp fangs had still left a wound on his body.


    "Gaoyang, your injuries are not light either," Jiang Liu said as he watched her attentively wrapping his wounds, seeing that she too was covered in scars, he felt a pang in his heart, and took out two bottles of healing potion, downing one himself and handing one to Gaoyang.


    ... Stay updated through empire


    Leaving aside what was happening at the foot of the mountain, at the top of Foutu Mountainy a field of corpses. The war between demons and humans was also drawing to an end.


    Two Divine Transformation Realm cultivators from Dragon Tiger Mountain and Heavenly Master Hall struck together, causing Demon Marshal Shuangxue to scream in agony. Hit by a Dharma Treasure, he fell directly off the cliff of Foutu Mountain.


    Standing at the cliff''s edge, the two cultivators watched as Demon Marshal Shuangxue fell heavily injured and decided not to pursue further.


    On the other side, the fierce battle between Blood Tiger King and Master Fanhai had reached its final phase; both the tiger and the man were at theirst gasp.


    Finally, despite his thigh being smashed by Master Fanhai''s Buddhist Treasure, breaking his leg bone, the Blood Tiger King''s powerful w struck heavily on Master Fanhai''s head, caving it inpletely, and naturally, he was killed instantly.


    Heaving heavily...


    After killing Master Fanhai, the Blood Tiger King morphed back into an elderly human form, hobbling around and scanning his surroundings. A trace of blood remained at the corner of his mouth¡ªthe residue of the bite he had inflicted on Jiang Liu earlier.


    With Master Fanhai dead and the Blood Tiger King still alive, even though it was evident he was on hisst legs, practically burnt out, he remained a living Demon King, causing the remaining human cultivators to flee in terror.


    Weak and exhausted, the Blood Tiger King watched the few remaining humans flee. As other demons pursued them, there was no need for him to exert himself any further.


    However, as the battle was nearly over, a Demon General approached the Blood Tiger King and, seeing his human form, eximed, "Great King, you¡ªyou''ve grown much younger!".


    At this, the Blood Tiger King looked down at himself¡ªin his human form, the age spots that had once marred his skin had vanished, and his previously loose and wrinkled skin had tightened.


    Feeling his body''s condition more carefully, he was suffused with vitality and no longer felt the imminence of old age, seemingly so.


    "How is this possible? Why have I be young again?", sensing his own drastic change, Blood Tiger King was surprised but mostly bewildered.


    If he had to say he had eaten anything recently, it seemed... he had recently torn off a piece of flesh from that young monk who seemed to carry the scar of twelve fragrances? Could it be... the young monk''s flesh had the effect of granting eternal youth? "I remember old bald Fanhai had him bound and sent away, shouting his dharma name. It was¡­ Xuanzang!"

 Chapter 62 The Road to the Horizon is Long, and There is No Set Time for a Reunion

    Daoji stood to one side, watching Jiang Liu and Gaoyang in their deep affection for each other, feeling somewhat embarrassed as he touched his nose, not knowing what to do with himself.


    Actually, Daoji had long been aware of the rtionship between Jiang Liu and Gaoyang. When they first met at Esquire Zhang''s house, the two of them were inseparable.


    But times had changed since then. Jiang Liu was no longer an unknown novice monk. He had lit twelve incense scars, bing the monk with the deepest connection to Buddhism in the entire world, and an example for monks everywhere.


    Regarding the rtionship between Jiang Liu and Gaoyang, Daoji also held objections in his heart. As a disciple with twelve incense scars, his every word and deed should be beyond reproach.


    However, having spent these days in thepany of Jiang Liu, he hade to greatly admire him. How could he stand out now and speak words that would spoil the mood? Daoji couldn''t bring himself to do it.


    "Jiang Liu, let''s go..." Gaoyang''s small hands were held by Jiang Liu as she looked at him with tender affection in her eyes, and spoke in a soft voice.


    "Go? Where do you mean exactly?" Jiang Liu wasn''t slow to understand; clearly, Gaoyang wasn''t just talking about returning to Chang''an City.


    "The venture to Foutu Mountain was a heavy loss for both the demon ns of Foutu Mountain and our human side, with uncertain life and death. If we just leave like this, others might assume we were devoured by demons. How about we find a secluded ce to live out our days in peace?" said Gaoyang, her beautiful eyes fixed on Jiang Liu.


    Even though Jiang Liu had already made a promise, and Gaoyang had agreed to wait for him, today seemed to present an opportunity to run away and be free, which was naturally a far better choice.


    What Gaoyang said stirred Jiang Liu''s heart. Indeed, if they were to leave now and be assumed dead in this demon subduing and evil eliminating campaign, it seemed very likely they could deceive Great Buddha Temple and the Emperor of Tang.


    Though he had once said that he would marry Gaoyang openly and honorably, at the time Jiang Liu did not know he was the identity of the Tang Monk. If they could stay together forever, even breaking his past promises would be a sacrifice he was willing to make.


    Moreover, wandering the world with Gaoyang, bing a pair of chivalrous lovers was once a dream of his.


    Yet although his heart wavered, the thought of his identity as the Tang Monk poured a cold bucket of water over him.


    Others might not know his situation, but Jiang Liu himself was all too aware.


    The Journey to the West for Scriptures was the most pressing matter in the Buddhist Realm up until now, with all deities and Buddhas taking great interest. If he were just an ordinary monk from the mortal world, no matter how revered, hiding away might indeed deceive the Imperial Court and Great Buddha Temple.


    But could the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas in heaven ever let him go? Could they turn a blind eye to him abandoning the great task of Scripture seeking for love and affection?


    At that moment, who knew what means Guanyin and Buddha would use topel him to submit!


    With his current power, he couldn''t even handle a Demon Marshal, so how could he resist the Bodhisattvas and Buddhas of heaven?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Jiang Liu, why are you not speaking? Do you care too much for your current fame and fortune?" Gaoyang asked as she saw Jiang Liu''s silent demeanor, her pretty face angry.


    "Am I such a person!?" Seeing Gaoyang angry, Jiang Liu shook his head and said.


    As he spoke, he organized his thoughts. The matter of the Journey to the West had not yet begun, so of course, he could not speak openly of it. "You know that I have twelve incense scars and should be the reincarnation of a Bodhisattva from the Western Heaven. Why reincarnate? Perhaps I have some very important mission.


    If I were to leave now and live under a false name, perhaps Buddha would not forgive me?"


    Speaking the truth about the Journey to the West for Scriptures would be difficult to exin, so Jiang Liu had to speak with a tone of spection.


    "You need not find such excuses. If the Buddha really has a mission for you, just let the Buddhae forward and tell you himself. As for unpredictableter events, we can discuss themter. If you can''t part with your current fame and fortune, I won''t cling to you," she said.


    Being straightforward by nature and decisive in her actions, Gaoyang said, "To love is to love wholeheartedly and recklessly. But if you cannot let go of fame and fortune, just say so directly. As for your spective worries? They are nothing but hesitation and indecision."


    "In matters of love, I don''t seek eternal bliss, but to have truly loved. As long as our love is sincere, even if your spection turns out to be true, I would rather shatter into pieces than live with eternal regret for never having loved at all."


    As a woman, having spoken to this extent, one could say she hadpletely cast aside a woman''s reserve, deeply moving the person listening to her.


    Find adventures at empire


    After a moment of silence, Jiang Liu resolutely nodded: "So be it. Since you''ve thought it through, I''ll apany you. Should any cmity arise, we''ll face it together."


    "Brother!"


    Regardless of what Gaoyang said, Daoji kept his silence, but upon hearing Jiang Liu''s response, his expression changed drastically, and he eximed in shock.


    "Daoji, if you still value the friendship between us, I implore your help!" Jiang Liu turned around and stared earnestly at Daoji.


    "Brother, you are the reincarnation of a Bodhisattva and will undoubtedly be a leader of our Buddhist Sect. Is what you''re doing worth it?" Daoji''s face showed difficulty as he tried to persuade him.


    "Brother!" With a serious look at Daoji, Jiang Liu didn''t respond to whether it was worth it or not, but his determined gaze was the best answer.


    Looking earnestly at Jiang Liu, seeing there was no chance of him changing his mind, Daoji''s face was marked by difficulty.


    After a long silence, he sighed deeply, "The day we met, brother, you spared my life. In the Demon-Suppressing Hall, we forged a life-and-death bond, and you even gifted me two Buddhist Treasures. I will never forget this favor. I shall go to the Great Buddha Temple and tell the master you have fallen into a demon''s belly.


    However, if this lie is discovered, I may well be a sinner of the Buddhist Sect."


    "Thank you!" Hearing that Daoji was truly willing to help, Jiang Liu felt joy, guilt, and gratitude all at once. A multitude of words converged into the two words "Thank you," which he spoke.


    Hand in hand, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang bid farewell to Daoji and turned to leave.


    "Brother, as we part today and the journey ahead is vast, there may be no future meeting..." Watching the two departing figures, Daoji pressed his palms together and muttered softly.


    ...


    Sitting high above on the Lotus tform, Bodhisattva Guanyin looked down from the Nine Heavens, seeing the multitudes of sentient beings below clearly before her eyes.


    "Even after ten reincarnations, Golden Cicada still possesses such wisdom. The quest to the West has not yet begun, but could he have already guessed a part of it?"


    "Fortunately, I obtained a thread of the Red Thread from the Matchmaker God, igniting their affection like pouring oil on mes. Otherwise, given Golden Cicada''s calm nature, he might not have agreed to elope today. Amitabha, luckily, everything is going ording to n..."

 Chapter 63 The Tiger King Who Extended His Life by 500 Years

    Jiang Liu and Gaoyang walked hand in hand, but despite agreeing to travel the world with Gaoyang, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but feel uneasy.


    The Emperor of Tang and the Great Buddha Temple in the mortal world were one thing, but would the Buddha and Bodhisattvas of Western Heaven let him go?


    Nobody knew when the Buddha and Bodhisattvas of Western Heaven would use some means to force him back onto the road to Western Heaven.


    However, when Jiang Liu turned his head and saw Gaoyang beside him, her joyful demeanor reassured him again.


    Ever since the day Gaoyang''s identity was revealed as a princess, he had not seen her this happy. They had already discussed the consequences of their actions, but since this was Gaoyang''s choice, he decided to apany her, ready to face any tribtions together.


    Perhaps Gaoyang was right, fretting too much about love and being indecisive was indeed not admirable.


    "Eh, there''s someone in the grass ahead," Gaoyang murmured suddenly while they walked.


    At the base of Foutu Mountain, where weeds thrived, a graceful figure in a white cloaky on the ground. Although the weeds obscured a clear view of their face, Jiang Liu found the white cloak somewhat familiar.


    After exchanging looks, they approached and indeed, it was the Demon Marshal Shuangxue, under the banner of the Blood Tiger King, lying in the grass.


    In the midst of battle, cultivators from Zhongnan Mountain and Dragon Tiger Mountain in the Divinity Transformation Realm had jointly struck him down a cliff, where he fortuitously encountered Jiang Liu and Gaoyang, who were just departing.


    "Is it him? Kill him!" Amidst the chaotic battle on the mountain, with countless humans dead or wounded, seeing it was the Demon Marshal under the Blood Tiger King, and already grievously injured, Gaoyang pulled out a flying dagger, saying hatefully.


    "Wait..." Jiang Liu, however, grabbed Gaoyang''s wrist and shook his head, saying, "It hase to this, let us not add to the ughter."


    Having been in the Journey to the West World for several months, and leveling up throughbat, Jiang Liu had somewhat grasped the rules; not only did defeating higher-level monsters increase the experience points gained, but it also significantly increased the drop rate of items. The greater the difference in levels, the higher the drop rate.


    If they killed Demon Marshal Shuangxue today, they would certainly obtain many things.


    However...


    "Jiang Liu, we almost got killed by the Blood Tiger King just now, and so manyrades on the mountain died, even Master Fanhai''s fate is uncertain, why spare this evil demon now?" Gaoyang, whose wrist was held by Jiang Liu, looked at him puzzledly. Although Buddhistpassion was important, wasn''t timing crucial too?


    "When we first met, it was because of the Snow Rabbit n. You once mentioned that the Demon Marshal Shuangxue belonged to the Snow Rabbit n, which, in a sense, also yed a role in bringing us together, right?" Jiang Liu held Gaoyang''s wrist and spoke.


    Really, it was also due to a sense of guilt within him. Initially, he had killed members of the Snow Rabbit n for their meat, and when the demons of the Snow Rabbit n sought revenge, they were killed by Senior Brother Xuankong, leaving Jiang Liu feeling guilty about them.


    Encountering Demon Marshal Shuangxue now, if it was within his power to alleviate this guilt and achieve mental rity, it wouldn''t be bad.


    ording to the rules of the Journey to the West World, this could be seen as settling a karmic debt?


    After all, his encounter with Gaoyang was because of the Snow Rabbit n, and his awareness of the game system also stemmed from having killed Snow Rabbit n members.


    "Alright, since you''ve decided, I''ll listen to you," Gaoyang thought for a moment and then slid the flying dagger back into its sheath.


    Looking at the health bar above Demon Marshal Shuangxue''s head, which only had a sliver of health left and could be depleted at any moment, Jiang Liu thought it through, decided to be thoroughly kind, and cast a Guanyin Mantra on Demon Marshal Shuangxue before leaving.


    From then on, they owed nothing to the Snow Rabbit n.


    Having left Foutu Mountain, the two of them continued their journey, walking for half a day until they came across a small mountain vige. After some discussion, they decided to seclude themselves in this vige and withdraw from worldly affairs.


    ...


    Let''s not talk about Jiang Liu and Gaoyang''s seclusion in the vige. Following the battle at Foutu Mountain, the entire Great Tang was shaken.


    First, the battle between the King of Flood Dragon and the Blood Tiger King, two great Demon Kings, caused the Heavenly Master Hall to join forces with the Great Buddha Temple and Zhongnan Mountain to suppress them.


    This was said to be thergest conflict between the Demon n and humans since the founding of the Tang Dynasty, with over half of the demons at Foutu Mountain killed or injured and even more catastrophic losses among the human cultivators.


    Second, the reason why the King of Flood Dragon and the Blood Tiger King fought to the death turned out to be a nearly ripe Tribulus grass at Foutu Mountain that could extend one''s life by a Tribulus cycle. No wonder the two Demon Kings risked their lives for it.


    Third, Elder Sword from the Heavenly Master Hall pursued the King of Flood Dragon for thousands of miles, killing the Flood Dragon and seizing the Tribulus grass from its possession. However, Elder Sword also went missing afterward, and the world imed he coveted the Tribulus grass and abandoned the Heavenly Master Hall for it.


    With the battle at Foutu Mountain, the news spread throughout the Great Tang, leaving everyone stunned by the revtions about the Tribulus grass.


    However, two dayster, new news arrived. In this battle, the Emperor of Tang''s most beloved princess, Gaoyang, went missing, her life or death unknown.


    Moreover, Xuanzang, the disciple with the twelve incense scars previously celebrated by the Great Buddha Temple, was devoured by demons.


    This news sent further shockwaves throughout the world. Recently, a disciple with twelve incense scars appeared in the Incense Offering Ceremony at the Great Buddha Temple, and along with Xuanzang''s Formless Gatha and the temple''s heavy reward, the theological debate between him and Li Chunfeng had be widely known.


    Unexpectedly, the battle at Foutu Mountain not only led to the downfall of Master Fanhai but also resulted in the demise of Xuanzang, the disciple with the twelve incense scars, within the belly of a demon.


    In a fit of anger, Li Shimin and the Saint Monk Longhai from the Great Buddha Temple joined forces in a sweeping search for the Blood Tiger King, seeking revenge.


    Two whole months passed in a blink, and during these two months, countless demons were in by the Emperor of Tang and the Great Buddha Temple, yet the Blood Tiger King remained elusive, and the demons from Foutu Mountain had long scattered.


    "Brother Tiger, we''ve known each other for hundreds of years, and ours is a friendship sealed by blood. Come, let''s drink. Your repeated rescues have saved my life. Now, with the Emperor of Tang and the Great Buddha Temple tightening their search, you should just settle down safely in my cave," said a lean middle-aged man,ying down drinks and food and heartily lifting his cup.


    "Burp, Brother Wolf, don''t speak like that. Though I have saved you twice, you''ve also helped me a lot..."


    Transformed into a human, the Blood Tiger King belched drunkenly, saying, "Let''s not talk about the past, but now, with Li Shimin and that bald monk Longhai searching the world for me, only you dare to take the risk to shelter me. This kindness, Brother Tiger, I will remember in my heart and never forget."


    Cups clinked as they drank freely, eating heartily and merrily, their drunkenness deepening.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Seeing that the Blood Tiger King was almostpletely drunk, not only babbling inartictely but barely able to stand straight, swaying from side to side, the Wolf King casually raised his cup and said, "Brother Tiger, there are rumors outside that the Tribulus Fruit was taken by Old Loach that day. Why have you reverted to your youthful vigor? Could it be that the rumors are wrong?"


    "No, no, the Tribulus Fruit indeed was taken by Old Loach, but Brother Tiger here has been fortunate, haha. The Tribulus Fruit only extends life by a mere one hundred eighty years, but look at me now, robust and hearty, easily good for another three to five hundred years, burp..." the Blood Tiger King said, his face flushed with drink, and bursting intoughter.


    "Then how did youe by this lifespan, Brother Tiger!?" the Wolf King asked, his eyes gleaming.


    Three to five hundred years of life? Such a statement would make anyone tremble with excitement, and the Wolf King''s hand holding the cup shook slightly.


    "That''s because, Brother Tiger enjoyed a piece of meat, a piece of Master Xuanzang''s flesh, a pity that everyone outside ims he was devoured by demons. Who knows who got lucky..."


    (PS: Today is Valentine''s Day, I wish everyone''s girlfriend gets her period tonight, haha...)

 Chapter 64 Exposure

    Dressed in coarse cloth with short sleeves and wearing a felt hat on his head, Jiang Liu trudged along the footpath beside the fields, one foot deep and the other shallow, with a hoe slung over his shoulder and his feet bare.


    The rain yesterday had made the ridges between fields muddy, so it was necessary to go barefoot.


    Looking up, he saw a small mountain vige hundreds of meters away with smoke curling from the chimneys, apanied by the crowing of roosters and barking of dogs, a scene of tranquility and peace.


    ncing back, he noticed the sun setting and flocks of geese returning to their nests; the bucoldscape was picturesque, instilling a sense of calm.


    Perhaps it would be quite nice to live a simple and in life like this for one''s whole life?


    Stepping into a nearby ditch, Jiang Liu washed the mud off his feet and put on his hemp shoes, quickly returning to the vige and spotting from a distance a thatched cottage with smoke also rising from it.


    Seeing this scene, Jiang Liu''s expression involuntarily changed; he quickened his pace and just then saw Gaoyang running out, coughing continuously, with her exquisite face slightly ckened from the smoke.


    "What''s happened? Is the house on fire?" Looking at the smoky room, Jiang Liu asked.


    In the midst of speaking, he rushed in, hurried to extinguish the fire, and opened the pot to check. Good heavens, it was full of rice that had solidified into a block.


    "Auntie Wang next door said that as a woman, you must do things likeundry and cooking. Every day it''s you, a man, doing the cooking; people willugh at you," said Gaoyang, looking at the charred mess in the pot and feeling a bit embarrassed as she lowered her head.


    "So, when you cook rice, don''t you add water?" Seeing that the pot contained only rice, the corner of Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly.


    "Ah? You need to add water when cooking rice?" Gaoyang asked with a surprised look on her face.


    "Ah! Murder!"


    However, before Jiang Liu had a chance to share some cooking tips with Gaoyang, suddenly, there was chaos outside, apanied by loud shouting.


    An incident had urred!


    On hearing thismotion, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang paused and then ran outside, only to see that in the small mountain vige of just a few dozen families, several fierce-looking bandits, armed with knives, were ughtering vigers and plundering their belongings.


    Even two younger girls were being seized and prepared for abduction.


    A man with a pale, somewhat sicklyplexion and a treasure sword at his waist sat quietly on a jujube-red horse, obviously the leader of these bandits.


    As Jiang Liu and Gaoyang emerged, two of the bandits were immediately drawn to Gaoyang, their eyes shining, "Who would have thought such a beautiful woman could be found in this tiny mountain vige?"


    Even though Gaoyang was dressed in simple work clothes, she was, after all, born a Princess of Great Tang and her appearance and aura werepletely different from those of the vige women; seeing Gaoyang, the two bandits hastily charged over, reaching out to take her.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    But then, screams rang out. Gaoyang lifted her foot, one kick per bandit, sending them flying away.


    Each bandit, having received a kick, was sent flying more than half a zhang away.


    "Oh? There are actually people trained in martial arts in this little mountain vige?" The young man with the white face sitting on the jujube-red horse noticed the scene here and raised an eyebrow; he spurred his horse and rushed over, his sword ringing as he drew it from the scabbard.


    Jiang Liu stepped forward, golden light shining in his hand, and threw a punch at the head of the jujube-red horse.


    With a thud, the punch, like a hammer,nded on the jujube-red horse''s head, causing the horse to neigh in agony and copse to the ground.


    Of course, the young man with the pale face who was sitting on the horseback also rolled off the horse along with him.


    Although he lived in seclusion in a small mountain vige, not wanting to be involved in worldly affairs, content with a simple life, how could Jiang Liu stand by when bandits attacked the vige,mitting mass murder, and even looked to kidnap Gaoyang?


    "What a formidable guy!", the pale-faced young man rolled on the ground twice, dissipating the force of the fall, and stood up, staring at Jiang Liu in astonishment. He hadn''t expected that such a small mountain vige would hide such an expert.


    Now that he had made his move, he would show no mercy to these cruel bandits.


    Jiang Liu leaped into the air and pounced towards the pale-faced young man again, his palm lifting at the same time to retrieve the Demon Subduing Staff from his storage space and smashed it down.


    The world blurred before his eyes, and upon seeing the Demon Subduing Staff suddenly appear in Jiang Liu''s hands, the young man stepped back in horror, his sword pointing towards Jiang Liu.


    With a ng, the powerful strike broke the sword in the pale-faced young man''s hand, and the unabated momentum of the Demon Subduing Staff crashed onto his shoulder. The sound of a crack echoed alongside a scream as his shoulder de was clearly broken.


    However, amidst his injury, the young man raised his palm, and a streak of blue light shed towards Jiang Liu''s head.


    "Hidden weapons?", with only a faint blue afterimage visible in his eyes, Jiang Liu hastily raised the Demon Subduing Staff horizontally in defense against the suspected hidden weapon attack.


    But the blue shadow made an extremely agile turn in mid-air, bypassing the Demon Subduing Staff, and in the blink of an eye, it was in front of Jiang Liu''s forehead.


    Startled in his heart, Jiang Liu reflexively contracted his head.


    Although he sessfully dodged the strike, his head felt cold as the little felt hat that had been sitting on top of his head flew off.


    Turning his head to see, it turned out that what flew towards him wasn''t any hidden weapon, but a blue mantis with wings.


    "A demon creature?", A mantis that could move at such speed must certainly be a demon creature, Jiang Liu realized.


    "A monk!?", with his felt hat knocked off by his own flying mantis, the pale-faced young man took in Jiang Liu''s bald head and was visibly taken aback.


    However, when the young man took a closer look at therge Incense Scar Initiation marks on Jiang Liu''s head, he widened his eyes, full of disbelief: one... two... three...


    "Ten... twelve incense scars... you, you''re Master Xuanzang!?" His voice trailed off as the sword fell from the pale-faced young man''s hands, and he stared at Jiang Liu with terror, muttering to himself.


    "Sigh...", caught off guard, his hat fell off, revealing his identity. Jiang Liu sighed inwardly, raised his palm, and a hot burst of me followed his motion, exploding directly upon the pale-faced young man.


    In just a moment, all six or seven bandits were killed by Jiang Liu.


    "Thank you, Master Xuanzang, for your rescue, thank you, Mage!", the remaining vigers all knelt down and bowed to Jiang Liu in gratitude.


    "Auntie Wang, Uncle Zhang, please get up!", Having lived in the small mountain vige for two months, Gaoyang was familiar with these vigers and hurriedly helped them to their feet.


    "Gaoyang, let''s go, let''s leave this ce, the farther the better...", Now that his identity was exposed, he could kill these bandits to silence them, but murdering these vigers? Jiang Liu couldn''t bring himself to do such a thing. He could only take Gaoyang, swiftly pack up some belongings at home, and leave quickly.


    "Caw caw caw...", However, above the small mountain vige, a ck crow let out an unpleasant screech and flew away into the distance.


    "Xuanzang, Xuanzang has been found, he''s not dead. I must hurry and report to the Great King, there''ll surely be a great reward, a great reward".

 Chapter 65 The Three Demon Kings

    Great Buddha Temple, within the great hall.


    Daoji, dressed in a monk''s robe, bowed his head before the statue of Tathagata, confessing and chanting scriptures.


    Because he had lied, iming that his brother, Master Xuanzang, had been devoured by a demon, recently, Master Longhai had been mired in self-me, all of which Daoji clearly saw and which made him feel guilty.


    "Amitabha, two months have passed, and there has still been no word regarding my brother and Princess Gaoyang. I truly wonder how they are faring."


    While confessing before the statue of Tathagata, Daoji''s thoughts inevitably drifted to Jiang Liu and Gaoyang.


    As a monk with twelve Scar of Precepts, deeply connected with Buddha, in Daoji''s view, he should have had a promising future, revered by millions of monks.


    Yet, for the sake of romantic attachment, he was living in anonymity.


    Even though Daoji had agreed out of emotional attachment, each time he thought about it, he felt pity for Jiang Liu.


    "Dragon Subduing, do you realize your sin...," just as Daoji was kneeling before the statue, absorbed in his thoughts, suddenly, a majestic voice resonated, overwhelming his spirit.


    Looking up, Daoji was startled to find that the originally serene-faced statue of Tathagata had, unknowingly, opened its eyes, gazing intently at him.


    "The Buddha has manifested, O Tathagata, your disciple realizes his sin...," seeing the statue stare intently at him, Daoji was shocked and prostrated himself on the ground, no longer considering why he was addressed as Dragon Subduing.


    "Dragon Subduing, Xuanzang''s escape rtes to a major n of our Buddhist Sect. Yet you secretly helped him escape, do you realize your sin?" the eyes of the Tathagata statue seemed to bear an immense gravity, pressing on Daoji.


    "O Tathagata, I, I realize my sin!" Daoji said, bowing his head as beads of sweat rolled down his forehead, his expression filled with terror.


    "Master Xuanzang''s destiny has already been determined, beyond the power of mortals to contend. Because of your moment of sentimentality, he is now facing great peril. Go now, hasten to his rescue..."


    With the fall of the voice of the Tathagata statue, a piece of information suddenly appeared in Daoji''s mind¡ªa signal on where to find Jiang Liu, who was in danger.


    Feeling as if he were in a half-dream state, as if he had just napped, when Daoji came to his senses and looked up at the Tathagata statue, it was solemn and unchanged, everything just now seeming like a dream.


    However, Daoji dared not consider everything that had happened as merely a dream, his mind still vividly recalling that Master Xuanzang was in dire need of rescue.


    "Master, Master Longhai, quick, we must hurry to save him...", without even waiting to bow to the Tathagata statue, realizing the seriousness of the situation, Daoji loudly shouted, running out of the great hall.


    ...


    Jiang Liu and Gaoyang, walking off into the distance, had encountered bandits attacking a small mountain vige. They had intervened, a decision neither regretted, knowing that not intervening would not have stopped the bandits either.


    However, in the midst of action, Jiang Liu''s hat had been knocked off, unexpectedly exposing his identity under the watchful eyes of all.


    Though the bandits were ughtered to silence them, how could they possibly strike down the vigers? Hence, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang had no choice but to leave.


    Even though Jiang Liu had been thinking about living in seclusion, with his identity now exposed, both the Great Buddha Temple and the Great Tang Imperial Court would surely have heard this news, and the forces seeking him would be tremendous...


    "Jiang Liu, it''s okay," Gaoyang, understanding what was on his mind, silently took his hand.


    "Even if my father captures and takes us back, it''s okay. We had discussed this before. I will wait for you in the Imperial Pce. Being captured is just as we had nned before. Surely Father wouldn''t kill us. But to have spent these two months together with you is already a fortune gained."


    "Yes, I know," Jiang Liu replied, squeezing Gaoyang''s small hand and nodding.


    As she said, it wasn''t entirely a bad situation, merely a return to the status quo.


    Ouch...ouch...


    Having fled for the entire day, as dusk fell, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang reached the outskirts of a town, just as a series of painful groans arose, drawing their attention.


    Jiang Liu and Princess Gaoyang followed the voice, only to see a woman sitting on the ground, clutching her foot.


    "You two, I am from Yong''an Town, and I twisted my ankle on my way back home. Could you help me back to my house? My family will surely reward you generously!" the woman hastily called out for help as Princess Gaoyang and Jiang Liu approached.


    "Madam, it''s no trouble at all...", hearing the plea, the chivalrous nature of Princess Gaoyang meant she couldn''t refuse and began to walk towards her.


    However, Jiang Liu grabbed hold of Princess Gaoyang''s hand and watched the woman warily. This scene seemed eerily familiar.


    Right, back then at the back mountain of Jinshan Temple, wasn''t it a woman among the bandits who had used the same tactic to deceive him?


    As the old saying goes, "Once bitten, twice shy." Although it might not be a deception this time, it was always better to be cautious.


    "Hah, thinking of tricking me? Go to hell!" Not caring whether it was a trap or not, Jiang Liu raised his hand, pretending to have seen through the n, and shouted.


    While he spoke, the Demon Subduing Staff appeared in his hand, and he fiercely smashed it towards the woman.


    "Jiang Liu!", suddenly, Princess Gaoyang''s face changed with a shocked cry as Jiang Liushed out without any provocation.


    Smack.


    Pretending to attack, Jiang Liu watched the elderly woman''s terrified expression, suspecting he might have guessed wrong and was about to pull back when, in a blur, his Demon Subduing Staff was caught by the woman''s hand.


    "To think you are Master Xuanzang? I believed I had concealed my ws well, how did you see through me?" the woman asked earnestly, holding the Demon Subduing Staff in her hand.


    "You old hag, why all these convoluted tricks? Master Xuanzang is just at the Meridian Unblocking Realm; you could have simply captured him directly without any scheming," another male voice chimed in at the same time as a skinny man stepped forward.


    "Who are you people!?", with the Demon Subduing Staff caught and feeling as heavy as a mountain, Jiang Liu was astounded by their strength and stared at the man and woman before him.


    "They are the Greedy Wolf King and the Guibei King, they have been colluding together for a long time..."


    However, before they could reply, another voice rang out.


    Looking in the direction of the voice, unknown to them, a white phosphorus snake had crawled onto Princess Gaoyang, and as the words were spoken, the snake transformed into a woman with purple nails tightening around Princess Gaoyang''s neck.


    "Able to transform into a human form! A Demon King!?", seeing the transformation of the White Scaled Snake into a woman and hearing her exin the identity of the man and woman, Jiang Liu''s expression darkened.


    Demons, as their cultivation deepened, each revealed different characteristics.


    Amon Demon often disyed itself in immense size; lesser Demons began to develop early spiritual wisdom, speaking humannguages; Demon Soldiers could mimic human actions, walking upright.


    Higher up, Demon Generals couldmand strange Demon Arts, such as controlling wind, fire, thunder, and so on.


    And Demon Marshals, they had already begun the initial transformation into human form, beast-headed and human-bodied, like Demon Marshal Shuangxue.


    Finally, a Demon King hadpletely transformed into human form!


    At this moment, were these three of the Great Demon Kings? Read new chapters at empire


    How powerful are Demon Kings? The dispute between the Blood Tiger King and the King of Flood Dragon over Foutu Mountain was evidence enough.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Yet, here were three Demon Kings appearing? Were they here to eradicate him, a Buddhist Disciple with the Scar of Precepts?


    Wait, that doesn''t seem right. If it was just to eliminate him, a significant threat to Buddhism, why did it seem like the White Snake, another Demon King, waspeting to kill him?


    Could it be that by killing him, they could still im a reward?!

 Chapter 66 Divine Skills No Match for Fate

    In Great Tang, despite a coexistence between the Human n and Demon n maintaining a certain bnce, the blood feud spanning generations between them was undeniable.


    Therefore, the appearance of a disciple marked with twelve fragrant scars meant the Demon n would seize the opportunity to eliminate this threat while they were still weak. This was within reason.


    That''s why when he simply traveled from Chang''an City to Jinshan Temple, even the Saint Monk Longhai insisted that the Buddhist Pnquin and Master Huihai apany him for protection¡­


    However, if they merely wanted to kill him, wouldn''t any Demon Marshal suffice?


    Yet it was the Demon Kings who hade. Not only did two miserable Demon Kings appear in person, but the White Snake Demon King had alsoe with intentions of rivalry, which waspletely unreasonable.


    "White Venom King, what is your purpose here?" the Werewolf King, transformed into a woman, stared at the Demon King transformed into a White Snake and asked sternly.


    Even though he was teamed up with two Great Demon Kings and wasn''t afraid of her, he had to admit that a master of poison, capable of defeating the many and the strong with less, was not a rarity.


    And the poison of the White Venom King was ranked among the top throughout Great Tang.


    "What a joke, if you cane, why can''t I? If you have your reasons foring, I naturally have mine too," the White Venom King, holding Princess Gaoyang''s neck, coyly giggled at the two Demon Kings.


    "You knew about the Evesting Flesh too? How did you find out!?" At this point, how could the two beleaguered kings not realize the White Venom King''s goal? They asked in shock.


    "You were able to intoxicate the Blood Tiger King and pry this news from his lips; do you really think there are walls in this world that don''t leak?"


    "Evesting Flesh!?" Jiang Liu, overhearing the conversation among the Demon Kings, was inwardly shocked and soon came to realize.


    No wonder the three Great Demon Kings had shown up and were subtlypeting. It was because of the news that his flesh granted immortality.


    A single Tribulus Fruit had made the Blood Tiger King and King of Flood Dragon fight to the death, so for his immortal flesh, it was no surprise that these three Great Demon Kings had mobilized.


    As Jiang Liu pondered, a pinkish poison mist spewed from the mouth of the White Venom King, enveloping and surrounding the two beleaguered demons.


    "White Venom King, your poison might be formidable, but we are all in the realm of Demon Kings. Do you really think you can take on both of us alone and snatch Xuanzang away? You''re underestimating us too much," said the Wolf King ominously as they looked at the restricting poison mist around them.


    "How would I know if I don''t try?" the White Venom King, clearly confident in his poison, responded.


    Just as the three Demon Kings were about to confront each other, Jiang Liu stepped forward two paces, interjecting, "Wait, the three of you, I have a question¡ªhow did you learn of my flesh granting immortality?"


    Although the original transcripts mentioned it, Jiang Liu was curious, as how could such a rumor have spread without cause?


    "You don''t know?" The question from Jiang Liu took the three Great Demon Kings by surprise, all staring at him in astonishment. Your next chapter is on empire


    "Know what?" Jiang Liu appeared utterly baffled.


    "During the battle at Foutu Mountain that day, didn''t the Blood Tiger King tear off a piece of flesh from you?" the White Venom King, not in a hurry to fight, asked Jiang Liu.


    Touching his chest where his wound had long since healed, Jiang Liu nodded, "Indeed, it was so; could it be because of that, his lifespan increased?"


    "Correct, since then, the Blood Tiger King''s vitality surged, and he became younger, rumored to have increased his lifespan by five hundred years!" the White Venom King nodded and answered.


    "So it''s true, my flesh indeed can increase lifespan?"


    At this, Jiang Liu finally understood.


    "Wait, your name is White Venom King, right? Those two captured me because they want the Flesh of Longevity I possess, but why are you holding Gaoyang hostage?" Jiang Liu asked, looking at Gaoyang being choked by the White Venom King, partly out of concern for Gaoyang''s safety and partly baffled.


    "Hmm?" As Jiang Liu spoke, the Werewolf King, who had transformed into a woman, raised her eyebrows in surprise and also sensed something wrong while looking at White Venom King.


    Yes, it made sense for them to capture Xuanzang, but why hold Gaoyang? What use was she?


    "Hahaha, Master Xuanzang, your mind is indeed clear. Do you think I exined about the Flesh of Longevity and deliberately blocked their way to stall for time without a reason?" White Venom Kingughed charmingly after hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    Giving a distraught look, White Venom King said, "They say divine skills cannot defy fate. Do you two think only our Demon n knew that Master Xuanzang had reappeared?"


    "Could it be..." the two distraught demons''plexions drastically changed.


    Just then, as if to confirm the Demon Kings'' spection, brilliant Buddhist Light appeared on the horizon.


    At the same time, a resounding dragon chant echoed between heaven and earth, the utterly strong and yang sound of the dragon chant rmed all three Demon Kings.


    "That old baldy from Longhai is here! Run!" Turning their heads to see the Buddhist Light appearing in the sky, the two werewolf demons no longer cared about the pink miasmatic poison gas in front of them, activated their demon energy, and burst out.


    White Venom King, with one hand gripping Gaoyang and the other waving, released a surge of poisonous energy that swept through like a tsunami.


    "White Venom King, you, a member of the Demon n, actually colluding with humans, you, you..." Though they were fleeing rapidly, the poison was like bone maggots; they still inhaled quite a lot, their heads feeling dizzy and muddled. The two werewolf demons cursed in shock and anger.


    "Keep cursing. I have already foreseen that today you two will undoubtedly die, while I shall enjoy the Flesh of Longevity, hahaha..." White Venom Kingughed triumphantly.


    The radiant Buddhist Light descended from the sky, the resounding dragon chant suppressed them, already poisoned, the Wolf King and Demon King, their heads dizzy and muddled, were sted away by the dense and yang dragon chant, vomiting demon blood.


    Jiang Liu, too, had inhaled the poison, felt dizzy and muddled, and fell to the ground, barely able to stand, but his gaze swept over the two werewolf demons and could see that their health bars were more than half depleted.


    "Xuanzang, you''re really unharmed, that''s great," as the Buddhist Light receded, Saint Monk Longhai and Daoji descended from the sky, Longhai delightfully eximed seeing Daoji helping Jiang Liu up.


    "Save... save Gaoyang..." afflicted by the miasmatic poison, Jiang Liu felt dizzy and seemed about to pass out, but he forced himself to stay conscious and spoke with Daoji''s support. With Gaoyang in the grasp of a Demon King, how could Jiang Liu feel at ease?


    "Rest assured, I am here," Longhai reassured, patting Jiang Liu''s shoulder and speaking softly.


    Having Daoji look after Jiang Liu carefully, Longhai turned back and fixed his gaze on White Venom King: "Amitabha, Benefactor White Venom, Princess Gaoyang is the beloved daughter of the Emperor of Tang. I advise you to release her, otherwise, Emperor Tang will surely level your Mountain of Ten Thousand Snakes to the ground."


    "Hehe, Longhai, don''t scare me. Beforeing here, I had already dismissed all the demons from Mountain of Ten Thousand Snakes. Of course, the life or death of the princess is in your hands. I only want one thing.


    If you agree, not a single hair on Princess Gaoyang will be harmed; otherwise, I would like to see if your Great Buddha Temple and the Imperial Court can resolve the legendary Corrupting Spirit Poison that can kill immortals."


    The mention of Corrupting Spirit Poison altered Saint Monk Longhai''s expression.


    "What do you want?" Longhai asked, his face somber.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Everyone says that Master Xuanzang''s flesh grants Longevity Life. This king wants to taste it. Hehe, a piece of flesh for Princess Gaoyang''s life, worth it, wouldn''t you say?"


    "Impossible!" Saint Monk Longhai, his face as still as water.


    Jiang Liu, summoning all his strength and struggling to keep alert, shouted:


    "I, I agree..."

 Chapter 67 Dragon Subduing Arhat

    The two disdainful demons, both at the cultivation level of a Demon King, chose to turn and flee when faced with Saint Monk Longhai.


    However, White Venom King remained calm in the face of Longhai, not because her strength exceeded that of the two disdainful demons; otherwise, she could have directly taken action to capture Xuanzang and leave. Why would she need to stall for time until Longhai arrived?


    The reason was that besides her exquisite ability to use poison, White Venom King was also incredibly adept in divination.


    Today, after learning that Master Xuanzang was not dead, White Venom King had cast a divination for herself before setting out.


    The highest fortune of the divination indicated that her mission would have shocks but no peril and that she could obtain the Flesh of Longevity¡ªtherefore, White Venom King proceeded...


    It was for this reason, even when facing the two disdainful Demon Kings, White Venom King held firm in her belief; she subdued Princess Gaoyang to buy time until Longhai arrived.


    Indeed, as the divination showed, they were no match at all, yet she could exchange Princess Gaoyang for a piece of the Flesh of Longevity...


    Regarding Jiang Liu''s reply, White Venom King was not surprised. More urately, the development of events was just as her divination had shown, without a single fault.


    "Longhai, since Master Xuanzang has made his choice, why bother being the viin?" With a smile, White Venom King, still sping Princess Gaoyang''s neck, spoke to Longhai.


    "Xuanzang, no, you must know..." Longhai turned around, his gaze falling on Jiang Liu, he objected.


    "Holy Monk, I, I have decided...," Jiang Liu interrupted what Longhai was about to say. Despite his weakened spirit and the constant threat of losing consciousness, his intermittent words revealed a resolute tone.


    To exchange a piece of flesh for Princess Gaoyang''s safety, Jiang Liu would spare no effort!


    As he spoke, Jiang Liu''s hand slowly lifted¡ªonly he could see his storage space that he withdrew a kitchen knife from, and then he shed it toward his own arm...


    p!


    However, just as the kitchen knife was about to hit Jiang Liu''s arm, suddenly, his wrist was grabbed by someone. The person who acted was Daoji.


    "Dao? Daoji?" Even Saint Monk Longhai hadn''t forcibly stopped his choice, but Daoji actually took action, which made Jiang Liu raise his head in surprise, looking at him.


    "Amitabha, Master Xuanzang, such self-harm surely losses face for the Buddhist Sect," Daoji said solemnly, his eyes seemingly containing endless authority. He spoke in a steady and authoritative tone.


    Before Jiang Liu could reply, Daoji''s gaze immediately fell on White Venom King, the utmost Yang Buddhist Light bursting forth from him, even more vigorous and vast than that of Saint Monk Longhai: "How dare such a mere White Snake act arrogantly before me?"


    "You, who are you? Such vast and pure Buddhist power, you, you are certainly no ordinary monk from the mortal world..." Seeing the tremendous Buddhist Light of Daoji, White Venom King''s face showed a look of terror, clutching Princess Gaoyang as she stepped back.


    It wasn''t just a mere gap in strength, but more importantly, in the face of Daoji, White Venom King felt as though she was facing a natural enemy.


    "He is not Daoji! Who is he!?" Although he looked exactly like the Daoji he knew, the entire demeanor and strength were utterly iparable, Jiang Liu thought in shock.


    "This seat, Western Spirit Mountain, Tathagata''s Dragon Subduing Arhat of the eighteen Arhats, has subdued many dragons among heaven and earth. You mere Snake Demon, are seeking your own death!" facing the terrified screams of White Venom King, "Daoji" said in a condescending tone.


    While speaking, he stretched out his palm and grabbed towards the White Venom King.


    "Dragon Subduing Arhat!? Could this guy really be the reincarnation of the Dragon Subduing Arhat?" Jiang Liu murmured to himself upon hearing what "Daoji" said.


    It was one thing for Daoji to have the same Buddhist name as the legendary Living Buddha Ji Gong, but he even had nine incense scars, which made Jiang Liu secretly suspect whether he was really the reincarnation of the Dragon Subduing Arhat.


    Now, it seemed that at this crucial moment, Daoji''s Primordial Spirit had awakened and transformed back into the Dragon Subduing Arhat.


    Regardless, since the Dragon Subduing Arhat had appeared, Jiang Liu also secretly breathed a sigh of relief. Even if it was only the Primordial Spirit, the Dragon Subduing Arhat was after all a transcendental being among the Immortal Gods, certainly not something this Mortal World''s Snake Demon could contend with.


    Indeed, as the Dragon Subduing had said, bearing the title of Dragon Subduing naturally meant subduing snakes was even more effortless.


    "Amitabha, so it is the reincarnation of the Dragon Subduing Arhat, no wonder there is such a Buddhist connection...", hearing the Dragon Subduing Arhat reveal his identity, the nearby Saint Monk Longhai was astonished by Daoji''s transformation and suddenly understood.


    Enjoy exclusive content from empire


    "No, this can''t be..." Watching the Dragon Subduing Arhat''s hand reaching toward him, with a palm movement that wasn''t fast but felt inevitably unavoidable, White Venom King could only watch in horror as the hand came down.


    He had already calcted for himself that this venture would be risky but without peril, that he could sessfully taste a piece of the Evesting Flesh. Why, why had even the Dragon Subduing Arhat appeared?


    As the Dragon Subduing reached out his hand, even if it were a Demon King, this white snake seemed to have no ability to resist at all in his palm, and the White Venom King had reverted back to his true form as a white snake, being held by the Dragon Subduing Arhat.


    With a forceful squeeze of his palm, the White Venom King, much like an ordinary snake, was effortlessly crushed to death by the Dragon Subduing Arhat.


    "Thank you, Dragon Subduing Arhat, for stepping in!" Following the death of the White Venom King, the Saint Monk Longhai expressed his gratitude to the Dragon Subduing Arhat.


    "Saint Monk Longhai, there is no need for thanks. Considering our identities, having reincarnated and cultivated again, you are still my master in this life," the Dragon Subduing Arhat responded calmly, returning the gesture.


    After Daoji transformed into the Dragon Subduing Arhat and had exchanged greetings with Saint Monk Longhai in the manner of an Arhat, he raised his palm and lifted the nearby unconscious Jiang Liu.


    Already affected by the poisonous miasma fog in his mind, and only keeping conscious due to the critical situation of Gaoyang, seeing Daoji transform into the Dragon Subduing Arhat, Jiang Liu sighed in relief. Finding it difficult to resist the effects of the poison fog any longer, he passed out.


    "Oh no!" Just as the Dragon Subduing Arhat caught the unconscious Jiang Liu, Saint Monk Longhai, after assisting Gaoyang to rise, let out a cry as his expression drastically changed.


    Gaoyang, too, had fallen into unconsciousness. At the spot where White Venom King''s nails had gripped her neck, several wounds remained, out of which strands of purplish-red poison gas spread through her body.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Arhat, Princess Gaoyang is the beloved daughter of the Emperor of Tang and has been severely poisoned. Please, Arhat, help to save her!" Seeing the obvious signs of poisoning in Gaoyang, Longhai spoke urgently.


    "Amitabha, the Corrupting Spirit Poison, is beyond my ability to undo. This woman''s fate is destined to face this trial. Saint, please take her back to the Imperial Pce," the Dragon Subduing Arhat looked obliquely at Gaoyang supported by Saint Monk Longhai, his expression serene and indifferent.

 Chapter 68 Daoji is Dragon Subduing, but Dragon Subduing is not Daoji

    He rubbed his head and slowly opened his eyes, his gaze somewhat vacant.


    However, his vision quickly became clear, and he remembered the encounter with the three Great Demons, and then Daoji transforming into the Dragon Subduing Arhat.


    "Amitabha, Xuanzang, you have awakened," just then, a familiar yet strange voice sounded beside him.


    The voice was familiar because it was well-known, but the tone gave a feeling of strangeness.


    Looking in the direction of the voice, he saw Daoji, no, he should be addressed as the Dragon Subduing Arhat, sitting beside him, quietly watching him.


    "Arhat, how is Gaoyang?" he asked, sitting up and addressing the Dragon Subduing Arhat. Enjoy exclusive chapters from empire


    Although the Dragon Subduing Arhat was present, Jiang Liu felt that the White Venom King wouldn''t be able to stir up much trouble, but since he had passed out, he hadn''t personally seen Gaoyang out of danger, so his heart was naturally unsettled.


    "Amitabha, Xuanzang, you should know that as a disciple of the Buddhist Sect, one must not indulge in personal love affairs," instead of answering Jiang Liu''s question, the Dragon Subduing Arhat stared at him with a stern look and spoke in a heavy tone of rebuke.


    After being scolded by the Dragon Subduing Arhat, Jiang Liu was slightly stunned. Then, after a moment of silence, he felt that the Arhat before him and the Daoji he remembered were worlds apart and asked, "Are you not Daoji?"


    "Daoji is merely the identity of my True Spirit in reincarnation. Daoji''s experiences and memories are but a trivial decade or so within my several millennia of life," the Arhat answered calmly in response to Jiang Liu''s question, "Daoji is part of the Dragon Subduing, but the Dragon Subduing is not Daoji."


    "This is the rtionship between inclusion and being included..." Jiang Liu understood the exnation from the Dragon Subduing Arhat.


    To put it simply, if Daoji''s experiences and memories gathered bit by bit over a decade were like a cup of water, then the Dragon Subduing''s thousands of years of experiences and memories were like a pond.


    Pouring that cup of water into the pond, the oue was self-evident.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "The Golden Cicada that I knew, was devoted to Buddha as the second disciple of the Tathagata. His Buddha-like heart and nature won the admiration of everyone on Spirit Mountain. He reincarnated ten times, with the previous nine times firmly holding on to his beliefs and not forgetting his destined Scripture Seeking task.


    Yet to my surprise, in this most crucial life, you have be so intoxicated with love," the Dragon Subduing Arhat pondered for a moment and felt that it was time to tell him of his destiny to seek scriptures in the West.


    The Dragon Subduing Arhat was both angry and helpless at this moment.


    Having descended to Lower Realm for a mission, Buddha gave me a chance to redeem my mistakes, which was to guide the reincarnation of Master Golden Cicada onto the path of his destined journey to the West after my reincarnation.


    In the eyes of the Dragon Subduing Arhat, Golden Cicada always remembered his mission in the previous nine reincarnations, so this task shouldn''t have been difficult. Yet unexpectedly, in thisst life, Golden Cicada became drunk on romance?


    This was something the Dragon Subduing Arhat would naturally stop at no cost.


    Fortunately, Gaoyang had been poisoned with the Corrupting Spirit Poison, a poison that could kill immortals. It''s not that Icked the ability to cure it, even if I could, I would absolutely not do it.


    However, Jiang Liu had long been aware of his destined Scripture Seeking mission. Upon hearing this news, he did not react with shock or rush to ask questions, but instead stared seriously at the Dragon Subduing Arhat and asked again, "Just now, Arhat, you did not answer my question. How is Gaoyang? Has she escaped danger safely?"


    After speaking out about his destined journey to the West for scriptures, he still doesn''t care and is still concerned about that woman?


    The Dragon Subduing Arhat was both shocked and angry, and after a brief moment of silence, he felt that it was time to tell him the truth, topletely cut off his thoughts of this love affair.


    "That mere Snake Demon, I have already in her. However, I was a step toote when I acted. That Snake Demon injected the Corrupting Spirit Poison into Princess Gaoyang''s body. I don''t have the ability to cure it. In forty-nine days, that girl will perish from rotting inside and out," said the Dragon Subduing Arhat.


    "You did it on purpose!"


    The words of the Dragon Subduing Arhat startled Jiang Liu, who abruptly rose from the bed and shouted at the Dragon Subduing Arhat, "With your cultivation level that transcends worldly affairs, even dragons can be subdued by you. How could you let a White Snake poison under your watch? You did it on purpose!"


    "Amitabha, please understand the situation. I am under no obligation to save people for you!" Despite Jiang Liu''s angry shouting, the Dragon Subduing Arhat remained calm and spoke indifferently.


    This speech left Jiang Liu speechless.


    Indeed, from a rational perspective, the Dragon Subduing Arhat truly was under no obligation to save anyone. Even separating him from Gaoyang was a reasonable act, and all this had been anticipated by him long before.


    Yet, when everything actually unfolded, Jiang Liu still found his mind in disarray.


    Though from the standpoint of the Buddhist Sect, the Dragon Subduing Arhat would not be wrong even if he deliberately caused Gaoyang''s death, from Jiang Liu''s point of view, there was naturally anger in his heart.


    "Fine, fine, such is the passionate'' Buddhist Sect," Jiang Liu said angrily and with a mockingugh, gazing intently at the Dragon Subduing Arhat before him. Without another word, he turned and ran outside.


    The Dragon Subduing Arhat did not attempt to stop Jiang Liu as he ran into the distance.


    The Corrupting Spirit Poison was not something that could be cured by means from the Mortal World. Regardless of how much he struggled, he had only these forty-nine days left...


    "Amitabha, Arhat, aren''t you afraid this action will provoke a strong bacsh from Xuanzang? Furthermore, considering his identity..." With Jiang Liu gone, the Saint Monk Longhai came in from outside, hands pressed together, his expression tinged with worry.


    Although both the Dragon Subduing Arhat and the Saint Monk Longhai opposed the romantic attachment between Jiang Liu and Gaoyang, the actions of the Dragon Subduing Arhat were indeed too direct and brusque, far from the gentleness of Longhai.


    After all, one should not underestimate Xuanzang''s identity.


    "It''s fine. Xuanzang is just that, not the Golden Cicada. Why fear his grudge?" said the Arhat unconcerned, waving his hand dismissively.


    "Daoji is the Dragon Subduing Arhat, but the Dragon Subduing Arhat is not Daoji; simrly, Xuanzang is the Golden Cicada, but how could the Golden Cicada be Xuanzang?" he continued.


    "Should the daye that he reaches the Great Thunder Monastery of the Western Heaven, obtains the True Scriptures, and achieves enlightenment to be a Buddha, surely the Golden Cicada would thank me for today''s actions, helping him cut off his mortal ties?" he added.


    "Sigh..." Longhai let out a silent sigh.


    Longhai did not agree with the actions of the Dragon Subduing Arhat. Having spent some time with him, Longhai believed he understood Xuanzang''s temperament somewhat: clear about gratitude and grudges, yet still full of youthful vigor.


    The same Xuanzang who had dared to loudly proim his wish to return to secr life during the Incense Offering Ceremony could react unpredictably if pushed to the edge, and no one knew what astonishing things he might do.


    ...


    In the Great Tang Imperial Pce, upon sickbed, Princess Gaoyangy quietly, her face covered with a veil, and Emperor Li Shimin of Tang sat by her side, holding a teacup, his expression serene.


    Yet, the tea in his cup had gone cold without him taking a single sip.


    Within the pce, more than a dozen grey-haired Imperial Physicians all wore expressions of distress. They were all powerless against the poison afflicting the Princess.


    By Gaoyang''s bedside stood a Taoist in his fifties, with the air of an immortal, holding a horsetail whisk in one hand, while the other hand rested on Gaoyang''s fair wrist, silently taking her pulse.


    Visible to the naked eye, on the snow-white and jade-like wrist, a patch of decayed flesh spread slowly in a horrific manner.


    After a long while, the Taoist withdrew his hand and sighed softly.


    "Taoist Yuan, how is Gaoyang''s condition?" asked Li Shimin, setting down his now-cold tea, after seeing the younger Taoistplete his pulse diagnosis.


    "Report!" Before the Taoist could speak, suddenly, a eunuch hurriedly rushed in.


    "Your Majesty, Master Xuanzang requests to see Her Highness the Princess."

 Chapter 69 Heaven and Earth Tremble

    "Master Xuanzang? What is he here for? Do not see him!" upon hearing the eunuch''s words, Emperor Li Shimin''s eyebrows slightly furrowed as he waved his hand and spoke.


    What of the twelve Scar of Precepts? What of the reincarnation of the legendary Bodhisattva?


    If not for him, how would Gaoyang have ended up in such a state?


    As the Emperor of Great Tang, within the borders of Great Tang, there was truly little that Li Shimin wished to know that could be hidden from him.


    When Elder Sword initially brought Gaoyang back, how could he not have reported her association with Jiang Liu to Li Shimin?


    Before the Incense Offering Ceremony, there appeared to be some affection between Xuanzang and Gaoyang, which Li Shimin was aware of. After the ceremony, as Gaoyang became increasingly sullen, Li Shimin saw it even more clearly.


    Later, when Saint Monk Longhai came with Xuanzang, Li Shimin assumed he was there topletely sever ties with Gaoyang, so he turned a blind eye...


    However, it was unexpected that as a monk who was supposed to be pure in all six senses and rightfully entered the Buddhist Sect, he actually abducted his own daughter.


    If not for the trouble brought upon her by this disciple of the Buddhist Sect with twelve Scar of Precepts, how would Gaoyang have been poisoned so severely?


    Hence, despite being aware of Master Xuanzang''s status, his deep love for his daughter filled his heart with anger towards the monk and in his grief, he saw no need to show respect to the Buddhist Sect.


    "Father... Father Emperor... I want to see him..." However, as Li Shimin finished speaking, Gaoyang, lying in the bed beside him, awoke and spoke with a frail breath.


    "Gaoyang, you..." Seeing Gaoyang awaken, Li Shimin stepped forward, his expressionplex.


    His heart ached for her poisoning, yet he was infuriated that, even in this condition, she had not forgotten that monk.


    Feeling both angry and helpless, Li Shimin''s displeasure towards Jiang Liu grew even stronger.


    "Father Emperor, I know... this Corrupting Spirit Poison is capable of killing deities in the heavens. I... I suppose I don''t have many days left, do I?" Gaoyang, with her face veiled, spoke weakly.


    "Sigh..." Li Shimin let out a deep, sorrowful sigh in his heart and then made a discreet gesture to the eunuch beside him.


    The eunuch, understanding the situation, discreetly left, bringing Jiang Liu into the room.


    "Hmph," Li Shimin huffed softly upon seeing Jiang Liu enter, then promptly left with the Imperial Physicians and Yuan Tiangang among others to a side hall to discuss the antidote.


    Despite his vexation, he still granted these two young people a private space to be alone.


    "Jiang Liu, I''m sorry, I might not be able to apany you anymore," Gaoyang struggled to sit up from the bed, sighing softly as she spoke.


    "No, I will not let you die," Jiang Liu quickly approached the bed, helped Gaoyang sit up, and spoke earnestly.


    "These days of seclusion with you have been my happiest. It''s just a pity that fate has made a fool of me," Gaoyang leaned gently on Jiang Liu''s shoulder, her voice low and weak.


    "Fate? Haha, I''ve said before..." However, this sentence only invoked a scornfulugh in Jiang Liu''s heart.


    Even though the Dragon Subduing Arhat didn''t admit it back at the Great Buddha Temple, Jiang Liu still felt that it was very likely a deliberate act by the Dragon Subduing Arhat.


    That is, the thing he had been worried about still happened; the Buddhist Sect would not allow him to live in seclusion, abandoning the great cause of the Westward Journey.


    Yet before Jiang Liu could finish his words, Gaoyang ced a hand over his lips and shook her head slightly, saying, "Stop, I understand it all. But as I''ve said before, I have no regrets."


    After stopping Jiang Liu''s forting words, Gaoyang continued to lean gently on his shoulder, whispering, "I don''t have much time left. I just want to have a quiet chat with you, okay?"


    "You foresaw today''s oue, but I also made my choice back then, so I don''t have regrets. Living in that small vige was the happiest time of my life."


    "If I pass away and you miss me, remember to visit my grave, but, remember not to bring any other girls there. Without me holding you back, you will surely be a revered saint of the Buddhist Sect, and shouldn''t get involved with any other girls."


    "I just feel a bit regretful, that since meeting you, you were the one who cooked for me, and I never fulfilled my responsibilities as a woman. If there''s another life, I wish to spend every day by the stove for you... "


    Jiang Liu, gently cradling Gaoyang in his arms, listened to her feeble and murmuring words that sounded like ast will; he didn''t speak, but listened silently.


    Perhaps talking tired her out, or maybe the poison was taking effect¡ªafter speaking softly for a while, Gaoyang fell back into a deep sleep.


    Jiang Liu gentlyid her down on the bed, his face calm as he watched the corruption spread across the young girl''s skin.


    After a moment of silence, he spoke softly and determinedly, "Gaoyang, don''t worry. I will fulfill the promise I made to you. I said I would marry you with honor and, should cmity befall us, we would face it together. I said, I will not let you die!"


    Having said this, it seemed as if Jiang Liu had made a significant decision. His expression resolute, he turned and left the grand hall.


    In the side hall, the Emperor of Tang, Li Shimin''s face was grave as water, The Imperial Physicians by his side dared not even breathe too loudly, and Taoist priest Yuan Tiangang was shaking his head and sighing, the atmosphere heavy.


    This Corrupting Spirit Poison, said to be capable of killing even the immortals in heaven, indeed seemed beyond the power of mortals to cure.


    "Your Majesty...", entering the side hall and catching the expressions of those present, Jiang Liu understood the situation and walked straight to Li Shimin''s side, bowing his head in greeting.


    Casting a nce at Jiang Liu standing before him, Li Shimin did not respond, his expression indifferent.


    Lacking surprise at Li Shimin''s indifference, Jiang Liu spoke out, his words as shocking as a p of thunder, "I have a request. I hope Your Majesty will grant me Princess Gaoyang''s hand in marriage."


    As soon as these words were uttered, they struck like thunder, causing everyone in the side hall to be dumbstruck. The surrounding Imperial Physicians looked at Jiang Liu in disbelief, and even Taoist priest Yuan Tiangang''s eyes widened in shock.


    The normally detached Li Shimin, upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, was also stunned, hardly believing his own ears.


    "What did you say? You wish to marry Gaoyang?"


    "Yes, I hope Your Majesty will consent," Jiang Liu said, his expression resolute as he nodded firmly.


    "Do you realize? Speaking such words with your status will cause a tremendous stir!"


    "I know!" Discover more stories at empire


    "Do you understand? Gaoyang''s life will notst much longer?"


    "I know!"


    "Do you realize? As a disciple of the Buddhist Sect, you are, ording to the rules, not permitted to marry?"


    "I know!"


    ...


    With each sessive question, Jiang Liu''s resolute answers caused Li Shimin to regard him seriously.


    Initially, Li Shimin was very angry with Jiang Liu, but now, seeing his readiness to forsake his own future for the sake of these words, Li Shimin could clearly sense his feelings for Gaoyang.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Li Shimin''s gaze at Jiang Liu shifted from indifference and anger to a gradual softening.


    "Xuanzang, you...", Li Shimin reached out and gently patted Jiang Liu on the shoulder, his words filled with profound meaning.


    "Please call me Jiang Liu, Your Majesty," Jiang Liu said, removing the Vidyaraja Crown from his head and cing it aside as he corrected.


    Xuanzang was his monastic name, while Jiang Liu was his secr name.


    "Jiang Liu, why do you trouble yourself with this? I understand your feelings for Gaoyang, but I cannot agree, and I believe Gaoyang would not agree either. You have your own future; there is no need to make such a decision in a moment of passion. Knowing that you could express these sentiments is already veryforting to me as Gaoyang''s father," Li Shimin spoke, his words conclusive.


    After finishing, Li Shimin looked around at everyone present and dered in a serious tone, "Regarding what Master Xuanzang has said today, I do not wish for anyone to spread it."


    "We shall obey the Imperial Decree," the pce maids, eunuchs, Imperial Physicians, and others echoed in unison.


    Hearing what the Emperor of Tang had said, Jiang Liu spoke loudly, "No, Your Majesty, I am serious. I swear to heaven that today I am willing to take Princess Gaoyang as my wife, in life and death, never to..."


    Crack!


    Between heaven and earth, thunder roared, startling everyone, the sun and moon darkened, as even the sky turned gloomy.


    At that moment, it seemed as if even the heavens were raging, with countlessmon people kneeling in fear.

 Chapter 70 The Domineering Aura of the Human Emperor

    In a corner of the Immortal Realm, a white mouse transformed into a human figure, a woman of unparalleled beauty, kneeled on the ground, her head knocking against it like pounding garlic: "Spare me, please spare me, Superior Immortals, this little demon knows her mistake, she knows"


    "Hmph, you White-Furred Rat Spirit, dare to steal the Tathagata''s fragrant flowers and precious candles, how can my son and I spare your life?" a middle-aged man with a long beard said sternly, holding a golden pagoda in his hand.


    Next to the man, a delicately featured boy, rode upon wind-fire wheels and wielded a fire-tip spear.


    These two were none other than Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li and Nezha.


    Boom!


    Just then, heaven and earth shook, sounds of heavenly thunder echoed, halting Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li and Nezha in their tracks.


    After silently utilizing his divine skills to investigate, Nezha''s delicate and youthful face showed a touch of shock: "Master Xuanzang, the reincarnation of Master Golden Cicada, is actually going to marry the daughter of Emperor Li Shimin? s, the life of the Emperor''s daughter hangs by a thread, and yet he seeks to tie himself into a knot.


    I really don''t understand, can the love between a man and a woman truly make one forget life and death?"


    The White-Furred Rat Spirit, crawling on the ground, dared not speak a word, but she couldn''t help but remember in her heart this man so deeply in love.


    ...


    "s, Chang''e should regret stealing the elixir, for now her heart aches in the clear blue sea and sky every night? Little did I expect that Master Xuanzang would be such a man of deep affection, such a pity," Fairy Chang''e murmured to herself in the Guanghan Pce within the Moon Pce, gently stroking a Jade Rabbit in her arms, her tone sorrowful and her eyes lost in thought.


    In Chang''e''s arms, the Jade Rabbit''s eyes were bright and vivacious.


    ...


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    In the Western Heaven, at the Great Thunder Monastery.


    With the trembling of heaven and earth and the roaring of heavenly thunder, the Tathagata ceased his scriptural discourse, his gaze deep and seemingly transcending time and space.


    The Buddhas and Bodhisattvas at the Great Thunder Monastery also sensed the anomaly; silently using their divine skills to divine, their faces showed varying degrees of surprise.


    "Tathagata, it is myck of ability that caused this, never did I imagine that in this life, Master Golden Cicada would harbor such deep affection for Gaoyang," Bodhisattva Guanyin, from beneath the Tathagata''s seat, rose to admit fault upon understanding the situation.


    "Great Bodhisattva Guanyin, there is no need to me yourself; such minor idents are trivial," the Tathagata said serenely, shaking his head slightly.


    After a brief pause, the Tathagata continued: "However, Dragon Subduing did indeed act impulsively; I request that Great Bodhisattva Guanyin make a trip. It is time for the Journey to the West tomence."


    "I shall follow Buddha''s decree," Guanyin nodded slightly and turned away, transforming into a beam of Buddhist light and vanishing.


    With the Tathagata''s decree, Guanyin departed, and the Great Thunder Monastery returned to its usual tranquility.


    However, in a corner next to the Great Thunder Monastery, a tiny scorpion crawled by.


    ...


    The three realms were in upheaval. The matter of the Journey to the West was ayout by the Immortals and Buddhas, arguably the most important event currently across the three realms and six paths. Xuanzang, as the core of the Journey to the West, was indeed a person of destiny.


    His vow to heaven naturally elicited a response from the Heavenly Dao, and as such, it shook the entire three realms and six paths.


    The Immortal Realm, Buddhist Realm, and even the demons had varied reactions to this event¡ªsome admired, some were distressed, and some found itughable...


    Let alone the attitudes of the superior beings among the immortals and buddhas towards this event, at this time in the Great Buddha Temple, the face of the Dragon Subduing Arhat drastically changed, turning very ugly.


    There was anger, regret, and fear.


    The Dragon Subduing Arhat was of course aware of the Journey to the West for scriptures, and he understood even more the significance of this event for the entire Buddhist Realm. Now, because of his own doing, Xuanzang had actually made a vow to heaven to take a mortal woman as his wife?


    Could it be that I have be a sinner of the Buddhist Sect?N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Not only am I not redressing my faults with merits, but am I actuallypounding my sins?


    As a Buddhist disciple with the twelve Scars of Precepts, how dare I swear an oath to the heavens? To utter such words? How utterly insane is this?


    "No, this must not happen, otherwise, I''ll truly be the eternal sinner of the Buddhist Sect," shocked, the Dragon Subduing Arhat quickly moved his form and flew towards the Imperial Pce.


    At all costs, I must prevent this catastrophe. If not, the reputation of the Buddhist Sect will be tarnished, and as the chief culprit, the consequences are unfathomable.


    "s, had I known this day woulde, why did I ever begin?" Saint Monk Longhai watched the terrified figure of the Dragon Subduing Arhat fleeing and sighed to himself.


    I had carefully stabilized Master Xuanzang these past days, yet still, I ended up in this predicament.


    As the Dragon Subduing Arhat soared across the sky, he could see the entire sky filled with dark, oppressive clouds, continuously punctuated by the roar of thunder.


    From his vantage point, he could see countlessmon people prostrating on the ground.


    Descending from above, the Dragon Subduing Arhat arrived at the Imperial Pce in no time, yelling out, "No!"


    "Emperor of Tang," the Dragon Subduing Arhat approached Li Shimin with an urgent expression, where was the dignity of the resolute Dragon Subduing Arhat now? He spoke hastily, "Master Xuanzang bears a sacred mission for our Buddhist Sect, he is of utmost importance to us, he cannot marry."


    No sooner had he spoken than the Dragon Subduing Arhat, not waiting for the Emperor''s response, raised his hand and reached for Jiang Liu: "Xuanzang, your mind is lost to delusion, spouting nonsense,e back with me to the Great Buddha Temple to repent and recite sutras."


    "Arhat!" However, as the Dragon Subduing Arhat made his move, Emperor Li Shimin stepped forward, cing himself in front of Jiang Liu, and countered him with a direct gaze, "I must remind the Arhat, this ce is the Human Realm, not your Western Spirit Mountain!"


    "Immeasurable Heavenly Venerable, Your Majesty is the Human Emperor, what do you intend, Dragon Subduing Arhat?" At the same time, Yuan Tiangang also stepped forward and stared at the Dragon Subduing Arhat, questioning him.


    Confronted by Emperor Li Shimin blocking his way, the Dragon Subduing Arhat dared not make his move.


    In the three realms and six paths, though Li Shimin is but a mortal, he is known as the Human Emperor, and the protagonist of this world is the Human n!


    Emperor Li Shimin could be said to hold a major part of the Human n''s destiny, who would dare to harm him?


    "Emperor of Tang, with such defiance of the heavenly ways, the heavens will surely bring disaster!" Staring earnestly at Li Shimin, unable to take action, the Dragon Subduing Arhat can only leave these harsh words before turning away and leaving the Imperial Pce.


    "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Seeing that Li Shimin had stood up to block the Dragon Subduing Arhat, Jiang Liu sincerely expressed his gratitude.


    He was acutely aware of the pressure on the Emperor for opposing the deities and immortals.


    "There''s no need to thank me. As for your request to marry, I cannot grant it, but for thesest days, you should stay well within the pce..." Shaking his head slightly, Li Shimin sighed and then turned to leave.


    With the Emperor gone, naturally, the Imperial Physicians also departed one after another.


    "Master Xuanzang, you are indeed admirable," but, before leaving, Yuan Tiangang looked at Jiang Liu earnestly, nodded, and said.


    What he meant by that, he did not borate further, leaving just those words before turning to leave as well.


    With no mind to ponder further, Jiang Liu lowered his head and returned to Gaoyang''s bedside, looking at the skin on her hands, the decay had spread a little further, filling him with heartache.


    "Now that things havee to this pass, what can I do to save her?" Holding Gaoyang''s hands in his, Jiang Liu murmured to himself, his mind searching for solutions.


    No matter what, Gaoyang must not die!

 Chapter 71 Natural Disaster? Or Man-Made Calamity?

    Chang''an City, Great Buddha Temple.


    "What should we do? What do we do now?" The Dragon Subduing Arhat was as anxious as an ant on a hot pan, pacing back and forth ceaselessly, feeling utterly without a clue.


    The Buddha had ordered him to descend to the Lower Realm to guide Master Golden Cicada''s reincarnation onto the path of the Journey to the West for Scriptures, but he had not expected to find himself in the current situation.


    If Xuanzang were truly to proceed with a wedding ceremony in broad daylight, then even if he were to embark on the Journey to the West for Scripturester on, it would still be a huge stain on the reputation of the Buddhist Sect.


    At such a time, who would bear the responsibility?


    As Master Golden Cicada was Buddha''s second disciple, should he seed in his scripture seeking, he was sure to be a Buddha¡ªa tremendous merit. Would he be held responsible?


    In the end, wouldn''t the responsibility still fall on his shoulders?


    The development of events hadpletely exceeded Dragon Subduing''s expectations; no one thought that Xuanzang, a disciple with the twelve Scar of Precepts, would go so far as to swear to the heavens his intention to take a wife.


    What was even more unexpected was that when he forcefully tried to bring Xuanzang back¡ªan internal matter of the Buddhist Sect¡ªthe Human Emperor would actually step forward to protect him.


    At this moment, the heart of Dragon Subduing Arhat was utterly devoid of ideas, not knowing what to do next.


    "Amitabha, Dragon Subduing, the matter at hand has alreadye to the attention of myself and the Buddha..." Just as Dragon Subduing was antsy as an ant on a hot pan, uncertain of what to do, suddenly, a voice reverberated from within the Zen Room as the Buddhist Light shone brilliantly.


    "Bodhisattva Guanyin, Dragon Subduing is at fault and awaits your punishment..." Hearing this voice, Dragon Subduing clearly recognized who the owner of the voice was and readily admitted his error.


    "Leave the handling of what follows to me, and you return to Spirit Mountain," Guanyin Bodhisattva said, without further discussion or pleasantries. As her voice faded, the Buddhist Light within the Zen Room quickly dissipated.


    As for the Dragon Subduing Arhat, his expression was dejected.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    He was well aware that he had botched the situation and was now being sent back to Spirit Mountain, obviously to receive his punishment, stripped of any chance to redeem himself through merit.


    ...


    With the dawn rising in the east, the crowing rooster hailed the morning.


    In a small mountain vige a few hundred miles from Chang''an City, an eerie silence pervaded. Ever since Jiang Liu and Princess Gaoyang chose to live incognito in this vige, they had been attacked by bandits. Although these bandits were eventually executed, many vigers died as well.


    This was naturally a heavy blow for the small mountain vige with only a few dozen households.


    Yet, as the departed are gone, the survivors must continue their lives, mustn''t they?


    Following the rooster''s crow, the vigers began to awaken one by one, freshening up, and an old man in his sixtieth year, hunched over, made his way to his own farm.


    Considering the time of year, the crops in the field were almost ready for harvest. It was best to check on their growth first and then decide on a harvesting date.


    However, when the old man arrived at the edge of his field, he was struck as if by lightning, shocked to stillness.


    The field was in ruins: swarming locusts were everywhere, devouring nearly all the crops he had nted.


    Gazing into the distance, he saw swarms of locusts flying by in droves, resembling dark clouds.


    "It''s... it''s all over... all gone," the old man murmured in a low voice as he confronted the scene, his eyes almost filled with despair at the sight of this once-in-a-century locust gue. Read exclusive chapters at empire


    For the vigers, the harvest from the fields represented the basis of life for their families. Without it, they faced death.


    Inside the Imperial Pce of Chang''an City.


    As much as the situation with Princess Gaoyang was distressing, Li Shimin, ruling as the sovereign of a nation, still prioritized matters concerning the state of Great Tang.


    Yet today, devastating news arrived of an unprecedented and extensive locust gue sweeping across the sky and earth, with reports of the disaster emerging from every quarter, sending a grave expression across the faces of all the courtiers.


    "Your Majesty, now that the locust gue has begun to rise, if we do not devise a countermeasure, the realm will be in turmoil, and the people will find no peace," cried one of the elder ministers in the main hall.


    "For no apparent reason, how did this locust gue just arise? Before this, there really wasn''t any sign at all," Li Shimin muttered to himself as he sat on the dragon throne.


    Though disasters are terrifying, it''s those thate without warning, pressing down like toppling mountains and copsing pirs, that leave one utterly defenseless, and are thus even more frightful.


    As the ruler of a nation, even if internally he felt caught off guard, he couldn''t show it outwardly, and forced himself to remain calm.


    Aware of the consequences the locust gue could bring, Li Shimin could only issue the corresponding orders to cope with its arrival, trying to minimize the disaster as much as possible.


    However, asmands were issued one by one, and all the civil and military officials sprang into action, striving tobat the locust gue, Li Shimin''s mind suddenly recalled the words previously spoken by the Dragon Subduing Arhat.


    At that time, the Dragon Subduing Arhat said that for acting against the heavens, a disaster would surelye!


    "Alright, the court is dismissed," Li Shimin dered once the orders had been given, and there were no other important matters to discuss, and he dismissed the court, urging the ministers to take swift action.


    Yet, upon returning to his private quarters after the court was dismissed, Li Shimin quickly summoned Taoist Yuan Tiangang.


    "Taoist Yuan..." Upon seeing Yuan Tiangang arrive, Li Shimin offered him a seat and then began to speak.


    "This humble Taoist knows what Your Majesty wishes to ask."


    But before Li Shimin could even voice his inquiry, Yuan Tiangang took the initiative, saying, "This particr locust gue is indeed strange. Before its arrival, I already conducted a divination, and even after praying and offering incense, I received a directive from the immortals above."


    "Oh? What are the findings? What''s the cause of this locust gue, and what guidance did the immortals provide?" Li Shimin asked urgently, upon hearing Yuan Tiangang''s words.


    "As the Dragon Subduing Arhat had said, whether it''s my divination or the guidance from the immortals above, the conclusion is the same. Your Majesty''s actions have defied the Heavenly Dao, thus heaven is enraged and has sent down this natural disaster as punishment.


    A few days ago, when Master Xuanzang swore an oath to the heavens, there was a warning through the thunderous sound of Heavenly Dao..."


    "Defying the heavens? Was it truly defying the heavens? So the words of the Dragon Subduing Arhat that day weren''t just rmist talk?" Hearing this, Li Shimin was left stunned.


    No matter how powerful the Buddha and Bodhisattvas are, nor how great the influence of the Buddhist forces, they can''t represent the Heavenly Dao. Therefore, Li Shimin took the words of the Dragon Subduing Arhat that day as mere rmist talk, not taking them to heart.


    But today, could it truly be a punishment from the heavens?


    What mission does Master Xuanzang bear that even the heavens are so angered? To the extent of afflicting Great Tang with disaster?


    "Immeasurable Heavenly Venerable, Your Majesty, now that the root cause is clear, you must make a decision, otherwise, it won''t be just the locust gue¡ªfloods and epidemics will follow one after another," Yuan Tiangang cautioned in a low voice.


    The people of Great Tang number not only in the millions; with each passing day, the damage to the entire nation grows greater.


    As the ruler of a nation, once Li Shimin understood the root of the matter, he naturally had to make a decision sooner rather thanter.


    In Gaoyang''s sleeping quarters, Jiang Liu looked listless, but his eyes were firmly fixed on the young girl lying on the bed.


    Almost a month had passed, and the rotting on Gaoyang''s body had only continued to spread, with an even foul stench emanating from her.


    Lately, she had mostly been in aatose state, the time she could awaken and talk to him growing ever more scarce.


    During these days, Jiang Liu had tried every possible remedy.


    The Guanyin Mantra and the healing potion had no effect, and they couldn''t even slow the spread of the poison.


    He had even cut himself to feed her his blood since his flesh could grant longevity, wondering if it could have some effect?


    With the thought of grabbing at straws, he tried it, but still, there was no improvement. His own flesh could grant longevity, but it couldn''t make someone immortal.


    In recent days, he could often hear pce maids weeping softly, clearly distressed and saddened by Gaoyang''s nearly wholly decayed appearance.


    "It seems I can only take one final gamble?" he reflected, sighing deeply as he gazed at Gaoyang, who was almostpletely rotted away, her breath weak as a thread.

 Chapter 72 Imperial Brother

    The locust gue erupted, and countless people fled to distant ces, with disaster victims scrambling everywhere to find a way to survive.


    However, in all of Great Tang, half of the territory had fallen victim to the locust gue. Where could one find a path to life?


    Bodies littered the ground everywhere, and in just about half a month, Great Tang had presented a scene of decay. Thousands desperately starved to death, and hundreds of thousands of disaster victims fled everywhere, no matter what measures the Imperial Court issued for disaster relief and soothing the people; it was all like a drop of water in a cart of hay.


    This locust gue, swiftly spreading everywhere, caused damage that continued to spread. It was contained here but not there.


    In just about half a month, from Emperor Li Shimin down to the civil and military officials, everyone was extremely busy but achieved very little.


    That day, Emperor Li Shimin instructed Yuan Tiangang to hold a grand ceremony to pray to heaven, ordering the civil and military officials to participate, to pray to heaven and bless the masses, topletely resolve the difficulties of the locust gue.


    The news spread, providing a glimmer of hope to the people in their desperation.


    In just one day, all the preparations needed for the praying ceremony had been made. Under the eager watch of countless people, the ceremony officially began with the Imperial Army clearing the way, and the civil and military officials arrived in full.


    "Master Xuanzang, the Emperor has asked you to participate in the praying ceremony, and you''re going like this?" Inside the Imperial Pce, Jiang Liu was also ready, but a Pce Maid, seeing Jiang Liu''s appearance, paused in bewilderment.


    Jiang Liu''s face was clean-shaven, yet he wore a long white robe, without the Vidyaraja Crown on his head or Buddha Beads around his neck. He wasn''t even wearing monk robes and walked barefoot. He didn''t look like a monk but rather like someone who had abandoned the righteous path.


    "Gaoyang, I will go out ande back soon," Jiang Liu gently bowed and spoke softly to Gaoyang, who was lying on the bed.


    With breath as thin as a thread, Gaoyang hadn''t awakened for two days and was naturally unable to respond.


    As his words fell, he instructed the Pce Maid to take good care of Gaoyang, then Jiang Liu turned and stepped out.


    "Master Xuanzang, please follow me," outside the Pce, several guards had already been waiting. Seeing Jiang Liu in a long robe and walking barefoot, they too paused in surprise, but they didn''t ask further, only lowering their heads and speaking respectfully.


    Since the day Jiang Liu had boldly proimed his intention to marry the Princess, it had been almost a month now, and naturally, this matter spread throughout Great Tang like a whirlwind.


    Although many people thought that as a Buddhist disciple marked with the twelve scars of precepts, Jiang Liu shouldn''t have said such things, it was undeniable that his words garnered much admiration from numerous people.


    Especially women, who found it even more touching.


    Although Princess Gaoyang''s life was nearing its end, in many women''s views, to have met a man who truly loved her in her life, even if he was a monk, was a blessing.


    Under the escort of several guards, Jiang Liu soon arrived at the site of the praying ceremony.


    Since this ceremony was being held for the welfare of the people of Great Tang, it wasn''t hidden within the inner depths of the Pce but was set up outside, naturally attracting almost all the residents of Chang''an City.


    As Jiang Liu arrived, all the way along, countless people looked at him withplex emotions¡ªdisgust, respect, and admiration...


    Jiang Liu paid no mind to these gazes and just quietly walked forward, with guards clearing the way for him.


    "Master Xuanzang, please wait here," once Jiang Liu had arrived, the praying ceremony had already officially begun. The guard asked Jiang Liu to wait on the side.


    Emperor Li Shimin, d in his Imperial Robe, loudly recited the prayer with a resonant voice.


    "I ammissioned by heaven, to shepherd and hunt on behalf of heaven among the children of this world, diligently and tirelessly," he dered.


    Jiang Liu stood among the crowd, quietly listening.


    The earlier part of Li Shimin''s prayer primarily narrated his hard work as the Emperor, shepherding the masses, and the peace and joy of the people in Great Tang over the years.


    Although the speech was beautifully crafted, the achievements Li Shimin spoke of over the years weren''t exaggerated.


    Then, the prayer shifted towardsmenting the current locust gue and its dreadful hazards.


    "If indeed it is my misconduct, acting against heaven, that has brought about such a disaster, I implore the heavens to inflict the disaster upon me alone. As the ruler of the masses, the Emperor of the Human n, I am willing to bear it alone. May the locusts devour my internal organs and spare the children of this world from further harm," he dered.


    At the end of it, Li Shimin cried out loudly, and amid his shout, guards presented several lively locusts.


    Li Shimin grabbed them and swallowed them whole.


    "Your Majesty is merciful!" one could not help but say, finding Li Shimin''s words and actions profoundly impactful. His heartfelt plea to heaven, filled with generosity and sorrow, demonstrated his resolve to bear this disaster for all people.


    Watching him swallow the locusts whole, the surrounding popce was genuinely moved and knelt down unanimously in loud acim.


    "Li Shimin truly deserves the title of a sage emperor, though this is a mythological world and not actual history," they said.


    Standing below the Praying to Heaven tform, Jiang Liu quietly watched all that Li Shimin did and nodded in approval internally.


    Swallowing locusts whole was not something just anyone could aplish in these times.


    With the prayer to heavenplete, by all ounts, this grand ceremony should have officially concluded.


    As the Human Emperor, Li Shimin had formally prayed to the heavens, and whether the locust gue would recede was now up to the divine will.


    However, Li Shimin showed no signs of concluding the event and nodded at a eunuch by his side.


    Following Li Shimin''s signal, the eunuch stepped forward, looked around at the people, and called out in a shrill voice, "The Praying to Heaven ceremony isplete! May the heavens bless our Great Tang with evesting continuity. Nevertheless, today, His Majesty the Emperor has a new decree to announce to all!"


    The eunuch''s words left the surrounding popce exchanging nces in surprise, and even the civil and military officials were astounded.


    After the Praying to Heaven ceremony, the Emperor had more news to dere, unknown to both officials and themon folk alike.


    As the eunuch spoke, he drew a resplendent Imperial Decree from within his robe and unfolded it slowly, saying, "By the mandate of heaven, the Emperor decrees: Recently, Holy Monk Xuanzang, deeply rooted in Buddhist faith, has been marked with twelve Scar of Precepts, unprecedented till now, and is also known for his firm disposition and his deep sense of loyalty and righteousness.


    I wish to be sworn brothers with Master Xuanzang¡­"


    Boom!


    This decree sent a shock through the entire assembly, leaving both officials and schrs in uproar.


    Nobody had anticipated that the Emperor would suddenly issue such a decree.


    Ever since Jiang Liu vowed to the skies, who didn''t know that Master Xuanzang had wanted to marry Princess Gaoyang? It was only that this request had been previously denied by His Majesty the Emperor.


    Who would have thought that at this moment, he would issue a decree to be sworn brothers with Master Xuanzang?


    In doing so, wouldn''t the generational ranking between Master Xuanzang and Princess Gaoyang be shifted by an entire generation?


    "So is this how it is?" Upon hearing this decree suddenly, Jiang Liu was also surprised but not taken aback, as he knew from the original text about the Imperial Brother''s identity. More so, putting himself in Li Shimin''s position, Jiang Liu could understand his decision.


    The locust gue had arisen as a divine punishment for neglecting the task of the Westward Journey in favor of matrimony.


    To eradicate the locust gue was not something that could be achieved by Li Shimin''s mere prayer and plea to heaven, the main reasony in himself.


    Today, by issuing an Imperial Decree making himself sworn brothers with him, Li Shimin also effectively severed any possibility of his marrying Princess Gaoyang¡­


    Thundering rolls!


    The sound of thunder resonated, the earth-quaking, evidently showing divine approval of Li Shimin''s intentions.


    "From this day forth, seeing the Imperial Brother is as good as seeing me," Li Shimin announced, his clear voice spreading in all directions.


    "Greetings to Imperial Brother, Master Xuanzang!" Following the deration, both the civil and military officials and all the people knelt and saluted towards Jiang Liu, shouting in unison.


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    Yet, quietly observing everything, Jiang Liu, now bearing the dual identity of Holy Monk Xuanzang and Imperial Brother, revered above all, received the kneeling salutes of all people and officials, but his heart held no joy.

 Chapter 73 Saving People

    Li Shimin had sworn brotherhood with himself to break off his rtionship with Gaoyang, and Jiang Liu was very clear on this.


    From a personal emotional standpoint, Jiang Liu was naturally reluctant, yet these words remained unspoken.


    From Li Shimin''s perspective, he had already done very well; he was not only a father but more importantly, he was an Emperor of a nation and had to be responsible for all his subjects.


    Moreover, due to his own reasons, locust gues had arisen, and the people could barely survive, which made Jiang Liu feel extremely guilty.


    The so-called Heavenly Dao is supremely fair, impartial in all things; yet, it is also like a ruthless and unrighteous knife!


    Li Shimin, standing on the Praying to Heaven tform, watched Jiang Liu quietly. In these days, he had tried everything to save Gaoyang, but to no avail; in Li Shimin''s view, Gaoyang was undoubtedly doomed.


    He had taken Master Xuanzang as his Imperial Brother, which did not truly harm him, yet it could save them from this unprecedented locust gue. This was the best solution he could think of.


    Of course, if there were even a sliver of hope for Gaoyang''s survival, Li Shimin might feel a tad guilty about forcibly separating the couple.


    "Thank you for your tremendous favor, Your Majesty!" Jiang Liu also watched Li Shimin quietly and, after a moment of silence, bowed deeply to him.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    After leaving behind these words, Jiang Liu turned around, walked barefoot, and left the ceremony site of the Praying to Heaven ritual.


    The officials and citizens, who had knelt down and watched as Jiang Liu merely uttered a lukewarm thank-you before turning and leaving, exchanged bewildered looks.


    This behavior clearly disyed dissatisfaction with the Emperor, didn''t it?


    Some military officials had already ced their hands on the hilts of their swords, their gazes fixed on the Emperor, ready to leap forward at the Emperor''smand and arrest this traitor who disrespected imperial authority.


    No matter what about being a Holy Monk with the Scar of Precepts, within the borders of Great Tang, the Emperor''s word wasw.


    "s..." Watching Jiang Liu''s retreating figure, Li Shimin did not show any signs of anger but merely sighed inwardly; he could naturally understand the dissatisfaction in Jiang Liu''s heart.


    Logically, Jiang Liu had not resisted the identity of Imperial Brother, but emotionally, he was very resistant to it. Not refusing in front of everyone was already the greatest extent of restraint he had shown.


    Otherwise, considering his audacity to swear to heaven and marry Gaoyang, who knew what he might have done?


    "Alright, everyone go back," the event hade to an end, and the Praying to Heaven ceremony had concluded smoothly, Li Shimin saidnguidly. Under the eunuch''s announcement, he got on the Dragon Chariot and headed back to the pce, and the officials and citizens dispersed as well.


    The events that took ce during the Praying to Heaven ceremony, the Emperor''s act of mercy, and the fact that he and Master Xuanzang had be sworn brothers spread quickly like a hurricane.


    "s, the heavens toy with us. To have the title of Imperial Brother but not a shred of joy, wealth and fame are but fleeting clouds. Surely, Master Xuanzang''s heart is very bitter?" above in the Moon Pce, Fairy Chang''e quietly held the Jade Rabbit, gently stroking it, her voice ethereal.


    For some reason, ever since the day Master Xuanzang had sworn to heaven, Chang''e had been particrly attentive to the events about to unfold around him.


    "Truly there are remarkable men in this world, Princess Gaoyang, how fortunate yet unfortunate she is¡­" Far from Chang''an, tens of thousands of miles away, inside a divine abode, a colorful peacock transformed into a beautiful woman, her eyes full of pity and emotion.


    "Daughter, what''s wrong?" In Chang''an City, within an official''s household, ever since the Praying to Heaven ceremony, their daughter had stayed in her room, not going out, and even the maids reported that they could hear sobbing from inside. The parents had their guards break into her boudoir.


    "Father, mother, please leave, leave, your daughter is fine¡­" Inside the boudoir, the youngdy bent over the dressing table, sobbing as she spoke.


    "My child, what has happened to you? Why are you crying like this?" Seeing their daughter in this state, inexplicably sobbing, her parents were immensely distressed.


    "It''s nothing, I am not crying for myself, but for Master Xuanzang and Princess Gaoyang. The heavens toy with us, the heavens have been too cruel to Master Xuanzang."


    ...


    Previously, as a Buddhist Disciple with the twelve Scar of Precepts, Master Xuanzang had publicly vowed to take Princess Gaoyang as his wife. This deration spread throughout all realms, and though his behavior seemed insane, women from all realms, whether human, deity, fairy, or demon, were deeply moved.


    This time, having been adopted by Emperor of Tang as his Imperial Brother, he had effectively severed any possibilities with Princess Gaoyang. Hearing Master Xuanzang receiving the prostration of the officials andmon people, and standing in a revered position, he did not reject them but departed with a cold expression.


    This reaction struck a tender spot in the hearts of these women, who empathized deeply with the sorrows of Master Xuanzang.


    If, at this moment, the women of all realms were to vote on who the most infatuated man in the world was, Jiang Liu would undoubtedly receive the highest number of votes and be named the most lovesick man of all realms.


    ...


    Unaware of these things, Jiang Liu was wholly focused on Gaoyang. After leaving the venue of the Praying to Heaven ceremony, he walked barefoot directly back to Gaoyang''s sleeping quarters.


    In another great hall, after returning from the Praying to Heaven ceremony, Li Shimin sat on his throne. Before him, Yuan Tiangang, the old mage, stood quietly performing the Concentration Calction.


    But a momentter, Yuan Tiangang opened his eyes, met Li Shimin''s inquiring gaze, and bowed, "Your Majesty, good news, the locust gue is gradually subsiding and will soon disappearpletely."


    "That''s good, that''s good...", upon hearing Yuan Tiangang''s answer, Li Shimin let out a long sigh of relief and rxed, having sessfully halted the locust gue.


    In recent days, the entire court, including the Emperor, had been exhausted by the ordeal of the locust gue.


    "Your Majesty..." However, before Li Shimin could fully rx, suddenly, a pce maid hurriedly ran over.


    "Eh? Are you Princess Gaoyang''s maiden? What''s happened? Is the princess in trouble?" Seeing the pce maid rushing in, Li Shimin tensed again, sitting up straighter, and asked anxiously.


    "Master Xuanzang, he... he has taken the Princess and left...", the pce maid, evidently out of breath from running, stuttered through her words.


    "He has taken Gaoyang?", upon hearing this, Li Shimin abruptly stood up and rushed outside.


    At the gate of the Imperial Pce, Jiang Liu, dressed in white and barefoot, was carrying Gaoyang in his arms, stepping through the pce gates.


    The guards at the gate didn''t dare to stop him, kneeling in salute.


    The Emperor had said, to see the Imperial Brother was as seeing His Majesty himself.


    Without pausing, Jiang Liu continued forward, but many people he passed secretly covered their noses.


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    Her body almost rotting, Gaoyang was emitting a foul smell, deterring others froming close, but Jiang Liu, holding her in his arms, seemed indifferent even as pus and blood stained his body.


    "Imperial Brother, wait..." In just a short time, Emperor of Tang Li Shimin hastened out, surrounded by numerous guards trailing behind him.


    Jiang Liu paused slightly in his steps but did not turn around or respond.


    "Imperial Brother, where are you going?", smelling the fetid odor, Li Shimin''s heart ached.


    "I am off to save a life," with that, Jiang Liu continued walking away.


    Emperor of Tang Li Shimin stood there, astonished, watching as he carried Gaoyang further away.


    Save a life? He had tried everything to no avail. Where was he going to save her? Who could save her!?

 Chapter 74 The Buddha Shows His Spirit

    Jiang Liu, cradling Gaoyang in his arms, advanced step by step.


    As Jiang Liu passed by, Gaoyang''s entirely decayed body would even stain the robes with pus and blood, which then dripped onto the ground, making the people behind cover their mouths and noses.


    Certainly, such gestures from these people only urred after Jiang Liu had passed; before him, thesemoners would kneel one by one to pay respect and make way.


    The status of the Imperial Brother was supremely noble, and the Emperor of Tang had even decreed for all under heaven: Seeing the Imperial Brother is as seeing Myself.


    "Why could someone who earned twelve Scar of Precepts and became the Imperial Brother, Master Xuanzang, be a fool," a shabbily dressed ruffian, watching Jiang Liu pass by, stood up while covering his mouth and nose, his eyes filled with envy as he sighed to himself.


    If I could be a Holy Monk with twelve Scar of Precepts, if I could be the Imperial Brother, wouldn''t I have whatever I wished, just like calling the wind and summoning the rain? Yet he walks through the city carrying someone on the brink of death, whose body ispletely rotten. How can such a fool receive so much? The scoundrel felt that the heavens were too unjust.


    "s, he''s still just a child..." an elder also stood up from the ground, watching Jiang Liu''s retreating figure, heaving a sigh to himself.


    Others only saw his twelve Scar of Precepts, the unparalleled esteem of the status of Imperial Brother. But to this elder, Master Xuanzang was still a fifteen-year-old child who had to endure such painful separations and death, which made his heart ache.


    Whose grandson is he, whose son is he? If his parents and grandparents back home knew everything that he had experienced, wouldn''t their hearts break?


    "Wuu wuu wuu..." On the balcony of a small pavilion beside the main street, a young girl watching Jiang Liu leaving while holding Gaoyang couldn''t stop her tears from falling, drop by drop.


    They weren''t tears shed for herself, they were indescribable, unfathomable, yet they simply flowed.


    ...


    Along the way, Jiang Liu paid no mind to what thoughts the surroundingmoners harbored; he just held Gaoyang, step by step, his pace neither hurried nor slow.


    Under the watchful eyes of the multitude, Jiang Liu walked the entire way and finally stopped. He raised his head slightly and could see the Great Buddha Temple right in front of him.


    Jiang Liu was in no hurry to enter; returning to the Great Buddha Temple, he felt everything had changed.


    Having spent several months at the Great Buddha Temple before, Jiang Liu did not actually detest everything about it.


    Although the Saint Monk Longhai also opposed hispanionship with Gaoyang, his methods were not harsh. Even when Jiang Liu sought his help, wanting to see Gaoyang once more at the Imperial Pce, Saint Monk Longhai had agreed.


    Moreover, within the Great Buddha Temple, his interactions with Daoji were very harmonious. To be more precise, the bond between Jiang Liu and Daoji was one of life-and-death friendship.


    Otherwise, when Jiang Liu had sought his help, Daoji would not have resolutely chosen to lie for him, deceiving Longhai, to gain two more months of time spent together with Gaoyang.


    But regrettably, after Daoji became Dragon Subduing, he transformedpletely into a different person.


    Daoji was willing toe back and lie to help Jiang Liu and Gaoyang stay together, but Dragon Subduing wished for nothing more than Gaoyang''s swift demise.


    In a sense, with the Dragon Subduing Arhat''s True Spirit Awakening, Daoji was already dead.


    "Master, Master Xuanzang, you, you''ve returned?" at the entrance of the Great Buddha Temple, two monks covered their mouths and noses, looked at Jiang Liu standing at the temple gate in astonishment, and said.


    They had not expected Master Xuanzang to suddenly return to the Great Buddha Temple, and moreover, with Princess Gaoyang, whose body was now fully decayed.


    Without speaking, Jiang Liu entered the Great Buddha Temple holding Gaoyang, heading directly towards the main hall.


    Very soon, Saint Monk Longhai evidently received news of Jiang Liu''s return and came before him.


    "Amitabha, Xuanzang, the sea of suffering is boundless, but turning back is the shore. It''s good that you have returned, but Princess Gaoyang she..." Saint Monk Longhai looked at Jiang Liu and began to speak.


    "I''vee to save Gaoyang," Jiang Liu finally spoke after ncing at Saint Monk Longhai.


    For Longhai, Jiang Liu did not harbor any disgust or dissatisfaction in his heart. On the contrary, all along the way, Longhai had been quite protective of him.


    "This..."


    Jiang Liu''s words left Saint Monk Longhai with a troubled expression on his face. Shaking his head, he said, "Xuanzang, you think too highly of me. Although I am honored as a holy monk, I have no means to cure the Corrupting Spirit Poison".


    "No, holy monk, you misunderstand. I am not seeking your help to save her," replied Jiang Liu, shaking his head at Longhai''s troubled words.


    Without borating much, Jiang Liu looked around and, not yet encountering any obstruction from Dragon Subduing Arhat, asked, "Where is Dragon Subduing? Isn''t he here?"


    "Hmm, since Dragon Subduing Arhat made a trip to the Imperial Pce a few days ago, he left and has not returned," Saint Monk Longhai nodded in response.


    Hearing that Dragon Subduing Arhat had already left, Jiang Liu didn''t probe further; his question had been no more than a casual inquiry. Explore more at empire


    Without any further ado, Jiang Liu continued on his way, carrying Princess Gaoyang towards the grand hall.


    Off to the side, Saint Monk Longhai and the monks from Great Buddha Temple followed behind to see what Jiang Liu would do and how he intended to save Princess Gaoyang.


    Inside the grand hall of Great Buddha Temple stood an imposing and solemn statue of Tathagata, before which countless believers were bowing and praying for blessings.


    But within moments, these people were covering their mouths and noses in astonishment. Where was this fetid odoring from in Great Buddha Temple?


    Jiang Liu, carrying the decaying body of Gaoyang, entered the grand hall and then walked straight to the Tathagata Statue. After looking up at the statue for a long moment, he gently ced Gaoyang down, bowed his head, and knelt before the Buddha.


    The believers in the great hall, upon witnessing this scene, retreated outside the hall with their hands over their mouths and noses, amazed as they watched Master Xuanzang.


    Jiang Liu knelt in silence before the Tathagata Statue.


    Yes, there was only one way to save Gaoyang, and that was through Tathagata himself.


    The Journey to the West was a setup by both Tathagata and the Jade Emperor. Even if the Immortals and Buddhas had the ability to intervene, none would dare offend Tathagata and the Jade Emperor by interfering in this matter.


    Only Tathagata himself could save Gaoyang now.


    The Journey to the West was a vast game of chess, and Jiang Liu believed he was its most critical piece. He was certain that if he was willing to sacrifice himself to protect her, Tathagata could not remain indifferent.


    "Gaoyang, I once promised that even if difficulties were to arise in the future, I would face them with you," Jiang Liu murmured to himself as he knelt before the Buddha.


    Outside the grand hall, all the monks and believers exchanged looks, deeply shocked.


    The affair between Master Xuanzang and Princess Gaoyang had already been known across thend. Yet no one had expected that he would bring Princess Gaoyang before the Buddha. What was he trying to do?


    Boom!


    A distant bell tolled between heaven and earth, and a streak of golden Buddhist Light fell from the Western Heaven into Great Buddha Temple. In an instant, celestial music sounded ethereal, and flowers rained down in chaos.


    Inside the grand hall of Great Buddha Temple, the previously demure Tathagata Statue suddenly burst forth with dazzling light, supremely yang and awe-inspiring, bringing peace to the soul.


    At the same time, the eyelids of the Tathagata Statue lifted, and its lively gaze fixed on Jiang Liu.


    "Ah! The Buddha is manifest!"


    With that, the crowd at the entrance of the grand hall and the believers cried out, all kneeling in unison to worship reverently.


    Moreover, outside of Great Buddha Temple, all the citizens of Chang''an noticed the descent of the Western Heavenly Light. Countless people also knelt down.


    Feeling the extraordinary phenomenon around him, Jiang Liu raised his head and looked straight at the Tathagata Statue without any sign of retreat.


    "Amitabha, Xuanzang, is this worth it?" the Tathagata Statue spoke in humannguage, its voice resounding.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "It is worth it. I am willing to follow her through life and death..." Jiang Liu replied, gazing resolutely at Tathagata.

 Chapter 75 The Game Between Pawns and Players

    "The bell tolls still must be silenced by the one who rang it."


    This situation was orchestrated by the Tathagata, so only he could resolve it; none of the other Immortals and Buddhas were qualified to intervene.


    Thus, Jiang Liu knew well, that to save Gaoyang, he had to seek Buddha himself.


    However, from the perspective of the Buddhist Realm, they would probably prefer Gaoyang to perish so that he could quickly embark on his Journey to the West. What bargaining chip then did he have to make demands of the Buddha?


    After much deliberation, Jiang Liu felt he had no choice but to use himself as the bargaining chip.


    In times of having nothing, one can only gamble with oneself; it has always been so throughout history.


    "Xuanzang, the affection between men and women is merely minor love. Compared to the vast love for all beings and themon people, that is the greater love. Why should you forsake your own life for such minor feelings? Your destiny should be to cultivate for the great love of the universe and its beings."


    The Tathagata Statue, towering and imposing, spoke in a steady voice, each word resonant as the evening drums and morning bells, profoundly striking.


    "Whether great or minor, all are forms of love. If one could forsake even the minor love of their own children, how could one speak of the greater love of the world? I ask Buddha to save her," Jiang Liu said, looking directly at the Tathagata, each word sincere and earnest.


    "Amitabha..."


    After a slight silence, a golden beam of light emerged before the Tathagata Statue and fell upon Gaoyang. Her form suspended in the air then rapidly shrank to be absorbed into the brow of the statue.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "This woman has a connection with Buddha, and naturally, I will rescue her. From this day, she shall stay at Spirit Mountain under the mentorship of the Great Bodhisattva Guanyin to practice until a day when you are destined to meet again..." After directly taking Gaoyang away, the Tathagata Statue dered.


    As the voice faded, the brilliant Buddhist Light vanished along with the miraculous phenomena above, and the eyes of the statue gently closed, reverting to a sculpted form.


    Clearly, the Tathagata had departed.


    "Disciple thanks the Buddha! Farewell to Buddha!" Jiang Liu said aloud, bowing his head.


    Since the Buddha had taken Gaoyang away and personally promised to save her, Jiang Liu harbored no doubts that the Tathagata would deceive him about this.


    Firstly, would the leader of Buddhism contradict himself over such a trivial matter? While the matter of Gaoyang was significant for himself, to the Tathagata, it was but a trivial one.


    Moreover, if he were to embark on the Journey to the West in the future, looking at the original stories, Sun Wukong would have many chances to meet Tathagata and Guanyin. If he could not see Gaoyang, wouldn''t that be inexplicable?


    Therefore, Jiang Liu understood that the Buddha agreed to save Gaoyang but kept her at Spirit Mountain just to solidify his resolve for his future journey to the West.


    ...


    In the Western Heaven, at Spirit Mountain, Buddhist Light shed, and Princess Gaoyang, previously decaying, was restored to her original condition and tranquilly fell into a deep sleep.


    "Amitabha, Buddha, is this not detrimental to your reputation?" Since the Buddha hadmanded Princess Gaoyang to follow him in practice, Guanyin naturally had no objections, but looking at Tathagata, she found it difficult toprehend.


    The Journey to the West for Scriptures is a significant matter. If it''s the way it seems, with part of Xuanzang''s reason for traveling west being to find a woman, isn''t that somewhat disgraceful for Buddhism?


    The matter of Gaoyang might be minor, but the dignity of Buddhism is significant.


    "It doesn''t matter..." the Tathagata, manifesting a golden body of eighteen cubits, calmly said, "When Xuanzang truly awakens and transforms into Golden Cicada, if he himself causes the destruction of Gaoyang''s soul, such spections will no longer exist."


    "So that''s how it is..." Hearing the words of the Buddha, Guanyin slightly nodded, her expression showing understanding.


    Daoji is Dragon Subduing, but Dragon Subduing is not Daoji. Once the True Spirit awakens, decades of memoriespared to thousands of years are but minor ripples, hardly influencing, so when the True Spirit awakens, Daoji dies, but alive is Dragon Subduing.


    Simrly, although Xuanzang harbors deep feelings for Gaoyang, moving heaven and earth, if he arrives at Spirit Mountain one day, when his True Spirit awakens, bing Golden Cicada, Xuanzang too naturally dies, and his feelings for Gaoyang will dissipate with the awakening of Golden Cicada.


    Therefore, having Golden Cicada take action would indeed be most appropriate.


    Moreover, keeping Princess Gaoyang at Spirit Mountain would further solidify Xuanzang''s resolve. Such sincere affection would likely deter his heart from any seductive demons along the way.


    It is a convenient arrangement. On the surface, he agreed to save Gaoyang, but in reality, as long as Xuanzang journeys to the West for Scriptures and reaches Western Heaven, both Xuanzang and Gaoyang will be gone, leaving only Golden Cicada.


    For the Buddhist Sect and the Scripture Seeking mission, there is not the slightest adverse effect; this is the Buddha''s intention.


    Mortal World, at the Great Buddha Temple, as Princess Gaoyang was taken away by the Tathagata, Jiang Liu slowly got up.


    "Greetings, Holy Monk Xuanzang!" As Jiang Liu turned around, the disciples of the Great Buddha Temple, and even many believers, all bowed to Jiang Liu and loudly called out.


    Especially the disciples of the Great Buddha Temple, who looked at Jiang Liu with even more fervor in their eyes.


    Who is the Tathagata? He is the supreme ruler of the Buddhist Sect, a far and mysterious, untouchable existence.


    Even Saint Monk Longhai was only the abbot of the Great Buddha Temple because he had dreamt of an enlightenment from the Tathagata, therefore bing the highest-ranking monk in the Great Tang.


    But what about Master Xuanzang? He came to seek the Buddha''s help with a woman in his arms, and the Buddha actually manifested!


    Tell me, which monk in the world has the qualifications to make the Buddha manifest and personally save someone? Only Master Xuanzang could do so!


    "Amitabha, I am somewhat tired and need to rest well..." With his palms together, Jiang Liu faced the frenzy and adoration of many monks and believers, yet he disyed no joy, only quietly speaking.


    Naturally, upon hearing Jiang Liu''s request, these monks and believers all stepped aside, allowing Jiang Liu to head straight back to his Zen Room in the Great Buddha Temple and fall asleep immediately.


    These days, with his mind worried about Gaoyang and unable to eat or sleep well, Jiang Liu was indeed very exhausted.


    Now that he had sought the Tathagata''s intervention to save her, at least Gaoyang''s life was no longer in danger, and Jiang Liu could finally be at ease.


    After setting aside his worries, he copsed on the bed and soon fell into a deep sleep.


    He slept for a full day and night before waking up, undisturbed by anyone.


    However, lying in bed, Jiang Liu did not rush to get up; instead, he just gazed fixedly at the ceiling, his eyes full of contemtion.


    Indeed, Jiang Liu was no fool. Concerning the Tathagata''s intentions, he could somewhat guess them.


    In the original Journey to the West, upon reaching Western Heaven, there was a part describing the disciples sitting on a bottomless boat, only to see Tang Monk''s corpse floating in the river water, having abandoned his mortal flesh and attained saintliness.


    Jiang Liu had not thought much about this section previously.


    However, following theparisons between Daoji and Dragon Subduing, Jiang Liu understood that in the original scripture-seeking story of Journey to the West, it was Tang Monk who braved hardships for many years, but it was Golden Cicada who eventually attained divinity...


    The path of scripture seeking was undoubtedly one he had to embark on, but Jiang Liu was also aware that once he truly reached Western Heaven, it would be the time when he definitively fell out with Buddhism.


    After all, he had no desire to end up like Golden Cicada!


    Thus, Jiang Liu''s journey to the West was like a high-stakes gamble, betting on strengthening himself enough to stand up to the Buddhist Sect, to grow to the point where he would not be a stepping stone like Golden Cicada!


    The journey to the West was indeed a setup, with the Tathagata naturally acting as the chess master and himself as a piece on the board.


    However, for Jiang Liu, this was also a gamble, a struggle between the chess piece and the chess yer.


    The Tathagata''s set-up was for him to seek scriptures and for Golden Cicada to attain divinity.


    But his own gambit was as a chess piece, growing strong enough to wrestle with the chess master.


    If it came down to a life-or-death struggle, the Tathagata should intervene to save Gaoyang. Jiang Liu had always been clear about this. But why had Jiang Liu waited so long toe?


    It was because Jiang Liu also understood that once he set foot on the path to the West, there would be no way back for either him or Gaoyang!


    If possible, he would never wish to embark on the journey to the West, at least not so soon.


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    The more time he had to grow, the greater his chances of winning this gamble on the journey to the West as a chess piece.


    "It seems that the journey to the West is now inevitable. On this road of a myriad miles, I must strengthen myself by any means necessary, for at the end of this road lies the life and death of both me and Gaoyang..."


    "I must break through this journey to the West! Only then can I save myself!"


    (PS: After nearly two hundred thousand words ofying the groundwork and setting the scene, it''s finally time to get ready for the journey to the West. Have you grown impatient? I might be the most long-winded writer on the theme of Journey to the West...)

 Chapter 76 The Position of the State Preceptor and the Honor of the Holy Monk

    Chang''an City, Imperial Pce.


    Li Shimin was sitting quietly on his throne. Though the locust gue had finally been resolved, a matter of great joy, Li Shimin couldn''t feel happy. His mind kept dwelling on the scene of Xuanzang leaving with Gaoyang.


    "s..." After a long while, Li Shimin sighed deeply in his heart and shook his head silently.


    To the Great Tang, he might be a qualified Emperor, but to Gaoyang, perhaps he wasn''t a qualified father?


    "Your Majesty! Your Majesty! The Buddha has manifested at the Great Buddha Temple!" Just as Li Shimin was alone, wallowing in his guilt, suddenly, a eunuch hurried in and shouted loudly to him.


    Immortals and Buddhas were always mysterious and revered, and deities like the Tathagata and the Great Jade Emperor were highly exalted. Normally, even the descent of an immortal was enough to cause a sensation, let alone the Tathagata.


    Hearing this, Li Shimin abruptly stood up and rushed out of the hall.


    Indeed, even in the Imperial Pce, and even under the clear, broad daylight, one could see the Buddhist Light descending from the Western Heaven and falling on the Great Buddha Temple, casting otherworldly scenes of ethereal sounds and heavenly flowers scattering, giving an impression of solemnity and peace.


    Witnessing the phenomena at the Great Buddha Temple, an rmed expression appeared on Li Shimin''s face. He immediately ordered someone to hurry to the Great Buddha Temple to investigate.


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    Upon receiving the Emperor''smand, naturally a eunuch quickly made his way to the Great Buddha Temple.


    "Could it be because of Jiang Liu?" As he gazed at the sight of the Great Buddha Temple, Li Shimin suddenly remembered the figure of Jiang Liu leaving with Gaoyang. Wasn''t it in the direction of the Great Buddha Temple?


    To cause such phenomena, just like when he had lit twelve incense scars, who exactly was this Jiang Liu!


    Regarding the life and death of Gaoyang, Li Shimin had initially held no hope at all, not just from the methods of the mortal world, but even his prayers as Emperor to the deities above had garnered no response.


    But now, seeing this scene, hope, as well as unease, began to stir in Li Shimin''s heart.


    Soon, the heavenly phenomena disappeared. After waiting for a moment, the person who had gone to investigate returned, running and kneeling in front of Li Shimin.


    "Reporting to Your Majesty, Master Xuanzang prostrated before the Buddha and requested the manifestation of the Tathagata, who responded to Master Xuanzang''s prayers and has taken away Princess Gaoyang, saying she is to follow Guanyin Bodhisattva in her cultivation," the eunuch kneeling before Li Shimin paused slightly while speaking.


    "What else is there?" Seeing the eunuch stammering, Li Shimin demanded sternly.


    rmed by Li Shimin''s displeasure, the eunuch quickly kowtowed and said, "Also, the Tathagata himself dered that Master Xuanzang and Princess Gaoyang may meet again if fate allows."


    "...", Li Shimin''s expression shifted, understanding the implication of those words.


    Gaoyang being personally saved by the Tathagata was certainly a joyful event, and though he was reluctant to let her go, Li Shimin felt happy that she could practice cultivation with Guanyin.


    But the Tathagata saying Master Xuanzang might meet Gaoyang again in the future suggested that he was destined to go to Western Spirit Mountain!


    It would have been one thing for an ordinary person to say this, buting from the Tathagata himself, these words carried much more weight.


    Moreover, Master Xuanzang was the first monk to receive twelve incense scars in all ages.


    "Summon the Imperial Brother to the pce, confer upon him the titles of Holy Monk of Great Tang and State Preceptor, and make known to all under heaven!" Li Shimin spoke after a moment of silence.


    The title of Holy Monk was highly revered. The title of Saint Monk Longhai, spontaneously called out by the people of the Great Tang, was more than deserved by him as the head of the Great Buddha Temple and the foremost monk of the Great Tang.


    However, no matter how deserved, this title had not been formally bestowed by Li Shimin, the Emperor of Tang, and hence did not hold an official status.


    But today, Li Shimin decided to formalize his recognition by conferring upon Jiang Liu, on top of admitting him as the Imperial Brother, the titles of Holy Monk of Great Tang and the position of State Preceptor, the significance of which was self-evident.


    "As youmand! However, Your Majesty, after the Holy Monk sought the Buddha''s help to save the Princess, he fell into an exhausted sleep, and it is unknown how long he will sleep," said Li Shimin, stirring concern. Yet, the eunuch showed no objection and promptly nodded, then reminded him.


    "Then you should go and notify the Great Buddha Temple to let the Holy Monke to the Imperial Pce to receive his title as soon as he awakens," Li Shimin said after a moment''s thought.


    "Understood," said the young eunuch, unable to conceal his astonishment.


    This was indeed a great honor. It was the first time His Majesty had decided to award someone and was personally waiting for the individual to wake up before proceeding.


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the Great Buddha Temple, Jiang Liu, who had slept for a day and a night, finally woke up fully refreshed and with a clear goal concerning his journey to the West.


    The required experience points to level up were increasing, and which among the immortals and buddhas had not cultivated for thousands, if not tens of thousands of years? How could he hope to match them within about twenty years?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Even with the aid of a game system, it was as difficult as reaching the heavens.


    However, no matter how challenging, he must strive in his cultivation for self-preservation and not cken in the slightest.


    Having made up his mind, Jiang Liu opened the storage space before him and began putting on his equipment one piece at a time.


    Vidyaraja Crown, Golden Cicada Buddha Robe, Sandalwood Buddha Beads...


    Indeed, the Golden Cicada Buddha Robe was equipment that could only be worn at level 15. Having secluded himself with Princess Gaoyang in a small mountain vige for about two months and asionally cultivating with the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique, Jiang Liu had long advanced to level 15.


    "The journey to the West has not officially begun, and while there''s still a bit of time, I should go to the Demon-Suppressing Hall to significantly enhance my strength!" he mused.


    With an unprecedented intense desire to improve his strength, Jiang Liu, now fully equipped, prepared to leave for the Demon-Suppressing Hall to level up throughbat.


    However, just as he had pushed open the door of the Zen Room, there were already disciples of the Great Buddha Temple waiting outside.


    "Master Xuanzang, the Emperor of Tang has decreed that once you wake up, you are toe to the Imperial Pce to ept the appointment as State Preceptor, an honor of the Holy Monk," said the monk with an adoring gaze as he spoke to Jiang Liu.


    Hearing this, Jiang Liu pondered for a moment. Although he was indifferent to the so-called position of State Preceptor and the honor of the Holy Monk, adding maybe not even 100 experience points to his significance, he still felt obliged to honor Emperor Li Shimin''s dignity.


    Thinking it over, Jiang Liu nodded and headed out of the Great Buddha Temple.


    "Master Xuanzang, wait! The Abbot Longhai has ordered that if you are going out, you should use his Buddhist Pnquin¡­" the monk called out, seeing Jiang Liu walking away.


    "No need, I will be quick," Jiang Liu answered without looking back.


    Indeed, from now on, every minute and second of his time was precious. How could he afford to waste it with formalities?


    Dressed in the Golden Cicada Buddha Robe and wearing the Vidyaraja Crown, because the twelve Scar of Precepts obscured his head, he walked swiftly without attracting much attention as he quickly made his way toward the Imperial Pce.


    Yet, as he was halfway there, Jiang Liu suddenly paused in his steps.


    Inside Chang''an City, not far away, there was a fortune-telling stall, where an old Taoist sat quietly. His appearance slightly resembled Yuan Tiangang.


    "Could it be? Is he..." Jiang Liu thought, seeing the Taoist''s appearance.


    Just then, the previously clear sky darkened as if it was about to rain at any moment.


    Soon after, a man in his forties, with a remarkable presence, walked directly into the fortune-telling stall.

 Chapter 77 Journey to the West to Start Earlier?

    Inside Chang''an City, there were a few fortune-telling stalls, which normally were not something worth noting. However, the owner of this stall bore a striking resemnce to Yuan Tiangang¡ªseven or eight points simr¡ªand that made all the difference.


    Another sight was an extraordinary middle-aged man making his way inside, and with his arrival in Chang''an City, there were omens of wind and thunder merging, which led Jiang Liu''s heart to sh with the saying, "Dragon Following Cloud, Tiger Following Wind."


    "Could it be? Really Yuan Shoucheng and the Dragon King of Jing River?", Jiang Liu mused with a slight stirring in his heart, also feeling a bit of surprise and urgency.


    Based on the original text of Journey to the West, the start of the journey was actually marked by a bet between the Dragon King of Jing River and Yuan Shoucheng.


    If that was really the case, could it be that the Journey to the West was going to start much earlier than expected?


    Though he hade to understand through his understanding with Tathagata that the westward journey was inevitable, he was after all only fifteen years old now, wasn''t he?


    Although he did not remember exactly how old Tang Monk was when he set out in the original text, he was at least supposed to be in his twenties before starting, plus the journey westward on the road would take about ten years, so Jiang Liu had always thought that he only had around twenty years at most.


    He needed to grow strong enough within those twenty years to wrestle with Tathagata.


    But if it were to start now, wouldn''t he be robbed of a significant portion of that time!?


    Thinking of such consequences, Jiang Liu''s heart tightened, and after a moment of hesitation, he too stepped inside.


    Within the stall, the dialogue between the two men could be heard.


    "Three chi, three cun and forty-eight points? Hahaha, very well. As you have said, I shall see if it will rain tomorrow and if the rainfall will match your prediction. If it''s not urate, don''t me me for flipping your stall over to teach you not to deceive the people," said the middle-aged man in amanding tone, speaking with a confidentughter.


    The old man sitting in front of the stall remained calm, seemingly unconcerned about the prospect of his stall being flipped.


    However, as Jiang Liu set foot inside, he turned his head and took a nce at him.


    "Has Master Xuanzange here also looking to resolve his doubts?", Yuan Shoucheng greeted Jiang Liu upon his entrance.


    After making the bet, the Dragon King of Jing River had originally nned to leave, but upon hearing the name of Master Xuanzang, he halted his steps and looked at Jiang Liu curiously.


    Certainly, Master Xuanzang''s reputation was now quite distinguished, and since Jing River was not too far from Chang''an, he obviously knew of Xuanzang''s name.


    "You are kind, sir. What should I call you?", With palms pressed together and disying humble courtesy, Jiang Liu naturally pretended not to recognize Yuan Shoucheng.


    The grand situation of Journey to the West had not formally begun yet; showing any advance knowledge of it could have unthinkable consequences.


    "Master Xuanzang can call me Yuan Shoucheng," Yuan Shoucheng nodded slightly and performed a salute in return.


    "Yuan? I once had the fortune of meeting Taoist Yuan Tiangang. Sharing the same surname and bearing a resemnce to him, could it be...?", spected Jiang Liu with an air of curiosity.


    "Indeed, I am the uncle of Yuan Tiangang," Yuan Shoucheng replied directly, without intent to hide the fact.


    "I see. Taoist Yuan Tiangang has served His Majesty closely and possesses great divine skills. I have heard that his divination is particrly sublime. As his uncle, I imagine your mastery of divination is profound. There is a matter I wish to inquire about, and I hope you can dispel my doubts," Jiang Liu expressed politely but without mincing words.


    Even though he had only met Yuan Tiangang once, Jiang Liu publicly heaped praise on him.


    These words were not merely ttery for the listener. In fact, they were meant for the Dragon King of Jing River, who was within earshot¡ªan implicit message to him.


    Yuan Tiangang was an immensely famous Taoist in the whole of Great Tang. For instance, Li Shimin had requested him to perform severalputations for the locust disaster. Since Yuan Shoucheng was his uncle, this was an indication for the Dragon King of Jing River not to take their betting lightly.


    "Master Xuanzang, the Holy Monk of Great Tang, with twelve incense scars, has deep Buddha affinity. If you wish to know your future, it''s clear at a nce, so why bother asking further?" Although Jiang Liu''s words were ttering, Yuan Tiangang did not intend to divine for him.


    "No, what I want to inquire about is not my own future," Jiang Liu shook his head and replied.


    "Oh? If that''s the case, please speak clearly, Mage," hearing that Jiang Liu''s query was not for himself, Yuan Shoucheng nodded slightly.


    "I have heard that those with Divine Skills can foresee fate, avoid disasters, and seek fortune, but when a great catastrophe approaches, they be blinded and their hearts bewildered. As a Taoist well-versed in divination, may I ask if this is true?"


    Jiang Liu joined his palms together, adopting a very humble stance, sincerely seeking enlightenment.


    ...


    The Dragon King of Jing River, who already knew that Yuan Shoucheng''s divination skills were extremely exquisite, otherwise he wouldn''t have been able to guide the fishermen to return with a full catch each time they fished in the Jing River, didn''t have much thought on Jiang Liu''s implication that Yuan Shoucheng''s divinatory skills were profound; he remained fully confident in his own wager.


    However, the question that Jiang Liu posed afterward caused a tightness in the Dragon King''s heart, as if a cup of cold water had suddenly been poured over his fiery spirit.


    Indeed, across the ages, those with Divine Skills were mostly capable of predicting the heavens'' will, avoiding misfortune, and attracting fortune, but why then did so many with Divine Skills, including the Immortals and Bodhisattvas in heaven, fell?


    It was because when a great catastrophe descended, it clouded the wise vision, making things indistinct, and in their bewilderment amidst the disaster, they perished.


    Facing Jiang Liu''s question, Yuan Shoucheng was speechless for a moment, unable to answer, whether he couldn''t respond or didn''t know how to reply was uncertain.


    As for Yuan Shoucheng''s answer, Jiang Liu did not care much, but his eyes nced imperceptibly at the Dragon King of Jing River beside him.


    Seeing a touch of contemtion in his eyes, Jiang Liu knew that he had achieved his goal.


    After bowing with palms together, Jiang Liu turned around and strode out of the stall, heading for the Imperial Pce.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    In the grand scheme of Journey to the West, although he was a very important chess piece, even the Tathagata had agreed to allow him to rescue Gaoyang, his agitation did not impede the overall n, which is why the Tathagata could tolerate his disturbances.


    But if he deliberately stepped out and obstructed the crucial undertaking of Journey to the West, perhaps the Buddha would have to eliminate him, send someone else, or allow Master Golden Cicada to be reborn again...


    So, although Jiang Liu very much wanted to obstruct, he could not openly step out. Having hinted to the Dragon King of Jing River to this extent, he considered that he had done his best, hoping that the Dragon King would be wise enough to buy him some more time.


    In the grand scheme of Journey to the West, as a chess piece wanting to contend with the chess yer, every move he made was like treading on thin ice.


    After Jiang Liu left, the Dragon King of Jing River also departed from Chang''an City with a contemtive look. With his departure, the tumultuous anomalies in Chang''an City naturally dissipated.


    However, Yuan Shoucheng frowned slightly as he watched Jiang Liu''s retreating figure.


    Were Master Xuanzang''s words in front of the Dragon King of Jing River intentional or just a coincidence?


    Not long after, Jiang Liu arrived at the Imperial Pce, where no one stopped him, and some guards even ran in to announce his arrival. Explore more at empire


    Upon learning that Master Xuanzang hade, Li Shimin personally came out to wee him.


    Following close behind him was Yuan Tiangang.


    After the greetings, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on Yuan Tiangang, and after pondering for a moment, he asked, "Taoist Yuan, do you happen to have an uncle named Yuan Shoucheng?"

 Chapter 78 Yuan Shoucheng is not Yuan Shoucheng

    "My uncle?" Yuan Tiangang looked at Jiang Liu in surprise, obviously not expecting that Jiang Liu would suddenly bring up his own uncle.


    However, he nodded, "Indeed, I do have an uncle named Yuan Shoucheng. How does Master Xuanzang know of him?"


    "Just now, as the poor monk was walking through Chang''an City, I saw a fortune-telling stall. Noticing the owner bore a striking resemnce to you, I had a brief conversation with him," Jiang Liu responded with a slight nod.


    "My uncle, when he has nothing better to do, likes to use my name to tell fortunes and earn some silver coins. It''s just that his divination skills are not proficient. I fear Master Xuanzang might find it amusing," Yuan Tiangang said with an embarrassed expression upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    "Is that so?" Jiang Liu tensed up when he heard Yuan Tiangang''s reply.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Looking at the original story, it is indeed within the Dragon King''s duties tomand the rains, but to be executed just for slightly missing the timing and withholding a few points of rain?


    This doesn''t make any sense at all.


    Logically speaking, in such a case, at most the Jade Emperor would be informed, and the Dragon King would be assigned a penalty for dereliction of duty, perhaps a mild punishment?


    Otherwise, if the heavenly rules were really that strict, even with several more doses of courage, the Dragon King of Jing River wouldn''t dare to fudge the figures, right?


    Besides, in the original story, weren''t there several instances of tampering with the weather? During the battle in Chechi Kingdom, the Five-Thunder Technique was used to summon the wind and rain divinities to prepare for rain, but Sun Wukong jumped up to stop it, wasn''t that also a dy?


    When fighting Red Boy, Sun Wukong also asked the Dragon King for rain; and for preparing a medicine for the King of Zhuzi Country with rootless water, Rain was summoned, wasn''t that private rainmaking?


    If the matter of rainfall was really so strict, all these individuals would have been executed.


    Therefore, the execution of the Dragon King of Jing River can be regarded as him being used as a pawn and sacrificed by others.


    Yuan Shoucheng is even more mysterious. The decree of the Jade Emperor should have been passed down from top to bottom to the Dragon King of Jing River, as internalmunications within the system are supposed to be the fastest, right? Yet, strangely, he knew about it even earlier than the Dragon King of Jing River, which ispletely illogical.


    Besides, when the Dragon King of Jing River went to smash his stall, Yuan Shoucheng immediately predicted that the Dragon King would suffer a strike. The Jade Emperor''s decree hadn''t even been issued yet, how did he know in advance? And even who would carry out the execution, Wei Zheng?


    In the world of Journey to the West, it''s not surprising for someone in the world to possess great supernatural powers, but divination so potent that it could forecast the affairs of the Jade Emperor beforehand? Jiang Liu absolutely did not believe this.


    Therefore, upon meeting Yuan Tiangang, he had casually asked, and Yuan Tiangang''s answer had also left Jiang Liu feeling a sense of dread.


    It seems that the real Yuan Shoucheng may no longer exist, and fortunately at that time, although I intended to save the Dragon King of Jing River as much as possible, I did not exhibit anything unreasonable.


    Jiang Liu asked casually, and Yuan Tiangang thought nothing more of it. Subsequently, the Emperor of Tang personally conferred the title of Holy Monk of Great Tang upon Jiang Liu.


    The ceremony was already well-prepared, so naturally, it was a lively affair.


    However, Jiang Liu''s mind was preupied with the matters of his Journey to the West, somewhat absent-minded.


    In Jiang Liu''s view, after the time-consuming fuss of the ceremony was finally over, he returned to the Great Buddha Temple.


    Without the urgency to head to the Demon-Suppressing Hall for leveling up throughbat, he sat cross-legged and continued to cultivate the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique, to enhance his Experience Points, also properly waiting for the conclusion of the Dragon King of Jing River''s fate tomorrow.


    Although the entirety of the Dragon King of Jing River''s situation was also a trap, I had warned him, but could he truly alter his destiny?


    The next day, several disciples from the Great Buddha Temple packed their bags, preparing to leave the temple to perform religious services. From a distance, they saw Jiang Liu''s Zen Room and could see him sitting by the window, gazing up at the sky.


    "Hey, brother, the Holy Monk seems to have been staring out the window lost in thought since early this morning, what do you think he''s pondering? Could it possibly be he''s thinking about Princess Gaoyang?" A young monk whispered.


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    "Silence!" A slightly older monk beside him said sharply, his face darkening as he spoke in a low voice.


    As they spoke, they also looked towards Jiang Liu, sitting by the window. After a brief silence, he said, "Although the Holy Monk is young, his ''Formless Gatha'' is recited throughout the world. His understanding of the Buddhist Law is profound, far beyond what we can imagine. Perhaps he spent the entire day contemting Buddhist teachings?"


    Jiang Liu sat quietly by the window, watching the sky. He had risen early that day. Although he hadn''t heard the entire bet between the Dragon King and Yuan Shoucheng the day before, he still remembered the number of raindrops.


    Thus, today Jiang Liu waited patiently, waiting for the rain, thinking that if the Dragon King lost the bet, there might still be a slim chance of survival. Otherwise, the situation would be far more terrifying than he had imagined...


    "Greetings to the Holy Monk!" Several disciples from the Great Buddha Temple passed by and bowed respectfully to Jiang Liu.


    "Hmm, greetings to you as well. Where are you headed?" Jiang Liu returned the gesture, his demeanor approachable.


    "Esquire Li, who lives fifty miles away, has invited us to perform a rite, to help lost souls transcend," the oldest monk replied upon hearing Jiang Liu''s question.


    "Fifty miles, huh? You should take umbres with you. If I am not mistaken, it''s going to rain today," Jiang Liu said, offering a reminder.


    "Rain... rain...?" The monks were momentarily stunned and then looked up at the clear blue sky, which didn''t look like it was about to rain at all.


    However, since the Holy Monk had spoken, the elder monk thought for a moment and then turned around, instructing everyone to bring an umbre.


    Boom¡­ Boom¡­


    Thunder rumbled as clouds surged in.


    Just as they had picked up umbres and were about to leave the Great Buddha Temple, the sky suddenly roared with thunder, and dense clouds appeared from nowhere.


    Before long, a torrential downpour followed.


    "This... the Holy Monk really is prescient..." The disciples, who had not yet left the temple, looked at each other with faces filled with amazement.


    Jiang Liu was not surprised by the rain; he just waited quietly.


    After about two to three hours, when the clouds and rain began to clear, Jiang Liu stepped outside and asked the monks in the temple about today''s rainfall amount.


    Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s inquiry, the disciple, although also finding it strange, still ran to make a careful measurement, and then answered respectfully, "Reporting to the Holy Monk, today''s rainfall was three feet and forty points."


    "It''s over..." Hearing this number, Jiang Liu felt a heaviness in his heart.


    Although he could not recall the exact time, Jiang Liu remembered the rainfall amount clearly. Yuan Shoucheng had said it would be three feet, three inches, and forty-eight points.


    At this moment, with the numbers not matching, it was clear that, just like in the original story, the Dragon King of Jing River had withheld some of the rain, dying the appointed time for the rainfall.


    With the amount of rainfall incorrect, there was nothing worth watching regarding the Dragon King of Jing River causing a ruckus in front of the awning.


    Jiang Liu sighed and returned to his Zen Room, sitting down to cultivate.


    His time was running out.


    Indeed, within a couple of days, a major event that shook Chang''an City urred.


    A dragon''s head fell from the clouds, drawing crowds of onlookers. Qin Shubao happened to be passing by, picked up the dragon''s head, and went to report to the pce...

 Chapter 79 Guanyin Bestows Treasures

    Tip: Experience Points +2.


    Tip: Experience Points +2.


    Tip: Experience Points +2.


    Tip: Level up by 1, current level 16.


    ...


    Sitting cross-legged, silently utilizing the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound divine skill, experience points grew bit by bit, like umting sand into a pagoda.


    The matter of the Journey to the West was imminent, and the urgency in his heart prevented Jiang Liu from wasting even a moment. In recent days, despite the liveliness of Chang''an City, he paid no mind and continued his cultivation until, atst, he had raised his level to 16.


    As his level reached 16, naturally, he gained an additional skill point. After briefly considering where to allocate this extra skill point between the Demon-Subduing Mantra and the Guanyin Mantra, Jiang Liu decided not to rush and use it immediately but rather to wait until he was fighting monsters before deciding.


    After all, as long as the skill points were in hand, he could use them at any time.


    The Demon-Subduing Mantra was a skill book that had dropped from a Demon Marshal Level Electric Light Leopard in the Demon-Suppressing Hall. It was a monk upation skill book for level 15 that genuinely increased attack power with a BUFF effect.


    Although it was only of Primary Level, it could add an impressive 100 points of attack power to allies, which demonstrated this skill alone could offer a higher boost than the attack power provided by the Demon Subduing Staff of Perfect Quality. This illustrated the extraordinary support abilities of the monk profession.


    In recent days, Chang''an City had been abuzz with excitement. A few days ago, a dragon''s head fell from the sky, shocking the people of the city. Then, the Emperor of Tang couldn''t sleep at night and had to have Yuchi Gong and Qin Shubao guard at night for peace.


    However, it wasn''t possible for these two generals to stand guard at the door every night. Therefore, the Emperor of Tang had a paint artist sketch their likenesses and affix them to the door.


    It wasn''t long before news of the Emperor''s demise spread, sending shockwaves throughout thend...


    Although Jiang Liu had been focused on cultivation these days, striving to enhance his strength to face the great ordeal of the Journey to the West, he was nevertheless aware of the Emperor''s passing.


    However, as someone familiar with the original story, Jiang Liu knew that it wouldn''t be long before the Emperor''s true spirit wandered in the Underworld, met his father and brothers, saw countless lost souls in Hell, and then would be revived.


    Indeed, Jiang Liu had just finished his meditation and grooming when he stepped out of the Zen Room for breakfast. Along the way, disciples of the Great Buddha Temple gave him respectful salutations, and from their conversations, Jiang Liu heard the news of the Emperor''s sudden revival the night before.


    As the Emperor of Great Tang, whether it was his passing or his revival, it naturally became the topic of interest for everyone.


    Having just finished breakfast, Jiang Liu was about to return to the Zen Room to rest, when suddenly, an eunuch from the pce arrived with an Imperial Decree. It stated that the Emperor wished to gather one thousand two hundred monks to hold a grand water andnd ceremony to pray for the liberation of lost souls from the Underworld.


    The task of gathering monks from all over was naturally entrusted to the Great Buddha Temple.


    And the one to preside over this ceremony was assigned to be the Holy Monk Xuanzang.


    After all, he was officially recognized as a Holy Monk, an Imperial Brother, and a monk with the deepest Buddhist connections in history.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    The Saint Monk Longhai showed no displeasure about Jiang Liu presiding over the ceremony. After the incident with the Dragon Subduing Arhat, Jiang Liu could even invite the Tathagata to show his divine presence. Longhai had no reason to feel jealousy or discontent towards his affairs.


    On the contrary, Saint Monk Longhai felt great joy about the uing water andnd ceremony.


    A gathering of one thousand two hundred monks for an unprecedented grand ceremony? Wouldn''t this be the most magnificent event ever held within the borders of the Great Tang?


    This event was naturally a significant boon to the reputation of the Buddhist Sect.


    Jiang Liu, of course, could not refuse such a task. He silently prepared, selecting two Buddhist scriptures to read aloud during the ceremony.


    All these were mere formalities, not worth his time to memorize the scriptures.


    One thousand two hundred monks couldn''t be gathered in a moment or two. The Imperial Decree was issued, and with the Great Buddha Temple taking charge, it took a full five days to gather the entire number of one thousand two hundred monks.


    During these five days, the venue for the Water and Land Dharma Assembly was also hurriedly prepared.


    Aside from the necessary time for daily life, Jiang Liu spent all his time meditating and cultivating, earning over ten thousand Experience Points each day through cultivation.


    However, the amount of Experience Points required to level up was increasing, and he didn''t know how long it would take to reach level 17.


    Today, with only one day left before the official holding of the Dharma assembly, suddenly, a bald, barefoot monk in tattered clothes appeared in Chang''an City, selling kasayas and monk''s staffs on the streets.


    Despite the scabrous monk''s unremarkable appearance, the kasaya and staff he held seemed to be treasures. Naturally, people approached him to inquire.


    "The kasaya is priced at five thousand taels, and the staff at two thousand taels," the price the scabrous monk quoted made countless people shake their heads, thinking the monk had gone mad.


    Just then, Prime Minister Xiao Yu''s carriage arrived, and the guard troop cleared the streets.


    But the scabrous monk neither dodged nor avoided, instead heading straight towards the Prime Minister''s carriage.


    ...


    But within the Great Buddha Temple, it was distinctly felt that the Journey to the West was drawing near. Jiang Liu spent his days hidden in the Zen Room, cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, and the other monks, thinking he was preparing the essential scriptures for the Water and Land Dharma Assembly, did not dare to disturb him.


    However, this day, a eunuch from the pce arrived at the temple, stating that the Emperor of Tang had invited Holy Monk Xuanzang to the pce for a chat.


    Hearing that the Emperor of Tang summoned him, Jiang Liu did not hesitate, quickly made some preparations, and then set out for the pce.


    Perhaps, with the day of the Water and Land Dharma Assembly approaching, the Emperor of Tang had some matters to exin to him?


    "Come, bring the items out..." Following Jiang Liu''s entrance to the pce, after exchanging greetings, Li Shimin wasted no time and spoke to the eunuch by his side.


    "Eh? Are you giving me something?" Jiang Liu thought to himself with surprise, having assumed that Li Shimin sought him out to discuss the Water and Land Dharma Assembly.


    Following Li Shimin''s order, two eunuchs came forward, each holding a tray; one tray bore an exquisite kasaya, and the other a horizontal monk''s staff.


    "This is..." Seeing these two items, Jiang Liu''s heart tensed.


    "Imperial Brother, isn''t this fate? Prime Minister Xiao Yu encountered a scabrous monk in the streets of Chang''an selling a kasaya, asking for a total of seven thousand taels. He said wearing this kasaya, one can avoid reincarnation, and wielding this staff can prevent poisoning.


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    Since you are the Holy Monk of Great Tang and cannot avoid theborious task of the Water and Land Dharma Assembly, I wished to purchase these and gift them to you."


    "But who knew, once the scabrous monk learned they were to be gifted to you, he refused to take a single coin."


    "Indeed, it seems like Bodhisattva Guanyin has sent the Brocade Kasaya and Nine-Ring Staff," hearing Li Shimin''s words, how could Jiang Liu not understand the situation?


    He sighed inwardly but also felt some joy. The Tathagata had said Princess Gaoyang was revived and cultivating under Bodhisattva Guanyin; he wondered if she hade with Gaoyang this time?


    Logically, before setting off to the west, letting himself and Gaoyang meet would be permissible; wouldn''t this strengthen his resolve for the Journey to the West?


    Moreover, logically, allowing Princess Gaoyang to meet the Emperor of Tang could also improve the Buddhist Sect''s image in the Emperor''s eyes, right?


    With a mind full of thoughts, Jiang Liu maintained aposed demeanor, reached out to ept the two treasures, bowed his head and lowered his gaze, focusing on the items in front of him.


    These two treasures should be of higher quality than the Vidyaraja Crown given to him by Saint Monk Longhai, right?


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze rested on them, the details and attributes of the two treasures were revealed before his eyes.

 Chapter 80 Bodhi Verse

    Brocade Kasaya (Epic Level) (Sealed): No level requirement, Defense+??? Special Effect: When the user dies without the soul perishing, they can resurrect within a certain period. Note: After equipping, the item will be soul-bound. Note: This equipment is under a seal, retaining only its special effect.


    Nine-Ring Staff (Epic Level) (Sealed): No level requirement, Attack+???, Special Effect: Can activate an active effect, granting immunity to attacks from targets below level 90 for 300 seconds. Note: After equipping, the item will be soul-bound. Also, this equipment is under a seal, retaining only its special effect.


    Jiang Liu: "...".


    Looking at the attributes of these two pieces of equipment, Jiang Liu''s face darkened. These two pieces of equipment were like the Vidyaraja Crown, having no level requirement for use, meaning that people of any level could use them.


    It''s just that, the Buddhist Sect had sent treasures but also sealed them? What kind of situation was this?


    Equipment of epic quality was a notch higher than that of legendary level. If these two pieces of equipment weren''t sealed, Jiang Liu believed that his leveling up would have been much easier.


    However, although heined inwardly, even without the added abilities of attack and defense, fortunately, the seal wasn''tplete. The special effects of the two pieces of equipment were at least preserved.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    d in the Brocade Kasaya, not falling into reincarnation; wielding the Nine-Ring Staff, untouched by poison.


    In terms of the special effects of these two pieces of equipment, it wasn''t an exaggeration.


    With the special effects of these two pieces of equipment preserved, at least before reaching Western Heaven, his own safety during battles and leveling up was somewhat guaranteed.


    After putting on these two pieces of equipment, Jiang Liu''s whole presence seemed to change.


    Crowned with the Vidyaraja, holding the Nine-Ring Staff, wearing the Brocade Kasaya, he looked handsome and youthful, with red lips and white teeth, appearing dignified and noble, yet handsome and dashing¡ªa stunning young monk.


    "Hmm, not bad, very good...", Li Shimin nodded slightly in satisfaction while looking at Jiang Liu''s appearance.


    Although these two pieces of equipment were sent to him on the pretext by Bodhisattva Guanyin, Li Shimin''s genuine intention to purchase these treasures for him was indeed heartfelt.


    Therefore, after donning the kasaya, Jiang Liu earnestly bowed to Li Shimin: "Jiang Liu, thanks Your Majesty!"


    Referring to himself by his own name and not as "this humble monk," his words obviously came from the heart rather than mere superficial courtesy.


    "You don''t need to thank me, these two treasures... can''t really be considered gifts from me..." Li Shimin said, shaking his head slightly after hearing Jiang Liu''s thanks.


    "Although I don''t know exactly what ns the Buddhist Sect has, I do know that you y a very important part in it. Otherwise, you wouldn''t have such Buddhist fate, even being able to have the Tathagata himself manifest."


    "Originally, hearing that these treasures could prevent falling into reincarnation and ward off poison, I wanted to buy them for you. In this way, these two treasures would be my gifts to you, and that''s all I could help with," he said.


    "Unfortunately, the person selling the kasaya and staff refused to take money. Even so, these two treasures are considered gifts from the Buddhist Sect to you. It seems everything was arranged by the Buddhist Sect in the background. Who in the mortal world could have such treasures, and furthermore, be willing to give them away?"


    Li Shimin''s words startled Jiang Liu, who did not expect that, based on recent events, the Emperor could roughly deduce the truth behind the Journey to the West.


    Really? To be the Emperor of Great Tang, Li Shimin might not be extraordinarily intelligent, but he certainly had a perspective beyond that of ordinary people.


    Indeed, the Brocade Kasaya and the Nine-Ring Staff didn''t seem like treasures from the mortal world. A scabrous monk selling them in the street didn''t make sense; such treasures, supposedly for him, weren''t sold for a penny. Anyone with sense would realize there were hidden machinations.


    "Regardless, I must still thank Your Majesty for your favor!" Jiang Liu said sincerely with palms together and a bow.


    "Alright, you should go. As the Human Emperor, I have a duty to all the people and can help you only so much. Caught up in the grand scheme, you''ll have to rely on yourself from now on," Li Shimin said, waving his hand and speaking with a hint of helplessness.


    Help? Li Shimin had tried to help, even stepping in to block the Dragon Subduing Arhat, but what was the oue? Great Tang suffered a locust gue, countless citizens were afflicted, and he had no choice but to bow his head, to swallow locusts alive, turning from a distant rtion into sworn brothers with Jiang Liu to break the stalemate.


    He was well aware that within this grand scheme, even if he wanted to help, he was powerless to do so.


    Jiang Liu turned and left the Imperial Pce, but he looked back onest time, silently sighing in his heart, feeling clearly the Emperor''s intent. He was unable to help, and there was nothing he could do about it.


    Even if he was just a mortal, even the mighty Dragon King couldn''t save himself in this game; death came swiftly, with no chance for defense.


    The next day, the entirety of Chang''an City was exceptionally bustling, countless citizens, not just from within Chang''an but also many who had traveled from afar, came to witness the grand spectacle of the Water Land Dharma Assembly.


    In recent days, Chang''an had been incredibly lively. In just a few short months, one after another, earth-shattering pieces of news had been continuously emerging.


    During the Incense Offering Ceremony, Master Xuanzang lit twelve incense scars, a story that spread throughout thend.


    Two Great Demons shed against each other.


    Following that, Master Xuanzang and Li Chunfeng engaged in philosophical discourse, with the Formless Gatha hailed as a precious poem of the Buddhist Sect.


    Master Xuanzang then swore an oath to heaven, agreeing to marry Princess Gaoyang.


    Emperor of Tang organized a ceremony to pray for the heavens, swallowing locusts alive to end the locust gue.


    Next came the manifestation of the Tathagata.


    A dragon''s head fell from the sky.


    Emperor Li Shimin of Tang was resurrected from the dead.


    And finally, today''s Water Land Dharma Assembly.


    ...


    Scenes thatmoners might not witness once in decades, Chang''an had seen them conglomerate in just a few months, and most of these events were connected to Master Xuanzang.


    The magnificence of the scene, with precisely twelve hundred monks convening for the Water Land Dharma Assembly, exceeded the ceremony where Li Shimin had prayed to the heavens, attracting far more enthusiasm.


    Jiang Liu, holding a Nine-Ring Staff and d in a Brocade Kasaya, with a dignified and glorious appearance, step by step, made his way to the dais of the Water Land Assembly, and then produced a copy of the Heart Sutra from his bosom.


    Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, when practicing the profound Praj?¨¡p¨¡ramit¨¡, illuminated the five aggregates and saw that they are all empty, and thus relieved all suffering¡­


    The Water Land Assembly was merely a formality. Jiang Liu wasn''t interested in wasting time reciting scriptures; he could spend that time better by meditating, so he just held the scripture and read it out loud.


    Upon hearing Jiang Liu doing nothing but reading the "Heart Sutra" on the stage, without offering any personal insights into Buddhist Law, not only did the twelve hundred monks exchange looks of bewilderment, but even the surrounding popce began to murmur among themselves.


    Today''s Water Land Assembly was meant to hear the Holy Monk Xuanzang''s enlightenment on Buddhist Law, but instead, he simply read out from the "Heart Sutra"?


    What was the meaning of this?


    "Hahaha, so this is the Holy Monk of Great Tang? At such an assembly, is he only reading out Buddhist Scriptures without a single personal insight?" Just then, a sudden loudughter erupted, and the Scabrous Monk burst intoughter, jumping out and pointing at Jiang Liu on the stage as he shouted.


    "Who is this person? How dare he cause trouble?" The guards nearby were shocked to see the Scabrous Monk jump out and shouted in a low voice as they moved forward to apprehend him.


    "Then, in your opinion, what constitutes personal insight?" Seeing the monk that had jumped out, Jiang Liu also knew his identity and stood up to ask.


    "I have once heard your Formless Gatha, ''The body is the Bodhi Tree, and the mind is like the Mingjing tform, always strive to wipe it clean, and let no dust alight.'' That poem captured the essence of my Buddhist meditation deeply.


    Today, I came to listen to you preach and discuss Buddhist Law, hoping for even more exquisite Chan words and marvels, but to my disappointment, none were forting," The Scabrous Monk shook his head in a disappointed manner as he asked.


    "Do you wish to test my current attitude toward Buddhism before I go on my Journey to the West to seek scriptures?", Jiang Liu interpreted the Scabrous Monk''s words with vignce,rgely understanding his intent.


    "Amitabha. When Iposed the ''Formless Gatha'' that day, let me today write another Buddhist poem. I shall call it the ''Bodhi Verse'', to offer to all people for appreciation."


    Bodhi originally has no tree, and the mirror also is not a stand...


    (PS: Some people have asked about my update schedule. I post two chapters daily. Updates are scheduled for 8:00 AM and 8:30 PM.)

 Chapter 81 A Meals Promise

    Bodhi originally has no tree, the bright mirror also not a stand.


    There was not a single thing to begin with, where could the dust alight?


    This verse on Bodhi, to a certain extent, greatly resembles the previously mentioned Formless Gatha. Yet, its implied meaning is entirely different.


    If it is said that the Formless Gatha delves deeply into the essence of a monk''s cultivation of Buddhism, then this Bodhi Verse has alreadypleted its transformation and sublimation at that level.


    As soon as the Bodhi Verse was recited, the Dharma assembly by the water andnd fell into silence. Those mere twenty words immersed countless monks.


    In a faint sense, as if they grasped something; but upon closer examination, they couldn''t discern what it was they realized. This feeling was profound and yet more profound.


    "There was not a single thing to begin with? Where could the dust alight? Has the Holy Monk Xuanzang already reached such a detached state of mind? Despite his youth, he possesses such a realm already.


    Is he truly a reincarnation of a Bodhisattva?", within the twelve hundred monks, an elder monk d in a kasaya, his beard already white, looked at the young monk on the tform with both admiration and respect, sincerely impressed.


    "Amitabha, the Formless Gatha alone was already a treasured poem of the Buddhist sect. But today, this Bodhi Verse outshines it, making it seemckluster. This is indeed an unparalleled echo of the Buddhist sect for all eternity," from below the tform, Saint Monk Longhai, upon hearing the Bodhi Verse, felt joyful and full of admiration.


    Even as one called a Holy Monk, I could not achieve this. I am inferior to him.


    "A true gain, this is indeed a great gain...", among the numerousmoners in attendance, an older man also showed a face full of joy.


    I traveled a great distance to attend this water andnd Dharma assembly, all to hear Master Xuanzang''s explication of the Buddhist Law and to see the perspective of the Holy Monk. Yet I never expected him to merely chant scriptures without presenting any personal insights or thoughts from the tform.


    I was extremely disappointed at first, but now, after hearing this Bodhi Verse, I feel that my trip has not been in vain.


    Even more, the old man thought that the previous simple recitation of scriptures by the Holy Monk Xuanzang was very profound.


    Could it be that everyone has a different understanding of the scriptures, and thus, the Holy Monk, in this manner, is reminding all beings that they need to contemte for themselves? Otherwise, with the Holy Monk''s Buddha nature, why wouldn''t he express his own insight and enlightenment?


    Thinking this way, the Holy Monk''s efforts are truly painstaking.


    ¡­


    The Scabrous Monk, transformed by Guanyin, also watched Jiang Liu in amazement. I must admit, even having lived for thousands of years, I initially thought the Formless Gatha was merely admirable, but this Bodhi Verse is truly stunning, even to Guanyin.


    At the same time, in my heart, I couldn''t help wondering, isn''t this the incarnation of Master Golden Cicada? Even after reincarnation, without the memories of thousands of years, he still possesses such wisdom.


    Originally, Guanyin''s n was to use the Red Thread of Fate to deepen the love between Xuanzang and Gaoyang, then sacrifice her to strengthen his Zen resolve and set him on the Journey to the West. However, I did not expect that the mistake of the Dragon Subduing Arhat would make Jiang Liu potentially aware of the covert actions of the Buddhist sect.


    Therefore, Guanyin came here to test and see what his attitude towards the Buddhist sect was. Now, it seems his understanding of the Buddhist Law has be even more profound.


    Yet, even though I am amazed by this Bodhi Verse, I will not forget what my purpose is.


    Following the recitation of the Bodhi Verse, the Scabrous Monk instead burst into loudughter, "Hahaha, so this is what they call the Holy Monk of Great Tang? I see it''s nothing special after all."


    "How dare you, monk! To run wild here, mocking the Holy Monk!" After the Formless Gatha won everyone''s admiration, now hearing the Scabrous Monk utter such mockery, naturally roused a wave of excitement in the crowd.


    "Hahaha? How am I running wild? As the Holy Monk of Great Tang, although he eloquently speaks of the Buddhist Law, in the end, it is but Hinayana Buddhism. How can one be called a Holy Monk with such beliefs?" The Scabrous Monk, faced with condemnation from thousands, did not show fear, but spoke out loudly instead.


    "Then may I ask, since you insist that what Xuanzang preaches is merely Hinayana Buddhism, what then is Hinayana and what is Mahayana Buddhism?" As the words of the Scabrous Monk fell, Saint Monk Longhai stood up and asked in the assembly.


    "Cultivating oneself for personal benefit, seeing the nature of the Bright Deity, this is Hinayana Buddhism," the Scabrous Monk nced over all those present and finally rested his eyes on Jiang Liu, then he replied.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    There was a slight pause before he continued, "Salvation for the world, rescuing sentient beings from the sea of suffering, and leading them to the other shore, this is the essence of Mahayana Buddhism."


    "Holy Monk Xuanzang, the teachings of Mahayana Buddhism are stored in the Great Thunder Monastery of the Western Heaven, at the abode of our Buddha Tathagata. Are you willing to endure hardships for the sake of the people of this world, to bring back the True Scriptures of Mahayana Buddhism Tripitaka?"


    "Can I say ''no''?" Upon hearing these words, Jiang Liu rolled his eyes discreetly.


    Of course, this was merely grumbled internally. The Buddhist Sect had prepared for this day for so long, made countless arrangements; they were ostensibly asking him, but in reality, was there any room for him to refuse?


    "Amitabha, this monk is willing," Jiang Liu stood up and replied, adopting a look of righteous determination. Since there was no choice, he might as well show some grandeur and passion.


    Li Shimin, who was standing by the side, did not utter a word, simply watching silently. He recognized this scabrous monk who had appeared as the one who had delivered the kasaya and the Zen staff the day before.


    Now hearing about the journey to the West, Li Shimin understood in his heart¡ªso this was the Buddhist Sect''s true intent?


    "Amitabha, Xuanzang, you are very good..." Guanyin appeared quite satisfied with Jiang Liu''s response, her form shed, then reverted to her true likeness, seated upon the Lotus tform. Her Buddhist Light was dazzling yet gentle, and she nodded at Jiang Liu with a gratified expression.


    "Bodhisattva Guanyin, Bodhisattva Guanyin has descended to earth!"


    Witnessing Guanyin reveal her true form, twelve hundred monks at the water andnd ceremony excitedly knelt down, worshipping and adoring her.


    The civilians who came to observe also prostrated themselves as if they were pounding garlic.


    "Yesterday, through the hands of the Emperor of Tang, I granted you the Brocade Kasaya and the Nine-Ring Staff. Those who don the kasaya shall not fall into the cycle of reincarnation, and those who hold the staff shall be protected from poisons.


    However, the journey to the Western Heaven is eighty-one thousand miles long, filled with perilous mountains and treacherous waters, brimming with wolves, insects, tigers, and leopards. To go to the Western Heaven, one must possess great wisdom, great perseverance, and a spirit of great fearlessness.


    Are you willing to go?" Seated on the Lotus tform, Guanyin''s face was full ofpassion and serenity, her chant faintly audible.


    "The disciple is willing."


    "Amitabha, very well, then. When you sessfullyplete your journey to the West, you shall certainly attain a Golden Body and true fruition."


    Things were very simple; by this point, Bodhisattva Guanyin had asked him to journey to the West for the scriptures and he had no room to refuse. Having agreed, naturally, Bodhisattva Guanyin encouraged him.


    Having fulfilled his task of guiding Xuanzang on his Journey to the West, he did not intend to stay longer. Bodhisattva Guanyin then prepared to leave.


    "Bodhisattva, wait..." Seeing Bodhisattva Guanyin turning to leave, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but call out.


    Halting in mid-air, Guanyin looked toward Jiang Liu, "Xuanzang, do you have something else to ask?"


    "I want to know, did youe here alone, Bodhisattva? Didn''t you bring anyone else with you?" Jiang Liu hesitated before asking, unable to suppress his concern for Gaoyang''s situation.


    Though he felt that for the time being, the Buddhist Sect had no reason to harm Gaoyang, he couldn''t feel at ease without seeing her for himself.


    Guanyin Bodhisattva understood the implication of Jiang Liu''s question and answered, "Amitabha, indeed, this time I came alone. However, before this visit, someone had asked me to pass a message to you. On the day you reach Spirit Mountain, there will be a meal waiting for you."


    With those words, Bodhisattva Guanyin transformed into a beam of Buddhist Light and departed into the distance.


    Jiang Liu''s face showed a soft smile in response to this answer.


    He clearly remembered how in the past, when he lived in seclusion with Gaoyang, he was the one who cooked, and she, feeling indebted, made him a promise when she was gravely poisoned and near death: if there were a next life, she wished to be the one cooking at his stove.


    (PS: And thus, the first volume of the Holy Monk of Great Tang ends, and next, the official Journey to the West begins...)

 Chapter 82 Five Elements Mountain

    "Imperial Brother, ahead lies thousands of mountains and rivers, favor not the soil of your homnd over the gold of foreignnds."


    Outside the walls of Chang''an, a sea of people, countless in number, gathered to bid farewell to the Holy Monk Xuanzang on his Journey to the West for Scriptures. Li Shimin held a cup of clear wine, scooped up a little gravel from the ground, and sprinkled it into the cup before speaking to Jiang Liu.


    Jiang Liu took the cup from Li Shimin''s hands, with great solemnity, drank it in one gulp, and handed it back to him, saying, "Your Majesty, rest assured, this monk understands and will surely not forget his original intention today."


    As he took back the cup, Li Shimin nodded in satisfaction at Jiang Liu''s response.


    To this day, Li Shimin hade to fully understand the arrangements of Buddhism. With treasures by his side for his journey to the West, he believed that the Buddhist Sect would surely look after him no matter the demons and ghosts he faced, and they could not harm his life.


    What Li Shimin worried about was whether this western journey would change his mindset, but now, it seemed he understood his own mind.


    After saying goodbye to Li Shimin, Jiang Liu turned back to see countlessmoners and monks bidding him farewell. It was clear that the arrival of the Bodhisattva in the human realm during the water andnd ceremony days ago, assigning him the heavy responsibility of seeking scriptures in the West, had spread throughout thend, prompting people toe and send him off voluntarily.


    After Emperor Tang, Li Shimin, stepped back, the Saint Monk Longhai walked forward.


    "Amitabha, though there are many hardships ahead, if one seeds, one can achieve Bodhi, which is truly enviable," he said with palms pressed together and bowed. Saint Monk Longhai did not treat Jiang Liu like a junior. Instead, he treated him as an equal.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "These days, thank you for your care, Holy Monk," Jiang Liu replied, bowing to Saint Monk Longhai in return.


    However, he did not respond to his words of envy.


    Indeed, from the perspective of all monks in the world, though the Journey to the West stretched over one hundred and eighty thousand miles through distant mountains and long roads, the opportunity to witness the true Buddha and the promise by the Bodhisattva of a golden body upon sess was something all monks envied.


    Yet, if he had a choice, he would be absolutely unwilling to go, but at this point, it was not apt to voice such sentiments.


    After bidding farewell to Emperor Tang and Saint Monk Longhai, Jiang Liu''s gaze swept over the monks and people in the distance, and he waved to them.


    After all, how could he ignore these people who had willinglye to send him off?


    "We bid farewell to the Holy Monk and wish him a sessful journey to obtain the True Scriptures and return!" Watching Jiang Liu wave back, themoners and monks who hade to bid farewell were somewhat excited and shouted in unison loudly.


    With a slight nod, Jiang Liu did not respond but led his white horse to the side. He packed all the necessary gear into his storage space, presenting a light and agile appearance. He then swiftly mounted the horse in a very handsome manner.


    "Drive!" With a spirited demeanor, Jiang Liu pped the horse''s rump and shouted loudly. Experience more content on empire


    The white horse raised its hooves and dashed forward like an arrow, very fast, as Emperor Tang Li Shimin naturally provided him with the best steed for his scripture-seeking journey.


    Wow-ah!


    His mounting pose was stylish, and his riding posture wasmendable. But as the horse leaped forward, Jiang Liu unexpectedly screamed and then quickly clung to the horse''s neck, his shouts trailing off into the distance.


    At the gate of Chang''an City, Li Shimin and Longhai looked at each other in astonishment.


    After a slight hesitation, Li Shimin asked, "It seems that our Imperial Brother is not very skilled in horsemanship."


    "Cough cough, as far as I know, Jinshan Temple has always been rather financially strained, and Xuanzang grew up there. He probably never rode a horse before," replied Saint Monk Longhai somewhat awkwardly, in a low voice.


    ...


    Experience Points +2.


    Experience Points +2.


    Experience Points +2.


    Dragging time, two months had passed in a sh.


    As dawn broke and the belly of the fish flipped white in the sky, Jiang Liu stopped his cultivation and opened his eyes.


    Since leaving Chang''an City, two months had passed. During these two months, the loneliness of traveling alone and friendless, unprecedented for him, made Jiang Liu feel very ufortable.


    Originally, for Jiang Liu, the Journey to the West was a game against Tathagata, where the stakes were his and Gaoyang''s lives. Therefore, it was essential for Jiang Liu to increase his strength as much as possible before reaching Western Spirit Mountain.


    Therefore, Jiang Liu was in no rush toplete the Journey to the West. On the contrary, the slower he traveled, the better.


    Since his horseback riding skills were poor, any carelessness could lead to falling off a fast-running horse. Additionally, he was not in a hurry to rush the journey, so Jiang Liu simply let the horse go early on and traveled on foot.


    Walking and stopping intermittently, encountering fierce beasts to fight along the way and sitting down to rest and practice the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound during spare moments, two months passed unwittingly, and Jiang Liu still had not left the territory of Great Tang.


    However, it must be said, these two months of rigorous practice and ying some venomous beasts and demons had earned him quite a few experience points, elevating his level from 16 to 19.


    With a level 19 status coupled with the amplification from his equipment, even facing an upright-walking Demon Soldier, Jiang Liu could fend for himself in a battle.


    Unlike initially when just one injured Wolf Demon had nearly cost him and Gaoyang their lives.


    The next morning, after meditating overnight, washing up, and straightening himself out a bit, Jiang Liu continued on the Journey to the West. After walking half the day and feeling famished, he suddenly noticed arge mountain in the distance resembling a giant palm.


    "A few days ago, I had asked about it, and if one walks a few hundred more miles forward, one would leave the borders of Great Tang. Could that be the Mount of the Two Realms?" Jiang Liu thought to himself as he looked at the distant mountain shaped like a palm.


    Back at Great Buddha Temple, he had inquired about Sun Wukong from Saint Monk Longhai.


    The mountain suppressing Sun Wukong was originally named Five Elements Mountain, but during Emperor of Tang Li Shimin''s western expedition to stabilize the nation, it was renamed Mount of the Two Realms, signifying the boundary of Great Tang. Crossing this mountain meant leaving the territory of Great Tang.


    Thinking of the Five Elements Mountain that was suppressing Sun Wukong right before him, Jiang Liu quickened his pace and swiftly walked towards it.


    Though the Journey to the West encouraged dying, being a modern-era traveler, Sun Wukong''s renowned name was universally known and admired.


    At this moment, with Sun Wukong right before him and even potentially bing his disciple, Jiang Liu hurried along, his mood somewhat stirred.


    "Elder, please walk slowly. I am Liu Boqin, known as the Mountain-Guarding Marshal. Since we have met, we are surely destined. I invite you to rest at my humble abode for a while.


    I will serve you vegetarian dishes to disy my devotion to Buddhism," said a burly man with bow and arrows on his back, who approached Jiang Liu with a friendly demeanor as he saw him walking fast towards the Mount of the Two Realms.


    "Thank you, benefactor. However, this monk has urgent matters to attend to. Perhaps another time..." Jiang Liu paused slightly in his steps and responded as the man stopped him.


    With those words, Jiang Liu passed by the man and continued on his way.


    "Elder, I am not a wrongdoer. I saw you were travel-worn, so I thought...," said the man, chasing after Jiang Liu a few steps and calling out.


    "No time."

 Chapter 83 Where is Sun Wukong...?

    After shaking off the entangling Liu Boqin, Jiang Liu quickly walked towards the Five Elements Mountain.


    Legend has it that it was transformed from the palm of the Tathagata, concealing the power of the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Even though it''s called Five Elements Mountain, its shape resembles a hand, so it''s also known as Five-Finger Mountain.


    The journey was about twenty Chinese miles through the wilderness without a beaten path. So, even with Jiang Liu''s brisk pace, it still took him nearly a Chinese hour to reach the foot of the Five Elements Mountain.


    As originally described in the novel, Sun Wukong was suppressed under the mountain. Jiang Liu thought about it and decided to walk around the Five Elements Mountain to search.


    Since it resembled a palm, the Five Elements Mountain looked very steep; however, its area wasn''t quite extensive. Circling it would cover just over ten Chinese miles. Thus, after about half a Chinese hour, Jiang Liu had walked around it once.


    But he found nothing.


    "What''s going on!?" Back at the starting point of his circr walk without having found any trace of Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu waspletely bewildered, with no idea what was happening.


    In the modern world, there''s no shortage of film and TV adaptations of ''Journey to the West,'' and almost every version features Sun Wukong waiting under Five Elements Mountain for the Tang Monk to arrive. As soon as he sensed someone, Sun Wukong would immediately shout out loud, urging the Tang Monk to quickly save him from the mountain.


    But now that he was here, not only did Sun Wukong not shout out, Jiang Liu had even walked a full circle around the Five Elements Mountain without catching a glimpse of him.


    Could it be that he had arrived in a fake version of ''Journey to the West''?


    Could it be that although Sun Wukong was said to be suppressed under the Five Elements Mountain, he was not at the foot but halfway up the mountain?


    Or was it that Sun Wukong was asleep at this time, not noticing his arrival?


    Thinking it over, he was indeed at Five Elements Mountain, Jiang Liu concluded. He followed up by climbing up the mountain and searching around the midsection.


    He even shouted several times, hoping to attract Sun Wukong''s attention, or at least to wake him up if he was asleep.


    After about a Chinese hour of searching without even finding a single monkey hair, Jiang Liu paused his steps when he spotted something else. Continue reading on empire


    On Five Elements Mountain, an old and somewhat yellowed Buddha Seal was attached to the mountainside. Despite being weathered by sun and rain over many years, the six sybles of the mantra "Om Mani Padme Hum" could still be clearly seen on the Buddha Seal.


    Quite obviously, a mere mountain couldn''t suppress Sun Wukong. It was the Tathagata''s Buddha Seal that truly kept him under control.


    "Since the Buddha Seal is here, Sun Wukong should be suppressed under Five Elements Mountain, so why is he not here?" Jiang Liu wondered, looking at the Tathagata''s Buddha Seal but failing to understand why Sun Wukong was gone.


    Gurgle.


    After walking for a Chinese hour and searching for nearly two more, the sun was now high in the sky. Six hours had passed, and his stomach was growling with hunger. Jiang Liu touched his belly and found a rtively clean spot on the grass to sit down.


    He opened his storage space;cking the desire to cook, he took out some steamed buns and water. Nibbling on the buns and sipping water, he pondered over the whereabouts of Sun Wukong.


    Logically, Sun Wukong should be suppressed here under Five Elements Mountain, shouldn''t he? Could it be he managed to leave on his own?


    "Wait a minute, I remember watching a very old movie when I was young. Sun Wukong could leave the Five-Finger Mountain at will. Could it be? Is it like what that movie depicted?" Jiang Liu paused while eating his steamed bun, then shook his head, thinking such a possibility was very slim.


    Then he remembered Liu Boqin, who had been pulling at him earlier.


    In the original story, he too was quite an important supporting character, even needing his rescue at one point. Could it be? Because he didn''t stay with Liu Boqin and went straight past him, that''s why he couldn''t find Sun Wukong?


    Is it like when ying a video game, if you don''t clear the previous levels, even if you rush to theter ones, you still won''t see the BOSS?


    Take Super Mario for example, if you jump over the gpole without bringing the g down, then you can''t enter the castle?


    "You''re kidding, right? Although the Golden Finger I carry is a gaming system, this is after all the real world, and besides, whether or not Sun Wukong is here, how could it possibly be up to a mere Liu Boqin to decide?", shaking his head, Jiang Liu cast aside all the chaotic thoughts from his mind.


    Because he hadn''t found Sun Wukong, it seemed he was letting his imagination run a bit wild.


    After suppressing all the chaotic thoughts in his mind, he carelessly ate a couple of steamed buns and drank some water, then Jiang Liu felt that he should continue searching on Five Elements Mountain.


    If he really couldn''t find him, then he might have to turn back and look for Liu Boqin after all; who knows, he might actually know something?


    Since he was nicknamed the Mountain-Guarding Marshal, he must be very familiar with this area and might indeed know where Sun Wukong is.


    Jiang Liu spent the afternoon wandering aimlessly on Five Elements Mountain, waited until dusk when the setting sun turned red, and after still finding nothing, he shook his head helplessly and left Five Elements Mountain to head back the way he came.


    Although he didn''t know the reason, it seemed that Sun Wukong had truly disappeared, and he would have to go ask Liu Boqin after all.


    If there were any clues to be found about Sun Wukong''s whereabouts, they would have to be from him.


    As the sky grew dark, indeed, he saw Liu Boqining towards him.


    In what seemed like good luck for the day, Liu Boqin was carrying a wild boar that weighed roughly fifty pounds, clearly returning with a full haul.


    "Uh, Elder? You, what are you doing?", upon seeing Jiang Liu returning, Liu Boqin was momentarily startled and asked in surprise.


    Hadn''t he seen him early in the morning, leaving hurriedly? Why had hee back at dusk?


    "Benefactor Liu, you are known as the Mountain-Guarding Marshal, so you must be very familiar with this area, right?", Jiang Liu straightened himself up, brought his palms together, and after giving a bow, he asked.


    "I dare not deceive the Elder, I have lived here for several decades. Within tens of miles, I can remember the position of every single tree", Liu Boqin said, nodding.


    "That''s good."


    Upon hearing Liu Boqin''s response, Jiang Liu nodded and then turned to point at Five Elements Mountain: "Below Mount of the Two Realms ahead, there''s a rumor about a monkey being suppressed. Do you know about it?"


    "Of course, I know. I''ve even seen it many times," Liu Boqin replied promptly.


    "Do you know where exactly that monkey is suppressed? I heard about this oddity and wanted to take a look, but I haven''t been able to find it all day," Jiang Liu pressed after hearing Liu Boqin''s answer.


    "That''s impossible. As far as I can remember, that monkey has always been suppressed in the same ce. It''s been said that it''s been there for generations," Liu Boqin''s reply, in turn, surprised Jiang Liu.


    After pondering for a moment, Liu Boqin said, "Elder, it is alreadyte today, and there are many poisonous insects and fierce beasts at night. Instead of continuing, how about you rest at my humble abode tonight, and early tomorrow, I will lead you to find that monkey?"


    After a slight hesitation, considering the sky was indeed turning dark and the mountain paths were difficult to navigate, Jiang Liu nodded: "In that case, I thank you, Benefactor."


    After the conversation, Jiang Liu felt even more puzzled.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Where on earth had Sun Wukong gone? Why did everyone else seem to know, yet he himself couldn''t find him?

 Chapter 84 Is this monkey so cheeky?

    Liu Boqin, besides going up the mountain to hunt, had also cleared a small vegetable garden next to his house, where many vegetables seemed to be growing quite well.


    "Elder, please rest for a while and have some water. I will go and prepare a vegetarian meal for you," Liu Boqin warmly said after inviting Jiang Liu to sit down.


    "Wait, Benefactor Liu, I do have some knowledge in the Art of Kitchen, so allow me to handle it today. You just go and cleanly ughter that wild boar," Jiang Liu interjected upon hearing Liu Boqin''s words.


    In the Tang Dynasty at that time, the methods of cooking were fairly simple, involving either roasting, boiling, or steaming, and there were hardly any other culinary techniques avable, which Jiang Liu, ustomed to stir-fried dishes, found quite unsatisfying.


    Since he was staying as a guest and was asking for help in finding Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu didn''t mind showing off his cooking skills to let Liu Boqin taste his craftsmanship.


    "Ah? Elder, you mean, this wild boar...?" Jiang Liu''s words made Liu Boqin pause in confusion.


    Monks eat vegetarian, don''t they?


    "Benefactor Liu, please go ahead, I do not abstain from meat," seeing Liu Boqin''s astonished look, Jiang Liu said with a slight smile.


    Liu Boqin went to clean up the wild boar while Jiang Liu set up a frame outside and took a wok out from his storage space.


    On his long Journey to the West, since he had such a means as a storage space, he brought everything he could carry, including clothes, silver, and even pots and pans.


    This wok was specially crafted by an artisan when Jiang Liu was in Chang''an City.


    Soon, Liu Boqin skillfully handled the wild boar, and Jiang Liu cut out arge piece of fat.


    The fat was sliced and ced in the wok to render therd.


    Naturally, oil is essential for stir-frying. Without vegetable oil, he had to extract animal fat from the pork fat.


    As the fat shriveled in the wok, all of the oil from the fat was fried out, releasing a tantalizing aroma ofrd that made Liu Boqin twitch his nose several times and lick his lips.


    It smelled delicious.


    In no time, Jiang Liu had prepared a big pot of braised wild boar with Chinese cabbage, and the rich meaty aroma was sopelling that Liu Boqin ended up eating three bowls of rice, filling his stomach to the brim.


    Having had only some steamed buns at noon on Five Elements Mountain, Jiang Liu also ate heartily that evening.


    Arge pot of braised wild boar with Chinese cabbage waspletely devoured by the two of them.


    "Indeed, in life, food, clothing, shelter, and transportation, food is the most important," touching his belly, Jiang Liu nodded in satisfaction.


    "Elder, you are the most unusual monk I have ever met. Your cooking is truly delicious," Liu Boqin said with a satisfied chuckle after he had eaten.


    At that, pausing slightly, he added, "But Elder, why do you differ from other monks and not abstain from meat?"


    "The wine and meat pass through the intestines, but the Buddha stays in the heart; my cultivation has reached such a level that I no longer need to adhere to these disciplinary rules," Jiang Liu answered, with his palms pressed together.


    "Elder, your words carry the essence of Zen, but if all monks in the world used this as their excuse to eat meat, wouldn''t it mean they are neither monks nor Buddhas?" Liu Boqin asked.


    "Actually, there''s a second part to that verse: if themon people were to copy me, it would be like falling into the Demon Path," Jiang Liu spoke up,pleting the Buddhist verse.


    "Elder, you mean, you''re allowed to eat, but others aren''t?" Jiang Liu''s words made Liu Boqin look at him skeptically, obviously not fully believing him.


    Even a nce at the Vidyaraja Crown on Jiang Liu''s head made him doubt the monk''s identity.


    He didn''t seem to behave like a monk at all.


    Officials may start fires whilemon folks mustn''t even lightmps¡ªperhaps that was what Liu Boqin was thinking?


    "Amitabha," seeing Liu Boqin''s doubtful expression, Jiang Liu softly chanted a Buddhist mantra and removed the Vidyaraja Crown from his head.


    Taking in the twelve Incense Scar Initiations visible on Jiang Liu''s head made Liu Boqin''s eyes widen.


    "You, you are the Holy Monk Xuanzang going to the Western Heaven for scriptures!?" looking at the twelve Incense Scar Initiations on Jiang Liu''s head made Liu Boqin''s eyes widen even more.


    As he spoke, he quickly stood up, straightened his clothes, and kneeled down in front of Jiang Liu.


    "Benefactor Liu, what are you doing?" Seeing Liu Boqin''s vehement reaction, Jiang Liu quickly pulled him up.


    "Holy Monk Xuanzang, forgive me for not recognizing a great man when I see one. His Majesty once said that seeing you is like seeing His Majesty himself, so naturally, I should kneel," Liu Boqin said urgently.


    "It''s all right, there are no outsiders here, no need for such formalities," Jiang Liu said, shaking his head as he helped Liu Boqin up from the ground.


    Perhaps because he had traveled from modern society, Jiang Liu actually quite disliked this sort of impulsive kneeling.


    It wasn''t just kneeling before others he found distasteful; simrly, he didn''t quite enjoy others kneeling before him.


    "By the way, as my journey is long and the mountains far, could I buy the wild boar you hunted today?" Not wanting to linger on the issue of status, Jiang Liu opened his mouth to change the subject.


    "What are you saying, Holy Monk? Being able to taste your cooking today is already a tremendous fortune. How could I dare ept your silver for just some meat? You''re being too kind," Liu Boqin quickly waved his hands, firmly refusing to take any money.


    "Then I thank you greatly, Benefactor," since Liu Boqin firmly refused to ept, Jiang Liu naturally did not insist further.


    After eating his fill, Jiang Liu stowed away all the prepared wild boar meat and went back to bed to rest.


    Sitting cross-legged, he silently practiced the Cultivation Technique of Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, gradually increasing his experience points.


    The night passed without incident, and after cultivating for the entire evening, he had gained several thousand experience points.


    The next day, Jiang Liu rose early, washed up, and then ced two silver coins under the mattress before pulling Liu Boqin along to head for Five Elements Mountain early in the morning.


    Regardless, as a mountain hunter living a modest life, a wild boar weighing several tens of pounds and his overnight lodging demanded he leave some money, lest he be ill at ease.


    Although it seemed to be an unwritten rule for monks to beg and receive free food and shelter, Jiang Liu himself could not bring himself to do it.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Ever since leaving Chang''an, he had never freeloaded. Money matters were trivial; at least, having a clear conscience was what truly mattered.


    The journey towards Five Elements Mountain was not far, and early in the morning, he and Liu Boqin made good time.


    It was evident that Liu Boqin was very familiar with the surroundings and also knew exactly where Sun Wukong was imprisoned, purposefully leading the way straight there.


    Actually, Jiang Liu was very puzzled. Logically, Guanyin should have already informed Sun Wukong to wait for his rescue, so why hadn''t Sun Wukong shouted for help yesterday when he searched the mountainside? Hadn''t he seen a single monkey hair?


    Something was definitely off. Or could it be that this Journey to the West he had traveled to was different from the original?


    Or was it the so-called butterfly effect?


    Lost in numerous thoughts and following behind Liu Boqin, they soon arrived at the base of Five Elements Mountain.


    "Elder, do you see that peach tree? The Divine Monkey is pressed right beside it," Liu Boqin said, pointing to a peach tree near a mountainside not far away.


    Jiang Liu had seen this peach tree yesterday too, but had noticed nothing around it.


    However, a pile of dry leaves at the base of the cliff caught Jiang Liu''s attention.


    Could it be...


    A thought struck Jiang Liu, and he quickly strode over, parting a pile of inconspicuous dry leaves.


    Indeed, a monkey, half its body crushed under the mountain, and the other half buried in the dry leaves.


    "You can''t see me, you can''t see me..." As the leaves were parted, Jiang Liu could hear the monkey muttering quietly.


    "Is this monkey always this crafty?" Jiang Liu''s lips twitched slightly as he listened to Sun Wukong''s murmuring. Enjoy exclusive content from empire


    No wonder he hadn''t found him yesterday; he had intentionally buried himself under the dry leaves to hide.


    "Ahem, Sun Wukong, right? I..." Clearing his throat with a cough, Jiang Liu began to speak.


    But as soon as Jiang Liu started speaking, Sun Wukong''s voice resolutely cut him off.


    "I''m not going!"

 Chapter 85 Eating Iron Pills When Hungry, Drinking Copper Juice When Thirsty

    ```


    He was stunned. The words of Sun Wukong rendered Jiang Liu speechless, unsure of how to proceed.


    "Gaga..." Half of Sun Wukong''s body was pinned down, as hey on the ground, grinning at Jiang Liu''s confused face, scratching his ears and cheeks in apparent delight, and let out a triumphant, eerieugh.


    Thisughter wasden with irony.


    Indeed, he was stunned. At this moment, Jiang Liu was truly at a loss. ording to the original Journey to the West plot, Guanyin already had an agreement with Sun Wukong. He would protect Jiang Liu on his journey to the Western Heaven and, in return, would gain his freedom and even attain Buddhahood.


    Therefore, Sun Wukong, who was eagerly longing for freedom, should be shouting out loud, actively asking Jiang Liu to save him.


    However, now that Jiang Liu had arrived, had there been a change in events? Sun Wukong actually didn''t want to go? And even intentionally hid from him, causing Jiang Liu to search in vain for him the entire previous day?


    Logically speaking, Jiang Liu shouldn''t know about Guanyin''s n, so it wouldn''t make sense for him to dwell on this matter.


    Fortunately, Jiang Liu had been cautious early on. When speaking with Liu Boqin, he only mentioned that he had heard about a Divine Monkey being suppressed here and wanted toe to see the novelty, nothing more.


    Even if the higher-ups in the Buddhist Sect found his behavior strange, they shouldn''t overthink it.


    Besides, Jiang Liu had already chatted with the Saint Monk Longhai at the Great Buddha Temple about the topic of Sun Wukong before, which could serve as a reasonable pretext for stopping by to take a look.


    Experience tales at empire


    "Um, when you say ''go,'' where exactly are you talking about? Could there be some misunderstanding?" After being stunned for a moment, Jiang Liu quickly thought it through and pretended not to understand Sun Wukong''s words, asking him.


    "Humph, I, Old Sun, must ask you, are you the monk who agreed to Guanyin''s wish to go to the old Tathagata in the Western Heaven to seek the True Scriptures?" Sun Wukong sneered twice in mockery and squinted as he asked.


    "That''s right," Jiang Liu nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Humph, you bald monks are all the same, none of you are any good. A few days ago, Guanyin came by saying my disaster period was over, and told me to await you here to be your disciple and protect you on your Scripture Seeking journey to the Western Heaven. I, Old Sun, also agreed to her," Sun Wukong said after hearing Jiang Liu''s response.


    "Yes, that is indeed correct, which aligns with what is said in the original story," Jiang Liu mentally nodded to himself, then continued to question, "If that''s the case, you''ve already agreed to the Bodhisattva. So why go back on your word? Could there have been an unexpected urrence?"


    "Hehehe, an unexpected urrence?" Sun Wukong grinned, his face full of mischief, andughed heartily, "What unexpected urrence? I, Old Sun, found Guanyin annoying. I feigned agreement to trick you all, hahaha..."


    The way Sun Wukong replied, along with the look of triumph in hisughter, made the corners of Jiang Liu''s mouth twitch slightly.


    He also did not rush to argue with Sun Wukong but instead turned to Liu Boqin and said, "Thank you, Benefactor Liu, for bringing me here to find this monkey. However, from what he has said, it seems we have a master-disciple bond after all. I will need to take some time to enlighten him."


    "Very well, Holy Monk, even so, I shall not impose any further," understanding Jiang Liu''s intention, Liu Boqin nodded, bid farewell to Jiang Liu, and turned to leave.


    "Hehe, monk, you need note to enlighten me. No matter how eloquent your words are, I, Old Sun, shall not go. Even if I am suppressed here for another five hundred years, five thousand years, even if I die here, I shall never take one step with you towards the Western Heaven!"


    Lying on the ground, Sun Wukong watched Jiang Liu with a taunting look, a picture of someone who could not be swayed no matter the performance, resolute in his stance.


    "Ahem, if you won''t go, then so be it..."


    After clearing his throat, Jiang Liu did not insist on persuading him. Instead, he dusted off the ground beside him and sat down next to Sun Wukong without any hurry to depart, saying, "Monkey, if you''ve made up your mind not to go, of course, I can''t force you. However, having been suppressed under this mountain for five hundred years, you refuse toe out. Is there something you cannot let go of?


    Could we talk about it?"


    "Hehehe, you bald monks, from top to bottom are all filled with talk of benevolence and righteousness, yet in reality, you are cruel and ruthless, a bunch of turncoats. I, Old Sun, have nothing to discuss with you monks."


    ```


    However, despite Jiang Liu''s attempt toe off as a caring older brother, eager to have a sincere chat, Sun Wukong''s demeanor made it clear that he harbored deep prejudice against the Buddhist Sect. He turned his head away in a manner that showed he couldn''t be bothered to speak with Jiang Liu.


    A twitch in the corner of his eye, Jiang Liu truly felt like pping Sun Wukong a few times and then just hitting the road himself.


    With his own game system that allowed him to level up by fighting monsters, he probably didn''t even need Sun Wukong''s protection. Moreover, Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing were waiting for him further down the line. Even without Sun Wukong, he could still make the Journey to the West to seek the scriptures. Why should he humble himself before someone who clearly wasn''t interested?


    Besides, it was Guanyin Bodhisattva''s job to convince Sun Wukong to take him as his master. Jiang Liu was supposed to just show up, and Sun Wukong would immediately be overawed by his majestic aura, crying out to take him as his master and begging to be rescued. It should have been easy.


    But now, wasn''t he just cleaning up Guanyin''s mess?


    Still, the thought of walking away was just a fleeting temptation in Jiang Liu''s mind.


    In fact, from his own perspective, it would certainly be best if Sun Wukong directly emerged, shouting and begging to be saved and to take him as his master for the Journey to the West.


    Yet, the current behavior of Sun Wukong, contrary to what one might expect, actually pleased Jiang Liu.


    It wasn''t that Jiang Liu enjoyed suffering; his goal was what mattered. Once he reached Western Heaven, it would nearly be time to turn against the Buddhist Sect. The deeper Sun Wukong''s prejudice and resentment against the Buddhist Sect, the more Jiang Liu could trust him, right?


    If Sun Wukong''s hatred for the Buddhist Sect proved irreconcble, wouldn''t that align him with Jiang Liu?


    When the time came to face off against the Buddhist Sect, Sun Wukong would be all the more a valuable ally.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    He wasn''t in any rush to get to Western Heaven anyway; the longer he could dy, the better. So seeing Sun Wukong''s attitude, Jiang Liu wasn''t hurried either. He sat down cross-legged beside him and continued to practice the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique.


    This sittingsted the entire morning. Jiang Liu didn''t utter a single word, and Sun Wukongy on the ground bored out of his mind, doing nothing, with not a word spoken between them anymore.


    As the sun climbed high, and it seemed like it was around noon, Jiang Liu stood up. He gathered some firewood from the surroundings, set up a rack, arranged his tools, and took out the wild boar meat he had purchased from Liu Boqin.


    Hisss!


    Inside the iron pot, slices of fatty pork sizzled, and the renderedrd diffused a fragrant aroma that made Sun Wukong''s nose twitch a few times.


    Gurgle, gurgle!


    Clearly, Sun Wukong was hungry too; his stomach rumbled. He nced surreptitiously at Jiang Liu several times but said nothing, chuckling to himself: Could this monk be any more naive, thinking that by offering him some meaty food, he would change his mind?


    However, just at that moment, the ground split open and an old man with white hair and beard emerged¡ªit was the Local Deity.


    The slightly hunched Local Deity emerged from the ground, ced two bowls in front of Sun Wukong.


    "Sun Wukong, this is your meal for today."


    One bowl of Iron Pills and one bowl of Copper Juice.


    For five hundred years, it had been on Iron Pills and Copper Juice that Sun Wukong subsisted.

 Chapter 86 Tight Hoop Spell

    ```


    "Hmm? Are you the Local Deity?" Jiang Liu, who was setting up an iron pot to cook, saw the old grandfather emerging from the ground and asked.


    "As the Local Deity of thisnd, I pay my respects to the Holy Monk," the Local Deity with white hair and beard, after cing the Iron Pills and Copper Juice in front of Sun Wukong, bended down in a bow towards Jiang Liu.


    "No, please don''t bow," Jiang Liu hastily said, seeing the elderly Local Deity bending to pay respects and quickly helped him straighten up.


    During the conversation, Jiang Liu nced at the two bowls in front of Sun Wukong, hesitating slightly before asking, "Does this monkey eat these things every day?"


    "Holy Monk, you have no idea! The Great Saint, five hundred years ago, caused Havoc in Heaven, which led to a catastrophe. He was personally suppressed here by the Tathagata, and the Jade Emperor decreed that he should eat Iron Pills when hungry and drink Copper Juice when thirsty, to atone for the sins of his past," the Local Deity exined, seeing a look of sympathy in Jiang Liu''s eyes.


    "Well then, I have other matters to attend to, so I won''t trouble the Holy Monk any further. Farewell," the Local Deity said after his exnation, showing no intention of staying and excused himself.


    "Wait, Local Deity, since you''vee, why don''t you join us for a meal? I''m just getting it ready," Jiang Liu, with the spirit of someone from modern society, thought it was the most basic courtesy to invite someone for a meal at mealtimes.


    "Thank you, Holy Monk," the Local Deity was secretly touched by Jiang Liu''s offer to share his meal but had already decided to leave. After bidding farewell with folded hands, he disappeared into the ground.


    "Hmph, you Monk, are quite interesting. But you''re just a Local Deity, a Low Level Earth Immortal. Why bother to please him so much?"


    Sun Wukong, nearby, pinched an Iron Pill, popped it into his mouth, and crunched,ughing scornfully as he spoke.


    "I don''t like what you''ve said," Jiang Liu turned to nce at Sun Wukong as the Monkey initiated the conversation and responded, "ording to what the Local Deity just said, you''re still a prisoner. Am I not here talking with you? By the way, do you want a share of the meal I''m preparing?"


    "No!" Jiang Liu''s words angered Sun Wukong, who bared his teeth in a furious expression and retorted, "How ignorant can a Monk be, to evenpare I, Old Sun, with the Local Deity? In the past, when I, Old Sun, caused Havoc in Heaven, not even a hundred thousand Heavenly Soldiers could..."


    "And then? Now you''re still being suppressed here?" Jiang Liu didn''t let Sun Wukong dwell on his past glory, interrupting him without any sign of politeness and threw cold water on his reminiscing.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Hmph, if it wasn''t for the Tathagata''s deception back in the day, how could I be in this plight? All of you from the Buddhist Sect, everyst one of you deserves to die!" Jiang Liu''s words seemed to ignite Sun Wukong''s ferocity, and a fierce light shed in his eyes as he shouted with his teeth bared.


    The fierce Sun Wukong struggled violently, as if trying to break free from the Five Elements Mountain, and the whole mountain began to shake.


    However, in just a moment, the Buddha Seal on the Five Elements Mountain shed with light, and the mountain that Sun Wukong had slightly lifted pressed down again heavily, immobilizing himpletely.


    "Sss..." Seeing this, Jiang Liu stepped back in shock, watching the Monkey trapped beneath the mountain in awe.


    Although he had learned of Sun Wukong''s power from the original story, knowing it on paper and witnessing it firsthand were totally different things.


    To nearly lift a mountain, witnessing such power with his own eyes was truly astonishing.


    As the Five Elements Mountain pressed down again, Sun Wukongy on the ground motionless, as if he had died.


    "Hey, Sun Wukong, are you still alive?" The fierce burst from Sun Wukong had truly terrified Jiang Liu; deservedly a Demon Saint, Jiang Liu didn''t dare to approach for a moment, and with a stick, he poked towards Sun Wukong.


    "Scram, don''t bother I, Old Sun," pressed down by the Five Elements Mountain, Sun Wukong''s ferocity seemed to scatter like smoke. Lying on the ground, he didn''t raise his head and flung the stick away.


    Seeing that Sun Wukong was alright, Jiang Liu didn''t say anything more and went aside to resume cooking.


    ```


    The recent tremor from Five Elements Mountain had kicked up countless particles of dust, which meant the food had to be prepared all over again.


    "Hey, Monkey, I saw you throwing a tantrum just now, knocking over your own food. Are you really not going to eat this?"


    "You don''t want it, huh? Then I''ll eat it myself."


    "Monkey, I know you''re not asleep. Here''s another banana; I''ve ced it by your side."


    ...


    Today, Sun Wukong recalled the days when he caused Havoc in Heaven and then remembered how he was deceived by the Tathagata, being trapped under Five Elements Mountain. His five hundred years'' worth of resentment and hatred erupted.


    But after being suppressed again, he was not in high spirits. No matter what Jiang Liu said, he justy on the ground, offering no response.


    Shaking his head to himself and noting theteness of the hour, Jiang Liu ced a banana beside Sun Wukong. Then, he moved to the side, sat down cross-legged, and continued to revolve the cultivation technique of Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound to enhance his own Experience Points.


    However, during his cultivation, Jiang Liu seemed to fall into a state between sleep and wakefulness, where in his dream, he encountered Bodhisattva Guanyin.


    In the dream, Guanyin handed him a golden hoop and imparted to him a mantra within the same dream.


    "Xuanzang, remember this, it is the Tight Hoop Spell. While the Monkey remains unaware, ce it upon his head. Once on, this hoop will grow into his flesh and cannot be removed. Recite this Tight Hoop Spell, and it will cause him immense headache. At that time, he will dare not disobey you," Guanyin instructed seriously in the dream.


    Ding: Experience Points +2.


    Ding: Experience Points +2.


    Awakening from his dream, the system notifications continued as usual, the Experience Points umting bit by bit, causing Jiang Liu to shake his head to himself.


    Had he fallen asleep while cultivating Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound?


    However, when he shook his head, suddenly, Jiang Liu''s gaze sharply focused.


    By his feet, a golden hoopy quietly, exactly as it had appeared in his dream.


    "Is this the Tight Hoop?" Bending over to pick up the golden hoop, Jiang Liu muttered to himself, pondering for a moment before deciding to keep it for the time being.


    For the next half a month, Jiang Liu stayed at Five Elements Mountain, cultivating and eating meat, in no rush to set off, and never speaking another word to Sun Wukong. It was as if he had settled down at the foot of Five Elements Mountain.


    During these days, as Jiang Liu never spoke, Sun Wukong also did not initiate conversation with him. It was as though both had be invisible to each other.


    The power of habit is terrifying. Without realizing it, Sun Wukong slowly adapted to the days with Jiang Liu at Five Elements Mountain.


    Stay updated via empire


    One day, afterpleting his cultivation, Jiang Liu set out various ingredients and began busy himself.


    No matter how important cultivation was or how pressing time seemed, eating well was still essential.


    "Hey, Little Monk, why haven''t you asked me if I want to eat thesest few days?"

 Chapter 87 I Hold a Grudge that Wont Dissipate for Five Hundred Years

    Sun Wukong, from his abdomen down, was pinned under Five Elements Mountain, lying face down on the ground, but in front of him was ced arge sea bowl.


    A half bowl of rice and half a bowl of vegetables, a mix of meat and vegetables, rice soaked in vegetable broth, Sun Wukong ate with oil dripping from his mouth, in an utterly carefree manner.


    Jiang Liu, beside him, watched Sun Wukong eat with the voracity of a starving ghost reincarnated, his mouth twitching slightly.


    It was as if he hadn''t eaten for hundreds of years.


    Was it because he had been hungry for too long, or was it because his own cooking was delicious?


    "Mmm, tasty, you this Little Monk, um, this meal is really delicious," with his mouth full of food, Sun Wukong''s voice even changed pitch as he spoke.


    Seeing Sun Wukong enjoying his meal so much, it seemed that all his attention was on the food, Jiang Liu simply put down his own bowl and chopsticks and watched him eat.


    After a brief hesitation, he reached into his robe, where a tight hood felt icy to the touch.


    "You Monk, you are different from the other monks I have seen," while eating, Sun Wukong suddenly looked up at Jiang Liu and said.


    "Different? What do you mean?"


    After all, they had been together at the foot of Five Elements Mountain for half a month and were somewhat familiar. Indeed, Sun Wukong was frightening when his malevolent aura burst forth, but usually, he was very calm.


    "Other monks, they all hold to some precepts, a bunch of messy rules, but I see you don''t," said Sun Wukong.


    "Maybe because from the very beginning, I never thought of bing a monk?" Jiang Liu said softly, after a brief silence, in a somber tone. Read thetest on empire


    This statement made the monkey''s rapid eating slow for a moment.


    Looking up at Jiang Liu, after a moment of silence, he asked, "So, why do you want to go to the Western Heaven for scriptures? Is it because Tathagata promised you a Golden Body and true fruit?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Why?," Jiang Liu looked up slightly towards the direction of Western Heaven, falling silent for a moment before saying, "Perhaps, it''s to have a meal."


    "Just for a meal? You wouldn''t hesitate to endure hardships, traveling tens of thousands of miles to the Western Heaven?"


    "Just for this meal!"


    "Hehehe, interesting¡­"


    Sun Wukong grinned and, energizing his chopsticks, scooped thest bits of food into his mouth, then set the bowl and chopsticks aside, propped his head with both hands, looked at Jiang Liu with the demeanor of watching a y, and said, "You, Little Monk, seem to have quite the story. Tell it to I, Old Sun?"


    "It all started in a dpidated Jinshan Temple..." Jiang Liu sat down on the ground, his gaze bing distant as he reminisced.


    As a Novice Monk at Jinshan Temple, then meeting Gaoyang, the Incense Offering Ceremony, and so on, he briefly went over the events of the recent half-year with Sun Wukong.


    Maybe because he had left Chang''an City and walked alone for two months with no one to talk to, Jiang Liu was quite chatty.


    And Sun Wukong? Almost alone under Five Elements Mountain for so long, it was rare to have someone talk and tell him stories, which seemed pretty nice.


    "So, Poor Monk travelled westward for about two months, and finally arrived at Mount of the Two Realms," so much had happened over thest half year, and several hours had passed by the time he recounted it.


    "Gahaha, too funny, gaga¡­" However, hearing Jiang Liu''s experiences, Sun Wukong suddenly let out a strangeugh.


    If he wasn''t oppressed by the mountain, perhaps he would''ve somersaulted several times by now.


    "Monkey, what are youughing at?" Jiang Liu asked, looking at Sun Wukong with surprise.


    "I, Old Sun,ugh because you''re even more foolish than I was back then, and even more at those Heavenly Deities, not just calcting against others but so ruthlessly against their own," Sun Wukong said with a strangeugh, looking at Jiang Liu as if he were an idiot.


    "Amitabha, then what do you think, from my position, should I have done to save Gaoyang?" Unoffended by Sun Wukong''s mockery, Jiang Liu simply countered.


    "..." Jiang Liu''s words left Sun Wukong speechless, unsure of what to answer.


    Indeed, from Jiang Liu''s position, when he wanted to save Gaoyang, it seemed his only option was to appeal to Buddha.


    "Monkey, now that you have heard my story, what about yours? Would you like to tell it?" Jiang Liu said, noticing Sun Wukong''s hesitancy and inability to respond. He did not press on his question but instead shifted the topic to Sun Wukong.


    "My story''s events are all from a long time ago, nothing worth mentioning, and I''ve already forgotten them," Sun Wukong said, waving his hand, clearly unwilling to talk about what had happened to him.


    Having eaten his fill and listened to an exciting story, Sun Wukongy satisfied on the ground, and soon, the sound of his snoring filled the air as he fell into a deep sleep.


    With a slight smile, Jiang Liu said nothing more. He cleaned up the dishes and washed them, then sat cross-legged under a nearby peach tree, continuing his cultivation of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    Tip: Experience Points +2.


    Tip: Experience Points +2.


    Tip: Experience Points +2.


    ...


    Immersing his mind in cultivation, umting experience points bit by bit, Jiang Liu was getting closer and closer to level 20.


    Unconsciously, time passed quickly, and it was already deep into the night.


    Late at night, Sun Wukong opened his eyes and his gaze fell on Jiang Liu sitting beside him, watching him intently.


    Was Jiang Liu deceiving him? Trying to trick him into leaving the mountain to protect him on a journey to obtain the scriptures from the West? Sun Wukong thought it unlikely.


    After all, concerning his affairs, with a single leap to the Great Tang, anyone he asked would know the truth, so there was no need to deceive him.


    "Hey, Little Monk, you want to know Old Sun''s story, right? Since we''re free, Old Sun will tell you about it," Sun Wukong suddenly said, interrupting the meditative silence.


    Opening his eyes, Jiang Liu stopped his cultivation and sat down beside Sun Wukong, "Let''s hear it."


    "Old Sun''s story, well, it''s even longer. Back in the day, Old Sun was just a stone egg on the Flower Fruit Mountain, born from the essence of heaven and earth ¡­"


    Sun Wukong''s eyes became distant as he talked about his past, and his emotions fluctuated.


    The days on Flower Fruit Mountain brought him joy;


    Cultivating under Ancestor Bodhi filled him with nostalgia;


    Creating havoc in the Underworld, tearing up the Book of Life and Death, entering the Dragon Pce to steal the Sea Calming Needle, raising Havoc in Heaven, and fighting with numerous heavenly deities and Buddhas made him spirited and vehement.


    "But in the end, Old Sun was tricked, deceived by that old Tathagata," Sun Wukong''s mood fell as he finished.


    "Tricked? How so?" Jiang Liu asked, curious, as this wasn''t the first time Sun Wukong had spoken in such a manner.


    "Back then, I wagered with Tathagata that if I could fly out of the Buddha''s Palm Paradise he held, I would win; if not, I would lose. Why would Old Sun take such a risk? I pressed him, saying if Old Sun won, the Great Jade Emperor should abdicate in favor of Old Sun," he exined.


    "But that old Tathagata deceived me, agreeing to it, saying I could rule as Jade Emperor, forcing Old Sun to keep his word," Sun Wukong continued.


    "This ¡­" Sun Wukong''s words struck a chord in Jiang Liu, indeed it was so.


    Tathagata extended the Buddha''s Palm Paradise and let Sun Wukong jump into it himself¡ªwasn''t that walking right into a trap? Sun Wukong naturally was reluctant.


    Therefore, iming he would take over as the Jade Emperor if he won was a way to back Tathagata into a corner, expecting a refusal.


    Yet, although Tathagata couldn''t really grant him the rule as Jade Emperor, he still agreed, forcing Sun Wukong to jump down¡ªwasn''t this deception?


    "Furthermore..." Sun Wukong paused slightly, his tone more resentful.


    "At the time, that old Tathagata also said, if Old Sun couldn''t leap from his palm, he would let me return to the Lower Realm and asked me to stop causing trouble in the Heavenly Court; Old Sun agreed," Sun Wukong added.


    "But what happened in the end? Old Sun lost, but he broke his promise and didn''t release me. Instead, he pressed me under this Five Elements Mountain..."


    "That Tathagata, regardless of winning or losing, he broke his promise, deceiving Old Sun. As the leader of Buddhism, he is still so deceitful and untrustworthy, showing that none of you from the Buddhist Sect are good," Sun Wukong concluded bitterly.

 Chapter 88 Would You Like to Overthrow All the Heavenly Deities and Buddhas with Me?

    Because of the lies told by the Tathagata, Sun Wukong had been suppressed under the mountain for five hundred years, and his resentment, far from being diminished, had be as rich and potent as aged wine over time.


    After five hundred years, one can imagine how far things had gone.


    "Hehehe..." After recounting the events that had happened to him to Jiang Liu, Sun Wukong grinned andughed mockingly, "That Guanyin really has some nerve,ing to I, Old Sun, iming that my time of tribtion had ended. So the so-called end of my tribtion was just to serve as theirckey? If I, Old Sun, refuse, then I''d be suppressed under this mountain forever, isn''t that right?"


    "The old Tathagata might have been able to deceive me, but couldn''t I, Old Sun, also deceive them? Hahaha, a golden body and true fruit? I, Old Sun, am already the Great Sage Equalling Heaven. What do I need that for? Did they think that suppressing me for five hundred years would break my spirit and make me beg pitifully, willing to be a servile dog of the Buddhist Sect?"


    "Delusional!"


    Jiang Liu sat quietly beside Sun Wukong, watching him erupt with pent-up resentment without interrupting, just silently listening.


    However, it seemed like the roles between the two had reversed. Initially, it was Jiang Liu who had talked incessantly while Sun Wukong remained silent. But now, it was Sun Wukong who was constantly speaking while Jiang Liu sat in silence.


    His five hundred years of umted resentment burst forth, and Jiang Liu could clearly sense the hatred in Sun Wukong''s heart.


    With such a mindset, the idea of him leaving the mountain to peacefully escort Jiang Liu to the Western Heaven was utterly impossible.


    Yet, far from being disappointed, Jiang Liu felt even more ted.


    Sitting quietly as his listener, after Sun Wukong''s resentment had been fully vented and he again fell silent, Jiang Liu finally spoke up, "Monkey, are immortals keeping an eye on you all the time?"


    "What you mean is surveince, right? For five hundred years, they''ve watched me for what? Only to send the Local Deity to deliver some iron pills and copper juice every day," the monkey on the ground raised his head and nced at Jiang Liu, speaking dispassionately.


    "Now look around, does any deity or Buddha pay attention to us?" Jiang Liu''s tone became more earnest, speaking softly.


    "Hmm?" Sun Wukong raised an eyebrow inquiringly at Jiang Liu''s attitude.


    He listened carefully and after a thorough inspection, he shook his head, "No one is watching us. What''s it to you? Little Monk, it seems you have some secret to share with I, Old Sun?"


    "You also know about my situation. What do you think will happen to me when I reach Spirit Mountain?" Instead of answering Sun Wukong directly, Jiang Liu leaned against the mountain wall, sitting nearby and asked softly.


    "Hehehe, reach Spirit Mountain, huh? You will die, that girl will die, everyone will die. So I advise you, Little Monk, to obediently go back and remain your Imperial Brother..." With a threatening tone, Sun Wukong grinned and spoke.


    "Indeed, reaching Spirit Mountain would mean my death, and that''s why I must resist for my own sake. Monkey, would youe out and join me in overturning these heavenly deities and Buddhas?" Jiang Liu nodded slightly, turned to face Sun Wukong, and spoke calmly.


    The words were calm, but to Sun Wukong, they were like a p of thunder, leaving him wide-eyed and shocked, staring incredulously at Jiang Liu.


    These words had clearly taken Sun Wukong by surprise.


    After a moment of stunned scrutiny, Sun Wukong shook his head again, "Hehehe, is this your intention? After sitting here for half a month, you''ve finally spoken. Do you think by using this tactic, you can trick me out of the mountain? I am not as gullible as I was five hundred years ago."


    Sun Wukong was questioning his words, but Jiang Liu was not angry.


    Having been deceived by the Tathagata, trapped under a mountain for five hundred years, it was only natural for Sun Wukong to be reluctant to trust anyone easily.


    "If it''s a lie, why note out and see for yourself? If you find that I''m deceiving you, then you''re free to roam the vast world. If you abandon the great endeavor of Scripture Seeking and leave, ying the Buddhist Sect for fools, wouldn''t that be an even greater revenge?"


    These words did indeed sh a considering look across Sun Wukong''s brow. They made sense.


    However, after pondering for a moment, Sun Wukong suddenlyughed again, "Although what you say makes sense, your cultivation level is simply too weak. Just any heavenly soldier could squash you to death. You want to overturn the gods and Buddha, which is brave and decisive, but youck the strength."


    "There''s a saying, ''To be reborn from the ashes, one must first be ced in a desperate situation.'' If you could attain earth-shaking cultivation levels within a few years, why couldn''t I?"


    "Interesting, you little monk, even though you''re not that strong, your temper actually suits I, Old Sun''s taste quite well," said Jiang Liu. Contrarily, this made Sun Wukongugh and find him increasingly pleasant to look at, seeing in him shadows of his own fearless and undaunted past.


    "Let me ask you, going to the Western Heaven, do you have any confidence you''ll overturn those heavenly deities and Buddha?"


    "No."


    "Hahaha, no confidence, and you want me, Old Sun, to apany you to certain death?"


    "Yes, will you join me or not?"


    "I will!"N?v(el)B\\jnn


    ...


    Jiang Liu stood up, and with the aid of a streak of moonlight, he turned and climbed up the Five Elements Mountain, heading towards the Buddha Seal.


    Sun Wukongy on the ground, grinning from ear to ear, looking up at the sky with a defiant glint in his eyes.


    Be apdog of the Tathagata in the Western Heaven? He would never want that, but if it was to overturn the deities and Buddha in the Western Heaven, then that was a different story.


    As for the final oue? At worst, he would die and his cultivation would be destroyed, which was still better than being pressed under the Five Elements Mountain, living and dying over and over, right?


    He had long since climbed the Five Elements Mountain and knew where the Buddha Seal was located. Guided by the moonlight, after walking for half an hour, he arrived at the Buddha Seal.


    Looking at the slightly yellowed Buddha Seal, Jiang Liu reached out and peeled it off.


    It wasn''t difficult at all, almost like peeling off an ordinary piece of paper.


    However, as Jiang Liu peeled off the Buddha Seal, it seemingly sprang to life, slipping from Jiang Liu''s grasp and transforming into a shining golden beam of light, flying towards the west.


    "Master,e down quickly!" With the Buddha Seal removed, Sun Wukong obviously felt it and shouted impatiently.


    With his call, the Five Elements Mountain began to tremble as if caught in an earthquake.


    "So anxious, so impatient, monkeys truly are a hasty bunch," The shaking of the Five Elements Mountain was clearly because Sun Wukong couldn''t wait to flip the mountain and burst forth. Jiang Liu quickly turned around and hurried down the mountain.


    Once he descended the Five Elements Mountain, Jiang Liu ran even faster, heading into the distance, "Wait, you monkey, wait until I''m a bit further away before you start. I am your Master, you must listen to me, just wait a minute."


    Roar!


    The Five Elements Mountain was directly lifted, and a giant ape, a hundred zhang tall, rose from the ground, standing upright while lifting the Five Elements Mountain.


    A rough roar echoed through the three realms and six paths, making heaven and earth tremble.


    I, Old Sun, am back!

 Chapter 89 Cheeky Monkey Lets Go

    "Is this the Divine Skill ''Law of Heaven and Earth''? Incredible!", Jiang Liu marveled inwardly as he watched the giant monkey rising to a height of a hundred zhang.


    With such Supernatural Powers, it was hard to fathom just how powerful this Monkey had be.


    Yet, even such a mighty Monkey was suppressed; it seemed facing the Buddha at Western Spirit Mountain would be much harder than he had imagined.


    Having been oppressed for five hundred years, Sun Wukong was filled with grievances. Naturally, he loathed the Five Elements Mountain deeply. After lifting it, he delivered a punishing punch onto the mountain, causing rocks to scatter and a sound like thunder to follow. As he moved, chunks of mountain shattered and sprayed into the air.


    Bang bang bang!


    Punch after punchnded ceaselessly on the Five Elements Mountain as if venting five hundred years of bitterness all at once.


    Within Jiang Liu''s astonished gaze, the entire Five Elements Mountain before Sun Wukong seemed incredibly fragile. In just moments, it turned into countless rocks of various sizes, scattering all around.


    After venting for a while, Sun Wukong felt much better. With a shift in his figure, he retracted his Divine Skill ''Law of Heaven and Earth'' and in the blink of an eye appeared in front of Jiang Liu, looking up at him, "Master, thank you for freeing me. I, Old Sun, am willing to apany you to Western Heaven."


    "Monkey, stop messing around, speak properly¡­", Jiang Liu''s lip twitched slightly.


    "Heh heh heh, what I, Old Sun, said was quite nice, wasn''t it? Don''t you want me, Old Sun, to apany you?", scratching his ears and cheeks, Sun Wukong asked with augh.


    Seeing Sun Wukong''s demeanor, now free and seemingly in high spirits, Jiang Liu did not linger on that topic.


    However, surveying the surroundings littered with rubble, where practically no space was left to even nt one''s foot, he turned and said, "Alright, Cheeky Monkey, let''s go..."


    Walking beside Jiang Liu, the Monkey, originally only about one and a half meters tall and now walking with bent legs, looked even shorter, resembling a child of seven or eight years old.


    "Master, what kind of name is ''Cheeky Monkey''? I always feel like you''re scolding me," Sun Wukong said.


    "No, that''s a misconception," Jiang Liu replied.


    "Then, can it be changed?"


    "Sure, you''ve heard ''a day as your teacher means a lifetime as your father'', right? Call me ''Dad'' then."


    "..."


    Sun Wukong and Jiang Liu, under the moonlight, continued their journey westward while chatting.


    Meanwhile, at Western Spirit Mountain, the Tathagata sat upon the Lotus tform, suddenly sensing something. He lifted his palm, and a golden Buddha Seal fell into his hand.


    "Amitabha, that Monkey hase out," he stowed the Buddha Seal away, and the Tathagata looked far beyond, crossing the constraints of time and space, to see Sun Wukong furiously smashing the Five Elements Mountain, yet he breathed an inward sigh of relief.


    In the Mortal World, night had fallen, but at Western Spirit Mountain, it was still daylight.


    "Amitabha, that''s good...", hearing the Tathagata''s words, Bodhisattva Guanyin underneath his seat, also secretly sighed in relief.


    Being deceived by Sun Wukong made her feel slightly embarrassed, as if she had not done her job well. Fortunately, even though there was a hup, the end result turned out well. Experience tales with empire


    Elsewhere, at the Heavenly Court, the Great Jade Emperor sat quietly, watching several graceful Fairies dance before him, as ethereal as startled swans.


    The Great Jade Emperor, gazing down from his high seat, nodded with a content expression.


    Reaching out his hand, he picked a resplendent grape and popped it into his mouth, nodding slightly.


    "Hmm?" However, at this moment, the Great Jade Emperor''s expression suddenly changed, and shortly after, the corners of his mouth lifted slightly, "Has that rascal monkeye out?"


    After murmuring quietly to himself, the Great Jade Emperor paid no further attention and continued to watch the fairy''s enchanting dance before him.


    Everything was merely part of the n and not worth fussing over.


    But, seated below, a delicate little boy with a face carved from jade suddenly wore a smile, his eyes brimming with fighting spirit.


    ...


    Disregarding what gods and Buddha from all heavens might think about Sun Wukong leaving the Five Elements Mountain, in the mortal world, day had already broken. Liu Boqin from Fork Ridge got up as usual, dressed, and prepared to go hunting.


    But as he stepped out of his house, he suddenly felt as if something was amiss. After walking a few more steps, he abruptly turned around, his face filled with disbelief.


    Mount of the Two Realms!? Gone!?


    Shaken to the core, Liu Boqin hurried towards that area and soon saw the ground littered with rubble, dense and numerous, but Mount of the Two Realms had indeed vanished.


    Stunned like a wooden chicken, what on earth had happened here? The Holy Monk Xuanzang and the monkey that had been suppressed under the mountain were also nowhere to be seen...


    Elsewhere, after half a night''s travel, Jiang Liu sat on a rock, with a pot suspended over a fire, cooking porridge that was fragrant with minced meat, vegetable leaves, and a pinch of salt.


    Tworge bowls for Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong; each seated on one side with a bowl of their own.


    "Hmm, Master, your cooking skills are truly remarkable. I, Old Sun, have tasted many a dragon''s liver and phoenix marrow, exquisite elixirs, but what you cook has a unique vor indeed," without fear of burning his mouth, he took a big gulp, smacking his lips, Sun Wukong praised as he spoke.


    In response to Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu merely smiled and didn''t say much, but with a thought, he asked Sun Wukong, "By the way, monkey, with your vast divine skills and many abilities, do you have any impressive techniques you could teach your master?"


    Indeed, if Sun Wukong had any impressive supernatural powers to teach him, he could simply transcribe them, couldn''t he? It would be a skill book.


    Throw in some skill points, and he''d learn it in no time, right?


    "No, no, I, Old Sun''s techniques were all passed down by Ancestor Bodhi, and they absolutely must not be passed on to others," Sun Wukong said, shaking his head vigorously as if it were a rattle-drum at Jiang Liu''s words.


    "This Ancestor Bodhi is really too stingy," Jiang Liu muttered under his breath with some disappointment upon hearing Sun Wukong''s reply.


    ng! Sun Wukong''s bowl slipped from his hands and shattered upon hitting the ground.


    "You, how do you know about Ancestor Bodhi?" Sun Wukong''s eyes widened with astonishment as he looked at Jiang Liu.


    When he hadpleted his learning and left Square Inch Mountain, Ancestor Bodhi had told him that no matter what kind of major trouble he caused, he should never reveal his name. Therefore, Sun Wukong had never told anyone about the existence of Ancestor Bodhi, not even the Great Jade Emperor or the Tathagata had knowledge of this. How could he know?


    "Eh? Didn''t you mention him during our conversation about your experiencesst night?" Jiang Liu replied with a question.


    "Me? Did I mention itst night?" Confused, Sun Wukong racked his memories. Although he had talked about his life experiencesst night, he''d mentioned only that he left Flower Fruit Mountain, found a celebrated teacher, and acquired earth-shattering divine skills within a few years, but he hadn''t said a word about the name of Ancestor Bodhi, had he?


    "Alright, alright, these are just trivial details, not worth fussing over," Jiang Liu waved his hand, aware that he had misspoken. He then opened his storage space and, with a raise of his palm, pushed another bowl into Sun Wukong''s hands.


    Observing Jiang Liu''s techniques, Sun Wukong''s eyes flickered subtly.


    "This monk, although his cultivation level is low, seems quite extraordinary. Was that just now the Sleeve Universe divine skill?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 90 Job Change Quest

    "Hehehe, what a pale and tender little monk..." On his journey westward, about half a day had passed when suddenly, a splendid fierce tiger leapt out, its eyes greedily fixed on Jiang Liu, drool dripping onto the ground as it spoke human words.


    "A talking demon? So, it''s a monster below level 20?" Seeing the tiger demon blocking the way, Jiang Liu thought to himself, assessing the strength of the tiger demon.


    His own level had been 19 for some days now; even without the boost of skills and equipment, he was not weaker than this fierce tiger unarmed.


    For Jiang Liu, this tiger demon that had jumped out was simply delivering experience points.


    "Hehehe, nice demon. I, Old Sun, just happen to need a tiger skin skirt," said Sun Wukong, who had not fought with anyone for five hundred years and was now itching to fight. Although this lowly little demon was nothing significant, Sun Wukong didn''t mind taking action since it dared to block his path.


    "Hmph, a skinny monkey with hardly any meat on him," the tiger demon sneered disinterestedly at Sun Wukong''sment.


    Comparatively, the tiger felt that Jiang Liu, this pale and tender human, would taste much better.


    "Stupid demon, not knowing life from death!" Hearing the tiger demon''s words, Sun Wukong reached into his ear, and the Ruyi Golden Cudgel grew with the wind. He raised his cudgel to strike.


    "Wukong, wait!" Just as Sun Wukong had taken out his Golden Hoop, Jiang Liu hastily spoke up, stopping him.


    A demon of a tiger demon''s caliber also meant experience points. It would be wasteful if Sun Wukong killed it, turning it into a stolen kill, right?


    If the level difference exceeded 10, they couldn''t form a team, and experience points would be distributed based on contribution, leaving him with nothing.


    "What''s the matter, Master?" Sun Wukong asked, puzzled as he kept the cudgel hovering mid-air.


    "Step back, let me handle this," said Jiang Liu as he took out his Demon-Subduing Staff and applied a Demon-Subduing Mantra and Arhat Fist BUFF on himself, feeling as though power surged through his body.


    Fearing that Sun Wukong would snatch the kill, Jiang Liu raised his hand andunched a ball of intense mes, the Swift Fire Bead.


    With a loud bang and an explosion, the fireball hit the tiger demon, sending it flying with a scream.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, he could clearly see the health bar over the tiger demon''s head instantly drop by a significant amount.


    The double damage special effect of the Redwood Ring, the Swift Fire Bead of the Great Perfection Realm, plus the added buff from the Arhat Fist and Demon-Subduing Mantra, nearly killed the tiger demon in one hit.


    After sting the tiger demon away, Jiang Liu sprang forward, chasing after it with his Demon-Subduing Staff raised high, smashing down hard.


    Already severely injured by the attack of the Swift Fire Bead, the terrified tiger demon, barely daring to confront Jiang Liu, tried to flee dragging its grievous wounds.


    However, the wounded beast couldn''t run fast, and Jiang Liu quickly caught up, finishing the tiger demon off with a few swift strikes of his staff.


    Notification: Gained 880 Experience Points, acquired 200 in gold.


    Notification: Level up by 1, current level 20.


    Notification: Unlocked Mission System feature, silently think "Mission List" to open.


    Notification: Requisite level achieved, profession change mission avable, please check by yourself.


    With the death of the tiger demon, suddenly, a series of system notifications emerged one after another, bringing continual surprises for Jiang Liu.


    Indeed, when he had reached level 10, he had unlocked the feature to expand his storage space, and now at level 20, he had unlocked new features.


    The functionality of the Mission System was a pleasant surprise for Jiang Liu, as missions meant rewards, whether in the form of experience points or equipment and items, allowing him to elerate his growth, which was, of course, great news.


    Reaching level 20 and meeting the conditions for changing profession was a source of tion for Jiang Liu. Still, the necessary profession change mission sparked his curiosity.


    He silently chanted "Mission List" in his heart, and indeed, the mission list opened.


    However, there was only a lone job transfer mission in the list.


    Job Transfer Mission (1/3): Single-handedly ughter 100 monsters above level 10 to prove one''s ability to transition to a more powerful profession, current number of monsters in 0/100.


    Find exclusive stories on empire


    "So, is this job transfer mission a series of three connected tasks?" Jiang Liu wondered as he looked at the mission description in the list.


    Monsters above level 10? That would mean dealing with demons, wouldn''t it? It''s not easy to kill monsters of that caliber.


    The main problem is finding 100 demons; that can''t be an easy task, can it? Is the first transfer task this difficult?


    "Master, it looks like you enjoy fighting even more than I, Old Sun," Sun Wukong said, gripping the golden hoop in his hand, watching as Jiang Liu swiftly killed a tiger demon with a few quick moves, his hair disheveled by the wind.


    "Not bad, but these minor demons and creatures, you, the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, personally taking action, don''t you find it shameful? Wait till we encounter a powerful demon, then it wouldn''t be toote for you to strike," Jiang Liuplimented Sun Wukong upon hearing his words.


    Meanwhile, he opened his inventory space; indeed, it was just a demon, perhaps even lower in level than himself. Besides money, not even a single potion had dropped.


    Having possessed the game system for so long, Jiang Liu had deduced a rule: the higher the level of the monsters he killedpared to his own, the greater the drop rate and the higher the likelihood of scoring good items.


    "Hehehe, Master, even if you praise me like this, I, Old Sun, won''t be pleased," Sun Wukong said with a full-face grin, his happiness causing his tail to wiggle, but his mouth refused to admit it.


    Seeing Sun Wukong''s demeanor, Jiang Liu smiled knowingly.


    Sun Wukong''s vanity is quite strong, as known from his frequent self-promations in the original story that he is the Great Sage Equal to Heaven who had once caused Havoc in Heaven, and just the mention of his time as the Stable Attendant can infuriate him.


    So, heaping praise andpliments seemed a good way to get along with him.


    Others may stroke a cat, but why not stroke a monkey?


    It seems there''s nothing wrong with it.


    "Alright, it''s gettingte. Let''s have fried tiger meat tonight," Jiang Liu observed the sky and spoke without urgency to move on.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Oh yes, oh yes," Sun Wukong eagerly nodded upon hearing there was food.


    Jiang Liu''s cooking had long since won him over.


    Meanwhile, Sun Wukong volunteered to strip off the tiger''s skin and clean out the insides of therge tiger.


    The remaining tiger meat was all stored in the inventory space, and seeing Sun Wukong fold the tiger skin, Jiang Liu knew what he intended to do.


    However, as he set up an iron pot and began frying the tiger meat, Jiang Liu turned his head, "Monkey, did you just say you were nning to make yourself a tiger skin skirt?"


    "Yes, I, Old Sun, am still bare-bodied," Sun Wukong nodded and replied.


    "Well, Wukong, I have an immature question, I''m not sure if I should ask," Jiang Liu hesitated for a moment before speaking.


    "Master, just ask."


    "Wukong, you''re a male monkey, right? Why do you like wearing skirts?"


    "I didn''t expect you to be that kind of monkey."

 Chapter 91 Demon Horde

    "Monkey, stop!" Jiang Liu yelled, halting Sun Wukong before charging forward with his Demon Subduing Staff.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    With a single strike, a Tiger Demon copsed to the ground with a pained scream.


    Notification: Gained 260 Experience Points, 30 coins.


    Notification: Current questpletion 9/100.


    "It''s only been five days since I epted the ss change quest, and I''ve already encountered numerous Demon Creatures. It seems that outside the borders of Great Tang, there are noticeably more demons," Jiang Liu murmured to himself after ying another Tiger Demon.


    Thinking carefully, perhaps it was indeed because there were more Demon Creatures outside of Great Tang.


    However, there was another possibility that the Imperial Court of Great Tang had suppressed the Demon Kings in all directions, forcing those demons not to harm the Mortal World, making them seem fewer.


    Of course, for Jiang Liu, the increase in Demon Creatures wasn''t bad news; there were more targets to fight, which meant more Experience Points to gain. This was a good thing.


    However, whether it was just his imagination, these past few days, Jiang Liu noticed that most of the Demon Creatures he encountered were tigers.


    "Master, I have a question, though I''m not sure if I should ask it," Sun Wukong said, leaning on his Golden Hoop staff.


    "What is it?" Jiang Liu replied, after checking his inventory space, still without any special drops. He turned to look at Sun Wukong.


    "I feel like along this road, it isn''t me protecting you, but rather it seems like you are protecting me."


    Although these days, being constantly ttered by Jiang Liu had beenforting, since he came out of the Five Elements Mountain, Sun Wukong had not had a proper fight, making him restless.


    Each time they encountered a Demon, his master would stop him from fighting, which left Sun Wukong feeling incredibly frustrated.


    "On our journey to the Western Heaven, which spans eighty-one thousand miles, there will be countless powerful demons along the way. There will be plenty of opportunities for you to shine," Jiang Liu said, patting the small, thin monkey on the shoulder with a fatherly, earnest attitude.


    The master and disciple continued their journey to the West, but shortly after, they spotted a small vige in the distance, home to roughly twenty or thirty households.


    Jiang Liu spoke up, "Alright, there''s a vige ahead. We should stock up on some rice, flour, and condiments, and maybe borrow some needles and thread to sew up your tiger skin skirt."


    "Master, I told you, I want tiger skin shorts, not a skirt," Sun Wukong argued, walking alongside Jiang Liu.


    "No, you want it."


    ¡­


    Setting aside how Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong bickered, they soon arrived at the entrance of the vige.


    Yet, standing there, Jiang Liu''s brow furrowed slightly.


    "What''s wrong?" Sun Wukong asked, noticing that Jiang Liu was not moving and had no intention of walking in.


    "Wukong, don''t you think there''s something off about this vige?" Jiang Liu''s expression grew more solemn.


    Jiang Liu and Gaoyang had once secluded themselves in the vige for two months. Familiar with the vige life, it was precisely because of this familiarity that Jiang Liu felt something was amiss with this vige.


    "Amiss?", upon hearing this, Sun Wukong looked toward the center of the vige, a golden light shing in his eyes. After scanning the area, Sun Wukong shook his head and said, "There are no demon creatures in this vige, nothing seems amiss."


    "Don''t you think it''s a bit too quiet? It''s one thing tock the sounds of children, but there''s not even the crowing of chickens or barking of dogs," Jiang Liu shook his head and said, walking deeper into the vige.


    Indeed, the vige was inplete disarray, as if it had gone through a fierce battle. Traces of blood could still be seen on the ground, but not a single person was present, not even cattle, sheep, chickens, or dogs.


    "This vige has been attacked by demons," Sun Wukong observed the devastated state of the vige and his expression grew much more serious.


    "Indeed, if it were bandits, they wouldn''t cart away the corpses. It must have been a demon attack," Jiang Liu nodded, feeling a chill in his heart.


    In this deste world, demon creatures roamed, and although there were cultivators among humanity to counter them, for ordinary people, it was a world where life was as frail as grass, often subjected to demon attacks, leaving no survivors in a vige.


    "Wukong, check if there are any survivors," Jiang Liu said, though he felt the possibility of finding any survivors was slim. Nheless, he decided to search.


    "Understood, Master," Sun Wukong nodded. He wasn''t going to wander idly like ordinary people in search; instead, he listened intently, using his divine skills.


    Soon, Sun Wukong spoke, "Master, there are still people alive."


    In the midst of speaking, the monkey leapt forward, and Jiang Liu quickly followed, soon arriving at a well. The monkey pulled an elderly man in his sixties or seventies out of the well.


    Looking at the old man, who was barely alive and close to death, soaking wet, Jiang Liu could see that his health bar had only a sliver of health left.


    Raising his palm, he activated the Guanyin Mantra skill, and a green glow slowly entered the old man''s body, restoring a portion of his health bar.


    Gradually, the old man came to his senses and upon seeing Sun Wukong, he cried out in horror, "Ah, demon, demon!"


    "There there, old man, don''t be afraid. This monkey is my disciple, we are not demons," Jiang Liu stepped forward and softly spoke.


    With Sun Wukong''s fearsome appearance and his thunderous mouth, it was indeed scary, but seeing Jiang Liu''s clean and polite demeanor, the old man calmed down considerably. He then looked around at the tragic scene in the vige and burst into tears.


    "Old man, don''t rush to cry. Let me ask you, what kind of demon did you encounter here?" Jiang Liu said, trying tofort him.


    "Indeed, our Xiaotian Vige has always been peaceful, a paradise all its own. Butst night, a horde of demons attacked our vige, and these demons, they eat people. I thought, even if I died I wouldn''t let these demons get the better of me, so I jumped into the well. I never expected to survive," the old man narrated tearfully the ordeal the vige had faced.


    "A horde of demons?", upon hearing this, Jiang Liu''s eyes flickered.


    Not to mention these demons'' ferocity, aside from dispatching these demons as a service to the people, even if it were just to level up from killing monsters andplete his ss transfer mission, Jiang Liu couldn''t just stand by anymore.


    "Don''t worry old man, seeing how there is not a single person left in the vige, it''s possible the vigers weren''t all killed, but were taken by the demons. My disciple and I possess some means for subduing demons and eliminating evil. Shall we go and see if we can rescue the vigers?" Jiang Liu said after a moment''s thought, trying to offer some constion.


    "Really!?", Jiang Liu''s words, like a thread of hope in utter despair, brightened the old man''s eyes. He immediately began to bow continuously towards Jiang Liu, "Thank you, Mage, thank you, Mage."


    Alert: Mission "Exterminate Demon Horde" triggered. Mission requirement: Exterminate the demon horde that attacked Xiaotian Vige. Mission sess: Reward 12,000 Experience Points, Green Lotus Staff. Failure punishment: None.

 Chapter 92 Meeting an Old...... Foe in a Foreign Land?

    A quest had been triggered, which left Jiang Liu with a sense of inner puzzlement.


    Although his level had climbed to 20, and he had unlocked the quest function, the triggering of quests seemed quite ordinary. However, what were the conditions needed to trigger this quest function?


    Was it just triggered passively when he encountered certain events, or were there specific conditions required?


    Having obtained the game system for quite some time, there were things Jiang Liu had to figure out by himself, like looting equipment. Without opening the inventory space, the looted items would be under the corpse, and he had to search for them himself.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    For instance, forming teams¡ªJiang Liu figured out that he couldn''t team up with yers more than 10 levels higher than himself.


    However, this was just the first time a quest had been triggered. He made a mental note of it, intending to look for patterns once he triggered some more quests in the future.


    Moreover, this quest indicated that there were no penalties for failure.


    So, did that mean there might be quests with penalties for failure in the future?


    Overall, carrying a game system into the world of Journey to the West was his Golden Finger, but Jiang Liu felt that this system was even more challenging than ying the games themselves.


    Not to mention the trigger of quests. He didn''t understand the conditions at all and had to figure them out by himself.


    If this were in a game, NPCs would have a big exmation mark over their heads, clearly shouting that there was a quest avable here.


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu cleared the clutter in his mind. He and Sun Wukong had already left the small vige.


    Immediately, Jiang Liu spoke, "Wukong, that elder we just met mentioned being attacked by a group of demons. It seems there might be an organized group of demons nearby. Shall we investigate the situation first?"


    "Master, why all the trouble..." Impatiently, Sun Wukong had already drawn his Jingu Bang.


    Clearly, having left Five Elements Mountain itching for action, Sun Wukong had eliminated every single weak demon he encountered. Now, upon hearing of a group of demons, he was more eager than ever.


    With a thrust of the Jingu Bang on the ground, the monkey softly eximed, "Local Deity, where are you?"


    Following Sun Wukong''s action, an elderly slim man, appearing to be in his fifties or sixties, emerged from the ground, evidently the local deity.


    After getting up, the man paid respects to both Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong, "The local deity greets the Holy Monk and the Great Saint, may I know why the Great Saint has summoned this humble god?"


    "Local Deity, I, Old Sun, am asking you if there are any demons nearby? This vige next to us was ughtered by demons. Are you aware of this matter?" Though Sun Wukong was thin and not very tall, his presence waspletely unmatched by the nodding and bowing local deity.


    "To report to the Great Saint, this Xiaotian Vige nearby originally had no powerful demons. However, a few months ago, a Tiger Demon arrived, bringing a group of little demons and imed the throne at Returning Wind Mountain thirty miles away. That Tiger Demon possesses a formidable cultivation level," the local deity exined, describing the most powerful demon nearby.


    "Hehehe, a formidable cultivation level, you say? Even better, I, Old Sun, am itching to fight now," upon hearing the local deity''s words, Sun Wukong was even more pleased.


    "By the way, Local Deity, how is that demon addressed?" At this moment, Jiang Liu also spoke up, his eyes slightly gleaming.


    Powerful demons were beyond his capabilities, but weren''t those lesser demons just the Experience Points he needed?


    The most important thing is, should I be able toplete my ss change quest now?


    Seeing Sun Wukong''s belligerent demeanor did not surprise the Local Deity, but seeing Jiang Liu''s eyes also shining, the Local Deity was slightly taken aback, yet dared not ask more questions, "Reporting to the Holy Monk, the Tiger Demon on Returning Wind Mountain is named Blood Tiger King."


    "Blood Tiger King?" The name made Jiang Liu falter slightly, having naturally heard of this title before.


    That day at Foutu Mountain, Blood Tiger King was defeated and fled, so he had escaped out of the Border of Great Tang?


    That day, I almost died at his hands, it was because of him that the news of my Flesh of Longevity spread, leading to theter situation where three demons attacked me.


    "Alright, Local Deity, you may leave," Sun Wukong looked up after rifying the situation, his gaze turning towards Jiang Liu, "Master, we now know the whereabouts of those demons, shall we go? It''s just a group of Little Demons, nothing to worry about. You rest well, I, Old Sun, can handle it alone..."


    "No, Wukong, let me handle this. Stay by my side and support me!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu interrupted him.


    Hearing that Sun Wukong might go alone to exterminate those demons, Jiang Liu quickly spoke, joking right? Since I was worrying about the ss change quest, isn''t the group of demons at Returning Wind Mountain just like a pillow for a sleepy head?


    Blood Tiger King, naturally, would be left to Sun Wukong, but those Little Demons, they are all my Experience Points.


    "Master, you..." Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, and being forbidden to act, Sun Wukong became anxious.


    "Wukong, your master has an immature perplexity, I''m not sure whether I should ask or not?" Seeing Sun Wukong appearing very impatient, almost exploding, Jiang Liu began to speak earnestly and cautiously.


    "Master, you, ask..." Sun Wukong hesitated slightly, casting a somewhat doubtful look at Jiang Liu, feeling that what he was about to say wouldn''t be pleasant.


    "You monkey, are you the type that bullies the weak but fears the strong?"


    Jiang Liu, counting on his fingers, said, "You always talk about how during your Havoc in Heaven you were so powerful that even a hundred thousand Heavenly Soldiers couldn''t capture you. However, after all, those were just Heavenly Soldiers. I''ve never heard you say that you defeated any truly powerful Deity. What about Eng God? Have you defeated him? Supreme Elder Lord?


    Tathagata?"


    At this point, Jiang Liu paused slightly, then continued, "I originally thought you, this monkey, were incredibly powerful, thinking of leaving the Blood Tiger King on Returning Wind Mountain to you, but you always think about dealing with those Little Demons..."


    Squeak squeak squeak!


    With these words from Jiang Liu, Sun Wukong was left speechless, screeching angrily, "Master, you don''t understand. The Samadhi True Fire of the Supreme Elder Lord is extremely powerful, and what about Eng God? I, Old Sun, am not afraid of him, but he has a dog on a leash, as for old Tathagata..."


    "Stop exining, exining is disguising, disguising is the truth, so, you say during your Havoc in Heaven you defeated just some minor gods, can''t you defeat any truly powerful ones?" Jiang Liu, looking disdainful, interrupted Sun Wukong''s exnation.


    "Fine, I won''t touch those Little Demons, I''ll leave them all to you, but you have to leave that Blood Tiger King to me, I, Old Sun, will show you what I can do!" Being cornered by Jiang Liu and unable to speak, Sun Wukong finally said vehemently.


    "This monkey, we can''t spoil him too much. Praises need to be said, but at crucial times, he also needs to be suppressed."


    Seeing that his simple provocation worked extremely well, Jiang Liu chuckled inwardly.


    Chatting and talking, soon, the outline of Returning Wind Mountain appeared before Jiang Liu''s eyes.

 Chapter 93 The Surprised Blood Tiger King

    Dragon Following Cloud, Tiger Following the Wind.


    Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong arrived at the base of Returning Wind Mountain, looking at the stretching mountain range before them, with a biting cold wind. Indeed, it was very suitable for the Tiger n''s survival.


    However, they had barely reached the foot of the mountain when two huge tigers leapt out together. Without uttering a word, they pounced towards Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong.


    The Demon Subduing Staff came crashing down, instantly emptying the health bar, and at the same time, he lifted his hand and fired a Swift Fire Bead. It exploded on the other tiger''s head with a scream, simrly clearing its health bar.


    Instant kill.


    "Can''t even talk, not even level 10 Tiger Demons?", effortlessly killing the two big tigers only amounted to a total of 150 Experience Points. Jiang Liu secretly shook his head.


    Though mosquitoes are small, they are still flesh, but with his current level, killing these level 10 or lower demons, the Experience Points were really as insignificant as mosquito legs.


    "Wukong, let''s not move too quickly. Let''s aim to clear all the demon creatures on Returning Wind Mountain," Jiang Liu suggested to Sun Wukong after they defeated the two jumping Tiger Demons.


    "Master, mere Little Demons, not worth mentioning. Let''s just storm the demon''s den directly and kill the Blood Tiger King. Those little demons will naturally scatter and flee, not worth our concern," Sun Wukong countered Jiang Liu''s suggestion with a different opinion.


    Despite being baited by Jiang Liu not to attack these little demons, the impatient Sun Wukong was eager to take on the Blood Tiger King.


    Besides, isn''t capturing the leader the most straightforward strategy?


    "Wukong, think about it. These demons kill and harm people. If they all scatter, won''t themon folk suffer? If so, wouldn''t our effort toe here and exorcise demons be wasted? Could it be that you are exorcising demons just for the sake of fighting?" Jiang Liu said to Sun Wukong with apassionate demeanor.


    "No, no, I, Old Sun, was just thinking it''s too slow, not at all what you''re thinking," although his true intentions were revealed by Jiang Liu, Sun Wukong, naturally, would not admit it. He stubbornly argued.


    "Hmm, I also think that the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong, couldn''t possibly be so selfish, surely he''s someone of great empathy and righteousness," Jiang Liu nodded and continued, ttering Sun Wukong once more.


    Some people stroke cats with their hands, smoothing in the direction of the fur; Jiang Liu strokes Sun Wukong with ttering words, a tactic that was highly effective.


    Tip: gained 38 Experience Points, 11 gold.


    Tip: gained 152 Experience Points, 15 gold, ss change mission progress 12/100.


    Tip: gained 440 Experience Points, 28 gold, ss change mission progress 72/100.


    ...


    Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong carefully made their way up Returning Wind Mountain, strategically enticing the demons one by one, and Jiang Liu''s harvest of Experience Points was ever increasing; naturally, thepletion of the ss change mission was also steadily progressing, drawing closer to the mission of a hundred demons.


    With the Jingu Bang on his shoulder, Sun Wukong followed Jiang Liu. Although he felt that this method of luring the demons one by one was a waste of time, he did not interfere.


    This quiet battlested until deep into the night without end.


    As for this stealthy method ofbat, Sun Wukong did not approve. Since it was a battle, one should exhibit one''s prowess, he thought. What''s the skill in fighting covertly?


    However, the demon creatures on Returning Wind Mountain were no fools. Since a hundred or more demons had already been stealthily assassinated by Jiang Liu, their decreased numbers made the remaining demons grow suspicious.


    Soon, numerous demon corpses were discovered, and this news was naturally reported immediately to the Blood Tiger King.


    "Good grief!"


    At that moment, the Blood Tiger King, looking like a robust man in his forties or fifties, heard that not a few demons in the mountains had perished. This was like plucking hairs from a tiger''s mouth! While he was drinking, he stood up abruptly and threw his cup: "Men, show some action for your king. Dive out the rats lurking in the dark. I want to see who dares toy a hand on us!"


    Woo woo woo!


    Following themand of the Blood Tiger King, a chorus of horns rang out across Returning Wind Mountain, instantly enlivening the quiet night.


    In a sh, demonic winds surged, and the wails of ghosts and howls of gods were incessant.


    Notification: Gained Experience Points 520, money 50, 98/100 questpletion for job change.


    After killing another demon creature, Jiang Liu also heard the sound of the horns and looked up, his expression growing much more solemn.


    "Heh heh heh, the demons on this mountain are really stupid to have finally noticed now," unlike Jiang Liu''s solemn expression, Sun Wukong grinned wildly, eager to try, even feeling a surge of tears from extreme joy.


    After leaping out from the Five Elements Mountain, having held it in for so many days, I, Old Sun, finally had the chance to take action.


    "Good, although the first part of the job change quest has not beenpleted, it is almost there," Jiang Liu checked the progress on the Mission List and quietly nodded to himself.


    Having ughtered so many demons and many more demon creatures, adding everything together, he had almost gained 20000 Experience Points, which was quite a satisfactory harvest.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    As nearly all the demons on Returning Wind Mountain began to move, conducting a carpet-style search, it wasn''t long before some demon creature discovered Jiang Liu''s presence.


    A bird stopped on a nearby treetop, spoke in human tongue, and screamed loudly, "Found them, found the intruder."


    Swift Fire Bead!


    As the bird cried out in mid-air, Jiang Liu raised his hand, a fireball pushed out following his gestures, exploding directly on the bird.


    Amidst its scream, the passive effect of the Redwood Ring triggered, and the bird plummeted from mid-air, its health bar emptied.


    Notification: Gained Experience Points 100, money 12, questpletion 99/100.


    Notification: The durability of your Bodhi Ring is exhausted, and it has been destroyed.


    As this demon creature was instant killed, suddenly another system notification appeared.


    Almost simultaneously, a pristine white ring on Jiang Liu''s finger suddenly cracked, shattering into several pieces and falling to the ground.


    "Ah, when this ring exploded into existence, it only had 1 point of durability; after battling with me for so long, it finally ran out, huh?" Looking at the shattered ring on his finger, Jiang Liu let out a silent sigh.


    It had been over two months since he traveled west from Chang''an City, and he had engaged in numerous battles, with the durability of his equipment on his body decreasing somewhat.


    Never mind Jiang Liu''s private reflection, as the demon''s loud cry was followed by the swift killing with a Swift Fire Bead, evil spirits appeared in the dark night. In just a moment, hundreds of demon creatures appeared and surrounded Jiang Liu in their midst.


    Leading them was the Blood Tiger King, who had reverted to looking much younger.


    Compared to the battle at Foutu Mountain, the Blood Tiger King now appeared in human form, walking out looking vigorous and energetic, his gaze naturally locking onto Jiang Liu.


    Seeing Jiang Liu, the Blood Tiger King was first surprised, then immediately overjoyed.


    "Hahaha, Holy Monk Xuanzang, I didn''t expect that we could meet outside of the Great Tang, what a fate, and even greater fortune for me!"


    The Blood Tiger King, both surprised and delighted,ughed out loud.


    Although he had been angry upon hearing that hundreds of demon creatures had been killed, he now felt as if he had been hit by a pie falling from the sky.

 Chapter 94 Exteriorization of the Body

    "Master, you and this Blood Tiger King were old acquaintances..." Sun Wukong said, heart filled with immense disappointment upon hearing Blood Tiger King''s words.


    After holding back for so long, and finally waiting for this so-called Blood Tiger King to appear, he thought he would have a good fight. But seeing how happily Blood Tiger King greeted Jiang Liu, were they really old acquaintances?


    "Wukong, do you think he and I are friends?" Jiang Liu turned his head to look at him and asked.


    "Isn''t he?" Sun Wukong, looking up at Jiang Liu, felt surprised.


    If they were not friends, why would the Blood Tiger King recognize him at a nce? And why did he greet him so happily?


    "Monkey, a brain is a good thing, I wish you had one," Jiang Liu muttered under his breath, a slight twitch at the corner of his mouth.


    From Sun Wukong''s perspective, his considerations seemed wless, but from Jiang Liu''s perspective, having long heard of the Blood Tiger King''s reputation, yet stilling to Returning Wind Mountain to Subdue Demons and Eliminate Evil, and even killing hundreds of demon creatures.


    Would he do this if they were truly friends?


    Perhaps Sun Wukong was not dumb, but he tended to be too straightforward and not meticulous enough when thinking through problems.


    "Holy Monk, I did not expect you to actually bring a pet with you when you go out, quite the mood..." Blood Tiger King, hearing Sun Wukong talk, was surprised that he was also a demon but not transforming into human form, didn''t take it seriously instead joked.


    "Pet!?" Although thinking of Blood Tiger King as Jiang Liu''s friend, Sun Wukong had not reacted, but hearing himself being described as a pet, he could imagine how unpleasant he felt.


    "Master, this guy is really annoying, can I kill him?" Sun Wukong, his eyes burning with anger, turned his head to look at Jiang Liu and asked.


    "You can."


    "Really!?" Sun Wukong was momentarily stunned by Jiang Liu''s decisive answer.


    "It''s true!" Jiang Liu nodded affirmatively, raising his hand andunching a Swift Fire Bead that hurtled directly towards Blood Tiger King.


    At the same time, Demon-Subduing Buff was cast on Sun Wukong.


    Although Sun Wukong''s level was too high for a team effect, if they really killed Blood Tiger King, Experience Points would still be allocated based on Contribution Points, and good items might drop, Jiang Liu naturally wanted to maximize his contribution.


    Facing the iing fireball, Blood Tiger King casually swatted it away, then in a leap came before Jiang Liu, reaching out his hand to grab him.


    This was truly a fortuitous circumstance served on a tter; just eating a little bit of his flesh had extended his life by five hundred years, what if he could eat himpletely...


    "Squeak, squeak, squeak..." However, seeing Jiang Liu retaliate, and Tiger King counterattacking, Sun Wukong on the side was actually delightfully squeaking.


    He finally understood that although his master recognized this Tiger Demon, it seemed they were actually enemies, which was truly great.


    Blood Tiger King''s palm inevitably targeted Jiang Liu, but just as it was about tond on Jiang Liu, suddenly an iron rod blocked Blood Tiger King''s way.


    The hand fell on the iron rod and did not affect it in the least.


    "What? This monkey doesn''t look remarkable, but what great strength!" Blood Tiger King, unable to budge the iron rod, looked down at the short and thin monkey, disbelieving.


    Size-wise, Sun Wukong only reached up to his waist.


    "Hehehe,e practice with I, Old Sun," Sun Wukong effortlessly blocked Blood Tiger King''s attack, applied a slight force on his Jingu Bang, and flung it.


    An indescribable strength surged, and Blood Tiger King felt the world spinning around him. By the time he regained his senses, he had been thrown dozens of meters away by Jingu Bang,nding heavily on the ground.


    Having waited so long to find a target, Sun Wukong had been holding back, and now he finally had the chance to make use of his strength, picking up Jingu Bang without rushing to finish the fight, swinging left and right, handling Blood Tiger King like a bouncing ball.


    "Little ones, capture Xuanzang!" After three moves and two styles, the Blood Tiger King realized that this unimpressive monkey was much stronger than himself. Lacking the courage for another battle, he shouted loudly, wanting to capture Jiang Liu and escape first.


    Upon the Blood Tiger King''smand, demon creatures by his side made their move, reaching out to grab Jiang Liu.


    Below the Demon King, there indeed existed many Demon Generals and even some at the Demon Marshal level.


    "Humph, think you can outnumber me?" However, watching several Demon Generals rushing towards Jiang Liu, Sun Wukong let out a coldugh and then plucked a strand of his hair from the back of his head and gently blew on it.


    The strand of hair, as he blew it out, swiftly transformed into Sun Wukong''s appearance in mid-air. A dozen avatars protected Jiang Liu, swinging their iron rods, and no demon creature could get close to Jiang Liu.


    "Impressive!" This was Sun Wukong''s first battle since he left the Five Elements Mountain. Although it was already clear that Sun Wukong''s power was terrifying, seeing with his own eyes that a mighty Demon King was merely a ything in his hands, along with this strand of hair that could transform into avatars, Jiang Liu inwardly praised.


    The Demon Marshals were already capable of taking on human forms, with beastly heads and human bodies.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Yet, Jiang Liu could see with his own eyes that even Demon Marshal-level demon creatures charging at them were swept away by Sun Wukong''s avatars with a single strike.


    Clearly, even though they were just avatars, they had the power topletely crush the Demon Marshals.


    It was aplete thrashing. After Sun Wukong made his move, the situation became a one-sided beatdown, with no surprises. A dozen avatars protected Jiang Liu, with no demon able to approach.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, Sun Wukong''s true body treated the Tiger King as a mere toy, clearly seeing his health bar continuously dropping.


    Above the level of Demon Generals, he was no match, but those little demons were all his experience points, right? Jiang Liu raised his Demon-Subduing Staff and prepared to rush over, as he was just one creature short ofpleting his ss change mission.


    However, Sun Wukong''s avatars tightly followed by Jiang Liu''s side, not allowing a single demon creature within his vicinity, making it impossible for him to fight.


    "Hehehe, master, there are too many demons here. You just stay put, old man, leave them all to I, Old Sun," said the avatar beside him with a chuckle to Jiang Liu.


    "Are you sure this isn''t some kind of revenge?" Sun Wukong''s words caused Jiang Liu''s lips to twitch slightly.


    He had been repressing him, not allowing him to act all the way, and it must have been unbearable, so now that he got the chance, he wouldn''t let him act either?


    This monkey''s mind was indeed smaller than he had thought.


    Guanyin Mantra, Swift Fire Bead, Vajra Mantra...


    Since he couldn''t strike at these little demons, his thoughts temporarily shifted towards the Blood Tiger King.


    Regardless of the efficacy of his skills, in an effort to increase his contribution points, Jiang Liu really went all out. He threw every usable skill and buff onto Sun Wukong, while the Swift Fire Bead, an offensive ranged weapon, kept smashing towards the Blood Tiger King.


    It was supposed to be an easy kill, but Sun Wukong yed with the tiger like a ball for half an hour before finally killing the Blood Tiger King.


    As it died, the body of the Blood Tiger King also reverted back to its original form: a giant tiger with blood-red, mottled fur.


    Notification: Gained 4200 Experience Points, Obtained 5 taels of money.


    Jiang Liu''s eyes brightened as he looked at the corpse of the Blood Tiger King and walked straight over.


    Although he wasn''t in a team, he still had contribution points, thus he also gained experience points, and there might also be good items dropped; it''s just that the dropped items wouldn''t be automatically picked up and were under the body.


    What good items could a Demon King-level monster drop?


    (PS: Thanks to the book friend "Zhang Zhang Zhang Guifeng" for the generous reward of 100000 starting coins, bing the first chief of this book. As for additional chapters? If it is the day of going on shelves, I will explode a bit, so now I need to save drafts in preparation for going on shelves. As for the chief''s additional chapters?


    After the explosion on the shelves is over, I can take the time to save drafts, perhaps explode with ten or eight chapters as a return, so for now, the additional chapters from the chief are owed...)

 Chapter 95 So Thats What You Are Like, Master

    "Wukong, step back, let your teacher handle this!"


    With a loud shout, Jiang Liu immediately conjured a huge fireball in his hands and hurled it at arge tiger not far away.


    The demon, which had only about a quarter of its health bar remaining, was struck by Jiang Liu''s Swift Fire Bead, let out a scream, and its health bar was instantly emptied.


    Notification: Gained experience points 220, money 20, profession change missionpletion 100/100.


    Notification: There is a new update to your mission. Please check the mission list.


    Sun Wukong plucked a hair, transformed it into a dozen exterior selves, and swept through with his Jingu Bang like a tiger entering a flock of sheep. Who among the demons on Returning Wind Mountain could stand against him?


    Wherever the Jingu Bang swept, it truly meant instant death on contact, injury on a mere brush. In moments, the hundreds of demonsy scattered dead.


    Jiang Liu watched with distress¡ªif all these demons had died by his hand, that would have been tens of thousands of experience points.


    Unfortunately, these demons, including demon generals and demon marshals among them, were overwhelming and he could not have taken them on alone.


    Fortunately, he had just turned over the body of the Blood Tiger King, not in a hurry to check -- he had scooped everything under the body of the Blood Tiger King into his backpack in one go, and at thest moment snatched a demon from under Wukong''s exterior selves'' hands.


    Otherwise, missing thest demon required toplete the profession change mission would have truly been frustrating.


    After snatching a demon from Sun Wukong, the first phase of the profession change mission waspleted. Jiang Liu silently recited ''mission list'' and focused on the profession change mission.


    Indeed, the profession change mission had undergone a new change.


    Profession Change Mission (2/3): Use healing skills to deliver a healing effect to 200 injured targets, current taskpletion 0/200.


    Seeing this second phase of the profession change mission, Jiang Liu''s expression turned slightly strange.


    Since monk professions tend to be supportive, this profession change mission seems quite reasonable, right?


    Is it really just about delivering a healing effect to 200 injured targets?


    Looking around, there were not many demon creatures left on Returning Wind Mountain, all either dead or injured. Jiang Liu spotted one injured demon general, and with a thought, he cast the Guanyin Mantra skill on it.


    A greenish light entered the body of the demon general. Visibly, its injuries healed significantly, and its health bar also recovered somewhat.


    Notification: Current missionpletion 1/200.


    Indeed, after receiving the system''s notification, Jiang Liu felt secretly pleased. So any injured target would do?


    Looking at it this way, this task seemed not so difficult toplete after all and might even be easier than the first phase?


    Boom!


    Jiang Liu was quietly rejoicing when a Jingu Bang fell, and the demon general that had just received the healing effect from the Guanyin Mantra was struck. Its head burst open, twitched on the ground for a few moments, and then reverted to its original form.


    Although the effects of the Guanyin Mantra were quite good, the cooldown time was a full 600 seconds. Given the situation, by the time his next Guanyin Mantra was ready, wouldn''t all these demon creatures be finished off by Sun Wukong?


    "Wukong, cough cough, teacher thinks we may be being too cruel. How about letting your teacher first heal their injuries?"


    Although he felt a bit awkward saying it, this was also toplete the mission as quickly as possible and enhance his own strength, so Jiang Liu cleared his throat and spoke to Sun Wukong.


    "Ah? Master, are you thinking of letting these demons off the hook?" Sun Wukong, the real one, rested the Jingu Bang on his shoulder, watching the scene unfold, and was taken aback by Jiang Liu''s words.


    Immediately afterward, he said strangely, "Master, wasn''t it you who always said to eradicate evil thoroughly, to totally exterminate these harmful demons so they can''t harm the people?"


    "No, the teacher was just saying to first heal them, not to let them go," Jiang Liu shook his head and corrected.


    "So you heal first, then kill? I didn''t expect you to be this kind of master, you''re even harsher than I, Old Sun"


    "Monkey, stop goofing around and talk properly."


    ...


    In the end, all the demon creatures were still killed by Sun Wukong, and Jiang Liu didn''t wait for the Guanyin Mantra''s skill to cool down.


    Though unintended, Sun Wukong''s words did stir something in Jiang Liu''s heart.


    The journey to Western Heaven was 108,000 miles¡ªa wild gamble, betting their own lives and Gaoyang''s, and now, even Sun Wukong had been dragged onto this pirate ship. Throughout these 108,000 miles, Jiang Liu indeed wanted to be as strong as possible.


    But to be stronger, does one really need to be unscrupulous and abandon all principles?


    These demon creatures indeed deserved to die, but having killed them, did he really need to keep them to farm a Guanyin Mantra before finishing them off?


    Isn''t that mocking life itself?


    It''s like people ughtering a pig for meat¡ªkilling and butchering it is fine, but is it necessary to cut off an ear today and a leg tomorrow?


    Such actions seemed even crueller than what demons would do, right?


    Recalling the cup of wine given by Emperor of Tang Li Shimin when he left Chang''an, symbolizing not to forget his original intentions on his journey to the Western Heaven,


    Therefore, the idea of waiting for the skill to cool down and consecutively using the Guanyin Mantra before killing came instinctively, but it quickly faded away.


    After all the demon creatures had been defeated by Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong continued up the mountain to search around Returning Wind Mountain and see if they could find the vigers from Xiaotian Vige.


    He had promised the old man in the vige toe to Returning Wind Mountain and rescue people from the demon''sir.


    However, after searching the demon''sir, they found no living persons, just some limbs and severed bodies.


    With hundreds of demons and only twenty to thirty households in Xiaotian Vige, it seemed the vigers had all perished.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Having found no survivors after searching, Jiang Liu didn''t know how he would break this tragic news to the old grandfather back in Xiaotian Vige.


    Yet, he couldn''t just not tell him¡ªthe old man was still waiting for good news.


    "Wukong, let''s go..."


    Imagining the old grandfather''s reaction to this tragic news made Jiang Liu feel somewhat distressed, so he called on Sun Wukong and they began descending the mountain toward Xiaotian Vige.


    Along the way, Jiang Liu pondered for a moment and decided to tell the truth, and as for how to handle the situation afterward, he would see how the old grandfather reacted.


    A human tragedy¡ªone can only do his best.


    At the same time, as he walked, Jiang Liu also considered whether he should stay in a town and offer healing for free?


    If he operated in this manner, it seemed thatpleting the second phase of the profession advancement mission wouldn''t be too difficult.


    Of course, while he was thinking, Jiang Liu also opened his inventory to check what items had dropped from the Blood Tiger King''s death...


    Alert: Mission "Exterminate Demon Horde"pleted, 12,000 Experience Points acquired, Green Lotus Staff obtained.


    But before Jiang Liu could take a closer look at what dropped from the Blood Tiger King, almost at the same time, a system alert sounded.


    Before his eyes, in the small grid of the inventory space, a Zen Staff mysteriously appeared.

 Chapter 96 New Legendary Quality Equipment and Sheep Transformation Technique

    Thepletion of this task left Jiang Liu feeling exceedingly satisfied.


    Hunting the demon creatures of Returning Wind Mountain was something he had already intended to do, and stumbling upon this quest allowed him to gain an easy 12,000 Experience Points and a Green Lotus Zen Staff to boot.


    His gaze fell upon the Green Lotus Zen Staff, and the corresponding attribute information naturally appeared before Jiang Liu''s eyes.


    Green Lotus Staff (Perfect Level): Required Level 20, Attack +185, Special Effect: Healing skills and items'' effects increased by +10%, Durability 16/20.


    Seeing the attributes of this Green Lotus Staff, Jiang Liu felt a secret thrill of surprise within himself.


    Though the Demon Subduing Staff had decent attributes, it was ultimately a weapon meant for Level 10, which made it somewhat redundant for the current Jiang Liu; its effects on attack power couldn''tpare to those of the Demon-Subduing Mantra skill. This Green Lotus Staff was exactly the equipment Jiang Liu needed now.


    While the Green Lotus Staff''s attributes made Jiang Liu ecstatic, the loot dropped by the Blood Tiger King made him even more eager¡ªit was his first time obtaining items dropped by a Demon King Level monster.


    Upon carefully looking through his bag space, Jiang Liu found that the Blood Tiger King had dropped a Mana Potion, two Healing Potions, a ring, a pair of shoes, and a Skill Book.


    The loot wasn''t particrly plentiful, yet it was far from scarce.


    The few potions were not worth much attention, so Jiang Liu''s gaze first settled on the ring.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    True Dragon Ring (Fine Quality): Required Level 15, Attack +35, Durability 5/10.


    This ring''s attribute information made Jiang Liu secretly shake his head. Although he was indeed in need of a ring, a Fine Quality one hardly seemed worthy of the status of a Demon King such as the Blood Tiger King.


    Nheless, despite the inward sigh, Jiang Liu still took out the ring and slipped it onto his finger, finding the additional 35 Attack to be a decent effect.


    Next, Jiang Liu''s eyes moved to examine a pair of shoes, and their attribute information materialized before him as well.


    shing Brilliance Shoes (Legendary Level): Required Level 20, Defense +460, Special Effect: Allows instantaneous movement within a 10-meter radius, Cooldown Time 300 seconds, Durability 4/30.


    Jiang Liu: "..."


    Looking at the attributes of these shing Brilliance Shoes, Jiang Liu was greatly surprised. Neither the potions nor the ring had been anything special, and he had initially thought that he had run out of luck, only to find that the true surprisey at the end.


    Even though Legendary Quality equipment required only Level 20 and was notably inferior to the Vidyaraja Crown, this was still his second piece of Legendary Level equipment. Both the added defense and special effect were excellent.


    However, seeing the mere 4 points of durability remaining, Jiang Liu shook his head internally.


    If he couldn''t find a way to repair this durability, wouldn''t these shing Brilliance Shoes be useless soon?


    Looking at the information for the shing Brilliance Shoes, Jiang Liu felt both joy and helplessness flood his mind, leading to a moment ofplex emotions. After a brief struggle, he finally turned his attention to another Skill Book.


    Sheep Transformation Technique: Required Level 20, requires the Demon Master profession.


    "Huh? Is this a Skill Book for a Taoist profession after job advancement to Demon Master? Sheep Transformation Technique? This skill sounds quite magical," Jiang Liu''s eyes brightened as he saw the Skill Book.


    Just as Monk professions could change jobs at Level 20, so could Taoist professions. Other than the output-focused Heavenly Master that uses spells, there was also the curse and control type Demon Master profession, to which this Sheep Transformation Technique belonged.


    Although his profession was different, he had already reached the required level. What''s more, his Special Equipment, the Skill Bookcase, could store three Skill Books not of his own profession. Apart from the Swift Fire Bead, he still had two avable slots.


    With a thought, Jiang Liu took out the Skill Book for the Sheep Transformation Technique and ced it into the Skill Bookcase.


    Hint: Do you want to spend 1 Skill Point to learn the Sheep Transformation Technique?


    As Jiang Liu made his move, the corresponding system prompt appeared. Without any hesitation, Jiang Liu naturally chose to ept.


    Sheep Transformation Technique: Turns any target into a cute and harmlessmb for a duration of 2 seconds. The target is unable to attack or use any skills during this state. Cooldown time: 300 seconds.


    "Another control-type Divine Skill!" Looking at the details of this skill, Jiang Liu''s eyes sparkled with excitement.


    Although the duration is only a mere 2 seconds, in the heat of battle, these 2 seconds can be quite significant. If used well, it could be enough to turn the tide of a fight.


    Having obtained Legendary Level equipment and what could be considered a Divine Level control skill, Jiang Liu felt very pleased with himself.


    Immediately, his gaze shifted to Sun Wukong. Having just acquired such a wondrous ability, he naturally wanted to test it out.


    Clearing his throat, Jiang Liu spoke up, "Cough cough, Wukong, your master has an unripe confusion that I wonder about..."


    "Don''t even talk about it!" However, before Jiang Liu could finish his sentence, the monkey quickly stepped away, maintaining a certain distance and watching him warily.


    "Uh..." Sun Wukong''s swift reaction caused Jiang Liu to pause, unable to finish the rest of his sentence.


    Had this monkey be too cunning? Was he no longer as easy to deceive as before?


    "Rx, I just have a question for you. Don''t you trust me?" his mouth twitched slightly as Jiang Liu revealed a genial smile, appearing very approachable.


    "Don''t trust!" But Sun Wukong continued to watch Jiang Liu with caution, firmly shaking his head.


    "You mischievous monkey, you don''t even trust your master? You better cool down a bit!"


    Since talking didn''t help and Sun Wukong was not willing to cooperate, Jiang Liu didn''t feel the need to ask for his consent. Lifting his finger, he pointed at Sun Wukong and activated the Sheep Transformation Technique.


    An odd glow shed over Sun Wukong''s body, but his form remained the same, still in the shape of a monkey without turning into amb.


    "Huh? The skill failed?" Seeing that Sun Wukong''s appearance hadn''t changed, Jiang Liu was stunned and quite astonished.


    "Eh? Master, do you actually know a spell simr to the Seventy-Two Transformations?" While Jiang Liu was puzzled, Sun Wukong looked even more surprised on the side.


    "A spell simr to the Seventy-Two Transformations?" Sun Wukong''s remark caused a lightbulb to go off in Jiang Liu''s mind, hinting at the possible reason why the Sheep Transformation Technique had failed.


    Indeed, although Sun Wukong was amazed by Jiang Liu''s Sheep Transformation Technique, he shook his head and said, "I, Old Sun, am proficient in the Seventy-Two Transformations. Although your spell is exquisite, it''s impossible for it to change I, Old Sun''s form."


    "So that''s how it is," Sun Wukong''s words made Jiang Liue to a sudden realization.


    Sun Wukong was originally adept at the Art of Transformation, and his Cultivation Level was far beyond Jiang Liu''s own. It seemed only natural that the Sheep Transformation Technique would be ineffective on him, didn''t it?


    In light of this, the value of the Sheep Transformation Technique seemed to diminish somewhat. However, overall, it was still a very practical Divine Skill for Jiang Liu at the moment.


    After all, Demon Creatures proficient in the Art of Transformation and with a Cultivation Level like Sun Wukong''s are rare.


    Chatting and bickering, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong were soon back in Xiaotian Vige.


    From a distance, they could see the ominously quiet entrance to Xiaotian Vige. There, an old man with a hunched back looked expectantly in their direction...

 Chapter 97 Speculations on Quest Trigger Conditions

    The old man, hunched over, stood at the entrance of the vige and gazed in the distance. As he saw Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong approaching, he hastened towards them with faltering steps.


    However, upon seeing only Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong, the faint smile initially on the old man''s face slowly faded, "Holy Monk, have only you returned? What about the other vigers?"


    The hope in the old man''s eyes seemed to clutch at a lifeline amidst despair.


    Jiang Liu, hesitant to meet his gaze, turned his head slightly but still disclosed the truth, "When we arrived, all the captured vigers had already been killed."


    "Have they all died? Have all of them died?" The old man murmured in a dazed whisper after hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    "Since everyone is dead, and I''m just an old man left, what''s the point of me living anymore..." Ovee with despair, the old man suddenly cried out and, losing all will to live, fiercely banged his head against a nearby tree.


    The old man''s sudden action startled Jiang Liu, who attempted to grab him but it was toote.


    However, having battled so many times, Jiang Liu quickly reacted, lifting a finger and pointing at the old man rushing towards the tree: "Vajra Mantra."


    The mysterious power of the Vajra protected the old man, granting him immunity from 80% of the impending damage.


    When his head struck the tree, the old man lost his bnce and fell to the ground. He simply rubbed his head, which swelled slightly, but the skin was unbroken.


    "Old grandpa, why resort to this?" Jiang Liu hurried over and helped him up, saying.


    "I''m now just a lonely old man with no one left. How can I go on living? I''d rather die and perhaps catch up with them on the Underworld Road..." The old man cried out heart-wrenchingly.


    This left Jiang Liu speechless.


    Indeed, it would be extremely difficult for the old man to continue living alone at his age when he needed care.


    "Old grandpa, don''t you have any other rtives?", Jiang Liu asked after a moment''s thought.


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s question, the old man gradually stopped wailing but still shook his head, "I do have a daughter who married far away in Wu City, but it''s over three hundred miles from here. How can I possibly travel such a distance alone..."


    "Wu City? Over three hundred miles? Where is it located?", Jiang Liu persisted upon learning that the old man had onest rtive in the world.


    "Wu City is roughly to the southeast of Xiaotian Vige," the old man replied.


    "To the southeast!?," Upon hearing the old man''s directions, Jiang Liu''s eyes momentarily brightened.


    "Master, you aren''t thinking of taking this old man to Wu City, are you?" Noticing something off in Jiang Liu''s expression, Sun Wukong couldn''t help but speak up, "We are on a journey to the Western Heaven, continuously heading west. If Wu City were to the west, it would be on our way, but it''s unfortunately to the southeast. That means we''ll have to make a detour."


    "A detour..." Jiang Liu let a hint of a smile flicker in his eyes, yet his face showed apassionate look as he firmly stated, "Wukong, as the saying goes, saving a life is more meritorious than building a seven-story pagoda. Although it means taking a detour to Wu City, if we can save a life, isn''t it worth it?"


    "Master, you really are a good person," Seeing Jiang Liu''s stance, clearly non-negotiable, Sun Wukong helplessly rolled his eyes.


    "Wukong, never say that your master is a good person. In my hometown, calling someone a good person is actually a form of insult," Jiang Liu earnestly instructed Sun Wukong.


    "What a coincidence, it means the same in Flower Fruit Mountain too."


    "Monkey, stop fooling around and speak properly..."


    After a brief verbal spat, Jiang Liu ignored Sun Wukong''s intentions, turned his head, and addressed the elder beside him, "Old grandfather, although it''s over 300 miles to Wu City, my disciples and I are willing to escort you there. How about it?"


    "Ah? Holy Monk, wouldn''t that greatly dy your journey? I, I dare not ept such a burden..." the elder said, overwhelmed by Jiang Liu''s offer to take a long detour to escort him to Wu City.


    "It''s settled then, old grandfather, do you have anything to pack? If not, we can depart now," Jiang Liu waved his hand, not giving the elder a chance to refuse.


    "This..." the elder stared at Jiang Liu in surprise, somewhat baffled. It seemed as if the Holy Monk was even more eager than he was?


    Unaware onlookers might think he actually enjoyed taking the long way around.


    "In that case, I greatly thank you, Holy Monk, for your profound kindness. I dare not forget this for as long as I live," the elder said gratefully, almost pushed into the journey to Wu City like a duck being herded up a ramp, feeling truly that this was the benevolence of the Holy Monk of Great Tang, akin to that of a Bodhisattva.


    Hint: Triggered mission "Escort." Mission requirements: sessfully escort the elder from Xiaotian Vige to Wu City. Reward uponpletion: 7000 Experience Points. Penalty for failure: none.


    Just then, a prompt from the game system suddenly appeared, causing Jiang Liu to pause slightly. Another mission triggered?


    Earlier, when he decided to go to Returning Wind Mountain to investigate if the vigers from Xiaotian Vige were still alive, the system assigned him an "Exorcise Demons" task. Now, as he decided to escort the elder to Wu City, the system was handing out an escort mission?


    Both tasks matched exactly what he was about to do, as if the system was finding excuses to give him missions?


    "Is it a coincidence? It seems that every time I decide to do something, the system then issues a task. Could this be the key to triggering my missions?" With this new understanding after analyzing the situation, Jiang Liu formed a rough hypothesis in his mind.


    With this hypothesis, naturally, he wanted to test it thoroughly.


    "Wukong, see that big rock up ahead? I am going to smash it!"


    "This tree here, it''s really not in a good ce, growing by the roadside. What if it bumps into someone? I''ll smash it down."


    ...


    Sun Wukong and the elder, watching Jiang Liu''s peculiar behavior, exchanged looks, both finding it rather odd.


    "Um, has Holy Monk Xuanzang always been like this?" the elder asked Sun Wukong in a low voice after a moment of silence, gesturing towards his own head.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Exactly, yes," Sun Wukong nodded emphatically.


    Speaking exaggeratedly aloud about what he was going to do, Jiang Liu noticed, however, that even after several announcements, the system prompt showed no reaction. He wondered silently, was it because these deeds were too trivial? Merely petty matters that couldn''t form a mission?


    Or was it because the previous two missions involved deciding to help others, and the tasks he was now undertaking didn''t help anyone?


    With this thought in mind, Jiang Liu turned to the elder and asked, "Old grandfather, are you thirsty? I will fetch you a bowl of water to drink."


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the elder reflexively stepped back two steps: "No need, Holy Monk, I am not thirsty."


    "No, you are thirsty!"

 Chapter 98 The Little White Dragon Who Came Knocking

    From Xiaotian Vige to Wu City, a distance of two to three hundred miles, an ordinary person probably needs two to three days just walking on foot.


    However, if you''re also bringing along an elderly grandfather, hunched over in his advance, the time required bes unknowable.


    But walking slowly is one thing; there''s no rush on my part. If the old man can''t cover twenty miles a day, then we''ll do ten, and if not ten, then five.


    Dragging our feet, whenever the old man gets tired, Jiang Liu rests, and when mealtime arrives, he sets up a stove to start a fire and cook¡­


    So, after a good five or six days on the road, how much farther it is to Wu City remains a mystery.


    "Holy Monk¡­" the old man, leaning on a wooden branch as a walking stick, looked at the dinner Jiang Liu was preparing, the deer meat being grilled, and unconsciously swallowed, saying, "If this deer were used as a ride for this old man, perhaps we could reach Wu City much faster, right?"


    "Amitabha, Benefactor, you are not aware that in order to prove the sincerity of my journey to the West, I must take one step at a time.


    Otherwise, using my disciple''s supernatural powers, soaring through the clouds andmanding the fog, we could reach Western Spirit Mountain in no time¡ªso why would there be any need to travel on foot?" Jiang Liu said, while flipping the deer meat to make sure it cooked evenly.


    "I see. Holy Monk, your journey indeed umtes immense merit. Thus, this old man dares not dy your travels any longer. From now on, I will try to quicken my pace," the old man replied with newfound respect after hearing Jiang Liu''s answer.


    "No need!" Jiang Liu hurriedly shook his head upon hearing the old man''s words.


    Then he seemed to realize his response was a bit too eager, his tone once again bing much more rxed: "Benefactor, do not trouble yourself. You are advanced in age and frail, making long journeys inconvenient. Should any harme to you on the way, my merit would turn into sin."


    "Master, at your current pace, a mere journey of eighty-one thousand miles, it will take no less than six to seven years to reach the Western Heaven to see Tathagata," Sun Wukong, who was eagerly eyeing the roast meat, couldn''t help but interject.


    As he spoke, he sniffed a few times, feeling impatient for the smell of the roasting meat and reached out for it: "Master, is the meat ready yet? I, Old Sun, have been hungry for a long time."


    "Don''t be in such a monkey hurry, it still needs a while¡­" Jiang Liu said, annoyed as he pped Sun Wukong''s hand away, murmuring under his breath, "Six to seven years? Wouldn''t that be the end of it?"


    Having his hand pped away didn''t anger Sun Wukong. Hearing his master''s quiet murmur, he smiled and said, "If you are in a hurry, Master, I, Old Sun, could carry you for a stretch. A disciple is here to share the load; should not count as¡­"


    "Say no more, Wukong. I have already made up my mind to walk every step of the way to Spirit Mountain!" Jiang Liu said with a serious expression.


    Yet in his heart, he sighed secretly. Six to seven years to reach Spirit Mountain? Wouldn''t that be disaster? Didn''t it take more than a decade in the original story? Does that mean I have to find ways to dy as much as possible or take detours?


    Soon after the roast was finished, a pot of vegetable and meat soup was also ready. Jiang Liu served the old man a bowl of soup and a piece of roast meat, and everyone enjoyed their meal to the fullest.


    Especially Sun Wukong, who, although he had eaten many meals prepared by Jiang Liu before, seemed to never tire of them.


    After having their fill, Sun Wukong thought it was time to set off, but Jiang Liu waved his hand and said, "Monkey, it''s gettingte, and it''s not good to exert oneself right after a full meal. We''ll camp out on the road tonight."


    Sun Wukong paused, ncing towards the horizon where the sun still hung in the west; it would be at least another Chinese Hour before darkness fell.


    Moreover, at his master''s pace, how could it be considered strenuous exercise? It was more like an after-dinner walk, wasn''t it?


    But who is he to argue with his master? Even though he had his internalints, seeing Jiang Liu already seated in meditation, cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, Sun Wukong said nothing more and obediently went to find a ce to clean the bowls and pot.


    Time slipped by, moment by moment; the old many on the ground resting, with nothing to do.


    Sun Wukong alsoy on the grass nearby, with a small twig in his mouth, legs crossed, looking at the swallows returning to their nests in the sky, and couldn''t help but think of Flower Fruit Mountain. He wondered how all those little ones were doing?


    Next to him, as the sky grew darker, Jiang Liu''s True Yuanpleted eighty-one Complete Cycles within his body, and his cultivation session came to an end. He slowly opened his eyes, noticing both the person and the monkey lounging about aimlessly.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    He pondered to himself, in this ancient world, there really were no entertainment activities once evening fell in the wilderness. Should he find some fun for them?


    How about teaching them the way of chess, letting the two of them y chess to pass the time?


    However, considering the monkey''s temperament, settling down to y chess? He just didn''t have the patience for it.


    Or how about the three of them ying Fight the Landlord? And maybe y Mahjong during the Journey to the West with all four disciples?


    "No, no, my time is much too precious to waste on that," Jiang Liu immediately shook his head as the idea of ying Fight the Landlord and Mahjong had barely arisen, casting aside that "evil" thought.


    Suddenly, while Jiang Liu was daydreaming, Sun Wukong¡ªwho was next to him, utterly bored and unable to sleep¡ªbrightened up, sitting up abruptly.


    Facing the inquiring gazes of Jiang Liu and the old man beside him, Sun Wukong grinned and said, "Master, there is Demon Qi. It seems we again have a Demon Creature seeking death."


    No sooner had Sun Wukong''s voice fallen than shortly after, a demon walking upright leapt out from the grass nearby. It was a Frog Demon, standing over a meter tall when upright.


    "Can walk upright, is it a Demon Soldier?" Seeing the Frog Demon that had sprung out, Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up.


    A Demon Soldier, that meant a demon of level 20 and above. This was Experience Points delivered to their doorstep.


    "Good demon creature, you dare to seek death here..." Sun Wukong was getting bored and seemed ready to make the first move.


    "Wukong, step back, let your master handle this!" Jiang Liu raised the Green Lotus Staff in his hand, shouting out loud at the same time.


    The Frog Demon that had leapt out, seeing the menacing look of the man and the monkey, was startled and fell seated on the ground, crying out hurriedly, "Holy Monk, wait, I... I have been entrusted by someone to find you."


    What?


    This statement from the Frog Demon made Jiang Liu pause, and he withdrew the Green Lotus Staff he was about to smash down.


    Sun Wukong also changed his punch to a grab, catching the Frog Demon and subduing it, without delivering a fatal blow.


    "You''ve been entrusted by someone to find me? Entrusted by whom?" Looking curiously at the Frog Demon, Jiang Liu asked. On their way to the Western Heaven, why would a demon go out of its way to find him, and entrusted by someone, no less?


    "What... what kind of people are these..." Captured by Sun Wukong''s iron-d monkey paw, the Frog Demon felt its liver and galldder tremble. If it hadn''t cried out just in time, would it now have been obliterated?


    Such danger! Such terror!


    "Didn''t you hear my master asking you? Speak quickly!" While the Frog Demon harbored fear and silent curses, Sun Wukong revealed a fierce expression, growling in a low voice.


    Seeing Sun Wukong''s fierce look, the Frog Demon was utterly rmed, no longer daring to let its thoughts wander, and quickly started speaking.


    "It was a White Dragon from Serpent Coiling Mountain Eagle Sorrow Gully who sent me to find the Holy Monk."

 Chapter 99 Ugly Rejection

    ```


    The White Dragon of Serpent Coiling Mountain Eagle Sorrow Gully!?


    Upon hearing these words from the Frog Demon, Jiang Liu was stunned for a moment.


    Others might not know, but how could Jiang Liu be unaware? That was his future mount, the White Dragon Horse, right?


    He hadn''t even been to Eagle Sorrow Gully yet, so howe it had specifically sent a demon to find him? What was going on?N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Master, do you recognize that white dragon?" Hearing the Frog Demon''s words, Sun Wukong turned his head to nce at Jiang Liu and asked.


    "No!", Jiang Liu decisively replied upon hearing this.


    Given his current situation, he shouldn''t know the Little White Dragon, so naturally, Jiang Liu would not admit it.


    Initially, when he went looking for Sun Wukong, he merely used an excuse to take a detour, and that''s why he visited Five Elements Mountain to take a look at the monkey that was being suppressed.


    "Hehe, since you don''t recognize it, then there''s no need to keep this fellow around, right?" Getting Jiang Liu''s answer, Sun Wukong grinned broadly, his gaze falling on the Frog Demon he held in his hand.


    Although the Frog Demon had likely reached the level of a Demon Soldier, in front of Sun Wukong, how could it possibly muster any thoughts of resistance?


    Seeing the fierce look in Sun Wukong''s eyes, the Frog Demon trembled and cried out in panic, "Don''t, don''t kill me, Great Sage, I, I truly just came to deliver a message, I didn''t deceive you."


    "Oh? You Little Demon, you actually have some knowledge, to be able to recognize I, Old Sun?" Enjoying the Frog Demon''s response, Sun Wukong''s eyes narrowed with delight, and he even shook his tail behind him.


    On the Journey to the West, he liked to tell everyone that he was the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, how he caused Havoc in Heaven five hundred years ago, and so on. Now, without him having to say it himself, others could recognize him on their own. Sun Wukong was naturally pleased, and it even made the Frog Demon seem much more pleasing to the eye.


    "I recognize you, I recognize you! The Little White Dragon said, Great Sage, you were guided by Bodhisattva Guanyin, the chief disciple of the Holy Monk, and the Little White Dragon has also been enlightened by Bodhisattva Guanyin, transforming into a White Dragon Horse.


    He is willing to travel thousands of miles, carrying the Holy Monk to the Western Heaven for a visit," the Frog Demon rushed to nod and quickly exined.


    "Master, it looks like we need to make a trip to Eagle Sorrow Gully. Guanyin has enlightened another disciple for you, to serve as your mount...," Sun Wukong let go of the Frog Demon and turned to speak to Jiang Liu.


    "Nonsense!"


    Jiang Liu''s expression was serious as he solemnly shook his head and said to the Frog Demon: "You evil demon, trying to use this excuse to deceive this monk and escape with your life? Amitabha, leave at once, and I may spare you from death. Otherwise, if you speak any more, I will surely strike you down right here!"


    "Holy Monk, every word I''ve said is true..." Seeing that Tang Monk did not believe him, the Frog Demon cried out loud.


    "Hmm?", however, hearing the Frog Demon''s shouts, Jiang Liu''s eyebrows raised slightly, his eyes looked threateningly at it, and in his hand, the Green Lotus Staff was also raised.


    The threat was clear without words.


    "Holy Monk, I''m leaving now!" Seeing Jiang Liu''s demeanor was not joking at all, the Frog Demon didn''t dare say anything else. Terrified, it turned and dove into a nearby patch of grass, quickly fleeing towards the distance.


    Watching the escaping Frog Demon, Sun Wukong didn''t make a move but seemed somewhat puzzled as he scratched his head and looked at Jiang Liu: "Master, you said that the Frog Demon was deceiving us? But I, Old Sun, don''t think it sounds like a lie."


    "Old Sun, brains are a good thing, and I hope you have one. Alright, enough talking, let''s rest," Jiang Liu nced at Sun Wukong and said with a slight shake of his head.


    "Master, you are just being obstinate. It''s clearly you who are mistaken, right? The words of the Frog Demon didn''t seem deceitful," Sun Wukong felt a bit wronged by Jiang Liu''s reaction.


    It was clear that the Master was wrong, yet he said that Sun Wukong was the onecking intelligence?


    ```


    However, Jiang Liu didn''t say anything more in response to Sun Wukong''s low grumbles. After resting for so long, he sat cross-legged once again and continued to rotate the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique to enhance his Experience Points.


    In reality, what the Frog Demon had said was true¡ªhow could Jiang Liu not know?


    He hadn''t expected the Little White Dragon in Eagle Sorrow Stream to want his help before he could even get there; instead, the Demon had eagerly sought him out, which truly surprised Jiang Liu.


    However, after much thought, Jiang Liu didn''t really want to rescue the Little White Dragon, let alone travel with him to the Western Heaven.


    First, although Jiang Liu had indeed embarked on the Journey to the West, the end of this road involved a life-and-death struggle with Buddhism for himself. Thus, dragging his feet and arriving in the Western Heaven aste as possible was better to maximize his time for growth.


    This was the main reason why he was willing to take this roundabout way to bring the old man to Wu City.


    Why not take one''s time to walk to the Western Heaven, dying as much as possible? Why ride a horse?


    Wasn''t that just rushing towards one''s demise?


    Secondly, since his journey to the Western Heaven involved a deadly contest with the Heavenly Deities and Buddha, that was the fundamental reason why Sun Wukong was willing to leave his retreat and apany him. Seeing how eagerly the Little White Dragon wanted to join, it was clear that he was sincerely devoted to the Journey to the West.


    This was quite the opposite of Jiang Liu''s intentions.


    Jiang Liu felt that the Little White Dragon could potentially be an eye of surveince nted by Buddhism within the Journey to the West Pilgrimage Team.


    Therefore, from his own standpoint, Jiang Liu was extremely reluctant to take the Little White Dragon as his mount.


    Sun Wukong believed what the Frog Demon had said was true, and indeed, it was; however, from a strategic perspective, he couldn''t allow the Little White Dragon to join the Journey to the West Team.


    Thus, even though he knew it was true, he could not admit it and could only im that the Frog Demon was deceiving them.


    "Sigh, although this Monkey is not stupid, he tends to think in a straightforward manner without considering the bigger picture," Jiang Liu thought, sighing inwardly as he remembered Sun Wukong''s aggrieved mumbling.


    But then again, if Sun Wukong truly had such insight and could see so far ahead, he probably wouldn''t have ended up being subdued under the Five Elements Mountain.


    The night passed without conversation, and as the sun rose once again, Jiang Liu continued with his cooking tasks, boiling a pot of porridge and making sure everyone had their fill before slowly hitting the road, heading southeast...


    Meanwhile, in another part of the world, within Serpent Coiling Mountain Eagle Sorrow Gully, a Little White Dragon was lying quietly in the water, waiting for responses from the Little Demons he had dispatched.


    Ever since he received enlightenment from the Bodhisattva, the Little White Dragon quietly awaited the arrival of the Scripture Seeker, even organizing some Little Demons to keep an eye out for any monks passing by, in fear of missing the Scripture Seekers.


    With great difficulty, he finally spotted the traces of the Scripture Seeker, and the Little White Dragon felt a swell of joy in his heart, believing his days trapped in Eagle Sorrow Gully were about to end.


    Yet, as he watched the Scripture Seeker approaching from the west, he didn''t expect them to turn back halfway and grow increasingly distant.


    This made the Little White Dragon anxious, and with no other choice, he sent a Little Demon to chase after the Scripture Seeker.


    "I''m back, I''m back...", just as anxiety was mounting in the Little White Dragon''s heart, a shouting voice echoed. Immediately after, a Frog Demon sshed down from above into Eagle Sorrow Gully, swimming up to the Little White Dragon.


    "Well? Did you find the Scripture Seeker? When will hee to rescue me?"


    Seeing the Little Demon he had sent out returning, the Little White Dragon asked eagerly.

 Chapter 100 Tasks with Attached Failure Penalties

    ```


    Trudging along, a day''s journey might cover twenty to thirty miles; there was no rush. After half a month or so, they finally could see a city in the distance, and atst, they were within the bounds of Wu City.


    Entering the city, they inquired about the old man''s daughter''s whereabouts, and upon finding her home, they visited her.


    Upon hearing the tragic news from Xiaotian Vige, the daughter wept bitterly. Of course, she was endlessly grateful for Jiang Liu''s kind act of bringing her father to her.


    "Holy Monk, for your immense kindness, I will be forever indebted..." the old man also turned his head and earnestly said to Jiang Liu.


    For the old man, Jiang Liu''s action was nothing less than the grace of saving his life.


    After all, without his escort along the way, an old man like himself, alone and without family, would have surely perished, whether he stayed in Xiaotian Vige or set out on the road by himself.


    "It''s time to part ways, old benefactor," with his palms pressed together, Jiang Liu bade his farewell. Seeing that the daughter and son-inw were willing to take care of the old man, Jiang Liu felt quite content.


    Tip: Mission "Escort"pleted, reward 7000 Experience Points.


    After bidding farewell to the old man, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong strolled through Wu City, stopping at a grain store to replenish their supplies of rice, flour, and vegetables.


    Although Wu City was no longer within the territory of the Great Tang, where copper coins were no longer epted, fortunately, gold and silver were universally epted currencies.


    However, after stocking up on rice, flour, and vegetables, Jiang Liu showed no hurry to leave Wu City. Instead, he spent some silver coins to set up a stall and put up a sign that read clearly: Free treatment for sprains and injuries, no charge.


    Yet, with the sign set up, almost a whole day passed without anyoneing over, leaving Jiang Liu somewhat baffled.


    Could the city really be that safe? No one had even the simplest of injuries?


    Or could it be that, despite the free services advertised, his stall simply went unnoticed?


    "Maybe I need to ce some advertisements?" Jiang Liu mused after some thought.


    If people didn''t know about his stall, they wouldn''te to him for healing, which meant the second stage of his ss-change mission could be dyed indefinitely.


    While he was quite willing to dy the Journey to the West, he hoped toplete this ss-change mission sooner rather thanter.


    "Master, we''ve had hardly anyonee by; isn''t this terribly boring?" Sun Wukongined, lying on a bamboo rattan chair, idly swatting at flies. He watched the indifferent passersby and couldn''t help but speak out.


    "Hmm, so, Monkey, how about you do a few somersaults?" Jiang Liu nodded slightly and suggested to Sun Wukong.


    To attract attention, some advertising was needed, and performing a monkey show seemed to be an effective way. Besides, there was already a monkey on hand.


    "No, my somersaults won''t draw as much attention as you removing your hat. Just take it off, and you''ll create an instant sensation," Sun Wukong said nonchntly as he picked his nose and flicked away a booger.


    "Huh? You can be quite sharp sometimes, Monkey," Jiang Liu was momentarily surprised, then his eyes lit up upon hearing Sun Wukong''s remark.


    "Of course!" Sun Wukong responded proudly, his tail wagging behind him.


    However, it didn''t take long for the Monkey to realize something, "Wait? Hey, Master, are you saying I''m usually stupid?"


    Jiang Liu merely smiled at Sun Wukong''s question and didn''t answer. Heeding his suggestion, he took off the Vidyaraja crown from his head and ced it on the table beside him.


    The twelve Incense Scar Initiations on his head were nowpletely revealed.


    Indeed, just as Sun Wukong had said, the passersby who nced at Jiang Liu''s stall were instantly drawn to the twelve distinctive marks on his head, causing a buzz of amazement.


    In no more than the time it takes for half a tea to brew, the crowd had swarmed Jiang Liu''s stall, threeyers deep inside and out.


    ```


    "Everyone, this poor monk is on a divine mission from the Emperor of Tang to pray to Buddha and seek scriptures in Western Heaven. Passing by here is kismet, and thus I have set up a stall with the intent to offer free treatment of sprains and injuries to the people, as a form of good deed," Jiang Liu said as he saw countless people crowding around his stall, forming rings both inside and out.


    As expected, fame does indeed make things easier.


    In no time, many people had learned that a monk with the Incense Scar Initiation was offering free treatment for injuries. One after another, people began to seek his aid.


    Conditions such as colds and flu are beyond my capabilities to heal. I can only treat injuries from falls and blows.


    Some people got hurt when they fell while repairing roofs; some cut their fingers while chopping vegetables at home; others injured themselves while practicing martial arts...


    For these injuries, Jiang Liu naturally turned no one away. Using the Guanyin Mantra skill over and over, their injuries, not too severe to begin with, were healed as their health bars above their heads were replenished with each application of the skill.


    To onlookers, Jiang Liu''s methods appeared to be immediately effective, enhancing his reputation even further.


    Reminder: Quest progression for ss change is 14/200.


    Reminder: Quest progression for ss change is 22/200.


    Reminder: Quest progression for ss change is 33/200.


    ...


    One after another, people came seeking treatment for their injuries, but the Guanyin Mantra skill required a 600-second cooldown time, which greatly limited the speed ofpleting the task.


    However, seeing thepletion of the task gradually increasing, Jiang Liu was quite satisfied. At this rate, he should be able to finish the second task of the ss change in just a few days.


    But as the seconds and minutes ticked away and the sky gradually darkened, suddenly, a dozen soldiers in armor pushed through the crowd and approached Jiang Liu.


    "Master, please lend us your aid," one of the guards said as they brought over several stretchers with four soldiers lying on them, severely injured.


    One of them was even close to being gutted, with blood gushing non-stop and a deathly paleplexion. The injuries of these soldiers, clearly caused by ded weapons, were evident at first nce.


    "Guanyin Mantra," seeing the soldier with the most serious injuries, Jiang Liu quickly applied the Guanyin Mantra skill, improving his condition slightly; then he took out a Healing Potion from his bag and poured it down the soldier''s throat to stabilize the injury.


    With thebined treatment, the soldier, who had just a sliver of health left, saw his health bar above his head recover to about 30%.


    Though still gravely injured, there was no immediate danger to his life.


    "Gentlemen, how did youe to be injured like this?" Having temporarily pulled the most badly wounded back from the brink of death, Jiang Liu immediately asked with curiosity.


    "Master, you are unaware. Recently, a group of strong bandits has emerged. They are highly skilled in martial arts. Many of our brothers went to eliminate them but ended up being killed by the bandits, suffering heavy casualties yet again," the leading soldier said with a shake of his head and a sigh.


    "Eh? Are these people in need of help?" Hearing the soldier''s words, Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up slightly.


    Is the trigger for a quest when someone truly needs help and I express my willingness to assist?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    This is a good opportunity to find out.


    "Master, with your healing abilities, could you possibly join us and lend a hand for the people of Wu City?"


    However, before Jiang Liu could offer to help, the leading soldier took the initiative to ask for aid, clearly impressed by Jiang Liu''s Guanyin Mantra healing method.


    Reminder: Quest "Eliminate Harm for the People" triggered. Quest requirements: Eradicate bandits near Wu City. Quest rewards: 14000 Experience Points, Repair Oil (Primary Level); Failure penalty: Deduction of 14000 Experience Points. ept/Decline?

 Chapter 101 Humans Can Turn into Demons

    This sudden task trigger stirred something in Jiang Liu''s heart.


    Although on the surface, it seemed like just a simple task trigger, it revealed a lot of information.


    Firstly, there was a punishment for failure in this task; the previous task to exterminate the demon horde and the escort task had no failure punishment, but this one did, why?


    Fortunately, such tasks with failure punishment were not mandatory, as he was given the choice to ept or reject them.


    The non-mandatory nature of the task eased Jiang Liu''s mind significantly.


    Secondly, based on the two tasks previously triggered, along with his own experimentation, Jiang Liu had deduced that a task would be triggered if someone genuinely needed help and he offered to assist.


    But now, it seemed that tasks could also be triggered if someone asked for his help without him offering first, right?


    This point strangely felt like a d¨¦j¨¤ vu from online games.


    In games, NPCs needed help from yers, which led to tasks, and in Jiang Liu''s reality, people seeking his help also triggered tasks, which seemed reasonable now, didn''t it?


    If someone asked for his help, he could choose to ept or reject, and so the triggered tasks were also optional?


    However, the attachment of a failure punishment to a task, did it ur under such circumstances?


    Could it be that the system silently decreed if he agreed to something, he had to seed no matter what?


    Lastly and most importantly, there was the reward of Experience Points.


    The task of eliminating the demon horde only offered a meager 12,000 Experience Points, yet this task of exterminating bandits awarded a whopping 14,000 Experience Points.


    Could these bandits truly be more formidable than the demons of Returning Wind Mountain?


    Clearly, this was impossible.


    So what, then? Seek wealth within danger, is it that because there was a failure penalty, the Experience Points reward was higher?


    ...


    The sudden appearance of this task notification set off thousands of thoughts in Jiang Liu''s heart, leading to many spections as he mulled over them silently. The guard beside him, seeing Jiang Liu''s pensive silence, thought he was reluctant to help. Although disappointed, the guard still bowed with a fist salute, "Master, are you unwilling to ept?


    Forgive my presumption, but regardless, I am still grateful for your intervention."


    "No, you''re mistaken, what I was contemting was simply the caliber of bandits that could be so fearsome. Naturally, I am willing to help," hearing the guard''s words, Jiang Liu came back to his senses and epted the task.


    Naturally, he also took on the task that had been triggered.


    For Jiang Liu, it was just about exterminating some bandits and with Sun Wukong, the super bodyguard, by his side, there was no worry about safety.


    Being able to level up while fighting monsters andpleting tasks was naturally worth the trip.


    It was already getting dark, so after Jiang Liu used the Guanyin Mantra to temporarily stabilize the wounded guards, he discussed the n to head out and dispose of the bandits the next morning before they parted ways for the time being.


    That night, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong found an inn to stay in within the city. Naturally, they had their meal at the inn, where Sun Wukongined that the food was much worse than what Jiang Liu made, but let''s not talk about that...


    The next morning, Jiang Liu met up with the guards at the city gate. Seeing them in armor, armed with weapons, and numbering nearly a hundred, it was apparent that the bandits they were going after were quite powerful.


    "Master, let''s go," there is a certain solemnity thates with a military force on the move. The leading guard greeted Jiang Liu and then headed straight out of the city gates, going westward.


    "May I ask, are the bandits we''re going to exterminate arge and powerful group?" Jiang Liu curiously asked as he watched the nearly hundred-strong military force set out.


    "Aren''t ordinary thieves just groups of a dozen or twenty people?"


    "Master, it isn''t a gang with arge number of strong robbers; there are merely six individuals. However, they are extremely powerful and ruthless," the guard replied upon hearing Jiang Liu''s question.


    "Only six people?" Jiang Liu was taken aback.


    Only six people, yet so many guards mobilized to deal with them?


    "Yes, those thieves are highly skilled in martial arts; they must have reached the Body Tempering Realm," the guard nodded and answered.


    "Six Body Tempering Realm thieves? That''s indeed a considerable force," Jiang Liu nodded upon hearing this.


    Yet, he felt even more puzzled. With such cultivation, why would they resort to thievery?


    The realms of human cultivators, as far as Jiang Liu knew, were divided into Qi Refinement, Meridian Unblocking, Body Tempering, Controlling-Law, Divinity Transformation, and Returning Void¡ªsix major realms. And above those was the Immortal Realm.


    Body Tempering Realm, does that mean they are characters who have surpassed level 20? That''sparable to the Demon Soldier Realm. To have such cultivation, and there are six of them, yet they have chosen to be thieves? This was truly iprehensible.


    Naturally, it was no wonder that these guards were fully prepared, deploying as many as hundreds of men to deal with them.


    "Master, speaking of which, these six thieves are quite strange indeed."


    Next to him, a young guard, roughly fifteen or sixteen, looking about the same age as Jiang Liu and rather talkative, said, "These six banditse and go without a trace; no one knows where their hideout is. It''s said that sometimes, when you are in an endlessly open area, these six bandits just pop out from the ground all of a sudden, without any warning."


    As he said this, the young fellow paused before continuing, "What''s most strange is that these six operate in a fixed area. No matter how many times we go to eradicate them, they show no intention of leaving. They don''t seem to be afraid of us at all. That''s the most infuriating part. That''s why this time so many have been dispatched, determined to obliterate these thieves once and for all."


    "It seems these thieves are indeed very odd," Jiang Liu nodded slightly.


    What thieves would not flee after being pursued by the government office multiple times?


    "Tsk..." Sun Wukong, who had been silent at the side, suddenly spoke up upon hearing the guard''s words, "From what you''re saying, these six might not even be human."


    "Not human? Could they be demon creatures?" The guard asked in surprise at Sun Wukong''s remark.


    Although somewhat strange, those six thieves clearly acted like humans and bore human appearances.


    "Wukong, do you know something?" Jiang Liu also looked at Sun Wukong in surprise. "As far as I know, if a demon creature transforms into a human shape, that would mean they are at the Demon King Realm, wouldn''t it? Could it be, you mean those six thieves are at the level of Demon Kings?"


    Six Demon Kingsing together to be thieves? That seemed utterly imusible, didn''t it?


    "Well, that''s not it. Master, you don''t understand. For the Demon n to transform into a Taoist Body, indeed they need to be at the Demon King Realm. But everything under heaven, from fish and insects to beasts, and even mountains and trees, can be demons¡ªwhy not humans? Like the Corpse Demons formed from dead human bodies, or demons born from the grudges of dying humans..."


    "White Bone Demon!" As Sun Wukong spoke, Jiang Liu instinctively thought of the White Bone Demon.


    As he recalled, the White Bone Demon was actually a human woman who, after death, had her grievances bound to her skeleton, transforming into a demon creature, right?


    "Eh? That makes some sense. The names of those six thieves are indeed odd, not like human names," remarked the guard, having an epiphany.


    "Oh? What are the names of those six thieves?"


    "They are called Eye-Seeing Joy, Ear-Hearing Fury, Nose-Smelling Love, Tongue-Tasting Thought, Opinion Desire, Body-Originated Sadness."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Jiang Liu: "..."

 Chapter 102 Little White Dragon: Im Really Too Clever

    Serpent Coiling Mountain Eagle Sorrow Gully.


    A White Dragon''s majority of its body was submerged underwater, exposing only an asional scale or w, its dragon might extraordinary.


    A huge dragon head rose above the water, its pupils constricting, its expression dazed.


    In front of the Little White Dragon, this Frog Demon felt as though the air itself had solidified, trembling inwardly, panic-stricken.


    "What did you say? The Scripture Seeker didn''t believe what you told him?" the White Dragon asked after a moment of silence.


    "Yes, it''s true. I told him you were waiting for him in Eagle Sorrow Gully, willing to transform into a white horse and carry him on the Journey to the West. But, he said I was deceiving him," stammering with fear, the Frog Demon nodded repeatedly.


    "Then, did you not tell him I was enlightened by Bodhisattva Guanyin?" the White Dragon''s tone rose by two notches.


    "I did, but the Holy Monk still didn''t believe me. If I hadn''t run fast, I might have been beaten to death," the Frog Demon nodded hastily, almost crying when recalling the first encounter with Jiang Liu and hispanions.


    Upon first meeting, the Holy Monk and the Great Sage had rushed to attack, and all he did was deliver a message, which nearly cost him his life.


    "What should be done about this..." Hearing the Frog Demon''s tale, the White Dragon twisted its body, causing tumultuous waves in Eagle Sorrow Gully, muttering softly to itself.


    Having been enlightened by Bodhisattva Guanyin, it had joyfully awaited the arrival of the Scripture Seeker, only to have its expectations turned to the current dismal situation.


    However, fortunately, Jiang Liu only pretended not to believe the Frog Demon''s words, so the Little White Dragon was unaware that Jiang Liu had intentionally dismissed it.


    Thinking that Jiang Liu had already detoured to the southeast, and if it didn''t take action, he would truly bypass Eagle Sorrow Gully and leave, the Little White Dragon decided after some contemtion to go find the Scripture Seeker in person and rify its identity.


    Although it had been imprisoned in Eagle Sorrow Gully by the Jade Emperor, since it was enlightened by Bodhisattva Guanyin, its hardship was presumably resolved.


    With a thought, it no longer cared for the consequences. The Little White Dragon emitted a loud dragon roar, soaring out of Eagle Sorrow Gully, heading in the southeast direction.


    As the White Dragon took flight, clouds and rain followed in the sky...


    ...


    Let us leave aside for the moment the situation at Eagle Sorrow Gully. Elsewhere, Jiang Liu, along with the guards from Wu City, set out and reached the area where a group of six thieves operated.


    Since their of the six thieves was not known, appearing as if out of thin air, these guards were merely searching within the area where the thieves had been active.


    However, fortunately, without wasting much time, the guards split into three squads, and after a brief search, they quickly found traces of the thieves.


    Hearing shouts in the distance, Jiang Liu, who was with one of the search parties, hurried toward the direction of themotion.


    Indeed, several fierce bandits were seen shing with the guards, their attacks were sharp and powerful, leaving several guards lying on the ground injured.


    Jiang Liu saw clearly that a guard struck with his knife, but one of the thieves raised their arm to block the blow, resulting in only a superficial cut on their skin.


    "Is this a sign of Body Tempering Realm cultivation level?" Seeing the thief''s bodily defense ability, Jiang Liu was inwardly shocked.


    Guanyin Mantra!


    Knowing his job, Jiang Liu raised his hand and a healing Guanyin Mantranded on the most seriously wounded guard, significantly restoring his Health Points.


    At the same time, he raised his palm andunched a Taoist Magic Swift Fire Bead at the opponents.


    The fireball exploded directly on one of the thieves, and under the double damage enhancement of the Redwood Ring, his health bar plummeted drastically.


    Although Jiang Liu''s level was lower than these thieves, the boost from his full set of equipment plus the destructive power of his skills still caused considerable damage to these targets only a few levels higher than himself.


    "What a skilled Mage!" Seeing Jiang Liu''s Swift Fire Bead''s Taoist Magic st one of the thieves into a charred state, the leader of the guards next to him expressed both shock and delight.


    Originally, they thought Jiang Liu was only proficient in healing, but surprisingly, he also possessed such demon-subduing divine skills.


    Sun Wukong, who was on the side, watched eagerly. These were just little demons formed from human resentment, and yet they were causing so much trouble. If I, Old Sun, made a move, one strike per demon, it would be a breeze.


    However, Sun Wukong had been squeezed by Jiang Liu before, who imed he bullies the weak and fears the strong, so Sun Wukong refrained from taking action.


    Still, Sun Wukong''s gaze lingered on Jiang Liu, and he wasn''t sure if it was an illusion, but he felt that in just around a month or so, Jiang Liu''s cultivation level seemed to have increased a lot.


    Hint: You have gained 2360 Experience Points and 120 gold.


    Hint: You have gained 2500 Experience Points and 125 gold.


    Although the strength of these six thieves was indeed notable, Jiang Liu''s prowess was equally impressive, and with the help of the guards nearby, they gained the upper hand. After a brief fight, two of the thieves were killed, their bodies turning into light smoke and disappearing, proving they were indeed demon creatures, not living humans.


    "A thief yields over 2000 Experience Points, so six would give me around 10000 Experience Points, right? Plus the reward forpleting the task, this loot isn''t too shabby," thought Jiang Liu to himself, quite satisfied after ying two thieves in session.


    More importantly, the levels of those guards were not high, and in the state of fighting together, as if in a team-battle scenario, the loot that burst forth was likely automatically picked up into the bag space.


    However, at this moment, suddenly the sound of dragon chanting resounded from the sky, apanied by clouds and rain, instantly drawing everyone''s attention.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    In the midst of the dark clouds, they could see apletely white dragon tumbling in the sea of clouds.


    "A dragon!?" Seeing the dragon appearing in the sky, the guards were astounded, as it was naturally the first time for these ordinary people to witness a living dragon.


    "A White Dragon? Could this be..." But as Jiang Liu watched the sudden appearance of the dragon, his heart sank slightly.


    Under Jiang Liu''s gaze, the White Dragon dived down, its mouth opened wide, exhaling a burst of Dragon Fire and instantly turning two of the closer-standing thieves into ash.


    At the same time, its Dragon w grabbed one of the thieves and its mouth picked up thest thief, flying high into the sky, and in the blink of an eye, thest two thieves were also killed.


    Hint: You have gained 350 Experience Points.


    Hint: You have gained 260 Experience Points.


    Hint: You have gained 10 Experience Points.


    ...


    The continual system hints made Jiang Liu''s face darken slightly; he had been monster-killed again, hadn''t he?


    The White Dragon, who danced in the sky and struck down thest four thieves as swiftly as a thunderbolt, transformed into a young man in a white robe andnded in front of Jiang Liu, kneeling on one knee and saying loudly, "Little Dragon Aolie, pays respect to Master".


    Kneeling on one knee before Jiang Liu, Aolie felt he was truly clever, making a grand entrance by helping his master take care of several enemies; surely, his master would be very pleased?


    He believed he had certainly made a good first impression.

 Chapter 103 Hell Definitely Be Moved by How Fast I Run, Right?

    Little White Dragon knelt on one knee, feeling very pleased with his own cleverness. He had made quite the entrance, ying several demon creatures for the Scripture Seeker. After all, you don''t hit a smiling face, so the Scripture Seeker should have a good impression of him.


    Then, by revealing his identity, he would surely be a member of the Journey to the West Pilgrimage Team. All he had to do was reach the Western Spirit Mountain, and his merits would beplete.


    For him, the path of the Journey to the West was essentially a road to sess...


    In Little White Dragon''s heart, he fantasized about the ennobling ceremony awaiting him at Spirit Mountain. However, Jiang Liu''s face was dark as he looked at him.


    A good first impression? You must be kidding. If it hadn''t been for the fact that he couldn''t defeat him, Jiang Liu would have really liked to beat him up right then to vent his frustration.


    The White Dragon Horse was so eager to seek the Western Scriptures, he must be a staunch supporter of this westward endeavor, clearly aiming for the ennoblement by the Western Heaven, which was almost theplete opposite of Jiang Liu''s goal. Therefore, Jiang Liu hadn''t wanted to ept him from the start.


    If he could leave him behind and go on foot to the Western Heaven, that would be perfect.


    But now, to his dismay, the White Dragon had actually taken it upon himself to catch up.


    It would have been fine if he had just caught up, but the remaining evil demons could have been in by Jiang Liu himself, earning him Experience Points. Who would have thought that the White Dragon Horse would take action and quickly finish them off?


    Was he being kill-stolen?


    "Ahem, your name is Aolie, right? Why do you call me master? What virtues or abilities do I possess to deserve to be your master?", after a moment of silence, Jiang Liu, with a darkened face, finally spoke.


    Kneeling on one knee, Little White Dragon raised his head to look at Jiang Liu and was puzzled to see his gloomy expression.


    But he honestly replied, "Reporting to master, due to some errors Imitted, I was detained by the Jade Emperor in Eagle Sorrow Stream to be punished. Fortunately, thepassionate Bodhisattva enlightened me, allowing me to follow master on the quest for scriptures to the Western Heaven, transforming into the Dragon Horse to serve as your mount.


    Therefore, I havee to join you of my own ord, and I hope the master can see the truth."


    As expected of a Crown Prince from the Dragon n, his speech was coherent and impable, leaving an impression of a dignified presence.


    The guards of Wu City beside them looked at each other in dismay, stealing nces at Little White Dragon and Jiang Liu, feeling that Master Xuanzang''s status seemed far more daunting than they had ever imagined.


    A White Dragoning forth voluntarily, willing to transform into the Dragon Horse to be ridden, and even influenced by the Bodhisattva''s guidance?


    Just who exactly is this Master Xuanzang?


    It seemed like they had overheard an incredible conversation.


    "Oh, the humble monk thanks you for your kind intentions. However, I have made a vow that on my way to the Western Heaven, I shall walk step by step, worship at every temple, sweep every pagoda, and personally reach Spirit Mountain to truly express my devotion to Buddha. Please go back," after hearing Little White Dragon''s words, Jiang Liu waved his hand and outright rejected him.


    As Jiang Liu finished speaking, he turned away without giving Little White Dragon any further attention and greeted Sun Wukong and the guards to head back to Wu City together.


    With Little White Dragon''s intervention, the task of ''Removing the Six Bandits'' was consideredplete, but with the Experience Points stolen, Jiang Liu felt somewhat displeased.


    Reminder: Completed the task ''Eliminating Havoc for the People'', gained 14000 Experience Points, and received Repair Oil (Primary).


    Thankfully, the system''s prompt appeared quickly, the Experience Points were credited, and the rewarded item automatically appeared in the inventory, which made Jiang Liu feel much better.


    Upon opening the inventory interface, indeed, there was a new small grey-ck bottle, and as Jiang Liu''s gazended on it, the Attribute Information for the bottle also emerged.


    Repair Oil (Primary): Consumable, a magical substance refined by a master cksmith, apply it on equipment to restore 10 points of Durability.


    "What a wonderful item!" Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up upon seeing the attribute information of the repair oil, and he was inwardly delighted.


    Equipment would wear out with continuous use, and its durability would steadily decline. Without a Life Profession of his own, there was nothing he could do but watch the durability decrease bit by bit.


    For instance, the Bodhi Ring had shattered due to exhaustion of its durability.


    The durability of the Legendary Level shing Brilliance Shoes was indeed low, and he had been fretting about it. Then this little bottle of repair oil appeared as if it was an answer to his urgent need.


    "Eh? Master, didn''t we send that old man on his way? Why are we going back?" Sun Wukong, walking beside Jiang Liu, tilted his head and asked in confusion.


    Sun Wukong''s words drew Jiang Liu''s attention away from the repair oil. He nced at him and said with a righteous expression, "Wukong, didn''t I say that I would set up a stall in Wu City to heal the people''s injuries? How can we simply hit the road when these matters aren''t settled yet? I am a man who keeps his word."


    "Hmm, I do quite like that about you, Master¡­" Sun Wukong grinned, showing his teeth.


    Perhaps because he felt deceived by the flip-flopping words of Tathagata before, Sun Wukong found Jiang Liu''smitment to his word especially likable.


    But, just mentioning this, the monkey subtly jerked his chin toward the back and said, "Master, are you really going to leave Little White Dragon behind? With him, couldn''t we reach the Western Heaven sooner?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Sun Wukong was naturally impatient. He had originallye out of the Five Elements Mountain to join Jiang Liu in upsetting heavens and deities. Buttely, Jiang Liu had been stopping and starting, dilly-dallying, which made Sun Wukong feel anxious.


    "Monkey, theter we reach Western Heaven, the higher my Cultivation Level will be," Jiang Liu turned his head to look at the impatient Sun Wukong and reminded him.


    These words added a contemtive look between Sun Wukong''s brows.


    It seemed that what the master said made sense, right?


    Jiang Liu andpany headed back to Wu City, their figures growing more distant, and as for Little White Dragon, he knelt on one knee on the ground, looking rather dumbfounded.


    Had the Scripture Seeker just refused him? And without a second thought at that?


    This was not at all what he had expected.


    If it had been any ordinary matter, Aolie could wave it off with indifference. Why bother chasing after rejection? He would have left already.


    However, the Journey to the West for Scriptures wasn''t just about his own future.


    Watching Jiang Liu''s party moving further away, Aolie fell into silence for a moment before clenching his teeth, temporarily setting aside his pride. In a sh, he transformed into a white horse and, like a swift whirlwind of white, he chased after Jiang Liu.


    Little White Dragon had made up his mind¡ªeven if it meant being shamelessly persistent, he was determined to join the Journey to the West.


    With a thought, his hooves flew, and he sped past Jiang Liu and the rest, vanishing into the horizon.


    Then, in the blink of an eye, the white horse, as fast as lightning, returned, racing like the wind.


    "So fast!" The guards of Wu City, witnessing the speed of the White Dragon Horse, were all dumbstruck with amazement.


    This praise from the guards filled the White Dragon Horse with inward joy, while he also awaited Jiang Liu''s change of heart.


    Seeing how fast he runs, could he possibly remain unmoved?

 Chapter 104 Restless Mind鈥?andering Thoughts

    Aolie, originally the third Crown Prince of the Western Sea Dragon Pce, was extraordinarily talented and naturally possessed unparalleled arrogance. As a prince of the Dragon n, one of the Four Seas, he was full of spirit before his banishment to Eagle Sorrow Stream.


    Unfortunately, now he was under the eaves and had no choice but to bow his head.


    It was precisely because he was born in the Dragon Pce that Aolie understood how difficult it was to rise within the system of Immortals and Buddhas, and this Journey to the West could be seen as a great fortuity arising from misfortune.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Thus, even if it meant swallowing his pride, like a piece of dog, err, sticking ster, he adhered to the Scripture Seeker, shamelessly determined to mix in all the way to the Western Heaven.


    He had disyed his unmatched swiftness in running. In the Little White Dragon''s view, the Scripture Seeker ought to have had a change of heart by now, right?


    Yet, to his astonishment, the Scripture Seeker remained unmoved, seemingly oblivious to his lightning-fast running speed.


    Running back and forth like a frolicking dog, the Scripture Seekerpletely ignored him as if he were thin air, which was somewhat unbearable to Aolie. Several thoughts crossed his mind: Should I stop serving such a difficult person and just leave?


    But then thinking of the consequences of leaving, he might have to spend his life suppressed under Eagle Sorrow Stream as punishment. If he could sessfully join the Scripture Seeking Team, on the other hand, there would be a broad and smooth road ahead. Even a fool would know how to choose whenparing the two.


    Therefore, just as the thought of giving up sprang to his mind, it was quickly suppressed by the Little White Dragon.


    Good thingse to those who wait, right? Wanting to achieve a Golden Body and True Fruition, what''s a little loss of face?


    Moreover, the thing he wanted to do could only be achieved by sessfully arriving at Spirit Mountain and receiving his title!


    What Aolie was thinking, Jiang Liu naturally didn''t have the inclination to concern himself with; he clearly saw the White Dragon Horse''s speed that was as fast as lightning.


    Watching such speed, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly, and his heart was even more resistant¡­


    Upon reaching Wu City, Jiang Liu naturally returned to his stall, carrying on with his work of healing the people of the world, offering treatments free of charge to every injuredmoner.


    The Guanyin Mantra fell one after another, and the progress of his second round of the ressing mission advanced steadily.


    Notice: Missionpletion 88/200


    Notice: Missionpletion 92/200


    Notice: Missionpletion 99/200.


    ...


    Because he exhibited twelve Scar of Precepts, it caused a significant celebrity effect. Along with the immediate effect of the Guanyin Mantra, nearly all minor bruises and injuries were healed with just one recitation, which also provoked a great response.


    Therefore, manymoners in Wu City were almost queueing up for Jiang Liu''s treatments.


    With the Guanyin Mantra''s cooldown time of 600 seconds, it could be cast six times an hour. From the look of this progress, it wouldn''t take too much time toplete the second part of his ressing mission.


    In front of the stall, Jiang Liu''s mind was focused on the injuredmoners, treating them with enthusiasm, while beside him, Sun Wukongy on a nk of wood, legs crossed, a tree branch dangling from his mouth, the epitome of boredom.


    Next to him, the White Dragon Horse also stood quietly, patiently waiting for Jiang Liu to finish his work.


    Although it did not understand why Jiang Liu would choose to treat themoners here rather than continue seeking the scriptures, it did not dare to ask more questions.


    Since the Scripture Seeker treated him as if he were as inconspicuous as air, he decided to follow along with a thick face.


    "Hey, you''re the Little White Dragon called Aolie, aren''t you?" Perhaps because Sun Wukong was bored, he suddenly struck up a conversation with the White Dragon Horse beside him.


    "Yes, Great Saint, my name is Aolie," the White Dragon Horse hurriedly replied upon hearing Sun Wukong''s words.


    Not to mention that he was already a member of the Scripture Seeking Team and needed to establish a good rtionship with him, but given his past identity as the Great Sage Equalling Heaven, that held a lot of weight.


    "Surname Ao, eh? As I know, only the Dragon Kings of the four seas have the surname Ao," Sun Wukong continued after receiving Little White Dragon''s reply.


    "Yes, the Little Dragon is indeed the third Crown Prince of the Western Sea Dragon King. When Great Sage visited the Eastern Sea to borrow weapons, my royal father also gifted Great Sage a Phoenix-Wing Purple Gold Crown," the White Dragon Horse eagerly offered, seeing that Sun Wukong was willing to chat with him, aiming to draw a bit closer in their rtionship.


    "Oh, I remember now. The Old Dragon King of the Eastern Sea was indeed a bit stingy. I merely took the Sea Calming Needle, yet when I wanted to ask for armor, it turns out that the Golden Chainmail, Phoenix-Wing Purple Gold Crown, and Lotus Fment Step-on-Cloud Shoes were all cobbled together by his three brothers."


    Thinking back to when he went to the Eastern Sea to retrieve the Sea Calming Needle, Sun Wukong couldn''t help but grumble about it.


    The Dragon King of Eastern Sea was indeed wealthy, and it''s true that the Dragon n loves to collect treasures, but, ultimately, they were a bit too stingy.


    "However, back then, receiving a Phoenix-Wing Purple Gold Crown from your Western Sea did add to your poprity. Not bad, not bad at all."


    "It was just a Phoenix-Wing Purple Gold Crown. If you, Great Sage, like it, I am willing to acquire a few more treasures for you," the White Dragon Horse said, following Sun Wukong''s remark.


    However, at this point, he paused briefly before adding, "It''s just that back then, Great Sage, you had newlypleted your training and had no treasures with you, but now you are renowned throughout the Three Realms, with an illustrious name. I imagine some of the treasures of our Dragon n probably won''t catch your eye.


    Five hundred years ago, Great Sage, your grace and power truly shook the Three Realms and Six Paths. I, Little Dragon, have always admired you."


    "Hehehe, you Little White Dragon, you do have some insight, but don''t go on praising me too much. Saying too much can seem tacky," Sun Wukong said with a snicker, his eyes crinkling into smiles. He sat up straight and, while clearly overjoyed, almost ready to do a couple of somersaults, he still spoke with reserve.


    After a short pause, Sun Wukong spoke seriously, "Such praise, let''s keep it to no more than ten times a day, uh, make it twenty."


    The White Dragon Horse at his side, upon hearing this, was momentarily stunned. His horse face twitched slightly, then he nodded and said, "Understood, Great Sage."


    "Alright, enough with calling me Great Sage. Call me ''Eldest Brother'' instead. Since you were enlightened by Guanyin, you will eventually join us on our journey," Sun Wukong said, patting the White Dragon Horse''s head. Though he was short and thin, he carried theposure of a big brother.


    "Really!? Thank you, Eldest Brother!" Although Sun Wukong couldn''t decide whether he would stay or go, by saying those words, he had at least epted him, which overjoyed the White Dragon Horse.


    Jiang Liu was waiting for the Cooldown Time of the Guanyin Mantra skill when he nced over.


    He naturally heard the conversation between Sun Wukong and the White Dragon Horse, which urred right beside him, without any intent of avoiding him.


    Looking at Sun Wukong swinging his tail behind his butt, Jiang Liu''s face turned a shade darker. Was Sun Wukong eager to keep the White Dragon Horse close just to listen to his own praises, or was it again to hear praises of himself?


    Seeing how Sun Wukong and the White Dragon Horse were getting along so well, Jiang Liu shook his head helplessly, "Mind like a wild monkey, heart like a runaway horse. Isn''t that phrase just right? This monkey and horse seem to be getting on like a house on fire."


    "By the way, Eldest Brother, I have a question. Master didn''t want to take me in. How did you manage to get him to agree to take you on?"


    Having a pleasant conversation, the White Dragon Horse casually asked Sun Wukong, curious.

 Chapter 105 The Last Phase of the Job Change Quest

    Aolie looked at Sun Wukong curiously, not just on the surface, but truly intrigued in his heart.


    Having been enlightened by Guanyin to be the Scripture Seeker''s steed, transformed into the White Dragon Horse to carry him on the Journey to the West, Yet, the Scripture Seeker simply refused to ept him. Despite his persistence, he could not get a nod of agreement. So how had Sun Wukong managed to do it?


    He wanted to listen and see if there was anything to learn from him, to see if there was any reference value in Sun Wukong''s methods.


    After all, both he and Sun Wukong had been enlightened by the Bodhisattva and were to follow the Scripture Seeker to the Western Heaven. Theoretically, they should be quite simr, right?


    "Ah?", upon hearing the White Dragon Horse''s words, Sun Wukong opened his mouth, an odd look on his face.


    "What''s the matter, Eldest Brother? Is there some secret unknown to others, something you can''t speak of?", noticing the change in Sun Wukong''s demeanor, the White Dragon Horse asked quietly.


    His attitude was very considerate. If there was some secret unknown to others, then he would not press further.


    "No, actually, how should I put it? I, Old Sun, didn''t want to go seek the scriptures in the Western Heaven. It was Master himself begging me to go¡­", Sun Wukong shook his head, then revealed the truth.


    White Dragon Horse: "...".


    "Back then, I, Old Sun, kept saying no, but he kept persuading me patiently day after day, even making meals for me every day. In the end, there was no other way. After all, being suppressed under the Five Elements Mountain was just that, so I decided toe out and have a look."


    Sun Wukong, unable to speak of his secret agreement with Jiang Liu about overturning the Heavenly Deities and Buddhas, made a helpless gesture.


    "Eldest Brother, stop talking...", every word from Sun Wukong was like a needle piercing into the White Dragon Horse''s heart, and he then realized why Sun Wukong''s gaze had seemed so strange.


    So it turns out everyone was brought here by the Bodhisattva''s enlightenment, but the treatment waspletely different?


    Bowing his head, the White Dragon Horse fell silent, his expression downcast, clearly stung by Sun Wukong''s words.


    He tried desperately to join while the Scripture Seeker didn''t want him, yet Sun Wukong desperately tried to refuse but ended up being the one whom the Scripture Seeker eagerly begged to join?


    ¡­


    As for how the White Dragon Horse was feeling, Jiang Liu naturally did not pay attention; his mind was entirely focused on healing.


    After staying in Wu City for three days, by the afternoon of the third day, thest person with a broken leg was brought before Jiang Liu. A Guanyin Mantra was cast, which significantly healed the man''s injuries.


    Notice: Current missionpletion: 200/200.


    "All right, everyone, today is this monk''sst day here. Our paths have crossed, and now they diverge as I must continue my Journey to the West. May we have the chance to meet again..."


    With another Guanyin Mantra, Jiang Liu gave the viger diligent instructions to rest well, then he spoke aloud.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    In front of the stall, there were still a dozen people lined up waiting for healing. Although Jiang Liu wanted to bring things to a proper conclusion, every minute and second was a race against time for his own life, and he dared not waste it on others. After apologizing, he turned decisively to leave.


    Seeing Jiang Liu striding away, while some vigers wanted to follow, Jiang Liu was prepared for this moment. Guards from Wu City appeared and prevented the vigers from pursuing him.


    "Many thanks to all of you," at the gate of Wu City, Jiang Liu brought his hands together and thanked the leading guard.


    "What are you saying, Master? If it weren''t for your help that day, our brothers would have suffered heavy casualties. This little help from us is nothing," said the guard from Wu City, a mix of respect and fear in his voice as he hurriedly returned the gesture.


    Without any intention of making idle chitchat, Jiang Liu said his farewells to the guards of Wu City and continued on the Journey to the West, apanied by Sun Wukong.


    As for the White Dragon Horse? There was no need to summon it. It would shamelessly stick to them, unable to be shooed away and unbeatable in a fight, so Jiang Liu pretended not to notice it.


    After all, he couldn''t really let Sun Wukong strike and kill it, right?


    With that thought, Jiang Liu nced over and saw Sun Wukong sitting on the White Dragon Horse, grinning as they chatted¡ªthe monkey and the horse seemed quite at ease.


    The White Dragon Horse, with its pleasant speech and free ttery, had Sun Wukong thoroughly enjoying himself, asionally even doing a couple of somersaults on the horse''s back.


    "That''s it then, seems like the pleasure of buttering up the monkey has been stolen," Jiang Liu inwardly sighed with resignation. Before, it had always been him sweet-talking the monkey, but now the White Dragon Horse seemed to have formed a strong bond with Sun Wukong.


    "Well done, good show, Little Monk," called out a woodcutter walking by the roadside, who thought the somersaults performed by Sun Wukong on the back of the White Dragon Horse were meant for his entertainment, loudly apuding and, in the midst of talking, tossed out two copper coins.


    "Thank you, Benefactor!" Jiang Liu bent down to pick up the two copper coins, epting the kind gesture.


    However, looking at the copper coins in his hand, then at the monkey and the horse beside him, it seemed he had be like a circus performer, a monkey handler, hadn''t he?


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu brushed away the jumbled thoughts in his mind, pocketed the two copper coins, and silently invoked in his heart, "Mission List."


    As Jiang Liu silently called it up, the Mission List opened directly. Inside the list was a single, lone mission¡ªthe second phase of the upation-changing task wasplete, and now, only thest phase remained.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze settled on it, the specific details of the upation-changing mission appeared before him.


    upation-changing Mission (3/3): Requirement, solo kill a creature at least 10 levels higher than oneself. Uponpletion, reward with one opportunity to change upation.


    Looking at this final phase of the upation-changing mission, Jiang Liu''s expression became somewhat strange; he found thisst step of the mission unreasonable.


    The Monk upation is entirely a support type, right? Although he had means ofbat, skills like Arhat Fist and Swift Fire Bead were not Monk skills; Monk skills were all about buffs and control.


    Yet, this upation-changing mission actually required him to fight? And even had to bepleted solo? Moreover, thebat target had to surpass his own level by 10?


    If it were any ordinary Monk Professional, how would theyplete such a task? Wasn''t this setting someone up for failure?


    Fortunately, he was lucky to havebat skills and strong equipment for support.


    Targets surpassing my level by more than 10? That would be level 30 or above, wouldn''t it?


    Level 0 and above are Demons, level 10 and above are Demon Soldiers...


    "Hmm, this task wants me to defeat a Demon General alone? Indeed, it''s difficult, but not without hope of sess," he murmured to himself, nodding after a moment of contemtion.


    No need to mention the Vidyaraja Crown and shing Brilliance Shoes for self-preservation, being apanied by Sun Wukong and having the Brocade Kasaya, he was already unbeatable, nothing to fear.


    However, thinking of the existence at the Demon General Level, Jiang Liu''s mind reflexively recalled the day when Jinshan Temple was attacked by the Three-Eyed Crow Demon General.


    Back then, with all his methods, he could not possibly have defeated it, especially with the strange Spells the Demon General had used¡ªits strength was truly formidable.


    Yet, times had changed, and his strength was no longer what it had been...

 Chapter 106 Waiting for the Strange Visitor

    Regarding the choice to change his profession, Jiang Liu felt some hesitation. The two avable professions, Compassionate Bodhisattva and Immovable Ming King, had different attributes: the former was more support-oriented, and thetter morebat-focused.


    Back when he was still at Jinshan Temple, considering his future profession change, Jiang Liu wanted to be an Immovable Ming King. After all, this was the real world, and possessing great strength was necessary.


    He surely couldn''t always rely on others, hiding in the back and casting a few healing and buff skills, right?


    But what if he eventually had no teammates?


    Now, however, Jiang Liu''s thoughts had shifted. Considering his current situation, it seemed that changing into a Compassionate Bodhisattva might be quite good?


    His biggest concern before was theck of his attack power, which is why he wanted to be an Immovable Ming King. But now, Jiang Liu realized that in the world of Journey to the West, he could learn the original spells and divine skills using Skill Points. Moreover, he had the special equipment, the Skill Bookcase, which allowed learning three skills from other professions.


    Given that he wouldn''tck ways to fight in the future, he thought that overall, the Compassionate Bodhisattva seemed more suitable.


    After all, what would his final battle be like? It would be fighting against the myriad heavenly deities and buddhas, perhaps even facing hundreds, thousands, or tens of thousands at once.


    Therefore, in arge-scale battle, control skills, buffs, and healing abilities could significantly extend the endurance of the war effort. All his preparations had to be for the final battle at Spirit Mountain.


    While pondering over the matter of changing professions, he traveled onwards, and in the blink of an eye, several days had passed.


    During these days, the journey went very smoothly, and he didn''t encounter any powerful demon creatures. At most there were a few highwaymen or wild beasts like tigers, leopards, jackals, and wolves, which Jiang Liu could easily eliminate with a single cast of the Taoist Swift Fire Bead spell.


    Thus, these days, Jiang Liu''s acquisition of Experience Points was mainly through cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound method.


    Since reaching level 20, Jiang Liu secretly calcted that in the past days, he had umted over a hundred thousand Experience Points; however, he still had not advanced to level 21.


    He wasn''t sure if it was because the Experience Points were insufficient or if the experience got stuck due to an iplete profession change task.


    The goal of the profession change task was to single-handedly y a level 30 or above Demon General. Having not encountered any demons these days, naturally, this final task for the profession change was left iplete.


    On this day, after having dinner with Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu didn''t seem inclined to continue their Journey to the West. As dusk approached, they stopped to rest again.


    However, in the middle of the night, the sudden howling of wolves erupted, echoing from all around, growing closer and louder from every direction.


    Hearing this sound, Jiang Liu naturally awoke from his meditative cultivation, clutching his Green Lotus Staff as he stood up.


    The White Dragon Horse, sensing the pack of wolves and wanting to prove its worth by dealing with them, was about to take action. But suddenly, Sun Wukong grabbed its leg.


    "Big brother?" With Sun Wukong still lying down nonchntly, appearing indifferent, the White Dragon Horse was taken aback.


    "Don''t worry, they''re just little demons. The master can handle it. If you help out, it would actually displease him," Sun Wukong said, lying on his back with his legs crossed, seeming utterly unconcerned.


    "Ah? If we take care of some little demons, master would be displeased?" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, the White Dragon Horse was surprised.


    At the same time, he remembered the day when he first met his master. In an attempt to impress and create a good impression, he had volunteered to deal with a few Little Demons transformed by resentment. His master''s face had turned somewhat dark, and he looked displeased. Back then, he had found it odd, but now, he seemed to understand what was going on.


    "Big brother, our master, he seems to have some odd quirks, doesn''t he? Apart from this, are there any others? Can you tell me about them..." It''s no wonder the master had always refused to ept him. The original impression had been very bad indeed, White Dragon Horse said with a strange tone, while quietly speaking to Sun Wukong.


    There was no other choice. From the first meeting, White Dragon Horse could tell that Jiang Liu was somewhat distant towards him, which was why he had always refused to ept him. He had to resort to a more indirect approach, starting by building a good rtionship with Sun Wukong.


    Now that he had established a good rapport with Sun Wukong, it was naturally time to learn more about the master''s temperament from him...


    ...


    Putting aside Sun Wukong and White Dragon Horse, who were whispering about something on the side, Jiang Liu had already stood up by now, holding the Green Lotus Staff, staring at the pairs of wolf eyes in the night. He was surrounded by dozens of wolves, yet his expression remained unchanged.


    To Jiang Liu, these wolves were simply delivering Experience Points.


    Wielding the Green Lotus Staff, Jiang Liu did not retreat but advanced towards the wolf pack. Swinging the staff, hended a precise hit on one of the wolves, which let out a piteous cry as its Health Bar instantly emptied, and it passed out.


    Prompt: Gained 15 Experience Points, gained 3 money.


    Almost at the same time, the system notification arrived as expected. The Experience Points weren''t much, as it was just a normal pack of wolves, and thus nothing to concern oneself with.


    As for dodging? With the 400-point Defense of the Golden Cicada Buddha Robe, the 800-plus of the Vidyaraja Crown, and the 460 of the shing Brilliance Shoes, just these three pieces of Equipment alone added over 1600 Defense. Even if he stood still, these wolves wouldn''t even dream of breaking through Jiang Liu''s Defense.


    Because it was an active attack and not a passive counterattack, the wolves'' Health Bars emptied without them dying; they were merely knocked unconscious, and Jiang Liu had no intention of killing them.


    A mere few dozen wolves, with only two leading wolves capable of speaking humannguage, there was absolutely no suspense. In a short while, Jiang Liu had knocked them all unconscious.


    "These wolf packs seem to be just patrolling Little Demons or even ordinary wild beasts. I intentionally spared their lives, believing that stronger demons wille knocking. I wonder if there will be any Demon General-level Demon Creatures?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    After having a trial run by knocking out all these Wolf Demons, Jiang Liu selectively killed a few to anger the others, secretly anticipating the next wave of attacks.


    Farming for Experience Points and levels is much easier if you wait for the monsters toe to you rather than having to go out looking for them, right?


    If there were Demon General Level creatures, that would be ideal, as he had yet toplete his ss advancement quest.


    Byte night, the severely injured and unconscious wolves gradually regained consciousness. Looking around, they saw that Jiang Liu and his party had moved far away. Dragging their injured bodies, the wolves orderly got to their feet and then quickly disappeared into the night.


    The next morning, dozens of miles away, arge wolf with pale fur, as big as a calf, suddenly stood up. "Hmph, a bald monk daring to trespass my Wolf Dwelling Mountain for three hundred miles? For causing so much damage to my descendants, I, the Vanguard Leader, shall see to it personally."


    As soon as he spoke, the pale-furred wolf howled, a breeze coiling around its body as it vanished quickly.


    And with its howl, several upright walking Wolf Demons, echoing the call, also let out long howls before dropping to all fours and following suit...

 Chapter 107 Duel with the Demon General

    One person, one monkey, one horse, they traveled on foot down the road, not too fast, nor too slow, yet their appearance seemed strange.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Usually, horses are known for their ability to be ridden, and themon sight would be a human riding the horse with the monkey in tow.


    But in reality? The short and skinny monkey was actually seated on the horse''s back, while it was the human who walked on foot.


    If any bystander were to see this, they would surely think it foolish¡ªhe had a perfectly good horse and did not ride it, instead letting the monkey ride.


    "Master, just as you said, a few little demons havee. Do you want me, Old Sun, to deal with them for you?" said Sun Wukong suddenly, speaking from atop the horse.


    "Oh? A few little demons, what is their cultivation level?" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up slightly, d that demons had finallye knocking since dawn was breaking.


    "Four little wolf demons, all at the Demon Soldier Realm. There''s also a small wolf demon whose cultivation is slightly higher, probably at the Demon General level, who seems capable ofmanding wind spells," although he had not yet seen the demons, Sun Wukong recited their cultivation as if he were reciting treasures in his own home.


    "No need, these few small demons, leave them to your master alone!" Jiang Liu rejoiced upon hearing about the appearance of a Demon General.


    Wasn''t this what he had been waiting for? He could not let Sun Wukong and the others intervene.


    As his voice fell, Jiang Liu took the Green Lotus Staff out of his storage space, gripping it tightly. Secretly nodding to himself about his own equipment, even with the four Demon Soldiers unexpectedly there, it did not upset the big picture.


    The White Dragon Horse next to him, seeing the spark in Jiang Liu''s eyes and him taking out the Green Lotus Staff, quickly bowed its head. Although the Scripture Seeker''s cultivation was very insignificant, his belligerence was astounding.


    Seeing this, the White Dragon Horse understood; when they first met, helping him kill a few demons made him think he was clever, but it turned out to be a smart move leading to a smart mistake.


    Indeed, in just a moment, the five wolf demons arrived. The one leading the pack was especially gigantic, covered in pure white fur that gleamed like satin, without a single stray hair.


    Apanying it was a clear breeze, an obvious sign of being able tomand spells, showing it had reached the realm of a Demon General.


    The four Demon Soldiers standing on their hind legs followed behind.


    The lead white wolf demon''s eyes were fixed on Jiang Liu, eyeing him carefully, before baring its teeth and licking its lips, "What a fresh and tender monk. Eating him must be very delicious. Since he''se to us, I, the vanguard leader, must feast well today."


    As the words from the white wolf demon came out, the four Demon Soldiers behind it immediately pounced towards Jiang Liu.


    Swift Fire Bead!


    Without wasting words, Jiang Liu pushed his hand forward, and a giant fireball sted towards one of the wolf demons.


    The scorching fireball exploded upon contact with the wolf demon, eliciting a scream as its health bar immediately dropped by about one-third.


    With Starry Sky Spread, Jiang Liu obliterated one-third of that wolf demon''s health bar in a single strike, then pulled off his Sandalwood Buddha Beads and flung them forward.


    The one hundred and eight Buddha Beads formed a fan shape, repelling the remaining three wolf demons.


    At the same time, he stamped his foot and chased after the injured wolf demon, lifting the Green Lotus Staff high and bringing it down fiercely.


    The wolf demon, enduring its injury, raised its w to counterattack. Jiang Liu did not dodge, allowing the w to strike him, feeling a bit of pain, yet the loss of his own health bar was minimal.


    As the Green Lotus Staff struck down, the health bar diminished another segment, and from the exchange of blows, it was clear that Jiang Liu was greatly profiting from the situation.


    Although their levels were roughly equal, Jiang Liu''s attack and defense attributes were much higher than the demon''s due to the enhancement from his skills and equipment.


    Raising his hand, the one hundred and eight Buddha Beads came back together into a string, returning to Jiang Liu''s hand, and he rehung the Sandalwood Buddha Beads around his neck.


    Watching the three Wolf Demons continue their charge, Jiang Liu inhaled deeply and let out a dragon''s roar from his mouth.


    Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound (Level 2): Producing a dragon''s roar that can repel all nearby targets, Attack Power +250, Cooldown Time 300 seconds; in ordinary Cultivation State, gain 2 Experience Points every 10 seconds, to level up, requires level 21.


    The sound waves of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, visible to the naked eye, scattered in all directions, and the four surrounding Wolf Demons were repelled once again, even bleeding from their seven orifices due to the sound waves'' vibration.


    As one of the top Divine Spells of the Great Buddha Temple, even at its second level, its might was extraordinary.


    With the attack of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, all four Demon Soldiers were repelled, each injured, and among them, the Wolf Demon gravely wounded by Jiang Liu was left with hardly any Health Points, nearly a mere sliver of health.


    Phew!


    However, before Jiang Liu could make another move, a sudden whooshing sound arose; it was the pale Wolf King that had been lurking from afar, seeing Jiang Liu''s remarkable strength, decided to intervene.


    A Spell took form, and a gigantic Wind de, slicing directly towards Jiang Liu.


    Yet, with just a light tap of his feet, the shing Brilliance Shoes on Jiang Liu''s feet shed, his figure vanished into thin air, reappearing behind the grievously wounded Wolf Demon.


    The Green Lotus Staff descended with a mighty force, the impact seemingly shattering half of the Wolf Demon''s bones, and the Health Bar emptied in an instant.


    Tip: Gained 1880 Experience Points, acquired 66 money.


    "Good, one is down..." Rising in a sudden attack and breaking them one by one, after downing one, Jiang Liu''s gaze then fell on the other three Wolf Demons.


    When ites to battling monsters, of course you clear the minions first before facing the strongest boss in a one-on-one fight.


    With his Defense, even Demon Soldiers found it hard to inflict substantial damage on Jiang Liu, and after a brief half-minute brawl, Jiang Liu left the other three members of the Demon n gravely injured and unconscious.


    Experience more on empire


    Ding!


    Lifting his hand with the blessing of the Vajra Mantra, Jiang Liu, unable to dodge, took the brunt of the pale Wolf Demon''s Wind de, his Health Bar dropping by a small margin.


    After the fight, having been hit a few times, along with the attack from the pale Wolf Demon, Jiang Liu checked his Health Point status, which was only about 75% left.


    Jiang Liu then cast the Guanyin Mantra skill on himself.


    The mists of life light melded into his body, and the Guanyin Mantra, which initially restored 15% of his health,bined with the recovery skill boost from the Green Lotus Staff, instantly pulled his Health Points back to over 90%.


    Although the injuries weren''t fully healed, they werergely recovered.


    The pale Wolf Demon''s gaze was firmly fixed on Jiang Liu.


    Upon perception, this Little Monk before its eyes hadn''t even reached the Body Tempering Realm, yet could single-handedly kill four Demon Soldiers with higher Cultivation Levels than him, and even withstand its own Spell attacks; surely, he possessed many fine treasures.


    With this thought, the Wolf Demon''s eyes burned with desire as it stared at Jiang Liu.


    "Alright, your turn," after casting the Guanyin Mantra on himself, Jiang Liu''s gaze also settled on the Wolf Demon, equally fiery.


    What kind of loot would drop from defeating a Demon General in singlebat, a battle beyond one''s own level?


    Not only Experience Points and drop rates, but most importantly, his own ss-change quest.

 Chapter 108 Battle to the Death

    Sun Wukong, looking utterly bored, sat atop the White Dragon Horse. The strongest of them was merely at the Demon General level, which in Sun Wukong''s eyes, was nothing more than a slightly stronger ant and not worth his attention.


    However, despite his outward disinterest, Sun Wukong''s gaze remained fixed on Jiang Liu.


    He could clearly sense Jiang Liu''s level of cultivation. With a cultivation level not even reaching the Body Tempering Realm, Jiang Liu had faced four opponents alone and managed to kill four Demon Soldiers. This feat caused Sun Wukong to view him with a bit of respect.


    Although the master''s cultivation level was very low, hisbat skills were indeed quite impressive. Sun Wukong wondered, how would he fare against this Demon General?


    Even though he had promised Jiang Liu to stir up the heavens and overthrow the deities and Buddhas together, Sun Wukong actually looked down on Jiang Liu''s level of cultivation; Jiang Liu was full of ambition, iming that he too would be a powerful figure capable of sweeping away the deities within just a few short years.


    But now, the battle between him and the Demon General had sparked some anticipation in Sun Wukong''s heart.


    "Big Brother, with the support of his Dharma Treasures, the master''s cultivation is enough to defeat the Demon Soldiers, but facing a Demon General seems unlikely, doesn''t it? Are we sure we''re not stepping in?" the White Dragon Horse asked Sun Wukong in a low voice.


    If the Scripture Seeker were to be killed, then his own aspirations for the Western Heaven mandate would be dashed.


    "Don''t worry, he''s not someone who would rashly gamble his life away," Sun Wukong said, patting the horse''s back with an air of casual confidence.


    ...


    Sun Wukong and the White Dragon Horse''s conversation went unnoticed by Jiang Liu; his mind was entirely focused on the pale Wolf Demon before him.


    Regardless, facing an opponent more than ten levels above himself, Jiang Liu was confident, but he did not dare to be arrogant; he was very clear about the strength of a Demon General.


    Arhat Fist, Demon-Subduing Mantra.


    Without a sound, Jiang Liu fortified himself with two skills to enhance his attack, and under the influence of the Sandalwood Buddha Beads, the effect of these buffs was also somewhat amplified.


    The Wolf Demon, with greedy yet solemn eyes, had witnessed Jiang Liu single-handedly ughter four Demon Soldiers just moments ago. The creature certainly did not dare to underestimate its opponent.


    The Wolf Demon raised its ws, and a blue Wind de began to form in front of its paws.


    Almost simultaneously, Jiang Liu raised his hand and pointed at the Wolf Demon, activating the skill: Silencing Zen!


    The silence-oriented skill instantly dissipated the Wolf Demon''s Wind de, a turn of events that astonished it.


    It was inconceivable that its spell had been rendered ineffective; it was the first time it had encountered such a situation.


    Seizing the opportunity, Jiang Liu lifted his hand, and the Swift Fire Bead''s skill was unleashed. It was another spell-based attack, and a ball of me crashed directly onto the Wolf Demon.


    Visibly, the health bar above the Wolf Demon''s head diminished slightly, by about 5% to be approximate.


    Hisss!


    This scene made Jiang Liu take a sharp intake of breath. The extra attack power from the Green Lotus Staff, the added equipment of two rings, the Demon-Subduing Mantra, the Arhat Fist, and the innately high damage of the Sheep Transformation Technique''s spell...


    All thesebined had only reduced the Wolf Demon''s health bar by a mere 5%?


    Was this truly the prowess of a Demon General? The vast gap between realms couldn''t bepared to that of the lower Demon Soldiers.


    Awooo!


    Having taken a hit from the Swift Fire Bead''s spell, the Wolf Demon''s ferocity was triggered; it howled angrily and charged toward Jiang Liu on all fours, deciding to engage in closebat since it couldn''t use long-range spells.


    The Green Lotus Staff struck the Wolf Demon, and with a thud, its health bar decreased a little, yet it was less than before from the Swift Fire Bead''s skill.


    Such were the properties of a Demon General-level creature; with such a high level, it was hard even to breach its defenses.


    Splish ssh!


    Simrly, the Wolf Demon''s ws scraped across Jiang Liu, causing him severe pain, and he watched as a significant chunk, about 5% or slightly more, disappeared from his own health bar.


    "Good thing, though the Green Lotus Staff is only Perfect Level equipment, the shing Brilliance Shoes and Vidyaraja Crown are Legendary Level defense items, and I also have the Perfect Level Golden Cicada Buddha Robe. My defense attributes are indeed much higher than my attack attributes," Jiang Liu calcted as he watched his health bar diminish.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Although from the situation, the Wolf Demon''s strength was still stronger than his own, if it came to a blood exchange battle, he definitely would not be a match. However, that did not mean he had no power to fight.


    After a round of blood exchange, there was a mutual understanding of each other''s strengths. Jiang Liu relentlessly smashed down with his Green Lotus Staff.


    Simrly, the ws and sharp teeth of the Wolf Demon were unusually ferocious.


    Read exclusive chapters at empire


    But in a brief moment, the Wolf Demon''s health bar had only about two-thirds left, whereas Jiang Liu''s health was even more perilous, not even a third remaining...


    Healing Potion!


    Just then, Jiang Liu took a moment to retrieve a potion from his pack space and gulped it down.


    The recovery of 10% health was still quite good.


    As soon as he swallowed the potion and saw the Wolf Demon continuing to charge at him, Jiang Liu raised his hand and used the Sheep Transformation Technique.


    The fierce Wolf Demon, in a sh, turned into a harmless-lookingmb, with a bewildered expression in its eyes.


    Bang bang bang!


    Following the Sheep Transformation Technique, the Swift Fire Bead fell, and with the attack of the Green Lotus Staff, it continuously pounded on themb, reducing its health bar by another notch.


    In just two short seconds, the moment passed, and the Wolf Demon quickly recovered, opening its mouth to conjure several Wind des, all shing towards Jiang Liu.


    The special effect of the shing Brilliance Shoes had just finished cooling down, and Jiang Liu dodged past these spell attacks, appearing behind the Wolf Demon.


    With a grin, the Wolf Demon revealed a conspiratorial, eerie smile, its white teeth bared as its ws swiped back.


    Having experienced the shing Brilliance Shoes'' effects, it had clearly taken all of this into ount already.


    "Wolves really are creatures full of cunning schemes," looking at the oing ws, it was already toote to dodge, and Jiang Liu quickly applied the Vajra Mantra''s defense effect on himself.


    Although it could only block one attack, the exemption from 80% of the damage was still very effective.


    This w strikended on Jiang Liu but barely had an effect; he was merely scratched and took the opportunity to retreat a few steps.


    The battle continued, and from the situation, it was evident that Jiang Liu''s strength was naturally much weaker than that of the Wolf Demon.


    However, with the Silencing Zen, Vajra Mantra, shing Brilliance Shoes, Sheep Transformation Technique, and even the Sandalwood Buddha Beads and Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, using control and self-preservation methods in conjunction with the Guanyin Mantra and Healing Potion''s restorative effects, Jiang Liu had not been defeated despite being at a disadvantage in the fight.


    It was just a man and a wolf, both umting more and more serious wounds.


    The fierce battle went on for another fifteen minutes in a sh.


    Jiang Liu''s health bar was left with less than one-tenth, extremely dangerous, and simrly, the Wolf Demon''s health bar was not much better off than Jiang Liu''s.


    Breathing heavily, with a charred body and a cunning glint in its eyes, the Wolf Demon suddenly went down on all fours, turned tail, and fled, despite its severe injuries.


    "Think you can escape!?" After fighting to this point, even though his injuries were also very severe, how could Jiang Liu let the Wolf Demon get away?


    The special effect of the shing Brilliance Shoes had just cooled down, and with a sh, he caught up with the Wolf Demon.


    However, almost at the same time, in front of the Wolf Demon, a Wind de coalesced and shed towards Jiang Liu!


    Trickery!


    The Wolf Demon was convinced that Jiang Liu would not give up easily, so the instant Jiang Liu activated the shing Brilliance Shoes, it counterattacked, as if the Wolf Demon had conjured its Wind de and Jiang Liu had purposely run into it.


    "Damn it, danger!" Seeing this, White Dragon Horse and Sun Wokong, who had been watching from a distance without intervening, their expressions changed.


    Taken by surprise, Jiang Liu couldn''t dodge it, and the Vajra Mantra skill was still cooling down; he could only watch as the massive Wind de descended upon him.


    With less than one-tenth of his health left, he definitely couldn''t withstand this move. For the first time, Jiang Liu felt the approach of death...

 Chapter 109 The Third Legendary Quality Equipment

    The enormous Wind de was right before his eyes, and Jiang Liu, having instantaneously moved behind the Wolf Demon using the special effect of the shing Brilliance Shoes, was faced with the Wind de that seemed to be waiting for him, unable to dodge in time and could only watch as it heavily struck him.


    Explore hidden tales at empire


    With less than a tenth of his health left, he simply couldn''t withstand this Wind de attack.


    However, as he watched the terrifying spell hit him, Jiang Liu did not die, nor did he feel anything¡ªit was as if the Wind de was merely an illusion.


    However, the Golden Cicada Buddha Robe on his body did tear slightly.


    Jiang Liu remained expressionless, this scene was entirely within his expectations; this was the special effect of the Golden Cicada Buddha Robe. When he was about to encounter a fatal attack, the robe''s special effect would activate, consuming 5 points of the robe''s durability, and transfer all the damage from the attack to the robe itself.


    Clearly, with his current injuries, the Wind de was enough to kill him, which had triggered the special effect of the Golden Cicada Buddha Robe.


    The Wolf Demon, with a cunning, proud, and cruel look in its eyes, was thrilled as it saw its Wind de sessfully hit Jiang Liu. Sess!


    However, seeing Jiang Liu still lively and vigorous, the Wolf Demon was stunned, unbelieving of what was unfolding before its eyes.


    What was going on?


    This Little Monk, who was he really? His cultivation level hadn''t even reached the Body Tempering Realm, yet he possessed many miraculous methods,pletely unlike what someone of his cultivation should have.


    However, Jiang Liu was certainly not going to reveal the answers to the Wolf Demon''s questions.


    After using the special effect of the Golden Cicada Buddha Robe to block the fatal attack from the Wolf Demon, and noticing the robe''s durability drop from 13 to 8 points, Jiang Liu could no longer afford to grieve over the durability, as he fiercely swung the Green Lotus Staff onto the Wolf Demon''s head.


    Following the attack, he raised his hand once more and the Swift Fire Bead''s spell hit the Wolf Demon, almost depleting its health bar.


    With such a dangerous level of health, Jiang Liu naturally would not give it a chance to counterattack. The Sheep Transformation Technique, just off cooldown, was activated again.


    With one final swing of his staff, he sessfully knocked the Wolf Demon unconscious.


    To thoroughly eliminate evil, Jiang Liu had no intention of sparing the life of these inherently violent and man-eating demons. Seeing the Wolf Demon knocked unconscious, he approached and dealt another blow with his staff,pletely killing it.


    Notice: Gained 14200 Experience Points, gained 5 silver coins.


    Notice: Level has increased by 1, current level 21.


    Notice: The job change mission ispleted, please choose the direction for job change.


    With the Wolf Demonpletely dead, a session of system notifications appeared, much to Jiang Liu''s delight.


    Firstly, the experience points from this Demon General astounded Jiang Liu; over 14000 experience points, which was indeed substantial¡ªkilling this Wolf Demon was worth as much as his earlier mission of eliminating six bandits.


    However, upon reflection, fighting and killing this Wolf Demon alone seemed far more perilous than the mission, didn''t it?


    Of course, aside from his astonishment, Jiang Liu was more overjoyed for not only had he gained a considerable amount of experience points, but after so long, his level had finally increased again, reaching level 21.


    In the terms of the Journey to the West World, he could now be considered to have officially entered the Body Tempering Realm, right?


    With such cultivation, even without the amplification from equipment and skills, hisbat power was nowparable to that of a Demon Soldier.


    Moreover, the most important thing was the job change mission. After so many bustling days, the job change mission was finallypleted, which brought Jiang Liu immense joy.


    With the job change phase reached, he could now consider himself having officially passed the novice period of the game, right?


    As he leveled up, a cool sensation appeared inside his body, quickly sweeping over him, and in the blink of an eye, Jiang Liu felt all his injuries heal.


    Not only that, but the True Yuan he had greatly consumed during the battle also fully recovered.


    From a gamer''s perspective, it was an upgrade. Both health and mana were fully restored, which also saved Jiang Liu some time from having to cast the Guanyin Mantra on himself.


    There was no rush to choose a new profession. Amidst the surprise, Jiang Liu began essing his inventory space.


    He had just single-handedly in a Wolf Demon General, a feat that was incredibly challenging for his level. Who knew what items had dropped?


    Although during the battle the loot was stolen, the items from creatures he killed solo or with his team were automatically picked up into his inventory space.


    As the inventory space opened, it didn''t take long for Jiang Liu to notice some new items.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze fell, the corresponding attribute information appeared before him.


    A Blood Bottle, not worth mentioning.


    But there was also an Enhanced Healing Potion, which surprised Jiang Liu.


    This Enhanced Healing Potion had also dropped when he''d defeated the Demon Marshal Electric Light Leopard in the Demon-Suppressing Hall. It could restore 20% of his health, a good item that doubled the effects of standard Healing Potions.


    Two Mana Potions were a decent find. In battles as intense as this,sting over half an hour, he would have exhausted all his mana, so these were good for sustaining his power.


    Although up until now, Jiang Liu had never used any; he had just stored all the Mana Potions that had dropped.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Of course, apart from the potions, there were three pieces of equipment and a Skill Book. For Jiang Liu, who had taken on the Demon General alone, this drop rate was indeed quite good.


    All three equipment pieces were useful for him now. After checking their attributes, Jiang Liu discarded the less valuable equipment and equipped the more valuable ones.


    After refreshing his gear, Jiang Liu carefully examined his outfit and nodded in satisfaction.


    Weapon: Green Lotus Staff (Perfect Quality): Required Level 20, Attack +185, Special Effect: When using recovery Skills and items, effectiveness +10%, Durability 15/20.


    Clothing: Golden Cicada Buddha Robe (Perfect Quality): Required Level 15, Defense +400, Passive Skill (Golden Cicada''s Shedding): When receiving a fatal attack, transfers the damage to the Buddha Robe, consuming 5 durability, Durability 8/15.


    Helmet: Vidyaraja Crown (Legendary Quality): No level requirement, Defense +1000 (10-100000, depending on one''s level), Apanying Special Effect: Converts 10% of damage dealt to the target into the wearer''s health, Durability 64/100.


    Ne: Chequ Buddha Beads (Fine Level): Required Level 20, Defense +100, Special Effect: Increases the level of Vajra Mantra by +1, Durability 20/20.


    Belt: Silk Cloth Belt (Common Level): Required Level 15, Defense +35, Durability 4/10.


    Ring: Redwood Ring (Fine Quality): Attack Power +20, Passive Effect: After 300 seconds of exitingbat, the first attack causes double damage, Durability 7/10.


    Ring: Huali Law Ring (Legendary Level): Required Level 21, Attack +380, Special Effect: Out ofbat, restores 1% of lost health every 10 seconds, Durability 12/25.


    Bracelet: Bronze Bracelet (Common Quality): Required Level 10, Defense +20, Durability 8/10.


    Bracelet: ck Iron Bracelet (Common Quality): Required Level 20, Defense +80, Durability 6/10.


    Shoes: shing Brilliance Shoes (Legendary Level): Required Level 20, Defense +460, Special Effect: Enables instantaneous movement within a 10-meter radius, Cooldown Time 300 seconds, Durability 4/30.


    Special essory: Skill Bookcase (Special essory): Can hold three Skill Books from other professions, granting the ability to learn their skills.


    Special essory: Empty


    Special essory: Empty


    (PS: No prize quiz: Which three pieces of equipment are newly acquired from the list?)


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 110 Successful Job Change

    Looking over his equipment, Jiang Liu nodded in satisfaction.


    The three newly acquired items, the Chequ Buddha Beads, the Huali Law Ring, and the ck Iron Bracelet, among them the most notable was naturally the Legendary Level Huali Law Ring.


    A full 380 points of attack power increase, which was precisely what Jiang Liu wascking at the moment.


    After all, having just battled the Wolf Demon, Jiang Liu had a good understanding of his own situation. Due to two pieces of Legendary Level defense equipment, he was typically low in attack but high in defense.


    Now, with this Huali Law Ring, it was different; 380 points of attack power, more than double that of the Green Lotus Staff''s 185 points.


    Secondly, the Chequ Buddha Beads were also impressive, although the enhancement BUFF effect of the Sandalwood Buddha Beads was quite practical, the Chequ Buddha Beads added 100 points to defense. Moreover, this piece of equipment also increased the skill level of Vajra Mantra, almost as if it had given him an extra Skill Point.


    Looking at the Vajra Mantra, the Middle Level Vajra Mantra did not change the immunity to damage, but the original one-time attack block had be two, and even the cooldown time had shortened a bit, very practical.


    Thest piece, the ck Iron Bracelet, was Common Level equipment. It reced the previous Refined Iron Bracelet, slightly enhancing his defense.


    Considering the equipment exploded by the Demon General Level Wolf Demon, Jiang Liu naturally nodded in satisfaction.


    Aside from the three pieces of equipment and potions, finally, the Wolf Demon had also dropped a skill book, a level 20 Compassionate Bodhisattva profession skill book.


    Seeing this skill book, Jiang Liu focused on his own situation concerning transformation.


    A support type Compassionate Bodhisattva or an attack type Immovable Ming King, which one should he transform into?n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Initially, Jiang Liu decided on the Immovable Ming King, considering thatpared to the weaker attack capability of support, wasn''t it better to have the Immovable Ming King''s inherent strong fighting power?


    But now, after much thought andprehensive consideration, Jiang Liu felt the Compassionate Bodhisattva suited him better.


    In the Journey to the West World, Divine Skills could be learned as long as one had Skill Points, and together with the Skill Bookcase, even if he transformed into the Compassionate Bodhisattva, there wouldn''t be a shortage of attack methods.


    And thinking of future battles with Immortals and Buddhas, various enhancement BUFFs and control skills, and even group healing methods, wouldn''t these be more valuable?


    Jiang Liu could not forget that the Compassionate Bodhisattva also had the Divine Skill¡ªResurrection Technique!


    In this world where Immortals and Buddhas nearly controlled the Three Realms and Six Paths, resurrection? That seemed to be a privilege of the Immortal Buddha leaders.


    If he really was to topple the myriad heavenly deities, possessing the Resurrection Technique was very important.


    With this thought, the more he thought about it, the more he felt that the Compassionate Bodhisattva transformation suited him better. Without much hesitation, Jiang Liu immediately chose the transformation into Compassionate Bodhisattva.


    Notification: You have sessfully transformed into Compassionate Bodhisattva.


    Well, after the transformation, there were no extravagant miracles nor were there rewards like equipment and items; there was merely a in system notification.


    Yet, Jiang Liu was very clear that this system notification was a watershed. From now on, he was no longer a beginner.


    Following the transformation, the skill book just exploded by the Wolf Demon was now learnable.


    However, in front of Sun Wukong and the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu did not show any intent to take out the skill book to study; after all, a skill book transforming into sparkles of light and merging into oneself was a bit too fantastical and hard to exin.


    Thinking of Sun Wukong and the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu turned his head to look and found both of them staring at him nkly.


    "Wukong, why are you looking at me? Is there something wrong with me?" Lowering his head to check, besides a crack that had appeared on his Golden Cicada Buddha Robe, there seemed to be nothing amiss. Jiang Liu asked, puzzled.


    "Master, could it be that you practice cultivation through the path of killing?" Sun Wukong spoke up, his voice filled with surprise as he addressed Jiang Liu, his eyes also reflecting a sudden realization.


    Throughout their journey, although Jiang Liu had almost grasped every moment for cultivation, he had also fought almost obsessively, not even allowing himself to strike. Sun Wukong had just thought of him as someone who enjoyed fighting.


    Now, as the Wolf Demon had been killed by him and his cultivation had also risen to the Body Tempering Realm, did Sun Wukong suddenly realize¡ªwas his master practicing the path of ughter?


    Otherwise, it was hard to exin why his cultivation broke through right after he killed the Wolf Demon.


    However, what was unbelievable was that, despite always championingpassion, as a disciple of the Buddhist Sect, his master was actually following the path of killing?


    It seems that he truly was different from the other disciples.


    Sun Wukong saying he followed the path of killing caused Jiang Liu to pause briefly. However, after contemting it, his leveling up through killing monsters, indeed felt like what Sun Wukong had suggested.


    Thus, after pondering for a moment, Jiang Liu nodded in agreement with his words. "Hmm, there are three thousand great ways to attain enlightenment, isn''t it? What''s wrong with attaining it through killing?"


    "But how did your injuries heal in the blink of an eye?" While astonished at Jiang Liu''s path of killing, what truly surprised Sun Wukong was that Jiang Liu''s injuries had healedpletely in the blink of an eye along with his leveling up.


    As long as one wasn''t blind, it was clear just moments ago that Jiang Liu had been utterly exhausted, at the end of his strength.


    And now? He lookedpletely revitalized, not at all like someone who had just been through a fierce battle.


    "Hmm, I''m not quite sure about that situation myself," Jiang Liu said regarding the difficult question without any intention of exining. He simply imed he wasn''t sure and left it at that.


    Studying Jiang Liu carefully, Sun Wukong''s eyes even shed a golden fire, typical of his Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze.


    Unfortunately, even with the Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze, there was no clue to be discerned. Sun Wukong decided not to delve deeper.


    Yet, after this battle, Sun Wukong buried a seed of expectation in his heart towards Jiang Liu.


    Previously, when Jiang Liu spoke of rising to power within a few years to overturn the Heavenly Deities and Buddhas, Sun Wukong wasn''t very convinced.


    But now, Sun Wukong realized there were many secrets about him that even he was unaware of.


    Given this, perhaps what he said wasn''t entirely impossible, right?


    The White Dragon Horse beside them, merely a persistent follower, naturally had no right to interrupt the conversation between Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong. So, he lowered his head, appearing obedient and dared not speak, but internally, he felt somewhat chilled.


    The people who tread the path of killing have always been ruthless and fearless; to think that the Buddhist disciple, the Scripture Seeker, was also treading the path of killing?


    It seemed that he should be even more cautious, not to offend him, otherwise, who knows if he might end up as a corpse on his master''s path to enlightenment in the future.


    Putting aside Jiang Liupleting his job transition and continuing on the road, atop a scenic mountain peak in the 300-mile stretch of Wolf Dwelling Mountain, a vigorous me burnt in an alchemy furnace.


    A young man dressed in a white schr''s robe sat next to the furnace, attentively watching the elixirs inside, obviouslypletely engrossed in them.


    Just then, a ck wolf came over, transforming into a humanoid figure with a wolf''s head, and bowed.


    "Great King, a bald Monk has entered our territory, and the Vanguard Leader has already been killed by him."

 Chapter 111 The Passionate Demon King Master Lingxu

    The man d in a white schr''s robe, his gaze fixated on the alchemy furnace before him, heard the words without shifting his gaze, as if the one who had died was not his subordinate, his expression serene, "I have said many times that although humans are born with an Innate Taoist Body, consuming them can greatly increase our Demon n''s cultivation level, but they are not to be trifled with, especially Taoists and Monks.


    I suppose he didn''t heed my words, saw a human enter Wolf Dwelling Mountain, and wanted to try a fresh catch, only to be killed by someone instead?"


    "Indeed, Great King, you foresee with divine precision... it is exactly as you said..." The wolf-headed Demon Marshal, bowing his head, dared not hide the truth.


    "Since that is the case, if he is dead, then let him be dead. If one wishes to kill others, one must be prepared to be killed," he said softly, waving his hand, the man in the white schr''s robe.


    Clearly, he did not take this matter to heart and motioned for the Demon Marshal to withdraw.


    Since the Great King had already responded, the Wolf Demon naturally dared not say more, bowing his head and stepping back to leave.


    "Wait..."


    However, just as the Wolf Demon turned to leave, suddenly, the man in the schr''s robe seemed to recall something, saying, "You just said that the one who intruded upon our Wolf Dwelling Mountain is a Monk, right? And a Monk with cultivation level at that. In that case, observe the other party from a distance, do not rm them.


    Once I havepleted this batch of elixir, I will meet him in person."


    "As you decree, Great King," hearing the man in the white schr''s robe, the nearby Wolf Demon nodded and swiftly departed.


    ...


    Jiang Liu walked forward with a calm demeanor, each step firm and steady, neither too fast nor too slow, with the White Dragon Horse bowing its head, following behind Jiang Liu, still shamelessly tagging along without title or im.


    And on the White Dragon Horse? Sun Wukongy on the horse''s back,pletely at ease.


    What was originally the Master''s mount now seemed to have be Sun Wukong''s own steed.


    Having walked for the better part of the day, and since taking down that Wolf Demon General, no other demon hade looking for trouble. As the sky gradually darkened, Jiang Liu felt a quiet surprise.


    Could it be that the Demon General was already the strongest demon creature in this area?


    The initial encounters with some demons were merely patrols hunting, and Jiang Liu had knocked them out, selectively killing a few to provoke the anger of other demon creatures, waiting for them to seek him out.


    However, after killing the Demon General and a long while passing without any demon creatures showing up, Jiang Liu felt some amazement.


    "Wukong, it''s gettingte. Let''s rest for the night and then continue on," Jiang Liu said, looking at the sky, which had indeed begun to turn dark.


    "You got it!" Sun Wukong immediately somersaulted off the back of the White Dragon Horse at these words, his eyes sparkling as he looked at Jiang Liu, "Master, what''s for dinner tonight?"


    "Hmm, we''ve had rather greasy food thesest few days. Let''s have something light to cleanse the stomach," Jiang Liu said thoughtfully, knowing the gleam in Sun Wukong''s eyes and what he was thinking.


    Tonight, Jiang Liu nned to take some time to cook a pot of vegetable and lean meat porridge.


    Fortunately, they had restocked on supplies back in Wu City. The vegetables were kept in a storage space, never rotting or spoiling.


    "Great, great, as long as it''s something you make, Master, I, Old Sun, will like it," Sun Wukong said, though Jiang Liu had mentioned having something light, he showed no objections, instead nodding agreeably.


    With practiced ease, Jiang Liu set up the pots and pans, drew some fresh water, and began to cook the porridge.


    However, when Jiang Liu looked at the salt container, he discovered it to bepletely empty.


    "It seems I need to refine some Snow Salt," Jiang Liu said upon seeing this, taking out some bottles and jars, along with someyers of cheesecloth.


    Although they had also purchased salt during the resupply in Wu City, the salt from this era was quite coarse and had a bitter taste.


    Thus, the salt that Jiang Liu used for himself was always purified by his own hands, removing all impurities. If the salt was finished, he would simply purify more salt purchased back.


    All of this, Jiang Liu had long mastered, with the most important aspect being the technique of filtration.


    Without a beaker, a jar could serve as a substitute;cking filter paper, severalyers of gauze could take its ce¡ªthere were always more solutions than difficulties.


    Tap, tap, tap!


    However, just as Jiang Liu was cooking porridge and taking the opportunity to purify some table salt, under the dusk sunset, a figure approached from the west, backlighted by the orange-hued sun, casting a long shadow.


    ncing up at the figure approaching, the person was dressed in a white schrly robe and flicking a fan between their fingers, presenting a schrly and refined appearance, like that of a schr.


    "This great master, greetings. I go by the Taoist title of Master Lingxu," said the man dressed as a schr, his curiosity apparent as he nced at Jiang Liu''s salt purification process, before he promptly bowed in greeting.


    "A Taoist title? Is he a Taoist?" Jiang Liu wondered to himself, surprised that the man outfitted like a schr had introduced himself with a Taoist title.


    Nheless, Jiang Liu maintained hisposure and stood up to return the bow, saying, "I am Monk Xuanzang returning the greeting."


    "Xuanzang!?" The man who called himself Master Lingxu showed a flicker of movement in his expression upon hearing Jiang Liu''s dharma name.


    "Oh? Perhaps you have heard of me before?" Jiang Liu asked with curiosity, noting Master Lingxu''s reaction.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "It is said that there is a Holy Monk in the Great Tang of the Eastern Land who journeyed to the Western Heaven to worship the Buddha and seek the True Scriptures, also bearing the dharma name Xuanzang. I wonder..." Master Lingxu asked directly, without any intention of concealment.


    "Indeed, that is me," Jiang Liu admitted openly, as the other party had heard of his reputation.


    He actually hoped for the Journey to the West to be long and drawn out; Jiang Liu would have loved to carry a banner through the streets, letting all demons know he had arrived, and then have theme to deliver experience points.


    If possible, he might even want to advertise the special properties of his Flesh of Longevity...


    "Truly the Holy Monk, I did not expect that on this Wolf Dwelling Mountain, where I have lived for a thousand years, I would have the fortune to meet the Holy Monk today, it is indeed a blessing of three lifetimes..." Master Lingxu was very pleased upon hearing Jiang Liu acknowledge his identity.


    "Lived for a thousand years? Who are you?" Jiang Liu asked in wonder, hearing Master Lingxu''s words.


    "I do not wish to deceive the Holy Monk. I am originally a White Wolf from Wolf Dwelling Mountain. For a thousand years, I have diligently pursued the Immortal Path through cultivation, and have also engaged in discussions on the Tao with many eminent monks and Taoists, which has been greatly beneficial.


    To see the Holy Monk today fills me with joy," Master Lingxu frankly confessed his identity as a demon creature when asked by Jiang Liu.


    "Eh? This demon seems a bit different," Jiang Liu thought to himself, noting the other''s humble and courteous demeanor and the fact that he openly disclosed his identity as a demon.


    "The Holy Monk has graced Wolf Dwelling Mountain, which is a great karmic connection. It is my duty to fulfill the responsibilities of a host. Coincidentally, I have refined two Spirit Pills today, and I hope the Holy Monk will stay his Zen Step to share them. How does that sound?" Master Lingxu warmly invited Jiang Liu, after learning of his identity.


    Since it was a demon, Jiang Liu naturally remained cautious of the prospect that the other party might harbor ill intentions toward him, but on his Journey to the Western Heaven, the eighty-one tribtions for Jiang Liu were seen as eighty-one opportunities.


    Encountering a demon, Jiang Liu naturally wished to stay, to dy his journey as much as possible.


    "In that case, I will take the liberty of imposing upon you," he said.


    Without much hesitation, Jiang Liu pressed his palms together and humbly epted the offer.


    (PS: It seems our book is set tounch next Friday, the 6th...)

 Chapter 112 Speaking of the Taoist Body

    This demon creature named Master Lingxu actually took the initiative to reveal his demon identity, which left Jiang Liu feeling astonished, as he seemed different from other demons.


    Since he invited Jiang Liu to stay, this yed right into Jiang Liu''s hands; naturally, there was no intention of refusal.


    If Master Lingxu did not attack him, then Jiang Liu could buy some time; if he coveted Jiang Liu''s Tang Monk''s Evesting Flesh, then Jiang Liu could let Sun Wukong deal with him, earning himself some Contribution Points and Experience Points and possibly even good loot.


    No matter how one looked at it, Jiang Liu wouldn''t be at a loss, so when Master Lingxu warmly invited him, Jiang Liu did not give it much thought before epting.


    Atop Wolf Dwelling Mountain, there was a cave abode, clearly where Master Lingxu resided. Under his enthusiastic invitation, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong entered.


    Inside the cave abode, it truly was a gathering of demons, Jiang Liu saw no fewer than ten Demon Marshals with beast heads and human bodies, which greatly rmed him.


    The Blood Tiger King from Foutu Mountain had only three Demon Marshals at his disposal; judging from this strength, Master Lingxu was undeniably more powerful than the Blood Tiger King.


    "Servants, quickly prepare a feast; I will host the Holy Monk from Great Tang!" eximed Master Lingxu enthusiastically as he weed Jiang Liu into the cave.


    Following Master Lingxu''smand, the demon creatures in the cave quickly busied themselves, and soon, fruits and fine wines wereid out on the tables.


    Seeing how efficiently the demon creatures in the cave worked, it was clear that Master Lingxu was no stranger to hosting banquets.


    Upon entering the demon''s cave abode, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong took their respective seats, while the White Dragon Horse was left outside.


    For one, it wouldn''t be fitting for him in horse form to attend the banquet, and secondly, he had been sticking around uninvited, naturally having no intention of joining the bustling event and quietly waiting outside instead.


    "Come, Holy Monk, let me first offer you a drink as an apology," Master Lingxu said, raising his cup to Jiang Liu after they were seated.


    "Holy Monk, when you were passing through my Wolf Dwelling Mountain, you shed with some of my ipetent subordinates. It was my negligence in hospitality," Master Lingxu said.


    With those words, Master Lingxu drained his cup.


    "It''s nothing," Jiang Liu also drank his wine and replied.


    Instead of getting angry for killing his subordinates, he apologized to Jiang Liu? Master Lingxu truly was a bit different.


    "May I ask, Great King, do you always treat guests this way? Forgive my frankness, but a demon kind like you is a rarity I''ve seldom encountered," curious and puzzled, Jiang Liu directly voiced his question.


    "Ah, Holy Monk, you''re asking why I''m different from my kin," Master Lingxu sighed and replied, his expression wistful.


    "Indeed, I am curious," Jiang Liu nodded and said.


    "Holy Monk, you may not realize this, but the Human n possesses Innate Taoist Bodies, which are gifted by nature. Their cultivation progresses by leaps and bounds, far beyond what other species canpare with. We of the Demon n need to go through hundreds and thousands of years of cultivation just to transform into Taoist Bodies.


    Yet even so, without guidance and Cultivation Techniques, we can only grope for the Immortal Path, treading on thin ice, and a single misstep may lead to death and the end of our path," Master Lingxu exined.


    "Therefore, over the years, if I encounter monks or Taoistsing to Subdue Demons and Eliminate Evil, even if I defeat them, I do not y them. Instead, I host them with good food and drinks, seeking to discuss philosophical matters that might benefit my search on the Immortal Path," Master Lingxu continued.


    "I see," Jiang Liu realized as he listened to Master Lingxu''s exnation, appreciating that he was a demon earnestly in pursuit of the Immortal Path.


    "By the way, what exactly does ''Innate Taoist Body'' mean?" Jiang Liu, curious, looked at Master Lingxu and asked.


    He had encountered the Demon Marshal Level Electric Light Leopard in the Demon-Suppressing Hall before, which mentioned that the Little Witch was an Innate Taoist Body. Now hearing Master Lingxu bring up the same term, Jiang Liu asked him about it.


    "Hmm, Holy Monk, don''t you know what a ''Taoist Body'' is?" Jiang Liu''s question left Master Lingxu taken aback for a moment, as he thought it was basicmon knowledge in the cultivation world.


    "Master, I, Old Sun, know this," Sun Wukong, who was holding a wine cup by the side, interjected upon hearing Jiang Liu''s inquiry.


    "It''s said that in the ancient times, when numerous ns stood tall,peting for living space, naturally, they had to diligently cultivate. In the end, all races reached a consensus on one form¡ªthat the form of the Taoist Body is the mostpatible with the Heavenly Dao.


    Therefore, no matter the race, when one''s cultivation reaches a certain stage, they will transform into the form of a Taoist Body. This method has been continued to this day."


    "Continued to this day, you mean? As in demons transforming their shape? Transforming into humans?" Jiang Liu suddenly understood upon hearing Sun Wukong''s exnation.


    Sun Wukong nodded and answered, "Indeed, the human form is actually the shape most in harmony with the Heavenly Dao. That''s why in ancient times, all races would transform into this form to align with the Heavenly Dao."


    "It waster when Goddess Nvwa created humans from y that she directly fashioned the Human n after the model of the Taoist Body. Since then, as the human race prospered, they were born in this Taoist Body form, which is called the Innate Taoist Body."


    "I see, no wonder throughout history, countless demons have sought to transform into human form. It turns out it''s not that they wanted to be human, but rather that this form was the mostpatible with the Heavenly Dao right from the start of humanity''s existence," Jiang Liu realized after Sun Wukong''s exnation.


    Other races need to cultivate strenuously to reach a certain realm in order to transform into a Taoist Body, such as demons needing to achieve the status of a Demon King.


    Yet humans, though weak at birth, are born in the form of a Taoist Body, thus it''s no wonder Master Lingxu said the Human n is a race blessed by the heavens.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    No wonder the legends say that many humans who have cultivated for decades could contend with demons who have cultivated for hundreds or even thousands of years.


    So, the Little Witch from the Demon-Suppressing Hall, although a member of the Demon n, was also an Innate Taoist Body?


    Thinking about it carefully, the Little Witch indeed looked just like a human, with no discernible difference. No wonder that Electric Light Leopard said she was of the Innate Taoist Body form.


    It seems that in the Demon n, her talents were also extraordinary, which is why her father gave the seed of the Samadhi Demonic Fire to the Little Witch?


    "Someonee here, fetch the two Spirit Elixirs I refined today," Before Jiang Liu could dwell further on his thoughts, Master Lingxu suddenly spoke up and ordered a Demon Marshal beside him.


    "Great King, you, you mean to fetch the Spirit Elixirs?" The Demon Marshal expressed surprise upon hearing this and asked as if seeking confirmation.


    Though it wasn''t unusual for the Great King to host Taoists and monks, offering his own refined Spirit Pills as hospitality was a first.


    "Yes, aren''t you going yet?" Master Lingxu nodded and red with his eyes.


    The Demon Marshal quickly nodded and left, returning in a moment holding a tray.


    On the tray were ced two pills radiating a luminescent glow, about the size of longan fruits.


    "Holy Monk, I saw you seemed to be practicing alchemy just now? You must be well-versed in the art of pills. I''ve just refined two new Spirit Elixirs today, and I''d like you, Holy Monk, to appraise them," Master Lingxu said as he had the Demon Marshal bring the Spirit Pills before Jiang Liu.


    Observing Jiang Liu''s actions of purifying salt earlier, Master Lingxu had apparently mistook it for a novel alchemical technique.


    Spirit Pills!? In this mythical world, the existence of Spirit Pills was naturally a great thing, but Jiang Liu had never seen one before and was curious, his gaze fixed on the Spirit Pills before him.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze lingered, the data rted to the Spirit Pills appeared in front of him.


    Spirit Elixir (Consumable): Created from heavenly materials and earthly treasures using a secret technique. Upon consumption, one can gain 500,000 Experience Points. Subsequent uses halve the effect, and one must be no higher than Level 60 to use.

 Chapter 113 Parting on Bad Terms

    Looking at the Attribute Information of this Spirit Elixir, Jiang Liu''s heart swelled with joy. A single pill for 500,000 Experience Points?


    Although the effect would halve with subsequent uses, didn''t these two elixirs add up to 750,000 Experience Points?


    It only took me a couple hundred thousand Experience Points to level up from 20 to 21, so 750,000 should be enough for a few more levels, right?


    "Great stuff, taking it can increase one''s Cultivation Level!" Jiang Liu eximed loudly after seeing the Attribute Information of the Spirit Elixir.


    There was no sense of politeness in his speech. Such a treasure that could directly add Experience Points and elevate one''s level should be consumed first before anything else.


    Jiang Liu reached out, grabbed the two Spirit Elixirs in his hand, and without any unnecessary words, he swallowed one of them right away.


    Notification: Experience Points +500000.


    Notification: Level up 1, current level 22.


    Notification: Level up 1, current level 23.


    The system notifications rang out one after another, and Jiang Liu could clearly feel the power of the elixir quickly dispersing into his limbs and bones, invisibly boosting his strength considerably.


    Even though he knew the higher the level, the more Experience Points it required, Jiang Liu could also clearly sense that each level he gained after level 20 brought him far more strength than before.


    If one were to quantify it in terms ofbat power, maybe advancing from level 10 to 11 could increase hisbat power by 100 points, but going from level 20 to 21 might add over 500 points...


    "Hmm, the higher the level, the more Experience Points needed to level up, but likewise, the improvement in strength gained from each level up is much more substantial, which is only natural," Jiang Liu nodded to himself, feeling the significant increase in power from leveling up twice.


    "The Holy Monk is truly a master of Alchemy, able to understand the efficacy of this Spirit Elixir with just one look," Master Lingxu didn''t know what was going on in Jiang Liu''s mind, but his eyes shone with both shock and joy as he eximed.


    Even though he was keen on pursuing the Tao, Master Lingxu was, after all, of the Demon Kind, devoid of guidance and without a Cultivation Technique, so he had to explore and cultivate on his own.


    Therefore, whenever he encountered Taoists or monks, he would treat them with great respect, engage in discussions, and hope for some enlightenment.


    The Alchemy Technique he practiced was something he stumbled upon hundreds of years ago; after relentless research over the centuries, he unlocked his current achievements.


    Learning that a monk had entered Wolf Dwelling Mountain today, Master Lingxu personally went to see for himself, and just so happened to find Jiang Liu refining salt. Master Lingxu thought Jiang Liu''s method seemed to be some novel form of Alchemy Technique.


    After talking for a bit and learning that he was the Holy Monk of Great Tang on a mission to the Western Heaven to obtain the True Scriptures, Master Lingxu grew even more excited. Therefore, he enthusiastically invited Jiang Liu to his cave dwelling, hoping to have an in-depth discussion and, ideally, seek some advice on Alchemy.


    After all, his Alchemy Technique was serendipitously acquired and not systematic; he thought that the Buddhist Sect''s Alchemy had many aspects worth learning from.


    Indeed, Master Lingxu felt his guess was correct. As soon as the Holy Monk saw the Spirit Elixir, he recognized its effects, further proving his prowess in Alchemy.


    "What do you think, Holy Monk? I have been refining this Spirit Elixir for hundreds of years; is there room for improvement?" Watching Jiang Liu pop a Spirit Elixir into his mouth, Master Lingxu stared at him curiously and asked.


    "This...," Jiang Liu''s face betrayed a hint of embarrassment upon hearing Master Lingxu''s words.


    Although Master Lingxu was very hospitable, if pushed to say, this was a transaction; Master Lingxu gave him two Spirit Elixirs, hoping Jiang Liu could offer some help in Alchemy.


    However, not having unlocked a Life Profession yet, Jiang Liu knew absolutely nothing about Alchemy!


    "To tell the truth, this monk really doesn''t understand Alchemy," Although somewhat embarrassed, Jiang Liu paused for a moment and, facing Master Lingxu''s searching and expectant gaze, decided it was best to be honest.


    This answer left Master Lingxu''s expression frozen momentarily: "Why do you dismiss it, Holy Monk? You could discern the medicinal properties of the pill at one nce, you must be skilled in Alchemy. Could it be that you disdain me for being of the Demon Kind and refuse to offer guidance?"


    "You misunderstand, I truly do not understand it," Jiang Liu felt genuinely awkward.


    Initially, Master Lingxu mentioned he would treat him with pills, and seeing they were worth a whopping 500,000 Experience Points each, Jiang Liu couldn''t help himself and just ate one. Little did he know, Master Lingxu was actually proposing a trade, hoping to get some pointers about his Alchemy from Jiang Liu.


    I made myself look like a merchant who has already taken the money, yet has no goods to deliver to the customer.


    "Holy Monk, since you look down on my demon kind, I will not bother you further. Please leave," his face darkened somewhat, looking somewhat unpleasant, Master Lingxu no longer held back, raising his hand as he issued an eviction order.


    Having seen him refine table salt and instantly recognize the effects of the Spirit Elixir, as the Holy Monk of Great Tang, Master Lingxu firmly believed in his mastery of alchemy.


    Yet, having been repeatedly refused, Master Lingxu naturally thought that Jiang Liu was unwilling to give him pointers on alchemy.


    As for his im of not understanding? Naturally, it was just an excuse.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    As the lord of Wolf Dwelling Mountain, although he may be enthusiastic, Master Lingxu, being a Demon King, naturally has his own pride. It would have been ideal for both host and guest to enjoy their time together, but with the Holy Monk of Great Tang acting like this, it was clear that he had prejudices against Master Lingxu''s demon identity.


    So why should Master Lingxu persist in ingratiating himself?


    "Hehehe, you evil demon, it''s just a mere low-quality elixir, and yet you dare to show attitude to us? Back in the day, I, Old Sun, ate who knows how many from Supreme Elder Lord''s pce..." Seeing Master Lingxu issue the eviction order, Sun Wukong chuckled and stood up, displeased.


    Back then, when I forcibly requested the Sea Calming Needle from the Eastern Sea, even the Old Dragon King didn''t dare to show such an attitude. And now, this mere demon wants to be so arrogant when my master has only consumed one of his low-quality elixirs?


    Back then, in the Doushuai Pce, I ate the Supreme Elder Lord''s Immortal Pills like they were jelly beans. What''s this elixir he speaks of?


    "Enough, Wukong..." Seeing Sun Wukong stand up, seemingly ready to fight, Jiang Liu spoke to stop him.


    No matter what, he was in the wrong from the beginning. Perhaps in this wild world, brute force might be the ultimate argument, and it is normal for the strong to take from the weak, but Jiang Liu could not bring himself to do such a thing.


    "Amitabha, Benefactor Master Lingxu, I am in the wrong in this matter and shall take my leave," with palms together, Jiang Liu ced another Spirit Elixir down and spoke.


    As he was speaking, he raised his palm and took out a Healing Potion and a Mana Potion from his storage space.


    "I have two potions here. The red one can heal injuries instantly, and the blue one can instantly replenish mana. I have little to offer, but as a slightpensation, I hope Benefactor will allow me to seek a clear understanding. What I said about not knowing the Alchemy Technique is true. A monk does not lie. Farewell..."


    After cing down the two potions, Jiang Liu recited a Buddhist chant in a low voice, turned, and left Master Lingxu''s dwelling.


    Merely a Healing Potion and a Mana Potion, in exchange for a two-level increase worth a total of 500,000 Experience Points, was naturally not enough.


    For Jiang Liu, this gesture was merely to alleviate his own guilt.


    Watching Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong turn to leave the dwelling, Master Lingxu''s face cleared a bit as he looked at the two potionsid out before him.


    Looking at the Holy Monk''s demeanor, could it be that he truly didn''t harbor prejudice against his demon identity?


    "Holy Monk, wait a moment..." after some thought, it seemed he might have misjudged the other party, Master Lingxu called out.


    "Amitabha, Benefactor Master Lingxu, we part here. May we meet again if destiny allows," however, Jiang Liu didn''t stop at Master Lingxu''s plea and continued walking away, getting further and further.


    Watching Jiang Liupletely leave the dwelling, Master Lingxu fell into silence for a long time before letting out a long sigh.


    Indeed, with things having escted to this extent, even if he were to ask him to stay, there would be a barrier in their hearts, and it would be meaningless.


    Reaching for the Healing Potion and Mana Potion, Master Lingxu sniffed them gently, then tasted a bit of each, his eyes lighting up.


    "Great King, that monk is really unreasonable. Should we go and kill him?"


    A demon marshal with the head of a beast and the body of a human came forward, volunteering proactively, with all the other demons in the dwelling also filled with righteous indignation.


    However, hearing this, Master Lingxu shook his head: "No, you go and ensure the safe escort of the Holy Monk, so that he may leave Wolf Dwelling Mountain securely."


    Jiang Liu felt guilty, and Master Lingxu also realized he had misunderstood Jiang Liu and felt apologetic as well; thus, the only thing he could do was to ensure Jiang Liu''s safe passage to ease this guilt somewhat.


    He hoped the Holy Monk would travel safely, no longer harassed by evil spirits. That was all the help he could offer...

 Chapter 114 Guanyin Zen Temple

    "Master, given I, Old Sun''s temperament, if two elixirs are consumed, then they are consumed. Why did you put one back? You are I, Old Sun''s master; if you eat two of his elixirs, it would honor him," Sun Wukong said with a twig in his mouth, leaning back on the back of the White Dragon Horse, looking up, and propped on his elbows.


    The White Dragon Horse walked along, its back exceptionally smooth and almost undetectable in its movement.


    "Wukong, Master Lingxu is not having an easy time either. Why should we take advantage of the weak?" Jiang Liu said, turning his head to nce at Sun Wukong and shaking his head.


    If this Master Lingxu coveted one''s own Evesting Flesh and intended to harm oneself, then naturally killing him would be entirely without guilt.


    However, since he had hosted one warmly, even though his displeasure at having his Spirit Elixir eaten was evident, it only resulted in an eviction notice, with no intent to harm. Jiang Liu found he simply could not bring himself to strike down someone under those circumstances.


    Although in Sun Wukong''s view, a mere Master Lingxu was not worth considering, as far as Jiang Liu was concerned, he nodded in agreement, "Hmm, Master, you make a valid point. As one of the Demon Kind, he has sessfully resisted harmful urges and wholeheartedly pursued the Immortal Path; truly, Master Lingxu is not leading an easy life.


    With his Cultivation Level, one more step and he couldpletely shed his mortal form and achieve the body of a Loose Immortal."


    Although Sun Wukong had been instructed by Ancestor Bodhi, he was, after all, born of Demon Kind and deeply understood the difficulties in a demon''s cultivation.


    Even though Sun Wukong did not esteem Master Lingxu''s Cultivation Level, it must be said that, being of Demon Kind and finding his own way in cultivation to reach his current level and soon achieve an Immortal Body, the effort and hardships involved spoke for themselves.


    Regarding Master Lingxu, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong only had a brief chat and then pushed it to the back of their minds for, to Jiang Liu, Master Lingxu was just a minor episode on his Journey to the West.


    However, one must say, a single Spirit Elixir had granted him 500,000 Experience Points, leaving Jiang Liu feeling both delighted and somewhat guilty.


    Continuing their journey to the West, they traveled through the deste and scarcely popted Wolf Dwelling Mountain for three hundred li. A man, a monkey, and a horse walked all day, rather smoothly.


    "Wukong, have you noticed that something seems amiss?" Jiang Liu remarked, having left the cavern domicile of the Wolf Dwelling Mountain and traveled the whole day without encountering any Demon Creatures, or even venomous insects or fierce beasts. This unnerved Jiang Liu, who then addressed Sun Wukong by his side.


    "Are you referring to how smoothly everything has gone today, Master?"


    Still lying on the horse''s back, Sun Wukong naturally understood what Jiang Liu said and responded, "After we left that demon''s cavern, all along the way, we were apanied by Little Demons. I, Old Sun, initially thought they meant to harm you, Master. It seems, however, I was mistaken; they have been discreetly clearing the ferocious beasts from our path."


    Sun Wukong''s response darkened Jiang Liu''s expression.


    He understood that all this was probably arranged by Master Lingxu. Though he believed he was being kind, clearing obstacles from their path to the west, he failed to realize that his good intentions had caused harm.


    For others, these trials on their journey westward were considered cmities, but for Jiang Liu, they were all opportunities...


    Yet, since things had already progressed thus far, nothing more could be done, and it certainly wasn''t feasible to drive away all the well-intentioned demon creatures.


    Thus, they quickened their pace and, after several more days, finally left the territory of Wolf Dwelling Mountain.


    After leaving Wolf Dwelling Mountain and traveling forward for about half a month, on that day, walking at the foot of a big mountain, Jiang Liu noticed a Zen Temple in the distance.


    Observing the temple, bustling with believersing in to offer incense and worship Buddha, a continuous stream was evident.


    Looking at the entire Zen Temple, resplendent with golden splendor, it exuded an aura of holy magnificence. Though not as grandeur as the Great Buddha Temple, it appeared even more luxurious.


    "Wukong, look at the temple ahead, quite lively. Surely there must be high monks presiding, right?" Jiang Liu remarked after viewing the distant Zen Temple.


    Havinge from Jinshan Temple, Jiang Liu naturally understood that the number of temple visitors entirely depended on the depth of the monks'' and Buddha''s connections.


    Likewise, Jinshan Temple only had one or two Scar of Precepts, as hardly any believers visited.


    "Hmm, that''s a Guanyin Zen Temple. Inside the temple lives an old monk. Gosh, he has eight Scar of Precepts on his head," said Sun Wukong, standing on the back of White Dragon Horse, holding his hand in front of his eyes and making a gesture as if surveying the distance.


    "Eh? Have we already reached the Guanyin Zen Temple?" hearing Sun Wukong''s response, Jiang Liu felt a slight stir in his heart.


    In the original story, wasn''t it here that the old monk stole the Brocade Kasaya?


    Hmm, for me, this is yet another opportunity.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    If I remember correctly, didn''t the old monk from the Guanyin Zen Temple live for a full 200 years? He could truly be considered a cunning person.


    I also recall there was a ck Bear Demon nearby, eventually won over by one of the rings of corruption from Guanyin and made the Mountain Guardian Deity, right?


    "Eh, wait a moment..." the thought of the ck Bear Demon near the Guanyin Zen Temple suddenly struck Jiang Liu.


    I recall in the original story, after the ck Bear Demon stole the Brocade Kasaya, he hosted a grand Buddha''s Robe event, inviting some friends to marvel at his treasure, including two other friend from the Demon Kind, a Grey Wolf Demon and a Flower Snake Demon.


    Among them, the Grey Wolf Demon was killed by Sun Wukong, and then the Bodhisattva disguised herself as the Grey Wolf Demon to subdue the ck Bear Demon.


    Remember? The original Grey Wolf Demon was called?


    Master Lingxu!?


    If it were just a coincidence in names, it would be one thing, but the Master Lingxu from Wolf Dwelling Mountain is also a Wolf Demon. The Master Lingxu in the original, who was killed, originally carried two Spirit Pills to attend the Buddha''s Robe event, and Master Lingxu from Wolf Dwelling Mountain also devoted himself to alchemy...


    It seems, due to a detour toward Wu City, the route for Journey to the West is slightly different from the original. Before reaching the Guanyin Zen Temple, we first passed through Master Lingxu''s territory, didn''t we?


    Let''s not delve into the thoughts in Jiang Liu''s heart; upon hearing the name of Guanyin Zen Temple, White Dragon Horse''s eyes suddenly brightened significantly, almost shedding two horse tears.


    After receiving enlightenment from the Great Bodhisattva Guanyin to assist this Scripture Seeker, which was initially rejected, I''ve been shamelessly tagged along without official recognition. Now, atst, I see the Guanyin Zen Temple.


    I should definitely let the Bodhisattva exin the reason to the Scripture Seeker properly.


    The White Dragon Horse turned their head toward Jiang Liu, wondering if he would enter the Guanyin Zen Temple as they passed by?


    After all, he himself had said, ''See a temple, worship Buddha; see a pagoda, sweep the pagoda,'' to fulfill his heart''s devotion to Buddha.


    "Wukong, let''s go. Let''s pay our respects properly at the temple ahead¡­" Casting aside the jumble of thoughts in his mind, Jiang Liu quickened his pace, striding towards the Guanyin Zen Temple.


    Upon arriving at the entrance of the Guanyin Zen Temple, looking at its splendid magnificence, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but feel a sense of awe internally; indeed, ''A man relies on clothes, Buddha relies on gold.''


    The Guanyin Zen Temple was indeed splendidly and luxuriously decorated, using modern terms, it was truly a disy of opulence.


    Looking at the Guanyin Zen Temple, Jiang Liu mused internally, but the two Reception Monks at the temple gate, noting Jiang Liu''s dusty appearance, especially the cracks on his Golden Cicada Buddha Robe, disdainfully said:


    "Hey? Where did this scrappy monke from? Don''t block the believers, move along, move along¡­"

 Chapter 115 Jinchi

    Speaking of Jiang Liu, although he carried all his necessities with him due to the storage space, there was one inconvenient aspect, and that was bathing andundering clothes.


    First of all, for bathing, he couldn''t possibly carry arge amount of water in his storage space, could he?


    After all, the water in the storage space was only meant for drinking; bathing still required passing by a river.


    And then there was washing clothes; they had to be dried after washing, right? If he put freshlyundered clothes into the storage space, they woulde out the same way they went in, never drying.


    Thus, despite having no worries about food and drink while traveling westward, personal hygiene was not so convenient.


    Moreover, after the battle with the Wolf Demon, his Golden Cicada Buddha Robe had been torn, giving him a dusty and unkempt appearance. At first nce, he indeed looked disheveled.


    "What an inconsiderate fool, I, Old Sun...", the words of the Reception Monk at the door infuriated Sun Wukong. How could someone be so disdainful and dismissive without even letting him in?


    "Wukong, let your master handle this!", however, seeing the angry look on Sun Wukong''s face, Jiang Liu called out to him.


    His gaze fell upon the Reception Monk, and although he was also annoyed, he felt a sense of delight.


    The annoyance came from being rejected and driven away, which would anger anyone, wouldn''t it?


    The delight, on the other hand, was because it seemed that something was afoot at Guanyin Zen Temple. Wasn''t this exactly what he wanted?


    "Amitabha, this humble monkes from the Great Tang in Eastern Land. I am on a mission from the Emperor of Tang, heading to the Western Heaven to worship Buddha and seek scriptures. Passing by this holy temple, I wished to pay my respects...", with his palms pressed together, Jiang Liu suppressed his anger, speaking in a humble and polite manner.


    "You want toe in to worship Buddha? Do we also have to offer you food and lodging? Get lost, get lost. There are too many like you who want to freeload on food and shelter. Youe from the Great Tang in Eastern Land? So monks from the Great Tang don''t even have a decent kasaya?


    Can''t youe up with a better excuse?"


    The Reception Monk at the door clearly did not believe Jiang Liu''s words, expressing a disdainful attitude, almost as if he wished he could sweep him away with a broom.


    The storyline at Guanyin Zen Temple was a tribtion, and also an excellent opportunity for him to dawdle and make excuses. How could Jiang Liu leave just because of the Reception Monk''s dismissal?


    As the old saying goes, courtesy before force. He had already extended his courtesy, so if the other party still failed to appreciate it, there was no need for him to remain polite.


    Guanyin Zen Temple? Even if he caused a great disturbance, if the Bodhisattva Guanyin herself came out, she would have no reason to harshly me him.


    With a n in mind, Jiang Liu raised his hand, and the Green Lotus Staff appeared in his grip: "You blind fool, today I must enter this Zen Temple, whether you like it or not!"


    Once he finished speaking, Jiang Liu swung the Green Lotus Staff towards the Reception Monk.


    "Dare! You wild monk, how dare you cause trouble in my Guanyin Zen Temple? Taste my technique!", the Reception Monk at the entrance of Guanyin Zen Temple, seeing Jiang Liu resort to violence, was not scared but instead yelled angrily. As he spoke, his hands raised, gathering a golden glow, clearly the martial arts of the Arhat Fist.


    Judging from the glow, he was definitely a cut above Senior Brother Xuankong from Jinshan Temple.


    With a bang, the Reception Monk had amendable aura, but the Green Lotus Staff struck him, sending him flying. His health bar vanished instantly, a one-hit kill!


    Hint: You have gained 118 Experience Points, and 9 coins.


    As Jiang Liu made his move, with a single gesture, he knocked the Reception Monk of the Guanyin Zen Temple unconscious. This caused an uproar among the visitors, and for a moment, the scene descended into chaos.


    Naturally, the response from Guanyin Zen Temple was swift. In just a moment, several young Martial Monks rushed out.


    However, the Martial Monks who charged out weren''t particrly skilled; most of them were merely at the Meridian Unblocking Realm, meaning they were merely above level 10.


    With the Green Lotus Staff in hand, Jiang Liu entered the fray like a tiger among sheep. In no time at all, he knocked monk after monk unconscious with his staff.


    "Hehehe, Master, not bad, truly befitting of one who seeks enlightenment through ughter," Sun Wukong said, looking on excitedly as Jiang Liuunched into action, while sitting on the White Dragon Horse''s back.


    What was there to talk about? If they wouldn''t let him in, then he would simply fight his way through, how simple was that?


    In the past, when he went to the Dragon Pce of the Eastern Sea to seek weapons, hadn''t the shrimp soldiers and crab generals also blocked his path? He had fought his way through!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "s, Senior Brother, as the saying goes, ''Flood waters wash over the Dragon King''s Temple; it isn''t ideal for Master to take action in the Guanyin Zen Temple, after all, we are all disciples of the Buddhist Sect...''" However, the White Dragon Horse, watching the scene before it, sighed.


    "First we fight, then we''ll talk; who cares if it''s good or not," Sun Wukong replied dismissively to the White Dragon Horse''sment.


    For those who seek enlightenment through ughter, more fighting means greater strength, and since he and his Master had agreed to go to the Western Heaven to turn the deities on their heads, Sun Wukong naturallypletely supported Jiang Liu''s actions.


    However, as arge Zen temple, Guanyin Zen Temple naturally wouldn''t only have disciples with low Cultivation Levels. Soon, several middle-aged monks appeared, all clearly possessing noteworthy cultivation.


    "Cease your actions..." A hoarse voice called out. Although it wasn''t loud, it clearly reached everyone''s ears. Simultaneously, an Old Monk walked out at a leisurely pace.


    "We pay our respects to the Abbot!" As the Old Monk stepped out, all the monks in the area shouted in unison.


    "We pay our respects to Holy Monk Jinchi!" At the same time, the believers in the temple also called out in chorus.


    "So, this is Jinchi?" Jiang Liu''s gaze fell upon the Old Monk, his eyes taking in every detail.


    He looked very old, hunched over, with Holy Monk Jinchi appearing short and thin. Indeed, he was a match for Sun Wukong in stature, his face etched with wrinkles.


    Yet he was dressed in a kasaya edged with gold thread, his neck adorned with a strand of white jade Buddha beads, and each of his ten fingers was decorated with rings set with various gemstones that scintited brilliantly. At a nce, the whole person seemed to be bathed in the splendor of jewels.


    "Amitabha Buddha, from whence do youe, Monk? Why are you causing such disturbance in my temple for no reason?" Jinchi, looking rather ancient and leaning on a cane, took small steps towards Jiang Liu, raising his eyes to have a look at him as he spoke.


    "This humble monk hails from the Great Tang in the Eastern Land, bearing the Emperor of Tang''s decree to journey to the Western Heaven in search of scripture. Passing by the sacred temple, I wished to pay my respects to Buddha..." Jiang Liu began, repeating the exnation he had given earlier.


    "Abbot, don''t believe him; look at his poor and shabby appearance..." a nearby monk said, chiming in.


    However, Jinchi simply waved his hand and said, "Since we are all disciples of the Buddhist Sect, stay and partake in a meal before you leave. Yes, after the meal, while it''s still daylight, you can continue your journey to the West. I will not detain you."


    "Are they treating me like a beggar?"


    Jinchi''s words were clearly an offer of charity, as if giving him a meal and then telling him to hurry on his way. This caused the corner of Jiang Liu''s mouth to twitch slightly.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 116 Forcing Me to Show Off

    Pfft!


    As Elder Jinchi finished speaking, the White Dragon Horse at his side nearly burst into uncontrobleughter.


    Feeling Jiang Liu''s gaze on him, the White Dragon Horse quickly lowered his gaze, pretending to be serious, as if theughter had note from his horse mouth just a moment ago.


    But the White Dragon Horse found the current situation quite amusing.


    After having received Guanyin''s enlightenment and transformed into a white horse to serve as his steed, he had tly refused, causing the horse no end of trouble and forcing it to shamelessly follow along. And now, to see the Scripture Seeker denied entry and given a meal out of pity, as if he were someone simply seeking free food...


    Seeing the displeasure on Jiang Liu''s face, the White Dragon Horse felt quite satisfied.


    "Master, if they do not wee us, let''s just leave. Why bother staying here and being insulted?" Sun Wukong, feeling irritated, pped the White Dragon Horse and immediately said to Jiang Liu.


    "I see you really don''t like eating other people''s food," Jiang Liu said to Sun Wukong, irritated.


    With his personality, how could he be so agreeable? It seemed that the main reason was that he did not enjoy other people''s cooking.


    "Ah, a demon, there''s a demon..." The believers in the Guanyin Zen Temple gasped in horror when Sun Wukong spoke with the artiction of a human. Without speaking, it would have been fine, but a monkey that could speak humannguage? If that wasn''t a demon, what was?


    "Well, well, what have we here? A wild monk associating with demons!" Already quite displeased with Jiang Liu''s actions in the Guanyin Zen Temple, several martial monks stepped forward, their faces darkened as they spoke, believing they had seized upon a fault.


    "Wait... wait a moment..."


    However, at this point, Elder Jinchi once again spoke up. Squinting through aged eyes, he scrutinized Jiang Liu, mainly focusing on the Vidyaraja Crown on his head, and said, "Our Buddhist disciples are devoted to self-cultivation and cleanliness; it''s impossible for them to consort with demons.


    I see that you, little monk, wear the robes and the monk hat, but your behavior hardly resembles that of our Buddhist sect. Could you be an imposter?"


    Elder Jinchi cared greatly about his own reputation and that of the Buddhist Sect. He had assumed Jiang Liu was simply a wandering monk and thought nothing of offering him a meal; after all, it was a matter of Buddhistpassion.


    But now, seeing him in thepany of a demon, Elder Jinchi began to doubt Jiang Liu''s identity.


    If it turned out that he was an imposter, and with the demon present, they couldn''t let today''s events¡ªwhere both the demon and the monk who tarnished the reputation of the Buddhist Sect¡ªgo unpunished.


    As a highly revered monk with eight Incense Scar Initiations and two centuries of life, Elder Jinchi''s authority was naturally immense, as could be inferred from the fact that people referred to him as Holy Monk.


    At his words, the worshippers around began to view Jiang Liu with suspicion; indeed, with such behavior, he scarcely resembled a disciple of the Buddhist Sect.


    "The Abbot speaks the truth!"


    Two martial monks of the Guanyin Zen Temple, also in agreement, nodded their heads, saying, "Judging by his actions, he is indeed unruly and aggressive, whichpletely contradicts the serenity of our Buddhist teachings. Furthermore, by associating with a demon, it''s obvious he is not a disciple of our sect."


    "Hey, you monk, if you''ve got the guts, take off your monk hat and let us see if you have the Scar of Precepts on your head," the Martial Monk said loudly to Jiang Liu at the end of his taunt.


    "Exactly, you say you''re a monk, let''s see you remove that monk hat and show us!" At the same time, other monks from Guanyin Zen Temple and even the devotees, all spoke up in unison, raising their voices.


    For a moment, Jiang Liu became the target of everyone''s usations.


    "You bald donkeys, aren''t you too full of yourselves? Just because you tell my master to take off his hat, should he just do it?" Jumping off the back of the White Dragon Horse, Sun Wukong, catching the condescending gazes, red at everyone with an untamed look and retorted.


    While speaking, Sun Wukong turned his head to Jiang Liu, "Master, let''s go. There''s no need to lower ourselves to their level, a bunch of ignorant fools. And they think we''re here to freeload a meal? How good could their food possibly be?"


    "Monkey, thatst part of what you said is the real reason you want to leave, isn''t it?" Jiang Liu cast a sideways nce at Sun Wukong and said, not hiding his irritation.


    After making a sarcastic remark about Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu didn''t pay him further attention but looked over all the presentpany before his gaze settled on Elder Jinchi. "Holy Monk Jinchi, I think there''s been some misunderstanding. Wukong is not a demon; the reason he''s following this poor monk on the Journey to the West is that he was enlightened by Bodhisattva Guanyin."


    "Hahaha..." Jiang Liu''s words might have been better left unsaid¡ªas soon as he finished, the monks around them burst intoughter as if they had heard something ridiculous.


    "Little Monk, open your eyes and look carefully. What is the name of our temple? Guanyin Zen Temple. Do you think that by invoking the name of Bodhisattva Guanyin, you can scare us?" a monk said pointedly to Jiang Liu.


    "I see this Little Monk truly has a knack for telling tall tales. One moment he ims to be on a scripture-seeking mission by the order of the Emperor of Tang, the next he says this demon has been enlightened by Bodhisattva Guanyin. What next? Will he im to be a disciple of Tathagata himself? His exaggerations are getting more and more outrageous," another monk sneered with a scoffing tone.


    "Amitabha, say less, everyone, cough cough... Monastics should refrain from speaking falsely..." Hearing the monks of his Zen Temple getting more and more exaggerated, and indeed feeling that it was rather embarrassing, Elder Jinchi coughed a few times to silence them.


    Then, Elder Jinchi''s gaze once again fell upon Jiang Liu, saying, "Monastics should not speak untruths; I see you spouting nonsense and behaving erratically, besides keeping thepany of demon kind. You are definitely not a member of the Buddhist Sect. You wish to impersonate a Buddhist Disciple for more than just a simple vegetarian meal, don''t you? Speak, what is your real purpose?"


    "I must say, the ability to let one''s imagination run wild is truly frightening, but what''s more frightening is that you people take your fantasies for reality and believe them without a doubt."


    Seeing how the monks from Guanyin Zen Temple, including Elder Jinchi, looked at him with suspicion, Jiang Liu sighed helplessly.


    "Enough talk, if you truly are a Buddhist Disciple, let us see the Scar of Precepts on your head," Elder Jinchi said with finality, not interested in further idle chatter with Jiang Liu.


    "So be it. Since you all want to see, this poor monk will let you see."


    Jiang Liu shook his head reluctantly, then ced his hands on the Vidyaraja Crown and slowly removed it.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    At that moment, Jiang Liu indeed felt very reluctant. All he had wanted was to enter Guanyin Zen Temple peacefully and follow the plot of the original story, spending some days there. Was that too much to ask for?


    Why stare down upon me and drive me away?


    Isn''t this forcing me to show off so I can stay?


    As the Vidyaraja Crown was slowly removed, the twelve Scars of Precepts on his head were exposed for all to see...

 Chapter 117 Isnt this plot a bit off?

    All eyes fell upon Jiang Liu, whether they were believers who hade to Guanyin Zen Temple or the monks of the temple itself, all had their eyes wide open.


    With behavior like his, he really did not seem to be a monk, so the question was whether his head would bear the Scars of Precepts or not?


    Silence!


    As Jiang Liu removed the Vidyaraja Crown, the entire Guanyin Zen Temple fell into a death-like silence, and everyone, both monks and believers, stared with wide eyes as if they had seen a ghost, mouths agape wide enough to fit an entire fist, as gasps echoed intermittently.


    With a thump, Elder Jinchi''s staff dropped to the ground. His eyes, slightly squinted and somewhat cloudy, were now wide open, and his body began to tremble slightly.


    Looking at Jiang Liu''s imusibly youthful face, and seeing the full twelve Scars of Precepts on his head, everyone was dumbfounded, feeling as if their minds had gonepletely nk.


    "Ten... twelve Scars of Precepts... Am I seeing this correctly?" Inside the Guanyin Zen Temple, an old believer who hade to offer incense murmured softly in disbelief after seeing the twelve Scars of Precepts on Jiang Liu''s head.


    For them, the eight Scars of Precepts on Elder Jinchi''s head were already a rare sight in their lifetime; they had never imagined that today they would witness a monk with a full twelve Scars of Precepts, something utterly unheard of.


    "This, this is impossible. How can someone have twelve Scars of Precepts on their head?" A martial monk, unable to believe what he saw, looked at Jiang Liu, whose twelve Scars of Precepts nearly covered his entire head. The monk then touched his own head, which bore only two Scars of Precepts.


    "Ah... Amitabha..." Elder Jinchi, who had lived for over two hundred years, was shocked by the twelve Scars of Precepts on Jiang Liu''s head. However, after remaining silent for a long time, he managed topose himself and muttered the Buddha''s name with some difficulty.


    Immediately, he bowed and knelt in Jiang Liu''s direction.


    "Abbot!" Seeing the behavior of Elder Jinchi, the monks of Guanyin Zen Temple were shocked. At the same time, a middle-aged monk hurried over and helped Elder Jinchi to his feet.


    "Abbot, even if he possesses twelve Scars of Precepts and has profound Buddhist affinity, we are all disciples of the Buddhist Sect. Why do you need to pay such respect and kneel to him?"


    With the help of the martial monk, Elder Jinchi, somewhat helplessly said, "Well... that... I, I was just picking up my staff."


    ...


    "Holy Monk Xuanzang hase from the Great Tang in the Eastern Land, and visitors from afar are guests. Please take a seat at the table," said Elder Jinchi in the Guanyin Zen Temple, where he had specially prepared a table of exquisite vegetarian dishes. He personally took a seat at the end of the table and said to Jiang Liu.


    Compared to the condescending manner before, Elder Jinchi''s attitude hadpletely changed after Jiang Liu took off the Vidyaraja Crown and revealed the twelve Scars of Precepts on his head.


    "Amitabha, I have heard that the Heavenly Empire of Great Tang is a blessed country. A year ago, a disciple with twelve Scars of Precepts appeared. However, I was not well-informed and did not know that Mage Xuanzang had received enlightenment from Bodhisattva Guanyin and was heading to the Western Spirit Mountain to worship Buddha and seek scriptures. I truly envy you.


    If it were not for my old bones being so frail, I would wish to apany you to the Western Heaven to meet the Buddha," he said.


    "Since the Mage hase to the Guanyin Zen Temple, and is guided by Bodhisattva Guanyin, as the abbot of the temple, it is only right for me to offer you the best hospitality. A Zen Room has already been prepared for you and your disciple to rest, and rest assured, we will take good care of your steeds as well..."


    During the meal, Elder Jinchi was very enthusiastic in speaking with Jiang Liu. Clearly, in the Buddhist Sect, the number of Scars of Precepts on one''s head indicated the depth of one''s Buddhist affinity. Jiang Liu, with his twelve Scars of Precepts, had a level of Buddhist affinity that was indeed rare throughout history.


    "I thank you, Elder Jinchi," Jiang Liu said, bringing his hands together in thanks.


    Although he was somewhat uneasy with the other''s sudden shift from arrogant to obsequious, there is a saying about not smiting the smiling face that reaches out. Now that he was eating the vegetarian meal prepared by the Guanyin Zen Temple, it was not appropriate for Jiang Liu to show displeasure.


    "Ptui, how tasteless..." Sun Wukong, however, after chewing a few mouthfuls of cabbage, didn''t hesitate to spit it right out onto the dining table.


    While Jiang Liu might still care about etiquette, Sun Wukong was quite straightforward. When he was pleased, it showed; when he was displeased, it was just as obvious. Unconcerned with offending those around him, he spat the unappetizing food straight onto the table.


    Then he reached out to the table, picked up a peach, and turned away from the table.


    "Alright, Master, your disciple can''t get used to these meals, so I won''t eat, going to see how Xiaobai is doing," holding a peach, Sun Wukong limped out.


    "This...," watching Sun Wukong''s dismissive manner, Elder Jinchi felt somewhat embarrassed.


    "I apologize, my mischievous disciple is naturally stubborn, and being a monkey species, he favors fruits. Thus, it''s no surprise that the meals don''t suit his taste," seeing Elder Jinchi''s embarrassed expression, Jiang Liu smiled slightly and gracefully smoothed things over.


    "It''s alright, it was myck of consideration," hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Elder Jinchi''s expression cleared slightly.


    Eating the meals? Well, the food of this era was mostly cooked and boiled, so indeed, the taste was somewhat inferior to stir-fried dishes. Besides, this ce had long been outside the borders of Great Tang, and dietary habits also varied. In fact, Jiang Liu himself didn''t find the meal very ptable either, so it wasn''t surprising that Sun Wukong reacted that way.


    However, at this moment, Jiang Liu lingered at the dining table not because he wanted to eat more but because he was waiting for the plot to advance.


    Shouldn''t Elder Jinchi soon start showing off his collection of treasured kasayas?


    But now that Sun Wukong had left, would he have to be the one to broach the subject of the kasayas?


    They chatted back and forth for half a Chinese hour, and the food on the table was almost finished. Yet Elder Jinchi still showed no intention of unting his treasures, leaving Jiang Liu feeling a little impatient.


    "Ahem, Elder Jinchi, seeing as how the Guanyin Zen Temple is so splendidly decorated, I presume the temple is quite wealthy?" Since Elder Jinchi wasn''t unting his wealth, Jiang Liu coughed twice, feeling it was better to provide some subtle prompting.


    "Oh, I understand, understand¡­," Yet, upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Elder Jinchi suddenly seemed to realize something and gave a meaningful look to a monk beside him.


    "Understand what?" Looking at Elder Jinchi''s shared nce with the departing monk, Jiang Liu becamepletely confused.


    Could it be? He''s getting some treasured kasayas?


    A momentter, the departed monk returned, carrying a tray covered with a red cloth, and ced it on the dining table.


    "Holy Monk of Great Tang, you didn''t hesitate to travel a thousand miles through remote mountains. It seems your provisions might be exhausted, no? Here, I have one hundred taels of gold, and I hope the Holy Monk will not decline¡­" Elder Jinchi removed the red cloth from the tray, revealing ten hefty gold ingots.


    "Elder Jinchi is mistaken, I am not here to ask for provisions."


    Looking at the gold pushed towards him, Jiang Liu''s lips twitched slightly before he said, "It''s just that along the way, I happened to hear themon people mention Elder has collected a number of exquisite treasured kasayas, so I thought¡­"


    "Oh, I see now," but before Jiang Liu could finish, Elder Jinchi again looked as if he''d suddenly understood.


    "Your kasaya is worn out, and it so happens that I have indeed taken in a few kasayas. Though they can''t really be considered treasures, they certainly cannot match the rich materials from the Heavenly Empire. If the Holy Monk doesn''t mind, why not visit my Treasure Room where I keep the kasayas? If there''s one that catches your eye, I''d be happy to gift you a few¡­"


    Jiang Liu: "¡­"


    This development seems a bit off, doesn''t it? What happened to the old monk who loved to show off his wealth?


    Why is he so generous and enthusiastic? Can this trial even continue?


    (PS: By the way, has it been a while since I''ve asked for rmendation tickets? Are you holding them back for something special? Toss them my way¡­)n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 118 The True Purpose of Little White Dragon

    Guanyin Zen Temple, in the grand hall, a statue of Guanyin adorned with golden light towered, majestic and resplendent, imparting a feeling of solemnity and nobility.


    Although the sky had darkened and the reception of pilgrims at Guanyin Zen Temple had already ceased, Jiang Liu and Jinchi were seated nearby partaking in a vegetarian meal, yet there were still a few monks bustling about in therge hall.


    For instance, cleaning, and then there was therge merit box from which all the silver coins had to be taken out.


    Tip-tap, tip-tap...


    Just when a few monks were in the midst of opening the merit box, suddenly, crisp footsteps echoed from the green rock bs outside the great hall, as if someone were tapping on the ground with stones, certainly not the sound of ordinary footsteps.


    This gave the monks a moment of pause.


    As they turned their heads back around, they happened to see an extraordinarily divine white horse appear and then directly lift its legs to stride into the grand Guanyin Hall.


    "Eh? Isn''t this Master Xuanzang''s steed?" the monks in the hall were surprised to see the white horse walking into the Guanyin Hall.


    Weren''t there other brothers tasked with taking good care of the white horse? Why let it run into the great hall?


    Shaking their heads, although feeling it was somewhat improper for their brothers to not even properly look after a horse, since the white horse had barged into the hall, they would simply lead it back to the stable.


    "It truly is worthy of being Master Xuanzang''s mount, even leaving the stable, it knows toe into this great hall," one of the monks couldn''t help but joke as he watched the white horse enter the hall.


    "Hahaha, indeed, Master Xuanzang is indeed a high monk who has earned twelve scars of precepts, possessing such a Buddhist affinity. Perhaps in the future, he might indeed achieve Buddhahood or Arhatship in the Western Heaven?" joined in another monk,ughing and nodding along with the jesting remark.


    In the midst of speaking, this monk put down the merit box he was holding, preparing to go and lead the horse.


    However, he had only taken two steps when he froze, his expression one of utter confusion.


    It turned out that the white horse that walked into the grand hall paid no heed to their words but instead walked on its own ord to the front of the statue of Guanyin. Then, its front legs knelt down, precisely onto the meditation cushion, and it lowered its head, adopting the posture of kneeling and bowing in worship.


    "What? Has Master Xuanzang''s steed also be enlightened?" watching the white horse bow in front of the statue of Guanyin, the monks at the side murmured to each other in bewilderment.


    If it had be enlightened, that would be the end of it, for as Buddhist disciples, who hasn''t seen a few demons? The ck Bear Demon on the nearby ck Wind Mountain was a longtime good friend of the Temple Master.


    Yet, an enlightened being with such a deep understanding of Buddhism,ing on its own to bow to the Bodhisattva, was something they had never seen before, right?


    The White Dragon Horse, quietly kneeling before the statue of the Bodhisattva, its head lowered, knew all too well the struggles it faced within.


    Having been enlightened by Guanyin Bodhisattva, it was supposed to join the scripture-seeking team. But as things stood, it had be nameless and shamelessly followed the scripture seeker instead. Only Guanyin Bodhisattva could resolve such a predicament, and to her, the White Dragon Horse appealed for help.


    The White Dragon Horse knelt before the statue of the Bodhisattva, head bowed, silent.


    It also understood that there was no need for words; the Bodhisattva would surely know its current plight, as well as the purpose for which it knelt here. Believing the Bodhisattva understood, it felt no necessity to speak.


    In the great hall, the monks of the Guanyin Zen Temple looked at one another, all with expressions of astonishment on their faces. Evidently, they were all at a loss as to how to deal with this white horse kneeling before the statue of Guanyin.


    After some thought, they pondered whether they should inform Master Xuanzang about the matter.


    "Hey, Xiaobai, what are you doing here?" However, before these monks from the Guanyin Zen Temple could look for Jiang Liu, Sun Wukong had already found his way over. He looked at the White Dragon Horse kneeling in front of the statue with a curious question.


    Why would he kneel down before the statue of Guanyin for no reason?


    "Big brother, I... I want to pray for the Bodhisattva to manifest and exin to the Scripture Seeker..." Raising his head, the White Dragon Horse turned to nce at Sun Wukong and confessed honestly.


    Since passing by the Guanyin Zen Temple, naturally, he ought to earnestly plead with Bodhisattva Guanyin for favor.


    Hearing the conversation between Sun Wukong and the White Dragon Horse, the monks in the hall were startled. Was this monkey a demon, and this horse as well?


    They exchanged nces; being alone in a room with these demon kind made them feel unsettled. Immediately after, the monks quickly turned and left the great hall one after another, leaving only Sun Wukong and the White Dragon Horse inside.


    "Is your earnest wish to gain our master''s recognition because you want to be honored at Spirit Mountain?" Sun Wukong, ignoring the monks who had hurriedly left, cocked his head and examined the White Dragon Horse before him. After giving it some thought, he asked the question that had always made him curious.


    Logically speaking, as the Crown Prince of the Western Sea Dragon King, Little White Dragon was naturally proud. But in order to seek the Westward scriptures, he seemed willing to sacrifice all his pride. Sun Wukong had always been curious about this, but he had never asked before.


    Seeing himing to the hall alone today to worship the statue of Guanyin, Sun Wukong couldn''t help but ask out of curiosity.


    "Actually, being honored by Spirit Mountain is only part of the reason," replied the White Dragon Horse after a brief hesitation, when asked by Sun Wukong.


    "Oh? Are there other reasons? Tell me about them," Sun Wukong asked, now genuinely interested upon hearing the White Dragon Horse''s response.


    "Actually, I also want to redress the injustice for my maternal uncle," the White Dragon Horse considered and, perhaps trusting Sun Wukong or believing that he could help, confessed sincerely.


    "My uncle, the Dragon King of Jing River, is in charge of managing the rain. However, during a rainfall in Chang''an City, he did not follow the Jade Emperor''s orders precisely. The timing and amount of the rain were slightly off, leading to his punishment by the Jade Emperor¡ªhe suffered a sh¡­" spoke the White Dragon Horse, his voice low and solemn.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Hehehe, that old Jade Emperor really is heartless. Just for a slight dy and a little change in the amount of rain, he would go so far as to strike down with such severity," Sun Wukong said, baring his teeth in a sneeringugh upon hearing White Dragon Horse''s story.


    At that, Sun Wukong paused briefly, then said, "But, although the situation doesn''t seem severe, if the old Jade Emperor truly insists on upholding the punishment for this crime, it wouldn''t exactly be wronging him, would it?"


    "Indeed, if it were just that, it wouldn''t be an injustice. But, the matter of bringing rain was within the borders of Chang''an, and my uncle had already received forgiveness from the Human Emperor. Despite that, he was still killed. There must have been something fishy about it," the White Dragon Horse continued.


    The words were true; when a task assigned by the Jade Emperor went wrong, it was correct to hold someone ountable. Yet, when the rain was mistaken and Chang''an City suffered, the Human Emperor could be considered a victim. Since forgiveness was obtained from the Human Emperor, the incident could be counted as a fault but not a crime.


    As the saying goes, "Without a intiff, there is no judge."


    The Dragon King of Jing River having received the Human Emperor''s forgiveness couldrgely be seen as a private settlement, yet he was still executed, which is why Little White Dragon found the situation very suspicious.


    "Unfortunately, my words carry little weight, and I am also burdened with guilt. Therefore, even though I want to investigate the truth for my uncle, I am willing in spirit but weak in power. That''s why, big brother, I am hoping for this Western journey''s honor to be cleansed of this guilt, so I might have the power to investigate the truth for my uncle."

 Chapter 119 Autograph

    Sun Wukong and White Dragon Horse, within the Guanyin Hall, were having a conversation, let''s not borate about that for now, Jiang Liu, after finishing his vegetarian meal, under the cheerful and excited lead of two monks, returned to his Zen Room where he was resting.


    As monks bearing twelve Scars of Precepts, these two felt immensely honored just to lead the way for Jiang Liu.


    After all, for monks, the number of Scars of Precepts sufficed to determine everything.


    Jiang Liu''s expression was calm, yet his mind was filled with myriad thoughts. Today''s banquet hosted by Jinchi treated him to avish vegetarian meal,plete with fruits and vegetables, but there were no signs of the unting of wealth mentioned in the original story.


    Even his attempts to steer the conversation that way were futile; the story waspletely different from what he had imagined, they even offered money and kasayas enthusiastically.


    "Master Xuanzang, this is the best Zen Room in our Guanyin Zen Temple. You can rest here tonight. We won''t disturb you any further," the two monks, each carrying antern, escorted Jiang Liu to the Zen Room and spoke.


    "Thank you both," Jiang Liu nodded his thanks.


    "Not at all, Master Xuanzang, you are too polite. This is what we should do," a simple thank you seemed to these two monks like a tremendous de; they were visibly thrilled.


    "It seems I have underestimated the significance of bearing twelve Scars of Precepts, haven''t I?" Seeing the excited expressions on the monks'' faces, Jiang Liu inwardly reflected.


    If all the monks in the world were likened to students, then the number of Scars of Precepts would resemble academic scores; what''s most important to a student? Naturally, it''s the scores in exams.


    And indeed, scoring full marks in all subjects and being the undisputed top schr of the nation felt like being admired by all monks across the world, which was within reasonable expectations.


    Watching the two monks, staring at him like fans, even as they led him to the Zen Room and spoke about letting him rest properly, they hesitated to leave. Jiang Liu smiled inwardly and said, "Do you want me to give you my autograph?"


    "Autograph? What''s that?" hearing Jiang Liu''s question, the two monks looked at him curiously.


    "Prepare the ink and brush," without exining, Jiang Liu spoke.


    Naturally, the two monks quickly fetched the four treasures of the study, even quarreling over who got to grind the ink for Jiang Liu.


    Once everything was ready, Jiang Liu stepped forward and wrote down his dharma name, "Xuanzang," passing it to each of them, "I''m giving you these two autographs."


    Writing one''s dharma name to give to oneself? This might bemonce in the modern era, but for the people of this era, it was an utterly novel concept.


    Each of the monks eagerly epted Jiang Liu''s autographs, treasuring them like supreme treasures; they carefully tucked them into their garments and hastily nodded their thanks, "Thank you, Master Xuanzang."


    Though they were starstruck and wished to stay longer with Master Xuanzang, the night was already gettingte, and having received the autographs, they were impatient to show them off to their fellow disciples; therefore, the two monks made no attempt to linger, "It''s gettingte, we won''t disturb Master Xuanzang''s rest any longer."


    "Ah, wait a moment," just as the two were about to leave, Jiang Liu stopped them and asked, "By the way, I heard that Elder Jinchi has collected many kasayas. He usually just keeps them in the Treasure Room and doesn''t bring them out, does he?"


    "You are mistaken, Master Xuanzang," hearing Jiang Liu''s question, the two monks shook their heads, then whispered, "Our abbot loves to show off his treasured kasayas. Sometimes, he even changes them several times a day; it''s just that in front of you, Master, it surely isn''t appropriate to boast."


    "Ah, I see¡­," the monks'' response enlightened Jiang Liu.


    What monks value most is their depth of connection with the Buddhist Sect, simply put, the number of Scars of Precepts on their heads determines everything, after all, whether a temple thrives can be seen by the number of Scars of Precepts on the abbot''s head.


    While Jinchi likes showing off his collected treasures, he couldn''t unt them in front of Jiang Liu.


    After all, the twelve Scars of Precepts on his own head rendered any attempt at boasting pale and futile.


    The two monks had left, and Jiang Liu sat inside the Zen Room, secretly pondering in his heart.


    Seeing the enthusiasm of Jinchi, with both money and kasaya being offered, he felt embarrassed to make a forceful move, didn''t he?


    In the original story, the main conflict arose from the unting of wealth, leading to cmity. Now, having revealed his twelve Scars of Precepts, Jinchi no longer unted his wealth in his presence. Could it be that this cmity had no chance to even begin?


    "Ah, well, since the situation from the original story will not ur, I still need to find another excuse to linger in the Guanyin Zen Temple for as long as possible."


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu helplessly sighed internally, temporarily suppressing his thoughts about the plot of the original story.


    "Eh? Right, where''s Wukong?" As Jiang Liu came back to his senses, he then realized in surprise that Wukong had been missing since he had left during the banquet. Where had he gone?


    However, although Sun Wukong had not yet returned, causing surprise, Jiang Liu of course did not worry about the monkey''s safety. Since he had not returned, it was fine to let him wander outside, as long as he did not cause any trouble.


    Sitting cross-legged, Jiang Liu began to practice the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique, intensifying his cultivation, and soon calmed down; game system prompts continuously appeared in his mind.


    Prompt: Gained 3 Experience Points.


    Prompt: Gained 3 Experience Points.


    Prompt: Gained 3 Experience Points.


    ...


    The Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, for each major realm ascended, an additionalyer can be practiced.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    The Qi Cultivation Realm allows the practice of the firstyer, the Meridian Unblocking Realm allows the secondyer, the Body Tempering Realm allows the thirdyer, and so on.


    Jiang Liu, now at level 23, had naturally invested 2 Skill Points into the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique, raising it to the thirdyer.


    For Jiang Liu, the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound was not just a means of group attack and control; more importantly, the experience points gained during meditation were what he truly needed.


    With the cultivation technique elevated, naturally, more experience points were obtained during meditation, which was great news for Jiang Liu.


    Although the experience points required for leveling up increased, the actual gains in cultivation were substantial. From another perspective, the power gap between each level was also continuously widening.


    At lower levels, perhaps with slightly sophisticated equipment and stronger skills, challenging higher levels was not difficult.


    However, as the levels increased, the disparity in cultivation between levels grewrger, making challenging higher levels progressively more difficult.


    With a creak, as Jiang Liu''s meditation gradually wound down, the door to the Zen Room was pushed open, and Sun Wukong walked in.


    He did not care that Jiang Liu was in the middle of cultivation and said, "Master, I, Old Sun, have discovered that Xiaobai has other motives for wanting to go to Western Heaven..."


    (PS: Asking for rmendation tickets, seeking lots and lots of rmendation tickets¡­)

 Chapter 120 Celebrity Treatment

    Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu slowly opened his eyes, looked at him, and was slightly stunned. He was also a bit surprised, saying, "Little White Dragon went to Western Heaven to receive his title, and he had other purposes as well? What purpose?"


    "He said that his uncle, Dragon King of Jing River, seemed mysterious, so he wanted to properly investigate his uncle''s cause of death after being conferred in Western Heaven," Sun Wukong sat beside him, picked up an apple from the table, crunched into it, and answered.


    "Oh? Is the Dragon King of Jing River really Little White Dragon''s uncle?" Jiang Liu asked, somewhat astonished upon hearing this.


    Though in his previous life, there were innumerable adaptations of ''Journey to the West,'' the rtionship between the Dragon King of Jing River and Little White Dragon was seldom emphasized.


    Or perhaps in his previous life, he hadn''t paid attention to this detail?


    "His purpose was to investigate the cause of death of the Dragon King of Jing River?" Jiang Liu mused silently to himself. With this being said, perhaps Little White Dragon could also be a member of his side in the future?


    Others might not know, but Jiang Liu, of course, understood how the Dragon King of Jing River died, since back when he was in Chang''an, he had quietly warned the Dragon King.


    He knew even clearer, that once this truth was fully revealed, Little White Dragon would inevitably harbor hatred towards Buddhism.


    Of course, this matter was quite important to Jiang Liu, but he would not so readily trust him. After obtaining Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, Jiang Liu carefully inquired about the details of the matter.


    Learning that Little White Dragon had gone alone in front of the Statue of Guanyin to worship, and then chatted with Sun Wukong, recounting his purpose in going to Western Heaven to be conferred, these details made Jiang Liu silently nod.


    Despite feeling that he would not lie to Sun Wukong about this issue, because Little White Dragon was a loyal supporter of the grand mission of scripture seeking in the West, Jiang Liu still did not easily believe him.


    "Hmm, this is indeed quite important news, as for the truth of this matter, we will have to carefully investigate itter," Jiang Liu said after pondering for a moment.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    To Jiang Liu, the news Sun Wukong brought back was indeed important, but it still required thorough and careful investigation.


    Questions such as whether or not Little White Dragon and the Dragon King of Jing River were truly rted, or what their rtionship was like, if they had always been on good terms?


    Sun Wukong''s personality, though often hasty, had a term to describe it: crafty. Throughout the Journey to the West, Sun Wukong indeed had moments of being clever.


    Thus, despitecking a grand vision and long-term perspective, Sun Wukong was still quite crafty and understood what his and Jiang Liu''s purposes were.


    Therefore, after hearing the real purpose of Little White Dragon, he also thought it necessary to inform Jiang Liu.


    A quiet night passed in cultivation, and a whole night of cultivation yielded quite a lot of experience points.


    The next morning, as usual, Jinchi rose, washed up, but suddenly saw two disciples from the temple, one carrying water and the other carrying washing towels and toiletries, heading towards the Zen Room where Master Xuanzang was.


    "Junior Brother, let''s hurry, let''s not let the other senior brothers beat us to it. The two who guided Master Xuanzang yesterday got his autograph, a real treasure from Master Xuanzang himself ¡ª I hope we also can," said the monk carrying water, rushing.


    "You saw how smug those two guys were yesterday, just over two words? Today I must get it too," added the other monk carrying towels, visibly annoyed but even more determined. The two walked very quickly.


    After they passed, in just a short moment, two more monks walked past.


    However, what they were carrying was not toiletries but breakfast: a bowl of hot porridge, two steamed buns, and a few side dishes.


    ...


    "Abbot, you got up quite early today," a middle-aged monk approached Jinchi, handed him his cane, and spoke.


    Abbot Jinchi was already over 200 years old, and his daily meals were normally prepared by himself.


    "Hmm, I feel quite spirited today, so I got up early. What is going on with those people?" Jinchi took the cane and asked.


    It was only a matter of one evening, it seemed that Master Xuanzang was even more revered?


    "Oh,st night, two disciples in the monastery guided Master Xuanzang. Before leaving, Master Xuanzang personally wrote down his Dharma name for them, calling it an autograph; they were so thrilled. Thus, many disciples today wanted to please Master Xuanzang and also hoped to get an autograph," the middle-aged monk replied.


    "I see," Jinchi nodded slightly upon hearing this.


    Given Master Xuanzang''s status, it was only natural for the other disciples to want to keep his calligraphy.


    In the Zen Room, Jiang Liu truly enjoyed a celebrity-level treatment; someone had prepared washing utensils, breakfast was served, and even the desserts and fruits after breakfast were all provided. The only thing missing was someone feeding Jiang Liu by hand.


    This enthusiastic manner indeed made one feel overwhelmed.


    "How did Master Xuanzang find the breakfast?" Just after finishing his meal, Jiang Liu took a piece of silk cloth to wipe his mouth as the aged voice of Jinchi, bending slightly with a walking stick, approached him, speaking with a gentle and kind expression.


    Seeing Jinchi approaching, the surrounding monks naturally did not dare to behave improperly and all stepped aside.


    "Hmm, it''s just that everyone is too enthusiastic, which I''m not quite ustomed to," Jiang Liu replied with a slight smile to Jinchi''s words.


    "No one minds such courtesy; since the Master has finished breakfast, this old monk will take you to the grand hall to recite scriptures and worship Buddha," Jinchi replied cheerfully, nodding and personally leading Jiang Liu to the grand hall.


    After all, Jiang Liu had said when he first arrived that he wanted to pay a proper visit to the Guanyin Zen Temple.


    "Thank you," Jiang Liu said, joining his hands in a modest and polite gesture of gratitude, and followed Jinchi out.


    "By the way, Master, I wonder if it would be convenient for you to give this old monk one of your autographs to cherish?" Jinchi suddenly asked as they were walking out.


    "Um, of course..." upon hearing Jinchi, Jiang Liu was momentarily taken aback, then immediately nodded.


    "Thank you, Master," Jinchi''s smile widened upon hearing Jiang Liu agree.


    "By the way, Master, you have received Buddha''s decree from Bodhisattva Guanyin; this western journey to meet the Tathagata must be a burning desire in your heart. I dare not detain you to hinder your great endeavor.


    After the worship, this old monk will personally see you off, hoping that we shall meet again in this lifetime," Jinchi said, leaning on his walking stick, his voice filled with admiration.


    Going west to see Buddha, that must be something every monk around the world envies, right?


    "Cough cough..."


    Hearing Jinchi''s words, Jiang Liu awkwardly coughed twice and said, "Actually, I quite like it here, and you, Elder, have lived over two hundred years with profound knowledge of the Buddhist Law. I would like to stay a few more days to seek teachings from you."


    "Master Xuanzang, you tter me. How could this old monk''s understanding of the Buddhist Law possiblypare to yours? After all, your poem, the ''Formless Gatha,'' has long been celebrated across the world," Jinchi responded with a smile blooming like a flower, yet with a somewhat startled demeanor, hastily waving his hand.


    "Elder, you are too modest; as the proverb goes, there is a teacher among every three I walk with."


    "Master, please do not tter this old monk; I would never dare to show off my knowledge of Buddhism in front of you."


    "How about we discuss it mutually?"


    "In that case, this old monk asks for your guidance," Jinchi said.


    s...


    After much discussion, Jinchi finally nodded in agreement, causing Jiang Liu to secretly sigh in relief.


    He had really worn out his lips trying to find an excuse to stay a few more days.

 Chapter 121 Guanyin Takes Action

    South Sea, Mount Luojia.


    "Amitabha, very good, very good..." seated on the Lotus tform, Guanyin Bodhisattva holding the Jade Clean Bottle, murmured a Buddhist chant, a hint of suffering between her brows.


    "To obtain the True Scriptures through the Journey to the West, one must ovee eighty-one great trials, such decree is fixed, but just like this, how can the eighty-one trials be gathered?" Guanyin murmured softly.


    Although it starts from the Great Tang in the Eastern Land and proceeds to the Great Thunder Monastery of the Western Heaven, spanning a distance of one hundred and eight thousand li filled with insurmountable mountains and perils, as the person in charge of the Journey to the West n, Guanyin knew that, ording to Xuanzang''s route of the Westward Journey, gathering even half of the eighty-one trials would be impossible.


    In such a case, having not achieved the realm of eighty-one trials but already reaching Western Heaven, what should be done?


    "I wonder? Could some trials be fabricated?" After pondering for a moment, an idea suddenly struck Guanyin.


    If these eighty-one trials cannot be gathered, then one might as well find a way toplete them on one''s own.


    For instance, from the Buddhist Realm, or even the Heavenly Court, why not send some beings to the Lower Realm to cause difficulties, thus gathering the requisite trials?


    This idea, still just a rough thought, required careful nning and consideration on how to execute it.


    Would these self-manufactured trials qualify as the eighty-one requisite trials? This needed careful consideration.


    After reflecting for a while, Guanyin Bodhisattva suddenly looked into the distance, her gaze seemingly crossing the boundaries of time and space,nding within the Guanyin Zen Temple.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    At this moment, in the Guanyin Zen Temple, Jiang Liu was paying homage to the Buddha, which caused her to feel a reaction.


    "Hmm, is he now residing within my Zen Temple? How coincidental, could this be divine will?" As her gaze fixed on the Guanyin Zen Temple, Guanyin''s mind became busy with thoughts.


    Would self-imposed trials count as part of the eighty-one trials? This could indeed be worth verifying.


    More importantly, if this really worked, whoever among the Immortals and Buddhas went down to face the trials in the future, she would take the lead, allowing her own Zen Temple''s first to be the one to face the trials, leaving no room for others to object, right?


    With a thought, Guanyin deeply contemted for a moment and then decided on a n.


    She formed a lotus gesture with her fingers and gently pointed, a streak of light briefly shed across the sky and disappeared.


    ...


    Let us set aside how Guanyin Bodhisattva arranged her ns, within the Guanyin Zen Temple, Jiang Liu quickly finished his homage to the Buddha and sat discussing Buddhism with Jinchi.


    In this discussion, Jinchi positioned himself very humbly, earnestly seeking advice, especially since Jiang Liu''s Formless Gatha had already been widely acknowledged.


    "Amitabha, though the Formless Gatha is excellent, on the day Guanyin Bodhisattva directed me to seek the Westward Scriptures, Iposed another verse, the Bodhi Verse," hearing Jinchi''s incessant praise of the Formless Gatha, Jiang Liu spoke out and recited the original text of the Bodhi Verse.


    Bodhi is originally without any tree, the bright mirror is also not a stand. Originally not a single thing, where can the dust alight?


    Upon hearing this Bodhi Verse, Jinchi and many monks who hade to listen in the Guanyin Zen Temple, were greatly astounded, realizing that the conception of this Bodhi Verse was clearly a notch higher.


    However, where exactly its brilliancey was somewhat indescribable at the moment.


    "Amitabha, Mage, you truly live up to being the holy monk of the Heavenly Empire. Despite your young age, your understanding of Buddhist Law is trulypelling. Compared to you, I have indeed lived in vain for two hundred years.


    Truly, in learning there is no sequence; the aplished shall be the master," after carefully appreciating the Bodhi Verse for a while, Jinchi spoke, sincerely thanking him.


    "Elder, you tter me. If this discussion on Buddhist Law has brought you some insight, that is your own good fortune," seeing Jinchi''s humble and courteous manner in thanking him, Jiang Liu shook his head and responded.


    "With the Formless Gatha, I thought I had expressed the true meaning of Cultivating Buddhism, but little did I expect that with the emergence of this Bodhi Verse, it would ascend to another level, subtly exuding an ethereal transcendence. But I, of lowly aptitude, can only grasp the surface of these distinctions. Since the holy monk is here, why not enlighten us further, if you would?"


    Although thetter Buddhist poem was better, where exactly it excelled was a mystery that Golden Pond struggled to articte.


    His words had sparked an expectant look from the listening monks, all turning their attention to Jiang Liu.


    For him to discuss these two Buddhist poems was nothing less than ideal¡ªit resembled asking Confucius to exin the "Analects."


    "Exin? What am I to exin?" Golden Pond''s words secretly caused Jiang Liu distress.


    Though he had presented two Buddhist poems, his understanding of Buddhist teachings was virtually nonexistent, as he had hardly read any Buddhist scriptures.


    However, just as he was troubled, a spark of inspiration shed through his mind, reminding him of a small story he had encountered in his past life.


    "I once saw an elder and a younger monk descending the mountain to beg¡­" Clearing his throat, Jiang Liu did not exin the two Buddhist poems but instead, began to tell the small story.


    Upon hearing Jiang Liu begin, naturally, everyone became alert and pricked up their ears.


    "Descending the mountain, they unexpectedly came across a young, beautiful woman who was injured andying by the roadside, needing help. The younger monk, mindful of Buddhist discipline, dared not reach out to her. However, the elder monk, without giving it much thought, lifted the woman on his back and descended the mountain to seek medical help, thus saving her life."


    "ording to Buddhist discipline, desire towards women must be avoided, yet the elder monk broke this rule without hesitation, which troubled the younger monk significantly. Finally, by evening, unable to suppress it any longer, the young monk asked the elder why he had broken the precept so thoughtlessly?"


    "Oh? How did the elder monk respond?" Golden Pond couldn''t help interrupting.


    "The elder monk replied, ''That woman, I had set her down the moment we moved away from the mountain, yet you, all this way, have never set her down.''"


    This statement profoundly shook all the monks at the Guanyin Zen Temple, as if they were suddenly enlightened.


    Though it was just a brief story, the Buddhist principle it contained was profoundly deep, prompting reflection.


    Even Golden Pond meditated deeply on it before joining his palms, bowing to Jiang Liu and saying, "Amitabha, the ''Formless Gatha'' is like the young monk, teaching people to adhere to precepts and maintain their true nature without negligence; whereas the ''Bodhi Verse,'' like the elder monk, has already transcended externals.


    Holy Monk, by employing this small story to exin the difference between the two Buddhist poems, you have done so vividly and impressively¡ªan old monk like myself admires it."


    "Thank you for the guidance, Holy Monk!" Following Golden Pond''s remarks, the other monks present also spoke up in unison.


    "It was merely a discussion on Buddhist philosophy; you needn''t be so formal," Jiang Liu replied, returning the bow.


    The so-called discussion on Buddhist teachings soon ended, and Jiang Liu returned to his Zen Room to continue his cultivation, but this discussion had profoundly impressed everyone at the Guanyin Zen Temple.


    In particr, the metaphorical story contrasting the ''Formless Gatha'' and the ''Bodhi Verse'' left a deep impression.


    Hanging around the Guanyin Zen Temple for another day and with nothing much to do during the day, Jiang Liu secluded himself in his Zen Room to practice the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, advancing to the third level and increasing his experience points significantly.


    If possible, Jiang Liu truly wished he could linger in the Guanyin Zen Temple for a few months to level up several times¡ªthat would be truly wonderful.


    However, thinking of the nearly fervent enthusiasm of the monks at the Guanyin Zen Temple, Jiang Liu felt somewhat overwhelmed.


    Late at night, a trace of indiscernible brilliance suddenly came from the West and entered Golden Pond''s Zen Room.


    Jiang Liu, sitting cross-legged and practicing the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique, naturally was unaware.


    But Sun Wukong, lying on the room''s beam, suddenly opened his eyes, looking toward the West, his eyes shining brilliantly as if he, too, traversed the boundaries of time and space.


    Immediately after, the Monkey grinned.


    His smile was filled with utmost mockery.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 122 Something is Wrong with this Jinchi

    The next day, early morning.


    As the sky began to blush with the first light of dawn, Jiang Liu opened his eyes and ceased his cultivation of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    A night''s cultivation had earned him over 10,000 experience points, which, for Jiang Liu, was a faster acquisition rate than before. The thirdyer of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound was indeed not to be underestimated.


    Unfortunately, he couldn''t see the experience bar. The 500,000 experience points from that day had elevated him to level 23, but how far he was from level 24 waspletely unknown to him.


    As Jiang Liu got up and opened the door to the Zen Room, he could see that many monks were already waiting outside, each holding their own washing utensils, breakfast, and fruit snacks, just like the day before.


    "Master Xuanzang, please refresh yourself," each monk said, their eyes alight with fanatical adoration as they addressed Jiang Liu.


    Meanwhile, Elder Jinchi had also woken up and was washing up, just in time to see many monks heading towards Jiang Liu''s Zen Room, seemingly even more enthusiastic than yesterday.


    Clearly,st night''s debate on Buddhist teachings had greatly enhanced his reputation.


    Watching this scene, Jinchi''s brow furrowed slightly.


    Although it was meant to be a discussion about Buddhism, if it were to be considered a contest, he must have lost, right?


    As the master of the Guanyin Zen Temple, to have lost was quite a blow to his prestige.


    Comparing again, as the master of the Guanyin Zen Temple, he was attended by only one person during his ablutions, yet that Xuanzang had a dozen people vying to serve him. This made Jinchi''s heart even more unsettled.


    Who exactly was the head of the Guanyin Zen Temple, him or Xuanzang?


    Feeling quite perturbed, Jinchi went to Jiang Liu''s Zen Room and saw a dozen monks attending to him. He rebuked angrily, "What are you all doing? Such a disy, what kind of decorum is this!?"


    "Master," hearing Jinchi''s words and sensing his anger, the monks all bowed their heads, not daring to look at him.


    "Master Xuanzang hase from afar¡ªwe should naturally treat him with courtesy. But you''re disturbing the mage with such antics. Leave at once!" Jinchimanded sternly.


    A scolding naturally made the monks too scared to rebut. They bowed their heads and quickly left, until not one was left.


    The enthusiastic behavior of these disciples of the Guanyin Zen Temple was indeed a bit overwhelming. However, Jinchi''s intervention gave Jiang Liu some surprise.


    Not having seen him for one night, was Elder Jinchi not in a good mood today?


    "Amitabha, the disciples of the templeck discipline and have troubled the Holy Monk," Jinchi said to Jiang Liu after he had driven the disciples away.


    "It''s nothing serious, just a small matter," Jiang Liu shook his head.


    "The mage is journeying to the West to retrieve the True Scriptures for the sake of all living beings. One day sooner to obtain them means one day earlier to rescue the masses from suffering. I see it''s gettingte; mage, you should set out soon," Jinchi pondered for a moment and then suddenly said.


    Jiang Liu: "...".


    What Jinchi said left Jiang Liu stunned. Was he being given a notice to leave?


    He had said something simr before, but after much persuasion and almost wearing out his lips, Jiang Liu had managed to stay under the pretext of discussing Buddhist Law. And now, on the very second day, Jinchi was bringing it up again?


    "Elder Jinchi, it seems your mood is not quite well today?" Jiang Liu didn''t reply in haste but instead gazed at Jinchi for a moment before suddenly asking.


    Although Elder Jinchi still appeared polite, Jiang Liu was no fool. He could clearly sense that today Jinchi seemed much more distant, far less cordial than yesterday.


    "The mage jests, I am, as ever, with a Zen heart as still as an ancient well," Jinchi shook his head slightly, denying it.


    "That..." Jiang Liu hesitated for a moment and then said, "Has this humble monk done anything to displease you, Elder?"


    "This..." Upon hearing this, Elder Jinchi paused for an imperceptible moment before changing the subject and saying, "I had promised Mage that I would grant you a kasaya. Pleasee with me to select one."


    "Amitabha, this monk appreciates the kindness of the Elder. It is indeed not advisable to spend too much time on this trip to the Western Heaven. I will take my leave from the Elder," said Jiang Liu, shaking his head at Elder Jinchi''s offer of a kasaya, indicating no intention to ept.


    Although Elder Jinchi had only paused briefly, Jiang Liu sensed something amiss, especially with the change of subject. It was apparent to him that Elder Jinchi was displeased with him.


    Even without knowing why, if someone had effectively given him the cold shoulder, could he really have the nerve to stay?@@novelbin@@


    "Amitabha, this monk always keeps his word. Mage, pleasee with me," said Elder Jinchi. Although he felt some envy and was not pleased, wanting Jiang Liu to leave immediately, his status as a monk with twelve Scar of Precepts meant he had no intention of offending Jiang Liu and insisted on gifting him a kasaya.


    "If that is the case, this poor monk will not refuse your gracious offer," Jiang Liu said after a short reflection, no longer declining the invitation.


    As they spoke, under Elder Jinchi''s guidance, they entered the Treasure Room of the Guanyin Zen Temple.


    As the Treasure Room opened, what a sight it was¡ªthe treasures shone brilliantly, heavy with precious energy. They were not mundane items like gold and jewels, but various Buddhist instruments such as kasayas, Zen staffs, and Muyu instruments.


    Of these, the kasayas were the most numerous.


    "Mage, this one is a Pearl Kasaya. Each bead is strung together with fine-quality pearls."


    "This one is a Gold Silk Kasaya, sewn and iid with threads condensed from pure gold."


    "And this kasaya is even more of a treasure, woven from the silks of hundred-year-old snow silkworms. Wearing this kasaya keeps one warm in winter and cool in summer."


    "Of course, these kasayas also have the blessings of the Buddhist Law. Wearing them can protect one from the poison of demons. If there is one that catches Mage''s fancy, this old monk would like to gift it to you," Elder Jinchi offered.


    Elder Jinchi was, after all, a highly venerated monk who bore eight Scar of Precepts and had lived for 200 years. Though he may appear to be advanced in years, his cultivation level was nothing short of impressive. Naturally, these treasures were all Buddhist Treasures, each with its unique miraculous effects.


    "So, these kasayas are all equipment of fine quality?" Jiang Liu casually picked up several kasayas and examined them, and the relevant attribute information appeared, causing a surge of excitement within him.


    The attribute information of these kasaya equipment was indeed excellent; at the very least, they were all of fine quality.


    Elder Jinchi stood by quietly, watching without interfering. Noticing the fervent look in Jiang Liu''s eyes, he couldn''t help but inwardlyugh, knowing that Master Xuanzang recognized their true value.


    Status and position? The other had twelve Scar of Precepts, indeed much higher than his own, so although Elder Jinchi felt jealous, he was helpless to do anything about it.


    But now, seeing Jiang Liu''s eager look at these treasured kasayas, Elder Jinchi suddenly found himself feeling pleased.


    Although Jiang Liu was a Holy Monk from the Heavenly Empire, it seemed he didn''t own many treasures.


    Thinking this, Elder Jinchi realized there was at least one area where he could outdo him.


    With this in mind, Elder Jinchi, who was already jealous, felt like he had found a way to suppress Master Xuanzang.


    "Amitabha, Master Xuanzang came from the Heavenly Empire, which I assume is even richer in resources. May I inquire what treasures Mage has brought that might broaden this old monk''s horizons?" Elder Jinchi asked.


    Upon hearing Elder Jinchi''s words, Jiang Liu was startled, setting down the Pearl Kasaya in his hand and looking at him in surprise.


    Wasn''t he against showing off wealth? What was with these remarks now?


    Elder Jinchi today was clearly not his usual self!


    (PS: The serialization will start tomorrow. How about we have a little burst of updates then?)

 Chapter 123 Manipulated Mentality (Please Subscribe First)

    On the Journey to the West, the ny-nine and eighty-one trials are also ny-nine and eighty-one opportunities. Thus, when Jiang Liu first arrived, due to the cold words from the people of Guanyin Zen Temple, coupled with the predetermined notions from the original text, he wanted to steer the plot toward the proper course.


    However, as he revealed the Scar of Precepts on his head, the monks of Guanyin Zen Temple treated him with great respect, and, with Jinchi offering money and a kasaya, how could Jiang Liu justifyying a hand on them?


    Therefore, even though he wanted to linger and buy time, it was merely under the pretext of discussing Buddhist Law, and he had stopped scheming against them.


    But how could it be that after just one night''s sleep, Jinchi hadpletely changed upon awakening, bing indistinguishable from his depiction in the original text?


    What exactly had happened?


    "Om Mani Padme Hum, this poor monk has not brought any treasures with him on this journey," Jiang Liu thought, swirling with myriad thoughts, but he kept aposed expression, shaking his head as he calmly spoke.


    Although he did not understand the cause of Jinchi''s transformation, Jiang Liu still did not wish to harm him and thus had no intention of producing the kasaya.


    Jiang Liu''s response delighted Jinchi, who felt he had finally found an area where he outshone the monk.


    However, his joy quickly turned to anger, "Humph, the Holy Monkes from the great nation of the Heavenly Empire and is on a mission to the Western Heaven by the decree of both Bodhisattva Guanyin and the Emperor of Tang; how could he not have treasures with him? I do not believe you, Holy Monk, please do not be stingy."


    Hearing Jinchi''s words, Jiang Liu felt anger rising within.


    But Jiang Liu did not lose his temper, sensing that there was an invisible hand orchestrating all of this. If he were to get angry, he would fall right into someone else''s scheme.


    Taking a deep breath, Jiang Liu suppressed his anger and turned around, staring intently at Jinchi.


    "Why are you looking at me like that?" Jinchi was perplexed by the sight of Jiang Liu fuming with anger yet fixing his gaze unwaveringly on him.


    "Elder, let''s not beat around the bush, I don''t think I have done anything to wrong you, so why are you targeting me today? If there''s anything I''ve done wrong, please speak inly," Jiang Liu said, staring at Jinchi and cutting directly to the point.


    "This..." Jinji was taken aback by Jiang Liu''s words, unsure of how to respond.


    "Don''t be in a hurry to deny it. I''ve just asked if there''s anything that displeased you. Although you didn''t admit it, you also didn''t deny it. Please speak inly, Elder¡ªif it indeed turns out I''m in the wrong, I''m willing to apologize sincerely!" Jiang Liu continued without giving Jinchi a chance to defend himself.


    "No... there is nothing... you''ve done nothing wrong," Jinchi replied, taken off guard by Jiang Liu''s forthright questioning and finding himself at a disadvantage, he shook his head.


    "If I haven''t done anything wrong, then why do you find everything about me so disagreeable today?" Jiang Liu asked, taking a step forward and confronting Jinchi with a steady gaze.


    Although they differed vastly in terms of cultivation level, Jiang Liu firmly overpowered Jinchi in terms of presence.


    Not waiting for Jinchi''s rebuttal, Jiang Liu added, "Don''t lie. As a monk of the Buddhist Sect, you should know better than to speak falsely."


    "I, I..." Jinchi struggled, feeling cornered by Jiang Liu''s words.


    Suddenly, Jinchi seemed toe to his senses.


    Indeed, upon reflection, Master Xuanzang had done nothing wrong. Yet why was he behaving like this today? Why did he feel jealous and find everything about him disagreeable?


    To admit it? How could he open his mouth and acknowledge that he targeted him without reason?


    To deny it? Indeed, monks should not lie. How could he possibly voice such a denial?


    "I, I..." As Jiang Liu stepped closer, Jinchi retreated step by step.


    Momentster, Jinchi was overwhelmed with tears: "Master Xuanzang, I don''t know what hase over me. I feel like I''m no longer myself. I don''t understand why I am acting like this today. Seeing the temple disciples scrambling to tter you, I was filled with jealousy and anger. It''s all my fault."


    Jinchi cried miserably, his old tears flowing. Initially blinded by anger, he did not realize it, but after being questioned so directly by Jiang Liu, he came to his senses and was filled with immense regret.@@novelbin@@


    It felt like a sudden and irrational burst of anger leading to impulsive actions, only to return to reason, filled with endless regret, to the point where he wished he could p himself.


    "Om Mani Padme Hum, Elder, there is no need for this. Who among us is without fault? If one could avoid the three poisons of greed, hatred, and delusion, wouldn''t they have already achieved Buddhahood?" Seeing Jinchi weeping uncontrobly, regretful and seemingly sincere, Jiang Liu fell silent for a moment, then spoke in a low voice to console him.


    "Holy Monk, have you forgiven me?" Jinchi looked up at Jiang Liu with a look of guilt and hopeful expectation in his eyes, longing for forgiveness.


    "Of course. Who is free from faults? Besides, you haven''t caused me any real harm, have you?" Jiang Liu responded with a slight nod.


    ...


    Having emerged from the Treasure Pavilion, Jiang Liu held in his hands a kasayapletely strung together with pearls, each pearl round and full¡ªtruly a rare treasure foisted upon him by Holy Monk Jinchi.


    Partly, it was to fulfill the promise to give him a kasaya, and perhaps partly because he felt some guilt, right?


    However, originally Jiang Liu intended to leave, but Jinchi had spoken up to keep him from departing.


    If he had really left after Jinchi had issued an expulsion order, Jinchi might have lived the rest of his life overwhelmed by guilt. Therefore, Holy Monk Jinchi absolutely insisted on having Jiang Liu stay at Guanyin Zen Temple for a few more days.


    As for Jinchi''s request for him to stay, Jiang Liu naturally agreed with some feigned reluctance.


    Firstly, it was best to dy leaving if possible. Although he wasn''t one to bear grudges, nor was he narrow-minded. Since Holy Monk Jinchi sincerely repented, and Jiang Liu himself hadn''t suffered any material harm, he naturally forgave him. Taking advantage of the situation, he decided to loaf around in Guanyin Zen Temple for a bit longer.


    Secondly, and most importantly, Pang Ran had suddenly developed delusions. The appearance of the Three Poisons of greed, anger, and delusion was not strange, but after all, Jinchi had lived for 200 years, and having cultivated the Buddhist Law for many years, it was unusual for him to develop a Heart of Jealousy and entertain angry thoughts without any reason toward Jiang Liu.


    Jiang Liu also wanted to stay behind to investigate and uncover the truth.


    Putting aside what Jiang Liu was thinking, as he left the Treasure Pavilion, Sun Wukong, who was lying nearby munching on a peach, flipped to his feet and leapt to Jiang Liu''s side, "Master, are we leaving now?"


    "No, we''ll linger here a few more days," Jiang Liu shook his head.


    "But? Didn''t that old monk drive us away?" Sun Wukong was surprised; the master was not the kind to stick around where they were not wanted.


    "Various reasons. Let''s return to the room and discuss," Concerning Jinchi''s situation, naturally, it wasn''t appropriate to talk openly in Guanyin Zen Temple, so Jiang Liu nned to have a thorough discussion with Sun Wukong.


    After all, he was the Great Sage Equal to Heaven with vast knowledge and experience. With Jinchi behaving like this, Jiang Liu wondered what Sun Wukong thought.


    At least, with Sun Wukong''s extraordinary methods, having him investigate might yield some results.


    After quietly negotiating with Sun Wukong for a few moments, Jinchi happened to lock the door of the Treasure Pavilion just then.


    After bidding farewell to Jinchi, Jiang Liu, followed by other monks and disciples of Guanyin Zen Temple, made his way back to the Zen Room.


    Walking beside Jiang Liu, Sun Wukong curiously nced at Jinchi, a hint of surprise in his eyes.


    "Hey, master, what exactly did you and that old monk talk about inside?" Once back in the Zen Room, Sun Wukong, seemingly interested, spontaneously asked Jiang Liu.


    "Eh? What''s the rush, you monkey?" Seeing Sun Wukong suddenly enthusiastic, Jiang Liu was somewhat stunned and looked at him strangely.


    "Of course, I''m curious. That old monk was calcted against; his Spirit tform clouded, leading him to do thingspletely irrational. That''s a path to death. Yet, just now, aftering out from the Treasure Pavilion with you, he seemed to have calmed down?" Sun Wukong, in front of Jiang Liu, didn''t hold back and straightforwardly replied.


    "Spirit tform clouded? Calcted against? What''s all this about?" Jiang Liu hadn''t even asked, yet Sun Wukong volunteered the information, prompting Jiang Liu to inquire further.


    "Master, you''re unaware, right?


    The cmity of the world is most frightening not because of its power, but because it can cloud your Spirit tform, causing you to lose your usual calmness, leading you to do foolish things you would not normally do, unwittingly fulfilling the cmity and perishing, thus even gods and bodhisattvas cannot escape it," Sun Wukong exined further upon being asked by Jiang Liu.


    Upon saying this, Sun Wukong paused and then continued, "As for Buddhists? They''re really good at manipting minds. For instance, they can change the nature of inherently evil demons into obedientckeys to be used at their will¡ªa practice they call ''conversion.''"


    "But since they''re adept at manipting minds, it''s not only about turning the bad into good; they can also turn good into bad, clouding people''s Spirit tforms and, naturally, their thoughts are no longer calm. Just a tiny pebble thrown into theke of the mind can stir up waves and storms. I suspect that old monk was schemed against.


    But unexpectedly, after you walked through the Treasure Pavilion with him, he seems to have calmed down."


    "So, what you mean is, Jinchi''s change is the result of Buddhist scheming in secret?" Sun Wukong''s words startled Jiang Liu.


    He had not expected the truth to be like this?


    At the same time, Jiang Liu suddenly remembered the Dragon King of Jing River.


    Wasn''t it strange that despite being warned by Jiang Liu, and seemingly realizing something, the Dragon King still ended up behaving irrationally, leading to his death?


    Could it be that Buddhism also used such methods?


    He also recalled the legend that, at the beginning of the Investiture of the Gods, King Zhou suddenly lost his mind in Nvwa Temple,mitting acts of madness that led him to a path of death. Could it be¡­


    (PS: Finally, the book is on the shelves. I''m rolling all over the floor begging for monthly tickets. If anyone still has monthly tickets, please throw them this way. During a new book''sunch, it''s when they''re needed the most...)

 Chapter 124 Epic Level (Subscribe Please)

    The night was deep.


    All was quiet. The people in the Guanyin Zen Temple were almost all deep in slumber, yet today, Jinchi found himself without the slightest inkling of sleep.


    The events of the day¡ªthe jealousy he felt towards Master Xuanzang, which almost drove him to madness¡ªtormented him, and he rose, donning a kasaya and knelt before the statue of Guanyin, repenting for his own actions.


    "Bodhisattva, I have not cultivated enough. Today, jealousy arose within me, leading to anger. If not for Master Xuanzang''s stern warning, the consequences would have been unimaginable¡­" He murmured softly, his head bowed in repentance before the statue of Guanyin.


    Although he had received Master Xuanzang''s forgiveness, he could not forgive himself.


    As he knelt in repentance, Jinchi suddenly felt the temple light up with a radiant glow. He looked up and saw that the statue of Guanyin was emitting a brilliant golden Buddhist light.


    At the same time, the eyes of the statue seemed extraordinarily lifelike, staring directly at him.


    The Bodhisattva has manifested!


    Seeing the manifestation of the Bodhisattva Guanyin, Jinchi felt a mix of shock, joy, and trepidation.


    "Amitabha, Jinchi, Xuanzang''s journey to the West to seek the True Scriptures is a great meritorious deed for our Buddhist Sect. He is a pivotal figure in our Buddhist Sect. Although you have gained his forgiveness, your offense must still be punished.


    Initially, you were destined to enter Spirit Mountain after a lifetime of arduous cultivation; however, due to your offense against Xuanzang, after death, you will be reincarnated on the Path of Beasts to atone for your sins," the statue of Guanyin stated, the words echoing through the air.


    "Mercy, Bodhisattva, please show mercy!" Upon hearing these words, Jinchi''s face turned pale as he cried out loudly for leniency.


    Just because of some mocking words driven by jealousy, he was to be cast into the Path of Beasts in his next life? Wasn''t this punishment a bit too severe?


    Especially since he had already received Master Xuanzang''s forgiveness.


    "Amitabha, well said, well said¡­" However, to Jinchi''s pleas, Guanyin showed no trace of softening, only leaving behind a holy name before the light around the statue gradually faded, and the lifelike look in its eyes disappeared.


    "Bodhisattva, Bodhisattva, please lighten the punishment for your disciple¡­" Jinchi was both anxious and earnest as he shouted out loud.


    As a cultivator of Buddhism, one aims for a better next life. Now over 200 years old with not many years left to live, suddenly learning he would be reincarnated on the Path of Beasts after death was a severe punishment indeed.


    Changed by some derisivements, was this how a disciple marked by the Scar of Precepts was valued in the heart of the Bodhisattva?


    Could it be? After over 200 years of cultivating Buddhism, was this the end he was to meet?


    Tears streamed down his face as he continued begging for mercy, but the statue of Guanyin in front of him showed no reaction, evidently unmoved by his pleas.


    After a long time of pleading without seeing any softening from the Bodhisattva, Jinchi reflected on his 200 years of bitter cultivation, only to receive such a fate.


    He had managed the Guanyin Zen Temple until it was flourishing, yet such a small mistake was unforgivable...


    Slowly, the words of Jinchi''s pleas ceased. He looked up at the statue of Guanyin, his eyes filled with hatred and madness.


    If so, what was the point of continuing his cultivation of Buddhism?


    As the saying goes, a cornered dog will leap over a wall, and even a cornered rabbit will bite. At this moment, with hatred arising within him, it was like andslide and a tsunami crashing down.


    His eyes bloodshot, Jinchi felt hatred not only towards Guanyin, not only towards the Buddhist Sect, but even towards Xuanzang.


    If not for him, how could he have ended up in such a state?@@novelbin@@


    "Humph, hmph, hmph. Is Master Xuanzang so important to you? If so, even if I die, I''ll make sure he goes down with me. That way, I won''t consider it a loss," his eyes bloodshot as ominous ck Qi even started to surface around him.


    The oncepassionate and wise monk now seemed evil, ominous, and mad.


    Jinchi had sumbed to demon possession.


    ...


    In the Zen Room, Jiang Liu sat cross-legged, rotating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique, continuously gaining experience points. However, his mind was not immersed, filled with myriad thoughts.


    Today''s transformation of Jinchi could be called aplete reversal. Although Sun Wukong knew all of this was a maniption by the Buddhist Sect, he could not understand why the Buddhist Sect wanted Jinchi to create obstacles for the journey to the West. Didn''t they want him to obtain the True Scriptures as soon as possible?


    But after some thought, Jiang Liu naturally understood what was happening. This was the Buddhist Sect wanting Jinchi to meet his fate, wasn''t it?


    That is to say, on his journey to the West, he must face precisely ny-nine difficulties?


    With this thought, anger surged in Jiang Liu''s heart. For the journey to the West, for the ny-nine difficulties, the Buddhist Sect was willing to sacrifice Jinchi, a disciple of over 200 years, unfeelingly.


    No wonder that day at the Five Elements Mountain, when he shared his life experiences with Sun Wukong, Sun loudly mocked him, saying the heavens full of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas were not only extremely maniptive of others, but even of their own.


    The heavens and the earth are a chessboard, and the deities and Buddhas are the yers. Are all the beings under heaven mere chess pieces on this board, merely to be yed with by deities and Buddhas?


    Perhaps because he was also just a piece on this chessboard, having understood what happened to Jinchi, Jiang Liu felt even more empathy, and his heart was filled with revolt against the deities and Buddhas who toyed with the lives of beings under heaven.


    If this maniption was truly the deed of deities and Buddhas, then this time, I, for one, will not meet your expectations!


    Jiang Liu''s heart cried out firmly, more determined than ever, he rose in resistance.


    Although cmities were opportunities for him, if everything was prearranged, turning other people''s hearts to his advantage through maniption, he might as well pass on that!


    Alert: Triggered the mission "Resistance". Mission requirements: Sessfully resist the machinations of the Buddhist Sect. Rewards: +300,000 Experience Points, random Epic Level Treasure Chest *1.


    As Jiang Liu''s spirit firmed, suddenly, the system''s prompt echoed in his mind, the triggering of this mission astounded Jiang Liu.


    From the mission''s description, it really was true that the Jinchi incident was a scheme by the Buddhist Sect, but the rewards for this mission seemed excessively generous, didn''t they?


    The 300,000 experience points were one thing, but to actually receive an Epic Level treasure chest as a reward?! Was this the kind of chest that guaranteed Epic Level equipment?


    So far, he possessed only three Legendary Level equipment pieces, the Vidyaraja Crown, the shing Brilliance Shoes, and the Huali Law Ring, but until now, he hadn''te across a single piece of Epic Level equipment. Now, bypleting this mission, would he actually be rewarded with an Epic Level piece of equipment?


    Let''s do this!


    Since he had already decided to resist the calctions of the Buddhist Sect in his heart, the emergence of this mission only strengthened Jiang Liu''s resolve.


    At the same time, with the appearance of this mission, Jiang Liu also gained a rough idea of the task system.


    When his heart was set on doing certain important things, it would actively trigger missions. These triggered missions are the icing on the cake, aligning with his goals, and he could collect rewards after theirpletion.


    When someone needed help and asked for his aid, it would passively trigger a mission. The biggest difference with passive missions is the penalty for failure, as promises made verbally must be fulfilled.


    But it''s also precisely because of this that the rewards from passive missions are generally more generous; fortune favors the bold.


    Cough cough.


    Jiang Liu sat cross-legged, meditating on the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, secretly pondering how to contend with the Buddhist Sect. Suddenly, he felt a surge of smoke assail him, causing him to cough a few times.


    Opening his eyes, he could see firelight outside, almost simultaneously apanied by relentless cries.


    "Master, the water''s gone...," Sun Wukong leapt to his feet,ing to Jiang Liu''s side to say.


    "Let''s go, let''s go outside and see," without any reason, why would the Guanyin Zen Temple catch fire? As soon as Jiang Liu felt something unusual, he got up and spoke.


    The two, a man and a monkey, stepped outside the Zen Room only to see a fiercely burning purplish-red me, with arge number of monks attempting to put out the fire.


    However, even though water was poured on the purplish-red mes, they were hardly affected.


    "Wukong, what kind of fire is this?" Seeing the water-resistant mes which radiated a strange purplish-red hue, Jiang Liu spoke up and asked.


    "This is the Fire of Wood, a strange me among heaven and earth rumored to be inextinguishable by water, eternally burning. It is one aspect of the Samadhi True Fire. However, looking at it, it seems to have been tainted with demonic qi. To be more precise, it should be considered one aspect of the Samadhi Demonic Fire.


    But which demon has the Guanyin Zen Temple offended to have someone use the Fire of Wood to burn down the temple?" Sun Wukong, with his capable vision, determined the origins of the purplish-red mes with just one look.


    "Wukong, start extinguishing the fire first," seeing the raging mes, as the monks of the Guanyin Zen Temple struggled to quench the fire, Jiang Liu spoke up and said.


    "Master, my water control spell isn''t particrly spectacr. It won''t be easy to extinguish this demonic fire of wood," Sun Wukong responded, scratching his head in embarrassment.


    "Let me help," as Sun Wukong finished speaking, a familiar voice called out. It was the White Dragon Horse, who had apparently heard Jiang Liu and came running to volunteer.


    "You...," looking at the approaching White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu hesitated a little.


    Until now, the White Dragon Horse had been following him without any official status, so nominally, Jiang Liu felt he didn''t have the right tomand him.


    However, the matter being urgent, he couldn''t care less about formalities as saving the temple from fire was more crucial. He nodded his head and said, "Then please, I''ll leave it to you."


    As Jiang Liu nodded, the White Dragon Horse leapt up, directly onto the roof. Then, opening his mouth, he spat out a brilliantly glowing Dragon Ball.


    A light misty rain began to fall, soon turning into a torrential downpour. Oddly enough, as the heavy rain fell, the fire at the Guanyin Zen Temple was really brought under control, gradually diminishing.


    After a long while, as the Fire of Wood finally extinguished, the White Dragon Horse closed his mouth to swallow back the Dragon Ball.


    However, the luster of the Dragon Ball dimmed significantly after dousing the fire, and the White Dragon Horse appeared much more listless.


    ...


    Leaving aside the situation at the Guanyin Zen Temple, elsewhere, about twenty to thirty miles away in arge mountain from the Guanyin Zen Temple, Jinchi, wearing a dark red Kasaya and emanating demonic qi, nced back at the mes soaring into the sky from the Guanyin Zen Temple, a cold sneer on his lips. He turned and continued forward.


    Since the Bodhisattva was heartless, he wasn''t going to be med for being unrighteous. The Guanyin Zen Temple no longer needed to exist.


    "Stop there, who goes there?" A patrol Little Demon jumped out in front of Jinchi and shouted.


    However, as soon as the Little Demon spoke, he recognized Jinchi and said, "Oh, it''s the Holy Monk Jinchi, a rare visitor! The Great King has been mentioning you these days."


    (PS: Asking for monthly tickets, I need a lot...)

 Chapter 125 Black Bear Demon (Please Subscribe)

    ck Wind Mountain, ck Wind Cave.


    Under the respectful guidance of the little demon, Elder Jinchi directly entered the ck Wind Cave. His familiar manner showed that he was very well-acquainted with this cave.


    Likewise, the little demons inside the cave were no longer surprised by Elder Jinchi''s presence.


    After Elder Jinchi entered the ck Wind Cave, he sat down by himself and quietly waited, as a little demon went to inform the master of the ck Wind Cave, the ck Bear Demon.


    On the table beside him, there was still half a jug of fine wine and some meat, clearly indicating that the ck Bear Demon''s meal tonight was not bad.


    Soon, a little demon brought over some fruits to serve, while intending to clear the wine and meat.


    "Wait, no need to clear them away," Elder Jinchi said, stopping the little demon''s actions. He picked up the wine jug, filled a cup for himself, and drank it all in one gulp while grabbing a piece of cooked meat and taking a big bite.


    This scene left the little demon beside him stunned; the Holy Monk Jinchi seemedpletely different from before.


    As these little demons were stupefied, a rough voice soon rang out, loud as a bell: "Hahaha, Elder Jinchi, we have known each other for a hundred years. It''s been some days since yourst visit, and I was just thinking of discussing the Buddhist Law with you."


    As the voice faded, a dark-skinned but strapping man emerged¡ªit was the master of ck Wind Mountain, the ck Bear Demon.


    From his words, it seemed he had a good rtionship with Elder Jinchi.


    However, as the ck Bear Demon approached and saw Elder Jinchi drinking wine and eating meat heartily, he was also taken aback.


    "Elder Jinchi, you, you..." he said, eyes widened in astonishment as he looked at Elder Jinchi in disbelief.


    As he said, after a hundred years of acquaintance, he thought he knew Elder Jinchi well, but it was precisely because of this understanding that he found the current sight of Elder Jinchi hard to ept.


    Stay tuned for updates on empire


    "What''s the matter? Can I not drink this wine? Can I not eat this meat?" Elder Jinchi nced at the ck Bear Demon and asked.


    The ck Bear Demon said nothing more and simply sat down in front of Elder Jinchi.


    As he watched Jinchi drink and eat with a fierce demonic Qi emanating from him, he opened his mouth to speak, but before he could get the words out, another little demon rushed in frantically.


    "Great King, Holy Monk Jinchi, it''s terrible, your Guanyin Zen Temple seems to be on fire! Hurry and put it out, or I''m afraid your temple will be reduced to ashes," the little demon said urgently, his gaze fixed on Elder Jinchi.


    "It doesn''t matter, let it burn; burning down might even be for the best," Elder Jinchi replied, waving his hand indifferently upon hearing the news of the Guanyin Zen Temple fire.


    Having worshipped Guanyin for 200 years, to end up with this result was disillusioning. Since his faith in Buddha had already faded, what was the point of keeping the Guanyin Zen Temple standing?


    "Elder Jinchi, what exactly happened? Have you... have you fallen to demonic possession?" After waving the little demon away, the ck Bear Demon asked, eyes wide with astonishment.


    It was unbelievable, the sudden and drastic change in Elder Jinchi whom he had known for a hundred years.


    "Haha, what''s so bad about demon possession?"


    Hearing the ck Bear Demon''s words, Elder Jinchi took a big swig of wine, and with a crazed look on his aged face, said, "I managed the Guanyin Zen Temple with all my heart, offering incense every day without fail, and what did I get in the end? Merely for a few critical words against Xuanzang, they were about to cast me into the Path of Beasts.


    If I can''t achieve Buddhahood, why not be a demon?"


    As he spoke, Elder Jinchi mmed the wine jug onto the table and stared intently at the ck Bear Demon, saying, "ck Bear, I have a tremendous opportunity at hand, do you dare to join me in seeking it?"


    "What opportunity?" the ck Bear Demon asked, hearing Elder Jinchi''s words.


    "That Xuanzang hase seeking scriptures from the West, and there are rumors that eating a piece of his flesh grants eternal life. Along the way, he must be carrying many treasures. Do you dare join me?" Elder Jinchi asked, looking intently at the ck Bear.


    "This..." replied the ck Bear Demon, looking somewhat troubled upon hearing Elder Jinchi''s proposal. Master Xuanzang on a scripture-seeking mission? He was not someone easy to deal with.


    "If you dare not, then forget it. I will go alone. This time, as long as Xuanzang serves as my shield, even if I am eternally suppressed in Avici Hell, I will have no regrets," Elder Jinchi said, seeing the hesitation and difficulty in the ck Bear Demon''s demeanor. He stood up and continued, "After a hundred years of friendship, the time hase to part ways.


    After today, we will probably not meet again."


    "Elder Jinchi, wait..." the ck Bear Demon eximed as he saw Elder Jinchi rising to leave.


    "A hundred years ago, I, the ck Bear, shed my mortal form and encountered a cmity of thunder. At the same time, someone sought to kill me. I fled thousands of miles to this ce, and it was thanks to your help that I was saved. Over the years, our discussions of Buddhism have helped me stabilize my cultivation. Your great kindness was as good as giving me a new life.


    Since you seek my help today, I, the ck Bear, am morally obliged to assist you, even if it means the death of my path and my end. It''s nothing but a repayment for the life-saving grace I received from you back then," the ck Bear Demon said, his voice deep and resolute.


    "Very well!" Elder Jinchi said, smiling at the ck Bear Demon''s agreement, nodding emphatically.


    After a hundred years of acquaintance, Elder Jinchi was very familiar with the ck Bear Demon. This was not an ordinary demon kind but a Loose Immortal who had shed his mortal form and achieved an Immortal Body a hundred years ago. With his help, the chances of sess were even greater.


    ```


    "However, there''s a monkey following that Master Xuanzang by his side, with a furry face and a mouth like the God of Thunder. Though I''ve not seen him make a move, I can feel his cultivation level is very high, even higher than yours," Jinchi said excitedly but with a hint of caution, reminding the other.


    "I''m aware of this."


    Upon hearing this, the ck Bear Demon nodded and said, "A few days ago, a shout almost resonated through the three realms and six paths, alerting all with divine skills. I heard it too. That was Sun Wukong who had been suppressed under the Five Elements Mountain, known for causing Havoc in Heaven with his vast divine skills.


    He was pinned down by the Buddha and was eventually rescued by Xuanzang to protect him on his Journey to the West."


    "You know? Then you''re no match for that monkey either?" Jinchi was suddenly rmed upon learning about the significant background of the monkey by Xuanzang''s side.


    "Don''t worry, Sun Wukong may be formidable, but I''m not a vegetarian. I''ll call upon the brothers and sisters around ck Wind Mountain to help. Even if we can''t defeat him, we can certainly keep the Stable Attendant busy for a while," said the ck Bear Demon, trying to dispel Jinchi''s doubts with a confident demeanor.


    "If that''s the case, then I''ll leave it up to you. Just keep that monkey busy, and I''ll take care of Xuanzang myself. Rest assured, we will all share the flesh of longevity life," said Jinchi, somewhat reassured by the ck Bear Demon''s confidence and nodding in agreement.


    After discussing the n, the ck Bear Demon conjured a secret technique to summon assistance.


    In no time at all, more than a dozen beams of light streaked across the sky and fell into ck Wind Mountain. These were all the Demon Kings from a thousand miles around.


    Transforming into human form, the demons were men and women, young and old. Evidently, they all respected the ck Bear Demon as their superior.


    "Everyone, ck Bear and you have known each other for a hundred years. Today, I''ve gathered you all here for an important matter," said the ck Bear Demon, getting straight to the point without mincing words, as he and Jinchiid out their n to the Demon Kings.


    As these words were spoken, the expressions of the Demon Kings varied. Some were surprised, some excited, and of course, some hesitant...


    "I don''t mean to force anyone. This action ispletely voluntary. If you''re willing, upon sessfulpletion, a share of the longevity flesh will not be missed. Of course, if anyone is unwilling, they can stay in my ck Wind Cave and rest for the night before leaving," the ck Bear Demon said after exining his n, eyeing the Demon Kings.


    "How could you say that, Brother ck Bear? In these past hundred years, you have generously guided our cultivation. With such a great debt of gratitude owed to you, how could I, the Flower Snake Monarch, stand idly by?" said one lean Demon King, taking the lead in expressing his stance after the ck Bear finished speaking.


    "This old one is also willing to heed themand of Great King ck Bear. I have long been salivating over the flesh of longevity life," said another bent and aged Demon King, also expressing his readiness to join.


    "I''m sorry, Brother ck Bear, but I, Master Lingxu, am not willing to take part..." However, as the Demon Kings dered their positions, a man dressed in a schr''s gown voiced his regret, looking somewhat apologetic.


    "Hmm, if Master Lingxu is unwilling to go, then just stay in ck Wind Cave. I won''t force you," after ncing at Master Lingxu, the ck Bear Demon said no more.


    Personal wishes cannot be forced. Those who chose not to go and stayed in ck Wind Cave provided reassurance to all.


    Having esteemed the ck Bear Demon for a hundred years, the Demon Kings respected him not only for his superior cultivation as a Loose Immortal but also for his guidance over the years.


    Besides Master Lingxu, none of the other Demon Kings voiced any further refusal.


    As all the Demon Kings nodded their agreement, the ck Bear Demon responded with a nod and looked toward Jinchi.


    Jinchi, looking at the Demon Kings and especially at the ck Bear Demon with his Immortal Body, felt a surge of confidence and nodded back. Together, they left ck Wind Cave and flew toward Guanyin Zen Temple.


    "What should we do now?" With the ck Bear Demon and the Demon Kings mobilizing in unison, their demon qi reaching for the heavens, Master Lingxu felt an inward urgency.


    Wanting to help, but after going there, whom should he support?


    At Guanyin Zen Temple, although the White Dragon Horse used the origin power of its Dragon Ball to quell the fire and prevent the temple from total ruin, the monks, staring at their nearly half-destroyed sanctuary, were on the brink of tears.


    "He''s gone; we''ve searched everywhere but can''t find the Elder''s presence anywhere. What should we do now?" With such an incident, the monks naturally turned to Jinchi for direction, but with the Elder of Guanyin Zen Temple missing, the monks seemed like they had lost their backbone.@@novelbin@@


    "This is quite strange," said Jiang Liu to himself as he looked upon the Zen Temple, burnt down for no apparent reason and even Jinchi''s disappearance, instinctively feeling something was amiss.


    Of course, he also sensed that all this must be connected to the Buddhist Sect in some way.


    Sand and rocks flew, and the sky turned dark.


    Just then, the night sky became one with the howling demon winds that had arisen, and what had been a clear night was now shrouded in darkness.


    Sun Wukong''s expression became stern as he looked up into the ckened skies, his eyes aze.


    "Master, be careful, there''s arge group of demon creaturesing our way."


    ```

 Chapter 126 Guanyin Descends (Please Subscribe)

    Whoosh whoosh whoosh!


    As Sun Wukong finished speaking, amidst the whirling sand and stones and howling demon wind, streaks of light descended from the sky, transforming into the forms of more than a dozen men and women, young and old.


    Jiang Liu didn''t recognize these people. However, the elderly monk who led them made Jiang Liu freeze in ce.


    "You, you are, Elder Jinchi?" Jiang Liu said, looking at the elderly monk in a dark red kasaya with overwhelming demonic qi, his disbelief evident in his voice.


    "Abb¡­ Abbot¡­?" The fellow monks from the Guanyin Zen Temple, simrly in disbelief, began to exim upon seeing Jinchi''s appearance.


    Jinchi, now possessed by a demon, seemed to show no change in appearance, but his whole aura waspletely transformed.


    "Tsk tsk tsk, what a grand spectacle, a bear demon of the Heavenly Immortal Realm and thirteen demons of the Demon King Realm think they can act recklessly before me, I, Old Sun?" Despite Sun Wukong''s short and skinny stature, making him appear like a child of six or seven years old, his eyes shot out golden mes. He scoffed and mocked as he looked over the figures that had appeared.


    Although he was ridiculing these demon creatures for their insufficient strength, the eager expression on the monkey''s face as he rubbed his fists and wiped his palms together clearly showed he was itching for a fight.


    "Hmph, you''re just a mere Stable Attendant; how dare you boast so arrogantly," retorted the ck Bear Demon, not willing to lose face with words, despite not feeling confident about defeating Sun Wukong. His mouth was equally unrestrained in mocking.


    "That''s right, I also think rumors can''t be fully trusted. Is this short and skinny monkey really that capable?" Following the ck Bear Demon''s remark, the Flower Snake Demon also spoke up, joining in the mocking without any politeness.


    To Sun Wukong, what was his favorite thing to hear? Naturally, it was words of praise. And conversely, what he most hated?


    The moment these boasts were uttered, they made Sun Wukong bristle with anger. He reached into his ear and pulled out the shining Jingu Bang, which grew with the wind: "Rascals, since you''re courting death, I, Old Sun, will grant your wish!"


    As he spoke, Sun Wukong leaped forward, charging directly at the ck Bear Demon. The golden rod in his hand smashed down with a momentum heavy as a mountain.


    Seeing Sun Wukong charge at him, the ck Bear Demon quickly reacted, raising his hand to summon a long spear, parrying it against the Jingu Bang.


    In terms of physique, the ck Bear Demon was tall and robust, while Sun Wukong was short and thin, lookingpletely like a monkey pouncing on arge ck bear.


    With a loud bang, Sun Wukong pressed the ck Bear Demon back, their feet scraping two long marks on the ground.


    The thirteen Demon Kings who were observing inhaled sharply at the scene.


    The ck Bear leader possessed ancient bloodlines and unparalleled strength. Yet, he was being overpowered in his most proud aspect?


    It was hard to believe. A monkey''s strength was suppressing that of a ck bear! Was this the Great Sage Equal to Heaven of the legends?


    However, though they were shocked by Sun Wukong''s power, the situation of the small monkey pressing down the tall ck Bear Demon was still stunning. The Demon Kings reacted quickly, each making their move to intercept.


    The battle strategy had already been set: everyone would work together to entangle Sun Wukong, helping the ck Bear Demon; it was never about letting him fight alone.


    Yet, while the Demon Kings were shocked by Sun Wukong''s strength, Sun Wukong himself was even more astonished as he looked at the ck bear before him and eximed, "You ck bear, your strength is indeed quite formidable. Purely in terms of strength, you''reparable to an average Immortal in the Taiyi Realm."


    There are three realms of Immortality: Heavenly Immortal, Taiyi, and Great Luo, each realm vastly different from thest. The gap in cultivation between them is muchrger than any earthly realm.


    Yet a bear demon of the Heavenly Immortal Realm had the strength topare with the Taiyi True Immortal Realm? No wonder Sun Wukong was so astonished.


    Upon hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu was equally amazed. At the Immortal''s realm, the experience points needed to level up were massive, and the gap in cultivation was tremendously exaggerated. Could the strength of that ck bear span such a vast realm?


    With such exceptional talent, no wonder even in the original story, Guanyin took an interest in him, using a hoop she had embezzled to take the ck Bear Demon back as her Mountain Guardian Deity.


    Considering that another being she took in from the original story was the Red Boy, the sole son of the Demon King Ox who could wield the Samadhi True Fire, Guanyin''s interest makes sense.


    Looking at it this way, in Guanyin''s heart, was the value of the ck bearparable to that of Red Boy?


    However, Jiang Liu didn''t pay too much attention to the intense battle happening beside him; his eyes were still on Jinchi, wanting to understand what was happening with him.


    This really was a day of many changes; previously, he had been weeping and regretting before me, how did he change so quickly? Are the secret methods of the Buddhist Sect truly so terrifying?


    "Elder Jinchi, what is this..." Jiang Liu said after a moment of silence.


    Whoosh!


    But before Jiang Liu could finish, Jinchi moved swiftly and was already in front of him.


    He raised his palm, and a torrent of demonic mes surged forward, mming down at Jiang Liu. His cultivation was that of the Returning Void Realm,parable to a Demon King.


    With such cultivation level, how could Jiang Liu dare to receive it? He instantly activated the special effect of the shing Brilliance Shoes, flickered away, and was left feeling even more astonished inside.


    He believed that he had done nothing to wrong him, had he? What was with this relentless attitude of not stopping until he was dead? Not even giving him a chance to speak.


    "So you do have a treasured artifact at your side!" Seeing Jiang Liu''s ability to move instantaneously and dodge his attack, Elder Jinchi''s hatred intensified by threefold.


    This Xuanzang was no good thing either. Previously when he had inquired about any treasured artifacts to feast his eyes, the reply was a t denial of possessing any. But what was happening now? Wasn''t the movement ability just now the effect of a Dharma Treasure?


    Seething with angry thoughts, Elder Jinchi felt extreme fury towards Jiang Liu, lifting his palm and spreading it towards him, a powerful wave of Demonic Qi surged, exerting a horrendous suction force that made it difficult for Jiang Liu to steady himself, uncontrobly being pulled towards Elder Jinchi.


    "Want to kill me? I''m afraid you don''t have the skill!" Witnessing the murderous intent in Elder Jinchi''s eyes, Jiang Liu understood he truly harbored the intent to kill. He silently recited a word that wrapped space, and immediately, a semi-transparent protective space barrier that only Jiang Liu could see appeared.


    Then, Jiang Liu reached out his hand and pulled out a Nine-Ring Staff from the protective space.


    Holding the Nine-Ring Staff, he struck it down on the ground, and in a sh, the staff emitted brilliant Buddhist Light, forming a golden light barrier thatpletely enveloped Jiang Liu.


    Although the Nine-Ring Staff was sealed within the equipment, luckily it wasn''t entirely sealed, and its special effects were still retained, rendering attacks from targets below level 90pletely ineffective.


    Such a domineering effect meant that even if a Daluo Golden Immortal arrived, they wouldn''t be able to harm Jiang Liu.


    His suction power beingpletely ineffective, Elder Jinchi followed up with attacks, bang bang bang, various attacks continuously smashing onto the golden light barrier.


    The barrier might seem to be just a thinyer, but it gave off an indestructible feeling. Despite Elder Jinchi''s relentless attacks, it couldn''t be shaken in the slightest.


    Your next read awaits at empire


    "Hahaha, so this is what you meant by not having any treasured artifacts with you? You''ve been deceiving me from the very beginning."


    Having attacked for a long time to no avail, Elder Jinchi knew he couldn''t break the barrier''s defenses with his methods and stopped wasting his efforts. However, his eyes were filled with mockery as he stared at Jiang Liu.


    "Have you calmed down a bit? Can we talk properly now?" Seeing that Elder Jinchi had finally stopped attacking, Jiang Liu seriously looked at the demon-possessed Elder Jinchi while holding the Nine-Ring Staff, and said, "I have always believed that I have never..."


    "Enough with your nonsense!" However, before Jiang Liu could finish, Elder Jinchi rudely interrupted him. Even knowing his attacks were ineffective, he made another move, his fervor to attack as wild as a mad tiger''s.


    Unlike before, when it was merely in jealousy, Elder Jinchi now didn''t even have the patience to have a proper conversation with Jiang Liu.


    Bang bang bang


    Let''s not dwell on the conversation between Jiang Liu and Elder Jinchi for the moment. The battle involving Sun Wukong on the side could be described as a tiger entering a flock of sheep. Despite the ck Bear Demon''s terrifying strength, in terms of cultivation level, he was far inferior to Sun Wukong. The Jingu Bang swept through, and he struggled to fend off Sun Wukong''s attacks.


    Even with the assistance of thirteen Demon Kings, they could only manage to tie up Sun Wukong temporarily. However, from the looks of the situation, they couldn''t keep it up for long.


    "Hey, Wukong, stop ying around. Hurry up and defeat them ande help me..." Seeing Sun Wukong fighting fervently against the ck Bear Demons, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but shout out.


    On the surface, it seemed that with the protection of the Nine-Ring Staff, nobody could harm him, but this protection could onlyst 300 seconds. With half of the time already passed, Jiang Liu certainly didn''t want to trigger the special effect of the Brocade Kasaya and experience death.


    On Sun Wukong''s part, he indeed hadn''t used his full strength. Considering Jiang Liu''s Nine-Ring Staff was sufficient for his protection, Sun Wukong didn''t mind ying around with these guys a bit. Since he left Five Elements Mountain, he hadn''t encountered any opponents that were particrly tough, an opportunity that didn''te around often.


    But hearing Jiang Liu''s shout, Sun Wukong understood that he probably couldn''t hold on much longer.


    "Alright, I, Old Sun, don''t need to y with you all any longer!" With a thought, Sun Wukong''s eyes glinted ferociously as he said.


    In the midst of speaking, a violent aura exploded from Sun Wukong''s body, and as he swung the Jingu Bang, the originally staff-sized rod transformed into a Sky-Supporting Giant Pir, sweeping across.


    With screams, several Demon Kings hit by the Jingu Bang were blown away, spitting blood and falling to the ground struggling to rise but unable to stand.@@novelbin@@


    The strength of the Demon Kings was indeed formidable, but Sun Wukong''s presence was saintly among demons. How could these Demon Kingspare?


    When serious, they were like children in front of a strong man before Sun Wukong.


    Bang bang bang!


    In no time at all, except for the ck Bear Demon who could barely withstand two strikes, the other Demon Kings were no match for Sun Wukong. After a few swings, all the Demon Kings were swept away, lying on the ground, either dead or injured.


    Amitabha!


    However, just as Sun Wukong was about to kill the ck Bear Demon, suddenly, a splendid Buddhist Light came from the west.


    Sitting calmly on a Lotus tform, the figure of Bodhisattva Guanyin quietly hovered in midair.

 Chapter 127 I, Tang Monk, have protected these people (asking for subscriptions)

    Bodhisattva Guanyin!


    Seeing the figure that appeared in mid-air, all the demons present were startled and hurriedly knelt on the ground, their hearts filled with fear.


    Unexpectedly, Bodhisattva Guanyin had actually appeared in person.


    Seeing the appearance of Bodhisattva Guanyin, Jiang Liu''s brow slightly raised.


    Indeed, the timing of her arrival was impable, just when the Monkey had defeated the other Demon Kings and was about to strike at the ck Bear Demon, and also when the situation in the battle had almostpletely rified.


    Jiang Liu couldn''t believe that she hadn''t been watching from the shadows.


    "Elder Jinchi, do you know of your sin?" Seated on the Lotus tform, Bodhisattva Guanyin''s demeanor was very serene and harmonious. From her elevated position, she merely looked calmly at Elder Jinchi, neither sad nor happy.


    "Hahaha, sin?"


    If it had been earlier, as the head of Guanyin Zen Temple, seeing the emergence of Bodhisattva Guanyin would certainly have made Elder Jinchi bow in worship immediately; now, however, Elder Jinchi stood upright, a mad glint in his eyes, and yelled at Guanyin, "You so-called Bodhisattvas lord over us from above, never seeing me as human. What right have you to judge my sins?"


    "Amitabha, you have entered the Demon Path, further speech is futile," Guanyin responded to Elder Jinchi''s cursing without any sign of anger, appearing very magnanimous, only showing a look of regret as she shook her head and sighed.


    "Demon Path? To follow you, willingly being driven like cattle and horses, even being ughtered without resisting, that''s the right path, isn''t it? Any slight disobedience is the Demon Path? Is this what you call the Demon Path in your mouths?" Guanyin''s words intensified the scorn in Elder Jinchi.


    Anyway, things had already reached this point, and his fate was already sealed; Elder Jinchi hadpletely discarded any reverence in his heart, saying whatever he wanted, fearless.


    This rant from Elder Jinchi caused the ck Bear Demon and other Demon Kings beside him to secretly feel frightened.


    They hadn''t expected him to be so mad, daring to curse at Bodhisattva Guanyin with such audacity.


    Next to them, Sun Wukong, with the Jingu Bang on his shoulder, looked at Bodhisattva Guanyin askance, a mocking expression on his face.


    In Sun Wukong''s view, Elder Jinchi''s words resonated well with him; seeing the head of Guanyin Zen Temple now turning around and cursing at Guanyin, this feeling made Sun Wukong feel utterly exhrated.


    Jiang Liu''s thoughts were no different from Sun Wukong''s. He approved of Elder Jinchi''s cursing even more, and although he did not know exactly what had happened to Elder Jinchi, in Jiang Liu''s view, his possession by a demon was definitely the doing of Bodhisattva Guanyin behind the scenes. Continue reading at empire


    Unfortunately, although Elder Jinchi''s words made sense, those under the roof had to bow their heads. This uproar from Elder Jinchi was perhaps his final madness?


    "Wait, hang on..." Just then, Jiang Liu suddenly had a thought, recalling the mission he had undertaken earlier.


    Actually, when he first received the mission, Jiang Liu''s thoughts were mainly attracted by the generous rewards, and before he had time to think about the essence of the mission, he found that the Guanyin Zen Temple had caught fire.


    After waiting for the White Dragon Horse to save them from the fire, it was Elder Jinchi and the others who attacked, forcing them just to take out the Nine-Ring Staff for self-protection, and then Guanyin appeared. During this time, Jiang Liu hadn''t managed to consider the mission carefully.


    The name of the mission was "Resistance," and the requirement of the mission was just to sessfully resist the calctions of the Buddhist Sect? Not to destroy the calctions of the Buddhist Sect?


    Just to sessfully resist?


    So, from the meaning of the words, it seems that just surviving under the calctions of the Buddhist Sect was sufficient? Not destroying the Buddhist Sect''s calctions!


    Survive? Who is to survive? Myself? Or those pieces about to be discarded within these calctions?


    "Amitabha, how admirable, how admirable, Elder Jinchi you have entered the Demon Path, this seat will let you reincarnate through the Path of Beasts for nine lives, to truly experience the suffering of mortals, hoping that one day you can achieve sudden enlightenment," muttering softly, Bodhisattva Guanyin revealed a regretful expression and spoke.


    "Hahaha, you really are quite poisonous. Justment that Xuanzang is protected by a supreme treasure on his body; otherwise, if I had dragged him to his death today, I would indeed like to see what kinds of faces you would make."


    Having been mentally prepared for Guanyin''s punishment, Elder Jinchi did not plead for mercy but just protested loudly and unwillingly.


    "Facing death unrepentant," shaking her head helplessly, Guanyin reached into the Jade Clean Bottle and took out the Willow Branch, lifting her jade hand to strike.


    "Wait a moment..." Just as Guanyin was about to act, Jiang Liu suddenly spoke up.


    "Xuanzang, what do you wish to say?" All of a sudden, Jiang Liu spoke up, which made Guanyin look at him in surprise, not understanding what he meant.


    At the same time, the ck Bear Demon, White Dragon Horse, and Sun Wukong also turned to look at Jiang Liu.


    "Amitabha, Elder Jinchi''s sin, although unforgivable, he hasn''t yet managed to kill me; strictly speaking, this crime can only be considered an attempted murder, right?" Afterposing his own phrase, Jiang Liu spoke.


    Upon these words, Jiang Liu paused slightly, then said, "People err at times. If aftermitting an error, one can grant the erring party a chance to reform, wouldn''t that be more meaningful than simple punishment? Ksitigarbha once said, ''If I do not enter hell, who will?'' I am also willing to emte Ksitigarbha''s great magnanimity and ask the Bodhisattva to spare him."


    Upon hearing this, the entire assembly was shocked.


    Sun Wukong looked at Jiang Liu in astonishment, unable to understand why, if this old monk wanted to kill him, he was still pleading for him. Could it be that he wanted to recruit the old monk into his camp to confront the heavenly deities and Buddha together in the future?


    But wasn''t the old monk''s strength a bit too weak?


    As for the White Dragon Horse and the ck Bear Demon next to him, they were equally astonished as they looked at Jiang Liu, with respect coloring their eyes to varying degrees.


    Although they admitted to themselves that they could never have such magnanimity, it was undeniable that his ability to plead on behalf of Jinchi was an act of great generosity and kindness that genuinely inspired respect.


    "You, why do you want to save me? Do you not know that I, I just tried to kill you?" Even Jinchi, who was under demon possession, was stunned and looked at Jiang Liu incredulously.


    "Amitabha, although I do not know why Elder Jinchi insists on killing me, the elder had gifted me a Pearl Kasaya. This karmic debt cannot go unpaid," Jiang Liu said as he took out the incident of obtaining a Pearl Kasaya at Treasure Pavilion as an excuse.


    "Just, just for a kasaya?" Jinchi looked at Jiang Liu in astonishment.


    "Although the kasaya is light, the sentiment you gifted at that time was significant," Jiang Liu said with a resolute expression.


    "I, I..." Seeing Jiang Liu''s manner, and realizing that his words did not seem to be false, and at this point, there was no reason to lie, Jinchi felt a surge of mixed emotions, overwhelmed by guilt towards Jiang Liu.


    After a moment of silence, Jinchi knelt before Jiang Liu, bowing deeply, his face covered in remorseful tears, "Holy Monk, your great kindness andpassion are deeply moving. I am ashamed and unworthy. May I repay the Holy Monk''s kindness in future lives."


    As his words fell, Jinchi raised his head, turned to Guanyin, and shouted, "Come on, aren''t you going to cast me into the Path of Beasts? Come on! I am not afraid of you!"


    Bodhisattva Guanyin sat quietly on the Lotus tform, her face no longer calm, feeling as if she had been pped.@@novelbin@@


    Who is Jinchi? He is the head of the Guanyin Zen Temple, in brief, a person of Bodhisattva Guanyin.


    Today, despite his public admonishment, Guanyin knew the reasons, so she was not angry.


    But, before the watchful eyes of all, instead of kneeling to her, Jinchi knelt down to Xuanzang next to him?


    This kneel was truly a p on Guanyin''s face.


    However, being a highly renowned Bodhisattva with high spiritual cultivation, this awkward feeling shed briefly across Guanyin''s face.


    After a short silence, Guanyin spoke, "Xuanzang, you must understand that although Buddha''spassion is correct, it should not be simply indulgence, as this only breeds evil''s recklessness."


    "Disciple understands, yet even Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, residing in Hell, still believes in the existence of truth, goodness, and beauty. Why can''t I give Elder Jinchi a chance?" Jiang Liu looked seriously at Guanyin.


    To tell the truth, although Jinchi wanted to kill him and Jiang Liu knew it was all Guanyin''s maniption behind the scenes, he didn''t intend to save him.


    But the "resist" mission, those 300,000 Experience Points, along with a reward of an Epic Level Treasure Chest, was entirely worth Jiang Liu''s efforts.


    Looking down with intent, after observing Jiang Liu''s determined eyes, apparently resolute in saving Jinchi, Guanyin lowered her gaze, "Amitabha, since Xuanzang you ask for mercy, I shall grant your wish, but, formitting such sins, Jinchi absolutely cannot stay in my Buddhist Sect."


    As soon as her words ended, Guanyin lightly flicked her willow branch.


    With her movement, the eight Scars of Precepts on Jinchi''s head began slowly disappearing one by one.


    Naturally, with the disappearance of the Scars of Precepts, Jinchi was no longer a monk.


    Now expelled from the Buddhist Sect by Guanyin, although previously a monk under Guanyin, Jinchi showed no intense reaction, only a cold indifference.


    For Jinchi, being expelled from the Buddhist Sect was no longer a concern; his heart was filled with joy, gratitude, and guilt.


    The joy was naturally because Jiang Liu''s intercession spared him from falling into the Path of Beasts, and the gratitude and guilt were naturally towards Jiang Liu.


    Having casually expelled Jinchi from the Buddhist Sect, Guanyin''s gaze then fell on the ck Bear Demon next to them.


    "Amitabha!" Just as he noticed Guanyin''s gaze, before he could speak, Jiang Liu preemptively spoke.


    Gazing sternly at the ck Bear Demon, he said, "You evil demon, wishing together with Jinchi to kill this poor monk, today Jinchi has been expelled from the Buddhist Sect, but you too cannot escape your crimes!"


    As soon as the words dropped, Jiang Liu raised his hand, and a hoop directly flew out.


    The ck Bear Demon did not dare to dodge and bowed his head, letting the hoop fall on his head.


    A hoop appeared in Guanyin''s palm, ready to be thrown, but seeing Jiang Liu act first, her face slightly stiffened, and she subtly put it away...

 Chapter 128 Guanyin Losing Money (Please Subscribe)

    The cultivation level of the ck Bear Demon was only that of a Heavenly Immortal, yet he couldpete in strength with beings at the level of a Taiyi True Immortal, leaping across a major realm. This extraordinary power was enough to prove his uniqueness.


    He was even able to impress Sun Wukong with his strength, an honor not just any demon could achieve.


    Although the Tight Hoop was passed down by Guanyin and she knew how to chant the spell, the hoop was put on by himself. Could Guanyin really be so shameless as to fight over it with him?


    "Amitabha Buddha¡­" Guanyin reluctantly took back the hoop she was about to throw away, her expression somewhat displeased, but unable to act, she silently muttered a Buddha''s name to herself.


    She had given him a hoop, hoping he would use it to subdue Sun Wukong; little did she expect he would persuade Sun Wukong to join him just by rhetoric.


    Least of all did she expect that he would throw out the hoop at this time.


    This ck Bear Demon, born of ancient lineage and outstanding aptitude, had outmaneuvered her; now that Xuanzang had acted, what could she say?


    me him? The hoop had already been given to him, and whom he chose to put it on was his own wish. Could she me him?


    Regardless of Guanyin''s intentions, once the Tight Hoop was ced on the ck Bear Demon''s head, Jiang Liu did not hesitate and promptly recited the Tight Hoop Spell.


    In an instant, the ck Bear Demon clutched his head, writhing in agony on the ground, howling in pain, desperately trying to remove the hoop from his head.


    But if even Sun Wukong couldn''t remove the Tight Hoop, how could he?


    "Spare my life, Holy Monk, spare my life¡­" With a headache splitting his skull, unable to remove it himself, the ck Bear Demon ended up on his knees, begging for mercy repeatedly.


    After the ck Bear Demon experienced the severity of the Tight Hoop Spell, Jiang Liu finally stopped reciting it, then turned his gaze toward the Bodhisattva and said, "Bodhisattva, I will handle these evil demons. Please also spare their lives.


    With this ck Bear Demon to control them, if they dare tomit any evil deeds in the future, I will use this Tight Hoop Spell to torment them to death."


    "Holy Monk, spare my life, I won''t daremit any evil deeds, absolutely not," having just suffered the pain of the Tight Hoop Spell, the ck Bear Demon hastily pleaded for mercy, visibly scared.


    "Amitabha Buddha, Xuanzang, you are indeedpassionate, but on this journey to the West, how can you control this ck Bear? I think it''s better if I personally oversee him in my Purple Bamboo Forest."


    After a brief silence, the Bodhisattva spoke, feeling it was worth a try to im such a uniquely talented ck Bear, unable to bear letting him go. Explore more at empire


    "The Bodhisattva makes a fair point..." Hearing the words of the Bodhisattva, Jiang Liu tilted his head, pondered for a moment, and nodded in agreement.


    Seeing Jiang Liu''s reaction, the Bodhisattva felt a surge of joy within her.


    But before she could speak, Jiang Liu''s next words wiped the budding joy from her heart.


    "So, I think it''s better to bring this ck Bear along and keep a close watch on him myself. He''s very strong, and he could be of great use along the way," he said softly, his gaze falling on the ck Bear Demon, clearly considering the possibility of taking the ck Bear Demon along on the journey to the West.


    "Amitabha Buddha, this journey to the West is long and crucial to Buddhist affairs, how can we bring a demon kind along?" Seeing that Jiang Liu truly intended to take the ck Bear Demon along, the Bodhisattva quickly shook her head in refusal.


    The disciples I prepared for the Scripture Seeker include Sun Wukong, the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Zhu Bajie, Marshal Tianpeng, Sha Wujing, General Juanlian, and even the transformed White Dragon Horse, who is the Crown Prince of the Western Sea Dragon King. These individuals all have connections with the Immortals and Buddhas, which qualifies them for the journey to the West.


    What is the ck Bear Demon inparison? Even with his unique talents, he is still just a demon, so how could he share in the merit of the journey to the West for scriptures?


    The reaction of the Bodhisattva was, of course, expected by Jiang Liu.


    This matter of journeying to the West for scriptures, Guanyin is like the director in charge; how could she tolerate an unnned participant inserting himself into the scripture-seeking team?


    "However, Bodhisattva, as you said, if we don''t take him along, how shall I keep him under control?" Jiang Liu asked, looking troubled as he used the Bodhisattva''s own words against her.


    After a moment''s silence, the Bodhisattva waved her hand, and a beautiful small mirror suddenly appeared,nding in front of Jiang Liu: "Since that''s the case, I''ll gift you a Mystical Mirror. Just ce a drop of the ck Bear Demon''s essence blood on it, and you will be able to monitor his every move, even if you are thousands of miles apart.


    If hemits any wrongdoing, you can recite the Tight Hoop Spell to punish him."


    "Thank you, Bodhisattva!" Jiang Liu sincerely thanked her as he took the small mirror from her, his heart secretly delighted.


    This was an unexpected joy. Was this tantamount to extorting a Dharma Treasure from the Bodhisattva?


    "Amitabha Buddha, since Xuanzang, you have pleaded on their behalf, then today I will not act the villian. However, I hope you do not regret your decision today," said the Bodhisattva, her mood soured after giving the Mystical Mirror to Jiang Liu, clearly ready to leave.


    This visit to the Guanyin Zen Temple had originally aimed to subdue this uniquely talented ck Bear Demon, but now, not only had she failed to obtain even a single hair, but she had also lost a Mystical Mirror.


    Considering Guanyin''s nature, which could be described as someone who plucks hairs from passing geese, having two out of three hoops swindled away, it was no wonder her mood was hardly pleasant.


    However, after secretly calcting, Guanyin calcted that the tribtion of today had already taken effect, indicating that the tribtions personally created by her could indeed be counted within the eighty-one trials, which somewhat improved Guanyin''s mood.


    Compared to the grand endeavor of the Journey to the West for Scriptures, a ck Bear Demon and a Mystical Mirror were obviously of much lesser significance.


    "Bodhisattva, wait, the Little Dragon has been enlightened by the Bodhisattva and wishes to serve the Scripture Seeker as a steed, but it seems the Scripture Seeker doesn''t quite believe the Little Dragon''s words¡­"


    Just as the Bodhisattva prepared to leave, the White Dragon Horse leapt out, his own issues still unresolved. How could the Bodhisattva leave just like that?


    Seeing the White Dragon Horse jump out, Guanyin turned her head and her gaze fell on Jiang Liu, "Indeed, Xuanzang, the Little White Dragon, Aolie, originally the third Crown Prince of the Western Sea Dragon King, set fire to the Pearl of the Pce and was punished by the Jade Emperor to suffer beneath Eagle Sorrow Stream. I enlightened him to transform into a white horse to serve you as a steed.


    The journey to the Mountains of Western Heaven is long, and your mortal flesh would not endure it without this steed; you wouldn''t reach Western Heaven, nor see the Buddha."@@novelbin@@


    "Since it truly is the Bodhisattva''s enlightenment, then nothing could be better," hearing the words of the Bodhisattva, Jiang Liu didn''t think too much and nodded.


    In fact, after Sun Wukong had told him the true purpose of the Little White Dragon''s desire to go to Western Heaven, Jiang Liu had thought about taking him in.


    "I''ve seen the master!" Hearing Jiang Liu nodding in agreement, the White Dragon Horse was so excited that he almost cried.


    Having shamelessly followed the Journey to the West for so long, he had finally joined the Scripture Seeking Team, which truly wasn''t easy.


    After clearing up the matter with the Little White Dragon, the Bodhisattva had no intention of lingering any further. Compared to the trials of seeking scriptures, neither Jinchi nor the ck Bear Demon were matters of great importance anymore.


    Confirming that the ordeal created by his followers could also be counted as one of the eighty-one trials, the Bodhisattva thought about returning to properly consider the uing challenges.


    "Thank you, Holy Monk, for your rescue. Jinchi, shamed beyond measure, promises to heed anymand you give in this life. Even if it costs me my old bones, I''m willing to repay with my life," as Guanyin departed, Jinchi approached Jiang Liu, his expression resolute.


    Facing Jiang Liu, his heart filled with shame, but even more with gratitude.


    "Thank you, Holy Monk, for pleading on our behalf!" With these words from Jinchi, the surrounding demons, led by the ck Bear Demon, also spoke up.


    These Demon Kings were very clear that if not for Jiang Liu speaking on their behalf, their fates would have been sealed with the personal arrival of the Bodhisattva today.


    Alert: Completed the mission ''Resistance'', earned 300,000 Experience Points, earned an Epic Level Treasure Chest*1.


    Alert: Level up by 1, current level 24.


    Jiang Liu was about to say something when suddenly the system alert sounded, bringing an inner thrill for Jiang Liu.


    With 300,000 Experience Points added, Jiang Liu felt a stream of rity washing over him, clearly, his level had risen to 24.


    "Huh?" As Jiang Liu''s level increased, Sun Wukong turned his head with a look of surprise.


    He hadn''t misfelt it¡ªJiang Liu''s Cultivation Level had improved again? Seemed to have made a small breakthrough?


    When Jiang Liu first met Sun Wukong, he was at level 19. Now, after just two or three months, he had risen to level 24. Sun Wukong found such a rate of improvement quite astonishing.


    In his heart, Sun Wukong felt even more anticipation for Jiang Liu''s growth.


    "Holy Monk, this Guanyin Zen Temple is destroyed. Pleasee with me to rest in the ck Wind Cave," the ck Bear Demon, wearing a Tight Hoop, said pleasingly to Jiang Liu.


    "Hmm, alright, let''s go and rest," Jiang Liu nodded, not refusing the offer.


    The fire at Guanyin Zen Templete at night and the attack by these demon kings meant it was already well past midnight.


    "Master, please, get on," as Jiang Liu finished speaking, the White Dragon Horse trotted over to Jiang Liu and bowed slightly.


    Looking at the White Dragon Horse trying hard to show his worth, Jiang Liu hesitated for a moment, then mounted.


    The Demon Kings formed a Demon Cloud in front to lead the way, with the White Dragon Horse following behind at a decent pace.


    More importantly, the ride was stable; even if Jiang Liu did not know how to ride, he was able to sit firmly.


    Sitting on the horse, Jiang Liu silently recalled his storage space and indeed, he found an exquisitely designed treasure chest inside.


    He took out the treasure chest and held it in his arms, his heart filled with curiosity and anticipation, and slowly opened the chest.


    An Epic Level treasure chest? Wondering what good items it might contain?


    (PS: It seems like I''ve failed? The results are only about sixty to seventy percent of what I expected. Oh well, saddened, I''ve decided to wipe my tears away tonight¡­)

 Chapter 129 Epic Level Item - Guild Creation Token (Please Subscribe and Vote)

    "Master, what''s this?" Sun Wukong, who was standing beside Jiang Liu, stared curiously as Jiang Liu took out a beautifully crafted treasure chest and leaned forward, his eyes widening as he peered inside.


    ncing at the monkey beside him, Jiang Liu smiled and shook his head, not just cats were curious, this monkey was equally curious.


    Of course, Jiang Liu''s heart was also filled with anticipation and curiosity.


    As the epic-level treasure chest was opened, Jiang Liu looked inside and found that it wasn''t any equipment, but just a palm-sized token.


    Jiang Liu felt somewhat disappointed, but still he reached out and took the token out. As his gazended on the token, the rted attribute information appeared before his eyes.


    "Guild Creation Token (Consumable): This token allows the creation of a faction. Note: Can be used after unlocking the social function."


    "A Guild Creation Token? What do I need this thing for?" Jiang Liu murmured quietly while ying with the token in his hand.


    In online games, a token like this could be quite valuable, even eagerly awaited by many powers. It wasn''t surprising to say it held epic-level value.


    However, as he journeyed west, and wasn''t operating any power structures, this Guild Creation Token seemed unnecessary...


    "Wait," Jiang Liu contemted the token in his hand, initially feeling it useless. Suddenly, something clicked in his mind.


    This journey to Western Heaven wasn''t just about seeking scriptures; more importantly, it was about self-preservation. Could he and Sun Wukong alone suffice?


    If he could alsomand a faction of his own.


    With this thought, Jiang Liu nced at the Elder Jinchi flying mid-air and various Demon Kings. Although their power was nothingpared to the Immortals and Buddhas, wasn''t having more allies equivalent to more strength? Perhaps he could strengthen it further in the future?


    However, thinking about the token that needed the social function to be unlocked, Jiang Liu shook his head again; it seemed he wouldn''t be able to use it anytime soon.


    At level 10, he unlocked the inventory space function, at level 20 the mission system was unlocked. So, when would the social function be unlocked?


    Level 30? Level 40? Or level 50?


    After unlocking the social function, one could establish a faction. Could there also be a friends function that allows long-distance conversations between friends?


    "Hey, Gaoyang, I''ve reached the foothills of Spirit Mountain. How are you doing over there with Guanyin?"


    "Calling the Bodhisattva, calling the Bodhisattva, I''ve run into a very powerful Demon here. Could youe help?"


    "Wukong, between these True and False Monkey Kings, which one is really you? Did you hear that? Twist your butt?"


    ... Explore new worlds at empire


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu cast aside these messy thoughts, feeling the situation was too fantastical to imagine.


    However, whatever the case, this Guild Creation Token was a good item for Jiang Liu. To contend against the Immortals and Buddhas in the future, he''d undoubtedly need to gather his own forces, and this token would y a crucial role.


    After entering ck Wind Cave, the ck Bear Demon, leading a group of Demons, once again expressed deep gratitude to Jiang Liu for saving their lives.


    Compared to the Immortals and Buddhas, these Demon Kind had more straightforward personalities. If you are good to me, I am good to you, clear about gratitude and grudges, with no schemes of betrayal.


    Naturally, seeing Master Lingxu, Jiang Liu also chatted with him for a bit.@@novelbin@@


    Learning that he had been summoned by the ck Bear Demon but was unwilling to act against him, he had just been staying in ck Wind Cave, which made Jiang Liu silently nod in agreement.


    It was gettingte, so after a brief chat, everyone dispersed to rest.


    In the following days, Jiang Liu stayed in ck Wind Cave. The Demon Kings courteously served Jiang Liu, and over several days, they became much more familiar with each other.


    Simrly, it was evident that Jiang Liu, being a Holy Monk, did not hold any prejudice against these Demons, which made the Demon Kings even more grateful.


    It''s worth mentioning that during this period, having learned about the acquaintance between Jiang Liu and Master Lingxu, the ck Bear Demon took the initiative to fetch another Spirit Elixir for Jiang Liu.


    Without any hesitation, after swallowing the second Spirit Elixir, 250,000 Experience Points were directly credited to his ount.


    After dawdling around for three days in ck Wind Cave, one day, Jiang Liu, riding the White Dragon Horse with Sun Wukong by his side, descended from ck Wind Mountain.


    "ck Bear Demon, I have the Mystical Mirror in hand. If I see youmit any wrongdoings in the future, do not me me for being ruthless," sitting on the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu turned around and addressed the group of Demons, led by the ck Bear Demon.


    "Holy Monk, I understand. From now on, I will quietly cultivate here on ck Wind Mountain with Elder Jinchi and Brother Lingxu," hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the ck Bear Demon reflexively covered his head and nodded hastily.


    He didn''t want to endure the pain of the Tight Hoop Spell a second time.


    "That''s good; diligently cultivate here in these mountains, as perhaps in the future I might need your help," Jiang Liu said with a nod.


    "We will certainly give our all and help till death!" the ck Bear Demon and the other Demon Kings behind him dered in unison upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    "Should the Holy Monkmand it, I will readily sacrifice these old bones to repay your great kindness," Elder Jinchi added with a determined expression, assuring him.


    If the Guild Creation Token could be used now, it would be perfect to establish a guild right away.


    Indeed, now with their assurances, Jiang Liu felt quite satisfied. He nodded slightly, waved his hand, and turned to leave.


    "Ah, Holy Monk, wait a moment..." Just as Jiang Liu turned around, it seemed the ck Bear Demon remembered something else and called out to him.


    "What is it? Is there something else you wish to say?" Jiang Liu asked, turning to look at the ck Bear Demon, as the White Dragon Horse stopped without needing a tug at its reins.


    "Holy Monk, as you travel westward, if you happen to pass by Fuling Mountain, there resides Second Ms. Luan. Please look after her," the ck Bear Demon said as he stepped forward, his expression hesitant and then continued.


    "Fuling Mountain? Second Ms. Luan?" Jiang Liu was taken aback by the ck Bear Demon''s words.


    "Yes, initially I and Second Ms. Luan were sworn siblings. However, during my Heavenly Tribtion, I inadvertently involved her in an attack. I do not know how she has fared over these years. If you could look after her..." Scratching his head, the ck Bear Demon appeared somewhat embarrassed yet guilty.


    Hint: Triggered the quest "Siblings'' Affection." Fulfill ck Bear Demon''s wish to receive 150,000 Experience Points and a Dragon Soul Bracelet; failure results in a deduction of 150,000 Experience Points. ept/Reject?


    As the ck Bear Demon pleaded, the system notification appeared, prompting Jiang Liu to nod silently.


    Indeed, when someone sincerely seeks help, it passively triggers a quest. Although passive questse with a penalty for failure, the rewards are significantly richerpared to active quests.


    Quickly epting the quest, Jiang Liu assured the ck Bear Demon, "Rest assured, I will surely not disappoint you in the matter you''ve entrusted to me."


    "Thank you, Holy Monk, thank you so much!" The ck Bear Demon expressed his gratitude with a nod.


    Being a demon is inherently difficult; the ck Bear Demon was well aware. Although humans fear demons for their misdeeds, likewise, demons fear the cultivators of the Human n and even the Immortals and Buddhas.


    Master Xuanzang is a Holy Monk, and from the time Guanyin descended to the mortal realm, it was evident that his status was extraordinary. Even the Third Crown Prince of the Western Sea Dragon King merely serves as his mount. Therefore, with his protection, it is unlikely that any deities would trouble them; this was the real intent of the ck Bear Demon.


    Like him and the Demon Kings he had gathered, with Master Xuanzang interceding on their behalf, even Guanyin had shown leniency.


    As long as they did not initiate trouble in the future, they believed no deity would attack them¡ªthis was their ultimate assurance!


    Waving his hand, Jiang Liu turned and continued his journey to the west. The White Dragon Horse lifted its hooves, and the sound of its galloping quickly faded, soon disappearing near ck Wind Mountain.


    Sun Wukong hovered in mid-air, following beside Jiang Liu.


    "Well, my brothers, it''s time for you all to return. I appreciate your help this time, and I will remember this favor. However, I have promised the Holy Monk¡ªplease refrain from wrongdoing, or else do not me me for being discourteous," the ck Bear Demon said, watching Jiang Liu and his party move farther away, then turned to address the Demon Kings.


    "We naturally obey themands of Brother ck Bear. Assisting him this time turned out to be a blessing in disguise for us, allowing us to avoid the threat of being in by Immortals and Buddhas; we dare not cause unwarranted trouble," a Demon King stepped forward and stated as the rest of the Demon Kings nodded in agreement.


    This response pleased the ck Bear Demon, who nodded satisfactorily.


    Yet, turning towards the west, he sighed softly, "Ah, Master Xuanzang''s grand kindness is too great to ever repay in this lifetime."


    "Diligently cultivating is the best help we can offer the Holy Monk. Didn''t he mention that he might need our help in the future? Those words weren''t just said casually," Elder Jinchi spoke up, hearing the ck Bear Demon''s sigh.


    ...


    Below ck Wind Mountain, Jiang Liu sat astride the galloping White Dragon Horse, which ran so swiftly yet smoothly that he could afford to be lost in thought.


    Second Ms. Luan of Fuling Mountain? Wasn''t that Zhu Bajie''s former wife? She never appeared in the original scripture but only mentioned by Zhu Bajie; apparently, she died about a year after they married.


    In the original tale, Zhu Bajie was residing in Yunzhan Cave of Fuling Mountain, and this very cave was once Second Ms. Luan''s.


    In a way, Zhu Bajie seemed like he had moved into his wife''s ce.


    After mulling over it briefly, Jiang Liu snapped back to reality, watching the scenery zip by and his expression darkened slightly.


    "Right, Xiaobai, could we slow down a bit?" he asked.


    (PS: Even if it''s going poorly, I still have to politely ask for monthly votes...)

 Chapter 131 First Defeat Zhu Bajie (Seeking Subscriptions, Seeking Monthly Votes)

    Looking for someone to ask for directions? Isn''t that simple?


    Hearing the task assigned by Jiang Liu, Sun Wukong lightly stomped his foot and called out, "Local Deity!"


    Following Sun Wukong''s action, the ground cracked open, and soon the Local Deity of the Gao Family Vige area emerged from the earth, bowing to Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong in turn, "Local Deity here, has seen the Holy Monk, has seen the Great Saint."


    "Local Deity, I, Old Sun, ask you, do you know if there''s a Yunzhan Cave of Fuling Mountain nearby?" Without any nonsense, Sun Wukong directly asked.


    "Yes, yes," hearing the question, the Local Deity nodded hastily and then pointed in a northwest direction, saying, "About forty to fifty li from here, there is a Fuling Mountain, and within the mountain is a Yunzhan Cave, inhabited by a demon called Second Sister Luan."


    "That''s right," hearing the Local Deity''s words, Sun Wukong nodded.


    The ck Bear Demon had mentioned before to Jiang Liu to take care of Second Sister Luan, and Sun Wukong had clearly heard it from the side.


    "If that''s the case, then let''s head to Yunzhan Cave. Thank you, Local Deity," sitting on the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu bowed to the Local Deity, disying a modest demeanor.


    "The Holy Monk is too kind. Thus, this deity will not disturb the Holy Monk and the Great Saint anymore. If you have anymands, call on me anytime," seeing Jiang Liu bowing to him, the Local Deity said in a startled but honored manner, then he disappeared back into the ground as his voice fell.


    Having received directions from the Local Deity, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong naturally headed toward Yunzhan Cave.


    Forty to fifty li was not far, and they did not intend to dy, so naturally, it only took a moment before they arrived within the territory of Fuling Mountain.


    However, not long after they entered Fuling Mountain, suddenly, arge ck pig appeared, robust as an old ox and covered in ck bristles, blocking the path of Jiang Liu and the others.


    "Hehehe, lucky me, I''m hungry, and today, it seems some blood food has delivered itself to my doorstep," therge ck pig spoke humannguage, eyeing Jiang Liu.


    As it spoke, drool dripped down from the corners of its mouth.


    However, when thisrge wild pig saw the small and thin monkey next to Jiang Liu, its eyes bulged out in a ghost-seeing expression, and its steps reflexively backed up a few steps.


    "This, isn''t this Pig Bajie?" Seeing therge wild pig that had jumped out to block his way, Jiang Liu thought to himself.


    An ordinary Pig Demon would have been one thing, but the fact that this Pig Demon recognized Sun Wukong at a nce was not simple.


    "Just, listening to this Pig Demon''s intention, does he usually eat people?" Realizing the identity of the Pig Demon in front of him, and thinking back to what he had just said, Jiang Liu''s heart sank.


    Was Pig Bajie, before embarking on the scripture-seeking journey, so fierce? Wasn''t he the reincarnation of Marshal Tianpeng?


    "Hehehe, what a fat pig," regardless of what thoughts were in Jiang Liu''s mind, hearing that the Pig Demon wanted to eat him, Sun Wukongughed "hehe," his eyes simrly gleaming as he stared at therge wild pig.


    Immediately, Sun Wukong turned his head to Jiang Liu and said, "Master, I, Old Sun, still remember back when I was under the Five Elements Mountain, you managed to get a wild pig at that time. I, Old Sun, still remember that meat taste to this day, how about we have another meal today?"


    "Cough, cough, that monkey, I was just joking, please go ahead if you need to hurry on the road..." Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, therge ck pig coughed twice, its voice bing much more cid.


    As it spoke, it continued to back away, obviously intimidated.


    Just then, Sun Wukong was reminiscing about the taste of the wild pig meat under Five Elements Mountain, and where was he going to let it go?


    Seeing therge wild pig continuously backing away, Sun Wukong stepped forward a few paces and charged up.


    Seeing Sun Wukong charging up, therge ck pig immediately turned around and ran at a fast pace.


    Appearing fat and robust, the wild pig was surprisingly fast as it ran, disappearing in a puff of smoke.


    "Halt, where are you fleeing to!" Sun Wukong shouted, leaping up and transforming into a streak of light, rapidly chasing after him.


    When it came to speed, Sun Wukong, who could travel over 180,000 li in a somersault, was certainly at the forefront in the world of Journey to the West. How could therge ck pig escape Sun Wukong''s pursuit?


    Once he closed in, Sun Wukong threw a punch aiming at therge ck pig''s head.


    This punch was fierce and powerful, clearly intent on ending therge ck pig in one stroke.


    Feeling the attack from Sun Wukong, therge ck pig reacted promptly. It shifted its form, standing upright in a ck pig shape, and lifted its fist to meet Sun Wokung''s punch head-on.


    Therge and small fists collided hard.


    A surge of great force came, making the Pig Demon stagger several steps back, feeling its robust arm tremble and go numb.


    Simrly, Sun Wukong didn''t get the better of it either; he too felt a great forceing at him, sending him retreating backward. He flipped midair andnded steadily on the ground.


    "What enormous strength, this strength is even greater than that of the ck Bear Demon from the other day!" Sun Wukong watched therge ck pig in front of him in astonishment, secretly amazed.


    What has been happeningtely? The ck Bear Demon I encountered before already had tremendous strength, and now this ck pig''s strength is also terrifying?


    Was I only suppressed under the Five Elements Mountain for a mere five hundred years to find so many powerful demons have emerged?


    Sun Wukong and therge ck pig chased and fled. Although they moved quickly, the White Dragon Horse''s hooves flew even faster, catching up in just moments.


    Jiang Liu just happened to see Sun Wukong exchange a punch with this big wild pig, and it seemed that neither gained the upper hand.


    "It''s confirmed, anyone who can exchange punches with Sun Wukong without falling behind, this Pig Demon in the territory of Fuling Mountain, could be no one else but Zhu Bajie," Jiang Liu thought to himself, almost certain of the Pig Demon''s identity.


    Although the original Zhu Bajie often appearszy and gluttonous, always moring to split the luggage whenever there is trouble, hisbat strength in the original texts is still quite formidable, as demonstrated in two fights.


    The first is when Sun Wukong transformed into Gao Cun and fought Zhu Bajie for the first time; they fought fromte at night until dawn without a winner, showing that Zhu Bajie''s strength was nearly equal to that of Sun Wukong.


    The second was during the episode with the Banana Leaf Fan, where the Demon King Ox disguised himself as Zhu Bajie and tricked Sun Wukong into giving away the fan, causing Zhu Bajie, enraged, to fight desperately against the Demon King Ox.


    Such desperation in battle made even the Demon King Ox struggle to cope.


    Clearly, Zhu Bajie''s usualzy, gluttonous, and lecherous ways hide a formidablebat strength.


    Moreover, how did the Jade Emperor arrange to deal with Sun Wukong in the original texts?


    He appointed Li Jing to a demon-subduing position and then allocated a hundred thousand Heavenly Soldiers and Generals to him, ordering him to attack the Flower Fruit Mountain.


    This shows that the Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li Jing normally had no soldiers under hismand, or at very least not many; otherwise, why would the Jade Emperor need to specifically allocate a hundred thousand Heavenly Soldiers to him?


    But what about Zhu Bajie? He, as Marshal Tianpeng,manded eighty thousand Naval Forces!


    It''s important to note that this was not a temporary allocation from the Jade Emperor during wartime but a standing authority over eighty thousand Naval Forces! Explore stories on empire


    From this, it is evident that during his time as Marshal Tianpeng, the power and status Zhu Bajie held were definitely above those of the Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li Jing.


    "Hehehe, this Pig Demon, you do have some skills!" Meanwhile, disregarding Jiang Liu''s wild thoughts, Sun Wukong exchanged a punch and realized the strength of Zhu Bajie, which, although surprising, made him even more eager to fight.


    It''s been several months since he came down from the Five Elements Mountain, and atst, he had found an opponent worthy of an exhrating and unrestrained battle.


    Grinning with bared teeth, Sun Wukong lunged forward again, swinging his iron fists towards Zhu Bajie.


    "You gue-ridden monkey, I, Old Pig, already said it was a joke. What does it mean that you still won''t let go of I, Old Pig?" Seeing Sun Wukong lunging towards him, Zhu Bajie shouted loudly, his movements not weak as he countered the attack.


    This fight truly shook heaven and earth. In terms of strength, Zhu Bajie was almost a match for Sun Wukong, and with divine skills, both the Thirty-Six Heavenly Gang and the Seventy-Two Earthly Fiends transformations were equally ingenious.


    A monkey and a pig exchanged blows in battle, appearing evenly matched.


    "Hahaha, how exhrating! Your methods aremendable, Pig Demon; I, Old Sun, am getting serious now," after a brief skirmish, feeling increasingly unrestrained, Sun Wukong shouted loudly as he fought.


    As he spoke, he reached into his ear, and his golden hoop staff grew as it met the wind, striking down towards Zhu Bajie.@@novelbin@@


    "You Hemp-pusher, I, Old Pig, am not afraid of you!" Having fought for so long, Zhu Bajie clearly was also fighting in earnest now. Cursing loudly, he raised his hand and a Nine-Toothed Rake appeared in his grasp, blocking Sun Wukong''s golden hoop staff.


    With resounding nging, Zhu Bajie''s rake clearly was of high quality, in no way inferior to Sun Wukong''s golden hoop staff.


    The exchange of blows between the two continued for a long while, still without a clear winner.


    "Zhu Bajie, being able to fight Sun Wukong to a standstill, must be worth a lot of Experience Points. Also, if he helps defeat Sun Wukong, what good items might be dropped?" Watching the battle between Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, Jiang Liu''s mind raced, his eyes shining.


    The greater the disparity in levels when challenging, the higher the probability of dropping good items.


    The level of Zhu Bajie was obviously outrageously high. Aside from Experience Points, what might be dropped?


    Thinking this, Jiang Liu raised his hand and pointed toward Sun Wukong, flinging the Buff of the Demon-Subduing Mantra towards him.


    Demon-Subduing Mantra (High-Level): Increases friendly unit''s Attack Power by +500, duration 300 seconds, cooldown 60 seconds.


    Although a mere 500-point increase in Attack Power was but a drop in the ocean for Sun Wukong, for Jiang Liu, it was a means to increase his Contribution Points.


    (PS: Seeking monthly tickets, a lot of monthly tickets, just needed during the new book period, after this month, the usefulness of monthly tickets seems less significant?)

 Chapter 132 Dispel Curse (Please Subscribe, Vote for Monthly Pass)

    How high is Sun Wukong''s attack power? Jiang Liu didn''t know, but he could infer some of it from the Vidyaraja Crown equipment.


    Although the Vidyaraja Crown is of Legendary Level, it was given by Longhai after all, who is only a mortal in flesh. Yet the Vidyaraja Crown can increase the defense value by as much as 100,000 at its highest.


    It seems that Sun Wukong''s defense and attack attributes are far beyond what can be measured by 100,000.


    When a Demon-Subduing Mantra buff is cast on Sun Wukong, he doesn''t feel much, which shows that an increase of 500 in attack power is indeed a drop in the bucket for him.


    Indeed, the basic buff skills of the Monk profession are too weak. Only the reinforcement skills from the Compassionate Bodhisattva show true power.


    Despite his internal ruminations, Jiang Liu''s actions remained quick. He watched the battle between Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, as they fought fiercely, their respective health bars each decreasing a bit.


    Jiang Liu saw that the timing was almost right and raised his hand: Guanyin Mantra.


    The High-Level Guanyin Mantra could instantly recover 20% of maximum life value, and with one cast, Sun Wukong''s health bar was instantly replenished.


    This made Sun Wukong turn his head in surprise to look at Jiang Liu.


    He felt nothing from the Demon-Subduing Mantra, but he certainly experienced the effects of the Guanyin Mantra. How could a being at the Body Tempering Realm possess such supernatural powers?@@novelbin@@


    "Stable Attendant, aren''t you being too arrogant?" Zhu Bajie, truly riled up in the fight, was both shocked and angry to see Sun Wukong distracted enough to look elsewhere during their intense battle. Find adventures at empire


    With a raise of his hand, countless water streams suddenly appeared from the void, instantly wrapping around Sun Wukong like numerous silk threads, tightly binding him.


    As the reincarnation of Marshal Tianpeng, who formerly controlled eighty thousand naval forces, Zhu Bajie, besides his close-rangebat skills, naturally wielded various water attribute immortal techniques with ease.


    Being bound, Sun Wukong struggled violently, but distracted for a moment and caught by the immortal technique, it was impossible for him to break free in a short time.


    Seeing this, Zhu Bajie grinned and raised his Nine-Toothed Rake high, smashing it down towards the Monkey.


    "Looks like I and the monkey haven''t cooperated in battle enough, have we? A Guanyin Mantra may have pulled up his health, but it caused him to be distracted."


    Seeing this, Jiang Liu realized that his recent Guanyin Mantra might have actually done more harm than good and shook his head silently.


    However, seeing Sun Wukong bound by the water attribute immortal technique, Jiang Liu was calm and lifted his hand again, casting the newly learned skill from the Compassionate Bodhisattva.


    Dispel Curse (Primary Level): Removes target''s silence, immobility, transformation, dizziness, and other control effects, with a cooldown time of 600 seconds.


    The Dispel Curse was a skill book dropped during thest part of the task for changing professions, a battle against a Demon General alone. Though it had no notable attack power, as the first skill of the Compassionate Bodhisattva, the level 20 skill book had a very potent effect, capable of removing nearly all control type skills.


    Sure enough, with the cast of the Dispel Curse, the water attribute bindings on Sun Wukong instantly copsed.


    Having broken free, Sun Wukong raised his Jingu Bang, blocking Zhu Bajie''s rake.


    Roar!


    After fending off Zhu Bajie''s attack, Sun Wukong suddenly let out a coarse roar, his belligerence erupting.


    Although he had found a formidable opponent, making the fight thoroughly exhrating, the fact that he was at a disadvantage in front of Jiang Liu and the White Dragon Horse was humiliating for Sun Wukong.


    No longer enjoying the battle, with his belligerence erupting and his mind in a rage, Sun Wukong''s figure swelled with the wind, instantly bing a hundred zhang tall¡ªthe Heaven and Earth Mighty Magic manifest.


    Suddenly, Sun Wukong''s Jingu Bang, like a sky-supporting giant pir, crashed down towards Zhu Bajie.


    The massive pir left no room for Zhu Bajie to dodge.


    "Hmph, think you''re the only one with this supernatural power?" However, seeing Sun Wukong''s Heaven and Earth Mighty Magic, Zhu Bajie smirked and said with derision.


    During his speech, his body also began to swell in size.


    Silencing Zen!


    Just then, suddenly, Zhu Bajie felt his inner strength dissipate in an instant as if it became a pool of dead water, difficult to mobilize, and naturally, his Heaven and Earth Mighty Magic, which he was performing, also stopped, and his body returned to its original size.


    After the Silencing Zen, it would have been sufficient to stop there, but in order to boost his own Contribution Points, Jiang Liu lifted his hand again: Sheep Transformation Technique.


    If he could move his own strength, Zhu Bajie, with the thirty-six transformations at his disposal, would naturally never be controlled by this Sheep Transformation Technique. But silenced by the Silencing Zen, and unable to mobilize any power, how could Zhu Bajie resist the effect of the Sheep Transformation Technique?


    ```


    With a bleat, he transformed into a harmless-looking littlemb.


    His eyes were innocent and bewildered, his face the very picture of confusion.


    With a thud, the massive Jingu Bang mmed down fiercely, as if to shake the heavens and the earth; the whole of Fuling Mountain seemed on the verge of copse.


    Fortunately, the White Dragon Horse, a true Dragon Horse, remained steady even when Fuling Mountain felt like it was crumbling; seated on horseback, Jiang Liu felt surprisingly stable.


    With the Jingu Bang withdrawn, Sun Wukong ceased the Heaven and Earth Mighty Magic and leapt beside Jiang Liu, anxiously squeaking, "Master, this is a battle between I, Old Sun, and this Pig Demon; you, you shouldn''t have stepped in like this, Old Sun wins no honor this way."


    If Jiang Liu''s abilities had not been enough to intervene in this battle, it would be one thing, but his Silencing Zen, Sheep Transformation Technique, and Guanyin Mantra had all yed a crucial role at key moments, which greatly annoyed Sun Wukong.


    This reminded Sun Wukong of the time when he battled the Eng God; had it not been for the Supreme Elder Lord''s secret aid, he could not possibly have been defeated.


    "Monkey, if I hadn''t helped, would you have defeated this Pig Demon so easily? I used to say you bullied the weak and feared the strong, and I must say I underestimated you; now it seems you can''t even bully the weak," Jiang Liu said with a teasing sneer, unafraid of Sun Wukong''s annoyance.


    At Jiang Liu''s words, Sun Wukong bristled with rage, baring his teeth and angrily squealing, "Master... Master... are you saying that I, Old Sun can''t defeat this Pig Demon? If you dare, wake him up now and I, Old Sun, willbat him for three hundred, no, I will take him down in just three rounds!"


    "Alright, alright, you''re mighty, okay?" Jiang Liu replied with an indulgent look meant for a simple-minded child and dismounted from the White Dragon Horse, gently patting the Monkey''s head as he softly spoke.


    "Master, don''t you believe in Old Sun?" The meaning behind Jiang Liu''s expression was clear, and Sun Wukong was not oblivious to it.


    Caught between urgency and anger, Sun Wukong then turned to the White Dragon Horse and demanded, "Xiaobai, tell me, can I, Old Sun, defeat this Pig Demon?"


    "Well, that''s..." The White Dragon Horse, with no intention of interjecting, was left tongue-tied by Sun Wukong''s sudden request for its opinion.


    When it came to debating, wasn''t it usually just a matter of arguing with itself? Why ask for its opinion today?


    Realizing Sun Wukong and Jiang Liu''s gazes were fixed on him, the White Dragon Horse knew he had to speak up. After hesitating briefly, he said, "Big Brother, Master is right."


    These words made Sun Wukong''s face stiffen slightly.


    Xiaobai usually spoke pleasantly, always aligning with his own thoughts, right?


    Fearful to meet Sun Wukong''s gaze, the White Dragon Horse, as the third Crown Prince of the Western Sea Dragon Pce and ustomed to the ways of the world, of course understood that Jiang Liu was the leader of the Scripture Seeking Team, and he couldn''t possibly go against Jiang Liu''s wishes.


    However, the White Dragon Horse also knew he couldn''t afford to offend anyone, so swiftly changing his tune, he continued, "Master is right, you wouldn''t have defeated the Pig Demon so easily if he hadn''t intervened. It''s not that you, Big Brother,ck the strength; it''s that the Pig Demon''s ability is incredibly strong,pletely unlike ordinary demons."


    While he didn''t want to offend Sun Wukong, it had to be said that these words were not mere ttery but the truth.


    Hearing the White Dragon Horse''s words, Sun Wukong''s countenance cleared somewhat; indeed, among the demons in the Mortal World, which of those qualified to fight him to such an extent weren''t renowned Demon Saints?


    "It seems Xiaobai you''re not wrong; this Pig Demon recognized me at a nce and addressed me as Stable Attendant, he must indeed be extraordinary. I, Old Sun, shall inquire about his backgroundter," Sun Wukong reflected, his impatience subsiding.


    While speaking, Sun Wukong noticed Jiang Liu had already moved beside the fallen Pig Demon, appearing to tinker with the Demon''s body, and called out loudly, "Master? What are you doing?"


    "Didn''t you say to wake him up, so you could take him down within three rounds?" Jiang Liu turned back and replied.


    The response left Sun Wukong feeling a bit embarrassed.


    In a moment of impulsive irritation, he had spoken without considering the consequences, but now, having calmed down, he understood well that defeating the Pig Demon in three moves was an impossibility.


    Luckily, Jiang Liu had no intention to further embarrass Sun Wukong, or perhaps his mind wasn''t really on sparring words with Sun Wukong at the moment.


    Having walked back, Jiang Liu remounted the White Dragon Horse, silently invoking ''Inventory Space'' in his mind.


    Jiang Liu''s recent activity examining Zhu Bajie''s body naturally meant collecting whatever objects were beneath the body into his inventory space.


    Although unable to form a party with Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu''s contribution to the recent battle was notable, and he earned 3000 Experience Points.


    Of course, the most important thing was the loot dropped by Zhu Bajie.


    Zhu Bajie''s cultivation level was at least that of a Taiyi True Immortal, right? This was his first time defeating a target of that level, and who knew what treasures had dropped?


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze swept over, the attribute information for the items that had just dropped naturally appeared before his eyes...


    (PS: Daily call for support; seeking monthly tickets. If you have any, please throw them my way; emm, don''t ask who "daily call for support" is, I don''t know either.)


    ```

 Chapter 136 The Incredibly Enthusiastic Female Demon (Please Subscribe, Vote for Monthly Pass)

    The White Dragon Horse, whenparing himself with Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, felt such a strong contrast that he was on the verge of tears, and now, Zhu Bajie''s feelings were almost the same.


    Second Sister Luan of Fuling Mountain¡ªthese past days, Zhu Bajie had been trying to win her favor, eager to sessfully ask for her hand in marriage. However, despite his efforts, he hadn''t made much progress, mainly because of his ugly appearance, which had prevented him even from entering Yunzhan Cave.


    For Zhu Bajie, he really didn''t know when he would ever be able to set foot in Yunzhan Cave in this lifetime.


    Today, he came to find Second Sister Luan again, but he was rejected at the cave entrance and was not allowed entry. Zhu Bajie felt downhearted, yet he could only turn away and leave. But to his surprise, while he had been unsessful in his attempts, someone else had done nothing but announce their name and was simply invited into the cave?


    One could imagine what Zhu Bajie was thinking at this moment.


    "Ah? You''re inviting me into the cave?"


    Let''s not discuss what Zhu Bajie was thinking at the moment¡ªon Jiang Liu''s side, upon hearing the maid''s words, he was taken aback and looked bewildered.


    If he had given the name of the ck Bear Demon and the other side was willing to let him in, it would have made sense, but he had just revealed his identity, and they were already so enthusiastic?


    What was going on?


    "Oh dear, Holy Monk, why are you dazed? Over the years, so many people have wanted to enter our Yunzhan Cave and didn''t get the chance to see our Second Sister. Why don''t you hurry up and go in?" Seeing Jiang Liu''s confused look, the maid seemed even more eager,ing over to grab Jiang Liu''s hand and pull him away.


    "Hey, you demon, what do you want to do with my master?" Sun Wukong saw the maid approaching and was about to touch Jiang Liu, scolding angrily.


    "Wukong, we came here to find Second Sister Luan, and since she''s warmly inviting us, let''s go inside for a visit," Jiang Liu stopped a grimacing Sun Wukong and, after a moment of contemtion, spoke up.


    Although he didn''t understand why the demon creature was so enthusiastic toward him, there was no need to worry about his safety; it was better to go in and take a look.@@novelbin@@


    "Fine then,"


    Convinced by Jiang Liu''s words, Sun Wukong nodded, thinking that Jiang Liu made sense.


    "Holy Monk, please follow me," Despite being startled by Sun Wukong, the maid was very happy to hear Jiang Liu agree to visit Yunzhan Cave.


    To others, being able to step into Yunzhan Cave was a great honor; that''s how Zhu Bajie saw it. But to this maid, it seemed her greatest honor was that Jiang Liu was willing to set foot in Yunzhan Cave.


    Under the maid''s guidance, Jiang Liu rode on the White Dragon Horse, apanied by Sun Wukong, walking towards Yunzhan Cave.


    Judging by the situation, Zhu Bajie also decided to follow them.


    Although he was reluctant to retrieve the scriptures from the Western Heaven, in Zhu Bajie''s view, this might be his only chance to enter Yunzhan Cave, wouldn''t it?


    After trying for several years without the privilege of stepping into Yunzhan Cave, he naturally wouldn''t miss the opportunity now that it had presented itself.


    "Hey, you, weren''t you going to leave? Why are you following us?"


    Sun Wukong scolded Zhu Bajie, who had taken the initiative to follow them, with annoyance.


    "Heh heh heh, Monkey Brother, I¡ªI just thought I''d like to take a look inside Yunzhan Cave; I won''t be in the way," Zhu Bajie, desperate to enter the cave, said to Sun Wukong with a shamelessly ingratiating smile.


    The address of Monkey Brother pleased Sun Wukong inwardly.


    Although Sun Wukong enjoyed ttery, the feeling was entirely different when it came from people of different status. White Dragon''s ttery might be pleasant, butpared to Zhu Bajie, both his status and power were much lesser; hence, Zhu Bajie''s ttery carried much more value.


    "So, from now on, I, Old Sun, am your brother, am I?" One call of Monkey Brother delighted Sun Wukong, but on the surface, it didn''t show, though unconsciously his tail swished behind him as he questioned Zhu Bajie.


    "Monkey Brother, Monkey Brother, Monkey Brother!" Zhu Bajie called out three times in a row, an answer that clearly stated his position.


    "Humph, you fool, for the sake of a beautiful female demon, you don''t care about losing face at all, do you think that by calling me Monkey Brother, I won''t send you away?" Although he was secretly pleased, Sun Wukong still maintained hisposure as he spoke irritably.


    However, as he finished speaking, his eyes narrowed considerably, "Of course, since you''ve already called me Monkey Brother, today I, Old Sun, won''t send you away."


    "Thank you, Monkey Brother," Zhu Bajie was overwhelmed with joy at Sun Wukong''s words.


    Riding on the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu subtly nced over at Zhu Bajie and Sun Wukong''s exchange.


    It seemed that, although he had fallen into the mortal world and was reborn into a pig, Zhu Bajie had somewhat degenerated, but hisscivious nature from the original story remained unchanged.


    No wonder in his past life, peoplemonly referred to such a person as "Pig Brother."


    Let''s not ponder over what Jiang Liu was thinking, but the young maid leading the way clearly appeared to be in a very good mood, hopping and skipping with joy, and quickly led Jiang Liu and hispanions to the entrance of Yunzhan Cave.


    Before their eyes stood a grand cave residence, guarded by a beautiful Female Demon at its entrance.


    "Eh, Sister Rabbit, why have you brought this Pig Demon back?" The Female Demon guarding the entrance of the cave asked the leading maid curiously upon seeing Zhu Bajie and the others.


    Without much exnation, the maid simplymanded the Female Demon at the entrance, "This is the Holy Monk Xuanzang from Great Tang. Take good care of them, don''t let them run off, I''ll go and inform Second Sister Luan immediately."


    As soon as she finished speaking, the maid ran into the cave.


    At her words, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly. Don''t let them run off? Anyone unaware would think they had been captured by these women.


    Seeing her almost incoherent with excitement, Jiang Liu grew even more curious. Why were the Female Demons of Yunzhan Cave so enthusiastic about him? Could it be that they already knew what had happened to him on ck Wind Mountain?


    "So, you are Master Xuanzang? Hello there,"


    The Female Demon guarding the cave, upon hearing of Xuanzang''s identity, also widened her eyes, staring at Jiang Liu with fanatical reverence.


    "Indeed, it''s this poor monk,"


    Faced with the Female Demon''s gaze, Jiang Liu felt somewhat perplexed and nodded slightly.


    If it were a monk from Jinshan Temple looking at him like this because of his twelve Scar of Precepts, it wouldn''t be surprising. But why was this Female Demon staring at him in the same way?


    Curious in his heart, Jiang Liu naturally asked directly, "May I know what connection this poor monk has with your Yunzhai Cave? Why do you all seem so enthusiastic upon seeing this poor monk?"


    "A connection? Of course, there is one, and it''s a significant one,"


    The Female Demon nodded vehemently, with a look of certainty, saying, "Holy Monk, you are traveling to the Western Heaven, which is tens of thousands of miles away, yet you passed by our Yunzhan Cave of Fuling Mountain. Isn''t this a destiny arranged by the heavens?"


    "Isn''t this connection rather far-fetched?"


    Her forceful assertion of a connection with this ce made Xuanzang''s expression somewhat strange.


    However, before Jiang Liu could say anything else, suddenly the sound of silk and bamboo music arose, followed by several gorgeous Female Demons, ying various musical instruments, making their appearance.


    There was also a Bird Demon flying in midair with a basket of flowers, scattering countless petals.


    Among these petals and music, a graceful woman emerged, wearing a white dress that conveyed an air of elegant nobility.


    Beautiful!


    Beholding the woman stepping out, bathed in falling petals and approaching with grace, Jiang Liu''s heart found her extremely beautiful.


    Zhu Bajie beside him was even more astounded, his eyes wide and mouth slightly ajar, drooling from the corner of his mouth, his gaze intense.


    "I am Second Sister Luan, and I have seen Master Xuanzang," the unparalleled beauty said, her voice tinkling like beads falling on a jade te as she approached Jiang Liu and gave a slight bow.


    "I am Master Xuanzang. Greetings to you, Second Sister Luan," Jiang Liu dismounted and returned the gesture.


    "Master Xuanzang, toe all the way from Great Tang, truly brings glory to all here at Yunzhai Cave. Please, Holy Monk, enter our cave residence for a visit,"


    Seeing Jiang Liu''s polite demeanor, Second Sister Luan seemed even more pleased and extended the invitation herself. Your journey continues with empire


    "Second Sister Luan, hello there, it''s me, hehehe, I, Old Pig, havee to see you again. Didn''t you say you were feeling unwell today? How is your health now?" However, at this moment, Zhu Bajie stepped forward, chuckling.


    One was a young monk with fair skin and handsome features, graceful and polite; the other was a dark and ugly Pig Demon, crude and repulsive. The stark contrast between them made Second Sister Luan''s brows slightly furrow, finding the Pig Demon extremely annoying.


    "Why are you still here? Quickly leave at once. I have an honored guest to receive today and no time to deal with you," Second Sister Luan coldly dismissed Zhu Bajie, a stark contrast from her gentle demeanor before Jiang Liu.


    "Second Sister, over these years, I, Old Pig, havee to seek you out every now and then with such sincerity, can''t you feel it? Even an iron tree should blossom by now, right? Is this monk not just well-groomed? You invite him into your cave and even personally wee him at our first meeting. I, Old Pig, am not convinced.


    Could it be that Second Sister Luan, renowned as a female warrior, is also one to judge by appearances?" Zhu Bajie contested, unable to tolerate the stark difference in treatment he receivedpared to Jiang Liu.


    "Actually, Second Sister Luan, this poor monk is also puzzled,"


    As Zhu Bajie spoke, and seeing that Second Sister Luan was reluctant to exin more, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but speak up.


    "This poor monk is meeting you for the first time and had no prior acquaintances here, yet everyone at Yunzhai Cave is so passionate towards this poor monk. This is astonishing and defies logic. Please, Second Sister, illuminate this poor monk..."

 Chapter 139 Is He Master Xuanzang!? (Please Subscribe, Monthly Tickets Needed)

    A woman dressed in a white sweater, with a string of golden bells in her hand, followed by a dozen beast-headed Demon Marshals, came straight toward Yunzhai Cave.


    The weather had turned cold, and indeed, the woman in the white sweater was right to dress warmly, yet her outfit was bold and revealing, giving off a seductive aura from head to toe.


    "What? Another Demon King?"


    Jiang Liu, taking the lead, walked out from Yunzhai Cave and saw the dozen Demon Marshals and the seductive woman leading them who looked no different from an ordinary person, he naturally understood that this must be a Demon King who had sessfully transformed.


    "Eh? Has Second Sister Luan recently smartened up? To think she''s hidden such a dashing Little Monk in her cave?" The woman in white, the leading Female Demon, eyes suddenly gleaming, giggled as she looked at Jiang Liu emerging.


    In the midst of speaking, the Female Demon crooked her finger towards Jiang Liu and said, "Little Monk, Second Sister Luan is but an inexperienced chick, she can''tpare to your sister here. Why don''t youe back with me to Fox Mound Mountain? I promise to make you desire heaven and fear death."


    "Humph, good you, Female Demon, you dare to tease my master? Seeking death, are you? If you have any ability,e at Old Pig!"


    Holding the Supreme Treasure Golden Rake, Zhu Bajie licked his lips and stood up righteously, shouting loudly at the Female Demon.


    Looking at Zhu Bajie standing up, seeing his ck and robust form with protruding fangs, the beautiful yet seductive Female Demon curled her lips, "Come at you? Wishful thinking¡­"


    "You Fox Demon, what are you doing here at Yunzhai Cave without reason?" Not waiting for Zhu Bajie to get angry, at this moment, Second Sister Luan also came out and spoke irritably to the white-clothed Fox Demon.


    While speaking, she stood in front of Jiang Liu and said, "Holy Monk, this Fox Demon is not weak in her tricks, I appreciate you stepping forward, but matters of Yunzhai Cave, we handle ourselves."


    "Holy Monk?"


    Hearing the conversation between Second Sister Luan and Jiang Liu, the Fox Demonughed teasingly and said, "Oh, Second Sister, you always say I have no shame, but it looks like you''re no different, having picked a monk? And a young one too, handsome indeed, but I''m afraid a pretty face does not guarantee skill."


    "Hmph, call me Second Sister! What ability do you have, daring to im you are my sister? Seems like that vixen skin of yours is itching for a scratch again?" Second Ms. Luan watched her opponent, speaking irritably.


    Of herself called Second Sister Luan, but the other deliberately addressed her as Second Sister, was this a provocation?


    "My skill? My greatest skill is dealing with men, isn''t it? Dare youpare with me in that? I''ve been with men, if not a hundred, then surely eighty. Now look at you, if I''m not wrong, this handsome Little Monk seems to be your first? Giggle, shall I teach you some bedroom skills when the timees?"


    The Fox Demon covered her mouth with a lightugh, yfully saying.


    "Hmph, don''t talk about just a hundred or eighty men, even if you had thousands, they can''tpare to the Holy Monk alone."


    Completely treating Jiang Liu as her own man, Second Sister Luan retorted.


    "Is this the pattern of conversation between female demons? In the past life, women often liked topare how their men are when they met. In the world of Journey to the West, is it the same with female demons?"


    Hearing the bickering between the Fox Demon and Second Sister Luan, Jiang Liu''s expression became slightly strange.


    "Oh? Holy Monk? This young monk seems so young, what merits does he have to be called a Holy Monk? Second Sister, are you trying to add glory to your own man?" The Fox Demon looked at Jiang Liu incredulously then teasingly said to Second Sister Luan.


    "The title of Holy Monk of Master Xuanzang is personally sanctioned by the Emperor of Great Tang, it''s not something to be mentioned lightly," said Second Sister Luan, her face disying proud colors.@@novelbin@@


    "Master Xuanzang!?"


    Upon hearing Second Sister Luan''s words, the Fox Demon was stunned, then her eyes widened, looking at Jiang Liu in disbelief, she eximed, "Are you Master Xuanzang!? The Master Xuanzang from Great Tang!?"


    "Correct, it is indeed this poor monk," Jiang Liu nodded slightly as he replied.


    This answer made the Fox Demon''s eyes shine even brighter.


    Indeed, as Second Sister Luan had mentioned, the tales of Master Xuanzang''s love were known throughout the three realms. Compared to Master Xuanzang, all the men she had been with put together couldn''t match up to even a fingernail of his.


    "Mage, hello, I, I, it''s truly a blessing of three lifetimes to see you¡­"


    While bickering with Second Sister Luan, the Fox Demon was sharp in her words, but upon realizing Jiang Liu''s identity, she seemed to instantly transform into a little fan girl, wiping her hands on her white sweater before wishing to touch him, but feeling too ashamed to approach. Read new chapters at empire


    Zhu Bajie snorted, breathing heavily through his nose, seeing this alluring Fox Demon also turn into a fan girl. His eyes werepletely filled with envy, which further affirmed his resolve.


    No matter what, he must also follow the Scripture Seeker, better if he could ept him as a disciple, and if not, he must still follow him, at least to observe how he does it. If he could understand even a little, it would be a great fortune indeed.


    After all, he had already received Guanyin Bodhisattva''s enlightening, following the Scripture Seeker''s team was justifiable, wasn''t it?


    "Second Sister, you, you are indeed fortunate, to have caught the fancy of Master Xuanzang," Not to mention Zhu Bajie''s thoughts, looking at Second Sister Luan, the Fox Demon''s eyes filled again with envy.


    "That one, you seem to have misunderstood something, I am just friends with Second Sister Luan," Jiang Liu hurriedly spoke to rify when he heard the two female demons'' conversation, which seemed to have misinterpreted his rtionship with Second Sister Luan.


    "Hmph, now you remember to call me Second Sister? Enough with the nonsense. What''s your purpose ining to my Yunzhai Cave today?" Lifting her head slightly like a victorious little hen, Second Sister Luan prided herself while questioning the fox demon, ignoring Jiang Liu''s rification.


    When it came to the pressing matter, the fox demon''s expression turned serious and said, "I heard that a few days ago, you dug up a three-thousand-year-old ginseng on my Fox Mound Mountain, did you not?"


    "I indeed obtained a ginseng, but don''t think it belongs to you. This ginseng was taken at the border between my Fuling Mountain and your Fox Mound Mountain. Whoever acts faster owns it. Are you here to me me over this matter?" Second Sister Luan looked at the fox demon and said irritably, clearly unwilling to back down.


    "Stop making excuses, that ginseng was indeed dug up from our Fox Mound Mountain!" Since the fox demon came with an air of superiority, she was naturally determined to have the ginseng, how could she give up just because of what Second Ms. Luan said?


    The two parties argued, and it wasn''t long before they started fighting over the three-thousand-year-old ginseng.


    In the world of the Demon n, things are straightforward; if there is a dispute over a treasure, they fight it out, and the winner owns it. There is no reasoning behind it.


    Actually, whether the ginseng grew on Fox Mound Mountain or on the border with Fuling Mountain was not important.


    "Master, should we intervene?" Sun Wukong, watching the battle between the two kings, asked Jiang Liu unenthusiastically, just turning his head to seek his opinion.


    "This..." Hearing Sun Wukong''s question, Jiang Liu hesitated.


    After all, he was an outsider, and intervening in the demons'' fight over the treasure seemed improper and unrighteous.


    More importantly, from the looks of it, Second Sister Luan was not weak, and it seemed she didn''t much need his help.


    "Second Sister, Old Pig is here to lend you a hand!"


    While Jiang Liu was hesitating, Zhu Bajie on the side shouted, lifting his Supreme Treasure Golden Rake, and rushed over, joining the fray.


    Although Zhu Bajie''s nature was to fancy beautiful female demons, between Second Sister Luan and the fox demon, Zhu Bajie naturally chose Second Sister Luan, whom he had pursued for many days.


    With Zhu Bajie''s strength, his involvement quickly brought an end to the battle.


    The rake shook, sending the fox demon flying out and she fell to the ground, severely wounded and spitting blood.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, the fox demon originally had about seventy to eighty percent of her health bar left, but in one move, it was reduced to about a third.


    Severely injured in a single blow, the fox demon naturally understood Zhu Bajie''s might. Startled, she dared not continue the fight, calling her underlings, the demon marshals, to quickly flee.


    "Now I understand why the original Zhu Bajie could end up with Second Sister Luan," Jiang Liu thought to himself upon seeing this.


    Although Second Sister Luan did not think highly of Zhu Bajie, it must be said that Zhu Bajie was very strong. With him here, whether it was demons, Taoists and monks, or even heavenly deities descending to earth, Zhu Bajie could protect herpletely.


    Overtime, gradually winning Second Sister Luan''s heart was not impossible.


    However, for Zhu Bajie''s assistance, Second Sister Luan did not thank him; instead, she walked over to Jiang Liu, smiled gracefully, and bowed slightly: "Holy Monk, thank you for your help. I am deeply grateful."


    Zhu Bajie cried out loud to take Jiang Liu as his master, and Jiang Liu did not refuse. In Second Sister Luan''s view, they naturally appeared as master and disciple.


    Hearing that there was trouble at Yunzhai Cave, the Holy Monk was the first to rush out. Seeing that he and the fox demon crossed fists, was it not the Holy Monk''s intention for Zhu Bajie to help?


    Second Sister Luan did not believe it!


    "Uh, the action just now was Bajie''s own idea, and it has nothing to do with me," hearing Second Sister Luan thanking him, Jiang Liu realized she had misunderstood and exined.


    "Holy Monk, you need not exin, I understand it all," but Second Ms. Luan only believed what she had decided in her heart.


    Zhu Bajie, holding the Supreme Treasure Golden Rake, felt something was wrong amidst the chaos, but on thinking it over, nothing seemed amiss.


    ...


    At the foot of Fuling Mountain, a monk dressed in a red kasaya, with six precept scars on his head, sat quietly cross-legged, as if waiting for something.


    Behind this high monk crouched dozens of monks, with calm demeanors.


    As the severely wounded fox demon descended Fuling Mountain, this leading monk opened his eyes, his face breaking into a smile as he stood up.


    (PS: Asking for monthly tickets. Have the monthly tickets dwindled? Are you all not voting, or are there really no more tickets left...)

 Chapter 143 The Bodhisattva Beneath the Underworld (Please Subscribe, Vote for Monthly Pass)

    Others may not know the true reason why the Dragon King of Jing River was killed, but Jiang Liu was crystal clear about it. If he managed to bring out the soul of the Dragon King of Jing River from the Underworld, it would be somewhat troublesome.


    Therefore, Jiang Liu specifically instructed Sun Wukong not to let anyone know it was him who did the deed.


    "I, Old Sun, have to sneak around now? I, Old Sun, am not that kind of person!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s order, Sun Wukong''s expression turned a bit sour.


    Even after being suppressed under the Five Elements Mountain for five hundred years, he was still the fearless Great Sage Equal to Heaven. Was it really necessary to skulk about just to take back a mere soul?


    "Hehe!"


    Seeing Sun Wukong''s disdainful attitude towards skulking about, Jiang Liu gave him a sardonic smile.


    Sun Wukong''s eyebrows twitched, "Master, I always feel like your ''hehe''ugh is mocking me."


    "No, not at all, you''re mistaken!"


    Jiang Liu shook his head, issuing a triple denial, and then said, "Monkey, I remember when you were guarding the Peach Garden, those peaches¡ªwas it you who stole them?"


    "Nonsense, those were, those were eaten by I, Old Sun, in the open, right in front of the seven fairies, after I immobilized them!"


    "Oh? And the feast in the Peach Garden, it was you who sneaked in and made a mess while eating and drinking a lot, right?"


    "This, this was just because I, Old Sun, got there a bit early. I, I didn''t sneak in."


    "What about the Golden Pills from the Doushuai Pce? Was it perhaps the Supreme Elder Lord who invited you to eat them?"@@novelbin@@


    "This..."


    "Hehe, you call yourself ''not that kind of person''? Go on now, as your teacher I know this is your strong suit!" Seeing Sun Wukong at a loss for words, Jiang Liu chuckled unsympathetically.


    "Alright, I, Old Sun, understand!"


    Ever since he started travelling to the West with his master, there had been countless verbal spars, but the number of times he won seemed to be countable on one hand. Being left speechless by the rebuttal, Sun Wukong said no more and nodded.


    Murmuring a mantra, his form shrank, and he disappeared directly into the ground.


    Watching Sun Wukong head to the Underworld, Jiang Liu''s heart settled down quite a bit, having great trust in Sun Wukong''s capabilities.


    Although the recent conversation was all about bantering and teasing Sun Wukong, what he said wasn''t made up; with Sun Wukong''s abilities and nimble tactics, sneaking into the Underworld and bringing out the soul of the Dragon King of Jing River shouldn''t be difficult¡ªit truly was his strong suit.


    Some time passed, and Zhu Bajie, who had just relieved himself, returned to the stone chamber. Stumbling in a drowsy state, he walked over to a mat on the floor and copsed onto it.


    He began to snore like thunder almost immediately, obviously not even noticing Sun Wukong''s departure, which left Jiang Liu''s prepared exnation without an opportunity to be used.


    Shaking his head in amusement, Jiang Liu calmed his mind, sat cross-legged, and continued to practice the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique.


    His Experience Points were slowly increasing, and his Cultivation Level was umting bit by bit, like umting sand into a pagoda...


    Leaving aside the profound silence in the depths of the night at the Yunzhai Cave, the Underworld below was actually more bustling than during the day.


    For Sun Wukong, who was well-versed in this, after changing his appearance, he entered the Underworld and stealthily infiltrated it. After pondering for a moment, he figured out where to find the Dragon King of Jing River.


    The Underworld, being a ce where lost souls are collected, is managed by the ten Yamas who each have their own duties. Lost souls who died from suicide, wrongful death, disasters, wars, and homicides all enter the City of the Wrongfully Dead, which is governed by the King of Biancheng.


    "Hmm, ording to what master said, the Dragon King of Jing River seems to have died wrongfully. He once protested in the Underworld and even had Emperor of Tang''s soule down to confront him. I think he should be in the City of the Wrongfully Dead."


    Though Sun Wukong may not possess great wisdom, he does have plenty of craftiness. After a brief thought, he transformed into the appearance of a wandering soul and hurried toward the City of the Wrongfully Dead.


    The divine skill of the Seventy-Two Transformations was not something ordinary ghost immortals and underworld messengers could see through.


    As a wandering soul, Sun Wukong proceeded, and soon he saw an ancient city before him, with threerge characters inscribed on its gate: City of the Wrongfully Dead.


    Underworld soldiers guarded the city gates, and Sun Wukong, disguised as a wandering soul, hesitated for a moment as he contemted ways to sneak in.


    "Hey, you there, how did you escape from the City of the Wrongfully Dead?"


    However, just as Sun Wukong was considering how to infiltrate, an underworld messenger suddenly appeared, swinging a huge iron chain which looped around Sun Wukong''s neck, and he demanded loudly.


    "Sir, I''ve been wronged; I''ve been so wronged! Please let me go!"


    Seeing that the ghost messenger shackled him and headed toward the City of the Wrongfully Dead, Sun Wukong''s eyes rolled around, and he immediately pretended to be a wronged soul, shouting loudly. Then, with the ghost messenger''s chain wound around him, he was dragged directly into the City of the Wrongfully Dead.


    "Hehehe, I, Old Sun, am really clever!" Pretending to be bound by chains, he sessfully infiltrated the City of the Wrongfully Dead, Sun Wukong chuckled to himself.


    "No use yelling, with so many wronged souls recently arriving in the City of the Wrongfully Dead, even if you''ve been falsely used, who knows how long it will take for your turn toe up!" This Underworld Messenger, while locking up Sun Wukong, seemed not too strict and rambled on as if they were quite chatty.


    As if a chain for trapping wandering souls could restrain Sun Wukong.


    The moment he entered the City of the Wrongfully Dead, Sun Wukong was ready to break free from the chains, knock out this Underworld Messenger, and search for the Dragon King of Jing River on his own.


    But seeing the Underworld Messenger seemed so talkative, Sun Wukong secretly smiled to himself and didn''t hurry to make his move. He said, "You''re mentioning that a lot of wronged souls havee to the City of the Wrongfully Dead recently? Aside from usmon wandering souls, are there also many influential figures?"


    "Of course, there are. What, you''re interested in these big issues too? Are you even qualified to know about them?"


    Leading with the chain, the Underworld Messenger slightly turned his head, nced at Sun Wukong and said disapprovingly.


    The disdain in the Underworld Messenger''s speech made Sun Wukong itch to scratch his head in frustration.


    However, he didn''t react; instead, after turning his eyeballs, he countered with augh, "I bet you don''t even know, do you?"


    "Hmph, you think you can look down on me?" The Underworld Messenger turned back, clearly agitated by the provocation.


    After scanning Sun Wukong, he pointed to a secluded stone stool not far away and said, "Let''s go, let''s have a good chat today. You ask and see what you want to know, and if I can answer it."


    "Alright, let''s go then!" The Underworld Messenger''s response was exactly what Sun Wukong was hoping for.


    One loved to ramble and talk, while the other wanted to extract useful information from the speaker; so, it was a perfect match as the two of them went to an isted ce and sat down.


    "Alright, ask away, what do you want to know? I tell you, I''m known as the Nosy Parker in this City of the Wrongfully Dead; there''s nothing I don''t know about!" After sitting down, this Underworld Messenger patted his chest, speaking with confidence.


    "Well then, tell me about the wrongful death case that the King of Biancheng handled recently!" Although eager to gather information, Sun Wukong was still cautious, deliberately not asking about the Dragon King of Jing River first.


    This Underworld Messenger seemed to know a lot; Sun Wukong asked him about two or three matters and he answered fluently each time.


    Even though Sun Wukong didn''t know if the Underworld Messenger was correct, the fact that he could answer without hesitation suggested he wasn''t making it up.


    "Alright, I''ll ask you another thing, do you know about the Dragon King of Jing River''s wrongful death?" Sun Wukong nodded and then casually followed up with another question.


    "I certainly do. The matter of the Dragon King of Jing River was a bigmotion. The Dragon King protested his innocence, and even Lord Yama summoned the soul of Emperor of Tang to confront him in the Underworld!" The Underworld Messenger continued, recounting the whole event of Li Shimin''s soul journeying to the Underworld to Sun Wukong.


    These words were no different from what Jiang Liu had said.


    After nodding, Sun Wukong then inquired, "So what''s the current situation of the Dragon King of Jing River? You know about that?"


    "Of course, I know. Even though Lord Yama had Emperor of Tang confront him, the emperor eventually returned. The Dragon King still felt wronged and, holding a grudge, refused to reincarnate, so he is still staying at the foot of Knife Mountain!" The Underworld Messenger replied promptly, without consideration.


    "At the foot of Knife Mountain, got it!" Hearing this, Sun Wukong nodded. Readtest stories on empire


    Hemitted this information to memory and then silently blew a breath at the Underworld Messenger, using the Sleepy Bug technique he had won from the Heavenly King, quickly sending the Underworld Messenger into a deep sleep.


    With a soft chuckle, Sun Wukong felt this journey to the Underworld was going unexpectedly smoothly. He immediately broke the chains and headed towards Knife Mountain.


    ...


    Leaving aside the situation in the City of the Wrongfully Dead for the moment, elsewhere, an ethereal Ghost Immortal radiating golden Buddhist Light carried a bowl of in rice porridge with a respectful demeanor within a quaint Stone Chamber.


    Though a Ghost Immortal, there was no hint of gloom about him. Instead, the golden Buddhist Light that radiated from him was dazzling. Approaching the center of the Stone Chamber, he saw the Lotus tform next to him empty, which made him pause slightly in surprise.


    cing the bowl of porridge on the stone table, the Ghost Immortal looked around and asked an Exotic Beast lying nearby, "Where has the Bodhisattva gone?"


    But before the Exotic Beast could respond, an Old Monk with a benign smile walked into the Stone Chamber from the outside.


    "Bodhisattva, where have you just been?" The Ghost Immortal curiously handed over the bowl of porridge and asked.


    The Old Monk took the bowl of porridge with a slight smile and replied, "Oh, nothing much. I just went out to take a look at an interesting little monkey..."


    "A little monkey?" The Ghost Immortal looked puzzled and turned his gaze questioning toward the Old Monk.


    However, the Old Monk, holding the bowl of porridge, bowed his head and did not intend to exin.

 Chapter 144 Six-Eared Macaque (Please Subscribe, Monthly Tickets Needed)

    Up Knife Mountain, down into the oil pot.


    In the Underworld, these are two of countless punishments.


    Those who entered Hell after death were sentenced based on their behavior in life. If they were guilty, the punishment depended on the severity of their sins, and only when their sentence wasplete could they be reincarnated.


    Naturally, if they were good people in life, they might enter the Heavenly Court to serve the real Immortals of the Immortal Rank, or some with martial prowess could be Heavenly Soldiers.


    Within the Underworld, Sun Wukong had long been familiar. After learning what he wanted to know, he left the City of the Wrongfully Dead and headed for Knife Mountain.


    A mountain bristling with knife edges, countless wronged souls were driven to walk atop Knife Mountain, their screams incessant.


    Regarding all this, Sun Wukong naturally paid no attention. Instead, he headed toward the foot of Knife Mountain, having heard that the Dragon King of Jing River''s soul was located there,ing here was undoubtedly correct.


    Knife Mountain was majestic; searching it thoroughly was not so easy. Reaching the foot of the mountain, Sun Wukong undid his disguise and, after a search, indeed found what he was looking for. Find adventures on empire


    A robust dragon-shaped soul was coiled at the foot of Knife Mountain, its body also shackled by hefty chains adorned with shining golden Mantra Talismans; around it were dozens of Underworld Soldiers on guard.


    Seeing this, Sun Wukong grinned, silently recited an incantation and blew a breath towards these Underworld Soldiers, who immediately fell unconscious.


    Suddenly, Sun Wukong approached and said, "Dragon King of Jing River?"


    "You are? Great Sage!?" The soul of the Dragon King of Jing River, surprised to see all the Underworld Soldiers knocked unconscious, eximed in surprise upon seeing Sun Wukong.


    Why on earth was the Great Sage Equalling Heaven, Sun Wukong, standing before him without reason?


    "Are you the Dragon King of Jing River?" Sun Wukong asked again without answering.


    "Indeed, it is I, Little Dragon. I''m not sure why the Great Sage hase; what are yourmands!?" The Dragon King of Jing River, realizing Sun Wukong hade for him, quickly bowed and answered.


    "Hmm, then I have not found the wrong one!" Hearing the Dragon King of Jing River''s affirmative response, Sun Wukong nodded.


    Digging into his ear, he pulled out the Ruyi Golden Cudgel and struck the chains binding the Dragon King.


    The Mantra Talismans on the chains instantly shattered, and naturally, the hefty chains also broke apart.


    "Let''s go!" After freeing the Dragon King of Jing River from the chains, Sun Wukong reached into his bosom again and pulled out the Dragon Soul Bracelet, shaking it at the Dragon King.


    A strange attractive force appeared, and the soul of the Dragon King of Jing River was instantly sucked into the Dragon Soul Bracelet.


    Just then, however, a sudden change urred.


    As the Dragon King of Jing River was rescued, a huge array suddenly appeared on the ground, countless densely packed Buddhist Sect Mantra Talismans lit up, forming a golden, radiant massive iron cage that enveloped the space within a ten-zhang radius.@@novelbin@@


    "The soul of the mere Dragon King of Jing River, not only locked up but also guarded by Underworld Soldiers and even this kind of trap?" Seeing this, even Sun Wukong realized that there might be something unusual about the Dragon King of Jing River''s soul being detained here.


    Merely the Dragon King of Jing River, in the Immortal Realm, he was nothing more than an Earth Immortal, managing only a river, was he really worth such great effort to suppress?


    However, now was not the time to think too much. Trapped in the array, Sun Wukong stored the Dragon Soul Bracelet and lifted his Jingu Bang, smashing fiercely at the golden iron cage.


    With a loud bang, several cracks immediately appeared on the cage.


    "A mere array thinks it can trap I, Old Sun!?" With one strike causing cracks to appear on the cage, Sun Wukong sneered and smashed down with the Golden Hoop again.


    Bang, bang, bang!


    With no finesse whatsoever, Sun Wukong was purely using brute force to break the array. As the Jingu Bang continued to fall, the cracks on the golden iron cage formed by the array grew longer and deeper.


    Clearly, it would only be moments before Sun Wukong would smash the cage entirely, unable to contain him for long.


    However strong Sun Wukong''s power was, the Underworld''s response was also extraordinarily fast. In just a moment, as the array activated, the King of Biancheng rushed from the City of the Wrongfully Dead with his subordinates, Bullhead and Horseface, arriving at the foot of Knife Mountain, just in time to see Sun Wukong smashing the array and breaking free.


    "You, you are, Sun Wukong!?" The King of Biancheng, rushing over with great momentum, saw Sun Wukong''s figure and changed his expression, speaking with apprehension.


    The matter of Sun Wukong having once wreaked havoc in the Underworld and even in the Heavenly Pce was clearly remembered by the Ten Kings of Hell; suddenly seeing this scourge appear before him, the King of Biancheng''s heart trembled with fear.


    "Uh..."


    Sun Wukong hesitated after breaking out of the array.


    He naturally did not regard the Ten Kings of Hell highly, but, remembering his master''s specific instructions not to reveal his identity before departing, being discovered was rather embarrassing, wasn''t it?


    Fortunately, though Sun Wukong was impetuous andcked great wisdom, he had plenty of cunning.


    In this critical moment, a quick thought sprung to mind, his face twisted ferociously, his eyes shing fiercely, baring his teeth, he shouted angrily, "Rubbish! You fools! I hate it most when people mistake me for Sun Wukong!"


    "You''re not Sun Wukong? Then who are you!?" Looking at the Sun Wukong before him, King of Biancheng was utterly bewildered.


    Could he be lying? This clearly looked like the Great Sage Equalling Heaven, Sun Wukong, whom he had personally seen causing havoc in the Underworld years ago.


    "Hmph, although I look like that guy Sun Wukong, I am not him!" Demon Qi surged, and Sun Wukong''s face showed even greater anger.


    With those words, he slightly turned his head and pointed behind his ear, saying, "See? I have two more ears behind mine. You, you can call me Six-Eared Macaque!"


    As his voice fell, Sun Wukong leaped up and fled into the distance, moving as fast as lightning, swiftly leaving the Underworld.


    As for whether others believed his words about being the Six-Eared Macaque, Sun Wukong didn''t care. When the time came, he would just adamantly deny everything.


    "Lord Yama, that, was that really not Great Sage Sun just now?"


    A Ghost Messenger standing beside him, too scared to act while watching Sun Wukong''s retreating figure, was naturally skeptical about the ims of being the Six-Eared Macaque and asked King of Biancheng.


    "If it really were Great Sage Sun, he could have taken away the Dragon King of Jing River''s soul, could we have stopped him?" Turning to nce at the Ghost Messenger, King of Biancheng counter-asked.


    This remark made all the Ghost Messengers behind tremble with fear and quickly shake their heads.


    Just kidding, even a hundred thousand Heavenly Soldiers and Generals couldn''t hold him back in the past, how could they stop him? Wouldn''t that be just marching to their own deaths?


    "So, was it really the Six-Eared Macaque? When did such a powerful monkey appear among the Three Realms? I''ve never heard of him," wondered the Ghost Messenger, asking again.


    "Even if it''s not Sun Wukong, that surge of demon Qi was tremendous, definitely at the level of a Demon Saint. How could we confront such a being? Thus, whether it is Sun Wukong or not is irrelevant; we wouldn''t be able to stop him anyway. Let''s report this immediately and let those above make the decision," shaking his head, King of Biancheng turned and left Knife Mountain.


    ...


    The faint morning light seeped in; although one couldn''t see the sky outside from within this cave, the biological clock over the long term had awoken Jiang Liu.


    After a night of meditation, he had gained just over 10,000 experience points. Using experience points to measure his cultivation level, Jiang Liu felt a definite improvement in his cultivation within.


    This kind of cultivation, where one can clearly feel their growth rate, was indeed a great motivation for Jiang Liu.


    Looking at his side, with snores loud as thunder, Zhu Bajie was still sound asleep.


    On the other side, Sun Wukongy quietly, evidently having fallen asleep too, showing that afterst night''s journey to the Underworld, Sun Wukong had returned without waking him.


    Not saying much, Jiang Liu stepped out of the stone chamber to wash up, and after a few moments, Sun Wukong also followed, the master and disciple both crouching on the ground, rinsing their mouths with clean water.


    Gurgle gurgle!


    After a few gurgles of water in his mouth, after spitting the water out, Sun Wukong took out a bracelet and presented it before Jiang Liu, saying, "Here, for you."


    Setting down the stone cup in his hand, Jiang Liu took the bracelet, nced down at it, and sure enough, the attribute information of the Dragon Soul Bracelet had changed.


    Dragon Soul Bracelet (Legendary Quality): Required Level 25, Defense +440, Special Effect: Moving Clouds and Rain, capable ofmanding the Dragon King Power to bring down Sweet Dew, Cooldown Time 10 days, Durability 25/25.


    Seeing the quality of the Dragon Soul Bracelet, Jiang Liu''s face lit up with joy.


    No matter what, the Dragon King of Jing River was in control of a major river, and even though he might not measure up to the Four Seas Dragon Kings, he was still rightfully a Dragon King, so his soul elevating the quality to Legendary Level was not surprising.


    However, after closely inspecting the Dragon Soul Bracelet, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly. This legendary quality, isn''t it a bit too weak?


    An increase of 440 in defense value indeed reached the legendary quality level, but this special effect, doesn''t it seem entirely unhelpful in battle?


    Is this the weakest legendary-quality equipment?


    Shaking his head inwardly, fortunately, the main purpose of his Dragon Soul Bracelet wasn''t to enhance the quality of the equipment but rather the significance of the existence of the Dragon King of Jing River.


    Taking off the bronze bracelet that only required a level 10 from his hand, Jiang Liu reced it with the Dragon Soul Bracelet, significantly boosting his defense attribute.


    Regardless, this was his fifth piece of legendary-quality equipment, which was quite good.


    "By the way, during this trip, you weren''t discovered, were you?" After switching to the Dragon Soul Bracelet, Jiang Liu spoke.


    "Rest assured, when have I, Old Sun, ever made a mistake?" Sun Wukong shook his head confidently.


    His words made Jiang Liu nod, picking the stone cup up again.


    However, pausing slightly, Sun Wukong added, "Even if we were discovered, I, Old Sun, am clever. I improvised an identity on the spot, iming I was the Six-Eared Macaque, not Sun Wukong."


    Pfft...

 Chapter 148 Spit Out What You Ate of Mine (Please Subscribe, Request Monthly Ticket)

    "Why should I!?"


    Facing Bodhisattva''s question, the Six-Eared Macaque bared his teeth and, full of hostility, shouted loudly, "What virtues and abilities does Sun Wukong have? He can create havoc in the Underworld, disrupt the Peach Banquet, and even seek the True Scriptures from the West? In terms of Supernatural Powers, in what way am I inferior to him?"


    "Therefore, I, the Six-Eared Macaque, also intend to create havoc in the Underworld. As for that Dragon King? I have already in him! I see so many Underworld Soldiers pressing down on him; he must be a very important criminal! Hahaha! I even specifically went to beat up Xuanzang and his team!


    If you hadn''t arrived so quickly, I, the Six-Eared Macaque, would have led these monkeys of Flower Fruit Mountain to dere war on the Heavenly Court, hahaha, if Sun Wukong can create Havoc in Heaven, why can''t I?"


    "You evil demon, not only do you seek your own death, but you also tarnish I, Old Sun''s reputation, and even wish to drag all monkeys and grandchildren of Flower Fruit Mountain to be buried with you? I, Old Sun, will kill you, you evil demon!"


    The frenzied words of the Six-Eared Macaque both shocked and angered Sun Wukong, who bared his teeth and red fiercely, raising the Jingu Bang in his hands and smashing it down on the Six-Eared Macaque''s head.


    "Wukong! Wait!" Seeing Sun Wukong''s ferocious outburst, Bodhisattva tightened up inside and spoke out to stop him.


    But by this time, Sun Wukong''s ferocity had escted, and how could he possibly be restrained by Bodhisattva?


    The Jingu Bang mercilessly smashed down on the Six-Eared Macaque''s head, directly smashing him into unconsciousness.


    "Amitabha, well done, well done..."


    Seeing the tragic death of the Six-Eared Macaque, Bodhisattva, unable to bear the sight, bowed her head, averted her eyes, and softly chanted the Buddha''s name.@@novelbin@@


    "Hehehe, this demon deserved to die!" Shaking the Jingu Bang, Sun Wukong put it away with a look of unresolved resentment.


    "You rascal monkey, didn''t I tell you to stop? Although this monkey was despicable, wasn''t the sin youmitted back then even greater? Didn''t you also get a chance to reform?" Bodhisattva shook her head helplessly and said to Sun Wukong.


    "Hehehe, Bodhisattva, you may have apassionate heart, but I, Old Sun, do not!" Grinning, Sun Wukong responded nonchntly.


    "You monkey, alright, this matter is settled, you better hurry back and protect the Scripture Seeker!" Seeing Sun Wukong''s stubborn demeanor, Guanyin also helplessly shook her head.


    "Folks, I, Old Sun, am going to continue protecting the Scripture Seeker. Don''t worry, just wait another three to five years, and when I, Old Sun, have obtained the True Scriptures in Western Heaven, that will be my time to return!"


    Having calmed down, Sun Wukong didn''t hesitate, turning to address the monkeys and grandchildren of Flower Fruit Mountain.


    Swiftly, under the reluctant gazes of these monkeys and grandchildren, he started the journey with Bodhisattva towards Fuling Mountain.


    "Three to five years, huh?" Sitting on the Lotus tform, flying, Bodhisattva''s gaze subtly swept over Sun Wukong sitting beside her, quietly murmuring to herself.


    Had what Sun Wukong just said truly meant that obtaining the True Scriptures from the West could bepleted in about three to five years?


    Guanyin internally calcted again; the ny-nine hardships had just begun.


    If they really moved quickly, what would happen if they reached Western Heaven too early and the cmity was not yet full?


    It seemed that she had to make good arrangements for the ny-nine hardships during these days, as time waits for no one.


    "Bodhisattva, Bodhisattva, what are you thinking about?" Guanyin was sitting on the Lotus tform, internally pondering her issues, while Sun Wukong, beside her, swayed his monkey paw in front of her eyes, curiously asking.


    "Oh, it''s nothing, I was just thinking that this great world truly knows no bounds, who knows when some people with great supernatural powers might pop out!"


    Having her thoughts interrupted by Sun Wukong, Guanyin came back to her senses and spoke casually.


    "Bodhisattva, now that this matter is settled, why don''t you head back to Mount Luojia?" Not mulling over Guanyin''s sentiment, Sun Wukong, instead, thought for a moment and then curiously asked.


    "Isn''t it because of you, you rascal monkey?" Sun Wukong''s words made Guanyin give him a vexed look.


    "Because of I, Old Sun? What about me?" Sun Wukong felt utterly baffled.


    "You''ll see when you get there!" Sighing lightly and shaking her head in resignation, Guanyin replied.


    In their conversation, Sun Wukong and Bodhisattva soon arrived above Yunzhan Cave of Fuling Mountain.


    Sun Wukong descended through the clouds, spotting Jiang Liu sitting by a boulder with White Dragon Horse lowering its head nearby and Zhu Bajie lying on the grass beside them, soundly asleep.


    "Master, I, Old Sun, am back!" Havingnded, Sun Wukong called out to Jiang Liu.


    However, no sooner had Sun Wukong spoken than Jiang Liu, as if startled by some fierce beast, actually got so frightened that he tumbled off the boulder onto the ground.


    "Master, what''s wrong with you!?" Seeing Jiang Liu''s intense reaction, Sun Wukong quickened his steps to help Jiang Liu up from the ground.


    "No, don''te over!"


    However, Jiang Liu looked utterly terrified as he shouted at Sun Wukong, "You brute monkey, fierce and ruthless, don''t follow me to seek the Scriptures in Western Heaven any longer. I am not fortunate enough to have your protection!"


    "Master, everything just now was a misunderstanding! The one who attacked you wasn''t I, Old Sun, but that Six-Eared Macaque. That viin who tarnished my reputation, the Six-Eared Macaque, has already been killed by me! You can bepletely reassured!" Jiang Liu''s words rified for Sun Wukong what had happened, and he said with some sense of grievance.


    "Indeed, Xuanzang, I just went to Flower Fruit Mountain with Wukong, and we indeed met that Six-Eared Macaque, who also admitted to his own crimes. This has nothing to do with Wukong!" Seeing that the scripture-seeking team seemed to be encountering problems, Guanyin naturally stepped forward to exin.


    "Bodhisattva, since it''s your testimony, I naturally believe it, but just, just..."


    With his palms folded, Jiang Liu faced difficulty as he spoke thest words.


    "Just what? Feel free to speak your mind!" Seeing that Jiang Liu seemed to have other concerns, Guanyin invited him to speak openly.


    "It''s just that this monkey, by nature fierce, moves along our journey constantly resorting to violence and killing. How can he reach Western Heaven like this? Although I try to teach him, he never listens!"


    Jiang Liu also presented a look of grievance andined to Guanyin, "Bodhisattva, having this monkey by my side, I always feel as though there''s a fierce tiger beside me. I can neither eat nor sleep peacefully. Please, let him go!"


    "Hey, you unreasonable Little Monk!"


    With these words, Sun Wukong also couldn''t bear it anymore and snapped angrily, "Think about it, when I, Old Sun, wreaked Havoc in Heaven, how majestic I was. Today, I willingly ept you as my master to protect your journey to Western Heaven¡ªwhat a great fortune for you, yet you dare to despise I, Old Sun?"


    With that said, Sun Wukong looked towards Guanyin and continued, "Bodhisattva, under your guidance, I took this clueless monk as my master to protect his journey to Western Heaven. I have always believed I did nothing to wrong him. Well, since this Little Monk disdains I, Old Sun, I might as well leave right now and return to my Flower Fruit Mountain to enjoy a carefree and joyful life."


    "You Rascal Monkey! Don''t be unreasonable! There''s an old saying¡ªa promise is worth its weight in gold. How can you easily dismiss your own pledge!?" Guanyin chided Sun Wukong in a low voice.


    It was headache-inducing, and Guanyin indeed felt quite a headache at this moment.


    Jiang Liu may have disliked Sun Wukong for a long time, and this incident with the True and False Monkey King, after being beaten, seemed to magnify his biases and views indefinitely, despite having exined already that it was a misunderstanding. However, he still harbored some fear towards Sun Wukong and therefore wanted to kick him out of the team.


    Simrly, as the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong had his own pride. From an outsider''s perspective, he was indeed doing quite well.


    Would they really force him to be a submissive little monkey? Let alone him, Xuanzang, even the Tathagata couldn''t manage that, could he?


    This master-disciple pair were in a heated argument today, even shouting about going their separate ways. This situation indeed gave Guanyin quite a headache.


    However, looking at the current situation, the root of the problem stilly with Xuanzang. Sun Wukong was merely provoked by his words, which is why he angrily talked about returning to Flower Fruit Mountain.


    After scolding Sun Wukong to quiet him down, Guanyin''s gaze fell on Xuanzang, and after a slight pause, she gently said, "Xuanzang, tell me, ever since Wukong became your disciple, has there ever been anything where he wronged you?"


    "He has never wronged me, but since he is my disciple, shouldn''t he follow my teachings? Always resorting to violence, such a bloodthirsty nature, I cannot ept a disciple who does not heed teachings," Jiang Liu continued to express his grievances to Guanyin.


    Upon saying this, Jiang Liu paused briefly, then added, "Bodhisattva, I really can''t control this monkey anymore. I also don''t know, if I upset the monkey, whether he might strike me dead someday. Please, let him go!"


    Jiang Liu''s words made Guanyin sigh softly and waved him over to a secluded side, whispering, "Had I known this day woulde, why didn''t you use the Tight Hoop I gave you!?"


    Thinking of the Tight Hoop, Guanyin felt embarrassed and even somewhat frustrated.


    The Tight Hoop she gave him he had used on the ck Bear Demon he fancied, but today, having a conflict with Sun Wukong, he had no means to restrain him.


    "Right!"


    pping his own head, Jiang Liu looked like he had just remembered, and said, "Bodhisattva, about that Tight Hoop you gave mest time, do you have any more? Give me about ten or eight of them? With these on this monkey, I won''t have to be afraid of him anymore!"


    "This..." Guanyin''s expression showed some hesitation.


    "Bodhisattva, you don''t have any? Then, forget it. I''d like to meet Buddha and ask if he has any. He must have some, right!?"


    Seeing Guanyin look troubled, Jiang Liu didn''t press her and merely mentioned that he was considering consulting Tathagata.


    This remark caused a slight change in Guanyin''s expression, and with some reluctance, she spoke, "Well, actually I still have one Tight Hoop..."

 Chapter 149 Heart-to-Heart with Little White Dragon (Please Subscribe, Vote for Monthly Pass)

    "Is it really true? Bodhisattva, do you really have another one!?" Jiang Liu''s eyes widened in surprise as he spoke.


    "Indeed!"


    Internally sighing in resignation, Guanyin maintained aposed expression, nodded, and then produced another hoop by flipping his hand.


    This hoop looked very much like the one previously put on the ck Bear Demon. Guanyin said, "This is a Golden Hoop. I have a mantra for you as well, which functions just like the Tight Hoop. Come closer and listen!"


    After receiving the Golden Hoop, Jiang Liu leaned in close, and Guanyin transmitted the mantra to him.


    The mantra was not difficult; it was just a single incantation. To control the hoop and make it work, one simply had to recite the incantation repeatedly.


    "Disciple has remembered!"


    Having received the mantra from Guanyin, Jiang Liu nodded and secured the hoop.


    "Well then, keep that Monkey King by your side. When you find an opportunity, ce this hoop on his head, and recite the incantation when needed. His headaches will be unbearable, and he won''t be able to hurt you. With this, there''s no need to fear him on your journey to the West!" Seeing Jiang Liu putting away the Golden Hoop, Guanyin sighed internally and spoke.


    After finishing speaking, he showed no intention of staying further. With a swift movement, he left the vicinity of Yunzhai Cave.


    Having previously presented the Mystical Mirror and now the Golden Hoop, Guanyin was not in a good mood.


    "Farewell, Bodhisattva!" As Jiang Liu watched Guanyin''s departing figure, he called out loudly, his voice filled with merriment.


    Jiang Liu was naturally joyous. Through a fortuitous coincidence this time, he learned the truth about the True and False Monkey King. Taking a cue from the original story and directing a y himself, he not only sessfully diverted attention and erased the issue of the Dragon King of Jing River''s soul being rescued but also managed to make Guanyin reveal another hoop, which delighted Jiang Liu.


    Put the hoop on Sun Wukong''s head? How could that be possible?


    After all, Sun Wukong would stand side by side with him in battle, overturning the heavens and the deities. If the hoop were put on him, what use could Sun Wukong be when Guanyin and the others recite the incantation?


    "Alright, Wukong, your master has understood now. It seems that all of that was just a misunderstanding; no harm done!" Having returned, Jiang Liu, smiling, spoke to Sun Wukong.


    "Hmph!", or rather, after taking a nce at Jiang Liu, Sun Wukong snorted unhappily and deliberately turned his head away.


    Seeing Sun Wukong''s defiant attitude, Jiang Liu smiled knowingly and said, "Alright, I admit my fault just now. What would you like to eat tonight? How about I cook for you personally?"


    "Really!?" As soon as these words were spoken, Sun Wukong''s eyes brightened, and he turned his head back, looking at Jiang Liu with surprise.


    "Of course!" Jiang Liu nodded emphatically.


    On the surface, it seemed he was apologizing for his earlier words, but in reality, Jiang Liu was gratified to reward him. The act of the True and False Monkey King was so perfectly executed that while Jiang Liu gave himself a perfect 10 for his acting, he scored Sun Wukong a solid 9 as well.


    In high spirits, Jiang Liu was very willing to cook to celebrate.


    Zhu Bajie had long awakened, and after observing Jiang Liu and Guanyin converse a few words and then make amends, he shook his head somewhat helplessly.


    It was settled then. This monkey wasn''t going anywhere, and he would again be at the monkey''s mercy. Thinking of the long scripture seeking journey of 108,000 miles, it seemed like a dark timey ahead.


    Maybe it was best to sneak away?


    "Second Sister Luan, I will cook personally today; you should join us as well, as a thank you for your hospitality these past few days!" At that moment, Jiang Liu turned to Second Sister Luan nearby and spoke.


    Although it was all an act, the only ones who truly knew the script were he and Sun Wukong. When he was attacked, Second Sister Luan had rushed to help, and even though she hadn''t been much help, Jiang Liu was hurriedly grateful, and since he was cooking, he would not forget her.


    "Really!? Thank you, Holy Monk! Allow me to assist you in cooking. It would be an honor to cook alongside you!"


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words and that he would personally cook for her, Second Sister Luan''s eyes lit up, her gaze soft and tender as she spoke quietly to Jiang Liu.


    Meanwhile, Zhu Bajie, who was originally contemting leaving the scripture-seeking team, saw Second Sister Luan speaking affectionately to Jiang Liu, and any inkling of leaving vanished instantly: "No! Since I''ve already promised the Bodhisattva to journey to the West, I''ll do as I said!"


    However, Sun Wukong seemed even more delighted when he heard that Jiang Liu would let him choose the dish.


    After a brief pause to think, he said earnestly, "Master, I, Old Sun, would like to try the braised pig''s ears! You said they were delicious, but I, Old Sun, have yet to try them!"


    "You gue-stricken monkey, you could eat anything, but you just had to choose pig ears!" Sun Wukong''s request nearly made Zhu Bajie explode as he retorted unhappily.


    ...


    "It seems, everything is fine now, isn''t it? That''s great!"


    The White Dragon Horse watched Zhu Bajie and Sun Wukong roughhousing, and felt a sense of relief in his heart.


    As long as nothing went wrong with the scripture-seeking team, he would feel at ease.


    That evening, Jiang Liu''s mood was good; he went all out to prepare a huge table filled with delicious dishes, inviting not just his disciples but also Second Sister Luan to join them.


    "Holy Monk, I''ll toast to you first. I hope you''ll forgive my poor hospitality these past days. I had no idea that you indulged in meat and wine!", after everyone sat down, Second Ms. Luan raised her cup and said apologetically to Jiang Liu.


    Seeing the table full of fine wine and food, and then thinking about the in vegetarian meals she usually served, Second Sister Luan felt a bit embarrassed.


    "You''re too kind, Second Sister!", Jiang Liu also lifted his cup and after drinking it all, he said, "Meat and wine pass through the guts, Buddha stays in the heart. On this trip to the west, I never abstained from meat and alcohol. As long as it doesn''t harm the Buddha in my heart, it''s fine!"


    "What the Holy Monk just said is truly admirable!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s spontaneous Zen adage, Second Sister Luan sincerely remarked.


    "Right, I, Old Pig, also like what Master said! Eating vegetarian every day is too much for me, Old Pig. Master, your dishes are really delicious!"


    Munching heartily, Zhu Bajie devoured his food like a whirlwind, his mouth dripping with oil. After listening to Jiang Liu''s words, he loudly praised.@@novelbin@@


    "Absolutely, Master''s cooking is indeed tasty, especially this braised pig ear. I, Old Sun, finally got to try it. Bajie, you should try some too?"


    Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie naturally did not get along well. Hearing this, he also spoke highly and even specifically picked up a te of braised pig ears, urging Zhu Bajie to try.


    "You damned monkey!"


    Zhu Bajie cursed under his breath in response to Sun Wukong''s words and then turned his head to speak to Jiang Liu, "Master, I think monkey brains might taste good. Next time, could you prepare a dish of monkey brains for me?"


    "I remember I once heard that preparing monkey brains isn''t difficult. Just confine a monkey, leaving only its head exposed, and then, while it''s still alive..."


    "Squeak, squeak, squeak! You fool, it looks like you don''t want to live anymore!" Hearing Zhu Bajie not only speak of wanting to eat monkey brains but even carefully describing how to make them, Sun Wukong got so angry that he stood up.


    "You can order dishes, can''t I, Old Pig? Just because you like braised pig ears, does that mean I, Old Pig, can''t like monkey brains?"


    Bang, bang, bang...


    Outside Yunzhai Cave, the White Dragon Horse quietlyy on the grass, listening to the lively scene inside the cave. He raised his head to look at the sky, observing the vast starry sky and the bright full moon, his mind filled with countless thoughts.


    In his mind, he thought of the Western Sea. It had been so long since he left, he wondered what it was like there now. The lonely moon made it easy for homesickness to surge.


    He also thought back to the day of his own wedding when Princess Wansheng had an ambiguous rtion with the Nine-Headed Serpent. The anger of being betrayed welled up within him when he thought of that.


    Of course, he also thought of his uncle, the Dragon King of Jing River, who had always taken good care of him over the years. Unfortunately, his uncle had died under mysterious circumstances, and he didn''t know how he was faring now in the Underworld.


    Once hepleted his journey to the West and received his official title, his status would be different. By then, he definitely had to investigate the true cause of his uncle''s death.


    Thinking of this, the White Dragon Horse felt a firm resolve in his heart!


    "Xiaobai, what are you thinking about?"


    Just then, a familiar voice suddenly rang out, interrupting the White Dragon Horse''s reflections.


    It turned out to be Jiang Liu, who came over with a te of food and sat down beside the White Dragon Horse on the grass.


    "Master!" Seeing Jiang Liu sitting beside him, the White Dragon Horse spoke.


    "Alright, no need to get up, just eat. I''ve brought you some food!", Jiang Liu said as he ced the te in front of the White Dragon Horse.


    The White Dragon Horse looked at the te in front of him, filled with meat, vegetables, and fruit, appearing very sumptuous, and felt somewhat touched.


    Although he had joined the scripture-seeking team, the White Dragon Horse was very aware that he was merely a beast of burden. To put it harshly, he was like a beast, a servant.


    Yet, he never expected that, while everyone was dining together in Yunzhai Cave, his master would still remember him and personally bring some food over for him.


    Reflecting on the present and recalling when he first met his master, the contrasting emotions made the White Dragon Horse suddenly feel an overwhelming sense of happiness.


    With a thousand words stuck in his throat, all the White Dragon Horse could do in the end was express his thanks. Then, he lowered his head and began to eat.


    Sitting beside him, Jiang Liu also looked up at the full moon in the night sky and casually said, "Xiaobai, back when I was in Chang''an City, I actually met your uncle, the Dragon King of Jing River, once..."


    (On the night of the full moon, at the Summit of the Forbidden, a swordes from the west, beyond the sky... Oops, sorry, wrong set, it''s the Mid-Autumn Festival with a full moon. I wonder what Sister Chang''e is doing? Whether she''s watching over Jiang Liu and his group from halfway up the sky? Happy Mid-Autumn Festival reunion, everyone...)

 Chapter 150 White Dragon Horses Alarm (Please Subscribe, Vote for Monthly Pass)

    ```


    A ttery before him, adorned with meats, vegetables, and fruits, which the White Dragon Horse ate with measured grace.


    Though he had taken the form of a white horse, he was in essence the third prince of the Western Sea Dragon King, and he ate with an elegance that far surpassed Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie''s manners.


    However, upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the White Dragon Horse momentarily paused mid-chew and turned around, "Master, did you say? You have met my uncle before?"


    "Indeed, it was the day before he was killed when I was in Chang''an City..."


    Jiang Liu nodded slightly, his mind seemingly transported back to that day before Yuan Shoucheng''s fortune-telling stand, where the middle-aged schr incarnation of the Dragon King of Jing River made a bet with Yuan Shoucheng after having received a quiet hint from Jiang Liu himself. Sensing something, the Dragon King of Jing River had then taken his leave.


    Afterward, Jiang Liu entered the Imperial Pce where he happened to meet Yuan Tiangang, who shamefully admitted that his uncle Yuan Shoucheng was nothing but a trickster exploiting his fame.


    "Master, what exactly happened at that time?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the White Dragon Horse''s gaze turned serious and tense, and he stopped eating.


    For the White Dragon Horse, the purpose of his journey westward was to investigate the mysterious circumstances of his uncle''s death. Now, it seemed he might be able to glean some clues?


    "The situation at the time had its mysteries..."


    Since Jiang Liu had decided to chat with the White Dragon Horse, he naturally didn''t hold back, recounting everything he witnessed and heard that day without omitting a single detail.


    Of course, because he knew the original story, he understood what happened, but Jiang Liu chose not to reveal the truth outright.


    After all, it would mean something entirely different for the White Dragon Horse to discover the peculiarities of the case and deduce the truth himself than if Jiang Liu simply told him.


    "Originally, I thought your uncle, with his thoughtful expression, mighte to understand something, but unexpectedly, the very next day, he was murdered. His huge dragon head even fell from the clouds, causing a sensation among the citizens of Chang''an!" At the end of his recount, Jiang Liu sighed softly.


    "As I suspected, there is indeed something very mysterious behind this incident!"


    Although Jiang Liu didn''t tell the White Dragon Horse theplete truth, just knowing the events that transpired allowed the White Dragon Horse to infer that his uncle''s death was indeed fraught with oddities. This further solidified the suspicions he originally had.


    "Yuan Shoucheng? Is he the root of all this?" The White Dragon Horse murmured softly to himself before shaking his head. No, that''s not right, his master had said that Yuan Shoucheng was but a chatan.


    How could such a mere mortal possibly have foreknowledge of the Jade Emperor''s decree?


    The implications behind this were far more terrifying than he had imagined.


    If his uncle''s death had been odd, investigating the truth behind it would be the next step.


    But the implications suggested by the incident made the White Dragon Horse feel like it was anything but ordinary.


    After all, could a mere mortal have advance knowledge of the Jade Emperor''s decree? The premature disclosure of the Jade Emperor''s will was no trivial matter!


    The White Dragon Horse fell into silence, clearly digesting the shocking news. The mere fact of the Jade Emperor''s intent being leaked in advance was enough to make anyone aware of a great unseen force driving the course of events behind the scenes.


    Unbelievable ¨C even though his uncle, the Dragon King of Jing River, held a distinguished status, he was merely an Earth Immortal. Who could it be that would go to such lengths to kill him?


    No matter who was behind it, the ability to foreknow the Jade Emperor''s decree indicated an extraordinary status. To uncover the truth and face the reality seemed even more difficult than he had imagined.


    Jiang Liu sat quietly to one side, not disturbing the White Dragon Horse''s contemtion.


    The White Dragon Horse naturally had no knowledge of the grand scheme of their Journey to the West, but through this event, he had begun to vaguely perceive the tip of the iceberg.


    "Master, do you, do you know more about what''s behind all this?" After a long silence, the White Dragon Horse suddenly spoke up and asked Jiang Liu.


    "What makes you think so?" Jiang Liu questioned in return.


    "If you hadn''t noticed the essence of it all early on, why then did you pretend to be indifferent while subtly hinting something to my uncle?" the White Dragon Horse responded, his voice deep.


    This statement caused Jiang Liu to fall silent for a moment, offering no denial, but instead nodding slightly and saying, "Indeed, I know. And not just a little but a great deal ¨C much more than you can imagine!"


    "Then, Master, can you tell me?" The response from Jiang Liu excited the White Dragon Horse.


    His goal in going to the Western Heaven to be officially recognized wasn''t just for the status and position; more importantly, he wanted to uncover the truth behind his uncle''s death. With the truth seemingly within reach, he naturally desired to get to the bottom of it.


    "No, the truth of this matter is something you must discover on your own!" However, instead ofplying with the White Dragon Horse''s request, Jiang Liu shook his head, denying him an answer.


    Even though Jiang Liu knew that the White Dragon Horse, upon learning the truth, might very likely side with him and be an ally, he never entertained the idea of revealing the truth to him.


    ```


    After all, what one casually deres and what one investigates with countless efforts are decidedly different in significance.


    More importantly, it was through his own gradual investigation that he would gain a deeper understanding of the grand scheme of the Journey to the West, and when he finally arrived in Western Heaven, he would have his own clear judgment.


    All I could do was to guide him to investigate the truth himself.


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s refusal, White Dragon Horse naturally felt very disappointed, but anyway, at least the master had already hinted at some clues for him, which, to him, was already a tremendous gain.


    After pondering for a moment with his head lowered, White Dragon Horse still sincerely thanked Jiang Liu.


    "Right, you should rest early. We might need to set off on our journey tomorrow!" Having said what needed to be said, Jiang Liu didn''t rush to mention the matter of the Dragon King of Jing River''s soul in his hands and simply patted White Dragon Horse''s back lightly, stood up, and returned to Yunzhai Cave.


    The dinner banquet could only be described as a joyous affair for both host and guest. Second Sister Luan felt deeply moved at the opportunity to personally taste the dishes cooked by Master Xuanzang, and they were so delicious that if word got out, it would surely make countless female demons and even fairies envious.


    In short, this event alone might be enough for her to boast about for the rest of her life.


    As for Zhu Bajie and Sun Wukong? The two of them also enjoyed eating very much; it''s just that their natural rivalry was on full disy at the dinner table, with incessant arguing.


    Although this made the banquet a bit chaotic, it also added to the liveliness.


    After returning to Yunzhai Cave, Jiang Liu checked the stone chamber and found that Zhu Bajie, having eaten his fill, was already sound asleep, snoring loudly.


    And what of Sun Wukong? Hey there, his tail flicking back and forth from behind his butt, which seemed to indicate he was in a very good mood.


    Jiang Liu felt very satisfied with today''s performance of the True and False Monkey King; the reason being that he had sessfully dispelled Guanyin''s doubts.


    Otherwise, if Guanyin were to discover his interest in the Dragon King of Jing River''s soul, wouldn''t it reveal to Guanyin that he had at least begun to doubt the entire Journey to the West scheme?


    After all, he had always shown that he knew nothing, contently ying his part as a chess piece in this grand n.


    The Golden Hoop that he had demanded, on the other hand, was merely a small, incidental gain!


    Thinking of the Golden Hoop, Jiang Liu took it out and examined it closely. Indeed, there was some difference between the Golden Hoop and the Tight Hood.


    The Tight Hood, when ced on the head and followed by the chanting of a mantra, would cause excruciating headaches to the wearer, who then couldn''t attack the chanter.@@novelbin@@


    This was why in the original story, Sun Wukong rolled on the ground in agony yet could not bring himself to kill the Tang Monk with his staff.


    Otherwise, even in severe pain, couldn''t Sun Wukong, by enduring the agony, simply kill the Tang Monk with one blow and end it all?


    However, the Golden Hoop was entirely different. Chanting the mantra would still cause terrible headaches, but in addition, it had the effect of controlling the target''s actions and behavior.


    "So, if I chant the Mantra, I could use the other party like a puppet?" Looking at the Golden Hoop''s attribute information, Jiang Liu''s mind stirred as he recalled how Red Boy in the original story was confined with such a hoop.


    Once on the head, the hoop split into five, encircling the head and limbs. Then, it seemed that Guanyin could force Red Boy into a seated position with his legs crossed and hands together, rendered motionless.


    It seemed this hoop was the same one that would have been ced on Red Boy''s head in the original story.


    "And I wonder what effect the final Prohibited Hoop would have?" After pondering for a moment, Jiang Liu''s thoughts drifted to thest hoop, the Prohibited Hoop.


    Tathagata had passed down three hoops, intending for each of his three disciples to wear one. However, in the original story, Guanyin greedily kept two for herself, cing them on the ck Bear Demon and Red Boy respectively.


    From a certain perspective, if these two hoops weren''t of great value, they wouldn''t have incited Guanyin''s greed, right?


    Simrly, Sun Wukong also felt satisfied with the day''s performance of True and False Monkey King.


    Unlike Jiang Liu''s matter of gains, Sun Wukong''s delight was very straightforward¡ªit was simply because he had followed his master''s n and sessfully deceived Guanyin.


    Being able to fool Guanyin and make her go round in circles was a truly joyous matter for Sun Wukong.


    "Not bad, not bad. This Little Monk''s wisdom is indeed remarkable. What did he say his nickname was? Holmes? This doesn''t seem like mere bragging. The Journey to the West from now on might just be more interesting..."


    Knowing that Jiang Liu''s goal was the same as his own¡ªto overturn all the heavenly deities and Buddhas¡ªSun Wukong''s anticipation for the Journey to the West grew even stronger.

 Chapter 151 The Monkey Who Learns and Sells on the Spot (Please Subscribe, Please Vote)

    "Holy Monk, take care on your Journey to the West. I, I will pray for your well-being day and night in Yunzhai Cave¡­"


    Outside Yunzhai Cave, Second Sister Luan''s face was filled with reluctance as she spoke to Jiang Liu.


    Although spending several days in Yunzhai Cave was an extraordinary fortune, if possible, Second Sister Luan still wished to keep him there for as many days as she could.


    Of course, if it were possible for him to stay forever, that would be even better.


    "Thank you, Second Sister. I too wish for you to be blessed with longevity and good health!" Sitting on the back of the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu turned his body and said the same to Second Sister Luan.


    "Master, are we leaving just like that? Aren''t we going to stay a few more days?" Zhu Bajie beside him, however, had a face full of reluctance.


    "I would also like to stay a few more days, but, Guanyin has already visited Yunzhai Cave once. If there is nothing for me to do here, yet I deliberately dawdle and refuse to set out, how can I justify that? If we must dawdle, we ought to have an excuse, right?" Zhu Bajie''s words made Jiang Liu silently sigh with resignation in his heart.


    "Let''s go!" Without saying much, Jiang Liu spoke up.


    As his words fell, the White Dragon Horse intuitively understood Jiang Liu''s intention, turned, and trotted off into the distance, with Sun Wukong following silently behind without uttering a word.


    After turning his head back to look at Second Sister Luan, Zhu Bajie hesitated for a moment and said, "Second Sister, I am leaving. If it''s fated, I hope we get the chance to meet again." Continue your journey at empire


    Having pursued Second Sister Luan for a considerable time now, Zhu Bajie truly felt reluctant to leave her so suddenly.


    "You go. I hope you can ensure the Holy Monk''s safety throughout your journey!" She nodded her head, much colder towards Zhu Bajie than towards Jiang Liu, but with their impending departure, she wasn''t as cold as before.


    However, while speaking with Zhu Bajie, Second Sister Luan''s gaze still lingered on the figure mounted on the white horse.


    "Sigh¡­"


    Sensing that Second Sister Luan''s heart was entirely fixated on Jiang Liu, Zhu Bajie sighed with a sense of helplessness and then turned to quickly catch up to Jiang Liu.@@novelbin@@


    ...


    "Master, I, Old Pig, am tired. We should stop and rest a bit, right? Look, it''s been a month since we left Yunzhai Cave, and we''ve traveled seven or eight hundred li. I, Old Pig, am so tired I''ve lost weight," Zhu Bajie, carrying the Nine-Toothed Rake, suddenly called out loudly to Jiang Liu.


    The disciples were strolling along leisurely, looking more like they were out for a spring outing than hurrying on a journey.


    "Oh dear, youzy pig, which day do you notin about being tired seven or eight times? At your pace, when will we ever reach the Western Heaven?"


    Sitting atop the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu heard Zhu Bajiein of tiredness again and turned his head to scold him in a stern voice.


    Yet, as soon as he finished speaking, Jiang Liu shook his head helplessly and said, "There''s no helping it, who asked you to be my disciple? I can''t be cruel to you, can I? Since you say you''re tired, let''s rest for a Chinese Hour."


    Despite his reluctant expression, Jiang Liu dismounted quickly and cleanly.


    "Master, actually, there''s no need to rest that long. Just half an hour will be enough for me, Old Pig!" said Zhu Bajie, feeling touched yet guilty as Jiang Liu dismounted, and after hesitating, he added.


    "No! When I say a Chinese Hour, it''s a Chinese Hour!" Jiang Liu''s expression, however, was very serious, and he left no chance for Zhu Bajie to argue.


    While talking, Jiang Liu sat down cross-legged on the grass nearby and began to practice the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique.


    "Master¡­"


    Seeing Jiang Liu resting on the grass, Zhu Bajie felt deeply moved, and at the same time, he became confident about his own future.


    Although at the beginning, he had begged and cried to be the disciple of the Master who seemedpletely reluctant to ept him, it almost seemed as if he didn''t like Zhu Bajie at all; however, observing him over the days, Zhu Bajie realized the Master was a man with a mouth as sharp as a knife but a heart as soft as tofu.


    Although he appeared to dislike him on the surface, his actions showed great care and concern.


    For example, when he imed to be tired and wanted to rest, no matter how many times he said it, the Master tolerated him.


    In a month''s time, they had only traveled seven or eight hundred li, and the Master showed no intention of ming him, which moved Zhu Bajie''s heart tremendously.


    Moreover, to take care of him, even when they set out, the Master specifically instructed the White Dragon Horse to slow down!


    "It''s great, if the Master really likes me this much, then he will surely pass down a few tricks to me, right? Just think, beautiful fairies and female demons throwing themselves at me, what a life that would be¡­"


    Thinking of how much the Master liked him, Zhu Bajie''s mind was filled with visions of the future when he''d received the Master''s teachings. Like Second Sister Luan, all sorts of fairies and female demons would flock to him, and he felt as if he was floating on clouds.


    "What are you daydreaming about, you fool?" Sun Wukong, who happened to see Zhu Bajie''s unbearablescivious (silly) expression, was annoyed and scolded as he grabbed Zhu Bajie''s ear.


    "What are you doing, you monkey? You''re just jealous of me, Old Pig!" Zhu Bajie, having his daydream abruptly ended by Sun Wukong pulling his ear, retorted bluntly.


    "Jealous of me? What is there to be jealous about!?" Zhu Bajie''s words were met with a moment of stunned surprise from Sun Wukong.


    "You''re just jealous because Master likes me a lot, and that''s why you can''t stand me, right!?" An irritated Zhu Bajie, with his ear being tugged, retorted.


    "Master likes me a lot? Where did thate from!?" Sun Wukong looked utterly baffled, having no idea where Zhu Bajie''s confidence stemmed from.


    "Isn''t it obvious? Along our journey, Master has taken very good care of me, Old Pig. Whenever I said I was tired, Master would reluctantly stop for me to rest, even if he didn''t really want to. Isn''t that liking me? You''re jealous, that''s why you can''t stand the sight of me, Old Pig!" Zhu Bajie dered with a self-assured expression to Sun Wukong.


    "Hmm, Second Brother is right," the White Dragon Horse, who was lying on the grass resting, overheard Zhu Bajie''s words and silently nodded in agreement.


    Contrary to the White Dragon Horse, Sun Wukong and Jiang Liu were on the same page, and thus Sun Wukong clearly understood the real reason why Jiang Liu was dragging his feet on their westward journey.


    Watching Zhu Bajie swelling with overconfidence, the corner of Sun Wukong''s mouth twitched slightly.


    All of a sudden, Sun Wukong remembered something Jiang Liu often liked to say to him and couldn''t help but retort, "You blockhead, a brain is a good thing to have, and I hope someday you''ll actually use yours!"


    Pfft¡­


    Jiang Liu, who was nearby meditating, hadn''t fully entered into meditation and naturally overheard the conversation between Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie. At this point, he almost couldn''t help butugh out loud.


    This monkey sure is quick to apply what he learns.


    Shaking his head silently and paying no mind to the bickering between his fellow disciples, Jiang Liu became fully immersed in his own cultivation as time ticked by, second by second.


    Experience Points +3.


    Experience Points +3.


    Experience Points +3.


    ¡­


    As Jiang Liu cultivated, the True Yuan within him circted continually,pleting eighty-oneplete cycles, and then settling down. After one more round of cultivation, he vaguely felt his cultivation level had grown a bit stronger.


    "Alright, it''s about time. Let''s continue our journey!" After gaining roughly another 2000 Experience Points from his cultivation session, a refreshed Jiang Liu stood up and announced.


    Next to him, Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie were both resting, clearly, their argument wouldn''t havested a full Chinese Hour.


    Thus, after another hour or so, a tall and majestic mountain appeared in front of Jiang Liu and the others.


    The closer they got to the mountain, the more Jiang Liu felt the temperature rise. This was odd considering the time of year it was.


    By the calendar, it was now January. Just a month ago when they had first arrived at Gao Family Vige, they had witnessed the first snowfall. With a month passed, the weather should be getting colder.


    However, in these recent days, Jiang Liu felt that the temperature was strangely high, as if it was almost summer again.


    "Wukong, have you noticed that it hasn''t rained at all in thest half month? The weather has been unnaturally dry. How about we summon a refreshing rain shower?"


    After removing his Golden Cicada Buddha Robe and using his hand to fan himself, Jiang Liu suggested.


    The Dragon Soul Bracelet''s passive effect was to call forth rain, and he had yet to try it out.


    "Master, don''t!"


    But as soon as Jiang Liu finished speaking, Zhu Bajie suddenly interrupted, advising, "Ahead lies Foutu Mountain, which is perpetually like a scorching summer all year round. It is home to Zen Master Wuchao, who seems to dislike rain intensely. Since we are just passing through, it might be best not to cause any trouble."


    "Foutu Mountain!? There''s one here too?" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Jiang Liu immediately thought of the Foutu Mountain within the Great Tang''s borders, though of course, these two mountains merely share the same name.


    "Zen Master Wuchao!? I don''t seem to recall such a character, at least not in the most popr television adaptation of ''Journey to the West'' from my previous life," Jiang Liu pondered quietly.


    "Pfft, what Zen Master Wuchao? Isn''t he just a Demon Kind? If he dares to cause trouble, it will be a good chance for I, Old Sun, who''s itching for action!" Sun Wukong, on the other hand, was fearless and shook his head defiantly.


    "Don''t talk nonsense, you monkey. Despite being a Loose Cultivator, Zen Master Wuchao possesses vast Divine Skills¡­"


    "Vast Divine Skills? Well, that''s perfect; I, Old Sun, have been itching to fight a deity with vast divine skills!"


    Sun Wukong was eager for a fight,ughing out loud with the posture of someone looking to stir up trouble.


    "A Zen Master Wuchao with vast Divine Skills, huh? Could he possibly be stronger than Sun Wukong? Besides, isn''t Zhu Bajie right there as well? It might not be so bad to stir things up; the more powerful the divine skills, the better the loot he might drop!"


    Not only was Sun Wukong full of Fighting Spirit, even Jiang Liu was itching to give it a try.


    (PS: I haven''t been begging for monthly tickets at the end of the chapters for two days, and I''ve noticed a sharp decline in monthly tickets. It brings me to tears. I''m begging for monthly tickets, so many monthly tickets, whimper¡­)

 Chapter 154 Dialogue between Wuchao and Tathagata (Please Subscribe, Vote for Monthly Pass)

    With no lingering hesitations, the White Dragon Horse galloped swiftly, and in just under half an hour, Jiang Liu and hispanions had already crossed Foutu Mountain and advanced over a hundred miles.


    Looking back, Jiang Liu nced at Foutu Mountain, now far in the distance, and secretly breathed a sigh of relief in his heart.


    Overall, the encounter with Master Wuchao on Foutu Mountain could be considered a close call without real danger.


    Indeed, there was no danger, but the shock¡ªJiang Liu was nearly scared to death.


    It was not merely because of Master Wuchao''s strength but more so because of his words and his identity.


    Sitting on the back of the White Dragon Horse, having left Foutu Mountain far behind, Jiang Liu''s heart finally began to calm, his head bowed in deep contemtion.


    Having arrived in the world of Journey to the West, it had been almost half a year altogether. Initially, he thought he had merely traversed to the Tang Dynasty, but as the Incense Offering Ceremony unfolded, Jiang Liu realized this world also contained demons and cultivators.


    It was only after the Great Buddha Temple''s Incense Offering, where he was given the name Xuanzang, that he suddenly woke up to the fact that he was in the world of Journey to the West.


    However, today''s encounter with Master Wuchao made Jiang Liu question if the world of Journey to the West was just that?


    This world, was it also connected to the world of Investiture of the Gods!?


    Who was Master Wuchao? He took out a gourd, bowed to it, and uttered, "Please turn around, my treasure." Did his identity still need consideration? Wasn''t he Taoist Lu Ya?


    And Taoist Lu Ya was a character from the Deification Story, wasn''t he?


    The waters of Journey to the West were already deep, but now, from Master Wuchao, more urately from Taoist Lu Ya, Jiang Liu gleaned that this world was connected with that of the Investiture of the Gods, making him even more rmed at the profound depths of this world, more terrifying than he had believed.


    Thinking of the world of the Investiture of the Gods, Jiang Liu felt a chill all over. It was a world where Taiyi walked everywhere, and Heavenly Immortals were less valued than dogs.


    In just the world of Journey to the West, the Great Jade Emperor and Tathagata were certainly the top ultimate bosses, but if this world was the same as that of the Investiture of the Gods, then Tathagata and the Great Jade Emperor could only be considered second-tier, right?


    Jiang Liu wouldn''t forget that the world of the Investiture of the Gods had Saints, and above the Saints was Hongjun Ancestor¡­


    It was terrifying. Having stayed in the world of Journey to the West for less than a year, Jiang Liu found that the more he knew, the deeper and more formidable this world appeared.


    "Hey, Master, what are you thinking about? Who exactly was that old fellow just now? You seem to be in such a state for the first time!"


    Jiang Liu, lost in his thoughts with his head bowed, was approached by Sun Wukong, who couldn''t resist his curiosity and asked.


    Having been together with Jiang Liu for almost half a year, Sun Wukong hade to understand him somewhat¡ªthis was the man who even dared to scheme against Bodhisattva Guanyin, yet, could that old man earlier have scared him into running that fast?


    Ever since they left the Five Elements Mountain, their pace had lingered, but the distance they covered in this half hour today was equivalent to several normal days, wasn''t it?


    At Sun Wukong''s question, Jiang Liu shook his head, preferring not to say more.


    However, aside from the implications of Lu Ya''s identity, what Jiang Liu was more concerned about were his words, which vaguely seemed to suggest he knew Jiang Liu''s purpose?


    It seemed that Jiang Liu would have to thoroughly investigate in the future to see whether Guanyin and the others knew his purpose. Readtest chapters at empire


    Otherwise, it felt like there was forever a thorn in his heart.


    Panting¡­ panting¡­


    Though he hadn''tined any, having run behind the White Dragon Horse for so long, Zhu Bajie was now breathing heavily, quite far from Foutu Mountain. Panting deeply, he said, "Master¡­ Master¡­ I, Old Pig, can''t run anymore¡­ Shall we rest a bit?"


    "Eh!?" Jiang Liu turned to look at Zhu Bajie, then at the scenery swiftly receding around them, and suddenly realized, was the White Dragon Horse running that fast?


    The distance covered in the blink of an eye was vast.


    "Stop, stop, stop, let''s stop and rest properly!" Now far from Foutu Mountain and seeing the White Dragon Horse running very swiftly, Jiang Liu urgently spoke.


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the White Dragon Horse naturally hurried to a stop.


    "Indeed, the Master really does like me!" Pretending to be out of breath and unable to run further, the Master urgently asked to stop, which made Zhu Bajie nce at Sun Wukong with a smug look.@@novelbin@@


    However, Sun Wukong''s mind was still focused on the fight with Master Wuchao earlier and had no interest in heeding Zhu Bajie''s pride.


    "Big brother, we are all quite tired, let''s rest together!"


    Seeing that Sun Wukong wasn''t paying attention to him, Zhu Bajie wouldn''t just give up and took the initiative to speak, reminding Sun Wukong.


    "Hmm, rest, rest..." However, Sun Wukong still seemed toozy to pay him any mind, pondering over his own issues.


    Firstly, there was the strength of Master Wuchao. Now that he had calmed down, Sun Wukong had to admit that the old Zen Master''s methods indeed surpassed his own, especially the golden mes, which wereparable to the Supreme Elder Lord''s Samadhi True Fire.


    Moreover, there were his master''s supernatural powers. At that moment, he could clearly feel his strength had increased significantly. The fact that his master''s powers could increase his own by so much was truly rming.


    Then there was the defense method. He had been destined either for death or severe injury by the terrifying mes, yet he had only sustained moderate injuries.


    Though his cultivation level was low, his master''s methods were indeed startling.


    "Hey, Monkey, haven''t I been telling you not to be impulsive? If it weren''t for the old Zen Master''s restraint, none of us would have had the ability to leave Foutu Mountain!"


    Sun Wukongpletely ignored his own intentions, making Zhu Bajie feel as though he was punching cotton. After a moment''s thought, he once again voiced hisints to Sun Wukong.


    Sun Wukong ignored his intentions, but as Zhu Bajie spoke, Jiang Liu looked up at him...


    Ordinarily, no matter how much the two brothers argued, Jiang Liu never interfered, perhaps this was their own peculiar way of expressing their feelings?


    Yet today, facing Master Wuchao, he himself had called the rain, and Sun Wukong was the first to jump out, while Zhu Bajie couldn''t even be called into action.


    Whenpared, Jiang Liu''s feelings could be imagined.


    "It seems Zhu Bajie always thought he was much loved, hence a bit arrogant, huh?"


    Although he knew that Zhu Bajie did nothing wrong, and all together they were no match for Master Wuchao, rationally understanding it was one thing, yet the emotional irritation was another matter.


    What''s more, why was Zhu Bajie looking so smug in front of Sun Wukong?


    "Wukong, it''s getting a bitte, go hunt a wild boar!" Jiang Liu spoke to Sun Wukong.


    "Alright, Master!"


    While Sun Wukong ignored Zhu Bajie''s words, he naturally responded differently to Jiang Liu''s words; Sun Wukong nodded vigorously, joy written all over his face, and with a leap, he disappeared into the horizon to hunt.


    Whether it was because of his disagreements with Zhu Bajie, or because when he was first pinned under the Five Elements Mountain by Jiang Liu, the first meal he was offered was pork, all along the journey, if there was any meat Sun Wukong loved most, it was pork.


    Zhu Bajie: "..."


    ¡­


    Leaving Jiang Liu and hispany aside for now, at the peak of Foutu Mountain, for Master Wuchao, their passing seemed merely a minor episode.


    After they had left, Master Wuchao sat cross-legged in his nest, quietly cultivating.


    But in just a short while, one could hear the sound of Zen harmonies in the void, a sight of blossoms showering from the sky.


    Master Wuchao opened his eyes, and with a calm expression, said, "What grandeur, such phenomena apanying your arrival are truly enviable!"


    "Amitabha, dear Taoist friend, do not tease this poor monk!"


    Following Master Wuchao''s words, the Twelve-Rank Lotus tform appeared, and Tathagata, sitting calmly on the tform, quietly looked at Master Wuchao in front of him, neither sad nor happy.


    "Taoist friend? You have abandoned the Tao for Buddhism, how are you still entitled to call out this title? As the ruler of the Buddhist Realm, you do not visit without reason. What brings you to my Foutu Mountain today? Speak inly..." A hint of sarcasm shed across Master Wuchao''s face.


    Tathagata''s expression remained calm, and he did not get angry. Instead, ncing at the Fusang Tree under Master Wuchao, he said, "It''s been many years, you seem quite at ease; nurturing the Fusang Divine Tree must have cost you a lot of energy, hasn''t it?"


    "We have no rtionship to speak of, so there''s no need for reminiscing!"


    Although Tathagata remained calm, Master Wuchao''s expression grew even colder. He paused slightly, then counter-asked, "The Scripture Seeker is crucial for your Buddhism, yet all I did was y along with a junior. Do you personally descend just to use me?"


    "Far from it, you exaggerate!" Hearing Master Wuchao''s words, Tathagata shook his head, and said, "I''m just curious about you, you''ve stayed out of the affairs of the three realms for many years. Many juniors have even forgotten you exist, so why do you care so much about the Scripture Seeker?"


    "It''s just a whim, why not? Although your Buddhism is powerful, trying to control me is rather arrogant, don''t you think?" Master Wuchao counter-asked, his aura fiery yet his gaze as cold as ice.


    Bowing his head, Tathagata kept a calm facade, but he murmured:


    "A whim, was it necessary to bring out your Treasure Gourd? Sun Wukong is undoubtedly strong, but to make you take out the Immortal-ying Flying Knife is unlikely, right? I haven''t seen you use it for nearly two thousand years. Today, did you bring out this treasure just to y with a junior?"

 Chapter 155 Is Cumin Used to Make Sachets? (Please Subscribe, Seeking Monthly Tickets)

    "As you say, it has been nearly two thousand years since I''ve exercised my muscles and bones. Do you wish to have a go at me today?" Master Wuchao''s gaze rested calmly on the Tathagata as he spoke in return.


    "Amitabha, since that is the case, I shall not disturb your meditation and contemtion any further..." The Tathagata''s expression remained tranquil, and after a brief moment of silence, showing no intention of engaging in battle, he softly chanted a Buddhist mantra and soon turned to leave Foutu Mountain.


    Ever since the Deification catastrophe, he had secluded himself within Foutu Mountain, living a reclusive life. Today, however, he had actually struck a junior, even bringing out the Immortal-ying Flying Knife. This made the Tathagata very puzzled, which is why he came in person to see if he could subtly uncover something.


    Unfortunately, he merely imed that it was due to the fortuity of his spirit. Although the Tathagata didn''t quite believe this statement, upon reflection, he couldn''t think of any other possibility.


    After all, he had indeed been there for nearly two thousand years, and it was the Scripture Seeker''s team that had actively set foot on Foutu Mountain.


    Of course, the main reason was that in the face of Master Wuchao, the Tathagata had no assurance of victory. Otherwise, he might as well have defeated him and then asked his questions.


    Master Wuchao, although he called himself a Zen Master, meditated and sought the Dao in a way that was neither of Taoism nor Buddhism...


    Towards the departure of the Tathagata, Master Wuchao''s demeanor remained serene, showing no surprise. The vast influence of Buddhism did indeed make him wary, but it was the strength of the entire Buddhist sect he feared, not the Tathagata alone.


    "However, as the Tathagata mentioned, why should I, over just a junior of the Demon n, need to resort to the Immortal-ying Flying Knife!?"


    Yet, as he watched the Tathagata leave, Master Wuchao recalled the expression that Jiang Liu had when he produced the Immortal-ying Flying Knife, and the corners of his mouth lifted slightly.


    Cough cough cough...


    Just at that moment, Master Wuchao''splexion turned abruptly pale as he covered his mouth with a quick cough. Lowering his hand, one could see a pool of blood in his palm, red as zing fire.


    "It''s been over half a year, and my injury is still so severe? I really don''t know when it will get better, sigh!"


    ...


    "Hehehe, Bajie,e and eat, Master''s braised pork is delicious!" On the other side, Jiang Liu set up the stove among other things and had already cooked arge pot of food. Sun Wukong, with a greasy mouth, chuckled and said to Zhu Bajie beside him.


    However, now it was Zhu Bajie''s turn to remain silent, hungrily eating from arge bowl of white rice.


    While Zhu Bajie waszy, it didn''t mean he was stupid. Through today''s meal, he naturally realized that his master was displeased with him, and the reason? He understood it all too well.


    Beside them, the White Dragon Horse also had a bowl of food before him, eating methodically. He wisely refrained frommenting on the situation within the team.


    He was merely a mount, but indeed, someone who dared not offend anyone.


    After dinner, Jiang Liu asked Zhu Bajie to tidy up the pots and pans and then prepared to sit down and cultivate.


    Normally, if asked to clean up the cookware, Zhu Bajie would dawdle, but today he dared not say much and just nodded in agreement to tidy up.


    "Right, Master, when I went hunting earlier, I found that about twenty or thirty miles north from here, there''s a little town. The weather has gotten much colder since we left Foutu Mountain, especially at night!" Seeing that Jiang Liu was preparing to sit down and cultivate, Sun Wukong started to suggest.


    "Hmm, northward? All right, as soon as Bajie finishes tidying up, we''ll go!" After pondering briefly, Jiang Liu nodded in agreement.


    But in just a short while, under the setting sun, Jiang Liu and hispanions set off toward the north.


    Since they were not traveling westward, it did not take long to cross the mere twenty or thirty miles. From the distance, they could indeed see a small town which looked rather bustling under the sunset.


    Outside the town, many crops could be seen, and numerous farmers were also seen washing the mud off their hands and feet in the nearby water ditches, returning home barefoot.


    A life of rising at sunrise and resting at sunset, though in, was indeed heartwarming.


    Riding on a white horse, Jiang Liu truly had an extraordinary presence, apanied by a little monkey, which was also unproblematic. However, the presence of arge ck pig, who walked upright with a stature like a ck bear, startled many townspeople. They shouted ''Demon!'' and turned to flee.


    "Bajie, you should change your appearance. Your current look is frightening and really not good," said Jiang Liu, upon seeing the reactions of the people.


    "All right, Master. Did you grow tired of old Pig''s appearance too?"


    Upon Jiang Liu''s remark, Zhu Bajie used the Art of Transformation from the Thirty-Six Heavenly Gales, turning into a handsome man, although he muttered under his breath.


    "Amitabha, Bajie, the skin is but an appearance; you only need to change enough not to frighten people. Turning into a handsome man... you must understand this principle early on. Although your master''s appearance is refined, it is natural and I cannot help it!"


    Watching Zhu Bajie''s transformed figure, debonair and exuding a sun-like vigor, Jiang Liu''s lips twitched slightly as he spoke.


    Before Zhu Bajie could reply, Sun Wukong interjected, "Master, you don''t realize, when this old Pig was Marshal Tianpeng, he already looked like this..."


    "Ah!?" Jiang Liu was startled and looked at Zhu Bajie in amazement.


    When he was the Marshal Tianpeng, was Zhu Bajie this handsome? Not only was he good-looking, but he also had the robust aura of a marshal, which waspletely different from the delicate beauty of the young idols of his past life.


    "This guy is so handsome, almost catching up with me, and in the Immortal Realm, he was the Great Marshal Tianpeng,manding eighty thousand naval forces. Yet he couldn''t win Chang''e''s favor and even got demoted to the Lower Realm? It''s like being smashed from heaven straight to hell, isn''t it?"


    Seeing Zhu Bajie revert to his original handsome form, Jiang Liu inwardly sneered.


    His power had vanished, turning into a demon; his handsome and dashing appearance gone, reincarnated into an ugly, dark pig. Could anyone withstand such a blow? No wonder Zhu Bajie seemed resigned to his fate with no motivation for anything.


    "Sigh..." After reverting to his former self, Zhu Bajie let out a faint sigh.


    To regain his original appearance, he actually had to rely on the Art of Transformation. The bitterness of this was indescribable to outsiders.


    It was as if an ordinary person had to wear their own mask to show their real face to the world.


    "Huh, wait a moment!"@@novelbin@@


    However, after walking north for about the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, nearing a town, Jiang Liu''s expression suddenly changed. He hopped off the White Dragon Horse''s back.


    He approached a field where crops less than half a meter tall were growing. As Jiang Liu came closer, a strange fragrance caught his attention, causing his eyes to brighten significantly.


    "Could these be¡­" Bending down, he inspected the growing crops, murmuring to himself.


    "Master, what are these things!?" Seeing Jiang Liu''s pleasantly surprised look at these small nts, Sun Wukong approached curiously and asked.


    "Wukong, this is called cumin. If it''s ground into cumin powder, I guarantee you''ll like it!" Jiang Liu said delightfully, looking at the small nts less than half a meter tall before him.


    Indeed, the Journey to the West was full of wonderful discoveries. Having found cumin, how far away could chili be?


    Just imagine holding a skewer of meat, sprinkled with cumin powder, chili powder, and even ck pepper, along with a drink in one hand. That''s the real life. Your next read is at empire


    Sadly, he didn''t know how to brew beer. Otherwise, it would be perfect paired with an ice-cold beer.


    "Cumin? What''s that for?" The look on Jiang Liu''s face made Sun Wukong even more curious.


    "Hey, who are you people!? What are you doing here?" Before Jiang Liu could reply, a dark-skinned man approached, obviously concerned that they were meddling with his property, hence, he came over to inquire.


    "Excuse me, brother, what do you call these things?" Seeing the dark-skinned maning over, Jiang Liu straightened his clothes and asked humbly and politely.


    "You mean these anise hyssops? They''re from the west, introduced here in recent years; they smell quite nice so I tried nting some this year to see if my wife can make them into sachets for selling!" The dusky man replied, upon hearing Jiang Liu''s interest in the crops.


    "Sachets...?" The man''s response made Jiang Liu''s lips twitch slightly.


    "Yes, as farmers, the most important thing is to grow crops. I had quite the quarrel with my wife over nting these anise hyssops. It''s also thanks to being near Foutu Mountain, where it''s like spring all year round. Otherwise, during the dead of winter, who would waste fertilend for these things?" The man shook his head ruefully as he spoke.


    Hearing the man''s words, Jiang Liu surveyed the surroundings.


    Indeed, looking around, the field of cumin was only about three acres while all other fields were sown with grains.


    "Don''t worry, your choice to nt these is absolutely correct. How much have you harvested? I''ll take it all!" Jiang Liu said, considering the scarcity of cumin.


    "Really!? That would be wonderful!" The man was overjoyed at Jiang Liu''s offer to buy it all.


    Yet, the joy soon gave way to a look of difficulty, "But, master, I''ve never sold these before. I don''t know how much to charge. What do you think¡­"


    "Let''s do this ¨C I don''t want to underpay you. Since the yield of this anise hyssop is much lower than that of grain, the price must be higher. I''ll pay ten times the price of grain!" Jiang Liu said, pondering for a moment before making his offer.


    "That''s too much, too much. The samend would produce about only three times as much grainpared to this anise hyssop!" The man was startled by Jiang Liu''s price.


    "Come on, let''s go to your house and see how much you''ve harvested!"


    Jiang Liu waved his hands, appearing very generous. Ten times the price of grain was nothing for someone like Jiang Liu, who could earn gold by defeating monsters.


    Moreover, upon setting off from the Great Tang, Jiang Liu did not shy away from carrying a considerable amount of gold.


    Seeing Jiang Liu''svish attitude, and that someone finally appreciated the crops he had risked nting, the man eagerly washed his hands in a nearby ditch and warmly invited Jiang Liu and others to his home.

 Chapter 156 King Yellow Wind Craving a Midnight Snack (Please Subscribe, Please Vote)

    Mountains exhausting and waters wicked with plenty of evil demons, it was said that though there were countless evil spirits between heaven and earth, most of these evil spirits had their own circles of activity, and naturally, ordinary people dared not step foot in ces where overly fierce demons resided.


    Therefore, as time passed, these demon-infested areas were rarely trodden by humans.


    As night fell, deep in the mountains was arge mountain called Yellow Wind Ridge.


    This night, within Yellow Wind Ridge, a massive rat left the mountain and headed toward a town dozens of miles away.


    Although it was a demon, this massive rat did not eat humans, yet perhaps due to its nature being hard to contain, despite possessing vast divine skills, it never resorted to robbing to satiate its hunger, but rather stole food and drink.


    That evening, the rat transformed back into its original form and quietly sneaked into the town under cover of night, contemting which house to steal some food from.


    Suddenly, an indescribable strange fragrance wafted by with the breeze, causing the rat''s nose to twitch slightly, and then, its eyes lit up.


    ...


    Jiang Liu followed the guidance of the dark-skinned Han man and quickly entered the town, arriving at a residence.


    The man casually ced some farm tools behind his home''s front gate and shouted loudly, telling his wife to prepare extra vegetarian dishes today.


    As the Han man shouted, out came a woman in coarse linen, acknowledging the instructions and knowing Jiang Liu and others were there to buy spices, she nodded and turned toward the kitchen.


    "Wait, no need for courtesy, we''ve all eaten already, no need to prepare dinner for us!" Jiang Liu said upon hearing the conversation between the Han man and his wife.


    Indeed, they had eaten earlier, unlike these people who rose at dawn and rested at dusk and, because they were busy with farming, had extremely early breakfasts and veryte dinners.


    "Master, I, Old Pig, feel a bit hungry again..." However, Zhu Bajie, hearing there was food, his eyes brightened, and he rubbed his stomach while speaking.


    "Are you a pig!?" Jiang Liu''s face darkened, listening to Zhu Bajie''s unhelpfulments, and secretlyined, but indeed, this fellow really was a pig, wasn''t he?@@novelbin@@


    "Pfft..." The woman, who was about to head to the kitchen, couldn''t help butugh out loud and nodded before leaving.


    This family, apart from the couple, also had a pair of children, both around the age of four or five.


    The two children were very curious about Sun Wukong, seemingly having never seen a monkey before, and Sun Wukong found it amusing to y with the children.


    "Master, these are the anise hyssop I harvested, since it was only harvested once, so the yield isn''t much, only about three "dou" worth!"


    Focused on the task at hand, the man quickly brought out some cumin from his home, stored in an old cloth bag, indeed quite full.


    Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up as he smelled it, indeed, it was excellent.


    He quickly figured in his mind that one "dou" was about thirteen pounds, and he had promised to pay ten times the food price for these cumin, so, three "dou" of cumin would be bought for about thirty "dou" of grains.


    "Not bad, this is quite good already! Benefactor, here is two taels of silver, which is the payment for your anise hyssop, please keep it!" Jiang Liu thought for a moment before pulling out two taels of silver.


    "This is too much..." The Han man was startled upon seeing the silver that Jiang Liu pulled out.


    Even with a tenfold surcharge, thirty "dou" of grains didn''t amount to this much silver. ording to the prices, he had to give back several smaller coins.


    "Just ept it, may I ask if your family has a stone mill? Could you please help me grind these anise hyssop into powder, and the remaining silver can be considered yourbor payment!"


    Jiang Liu spoke, as the cumin indeed needed to be ground into a powder form to be best.


    "Deal, I''ll grind it for you!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Han man stopped hesitating, happily agreed, and took the silver to go back inside.


    It wasn''t long before one could hear the couple eximing in surprise from the kitchen.


    Clearly, two taels of silver were a considerable fortune for an ordinary family.


    Hearing theughtering from the kitchen, the corners of Jiang Liu''s mouth also rose slightly, in this age where deities were plentiful and demons were asmon as dogs, the simple joy ofmon people was truly precious.


    Two taels of silver were indeed quite a lot, Jiang Liu still remembered that back in Jinshan Temple, when Brother Xuanwu descended the mountain to perform as a mage, he only got about twelve coins of silver.


    After handing the money over to his wife, the Han man energetically set up the stone mill to help Jiang Liu grind the cumin powder, so busy that he didn''t even bother to eat his meals.


    Zhu Bajie, however, unceremoniously started eating again, his stomach seemingly bottomless.


    "Hmm, not bad, the quality is quite good!" At the grinder''s edge, Jiang Liu looked at the ground cumin powder and nodded with satisfaction.


    Recalling the times from his past life where he used to drink chilled beer and snack on skewers atte-night food stalls, Jiang Liu felt his throat churn. Your journey continues with empire


    Unable to resist any longer, after properly adjusting the fire, he went straight to the kitchen, grabbed a cleaver, and took a big piece of meat from his pack space. Choosing a section with a nice bnce of fat and lean, he cut it into thin slices.


    Then he had Sun Wukong help him whittle some small wooden sticks and skewer the meat on them.


    "Master, this slice is so thin, it''s not even enough to get stuck in I, Old Sun''s teeth..." While whittling the sticks, Sun Wukong looked at the thinly sliced meat on the sticks and couldn''t help but make ament.


    Usually, when grilling meat, people grillrge chunks directly.


    Hearing Sun Wukong speak, the family got quite a shock, and Jiang Liu took some time to reassure them, helping them rx.


    Although demon creatures are frightening, tamed ones are somewhat reassuring, much like how a vicious dog can be less scary when its owner is nearby.


    "If you think it''s boring, then don''t eat itter!" Comforting them briefly, and seeing that he had almost finished threading a dozen or so skewers, Jiang Liu moved to the stove to start grilling. He took out his usual seasonings and also brought over a small dish of cumin powder.


    "Great Mage, can you eat this anise hyssop?" A man grinding nearby paused to watch Jiang Liu''s actions, stunned.


    He had initially wanted his wife to make a few sachets with it to see if they could sell them.


    Smiling slightly, Jiang Liu didn''t exin much as he flipped the meat skewers, sprinkling them with salt and some sauce, and as they looked about ready, he again grabbed a handful of cumin powder and sprinkled it over them.


    Since the meat on the skewers was only thinly sliced, it naturally cooked much faster than thicker chunks of meat.


    As the cumin powder was sprinkled on, the scent of the meat mixed with the aroma of the spices quickly filled the air, making Jiang Liu feel intoxicated.


    In a trance, it was as if he had returned to his former life,te at night at a barbecue stall with his close friends, chatting away with cold beers in hand.


    Seeing this, Sun Wukong, who was whittling sticks nearby, put down his knife, eyes sparkling as he watched the skewers in Jiang Liu''s hand, licking his lips unconsciously, and approached with a softened face, "Master, this grilled meat ispletely different from what we usually eat!"


    Zhu Bajie, who was wolfing down his meal at the table, also froze mid-action. His nose twitched, and he turned his head, staring intensely at the skewers in Jiang Liu''s hand with lit eyes.


    The enticing aroma that spread made Zhu Bajie feel as if the food he was currently eating tasted like wax in his mouth.


    Even the man and his wife nearby couldn''t help but gather around, continuously inhaling the delicious smell.


    "Mom, I want to eat¡­" Two children, a boy and a girl, silently bit their fingers, their eyes maically drawn to the barbecued skewers on the stove.


    "Great Mage, this smells really good! Hehehe," the dark-skinned man said with a simple smile, looking at the grilled skewers in Jiang Liu''s hands.


    "All right, you go on grinding. I''ll share a few skewers with youter; once you know how to use this fennel powder, you won''t worry about selling it," Jiang Liu said, smiling at the man and also asking Sun Wukong to continue whittling the sticks.


    "Master, I, Old Pig will help you thread the skewers¡­" Zhu Bajie volunteered eagerly, picking up a te of meat slices and sitting beside Sun Wukong, all the whileining about Sun Wukong''s slow pace.


    In just a short time, a batch of meat skewers was almost ready, and Jiang Liu opened his mouth and gently took a bite.


    Perfectly seasoned, the taste of cumin powder mingling with the meaty vor spread through his mouth, satisfying Jiang Liu enough for him to nod in approval.


    "Master, how''s the taste? Let I, Old Pig taste some too!" Drool ran from his mouth, and Zhu Bajie was the first to rush over, eyes gleaming as he stared at the skewers in Jiang Liu''s hand and asked.


    "Everyone gets two skewers each to start with; let''s all taste them. Tonight, there will be enough skewers for everyone!" Jiang Liu announced as he divided up the few dozen skewers among them.


    Although a bit bashful to ept, the savory scent of the skewers was too tempting, and the nearby man and his wife didn''t decline.


    After tasting the cumin-vored skewers, everyone worked even harder. Those who were cutting meat did so, those who were whittling sticks continued, and those who were grinding cumin powder got busy in their tasks, all in high spirits. The food originally prepared on the dining table seemed temporarily forgotten.


    Livened up by the asion, the man brought out a jar of homemade rice wine. As the group enjoyed the skewers and sipped the wine, the atmosphere was wonderfully harmonious, subtly reminiscent to Jiang Liu of the times eating skewers with friends at night markets in his past life.


    This feast continued until midnight, with everyone well fed and happy. In the end, they grilled dozens more skewers, which Sun Wukong took to the White Dragon Horse.


    Although a horse usually eats grass, its true form is a White Dragon, and it''s fitting for it to eat some meat as well.


    As Jiang Liu and the others drank and enjoyed the skewerste into the night, they didn''t realize a yellow-furred mouse with drool dripping from its mouth had been watching from a hidden spot the entire time, craving a bite all night long¡­

 Chapter 159 Is Spirit Mountain Infested with Rats? (Subscription and Monthly Votes Needed)

    From the words of his subordinate, the Yellow Wind Monster understood who the arrivals were, which gave him quite a shock, as a reflexive desire to flee sprung up in his heart.


    When he was unaware of their identity, he had nothing to fear, but having crouched in a corner the previous night, eavesdropping on the conversation between Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, he learned that one was the Great Sage Equalling Heaven who caused Havoc in the Heavenly Pce, and the other was Marshal Tianpeng descended to the mortal realm.


    The Yellow Wind Monster knew in his heart that he would be no match for either of them acting alone, let alone both of them together.


    However, despite the panic within, the Yellow Wind Monster''s exterior remained calm, and after his eyeballs spun around in a circle, he said, "Indeed, the visitors are old acquaintances of mine. Have them weed in to be well taken care of while I go bathe and change before meeting them!"


    "Yes, Great King!"


    Hearing the words of the Yellow Wind Monster, the Demon Marshal nodded and, without any suspicion, turned and left.


    "Esteemed guests, our Great King invites you!" Arriving outside the cave, the Demon Marshal courteously invited Jiang Liu and the others into the cave abode.


    Since they were friends of the Great King, and he was even going to bathe and change clothes before meeting them, the guests must be individuals of distinguished status and close rtionships with the Great King, so naturally, the Demon Marshal did not dare to treat them lightly.


    "Eh? Is this Yellow Wind Monster usually this hospitable!?" Seeing the enthusiastic demeanor of the host, Jiang Liu was secretly surprised.


    Jiang Liu had never met the Yellow Wind Monster before, and he had even prepared himself for a fight upon arrival.


    "If that is so, then I apologize for the intrusion," Jiang Liu said humbly and politely, palms joined together in greeting, then immediately dismounted the White Dragon Horse to enter the Yellow Wind Cave with Sun Wukong and Bajie.


    As the saying goes, don''t hit a smiling face extended in friendship. Although prepared to fight first and show courtesy after, if it was possible to be courteous before resorting to a fight, that was even better.


    After weing Jiang Liu and hispany inside the Yellow Wind Cave, quickly, little demonsid out fruits and other such things to entertain them, disying warm hospitality.


    However, a few little demons inside the cave quietly discussed among themselves: who was this Little Monk who came with two demons, and why were they being treated so warmly?


    The ones who were more informed responded that they were friends of the Great King.


    "Amitabha, may I ask where your Great King is?" Jiang Liu, watching the demons'' enthusiastic behavior, chanted softly without seeing the Yellow Wind Monster.


    "Little Master, our Great King told us that you are honored guests, and instructed us to take good care of you, while he baths and changes clothes before meeting with you," replied the Demon Marshal upon the inquiry.


    "Honored guests!? And he needs to bathe and change clothes before meeting me!?"


    Hearing this, Jiang Liu''s mind stirred, and he quickly realized that the original Yellow Wind Monster in the scripture was actually a yellow-furred mouse from Spirit Mountain who, because he stole the clear oil from the Tathagata zed Lamp, feared being caught by the people of Spirit Mountain and punished, hence his escape to this ce where he became a Demon King. Experience exclusive tales on empire


    Given this, it wasn''t surprising that he recognized Jiang Liu the Scripture Seeker and knew Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie.


    "Since that is the case, the poor monk will just wait," said Jiang Liu, nodding his head, and promptly said no more.


    In contrast, Zhu Bajie beside him grabbed an apple and tossed the whole fruit in his mouth as an ordinary person would eat grapes, biting off arge chunk, causing juice to stter everywhere.


    "Heh, heh, heh, this guy sure knows his ce..." Sun Wukong, sitting nearby, felt his vanity greatly satisfied upon hearing how seriously the demon was treating their group, and nonchntly picked up a banana while reclining on a chair with crossed legs.


    "Is Spirit Mountain gued by a mouse infestation or what!?" Though Jiang Liu sat there with an air ofposure, he couldn''t help but silently scoff within.


    The Yellow Wind Monster came from Spirit Mountain, having fled after stealing clear oil from the colored zemp.


    Simrly, in the scriptures, the Gold-Nosed White-Furred Rat Demon who acknowledged Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li as a sworn father was also from Spirit Mountain, and after stealing the fragrant flowers and treasure candles of the Tathagata to descend to the Lower Realm, he dug a Bottomless Pit and became a demon.


    Were there so many rats on Spirit Mountain!?


    The neighboring Demon Marshal, carefully offering service, but as time for a cup of tea passed, still with no appearance from the Yellow Wind Monster, Jiang Liu grew somewhat puzzled.


    Taking a bath and changing clothes indeed showed the significance he attached to them, but was it necessary to make them wait this long?


    "Hey, does your Great King always take this long to bathe? Hurry up and go urge him!"


    In contrast, Sun Wukong, who was more impatient by nature, started getting restless from having waited for so long without a glimpse of the Yellow Wind Monster. Even if the first impression was favorable, it was now bing a test of patience.


    "I will go check on him immediately, esteemed guests, please wait just a little longer!" The Demon Marshal also felt that something seemed off and stood up to look for his Great King.


    However, upon arriving at the ce where his Great King usually bathed, he found it deserted, which left him utterly bewildered.


    After asking around, they discovered that their Great King had not bathed at all; he had even packed a bundle and left through the back door of the cave.


    The Demon Marshal was stunned, then realized that perhaps the Great King had slipped away to stabilize the Monks. Was it possible that even their own Great King had been scared off?


    It wasn''t exactly a matter of being straightforward. Lacking the intention to report back to Jiang Liu and the others, the Demon Marshal also sneaked away soundlessly.


    "Hey, where are you guys? It''s not just your Great King who hasn''te out; even the one who went to hurry him has disappeared!?" After waiting a little longer, even the initial greeter did not return, leaving Sun Wukong unable to wait any longer. He shouted loudly.


    After causing amotion, they discovered that the Yellow Wind Monster of the Yellow Wind Cave had quietly escaped long before.


    "Squeak, squeak, squeak..."


    At first, Sun Wukong thought the Yellow Wind Monster was quite sensible, only to realize he had been duped. Enraged, he scratched his head and pulled faces, furiously digging in his ears. With a swing of his Jingu Bang, the cudgel automatically extended and thickened.


    With a few thunderous swings, Sun Wukong directly destroyed the entire Yellow Wind Cave.


    "Wukong, first go find that Yellow Wind Monster and capture him before saying anything else!"


    Seeing Sun Wukong demolishing the Yellow Wind Cave in his rage, Jiang Liu shook his head secretly. Once enraged, this Monkey''s intelligence seemed to plummet. Was throwing a tantrum here really the most pressing matter?


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s reminder, Sun Wukong also realized the truth of the matter.


    Nodding his head, he leaped into the air. As sturdy as mystic iron, Sun Wukong burst straight through the ck Wind Cave and flew into the sky.


    With the Ruyi Golden Cudgel in hand, Sun Wukong''s eyes emitted golden light. Though the Yellow Wind Monster had escaped for quite some time, with Sun Wukong''s divine skills, he soon found the creature''s tracks. Eyes filled with ferocity, he dered, "Master, I found that guy! Good gravy, he has already fled hundreds of miles to the east!"


    "Wukong, don''t kill him! We still need to inquire about the Chili Powder," Jiang Liu said loudly, upon hearing that the Yellow Wind Monster was fleeing eastward, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.


    Meanwhile, he quickly turned and ran towards the entrance of the Yellow Wind Hole, shouting as he ran, "Xiaobai, hurry, chase after your elder disciple brother, as fast as you can!"


    "Understood, Master!" White Dragon Horse nodded seriously upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, lifting its hooves and transforming into a sh of white lightning, rushing eastward at unprecedented speed, so fast that Jiang Liu almost couldn''t keep up with the retreating scenery around him.


    For Jiang Liu, the fact that the Yellow Wind Monster fled eastward meant that they were being led back the way they hade.


    This was too good to be true!


    However, after giving it some thought, the Yellow Wind Monster had originally escaped from the west, and now in flight, it naturally continued eastward. Could it possibly turn back and flee to the west?


    "Master, Brother, wait for me..." Zhu Bajie, seeing Sun Wukong transform into a streak of light and vanish, and Jiang Liu riding on White Dragon Horse like a sh of white lightning, yelled out loud and also conjured clouds and mist to chase after them.


    Riding on the back of the White Dragon Horse, after running for the duration of half a cup of tea, they finally saw the battle up ahead. Sun Wukong, with the Ruyi Golden Cudgel in hand, was fighting a young man with the appearance of a deer but eyes of a rat.


    Seeing the man''s lean build and the trident in his hands, it was clear that he was no match for Sun Wukong, who firmly suppressed him. If it weren''t for the fact that Sun Wukong had orders from Jiang Liu not to harm the creature''s life, he might have already smashed the Yellow Wind Monster to death with his cudgel.


    One Sun Wukong was already tough to deal with. Seeing Jiang Liu and Zhu Bajie catching up as well, the Yellow Wind Monster felt a chill in his heart. He withdrew his trident and retreated quite a distance.@@novelbin@@


    "What''s the matter!? Realized the fierceness of your Grandpa Sun, and you''re ready to surrender?" Seeing the Yellow Wind Monster withdraw his weapon in retreat, Sun Wukong bared his teeth and said with his face still full of unresolved anger.


    "Hmph, you Monkey, since you push people too far, don''t me me for being impolite!" The Yellow Wind Monster said angrily, looking at Sun Wukong with the desperation of a cornered beast. As his words ended, he blew a st of yellow wind.


    Good gracious, the yellow wind blotted out the sky. Caught off guard, even Sun Wukong was blown into several somersaults in the air. The fierce wind stirred up sand and dust, making it impossible for Sun Wukong to open his eyes.


    Though his cultivation was high and his mana was powerful, the howling wind made it impossible for anyone to open their eyes, and thus his formidable powers were difficult to disy.


    "Wukong, your Master is here to help you!" Sitting atop the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu called out upon seeing this.


    Amidst the shouting, Jiang Liu raised his hand and pointed at the Yellow Wind Monster: Silencing Zen!


    The effect of silence made the Yellow Wind Monster feel as if the demon qi within him had turned into a dead pool, unable to be stirred, and naturally, the Samadhi Divine Wind he was conjuring dissipated as well.


    "Heh heh heh, this dead rat finally got a taste of Master''s move, right?" Watching Jiang Liu point his finger and trigger the effect of silence, Zhu Bajie, who had hurried over,ughed heartily.


    Zhu Bajie had suffered from this same trick in his battle with Sun Wukong, so seeing someone else fall victim, he felt a refreshing sense of schadenfreude.

 Chapter 160 The Rat with a Strong Will to Survive (Please Subscribe, Monthly Tickets Needed)

    The Yellow Wind Monster''s most daunting tactic was the Samadhi Divine Wind which created a wind that blotted out the sky and sun.


    Although the Samadhi Divine Wind could not harm Sun Wukong, the wind was mixed with flying sand and rocks which made it impossible for him to open his eyes, leaving him unable to use his skills and cultivation level.


    In the original work, this Samadhi Divine Wind truly troubled Sun Wukong''s eyes.


    Fortunately, though Jiang Liu''s cultivation level was lowpared to this level of demon creature, as a support in his profession of Compassionate Bodhisattva, he still could y a role.


    The skill Silencing Zen was thrown out, immediately extinguishing the sky-darkening wind.


    With the Samadhi Divine Wind gone, Sun Wukong naturally raised his iron rod and brought it down hard.


    "Trouble!"


    At the critical moment, the Yellow Wind Monster could not care why his Divine Wind had stopped; he quickly drew back, attempting to flee.


    However, just as the Yellow Wind Monster turned to run, suddenly, his body uncontrobly transformed into a harmless littlemb, his eyes filled with confusion.


    Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra!


    Jiang Liu had consecutively thrown out Silencing Zen, Sheep Transformation Technique, and Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra, peacefully assuming his role as support.


    Sun Wukong brought down his iron rod with great force and momentum.


    Already not a match for Sun Wukong, with the Samadhi Divine Wind gone, one move lost, all moves lost, and finally, as Sun Wukong''s iron rod struck the Yellow Wind Monster''s head, it knocked him unconscious.


    Through Jiang Liu''s eyes, his health bar was also emptied in an instant.


    Notification: Gained 4820 Experience Points.


    Notification, level increased by 1, current level 26.


    As the Yellow Wind Monstery unconscious, the game system''s notification echoed in Jiang Liu''s mind, a refreshing current flowed through him, and his level also increased to 26.


    Naturally, with the level increase, all his attributes increased as well, and his Skill Points automatically increased by one.


    "Hmph, thought you could run, dared to trick I, Old Sun!?" Watching the unconscious Yellow Wind Monster, Sun Wukong, holding the Golden Hoop, spoke resentfully.


    If it weren''t for Jiang Liu asking to spare his life to inquire about the chili powder, Sun Wukong would have loved to give a few more hits with his rod.


    "You, monkey, so ruthless!? Did you kill him!?" Jumping down from the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu walked over, murmuring in a low voice as he approached and squatted beside the Yellow Wind Monster to check his injuries.


    "Don''t worry, master, he''s not dead yet!" Carrying the Jingu Bang on his shoulder, Sun Wukong responded.


    "Good that he''s not dead!" Upon hearing this, Jiang Liu breathed a sigh of relief and nodded.


    Pausing for a moment, he looked at the sky, which was gettingte, and said, "Wukong, go hunt some game for us, we''ll grill the meat and properly interrogate this demon creature on why it tricked us!"


    "Yes, Master!"


    Last night''s grilled skewers were thoroughly enjoyable, and hearing they could have another serving today, Sun Wukong was no longer upset; he nodded, stowed away the Jingu Bang, and leapt off to hunt.


    After sending Sun Wukong away, Jiang Liu then searched the Yellow Wind Monster, indeed finding he was concealing some items underneath him.


    Without any more words, he shifted everything straight into his inventory space.


    "Master, this demon creature is quite strange!" As Jiang Liu finished moving all the dropped items into his inventory space, Zhu Bajie came over and looked at the unconscious Yellow Wind Monster on the ground, saying, "We came looking for him, and he didn''t even show his face before decisively running away. Did he recognize us?"


    "Let''s wait until he wakes up, then we can interrogate him properly," Jiang Liu said, shaking his head as he stood up.


    Shortly after, Sun Wukong brought back a deer. Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, well-versed in their tasks, quickly skewered the meat.


    Theycked grilling skills, but slicing meat, threading it, and washing it were tasks they could manage.


    "Xiaobai, since we came from Yellow Wind Ridge, how far have we run!?" Grabbing a handful of skewers, skillfully sprinkling them with seasoning, Jiang Liu spoke to the White Dragon Horse beside him.


    "Master, about four or five hundred li, I suppose!" Hearing this, the White Dragon Horse standing by the stove replied.


    "Hmm, nearly four or five hundred li back and forth, huh? This is really troublesome..."


    Though his grilling actions didn''t stop and heined of trouble, a smile involuntarily appeared on Jiang Liu''s face.


    Meanwhile, as Jiang Liu grilled and chatted, Zhu Bajie and Sun Wukong also busied themselves, creating a pleasant atmosphere among the disciples.


    This Journey to the West really felt like a trip out for a pic.


    Beside them, the Yellow Wind Monster, who had been unconscious, twitched his nose a few times and then slowly opened his eyes. His gaze brightened as he stared at the skewered meat roasting above the furnace, unconsciously licking the corner of his mouth.


    The skewer that fell on the groundst night had long since cooled but still left him with endless aftertastes.


    "You''re awake? I''m asking you, I went to visit you at the Yellow Wind Hole, and if you weren''t going to meet us that''s fine, but why lead us inside and then sneak away yourself!?"


    Noticing that the Yellow Wind Monster had awakened, Jiang Liu casually sprinkled some cumin on the roasted skewers, flipped them a few times, and asked.


    "If I honestly confess, can I exchange it for my life?" Ultimately, his life mattered the most. The Yellow Wind Monster moved his gaze away from the skewered meat and asked Jiang Liu.


    "Tsk, do you think you have the right to haggle!?" Before Jiang Liu could respond, Sun Wukong heard the Yellow Wind Monster''s words and scolded fiercely.


    The terrifying appearance of Sun Wukong caused the Yellow Wind Monster to tremble slightly, and he hurriedly replied, "Actually, I knew you wereing to cause me trouble, so I had my subordinates hold you off while I snuck out the back door!"


    "Figures¡­" The answer from the Yellow Wind Monster wasn''t surprising. Jiang Liu nodded slightly and then asked, "Then how did you know we wereing to the Yellow Wind Ridge to cause trouble? We haven''t met before, have we?"


    "If I answer honestly, can you spare my life?" The Yellow Wind Monster spoke again, looking desperate to live. Explore more stories at empire


    "Hmm?" Sun Wukong, who was beside him, set down his skewer and nced sideways at the Yellow Wind Monster with a threatening look.


    "Indeed, today is the first time you''ve seen me, holy monk. But it wasn''t my first glimpse of you. Last night, I saw you when I sneaked in to steal some food and saw you roasting skewers; I also overheard your conversation¡­"


    The Yellow Wind Monster, with his head bowed, didn''t dare to hide anything and told them exactly what had happened the night before.


    "So you were hiding in the darkst night, acting just like a rat. It''s embarrassing that you managed to deceive I, Old Sun!" Hearing the Yellow Wind Monster''s confession, Sun Wukong nced at him and felt somewhat ashamed. There was a demon hiding nearby, and he had failed to notice.


    "That''s because you drank a lotst night, Great Saint, and were a bit tipsy, so you didn''t notice me!" The Yellow Wind Monster said, shrinking his head.


    In fact, when he had been eavesdropping from the window the night before, he was terrified Sun Wukong had noticed him.


    "Heh heh heh, you do have an eye, knowing how formidable I, Old Sun, am!" Sun Wukong''s mood improved considerably with that bit of ttery.


    "You''re lying, aren''t you!?" However, Jiang Liu found the Yellow Wind Monster''s words somewhat peculiar and said, "After all, you are the Demon King of a whole region, with countless Little Demons under you. Do you really need to steal food?"


    The Yellow Wind Monster''s face showed some embarrassment and said sheepishly, "Well, it''s just my nature. I apologize for making a fool of the holy monk¡­"


    All right, since Zhu Bajie, a Pig Demon, naturally embodies the traits of stuttering and indolence typical of pigs, and Sun Wukong, being a monkey, disys the impetuous nature of monkeys, right?


    It seems, then, that since the Yellow Wind Monster is originally a rat, his fondness for stealing food is just part of being a rat, which seems to make sense!?


    "Alright, I''ll tentatively believe you for now. But, about your minions looking for chili powder, what was that all about?" After thinking for a moment, Jiang Liu continued to inquire.


    The topic of chili powder made Zhu Bajie and Sun Wukong stare curiously at the Yellow Wind Monster.


    "Didn''t I hear the holy monk say the roasted skewers had to be seasoned with chili powder to be perfect? So, I wanted to find chili powder and offer it to the holy monk!" In a bid to save his life, the Yellow Wind Monster humbled himself greatly, disying a strong will to survive.@@novelbin@@


    After the inquiry, Jiang Liu understood the Yellow Wind Monster''s situation, but wasn''t this far too different from the original story?


    Jiang Liu remembered that in the original text, the Yellow Wind Monster had his subordinate, the Tiger Vanguard, kidnap Tang Monk, and that had caused a great cmity.


    But now, the Yellow Wind Monster had been frightened by Sun Wukong and his team early on, behaving as if he had encountered something utterly terrifying and fleeing for his life?


    If not for Sun Wukong''s nifty methods to locate him, they might indeed have let him escape.


    "Holy Monk, I mean you no harm! Please spare my life!" Seeing Jiang Liu''s thoughtful expression and knowing he was considering how to deal with him, the Yellow Wind Monster urgently begged for mercy.


    There was indeed some hesitation in Jiang Liu''s heart; this challenge with the Yellow Wind Monster was probably unlikely now. Fortunately, he and Sun Wukong had already fought once, and he had gained the expected Experience Points and items.


    But to let this Rat Demon get away after fooling them? Jiang Liu felt somewhat uneasy about it.


    The Yellow Wind Monster, being quite clever, could see that empty pleas wouldn''t satisfy Jiang Liu, who seemed reluctant to let him go. His eyes darting around, he earnestly said, "Holy Monk! If you tell me where I can find the chili powder, I''ll do whatever it takes, even risk my life, to obtain it for you!"


    Hearing the Yellow Wind Monster''s words, Jiang Liu was slightly moved.


    Simply killing him might indeed be less useful than putting him to work!?


    Moreover, if things went smoothly, could he also bring him into his own faction? Perhaps join forces with the ck Bear Demon and others to form a power base of the Demon n, which could be a force to reckon with against the Immortals and Buddhas in the future?


    Although the cultivation level of the Yellow Wind Monster wasn''t high, his skills with the Samadhi Wind were quite formidable.


    Upon this reflection, Jiang Liu spoke, "Is that so? Well, I''ll give you a chance then. I''ll describe what chili powder looks like. If you can find it, I might just let you off!"

 Chapter 161 Do You Know What a Spicy Hot Pot is? (Please Subscribe, Asking for Monthly Tickets)

    "Many thanks to the Holy Monk for yourpassion! Many thanks to the Holy Monk for yourpassion!"


    Upon hearing Jiang Liu agree to spare him and harboring no intent to kill, the Yellow Wind Monster wore a face of surprise and gratitude, ceaselessly thanking Jiang Liu.


    Having originally stolen the clear oil from within the Tathagata zed Lamp, he had fled far to be a demon. Now encountering Jiang Liu and knowing he was part of the Scripture Seeking Team, the Yellow Wind Monster had intended to hide until they passed by.


    After all, if the other party captured him, it would be a great merit in front of the Tathagata, would it not?


    Plus, he had fooled them once, and for both public and private reasons there was no rationale to let him off. Unexpectedly, they were actually willing to spare him!


    "You go and search for the chili peppers, growing on little trees about a foot tall, shaped like light bulbs, hollow inside with seeds, in both green and red, and another type resembling small red cow horns¡ªa delicacy indeed, consuming it is as fiery as its spicy taste¡­"


    Having Yellow Wind Monster search for chilies, Jiang Liu briefly described the characteristics of chilies to him.


    "Understood! Memorized!" Responding to Jiang Liu''s words, the Yellow Wind Monster nodded vigorously,mitting the features of the chilies to memory.


    "Very well, drop a bit of your heart''s essence blood onto this! If you forget the task I''ve given you, don''t me us for being impolite ining to im your life!"


    Following the Yellow Wind Monster''s acknowledgement, Jiang Liu then took out a small, exquisite, and ornate mirror and spoke to the Yellow Wind Monster.


    "This is... the Mystical Mirror!? Isn''t this one of Bodhisattva Guanyin''s treasures?" As a rat who hade from Spirit Mountain, the Yellow Wind Monster had sharp eyes and recognized the Dharma Treasure in Jiang Liu''s hand at a nce.


    "Yes, I obtained this treasure from Bodhisattva Guanyin''s hands, ahem, asked for it from the Bodhisattva. Since you recognize it, that''s good. I trust you wouldn''t dare to deceive me, otherwise, no matter where you hide, I can find you!" Since the Yellow Wind Monster recognized it, Jiang Liu felt even more at ease.


    Under someone else''s roof, one has no choice but to bow one''s head. Seeing Sun Wukong''s unfriendly gaze upon him, the Yellow Wind Monster had no alternative but to extract a bit of his heart''s essence blood and drip it onto the Mystical Mirror.


    "So, I will be on my way. I will surely bring the chili peppers to the Holy Monk soon..."


    As he spoke, his health bar had recovered somewhat, and the injury was subdued enough to be bearable. The Yellow Wind Monster struggled to his feet and said his farewells to Jiang Liu.


    "Wait, you''re badly injured. Rest for a moment before you go; sit down and have something to eat..."


    After a big stick, one should offer a sweet date, right? Seeing the Yellow Wind Monster looking down as if he was about to leave, Jiang Liu spoke out to stop him.


    In the middle of speaking, one hand held a kebab, and with the other hand raised, he waved at the Yellow Wind Monster and cast the Guanyin Mantra skill once.


    The effect of 20% of the maximum life value instantly increased the Yellow Wind Monster''s health by a significant margin.


    Naturally, the Yellow Wind Monster could feel the recovery of his injuries. Although still severely wounded, there was no longer any danger to his life.


    "Many thanks, Holy Monk!" Amazed at Jiang Liu''s ability in healing through supernatural powers, and hearing Jiang Liu invite him to join in eating kebabs, the Yellow Wind Monster was surprised and delighted, even a bit overwhelmed with favor, continuously thanking Jiang Liu with gratitude all over his face.


    Seeing the gratitude on the Yellow Wind Monster''s face, Jiang Liu secretly smiled to himself but said nothing.


    This rat from Spirit Mountain, possessing the ability of the Divine Wind, was quite powerful. However, Jiang Liu knew it would take time to determine and investigate whether he could be taken into confidence.


    If the demon held a grudge against the Buddhist Sect, then bringing him into his own team would be no issue. The worry was whether the demon''s descent to the Lower Realm to be a demon was simply following Guanyin''s orders, and he was still loyal to the Buddhist Sect at heart.


    If that was the case, recruiting him would mean inviting a spy for the Buddhist Sect into his fold.


    Therefore, in light of these considerations, Jiang Liu merely sent the Yellow Wind Monster to find chilies for now, without revealing his intention to recruit a force.


    It was not only for the Yellow Wind Monster but for any other demons with ties to the Immortals and Buddhas that he would have to observe them very strictly in the future.


    ...


    "Mmm, delicious, delicious! I must find the chilies to taste what the Holy Monk describes as an even more perfect kebab!"


    Soon after the kebabs were ready, the Yellow Wind Monster, holding a handful, savored the kebabs with emotion bordering on tears.


    Apparently, kebabs were much tastier when hot rather than cold; even this vor was enough to make one cry. He could only wonder how much more delicious kebabs would be with chili powder added as the Holy Monk had mentioned.


    Were they to be so delicious that one could die?


    Just one cold kebab had lingered in the Yellow Wind Monster''s mind for a long time; now, he was finally able to rightfully enjoy several handfuls of kebabs, eating his fill. With his belly round and full, the Yellow Wind Monster patted his stomach, feeling this was truly the life to live.


    After filling up on food and drink, the Yellow Wind Monster bid farewell and left, his expression solemn as he promised to find the chili powder and deliver it to the Holy Monk and hispanions as soon as possible.


    Jiang Liu nodded and watched the Yellow Wind Monster depart.


    But just as he had taken only a few steps, the Yellow Wind Monster seemed to remember something and turned back around.


    "What is it? Is there something else?" Seeing the Yellow Wind Monster''s demeanor, Jiang Liu curiously asked.


    "Right, Holy Monk, I remember once at Spirit Mountain, I heard the Tathagata and Bodhisattva talking about the Journey to the West for Scriptures. There are some things that I think should be conveyed to you, Holy Monk!" The Yellow Wind Monster suddenly seemed to recall something important and spoke to Jiang Liu.


    "Oh? What''s the matter?" Jiang Liu perked up at the mention from the Yellow Wind Monster.


    The Yellow Wind Monster had been here for several years, that was to say, even before Jiang Liu had crossed into this world, but could it be that he had heard the Tathagata and Guanyin discuss the Journey to the West for Scriptures years ago?


    "I remember the Bodhisattva mentioning that on the westward journey, the eighty-one trials are predestined. So, on your way to the Western Heaven, Holy Monk, I expect you''ll face many disasters and difficulties. Please take care!"


    A stick and a sweet jujube had left the Yellow Wind Monster feeling grateful towards Jiang Liu; therefore, he felt it necessary to offer a warning to Jiang Liu in advance.


    Jiang Liu, of course, was already aware of the eighty-one trials, so this reminder did not seem crucial to him.


    However, since it was well-intentioned, Jiang Liu nodded and said, "Alright, I''ll remember this. Thank you for the warning!"


    "With that, I shall take my leave! I hope on our next encounter, I can once again savor the spicy skewers crafted by the Holy Monk''s own hands!"


    Having said what he needed to say, the Yellow Wind Monster showed no intention of lingering. He rolled up a gust of yellow wind, and his figure quickly ascended into the sky, flying towards the distance.


    "Hmph, that rat is lucky. I hope he finds the chili soon!" Watching the departing figure of the Yellow Wind Monster, Sun Wukong spoke.


    Normally, Sun Wukong wouldn''t let someone who tricked him go so easily, but after weighing his wrath against his craving for chili, he decided that the chili was more important.


    "Master, Old Pig thinks that these roasted skewers are already delicious without chili. Is it really that big of a deal whether we have it or not?" Zhu Bajie, holding a handful of skewers, questioned as he spoke.


    Having never tasted chili, Zhu Bajie felt that things were already quite good as they were.


    "No, the role of chili isn''t just for roasting meat!" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Jiang Liu shook his head.


    In his previous life, two things from China were world-famous: Chinese Kung Fu and Chinese cuisine!


    Among them, Sichuan cuisine was a very distinctive style of Chinese cooking. Spiciness was a very important vor in Chinese cuisine, indispensable!


    "Oh? Besides skewers, is there another use for chili?" Zhu Bajie paused in his actions, asking curiously.


    "There are numerous uses, like all the dishes in the Sichuan cuisine series¡ªMapo Tofu, Spicy Chicken, Spicy Sliced Lungs, Chopped Chili Fish Head..."


    In one breath, Jiang Liu listed over a dozen famous Sichuan dishes. Having never tasted them, just hearing the names made Zhu Bajie''s mouth water. Continue your adventure with empire


    After a brief pause, Jiang Liu continued, "For example, when the weather turns cold, during the frosty winter months, being able to enjoy a spicy hot pot is a real treat."


    "Hot pot!? Master, what exactly is this hot pot you speak of?" Both Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie''s eyes widened with curiosity, feeling an itch in their hearts as if a few kittens were scratching inside.


    "I believe the best delicacy in winter is hot pot! A pot that keeps burning! Everyone gathered around it, filled with all kinds of seasonings¡ªwith chili being essential, of course. Add a rich broth, along with a variety of meats and vegetables mixed in, and that taste, well, it''s indescribably delightful..."


    Gulp!


    As Jiang Liu described it, both Zhu Bajie and Sun Wukong swallowed hard, their faces filled with longing.


    "Of course, if we could find some pepper, that''d be great too. I know a dish called pan-seared steak. Cook it to medium-rare, sprinkle some ck pepper sauce on it, and the taste is just perfect..." As he mentioned chili, Jiang Liu naturally thought of pepper as well.


    "Alright, Master, stop talking! If you go on, Old Pig here can''t take it anymore!" Intently gobbling down a few skewers, Zhu Bajie was incredibly yearning for the delicacies Jiang Liu had described.


    "Okay, you guys pack up, we should get moving!" Seeing the reactions from Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, Jiang Liu chuckled and halted his own train of thought.@@novelbin@@


    He couldn''t think about it anymore; even he couldn''t resist it if he carried on.


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu forcibly shifted his thoughts away from those delicious foods and opened his bag space. His gazended on the items that the Yellow Wind Monster had just dropped.

 Chapter 162 Is This the Right Way to Open Journey to the West?

    To speak of him, the Yellow Wind Monster was at least a Demon King; although it was unknown whether he had transcended his mortal form to reach the Demon Immortal Realm, defeating him certainly yielded some valuable loot regardless.


    Potions aside, there were indeed several pieces of equipment. However, a level 25 Perfect Level Demon-Subduing Sword could notpare to the Mixed Iron Rod in hand, and a Fine Level Monk Hat was no match for the Vidyaraja Crown.


    Thus, the pieces of equipment werergely superfluous.


    Nevertheless, there was one Legendary Level ring that secretly delighted Jiang Liu.


    As his gaze fell upon the emerald green ring, the corresponding attribute information quickly appeared in front of Jiang Liu.


    Green Phosphorus Poison Ring (Legendary Level): Required Level 25, Attack +450, Special Effect: 5% chance of poisoning the target, inflicting double the user''s attack damage over 300 seconds, Durability 18/25.


    To Jiang Liu, the attributes of the Green Phosphorus Poison Ring were quite powerful, not only providing a substantial boost in attack power but also featuring a strong poisoning effect.


    After some thought, with two rings already on his fingers, the Redwood Ring and the Huali Law Ring, he decided to swap out the Redwood Ring.


    Mixed Iron Rod, Vidyaraja Crown, Huali Law Ring, Green Phosphorus Poison Ring, Dragon Soul Bracelet, and shing Brilliance Shoes.


    Throughout his Journey to the West, he had already acquired six pieces of Legendary Level equipment, filling six of his ten equipment slots with such high-quality gear, which was quite satisfying for him.


    No wonder the equipment that burst forth from defeating the Yellow Wind Monster, though several items were superfluous¡ªnone could evenpare to his current gear.


    After briefly examining his equipment setup, it was just momentster that Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie had already packed up everything needed for the barbecue.


    Raising his hand, Jiang Liu stowed all the items into his spatial bag and continued on the Journey to the West.


    The White Dragon Horse ambled along leisurely, while he sat quietly, diligently practicing his Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound and seizing every second to enhance his cultivation level.


    Zhu Bajie carried a Nine-Toothed Rake walking ahead, mumbling to himself: "Mapo tofu, spicy sliced lungs, and also the spicy small hotpot..."


    As for Sun Wukong? He seemed to be pondering something, following along ahead. Your journey continues with empire


    This team on the Journey to the West had traveled quietly for a full twenty li.


    After cycling his True Yuan for eighty-oneplete cycles, Jiang Liu opened his eyes and, looking at Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie beside him, a surprised expression crossed his face.


    This silence was somewhat unusual for them; usually, listening to their bickering was quite the entertainment.


    Zhu Bajie could be ignored, as his mind was still immersed in the delectable dishes he had talked about earlier, but what about the pensive-looking monkey? What could it mean?


    "Wukong, what are you thinking about? You''ve been eerily quiet all this way!" Jiang Liu asked curiously.


    "Master, I was thinking about the prophecy the Yellow Wind Monster mentioned about the eighty-one difficulties," Sun Wukong scratched his head as he responded.


    "What''s there to think about? Our journey to the West is fraught with perils, and with countless evil demons, trials and tribtions are inevitable, aren''t they?"


    Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu shook his head, feeling no need to ponder such simple words.


    "No, Master, don''t you think there was anotheryer of meaning in the Yellow Wind Monster''s words?" Despite Jiang Liu''s disregard, Sun Wukong shook his head again.


    "Oh? Anotheryer of meaning? Let''s hear it!" Sun Wukong''s words piqued Jiang Liu''s interest.


    Could it be that Sun Wukong could discern a different vor from the so-called eighty-one difficulties?


    "The Yellow Wind Monster said that our journey to the West faces eighty-one predetermined difficulties, that is, if we make it to Western Spirit Mountain, we must endure these eighty-one tribtions, right?" Sun Wukong asked.


    "Indeed, that''s correct!" Jiang Liu nodded slightly, as this was a problem he had known about in his previous life.


    However, following Jiang Liu''s nod, Sun Wukong pressed on, "Then, from another perspective, doesn''t it mean we mustpletely experience these eighty-one difficulties in order to sessfully reach Western Spirit Mountain?"


    Boom!


    This statement struck Jiang Liu like a bolt of lightning, leaving him utterly stunned.


    For a moment, it felt as though ayer of paper was pierced at that moment.


    Sun Wukong, unaware of Jiang Liu''s current thoughts, continued to whisper, "Master, what do you think would happen if we hurried and reached Western Spirit Mountain early without facing the adequate number of eighty-one difficulties?"


    "Monkey, no more talking, let me think this through..." With myriad thoughts swirling in his mind, Jiang Liu raised his hand, signaling Sun Wukong to be silent.


    What Sun Wukong said today was indeed greatly enlightening for Jiang Liu.


    Because of his past life, Jiang Liu hadn''t given much consideration to the eighty-one trials on the Journey to the West. In fact, he considered these eighty-one trials to be eighty-one opportunities.


    Therefore, whether it was the previous Guanyin Zen Temple or this Yellow Wind Ridge, he had actively sought them out, intending to trigger the original plot.


    However, Sun Wukong''s words today brought Jiang Liu back to his senses, realizing he had been shortsighted.


    Reflecting on the Journey to the West and its eighty-one trials, thinking in reverse, doesn''t it mean that finishing the eighty-one trials signifies thepletion of the scripture-seeking journey?


    Just like in the original story, when there was a minor mishap leaving one trial iplete, although Sun Wukong and the others had reached Spirit Mountain, they still had to make up for thisst trial...


    So, on this Journey to the West, if he were truly capable, then these so-called trials wouldn''t exist at all, right?


    Take, for instance, this time at Yellow Wind Ridge in the original story, which was definitely one of the eighty-one trials.


    But now, havinge to Yellow Wind Ridge, the Yellow Wind Monster was frightened into fleeing by him, then, he chased after it, beating the monster harshly, earning a wave of experience and items.


    Could that count as a trial!?


    It couldn''t possibly, right!?


    This trial, as originally intended in the story, wasn''t challenging for him, doesn''t this mean that Guanyin might need to find another way to impose this trial on him?


    Looking further ahead, if the trials in the original text no longer pose a challenge to Jiang Liu, and he continually fails toplete eighty-one trials, then there would be no need for him to stall. Perhaps Guanyin might actively seek ways to slow him down?


    At this thought, Jiang Liu nodded in silence to himself.


    Striving to increase his level, outsmarting challenges, and turning these so-called trials into non-trials, Guanyin would surely try all possible means to create more challenges for him.


    And the more monsters she sent, the faster he would grow...


    Could this be the correct way to approach the Journey to the West!?


    As his thoughts rified, Jiang Liu softly muttered to himself, considering a slight adjustment in his strategy for the future Journey to the West.


    While stalling was important, the real significancey in these so-called trials, didn''t it?


    Turning all these so-called trials into nothing, wouldn''t he infinitely prolong this Journey to the West, giving himself ample time to grow!?


    "Hey, Master, have you figured it out yet? What exactly is going on? I, Old Sun, have been pondering this all the way and still can''t figure it out!" Seeing Jiang Liu''s changing expressions and gradually understanding, Sun Wukong curiously asked.


    "Monkey Brother, it seems you''re just worrying over nothing after a full meal..." Nearby, Zhu Bajie, whose thoughts seemed to shift away from food, shook his head and interjected after hearing the conversation between Sun Wukong and Jiang Liu.


    "You fool, what are you talking about? Knowing that we are destined to face eighty-one trials along the way west, shouldn''t we think it over carefully!? What if we suffer a great loss!?" Zhu Bajie''s words made Sun Wukong angrily grab his ears, scolding him sharply.


    "Ouch, ouch, ouch, release your hands, you scurvy monkey¡­" Yelling in pain as Sun Wukong grabbed his pig''s ears, Zhu Bajie shouted loudly.


    Having finally rescued his own ears from Sun Wukong''s monkey ws, Zhu Bajie rubbed his ears and retorted irritably: "Didn''t you think about it, Monkey, didn''t the Yellow Wind Monster say so? The eighty-one trials were overheard by him during a conversation between the Bodhisattva and the Buddha!"


    "Which means, all the trials we face along this journey are known to the Bodhisattvas and the Buddhas. If they know, and if we truly encounter an insurmountable obstacle, would they just stand by and watch? So, I say you are worrying for nothing..."@@novelbin@@


    White Dragon Horse, head bowed, proceeded silently, not daring to join the squabble between his two senior fellow disciples, but upon hearing Zhu Bajie''s words today, he subtly raised his head to nce at him, nodding silently in agreement.


    Second Senior Brother truly lived up to his origins as Marshal Tianpeng, having served as Marshal Tianpeng in the Heavenly Court for so many years. Although reincarnated as a pig demon,zy and naive in appearance, some things indeed showed more foresight than the eldest senior brother...


    "Sigh¡­" Jiang Liu, also ncing at Zhu Bajie, silently sighed to himself.


    Indeed, if he had a choice, how would Jiang Liu not want to follow the Buddhist Sect''s n and walk the Journey to the West safely and happily, ending up joyously receiving the title of Sandalwood Merit Buddha?


    Unfortunately, to save Gaoyang and himself, he could only seek to resist.


    After all, a cornered dog will leap over a wall, and a cornered rabbit will bite, won''t it!?

 Chapter 163 Guanyins Dilemma

    "Swift Fire Bead!"


    Jiang Liu raised his palm, and a fist-sized ball of me shot out,nding viciously on an upright crocodile.


    The me exploded on the crocodile''s body, making it scream in pain.


    "Damned Monk! I''ll eat you!" Pained, the crocodile''s ferocity was further provoked as it let out a roar, holding a cleaver in its hand, and ferociously lunged at Jiang Liu with demonic Qi swirling around it.


    Arhat Fist, Demon-Subduing Mantra, and the Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra¡ªthree buffs that increased Attack Power, along with the amplification from his equipment, made Jiang Liu''s strength far from ordinary.


    Seeing the crocodile lunge, he was not the least bit intimidated. Raising the mixed iron rod in his hand, he met the crocodile''s charge head-on, and the two¡ªman and demon¡ªtangled in a fierce struggle.


    The White Dragon Horsey quietly to one side, waiting, while Sun Wukong leaned against the White Dragon Horse, casually chewing on a small twig, looking utterly rxed as if oblivious to the battle next to him.


    "Monkey Brother, you tell me, our master''s killing intent is even greater than ours, right? Along the way, the number of demons that have died at his hand must be at least a hundred, right?"


    Zhu Bajie was not asid back as Sun Wukong, only watching the battle from a distance, speaking with a somewhat odd tone.


    Since the fight with the Yellow Wind Monster, and after heading west for another half a month, on the road, whenever they encountered a demon blocking the way or even ordinary ferocious beasts, Jiang Liu would not allow anyone else to take action, always dealing with it by himself.


    Moreover, they were lucky enough not to encounter Demon Marshals or the like, so throughout the half-month journey, it didn''t seem like the disciples were protecting Tang Monk going to the Western Heaven; rather, it seemed like Tang Monk was taking care of them.


    "Master kills to gain enlightenment. The more he kills, the higher his Cultivation Level will be. Rest easy..." Sun Wukong replied, twig in his mouth and legs crossed casually.


    Having traveled this way, half a year had passed, and Sun Wukong had witnessed Jiang Liu''s growth in Cultivation Level and techniques firsthand.


    From the current situation, Sun Wukong knew clearly that as long as they didn''t encounter a Demon Marshal, the master could handle almost any situation on his own.


    Although the crocodile Demon General looked tough-skinned and indomitable in defense, the mixed iron rod not only added 820 points to Attack Power but also had a 30% Armor Pration Effect, significantly reducing the Demon General''s defensive capabilities.


    Casting the Vajra Mantra on himself, Jiang Liu smashed the mixed iron rod onto the crocodile with force, sending it flying.


    Simrly, the crocodile''s cleaver struck Jiang Liu, but with an 80% damage immunity, along with Jiang Liu''s defensive enhancements, the de struggled to inflict significant damage.


    "Water Binding Lock!"


    True to its status as a Demon General, it could manipte demonic power to perform Demon Arts. After being sent flying, the crocodile raised its hand and a stream of water appeared in the void, transforming into chains that entwined Jiang Liu while it turned to flee for its life.


    Having fought to this point, the crocodile Demon General knew it was no match for Jiang Liu.


    Dispel Curse!


    But Jiang Liu reacted reflexively with a Dispel move, breaking free from the constraints.


    Seeing that the crocodile''s Health Bar above its head had less than 20% left, would Jiang Liu let cooked duck fly away?


    He tapped the ground lightly, activating the special effect of the shing Brilliance Shoes, and in a sh, he appeared behind the crocodile, reaching out and grabbing towards it.


    Sensing Jiang Liu''s approach, the crocodile whipped its cleaver backward in defense.


    Yet, facing the attack, Jiang Liu remained unfazed, as if it were unseen.


    The 80% damage immunity effect of the Vajra Mantra came into y again!


    The Chequ Buddha Beads added +1 to the Vajra Mantra''s Skill Level, transforming the ability from a one-time damage immunity into two.


    Ignoring the cleaver''s blow to his body, Jiang Liu''s hand grasped the crocodile''s head. Immediately, a surge of fierce azure lightning burst forth, engulfing the crocodile''s entire body.


    Ah!


    A shrill scream emitted from the crocodile''s mouth, and after Jiang Liu released his grip, the crocodile''s body charred ck, it fell to the ground lifeless, evidently in.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, the Health Bar over the crocodile''s head emptied as well.


    "Indeed, worthy of a skill acquired after the Taoist job change. This Palm Thunder''s Attack Power is truly fearsome!" Emptying around 20% of the crocodile''s remaining Health Points in one strike, Jiang Liu nodded inwardly.


    Palm Thunder: (Middle Level): After gripping the target, it can unleash the power of thunder from the palm, Attack Power +1200+100%, Cooldown Time 60 seconds.


    This Palm Thunder was a Skill Book that had dropped together with the Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra. Although its use required gripping the target, even if only of Middle Level, it was still much stronger than the Swift Fire Bead of the Great Perfection Level.


    The Skill Bookcase could hold three non-profession-specific Skill Books. Now, with the Swift Fire Bead, Sheep Transformation Technique, and Palm Thunder stored inside, the Skill Bookcase''s three slots had been filled.


    Notification: Sessfully in a target, obtained Experience Points 12500.


    After the crocodile Demon General was in, the system notification rang in Jiang Liu''s mind. Nodding in satisfaction, Jiang Liu silently invoked the space of his inventory.


    Fighting monsters above one''s level, there indeed were potions and two pieces of equipment that burst out, but the quality of the equipment was inferior to what he was already wearing, so he was somewhat disappointed and shook his head.


    After checking the contents of his inventory, Jiang Liu casually took out the Mystical Mirror and looked at the ck Bear Demon and the Yellow Wind Monster.


    The ck Bear Demon was still on its ck Wind Mountain, debating scriptures and discussing the Dao with Jinchi, living quite a carefree life.


    On the other hand, the Yellow Wind Monster was indeed not cking off, and although Jiang Liu didn''t know where it had gone, it was certainly making an effort to search for the whereabouts of chili peppers, which made Jiang Liu nod in satisfaction.


    As the battle here ended, Sun Wukong and the others also came over.


    Jiang Liu watched for a while, then put away the Mystical Mirror, mounted his horse, and continued on the Journey to the West.


    Sitting on the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu had sustained some injuries. Looking at his health bar, which had dropped to around seventy percent, Jiang Liu followed up by casting the Guanyin Mantra, restoring 20% of his health, which pretty much healed his wounds.


    "My strength, it''s really been growing day by day!"


    Thinking back to how he had not expended too much effort to y the Crocodile Demon General, Jiang Liu was quite pleased with himself.


    Back when he faced thest trial of his ss change quest, a one-on-one fight with a Demon General at level 21, the battle was one of life and death, with Jiang Liu achieving a narrow victory amidst great peril.


    Looking at himself now, his level had reached 26, and coupled with the new skills and equipment he had acquired, his overall strength had increased significantly.


    Another battle with that Crocodile Demon General was no longer a big deal, and thisparison allowed Jiang Liu to clearly feel the growth in his abilities.


    After mounting his horse, Jiang Liu sat on the back of the White Dragon Horse, quietly calcting. Since his level reached 26, he had been cultivating while riding and even when he slept at night. Together with the asional subduing of demons and elimination of monsters on the road, he had umted about 400,000 experience points.@@novelbin@@


    Yet, he still hadn''t leveled up.


    He remembered clearly that at level 21, consuming a single Spirit Elixir with 500,000 experience points had allowed him to level up twice.


    "Indeed, the higher the level, the more experience points needed; simrly, the higher the level, the greater one''s cultivation level!"


    Thinking that his 400,000 experience points were still not enough for leveling up, Jiang Liu shook his head inwardly with a sense of reflection.


    "Master, have you noticed that in these past few days, many of the demon creatures we''ve encountered were fish or shrimp types of demons?" Jiang Liu was deep in thought when Zhu Bajie beside him suddenly spoke.


    "Hmm? That does seem to be the case, could it be that we''re nearing the Liusha River?" Upon hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Jiang Liu was slightly moved.


    He remembered from the original story that after the Yellow Wind Monster, the plot progression involved recruiting Sha Wujing at the Liusha River, right?


    Only with Sha Wujing''s recruitment would the Journey to the West team be officially fully formed, wouldn''t it?


    However, Jiang Liu wasn''t particrly looking forward to the character of Sha Wujing.


    Firstly, it might be due to the fact that Sha Wujing had such a low presence in the original text, and secondly, could it be because Sha Wujing was the weakest among them?


    Of course, there was also the fact that both of his disciples, whether it was Sun Wukong or Zhu Bajie, though verbally enlightened by Guanyin to join the Journey to the West team, didn''t actually want to go. Could it be that Sha Wujing would be the same?


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu didn''t delve too deeply into this matter. Retracting his thoughts, he continued to cultivate the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique.


    ...


    Mount Luojia in the South Sea.


    "Amitabha..." Bodhisattva Guanyin softly chanted a Buddha''s name, her brows showing a touch of worry.


    She had nned everything for the Journey to the West, and naturally had to properly control the eighty-one trials, but having left Chang''an City for so long, one could say that the only trial thus far was at the Guanyin Zen Temple!?


    In this way, how long would it take to umte the eighty-one trials?


    After some thought, Bodhisattva Guanyin summoned Muzha.


    "Bodhisattva, what are your orders?" The handsome Muzha approached Bodhisattva Guanyin and asked after paying respects.


    "The Scripture Seeker team is almost at the Liusha River. You go to the Liusha River and inform General Juanlian not to be in a hurry to find a master, but to impede them by the river..." Bodhisattva Guanyin instructed.


    This statement made Muzha pause for a moment, but he did not ask further questions and simply nodded before leaving.


    Find more to read at empire


    Since the Bodhisattva had instructed him so, he would follow her orders ordingly.


    "Amitabha, crossing the eight hundred li wide Liusha River without the help of General Juanlian would certainly be difficult; this time, deliberately doing so should add another trial, right?"


    Watching Muzha leave, Bodhisattva Guanyin inwardly estimated the potential oue.

 Chapter 164 Bypassing the Ten Thousand Li Liusha River

    ```


    Notification: Gained Experience Points 1850.


    Notification: Level increased by 1, current level 27.


    The effect of the shing Brilliance Shoesbined with the attack from Palm Thunder led to the direct electrocution of a Demon Soldier that had half its Health Points remaining.


    Upon releasing his palm, a cool sensation flowed from within, and almost simultaneously, a session of system notifications alerted Jiang Liu that his level had ascended to 27.


    Although activating Palm Thunder required grabbing the target, with the shing Brilliance Shoes aiding its execution, the move was much easier to perform.


    As his level increased, Jiang Liu took a moment to consider before immediately investing Skill Points into Palm Thunder, elevating the skill to High-Level status.


    Among the three major professions, Taoists boast the highest output, and their Attack Power bes even more formidable after a ss change. As Palm Thunder was currently Jiang Liu''s most powerful skill, it was naturally vital to maximize its Skill Points first!


    After the upgrade, Palm Thunder''s rted attributes got a significant boost:


    Palm Thunder: (High-Level 3): Upon grasping the target, unleash the power of thunder in the palm, Attack Power +1800+120%, Cooldown Time 60 seconds.


    Even though the Cooldown Time remained unchanged, both the base Attack Power and the percentage increase had improved nicely, prompting a nod of satisfaction from Jiang Liu.


    Since reaching level 26, Jiang Liu had roughly estimated that, all said and done, he had gained close to 500,000 Experience Points.


    This made Jiang Liu sigh internally. Now that leveling up required so many Experience Points, wouldn''t the numbers be astronomical by the time he reached levels 100 and above?


    In terms of human Cultivator realms, they are Qi Refinement, Meridian Unblocking, Body Refining, Controlling-Law, Divinity Transformation, Returning Void, Heavenly Immortal, Taiyi True Immortal, Daluo Golden Immortal, and surpassing the Golden Immortal realm were legendary figures such as the Jade Emperor and Tathagata...


    If one were to use the settings from Deification or the Primordial, surpassing the Daluo Golden Immortal realm would mean entering the Quasi-Saint realm, right!?


    In total ten major realms, and if each realm corresponds to 10 levels, doesn''t that mean I would need at least level 91 to reach the likes of Tathagata?


    "I remember before crossing over, the game I yed capped at level 100!?"


    As he resumed sitting on the White Dragon Horse and continued his Journey to the West, Jiang Liu pondered the issue of levels.


    Could it be that his own cap was also level 100 and that it was impossible to advance further after reaching it?


    Moreover, he remembered that when Saint Monk Longhai imparted the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique, he mentioned it had only six levels.


    Does that mean after reaching the Heavenly Immortal Realm, relying on this cultivation technique for Experience Points would be ineffectual?


    After thinking for a moment, Jiang Liu shook his head, feeling it was too early to worry about these issues. Who knows how long it would actually take to reach level 100.


    However, now that he was at level 27, it seemed he should save Skill Points to upgrade Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound after another two levels.


    At level 31, he could elevate Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound to the fourth level.


    "Master, there''s a massive river ahead, no, this looks more like a sea!?" Sun Wukong suddenly spoke up, interrupting Jiang Liu''s contemtion as he sat atop the White Dragon Horse.


    Jiang Liu looked ahead and indeed, there was a clear demarcation between thend and the water.


    As they drew nearer, Jiang Liu could see the waters were filled with endless quicksand, grains shifting with the current, which created an unusual sight.


    Of course, what was most astonishing was the river''s vastness. It was so wide that the other side was out of sight, which was why Sun Wukong initially mistook it for a sea.


    "Monkey Brother, this is a river, it''s just an exceptionally wide one!"


    As a former Marshalmanding eighty thousand Naval Forces, Zhu Bajie approached the riverbed and after a brief assessment confidently dered.


    "Have we reached Liusha River already? It''s truly a sight to behold!" Jiang Liu dismounted from the White Dragon Horse and stood by the riverbank, looking far into the distance where the boundary was out of sight, which drew a silent exmation of wonder from him.


    The original text stated that the Liusha River was tens of thousands of miles in length and eight hundred miles wide, lying across thend like an insurmountable rift.


    Jiang Liu had once thought this was an exaggeration, but now it didn''t seem so exaggerated.


    "River!? Such a wide river is certainly rare."


    Sun Wukong, also curious, scooped up some water at the riverside. The water in his palm had some sand in it, indicating it wasn''t drinkable. However, upon a gentle sniff, itcked the briny scent of seawater.


    "What''s so great about this river? Back when I, Old Pig, held the title of Marshal Tianpeng, the Heavenly River was truly wide!" Hearing Sun Wukong praising the river''s width, Zhu Bajie shook his head, boasting with a look of pride.


    "Alright, let''s stop marveling for now..." Discover hidden tales at empire


    Hearing the conversation between Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, Jiang Liu knew that if he allowed them to continue, it would turn into a squabble, so he preempted their next words, saying, "Now, let''s discuss how we''re going to cross this river."


    "Master, that''s easy, Xiaobai is a dragon, right? If he carries you over the river, it''ll be faster than running onnd!"


    Zhu Bajie was nonchnt in response to Jiang Liu''s question.


    ```


    "Indeed, Master, I can carry you across the river!" Despite being transformed into a white horse, he was still a dragon at heart. Hearing Zhu Bajie''s suggestion, the White Dragon Horse nodded and volunteered eagerly.


    "Is that so!?" Jiang Liu was taken aback by the words of White Dragon Horse and Zhu Bajie.


    Although their reasoning made sense, why had it never been done this way in the original story?


    In the Liusha River, was Monk Sha not lurking within, and it was uncertain whether he would recognize Jiang Liu. If there was indeed trouble while crossing the river, the consequences could be unpredictable.


    It seemed that Tang Monk, known as a good man for ten lifetimes of cultivation, was in his previous nine lifetimes eaten by Monk Sha?


    "Your words are polite, yet it is prudent to be cautious when crossing this boundless river. Let''s see if there are any strong evil demons in the water." Not wanting to gamble with his life, Jiang Liu spoke to Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie.


    "Hmm, Master, you speak wisely. Bajie, why don''t you go down and take a look!?" Sun Wukong nodded in agreement and then turned to Zhu Bajie beside him.


    "Why should I go!? Monkey Brother, don''t you always boast that you can traverse heaven and earth, omnipotent!?" Laziness creeping in, Zhu Bajie retorted somewhat unwillingly.


    "Don''t you always say you were once Marshal Tianpeng? You should be more familiar with matters in the water. If I, Old Sun, were to go, I would have to recite the water avoidance art. In case ites to blows, it won''t be easy to exert my full strength!" Shaking his head, Sun Wukong seemed to have an aversion to entering the water.


    "Alright then, I, Old Pig, will go down to take a look!"


    Convinced by Sun Wukong''s reasoning that casting the water avoidance art while engaging inbat in the water would divide one''s attention, Zhu Bajie shook his head reluctantly, hefted his rake, and with a powerful leap plunged straight into the Liusha River.


    The Liusha River, thousands of miles long and eight hundred miles wide, saw Zhu Bajie dive in and swim around for approximately half a Chinese hour without finding anything.


    Having no luck, he simply rested at the bottom of the river.


    Searching for a demon in such a vast river was naturally no easy task.


    After about another hour had passed, Zhu Bajie finally broke through the surface of the water, shook the droplets from his body, and said, "Master, I searched around down there and did not find any powerful demons!"


    "No!?" Hearing this, Jiang Liu''s heart stirred.


    Could it be that Monk Sha had not yet arrived at the Liusha River because they had set out early? But on second thought, that seemed unlikely.


    "Or is there some other problem?" After pondering to himself for a moment, Jiang Liu thought it over.


    Regardless, with Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and Little White Dragon protecting him, and armed with the Brocade Kasaya and the Nine-Ring Staff, he didn''t need to worry too much about his safety.


    With this in mind, Jiang Liu nodded.


    Mounted on the White Dragon Horse''s back, the White Dragon Horse leaped into the Liusha River. Its hooves barely stirred the waters, and it was able to cross as if on t ground.


    "Truly befitting of the Dragon n! Even transformed into a white horse, it moves through water as easily as fish!" Watching the White Dragon Horse swim ahead steadily, Jiang Liu admired in his heart.


    "Let''s go!" As White Dragon Horse carried Jiang Liu across the Liusha River, Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie set off too; the monkey and the pig floated in mid-air, heading across the river.


    However, they had only swum two or three li when suddenly, the water of the Liusha River began to churn unusually, causing Jiang Liu, who was sitting on the horse, to stagger nearly falling off.


    Whoosh!@@novelbin@@


    Without any wind to cause waves and despite the serene air above the Liusha River, the water was whipped up into towering waves, like a tsunami. Even as skilled in water as Little White Dragon was, now in the form of a horse and carrying Jiang Liu on its back, it struggled to maintain bnce.


    "Master, be careful! Don''t fall off!" The White Dragon Horse tried its best to stay steady, shouting loudly to Jiang Liu.


    "You dimwit, how did you scout just now!? There is indeed an evil demon causing a disturbance in the water!" Seeing this, Sun Wukong was shocked and angry, rebuking Zhu Bajie.


    "I, I didn''t know either, Old Pig. Maybe the evil demon was hiding too deep, and I just didn''t find him!" Zhu Bajie said, somewhat sheepishly lowering his head.


    Whoosh!


    A massive whirlpool rose with terrifying waves crashing down, and Jiang Liu was immediately struck into the waters.


    Fortunately, Zhu Bajie was quick to act, grabbing the fallen Jiang Liu and the group swiftly retreated.


    They were only two or three li from the shore and in a short while everyone had returned to the banks of the Liusha River.


    Achoo...


    Being the cold winter months, falling into the river, Jiang Liu felt ice-cold all over and couldn''t help but sneeze several times, tightening the kasaya around him.


    "Master, I, Old Pig, will go down and capture that demon!" Perhaps out of guilty conscience and the desire to make amends after seeing Jiang Liu''s state, Zhu Bajie spoke fiercely.


    "No, no need!"


    However, Jiang Liu did not me Zhu Bajie and said, "As the saying goes, even a strong dragon cannot suppress a local snake. Since the demon in the water obstructs our journey to the West, then we shall simply bypass the Liusha River!"

 Chapter 165 General Juanlian: Wait, come back quickly

    Jiang Liu might not be smart, but he certainly wasn''t stupid. Within the vast expanse of the Liusha River, which was eight hundred li wide, finding a person was like searching for a needle in the ocean. Plus, taking Zhu Bajie''sziness into ount, Jiang Liu found nothing strange about him not encountering any demons.


    Though crossing the Liusha River was indeed perilous, with the protection of Monk Sha, the White Dragon Horse, and Zhu Bajie, was it possible for them to kill him?


    That was impossible!


    Not to mention, he still held the Brocade Kasaya and the Nine-Ring Staff in his possession.


    Just after venturing out two or three li into the Liusha River, demons began to stir up the winds and waves, forcing him to retreat. Jiang Liu understood that this was certainly Monk Sha causing trouble from the river''s depths and was surely waiting for him at the bottom.


    Therefore, Jiang Liu yed along with the plot, stating he couldn''t cross the Liusha River, so he decided to take a detour.


    The Liusha River was ten thousand li long! If they were to detour, how far would they have to go?


    Just the thought of it brought joy to the heart.


    "Ah!? Master!? Detour!?"


    When Zhu Bajie heard Jiang Liu''s words, he was somewhat dumbfounded and said, "Master, we don''t even know the full length of this river. If we detour, who knows how long it will take to get around it? It could easily be a year or two. How about I, Old Pig, go down and capture that demon instead!?"


    Although Zhu Bajie did not care much for the merit of the Journey to the West, and therefore had no intention to show off his abilities while apanying Jiang Liu, he still had a sense of responsibility when necessary.


    As his ownziness had resulted in Jiang Liu falling into the water, Zhu Bajie felt somewhat guilty. If they took a detour, he would feel even more remorseful.


    "No! Absolutely not!" Hearing that it would take at least a year or two to detour, Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up. Seeing Zhu Bajie shaking his Nine-Toothed Rake and preparing to go into the river to catch the demon, Jiang Liu urgently spoke out to stop him.


    Seeing Zhu Bajie''s puzzled expression, Jiang Liu cleared his throat and said, "Bajie, rest assured, I am not ming you. This ce is, after all, the demon''s turf. Who knows if there''s another powerful being like Zen Master Wuchao hidden inside? We better take a detour!"


    In the meantime, without giving Zhu Bajie another chance to speak, Jiang Liu promptly mounted the White Dragon Horse. Read new chapters at empire


    Perceiving his master''s intention, the White Dragon Horse moved forward along the bank of the Liusha River.


    "Master!" Watching Jiang Liu''s retreating figure on horseback, Zhu Bajie appeared deeply moved.


    Indeed, his intuition had not been wrong; his master favored him. He had caused trouble for his master, who hadn''t med him in the slightest. To think that his master would rather detour for a year or two than let him risk himself in the river!


    ...


    At the bottom of the Liusha River, General Juanlian waited quietly, holding the Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff in his hand.


    He knew well that by stirring up waves and forcing the Scripture Seeker to retreat, someone would soone looking for trouble, inevitably leading to a great battle.


    "Envoy Muzha said that the two main disciples of the Scripture Seeker are the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, who caused Havoc in Heaven five hundred years ago, and the other is Marshal Tianpeng, who oncemanded the eighty thousand-strong Heavenly River Army.


    Both are very strong, so it''s unlikely they suffered this setback for no reason!" As General Juanlian silently contemted at the bottom of the Liusha River, his heart calcted quietly.


    If a fight really broke out, he probably couldn''t win.


    However, he was fortunate to be there on the orders of Bodhisattva Guanyin to wait for the Scripture Seeker. If he couldn''t win the fight, he would just reveal his identity.


    "But what exactly is Bodhisattva''s intention? He clearly told me to wait here for the Scripture Seeker, but when they arrived, he asked me to pretend not to recognize them and deliberately create obstacles. Why make things difficult for them?"


    Recalling the previous mission from Envoy Muzha bearing Bodhisattva Guanyin''s decree, General Juanlian shook his head inwardly.


    Forget it, the intentions of these great figures are iprehensible. It''s best not to think about it and simply follow Bodhisattva''s decree with peace of mind.


    "Eh? What''s going on? I''ve waited so long, why is there no movement at all?" After waiting for a long while amid the river''s bottom and busying his thoughts with various matters, General Juanlian suddenly felt puzzled when he snapped back to reality.


    "Could it be!? Are they plotting how to deal with me? I''ll wait a bit longer and see!" With this in mind, General Juanlian patiently waited at the bottom of the river for the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, but still, all was calm.


    Unable to wait any longer, General Juanlian stealthily peeked his head out from the water, looking towards the riverbank.


    However, the riverbank next to the Liusha River was deserted¡ªthe Scripture Seeker had long since vanished.


    "Wha... what''s happening... what''s going on!?"


    Looking from side to side and finding no trace of the Scripture Seeker, General Juanlian was bbergasted, filled with question marks,pletely baffled. Where did they run off to?


    Surprised and perplexed, it took a while before General Juanlian came to his senses, then he lifted his Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff, which shone brightly.


    In a moment, many little demons from the Liusha River approached him.


    "Have any of you seen where the Scripture Seeker who was just on the riverbank went off to?" After calling over many of the small demons like fish and shrimp from the Liusha River, General Juanlian asked.


    "I saw, I saw! I heard them say they were going to take a detour and head south!" As General Juanlian finished speaking, a Carp Demon leaped up, dering loudly.


    "That''s right, that''s right, we all heard it. They said they would detour and go south!" Following the Carp Demon, many other little demons also chimed in, shouting in unison.


    "Detour... detour...!?"


    He would have been better off not knowing the truth, but after learning it, General Juanlian was even more baffled.


    "You''re kidding, right?" Just because I stirred up some trouble and forced them to retreat a little, they decided to take a detour?


    People say, ''You won''t turn back until you hit the south wall!'' But this Scripture Seeker, just by stumbling over a small rock on the road, turned back immediately?


    "Incredible! With such a mentality, how could he ever reach the Western Heaven!?" Obtain the True Scriptures!? Even if the Scripture Seeker is like this, wouldn''t the Great Sage Equalling Heaven and Marshal Tianpeng just let him do as he pleases!?"


    Mumbling to himself in a low voice, General Juanlian was at a loss for a moment, feeling unable to grasp the Scripture Seeker''s way of doing things.


    After some thought, General Juanlian waved his hand and dismissed almost all of the little demons, leaving only a few inconspicuous ones. He ordered them to monitor the Scripture Seekers along the bank of the Liusha River and see what they had up their sleeves before making a move.


    To take such a detour! General Juanlian even doubted the possibility himself.


    He rode southward, while Jiang Liu sat cross-legged on the back of the White Dragon Horse, cultivating. Along the way, he would sit and practice, asionally stopping to fiddle with some gourmet food. When dusk fell, they would camp out for rest. Jiang Liu was thoroughly enjoying himself.


    And so, three days passed by, during which Jiang Liu did not feel the slightest impatience, almost wishing he could keep traveling to the ends of the earth.


    However, as he watched Jiang Liu traveling south along the river, not seeming to be in a hurry at all, General Juanlian, who was hiding at the bottom of the Liusha River, became anxious.


    What on earth was the Scripture Seeker doing!? Was he really nning to bypass the vast expanse of the Liusha River? Was he truly so ruthless?


    If he actually made it around, that would mean the great task of Scripture Seeking would be pointlessly dyed for so long, and I would be to me, right?


    At that time, how would I report to Bodhisattva Guanyin?


    "I can''t stand it anymore! I need toe up with a n!" General Juanlian, having little demons watching on the surface and following along at the river bottom, grew anxious and began to ponder his next move.


    "Should I just pop out and say I''m one of the designatedpanions of the Scripture Seeker appointed by Bodhisattva Guanyin, willing to carry them across the river?" Thinking of this, General Juanlian inwardly shook his head.


    No, no, at first I didn''t recognize them, and now suddenly popping out and saying I do? That just won''t hold up, will it?


    "No good, it looks like I''ll have to trigger a fight after all. It''s only when I can''t beat them that I should reveal who I am. But since they are noting to find me, it seems I have to make the first move, sigh..."


    Shaking his head, General Juanlian felt drained. What was supposed to be an easy task had somehow developed into this situation.


    ...


    The night was deep.


    Jiang Liu sat cross-legged, quietly cultivating, gaining 3 Experience Points every ten seconds. Although not fast, it''s like the steady dripping of water wears away stone, and sand umtes into a pagoda. His Cultivation Level was slowly increasing.


    Next to him, Zhu Bajie was fast asleep and snoring loudly.


    What about Sun Wukong? He was resting his head on his arms, staring at the starry night sky, lost in thought.


    Ssh! Ssh!


    But during this silent night, all of a sudden a wave sounded, and then the water of the Liusha River parted as a fierce, sturdy demon creature emerged from the riverbed.


    Looking at this demon creature, its size was simply bigger than Zhu Bajie, with an extraordinary presence, holding a Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff in hand and a string of pearls hanging on its head.


    Only, these pearls were actually nine ghastly white skulls strung together, looking wicked and brutal.


    "Who are you, Monk? How dare you get close to my Liusha River!? Are you seeking death!?" General Juanlian spoke in a deep, fierce voice, looking menacing.


    Hmm,ing out to trouble them myself seemed to make it a given that they wouldn''t let it go easily, and fighting would naturally ensue.


    Surely, as soon as I spoke, Sun Wukong had a fierce look on his face, and even the sleeping Marshal Tianpeng, Zhu Bajie, awoke, brandishing their weapons.


    Are they getting ready to make a move?


    "Wukong, Bajie!" However, just when Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie appeared about to fight, Jiang Liu called out to them.


    "I''m sorry, Great King, we''ll leave right now! We''ll leave immediately!" After stopping Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, Jiang Liu hurriedly apologized.


    As soon as he finished speaking, Jiang Liu mounted the White Dragon Horse and signaled it to leave the bank of the Liusha River.@@novelbin@@


    General Juanlian: "..."


    "Wait,e back!" After bemusement for quite a while, as he watched Jiang Liu riding away on the white horse, getting farther and farther, General Juanlian shouted loudly.


    However, upon his shouting, Jiang Liu rode off even faster, quickly vanishing into the night.


    (PS: Happy Birthday to me. Yes, today is my birthday. Unbelievably, I''ve turned thirty. I really didn''t want to celebrate this birthday. I used to say I was in my twenties, but now I can''t anymore. Sigh, I''m getting old¡­)

 Chapter 167 General Juanlian Almost Cries

    Jiang Liu, though he had transmigrated and taken over Tang Monk''s body, never felt that he was Tang Monk.


    After all, his soul had traveled from modern society, so naturally, he had his own understanding of the Journey to the West.


    In the original work, Tang Monk had not harbored any thoughts of disobedience towards the arrangements set by Guanyin. Whether it was Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, or Sha Wujing, as long as it was stated to be arranged by Bodhisattva Guanyin, he epted them without consideration of anything else.


    But when it came to Jiang Liu, things were different.


    Sun Wukong was willing to ept this because they were on the same side, Zhu Bajie and Little White Dragon were willing to ept because they hoped to be recruited to their side.


    But what about Sha Wujing!?


    As General Juanlian, he almost served the Great Jade Emperor personally and could be considered one of the Jade Emperor''s confidants!


    Furthermore, with his limited abilities and seemingly nothing that could be used to persuade him to join one''s own side, naturally, Jiang Liu did not wish to keep someone who could likely be a spy by his side.


    Envoy Muzha waspletely at a loss regarding Jiang Liu''s attitude and could only hope that General Juanlian would find a way to persuade the Scripture Seeker.


    After waiting a while, General Juanlian''s injuries slowly began to heal, and he gradually came to his senses.


    Experience more on empire


    Seeing Jiang Liu next to him and seemingly afraid that Sun Wukong would continue to act, he quickly spoke up, calling out to Jiang Liu, "Wait, Master, Master, I''m not an Evil Demon, I have been enlightened by Great Bodhisattva Guanyin..."


    "General Juanlian, regarding your matter, I have already made it clear to the Scripture Seeker!" Envoy Muzha interjected as soon as General Juanlian spoke.


    Hearing Envoy Muzha''s words, General Juanlian felt relieved.


    Since Envoy Muzha had personallye to exin, well, that was much better than relying on his own one-sided ount.


    However, just as General Juanlian''s sigh of relief was about to be fully released, Muzha''s next words stunned him.


    "Master Xuanzang said that he is quite satisfied with the members for the Journey to the West for Scriptures, and there''s no need for you to apany him!" Muzha didn''t beat around the bush, bluntly informing General Juanlian.


    General Juanlian was taken aback and after a long time, he finally collected his wits and said anxiously, "Master, I... I''ve been enlightened by Bodhisattva Guanyin to apany you on the Journey to the West! I can carry your pack and lead your horse!"


    "Thank you for your kind offer. However, my horse needs no leading, and besides, we have no pack for you to carry!" Upon hearing this, Jiang Liu shook his head and politely declined.


    Looking at the nearby White Dragon Horse and thinking back to when he was chasing after the Scripture Seeker, indeed, there didn''t seem to be any luggage.


    This made General Juanlian even more anxious, and he said, "I... I can also protect you along the Journey to the West, Master! I do have some Demon-Subduing and Evil-Eliminating abilities!"


    "Thank you again for your kind offer, but ordinary demons are well within my own capacity. Should we encounter any that are beyond us, we have Wukong and Bajie. I believe there won''t be any troubles!" yet, Jiang Liu still shook his head as he spoke.


    General Juanlian''s expression became even more anxious, and he thought, what value do I have that could move the Scripture Seeker?


    Right! Isn''t there something right before his eyes that he could use!?


    With a thought, General Juanlian followed up, "Master! Where I can be of use, as with this Liusha River right before us, I can carry you across! I can save you the trouble of taking a detour. The vast Liusha River, it could save you a year and a half''s time!"


    General Juanlian truly thought he was being incredibly clever. Why bother with far-off concerns when right now was the exact moment to demonstrate his worth?


    By epting him as a disciple, crossing Liusha River directly would at least save a year and a half''s time, surely the Scripture Seeker would be tempted by this!?


    However, in response to General Juanlian''s words, Jiang Liu''s expression turned peculiar, and then in a low voice, he chanted a Buddhist verse, his demeanor firm and impassioned, "Amitabha, the journey ahead to the West spans one hundred and eight thousand miles! I do not shun the hardships, taking them as sweet. What counts a detour of ten thousand miles!?


    Even if the route stretches another hundred thousand miles! Twenty thousand miles! I will not frown!"


    "Ah, it seems that Master Xuanzang is utterly determined not to ept him, isn''t he!?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, an involuntary sigh escaped Muzha as he felt somewhat helpless.


    Having heard General Juanlian''s argument, Muzha had secretly hoped that Juanlian had finally made a point that would make Master Xuanzang willing to ept him, yet it seemed it was still impossible to sway his determination!?


    "This is strange, indeed. Why does Master Xuanzang dislike General Juanlian so deeply? It doesn''t quite make sense!" In the midst of his astonishment, Muzha felt a sense of bewilderment about Jiang Liu''s reaction, thinking it to be somewhat illogical.@@novelbin@@


    "You... you would rather take a detour of ten thousand miles than to ept me!?" General Juanlian was also bbergasted, staring at Jiang Liu with a dumbfounded look, finding it hard to believe.


    Why did he detest him so much!? It made no sense. Could it be just because he had stirred the waters and made him fall into the river before!?


    Such pettiness from a Scripture Seeker seemed a little much, didn''t it?


    "s, poor fellow..." The White Dragon Horse remained silent, knowing he had no ce to speak in this situation, but he empathized with General Juanlian''s current emotions.


    Because the predicament he faced previously was quite simr, and even more pitiable than that of Juanlian''s.


    At least now there was Envoy Muzha to speak for him. Back then, he had shamelessly followed on his own.


    However, even though he felt pity for General Juanlian and could empathize with his current feelings, for some reason, the White Dragon Horse felt quite pleased, experiencing a sense of bnce.


    At first, he had thought he was the only one rejected by the Scripture Seeker. In the beginning, the eldest and the second disciples were readily epted by their master.


    Now that even General Juanlian was being refused, no matter how eloquently he pleaded, it gave the White Dragon Horse a sense of great relief.


    Leaving aside the White Dragon Horse''s thoughts for the moment, after rejecting General Juanlian, Jiang Liu had no desire to say more. He simply mounted the White Dragon Horse and continued southward, showing no intention of crossing Liusha River.


    "Master Xuanzang, wait, whether or not you''re willing to ept General Juanlian aside, you should at least cross the Liusha River before proceeding," Envoy Muzha said anxiously as he watched Jiang Liu, who truly seemed intent on bypassing the river.


    "Thank you for your kind intentions, Envoy Muzha! Since I have made up my mind not to ept him, how could I shamelessly cross the Liusha River? Please, no more persuasions, Envoy Muzha! I shall step by step walk around this vast Liusha River," Jiang Liu said, not even turning his head, but his tone conveyed an unswerving determination.


    "What to do now?" With Jiang Liu and his party moving further away, General Juanlian waspletely dumbfounded, not understanding what to do next.


    He couldn''tprehend how things had escted to this extent.


    It was bad enough that the Scripture Seeker refused to ept him, but to even detour thousands of miles just to avoid him?


    This made General Juanlian even more anxious. If he truly bypassed thousands of miles, not only would he fail to atone for his sins, but it might even aggravate his crime!


    "Envoy Muzha, what should we do now?" General Juanlian was so anxious he was almost in tears as he asked Muzha.


    "I don''t know what to do with this matter either. Please wait here. I will report back to the Bodhisattva and see what her instructions are," At this point, Muzha was at a loss and decided to report the situation.


    "Sigh, I can only hope the Bodhisattva has a solution," General Juanlian sighed helplessly. He knew that this situation would likely leave a poor impression of his abilities in the heart of the Bodhisattva, but at this juncture, it seemed there was no choice but to ce his hopes in her hands.


    Even though he was supposed to wait by Liusha River, General Juanlian dared not lose sight of Jiang Liu, and so, as Jiang Liu and his party traveled along the riverbank, General Juanlian followed them through the waters.


    After a slight shake of his head and a sigh, Envoy Muzha leaped into the air and flew back to Mount Luojia in the South Sea.


    Leaving aside the events at Liusha River, at Mount Luojia, in the Purple Bamboo Forest, Bodhisattva was sitting quietly on her Lotus tform, immersed in meditation.


    Suddenly, she felt a premonition and a slight smile spread across her face.


    She could sense that the trials of the Journey to the West had increased by one more, and it seemed that her n was working perfectly.


    The banishment of the Golden Cicada as the first trial, the multiple threats against his newborn self as the second, being cast into the river at one month old, the demon attack at Guanyin Zen Temple, and now the obstruction at Liusha River...


    "Sigh," After tallying the trials of the Journey to the West in her heart, Bodhisattva sighed to herself.


    So far, only five of the eighty-one trials had been ovee.


    ording to Bodhisattva''s n, by the time they reached Liusha River, they should have already faced a dozen or more trials.


    It appeared she would have her work cut out for her in the future.


    ...


    Jiang Liu sat quietly on the back of the horse, the White Dragon Horse steadily trotting southward.


    "Master, that General Juanlian is still following us. Are we really going to ignore him?" Zhu Bajie looked back and saw General Juanlian persistently tailing them through the river, unable to help himself from speaking to Jiang Liu.


    Once Marshal Tianpeng, Zhu Bajie had a clearer view of matters concerning Immortals and Buddhas. General Juanlian may not be of great significance, but this was a trap set by the higher-ups of the divine realm.


    With their master so decisively rejecting it, not only would it offend those divine leaders, but ultimately, they were unlikely to win this battle, right?


    "No matter, if he likes to follow, let him follow," Jiang Liu simply shook his head in response to Zhu Bajie''s concern.


    Regardless of whether he would ultimately be able to hold on to his decision, Jiang Liu thought that the longer time dragged on and the further south they detoured, the better it would be for him, wouldn''t it?


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu''s mind was not preupied with General Juanlian''s predicament. Instead, he silently invoked "attribute information."


    A semi-transparent interface, visible only to Jiang Liu, appeared before him.


    Looking over it, Jiang Liu saw several items that had dropped when he defeated General Juanlian. Their attribute information fully emerged in front of his eyes.

 Chapter 168 The First Epic Level Equipment

    Almost nothing came out of the brush with General Juanlian, perhaps because today was not his lucky day? So, the drop rate was very low!?


    Two potions, needless to say, but there was also only one piece of equipment. Jiang Liu nced it over and lost interest in it¡ªjust a level 25 Common Level weapon, far inferior to the Mixed Iron Rod in his own hand. Naturally, it wasn''t worth a closer look.


    Besides the two potions and a piece of chicken rib equipment he couldn''t use, in the end, there was also a scroll.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on this scroll, corresponding data information appeared before his eyes.


    Equipment Enhancement Scroll (consumable): Can enhance any mainstream equipment, enabling a quality improvement. Common Level sess rate is 100%, but with each higher level, the sess rate decreases by 20%. The higher the equipment quality, the lower the sess rate.


    Good stuff!


    Seeing the information for this Equipment Enhancement Scroll, Jiang Liu was stirred. Anything that could directly enhance the quality of equipment was clearly valuable.


    However, after seeing the sess rates, Jiang Liu shook his head silently. This was definitely gambling.


    A 100% chance of sess for Common Level, and by that logic, a Fine Level is 80%, a Perfect Level is 60%, a Legendary Level is 40%, Epic Level...


    Forget it, he didn''t have a single piece of Epic Level equipment on him, no need to look further.


    Judging from Jiang Liu''s current equipment, there was no need to consider Common and Fine Levels; enhancing them would be a waste, so, he had to think about Perfect or Legendary Level equipment.


    Using it on Perfect Level equipment, he might gain another piece of Legendary Level equipment with a 60% chance of sess, still more than half likely to seed.


    But if used on Legendary Level equipment, he might obtain his first piece of Epic Level equipment...


    "As they say, fortune favors the bold, better to use it on the Legendary Level equipment then. I only have a Xuanyu Belt at the Perfect Level anyway, nothing worth enhancing!" Shaking his head and after a brief consideration, Jiang Liu decided to use it for enhancing Legendary Level equipment.


    Mixed Iron Rod, Huali Law Ring, Dragon Soul Bracelet, Vidyaraja Crown, shing Brilliance Shoes, and Green Phosphorus Poison Ring.


    Six pieces of Legendary Level equipment. Which one to choose?


    Logically speaking, as Vidyaraja Crown was a growing type of Legendary Level equipment, it offered the best cost-performance ratio if enhanced.


    However, his current situation was already high Defense, low Attack. If he really encountered a terrifying monster, wouldn''t it be best to just use the invincible defense of the Nine-Ring Staff?


    Thus, although the Vidyaraja Crown had the highest value, it was not very suitable for him.


    After some thought, Jiang Liu directed his attention to the main weapon and the two rings.


    Alright, since he wanted to maximize his Attack Power, the main weapon, Mixed Iron Rod, was naturally the best choice.


    With a thought, Jiang Liu took out the Equipment Enhancement Scroll and the Mixed Iron Rod from his inventory space.


    There was no hesitation, everything depended on the mystic luck of fate; Jiang Liu tore open the scroll, and the light fell upon the Mixed Iron Rod.


    Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, seeing Jiang Liu''s actions, were both curious and clueless.


    Sittingfortably on the back of the White Dragon Horse, they had no idea what their master was doing!


    The pig and the monkey, both curiously watching Jiang Liu''s actions, watched as he tore the scroll and the light enveloped the Mixed Iron Rod, also curious.


    Though it all depended on fate, since this concerned his weapon, Jiang Liu was still somewhat nervous.


    As the light from the enhancement scroll slowly faded, he hurriedly looked at the Mixed Iron Rod to see if its quality had undergone any new changes.


    Weapon: Mixed Iron Rod (Epic Level): No level requirement, Attack +2400,es with special effect: Armor Pration Attack, ignores 30% of the opponent''s Defense, Durability 60/60.


    "Hiss..." Seeing the improved attributes of the Mixed Iron Rod, Jiang Liu could not help but draw in a cold breath.


    The enhancement was indeed sessful, turning the Legendary Level equipment into Epic Level; moreover, there was now no level requirement.


    It was a pity that it was not a growing type of equipment like the Vidyaraja Crown.


    Most importantly, an Attack increase of 2400, in Jiang Liu''s view, was already incredibly formidable.


    Bear in mind, before the enhancement, the Attack boost of the Mixed Iron Rod was only 820. In this perspective, you could say that the Attack strength had instantly tripled.


    Of course, it was worth mentioning, or perhaps worth aint, that there still was an issue with the equipment''s durability.


    Originally, the Mixed Iron Rod had only 40 points of durability, and it wasn''t even full when he obtained it. Now, however, the durability had increased to 60, and it was fully restored.


    Originally, due to the durability, the Mixed Iron Rod, powerful as it was, seemed somewhat worn and aged on the outside.


    But now, with the brand new enhanced Mixed Iron Rod in hand, shining brightly and brilliantly, Jiang Liu nodded in satisfaction.


    With the transformation from Legendary to Epic Level, he could say that he had swapped an old musket for a cannon.


    "Wow!"


    Next to Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, both stared wide-eyed in astonishment at the Mixed Iron Rod in Jiang Liu''s hand, now fully enhanced.


    Although its stats were invisible, the Mixed Iron Rod clearly became more impressive, possessing outstanding quality and a brand-new appearance that made it lookpletely renewed, astonishing them all immensely.


    Simply put, it even looked more appealing now.


    "Master, master, what was that scroll you brought out just now? Do you have more? My Supreme Treasure Golden Rake is also a bit worn. Could you help me refurbish it too!?" Zhu Bajie''s eyes lit up as he eagerly looked at the bright, new Mixed Iron Rod in Jiang Liu''s hand and spoke in haste.


    "Get out, you dunce, what use is your rake! When fighting demons, isn''t it mostly I, Old Sun, who is busy? If anyone should use it, it''s my Jingu Bang first!" Sun Wukong also pushed forward, holding his Jingu Bang and speaking while casting an envious nce at Jiang Liu''s Mixed Iron Rod.


    "Sorry, I only had one scroll..." Hearing Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie''s words, Jiang Liu shook his head.


    "Only one, huh!? That figures, such a treasure surely isn''tmon!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s reply, Zhu Bajie shook his head, somewhat disappointed and regretful.


    Just like in modern society, where men like to show off their cars when outdoors¡ªthe better the car, the more likely it attracts women''s attention.


    Simrly, in the world of Journey to the West, whether demon or deity, the greatest boast naturally lies in one''s weapon; the higher its quality, the greater it demonstrates one''s strength.


    In Zhu Bajie''s view, refurbishing his rake could surely earn him considerable favor from a beautiful Female Demon.


    "Master, are you really only having one!?"


    Unlike Zhu Bajie, Sun Wukong looked skeptically at Jiang Liu.@@novelbin@@


    Throughout the journey, Sun Wukong felt he had been deceived by Jiang Liu in several aspects, so he questioned his words gravely.


    "Of course, it''s true! When have I ever deceived you!?" Sun Wukong''s skeptical look darkened Jiang Liu''s face.


    "Well..."


    Sun Wukong pondered for a moment. Although they often quarreled along the road and he seldom won, could it be true that he had never been deceived?


    The Journey to the West Team traveled unhurriedly, with White Dragon Horse gently moving along the Liusha River, while Jiang Liu and his disciples chatted leisurely andfortably.


    In the river, General Juanlian bobbed up and down, having followed Jiang Liu''s group all along. Although he couldn''t quite make out what Jiang Liu and hispanions were discussing, General Juanlian could see that the disciples seemed harmoniously bonded.


    "s¡­" Looking at them, and then at himself, squeezed out of this small team, General Juanlian sighed inwardly and couldn''t help feeling somewhat resentful towards Bodhisattva.


    In General Juanlian''s eyes, had he revealed himself and offered to carry the Scripture Seeker across the river from the beginning, perhaps the Scripture Seeker might have epted him.


    But who knew, Guanyin would assign him apletely iprehensible task.


    Pretend not to know them at first, then create turmoil as they crossed the river, and only if defeated in battle reveal his identity. Your next read is at empire


    What kind of n was that?


    Who would have expected, the Scripture Seeker to be so petty? After causing him to fall into the water, he bore a grudge until now, even refusing to ept him after he revealed his identity.


    "s, this mess is made by the Bodhisattva herself. I hope she can resolve it because if not, I might be doomed to live as a demon in the Liusha River forever."


    Feeling distressed, General Juanlian could only ce his hopes on Guanyin atst.


    ...


    South Sea, Mount Luojia.


    In the Purple Bamboo Forest, Guanyin sat quietly on her Lotus tform, with Muzha having just returned.


    Originally sensing that the Journey to the West had sessfully added another of the eighty-one legendary hardships, Bodhisattva was in a rather good mood, even preparing tomend Muzha.


    However, as soon as Muzha spoke about the events at Liusha River, Guanyin''s expression stiffened.


    Something was off. Weren''t Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie both fine?


    Although there were someplications with Little White Dragon, it was nothing but Xuanzang questioning the words of Little White Dragon. After she personally exined, Xuanzang had epted Little White Dragon.


    But why, when it came to General Juanlian, did he stubbornly refuse to ept him? Even preferring to travel thousands of miles out of his way!


    Muzha represented her will, yet even his words were of no use? This seemed to be the first time Xuanzang had overtly contradicted her wishes.


    General Juanlian and Xuanzang, could there have been a grudge between them already?


    "Amitabha..."


    After pondering for a while about General Juanlian''s matter, Guanyin silently murmured a Buddha''s name, and roughly guessed the reason why Xuanzang was reluctant to ept a disciple.


    Speaking of grudges, there truly might be one, considering General Juanlian''s neck adorned with nine skulls...

 Chapter 169 Gaoyang Arrives at Liusha River

    As the coordinator and executor of the Journey to the West, even though Guanyin Bodhisattva had braced herself for the challenge, knowing the task would be no easy feat, the recent events had still left her feeling incredibly drained.


    It was proving much more difficult than she had anticipated!


    They had only just left Chang''an and covered a mere few thousand miles¡ªnothingpared to the entire journey of one hundred and eight thousand miles¡ªyet the frustrations encountered one after another were already numerous.


    Take, for example, the incident at the Guanyin Zen Temple. She had taken the initiative to destroy her own temple, merely to test whether man-made cmities counted.


    In all fairness, having sacrificed so much, discovering a gifted ck Bear Demon and reiming Mount Luojia wouldn''t be too much to ask, right?@@novelbin@@


    But what happened? Xuanzang beat her to the punch!


    Well, it would have been fine if the ck Bear Demon wasn''t recruited, but in the end, she even had to cough up a Mystical Mirror aspensation.


    And then? Just when things had settled down for a few days, out popped a monkey from within the Three Realms and Six Paths, with magical powers and abilities indistinguishable from Sun Wukong''s, even snatching away the soul of the Dragon King of Jing River, giving her quite the scare.


    It''s true that in the end, she resolved the issue with the Six-Eared Macaque, who had never been heard of before, but she reluctantly had to give away one of her coveted armbands out of greed.


    That aside, how long had she been at peace before another problem arose?


    The western journey was preordained by the Heavenly Dao, a fate determined for the great flourish of Buddhism, and currently the foremost task within the entire Buddhist Realm, allowing no room for error.


    The individuals on the western journey were likewise destined to be carried by the fate of the Heavenly Dao, unchangeable by any means.


    Unexpectedly, thest of them was now rejected by Xuanzang!?


    What to do now!?


    Guanyin felt a headacheing on. Muzha, acting as her emissary, had spoken and yet it had no effect; so even if she were to personally intervene, Xuanzang probably wouldn''t ept the favor.


    Not wanting to do something that was bound to be embarrassing, Guanyin naturally hesitated to proceed.


    But then, what solution existed that could persuade Xuanzang to take General Juanlian under his wing?


    From Xuanzang''s resolute attitude, it was clear that forceful measures could not be used. He would rather take a detour of thousands of miles than to ept General Juanlian, indicative of his aversion to the general.


    However, it wasn''t as though Xuanzang had made a mistake.


    In this life, although Xuanzang had not yet awoken the true spirit of Golden Cicada, his intelligence was unmatched, evident from his ability to deduce the essence of the western journey for scriptures even before embarking on it.


    Thus, having been eaten by General Juanlian in the previous nine lives, even without the awakening of his past-life memories, a natural abhorrence for General Juanlian was within reason.


    "It seems that this matter requires a long-term strategy..."


    After pondering for a moment, Guanyin couldn''te up with a good solution right away.


    Putting aside Guanyin''s troubles for the moment, Jiang Liu was spending his daysfortably, cultivating while riding on the back of the White Dragon Horse, decimating any demons they encountered along the way, and enjoying fine dining during his leisure time.


    It goes without saying that after the enhancement of his Mixed Iron Rod, Jiang Liu''s strength saw a significant increase.


    If he encountered a demon, even one at the same Demon Soldier Realm, Jiang Liu could instantly move behind it and follow up with a Palm Thunder, leaving the opponent either dead or severely incapacitated.


    The special effect of the shing Brilliance Shoes,bined with the terrifyingly high attack power of Palm Thunder, formed an impable strategy. Discover stories at empire


    After traveling south along Liusha River for a good ten days and eliminating over a hundred demon creatures along the way, Jiang Liu had never once failed.


    That day, Jiang Liu casually disposed of dozens of demons and demon soldiers emerging from the Liusha River, earning himself some Experience Points.


    As these monsters had initiated the attack on him, their health bars depleted until they weren''t just unconscious from severe injuries, but dead outright.


    "Wukong, have any of you noticed that in thest couple of days, the number of demons seems to be increasing!?"


    This was already the third wave of demons they''d encountered that day, and after Jiang Liu effortlessly dealt with these little demons, he raised the question to Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie.


    "Indeed, Master. Now that you mention it, it does seem to be the case!" Sun Wukong nodded in agreement upon hearing this.


    With Jiang Liu''s reminder, Sun Wukong seemed to catch on and reflected on the past few days; it was indeed so.


    "Master, eldest disciple brother, did you not notice? General Juanlian, who is under the river, hasn''t shown himself in two days. He used to surface two or three times a day," Zhu Bajie, though naturallyzy, proved to be much more observant than Sun Wukong and interjected.


    "Eh!? Now that you mention it, Bajie, it does seem to be the case. Could it be that something has happened in this Liusha River recently!?"


    Agreeing with the observation, Sun Wukong stared at the water with its constant churn of sand and bubbles, contemting the situation.


    "Why bother? It''s none of our business; we just need to keep heading south," although Zhu Bajie had long sensed that something was amiss, his attitude of indifference kept him from bothering with it.


    "Indeed, Bajie does have a point!" Upon hearing Zhu Bajie''sment, Jiang Liu nodded in agreement.


    No matter what was happening at the Liusha River, it had nothing to do with them. In fact, because some disturbances seemed to be urring within the river, demons had be more active, sending many little demons trailing after them, facilitating their progression by ying and leveling up; they could hardly be happier.


    Meanwhile, two silhouettes soared across the sky...


    Gliding through the clouds, they soon arrived above the Liusha River and quietly hovered there.


    The eight-hundred-league-wide Liusha River stretched endlessly, resembling a vast sea.


    "Sister Dragon Lady, why has that shrimp spirit escaped from the Bodhisattva''s Lotus Pond? And moreover, why did the Bodhisattva be so angry?" A female figure standing on a cloud asked the dragondy beside her.


    "Gaoyang, you don''t know, that shrimp spirit acted recklessly and, taking advantage of the Bodhisattva''s absence, stole a lotus seed from the Lotus tform. Naturally, the Bodhisattva was furious andmanded us to capture it," the dragondy standing on the cloud said.


    Having said this, Dragon Lady paused for a moment before adding, "Moreover, the Bodhisattva mentioned that you''ve been cultivating in the Purple Bamboo Forest for quite some time now, and have already achieved the Controlling-Law Realm. It''s about time you left to gain some field experience!"


    "Alright, Sister Dragon Lady, I understand!" Gaoyang nodded earnestly in response.


    "However, finding the shrimp spirit in this vast eight-hundred-league-wide Liusha River is like looking for a needle in a haystack. How about this¡ªwe split up?" After ncing at the wide expanse of the river, the Dragon Lady proposed.


    "Sure, Sister Dragon Lady!" Gaoyang nodded, her hand lifting to release a strip of red silk. With a leap, shended on the red silk and flew to the south.


    And the Dragon Lady? She revealed her true form as part of the Dragon n and flew north, beginning their search for the shrimp spirit in separate directions.


    ...


    In recent days, the Liusha River had indeed be particrly bustling. Originally hosting countless kinds of demons due to its vastness, they all had their territories, maintaining a bnce with one another.


    General Juanlian, despite being a Heavenly Immortal among demons, had influence over the Liusha River. However, as his ambitionsy elsewhere, the various demon kings within the river gave him the respect he deserved.


    But now, the situation was different.


    A mere shrimp spirit with only the strength of a Demon General dared to steal a lotus seed from Guanyin''s own Lotus tform and flee the Lotus Pond.


    Guanyin, the revered Bodhisattva, whose seeds could allow those of the Returning Void Realm to shed their mortal coils and ascend to immortality. Simrly, the seeds could also enable a demon king to avoid catastrophe and transform into a Demon Immortal.


    This news naturally set the various demon kings within the Liusha River ame with desire.


    A lowly Demon General in possession of Guanyin''s lotus seed? It was akin to a child clutching precious gold while wandering through a bustling market.


    Lately, almost every demon in Liusha River had be active, with the demon kings ordering a search for the shrimp spirit from the Lotus Pond.


    If they could find the lotus seed, they could partake of its powers, casting off their mortal forms.


    As for General Juanlian, who was busy suppressing others? At this crucial moment, no face was given.


    Once they attained the realm of Demon Immortal, they would belong to the Immortal Realm, and there would be no need to fear General Juanlian!


    "It''s all over; I''m really finished now!" a demon creature, transformed from a giant shrimp, fretted within the Liusha River.


    Feeling the entire river''s demons on the hunt for itself, and with people from the Purple Bamboo Forest chasing after it from the sky, it felt as if there was no escape, neither to heaven nor to earth.


    For days and nights, Guanyin had been cultivating in the Lotus Pond, leaving the Lotus tform unattended at the water''s edge. On that fateful day, the shrimp spirit happened to see a lotus seed form within the tform.


    Moved by an inexplicable impulse, it sumbed to greed and dared to steal the Bodhisattva''s lotus seed.


    At this moment, the shrimp spirit deeply regretted its actions, feeling as though it had been possessed by a devil.


    The seed that could allow demon kings to shed their mortal bodies was within its grasp, yet it knew not how many years of cultivation would be needed to reach that level. Why did it give in to such temptation?


    Buzz!


    Let''s set aside the shrimp spirit''s remorse for a moment. Suddenly, a brilliant light shone down from the sky, piercing through the Liusha River directly onto the giant shrimp at the riverbed.


    "Found it!"


    Standing upon a strip of red silk, Gaoyang eyed the small Lotus tform she had deployed, which had now reacted. Her gaze hardened.


    The shrimp spirit at the bottom knew it had been discovered and, not daring to resist, fled rapidly towards the distance like a sh of lightning.


    The Lotus tform in mid-air locked onto its target, moving with the fleeting creature. The beam of light continued to steadfastly pursue it.

 Chapter 170 Heavy Damage

    The demon creatures of the Liusha River were almost all searching for the whereabouts of that Shrimp Spirit, which could be said to havepletely stirred them into action.


    Here, Gaoyang stood atop the Red Silk, using the Lotus tform to lock onto the position of the Shrimp Spirit. Radiance zed brilliantly, chasing after the fleeing Shrimp Spirit and naturally, attracting the attention of countless demon kind.


    In the Liusha River, there was a Catfish Demon King transformed from a catfish. Upon hearing that the Shrimp Spirit''s trail had been found, he was overjoyed and hurried out of his Water Mansion with great speed.


    Clearly, he feared that if he was toote, the Shrimp Spirit would be captured by other Demon Kings.


    "Right, how was that Shrimp Spirit found!?" However, in his haste to leave, the Catfish Demon King turned and asked a Demon Marshal by his side.


    "People from Mount Luojia have arrived. They''ve used a Lotus tform to determine the whereabouts of the Shrimp Spirit, and now they''re in hot pursuit as it runs everywhere!" the Demon Marshal replied upon being asked.


    "Someone from Mount Luojia? A follower of Bodhisattva Guanyin!?" Upon hearing this, the steps of the Catfish Demon King faltered slightly, and he felt intimidated.


    Who was Bodhisattva Guanyin? A big shot in Buddhism. Although she was only at the level of a Bodhisattva, she was proimed the foremost among Bodhisattvas. Her strength surpassed that of some Buddhas. Such a powerful being was definitely not someone a minor Demon King like himself could afford to offend.


    Of course, the main point was that it seemed like any random person under Bodhisattva Guanyin''smand was of the Heavenly Immortal Realm, definitely not someone he could contend with.


    "Since it''s someone from Mount Luojia, then it has nothing to do with us. We are not a match for the people from Mount Luojia, s..." Shaking his head, the Catfish Demon King appeared very unwilling as he let out a long sigh.


    Even though he was unwilling, what could he do? Mortals differed from immortals, and the beings in the Heavenly Immortal Realm were not ones he could challenge. Otherwise, he wouldn''t be desperately striving for a chance to be a Demon Immortal.


    "Great King, actually, the one from Mount Luojia is just a young girl. I saw her flying with Controlling Artifacts, unable to perform the Art of Cloud Soaring, so her cultivation level must not be high!" Hearing his Great King''s words of discontent, the Demon Marshal beside him thought for a moment before saying.


    "Oh? She can''t even master the Art of Cloud Soaring!? Doesn''t that mean she hasn''t even reached the Returning Void Realm!?" Upon hearing this, the Catfish Demon King''s eyes brightened considerably.


    After a moment of silence, he clenched his teeth and stormed out of his Water Mansion.


    Above the Liusha River, Gaoyang stood on the Red Silk and, after securing the trail of the Shrimp Spirit with a small Lotus tform, attempted to contact the whereabouts of the Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden.


    However, with both parties searching from north to south, and distracted by having to monitor the Shrimp Spirit''s movements, it was indeed difficult to establish contact with the Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden''s side.


    "Spare my life, Miss Gaoyang, spare my life! The little demon, the little demon was blinded by greed, that''s why it stole the Lotus Seed from Bodhisattva Guanyin. The little demon is willing to hand over the Lotus Seed, and asks for Miss Gaoyang''s mercy!"


    Although it was desperately fleeing, the small Lotus tform contained an irresistible force. Under the glow of the Lotus tform, the Shrimp Spirit was gradually sucked upward, its upper half emerging from the water, pleading with Gaoyang for mercy.


    "Oh? Are you truly willing to hand over the Lotus Seed? If that''s true, then I''m willing to spare your life!"


    After all, the main goal was to retrieve the Lotus Seed, and hearing the Shrimp Spirit''s words, Gaoyang''s expression changed, and she nodded in agreement.


    "Thank you, Miss Gaoyang, thank you!" Hearing Gaoyang agree, the Shrimp Spirit looked ecstatic and said hastily.


    In the midst of its speech, it disyed a green Lotus Seed, the very one it had stolen from the Lotus Throne of Bodhisattva Guanyin.


    The Shrimp Spirit had the cultivation level of a Demon, while Gaoyang was at the Controlling-Law Realm. Logically speaking, the cultivation levels of the two should be the same.


    However, the Shrimp Spirit, as a demon kind from the Lotus Pond, naturally understood that Gaoyang''s Controlling-Law Realm cultivation was achieved in a matter of months. Moreover, since Bodhisattva Guanyin had sent her to apprehend it, she was bound to have treasures by her side.


    "Hand it over!" Observing the Lotus Seed, Gaoyang nodded and gestured with her hand. At that moment, the green Lotus Seed flew towards her.


    In an instant, the Lotus Seed fell into Gaoyang''s hands.


    "Fantastic! It''s in my possession!" Looking at the Lotus Seed in her hand, Gaoyang knew it was indeed the one stolen from the Bodhisattva.


    She didn''t expect things to go so smoothly, originally thinking the Shrimp Spirit would put up a fight, inevitably leading to a tough battle.


    Whoosh!


    Just as the Lotus Seed had justnded in her hands, and Gaoyang had let her guard down slightly, suddenly, a dazzling light appeared in mid-air, striking Gaoyang in the chest in an instant.


    Almost at the same time, a shield suddenly appeared, flickering once over Gaoyang''s body.


    However, this shield could barely withstand the light for a moment, before it shattered abruptly.


    Immediately after, the light struck Gaoyang directly, causing her to scream and fall from mid-air.


    "Hahaha, this Lotus Seed is mine!" Almost simultaneously, a figure shed by, none other than the Catfish Demon King who had just spoken. Looking at the Lotus Seed he had snatched, heughed loudly in triumph.


    "Demon... Demon King..." Gaoyang fell from mid-air. Embedded in her chest was a white bone spike made from a fish bone, shot directly into Gaoyang''s chest. The terrible force made her unable to maintain Controlling Artifacts Flight.@@novelbin@@


    When Sister Dragon Lady and I parted ways before, she carved a protective seal on me, iming that it could withstand attacks from even a Demon Marshal Realm''s Demon Kind.


    But I never imagined that the one who would suddenlyunch a vicious attack on me would turn out to be a Demon King!


    Since it was a Demon King Realm being, it made sense that the seal on my body would be broken.


    "Scoundrel! How dare youy a hand on a person under Guanyin''s protection!?" Just then, a fierce shout suddenly rang out.


    In an instant, the waters of the Liusha River churned into towering waves, and a robust, towering figure appeared, stepping on the river''s roiling waves, angrily shouting.


    "Damn, it''s him!" Seeing the figure standing on the waves, the Catfish Demon King''s face turned ashen, and, in a panic, he turned tail and fled for his life.


    General Juanlian was a Demon Immortal Realm being, much stronger than myself.


    General Juanlian reached out and scooped up Gaoyang, who had fallen into the waves of the Liusha River, then charged towards the Catfish Demon with a menacing appearance, clearly intent on not letting this Demon King escape.


    In a pursuit of chase and flee, General Juanlian relentlessly drove the Catfish Demon further ahead, panicking and fleeing without choosing his path under the chase.


    Looking back, although he couldn''t catch up with me for the time being due to carrying a severely injured person, I also couldn''t shake him off, which filled the Catfish Demon King''s heart with secret terror.


    In recent days, all the Demon Creatures of the Liusha River had been searching for the whereabouts of the Shrimp Spirit. With such amotion on this side, naturally, the other Demon Kings, all thinking of taking advantage of the confusion, had all mobilized.


    "My lords, though there is only one Lotus Seed, with him here, we definitely won''t stand a chance. How about we join forces to take him down first, thenpete for the Lotus Seed based on our own skills and luck?"


    Looking at the other Demon Kings within the Liusha River territory gradually arriving, the Catfish Demon King pondered for a moment before shouting out loud.


    With the situation so chaotic and other Demon Kings lying in wait to snatch the Lotus Seed from my hands, and with General Juanlian, a Heavenly Immortal Realm being, eyeing me covetously, the Catfish Demon King thought it wise to drag the rest of the Demon Kings into the fray.


    If I muddy the waters, maybe I can keep the treasure, otherwise, if General Juanlian and the other Demon Kings take turns attacking, my death is certain.


    Although the other Demon Kings present all understood the purpose behind the Catfish Demon King''s words, they had to admit that there was some sense to them.


    The best strategy now was to first defeat General Juanlian; only by doing so, with everyone being Demon Kings, could we then rely on our own skills and luck.


    "Good! If that''s the case, let''s join forces!" Nodding in agreement, the total of five Demon Kings within the Liusha River territory all nodded, uniting their front.


    "Hmph, if you''re asking for death, then I won''t be polite!" Hearing the words of these Demon Kings, General Juanlian remained brimming with confidence.


    The difference between Immortals and mortals is like heaven and earth; even if five great Demon Kings joined forces, General Juanlian was not the slightest bit intimidated!


    The battle between the five great Demon Kings and General Juanlian quickly erupted into a fierce melee. In terms of strength, General Juanlian naturally had the absolute power to crush them.


    Explore stories at empire


    Even alone, vanquishing these Demon Kings was not a difficult task for him.


    However, at this moment, General Juanlian also had to take care of Guanyin''s person.


    After being hit by the Catfish Demon King''s Fish Bone Thorn, Gaoyang was severely wounded. If not for the defense previouslyid down by the Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden, Gaoyang, having been sneak attacked in the Controlling-Law Realm by a Demon King Realm foe, might have been killed in one stroke.


    After a brief fight, these five great Demon Kings naturally also noticed that General Juanlian had to take care of Gaoyang, so his strength was affected. Unconsciously, the Demon Kings focused their attacks on Gaoyang, forcing General Juanlian to split much of his focus onto her, limiting his ability to disy even half of his true power.


    ...


    By the banks of the Liusha River, Jiang Liu set up a stove, ready to barbecue again as Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie waited eagerly beside him.


    However, soon, they all noticed the earth-shatteringmotion of battle in the distance, which whipped up terrifying waves in the Liusha River.


    "Trouble! Look at thatmotion, it seems big!" Jiang Liu''s heart stirred as he nced in the direction of the battle.


    "Master, let''s not bother with it, it has nothing to do with us, let''s hurry up and eat barbecue, I, Old Pig, can''t wait any longer!" Zhu Bajie drooled in anticipation, looking extremely impatient.


    When it came to food, Zhu Bajie was even more anxious than Sun Wukong.


    "Wukong, you go check what''s happening," Jiang Liu said.


    Although Jiang Liu wasn''t very inclined to deal with these messy affairs, since they were right before his eyes, he might as well find out.

 Chapter 171 Half a Year Since We Parted, How Have You Been Recently?

    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sun Wukong naturally did not refuse. He focused his divine skills, looking over at the ce where the battle was taking ce, and at the same time, listened carefully.


    Although they were still quite far away, with Sun Wukong''s abilities, he could clearly see the situation at the battle and listened attentively.


    "Master, it looks like the fight is pretty intense, but in reality, it''s just our General Juanlian fighting with a few Demon Kings. It seems like a Little Demon from Guanyin''s Lotus Pond had the audacity to steal a lotus seed from Guanyin, which incited the greed of those Demon Kings!"


    After understanding the situation at the battle, Sun Wukong appeared not to be very interested.


    A General Juanlian at the Heavenly Immortal Realm fighting a group of Demon Kings? Such a level of battle naturally would not arouse Sun Wukong''s interest¡ªafter all, Sun Wukong was no longer as eager for a fight as when he had just left the Five Elements Mountain.


    Moreover,pared to the battle elsewhere, Sun Wukong was more concerned about his master''s kebabs at the moment.


    "Oh, just a few Demon Kings? It seems they''re no threat to Juanlian!"


    Hearing this, Jiang Liu nodded his head and no longer paid attention to it.


    The higher the level, the more Experience Points needed to level up. If one were to convert Experience Points into Cultivation Level, it would mean that the higher the level, the vast the gap in cultivation would be.


    By the time one reaches the gap between Demon Kings and Heavenly Immortals, that gap in cultivation is enormous.


    As one might expect, a mere five Demon Kings, unless they had some heaven-defying divine skills or Dharma Treasures, would not be likely to inflict harm on General Juanlian.


    "Master, you are mistaken..."


    However, hearing Jiang Liu say this, Sun Wukong shook his head and said, "If General Juanlian were alone, he''d naturally have no trouble dealing with those few Demon Kings, but it''s a different story with an encumbrance following him."


    "He is also protecting a woman who chased after him from Guanyin''s side. This woman is quite severely injured, and her cultivation is very weak. It looks like both General Juanlian and that woman are in serious danger."


    "A woman from Guanyin''s side!? With very low cultivation!?"


    Sun Wukong''s words made Jiang Liu pause slightly, as the image of Gaoyang shed through his mind reflexively. Could it be¡ª!?


    "Monkey, hurry and take me there!" Jiang Liu said urgently.


    "Ah!?" Jiang Liu''s words surprised Sun Wukong, who did not understand why Jiang Liu suddenly became so anxious about the battle there.


    However, before Sun Wukong could react, the White Dragon Horse had already swiftly moved in front of Jiang Liu.


    Jiang Liu did not waste words. He immediately mounted the horse, and with that, the White Dragon Horse leaped forward, jumping directly into the Liusha River.


    Hooves were raised, and the horse actually began running on the surface of the Liusha River.


    Although transformed into a white horse, its essence was still that of the Dragon n! The ability tomand water was a natural talent.


    "Master, wait for me..."


    Caught off guard, the master had already ridden far away on the White Dragon Horse. Sun Wukong then came back to his senses and hurriedly followed, shouting. Zhu Bajie, after some thought, followed along as well.


    The battlefield was only about twenty miles away from their original location, and with the White Dragon Horse running at full speed, they arrived in just a moment.


    Indeed, the five Great Demons were each using powerful Demon Arts to attack, their might extraordinary. Under thebined assault of the five Great Demons, General Juanlian was in a very embarrassing situation.


    Jiang Liu could clearly see that although the five Great Demons each had their injuries, General Juanlian''s health bar above his head had only a small portion left, giving off the feeling of a group of yers in a video game teaming up to take down a boss.


    Of course, what attracted Jiang Liu''s attention the most was the woman that General Juanlian was holding in his hand.


    Because of hisrge physique, General Juanlian holding the woman looked like an adult holding a doll. From a distance, Jiang Liu immediately recognized her. Find your next read on empire


    "Gaoyang!? It really is her!?" Looking at the woman held by General Juanlian, Jiang Liu murmured softly.


    He had known all along that Gaoyang was cultivating under Guanyin, but ever since she was taken away that day, Jiang Liu had not seen her again. Even when Guanyin was guiding him in Chang''an City for his Journey to the West, she was not brought along.


    Unexpectedly, he had suddenly encountered her again with no mental preparation for this reunion.


    "All right, you little monk, you''re actually breaking your precepts, secretly eating meat here!"


    About half a year had passed, and upon suddenly seeing Gaoyang again, Jiang Liu''s heart felt bewildered, as if seeing the image of their first encounter again.


    He also remembered the life they once shared while living in seclusion in a small mountain vige.


    Guanyin Mantra!


    Despite thousands of thoughts running through his mind, memories flooding in like a tide, it was all but a fleeting moment. There wasn''t much time for Jiang Liu to be wistful at this critical juncture. He reflexively raised his hand and cast a Guanyin Mantra on Gaoyang.


    Before his eyes, Gaoyang, who was down to a sliver of her health, had her health bar immediately recover a portion.


    Though still severely injured, with 30% of her health restored, at least she was no longer in immediate danger.


    Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra!


    Following the Guanyin Mantra that brought a bit of Gaoyang''s health back, Jiang Liu cast a Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra on General Juanlian, increasing his attack power.


    Vajra Mantra!


    Silencing Zen!


    Sheep Transformation Technique!


    Although Jiang Liu''s level was merely 27, which ording to the standards of cultivators would only ce him in the Body Tempering Realm, his role as a support ss proved to be of immense utility at this moment.


    The Vajra Mantra hit General Juanlian, and two consecutive attacks that fell on him were both exempted from 80% of the damage.


    Silencing Zen also caused a Demon King''s Demon Art that was in the process of being cast to fizzle out.@@novelbin@@


    The Sheep Transformation Technique even turned a Demon King into the harmless form of a littlemb, toppling into the waters of the Liusha River and sinking straight down...


    Originally, under the siege of the five Great Demons, General Juanlian was struggling to cope, but now, with Jiang Liu''s intervention, the situation was greatly alleviated.


    "Jiang Liu!?"


    As his injuries recovered significantly, Gaoyang''s spirits also lifted, and naturally, he spotted Jiang Liu helping on the side, calling out with surprise and joy.


    "Don''t be afraid, I''m here!" Hearing Gaoyang''s call to him, Jiang Liu''s heart softened, and he called out loudly.


    "Master? What''s going on!?" Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie had also arrived by this time, and upon surveying the situation, they asked in astonishment.


    "Wukong! Kill all these Demon Kings!" With no time for idle talk, Jiang Liu''s eyes were fierce with killing intent as he spoke in a firm voice.


    Jiang Liu''s atypical behavior made Sun Wukong curious. He originally did not care much for the battle here, but why had he suddenly rushed over so anxiously?


    And along the way, although Jiang Liu had killed many Evil Demons, he had never appeared so fiercely murderous.


    However, seeing Jiang Liu''s demeanor, Sun Wukong could sense his urgent mindset.


    Nodding, without any chit-chat, Sun Wukong chanted a spell silently in his mind, pointed at several Demon Kings, blew out a breath, and muttered in a low voice, "Freeze!"


    With the Divine Skills of the Immobilization Spell deployed, the aggressive Demon Kings instantly turned statue-like, unable to move.


    Then, he raised his Jingu Bang high and smashed it down. The Jingu Bang swelled in the wind, turning into a massive pir like the Heavenly Pir, and dropped fiercely.


    With a thunderous boom, the strike seemed to almost puncture straight through the Liusha River, creating terrifying waves.


    With an ineffable force, the spell instantly killed several Demon Kings who were already wounded, and even all the Little Demons within miles were shaken to death.


    "Master, it''s done!"


    Seeing Jiang Liu''s urgency, Sun Wukong acted decisively; one Immobilization Spell followed by a smash with the Jingu Bang resolved all problems immediately.


    "Impressive!"


    General Juanlian, also injured, could only watch in amazement as the Demon Kings he had fought for so long were almost instantly annihted by Sun Wukong, secretly awestruck.


    Indeed, wasn''t this the legendary Sun Wukong? The seemingly lean Monkey, whose abilities were terrifyingly strong.


    Having recovered a bit, Gaoyang raised his hand, wielded the Red Silk, leapt onto it, and positioned himself before Jiang Liu, his beautiful eyes staring intently at him.


    "Jiang Liu, it''s been a long time!" Gaoyang looked at Jiang Liu for a while, as if trying to etch his features deeply into her memory, then suddenly, her face broke into a radiant smile.


    "It''s been a long time! Gaoyang!" Jiang Liu, too, looked back earnestly at Gaoyang, a smile appearing on his face.


    Although Master Xuanzang''s name was now widely known, she still preferred to call him by his secr name, Jiang Liu.


    Likewise, even though Jiang Liu knew that Gaoyang was just her royal title and not her birth name, he had called her by that name since they first met, and he did not intend to change it.


    No matter what had happened or how much time had passed, the way Jiang Liu and Gaoyang addressed each other remained unchanged, as if it were just like their first meeting.


    "So it''s Gaoyang..." Sun Wukong, hearing the exchange between Jiang Liu and Gaoyang, suddenly realized, understanding why his master was so greatly affected.


    Back when he was beneath the Five Elements Mountain, Jiang Liu had recounted his own story in detail.


    "Half a year since we parted, have you been well?" Gaoyang reached out, gently grasping Jiang Liu''s hand and asked earnestly.


    "All is well! How about you? Have you been at peace under Bodhisattva Guanyin?" Grasping Gaoyang''s hand in return, Jiang Liu nodded slightly and said.


    "Master, even a woman from under Bodhisattva Guanyin''s tutge is within your reach!?" Ignoring the affectionate gazes exchanged between Jiang Liu and Gaoyang, Zhu Bajie, who saw their hands sped together, widened his eyes in disbelief.


    Then looking back at Jiang Liu, his gaze was filled with admiration and envy.


    So formidable, does Master really captivate all women? Not just stunning Female Demons but even women from the Buddhist Sect!? With such skill, if only I could learn the basics...


    "Alright, fool, let''s go. We need to check if anyone has stolen our roasting spits!"


    However, Sun Wukong simply grabbed Zhu Bajie by the ear, spoke up, and took him away.

 Chapter 172 Beyond the Epic, the Divine Level

    By the shores of the Liusha River, Jiang Liu and Gaoyang sat on the grassy bank, undisturbed.


    No matter what, being able to meet Gaoyang again and finally confirm that she was indeed alright and living well naturally put Jiang Liu in a good mood.


    The two of them held hands, leaning on the grass and whispering to each other.


    Gaoyang naturally told of her life in the past six months. After being saved by the Tathagata, she had been following Guanyin in cultivation, and with the Bodhisattva''s personal guidance, her cultivation level had improved rapidly.


    In just half a year, she had advanced from the Meridian Unblocking Realm to the Controlling-Law Realm.


    "Jiang Liu, let me tell you, I''m quite formidable now. Back at Jinshan Temple, we were almost killed by that Three-Eyed Crow, triggering the Young Dragon Talisman. If I encounter that Demon General of the Three-Eyed Crow again today, I won''t be afraid of it anymore!" Gaoyang spoke of her cultivation progress in the past six months.


    "Hm, impressive, very impressive!" Jiang Liu nodded and praised upon hearing Gaoyang''s words.


    Although he himself could now handle the Three-Eyed Crow on his own, he had the system''s help, fighting monsters, leveling up, and cultivating for so long to have such strength.


    Gaoyang, however, had also improved so much. It had to be said that following Guanyin in cultivation indeed led to rapid growth.


    "By the way, that monkey and that Pig Demon are...!?" After chatting for a while, Gaoyang curiously asked.


    "Oh, they are both my disciples!" Jiang Liu naturally did not hide the truth and candidly replied.


    "Disciples?! Your disciples are that powerful?!"


    Initially feeling somewhat proud boasting to Jiang Liu about her current cultivation level, Gaoyang was a bit dumbfounded upon learning that Sun Wukong was his disciple.


    "It''s just in name. That monkey''s magic supernatural power is not something I could have taught him!" Seeing the astonished look on Gaoyang''s face, Jiang Liu clearly understood what she was thinking and exined with a slight smile.


    "Oh, I see!" Gaoyang nodded in sudden realization upon hearing the exnation.


    ...


    Leaving aside Gaoyang and Jiang Liu, who were meeting again after half a year apart and had many things they wanted to say, sharing their love and emotions, the White Dragon Horse naturally did not stay by their side and instead walked off to a distance on his own.


    In the middle of Liusha River, General Juanlian, severely injured, had not left but was quietly waiting.


    Seeing that the White Dragon Horse was also by the river, General Juanlian thought for a moment and approached him.


    "Hello, are you master''s mount? Where are you from?" General Juanlian approached and struck up a conversation with the White Dragon Horse.


    "Little Dragon has seen General Juanlian. I was originally the Third Crown Prince from the Western Sea Dragon Pce. After receiving enlightenment from Guanyin, I transformed into a white horse, carrying my master on the Journey to the West!" Seeing General Juanliane over and initiate a conversation, the White Dragon Horse answered.


    "Oh, so you are the Third Crown Prince of the Western Sea Dragon King, my apologies for any disrespect."


    While for General Juanlian, the mere Crown Prince of a Dragon King was not considered a particrly impressive status, he stillplimented him politely as he wanted to glean some information about the Scripture Seeker from him.


    "General Juanlian tters me too much!" the White Dragon Horse responded, bowing its head slightly.


    Of course, the White Dragon Horse understood the implications behind his words.


    When his master firmly refused to take him in, hadn''t he also engaged in circuitous conversations with his eldest brother,plimenting him, hoping to learn something about his master from him?


    How simr it was to the current situation with General Juanlian!?


    "By the way, how did you end up following the Scripture Seeker?" After exchanging a few pleasantries with the White Dragon Horse, General Juanlian curiously asked.


    Discover hidden content at empire


    "Ah, my situation was not much different from yours!" Hearing General Juanlian''s question, the White Dragon Horse seemed to recall the desperate way he had clung to the Scripture Seeker, and he sighed helplessly.


    Immediately after, he recounted to General Juanlian all the events that had happened to him from the beginning.


    "So it is, everyone has their difficulties, huh? s, no pain, no gain¡­" Hearing that the White Dragon Horse had also been staunchly rejected by Jiang Liu at first, General Juanlian felt a bit more bnced in his heart.


    "Right, where is Marshal Tianpeng then?" Understand that he was not the only one being rejected, General Juanlian felt cheered up and casually inquired about Zhu Bajie''s situation.


    "My second brother? His situation was a bit special. At first, my master wanted to take him, but he seemed reluctant to join. Who knew, after a night in the Yunzhai Cave, things reversed, and my second brother desperately wanted to follow master!" The White Dragon Horse thought for a moment and recounted Zhu Bajie''s circumstances.


    "What happened in Yunzhai Cave that night? You don''t know?" Hearing such a turn of events, General Juanlian was astounded.


    "I don''t know; I was just waiting outside the cave at the time!" The White Dragon Horse shook his head.


    "Okay then, what about the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong? How did he join?" After pondering for a while, General Juanlian continued to inquire.


    "That, my eldest brother''s situation is even more special!" The White Dragon Horse hesitated, seeming reluctant to discuss it.


    When he had asked about his eldest brother''s circumstances, knowing the truth had deeply shocked him. General Juanlian''s situation was strikingly simr to his own back then.


    "What kind of special? Come on, tell me!" General Juanlian grew more curious upon hearing that Sun Wukong was an even more exceptional case.


    "This... I think you''d rather not know. Perhaps it''s better that way?" Hesitant, the White Dragon Horse did not really want to say.


    "What''s there to hide,e on, spill it!" The more secretive the White Dragon Horse acted, the more curious General Juanlian became, urging him to speak.


    "All right, since you want to know, I''ll tell you!"


    Seeing the look on General Juanlian''s face, the White Dragon Horse shook his head with resignation and said, "I heard that our eldest brother didn''t want to set out on the Journey to the West at first, but our master stayed under the Five Elements Mountain for a few days, persuasively pleading and even personally cooked for him.


    It was only after being so moved that he decided to depart for the Journey to the West!"


    General Juanlian: "..."


    Thinking of the difference in treatment between himself and Sun Wukong, General Juanlian''s feelings were self-evident.@@novelbin@@


    However, considering how he had just grappled with the five Great Demon Kings for so long, and Sun Wukong effortlessly resolved the situation, General Juanlian could only helplessly shake his head.


    No way around it, that was the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong, the very one who dared to wreak Havoc in Heaven five hundred years ago. Iparable, indeed.


    For Jiang Liu and Gaoyang, reunited after a long time, there were endless topics to cover. Although their conversationcked sweet nothings, being merely about mundane quirks of their lives, it seemed these in exchanges contained deep and pure emotions.


    Meanwhile, the White Dragon Horse and General Juanlian were also having a chat on the side.


    Time passed like this for half a Chinese Hour before a dragon shadow appeared on the horizon and descended at the Liusha River, transforming into a human form¡ªit was the Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden who served beside Bodhisattva.


    "Sister Dragon Lady, you''re back!" Seeing the descending Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden, Gaoyang spoke up.


    "Gaoyang, it''s so good to see you''re all right!" The Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden, seeing Gaoyang looking vigorous and fully recovered, also breathed a sigh of relief as she spoke.


    It was evident she had also heard about the recent battle here.


    "Dragon Lady, the Bodhisattva''s Lotus Seed has been recovered!" With the arrival of the Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden, General Juanlian stood up from the river, took out the Lotus Seed, and spoke.


    "Thank you, General Juanlian!" Without any formality, the Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden took the Lotus Seed from his hand and thanked him.


    With the Lotus Seed in hand, their mission could be consideredplete. The Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden looked at Gaoyang and said, "It''s gettingte, let''s return to the Bodhisattva to report back!"


    "Jiang Liu, I''m leaving. We''ll meet again if there''s a chance!"


    Though his heart was filled with reluctance, Gaoyang understood the situation. Turning around, he bid farewell to Jiang Liu!


    "Hmm, go ahead. There will be plenty of chances to meet in the future!" Jiang Liu''s heart also held reluctance, but overall, seeing Gaoyang unharmed today gave him much peace of mind. He nodded slightly and spoke.


    "Master, after being enlightened by Bodhisattva, I want to be your disciple. As we set out on the Journey to the West, I will devote myself to protect you with all my heart!" Having returned the Lotus Seed to the Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden, General Juanlian begged Jiang Liu earnestly.


    With General Juanlian''s words, the Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden and Gaoyang didn''t rush to leave but watched from the side.


    Looking at General Juanlian before him, Jiang Liu remained silently contemtive, seemingly deep in thought.


    General Juanlian waited quietly, not daring to speak, his heart full of trepidation.


    In fact, Jiang Liu wasn''t foolish. He had long understood what the Journey to the West plot was about, so regarding the Lotus Seed theft, Gaoyang''s injury while pursuing it, and General Juanlian''s subsequent rescue, he could roughly infer that this was yet another drama orchestrated by Bodhisattva.


    The aim was to see General Juanlian saving Gaoyang and with that favor, make it difficult for Jiang Liu to refuse.


    In his heart, such maniptions left Jiang Liu feeling displeased, naturally making him dislike General Juanlian even more.


    Yet, rationally, Jiang Liu was clear that he had always been ignorant of the maniptions behind the Journey to the West.


    Now that General Juanlian had indeed saved Gaoyang, both emotionally and logically, it seemed unfair for Jiang Liu to continue to refuse, right?


    Otherwise, he really wouldn''t be able to justify his actions.


    Moreover, the main point was, as Sun Wukong said, the Buddhist Sect was too ruthless in manipting people, whether it was others or their own.


    This time they used Gaoyang''s injury to facilitate Jiang Liu''s eptance of General Juanlian. If he were to refuse again, who knows what other scenarios Bodhisattva might direct next.


    "Amitabha, first and foremost, I must thank you, General Juanlian, for stepping in to rescue Gaoyang in such a dire moment!" After a moment of silence, Jiang Liu intoned a Buddhist chant and expressed his gratitude.


    With that said, Jiang Liu continued, "Furthermore, since you have been enlightened by Bodhisattva, I shall, therefore, ept you. The journey West spans a hundred thousand li, and I hope you can endure the hardship thates with it!"


    "Thank you, Master! Thank you, Master!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, General Juanlian replied with great joy.


    Looking at General Juanlian in front of him, Jiang Liu''s expression was calm, but deep in his eyes, there was a hint of disdain.


    Caught in such a farce, Jiang Liu had epted him, but his heart harbored even greater disdain for General Juanlian.


    He even felt like he had taken in a spy and informer by his side.


    "On the Journey to the West, spanning a hundred thousand li, it seems I must find a way to extricate him from the scripture-seeking team," Jiang Liu muttered to himself.


    "Alert: Mission ''Expel from the Sect'' triggered. Mission requirement: Sessfully expel General Juanlian from the Journey to the West scripture-seeking team. Reward forpletion: 80,000,000 Experience Points and 1 Divine Level Treasure Chest."


    As Jiang Liu''s thoughts unfolded, the mission alert suddenly appeared, presenting him with an optional task without a failure penalty.

 Chapter 173 Guanyins Black Lotus

    For General Juanlian, finally having the Scripture Seeker ept him was naturally a great joy.


    However, watching his joyful demeanor, Jiang Liu''s heart remained silent.


    This matter was surely orchestrated by the Bodhisattva Guanyin, but what role did General Juanlian y in it? Could it be that he waspletely unaware? Was he merely being manipted by Guanyin?


    When Jiang Liu had just talked with Gaoyang, he had asked her about it: the moment Gaoyang was attacked and severely injured, General Juanlian had appeared.


    The timing of his appearance was just right, neither too early nor toote. Could all this really be a coincidence?


    In Jiang Liu''s view, there was more than a ny percent chance that General Juanlian had been hiding in the darkness, waiting for the right opportunity to jump out.


    Therefore, Jiang Liu was certain that Gaoyang''s injury was intended to make him ept Juanlian, and in this matter, Juanlian was definitely one of the informed parties!


    However, now was not the time topletely fall out with Buddhism, so Jiang Liu did not want Buddhism to know that he had already seen through their arrangement, and he could only pretend he knew nothing and continue acting in their y.


    Nevertheless, although Jiang Liu pretended to be unaware of Guanyin''s scheme on the surface, this scheme, although it had let him meet Gaoyang, had nearly gotten Gaoyang killed, something Jiang Liu kept in mind.


    On this Journey to the West, he had plenty of opportunities to turn the tables. Although he couldn''t directly confront Guanyin, Jiang Liu was well aware there were plenty of opportunities along the way to make her suffer.


    "Master, do we not have any luggage?" Jiang Liu sat quietly on the back of the White Dragon Horse, calcting how to trap Guanyin and clear his mind, while General Juanlian beside him tidied up his appearance and then asked Jiang Liu.


    He was very aware of his duties: leading the horse and carrying the load, so he was very proactive about his work.


    "I possess a Divine Skill, simr to the ''Sleeve Universe'' technique, so all our luggage is with me, no need to carry it!" Jiang Liu calmly replied to General Juanlian''s question. Read exclusive content at empire


    "Oh, I see, but Master, now that I have entered the Buddhist Sect, could you please give me a Buddhist name?" After nodding in understanding, General Juanlian then continued to speak to Jiang Liu.


    "Hmm, let''s call you Sha Wujing then!" Toozy to think of another Buddhist name, upon hearing General Juanlian''s words, Jiang Liu responded without hesitation.


    "Uh, Sha Wujing? This Buddhist name is indeed good!" Jiang Liu''s response made General Juanlian pause briefly, he pondered silently for a moment and then inwardly nodded.


    However, although he felt this Buddhist name was quite good, why did he always feel like his master''s attitude towards him was rather cold? The name seemed to have been given rather carelessly. Was it his own misconception?


    "Master, shall we cross the Liusha River now?" However, Sha Wujing did not dare to speak more on Jiang Liu''s words, and opened his mouth to say.


    As he spoke, he raised his palm and smoothed it over the Liusha River, immediately calming the river''s surface. Forget the waves¡ªone could hardly see a ripple.


    "Sigh¡­"


    With a somewhat helpless shake of his head, now that Sha Wujing had been taken under his wing, there really was no excuse to take a detour along the Liusha River any longer. Following Sha Wujing, who led the horse, the Scripture Seeking Team, nowplete in numbers, set foot on the Liusha River, crossed it, and continued their journey to the west.


    ...


    In Mount Luojia in the South Sea, Guanyin''s wise eyes peered into the distance, seemingly transcending spatial limits, seeing that General Juanlian had finally seeded in joining the Journey to the West Team. Only then did Guanyin secretly let out a sigh of relief.


    Although things had been somewhatplicated, fortunately, everything was still within her ns.


    Now, the appointed bearer of the destiny for seeking scriptures had been assembled. Next, all they needed to do was face the ny-nine eighty-one trials properly.


    "Bodhisattva, as you requested, Mo Liqing from the Four Heavenly Kings has arrived!"


    As Guanyin contemted the so-called ny-nine eighty-one difficulties, soon after, Muzha came before Guanyin and spoke.


    "Your presence is wee!" Hearing this, the Bodhisattva Guanyin nodded slightly.


    In just a moment, a god d in golden armor, robust in appearance, approached.


    On this divine general, a small floral mink quietly sat on the shoulder of the divine general.


    "Mo Liqing, I have seen the Bodhisattva Guanyin!" Approaching Guanyin, Mo Liqing sped his hands together and bowed in greeting.


    Although Guanyin was esteemed, the Heavenly Court and Buddhism were still somewhat different, so while Mo Liqing respected Guanyin, he didn''t show fear, merely needing to sp his hands and bow.


    "Hmm, it was kind of the Heavenly King to make the effort!" The Bodhisattva Guanyin quietly sat on her lotus tform and nodded gently as she spoke.


    "I wonder why the Bodhisattva summoned me here, what orders do you have!?" Nodding his head, Mo Liqing did not beat around the bush and spoke directly.


    "Since the battle of deification until now, your cultivation level has still not broken through the Taiyi Realm, has it?" Guanyin did not rush to say anything, her gaze quietlynding on Mo Liqing as she asked.


    "Indeed!" Hearing Guanyin''s words, Mo Liqing''s face looked somewhat unpleasant, but he nodded nheless.


    His cultivation being stuck at the Heavenly Immortal Realm for so long without breakthrough had indeed been a difficult matter for Mo Liqing.


    However, the matter of cultivation, if onecks innate aptitude and talent, is as hard as ascending to the heavens when trying to advance further from the Realm of Heavenly Immortal; it is an inevitable situation.


    "Amitabha, I have a lotus seed here. If consumed by a cultivator in the Returning Void Realm, it can shed the mortal body and achieve Heavenly Immortal; while in the Heavenly Immortal Realm, it can also increase the chances of breaking through the Taiyi Realm by ten percent. I wonder if the Heavenly King would like it?"


    Bodhisattva flipped her hand, and a green lotus seed appeared in her palm, the very seed previously stolen by the Shrimp Spirit.


    Looking at the lotus seed in Guanyin''s hand, a trace of desire shed through Mo Liqing''s eyes.@@novelbin@@


    Although it only increased his chances by a fraction, the realm of Taiyi True Immortal was a temptation too great for Mo Liqing to resist.


    Within the Heavenly Court, each existence at the level of Taiyi True Immortal held significant sway in the Immortal Realm.


    The stronger ones, such as Nezha who attained physical sanctification and Yang Jian alike, even the weaker ones resembled Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King Li Jing.


    Having been stuck at the Heavenly Immortal Realm for many years, if he really could see a glimmer of hope¡ªeven if it only increased the sess rate by ten percent¡ªit was a temptation hard for Mo Liqing to refuse.


    However, although his heart was ame with desire, having experienced the deification war, he was resolute, and his rationality prevented his ardor from clouding his judgment. He simply looked intently at Bodhisattva and said, "May I ask what the Bodhisattva requires in exchange? It can''t be for nothing to just give away a lotus seed to me, can it?"


    "Amitabha, it''s a pleasure to deal with a wise person. I would like the Heavenly King''s Floral Mink to undergo a trial..." Without further ado, Bodhisattva spoke.


    "A trial? The Trial of Journey to the West!?"


    Hearing Guanyin''s words, Mo Liqing thought for a moment, quickly understanding what this was about, his expression changing as he hurriedly shook his head, saying, "Bodhisattva, this great cmity of heaven and earth, even a Daluo Golden Immortal might perish, please forgive my cowardice. I am truly not blessed to enjoy this lotus seed!"


    Kidding? Having experienced the deification cmity before, how could Mo Liqing not know the terror of this great cmity of heaven and earth?!


    It was precisely that cmity that led the once mighty Sect of Intercepting, known as "all immortals paying homage," to fade into smoke. Facing such a cmity, even hiding was hardly sufficient, let alone inviting trouble!


    "Amitabha, Heavenly King, don''t be hasty. Let me exin everything to you. This Journey to the West must epass eighty-one difficulties. If not orchestrated by human effort, achieving them all would be nearly impossible. You only need to let your Floral Mink create one trial, and as for the safety of the Floral Mink, you can rest assured.


    When the timees, you, the Heavenly King, can simply step in and obstruct it, iming that the Floral Mink escaped on its own to the Lower Realm. I believe no one would trouble you for it, right?"


    Seeing Mo Liqing''s outright refusal, Bodhisattva urgently began to persuade him.


    "That¡­ at the crucial moment, can I really step in and stop it?" Hearing Guanyin''s words, Mo Liqing was indeed moved.


    After all, he was one of the Four Heavenly Kings. If he were to step in and obstruct, followed by offering apologies, perhaps the members of the Journey to the West Team wouldn''t stubbornly persist, right?


    "Amitabha, monks do not speak deceitful words!" Nodding slightly, Bodhisattva said.


    "However, even if I am willing, the Floral Mink has been mypanion for thousands of years, and its cultivation is merely at the level of Demon Immortal. Creating a cmity for the Journey to the West Team seems far-fetched, does it not? Among them are the Great Sage Equaling Heaven and Marshal Tianpeng¡ªboth of whom are at the Taiyi Realm," Mo Liqing said, pausing briefly with some concern.


    "Rest assured, I have arrangements in ce!" Mo Liqing''s words brought a smile to Guanyin''s face.


    Clearly, from this response, it could be seen that Mo Liqing had agreed.


    After the transaction, Mo Liqing took a lotus seed and left, while the Floral Mink stayed behind.


    "Bodhisattva, I must insist, the Floral Mink has been mypanion for thousands of years, and absolutely nothing must go wrong!"


    Although he rationally felt that nothing dangerous should ur, the terror of the great cmity of heaven and earth still made Mo Liqing somewhat uneasy. He left only after repeating his concerns again and again.


    After Mo Liqing had left, the Floral Mink transformed into a handsome man, knelt on one knee before Guanyin, obeying her orders and arrangements, nodding his head understandingly.


    After making all the rted ns for the Floral Mink, Guanyin raised her hand and took out a sinister-looking ck Lotus, saying, "Take this treasure with you, go!"


    The Floral Mink received the ck Lotus from Guanyin''s hand, nodding heavily, without wasting words, turned into a beam of Escape Light, and disappeared, heading to intercept Jiang Liu and others on their Journey to the West.

 Chapter 174 Jiang Lius Revenge

    Stopping and walking, more than half a month had passed, and during these days, Jiang Liu naturally focused on cultivation.


    Rtively speaking, Sha Wujing on the road was silent, obviously sensing Jiang Liu''s dislike for him.


    However, Sha Wujing didn''t care much about this; what he sought was simply to do his job well, and then, upon reaching the Western Heaven, to be peacefully conferred his title¡ªnothing more.


    Since the Scripture Seeker was quite averse to him, he decided to speak less and just quietly tag along with him to the Western Heaven; there was no need to seek his favor.


    "Hey, Master..."


    Jiang Liu sat cross-legged on the White Dragon Horse, cultivating, when suddenly Sun Wukong, who was flying mid-air and scouting ahead, descended from the sky.


    "Wukong, what''s the matter?" Jiang Liu asked, opening his eyes.


    "Master, I, Old Sun, saw a mountain vige ahead, about a hundred and eighty households by the looks of it!" Sun Wukong responded.


    "Is that so? Then tonight, we''ll find a household to stay overnight!" Upon hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up.


    Perhaps due to being half a chef before his journey, Jiang Liu took great interest in cooking, and even with the tight schedule of the journey to the West, he always made time each day to cook properly.


    Jiang Liu believed in the principle of "food, clothing, shelter, and transportation," with food being the most important. This might be where he indulged himself the most on the journey to the West.


    Even though the food was quite good throughout the journey to the West, the lodging conditions were rather poor; often, they had to sleep outdoors, which naturally wasn''t a pleasant experience.


    Now hearing about a small mountain vige ahead, and seeing that it was already gettingte, it naturally seemed a good idea to find a household to stay the night.


    As they wished to stay overnight in this small mountain vige, they covered the distance of about ten miles in just one Chinese Hour.


    But upon arriving at the vige, Jiang Liu''s expression slightly changed.


    "Master, this vige is so quiet!" Sun Wukong, who also sensed something, remarked.


    During this conversation, there was no need for Jiang Liu to ask what had happened, for Sun Wukong had already scanned the vige with his golden light and immediately shook his head.@@novelbin@@


    "Master, there''s not a single living person in this small mountain vige, only some animals like chickens, ducks, dogs, and cattle!" After taking a look, Sun Wukong shook his head and said.


    "Only animals left, with no humans in sight?" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu slightly furrowed his brows, reminded of the old man from the task in Wu City.


    The old man''s vige had also been almost entirely wiped out, with only the old man surviving by falling into a well.


    The old man''s vige had beenpletely devoured by the Blood Tiger King and his followers; could this small vige have also encountered a demon attack? Why then were the other animals spared?


    "Disciples, what do you think?" Jiang Liu didn''t rush to speak, pondering for a moment before asking a few disciples beside him.


    "No need to say, it''s highly likely a demon attack, devouring all the vigers!" Sun Wukong was the first to express his opinion.


    "And moreover, a demon that only prefers to eat humans!" Following Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie also spoke up, offering his view.


    "Hmm, it seems it is a ferociously evil demon indeed!" Hearing the words of Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, Jiang Liu nodded slightly, his expression bing somewhat grave.


    Jiang Liu''s heart naturally filled with murderous intent towards such man-eating demons.


    Although Jiang Liu always believed that even demons must be of a good nature, he had to admit that through his travels thus far, he had encountered countless demons, but the only one who could truly be called good-natured was perhaps only Master Lingxu whom he had met earlier.


    The probability was indeed too low.


    Moreover, with demons typically man-eating, it''s no wonder even back in Jinshan Temple, Senior Brother Xuankong upheld the belief that humans and demons cannot coexist.


    Putting aside the entire vige''s poption possibly being consumed by demons, what Jiang Liu thought in his heart remained unsaid, while Sha Wujing, next to him, bowed his head in silence.


    When the master had just asked his disciples for their views, Sha Wujing did not speak up, and Jiang Liu did not pursue the matter further, showing a kind of tacit understanding between master and disciple.


    "Master, let''s find out what''s really happening; I, Old Sun, will ask around!" Already adept at this, Sun Wukong clearly knew what to do.


    As he spoke, he stamped his foot on the ground and called out, "Where is the Local Deity!?" Continue your journey on empire


    Following Sun Wukong''s words, the ground cracked open, and the Local Deity emerged, bowing to Jiang Liu and hispanions.


    "Local Deity, I, Old Sun, must ask you, what''s the situation with this vige? What exactly happened?" After the Local Deity had bowed to everyone, Sun Wukong asked.


    "Great Saint, as for this vige''s situation, I... I don''t know either!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s question, the Local Deity''s face showed a hint of panic as he shook his head and replied.


    "What did you say? I think you''re in league with the demon! This area is under your jurisdiction, and you don''t know? I think you are asking for a beating!" Hearing the Local Deity''s words, Sun Wukong red, speaking irritably.


    "Exactly, exactly, you, Local Deity, your words are indeed strange. Something happened here, and you, being the Local Deity, don''t know?"


    As Sun Wukong finished speaking, Zhu Bajie beside him nodded in agreement and said discontentedly, "Unless the immortals from the heavens disqualify you, as the local deity, you should be able to clear up anything you want to know by using your position, right?"


    "Marshal Tianpeng, minor deity, I really don''t know!" Hearing Marshal Tianpeng support him, the Local Deity looked wronged and spoke urgently.


    "Hmph, did you hear that? As the local deity, with your position, you should know about everything that happens in your jurisdiction if you choose to, you''re just trying to deceive I, Old Sun, aren''t you? Spit it out now!" Directly pulling out his Jingu Bang from his ear, Sun Wukong''s temperament remained as impulsive as ever.


    Seeing Sun Wukong pull out his Jingu Bang, the Local Deity turned even paler with fright.


    "Wait!" However, Jiang Liu suddenly interrupted Sun Wukong.


    "Master, I think he''s just asking for a beating, daring to deceive us. People like him, a beating will make him understand!" Sun Wukong, annoyed at being interrupted by Jiang Liu, spoke.


    "Alright, Wukong, stop!" Watching Sun Wukong''s impulsive nature, Jiang Liu silently shook his head, not borating much.


    Although Zhu Bajie seemed to speak without intention, his words informed him that the Local Deity had no authority to investigate the immortals from above!


    Seeing that the Local Deity did not appear to be deceiving them, could it be that the deed was done by the immortalsing down from heaven?


    Though Sun Wukong wasn''t foolish, hecked attention to detail and was too impulsive.


    Zhu Bajie? Althoughzy, he had once been Marshal Tianpeng, familiar with these administrative matters, and thus he pointed out precisely why the Local Deity couldn''t find out.


    "Amitabha, Local Deity, I would like to inquire if there are any powerful demon creatures nearby!" After thinking, Jiang Liu asked the Local Deity.


    "Holy Monk, I do know about that, about thirty li to the northwest from here, there''s a Wet Bone Forest with a Corpse Demon, who has already reached the Demon King Realm!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s inquiry, the Local Deity hurriedly responded.


    "Wet Bone Forest!?"


    Hearing the Local Deity''s words, a twitch appeared at the corners of Jiang Liu''s mouth as he muttered, "What''s next, Dragon Earth Cave and Miaomu Mountain!?"


    "Ah!? Dragon Earth Cave? Miaomu Mountain? What ces are those!?" Stunned by Jiang Liu''s words, the Local Deity looked at him with a clueless expression.


    "Never mind, just saying!" Waving his hand, Jiang Liu replied.


    "Thank you, Local Deity, you may leave now!" Having asked what needed to be asked, Jiang Liu then spoke to the Local Deity.


    "The Holy Monk is too kind!" Hearing what Jiang Liu said, the Local Deity then burrowed back into the ground and disappeared.


    "Master, are we going to the Wet Bone Forest? Are all the people in this vige eaten by the demons from the Wet Bone Forest!?" After asking about the Wet Bone Forest and sending the Local Deity away, Sun Wukong curiously asked.


    "Whether it is or isn''t, won''t we know if we go and see?" Reacting to Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu didn''t borate much.


    In fact, what Zhu Bajie said seemed offhanded, but Jiang Liu understood that he might have been deliberately reminding him since he portrayed himself as Holmes Xuanzang in front of Bajie.


    Thus, it''s very likely that the intervention might be from the immortals and Buddhas above, which is why the Local Deity could not see it.


    So, if it was an intervention by the immortals and Buddhas, what would be the purpose?


    Recalling the original text, after recruiting Sha Wujing, what should have followed was the plot of the Four Saints Testing the Heart of Chan, but now a change had urred!?


    Or was it that the issue of the Wet Bone Forest was not considered problematic in the original text!?


    If there were demons tantly eating people, how could such an incident be ignored in the original text, with no descriptions whatsoever!?


    Thus, regarding the affairs of the Wet Bone Forest, Jiang Liu wasn''t very sure, but he understood that if it truly was the meddling of the immortals and Buddhas from heaven, making things difficult for him, the Wet Bone Forest''s Demon King would undoubtedly be aware.


    After all, immortals have their Immortal Path, and demons have their Demon Path!


    "Because of my interference, the 81 trials aspared to the original text are less, so is Guanyin arranging a whole new cmity unlike the original?!"


    Sitting on the back of the White Dragon Horse and heading directly for the Wet Bone Forest, Jiang Liu''s thoughts gradually became clearer as he contemted the implications behind this incident.


    With this thought, the corners of Jiang Liu''s mouth slightly rose.


    In the original text, demons without background were killed, and those with backgrounds were taken away by powerful figures!


    If Guanyin truly had invited some immortals or Buddhas from heaven to make trouble for him, this time, he wouldn''t give them the chance to be taken away by powerful figures. He would kill them first!


    Then, let''s see how Guanyin would exin herself, thereby avenging Gaoyang''s injury.


    As for whether Guanyin would me him, what right did she have to do so!? Was she going to admit that she had deliberately arranged these cmities to obstruct him!? If so, wouldn''t that be tantly telling him that his Journey to the West was a trap, and everything was orchestrated by them?


    Quest alert: "Vengeance Is Not Overnight" activated. Quest requirements: Sessfully exterminate the troublemaking immortals and Buddhas in the Wet Bone Forest, rewards: 200000 Experience Points, 1 Legendary Level Treasure Chest.

 Chapter 175 The Demon was captured by the master!?

    Wet Bone Forest was an expansive and dense woond. Initially, Jiang Liu and hispanions had nned to stay in a small vige, so by the time they reached Wet Bone Forest, it was already midnight.


    Discover hidden tales at empire


    The winter night was chilly with gusts of wind, and without the moon, the forest with its dense trees was pitch dark, making it sinister and frightening.


    The White Dragon Horse quietly trod through the Wet Bone Forest while Sun Wukong and the three disciples guarded it.


    As they entered the gloomy atmosphere of the Wet Bone Forest, it felt eerily spine-chilling.


    After a short while, Jiang Liu could see a shadowy figure, vague and indistinct, suddenly appear and dart towards them.


    "Swift Fire Bead!"


    Fortunately, in Jiang Liu''s eyes, though the shadow was hard to discern in the darkness, the health bar above its head was very clear. Reflexively raising his hand, a ball of me hurled directly toward the shadow.


    Fire exploded all around, and as the Swift Fire Bead burst upon the shadow, Jiang Liu could clearly see it was a humanoid figure, its health bar instantly depleted.


    Alert: Gained 185 Experience Points.


    Following the instant kill by Jiang Liu, a system alert sounded as well.


    From the amount of Experience Points gained, Jiang Liu understood that the shadow that had rushed towards him was probably just barely at the level of a demon.


    This level of strength naturally resulted in it being instantaneously in by him.


    "Master, it was just a trivial Corpse Demon!" Sun Wukong said after Jiang Liu killed the shadow with a Swift Fire Bead.


    "What!? You all can see clearly?" Jiang Liu asked in surprise, hearing Sun Wukong''sment.


    In the midst of Wet Bone Forest during a winter midnight, coupled with the dense trees and no moonlight, Jiang Liu felt as if he was blindly seeing nothing at all.


    "Of course, once you break through to the Controlling-Law Realm, Master, everything will be clear as day!" Sun Wukong responded.


    "I see! But right now, I can''t see anything. Can you light something? It''s so dark, I can''t even see you all clearly!" Jiang Liu realized and then pleaded.


    "Master, it''s true that it''s dark here, but likewise, creatures weaker than Demon Soldiers also cannot see us clearly. If we make light, they will be able to see us and we might run into trouble!" Zhu Bajie intervened as Jiang Liu spoke.


    Indeed, being unable to see clearly was only a problem for Jiang Liu alone; his disciples, and even the White Dragon Horse, could see just fine. That was enough.


    However, once there was light, surely the countless demons, little demons, and Demon Soldiers in Wet Bone Forest would be attracted and rush over, right?


    "Would the light attract many little demons?"


    Yet, instead of retreating, Jiang Liu''s eyes brightened upon hearing Zhu Bajie''s words.


    "Wukong! Please make some light, I''m ufortable not being able to see anything in this pitch dark!" Jiang Liu demanded emphatically.


    "Right away, Master!" Having heard Jiang Liu''s firm speech, Sun Wukong did not say much else and simply raised his Jingu Bang.


    In an instant, splendid rays and auspicious vapors arose from the Jingu Bang, illuminating their vicinity for dozens of meters around them.


    Previously dark and terrifying, Wet Bone Forest, bathed in this light, turned slightly marvellous, appearing as if under the effect of colorful neon lights.


    Screams and groans incessantly arose. Just as Zhu Bajie had said, in the pitch-dark wet Bone Forest, most creatures, besides some nocturnal ones, had poor night vision.


    Now, with the light emitting from the Jingu Bang, many demon creatures were attracted and began to move toward them.


    Amidst the trees, numerous shadows now advanced towards them; however, these shadows bore an air of death, clearly not regr creatures but rather transformed from corpses.


    There were tigers and leopards, snakes and insects, and of course, humans, even skeletons and zombies!


    "Wet Bone Forest, as expected, is it really a ce dominated by Corpse Demons? All these demons transform from corpses!" Jiang Liu muttered to himself as he watched the continuous approach of these creatures.


    Leaping forward, Jiang Liu jumped off from White Dragon Horse''s back, consecutively enhancing himself with Arhat Fist, Demon-Subduing Mantra, and Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra, watching as dozens of demons approached him, his lips twitching slightly.


    "This scene seems to have changed a lot, as if I''ve suddenly moved from a world of immortals to a zombie apocalypse!"


    Looking around at the Corpse Demons, reminiscent of the zombie films from his previous life, Jiang Liu secretly sneered.


    Regardless of Jiang Liu''s inner thoughts, the Corpse Demons one after another lunged at him.


    Without wasting words, Jiang Liu opened his mouth, exhaling a loud and rich dragon chant¡ªHeavenly Dragon Zen Sound!


    Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound (Level 3): Emit a dragon chant from the mouth, repelling all surrounding targets, Attack Power +650, Cooldown Time 300 seconds; During ordinary Cultivation State, gain 3 Experience Points every 10 seconds, requires level 31 for the next level upgrade.


    For Jiang Liu, the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound inherently boosted his Attack Power; coupled with his equipment, as well as the boosts from Arhat Fist, Demon-Subduing Mantra, and Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra, the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound turned into visible sound waves that spread destructively around him.


    Boom boom boom!


    With the emergence of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, all surrounding Corpse Demons were sted away.


    At the same time, in Jiang Liu''s eyes, the health bars above the Corpse Demon''s heads had all dropped to some extent.


    Some Corpse Demons with higher cultivation levels had only seen their health decrease by one third.


    However, many of the Corpse Demons were instantly killed by the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound. This group attack sonic wave burst forth with an extremely substantial attack power.


    Perhaps in single-target attacks, Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound was not as powerful as Palm Thunder, not to mention the Swift Fire Bead. Still, the total damage caused by its area-of-effect exceeded that of the Palm Thunder.


    "Amazing! Truly deserving of being the top supernatural powers at the Great Buddha Temple!"


    Seeing that even Corpse Demons at the same level, those in the Demon Soldier Realm, had lost a third of their health points, Jiang Liu felt secretly delighted.


    Looking around at the dozens of staggered Corpse Demons, whose health bars were now greatly diminished, Jiang Liu raised his Mixed Iron Rod and charged like a tiger into the sheepfold toward these Corpse Demons.


    Bang, bang, bang, bang!


    With Jiang Liu''s current cultivation level, even a Demon General would not take much time to deal with, let alone these Corpse Demons with low health points. Naturally, they were easy to capture.


    With a Mixed Iron Rod in hand, it truly was a case of touch them and they die, graze them and they''re injured, as countless Corpse Demons continually fell.


    Through this bout of ughter, Jiang Liu could clearly feel his strength improving.


    Initially, when the Snow Rabbit Demon destroyed the vegetable garden at Jinshan Temple, he could only watch. The injured Wolf Demon Soldier had once been too much for Jiang Liu and Gaoyang together, but now, they were just like small fries easily killed by him.


    After striving for half a year, he was quite satisfied with such progress in his growth.


    Notification: Gained 88 Experience Points.


    Notification: Gained 550 Experience Points.


    Notification: Gained 960 Experience Points.


    ...


    As one after another Corpse Demon was turned into corpses under his attacks, the notifications from the game system in his mind were also incessantlying.


    With no one else joining the fight for the kill, naturally, the items dropped by these in Corpse Demons all went into his storage space.


    Yes, these Corpse Demons had actively approached to attack him, so as their health bars emptied, they all died, instead of being seriously injured and unconscious.


    "Alright, no wonder Master unleashed that bright light, we were worried about stirring things up, but Master intended to stir them up!" Watching Jiang Liu killing one Corpse Demon after another like a tiger entering a flock of sheep, Zhu Bajie suddenly realized.


    "Not bad at all, Master''s methods are indeed getting more sophisticated!"


    Although Jiang Liu''s current cultivation level was still not impressive in Sun Wukong''s eyes, the growth over this period was clear to see, and he nodded inwardly. Continuing like this, he was indeed looking forward to seeing how strong Jiang Liu would be by the time they reached Western Heaven.


    Shaw Wujing, watching this scene, was quietly bowing his head.


    Having followed the Journey to the West team for half a month, although he had seen Jiang Liu exercise his supernatural powers to subdue demons and eliminate evil, eliminating many Little Demons, Wujing had not thought much of it.


    But today, watching him kill so many Corpse Demons like a tiger entering a flock of sheep, the formidable air about him was truly startling to Wujing; could it be that the Scripture Seeker''s killing intent was that strong?


    Along the way, the twinkling light from the Jingu Bang attracted more and more Corpse Demons, and as the Journey to the West Team progressed, one after another Corpse Demon was in behind them, truly creating a path strewn with corpses and a sea of blood...


    In the thrill of the battle, Jiang Liu had ughtered hundreds of Little Demons in just half an hour, gaining tens of thousands of Experience Points!


    Breathing slightly, Jiang Liu took out a Mana Potion from his pack and gulped it down to replenish his depleted strength.


    Suddenly, a ck beam of light appeared above Jiang Liu.


    Yes, the beam was pitch ck, a ck lotus hung upside down, emitting a ck beam that engulfed Jiang Liu.


    Immediately, Jiang Liu''s form was sucked in without any resistance.


    "Tsk!"


    Seeing this, Sun Wukong gritted his teeth and howled. He leapt up, swinging the Jingu Bang at the ck lotus.@@novelbin@@


    A loud bang, the ck lotus remained unscathed, transformed into a shadow, and instantly disappeared.


    Instead, Sun Wukong was knocked out of the air by the shock and fell down.


    "Oh no, Big Brother, the demon has captured Master, ah, no, Master has been captured by the demon!"


    The usually observant Sha Wujing, while watching Jiang Liu brutally ying around, unintentionally misspoke. Indeed, today''s killing spirit had entirely overturned Wujing''s prior impression of the Scripture Seeker.


    (PS: The first volume, "Holy Monk of Great Tang" and the second volume, "Westward Journey Five-Person Group" arepleted. Now starting the third volume, "Emerging des," ah, fighting demons is immensely enjoyable, battling evil spirits is immensely enjoyable, and contending with Immortals and Buddhas is also endlessly delightful...)

 Chapter 176 Wukong, Shall We Collect Some Interest First?

    Serene and unhurried, Jiang Liu slowly opened his eyes, as if awakening from a deep slumber.


    Upon opening his eyes, Jiang Liu found himself bound by chains of an unknown material to a stone pir, tightly tied so that he could not move.


    Looking around, Jiang Liu realized he was inside a demon''s cave, surrounded by many corpse demons.


    A female demon with an ashenplexion kneeled quietly to the side, while a handsome man sat on a throne fashioned from bones, clearly having noticed Jiang Liu''s awakening, was watching him.


    "Has Master Xuanzang woken up?" As Jiang Liu came to, the fine-looking man seated on the throne of bones began to speak, upon seeing him awake.


    However, while he spoke, his eyes revealed a greed that made him unconsciously lick his lips.


    "Great King, it is said that this Tang Monk has cultivated goodness for ten lifetimes. By eating a piece of his flesh, one can achieve evesting life¡­" The pale-faced woman, her body exuding an aura of death, gazed intently at Jiang Liu and spoke.


    "Indeed, your information is urate," the man nodded in agreement. "Eating a piece of this monk''s flesh can indeed grant eternal life!"


    In the midst of speaking, his eyes looked at Jiang Liu with the same avaricious gleam, evidently seeing Jiang Liu as a rare delicacy of the world.


    "Then what are we waiting for? Great King, let''s y and dismember this monk right now!" The pale-faced female demon eagerly said by the side, showing an expression of wild joy and an impatience to act.


    "Wait!"


    Nevertheless, the handsome man suddenly shouted out loud, stopping the female demon''s actions, saying, "You don''t understand, while this monk may not be very capable, his disciples are all extraordinary. If theye here causing trouble, what shall we do? We should wait for a few more days until his disciples stop making noise, then we can peacefully enjoy this Flesh of Longevity."


    "Cough cough, I think you simply don''t want to eat me, do you?" Jiang Liu suddenly chimed in, after the handsome man had finished speaking.@@novelbin@@


    "Hahaha, you monk must be losing your mind, right? Whoever could eat a piece of your flesh and gain immortality would want to!?" The handsome man burst intoughter upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, as if he had heard something amusing.


    "The reason you just said for not wanting to eat me makes no sense at all!"


    Unfazed by the man''s mockery, Jiang Liu, though bound, remained calm with no hint of fear. He then said, "You say you''re worried about Sun Wukong and the others causing amotion, so you want to wait until they lose patience and leave before you eat me. But if you are sure that Sun Wukong and the others will eventually leave without patience, there''s no harm in eating me now, is there?"


    "This..." Confronted with Jiang Liu''s analysis, the handsome man was momentarily at a loss for words, unsure of how to respond.


    Pausing for a moment, Jiang Liu continued, "If you''re afraid of Sun Wukong and his abilities and believe you can''t defeat them, why would you bother tying me up and waiting for them toe? Logically, you should eat me now, acquire the Longevity Life, and flee before Sun Wukong and the others arrive, isn''t that the sensible thing to do?"


    "But here you are, capturing me without eating me, and instead, waiting for Sun Wukong and them to show up. This doesn''t look like you want to eat me at all!"


    Shaking his head with amusement, Jiang Liu looked at the handsome man and said, "So, do you not want to eat me, or are you afraid to eat me?"


    "Now, here''s the question, whether you don''t want to or are afraid to eat me, you''re not going to eat me in the end. So, why did you bother capturing me in the first ce? What exactly is your purpose? You..."


    "Guard! Plug this monk''s mouth!" But before Jiang Liu could continue, the fine-looking man, seemingly in a fit of anger and embarrassment, loudlymanded.


    Following his words, some little demons came over, stuffed a piece of cloth into Jiang Liu''s mouth, and gagged him, preventing him from speaking further.


    The more Jiang Liu spoke, the more the handsome man felt rmed. His own excuse to spare Jiang Liu''s life had been seen through, based on just a few words. Could the wisdom of this Scripture Seeker really be so terrifying?


    It was better to gag him; otherwise, who knew if he would eventually deduce that everything was a plot!


    "Why are you all looking at me like that!?" After having sessfully gagged Jiang Liu''s mouth, the handsome man had just breathed a sigh of relief when he noticed several of his subordinates staring at him peculiarly, which caught him off guard.


    "Great King, I think what the monk just said seems reasonable! Don''t you actually want to eat his Evesting Flesh?" the pale-faced female demon asked the handsome man.


    Clearly, even though they had gagged Jiang Liu''s mouth, the words he had just spoken seemed sensible, and the demon creatures had taken them to heart.


    Feeling the strange nces of his own subordinates, the fine-looking man was momentarily resourceful, and with a sh of inspiration, spoke, "Haven''t you thought about it? If his disciples are so powerful that we can defeat them, then there''s no problem in eating the Longevity Flesh; but if we can''t, then keeping this monk as a talisman can protect us!"


    There was no denying that this exnation made sense.


    Therefore, the demon kind nodded in agreement, showing their understanding and not saying anything further.


    Gagged and bound to the pir, Jiang Liu disyed no hint of fear and quietly waited.


    Through the task he''d triggered himself, and the fact that the demon creature dared not eat him, Jiang Liu could almost be certain that this demon creature must havee from among the Immortals and Buddhas.


    And all this, must be a trapid out by Guanyin, one that added to the eighty-one trials.


    This trap was not in the original work, so why had it been added now?


    It seemed on this journey, the trials that should have urred had all been safely passed by him, none counting as true trials. Therefore, the count of eighty-one trials was iplete, causing Bodhisattva to grow anxious and naturally, she needed to arrange more trials, leading to the appearance of trials not present in the original work. This seemed to make sense within reason, didn''t it?


    Regardless of Jiang Liu''s thoughts, time ticked away second by second. Although Jiang Liu''s flesh, the Flesh of Longevity, was an irresistible temptation for the demons, since the Great King had forbidden them to eat it, the demon creatures dared not do anything to Jiang Liu.


    Soon, the night grew deeper.


    "Master, Master, how are you feeling?" In his dazed state, Jiang Liu vaguely seemed to hear Sun Wukong calling out, and slowly he opened his eyes.


    He saw a tiny fly hovering in front of him. To be able to transform into a fly ande over in the dead of winter was quite a feat.


    Jiang Liu saw it clearly; this fly even had the head of a monkey. Who else could it be but Sun Wukong?


    Clearly, Sun Wukong meant not to startle the demons and had transformed into a fly to speak with Jiang Liu.


    "Master, why aren''t you speaking? Are you alright?!" Hovering in front of Jiang Liu and seeing him silent, Sun Wukong became worried and continued to ask.


    "Mmmmph!"


    Sun Wukong''s question made Jiang Liu roll his eyes at him in annoyance. He opened his mouth but could not speak because it was gagged with a cloth, unable to express anything but muffled, indecipherable noises.


    "Oh, sorry, I wasn''t aware..." Realizing that Jiang Liu couldn''t speak, Sun Wukong finally noticed the piece of cloth in Jiang Liu''s mouth.


    Although he was just a fly, Sun Wukong''s legs clung to the cloth and he managed to directly yank it down.


    "Master, how are you? Are you alright?" After pulling the cloth from Jiang Liu''s mouth, Sun Wukong continued to ask.


    "I''m fine, I''m fine, the demon creature doesn''t dare to eat me!" Having had his mouth stuffed with a cloth for so long, Jiang Liu felt as if his jaw were stiff. After moving his jaw, he finally spoke.


    "Oh? It doesn''t dare to eat you? You mean to say¡ª?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s response, Sun Wukong asked in surprise. Experience tales at empire


    "This demon creature, it must havee from the heavens!" Jiang Liu affirmed.


    "No wonder!"


    Understanding dawned on Sun Wukong''s face as he nodded and said, "When you were taken away by that ck Lotus earlier, no wonder my Jingu Bang couldn''t smash it. So this demon had originated from the Immortals and Buddhas, possessing such rare treasures!"


    Sun Wukong felt aggrieved too. As a Taiyi True Immortal with a distinguished reputation among the Immortals and Buddhas, it was surely a blow to his pride that a mere Heavenly Immortal could abduct his master right under his nose.


    But he had to admit, sometimes the treasures from the Immortals and Buddhas were truly formidable, possessing powerful Dharma Treasures that could ovee stronger foes or even defeat those of a higher Cultivation Level.


    However, as the conversation reached this point, Sun Wukong paused slightly, then asked, "So, Master, what shall we do next?"


    "What shall we do next, you ask?"


    Hearing Sun Wukong''s question, Jiang Liu''s lips curved slightly, a strange smile on his face as he whispered, "Wukong, do you remember our goal? What if today we collect some interest?"


    "Oh? Master, do you mean, kill this demon from the Immortals and Buddhas?" Sun Wukong''s eyes sparkled as he asked.


    "Exactly!" Jiang Liu nodded.


    "Hehehe, I, Old Sun, like it!" Upon receiving Jiang Liu''s affirmative reply, Sun Wukong joyously executed several flips in mid-air in his fly form.


    Yet, as soon as he did, Sun Wukong became troubled again. "But, that demon wields a ck Lotus, which seems to be a treasure and not easy to deal with!"


    "That only matters if he has the chance to use it!" replied Jiang Liu with a grin.


    Weren''t his Silencing Zen and Sheep Transformation Technique skills prepared for moments like this?

 Chapter 177 The Maddened Heavenly King

    "Master, I understand..."


    After the master and disciple properly discussed the specific operational procedures, Sun Wukong released the bound Jiang Liu and then plucked a strand of his hair, transforming it into Jiang Liu''s appearance and tied it to the column in ce of Jiang Liu.


    Then, with a point of his finger, he transformed Jiang Liu into the appearance of a Corpse Demon and left him in the cave dwelling before leaving.


    "Hey, the demon inside, listen up! Return my master, return my master at once!"


    In the silent dwelling, many Corpse Demons were resting, when suddenly, in the dead of night, a loud shout came from outside the dwelling.


    Along with the shouting, thump, thump, thump, it was clear someone was knocking on the dwelling''s door.


    The handsome man opened his eyes calmly, unflustered and unpanicked, clearly prepared for this scene.


    He stood up and after seeing that Jiang Liu was still tied up by ropes, he was reassured, then led his group of Little Demons straight outside the dwelling.


    "Where did this wild monkeye from!? Daring to cause trouble in front of my dwelling!?" The handsome man, seeing Sun Wukong outside the dwelling, short and thin, disdainfully shouted.


    "Hmph, you ignorant demon, you actually dared to kidnap I, Old Sun''s master!" Being called a wild monkey made Sun Wukong''s fur bristle, and he took out the Jingu Bang immediately, saying annoyed.


    "Hmph, if you''vee, thene, do you think I am afraid of you!?" Seeing Sun Wukong''s Jingu Bang in hand, the handsome man was not fazed, raising his hand to take out a long spear to meet Sun Wukong''s advance.


    By the side, numerous Corpse Demons all shouted in unison, cheering for the handsome man.


    With a bang, the Jingu Bang collided with the long spear in the man''s hand, Sun Wukong''s figure remainedpletely unmoved, whereas the man who was full of vigor just a moment ago was sent flying by Sun Wukong''s blow.


    The shouting of these Corpse Demons, like being choked, stopped abruptly.


    Clearly, they had not anticipated that their Great King and this monkey would be so mismatched in strength!


    It was aplete rout!


    "Heh heh heh, you demon, you''re only full of hot air!" After sweeping the handsome man away with his staff, Sun Wukong scornfullyughed.


    As he spoke, he leaped forwards towards the other, raising the Jingu Bang again high above his head.


    "This dead monkey has been suppressed for five hundred years! Yet he is still so formidable! Could his strength be approaching the level of a Great Luo Golden Immortal!?"


    Swept away with one move, the handsome man cursed inwardly. The imposing aura was no less than during the havoc in Heavenly Pce five hundred years ago.


    However, he never thought he could actually fight the Great Sage Equalling Heaven, so although he was shocked, he was not in disarray.


    The Bodhisattva had already bestowed a Dharma Treasure upon him. With a thought, the handsome man raised his hand, and a ck Lotus as dark as ink appeared.


    However, seeing the ck Lotus, Sun Wukong remained indifferent, lifting his Jingu Bang high again and smashed it down fiercely.


    The Jingu Bang, which grew in the wind, turned into a long, thick iron rod plummeting down with the might of shattering mountains and rivers.


    Casting his mana, the handsome man recited mantras while he offered up the ck Lotus, which also swelled with the wind and met the Jingu Bang head-on, fearless.


    "Now''s the time!" Jiang Liu, who had transformed into the appearance of a Corpse Demon and was hiding among the demon hoard, witnessing this scene, moved his spirit, lifting his hand and pointing at the handsome man.


    Silencing Zen.


    The handsome man suddenly felt the mana within his body be stagnant, like dead water, impossible to mobilize.


    Of course, without the drive of mana, the ck Lotus in mid-air that had been raised began to shrink back to the size of a palm and fell.


    "No!"


    Watching the Jingu Bang fall with its heaven-splitting might, the handsome man screamed in horror. Without the ability to summon mana or harness the power of the ck Lotus, how could he face Sun Wukong?


    All he could do was watch the massive iron rod crush down like a sky-supporting giant pir.


    Upon impact, the ground seemed to tremble violently, and a thunderous roar made the earth crack open a deep, long gorge, showing that Sun Wukong truly held nothing back with this blow.


    As the ground shook, many Corpse Demons even fell to the ground with a scream.


    As the Jingu Bang was raised, Sun Wukong''s eyes were as red as blood, giving off an evil, ominous, and violent aura; clearly, he had murderous intent.


    Having been suppressed under Five Elements Mountain for five hundred years, Sun Wukong had been holding back this resentment for just as long. After talking with Jiang Liu, knowing that this "Evil Demon" was actually one of the Immortals and Buddhas from heaven, he felt it was time to collect some interest, and Sun Wukong was naturally not courteous!


    "Wait, wait, I am..."


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, the staff mercilessly struck down, and the handsome man was already in dire straits, with only half of his health bar remaining. Seeing the murderous look in Sun Wukong''s eyes, he shouted in terror.


    Sheep Transformation Technique!


    But, would Jiang Liu give him a chance to speak!? Hearing the handsome man''s shout, with another point of his finger, he triggered the Sheep Transformation Technique.


    Instantly, the handsome young man''s form changed into a harmless littlemb, his urgent words turning into urgent "bleats," his eyes filled with confusion and bewilderment.


    Boom!


    This strike continued to fall, causing another terrible tremor as the young man, now in the form of a smallmb, was directly smashed to the ground.@@novelbin@@


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, the health bar was emptied, plunging into a critically injured and dying state.


    "Humph..." Seeing the handsome young man severely injured and unconscious, Sun Wukong let out a coldugh, and the Jingu Bang was raised again.


    "Great Sage, hold your hand!" However, at this critical moment, a loud shout suddenly rang out.


    "Just as Master predicted! At the critical moment, someone wille to stop I, Old Sun!"


    Hearing the voice in the sky, Sun Wukong sneered in his heart, but turned a deaf ear, and his Jingu Bang fell once more.


    Ding!


    However, at this moment, a Demon-Subduing Treasure Sword transformed into a streak of light, blocking in front of the Jingu Bang.


    Seeing Sun Wukong''s murderous appearance, Mo Liqing, hiding in the shadows, was shocked. He summoned the Demon-Subduing Treasure Sword he had borrowed and blocked Sun Wukong''s strike, feeling a sense of relief. Fortunately, he had felt uneasy these past days and had borrowed his brother''s sword.


    Whoosh!


    However, just as Mo Liqing''s attention was all on Sun Wukong, blocking his attack with the Demon-Subduing Treasure Sword, Jiang Liu, hidden in the shadows, instantly activated the ability of the shing Brilliance Shoes.


    Transforming from the appearance of a Corpse Demon back to his original form, Jiang Liu''s figure shed next to the unconscious handsome man, then grabbed him, and a low shout came from his heart: Palm Thunder!


    Brilliant blue lightning spouted from Jiang Liu''s palm, instantly sweeping over the handsome man''s entire body.


    The man, whose health bar had already been emptied, fell into unconsciousness and immediately died.


    Upon death, he reverted to his true form, revealing himself to be a gigantic Floral Mink.


    Notice: Acquired Experience Points 26800.


    Stay tuned with empire


    Notice: Completed Mission "Vengeance Is Not Overnight," acquired Experience Points 200000, received Legendary Level Treasure Chest *1.


    Notice, level increased by 1, current level 28.


    As the Floral Mink was killed, a continuous stream of system notifications echoed in Jiang Liu''s mind.


    The Experience Points gained from killing the Floral Mink,bined with the 200,000 Experience Points from the mission reward, and the Experience Points earned from battling monsters and cultivating during the past half a month, finally allowed Jiang Liu''s level to reach level 28.


    Without time to pay attention to his own level and the rewards frompleting the mission, Jiang Liu lifted the Floral Mink''s corpse, which was pressing down on quite a few items. He reached out and collected all of them into his storage space in one go.


    After all, it was a being of the Heavenly Immortal Realm, killing it should drop some good items, right?


    Of course, good items weren''t just from killing monsters either. After putting down the corpse of the Floral Mink, Jiang Liu searched the nearby grass for a moment.


    Soon, a palm-sized ck Lotus was found by Jiang Liu, and he collected it as well.


    It was the ck Lotus that allowed the Floral Mink to resist Sun Wukong''s attack. Clearly, it was the true treasure.


    "Taiyi Realm!?"


    Putting aside what Jiang Liu was doing, Sun Wukong''s Jingu Bang pressed down on the Demon-Subduing Sword in Mo Liqing''s hand, his eyes slightly narrowing, and soon after, the corners of his mouth curled up with a mocking smile.


    "Even if we are both in the Taiyi Realm, your cultivation level is still far inferior to mine, only one or two percent of I, Old Sun''s! How could you be I, Old Sun''s opponent?" As he spoke, Sun Wukong''s Jingu Bang vibrated, directly sending Mo Liqing flying out.


    Mo Liqing, sent flying, had no intention of entangling with Sun Wukong. His figure moved andnded next to the Floral Mink.


    Looking at the Floral Mink, which was already dead and had reverted to its original form, his eyes filled with hatred as he red at Jiang Liu.


    "You killed it!? I will have you pay with your life!" Mo Liqing''s eyes were fierce, and he shouted loudly as he pounced towards Jiang Liu, raising the Demon-Subduing Treasure Sword and hacking it fiercely onto Jiang Liu''s body.


    This strike startled Jiang Liu.


    With Silencing Zen, Transformation Technique, and even the special effect of the shing Brilliance Shoes on cooldown, how could Jiang Liu possibly dodge!? He could only manage to cast a Vajra Mantra defense for himself in desperation.


    "This is bad!" Sun Wukong''s face changed, and he had not expected Mo Liqing to attack his master in a frenzy. He wanted to rescue him, but it was already toote!


    However, as the Demon-Subduing Sword struck Jiang Liu''s body, there was a tearing sound, and the Golden Cicada Buddha Robe Jiang Liu wore tore open with arge gash.


    Jiang Liu was unharmed,pletely intact, but seeing the tear on the Golden Cicada Buddha Robe, Jiang Liu understood that even with Vajra Mantra negating 80% of the damage, Mo Liqing was powerful enough to kill him instantly.


    Otherwise, the special effect of the Golden Cicada Buddha Robe would not have been triggered automatically.


    Seeing Jiang Liu unharmed, with only a tear on his Buddha Robe, Mo Liqing was stunned, and he raised the Demon-Subduing Treasure Sword again...

 Chapter 178 Guanyins Eighty-One Trials

    Bang!


    A loud sound reverberated. Not having been quick enough to save people, would Sun Wukong let Mo Liqing deliver a second move? Jingu Bang stretched long and heavily smashed onto Mo Liqing''s body.


    On the other end, Sun Wukong, holding Jingu Bang, forcefully pushed down, Jingu Bangnding on Mo Liqing''s shoulder, pressing him to kneel on the ground.


    He wanted to stand up, but the force of Jingu Bang was heavier than Mount Tai, giving him no chance to rise.


    With Sun Wukong helping to pin Mo Liqing down, Jiang Liu naturally retreated swiftly.


    Regarding the crazed act of Mo Liqing wanting to kill him, although Jiang Liu felt rmed, now that his life was no longer in danger, joy resurfaced in his heart.


    Mo Liqing was infuriated to the point of wanting to kill him, which showed how great a blow the death of Floral Mink was to him, and this matter must have been orchestrated by Bodhisattva Guanyin, right? Thus, the anger he held towards him must naturally extend to Bodhisattva Guanyin.


    Why did he specifically kill the Floral Mink? Wasn''t it for this reason?


    "Damn it! Damn it! Stable Attendant! Let me go!" Although Mo Liqing had, with the help of Lotus Seeds and the protection of his brothers, fortuitously broken through to the level of a Taiyi True Immortal, he still had no power to counter Sun Wukong.


    The Jingu Bang weighed on his shoulder making it even hard for Mo Liqing to stand.


    "Hehehe, Stable Attendant? You really think I, Old Sun, wouldn''t kill you!?" Pressing down on Mo Liqing with Jingu Bang and hearing him actually call him Stable Attendant, Sun Wukong''s eyes flickered fiercely again, and he grinned.


    "Amitabha, Wukong, stop!"


    Just as Sun Wukong''s heart hardened, preparing to kill Mo Liqing with a single strike, suddenly, a brilliant and gentle Buddhist Light appeared from the horizon, and Bodhisattva Guanyin, seated on a Lotus tform, spoke to Sun Wukong.


    "I pay respects to the Bodhisattva!" Seeing Guanyin appear to settle the chaotic scene, Jiang Liu inwardly chuckled. How would she clean up this mess, yet though he was amused inside, Jiang Liu kept his face expressionless and sped his hands together, bowing in greeting.


    "Ah¡­" Bodhisattva Guanyin floated in midair, nced at the nearby corpse of the Floral Mink, and felt a touch of bitterness in her heart.


    Explore new worlds at empire


    She hadn''t expected the situation to escte to this extent today; how could she clean this up?


    Journey to the West, facing ny-nine obstacles?


    In Guanyin''s view, the tribtions she faced on this journey westward must far exceed the ny-nine cmities...


    "Xuanzang! What is going on here?" After a moment of silence and calming her somewhat bitter mind, Bodhisattva Guanyin''s gaze fell on Jiang Liu. After a slight pause, she spoke.


    "Bodhisattva, disciple also does not know what happened!"


    It was time to test his acting skills. Hearing Guanyin''s inquiry, Jiang Liu pretended to be greatly aggrieved and said, "Wukong and I were hurrying day and night, hurrying even in the dead of night, who knew that in this Wet Bone Forest I would actually be captured by a demon, and even threatened to eat me.


    Fortunately, Wukong had some means, and it was not easy to kill this evil demon, but unexpectedly, this Heavenly King suddenly wanted to kill me! I really do not know what happened!"


    Jiang Liu''s words left Guanyin speechless.


    Indeed, from Jiang Liu''s perspective, what he did was not wrong. Captured by a Demon Creature, isn''t it reasonable to resist? And in resisting, killing the Evil Demon was within reason, right?


    "Heavenly King, the matter here, it seems that your Floral Mink took advantage without you knowing, descended to the Lower Realm and became a demon, so this disaster happened today; please restrain your grief and ept the change¡­" After a moment of silence, Guanyin spoke to Mo Liqing.


    What else could she do? She couldn''t possibly say that Xuanzang and hispanions were wrong, could she? So, she could only cover for them.


    "Bodhisattva, this Floral Mink and I have beenpanions for thousands of years; though master and servant, we are like brothers. Today¡­"


    Hearing what Bodhisattva Guanyin said, Mo Liqing, who was expected to restrain his grief and ept the change, was unable to restrain his grief.


    "Heavenly King!"


    Seeing that Mo Liqing, blinded by anger, might speak outrageously, and not waiting for him to finish speaking, the Bodhisattva sharply interrupted him.


    At the same time, she took out a Willow Branch and brushed it towards Mo Liqing. A sheet of willow leaves ballooned against the wind, wrapping around Mo Liqing''s body, rendering him immobile.


    "Amitabha, the matter of traveling west is a significant event for Buddhism; Heavenly King, as your Floral Mink, without your knowledge, descended to the Lower Realm and became a demon, this matter ultimately needs an exnation from you!


    Now,e with me to the Lingxiao Hall, and let''s rify this matter before the Jade Emperor!" Having restrained Mo Liqing, Bodhisattva Guanyin turned user first, thinking to take Mo Liqing away first and talkter.


    However, although she spoke of leaving, Bodhisattva Guanyin was not in a hurry to depart; her gaze lingered on Jiang Liu, and after a brief hesitation, she said, "Xuanzang, the Floral Mink had a ck Lotus, have you seen it?"


    "I haven''t seen it!" Hearing Bodhisattva Guanyin''s words, Jiang Liu resolutely shook his head.


    Guanyin: "¡­"


    After a brief silence, Guanyin then spoke, "Just now, I thought I saw you¡­"


    "You saw wrong!" A ck Lotus that even Sun Wukong could withstand, if it fell into his hands, why would he possibly spit it out?


    Moreover, from his own perspective, this ck Lotus was his spoils of war, right?


    "Bodhisattva, hehehe, this is where you are wrong!"


    At this time, Sun Wukong also leaned forward and chuckled, "This Floral Mink may be the Heavenly King''s pet, but since it troubled us from the Lower Realm, killing it was justified. And its belongings naturally be our spoils of war. Moreover, the Heavenly King not only didn''t apologize for not keeping a better watch on his pet, but he even tried to kill my master.


    Even if this ck Lotus belongs to the Heavenly King, it should serve as an apology to my master."


    Jiang Liu and his disciple Sun Wukong clearly didn''t want to hand over the ck Lotus. After a moment of silence, Bodhisattva Guanyin sighed softly, "Amitabha, you do not know, this ck Lotus originally belonged to our Buddhist Sect, but because it was tainted with demonic Qi, it is considered an ominous object.


    I intend to take it back to the Purple Bamboo Forest to properly cleanse it of its demonic Qi with Buddhist Law¡­"


    "Rest assured, Bodhisattva! Ksitigarbha once said ''If I don''t enter Hell, who will?'' With such a fearless spirit, I am willing to emte it! I wish to use my own Buddhist power to eliminate the demonic Qi! There''s no need for the Bodhisattva to trouble herself!" Upon hearing what Bodhisattva Guanyin had said, Jiang Liu dered spiritedly.


    "However, shouldn''t your mind be focused on the great task of Journey to the West? When will you have the time to cleanse demonic Qi!?" Bodhisattva Guanyin shook her head and said.


    The words of Bodhisattva Guanyin left Jiang Liu in silence, as he had already refused several times, but she still persisted!


    It seemed that this ck Lotus was much more valuable than the Gold Hoop and the Mystical Mirror before it!


    Now was not the time to sever ties, and to continue speaking might harm Guanyin''s face, which would be unfortunate.


    A direct refusal was naturally inappropriate, so after a moment of silence, Jiang Liu chose to step back to advance.


    He lifted his palm and took the ck Lotus out from his storage space.


    "Amitabha, Bodhisattva, I originally wanted to keep this ck Lotus for my personal protection, especially since, as you can see, my Golden Cicada Buddha Robe is already torn. If I face danger again, I won''t have anything to protect myself. But since you want to take it, please go ahead!" After taking out the ck Lotus, Jiang Liu spoke.


    These words put Bodhisattva Guanyin in a difficult position, neither able to reach out nor refrain from it.


    Looking at Jiang Liu''s Golden Cicada Buddha Robe, which was indeed in tatters, having just been shed by the Demon-Subduing Sword, nearlypletely destroying it, it was evident to Guanyin.


    "Xuanzang, didn''t I give you a Brocade Kasaya and a Nine-Ring Monk''s Staff? These two supreme treasures should be enough for your protection!" After thinking for a moment, Guanyin spoke.


    "The Brocade Kasaya only works after death, and the Nine-Ring Monk''s Staff is only effective for a short period. If I get caught by demons again and they try to eat me, the Nine-Ring Monk''s Staff can only protect me for a brief time!" Jiang Liu shook his head in response to Guanyin''s words.


    Having said that, he paused slightly and raised the ck Lotus in his hand, saying, "Bodhisattva, if you really want this ck Lotus, as your disciple, I dare not withhold it. Please take it! If ites to the worst on the Journey to the West, I''ll just be more careful. Even if I die, eaten by evil demons, I will fulfill my disciple''s duty to the Buddha!"


    Initially, Guanyin had said that the ck Lotus was originally a Buddhist Sect object and intended to take it back, but now, Jiang Liu said his protective robe was damaged and wanted to keep the ck Lotus for protection. Taking it away from him now would be like depriving him of his protection.


    Moreover, what Sun Wukong said was not without reason; seeing from Jiang Liu''s perspective, it indeed was rightfully his spoils of war.


    Although Jiang Liu was now willing to hand over the ck Lotus, having spoken to this extent, taking it would likely cause him to feel resentful!


    Although reluctant to let go of the ck Lotus, the ultimate priority was still the great task of Journey to the West for Scriptures, and Jiang Liu''s safety was indeed a serious matter.


    So, after some thought, Guanyin could only sigh silently to herself.


    "Amitabha, if that is the case, then let this treasure serve as your protection for now. Once you reach Spirit Mountain andplete the task of Scripture Seeking, then it can be returned to me for the removal of its demonic Qi!"


    "In that case, I thank the Bodhisattva!" Although Guanyin didn''t say she was giving it to him but only lending it, Jiang Liu took what he could get andughed joyously.


    Without looking at Jiang Liu''s smile, Guanyin felt deeply pained, silently chanted a Buddhist chant, and then left Wet Bone Forest with Mo Liqing.


    The Journey to the West confronts eighty-one tribtions, and there''s still a long road ahead, with the Floral Mink just adding one more minor tribtion.


    Whether these tribtions were difficult for Jiang Liu, Guanyin wasn''t too sure, but she certainly felt deeply troubled.


    Considering the current situation, it seemed these were not the scripture seeker''s eighty-one tribtions, but her own instead?


    ...@@novelbin@@


    "Hehehe, this time, we''ve got a full harvest!" Watching Guanyin leave, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but chuckle inwardly.


    After killing the Floral Mink, what good things could have possibly sprung forth?


    Havingpleted the task, he was rewarded with a Legendary Level Treasure Chest. What treasure could it contain?


    Of course, the most important was the ck Lotus that even Guanyin was reluctant to part with. What kind of treasure was it?


    For now, Jiang Liu focused his attention on the ck Lotus.


    As his gaze settled on it, the attribute information of the ck Lotus appeared before Jiang Liu''s eyes¡­

 Chapter 179 Resurrection Scroll

    Ninth Grade ck Lotus: Special Equipment, no level requirement, once activated, it can cause damage, defense, and binding effects, the specific effects depend on one''s Cultivation Level, and it never wears out.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze fell upon this ck Lotus, the corresponding data information emerged before his eyes.


    While the Ninth Grade ck Lotus did not disy any specific data, Jiang Liu could distinctly feel the extraordinariness of this ck Lotus from its description.


    Firstly, this piece of equipment is not like the ten mainstream pieces one would wear; instead, it''s like a Skill Bookcase, a special type of equipment that does not upy a slot in the ten mainstream equipment slots.


    The function of this ck Lotus is also exceptionally powerful, possessing effects such as attack, defense, and binding.


    Of course, this ck Lotus also has no level requirement and is an ever-durable piece of equipment, all revealing the extraordinariness of this lotus.


    It''s important to note that even though Mo Liqing was also at the Taiyi True Immortal level, he was utterly suppressed by Sun Wukong without a chance to fight back, yet the Floral Mink was able to use this ck Lotus to capture itself in front of Sun Wukong, sufficiently demonstrating the ck Lotus''s extraordinariness.


    "Ninth Grade ck Lotus!? If I recall the setting of ''Primordial'', there were only four such lotuses in the heaven and earth, known as the Ninth Grade Merit Golden Lotus, Ninth Grade World-Purifying Green Lotus, Ninth Grade Karmic Fire Red Lotus, and one Ninth Grade World-Destroying ck Lotus. Could it be!? This one is it?"


    Jiang Liu whispered to himself in wonder, his eyes growing brighter as he looked.


    If that were truly the case, then this ck Lotus would be an incredibly precious treasure, no wonder Guanyin was always so reluctant to part with it.


    However, the appearance of this ck Lotus both surprised and puzzled Jiang Liu; was Guanyin really so generous? To allow the Floral Mink from the Four Heavenly Kings to cause him trouble, even willing to part with such a treasure as the World-Destroying ck Lotus!?


    Was Guanyin really so wealthy!?


    "What a fortune, this is truly a great fortune!" Jiang Liu looked down at the Ninth Grade ck Lotus in his hand, and Sun Wukong next to him also appeared jubnt, saying to Jiang Liu, "Master, this is truly a great fortune! This ck Lotus is indeed extraordinary!"


    "Oh? Wukong, do you know the origin of this ck Lotus?" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu was slightly moved and asked curiously.


    "I, Old Sun, do not know, but an insignificant Floral Mink, merely at the Demon Immortal level, could use this ck Lotus to withstand my Golden Hoop; this ck Lotus must be no ordinary item!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sun Wukong shook his head and replied.


    "Alright then!" Sun Wukong''s answer disappointed Jiang Liu a bit, but it also seemed within reason.


    Although Sun Wukong is the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, he is after all just a wild monkey by birth and doesn''t have much insight, which was within reason. In the Journey to the West for Scriptures team, perhaps even the White Dragon Horse had better insight than Sun Wukong.


    Shaking his head, whether this ck Lotus was indeed the World-Destroying ck Lotus he knew or not, at least it was a good treasure, and Jiang Liu didn''t think much about it.


    Immediately, Jiang Liu''s gaze returned to his apanying package space to see what good things burst out after killing the Floral Mink.


    And the Legendary Level Treasure Chest rewarded uponpleting the mission, he wondered what good things it would yield.


    "Master, Master..." Just then, a shouting voice arose.


    Jiang Liu looked toward the sound, and it turned out that the White Dragon Horse and Zhu Bajie hade over, clearly attracted by the event involving Bodhisattva that just took ce here.


    "Master, are you alright? That''s great..." Zhu Bajie, seeing Jiang Liu unharmed, sighed in relief.


    Had something happened to Master, whom could he turn to for learning how tomunicate well with Female Demons?


    "Eh? Master, is that a Ninth Grade ck Lotus in your hand?" However, when Zhu Bajie''s gaze fell on the ck Lotus in Jiang Liu''s hand, he was surprised and inquired in astonishment.


    "Oh? Bajie? You recognize this ck Lotus?" Jiang Liu asked, seeing that Zhu Bajie seemed to recognize it.


    "I, Old Pig, naturally recognize it; it''s rumored that before the Great God Pangu opened the heaven and earth, he was nurtured within a Thirty-Sixth Grade Chaos Green Lotus. After opening the heaven, the thirty-sixth grade lotus transformed into Ninth Grade lotuses in gold, green, red, and ck colors. Among them, the Demon Ancestor Luohou once obtained the Ninth Grade World-Destroying ck Lotus.


    As Luohou perished, the ck Lotus shattered, and Supreme Elder Lord acquired a part of it and refined it into this Ninth Grade ck Lotus! Although it can''tpare to itsplete form before, it''s still a hard-to-find treasure." Zhu Bajie exined briefly upon Jiang Liu''s inquiry.


    "I see, so this is only a part of the Ninth Grade World-Destroying ck Lotus, which Supreme Elder Lord has transformed, isn''t it?" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s exnation, Jiang Liu realized.


    However, as Zhu Bajie said, even if only a part, the quality of this Ninth Grade ck Lotus was still a rare treasure.


    After all, looking at the treasures of the Supreme Elder Lord, like the Purple Gold Gourd, the Shaking Golden Rope, the Vajra Bracelet, none were simple, not to mention that the original origin of this ck Lotus was already significant.


    Without further ado, since this ck Lotus was so powerful, Jiang Liu decided to wear it on his person. Simrly, in the character interface, this equipment also became Jiang Liu''s second special equipment.


    "By the way, Master, where did you get this Ninth Grade ck Lotus?" Zhu Bajie''s face carried a curious expression as he inquired of Jiang Liu.


    "Oh, I just picked it up in the grass!" Not wanting to borate too much, Jiang Liu casually answered.


    Of course, this wasn''t really deception. Wasn''t this ck Lotus just something he had picked up from the grass after killing the Floral Mink?


    "Picked... picked it up...?" Jiang Liu''s answer left Zhu Bajie, the White Dragon Horse, and even Sha Wujing staring at him in shock.


    It was unbelievable that he imed to have found such a treasure in the grass!


    "Monkey Brother, did Master really pick it up?" Turning his head, Zhu Bajie asked Sun Wukong, who was next to him.


    It wasn''t that he didn''t believe his own Master, but what his Master said was just too astonishing, making itpletely unbelievable.


    "That''s right, I saw Master fiddling around in the grass and then he picked up this ck Lotus!" Sun Wukong nodded and agreed.


    "Alright, disciples, stop chattering. This Wet Bone Forest has a sinister aura, let''s get out of here!" Shaking his head and noting that it was already past midnight, Jiang Liu mounted the horse and spoke.


    As Jiang Liu spoke, the White Dragon Horse naturally started to move forward, while Zhu Bajie, carrying his Nine-Toothed Rake, kept looking back with each step.


    Jiang Liu smiled slightly at Zhu Bajie''s demeanor. Readtest chapters at empire


    In his previous life, he remembered how when apanion found money on the ground, others would also start scouting around half-heartedly, so simr to how Zhu Bajie was acting now.


    Sitting atop the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu paid no heed to what was on his disciples'' minds. He instead opened his apanying package space. Indeed, when the Floral Mink died, it had exploded a few items; setting aside the two potions, there was also a pack.


    Apanying Package (Special Item): Expands the package space by 12 slots!


    As Jiang Liu focused his gaze on the pack, the rted attribute information appeared, causing his heart to leap with joy.


    Although the original package space was functional, its capacity was a bit small. As they traveled, the storage of potions and some essential items had almost filled all the slots. This apanying package solved Jiang Liu''s problem.


    Besides the apanying package, when the Floral Mink died, it also exploded into two pieces of equipment, but neither was better than the equipment he already wore, leading Jiang Liu to shake his head in silent disappointment.


    Especially since one of the pieces was a Level 25 weapon at Legendary Level, which should have been exciting, but its data in all respects couldn''t match up to the Epic Level Mixed Iron Rod he already held, so naturally, it was of no use.@@novelbin@@


    Being unable to use Legendary Level equipment was naturally disappointing, but this also indirectly proved that his current equipment was of very high quality, which seemed to be a cause for joy.


    Whether to be happy or sad, Jiang Liu himself didn''t know.


    Ignoring it, atst, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on a chest.


    This was a reward he obtained afterpleting a task¡ªa Legendary Level Treasure Chest.


    Taking out the treasure chest, Jiang Liu silently prayed that it wouldn''t contain any equipment that shed with his current gear, and then he slowly opened this Legendary Level chest.


    As the treasure chest opened, Jiang Liu was somewhat astonished to find not equipment, but a golden, extraordinary-looking scroll inside it.


    Last time he opened a treasure chest, he had found a Guild Creation Token, and this time it was a scroll?


    Jiang Liu slowly took the scroll out of the treasure chest, and the corresponding attribute information appeared before him.


    Resurrection Scroll (Consumable): After use, can resurrect a deceased target once, with Health Points and Mana restored to 30% of their peak condition.


    "Did I actually get a Resurrection Scroll!?" Staring at the information on the scroll in his hand, Jiang Liu was stunned.


    Resurrection, in this world of Journey to the West filled with myths and legends, seemed not too rare a thing. For instance, Li Shimin had toured the Underworld and managed to return to life, and in the original story, the King of the ck Chicken Country also revived after eating a Soul-Returning Pill that Sun Wukong had requested from Supreme Elder Lord.


    However, whether by any means, this ability to resurrect seemed monopolized by the Immortals and Buddhas.


    This Resurrection Scroll he now held appeared to be a different method than that of the Immortals and Buddhas!?


    Regardless, obtaining a Resurrection Scroll was a significant gain for Jiang Liu.


    ...


    Without concerning ourselves with Jiang Liu and hispanions continuing their Journey to the West under the cover of night, above in the Heavenly Court, the Bodhisattva sat in the Lotus tform, her face showing distress.


    In front of her, Mo Liqing had already been unchained, staring at her...

 Chapter 180 So This is Ksitigarbhas Duty!?

    The Netherworld, governed by the Ten Kings of Hell, is where the souls of all beings within the Three Realms and Five Paths return after death for judgment. The immense workload there requires the attention of ten kings.


    However, the Netherworld is under the jurisdiction of the Heavenly Court above the vault of heaven, and the Ten Kings must obey the Jade Emperor''smands. So, within the Six Paths of the Three Realms, where should the souls of deceased Immortals and Buddhas go?


    If they were also under the jurisdiction of the Ten Kings of Hell, wouldn''t they all be acquaintances? Wouldn''t they easily regain their lives with just amand from the Jade Emperor?


    Heaven''s will is as sharp and ruthless as a knife; the Heavenly Dao is utterly impartial, favoring none!


    Heaven ordained the Realm of Reincarnation as a ce of absolute fairness. How could it allow Immortals and Buddhas to show partiality?


    Thus, within the Netherworld, there resided one who independently handled the reincarnation of deceased Immortals and Buddhas, separate from the institution of the Ten Kings of Hell.


    This being was known as Ksitigarbha!


    Though the Floral Mink was Mo Liqing''s pet, having been registered in the Heavenly Court for many years, it was considered among the ranks of divine beings, much like Eng God''s Xiaotian Dog. Upon its death, its soul, naturally, came before Ksitigarbha.


    Paying no attention to the Floral Mink''s pleas, Ksitigarbha raised his palm and directly cast it into the cycle of reincarnation.


    This was Ksitigarbha''s duty¡ªoverseeing the reincarnation of all deceased Immortals and Buddhas. Almost all who entered the Netherworld were well-known, yet a duty was a duty¡ªfixed by the Heavenly Dao, how could he yield to personal sentiment?


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    ...


    Within the Heavenly Court, Mo Liqing stared intensely at Bodhisattva Guanyin, his expression a mix of anger and wariness.


    The death of the Floral Mink naturally angered him, yet facing Bodhisattva Guanyin, he dared notsh out.


    "Amitabha, Heavenly King. All of this was just an ident," Guanyin''s heart was somewhat bitter. After a brief silence, she chanted a Buddhist mantra and replied.


    In truth, the matter was previously settled among the Heavenly Kings. How could it be his turn to be furious?@@novelbin@@


    However, this matter was rted to the significant undertaking of the Journey to the West. In the future, it would be necessary to ask other deities to participate in trials. If he acted in a way that disheartened others, who else would be willing to helpter?


    Therefore, Guanyin forced herself to be patient.


    "Bodhisattva, didn''t you say there would be no idents!" Mo Liqing took a deep breath. After a while, his emotions stabilized somewhat. Startled by his own rash action to harm Xuanzang in a moment of fury, he still questioned Guanyin despite his continuing grief.


    "The Journey to the West is destined to be fraught with cmities, and under such great trials, anything unexpected can happen!" Hearing Mo Liqing''s words, Bodhisattva Guanyin spoke.


    Upon saying this, she paused briefly, then continued, "Had it not been for my intervention, it wouldn''t just be the Floral Mink at risk. Your mind was clouded by the great trial, nearly leading to your demise!"


    Once caught in a great cmity, even the clearest-minded Immortals and Buddhas can have their minds clouded and impulsively take actions that would normally be unthinkable, thus risking their very lives. That had just happened to Mo Liqing.


    He dared to harm Xuanzang and nearly got killed by Sun Wukong. Moreover, even if Mo Liqing had seeded, could the followers of Buddhism let him go?


    Guanyin''s words left Mo Liqing momentarily speechless. Now that he had returned to the Heavenly Court and his mind was clearer, he was indeed shocked by his own actions at that time.


    Yet, the sorrow in his heart was not so easily dispelled. After a moment of silence, Mo Liqing still felt somewhat aggrieved and said, "But Bodhisattva, you clearly stated that I just needed to watch from the side and intervene verbally at a critical moment to prevent any trouble!"


    "Amitabha, originally, your stepping in and the protection of the Ninth Grade ck Lotus I granted you, were enough to hold off until you could rify the situation. But why, at thest moment, did the Floral Mink not use the Ninth Grade ck Lotus! Furthermore, as a result of this incident, my Ninth Grade ck Lotus is also¡­"


    As she spoke, Bodhisattva Guanyin looked grievously pained. That was one of the few dharma treasures she possessed, and she had been reluctant to lend it to the Floral Mink had it not been to add an element to the trial.


    "Hmph, whether in your hands or in Xuanzang''s, isn''t the ck Lotus still a possession of Buddhism?" said Mo Liqing. "You just said that after the Journey to the West, the Ninth Grade ck Lotus would return to you, so you haven''t really lost it! But my Floral Mink has been killed.


    Can you ask Ksitigarbha to allow its reincarnation?" His dissatisfaction grew in response to Bodhisattva Guanyin''s apparent sorrow.


    Hearing Mo Liqing''s words, Bodhisattva Guanyin realized the true purpose of his persistence.


    A bit helplessly, she shook her head, "Amitabha, Ksitigarbha has governed the cycle of reincarnation for many years, and even my Buddha Tathagata cannot intervene¡­"


    Upon saying this, she paused briefly, then after a moment''s reflection added, "I possess a treasure named the Colored ze Vine, which took three thousand years to cultivate in my Lotus Pond. I shall gift it to you, Heavenly King, as a token of apology."


    Helplessly shaking her head, Mo Liqing''s grievances needed addressing to satisfy him, so in the future, he could persuade other deities to descend to aid in oveing trials. Therefore, Guanyin had no choice but topensate generously with treasures.


    Since shecked the power to persuade Ksitigarbha to show mercy, she could only offer treasures aspensation to alleviate Mo Liqing''s grief.


    This trial, for Guanyin, had indeed cost a great deal.


    ...


    Not to mention within the Heavenly Court, Guanyin Bodhisattva actually pleaded with the ever-strict Mo Liqing on behalf of the Four Heavenly Kings, feeling a sense of bitterness within her heart. Meanwhile, in the Lower Realm, after departing from the Wet Bone Forest, the members of the Journey to the West team had found a spot to spend the night camping outdoors.


    Jiang Liu sat cross-legged, running the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique diligently.


    His level had reached 28 already, and once it reached 31, he would be able to advance the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound to the fourth level. When that time came, the Experience Points gained during cultivation would surely increase significantly!


    The trip to the Wet Bone Forest had left Jiang Liu very satisfied for a couple of reasons. Firstly, there was the loot from this trip, including the Ninth Grade ck Lotus and the Resurrection Scroll amongst other valuable items.


    Secondly, there was a sense of exhration from having taken revenge.


    In order to force himself to ept Sha Wujing, he had used Gaoyang as part of his scheme. Today, he had killed the Floral Mink, now she would have to clean up this mess.


    Who was he!? The core member of the Journey to the West Pilgrimage Team! Was he wrong to have killed a few Demon Creatures that obstructed their westward journey? No one could find fault with him!


    Though the westward journey was part of arger scheme, they had never told him it was all just a setup!


    "Guanyin, you''re going to encounter a lot more of this!" Thinking about the many ordeals set up by the deities and Bodhisattvas in the heavens along this journey, even referring to them as Experience Babies, Jiang Liu''s lips slightly curled into a smile.


    Leaving aside Jiang Liu''s meditation, Zhu Bajie was already lying on the ground, sound asleep and snoring heavily.


    Sun Wukong was lying not far away on arge rock, his legs crossed, chewing on a twig, his eyes slightly squinted.


    All along the way, Sun Wukong was in a good mood. Although the Floral Mink was just a minor character, it was nevertheless a proper immortal being from heaven. Today, he had been directly ughtered, and not only did the immortals and Buddhas in heaven have no reason to cause trouble, but even Guanyin hadpensated him with a Ninth Grade ck Lotus.


    Being able to cause such a substantial unexpected loss to the celestial immortals and Buddhas made Sun Wukong very happy.


    Going forth on the Journey to the West, the agreement with his master was indeed to overturn the gods and Buddhas of the heavens. As his master had said, a Floral Mink could only be counted as a little bit of interest.


    However, this bit of interest had shown Sun Wukong a glimmer of possibility.


    If today he could kill a cultivator with the Heavenly Immortal cultivation, then what aboutter? Could he eliminate a few of those at the Taiyi True Immortal level!?


    More importantly, in previous rebellions, he hadn''t had so many strategies to employ, nor could he afford any, as actions had been taken directly, leading him to suffer many losses. This was exactly why he had suffered five hundred years under the Five Elements Mountain.


    However, having journeyed this far west, Sun Wukong found that the cooperation between him and his master was quite good.


    His own strength,bined with Master''s nning! Seamless!


    And more importantly, although Master''s cultivation was low, his methods were astonishing, capable of instantly restricting someone''s internal mana, as well as enhancing others'' strength and defense, and even possessing miraculous healing abilities...


    Sun Wukong, now, was increasingly looking forward to overturning the heavenly deities and Buddhas in the future.


    The Journey to the West had, it could be said, just begun, and for the uing journey of a hundred thousand miles, Sun Wukong was likewise filled with anticipation.


    Lying on the rock, twig in mouth and legs crossed, Sun Wukong''s tail twitched excitedly behind him; were it not sote at night and quiet, he probably would have hummed a tune or two.


    However, unlike the joy of Sun Wukong nearby, Sha Wujing was hanging his head down, tending to the White Dragon Horse. Having followed the westward journey for half a month, Sha Wujing felt as though he had been unable to blend into the team.


    "Xiaobai ah, do you think Master really dislikes me? Just because I made him fall into the water that day, has he held a grudge until now?" After feeding the White Dragon Horse some fodder, Sha Wujing spoke.


    Both had initially been scorned by Jiang Liu before joining the team, and Sha Wujing somewhat felt like he and the White Dragon Horse needed to stick together for warmth.


    Moreover, it seemed as if they were the ones with the lowest status in the team.


    "Third Brother, you need not worry, Master, he''s just tough on the outside but warm on the inside!" said the White Dragon Horse softly in reassurance.


    "That''s just the way Master is! He was reluctant to ept me at first too, buttely, I feel that Master has been quite kind to me!"


    The White Dragon Horse spoke, genuinely feeling that during meals, Master usually remembered to save a portion for him, which touched him deeply.


    "Really!?" Yet, considering his own treatment throughout the journey, Sha Wujing felt skeptical. It didn''t seem like tough on the outside but warm on the inside at all.


    He had felt the cold exterior, but why couldn''t he feel any warmth from within?

 Chapter 181 Guanyins Complaints

    Purple Bamboo Forest, by the Lotus Pond.


    Guanyin, with her feet bare, was quietly grooming by the side of the Lotus Pond, her mind filled with a myriad of thoughts, naturally focused on the matters of the Journey to the West.


    Reflecting on everything, Guanyin felt that something seemed amiss.


    Experience more on empire


    The path of the Journey to the West appeared to be fully under her control; for instance, the romantic entanglement between Xuanzang and Princess Gaoyang, the fact that she had offered the Brocade Kasaya and the Nine-Ring Staff to guide Xuanzang onto the path of Scripture Seeking, and that her enlightened disciples, Sun Wukong, Marshal Tianpeng, General Juanlian, and Little White Dragon had all joined the team for the Journey to the West¡­


    All of these were exactly as she had arranged.


    However, Guanyin saw many aspects that were different, like the matter of tribtions.


    Logically, the Yellow-Furred Rat Demon that had escaped from Spirit Mountain should have been a challenge.


    Also, the encounter with the Tiger Demon and others before reaching the Five Elements Mountain should have been tribtions too!


    But in reality? None of these posed any threat to him; the ny-nine eighty-one predestined tribtions of heavenly will were not met at all.


    Moreover, upon careful consideration of the items she had recently given away, a golden hoop, a lotus seed, a Mystical Mirror, and most importantly the inability to reim the Ninth Grade ck Lotus, and in the end, a stalk of Colored ze Vine was lost as well¡­


    She had already sacrificed so much just at the beginning of the Journey to the West.


    Guanyin truly wondered, if they indeedpleted the eighty-one thousand li journey, whether she would end up sacrificing her entire fortune and still find it insufficient?


    "s, matters predestined by the Heavenly Dao are unstoppable; the grand trends cannot be altered, though the minor ones can. The overall direction is within my n, but why are these details so vastly different?" Thinking of the items she had lost in recent days, Guanyin couldn''t help but sigh deeply.


    She felt something was off, but couldn''t pinpoint exactly what it was.


    "Bodhisattva, Manjushri, Samantabhadra, as well as Mother of Lishan have all arrived¡­"


    Just as Guanyin was pondering her recent experiences and sighing inwardly, the Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden came over and interrupted her thoughts.


    "Alright, go ahead and receive them well, I will join you once I finish grooming!" Guanyin answered with a nod upon hearing the message.


    With these words, she stopped pondering and quickly tidied up her appearance, then stepped out of the Lotus Pond.


    Having left the Lotus Pond, she saw Mother of Lishan and the others enjoying the scenery and conversing cheerfully in the Purple Bamboo Forest.


    Guanyin gracefully walked towards them, and they exchanged polite greetings.


    After some small talk, Mother of Lishan turned her gaze to Guanyin and said, "Bodhisattva, you have been very busytely with the matters of the Journey to the West, both big and small. What prompted you to invite us to enjoy the scenery today?"


    "Mother is too kind. Even amidst busyness, there is always time to invite you to appreciate the scenery!" Guanyin responded modestly to Mother of Lishan''s remark.


    Manjushri and Samantabhadra nced at each other and shared a smile, choosing not toment.


    With a slight nod, Mother of Lishan said no more, simply quietly admiring the beauty of the Purple Bamboo Forest, where exotic beasts roamed and Buddhist Light shimmered in waves.


    "Actually, the reason I invited you all here is not only to enjoy the scenery but also to discuss other matters!" After a brief exchange of pleasantries and hesitating for a moment, Guanyin Bodhisattva spoke up.


    Immediately, the gaze of Mother of Lishan and the others fell on Guanyin, clearly waiting for her to continue.


    "Xuanzang and hispanions have already begun their Journey to the West. However, the neen eighty-one tribtions predestined by the Heavenly Dao fall far short. Therefore, some days ago, I borrowed a Ninth Grade ck Lotus from Marshal Tianpeng''s Floral Mink and sent it to the Lower Realm to add a tribtion for the Scripture Seeker¡­"


    Guanyin began to narrate the sequence of events, starting from dispatching the Floral Mink to the Lower Realm, which was then killed by Sun Wukong with a single strike, sharing the details sinctly with everyone present.


    "Oh? You mean to say that Master Golden Cicada''s reincarnation, as the Scripture Seeker, possesses divine skills of his own? He managed to thwart the Floral Mink without even allowing it to use the ck Lotus!" Picking up on the crux of the issue, Mother of Lishan immediately pointed it out upon hearing Guanyin''s ount.


    "Indeed, despite his low cultivation level, such supernatural powers are truly astonishing!" Agreeing with Mother of Lishan''s words, Manjushri nodded.


    "Regardless, the Scripture Seeker is one of our own from the Buddhist Sect. If he possesses such methods, it is indeed a blessing for us Buddhists!" Samantabhadra, on the other hand, spoke up joyfully.


    Samantabhadra''s remark drew nods of agreement from the threepanions.


    Indeed, it was surprising that the Scripture Seeker had some divine skills, but considering that the Journey to the West was a major tribtion predestined by the Heavenly Dao and the Scripture Seeker was a person of destiny, such strangeness wasn''t unnatural.


    Logically, if the Scripture Seeker, being a member of the Buddhist Sect, possessed stronger divine skills, wouldn''t it signify a fortune for Buddhism?


    After all, as Tathagata''s second disciple, Golden Cicada''s status was without a doubt, authentic within Buddhism!


    Mother of Lishan''s words were merely a mention, for given Jiang Liu''s legitimate origins, the Bodhisattvas did not dwell on the issue any further but turned their attention to the essence of the Floral Mink incident.


    "In that case, it seems that the Floral Mink''s skills were still inadequate! That''s why it was in. In the future, if such events recur, we must seek individuals of exceptional prowess, or perhaps, bestow sufficient defensive treasures!" Mother of Lishan said, reflecting on the death of the Floral Mink.


    "Indeed, what the Mother says is very true!" agreed Manjushri, Samantabhadra, and the others, nodding in approval at the words of Mother of Lishan.


    If one possesses strong abilities, there is no need to fear even Sun Wukong, and with a powerful defensive supreme treasure, even without being activated, it can protect its owner. Perhaps only thus can life be preserved during the challenges on the Journey to the West?@@novelbin@@


    However, such a n would increase Guanyin''s workload, since her treasures were limited and she surely couldn''t bring them out every time, could she?


    Furthermore, there was a need to seek out the help of highly capable Immortals and Buddhas in the future! Who knows how much favor one would need to curry for that!


    "Sigh..." Guanyinmented softly, thinking of theseplications.


    Difficult indeed!


    Although Guanyin had braced herself for the Journey to the West and knew it would not be easy, the path had just begun and she already found the difficulties to be much greater than anticipated.


    "You don''t need to sigh and put on a show. Speak your mind if you have something to say; you didn''t invite us three here just to air your grievances, did you?" Mother of Lishan, who was not fooled by Guanyin''s act, asked with a slight smile.


    "The Mother is perceptive, indeed. Actually, this time I truly require your help. Why don''t the four of us go down to the Lower Realm and take a turn there?" Guanyin, having her thoughts revealed by Mother of Lishan, did not feel embarrassed and briefly outlined her idea.


    The descent of the four saints to the Lower Realm certainly could not involve capturing and screaming to eat human flesh like demons; wouldn''t that be shameless? Therefore, Guanyin resolved to descend under the pretense of putting them to the test and create a tribtion for them.


    Most importantly, it was another way to genuinely see the current state of the Scripture Seeker''s team.


    If it was a test, then what would be tested? Or rather, who would be tested?


    Jiang Liu, being central to the Journey to the West, obviously needed no testing; if the test failed, it would be a disgrace for all of Buddhism!


    Sun Wukong was impetuous by nature, and if the test provoked a strong bacsh from him, no one knew what startling things the monkey might do. Therefore, Sun Wukong was also out of the question.


    That left Zhu Bajie, who conveniently had vulnerabilities in his character.


    After some deliberation, the four saints settled on a n, with the three Bodhisattvas transforming into the guise of young women.


    Mother of Lishan, on the other hand, took on the form of a middle-aged woman, iming to be the mother of the three Bodhisattvas.


    ...


    Unaware of Guanyin Bodhisattva''s intentions, Jiang Liu, seated atop the White Dragon Horse, continued his westward journey, pondering over the plot development of the Journey to the West.


    In fact, Jiang Liu''s journey could be considered a battle of wits with Buddhism, and his greatest reliance was not only his gaming system''s abilities but also his foreknowledge of the original storyline.


    However, the incident with the Floral Mink had instilled a sense of urgency in Jiang Liu''s heart.


    Because it showed that due to his own interference, things had changed somewhat. Notably, on his Journey to the West, he would face many tribtions that did not exist in the original storyline, and he must be very careful.


    Of course, while these additional tribtions not present in the original story also meant more opportunities for Jiang Liu.


    The specific gains would depend on how he yed his hand.


    Luckily, before reaching the Great Thunder Monastery of the Western Heaven, Buddhism would not allow him to die, so his life was nothing to worry about.


    "Hey, Master, there''s a big residence up ahead, and it''s gettingte. Let''s rest there!" Lost in thought, Zhu Bajie suddenly spoke up, pointing excitedly at a grand residence not far ahead.


    "A residence? In this wilderness, who would build a home here? It wouldn''t be convenient to step out for groceries or household items, would it?" Sun Wukong said in wonder as he looked at the elegantly designed and grand house ahead.


    Then his fiery eyes shimmered with a golden glow, clearly using his Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze to scrutinize the ce.


    But after a brief moment, Sun Wukong deactivated his divine skill and shook his head at Jiang Liu, "Master, there are no signs of demon Qi, it''s not a transformation by a demon."


    As the day was indeed drawing to a close, Jiang Liu nodded slightly, "Let us take a look then, and ask for lodging for the night."


    If there were no troubles, resting for a night would be pleasant, but if there were troubles? All the better!


    Therefore, without much deliberation, Jiang Liu decided to stay the night and see what would unfold.

 Chapter 183 Feeling Like Pig Life Has Reached Its Peak

    When the level reached 10, the function of extra bag space was unlocked, and at level 20, the task system was unlocked. After all this time, Jiang Liu had almostpletely figured out the task system.


    When he decided to do something, it was very likely to trigger an active task, which had no penalty for failure.


    However, if someone asked him for help, it would trigger a passive task, which did have a failure penalty, but generally, the rewards were higher than those of active tasks.


    Of course, he could choose whether to ept or refuse passive tasks!


    But, whether it was an active task or a passive task, there was onemon rule: the more difficult the task, the more generous the reward!


    This task actually offered a reward of a whopping 350,000 Experience Points and an Epic Level Treasure Chest! It showed the difficulty of the task!


    This was the first time Jiang Liu had encountered a task that directly offered an Epic Level Treasure Chest.


    However, upon closer consideration, the three Bodhisattvas and Mother of Lishan were all wise old figures who had lived for who knows how many years, experienced and serene, not easily troubled. Disturbing them would not be an easy task!


    The difficulty of this task was within reason, wasn''t it?


    After all, the old figure could transform into a woman, enticing men with her graceful allure¡ªa feat not many ordinary men could achieve, could they!?


    "Master? Master? Didn''t you say you were going to teach Old Pig a few tricks? Come on, tell me!" With a face full of excitement and anticipation, Zhu Bajie spoke to Jiang Liu, a look of impatience on his face.


    Given Zhu Bajie''szy nature, it was only when it came to food and the opposite sex that he felt this impatient.


    "Oh, I''m thinking about exactly what to do!" Jiang Liu exined, having heard Zhu Bajie''s words.


    During the conversation, he waved Zhu Bajie over and whispered many, many words into his ear.


    This conversation made Zhu Bajie vigorously nod his head and his eyes light up, appearing immensely pleased. The discussionsted for about half an hour.


    "Alright, have you got all that?" Jiang Liu asked, his mouth dry and thirsty, after sipping some tea.


    "Don''t worry, Master, I''ve got it all down!" Zhu Bajie replied, nodding vigorously.


    "Master, Old Pig is off now, hahaha..." Feeling that he had grasped a fraction of his master''s true teachings, Zhu Bajie couldn''t wait any longer to try them out. Smiling, he turned and ran out of the hall.


    Watching Zhu Bajie run outughing, Jiang Liu, Sun Wukong, and Sha Wujing all looked baffled inside the hall.


    "Master, what did you talk about with him for so long?" Sun Wukong scratched his head, the bewildered look on his face mirroring Jiang Liu''s words.


    "I just talked to him for at least a hundred sentences?" Jiang Liu''s expression, much like Sun Wukong''s, was equally puzzled as he stared nkly at Zhu Bajie''s departing figure.


    "Usually, if you tell this blockhead something, he forgets it if you go past two sentences. Today, you spoke a hundred sentences, and he ims to remember all of them!? Is that even possible!?" Sun Wukong''s face wore a skeptical look, clearly doubting Zhu Bajie''s im of remembering everything.


    "Impossible, right? He might lie about other things, but not about this!" Yet, in response to Sun Wukong''s skepticism, Jiang Liu shook his head.


    Although usuallyzy, would Zhu Bajie be cunning when it came to pursuing girls? Jiang Liu didn''t believe so.


    "Well, that does make sense..." Hearing Jiang Liu''s reasoning, Sun Wukong also thought it over and nodded in agreement, indeed it seemed unlikely.


    So, it could only be said that a person''s potential is boundless!?


    Sha Wujing sat quietly to the side, not saying a word, but feeling somewhat helpless inside, what were these proceedings? Could his second elder brother even be fit for the Journey to the West?


    ...


    Laughing merrily while walking, soon, Zhu Bajie saw a woman dressed in red practicing sword, her moves graceful and enchanting, which made Zhu Bajie''s eyes stare wide open.


    This was the eldest of three sisters, Zhenzhen, aged twenty.


    "Cough cough, the master said first impressions are very important. Besides, atmosphere, background, and other factors all add points¡­" Seeing Zhenzhen practicing with her sword, Zhu Bajie coughed and recalled the words his master had just told him.


    Using the Tianpeng Marshal''s thirty-six transformations, he reverted to his original appearance as Marshal Tianpeng, handsome and resolute. Immediately, Zhu Bajie waved his hand, and spiritual power transformed into countless pink petals, as beautiful as falling snowkes.


    "Miss Zhenzhen, hello there!"


    Handsome and resolute, Zhu Bajie walked out amidst the shower of pink petals, his gaze affectionate as he gazed at Zhenzhen.


    "Uh, who are you, exactly?" Zhenzhen sheathed her sword and stood, looking at the approaching Zhu Bajie with a puzzled expression.


    "I''m the second disciple of Master Xuanzang. I just heard your mother is seeking a son-inw, but actually, I don''t think he suits you!" Zhu Bajie said as he walked up to Zhenzhen.


    "Doesn''t suit me? Why?" With a blush on her cheeks, Zhenzhen curiously asked Zhu Bajie.


    "Because the master is determined to go on a Journey to the Western Heaven, but I am different," Zhu Bajie said, his expression turning serious.


    "How are you different? Aren''t you his disciple? Aren''t you going with him to seek the scriptures?"


    "No, no, no, you got it wrong; Master is determined to seek scriptures, but I am determined to marry you..."


    "Ah, you, those words!" These cheesy lines made her blush with shyness.


    "I''m not only different from Master, I''m also different from the senior apprentice brother. Do you want to know how?" Seeing Zhenzhen''s reaction, Zhu Bajie eagerly asked.


    "What''s the difference?" Zhenzhen seemed captivated by Zhu Bajie''s words and curiously pressed on.


    "The senior apprentice brother is a monkey, and monkeys want to live in caves, but I want to live in your heart!"


    "Right, Miss Zhenzhen, you look pretty good wielding a sword, can you y the zither? No? Then why did you pluck my heartstrings?"


    "Miss Zhenzhen, you really are a cute girl, oh, by the way, my nickname actually is ''Cute''!"


    ...


    The cheesy love lines, paired with the romantic scene of pink petals dancing through the air, perfectlyplemented each other. These lines, unheard of in this era, made Zhenzhen tremble like a flower, yet she was immensely bashful.


    Remembering the words of his master, it was vital to be bold but careful in these matters. Seeing that the timing was almost right, Zhu Bajie courageously and gently took Zhenzhen''s hand!


    "Ah, you, don''t do this, if someone else sees, it won''t be good," Zhenzhen, with her head lowered, struggled gently and whispered as Zhu Bajie held her hand.


    "Are you afraid of rumors? Don''t worry, if there are rumors that I like you, I will rify them, for they are no rumors!"


    ...


    "If you really like me, then, then go talk to my mother!" After a barrage of cheesy lines, Zhenzhen finally turned and ran away. Yet, before she fled, she lowered her head, not daring to look at Zhu Bajie, and whispered these words. Explore stories on empire


    "Did, did this just happen!?"


    Although Zhu Bajie wasn''t the most emotionally intelligent, he understood the true meaning behind Miss Zhenzhen''s words. Watching her shyly running away, Zhu Bajie felt both shocked and thrilled internally.


    In his excitement, Zhu Bajie treasured the ny-nine lines of love talk taught by his master as supreme treasures!


    Truly, the techniques taught by his master were formidable; just a few simple words had won him a heart!?


    If he had known to say these words earlier, that Fairy Chang''e...


    Thinking of Fairy Chang''e, Zhu Bajie shook his head, the thrill in his heart slightly subdued.


    After thinking it over, he turned and went to find his master. This start looked very promising; what should he do next? Better ask the master.


    "Master, I''ve seeded, hahaha, you are truly incredible, I made it..." Overjoyed, Zhu Bajie shouted with glee, running over to Jiang Liu.


    "You''ve seeded!? What exactly happened? Tell me," Jiang Liu asked, his brows slightly furrowed at Zhu Bajie''s glee.


    His goal wasn''t just for Zhu Bajie to seed but to annoy the others!


    "These lines you taught me, they really worked wonders!"


    Zhu Bajie, excitedly, recounted everything that had just urred to Jiang Liu in detail.@@novelbin@@


    "What should I do next? Should I go propose to Sister Jia right now?" Zhu Bajie, in his eagerness, seemed almost unable to wait to go propose.


    However, hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Jiang Liu shook his head and said thoughtfully, "No hurry, you are Marshal Tianpeng reincarnated, tell me, which capable man under heaven doesn''t have several wives and concubines? Try and see if the other two are also agreeable!"


    "Ah? Lianlian and Ai''ai too? Would that be alright?" Zhu Bajie hesitated, although tempted by his master''s words, he felt it wasn''t right.


    "Bajie, you need to understand, the way of heaven is to take from the surplus and give to the insufficient, the way of man is to give to those who have plenty and take from those who don''t. Those who have more should get even more, those who have less will lose even what they have, the bold thrive and the timid starve! Go on then!"


    Another mess of potentially useless philosophies was thrown at him, but Jiang Liu had only one goal: to make Zhu Bajie annoy those few Bodhisattvas.


    "Alright! Master, you make sense! I''ll go right now!" Zhu Bajie, now blindly trusting Jiang Liu, thrilled by the thought of having three wives, shivered with excitement and again turned to run out.


    ...


    "Miss Lianlian, I''m different from master. He wants to seek scriptures; I want to marry you!"


    "Miss Ai''ai, do you know how else I differ from the senior apprentice? He''s a monkey who likes to live in caves, but I''d rather live in your heart!"


    "If you really like me, you should go propose through your mother! Teeheehee!"


    Eventually, both Lianlian and Ai''ai, like Zhenzhen had before, turned and spoke softly to Zhu Bajie before they too ran away.


    "Did, did this really happen!?" Zhu Bajie watched Ai''ai also joyously depart and was stunned, feeling even more surprised.


    For a moment, Zhu Bajie felt that his life, er, pig life had reached its peak.

 Chapter 185 Bajie Feeling Ashamed

    ```


    Jiang Liu had no intent to see what splendid treasures might emerge from the epic-level treasure chest, his form swiftly dashed towards the exterior.


    No sooner had Jiang Liu dashed out of the room than he suddenly discovered that, at this very moment, the entire Jia Mansion shook violently. Instantly, the entire estate rapidly diminished in size, transforming into the likeness of a building small enough to fit in the palm of one''s hand, which was then taken into the possession of an elderly woman, who appeared to be in her fifties or sixties.


    Observing this elderly woman, who bore some resemnce to Sister Jia in her facial features, stood two men by her side, both garbed in the attire of Buddhist Bodhisattvas, the likes of which Jiang Liu had never encountered before.


    On the other side stood another Bodhisattva dressed as a woman, and who else could it be if not Guanyin Bodhisattva?


    The countenance of Guanyin Bodhisattva bore a trace of coldness as she gazed into the distance, her eyebrows slightly furrowed.


    The Guanyin Bodhisattva, who had always shown herself to others as a figure saving those in distress, now presented a demeanor quite unlike her usual self.


    "Alright, it seems to be Guanyin Bodhisattva!" There was no need to ponder too much, merely by observing the expression of Guanyin Bodhisattva, Jiang Liu could make an educated guess.


    It must have been that Zhu Bajie had attempted to force himself upon the woman who was an incarnation of Guanyin Bodhisattva, seeking to turn uncooked rice into a cooked meal. Therefore, out of frustration, Guanyin Bodhisattva revealed her true Dharma Aspect and sent Zhu Bajie flying away!


    Although he chuckled inwardly, Jiang Liu obviously did not show it outwardly, instead adopting a look of bewilderment.


    He looked around and saw nothing but wilderness. Then, ncing at Guanyin Bodhisattva, he quickly bowed, "Disciple Xuanzang pays respect to Guanyin Bodhisattva, and, uh, how should I address you, several Bodhisattvas?"


    "I am Manjushri Bodhisattva!"


    "I am Samantabhadra Bodhisattva!"


    Following Jiang Liu''s inquiry, Manjushri and Samantabhadra quietly chanted a Buddha''s name and then dered their identities.


    "Oh, it turns out to be Manjushri and Samantabhadra Bodhisattvas, Disciple Xuanzang offers his respects!" Upon hearing the words of Manjushri and Samantabhadra, Jiang Liu followed with ceremonial bows.


    "Xuanzang, this is Mother of Lishan!" Not recognizing even his own two guardians, Manjushri Bodhisattva kindly took it upon himself to introduce Mother of Lishan to him.


    "Amitabha, this humble monk pays respect to Mother of Lishan!" Hearing Manjushri''s introduction, Jiang Liu bowed again.


    "So, you are the Scripture Seeker? You really did educate a good disciple!" Mother of Lishan unmistakably was prejudiced against Jiang Liu and responded to his greeting with a cold snort, speaking with displeasure.


    "The disciple admits his fault, only, the disciple did not know that the entirety of Jia Mansion, including all within, was presided over by Mother and the three Bodhisattvas¡ªforgive this monk for his mortal sight, not recognizing your venerable presences!" Lowering his head, Jiang Liu''s attitude was indeed very humble, as he promptly admitted his mistake.


    After all, the mission was alreadypleted and he had sessfully irritated the Bodhisattvas. Admitting a mistake in mere words counted for nothing!


    Moreover, in the test of faith among these four holy beings, the fact that Mother of Lishan could assume the role of mother to three Bodhisattvas indicated that her status and identity were far from ordinary.


    Provoking such an influential figure for no good reason was certainly not something Jiang Liu desired.


    "Hmph¡­" Though Jiang Liu was ostensibly admitting fault, the underlying meaning revealed through his words suggested innocence through ignorance. Observing his prompt admission of error, Mother of Lishan didn''t press further on a minor''s matter and softly hummed without furtherment.


    "Bodhisattvas, what exactly is going on here?"


    Now Jiang Liu finally had the time to ask, "Why are several Bodhisattvas in this deste ce, and why did you not reveal your Dharma Aspects earlier, allowing this disciple to pay homage?"


    Upon saying this, Jiang Liu paused briefly then looked around as if searching for Zhu Bajie, "And what exactly happened just now? Why did I seem to hear a scream from Bajie? Where has he gone? Why do I not see him?"


    Jiang Liu wouldn''t have asked if not necessary, but his question made Guanyin Bodhisattva''splexion grow even darker, evidently stirring unpleasant recent memories. Find exclusive stories on empire


    "Amitabha, Xuanzang, the four of us are here to test whether the resolve and faith of you and those on the Journey to the West for Scriptures are steadfast. Fortunately, you were not swayed by beauty or wealth, and we are greatly relieved," Manjushri Bodhisattva stepped forward to exin the situation as Guanyin, the nner of the western quest, was not in the best of states.


    Having said that, Manjushri Bodhisattva paused once more and then continued, "However, your second disciple Zhu Bajie is still driven by lust, having acted so disgracefully. You must ensure to discipline him strictly along the way!"


    "Hmph, with such a nature, mere discipline will not suffice! He must be severely punished!" Guanyin Bodhisattva, utterly devoid of her usual demeanor, spoke with a hint of indignation on her face.


    It was fortunate that Zhu Bajie was a predestined member of the Scripture Seeking group and irreceable, otherwise, Guanyin Bodhisattva might truly have had the intention to kill him.


    "Very well, very well, this disciple understands. I shall indeed discipline him appropriately on our journey!"


    The angrier Guanyin became, the more delight Jiang Liu felt within, though of course, he did not let it show on his face, instead nodding vigorously in agreement.


    Were it not an inappropriate moment, Jiang Liu genuinely wished to inquire of Bajie about what he had done to provoke the Bodhisattva to cast aside her usual poisepletely.


    "Enough, you may go now. Bajie was sent flying in the southwest direction; you should search for him in that direction!"


    ```


    It was clear that Bodhisattva Guanyin was out of sorts today, and Manjushri Bodhisattva, not wanting her to lose too much face in front of the scripture seekers, spoke to smooth things over.


    During the conversation, there was no indication of a prolonged stay, and after exchanging nces, all four deities transformed into escape lights and left.


    Following Manjushri Bodhisattva''s guidance, they headed southwest, and after about a dozen miles, Sun Wukong finally found Zhu Bajie''s tracks.


    In the night, they could see a scene resembling a meteor falling, the ground marked with a long trail.


    And at the end of this trail, Zhu Bajiey on the ground, his appearance quite dismal.


    Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on Zhu Bajie, and he could see that the health bar above his head was only left with about one-tenth, indicating the severity of his injuries.


    If it weren''t for the heavy responsibility of the westward Journey to the West for Scriptures, perhaps this blow would have killed Zhu Bajie by Guanyin''s hand.


    "Hey, Bajie, how are you feeling? Okay!?" Sun Wukong, agile in his movements, somersaulted to Zhu Bajie''s side and asked.


    "Monk, Monkey Brother, I, Old Pig, am... alright, I won''t die, I just, just need... to rest properly..." Zhu Bajie, lying on the ground, spoke weakly.


    "Second Brother, what on earth did you do just now? I saw Bodhisattva Guanyin with such a dark expression on her face!" Sha Wujing, also curious about the prostrate Zhu Bajie, asked him.


    These past few days, Zhu Bajie''s liaisons with the three young women had been no secret, and now, knowing they were all bodhisattvas, Sha Wujing too was taken aback.@@novelbin@@


    Daring to woo several bodhisattvas, especially the likes of Manjushri, Samantabhadra, and Guanyin, Second Brother''s audacity was unmatched in all the Three Realms!


    "Sigh, don''t mention it, I really lost face big time..." Zhu Bajie, lying on the ground, spoke with a look of embarrassment.


    He had thought his pig''s life had peaked, that from now on in Jia Mansion, a thousand mu of goodnd, embraced by women on all sides, life would be more carefree than even the immortals''.


    Who would''ve thought that it was all an illusion, a grand deception orchestrated by the bodhisattvas, and that just moments ago he almost...


    Sigh, in any case, the disgrace was monumental!


    "What exactly happened? Tell your master all about it?" Jiang Liu, also very curious, questioned Zhu Bajie.


    He really wanted to know what had so enraged Bodhisattva Guanyin.


    "Master, it''s better if you don''t ask, I, Old Pig, won''t say! In any case, I''ve lost a lot of face!" Zhu Bajie covered his face with his hands, stubbornly refusing to speak.


    "All right, if you don''t want to talk, then your master won''t press you!" Jiang Liu could guess the general idea but knew that without Zhu Bajie''s willingness to share the specific details, it was pointless to push him.


    However, at this point, Jiang Liu paused slightly, then followed up with, "Let me ask you onest question, did you or did you not kiss, um, kiss a bodhisattva!?"


    Sun Wukong, Sha Wujing, and even White Dragon Horse all fixed their eager gazes on Zhu Bajie, their eyes aze with the fire of gossip.


    Faced with everyone''s burning curiosity, Zhu Bajie fell silent.


    He knew that if he truly said nothing, his brothers and master would never let him off the hook.


    So, after a moment of silence, Zhu Bajie nodded slightly and said, "It was not only a kiss on the mouth!"


    "Hahaha, you fool, that''s really interesting, hahaha!" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s response, Sun Wukong burst intoughter, rolling on the ground multiple times.


    "Hey, you gue-stricken monkey, how can you be like this!? When you encounter a woman you fancy, let''s see how Old Pig willugh at you!" Sun Wukong''s attitude left Zhu Bajie fuming with indignation as he retorted angrily.


    "Hmph, I, Old Sun, think you''ve already lost face; I could never be like you, not in this lifetime!" Sun Wukong, however, responded with a snort and a dismissive gesture.


    "Hmph, don''t get too cocky, monkey! When ites to love, when the timees, nobody can stop it!" Zhu Bajie said irritably, watching Sun Wukong''s demeanor.


    "Tsk, don''tpare I, Old Sun, to you, a stinky pig!" Yet Sun Wukong remained confident, nonchnt.


    Jiang Liu stayed out of the argument between Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, simply raising his hand to administer the Guanyin Mantra to Zhu Bajie, restoring a portion of his health points and naturally healing many of his wounds.


    "Not just a kiss on the mouth! What else have you done, I''m even more curious now!"


    After applying the Guanyin Mantra to Zhu Bajie, Jiang Liu''s curiosity grew¡ªso many details, he could write an epic tale of sensuous scenes.


    In any case, at least one thing could be certain now:


    Bodhisattva, you have been kissed by a pig!

 Chapter 186 Items from the Epic Level Treasure Chest

    After repeatedly casting the Guanyin Mantra on Zhu Bajie, Jiang Liu finally fully healed his injuries.


    As night fell, there was no need to continue the journey in the middle of the night, so they decided to stay outdoors and rest.


    Zhu Bajie sat aside, clearly quite shaken by today''s events.


    He had been enjoying himself between Zhenzhen, Lianlian, and Ai''ai these past few days, feeling as if he was at the peak of his life, almost savoring a romantic affair.


    But unexpectedly, it turned out that all three of them were transformations of the Bodhisattva.


    Especially in the end, when Ai''ai, furious and embarrassed, transformed into the Bodhisattva Guanyin, Zhu Bajie was truly scared stiff.


    Now thinking about it, he felt extremely embarrassed.


    "s, this is really embarrassing...", thinking of all this, Zhu Bajie covered his face with his hand and murmured to himself in dismay.


    He had already be aughingstock among the three realms for his misbehavior toward Chang''e after getting drunk, and now, here was another incident.


    If this got out, he would be even more disgraced.


    Continue your journey on empire


    "Bajie, why feel embarrassed at all?" Jiang Liu, who was sitting cross-legged preparing to cultivate the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, heard Zhu Bajie''s soft sigh and turned his head.


    Without waiting for Zhu Bajie''s response, Jiang Liu continued, "If anyone should feel embarrassed, it should be the Bodhisattva Guanyin, right? To others, you, being a pig, managed to kiss the Bodhisattva Guanyin. That''s something you could brag about for a lifetime! I can say that among the three realms and six paths, no other pig has managed what you have."


    "Eh!?" Jiang Liu''s words made Zhu Bajie pause for a moment, and thinking it over from this new perspective, it did indeed seem correct.


    What did he have to be embarrassed about? Shouldn''t the Bodhisattva Guanyin be the one feeling embarrassed?


    "Hehehe, not bad, not bad, Master, you are right!" After reconsidering it, Zhu Bajie felt relieved.


    More importantly, he thought that spreading this incident would be embarrassing for him, but wouldn''t the Bodhisattva Guanyin feel even more embarrassed? Thus, this incident probably wouldn''t be spread by anyone!


    "Master, you really do make sense..." After nodding significantly, Zhu Bajie was not upset anymore.


    Even more, turning his thoughts around, although he had been tricked by several Bodhisattvas this time, he had still learned some tricks from his master, right?


    In the future, if he encountered other female demons or fairies, couldn''t he also flirt and win their favor?


    Upon this thought, Zhu Bajie''s mood considerably lightened, filled with anticipation and thinking about trying his luck with other female demons and fairies...


    "In the future, if Ie across a beautiful female demon, I, Old Pig, will definitely take her down!" Zhu Bajie mumbled quietly, his eyes filled with longing.


    Although he had been tricked by the Bodhisattvas this time, Zhu Bajie seemed more determined to seed than ever.


    The three women transformed by the Bodhisattvas seemed quite susceptible to this approach, giving Zhu Bajie a lot of confidence. After all, if even the Bodhisattvas couldn''t resist these sweet nothings, how could other female demons?


    "You and this thing! I don''t have much to talk about with you except about love"


    "I want to ask for a direction, the way to your heart"


    "The sea of bitterness has no end, turn back... turn back to me"


    ...


    Even when idling, Zhu Bajie reviewed the ny-nine corny pickup lines Jiang Liu had taught him, just to make sure he wouldn''t forget them when he really needed them.


    "There he goes again...", hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Sun Wukong beside him rolled his eyes and said nothing, feeling this pig was far too fixated on female demons, which was rather degenerate.


    "Has he misunderstood something?" Watching Zhu Bajie''s enthusiastic rambling, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly, feeling that Zhu Bajie was somewhat blindly confident.


    The sweet nothings were just casual remarks, and now he really took them as gospel truths? It even seemed like he was doing revisions after a lesson?


    Looks were justice, in Jiang Liu''s view. No matter how charming the words a pig spoke, they were useless, right? Looks have always been the most important aspect, haven''t they?


    For instance, a beautiful girl can pull off any dress style, but if she is unattractive, then everything she wears is futile.


    Simrly, when a handsome boy talks sweetly, it''s charming, but if an unattractive boy does the same? It''s just harassment, right?


    Or take the old concept of arranged marriages. If a girl likes a boy, she would shyly say, "I''ll defer to my parents," but if she doesn''t like him? She''ll say, "I wish to serve my parents at home for a few more years."


    Not to mention, even in life-saving situations, it''s the same.


    If after a hero saves a beauty, the savior is handsome, what does the girl usually reply? "I have nothing to repay your great kindness, I''m willing to offer myself in marriage!"


    But if the savior is an ugly man? Then probably, the offer of marriage bes, "I have nothing to repay your great kindness. In my next life, I''ll be your horse and cattle to repay this debt."


    Listening to Zhu Bajie''s high spirits as he continuously rehearsed those cheesy lines of romance, Jiang Liu silently shook his head, casting aside the jumble of thoughts in his mind. Ultimately, it really was all about good looks.


    Being as handsome as he was, he would certainly have his own worries in the future. Such worries, Zhu Bajie would probably never understand in his lifetime, right?


    After shaking his head and sighing for a moment, Jiang Liu promptly stood up and walked towards the distance.


    "Master, where are you going!?" Seeing Jiang Liu getting up to leave, Sun Wukong next to him asked.


    "It''s nothing, your master needs to relieve himself!" Shaking his head, Jiang Liu responded.


    As he spoke, he walked a few dozen yards away and squatted down in a patch of grass.


    Mentally invoking themand "inventory space," a semi-transparent inventory grid appeared in front of Jiang Liu. Due to the addition of a new knapsack, the inventory space now had twelve extra slots.


    In the inventory space, a beautifully ornate treasure chest was lying silently¡ªit was the Epic Level Treasure Chest he had been rewarded with afterpleting a task earlier.


    Previously, Jiang Liu''s attention had been caught up with the events between Zhu Bajie and Bodhisattva Guanyin, so he hadn''t even had time to check this Epic Level Treasure Chest.


    Now, Jiang Liu finally had the time to take a look at it.


    Thinking back to the previous chests he had opened¡ªthe Guild Creation Token, the Equipment Enhancement Scroll, and the Resurrection Scroll¡ªall had merely been items. He wondered what good things this Epic Level Treasure Chest could possibly contain.


    Could it possibly contain an epic piece of equipment!?


    With anticipation, Jiang Liu slowly opened the treasure chest. A misty glow shed by, and immediately, Jiang Liu saw a pale purple stone lying quietly inside.


    The stone bore several mysterious and arcane talismans, appearing to be of exceptional quality.


    It wasn''t equipment, which made Jiang Liu silently sigh in disappointment. However, since it was an item from an Epic Level Treasure Chest, what could its functionalities be?


    Curious, Jiang Liu took the stone out of the chest.


    As Jiang Liu''s gazended on the stone, the corresponding data information also appeared before his eyes.


    Reset Stone (Consumable): Upon use, removes all Skill Points from the user, returning them to the user, and any learned skills are reconstituted as Skill Books. Usable 1/1 time.


    "What a great item!" Looking at the attribute information for this Reset Stone, Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up!


    Are Skill Points precious? Undoubtedly, as leveling up by a single level grants only one Skill Point.


    One Skill Point can be used to learn a new skill or even enhance the level of an existing skill, which is naturally extremely valuable.


    Currently being at Level 28, he had only a total of 28 Skill Points. Havinge this far, some skills seemed to be bing less useful to him.


    Take the Demon-Subduing Mantra, for example, which increases a fixed amount of Attack Power rather than a percentage. As his Cultivation Level grew, the effectiveness of this skill had diminished.


    It was proving to be less useful not only for Sun Wukong and the others but also for himself as it became more and more marginal.


    However, on the whole, it seemed that only the Demon-Subduing Mantra had be rather marginal. After pondering, Jiang Liu found no better skills to rece it with, so he was not in a hurry to use it.@@novelbin@@


    For now, he would keep the Reset Stone in his inventory, ready to use itter if he encountered powerful skills while short on Skill Points.


    Overall, while it was disappointing that the Epic Level Treasure Chest did not contain a piece of equipment, the Reset Stone turned out to be a decent item, so Jiang Liu''s mood improved considerably.


    After securing the Reset Stone, Jiang Liu returned to where Sun Wukong and the others were, sat down with crossed legs, and continued to practice the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound Cultivation Technique.


    For thispleted task, he had earned a total of 350,000 Experience Points. Although he hadn''t leveled up yet, Jiang Liu believed that he was getting closer and closer to Level 29.


    ...


    Meanwhile, on Mount Luojia in the South Sea!


    "Damn, damn! That pig!" By the side of the Lotus Pond, Bodhisattva Guanyin was vigorously washing her face with a piece of silk. No matter how much she washed, she felt like her face was still dirty.


    Indeed, Jiang Liu was right. This time during the trial of Zen hearts among the four holy beings, Zhu Bajie thought he had lost face? Bodhisattva Guanyin felt she had lost even more face¡ªshe had been insulted by a pig...


    The mere thought was utterly revolting.


    Next to her, the Pearl Holding Dragon Maiden and Gaoyang, who had never seen the Bodhisattva looking like this, were somewhat afraid to approach, unsure what had gotten into her today.


    It was quite some time before Bodhisattva Guanyin finally stopped what she was doing, her eyes still brimming with annoyance.


    "It seems I need to arrange a few more cmities, especially taking good care of Marshal Tianpeng. The ny-nine trials are meant for every member of the Scripture Seeking team alike!"

 Chapter 187 Time to Show Off

    Palm Thunder!


    Once again utilizing the skillbination of shing Brilliance Shoes and Palm Thunder, Jiang Liu''s figure shed past, instantly appearing in front of a Demon General, his hand directly grabbing a Snake Demon''s head, and then, a brilliant blue lightning bolt emanated from the center of Jiang Liu''s palm.


    This Snake Demon, which had just jumped out intending to eat human flesh, was instantly killed by Jiang Liu''s Palm Thunder, its body turning into a charred figure.


    Notification: Gained Experience Points 2200.


    Notification: Level increased by 1, current level 29.


    As this Snake Demon was in by Jiang Liu, and the experience points were credited, a cool sensation swept through his body, once again elevating Jiang Liu''s level, bringing him up to level 29.


    Since the trial at the Buddhist Sect, more than half a month had passed. Along the way, with stops and starts, cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound and battling monsters for levels, time passed rather quickly, and finally, his level had reached 29.


    "Phew, finally level 29, huh?"


    Leveling up was naturally a joyous asion. Jiang Liu let out a long breath, overwhelmingly happy, yet filled with more anticipation.


    At level 10 he had unlocked inventory space, at level 20 the mission feature, and now, nearly at level 30, what feature would appear?


    Would level 30 unlock a new feature? Jiang Liu had no doubts whatsoever, especially since the Guild Creation Token was in hand, and the attribute information stated that the social feature needed to be unlocked to establish a guild.


    That is to say, there must be a social feature waiting to be unlocked.


    Moreover, the durability of equipment was also an issue; it couldn''t always rely on Repair Oil, right?


    So, barring any surprises, the system of Life Professions should also be unlocked...


    "Disciples, look, it''s gettingte. Let''s camp out here tonight! I''m in a good mood today, how about we grill some skewers? It seems like it''s been about half a month since west did!" Having leveled up, Jiang Liu felt it was worth celebrating. Looking at the sky, already turning to dusk, he proposed.


    "Oh yes, oh yes! Master, the other day you added some Cornus Fruit to the skewers, and it tasted even better; Old Pig has been craving it!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Zhu Bajie, who was next to him practicing cheesy pick-up lines, eagerly nodded in agreement.


    "Hmm, although the Cornus Fruit is a bit spicy, it can barely be considered mild, we''ll just have to make do!" responding to Zhu Bajie''s words, Jiang Liu sighed helplessly.


    Spicy? Naturally, chili would be the best, but what if there''s no chili?


    About half a month ago, Jiang Liu did happen upon some Cornus Fruit, which had a bit of a spicy taste, albeit not as much as chili, so he tried using it. Though he wasn''t satisfied, it was better than nothing.


    Hearing that their master was in a good mood, and that there would be grilled meat to eat, Sun Wukong was naturally very happy. Both Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie volunteered to help, one washing and the other slicing the meat, each knowing what they needed to do.


    Jiang Liuid out all his seasonings for grilling, and with Sun Wukong and the others skewering the meat, Jiang Liu only needed to take care of the barbecue.


    The three master and disciples cooperated seamlessly.


    After the skewers were cooked, Jiang Liu also set out two jars of rice wine he had bought a few days earlier, letting Sun Wukong blow a gust of hot air on them.


    Drinking the warm, sweet rice wine and eating the grilled skewers, the vor was truly enjoyable.


    The weather was still cold, but it seemed that the coldest days were behind them. Counting the days, spring wasn''t far off.


    Thinking about the season, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but reflect internally; having been in the world of Journey to the West for a few more months, it would be a year, right?


    Moreover, counting the days, it seemed like the New Year in the world of the Journey to the West wasn''t far off? Probably less than a month away?


    However, on the Journey to the West, whether or not it was New Year seemed to make little difference?


    Jiang Liu and his two disciples sat around a table, drinking and eating meat merrily.


    At the same time, Jiang Liu was not stingy, casually tossingrge slices of grilled meat onto a te; the White Dragon Horse understood it was its portion and came over to eat, creating a harmonious atmosphere.


    Meanwhile, on the other side, Sha Wujing sat alone in a corner, holding a pancake in his hand, taking a bite, then sipping some water.


    Even though it wasn''t very tasty, at least it filled the stomach, right?


    "Brother Sha, are you really not eating? Master''s grilled meat tastes truly great!" Sha Wujing sat alone, eating his pancake and drinking water, while the White Dragon Horse suddenly came over and whispered.


    "Xiaobai, we are from the Buddhist Sect, how could we indulge in meat and wine? If we were to reach Western Heaven, the Buddha would surely me us. I advise you not to eat anymore either!" Hearing the White Dragon Horse''s words, Sha Wujing shook his head and spoke seriously.


    Before, when he was a demon creature in Liusha River, it was fine, even eating people didn''t matter, no one could control him; but now, having joined the Buddhist Sect, one must naturally follow the rules of the sect.


    In Sha Wujing''s view, if they indeed reached Western Heaven, and the master and brothers had been eating meat and drinking along the way, it would surely displease the Tathagata.


    At that moment, only he could maintain a vegetarian diet, and perhaps, delighted by his own devotion, Buddha might grant him a better identity!?


    ...


    What calctions Sha Wujing was making, let''s not talk about for the moment. After having their fill of food and drink, Jiang Liu turned and sat down to cultivate in a lotus position, while Sun Wukong cleaned up the dishes.


    And what about Zhu Bajie? He took some of the dishes to the riverside to wash.


    "Hmm, this cornus fruit''s spiciness is really good indeed. After adding it, the taste improved a lot. I really don''t know what the chili that master mentioned tastes like..." Holding some dishes that needed washing, Zhu Bajie walked for a while and arrived at a small river.


    Just as he reached the riverside thinking about washing the dishes, suddenly, his nose twitched slightly.


    Looking up, he saw a woman lying in the grass not far away, dressed in a ck chiffon skirt. Even though her face was obscured because she was lying face down, her graceful, curvaceous figure definitely caught Zhu Bajie''s eye.


    Dropping the things in his hand on the ground, Zhu Bajie strode over to the woman and boldly flipped her over.


    The ck chiffon skirt, coupled with her dense, ck hair and fair, delicate face, had Zhu Bajie''s eyes nearly popping out.


    Although it was clear at a nce that she was a female demon, her stunning beauty momentarily captivated Zhu Bajie.


    Perhaps due to Zhu Bajie''s actions, the woman slowly opened her eyes. She was clearly not lightly injured, weakly muttering, "Save... save me..."


    "Huh? Wait, a few days ago, master gave my elder brother and me two potions each, saying the red ones are for life-saving, and the blue ones can restore mana!"


    Hearing the woman''s plea for help, Zhu Bajie was moved and hurriedly took out a red potion from his bosom, pouring it into the female demon''s mouth.


    As the healing potion was administered, within moments, the female demon''s injuries somewhat recovered.


    Although her injuries were still grave, her spirit seemed somewhat better.


    "Are you, are you a pig demon? Do you have any more of those potions? A few more bottles, and I could be healed!" A small bottle of potion had significantly healed her wounds, and the woman in the ck chiffon dress, astonished, asked Zhu Bajie.


    "No more, that potion was my only bottle, for critical life-saving moments!" Zhu Bajie, looking naive, shook his head as he spoke.


    "Your only bottle?" she couldn''t help but feel moved by Zhu Bajie''s words.


    "Why, why do you save me!? A simple gesture to save me is one thing, but to use your only potion on me, it''s oddly generous," the woman felt puzzled as she asked.


    "Why? Because of the burning! Didn''t you smell something scorched? It''s my heart you''ve set on fire!" Recently having be quite fluent in cheesy romantic lines, Zhu Bajie blurted out promptly.


    "A scorched smell!?"


    The woman sniffed and then saw some discarded barbecue grills nearby, and said irritably, "Are you sure that scorched smell isn''ting from over there?"


    "No, my heart, is burning more intensely! The moment I saw you, I just..." With a tender and passionate expression, Zhu Bajie gazed at the enchanting and beautiful woman in front of him.


    Whiz!


    However, before Zhu Bajie could finish his sentence, suddenly, a streak of light shed by and swiftly headed their way.


    "Quick, hide! The people who are after me have arrived!" Seeing the rapidly approaching light, the woman''splexion changed, and she quickly spoke.


    "Don''t worry, with me here, no one can hurt you! From now on, all you need to do is let me protect you!" At the crucial moment, how could Zhu Bajie act timidly? Holding the woman in his arms, he looked utterly assertive.


    "But, they who are chasing us are immortals, disciples of the Deity-ying Elder! We need to run!" Seeing that Zhu Bajie was also a pig demon, despite his assertive words, the woman urgently spoke.


    "Evil demon, where will you run to!" The light shed, and a young mannded in front of Zhu Bajie, his hands holding a blue immortal sword, radiating a fierce aura.


    "It''s over..." Seeing the young man who had descended, the woman in the ck chiffon dress turned even paler, her face showing utter despair.@@novelbin@@


    A disciple of the Deity-ying Elder, a genuine Heavenly Immortal, was not something mere ordinary demons could confront.


    "Oh, who do I have here, it''s you! How has your master beentely?" Yet, seeing the young man who appeared, Zhu Bajie greeted him nonchntly.


    "You are!?" Seeing Zhu Bajie, who had taken the initiative to greet him, the young man looked a bit surprised, soon his expression softened, and he even respectfully bowed, saying politely, "It''s you? Qingxu pays his respects to Marshal!"


    "Ah!? This pig demon actually knows an immortal!? And from his words, it seems he knows the Deity-ying Elder too!?"


    The woman by his side, who originally had a look of despair, looked at Zhu Bajie in shock and awe.


    Who would have guessed, this pig demon had such impressive connections!?

 Chapter 188 The Female Demon Zhuzhu

    The disciple of the Demon yer from the Nine Heavens parted ways, leaving even Marshal Tianpeng, despite his troubles, with the respect his original identitymanded. Once Bajie extended his hand to save the evil demon, he too departed.


    "Wow, what''s your background? You''re so incredible? Even the disciple of the Demon yer from the Nine Heavens has to give you face!"


    The woman in the ck gauze dress widened her eyes and eximed in astonishment as she asked Bajie.


    "He''s just my junior, after all. Back in the days when I, Old Pig, served as Marshal Tianpeng in heaven, I was acquainted with his master, the Demon yer from the Nine Heavens!" Beside him, the woman''s astonished and admiring gaze seemed to fill Bajie with such vanity that he spoke with proud defiance on his face.


    "You''re so powerful!" The female demon gazed at Bajie with eyes filled with awe and admiration.


    This statement was not ttery but genuinely heartfelt.


    Indeed, for a member of the demon kind to have connections with immortals, especially a major figure from the Immortal Realm, was indeed a very impressive feat.


    "By the way, my name is Zhu Bajie, what''s your name?"


    The unreserved admiration in the female demon''s eyes greatly pleased Bajie, who, holding her hands tenderly, smiled affectionately.


    "My name is Zhuzhu, I''m a spider!" the female demon answered with a coquettish smile.


    "I''m a pig too! We are truly a match made in heaven. Seeing you, I finally understand what love at first sight feels like..."@@novelbin@@


    Hearing the female demon''s response, Bajie spoke tenderly, his cheesy lines firing out one after another non-stop.


    "You, you want to have children with me!?" Sharply opening her eyes wide, the female demon asked, a surprised expression on her face.


    The female demon''s bold and straightforward words stunned Bajie for a moment.


    However, how could he falter at a crucial time? Bajie nodded vigorously and said, "Yes! Of course, I do!"


    "Then, then once I have recovered from my injuries, let''s be together and have a little baby, shall we?" Laughing in response to Bajie''s reply, the female demon asked.


    "Let''s go, I''ll take you to my master to heal you right now!"


    The female demon''s boldness both shocked and delighted Bajie; he hugged her tightly and turned to walk towards Jiang Liu.


    ¡­


    "Master¡­ Master¡­ Save me¡­"


    Sitting cross-legged and cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, Jiang Liu suddenly heard Bajie''s cries. Opening his eyes, he saw Bajie carrying a seductive and charming woman over.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on the female demon, he naturally noticed that her health bar was only around 20%.


    "Master, please save her! Zhuzhu is badly hurt!" Bajie said to Jiang Liu, holding the woman in front of him.


    "Bajie, what, what exactly is happening here?"


    Didn''t you just go to the river to clean some stuff? And now you''ve returned with a woman? Jiang Liu was also perplexed, wondering what had happened.


    "Bajie? Why did you bring a demon creature here?" By the side, Sun Wukong, instantly recognizing the identity of the woman being held, asked.


    As he spoke, Sun Wukong''s gaze sought Jiang Liu''s directive, recalling that most demons encountered en route had been dealt with by the master.


    "Master, her name is Zhuzhu, and I just met her. I think I''ve found true love; please save her!"


    Addressing Jiang Liu''s inquiry, Bajie sinctly exined what had just happened.


    Jiang Liu rolled his eyes at Bajie''s statement, clearly annoyed.


    True love? Throughout this journey, any slight beauty you think is your true love! But what''s the result? It''s all just your own wishful thinking; you like them, but that doesn''t mean they like you back.


    "Youngdy, you''re called Zhuzhu, aren''t you? My disciple here says he likes you. What do you think?" Feeling the need to confront Bajie with reality, Jiang Liu didn''t rush to save her but instead turned to the stunning female demon he was holding and asked.


    "I like him too! I''m willing to have children with him!" Zhuzhu in Bajie''s embrace answered frankly.


    "¡­" Now, Jiang Liu was utterly dumbfounded. What situation was this? Just a heroic rescue, and the female demon was ready to pledge herself to him?


    Wasn''t this the kind of treatment only handsome people received? For the ugly, wasn''t it always monumental gratitude that promised servitude in the next life?


    Confused as he might have been, since Bajie had brought her back, and she was his disciple after all, he felt inclined to save face.


    Jiang Liu raised his hand and cast the Guanyin Mantra skill on Zhuzhu, instantly boosting her health by a significant margin.


    "Wow, what powerful divine skills!" With her health rapidly restored by 20%, Zhuzhu felt her injuries immediately improve and expressed her amazement to Jiang Liu.


    While speaking, her gaze swept over Jiang Liu and his group, then she turned to Bajie and asked, "You all, who are you exactly?"


    "Oh, we are on a journey to the Western Heaven to seek scriptures."


    Although he had already reached 40% health and, in theory, could walk on his own, Bajie still just held Zhuzhu in his arms without any intention of letting go, as he responded.


    "Oh, so you are the ones going to the Western Heaven for the scriptures! I''ve heard before about a group of monks from the Tang Dynasty on a scripture-seeking journey, among whom Master Xuanzang is particrly famous. It''s said that eating a piece of his flesh grants Longevity Life!" Zhuzhu, clearly aware of Jiang Liu''s reputation, eximed in astonishment.


    Meanwhile, her eyes intensely fixed on Jiang Liu.


    "Are you thinking of eating me?" Jiang Liu asked, slightly raising an eyebrow at Zhuzhu''s gaze.


    "Of course, I am!" Zhuzhu surprisingly answered briskly and openly admitted.


    However, right after her response, she reached out and wrapped her arms around Bajie''s neck, very intimately and added, "But it''s just a thought. For now, I''d rather have children with Bajie, and if I were to eat anyone, it would be him!"


    ''Hehehe, I am willing to bepletely eaten by you!'' Unlike the female demons they encountered along the way who were all crying and screaming to be with the Master, Bajie was overjoyed to finally meet one who wanted to be with him. He held Zhuzhu tightly in his arms.


    "This female demon is quite straightforward!" Zhuzhu''s response made Jiang Liu silently muse. The Flesh of Longevity, who wouldn''t want to eat it? Her ability to boldly admit it indeed showed a straightforward character.


    But to be willing to be with Bajie just upon meeting him? Even openly saying she wants to have his children? That straightforwardness seemed a bit too much, didn''t it?


    Finding a female demon who was willing to be with him and even openly expressed her desire to bear his children, Bajie''s heart was of course very joyful. After Jiang Liu''s Guanyin Mantra had cooled down, and he recited it three more times,pletely restoring Bajie''s health, Bajie happily took Zhuzhu aside to speak of love.


    "Hehehe, Master, this fool is traveling with a female demon. When we reach Spirit Mountain in the Western Heaven, do you think Tathagata will explode in anger?"


    With a single leap, Sun Wukong came to Jiang Liu''s side,ughing heartily with great anticipation.


    However, regarding Sun Wukong''sment, Jiang Liu remained silent without an answer.


    This female demon Zhuzhu was not mentioned in the original story, not even a hint, but now not only had she appeared, she had also fallen in romantic discourse with Bajie?


    Jiang Liu naturally felt that something was amiss.


    Could it really be the butterfly effect caused by his own intervention? Or could this be another trial arranged by Guanyin?


    This matter should not be underestimated, yet Jiang Liu also did not rush to say much, continuing to close his eyes and practice the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique.


    Seeing that Jiang Liu was unwilling to speak, Sun Wukong, still uninterested,y down to one side.


    As for Wujing? He was originally a very marginal character and had resolved to just tag along to the Western Heaven. As long as he could smoothly reach the Western Heaven, nothing else mattered much to him, so he naturally didn''t say anything more.


    Even in Wujing''s mind, he felt it was better the more mistakes his master and brothers made.


    By then, in the Western Heaven, wouldn''t he more clearly realize his untainted nature?


    For three consecutive days, Bajie and Zhuzhu were inseparable. Jiang Liu wanted to talk to him alone, but there was no chance.


    Finally, one day, Zhuzhu saw a clear stream and went to bathe on the side, finally giving Jiang Liu a chance to sit down with Bajie on the grass and chat.


    "Hehehe, Master, I really owe you big time for this!" Before Jiang Liu could speak, Bajie already started expressing his gratitude profoundly.


    "Thank me for what? For treating her injuries?" Jiang Liu was slightly taken aback upon hearing Bajie''s thanks.


    "No, I''m thanking you, Master, for teaching me how to court girls. Even though I''ve only learned a little, I''ve be unbeatable in the realm of love!"


    Bajieughed proudly. The sweet nothings that Jiang Liu taught him had be, more than ever, a treasured doctrine to him.


    "Actually, Bajie, I think regarding your feelings for Miss Zhuzhu, it would be better to give up!" Observing Bajie''s joyous demeanor, Jiang Liu pondered briefly before speaking.


    "Ah! Master? Why is that?" Bajie''s face fell upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    The methods were taught by his master, but why was he now opposing his rtionship with Miss Zhuzhu?


    "Bajie, haven''t you noticed? Miss Zhuzhu is a beautiful female demon, surely notcking admirers. Why would she fall for you at first sight? Could there be some other calctions or plots behind this?" Jiang Liu cautioned Bajie.


    Though Bajie was never short of desire, it must be acknowledged that unlike those scoundrels who turn their backs after getting what they want, Bajie''s behavior was more simr to that of Duan Zhengchun. He was not just affectionate but overly so, seemingly willing to invest emotionally in every woman.


    "Master, I have to disagree with you there. Couldn''t it be possible for me, old pig, to meet someone who truly loves me?" Even though he found Jiang Liu''s words reasonable, Bajie still preferred to believe that Zhuzhu''s feelings for him were genuine.


    "That possibility is not very likely!" Jiang Liu shook his head and said.


    "Not likely doesn''t mean impossible, right?"


    Bajie stubbornly said, having an attitude that seemed to embrace and trust love despite repeated heartbreaks.


    Bajie''s words caused Jiang Liu to go silent for a moment before he spoke in a subdued voice, "Even if as you say, Miss Zhuzhu truly cares for you, do you think the Buddha and Bodhisattva above would want to see this?"


    "At that time, if they intervene..."


    (PS: New reader group, group number: 879-594-211)

 Chapter 190 Rampage - The True Strength of Zhu Bajie

    The journey to the West is currently the most important affair for Buddhism, and as the primary nner of this mission, Guanyin naturally pays constant attention to matters concerning the journey.


    Moreover, Guanyin wanted to thoroughly enjoy a drama of her own creation.


    When testing the Zen hearts of the four saints, she yed along with Zhu Bajie for a few days; in the end, Guanyin suffered a major loss at his hands, losing all face. Naturally, Guanyin sought to take her revenge on Zhu Bajie.


    Why not, if she could take her revenge and add another difficulty to the journey West?


    Indeed, as Jiang Liu had thought, Guanyin used him as a temte to design another plot that was almost identical.


    What Jiang Liu didn''t know was that his affair with Gaoyang had also been meticulously nned by Bodhisattva Guanyin all along.


    Having obtained a red thread from the Matchmaker God, Guanyin this time bound Zhu Bajie directly to a ck Widow Spider Demon, encouraging them to cultivate affection.


    Eventually, due to its nature, the Spider Demon would surely consume Zhu Bajie, and naturally, Zhu Bajie would have to resist.


    Lovers would be bitter enemies in a battle to the death; adding another difficulty to the journey was not only satisfactory but also a way to get even with Zhu Bajie and release the pent-up frustration.


    So, Guanyin secretly observed all these events, waiting for the moment when Zhu Bajie and his beloved would part ways in life and death.


    After almost half a month, sure enough, the bond between Bajie and the Spider Demon grew even stronger, to the point where the Spider Demon was even pregnant with Zhu Bajie''s child.


    This delighted Guanyin, knowing the climactic scene wasing.


    Sure enough, the Spider Demon''s instincts held firm; once she realized she was pregnant, she nned to devour Zhu Bajie. Guanyin waited for Zhu Bajie to resist, leading up to a tragic spectacle in the mortal world where the Spider Demon would be in.


    For Zhu Bajie, it was a tragedy, but for Guanyin, it was aedy.


    However, much to Guanyin''s astonishment, Zhu Bajie seemed to show no intention of resisting and appeared content to be eaten by the Spider Demon!?


    This made Guanyin Bodhisattva somewhat uneasy!


    All this was beyond Bodhisattva Guanyin''s expectations!


    You must be joking, right? Just half a month of acquaintance; even if there were some feelings, it wouldn''t be profound enough for Zhu Bajie to willingly give his life, would it?


    This was something Guanyin Bodhisattva had not anticipated, leaving her, who was watching the drama from the shadows, somewhat at a loss.


    She only wanted to avenge herself on Zhu Bajie; she had never intended for him to die!


    If he was really eaten by the Spider Demon, even attempting resurrection would be impossible, wouldn''t it?


    Although with the methods of Immortals and Buddhas, resurrection after death is possible, it requires a vital precondition¡ªthat the body is still intact.


    Thus, dying with an intact body is the greatest blessing for those doomed to die.


    Like Nezha, who had, back in the day, returned his bones to his father and flesh to his mother, leaving his bodypletely useless, so resurrection required using a lotus as his embodiment.


    If Zhu Bajie were to be eaten, reviving him would be exceedingly difficult.


    In a moment of urgency and seeing Zhu Bajie giving up resistance, willingly letting himself be devoured by the Spider Demon, how could Guanyin continue to simply watch from the shadows?


    With a flick of her finger, a ray of light shot out from Guanyin''s fingertip, directing straight towards Zhuzhu.


    The brilliant golden Buddhist Light, without any ostentation, instantly pierced through Zhuzhu''s head.


    As her head was pierced, Zhuzhu''s body stiffened slightly and then copsed limply, her fangs previously fixed in Zhu Bajie''s throat naturally loosened.


    In the blink of an eye, Zhuzhu''s lifeless body copsed on the ground, transforming into the figure of a giant ck Widow spider, looking hideous and ferocious.


    "Zhuzhu!"


    Witnessing Zhuzhu''s death, Zhu Bajie was shocked and horrified. He quickly freed himself from the spider silk, looking at the ck Widow spider corpse on the ground, and cried out in anguish.


    "Amitabha, well done, well done..." Bodhisattva Guanyin manifested her Dharma Aspect in midair, her form seated upon the Lotus tform, softly chanting a Buddhist mantra to herself.


    Originally, Zhu Bajie was somewhat fearful of Guanyin because of the incident with the testing of Zen hearts and would feel awkward just looking at her.


    But now, Zhu Bajie''s eyes bloodshot, he stared straight at Guanyin and demanded, "Bodhisattva, what are you doing!? Why did you kill my Zhuzhu!?"


    "Amitabha, Bajie, I happened to be passing by and saw that your life was hanging by a thread, so I intervened to save you. Not only are you not grateful, but you''re also causing such a ruckus. This is unreasonable," Guanyin retorted.


    Although Guanyin had orchestrated these events, she naturally pretended to bepletely unaware of them.


    ¡­


    Atop Wind-Chasing Mountain, the wolf packs were dense, and numerous Little Demons mingled among them. Jiang Liu, holding the Mixed Iron Rod in hand, was like a tiger entering a flock of sheep.


    These wolf packs around him? He unleashed the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique, the fearsome sound waves spreading in all directions from the center of his body.


    The terrible sound wave attacks instantly killed countless wolves.


    As the Great Buddha Temple''s divine skill to quake the temple, the power of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound was indeed immense. Coupled with Jiang Liu''s own skills and the amplification from his equipment, he had even reached level 29. Demons below the rank of Demon Soldiers hardly possessed the qualifications to challenge Jiang Liu.


    Two Demon Generals charged at him, possessing strong demon arts, but Jiang Liu had the special effect of the shing Brilliance Shoes for evasion, and the defense from the Vajra Mantra, not to mention the healing from the Guanyin Mantra.


    Even the existence of Demon Generals only caused some trouble for Jiang Liu and could not inflict much harm.


    Hint: Gain 8 Experience Points.


    Hint: Gain 666 Experience Points.


    Hint: Gain 4560 Experience Points.


    ...


    With the battle raging on, Jiang Liu fought amidst the wolves like a tiger entering a flock of sheep, the notifications of gaining Experience Points relentlessly echoing in his mind.


    These continuously gained Experience Points secretly delighted Jiang Liu, this bout of fighting was equivalent to a long period of his cultivation.


    "Not bad, the skills of this monk! But what a pity, he is stillckingpared to this marshal!"


    Not far away, a wolf demon holding a mountain splitter axe, with the head of a wolf and the body of a human, watched Jiang Liu closely, squinting his eyes slightly and speaking in a grave voice.


    As he spoke, the wolf demon leaped forward, pouncing towards Jiang Liu.


    Seeing this, Sun Wukong by his side, his gaze slightly sharpened, was ready to make a move.


    Having traveled with Jiang Liu on this journey to the West for so long, Sun Wukong had roughly understood his role; he would personally take on anything above the rank of Demon Marshal, while leaving the rest for the master to deal with.


    Just then, a dazzling Buddhist Light suddenly shone in the distance, causing Sun Wukong to pause and turn his head to look.@@novelbin@@


    Likewise, the demons from Wind-Chasing Mountain also stopped in shock.


    "Is that... Bodhisattva Guanyin!?" Looking back, around twenty miles away, one could see the radiant Buddhist Light, and Jiang Liu''s brow slightly furrowed.


    Wasn''t that the direction from which he had juste? What was Bodhisattva Guanyin doing there?


    "Bodhisattva Guanyin!? Run for it!" The wolf demons from Wolf Dwelling Mountain saw the distant Buddhist Light and were terrified, with the Wind-Chasing Wolf Commander screaming in horror, leading his descendants in a full retreat for their lives.


    With a great power like Bodhisattva Guanyin appearing near Wind-Chasing Mountain, although not likely aimed at them, it was natural for these demons to flee as far away as possible.


    Jiang Liu didn''t attempt to stop these wolf demons from fleeing. While leveling up was essential for him, the sudden appearance of Bodhisattva Guanyin in the vicinity was of even greater concern.


    They had only been traveling westward for a short while, and yet, Bodhisattva Guanyin had appeared countless times. What was she doing here this time?


    Roar!


    Just as Jiang Liu was pondering this question, suddenly, a roar that shook the heavens and the earth rang out, filled with endless hatred and anger.


    Immediately after, Jiang Liu could clearly see a wild boar standing upright, transforming into a hundred zhang tall figure, like a small mountain, its Nine-Toothed Rake striking towards where Bodhisattva Guanyin was.


    "Is that Bajie!? Could this be the mighty magic of Heaven and Earth?" Watching the figure grown to a hundred zhang tall, Jiang Liu''s heart stirred, and he also grew anxious.


    Though Bajie waszy, as Marshal Tianpeng, his strength was formidable, not at all weaker than Sun Wukong. At this moment, it looked as if Zhu Bajie had gone berserk, the ferocity of his desperate attitude adding threefold to his fierceness.


    As the saying goes, the bold fear the reckless. Once someone fights as if they have nothing to lose, their frightening vigor is such that even two or three people would struggle to get close.


    Watching Zhu Bajie disy the Heaven and Earth Mighty Magic and madly attack Guanyin, forcing even the Bodhisattva to retreat without daring to face his fury.


    "Wukong, let''s hurry over and see what happened!" Jiang Liu reacted quickly, immediately mounting his horse and calling out.


    The White Dragon Horse understood and took off, turning into a streak of white lightning as it turned and ran back.


    With Bodhisattva Guanyin appearing and even provoking Zhu Bajie to a state of wild rage, Jiang Liu felt an inner tension, sensing clearly that something major must have happened, otherwise Bajie wouldn''t have acted like this.


    Sun Wukong too leaped into the air, moving even faster than the White Dragon Horse, and in an instant, he arrived in front of Zhu Bajie and Bodhisattva Guanyin.


    "Bajie, what on earth happened?" Sun Wukong blocked Zhu Bajie''s path and demanded.


    However, Zhu Bajie, looking like a small mountain, stared with blood-red eyes and showed no intention of responding to Sun Wukong. A massive Nine-Toothed Rake swung his way.


    Sun Wukong''s expression tightened as he drew his Golden Hoop Staff to block the iing Nine-Toothed Rake.


    With a loud bang, Sun Wukong got smacked away like a ball hit by a racket, sent flying by Zhu Bajie''s Nine-Toothed Rake.


    "Hiss, the might of Heaven and Earth Magic, Zhu Bajie gone mad, he''s this powerful!?"


    Jiang Liu, seated on the back of the White Dragon Horse, witnessed the moment Sun Wukong was repelled, and he inwardly gasped in astonishment.

 Chapter 191 Zhu Bajie: Master, help me

    Zhu Bajie''s actual strength had always been a mystery to Jiang Liu.


    Ordinarily, perhaps because he was born a pig and naturally indolent, or perhaps because he had once been the Great Marshal Tianpeng, Zhu Bajie simply did not hold Scripture Seeking in high regard. Indeed, he did everything he could to conserve energy andzily shirk his duties whenever possible.


    How strong must Zhu Bajie be when truly enraged and fighting with all his might?


    Jiang Liu had now seen it!


    When enraged, Zhu Bajie could even send Sun Wukong flying, and even Bodhisattva didn''t intend to withstand his attacks directly, which showed just how powerful Zhu Bajie was.


    Of course, his life-threatening state probably also made people hesitant to approach him.


    Though shocked by Zhu Bajie''s rampage, Jiang Liu merely looked on briefly before turning his gaze elsewhere.


    He didn''t see Zhuzhu anywhere, only therge ck body of a spider demon lying nearby.


    This slightly sank Jiang Liu''s heart, and seeing this, he could generally understand what had happened.


    "This situation, something''s off, right? Is Bodhisattva really so direct?" Upon seeing Zhuzhu''s body, Jiang Liu felt even more puzzled.


    Was the situation of Zhuzhu and Zhu Bajie orchestrated by Bodhisattva? Jiang Liu felt the probability was over eighty percent.


    And Zhu Bajie bringing a wife along on the Journey to the West, the Buddhist Sect would certainly not approve, so it wasn''t surprising that they intervened.


    However, even with intervention, would Bodhisattva really kill Zhuzhu right in front of Zhu Bajie?


    Wasn''t Bodhisattva always one to devise strategies, utilizing indirect means to achieve her goals?


    Just because she didn''t want Zhu Bajie and Zhuzhu together, just to revenge herself on Zhu Bajie, would she step forward and say he can''t be involved with a female demon and then kill her directly?


    This waspletely out of character for Bodhisattva!


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    As the saying goes, a burst of effort wanes and then exhausts after three attempts!


    Although Zhu Bajie in his frenzy possessed terrifying strength under the Divine Skills like Law of Heaven and Earth, truly with the might of splitting heaven and earth, after dodging for a moment and as Zhu Bajie''s frenzy slightly subsided, Bodhisattva frowned slightly, took the willow branch from the Jade Clean Bottle, and gently swept it towards Zhu Bajie.


    In an instant, as if countless branches and vines appeared, they agilely bound Zhu Bajie''s body, greatly restricting his movements.


    Although Zhu Bajie struggled mightily, snapping branch after branch, the dense willow branches entangling him meant that fully breaking free was not a matter of a moment.


    Seeing Zhu Bajie now under her control, Bodhisattva''s eyes turned slightly cold.


    After being forced back so much, now it was time to strike him hard and give him a chance to cool down, otherwise where would she put her own face as a Bodhisattva?


    "Master? What do we do!?" Sun Wukong, who had been sent flying by Zhu Bajie, came to Jiang Liu''s side, not rmed but delighted, and asked, eager to give it a try.


    If he were to act against Bodhisattva, Sun Wukong saw this as an opportunity. With the support of his master''s Divine Skills, he and Zhu Bajie together might truly be able to take down Bodhisattva.


    They didn''t need to wait to get to Western Heaven, they could act right now.


    "Don''t you act recklessly!" Seeing Sun Wukong''s expression, Jiang Liu could almost guess what was on his mind and promptly cautioned him.


    Now was not the time topletely sever ties with the Buddhist Sect.


    But likewise, Sun Wukong couldn''t attack Zhu Bajie either, or wouldn''t that hurt his feelings?


    After all, they were all part of the same team, if he were to start a fight, wouldn''t Sun Wukong essentially be helping Bodhisattva attack his own teammate? What would Zhu Bajie think?


    After Bodhisattva had restrained Zhu Bajie, she swept her willow branch again, sending a streak towards Zhu Bajie.


    Vajra Mantra!


    Watching the spell attack about to fall on Zhu Bajie, Jiang Liu hesitated for a moment. This was the perfect opportunity to win people''s hearts. He cast the Vajra Mantra directly at Zhu Bajie, golden radiance flickering on his body.


    Bodhisattva''s attack fell on Zhu Bajie.


    Jiang Liu could see that the health bar above Zhu Bajie''s head suddenly dropped by about 10%!


    "With 80% damage mitigated, was the attack still that powerful? If it hadn''t been mitigated, wouldn''t that hit have reduced Zhu Bajie to just half his health left? How ruthless!"


    Seeing this, Jiang Liu was inwardly shocked.


    "Hmm?" Seeing her attacknd on Zhu Bajie and realizing that the damage was far lower than she had expected, Bodhisattva''s brow furrowed slightly.


    Hooves kicking up clouds, the White Dragon Horse soared through the sky, carrying Jiang Liu directly into midair, facing away from Zhu Bajie, who was in his Law of Heaven and Earth form, looking towards Guanyin in the sky.


    "Amitabha, Xuanzang, I hadn''t expected you to possess such divine skills!" Watching Jiang Liu blocking in front of Zhu Bajie, Bodhisattva Guanyin softly chanted a Buddha''s name and spoke.


    "Master, she, she killed Zhuzhu, I, I want to..."@@novelbin@@


    Although Zhu Bajie, standing behind him, had eyespletely red, he hadn''t lost his rationality; he also knew that it was Jiang Liu who had just made a move to help him. Looking at Jiang Liu, who seemed as tiny as a fly in front of him, he spoke.


    "No need for further words!" However, Jiang Liu turned his head to look at Zhu Bajie behind him in his Law of Heaven and Earth form and spoke.


    Immediately thereafter, Jiang Liu, sitting on the back of the White Dragon Horse and hovering in midair, joined his hands in a salute toward Guanyin and said, "Bodhisattva, no matter what, Bajie is still my disciple. If he has erred, as his master, I am bound by duty to intervene, but could you tell me exactly what happened here?"


    "I simply meant well!"


    Facing Jiang Liu''s inquiry, Bodhisattva Guanyin naturally felt she was in the right, no longer intent on continuing the fight, she exined, "I just happened to pass by this ce and saw a Spider Demon biting Bajie, looking as if she were about to eat him. Having seen it, how could I stand idly by?


    I helped him by eliminating the Spider Demon, yet unexpectedly, he seemed determined to fight me to the death!"


    "Zhuzhu was about to eat Bajie? Could she have been mistaken about something? Pretending it was a misunderstanding, a fatal error?"


    Listening to Bodhisattva Guanyin''s words, Jiang Liu secretly wondered if she had seen Zhu Bajie and Zhuzhu being intimate, thus finding an excuse to intervene.


    "Bodhisattva, I was willingly eaten by Zhuzhu! What does this have to do with you!?" Before Jiang Liu could ask Zhu Bajie for the truth, Zhu Bajie, however, vociferously shouted out, addressing Guanyin with a totally unreasonable demeanor.


    "Bajie, you mean? Zhuzhu really wanted to eat you!?" Zhu Bajie''s shouting startled Jiang Liu into widening his eyes.


    "Yes, it is so. But Zhuzhu''s true form is a ck Widow, that is her nature. Moreover, eating me would have been better for the baby in her belly. I... I would rather she had eaten me..." Zhu Bajie nodded, not denying that Zhuzhu had attempted to eat him.


    "I see, so that''s how it is!" At this moment, realization dawned in Jiang Liu''s heart.


    Bodhisattva Guanyin''s strategy was transparent; indeed, from a neutral standpoint, although she killed Zhuzhu, her reasoning was sound and unassable.


    It was only because Zhu Bajie couldn''t let go of his lost love.


    "Xuanzang, as Bajie''s master, tell me, have I done wrong?" After telling Jiang Liu the whole story, Bodhisattva Guanyin asked.


    Jiang Liu clearly understood the meaning behind her words, yet he had to admit that her reasoning indeed held water; if one didn''t reveal all her calcted motives, everything Bodhisattva Guanyin did was not only meless but also a favor to Zhu Bajie since she saved his life.


    Zhu Bajie bowed his head, remaining silent. Being restrained for that while had calmed his emotions somewhat, and he also realized that Bodhisattva Guanyin had done nothing wrong.


    However, the death of Zhuzhu and even their unborn child within her was a heavy blow to Zhu Bajie.


    "Alright, Bajie, restrain your grief and move on. You should prioritize the grand endeavor of the Journey to the West and not dwell on personal affections anymore. I''ll not take today''s incident to heart, Amitabha..."


    Although things had developed unexpectedly for Guanyin, by this point, her n hade to a sessful conclusion. Bodhisattva Guanyin, disying extensive magnanimity without dwelling on Zhu Bajie''s returned kindness with ingratitude, patiently and painstakingly counseled Zhu Bajie.


    As her words fell, Bodhisattva Guanyin did not say much more, merely sitting on the Lotus tform, and soon transformed into an escape light and disappeared.


    Naturally, as she left, the branches entwined around Zhu Bajie also dispersed.


    Zhu Bajie dispelled his Law of Heaven and Earth divine skills and without a word, walked over to Zhuzhu''s corpse.


    Being inherently unattractive himself, Zhu Bajie harbored no disdain for Zhuzhu, who was merely an ugly spider. He picked up her corpse and walked away into the distance.


    "Monkey, let him be alone for a while," Jiang Liu called out to Sun Wukong as he seemed to want to console Zhu Bajie.


    "Alright!" Although Sun Wukong scoffed at the so-called affections between men and women, he understood that Zhu Bajie must be deeply grieved at that moment, nodded, and did not say anything further.


    "Who would have thought, his actions were so quick? Even had a child involved? Even more unexpected, how ruthless Guanyin turned out to be!" Watching the heartbroken Zhu Bajie, Jiang Liu muttered quietly to himself.


    Walking the road of the Journey to the West until now, Jiang Liu had a deeper understanding that the followers of Buddhism, as Sun Wukong once said, were most capable of maniptions, even harshly so toward their own followers.


    If it were merely for adding an ordeal, why go to such lengths? For revenge, Guanyin indeed struck fiercely, managing still to remain beyond reproach!


    Zhu Bajie buried Zhuzhu''s corpse in the ground and then stood destely in front of the grave for an entire day, not showing any intention of leaving even by midnight.


    Jiang Liu and the others were not in a hurry, merely waiting quietly by the side.


    However, at midnight, when all was silent, after Jiang Liu had circted his Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound through ny-nineplete cycles, he slowly opened his eyes and gazed at Zhu Bajie, who stood like a statue in front of the grave, thought for a moment, and walked toward Zhu Bajie.


    "Master, do you remember you said your nickname was Holmes?"


    With his back to Jiang Liu, Zhu Bajie''s voice was unprecedentedly serious, yet somewhat hoarse.


    "Can you help me figure out what exactly is going on? I, Old Pig, have always felt something isn''t right, but I can''t seem to understand it."

 Chapter 194 Resurrection

    "Ah!?"


    Jiang Liu''s words had stunned Zhu Bajie, who widened his eyes in astonishment as he looked at him.


    Clearly, what Jiang Liu had just said had stunned Zhu Bajie, even leaving him unable to regain hisposure for a moment.


    Though the merits of the Journey to the West were of little interest to Zhu Bajie, it was because he understood that no matter how well he behaved, he would only receive a small portion of the merits, while the primary portion of the merits would still be awarded to Jiang Liu, the core figure of the Journey to the West for Scriptures.


    With his merits, bing a Buddha afterpleting the Journey was a certain affair, and the Journey to the West was currently the most significant event for the Buddhist Sect.


    But what? What did Master just say? He had just said he might not truly be aligned with the Buddhist Sect!?


    How could such a statement not be shocking or even unbelievable?


    "What? Does that seem strange to you? You were manipted by the Buddhist Sect, so you want to leave and even oppose them. My situation is simr to yours, and I might make a simr choice. Does that surprise you?" Seeing the astonished look on Zhu Bajie''s face, Jiang Liu retorted.


    "No, not strange¡­" Hearing Jiang Liu speak, Zhu Bajie shook his head.


    Indeed, that was the logic, but as the core figure of the Journey to the West for Scriptures, to oppose the Buddhist Sect? If this were mentioned, probably no one would believe him, right?


    "Then, Master, if you want to do the same as Old Pig, why are you helping the Buddhist Sect to seek scriptures?" Zhu Bajie, not very clever to begin with, felt even more like his brain was muddled at this moment, and he spoke somewhat incoherently.


    It just felt that the actions of these clever individuals were indeed hard to understand; if Master was really against the Buddhist Sect, why help them in their Journey to the West for Scriptures?


    "Your Zhuzhu died, and that was the end of it, but my Gaoyang was left with the Buddhist Sect, held like a hostage. Did I have another choice?" In response to Zhu Bajie''s question, Jiang Liu gave him a dismissive look and said.


    "Eh, Master, you make sense, you¡­ you were even more cunningly trapped than Old Pig!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s exnation, Zhu Bajie scratched his head, suddenly feeling some sympathy for Jiang Liu.


    "So, Bajie, are you willing to apany your master on the Journey to the West to overthrow all the heavenly deities and Buddhas?"


    Setting his expression straight, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on Zhu Bajie as he formally asked this question, a question he had once posed to Sun Wukong.


    Overthrow all the heavenly deities and Buddhas!?


    How audacious was this statement? ording to Zhu Bajie''s past temperament, he would have definitely declined.


    Yet today, with hatred not subsiding in his heart, and having already resolved to leave the Journey to the West team, the words of Jiang Liu hit right in Zhu Bajie''s heart!


    "Master, I am willing!" After a brief silence, Zhu Bajie nodded earnestly and answered resolutely.


    "Very well, from now on, we are in this together!" Zhu Bajie''s response made Jiang Liu nod; his answer was anticipated by Jiang Liu.


    "But, Master, just with us two grasshoppers, do you think it''s possible to overthrow all the heavenly deities and Buddhas? Do you have any clever n to do it without shedding blood?" Although he had agreed, not long after, Zhu Bajie sheepishly asked Jiang Liu.


    The question turned Jiang Liu''s expression darker: "What do you think all the heavenly deities and Buddhas are? Paper tigers? Can they be dealt with just by stratagem? Wake up, you''re dreaming already without even sleeping?"


    "Heh heh heh, isn''t this just because I trust you, Master? I think your wisdom is even greater than all the heavenly deities and Buddhas! Others might not be able to do it, but if Master you can, Old Pig still believes!" Zhu Bajie chuckled, ttering Jiang Liu.


    "No! At least not now, there''s absolutely no way. All we can do now is to strive to enhance our own strength! That''s all!" Waving his hand, Jiang Liu cut off Zhu Bajie''s ttery.


    However, just at this moment, Jiang Liu paused briefly before adding: "Also, you seem to have misunderstood something. We are not just two grasshoppers; we are three!"


    "Three!? Is it Xiaobai?" Zhu Bajie paused, then asked. Explore stories at empire


    "No, it''s Wukong!" Jiang Liu corrected him.


    "So, Monkey Brother was already on the same rope with you, Master! No wonder, I thought how could that stubborn Monkey suddenly resign himself to the Journey to the West; so the real truth was this!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s correction, Zhu Bajie, startled, also felt enlightened.


    Although he had been part of the crew of the Journey to the West for Scriptures for some time now, Zhu Bajie had just realized that the real truth behind the entire team was like this; he had not noticed until now.


    "Well, as things have reached this point, there''s no need to say more. Dig out Zhuzhu''s corpse, and I will help you resurrect her!"


    Having said all there was to say, and at this point, with no need for further words, Jiang Liu spoke.


    "Ah! Resurrection!?"


    Jiang Liu''s words stunned Zhu Bajie, who widened his eyes in disbelief and looked at Jiang Liu, saying, "Master, to bring the dead back to life, generally it requires the decree of the Jade Emperor to make King Yama agree to send lost souls back for revival. Of course, if it''s the Buddha''s decree, the ten courts of Yama would also grant this favor. But, Master, you¡­"


    "I have my own methods, entirely independent of both the Buddha and the Jade Emperor!" Jiang Liu said to Zhu Bajie, not offering much of an exnation.


    There is only one Resurrection Scroll, and naturally, it is precious. However, using the Resurrection Scroll topletely win back Zhu Bajie''s loyalty seemed very worthwhile to Jiang Liu.


    Otherwise, if he hesitated to use it today and decided to use it for someone elseter, what would Zhu Bajie think upon seeing it?


    Even more, once he leveled up in the future and learned the skill of resurrection himself, what would Zhu Bajie think upon seeing that he could resurrect the dead at will?


    By then, no matter how much he exined, this matter would always be a barrier between him and Zhu Bajie, wouldn''t it?


    So, after much deliberation, Jiang Liu felt that using the Resurrection Scroll to bring Zhuzhu back was a very necessary deed.


    Moreover, however precious the Resurrection Scroll might be, who knows? Perhaps he might be able to obtain another by defeating monsters or opening a Treasure Chest?


    Although he did not know what other method his master could possibly have, Zhu Bajie now ced his blind trust in Jiang Liu, so he did not continue to ask questions, but nodded and dug out Zhuzhu''s body from the grave.


    Being the body of the Demon King, even in death, it had not decayed after just a few days; Zhuzhu''s body looked no different than when it had first been buried.


    "Master, Zhuzhu has been dug up. What should we do next?" After digging up the body, Zhu Bajie gazed at Jiang Liu with a look of anticipation and anxiety.


    "You don''t need to do anything!" Jiang Liu said, shaking his head in response to Zhu Bajie''s words.


    While speaking, he gestured for Zhu Bajie to step aside. Then, Jiang Liu took a couple of steps forward, arrived in front of Zhuzhu''s body, and silently invoked his storage space. After opening it, he took out his only Resurrection Scroll!


    "Master, is this the precious item that can resurrect people? It looks extraordinary!" Zhu Bajie''s eyes lit up as he looked at the Resurrection Scroll in Jiang Liu''s hand that radiated a resplendent light.


    Immediately he rolled his eyes and pleaded, "Right, the Healing Potion you gave me earlier was used up on the first day when I saw Zhuzhu, to heal her wounds. Could you give me another potion? And since this treasure can resurrect people, can you give me ten or eight for protection?"


    "Scram!" Jiang Liu merely nced at Zhu Bajie sideways and spat out a word in irritation.


    However, although he irritably told Zhu Bajie to scram, Jiang Liu still took a Healing Potion from his storage space and threw it toward Zhu Bajie.


    "I can give you the Healing Potion, but this Resurrection Scroll is my only one. I''m using it now to save her, so if you dieter, don''t me me for having no means to resurrect you!"@@novelbin@@


    Watching the potione his way, Zhu Bajie quickly stretched out his hands and caught the Healing Potion, clutching it like a treasured possession.


    A potion that could restore part of one''s health in a blink of an eye was, in Zhu Bajie''s view, a life-saving treasure at a critical time.


    "Master, you really do love me, Old Pig!" Zhu Bajie said with emotion as he stowed away the Healing Potion, after hearing that the Resurrection Scroll was uniquely avable.


    "Enough, no more cheesy talk. Save that for the Female Demon!" Jiang Liu waved his hand, not letting Zhu Bajie ramble. In front of Zhuzhu, he tore open the Resurrection Scroll.


    As the scroll tore open, countless points of starlight imbued with the essence of life slowly drifted down onto Zhuzhu''s body, merging into it.


    The body of Zhuzhu, once lifeless and merely a corpse, stirred slightly as a few spider legs twitched a little, then the movements grewrger.


    "She''s alive, truly alive, Master, you really have such power!"


    Watching Zhuzhu''s body revive with the breath of life, Zhu Bajie shouted ecstatically, joyful like a child.


    ...


    Meanwhile, after the mosquito form of Sun Wukong left the scene, his Primordial Spirit returned to his own body.


    With his eyes closed as if feigning sleep, Sun Wukong slowly opened his eyes, his lips curling into a slight smile that he could not suppress.


    The longer he stayed in contact with his master, the more secrets he seemed to uncover about him¡­

 Chapter 195 Level 30, New Features Unlocked

    After being resurrected, the massive and ugly ck Widow spider instantly transformed back into a figure d in a ck gauze dress. Who else could it be if not Zhuzhu?


    "Zhuzhu, it''s great, you really came back to life..." Seeing Zhuzhu resurrected, Zhu Bajie joyfully approached and gently embraced Zhuzhu, saying.


    However, after being resurrected, Zhuzhu merely lowered her head, her expression not showing any happiness but rather gently stroking her abdomen, a look of sorrow on her face, she said, "Bajie, our, our child, is no more..."


    Hearing this, Zhu Bajie''s face also stiffened slightly, and then he gently patted Zhuzhu''s back, saying, "It''s okay, I''m still here aren''t I? If we''re together, we can certainly have another child, it''s okay, it''s okay..."


    Jiang Liu, standing nearby and hearing the exchange between Zhuzhu and Zhu Bajie, also silently sighed to himself.


    There was no way around it, the Resurrection Scroll could only revive one person. Zhuzhu had died, and it was a case of two lives in one body, only Zhuzhu could be resurrected, the unborn baby naturally could not be.


    As the couple conversed, Jiang Liu naturally had no intention of being a third wheel, so he turned and left.


    After surviving the parting of life and death, their feelings for each other seemed to have solidified somewhat, and Jiang Liu also believed Zhu Bajie knew how to make the right choices.


    Reminder: Completion of the "Love Tribtion" quest, gained 300000 Experience Points, acquired an Epic Level Treasure Chest*1.


    Reminder: Level increased by 1, currently level 30.


    Reminder: Unlocked the Character Pane feature. Focusing your gaze on the target and silently thinking ''Character Pane'' will open it.


    As Jiang Liu walked away after reviving Zhuzhu, suddenly, a continuous series of system prompts began sounding in his mind.


    Hearing this sound, Jiang Liu felt secretly pleased. The rewards from this quest,bined with the recent days practicing Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound and mainly from battling creatures like wolf demons, had allowed him to level up to 30, hadn''t it?


    What''s more, with his leveling up to 30, he had indeed unlocked a new feature.


    A Character Pane feature? Without hurrying to look at others, Jiang Liu lowered his head to nce at himself while simultaneously mentally invoking, "Character Pane."


    Instantly, a semi-transparent Character Pane appeared in front of Jiang Liu.


    It was apletely online game-style character pane which, besides showing his own appearance, also disyed the equipment in all thirteen equipment slots.


    Discover more content at empire


    The information about these pieces of equipment was naturally unnecessary to look over again; besides being able to see the equipment, he could also see his specific Health Point Value and Mana.


    However, what Jiang Liu was most concerned about was the Experience Points. On the character pane, he could actually see his Experience Points.


    ID: Jiang Liu.


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Compassionate Bodhisattva.


    Level: 30 (10086/500000)


    Equipment: ... (not padding the word count anymore)


    ...


    For Jiang Liu, the Character Pane didn''t seem particrly significant; its greatest effect appeared to be the ability to see his own Experience Points, and to ascertain how much more he needed to level up.


    Unlike before when he knew nothing about how many Experience Points were needed or when he would level up, it was all guesswork.


    But now it was different, being able to see the Experience Points, Jiang Liu understood that he needed 500,000 Experience Points for his next level up, and currently, he was far from it.


    "Unlocking the Character Pane was just to be able to see my own Experience Points? Is that all it does? There should be more to it, shouldn''t there?"


    After reviewing his own Character Pane, Jiang Liu suddenly had a thought, his gaze falling on Sha Wujing next to him, simrly silently invoking: Character Pane.


    ID: Sha Wujing


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Monk


    Level: 65


    Weapon: Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff (Legendary Level): Required Level 60, Attack +160000...


    ...


    "So this is the correct way to use the Character Pane!" Seeing the level information about Sha Wujing in front of him, Jiang Liu had an epiphany, and his heart filled with joy.


    This newly unlocked feature was not just to check his own status, but could also be used to view the statuses of others!


    Back when they encountered that injured Wolf Demon Soldier, because it didn''t walk upright, Gaoyang mistook it for a Demon, not knowing it was a Demon Soldier. If they had had this Character Pane feature, would there have been such a misunderstanding?


    Also, the encounter with Master Wuchao, Jiang Liu didn''t know his strength. If he could have opened his Character Pane, wouldn''t he have been able to see all the specific information about him?


    Even in the future, when encountering a target to deal with, he could open the character panel and see the opponent''s level and even information about their Dharma Treasures. Wouldn''t that mean he knew both himself and his enemy well?


    From this perspective, the functionality of this character panel was indeed quite significant!


    Sha Wujing''s level was 65 and, considering that the levels of existence for the Heavenly Immortal Realm ranged from 61-70, Sha Wujing''s level was quite appropriate.@@novelbin@@


    Immediately, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on the White Dragon Horse.


    Inparison, the White Dragon Horse had reached level 62. In terms of strength, it was not far behind Sha Wujing, which made Jiang Liu nod to himself discreetly.


    After reviewing the level data of both Sha Wujing and the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu''s thoughts stirred slightly, and his gaze thennded on Sun Wukong, silently muttering to himself, "Character panel."


    ID: Sun Wukong (Golden)


    Gender: Male


    Profession: Monk


    Level: 80


    Equipment: Ruyi Golden Cudgel (Epic Level) ¡ª Required Level 75, Attack Power +2800000¡­


    "So the Taiyi True Immortal levels range from 71-80? So, looking at the level and cultivation, Wukong must be at the peak of Taiyi True Immortal now? One more step, and he would step into the Great Luo Golden Immortal Realm!" Observing Sun Wukong''s character level, Jiang Liu nodded silently to himself.


    Moreover, what caught Jiang Liu''s attention the most was Sun Wukong''s name, which was disyed in gold,pletely different from the names of Sha Wujing and the White Dragon Horse.


    Based on game norms, the gold color generally belongs to BOSS-level name colors, right?


    Did this color indicate that Sun Wukong''s level was very high? Or did it mean that his true strength was actually higher than his current level, making him a Golden BOSS level existence even among those of the same level?


    After pondering silently for a moment, Jiang Liu immediately shook his head and stopped overthinking. From Sun Wukong''s golden name alone, Jiang Liu could roughly guess that Sun Wukong''s strength was indeed strong. Regardless, a golden name showed just how formidable Sun Wukong was.


    Mystic Iron Body, Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze, Seventy-Two Transformations, Law of Heaven and Earth, Exteriorization of the Body, Somersault Cloud¡­


    To speak of it, even without the Ruyi Golden Cudgel, Sun Wukong''s strength was extremely formidable. If treated as a monster to be defeated,beling him as a BOSS-level creature waspletely reasonable, right?


    Furthermore, Jiang Liu also noticed that Sha Wujing''s Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff was a Legendary Level weapon for level 60, adding 160,000 in Attack Power, which made Jiang Liu think of his own Vidyaraja Crown. Although it was Growth Level equipment, the highest additional Defense Value was only 100,000.


    So, to some extent, was the Vidyaraja Crown really just a mundane Buddhist Treasure? It seemed inferior to Sha Wujing''s weapon.


    Looking at Sun Wukong''s weapon, the Ruyi Golden Cudgel, a level 75 Epic Level weapon that added up to 2.8 million in Attack Power, it was far stronger than Sha Wujing''s Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff by more than just a little.


    "No wonder Wukong said before that even though he was at the same Taiyi True Immortal realm, Heavenly King Mo Liqing''s cultivation was only about a tenth or a twentieth of his. Wukong was able topletely outss Mo Liqing.


    Indeed, the higher the level, the greater the gap between them, and even these Dharma Treasures, the difference between those of the Heavenly Immortal Realm and those of the Taiyi True Immortal Realm is so frightening? Even if the quality differs, isn''t it a bit exaggerated?" he muttered silently to himself afterparing the gap in weaponry between Sha Wujing and Sun Wukong.


    Leaving aside the fact that Jiang Liu unlocked a new function, through theparison between Sha Wujing and Sun Wukong, he could deeply understand the strength level gaps of these Immortal Realm existences. Meanwhile, not long after, Zhu Bajie had apparently finished what he needed to discuss with Zhuzhu and returned alone.


    Seeing Zhu Bajie approaching, Jiang Liu became curious and naturally examined Zhu Bajie''s character panel.


    ID: Zhu Bajie (Blue).


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Monk.


    Level: 78.


    Equipment: Supreme Treasure Golden Rake (Epic Level) ¡ª No level requirement, Attack Power +10-10000000 (depending on the user''s level)¡­


    "Hiss¡­" After seeing Zhu Bajie''s character panel, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but inhale sharply.


    In terms of level, Zhu Bajie was somewhat inferior to Sun Wukong, and his name was in blue.


    From a monster perspective, white names belong to ordinary creatures, blue to elite creatures, and gold to BOSS creatures. In terms of level and panel, Zhu Bajie seemed to fall short of Sun Wukong.


    However, the Supreme Treasure Golden Rake in Zhu Bajie''s hands, although both were of Epic Level quality like the Golden Hoop, clearly the attributes fell short.


    The rake, which had no level requirement, added up to 10 million in Attack Power, which was higher than Sun Wukong''s Golden Hoop.


    "No wonder, in the original story, after the Yellow Lion Demon stole the weapons from all three of them, why did he specifically call for a Nine-Toothed Rake meeting and not a Golden Hoop meeting? Could it be? This Zhu Bajie''s Nine-Toothed Rake was of higher quality than Sun Wukong''s Ruyi Golden Cudgel!" he silently marveled after looking at the information for Zhu Bajie''s Nine-Toothed Rake.


    If not for witnessing with the function of the character panel firsthand, Jiang Liu would not have imagined that the famously renowned Ruyi Golden Cudgel was actually inferior to Zhu Bajie''s Nine-Toothed Rake.


    After unlocking the character panel function, Jiang Liu also gained a deeper understanding of the strength of his team members.


    Immediately, Jiang Liu''s attention returned to the Epic Level treasure chest he had just acquired.


    He wondered what good things woulde out this time?

 Chapter 196 Hot Pot on New Years Eve

    White Dragon Horse, hooves facing west.


    Jiang Liu sat cross-legged atop the White Dragon Horse, the steady clip-clop of its hooves neither rushed nor slow, entirely in the manner of a leisurely stroll.


    The smooth ride was such that one could hardly feel any jolting, and as he practiced the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique, Jiang Liu could sense his cultivation level umting bit by bit, and Experience Points gradually being acquired.


    Having reached level 30 and unlocked the character panel functions, Jiang Liu felt even more motivated in his cultivation.


    After all, being able to see the Experience Points needed to level up was like having a progress bar in sight, naturally more motivating than groping in the dark as before.


    Moreover, Jiang Liu was very much looking forward to reaching level 31. By then, if he could enhance the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique to the fourthyer, he would gain even more Experience Points during meditation.


    So, these recent days, Jiang Liu''s drive to cultivate had been exceptionally strong.


    Sun Wukong and his three disciples followed behind Jiang Liu, forming a ''Æ·'' shape, truly resembling three qualified bodyguards.


    The strongest, Sun Wukong, only seemed like a short and skinny monkey, while the weakest, Sha Wujing, appearedrge and fierce...


    Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, afterpleting aplete cycle of ny-nine rotations, Jiang Liu ceased his cultivation and checked his character panel, sighing quietly to himself.


    In terms of Experience Points, he was currently at 350 thousand. To level up with 500 thousand Experience Points, there was still a little way to go.


    "Sincepleting the Love Tribtion quest that day, about a month has passed, and I''ve only gained 350 thousand Experience Points¡ªquests really are the fastest way to earn Experience Points!"


    Looking at his Experience Points, Jiang Liumented privately, somewhat nostalgic for those difficult missions that gave rewards of two to three hundred thousand Experience Points.


    Unfortunately, a month had passed, and no quests had been triggered. Their journey to the west had been very peaceful.


    At this moment, Jiang Liu actually found himself missing the hardships imposed by the Bodhisattva Guanyin.


    A whole month without any incidents¡ªwas the Bodhisattvaying low as ofte?


    "Disciples, it''s gettingte. How about we rest for now?" After stopping his cultivation and observing the sky, which was already dusk, Jiang Liu spoke.


    "Alright!" With Jiang Liu''s word, the White Dragon Horse naturally came to a halt, and Sun Wukong and the others nodded in agreement.


    "Master, Master, what are we eating today?" Zhu Bajie''s eyes shone with anticipation as he looked expectantly at Jiang Liu.


    Despite setting out initially to learn the skill of pursuing girls from Jiang Liu, Zhu Bajie had since been won over by Jiang Liu''s delicious cuisine.


    Bang bang bang...


    Just as Jiang Liu was about to dismount and prepare a fine dinner, suddenly, fireworks burst into the sky, catching his gaze.


    It turned out that people in the distance were setting off fireworks. As one person set them off, it seemed to act like a signal, prompting several others to follow suit.


    Soon, the sky was filled with fireworks of varying colors, instantly bursting with a celebratory atmosphere.


    "Fireworks!? They have those in the Tang Dynasty?" Jiang Liu was inwardly surprised as he watched the splendid array of fireworks in the distance.


    Although it was the flourishing age of the Tang Dynasty, were there really beautiful fireworks at that time?


    Thinking back, it seemed there were such scenes in the historical dramas he had watched before?


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu didn''t delve any deeper. This was the world of Journey to the West,pletely different from the historical Tang Dynasty he knew. Whether the real Tang Dynasty had fireworks or not, it was enough that they existed in the world of Journey to the West.


    Just like geography. If one traveled west from the national border, what was the ce like? What was the environment?


    If one were to look for chili peppers in the historical Tang Dynasty, they would have to go to the tropical regions of South America. But what about the world of Journey to the West? Was there a South America?


    The onlynds in the Journey to the West world were the four continents.


    To the east was the Shengshenzhou Continent, to the west was Niuhe State, to the south was Shanbu Continent, and to the north was Julu Continent.


    Thus, after a brief moment of surprise, Jiang Liu shook his head, putting aside the thought that fireworks could appear in the Tang Dynasty.


    "Wukong, go check what sort of celebration is happening over there!" Seeing the grand disy of fireworks in the distance, Jiang Liu instructed Sun Wukong.


    "Yes, Master!" With a nod, Sun Wukong leapt up and soon vanished into the sky.


    A few short minutester, Sun Wukong descended from the sky, his grin indicative of his happiness as he said, "Master, it turns out that tonight is New Year''s Eve! That''s why every family is setting off fireworks and firecrackers to celebrate the new year!"


    "New Year''s Eve!?" Upon hearing this, Jiang Liu was slightly startled, carefully tallying the days. It did indeed seem to be around the right time, didn''t it?


    Lately, the weather had also seemed to be warming, a sign that spring was approaching, right?


    "Since today is New Year''s Eve, you all wait here. I''ll go ahead and buy some supplies. Tonight, we shall celebrate the new year properly!"


    Hearing that today was the New Year, a day for family reunions, Jiang Liu gave it some thought and then said to Sun Wukong and the others.


    As the sound of his voice fell, the White Dragon Horse''s hooves soared, and it galloped straight towards the marketce ahead. In just a moment, they arrived at a bustling town.


    Because New Year''s Eve was approaching, many shops had closed early. Only those with families inside celebrating together remained open.


    Chicken, duck, fish, and meat were certainly essential, and fine wines could not be omitted either.


    However, as a monk, buying these things during the New Year did feel somewhat peculiar.


    Jiang Liu''s figure shifted, and in a moment, he transformed into the appearance of a schr d in white.


    Jiang Liu didn''t have the seventy-two transformations like Sun Wukong. This ability to change was not due to his own skill but rather reliant on the special effect of equipment, the effect of another piece of epic-level equipment he wore.


    Heavenly Demon''s Marvelous Look (Epic Level): Required level 30, Defense +2019, Special Effect: Can transform into any desired race appearance, gender unchangeable, Durability 78/80.


    This piece of epic-level equipment was obtained from an epic-level treasure chest bypleting a Love Tribtion. This Heavenly Demon''s Marvelous Look robe allowed Jiang Liu to rece the tattered Golden Cicada Buddha Robe he had been wearing.


    A defense of just over 2000 was still very formidable for Jiang Liu, and with the help of this epic-level equipment, he could transform into any male human, regardless of age or appearance.@@novelbin@@


    He bought dishes that mixed meat and vegetables and seasonings like ginger, garlic, scallions, and oil, along with fruits, desserts, fine wines, and even oilmps¡ªif they were for sale, he''d buy them; if not, he''d make offers to purchase them for a handsome price.


    During the New Year, as long as people could spare a little, no one would be stingy.


    Thus, after spending some time, Jiang Liu managed to buy a dazzling array of items.


    Even when passing by a shop that sold the four treasures of the study, Jiang Liu thought for a moment and decided to buy some brushes and ink.


    Although White Dragon Horse ran very fast, Jiang Liu spent a lot of time gathering these New Year''s supplies, and by the time he returned to Sun Wukong and the others, the sky had almostpletely darkened.


    "Master, Master, what did you buy? What are we eating for the big New Year''s feast tonight!?"


    Seeing Jiang Liu looking so solemn, it was clear that tonight''s meal would be much more sumptuous than usual. Zhu Bajie, who had been eagerly awaiting, quickly came up to greet him, drooling as he asked.


    "It''s already veryte, and it''s toote to prepare a whole New Year''s Eve dinner. Tonight, let''s have something convenient and delicious, hotpot!" Looking at the sky, Jiang Liu said.


    "Hotpot!? The spicy hotpot you mentioned before, Master!?" Zhu Bajie had long heard of hotpot, and his eyes lit up at the mention.


    "We haven''t found any chili peppers yet, so let''s skip the spicy hotpot. Tonight, we''ll eat a mushroom soup hotpot instead. Come on, everyone, help out!"


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu beckoned Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie to help, and even the Xiaobai in the form of a white horse beside him, Jiang Liu had him turn into a human form to assist.


    Those who cleaned the vegetables, sliced the meat, and boiled the water.


    Jiang Liu seemed to turn into a master chef, directing the three of them as they busied themselves while he tried to perfect the sauce as well as he could.


    After busying themselves for about a Chinese Hour, they finally finished everything.


    Arge table was set up with a stove burning underneath, and an iron pot was ced on top. With a pure mushroom soup base, there was no need for a dual-vor pot. Various meats and vegetables were continuously added into the pot.


    The mixed aroma of the food cooking together gave off a strange and enticing fragrance.


    "Come on, this is how you eat it, cook and eat as you go; cook whatever you want to eat..." After exining the gist of eating hotpot to Zhu Bajie and the others, Jiang Liu invited them to start.


    Taking a pair of chopsticks and a thin slice ofmb, he dipped it into the pot for about ten breaths before lifting it out, lightly dipping it in sauce, and tossing it into his mouth. Sun Wukong ate with joy, finding this new and interesting way of eating hotpot both novel and fun.


    "Interesting, interesting, this way of eating really is interesting, I like it a lot!"


    "Bajie, the sauce is for dipping the food, why did you eat it all in one bite?"


    "Xiaobai, it''s New Year''s,e sit down! Don''t just stand!"


    "Alright, everyone stop for a moment. Today''s New Year''s, so I won''t say too much. Let''s all raise our sses and drink this cup to the fullest, hoping that in the new year, everyone will have everything go their way!" As the core of the Journey to the West Team, Jiang Liu raised his ss and formally drank with his disciples, offering simple well-wishes.


    "Master, I toast to you as well, wishing you a smooth journey! May you reach Western Heaven and obtain the True Scriptures soon!" After a moment, White Dragon Horse also raised his ss and toasted.


    "Can youe up with something else to say?"


    ...


    Sha Wujing sat nearby, still holding his pancake, took a bite, then sipped some clear water. Half-leaning on the ground, he watched the fireworks bloom in the sky and felt a peculiar sentiment.


    However, seeing the lively scene of Jiang Liu and others drinking and eating meat, Sha Wujing swallowed hard.


    No, I must hold on! I can''t indulge like them!


    When we reach Western Heaven, Buddha will surely punish them heavily!

 Chapter 197 Of Course, Playing Mahjong All Night During the New Year

    Actually, when various ingredients are mixed together, the vors of the ingredients blend andplement each other.


    That''s why gourmet dishes often use a variety of ingredients and seasonings together.


    And this hotpot, after throwing in various ingredients, became even more delicious. Althoughcking chili, it somehow fell short for Jiang Liu, but Sun Wukong and the other two thoroughly enjoyed it.


    Especially Zhu Bajie, who sliced up hundreds of pounds ofmb rolls and beef rolls, grabbed arge chopstick full, swished them in the boiling broth, and then sshed some sauce to eat. This made Zhu Bajie find it extremely interesting.


    It wasn''t just about the deliciousness; the novelty of the hotpot itself made it very intriguing for Sun Wukong and his friends.


    With a variety of ingredientsid out in front, they could throw in whatever they wanted to eat. It felt incrediblyfortable.


    "Master, it''s delicious, these really are delicious! I think, even without the chili you mentioned, this hotpot is still really good, especially in winter, it feels just right to eat this!"


    Zhu Bajie stuffed a huge chopstick full of meat directly into his mouth, devouring it heartily, and then he picked up a cup of chilled rice wine and downed it in one gulp.


    On this cold New Year''s Eve, eating hotpot but pairing it with chilled rice wine, Zhu Bajie found the mix of heat and cold quite a unique vor.


    "Today is New Year''s Eve, everyone just eat your fill!" Jiang Liu also smiled.


    Staying here for the New Year, eating hotpot and drinking rice wine indeed felt very nice.


    It was fortunate that today someone had set off fireworks, otherwise he might have not realized it was New Year''s and just let this New Year''s Eve pass unnoticed.


    All in all, a meal of hotpot left everyone fully satisfied, even Zhu Bajie, who eventually hugged his own belly.


    Fully satiated, lying down for Zhu Bajie, seemed the greatest happiness.


    Lying to one side, Zhu Bajie''s mind inevitably wandered to Chang''e, wondering how she was doing alone in the Moon Pce now?


    Of course, Zhu Bajie inevitably thought of Zhuzhu as well, because his journey to the west was to overthrow the celestial heavens, and to keep the Immortals and Buddhas from knowing that the master had a unique way to resurrect people, Zhu Bajie and Zhuzhu had agreed for her to hide, waiting until his journey west was over, then he would find her.


    "I wonder if Zhuzhu is thinking of me now?" Lying on the ground, Zhu Bajie murmured to himself.


    Of course, after thinking of Zhuzhu, Zhu Bajie inevitably recalled their child.


    The thought of his now gone child, made Zhu Bajie''s hatred for the Buddhist Sect rise a few more notches.


    "Master, aren''t you cultivating today?" Sun Wukong suddenly asked Jiang Liu curiously.


    Normally after dinner, Jiang Liu would sit down cross-legged to cultivate the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, but tonight after dinner, he hadn''t cultivated and instead took out a small knife, apparently to split wood into small, square little pieces.


    "Cultivate!? Why should I cultivate on New Year''s!?" Hearing the words of Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu gave him a sideways nce and shook his head.


    In his past life, wasn''t New Year''s Eve for resting?


    Getting together with everyone to stay upte: in Jiang Liu''s view, ying throughout the night of New Year''s Eve was the greatest tribute to the holiday.


    "Then, Master, what are you doing?" Observing that Jiang Liu had already fashioned about twenty or thirty small square blocks, Sun Wukong, feeling curious, asked.


    "Don''t ask too much, I am going to teach you guys a fun game,e help me!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s inquiry, Jiang Liu spoke and summoned Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie to help.


    Jiang Liu''s mysterious demeanor made Sun Wutian and the others a bit curious and excited, hastening to help.


    Soon, together they chopped out more than a hundred square blocks.


    Jiang Liu picked up a block and started to carve patterns on it, ording to his memory.


    Some were circles, some were characters, and others were long, bar-shaped patterns¡­


    Then, after the carvings were done, he took out calligraphy brushes and stroked a few lines over these carved patterns.


    "Hmm, pretty ugly¡­" After all over a hundred Mahjong tiles were carved and painted, looking at these utterly unattractive Mahjong tiles, Jiang Liu privately grimaced.@@novelbin@@


    "Master, it''s finished now, so what next? How do we y this?" Sun Wukong, seeing Jiang Liu finishing thest ''nine bamboo'' tile, asked impatiently.


    "Come here, I''ll exin the rules now. This thing is called Mahjong. For example, this is ''eating'' which could only be done from the previous yer, not the next, like if someone discards a tile and you have two identical ones you can im ''pong'', and there are several ways to win, the mostmon being the basic win and the thirteen wonders¡­"


    After exining the rules of Mahjong thoroughly, since theory is no substitute for practice, Jiang Liu invited everyone to sit down and y.


    White Dragon Horse naturally had no objections and voluntarily sat above Jiang Liu.


    However, when Sun Wukong heard about the rules of Mahjong, he appeared disappointed and said, "Master, I, Old Sun, have always hated ying chess in my life, and I feel like this is somewhat simr to chess!"


    "Just a bunch of little wooden blocks, they look like something a three-year-old child would y with, doesn''t seem interesting at all!" Not only did Sun Wukong feel this way, but Zhu Bajie beside him also nodded in agreement, always feeling that ying with a pair of small wooden blocks was utterly uninteresting.


    "ythings make one lose ambition..." Sha Wujing, who was originally a bit curious about what the Scripture Seeker hade up with, did not expect it to be merely some trinkets, and simrly found it dull, shaking his head.


    ...


    Three Chinese Hourster!


    "Zhong!" White Dragon Horse raised his hand and yed a tile.


    "Chow!" Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up as he spoke.


    "Hey, hey, hey, Xiaobai, howe you manage to feed tiles to Master every hand? Have you guys conspired ande up with some secret signals or something!?" Seeing this, Sun Wukong frantically said, scratching his head.


    While speaking, Sun Wukong watched as Jiang Liu yed a card, and unable to take it himself, he shook his head helplessly and drew a nine bamboo, tossing it out immediately.


    "I win! Hahaha! Thirteen orphans! Pay up, pay up!" Seeing the nine bamboo yed by Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie pushed his tiles down andughed loudly.


    "Hey, hey, hey, you blockhead, what''s going on? You''ve won thirteen rounds in a row now!" As Zhu Bajie won again, Sun Wukong became even more agitated.


    "Right! Bajie, are you cheating!?" Not only did Sun Wukong feel this way, but Jiang Liu also nodded in agreement.


    Having won thirteen rounds in a row, Zhu Bajie was notoriouslyzy, but his gambling luck seemed unbelievably good.


    "Second brother''s luck is truly good, every time he draws a tile, there''s a good eight or nine chance that it''s exactly the tile he needs!"


    Who knew when Sha Wujing, who initially thought that Jiang Liu and others were losing ambition by ying with toys, had appeared behind Zhu Bajie, having watched for who knows how long, and he couldn''t help but speak up to vouch for Zhu Bajie.


    "This, this is like a human cheat code!" Hearing Sha Wujing''s words, Jiang Liu''s lips twitched slightly as he silently criticized Zhu Bajie''s unbelievable gambling luck.


    "This ispletely no fun at all!"


    Vaguely, Jiang Liu could feel the White Dragon Horse sitting above him, seemingly intentionally feeding him tiles, but even so, he could not withstand Zhu Bajie''s gambling luck, leaving Jiang Liu somewhat helpless.


    "It''s quitete now, it''s already the middle of the night, let''s call it a day and rest?" Having not won a single hand after ying for so long, Jiang Liu found it pointless and suggested shaking his head.


    "Master, didn''t you say that on New Year''s Eve, one should stay up all night? Why rest!? Keep going, let''s y all night!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Zhu Bajie was excitedly suggesting.


    "Right, right! Master, I, Old Sun, refuse to believe that ying Mahjong I would lose to a pig!" Sun Wukong also nodded, showing a more determined demeanor.


    Losing to a pig at Mahjong? That seems like a rather embarrassing thing, doesn''t it?


    "Cough cough, well, Master, if you''re tired, you can go rest, I, I can take your ce and y a few rounds!" It was then Sha Wujing, who perked up upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, openy volunteered.


    Jiang Liu had always been somewhat biased against Sha Wujing, perhaps sensing this, Sha Wujing had always maintained a distance from him and others, not quite like a team member.


    Yet unexpectedly, today he actively offered to join the game, which indeed surprised Jiang Liu.


    After all? Could the allure of Mahjong, a national treasure, be irresistible to anyone?


    Ordinarily, Jiang Liu might have ignored him, but today was New Year''s Eve, and after a moment''s hesitation, Jiang Liu nodded and stood up, giving his ce to Sha Wujing.


    Walking to the side to catch a cool breeze, Jiang Liu turned to look back, watching Sun Wukong and the others gathered and ying Mahjong. Would people from his past life be stunned if they saw this scene?


    Smiling, Jiang Liu walked aside and observed the sky still aze with festive fireworks, and his mind unavoidably wandered to Gaoyang, wondering how she was. Do Bodhisattvas and Immortals also celebrate the New Year?


    Probably not? After all, a year on earth is but a day in heaven.


    Thinking of Gaoyang, Jiang Liu''s mind inevitably drifted to Jinshan Temple, wondering how the people there were doing now?


    Tap tap tap...


    As Jiang Liu''s mind was filled with myriad thoughts, suddenly, a figure approached him through the dark night.


    He couldn''t clearly see who it was yet, but the health bar above the head was distinctly visible.

 Chapter 198 Are there factions within the Buddhist Sect?

    Under Jiang Liu''s gaze, an elderly man in a dingy gray-white monastic robe with shoes that were somewhat tattered walked over step by step, using a wooden branch as a cane. On his bald head, there was not a single incense scar.


    By the look of it, the elder seemed to have passed the age of sixty, yet he appeared to be very lively and clear-minded. Furthermore, his posture did not reveal any signs of stooping.


    "What''s this? An old Monk!?" As he watched the old monk approaching, Jiang Liu''s eyebrows raised slightly.


    From the man''s attire, he indeed seemed to be a monk, with the monastic robe and shoes, and even a string of wooden beads around his neck. However, theck of incense scars on his bald head didn''t seem to fit the identity of a monk?


    "Amitabha, greetings to you..." As the old monk reached him, he brought his palms together, gave a bow to Jiang Liu, and greeted him.


    "Amitabha, good evening to you too, Elder!" Jiang Liu also brought his palms together and returned the bow.


    Jiang Liu looked at the elder and then around at the pitch-ck environment. It was New Year''s, and after midnight, he expressed his surprise, "Elder, on this New Year''s Eve, and at such ate hour, why do you walk alone outside?"


    "Wandering everywhere, the world is my home; what difference is there between inside and out?" The old monk replied to Jiang Liu''sment.


    "Then where does Elder intend to go?" Jiang Liu briefly hesitated, thinking of the old monk wandering alone in the wilds at such ate hour, and continued to ask.


    "From where I came, to where I will go!" The old monk said in a low voice with palms together.@@novelbin@@


    "..." Jiang Liu inwardly rolled his eyes at the old monk''s Zen-like riddles.


    These words, although they might seem profound, were actuallyplete sophistry, right?


    "Amitabha, may I ask where you are heading to?" However, after his words fell, the old monk asked Jiang Liu in return.


    "Me? From where I came, to where I will go, of course!" Using the same reasoning against him, Jiang Liu responded to the old monk''s inquiry.


    "Hahaha, interesting..." Hearing Jiang Liu''s response, the old monk suddenly broke intoughter.


    "Since you, Elder, are rushing on your way, I won''t keep you any longer. Please feel free to proceed!" Finding that there wasn''t much to talk about with this suddenly appeared old monk, nor could they connect on any topic, Jiang Liu spoke.


    "No, to meet is to have fate. On this night of New Year''s Eve, it''s already midnight, and a new year is about to start soon. How about you and this old monk cross into the New Year together? I see you are also alone!" The old monk shook his head, not seeming to be in a hurry to leave.


    "You are mistaken there. I am not alone; look, my disciples are over there!" Jiang Liu shook his head at the old monk''s remark and pointed towards where Sun Wukong and the others were ying Mahjong.


    "If you are not alone, then why are you here by yourself?" The old monk nced at Sun Wukong and the others from a distance and calmly countered Jiang Liu''s statement.


    A square table was set up, with Sun Wukong short and thin, Zhu Bajie fat and plump, and Sha Wujing looking like a small giant. Perhaps only the human form of the White Dragon Horse, dressed as a dashing gentleman in white, would seem ordinary.


    And yet, the old monk looked at them and remained calm, not afraid in the slightest?


    This caused a stir in Jiang Liu''s heart.


    "I just needed to take a break from sitting for too long, so I came over here to get some air!" Jiang Liu replied calmly, and his gaze fell on the old monk as he silently invoked: Character Panel.


    Suddenly, a translucent character panel appeared in front of Jiang Liu, and he was inwardly shocked as he read the information it disyed.


    ID: Mysterious Old Monk (Golden).


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: ?.


    Level: 88.


    ...


    "Hiss!" Seeing the character panel of this mysterious old monk, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but gasp in astonishment.


    Level 88!? A level even higher than Sun Wukong''s!


    And the same golden BOSS title in his name? This mysterious old monk, without a doubt, was someone of great significance.


    Based on the level, he must be a Great Luo Golden Immortal, right? And moreover, one of the prominent figures amongst the Great Luo Golden Immortals!


    A big shot from the Great Luo Golden Immortals, disguising himself as an unremarkable old monk to chat with me!?


    Could it be that the Buddhist Sect is concerned about my recent unusual actions and wants to test me?


    With this thought in mind, Jiang Liu became more cautious and treated everything with care.


    "By the way, Little Monk, what do they call you? We''ve been talking for a while now, and I still don''t know your Dharma name," the old monk asked Jiang Liu.


    "Amitabha, Elder Master, my Dharma name is Xuanzang. May I inquire as to how you are addressed?" Jiang Liu answered, while taking the chance to ask in return.


    "Me? As you can see, I don''t even have a single Scar of Precepts, so I''m not truly a monk, but my heart admires the Buddhist Sect. I''ve been cultivating Buddhism by myself for many years!" Pointing at his bald head, whichcked even a single Scar of Precepts, the old monk replied.


    Upon saying this, he paused briefly, then looked at Jiang Liu with eyes filled with expectation, "I wonder, Little Monk, do you think one can achieve Buddhahood in this manner?"


    "Cultivating Buddhism is actually about cultivating one''s own heart; the Scar of Precepts is merely a formality. As long as Buddha is in the heart, where can one not cultivate? Master, although youck even a single Scar of Precepts, the fact that you''ve cultivated for so many years truly impresses me!" Jiang Liu spoke seriously in response.


    "Hmm, you make sense. Cultivating Buddhism is indeed about cultivating the heart. As long as Buddha is in the heart, that is sufficient!" Nodding his head, the old monk seemed quite satisfied with Jiang Liu''s answer.


    Immediately after, he asked curiously, "Then, Little Monk, what is your purpose in cultivating Buddhism?"


    "Can I say that I really don''t want to be a monk at all?" The old monk''s question provoked internal grimaces from Jiang Liu.


    Of course, these were words he couldn''t possibly voice. His expression earnestly unchanged, Jiang Liu said, "My purpose in cultivating Buddhism is naturally to liberate all beings, to guide sentient beings to the other shore, to propagate the Buddhist Law..."


    It felt a bit like responding to a superior''s inspection at work; Jiang Liu''s speech turned somewhat impassioned, as if he were an employee loudly dering his willingness to give his all for thepany, to devote his everyst bit to it.


    "Not bad, not bad, that''s a good answer. Although your words and heart don''t align, no matter who you face in the future, you should always answer like this!" With a satisfied nod, the old monk spoke.


    "Ah!? Elder Master, what do you mean by that? Where have I been disingenuous!?"


    Giving an impassioned disy, Jiang Liu almost wished he could shout the oath he remembered from his previous life, but the old monk''s words poured down on him like a bucket of ice water, sending a chill through his entire being.


    "Amitabha, having cultivated for many years, I possess a divine skill called Telepathy. Although I can''t fully understand what one is thinking in their heart, I can still generally sense a bit of it!" Watching Jiang Liu vehemently deny it, the old monk smiled slightly and revealed.


    "Telepathy? Mind reading? Does the world of Journey to the West really have such terrifying supernatural abilities!?" The old monk''s words tightened Jiang Liu''s heart further, and he became more cautious of the other party.


    "Hmm, it seems that you indeed have many secrets!" As if sensing Jiang Liu''s nervousness and defensiveness, the old monk spoke softly.


    "Who exactly are you!?" By this point, Jiang Liu had no intention of pretending any longer and earnestly stared at the old monk, questioning him.


    "You are intelligent and possess some unusual talents, quite impressive!" Instead of confessing his identity, the old monk simply nodded in admiration and satisfaction at Jiang Liu.


    During their conversation, it seemed as though the old monk had already learned what he wanted to know, and after ncing at the sky, he said, "Well, Midnight has passed, and it''s a new day, a new year. I hope this new year brings you everything you wish for!"


    "Thank you, Master, and I also wish you every sess in all you do!" Jiang Liu nodded and offered his congrattions in return.


    "s, the Heavenly Dao is heartless, the Immortals and Buddhas are unrighteous, causing all beings to suffer. The Dragon King of Jing River is but a pawn sacrificed in the game. Since he has fallen into your hands, I hope you will treat him kindly!" After nodding slightly, the old monk added with a hint of sorrow in his tone, and he sighed deeply.


    "The Dragon King of Jing River!? He knows the Dragon King of Jing River is in my possession!?"


    This statement truly rmed Jiang Liu. Just as he was about to further question the old monk''s identity, he discovered that the other party had already left without a trace.


    The Dragon King of Jing River could be said to be the catalyst for the events of the Journey to the West. Jiang Liu had Sun Wukong bring the Dragon King of Jing River out of the Underworld so that Guanyin wouldn''t discover it was his doing. He even orchestrated the drama of the True and False Monkey King with Sun Wukong, sessfully deceiving her.


    But who exactly was this old monk, and how could he be so certain that the Dragon King of Jing River was in his hands?


    Realizing this secret was known by someone else, Jiang Liu was naturally very anxious.


    However, after a moment when his emotions had settled, he felt that he had gained not a small insight.


    Regardless of who this old monk truly was, since he knew about the Dragon King of Jing River and yet showed no intention of exposing Jiang Liu, it seemed that he was not aligned with Guanyin or even with Tathagata, right?


    Appearing before him as a monk, this old monk must also be a member of the Buddhist Sect, right?


    "Could it be? Is the Buddhist Sect not united as one? Do they each have their own factions?" Jiang Liu spected silently in his heart.


    Moreover, he chose the turn of the year to meet with him, joining him in weing the new year, and even made a point of exchanging pleasantries.


    Clearly, the old monk was expressing goodwill and showed no intention of making things difficult for Jiang Liu.


    "A Great Luo Golden Immortal of level 88, a member of the Buddhist Sect, and someone who is well aware of the matter with the Dragon King of Jing River?"


    Jiang Liu pondered silently, taking the known information into ount and forming some rough guesses about the old monk''s identity.

 Chapter 199 Comparing Ages in Front of Wuzhuang Temple

    ```


    Tip: Experience Points +4.


    Tip: Experience Points +4.


    Tip: Experience Points +4.


    ...


    Sitting cross-legged on the back of the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu continued his Journey to the West, cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique, his Experience Points steadily increasing.


    This fourth level of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique naturally allowed him to gain Experience Points much faster than the third level.


    Since the new year had passed, nearly half a month had gone by. A few days ago, Jiang Liu finally gathered 500,000 Experience Points and made a breakthrough, reaching level 31.


    ording to the Cultivation Level realms of the Journey to the West world, Jiang Liu had now officially entered the Controlling-Law Realm.


    After entering the Controlling-Law Realm, Jiang Liu''s first action was to invest 2 Skill Points, raising his Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique to the fourth level.


    When used in attack, the fourth level Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound had even stronger Attack Power.


    Of course, what Jiang Liu cared about the most was the speed of gaining Experience Points, which had also reached 4 points.


    Checking his character panel, his current level was 31 with roughly 80,000 Experience Points in hand.


    However, to advance from level 31 to level 32, he would need a whopping 700,000 Experience Points, which seemed not so easy toe by.


    "Master, look at the sky; it''s gettingte. Shall we rest for a bit?" As the sun began to set, Zhu Bajie suddenly spoke up and suggested to Jiang Liu.


    "ording to the time in the real world, isn''t it just around four in the afternoon?" ncing at the sky, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly, feeling that Zhu Bajie might be even more eager than him to stall for time.


    nning to stop and rest at just four in the afternoon? Although Jiang Liu was also tempted, wouldn''t that be a bit too much!?


    "Second brother, I think you just want to y Mahjong again, don''t you? All y and no work makes for dull disciples! We are on this Journey to the West to seek scriptures for the good of all beings, not for leisure!" Standing beside them, Sha Wujing could fully understand Zhu Bajie''s intention and spoke to him righteously.


    "So, when we y Mahjongter, you''ll just sit by and watch, right?" ncing sideways at Sha Wujing, Zhu Bajie asked.


    "Uh, well, second brother, I think the person who should only watch is you. It''s no fun ying with you; you almost always win the money!" Sha Wujing stuttered for a moment before replying to Zhu Bajie''s remark.


    "Mm, I agree with that. We should kick Bajie out!" Hearing Sha Wujing''sment, Sun Wukong nodded greatly, agreeing with him.


    "That''s not fair! You can''t just stop ying because you''re losing!?" Hearing both Sun Wukong and Sha Wujing''s words, as if they weren''t nning to include him in Mahjong anymore, Zhu Bajie became anxious.


    ...


    "This is bad¡­" Sitting on the back of the White Dragon Horse, listening to the conversation among his three disciples, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly.


    Ever since he first taught them how to y Mahjong, these once disdainful fellows seemed to be getting more and more hooked. Now all their talk was about Mahjong.


    "Wait, my disciples, look ahead. Isn''t that a temple not far off?" Sitting on the horse''s back and pushing forward, Jiang Liu suddenly spoke up, pointing towards the top of a nearby mountain.


    Looking into the distance, they saw a small mountain enveloped in auspicious clouds, presenting an extraordinary sight.


    "Let Old Sun take a look!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sun Wukong stopped bickering with Zhu Bajie and ced his hand in front of his forehead, to gaze upon the great mountain, mes flickering in his eyes.@@novelbin@@


    Shortly after, Sun Wukong withdrew his gaze and said, "Master, you got it wrong. That''s not a temple, it''s a Taoist Temple. It seems to be called the Wuzhuang Temple!"


    "Wuzhuang Temple, have we arrived?" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, a faint sense of excitement stirred in Jiang Liu.


    Even leaving aside the setups from Deification and Primordial, just considering the original Journey to the West, the Grand Immortal Zhenyuan of the Wuzhuang Temple was a big shot, capable of defeating Sun Wukong in a single move.


    It would be a perfect opportunity for him to take a good look at Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s character panel!


    "Huh? Master? What are you thinking about? Do you recognize the Wuzhuang Temple?" Seeing the contemtive look on Jiang Liu''s face, Sun Wukong asked in surprise.


    "I haven''t heard of it. I''m just considering whether we should go have a look. After all, we''re from the Buddhist Sect, and the Taoist Sect is not of the same school." Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu shook his head and said.


    "Master, let''s go. Grand Immortal Zhenyuan is a real Great Supernatural Power Expert. It''s both reasonable and proper for us to go pay our respects!" Sun Wukong didn''t recognize Zhenyuan, but Zhu Bajie of course knew who he was, and upon hearing this, he spoke up.


    At Zhenyuan''s level, there was no such distinction between Taoist and Buddhist Sects anymore; everyone could be considered his junior. Since they were already passing by someone''s home, it would indeed be improper not to go in and pay a visit.


    ```


    "If that''s the case, then let''s go!" Jiang Liu nodded his head.


    On the surface, it looked as if Zhu Bajie''s persuasion was the reason they decided to visit Wuzhuang Temple, but in reality, even if Zhu Bajie had not mentioned it, Jiang Liu had already considered going there.


    Not to mention anything else, the Ginseng Fruit truly was a treasure. In the original story, Master Zhenyuan even instructed his Taoist Boy to specifically pick two fruits for himself to taste.


    If there was Ginseng Fruit to be had, how could Jiang Liu not go!?


    However, in the original story, it seemed that the Ginseng Fruit only had the effect of prolonging life. The flesh of Tang Monk also had a simr effect, so Jiang Liu really wondered what use it would be for him to eat the Ginseng Fruit.


    Moreover, it seemed that Grand Immortal Zhenyuan even instructed that two were for himself!?


    Shaking his head secretly, Jiang Liu thought it best to wait until he saw the Ginseng Fruit for himself!


    A mountain is not renowned for its height but for its immortals, and Wanshou Mountain, where Wuzhuang Temple was located, was not tall, so climbing up was not strenuous. When the sky was just slightly darkened, Jiang Liu and hispanions had already arrived in front of Wuzhuang Temple.


    Upon close inspection, Wuzhuang Temple covered arge area, but it was not luxurious. On the contrary, it gave off a very simple, Tao-natured vibe.


    The main gate had a que hanging on it, with the three characters "Wuzhuang Temple" written with dynamic strokes, very nice to look at.


    Bang bang bang!


    Sun Wukong was an impatient one and didn''t recognize Grand Immortal Zhenyuan at all. Seeing that the main gate of Wuzhuang Temple was tightly closed, he went straight up and started pounding on the door, making a thunderous noise.


    "Someone''sing!" As the knocking sounded, someone responded from inside.


    Immediately, the gate was opened a crack, and a delicate and cute-looking Taoist Boy poked his head out from inside, surveyed Jiang Liu and the others, and asked, "Who are you folks? Why are you pounding on our gate?"


    "You''re quite funny, little Taoist Boy. Is it usually forbidden to knock on your gate!?" Hearing the Taoist Boy''s words, Sun Wukongughed and said.


    "Little Taoist Boy? I see you''re not very old yourself, right? How dare you act superior in front of this Immortal Boy?" The Taoist Boy scoffed in response to Sun Wukong''s words and retorted.


    "You little Taoist Boy, you don''t recognize Mount Tai when you see it. Since I, Old Sun, popped out of a stone, it''s been one thousand two hundred years in the Mortal World, hasn''t it? Your Grandpa Sun is now one thousand two hundred years old!" Sun Wukong responded to the Taoist Boy''s remark.


    "That''s hard to tell! You, this little monkey, are actually one thousand two hundred years old!" The Taoist Boy looked at him in surprise, evidently taken aback by Sun Wukong''s age.


    "Humph humph humph, now you know your Grandpa Sun''s age, huh? Dare to act superior in front of me?" Seeing the surprised look on the Taoist Boy''s face, Sun Wukongughed smugly.


    However, no sooner had he finished speaking than he felt something was amiss and said, "Wait a minute, now that you know your Grandpa Sun''s age, how dare you still call me a little monkey!?"


    "Sorry, but I am a disciple of Grand Immortal Zhenyuan, and this year I am already one thousand three hundred and twenty years old¡ªI am actually over a hundred years older than you! Shouldn''t you be calling me ''Immortal Boy''?" The delicate-looking Taoist Boyughed and said to Sun Wukong.


    Squeak squeak squeak...


    "It infuriates me, Old Sun, you little Taoist Boy, how dare you lie about your age? Over one thousand three hundred years old? Where would you get such a look like yours!"


    Hearing that this Taoist Boy actually wanted him to address him as grandpa, Sun Wukong was so angry he bared his teeth, speaking furiously.


    Clearly, Sun Wukong did not believe the Taoist Boy''s age, thinking he was lying just topete in age.


    "You monkey, so ignorant!" Seeing Sun Wukong''s uncontroble rage, the Taoist Boy mocked with augh, countering the earlierment Sun Wukong made about his inability to recognize greatness.


    "Wukong, don''t be angry!" Seeing that Sun Wukong was choking with rage and might just whip out his weapon, Jiang Liu promptly called out to him.


    "Master, I think the guys in this Taoist Temple are all impostors! We''d better not go in!" Your adventure continues at empire


    Although he was stopped by Jiang Liu, after thepetition of age, Sun Wukong believed the other side was deliberately lying, which affected his impressions of everyone in Wuzhuang Temple.


    "You brash monkey, how dare you recklessly insult our Wuzhuang Temple!" Right at his own doorstep, being called impostors was something the Taoist Boy could not stand. He snapped back unapologetically.


    "Amitabha, you make a good point, little Immortal Boy. I am from the Great Tang in Eastern Land, on my way to seek scriptures in Western Heaven and havee across this sacred ce, so I was hoping to ask for a bowl of water to drink..."


    Not daring to let the Taoist Boy and Sun Wukong continue their exchange of harsh words, for fear that the two fiery-tempered fellows would start a fight, Jiang Liu quickly spoke up, revealing his identity.


    "You? Are you the Tang Monk from the Great Tang in Eastern Land!?"


    Indeed, Grand Immortal Zhenyuan had given specific instructions before leaving, so hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Taoist Boy no longer cared about arguing with Sun Wukong and took a serious look at Jiang Liu.

 Chapter 200 Ginseng Fruit Changing Marrow

    Upon their first meeting, the Taoist Boy and Sun Wukong had a conflict right at the entrance.


    One was a child servant under the distinguished Immortal Zhenyuan, who, even when journeying casually, would be given some respect by even Daluo Golden Immortals, because after all, if you don''t respect the monk, you respect the Buddha, don''t you?


    Yet, it was unexpected that a mere Demon Monkey would dare to say that everyone in Wuzhuang Temple was a chatan, which naturally put the Taoist Boy in a foul mood.


    Simrly, Sun Wukong also held himself in high regard, believing that his feat of causing Havoc in Heaven five hundred years earlier had also made him a renowned figure throughout the Three Realms. And yet, how dare a mere boy from a Taoist Temple hidden at the foot of a mountain attempt to bamboozle him?


    Sun Wukong''s opinion of the people from Wuzhuang Temple was naturally quite poor.


    Fortunately, although the Taoist Boy looked down on those at the door, thinking theycked knowledge, he dared not neglect the special instructions his master had given before leaving.


    "So you are the Tang Monk seeking scriptures in the Western Heaven? Then pleasee in. Before departing, my master instructed that a monk from the Tang Dynasty would pass by here and told me to take good care of you!" After confirming Jiang Liu''s identity, the Taoist Boy spoke, opened the gate wide, and invited Jiang Liu and hispanions into Wuzhuang Temple.


    It wasn''t long before another child servant came out to greet them, the one who had opened the gate was Qingfeng, and the one who followed was Mingyue.


    Just as in the original story, Qingfeng and Mingyue, the two Taoist Boys, mentioned that their master had received an invitation from Yuanshi Heavenly Venerable and had gone to discuss Tao with him.


    These words made Sun Wukong scoff, feeling that the people of this Taoist Temple were really good at bragging. What kind of person was Yuanshi Heavenly Venerable? Their master could have a discussion with Yuanshi Heavenly Venerable?


    And they imed that Wuzhuang Temple only worships Heaven and Earth? Most deities in heaven areterspared to their master, even the Three Pure Ones are merely old friends of their master?


    ording to them, does even the Jade Emperor have to pay respects to their master?


    "Hmph, ignorant monkey!" Qingfeng and Mingyue were angry at Sun Wukong''s scoff, but looked at Sun Wukong with eyes as if they were looking at an idiot, and sneered without bothering to argue with him.


    They then nned to go to the courtyard to pick two Ginseng Fruits and offer them to the Tang Monk, also fulfilling their master''s instructions and urging them to quickly continue on their way.


    "Wukong, hold your tongue for a moment. I feel that Wuzhuang Temple is extraordinary!" Seeing Sun Wukong still looking somewhat indignant, Jiang Liu shook his head and said.


    "Oh? Extraordinary? How so? Master, you don''t actually believe what those two child servants said, do you?" Shaking his head, Sun Wukong was still quite steadfast in his conjecture. His preconceived notions made him feel that the boy''s tall tales from Wuzhuang Temple were just too exaggerated.


    "It''s not that they''re boasting, but they really are something!" Seeing Sun Wukong''s demeanor, Jiang Liu quietly shook his head to himself.


    Sun Wukong''s abilities were indeedmendable, but, unfortunately, his discernment wascking.


    No wonder, having returned from his training with Ancestor Bodhi, he quickly caused trouble and was then suppressed under Five Elements Mountain. Sun Wukong was not up-to-date with the situation in the Three Realms, so hisck of understanding was understandable.


    "Bajie, you were once Marshal Tianpeng, so you must know about the great supernatural power experts of the Three Realms. Tell us about Immortal Zhenyuan''s situation, will you!?" Unable to exin himself, Jiang Liu turned around and inquired of Zhu Bajie.


    Originally having no intention to speak much, but now that his master had asked, Zhu Bajie certainly wouldn''t conceal anything. He nodded and said, "Master, you''re right. Immortal Zhenyuan is indeed a prominent figure among the Three Realms and not far off from the Three Pure Ones in status and position!"


    Upon saying this, Zhu Bajie turned towards Sun Wukong and said, "Monkey Brother, you don''t know, even the Jade Emperor and the Buddha have to show some respect to Immortal Zhenyuan and even greet him proactively!"


    Though he continually bickered with Zhu Bajie, Sun Wukong had to admit that as a former Marshal Tianpeng, Zhu Bajie knew many things he waspletely unaware of.


    At this moment, hearing Zhu Bajie say that even the Tathagata and the Jade Emperor would take the initiative to greet the master of Wuzhuang Temple?


    This made Sun Wukong immediately realize the master of Wuzhuang Temple must indeed be formidable, so the words spoken by that young Taoist Boy were all true!?


    Thinking back on his own previous doubts and seeing how Qingfeng and Mingyue looked at him with disdain, like city folks looking at a country bumpkin, even Sun Wukong felt a burning sensation on his face and irritably reproached Zhu Bajie, "You fool, if you knew all along, why didn''t you say so earlier!?"


    "Monkey Brother, you never asked Old Pig!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Zhu Bajie looked wronged and whispered back.


    Listening to the exchange between Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, Jiang Liu internally breathed a sigh of relief.


    In the original story, Sun Wukong failed to understand the prowess of Master Zhenyuan, hence with just a little instigation from Zhu Bajie, Sun Wukong excitedly stole the Ginseng Fruit.


    Now that Sun Wukong understood how formidable Master Zhenyuan was, he surely wouldn''t do such a thing again, right?


    And now, Zhu Bajie probably didn''t have the gall to incite Sun Wukong to steal the Ginseng Fruit anymore, right?


    "Hmm, if everyone is happy, isn''t that a good thing? If Immortal Zhenyuan gives me two, then I shall not be polite and have a taste. If I can leave peacefully in the end, then the cmity that should have urred in the original story will have been perfectly resolved¡­" Thinking that Sun Wukong would no longer steal the Ginseng fruit, Jiang Liu silently nodded in approval.


    Striving to dy the pace of the Journey to the West, and at the same time, trying to safely get through those so-called cmities, was the method Jiang Liu thought of to gain more time for his own growth.@@novelbin@@


    Quickly, the two Taoist Boys, Mingyue and Qingfeng, picked two Ginseng fruits, but they did not hurry to bring them to Jiang Liu.


    After all, their master had instructed them before leaving that these two fruits were meant for Tang Monk alone, and to not let his disciples see them, or there might be trouble.


    "Qingfeng, what should we do? Should we find a way to send Tang Monk''s disciples away first?" Mingyue asked, a hint of distress coloring his features.


    "Hmm, I have an idea. Let''s prepare a vegetarian meal first. Then, you can invite Tang Monk''s disciples to eat, and I''ll take the chance to deliver the Ginseng fruits to him?" Noticing that the sky had already darkened, Qingfeng spoke up.


    After discussing it briefly, the two Taoist Boys busied themselves, and in no time, they had prepared some vegetarian dishes and a meal.


    "Gentlemen, you haven''t had dinner yet, have you? We have prepared some vegetarian food. Please, go and eat," Mingyue said, approaching Sun Wukong and the others with an invitation.


    "Heh heh heh, is there food? Let''s go, let''s go¡­" Hearing there was food, Zhu Bajie was naturally the first to move.


    At the same time, both Sun Wukong and Sha Wujing also got up to follow.


    "Tang Monk, please wait a moment!" However, seeing Zhu Bajie and the others head out, Mingyue spoke softly to Jiang Liu, using his eyes to hint at a side door nearby.


    Then, the side door opened, and like a thief in the night, Qingfeng approached Jiang Liu with a tray in his hands: "Tang Monk, these are two Ginseng fruits, treasures of our Wuzhuang Temple. Before leaving, the master specifically instructed me to pick two for you. Please, eat them quickly!"


    On the tray, two infants with rosy lips and white teeth sat cross-legged, their faces wearing a hint of a smile, as if they had fallen into a deep sleep, looking very lifelike.


    Although he had already learned from the original story that the sight of the Ginseng fruit initially frightened Tang Monk, seeing them with his own eyes still gave Jiang Liu a shock.


    From their appearance, these two Ginseng fruits truly resembled living infants.


    "Thank you for the hospitality!" Of course, Jiang Liu was not Tang Monk from the original text. Faced with the delightful prospect of Life Fruit, how could he refuse? He nodded and picked up one of the fruits.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on the Ginseng fruit, the corresponding attribute information also appeared before him.


    Ginseng Fruit (Consumable): A fruit condensed from the Spirit Root of Heaven and Earth that upon consumption can change marrow and improve physique. Smelling it can extend life by three hundred and sixty years, while eating one can increase lifespan by forty-seven thousand years.


    "Indeed, it''s a wonderful thing!" Seeing the attribute information of the Ginseng fruit, Jiang Liu''s eyes brightened, and he inwardly eximed in admiration.


    Without wasting any words, he took a bite of the Ginseng fruit. The crisp and sweet flesh was incredibly refreshing, and he ate it in a few bites.


    A cool sensation spread throughout his limbs, and Jiang Liu felt as invigorated as if he had suddenly taken a hot shower after being exhausted for a long time. His whole body felt thoroughly rxed andfortable. Continue reading on empire


    It was not just about the longevity; it must be due to the Changing Marrow effect of the Ginseng fruit as well.


    "Having eaten one fruit, I am already half full. I shall keep this other one forter!" Deciding not to rush into eating the second fruit, Jiang Liu said as he stored the remaining Ginseng fruit in his spatial storage.


    "This¡­" Watching Jiang Liu eat one fruit and then store the other, Qingfeng and Mingyue exchanged nces, feeling somewhat uneasy.


    But they did not know quite what to say.


    Since two fruits were brought out to offer to someone, how that person chose to use them was their own prerogative, right?


    "Ptooey, ptooey!"


    Leaving aside what was happening with Jiang Liu, on the other side, Sun Wukong and hispanions quickly saw the prepared meal in the Wuzhuang Temple dining hall. However, after just a couple of bites, Sun Wukong spat the food from his mouth.


    "Is this the meal they prepared? It''s practically like pig swill, isn''t it? The dishes are too salty! And the rice isn''t even cooked!" Sun Wukongined, baring his teeth in displeasure.


    "Monkey Brother, I have to correct you there. Even pigs wouldn''t eat these meals!"


    Leisurely, Zhu Bajie also spat out the meal from his mouth andmented.

 Chapter 201 The Changing Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound (Happy National Day)

    ```


    As the sky turnedpletely dark, Qingfeng and Mingyue, the two Taoist boys, prepared a room for Jiang Liu to rest and then left.


    "What a treasure, this truly is a marvelous treasure!" Sitting alone on the bed, Jiang Liu took out the Ginseng Fruit again, looking at it with great joy in his heart.


    With the Ginseng Fruit in hand, even a mortal who simply smelled it could live up to three hundred and sixty years¡ªan incredible treasure indeed.


    Moreover, the thought of increasing lifespan by more than forty thousand years was enough to make anyone''s heart race.


    Having consumed one already, even if he couldn''t be immortal or achieve Buddhahood, wasn''t he virtually indistinguishable from the Immortals and Buddhas?


    It''s true that, as Tang Monk, a piece of his flesh also had the effect of bestowing longevity life; but surely, he couldn''t eat himself, could he?


    "This Ginseng Fruit, aside from extending life, seems to also have the Changing Marrow ability? I wonder how that works?" Compared to the matter of lifespan, Jiang Liu was more curious about the other effect of the Ginseng Fruit.


    Although it seemed to not be mentioned much in the original story, and so might not seem as significant as the increased lifespan of forty thousand years, for Jiang Liu''s current situation, additional lifespan was less important than strength.


    Looking down, he quietly thought to himself: "Character Panel."


    ID: Jiang Liu (Blue).


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Compassionate Bodhisattva.


    Level: 21 (86500/700000).


    Equipment: ...


    "Eh!?" Observing his own character panel, it seemed there were no changes, yet Jiang Liu distinctly noticed that his name had changed from the ordinary white panel to the blue of an Elite Level panel.


    Although he did not know the specific effects of the panel turning blue, it looked like a good development in any case, right?


    "Are Wukong and the others eating? After eating a Ginseng Fruit, I feel halfway full already, so no need for me to go eat!" After checking his character panel, Jiang Liu shook his head and continued with his cultivation practice without dy.


    Sitting in the lotus position, he once again practiced the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique. His Cultivation Level stirred within, slowly circting. Meanwhile, the system notification sounds continuously echoed in Jiang Liu''s mind.


    Notification: Gained 6 Experience Points.


    Notification: Gained 6 Experience Points.


    Notification: Gained 6 Experience Points.


    ...


    With the system notifications unceasingly ringing in his mind, Jiang Liu opened his eyes. Something didn''t seem right but at the same time, it didn''t seem wrong. Or did it?


    Wait, what was thatst notification? Experience Points 6!?


    Wasn''t the experience gain from the fourth level of Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound supposed to be 4 points per practice interval? Why had it increased to 6 now?


    Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound (Fourth Level 1+2+2+2): The sound resembling a dragon''s roar emitted from the mouth, capable of pushing back all targets in the vicinity, Attack Power +1250, Cooldown Time 300 seconds; ordinary cultivation state, gain 4 (+2) Experience Points every 10 seconds, next upgrade requires Level 41.


    Upon checking his skill panel, indeed, there was a new change in his Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound skill.


    There was no enhancement in attack power; the only change was in the acquisition of experience points, which had indeed increased from 4 to 6 points.


    "Changing Marrow, in simple terms, means enhancing a person''s aptitude, right? So, after my aptitude improved, does that mean cultivating Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound has be more efficient, reflected by faster acquisition of experience points?" Seeing the change in his skill, Jiang Liu murmured to himself.


    This development filled his heart with ecstasy.


    Although defeating monsters to level up gave him experience points much faster than cultivating, monsters were not always avable to be fought¡ªafter all, this world was not a game where monsters would endlessly respawn for him to defeat.


    Therefore, the most frequent way for Jiang Liu to gain experience points was still through his own meditation and cultivation.


    Now that his Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique was acquiring experience points at a faster rate, didn''t that mean that his present and future cultivation sessions would lead to even faster growth?


    "This Ginseng Fruit truly is a renowned Spirit Root!" With one Ginseng Fruit consumed, its effects surpassed receiving several Epic Level pieces of equipment¡ªJiang Liu was thrilled. Indeed, the best treasures were always in the hands of great powers.


    "Eh? Why is there the sound of arguing?" Just as Jiang Liu was internally reveling in his joy, he suddenly heard some distant arguing, causing his heart to tighten.


    No way, had trouble brewed just after he consumed their Ginseng Fruit?


    There''s wisdom in the saying, "One who partakes of a man''s food bes indebted to him," right?


    What''s more, if a dispute really broke out, could it potentially be another cmity, aligning with Guanyin''s intention of creating the eighty-one trials?


    ```


    Privately or publicly, this was not a good situation, so Jiang Liu was not in a rush to cultivate and hurriedly left.


    It turned out that in the dining hall of Wuzhuang Temple, Sun Wukong and the others were arguing with Qingfeng and Mingyue.


    "You monkey, you''re so unreasonable! We kindly offered you lodging and cooked vegetarian meals for you. You''re ungrateful, to say the least, yet you even dare to criticize our food as awful? Heartless creature!" Qingfeng, the Taoist Boy with a fiery temper, shouted at Sun Wukong.


    "Now you''re being funny, aren''t you? If the food you cook tastes bad, shouldn''t we be allowed to say so? The dishes are as salty as if you poured half a jar of salt into them, and the rice is half-cooked¡ªshouldn''t we speak out!?" Sun Wukong bared his teeth, equally displeased.


    "Even if the food was not to your taste, it was still prepared with our good intentions. How can you act like this!?" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Qingfeng looked somewhat embarrassed.


    Indeed, he had only thought of using this excuse to get rid of the three for a while, so the prepared meal was a bit rough andcked attention to detail. But after all these years, this was the first time he cooked. Hadn''t he already shown them great face?


    "Right, if you find it unptable, you could simply not eat it. I''d like to see what sort of meal you can make. You monkey probably can''t cook at all, right?" Mingyue chipped in, supporting Qingfeng.


    "Hmph, I, Old Sun, may not know how to cook, but my master does, and his cooking is absolutely top-ss in both the three realms and six paths. I can guarantee that you''ve never tasted anything like it in your lifetime!" Sun Wukong jumped onto the table, his hands on his hips, boasting proudly.


    "I''ve lived for over a thousand three hundred years. What kind of meal haven''t I eaten? Your bold ims are foolishness!" Qingfeng scoffed, sneering in return.


    "All right, you go ahead and argue, but why drag me into it?!" Hearing the squabble between Sun Wukong, Qingfeng, and Mingyue, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly.


    Master Zhenyuan knew they wereing but went to debate cultivation with Yuanshi Heavenly Venerable instead. Of his forty-eight disciples, only the hot-tempered Qingfeng and Mingyue were left to entertain him, and they even deliberately offered him ginseng fruit to eat?


    This was clearly Master Zhenyuan stirring up trouble, wasn''t it?


    Sun Wukong was already hot-tempered, and with the fiery Qingfeng and Mingyue, it was indeed as explosive as Heaven''s Thunder meeting Earth''s Fire, ready to ignite at the slightest spark.


    "Master, their food is truly awful. Why don''t we cook for ourselves?" After enough arguing, Sun Wukong turned and spoke to Jiang Liu.


    "Yes, master, I, Old Pig, am not even full yet. Look how thin I am getting!" Zhu Bajie, upon hearing this, also nodded in agreement and spoke to Jiang Liu.


    "Humph, I really want to see what so-called best delicacies of the three realms and six paths look like, or are you just risking a gust of wind to boast about it?" Qingfeng and Mingyue, hearing this, were skeptical.


    Sun Wukong wanted their master to cook to show up the prestige of Wuzhuang Temple, while Zhu Bajie perhaps simply had a hungry stomach and wanted to eat their master''s cooking. As for Qingfeng and Mingyue? Naturally, they were skeptical.


    Regardless of everyone''s attitude, they were all looking at Jiang Liu, waiting for him to cook.


    After hesitating briefly, Jiang Liu nodded in agreement.


    If there was a way to eliminate the barriers between them and stop the arguing, perhaps cooking a meal was a good choice?


    After all, in his previous life, the culture of the dining table was already taken to the extreme; a dining table could indeed be a good means to nurture rtionships, which was why in the previous life people always invited others to dine out to handle affairs.


    "Alright then, since everyone hasn''t eaten their fill, let''s continue with a pot of firepot meal today!" Jiang Liu said with a nod after pondering for a moment.


    It also served as a celebration of his increased aptitude and gaining more Experience Points from the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    "Great!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s suggestion of firepot, Sun Wukong and the others happily nodded in agreement.


    Soon, the ingredients wereid out, and the disciples busied themselves like experts, preparing various meats, vegetables, and mushrooms in no time at all.


    "What kind of delicacy is this? It looks just like a bunch of messy things thrown into the pot to boil? This is almost like pig feed!" Watching Jiang Liu set up the firepot and all the ingredients being carelessly thrown in, Qingfeng and Mingyue secretly sneered, questioning this way of cooking.


    "Taoist Boys, you haven''t eaten yet, have you? Come and join us!" Jiang Liu invited the nearby Qingfeng and Mingyue to eat.


    "No thanks, this kind of meal looks messy and unappetizing just by looking at it!" Qingfeng nced at the pot''s tumultuous contents, shook his head, and spoke disdainfully.


    "Indeed, the messy appearance does not look appetizing at all!" Mingyue also nodded incessantly, thinking the so-called firepot looked utterly chaotic.


    Mixing a hodgepodge of items together¡ªhow could that be edible?


    "Just give it a try, and if it''s not tasty, then forget it!" Jiang Liu continued to invite them.


    Qingfeng and Mingyue still wanted to decline, but just then, the pot began to boil, the broth bubbled, and a strange fragrance wafted through the air.


    Qingfeng and Mingyue slightly twitched their noses.


    After the time it took an incense stick to burn¡­


    Qingfeng and Mingyue, the Taoist Boys, got into another dispute with Sun Wukong.


    However, this time it was not an argument but apetition to eat the food in the pot. Experience exclusive tales on empire@@novelbin@@


    Delicious!


    (PS: Happy National Day everyone! It wasn''t easy, but on this National Day, this book finally received the quality badge. Since the third day of release, the average orders have been stuck just shy of 3000, stagnant for over half a month. We finally broke through 3000 and got the quality badge. Getting the badge on National Day feels like a good omen, hehehe¡­)

 Chapter 202 Master Zhenyuans Character Layout

    Thirty-Three Heavens beyond, therey the Yuxu Pce.


    The debate between Master Zhenyuan and Yuanshi Heavenly Venerable had concluded, and after saying their farewells, Master Zhenyuan prepared to leave.


    However, Master Zhenyuan was not clear about the current situation at the Wuzhuang Temple, and the Journey to the West was a major cmity that veiled the will of heaven. Even with his divine skills, Master Zhenyuan couldn''t deduce what exactly was happening at the Wuzhuang Temple.


    But just because he couldn''t divine the situation, didn''t mean Master Zhenyuan didn''t have other ways of finding out.


    After all, the Wuzhuang Temple was his own Taoist arena; was there anything he couldn''t know?


    "Hmm, the Qingfeng and Mingyue boys have somewhat been spoiled by me; that Sun Wukong is even more fearless," Master Zhenyuan murmured to himself. Then, he lifted his palm, and a sphere of light gathered in mid-air, transforming into a mirror that showed the scene within.


    "You, monkey, are you picking a fight with me today?" the face of Qingfeng Taoist Boy flushed with anger, clearly agitated.


    "Hehehe, isn''t it all fair in tactics?" Sun Wukong chuckled mischievously, his face brimming with pride as he spoke.


    "Qingfeng brother, don''t be afraid, I''ll help you!" Mingyue firmly stood by Qingfeng''s side, saying with a resolute expression.


    "None of you should help. Didn''t they say how powerful their Wuzhuang Temple is? Watch how I, Old Sun, defeat both of them alone!"


    Unlike Qingfeng and Mingyue who teamed up, Sun Wukong appeared very confident, speaking to Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing beside him.


    ...


    "Hmm, indeed, have they already started fighting each other?" Watching the dialogue and fight between Sun Wukong, Qingfeng, and Mingyue in the mirror, Master Zhenyuan nodded silently, feeling everything was going ording to his n.


    However, as the scene shifted, Master Zhenyuan soon saw what exactly Sun Wukong and Qingfeng were fighting over.


    Qingfeng held a chopstick, swiftly picking a slice of lotus root from the hotpot.


    But Sun Wukong was even faster, his chopstick movements extraordinarily agile, snatching the lotus root slice from Qingfeng''s chopsticks in an instant.


    ttering loudly!


    With a pair of chopsticks, Sun Wukong battled against Qingfeng and Mingyue''s two pairs, their exchanges intense. Zhu Bajie and the others, observing beside, were busy devouring the contents of the hotpot, in a lively manner without intervening.


    After a short while, the lotus root broke in two, each getting half. Following this, Sun Wukong picked out a slice of duck blood from the pot, naturally leading to another round of conflicts.


    In the end, Sun Wukong and Qingfeng red at each other, resembling two bulls ready to charge.


    However, momentster, Sun Wukong and Qingfeng suddenly burst intoughter.


    This sight left Jiang Liu and Zhu Bajie puzzled,pletely unaware of what had happened.


    "You, monkey, your tactics are indeedmendable!" After their bout, there was something of a newfound respect; Qingfeng addressed Sun Wukong.


    Although inexperienced, Qingfeng found the monkey''s tactics truly impressive.


    "You two aren''t too bad either. Not yet reaching the Taiyi True Immortal stage, yet able to snatch food right from my hands!" Sun Wukong also showed admiration, speaking to Qingfeng.


    As the old saying goes, a hero recognizes a hero. After some time, both sides understood each other''s tactics. Very quickly, the originally small Qingfeng and the equally diminutive Sun Wukong wereughing and pping each other on the back, appearing to be on very friendly terms.


    "Really? Is the dining table the best ce to forge close rtionships!?"


    Watching the two who had initially been at odds with each other fighting over some food and then bing buddies, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly.


    Thirty-Three Heavens beyond, watching everything in the mirror, Master Zhenyuan was stunned, looking dumbfounded.


    This development waspletely different from what he had imagined!


    Completely bewildered, Master Zhenyuan truly looked baffled, wondering how things had progressed to this point so unexpectedly.


    "No, I must hurry back to check!" After reflecting for a moment, Master Zhenyuan steadied his mind, deciding to let his disciples stay in Yuxu Pce for a few more days before returning.


    Master Zhenyuan, on the other hand, decided to return to Wuzhuang Temple alone.


    After a meal and drinks, where Qingfeng and Mingyue went off to rest, slightly drunk, it had to be admitted that although the hotpot didn''t look particrly appealing, it tasted excellent.


    A little drink, a hearty hotpot, it was indeed very cozy, especially as everyone sat togetherpeting for food, a delightful sensation.


    The more the merrier when ites to eating, andpeting made it even tastier!


    After the meal, Sun Wukong and the others also went to rest. Thanks to the lively hotpot meal, Sun Wukong was now on good terms with Qingfeng and Mingyue.


    Throughpeting for food, Sun Wukong also recognized the formidable skills of the two little Taoist boys.


    Indeed, just these two boys being so formidable showed that Wuzhuang Temple was truly no ordinary ce.


    Of course, after the ginseng fruit was swallowed, Jiang Liu''s aptitude improved, and he gained experience points more quickly during cultivation. Throughout the night, Jiang Liu sat cross-legged, diligently practicing the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound. The experience points increased bit by bit¡ªmuch faster than before.


    Previously, when he was at the third level of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, Jiang Liu would only gain 3 experience points during his cultivation. Now, that number had doubled.


    After practicing cross-legged all night, Jiang Liu stood up, feeling his cultivation level had grown slightly overnight.


    Checking his experience points, they had increased by nearly 20,000 overnight. Naturally, Jiang Liu was overjoyed with this rate of growth.


    With this speed of growth, would reaching level 32 be faster than when rising to level 31?


    After getting up, the teacher and disciples washed up briefly, as Qingfeng and Mingyue had also risen.


    "Amitabha, thank you for your hospitality. We must not impose any longer, so we will be leaving now..."


    Jiang Liu brought his palms together, saying farewell to the Taoist boys Qingfeng and Mingyue. One ginseng fruit¡ªthis treasure was far more valuable than epic-level equipment, and Jiang Liu was naturally grateful in his heart.


    "Master, may your journey be smooth sailing!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Taoist boys Qingfeng and Mingyue also paid their respects with a deep bow and spoke.


    "Hehehe, you two young boys, I, Old Sun, am also leaving. Let''s have hotpot together again sometime!" Sun Wukong, carrying his big staff, raised an eyebrow, speaking to Qingfeng and Mingyue.


    This statement made Qingfeng and Mingyue unconsciously swallow, nodding in agreement. "Little Monkey, that''s a deal then. Remember toe and have hotpot with us after you havepleted your Journey to the West!"


    Hearing the banter between Qingfeng and Mingyue, and Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu smiled knowingly. It seemed that their rtionship was much stronger than he had imagined. Otherwise, why would they address each other in such a manner?


    Sometimes, is the camaraderie between men really that simple?


    "Wait, Zen Step!" Just as Jiang Liu and Qingfeng and Mingyue finished their farewells and prepared to leave, suddenly, a voice echoed from the sky.


    The voice was not loud, but everyone heard it clearly, as if it were speaking right beside their ears.


    Following the sound, an auspicious cloud slowly descended from the sky, and shortly, an old Taoist with white hair and beard, holding a horsetail whisk, descended from the sky amidst clouds and fog.


    "Master!" Seeing the figure descending, the Taoist boys Qingfeng and Mingyue hastily stepped forward and spoke.


    "Hmm, Brother Xuanzang and his party, have you hosted them well?" Master Zhenyuan nodded slightly as he asked his disciples.


    "Replying to Master, we have followed your previous instructions and hosted them well! Master Xuanzang even cooked us a pot of hotpot!" Qingfeng Taoist Boy responded with a nod.@@novelbin@@


    "Hmm, that''s good!"


    Hearing the words of Qingfeng and Mingyue, although the events had unfolded unexpectedly, the fact that they had managed to get along with Sun Wukong and sessfullypleted the task he had assigned them satisfied Master Zhenyuan.


    "I have seen Master Zhenyuan!" As the conversation between Master Zhenyuan and Qingfeng and Mingyue concluded, Zhu Bajie tidied himself up a bit, patted the nonexistent dust off his body, stepped forward, and gave a disciple''s salute to Master Zhenyuan.


    "Hmm, you are Tianpeng, right? Not bad, not bad!" Although Zhu Bajie had turned into a pig, Master Zhenyuan obviously remembered him and nodded slightly.


    "Is this Master Zhenyuan? A big shot of the Journey to the West World!"


    As Master Zhenyuannded, all eyes naturally fell on him, and Jiang Liu thought to himself: character panel!


    Soon, a semi-transparent character panel appeared, floating in front of Jiang Liu.


    ID: Master Zhenyuan (Blue)


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Taoist.


    Level: 100


    Equipment: ...


    "Hiss¡­" Seeing Master Zhenyuan''s character panel, especially noting that 100 level, Jiang Liu involuntarily gasped.


    His game system seemed to cap at level 100, and Master Zhenyuan had reached that level, hadn''t he?


    This was the highest character level he had seen, truly befitting a top-tier existence.


    The level of a Daluo Golden Immortal ranged from 81 to 90, so what lies above that?


    Is it Quasi-Saint?


    If each realm epasses ten levels, then a Quasi-Saint would be in the 91-100 level range, right?


    So, does this mean Master Zhenyuan''s cultivation, even among the Quasi-Saints, is among the very top?

 Chapter 203 Shock - The Ineffective Silencing Zen

    "Master Xuanzang, greetings to you!" After exchanging a few words with Zhu Bajie and effectivelypleting the pleasantries, Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s gaze finally settled on Jiang Liu as he began to speak.


    "I have seen Grand Immortal Zhenyuan!" With palms pressed together, upon hearing Zhenyuan address him, Jiang Liu bowed respectfully and replied.


    Speaking of Master Zhenyuan, not to mention he is at the peak of Quasi-Saint level, just his status as an audience member in the Primordial settings of the Zixiao Pce is enough tomand awe. To say he is the foremost among all below the Saints may not be an exaggeration. In terms of strength, he might even be stronger than Tathagata Buddha.


    "You have journeyed to the West and happened to pass by my Wuzhuang Temple, which is also a kind of fate. The Taoist boys Qingfeng and Mingyue prepared Ginseng Fruit for you, have you tasted it yet?" Master Zhenyuan asked Jiang Liu with a slight nod.


    Upon hearing Master Zhenyuan''s words, Jiang Liu felt a sudden jolt in his heart.


    Mentioning Ginseng Fruit in front of Wukong and the others, was Grand Immortal Zhenyuan intending to stir up trouble?


    However, on the surface, he maintained hisposure and nodded slightly, "Mhm, I have indeed tasted it, and it truly deserves its reputation as a supreme treasure birthed from the Spirit Root of Heaven and Earth!"


    "Ginseng Fruit!? Master, have you eaten Ginseng Fruit? That''s a precious treasure!" Hearing this, Zhu Bajie''s eyes lit up, and he enviously said to Jiang Liu.


    Since he knew about Master Zhenyuan, it was natural that Zhu Bajie was aware of the Ginseng Fruit.


    "Eh? Ginseng Fruit? What is that? Master, this isn''t right, you''ve snuck off to enjoy such a treat by yourself without telling us?" Sun Wukong, upon hearing this, also expressed someints towards Jiang Liu.


    Setting aside the fact that they were all united in amon cause, they were at least a team on a Journey to the West for Scriptures. Hiding and indulging alone in good things didn''t seem justifiable in any way, did it?


    "Wukong, it''s not that your master wished to indulge alone, but the Ginseng Fruit is a treasure of heaven and earth, and though Grand Immortal Zhenyuan generously offered us two, we are a party of five. How could we possibly divide them fairly?" Facing Sun Wukong''sint, Jiang Liu responded with a look of helplessness.


    "A party of five people!?" Regardless of what others interpreted Jiang Liu''s words to mean, the White Dragon Horse, upon hearing this, felt touched as a glint of emotion shed in its eyes.


    Being a mount, it had never been treated as a mere servant or beast by its master throughout their journey.


    "Well, what you say does make some sense, Master!" After pondering for a moment upon Jiang Liu''s exnation, Sun Wukong gave a nod of agreement.


    He immediately turned his gaze to Master Zhenyuan and said, "You old Taoist are quite stingy, aren''t you? We are five people, yet you only gave two fruits. Are you purposely trying to create discord among us disciples and our master?"


    "You monkey, do you know that my Ginseng Fruit blossoms only once every three thousand years, bears fruit once every three thousand years, and takes another three thousand years to ripen? It takes a full nine thousand years just to yield thirty fruits! An ordinary person who eats one can live for forty-seven thousand years.@@novelbin@@


    I''ve given you two, and you''re still not content?" said Master Zhenyuan, somewhat annoyed by Sun Wukong''s words.


    "Alright, although the fruit is good, it''s a bit too scarce, and it cannotpare to the grandeur of the Peach Garden of Empress!"


    Sun Wukong curled his lips upon hearing Master Zhenyuan''s words, "The Peach Garden of Empress has three thousand six hundred Peach Trees, of which one thousand two hundred mature every nine thousand years, and eating them allows one to live as long as the heavens and the earth, and shine with the sun and the moon!"


    The Ginseng Fruit Tree has always been a prized treasure of the Wuzhuang Temple, but ording to Sun Wukong, it pales inparison to Empress''s Peach Trees.


    Ginseng Fruit and thergest and finest peaches in the Peach Garden both require nine thousand years to mature.


    Yet, the Ginseng Fruit only extends life by forty-seven thousand years, whereas the Purple Pattern Peaches from the Peach Tree allow one to live as long as the heavens and the earth, and shine with the sun and the moon.


    Furthermore, there is only one Ginseng Fruit Tree, but look at those top-quality Peach Trees ¨C there are as many as one thousand two hundred!


    No matter how you look at it, Empress''s Peach Treespletely outss the Ginseng Fruit of the Wuzhuang Temple!


    Ginseng Fruit is certainly a fine item, but in terms of value, it seems to fall short of Empress''s Peaches. Thinking about it, when Sun Wukong stealthily ate the Peaches in the Peach Garden, he consumed countless peaches, to the extent that the fruits picked by the seven fairies turned out small and displeased the Empress.


    Given this, could Sun Wukong really care so much about a single Ginseng Fruit?


    His own Ginseng Fruit seemed to have been belittled by this monkey. Master Zhenyuan''s mouth twitched slightly, and though he felt ufortable, he was at a loss for words.


    After all, whether in terms of value or quantity, the Peaches from Empress were indeed better than the Ginseng Fruit.


    "Amitabha, Wukong speaks thoughtlessly. My apologies Grand Immortal, but even if the peaches from Empress are superb, this poor monk cannot partake in them. Receiving two Ginseng Fruits from Grand Immortal is deeply appreciated!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s conversation as if it wouldpletely offend Master Zhenyuan, Jiang Liu hastily interjected, attempting to smooth things over.


    "You monkey, are you saying that my Ginseng Fruit is inferior to Empress''s Peaches? Do you not fear that you won''t be able to make your escape now that you''ve said this in my presence?" Master Zhenyuan''s gaze fell upon Sun Wukong as he posed the question.


    "Heh heh heh, Bajie says you''re formidable, as if perhaps even more so than Tathagata Buddha, but even so, you cannot abandon reason, right?" Sun Wukong grinned at Master Zhenyuan, responding with a sneer.


    Master Zhenyuan was formidable? Sun Wukong had already figured that out, but knowing Master Zhenyuan was powerful, would it cause him fear? That was surely not Sun Wukong''s style!


    Regardless of whether his words were difficult for others to ept, Sun Wukong believed what he said was the truth.


    "Great Immortal, thank you for your kindness and hospitality, but the journey West is long, and we are on a mission to seek Scriptures for the well-being of all under heaven, so we dare not dy further, thus we will take our leave now!" Jiang Liu genuinely feared that if the conversation continued, Grand Immortal Zhenyuan might find an excuse to make a move, so he hurriedly spoke up.


    He had no desire to sh with such a powerful figure, and as for defeating him to potentially obtain a Divine Artifact? Jiang Liu dared not indulge in such wishful thinking, preferring to make a swift departure instead.


    If I stay longer, the ledger of trials under Guanyin might just gain one more difficulty.


    "You monkey, speak less and leave already!" Jiang Liu, hearing Sun Wukong''s disrespectful words to his own master, was startled and couldn''t help but scold Sun Wukong, urging him to leave quickly.


    "Hahaha, alright, as you passed through my Wuzhuang Temple, I treated you with respect, yet you dare to utter such arrogant words and insult my treasures. Since that is the case, don''t bother leaving. Stay at Wuzhuang Temple to reflect for a few days first!"


    Just because of a verbal conflict, they wouldy hands on the Scripture Seeker? This was indeed precipitous without justification. However, in Master Zhenyuan''s view, he couldn''t just let them all go; therefore, he had to find an excuse to keep them all detained and figure out the long-term solutionter.


    "Hmph, we will see about your abilities!" Sun Wukong''s fighting spirit was incredibly high. On hearing Master Zhenyuan''s words, he drew out his Ruyi Golden Cudgel.


    Grand Immortal Zhenyuan didn''t waste words and raised his palm to strike at Sun Wukong.


    Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s movements did not seem fast, but in everyone''s eyes, his hand seemed to erge infinitely, every crease of his palm transforming into mountain ranges, creating an insurmountable sense of oppression.


    Roar!


    Seeing Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s oing palm, Sun Wukong let out a roar and immediately disyed the Law of Heaven and Earth Divine Skill.


    The Ruyi Golden Cudgel in his hand followed his will, transforming into an incredibly thick Heavenly Pir, then thrusting towards Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s palm.


    "Silencing Zen!"


    Seeing Sun Wukong and Grand Immortal Zhenyuan had begun to fight, Jiang Liu naturally would not stand idly by. As support, he could only try to apply Control type Skills from the sidelines.


    Bang!


    However, the ever-effective Silencing Zen suddenly lost its effect at this moment. That palm struck Sun Wukong''s body and mmed him to the ground, with even his Law of Heaven and Earth Divine Skill unable to withstand it.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, with just one palm strike, Sun Wukong''s health bar on top of his head lost half its value instantly, a clear sign that Grand Immortal Zhenyuan had held back. Otherwise, with his strength, instantly defeating Sun Wukong wouldn''t be difficult!


    "My Silencing Zen, it actually..."


    It wasn''t Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s terrifying power that startled Jiang Liu, but the shock that his own Silencing Zen Skill had failed to take effect!


    Ever since he had this Skill, the effects of Silence worked on anyone he faced.


    Even Bajie, who was at the same Taiyi True Immortal realm, was affected by Silencing Zen and the Sheep Transformation Technique.


    Yet today, it had no effect on Grand Immortal Zhenyuan!?


    "Interesting!"


    Not only was Jiang Liu shocked by Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s prowess, with even Silencing Zen having no effect on him, Grand Immortal Zhenyuan too turned his head and nced at Jiang Liu, his eyes slightly lighting up as he said, "You have actually mastered Law-Type Abilities? Truly worthy of a person of destiny!"


    "Amitabha, what is the meaning of these Law-Type Abilities? I ask the Great Immortal to impart your knowledge graciously!" On hearing Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s words, Jiang Liu spoke, seeking guidance humbly.


    This was the first time his Control type Abilities had proven ineffective, so naturally, Jiang Liu wanted to understand why.


    "I, Old Sun, do not ept this!" But just at that moment, Sun Wukong, who had been struck to the ground by a palm, suddenly cried out loudly.


    With half his health bar remaining, Sun Wukong once again raised his Golden Hoop in his hand and rushed straight at Grand Immortal Zhenyuan.


    However, Grand Immortal Zhenyuan remained calm and waved his sleeve at everyone from Jiang Liu''s party.


    In an instant, Jiang Liu felt the world spinning around him, unable to maintain his stance as everything around him darkened.


    "It''s over; it''s Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s Sleeve Universe Technique!"


    Feeling everything around him plunge into darkness, as if thrown into a nonexistent vacuum, Jiang Liu understood what was happening.


    Is this the power of a Quasi-Saint at the Peak? Such skill both astonishes andmands respect.


    Level 100? Is this the power held by those at max level 100?


    If I could also reach this level, possess such strength, on the Journey to the West, who could dictate my fate!?

 Chapter 204 A Brief Discussion of Laws and Saints

    A secret chamber: Jiang Liu and his disciples were all tied up with ropes, confined within this room. What seemed to be mere simple strands of rope rendered them unable to mobilize the strength within their bodies, almost like a perpetual silence skill had been cast upon them.


    "What in the world are these ropes made of?"


    Feeling that he couldn''t mobilize his cultivation level at all, naturally, he couldn''t practice the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound either, which led to a silent feeling of helplessness in Jiang Liu''s heart.


    Since Master Zhenyuan had set his heart on taking action, it seemed this difficulty couldn''t be avoided. If it couldn''t be avoided, so be it. Hiding in the Wuzhuang Temple for a while and dragging out the time seemed like a good n.


    But if their cultivation was bound and they couldn''t practice, wouldn''t staying too long be useless?


    "Wukong, why aren''t you speaking?" Seeing that Wukong too was bound without uttering a single word, Jiang Liu asked, puzzled.


    Could it be that Master Zhenyuan''s Sleeve Universe had swept him away, leaving Wukong stricken?


    "Master, I, Old Sun, was thinking, it turns out that Tathagata isn''t the most powerful in this world. Interesting, truly interesting. Even Tathagata couldn''t take down I, Old Sun, in one move, right?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Wukong couldn''t help but crack a grin.


    Indeed, if Tathagata had had such means to easily capture him back then, why would he have needed to deceive him into entering Buddha''s Palm Paradise to bury him under the Five Elements Mountain?


    "Enough, I''ve worried too much..." At a time like this, Wukong still had the mood to ponder such matters, which left Jiang Liu with mixed feelings ofughter and tears. His concern had been for naught.


    However, upon reflection, it made sense. With Wukong''s untamed nature, how could he be easily disheartened? Otherwise, after being suppressed under the Five Elements Mountain for five hundred years, his spirit would have been grinded away long ago, no?


    "Bajie, how about you? Anything you''d like to say?" After pondering for a moment, Jiang Liu turned to ask Zhu Bajie.


    Though not the brightest, Zhu Bajie''s vision was the keenest within the Scripture Seeking Team. Moreover, he had long recognized Master Zhenyuan, so seeking his opinion was worthwhile.


    "Me? I think there''s nothing much to it. Eat when you should eat, sleep when you should sleep. Just stay like this, right? Master Zhenyuan couldn''t possibly starve us over this little matter, could he? After locking us up for some days and his anger subsides, he will naturally release us!"@@novelbin@@


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s question, Zhu Bajie appeared indolent.


    This attitude was almost the epitome of nonchnce, as if bitten by a mosquito. No worries, let it be. Once it''s satiated, it will fly away on its own...


    "Second Brother, how could you be like this!?" Wujing couldn''t restrain himself from speaking up after hearing Bajie''sckadaisical attitude: "Our journey to the West is for the sake of all beings. The sooner we obtain the scriptures, the sooner we can fulfill our mission. Master Zhenyuan locking us here, I don''t know what he''s nning. What if he doesn''t cool off for a decade or so?"


    "Then we might just be confined here for a decade or so, no big deal, right?" Bajie maintained his nonchnt demeanor.


    "Second Brother, how can you..." Watching Bajie''s indifferent attitude, Wujing truly felt a mix of urgency, frustration, and helplessness, unsure of what to say next.


    Giving Wujing a sidelong nce, Jiang Liu did not respond to his words but inwardly nodded at Bajie''s words. If they could really be confined for a decade or more, wouldn''t that be wonderful?


    Yet, being tied up with manapletely unmovable, he needed to find a way to restore his strength.


    "Wukong, I feel that I can mobilize none of the strength in my body. Do you know what''s happening?" After some thought, Jiang Liu spoke up to address Wukong.


    "I, Old Sun, do not know either. It must be the handiwork of that old Taoist. My mana also can''t be mobilized!" Wukong shook his head in response.


    "Master, don''t worry about it. Master Zhenyuan is among the foremost figures of the three realms and six paths, his cultivation having long surpassed that of a Daluo Golden Immortal. Though he doesn''t possess the casual ability to materialize his words into reality as a Sage Master does, he can indeed manipte somews. He has embedded thesews into these ropes.


    Therefore, what appear to be a few ordinary ropes are enough to bind us all!"


    "Laws!?" Bajie''s words stirred something in Jiang Liu, prompting him to look at him intently.


    Previously, his Silencing Zen couldn''t affect Master Zhenyuan, who had uttered the word ws." He had intended to ask for rification but was interrupted by Wukong. Unexpectedly, Bajie actually knew something?


    "Bajie, what exactly are thesews? Exin it to me," Jiang Liu urged.


    "Regarding thesews, I, Old Pig, don''t know much either, having only overheard bits and pieces in the past!" Upon Jiang Liu''s inquiry, Bajie didn''t hold back and shared what he knew.


    "Master, you must know, the mortal path has six realms, the Immortal Path has three. Yet, above the Immortal Path exists a ss of beings who have transcended the cycle of life and death, undisturbed by countless cmities. Even the cosmic catastrophes cannot harm them. They have risen above the multitude, their concerns no longer tied to cultivation but tows.


    They wield control and can even revise the powers that govern the rules of heaven and earth!" Bajie exined.


    "Controlling and even revising the rules of heaven and earth? What does that mean? Bajie, exin it to me in detail?" The words caught even Wukong''s attention, prompting him to eagerly press for more information.


    General Juanlian, who had been attentive by the side, was also intent on hearing more. Evidently, even after years as the Jade Emperor''s General Juanlian, he knew very little about these so-calledws.


    "Specifically? Actually, I, Old Pig, don''t know much either. If I have to say something, perhaps it''s things like making water light amp or having the sun appear in the night sky,pletely defying the rules of nature. This should count as altering thews of nature," mused Zhu Bajie before he spoke.


    Hiss...


    The moment these words were spoken, even Sun Wukong felt a sense of trepidation.


    Altering thews of nature? Is this truly something humans are capable of?


    "Hold on, back then, Tathagata''s palm was only this big, but when I, Old Sun, jumped into it, I found it to be endlessly vast, which was utterly illogical. So, is Tathagata also one of these people you''re talking about?"


    After listening to Zhu Bajie''s ount of thews, Sun Wukong recalled his naivepliance back then, when he truly jumped into Tathagata''s palm, and he voiced his thoughts.


    "Buddha? He doesn''t quite fit into this category. Above the Daluo Golden Immortals, there are some who are striving to reach this level, but it seems they are missing something, right? Specifically, I, Old Pig, can''t rify!"


    Zhu Bajie shook his head. Although unclear, he was sure that Tathagata was far from reaching the realm he had described.


    "So, is it that Tathagata and Master Zhenyuan are like Quasi-Saints, capable of barely influencing thews? Are the ''words bew'' Zhu Bajie spoke of the true Saints?"


    Zhu Bajie couldn''t articte clearly, but Jiang Liu, hearing these words andbining his own understanding of Deification and the Primordial settings, naturally grasped their meaning.


    So to say, Saints are exalted because they can alter thews of nature?


    To put it simply, if this world were an online game, then everyone is like leveling up through monster grinding, adhering to the game''s established rules to be stronger.


    And the Saints? They must be powerful enough to have been promoted to game GMs?


    Could they whimsically change the game rules? How can that be yed? No wonder it''s said, those not Saints remain but ants.


    "So that''s how it is..." Understanding the truth of the matter, Jiang Liu realized why his Silencing Zen was ineffective against Master Zhenyuan.


    Although they aren''t full-fledged Saints, Quasi-Saints can still manipte some forces of thews. Are my control type skills like Silencing Zen, to some extent also rule-based skills, which is why they are ineffective against Master Zhenyuan?


    "Does this mean? My impressive support abilities are impossible to work on those of Quasi-Saint Level?" Reflecting on this, disappointment crept into Jiang Liu''s heart.


    He had thought his Silencing Zen and Sheep Transformation Technique, these control type skills, would work on anyone. Seeing this, their value seems to diminish.


    But upon deeper thought, he is only level 31 for now; Quasi-Saint level big shots are a bit too far out of reach for him. He shouldn''t aim too high; he should focus on resolving the matters at hand first.


    Being confined to Wuzhuang Temple by Master Zhenyuan? Jiang Liu is not the least bit upset, even hoping the longer he is confined, the better.


    However, he surely shouldn''t be bound so that he can''t even practice cultivation, should he?


    "Master, heh heh heh, although this old Taoist''s methods are formidable, they can only restrict my Cultivation Level, not my Primordial Spirit!"


    Putting aside Jiang Liu''s silent contemtion on how to resolve the current situation, Sun Wukong suddenly chuckled and said to Jiang Liu.


    "How about this, I, Old Sun, let my Primordial Spirit leave the body to seek help from Tathagata? This old Taoist is too fierce, we can''t beat him, and if he doesn''t lend a hand, our great Journey to the West for Scriptures will end right here!"


    "Monkey, I think you wish Master Zhenyuan would turn out even stronger than Tathagata, so you''re eager to invite Tathagata over to watch him get trounced, right?"


    Seeing Sun Wukong''s eager appearance made the corners of Jiang Liu''s mouth twitch slightly as he inwardlyined.


    "No, don''t go. Let''s solve this matter ourselves!" Still, Jiang Liu shook his head at Sun Wukong''s suggestion.


    Although Jiang Liu would also like to witness the spectacle of Tathagata getting trounced, if Tathagata truly came, the most likely oue would be the two big shots speaking a few words and making some deal.


    It''s improbable they''de to blows; instead, as a result of their negotiation, they would likely continue letting him proceed with the Journey to the West.


    Therefore, it''s better not to call on Tathagata, and instead, take this opportunity to dawdle a bit longer.

 Chapter 205 Punish me for a hundred years? What a noble!

    Zhu Bajie was right; although Master Zhenyuan had captured everyone and confined them here, he was still an elder, so he couldn''t let everyone go hungry, could he?


    Therefore, when noon arrived, Qingfeng Taoist Boy and Mingyue Taoist Child did indeed bring over food.


    After reciting an incantation, the ropes binding Jiang Liu and the others automatically loosened, and they called Jiang Liu and the rest over for the meal.


    "Hey, Qingfengd, the food was made by you guys again, wasn''t it?" Sun Wukong, although seated at the dining table, showed no intention of picking up his chopsticks. Looking at the notably undercooked rice in his bowl, he spoke up.


    Currently, the only ones in Wuzhuang Temple were Master Zhenyuan, along with the two Taoist boys, Qingfeng and Mingyue. With Master Zhenyuan in a fit of anger, naturally, he was not going to cook for everyone at this time. Therefore, the task of cooking had obviously fallen upon Qingfeng and Mingyue.


    "You stinky monkey, you''re good at everything except recognizing the situation, and you have a foul mouth! You have food to eat¡ªare you still picking and choosing?"


    Upon hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Qingfeng Taoist Boy''s expression flickered with embarrassment before he spoke irritably to Sun Wukong.


    "Hehehe, are you getting flustered? Then I, Old Sun, will ask you, have you eaten yourself? How much did you eat?" Sun Wukong asked, not getting angry but simply throwing the question back at Qingfeng.


    "This¡­" Sun Wukong''s counter-question left the Qingfeng Taoist Boy momentarily at a loss for words.


    It was Mingyue Taoist Child whoughed and answered, "Qingfeng barely managed to eat half a bowl!"


    "Mingyue, you, you''re mocking me? You only gulped down three bites yourself!" Qingfeng Taoist Boy retorted irritably after being outed by Mingyue.


    "I, I''m okay; I at least swallowed three bites, but our master spit it out after just one bite!" Mingyue continued to speak.


    "Mingyue, do you no longer want to live? You dare to nder Master!?" Qingfeng''s face changed at Mingyue''sint, swiftly chastising him in a low voice.


    Hearing Qingfeng''s words, Mingyue also realized he had spoken out of turn and quickly covered his mouth, looking startled.


    "Hehehe, you two boys, I see your master, Master Zhenyuan, while possessing formidable methods, seems to be a bit too petty, eh?" Watching Qingfeng and Mingyue''s reactions, Sun Wukong chuckled andmented.


    "Monkey, don''t talk nonsense. Master has always been extremely kind to us, just... erm, we just can''t speak ill of him. A fellow disciple once said something behind his back, and Master made him clean thetrines for a hundred years..." Qingfeng Taoist Boy whispered the second half of the sentence.@@novelbin@@


    "This, this Master Zhenyuan, is he really such a person? His character haspletely copsed!" Jiang Liumented from the side, his mouth twitching slightly.


    "Monkey, you''d better pray for good fortune. Not only did you mock Master, but you also said his Ginseng Fruit was inferior to the Empress''s Peach. I''m guessing you''ll have to wait at least three to five hundred years for Master to cool down," Mingyue said sympathetically to Sun Wukong.


    "Three to five hundred years?! No way! That''s absolutely uneptable!" Hearing such a lengthy period of time, Sha Wujing, who was nearby, ced his bowl down and protested urgently.


    "Wujing, don''t panic, stay calm¡­" Jiang Liu shook his head, seeing Wujing''s reaction, yet he felt a secret thrill inside.


    Three to five hundred years? That was impossible. Surely the Buddhist Sect would run out of patience, right?


    But with Master Zhenyuan''s status, if he truly wanted to keep them here, even the Tathagata would be powerless, wouldn''t he?


    So, perhaps they truly could dy a bit longer here?


    Not three to five hundred years, but three to five decades, or even three to five years, would be quite wonderful, wouldn''t it?


    Cough, cough!


    Just as Jiang Liu and the others were speaking and chatting with Qingfeng and Mingyue, all of a sudden, a dry cough rang out. Subsequently, they could see Master Zhenyuan, dressed in a Taoist robe, hands behind his back, stepping forward.


    "Master!" Seeing Master Zhenyuan walking in, Qingfeng and Mingyue hurriedly got up, bowed their heads, and spoke, looking like they had done something wrong.


    "It seems you two have plenty of free time. Just in time¡ªthetrines haven''t been cleaned for a while, so you two..."


    Casting a nce at Qingfeng and Mingyue Taoist Boys, although Master Zhenyuan was aware of their cordial rtionship with Sun Wukong during their time at Yuxu Pce, seeing their genial conversation now irritated him further in his current mood.


    "Wait a minute, you old man, they only exchanged a few words with me, Old Sun, and for that, you would have them clean thetrines? Then what about yourself? Aren''t you here to talk as well? What should you punish yourself with?"


    Sun Wukong valued loyalty and, upon hearing Master Zhenyuan''s words, he interrupted him before he could finish speaking.


    "Oh? So you''re quite loyal, aren''t you, you monkey!" Master Zhenyuan, fully aware of Sun Wukong''s implication, nced at him and spoke lightly.


    "Amitabha, Great Immortal, as the saying goes, ''A teacher''sxity is to me for the student''s failure;'' Wukong has offended you with his words, and I, as his teacher, share the me. I have noints about any punishment you deem fit," Jiang Liu joined his palms together, directing his words towards Master Zhenyuan, thus diverting his attention.


    If not, allowing Sun Wukong and Master Zhenyuan to continue their exchange was sure to escte matters further.


    "Oh? Leave the punishment to me withoutints?"


    Indeed, byparison, Jiang Liu seemed to carry more weight, as he was the core member of the "Journey to the West for Scriptures" team. When Master Zhenyuan''s gaze fell on Jiang Liu, he spoke, "What if I were to confine you here in Wuzhuang Temple for a hundred years, for you to contemte your wrongdoings?"


    "That would be fantastic..." Hearing this, Jiang Liu''s eyes shone brightly, his face unable to conceal the look of sheer joy.


    "Amitabha, if that is the punishment the Great Immortal deems fit, this humble monk has noints!" Unable to suppress the joyful expression on his face, Jiang Liu hurriedly bowed his head, not wanting to let them see his true feelings.


    Although Jiang Liu tried his best to control his facial expressions, the changes in his demeanor were clearly visible to Master Zhenyuan.


    Seeing the joy that he could not restrain spilling out from his eyes, Master Zhenyuan''s face stiffened somewhat.


    What is happening? When I am punishing him, confining him in Wuzhuang Temple for a century, shouldn''t he be pleading for mercy?


    What is the meaning of this inability to hide his eagerness and joy?


    "Great Immortal, you can''t do this. If you lock us up for a hundred years, wouldn''t we..." Hearing this, Sha Wujing, who was standing beside him, couldn''t help but cry out loud. Discover exclusive tales on empire


    "Wujing, stop your nonsense! I have already said it, whatever punishment the Great Immortal imposes, I am willing to bear it. Do not be troublesome!" However, even before Sha Wujing could finish his words, Jiang Liu chided him and cut him off abruptly.


    The urgency of his reaction was as if he feared Sha Wujing might ruin his good fortune.


    "This, something isn''t right here. Wait, I need to go back and think this through, get the story straight before I act!" Realizing something was amiss with Jiang Liu''s behavior, Master Zhenyuan murmured to himself.


    "Since you aren''t hungry, then you shouldn''t eat. Continue to sit here and reflect on your misdeeds!" Not wishing to stay any longer, Master Zhenyuan nced at the untouched meals on the table, showing no surprise, but spoke indifferently.


    With a lift of his hand, the ropes that had been loosened were once again binding Jiang Liu and the others, leaving them unable to move; even the power within their bodies felt stagnant, impossible to summon.


    "Great Immortal, wait..." However, after being bound by the ropes again, Jiang Liu spoke up.


    "What? Do you wish to beg for mercy now?" Master Zhenyuan nced at Jiang Liu and asked.


    "Amitabha, Great Immortal, I have said it before, I am willing to ept whatever punishment you see fit. But, is it necessary to bind me with these ropes? Do you not trust me, Master? Moreover, with your mighty power, Great Immortal, if you really wanted to keep us here in Wuzhuang Temple, we wouldn''t be able to leave even with our freedom, right?"


    Jiang Liu spoke, naturally trying to secure his freedom to properly cultivate in Wuzhuang Temple, so his words were a mix of ttering and earnest appeal to Master Zhenyuan.


    "Hmm, your words do show some insight!"


    Just as he didn''t like others speaking ill of him behind his back, conversely, Master Zhenyuan evidently enjoyed hearingpliments. Jiang Liu''s ttering words made Master Zhenyuan''s mood improve significantly, and he found logic in them as well.


    If I didn''t want them to leave, could they even manage to escape?


    "Moreover, I do know a thing or two about the Art of Kitchen. Since we are carrying the guilt, we naturally dare not ask you to cook for us. This monk is capable of fending for himself!" After a slight pause, Jiang Liu added.


    "Right, Master, the food prepared by Master Xuanzang is delicious!" Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Qingfeng Taoist Boy''s eyes lit up, and he nodded in agreement with Jiang Liu to Master Zhenyuan.


    This reminded Master Zhenyuan of a scene he had witnessed earlier, where the two Taoist boys were snatching food back and forth with Jiang Liu and hispanions, appearing to eat with relish.


    Seeing Qingfeng''s look, Master Zhenyuan shot him an annoyed nce before nodding and saying, "Well then, I won''t bind you. I hope you''re smart enough not to think about escaping!"


    As he spoke, Master Zhenyuan raised his hand and released Jiang Liu from his bonds!


    "Phew, that''s great!" As the ropes around him unraveled, Jiang Liu inwardly let out a sigh of relief and thought with glee.


    His cultivation level once again became active and movable. Was Master Zhenyuan really nning to keep him here for a hundred years? He really ought to thank his benefactor''s eight generations of ancestors.


    Not only did he get to eat the Ginseng Fruit, but now he was given the chance to cultivate here¡ªhe truly was the most significant benefactor on his Journey to the West!


    "Alright, disciples, let''s start cooking our meal!" pping his hands, Jiang Liu spoke.


    "Master, what are we having for lunch today?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Zhu Bajie innocently asked.


    "How about hot pot?" Jiang Liu proposed.


    "Eating again!?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s suggestion, a few Local Deities looked somewhat bemused.


    While hot pot was delicious, it seemed like the Master would typically have it to celebrate happy asions, right? For instance, on New Year''s Eve or after consuming treasures like the Ginseng Fruit.


    But now, they had all been punished by Master Zhenyuan and were confined in Wuzhuang Temple¡ªwhat was there to celebrate?

 Chapter 206 I Wont Leave!

    ```


    Master Zhenyuan sat quietly in his Quiet Room, meditating. Soon, his mind entered a state of meditation, yet his thoughts were plentiful and varied.


    With a pretext, all the Scripture Seekers had stayed at Wuzhuang Temple. Although Xuanzang had appeared quite happy, which was baffling, Master Zhenyuan gave it some thought and realized that Xuanzang had no reason to be happy at all, right?


    Considering this, could it be that his happy demeanor was deliberately disyed to gain an advantage through retreat, to make me change the method of punishment?


    "Humph, his reaction is quite swift. However, the more a thief''s conscience is guilty, the louder he speaks. Simrly, since he made a special effort to appear so happy, he must be all the more anxious inside," Master Zhenyuan mused.


    "Just watch; he won''tst a few more days and will inevitably beg me to release him. He might even plead for the soul of that Monkey to leave his body and ask for Tathagata or Guanyin toe to his aid..."


    Thinking of Tathagata or Guanyining to Wuzhuang Temple with a request for him filled Master Zhenyuan with eager anticipation.


    At that time, he could properly propose some conditions.


    Well, wait and see; it shouldn''t take more than a few days.


    After more than half a month...


    Tip: Experience Points +6.


    Tip: Level up 1, current level 32.


    More than half a month had passed, and though there had been no battles with monsters during these days, the cultivation technique Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound alone was garnering roughly over 20,000 Experience Points daily.


    In just over half a month, Jiang Liu''s Experience Points had sessfully reached level 32.


    After silently summoning his character panel, he saw from the interface before him that advancing from level 32 to 33 now required 900,000 Experience Points.


    This made Jiang Liu feel somewhat helpless; indeed, he needed even more Experience Points now.


    "Xuanzang, you''ve been staying at Wuzhuang Temple for over half a month now, how do you feel?"


    One day, Jiang Liu happened to meet Master Zhenyuan at Wuzhuang Temple. After casually chatting with Xuanzang for a bit, Master Zhenyuan asked nonchntly.


    "Quite good. Master Zhenyuan, your Wuzhuang Temple truly deserves to be a Cave Heaven and Blessed Land. I have been veryfortable here!" Jiang Liu replied with a smile upon hearing this.


    This answer caused the corners of Master Zhenyuan''s mouth to twitch slightly.


    Could it be that he had miscalcted? Did Xuanzang genuinely enjoy staying at Wuzhuang Temple?


    No, he must be feigning this attitude on purpose. His own heart was indeed a bit anxious, but he couldn''t fall for this youngster''s schemes, could he?


    If he liked staying, then let him continue staying.


    Another month or so passed.


    Tip: Gain Experience Points +6.


    Tip: Level up 1, current level 33.


    Another month or so passed, and Jiang Liu sessfully acquired the 900,000 Experience Points, raising his level once again to 33.


    Two months at Wuzhuang Temple, gaining two levels, was a decent rate of growth for Jiang Liu.


    "Hmm, I''ll need 1.15 million Experience Points for the next level up? Based on this pace, it should take about one and a half months, right?" He pulled up his character panel again and nodded to himself.


    ...


    Not to mention what Jiang Liu thought of lingering in Wuzhuang Temple to cultivate and level up, one day, Master Zhenyuan left his Quiet Room, holding a horsetail whisk in hand.


    He pondered that Xuanzang and hispanions had been staying at Wuzhuang Temple for roughly two months now. During that time, he had dropped hints a few times, but they showed no urgency to resume their journey.


    Initially, Master Zhenyuan thought that Xuanzang was deliberately acting this way, but now, he began to waver.


    It seems necessary toe up with a n to probe more effectively.


    With a thought, Master Zhenyuan ventured out and soon found the two Taoist Boys, Qingfeng and Mingyue.


    However, when he located the two boys, the corners of his mouth twitched slightly.


    Around a small round table, Qingfeng, Mingyue, and Zhu Bajie sat three, each holding cards decorated with images.


    Sun Wukong and several others gathered behind them, watching with interest; the atmosphere was incredibly lively.


    "Call thendlord!"


    "Bid for thendlord!"


    "I bid!"


    "Heh heh heh, Old Pig is ying open cards!"


    ...


    Yes, Fight the Landlord. Having spent two months at Wuzhuang Temple, Jiang Liu was cultivating in meditation, watching his Experience Points continuously rise, feeling blissful. But Sun Wukong and the others were getting a bit too bored at Wuzhuang Temple, so during these two months, not only did they y Mahjong, but Jiang Liu also taught them Fight the Landlord.


    This card game, suitable for all ages, was immediately popr with everyone.


    Seeing three people ying cards at the table, with a crowd watching behind them, the scene was as lively as a gambling den in the Mortal World, causing Master Zhenyuan''s mouth to twitch slightly once more.


    He felt that his Wuzhuang Temple seemed to have changed somewhat.


    Although his Wuzhuang Temple couldn''tpare to the status of Yuxu Pce, it was also a holy site of Taoism, wasn''t it?


    ```


    ```


    But now it has be like a gambling den of the Mortal World; if this scene were to spread, where would I put my face?


    "Ahem..." With a somewhat darkened face, Master Zhenyuan coughed dryly a few times.


    "Master!" Seeing Master Zhenyuaning over, the two Taoist boys, Qingfeng and Mingyue, quickly dropped the slips of paper in their hands and, with an air of having done something wrong, bowed their heads and said.


    "Qingfeng, Mingyue, you are both men of the Dao, true and pure. On normal days you do not strive to advance but idle away your days in y, losing your purpose. What would people think?" Master Zhenyuan reprimanded in a low voice.@@novelbin@@


    The two boys naturally did not dare to retort and hurriedly admitted their wrongs, "Master, we realize our mistake and will never dare to do it again!"


    "Alright, see to it that it does not happen again. Today, I have some matters to entrust to you!"


    The reprimand turned out to be rather toothless, amounting to nothing more than a verbal scolding, before Master Zhenyuan quickly changed the subject.


    "Master, if there are any matters, pleasemand us!" The two boys said in unison.


    "Recently, I''ve had a premonition, so I should meet with an old friend. I will need to leave home for about half a month. You must watch over the home well in my absence!" Master Zhenyuan spoke, announcing to Sun Wukong and the others that he was going to leave for half a month.


    On the surface, he spoke casually, but Master Zhenyuan was secretly paying attention to the expressions of Sun Wukong and the others.


    If they really nned to run away, this announcement of his would be tantamount to deliberately giving them the opportunity, wouldn''t it? They must be quite thrilled in their hearts, right?


    "Understood, disciples have noted!" Hearing this, Qingfeng and Mingyue showed happy expressions.


    Their looks resembled that of two children who had been scolded by their parents not to secretly y on theputer at home, only to be told momentster that their parents were stepping out for a while.


    Instead of seeing the expected joyful expressions on Sun Wukong and the others, it was his own two boys who looked pleasantly surprised, which made Master Zhenyuan feel a stab of heartache.


    The reputation of Wanshou Mountain was not for nothing; a single Ginseng Fruit could grant life for forty-seven thousand years, yet it only took nine thousand years to mature, so one could only guess how many years Master Zhenyuan, who had lived well beyond that, had maintained a tranquil state of mind like an ancient well undisturbed by the wind.


    But in recent days, Master Zhenyuan found that maintaining his usual calm demeanor had be difficult, often feeling a sense of suffocation.


    "Terrible, truly terrible..." When he felt a pang of heartache, Master Zhenyuan immediately realized the frequent tightness in his chest ofte and his heart grew cold.


    Could it really be a great catastrophe of heaven and earth? All these beings of fate were now within Wuzhuang Temple, even affecting himself?


    Terrible, it might be better to send these people away soon. After all, I''m no Saint, immune to the wear and tear of endless cmities.


    How many near Sainthood beings have fallen in the great cmities from ancient times until now?


    Having entrusted them with tasks, Master Zhenyuan flew away in front of Sun Wukong and the others.


    With his departure, everyone''s spirits naturally lifted quite a bit.


    Qingfeng and Mingyuepletely reverted to their mischievous child-like nature, forgetting the words they had just uttered, sitting back at the table and picking up the cards again.


    "You pigheaded fool, are you cheating? Why are your cards always so good!?"


    "Yeah, you must be cheating. We brothers have been the peasants and lost nine rounds in a row!"


    "Heh heh heh, my title of God of Gamblers isn''t just empty talk, you two can''t be sore losers, can you?"


    "Damn it! Come on, let''s battle it out for another three hundred rounds!"


    While Qingfeng and Mingyue have lived for over a thousand years, the life within Wuzhuang Temple has always been rather monotonous, immersed in the cultivation of Taoism and adhering to the Taoist ethos of serenity and inaction.


    Although they were ustomed to it, ever since Jiang Liu and hispanions took up residence these past two months, Qingfeng and Mingyue found life to be much more interesting, full of color and variety.


    Firstly, their food was extraordinarily delicious.


    Secondly, ying Mahjong and Fight the Landlord were entertaining for them, far more enjoyable and less mentally taxing than Go.


    Lastly, the interesting phrases that asionally came out of Master Xuanzang''s mouth also piqued their curiosity.


    For example, the word "Damn it!" seemed to capture many of their thoughts precisely.


    Surprised? Use "Damn it!"


    Angry? Use "Damn it!"


    Cursing someone? Use "Damn it!"


    Admiring someone''s skill? Still "Damn it!"


    This word seemed universal, yet it fit perfectly every time they wanted to express their emotions; no other word could rece it.


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    Soon, the night grew deep.


    Jiang Liu sat cross-legged, continuing his cultivation of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique, when at that moment, Sun Wukong and his disciples approached.


    "Disciples, what is it?"


    Seeing them appear before him together, Jiang Liu asked in surprise. It seemed they had something they wanted to discuss with him.


    "Master, Master Zhenyuan has left Wuzhuang Temple! This is the best chance for us to slip away!" Before Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie could speak, Sha Wujing, unable to contain his excitement, said to Jiang Liu.


    "Moreover, Qingfeng and Mingyue seem to have the intention of letting us go. They purposely drank a lot tonight and got themselvespletely drunk!"


    "No! I am not leaving!"


    ```

 Chapter 207 Tathagata, Hurry and Take Your People Away

    Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s thoughts were, in fact, quite straightforward: the Scripture Seeking Team embarking on the Journey to the West were individuals fated to be involved in this great cmity between Heaven and Earth.


    Having lived for so many years, Grand Immortal Zhenyuan deeply understood the principle that high risks bring high rewards. Therefore, in his eyes, the Scripture Seeking Team passing by Wuzhuang Temple presented an opportunity.


    Grand Immortal Zhenyuan was aware of Tang Monk''s identity as the reincarnation of Master Golden Cicada, and why did he offer Tang Monk two Ginseng Fruits to eat?


    In his own words, the reason was because he and Master Golden Cicada recognized each other in the past. During the Umbana Festival, Master Golden Cicada personally served him tea, so if you show me an inch of respect, I''ll return a foot.


    But if we''re speaking frankly, what status does Grand Immortal Zhenyuan hold? It''s not only Master Golden Cicada who would seem insignificant. Even the Tathagata, in terms of seniority, should be considered his junior; isn''t it only right that he should serve tea to Grand Immortal Zhenyuan with his own hands?


    So, Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s gift of two Ginseng Fruits to Tang Monk was nothing more than a pretext.


    The Ginseng Fruit was a treasure indeed, yet he only gave away two. If Sun Wukong and the others found out, wouldn''t they harbor some thoughts?


    Furthermore, nearly everyone from Wuzhuang Temple had departed, leaving behind only the two hasty Taoist Boys, Clear Wind and Bright Moon. Wasn''t Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s intention simply to create conflict as a justification to detain the Scripture Seeking Team and then negotiate with the Buddhist Sect?


    However, things did not unfold as Grand Immortal Zhenyuan had anticipated. Not only did Sun Wukong and others not fall out with Clear Wind and Bright Moon, but it seemed their friendship had grown strong, which baffled Grand Immortal Zhenyuan.


    There was no other way; he had to hurry back to Wuzhuang Temple himself and find an excuse to keep them there.


    In Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s view, being imprisoned in Wuzhuang Temple, the Scripture Seekers should have been eager to escape.


    Either they would plead with him directly, or they would try to request the Tathagata or Guanyin toe to their rescue¡­


    But what was the result? Grand Immortal Zhenyuan realized he had miscalcted again. The Scripture Seeker stayed in Wuzhuang Temple contentedly, making Grand Immortal Zhenyuan utterly unable to understand the reasons behind it all.


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    Grand Immortal Zhenyuan was, of course, aware of Xuanzang''s experiences. His romance with Princess Gaoyang was a major event throughout all the realms, especially since the oath they made to the Heavenly Dao caused the Great Thunder to resonate.


    So logically, shouldn''t he be eager to rush to the Great Thunder Monastery and find Princess Gaoyang at once?


    Well, setting all that aside for now, after waiting for a full two months, seeing Jiang Liu and hispanions enjoying life at Wuzhuang Temple, and even leading his two Boys astray¡­


    Drinking and eating meat daily, gambling and drinking, cursing while betting money¡ªwhere was there even a hint of the true Taoist way in all this?


    So, this time Grand Immortal Zhenyuan was resolute, almost explicitly signaling that the Westward Pilgrims could escape¡­


    After leaving Wuzhuang Temple, Grand Immortal Zhenyuanpletely concealed himself in the shadows, keeping an eye on the movements of the Westward Pilgrims.


    In his view, tonight, without a doubt, the Pilgrims must have been nning to make their escape, correct?


    Indeed, everything that unfolded at the beginning was within Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s expectations.


    His two Taoist Boys, true to their empathetic nature, pretended to be drunk, staggering back to rest in a state of drunken stupor.


    And with his own absence from Wuzhuang Temple, he had essentially thrown the doors wide open, hinting that they could leave.


    Simrly, Xuanzang''s disciples also saw the opportunity and approached Xuanzang, hoping to sneak away together.


    But the final oue? Xuanzang actually refused!?


    He actually refused!?


    This was beyond Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s expectations again. What was going on!?


    If possible, Grand Immortal Zhenyuan truly wanted to pry open Xuanzang''s head and see what kind of odd thoughts were inside! Weren''t these actionspletely illogical?@@novelbin@@


    "Master, why!?" Fortunately, Sha Wujing was also anxious and blurted out the question to Jiang Liu, voicing the confusion that Grand Immortal Zhenyuan had at the moment.


    Yes, why? Now that there was no one stopping them, why wouldn''t they leave?


    "Wujing, a man whocks trust cannot stand tall. One must uphold their promises. As the saying goes, a promise is worth a thousand pieces of gold and carries a weight greater than Mount Tai. Since I have agreed to ept the punishment from Grand Immoral Zhenyuan, how could I go back on my word?"


    Jiang Liu''s expression was stern, and his words were impassioned as he said, "Moreover, didn''t Grand Immoral Zhenyuan originally tie us up with ropes because he trusted us? Why did he untie us? Is it not because he trusts that we will not run away? If we were to escape now, how would we be worthy of Grand Immoral Zhenyuan''s trust?"


    "Master, how can you be so obstinately old-fashioned? Grand Immortal Zhenyuan deliberately mentioned leaving in front of us, perhaps hinting that we should go, right? Maybe after two months, he has calmed down?" Jiang Liu''s words left Sha Wujing both desperate and amused.


    "Alright, Wujing, no more words. The mind of your master is made up. If you wish to leave, do so now. I will not stop you," Jiang Liu said, without a hint of argument in his voice, instead gesturing for Sha Wujing to leave if he so desired.


    His Mission List still contained the task of kicking Sha Wujing out of the Journey to the West team. If he could take this opportunity to do so, the 80 million experience points that came with it¡ªhow many levels could he climb?


    The mere thought was thrilling!


    "If I could seek the scriptures on my own, I would have gone already. Why would I waste my breath here?!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sha Wujing inwardly grumbled.


    Of course, such grumbling, Sha Wujing only dared to do inwardly. He would never dare to voice these thoughts aloud.


    "Wujing, I think, why don''t you just go on the road by yourself? If you bring back the True Scriptures alone, that would be an immense act of merit!" Considering the mission to kick Sha Wujing out of the team, Jiang Liu was somewhat tempted and persuasively suggested to Sha Wujing.


    These words made Sha Wujing''s face darken.


    Such merit naturally was tempting, but he couldn''t actually bring back the True Scriptures on his own.


    Seeing Sha Wujing''s face darken, Jiang Liu continued, "Additionally, if I really stay here for a hundred years, the Buddha must be getting impatient, right? So, Wujing, why don''t you make a trip to the Great Thunder Monastery? Just say I''ll be here for a century and ask the Buddha to wait a little longer!"


    Now, Sha Wujing finally realized that his master seemed to want to send him away.


    This realization made Sha Wujing tense up. Joining this team had been difficult enough, and all along the way, it seemed his master had held deep prejudices against him. Now, was he the only one to object to a decision made by his master?


    Sha Wujing suddenly awoke to the fact that he seemed to have displeased his master.


    "Master, I am also dedicated to the grand mission of seeking the scriptures in the Western Heaven. I believe, my elder and second elder brothers must also be anxious, right?"


    Realizing that he had annoyed his master, Sha Wujing hurriedly exined, at the same time trying to align Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie with his position.


    After all, there''s safety in numbers, right?


    "Me? I think the master''s promise is justified. I, Old Sun, support the master!" Hearing Sha Wujing bring the topic to himself, Sun Wukong grinned and said cheerfully.


    Originally, it was because Tathagata had deceived him, and Sun Wukong had always harbored resentment about it. Naturally, he greatly appreciated and liked Jiang Liu''s firm promise.


    Sha Wujing felt as if his elder brother had just undermined him.


    Sha Wujing''s lips twitched slightly, and then he turned his gaze towards Zhu Bajie standing on the side.


    "I, Old Pig, have always said, why bother leaving? Staying here is quite nice, right? Eating and drinking every day, and ying Mahjong and Fight the Landlord, isn''t life better than that of an immortal?" Confronted with Sha Wujing''s gaze, Zhu Bajie showed azy demeanor and shook his head as he spoke.


    Zhu Bajie''s words were in fact honest. Originally, he didn''t care much for the merit of the Westward Journey for Scriptures. Lately, spending his days at Wuzhuang Temple enjoying meat, gambling, and carefree living ¨C wasn''t that even better than the life of an immortal? Why rush to hit the road and trudge through mountains and rivers?


    Sha Wujing: "..."


    Seeing the responses from Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, Sha Wujing''s face became even more sullen, feeling that it was bing increasingly difficult to fit in with the Scripture Seeking Team.


    His master disliked him and wanted him gone, and it seemed that his elder brothers were also pushing him out, weren''t they?


    Master Zhenyuan: "..."


    Not only was Sha Wujing''s face turning sour, but Master Zhenyuan, hiding in the shadows, was also beginning to look quite displeased.


    Even though Jiang Liu''s words were righteous and admirable, and had secretly won Master Zhenyuan''s nod of approval and appreciation, thinking Jiang Liu seemed different from other members of the Buddhist Sect, his choice greatly surprised Master Zhenyuan.


    The next morning, as the breeze cleared and the moon shone brightly, the two Taoist Boys, Qingfeng and Mingyue, also got up, but they were stunned to see Jiang Liu and his group still at the Wuzhuang Temple and had not left.


    "Come on, let''s y Mahjong, we''re two short!" Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie were already seated at the stone table, and Mahjong was all set up, they called over to the two Taoist Boys.


    "What? You guys, howe you haven''t left?" The two dumbfounded Taoist Boys sat down and asked Sun Wukong in surprise.


    "Heh heh heh, we are people of our word. Since the master has agreed to endure Grand Immortal Zhenyuan''s punishment, naturally, we will not do something as sneaky as slipping away!" Hearing the surprise in the voices of Qingfeng and Mingyue, Sun Wukong grinned and replied.


    This answer made Qingfeng and Mingyue both hold them in higher esteem, "You are truly noble, admirable!"


    Indeed, in the hearts of the two Taoist Boys, they were filled with admiration. They originally thought Sun Wukong was unrefined, and they looked at him the way city folk might look at a country bumpkin.


    But now, in the hearts of the two Taoist Boys, their view of Sun Wukong and his group hadpletely changed.


    However, watching all this unfold, Master Zhenyuan was bing increasingly upset!


    "Gambling first thing in the morning? No good! Tathagata, hurry up and take your people away..."

 Chapter 211 Sworn Brotherhood

    For the mighty ones, legacy was of utmost importance, the more profound their divine skills, the more attentive they became in nurturing their disciples.


    After all, the character and aplishments of a disciple, once they ventured forth, were entirely a reflection of one''s own reputation.


    If the disciple was well-trained, it was a matter of gaining respect; otherwise, it naturally became a matter of losing face.


    Because of this, even though Laozi had founded the Human Sect, in reality, the disciples Laozi took in within the Human Sect were limited to only Xuandu!


    Moreover, Yuxu Pce prioritized aptitude, so the disciples from Yuxu Pce all came from extraordinary backgrounds.


    In the eyes of Yuanshi Heavenly Venerable, setting aside the matter of strength for the moment, just the backgrounds of the disciples under hismand were beyond question.


    Thus, it was precisely because of this that Yuanshi Heavenly Venerable had significant differences with Sect Master Tongtian, feeling that Sect Master Tongtiancked discernment in his teachings, and that Green Tour Pce was filled with all forms of beasts with scales and horns.


    This was debasing oneself, which, in turn, caused embarrassment to himself as a fellow member of the Three Pure Ones.


    Although Master Zhenyuan could notpare with those saint-level powerhouses in terms of status, he was, after all, among the top supernatural power experts in the three realms and six paths, hence, he highly valued the nurturing of his disciples.


    For countless years, there had only been forty-eight disciples in Wuzhuang Temple, and naturally, Master Zhenyuan took their nurturing very seriously.


    Today, after merely two months, the Taoist boys Qingfeng and Mingyue already appeared somewhat corrupted. Should Jiang Liu really be left at Wuzhuang Temple? Once his own disciples returned from Yuxu Pce, who knew what the consequences would be?


    Compared to those disciples, a few ginseng fruits were minor; obviously, Master Zhenyuan understood which was more important.


    Jiang Liu''s face darkened somewhat, as the developments took him quite by surprise; having barely secured a six-month extension after a tough stand against Guanyin, he had wanted to give himself a pat on the back. Unexpectedly, Master Zhenyuan had rejected him.


    Even though others were willing to offer nine ginseng fruits, clearly showing how much they wished for him to leave immediately, Jiang Liu, even if he wished to stay, couldn''t possibly impose by staying against their will, could he?


    "Amitabha, since this is the case, then I thank the great immortal for his generosity and magnanimity!" After a brief moment of silence, Jiang Liu, looking utterly disappointed, shook his head and spoke.


    Hearing that Jiang Liu had finally agreed to leave, Master Zhenyuan felt a great relief in his heart; indeed, inviting gods was easy, sending them away was hard.


    Soon, Master Zhenyuan had the Taoist boys Qingfeng and Mingyue pick nine ginseng fruits from the tree and held a Ginseng Fruit Feast to send off Jiang Liu.


    "Ah, what a pity..." Upon hearing that Jiang Liu had actually agreed to leave, Guanyin sighed lightly, looking somewhat disappointed on the inside.


    Normally, Guanyin should have been pleased that Jiang Liu was willing to move on, but now she felt somewhat disappointed.


    In fact, with the Journey to the West having been nned for so long, waiting another half-year was not a big deal; but if Xuanzang were to have stayed at Wuzhuang Temple and Master Zhenyuan''s disciples were all led astray, turning to drinking, eating meat, gambling, and cursing, that seemed appealing?


    "Amitabha, since the matter here is concluded, I will not stay longer!"


    Internally shaking her head, Guanyin spoke, and in a moment, she was seated on the Lotus tform, quickly transforming into an escape light that faded away.


    The original purpose had been to get Xuanzang and his party on the road, and now this goal had been achieved. They even managed to secure a few extra ginseng fruits from Master Zhenyuan, arguablypleting the task beyond expectations; Guanyin should have been happy.


    But now, whether she felt happier or more disappointed was something Guanyin couldn''t quite decide for herself.


    Setting aside what thoughts Guanyin had after she left, over at Wuzhuang Temple, a Ginseng Fruit Feast was to be held.


    Since it was a grand event, it naturally had to be conducted with much fanfare; so, apart from the ginseng fruits, Jiang Liu also personally prepared arge table of food as a way to repay Master Zhenyuan for his kindness during this period.


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    Although Master Zhenyuan could hardly wait for him to leave, which disappointed Jiang Liu, he was clear about gratitude and grudges; at least so far, at Wuzhuang Temple, Master Zhenyuan had offered him two ginseng fruits and now brought out nine more for the Ginseng Fruit Feast, which was an act of utmost righteousness and generosity.


    Personally cooking a meal as a symbol of appreciation, Jiang Liu deemed it necessary.


    At the level of Master Zhenyuan, eating was, in fact, no longer of any concern; previously, the food had been prepared by Qingfeng and Mingyue, so Master Zhenyuan had only tasted it once and never ate again.


    However, at today''s Ginseng Fruit Feast, the food personally prepared by Jiang Liu indeed looked and smelled delicious.


    As these dishes were served, Master Zhenyuan''s nose twitched slightly, and his eyes brightened a lot; soon after picking up his chopsticks to taste the food, he eximed loudly, "Delicious!"


    "If the great immortal likes it, that''s wonderful. Let''s all eat together!" Following Master Zhenyuan''s lead with the chopsticks, Jiang Liu smiled and nodded, also inviting everyone else to join the meal.


    The food was extremely delicious, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed their meal; in a short while, everyone''s mouths were greasy.


    Even Master Zhenyuan was moving his chopsticks as fast as a blur; for a time, the atmosphere among the diners became much more harmonious.


    "Xuanzang, your cooking indeed ranks first across the three realms and six paths, well done!" Master Zhenyuan gave a thumbs up, slurping a piece of green vegetable into his mouth, and spoke with admiration.


    "Great Immortal is too kind!" Jiang Liu humbly smiled at Master Zhenyuan''s praise.


    They probably thought his cooking was good because he specifically crafted an iron pot and used modern cooking techniques to stir-fry the food, which might have seemed novel to them. To say it was extremely delicious? Jiang Liu himself didn''t quite believe it.


    "Since you have now stayed in my Wuzhuang Temple for two months, it is indeed fate. How about you and I be sworn brothers?"


    Just at that moment, suddenly, Master Zhenyuan spoke, making a proposal that left everyone present dumbfounded.


    "Master? You, you..." The Taoist boys, Qingfeng and Mingyue, dropped their chopsticks with a tter, their eyes wide with disbelief as they stared at Master Zhenyuan.


    Clearly, they found their own master''s proposal unbelievable.


    "Ah!? Be sworn brothers with me!?" Jiang Liu, being the concerned party, was naturally stunned, feeling as if he had been struck by lightning, staring nkly at Master Zhenyuan.


    Who was Master Zhenyuan!? A powerhouse at the Quasi-Saint Peak! A listener at the Primordial ne''s Zixiao Pce, Zhu Bajie had said that even the Tathagata and the Great Jade Emperor would have to greet him first. His stature was evident.


    Yet, he was actually the one taking the initiative to be sworn brothers with him!?


    Although Master Zhenyuan had sworn brotherhood in the original story, wasn''t his brother Sun Wukong? How did it turn out to be him today?


    "Master, what are you spacing out for? This is a great fortune! How can you not agree!?" While Jiang Liu was confused and felt his mind go nk, not knowing how to respond, Zhu Bajie, who was next to him, reacted quickly and gave Jiang Liu a push, urging him to agree.


    "Oh, in that case, Jiang Liu pays his respects to Big Brother!" Pushed by Zhu Bajie, Jiang Liu snapped back to reality and sincerely saluted Master Zhenyuan.


    Regardless of why Master Zhenyuan had suddenly made this proposal, for Jiang Liu, being able to be brotherhood with Quasi-Saint Peak''s Master Zhenyuan was naturally a great thing.


    "Jiang Liu!?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s address, Master Zhenyuan''s expression shifted slightly, and he soon nodded secretly to himself.


    Indeed, before Xuanzang took his holy orders, this indeed was his secr name.


    "Thus, with me older by some years, I am now your elder brother. Qingfeng, Mingyue, go and please bring out some fragrant herbs!" After nodding, Master Zhenyuan, satisfied with Jiang Liu''s response, spoke while gesturing to Qingfeng and Mingyue to prepare items like fragrant herbs, yellow paper, and the altar table.


    Jiang Liu was the person of destiny in this great cosmic trial of the Journey to the West, akin to Jiang Ziya during the great deification tribtion, naturally no ordinary person.


    And there was no need to speak of Master Zhenyuan, a top powerhouse in the Three Realms and Six Paths, with strength at the Quasi-Saint Peak.


    Their swearing brotherhood could not merely be a verbal agreement; they needed to ritually dere it to heaven and earth.


    Following the deration to heaven and earth, heavenly thunder roared as it had when Jiang Liu swore to the heavens before, clearly, this deration to heaven and earth had been acknowledged by the Heavenly Dao!


    "Elder brother!"


    "Younger brother!"


    After the swearing ceremony, Jiang Liu and Master Zhenyuan addressed each other, officially establishing their fraternal rtionship.


    "Congrattions, congrattions!" Following thepletion of the swearing ceremony, Sun Wukong and Qingfeng Mingyue, with joyous expressions, came forward to offer their congrattions.


    The Ginseng Fruit Meeting naturally became even more lively and harmonious.


    ...


    On Western Spirit Mountain, inside the Great Thunder Monastery.


    The Tathagata sat quietly on his Lotus tform when suddenly, the sound of heavenly thunder arose, stirring his heart and prompting a premonition¡ªclearly understanding that Jiang Liu and Master Zhenyuan had be sworn brothers. This revtion brought both shock and anger to the Tathagata''s face.


    "Damn it, that shameless Master Zhenyuan! As an elder, he actually became brothers with Golden Cicada? By doing so, he''s divided the cosmic fate and virtues of my Journey to the West! How infuriating!"@@novelbin@@


    ...


    Below the Nine Nethers, amidst the crimson Netherworld Blood Sea, a red ocean filled with sinister and ominous aura surged with mighty waves.


    "Master Zhenyuan? Quite the cunning one, indeed managing to take a share of virtue and destiny from the Buddhist Sect. What a clever trick! Who cares about face when grabbing a piece of destiny is the real jackpot! Too bad, the traveler of the West won''t be passing by here; otherwise, I might have tried something simr myself!"


    ...


    In another ce, under a mysterious and pitch-ck environment, a man dressed in a ck Taoist robe slowly opened his eyes, his lips slightly curling upwards.


    "That lucky fellow, Master Zhenyuan! He really stumbled upon a treasure indeed! Ahem, ahem, ahem..."

 Chapter 212 The First Mahjong Parlour in Journey to the West World?

    White Dragon Horse, continue westward!


    Jiang Liu sat on the back of the White Dragon Horse and nced back; as they moved further and further away, Wanshou Mountain seemed to grow smaller and smaller.


    For Jiang Liu, this trip to Wanshou Mountain, while not entirely satisfactory, had still brought significant gains.


    Firstly, the two-month stay was the longest Jiang Liu had ever paused during his Journey to the West. Overall, it was quite good!


    Of course, the most significant gain was the transformation of his aptitude by the Ginseng Fruit. Originally, the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound had granted him only 4 experience points, but due to the transformation by the Ginseng Fruit, it had increased to 6 points, significantly boosting his future growth rate.


    Over two months, his level had also risen to 33, which was naturally no small achievement.


    Moreover, aside from that, Jiang Liu''s storage space held three more Ginseng Fruits.


    Having consumed one before, and saved one, during the Ginseng Fruit meeting, nine Ginseng Fruits were divided among himself, the three disciples of Master Zhenyuan, his three disciples, and the White Dragon Horse, all having consumed one each, leaving two, which Jiang Liu had collected.


    "Staying at Wuzhuang Temple for long-term cultivation was never possible; managing a two-month stay to elevate my level to 33 and experiencing the enhancement effects of the Ginseng Fruit, this debacle at Wuzhuang Temple could be considered the greatest gain of my journey so far, right?"


    After a nce toward Wanshou Mountain, Jiang Liu quietly murmured to himself, feeling quite satisfied with this trip to Wuzhuang Temple.


    Also, between himself and Master Zhenyuan, they had formed a brotherly bond recognized by the Heavenly Dao.


    In Jiang Liu''s view, although this identity had no significant use presently, it might prove immensely beneficial eventually.


    Furthermore, if one day he were to fall out with all the deities and Buddhas in heaven, having Master Zhenyuan on his side would be a tremendous gain.


    Regardless of how Jiang Liu was scheming in his heart, Sun Wukong beside him seemed bored to death.


    Having stayed in Wuzhuang Temple for two months, casually drinking, eating meat, and ying Mahjong and Fight the Landlord, Sun Wukong found life exceedinglyfortable; now, embarking on the Journey to the West once more, he felt somewhat bored.


    If even Sun Wukong felt this way, the state of mind of Zhu Bajie nearby could be easily imagined, looking even less spirited.


    Of course,pared to the two of them, Sha Wujing was evidently in a much better mood, asionally even humming a tune while walking.@@novelbin@@


    In Sha Wujing''s view, having eaten a Ginseng Fruit was a massive win.


    Moreover, after two sluggish months, they finally embarked on the Journey to the West again, naturally making Sha Wujing feel happy.


    ...


    Enjoy new stories from empire


    Leaving aside the departure of Jiang Liu and others on their westward journey, back at Wuzhuang Temple, as they left, those disciples who had stayed at Yuxu Pce also returned.


    Although two months had passed at Wuzhuang Temple, one day in heaven equates to a year on earth, so the disciples had not been at Yuxu Pce for long.


    To Wuzhuang Temple, Jiang Liu''s presence seemed to be just a minor ripple; as they departed, the temple returned to its previous tranquility.


    Only time would tell whether this ripple would slowly fade or, as time progressed, turn into a raging storm.


    After instructing his disciples to diligently cultivate, Master Zhenyuan, feeling something deep within, retired to the Quiet Room for cultivation, a period spanning forty-nine days.


    Unbeknownst to Master Zhenyuan, following his retreat, Qingfeng and Mingyue, two Taoist boys, carved more than a hundred small wooden blocks and meticulously carved them.


    Their carving skills were much better than Jiang Liu''s; the patterns on the Mahjong tiles were exquisitely detailed, and with the addition of cinnabar and other pigments, they quickly produced a beautiful set of Mahjong tiles.


    "Eh? Qingfeng, Mingyue? What are you two doing?" Coincidentally, several disciples of Wuzhuang Temple passing by saw the Mahjong tiles Qingfeng and Mingyue were making and asked curiously.


    "Oh, Senior Brother, we are making something called Mahjong. Would you like to try?" Hearing this inquiry from their senior brother, Qingfeng and Mingyue exchanged nces, immediately wearing a mysterious smile and inviting him to join.


    "A trifle? You two fellows, do you know the saying, ''frivolity leads to the loss of ambition''?" Hearing that Mahjong was merely a petty amusement, this senior brother frowned deeply and started to lecture sternly.


    "Yes, yes, Senior Brother, we dare not neglect our cultivation!" Hearing the senior brother''s words, Qingfeng and Mingyue, the two Taoist boys, could not say much else, only bowing their heads in an obedient, apologetic manner.


    Whether they would listen in the future or not, at least acknowledging one''s mistake is a good habit!


    "You two, really, if you are bored during leisure time, music, chess, calligraphy, and painting can all be pastimes; why concoct these trinkets out of nowhere? What are these small wooden blocks with patterns on them? Are they children''s toys?" Shaking his head, the senior brother spoke for their own good, with earnest advice.


    "Well, Senior Brother, this trifle was not something we came up with ourselves; it was Tang Monk who taught us, and he and his disciples all y it!" Hearing the senior brother''s lecture, Qingfeng, the Taoist boy, began to exin.


    "Oh? Tang Monk! They all y it!? He taught you!?" Hearing this, the incessantly nagging senior brother paused slightly in shock.


    Tang Monk? Isn''t he the sworn brother of our master? Also tasked with securing the Westward Journey scrolls, his disciples'' identities are also quite extraordinary. They all y with this trifle? Perhaps, there are many benefits to it that I do not understand?


    Could it be like ying chess? Although just simple ck and white stones, the strategic moves within could cultivate endless wisdom?


    "Qingfeng, since it was Tang Monk and his disciples who taught you, why don''t I give it a try as well?"


    After giving it some thought and realizing that all of Tang Monk''s disciples were involved and had even specifically taught Qingfeng and Mingyue, there might be some deeper meaning. The elder brother mused for a moment before speaking.


    "Alright, but we need four people to y Mahjong. Let''s invite another elder brother over, shall we?" Upon hearing this, both Qingfeng and Mingyue''s faces lit up with joy, and they nodded in agreement.


    Soon, due to the need for one more yer, another elder brother was pulled in toplete the group!


    Two Chinese Hourster...


    At a small square table, four disciples from Wuzhuang Temple were already deeply engrossed in a fierce game, with over a dozen other disciples standing around watching with great interest.


    ying Mahjong might seem like a simple little game, but once you really got into it, there seemed to be a strange magic power that was simply irresistible.


    It was like eating sunflower seeds during leisure time. It didn''t matter if you didn''t start, but once you did, it felt impossible to stop...


    "Elder brother, you all have yed for so long, are you not tired? How about I take over for a couple of rounds?"


    "Mingyue, hasn''t it been quite a while since youst cleaned the Ginseng Fruit Garden? You better go tidy up, or else Master might scold you when hees out of seclusion!"


    "Um, elder brothers? I''ve made a set of Mahjong tiles. Could youe and see if anything is missing?"


    "I''lle and check for you!"


    "Elder brother, don''t rush!"


    "Besides ying Mahjong, there''s also another game that''s faster paced and equally fun. It''s called ''Fight the Landlord'', and it only needs three people to y!"


    ...


    Forty-nine dayster, Master Zhenyuan walked out of the Quiet Room, feeling extremely refreshed.


    This period of seclusion had not improved his Cultivation Level, but Master Zhenyuan felt his understanding of the Heavenly Dao had deepened slightly.


    "Though Ick the Foundation of Great Dao and will never break through to the Sage Realm in this lifetime, as myprehension of the Heavenly Dao deepens, my strength can still improve. If I can''t be a Saint, perhaps bing the foremost below the Saints would not be too bad?"


    Feeling that this period of seclusion had brought significant gains, Master Zhenyuan nodded to himself, his lips curving into a satisfied smile.


    After concluding his seclusion, Master Zhenyuan left the Quiet Room and looked around, only to find not a single disciple in the courtyard, which caused his eyebrows to lift slightly.


    What''s going on? Where have all the other disciples gone?


    Just then, Master Zhenyuan heard a noisy moring from a distance, and intrigued, he followed the sounds.


    He saw over ten tables set up in the za of Wuzhuang Temple, some round, some square. The square tables each seated four people, all engrossed in ying Mahjong.


    And the round tables? Each seated three people, all holding ying cards.


    These noisy voices were naturallying from here.


    "Chow, hahaha, little brother, didn''t you notice? You just got yed!"


    "Kong, hahaha, winning on a kong, I''ve won!"


    "Call thendlord!"


    "Bid for thendlord!"


    "Trump Card! I won!"


    "Damn, I still had a bomb in hand, lucky I didn''t y it!"


    "Damn! If I had known, I wouldn''t have yed the red dragon, oh my, what a perfect Thirteen Orphans hand I had!"


    "Alright, alright, my brethren, I have to go cook, I''m not ying anymore!"


    "Wait, don''t go, let''s y a few more rounds first! You''re just going to leave after winning? I didn''t expect that from you, elder brother!"


    ...


    The shouting, the loud exmations, the sound of ying cards being pped on the tables, and the noise of shuffling Mahjong tiles, all mingled together into a chaotic symphony, causing Master Zhenyuan''s eyebrows to twitch wildly.


    It was lucky that Jiang Liu had already left far, far away by this time. Otherwise, if Jiang Liu had seen this scene, he might have considered recing the "Wuzhuang Temple" sign with "Wuzhuang Mahjong Parlor."

 Chapter 213 Zixia

    Heavenly Court, Glycyrrhiza Garden.


    Several exquisitely beautiful fairies were tending to the vegetation in the Glycyrrhiza Garden.


    In this garden, thousands of nt species were cultivated, each remarkable and extraordinary, making it a favorite ce for the Empress to stroll in her leisure time. Therefore, many fairies were assigned to take care of it.


    At that moment, several fairies had finished their tasks and each had picked a peony from the garden. The flowers varied in color, but all were dressed splendidly.


    "Hehehe, Sister Hongxia, your red peony is truly delicate and festive. The Empress will surely love it!"


    "Sister Qingxia, your peony is also extraordinary, giving off a feeling of aloofness and elegance. The Empress will certainly like it too!"


    "Sisters, recently the Empress has been very fond of peonies. I wonder whose flowers will be more to her liking and win the first prize?"


    ...


    The fairies, each holding their carefully adorned peony, discussed and appraised the flowers, seeminglyplimenting each other. Naturally, they were alsopeting.


    After all, there were many fairies, but each one wanted their flower to stand out and win the Empress''s affection and praise.


    "Hey, Zixia, aren''t you going to offer your flower to the Empress today?"


    As these fairies whispered among themselves, suddenly, one of them addressed a woman in a purple dress standing nearby.


    Unlike the other fairies busy preparing peonies to please the Empress, this woman, afterpleting her own tasks, was just sitting quietly to one side, staring nkly at the horizon.


    "You all go on," Zixia Fairy calmly replied, turning her head back.


    "Such a strange one, she has been immortal for several years already, but she always prefers to daydream. Let''s not bother with her. Let''s go!" said the other fairies softly after giving a nce at the notably independent Zixia Fairy. Then, they left the Glycyrrhiza Garden together.


    "Sigh..." Watching the fairies leave, Zixia sighed softly, and the garden quieted down for a moment.


    Sitting alone in the Hundred Grass Garden, Zixia quietly reflected on her past life where she too had been a cultivator in the Returning Void Realm, but fell during a demon banishing mission, and her spirit entered the Underworld.


    King Yama told her that she had done many good deeds and saved countless lives during her lifetime, and her merits were sufficient for bing an immortal. Therefore, she was sent to the Heavenly Court to be a fairy.


    Initially, Zixia felt extremely excited about the prospect of being judged after death in the Underworld, especially, since her merits were recognized for bing an immortal, a joyful event by any measure.


    However, after spending several years in the Heavenly Court, Zixia found that everything waspletely different from what she had imagined.


    She had thought that bing an immortal would give her freedom, as throughout history, countless people had coveted immortality, which had always been portrayed as a wonderful existence.


    But after arriving in the Immortal Realm, Zixia realized that the immortal hierarchy was even more rigid than in the Mortal Realm.


    In the Mortal Realm, you might climb thedder by striving hard to improve your status, but in the Immortal Realm, this possibility was minimal, almost impossible.


    Take the fairies just now, all rushing to prepare a single peony flower to present in front of the Empress, all hoping to catch a favorable nce from her.


    And for this chance at receiving a favorable nce, they all engaged in a bout of sycophancy.


    "Sigh..." Having been in the Immortal Realm for several years, Zixia reflected on what she had seen and experienced there and could not help but sigh in her heart.


    Perhaps her purpose foring to the Immortal Realm was just to spend hundreds of years in thepany of flowers, bing nothing more than a ve to flora?


    Find your next adventure on empire


    If that was the case, what was the point of her immortality? It was better off in the Mortal Realm where she could at least enjoy some freedom.


    Rustle rustle.


    Just as Zixia sat alone in the Glycyrrhiza Garden, deeply reflecting on her life in the Immortal Realm, she suddenly sensed an irregr vibration among the surrounding nts.@@novelbin@@


    "A thief!?" Hearing the sound, Zixia quickly gathered her thoughts and sharpened her gaze.


    She stood up silently and carefully approached the direction from where the noise hade...


    Most of the Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriors in the Immortal Realm had passed through Hell''s judgment with some merit, and it was for this reason they had been sent to the Immortal Realm, where merit was valued over cultivation level.


    Zixia, in her lifetime, had been a cultivator in the Returning Void Realm, which ced her cultivation at a high level within the Heavenly Court, iparable to that of ordinary Immortal Maidens.


    As Zixia approached quietly, she soon actually saw the culprit. It turned out to be a palm-sized yellow-furred mouse, stealthily eating the exotic herbs in the Glycyrrhiza Garden.


    "Who is this fellow who dares to steal!" Seeing this scene, how could Zixia stand idly by? She eximed and reached out to grab the mouse.


    However, almost at the same time, the yellow-furred mouse transformed into a man with a deer''s head and rat''s eyes, dressed in a yellow robe, who also raised his hand to meet her.


    After their palms collided, Zixia was sent flying out.


    "What a powerful demon creature! You''ve reached the Demon Immortal Realm!?" After being sent flying with a single palm, Zixia could feel the gap in cultivation levels between her and her opponent and gazed in horror at the rat demon that had been stealing from the Glycyrrhiza Garden.


    "Hmm? Interesting!" Simrly, the rat demon looked at Zixia with surprise and said, "A fairy in this Glycyrrhiza Garden has such cultivation? You could actually find me!"


    This rat demon indeed felt surprised as, with his cultivation, the fairies in the Glycyrrhiza Garden should not have been able to discover him, yet unexpectedly, there was a fairy with exceptional cultivation, which greatly exceeded his expectations.


    "Someone,e quickly..." Knowing she was no match, Fairy Zixia shouted loudly.


    As the Glycyrrhiza Garden was a beloved garden of the Empress, it was not only Fairy Zixia and other immortal maidens taking care of the nts, but there were also some Heavenly Soldiers and Generals guarding it. Hearing Zixia''s cries, a Heavenly General, leading a dozen Heavenly Soldiers, rushed in.


    "This is bad!" Seeing these advancing Heavenly Soldiers and Generals, the rat demon felt a twinge of anxiety.


    Although he was unconcerned about a few Heavenly Soldiers and Generals, defeating them would not be an easy task. If a real fight broke out, the more Heavenly Soldiers and Generals arrived, the less likely he would be able to escape.


    Whoosh!


    Taking a deep breath, the rat demon suddenly blew out a strong gust filled with sand towards the Heavenly Soldiers and Generals.


    The fierce wind momentarily threw the Glycyrrhiza Garden into chaos, and the vigorously attacking Heavenly Soldiers and Generals were blown about haphazardly, even clutching at their eyes and shouting.


    The wind, mixed with sand, blinded the Heavenly Soldiers and Generals, naturally preventing them from acting.


    With a divine wind, the rat demon temporarily trapped the Heavenly Soldiers and Generals, then leaped next to Fairy Zixia, grabbed her by the neck with a menacing look, and said, "You, fairy, who tends to the nts in this Glycyrrhiza Garden, must be very familiar with everything here. Let me ask you, is there any chili pepper in this garden!?"


    "Whimper..." With her neck grabbed, Zixia whimpered, trying to speak, but unable to articte clearly.


    As the rat demon spoke, the divine wind he had blown out naturally dissipated quickly.


    Seeing the Heavenly Soldiers and Generals rubbing their eyes and picking up their weapons again, the rat demon quickly grabbed Zixia and, turning into a streak of light, fled toward the distance.


    "Chase, do not let him escape!" Rubbing his eyes and seeing the mess the rat demon had made in the Glycyrrhiza Garden and that he had abducted someone, the Heavenly General shouted loudly.


    Following hismand, naturally, the Heavenly Soldiers and Generals chased in the direction the rat demon had fled.


    ...


    In the Lower Realm, Jiang Liu and hispanions had left the Wuzhuang Temple about a month and a half ago.


    During these days, Jiang Liu cultivated daily and asionally fought monsters. His days were rather leisurely, and he had already rued more than 110,000 of the 115,000 Experience Points needed for his next level.


    In a few days, he would be able to level up again, raising his level to 34.


    "Indeed, after the Ginseng Fruit improved my physique, my cultivation speed has increased, and my leveling speed has quickened as well!" Jiang Liu looked at his character panel, delighted that a level-up was soon due.


    Noticing the dawn, Jiang Liu got up to freshen up, only to find Sun Wukong and the others ying Fight the Landlord.


    This darkened Jiang Liu''s expression somewhat, as their addiction to Mahjong and Fight the Landlord seemed to be growing over these days.


    "s, it''s no wonder Master Zhenyuan, even after offering nine Ginseng Fruits, insisted on sending us away!" Watching his disciples'' severe gambling addiction, Jiang Liu shook his head, understanding Master Zhenyuan''s previous decision more fully.


    It had been quite some time since he left; the Wuzhuang Temple must have returned to its former tranquility, right?


    After silently reflecting, Jiang Liu decided to check on ck Bear Demon and others, whom he hadn''t monitored for some days, and took out the Mystical Mirror, silently reciting an incantation.


    Well, at this time, ck Bear Demon was still asleep, snoring heavily, not yet awakened.


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu thought for a moment and then looked in another direction.


    He wondered how the Yellow Wind Monster''s search for chili peppers was going after these few months.


    Soon, Jiang Liu clearly saw that the Yellow Wind Monster had abducted a woman and was fleeing rapidly.


    Looking behind him, dozens of Heavenly Soldiers and Generals were rising on clouds, chasing him!

 Chapter 215 The Whereabouts of the Chili

    Sun Wukong''s gaze fell upon Fairy Zixia and, after a slight hesitation, he asked, "Hey, are you the fairy who tends to the flowers and grass in the Empress Licorice Garden? What''s your name?"


    "My name is Zixia. Are you a demon creature?" After ncing at the Yellow Wind Monster beside her, Zixia''s eyes returned to Sun Wukong, and she asked cautiously.


    Given the Yellow Wind Monster''s behavior, it was clear he was a demon creature, and since Sun Wukong appeared to be in league with him, Zixia naturally considered him to be a demon creature as well.


    But then again, a demon creature that could scare away the Heavenly Soldiers and Generals?


    Could it be that this unremarkable monkey was actually a fearsome Great Demon?


    "Demon? I, Old Sun, haven''t been a demon for many years now. If anything, we should be considered colleagues, shouldn''t we?"


    Upon hearing Fairy Zixia call him a demon, Sun Wukong wasn''t angered but instead reflected on her words before saying to Zixia, "You manage the Empress'' Glycyrrhiza Garden, whereas I, Old Sun, used to manage her Peach Garden!"


    "Wow, the Peach Garden!?"


    Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Fairy Zixia''s eyes widened in shock, and she said, "Among all the Empress'' gardens, the Peach Garden is the most important. I''ve heard that there are three thousand six hundred peach trees in there. I''ve lived in Heaven for many years, but I''ve only had a distant glimpse of it from outside the garden. I''ve heard that every peach in there is a treasure!"


    Fairy Zixia, looking at Sun Wukong with admiration, thought to herself that the Peach Garden wasn''t a ce just anyone could approach. For this monkey to manage the Empress'' Peach Garden indicated apletely different status.


    It was likeparing the eunuchs and pce maids in the mortal Imperial Pce. Could amon maid doing menial chorespare with a eunuch who personally attended the Emperor and Empress?


    Upon hearing about Sun Wukong managing the Peach Garden, Zixia looked at Sun Wukong with astonishment!


    This look from Zixia made Sun Wukong''s eyes narrow slightly, feeling as though his vanity was greatly satisfied. Looking at Fairy Zixia before him, he found her much more pleasing to the eye, nodded his head, and said, "Well, speaking of which, the peaches from the Empress indeed taste pretty good!"


    "You, you''ve actually received the Empress'' reward and tasted the peaches!?" Upon hearing Sun Wukong say this, Zixia stared at the monkey before her in disbelief.


    Within the Heavenly Court, the hierarchy was strict. The vast majority, like herself, had arrived in Heaven after dying and undergoing judgment by the Underworld, having performed good deeds and acts of kindness in life, but they were only the lowest-level immortals.


    Further up were those who truly held positions within the Immortal Rank, their names recorded in the registry of immortals, possessing the cultivation level of the Heavenly Immortal Realm, either the disciples of powerful figures across the three realms or those who cultivated and ascended to the Immortal Realm on their own.


    Further still were the Taiyi True Immortals, each one a renowned figure within the Heavenly Court, either holding important positions ormanding mighty forces!


    But even the Taiyi True Immortals were not entitled to just partake of the Empress'' peaches.


    Those truly eligible to receive an invitation to the Empress'' Peach Feast were almost always of the Daluo Golden Immortal status!


    This monkey before her, to actually have been entitled to taste the Empress'' peaches!?


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    About his own past feats of Havoc in Heaven, Sun Wukong had always considered them the most glorious part of his life, boasting about it to others at every opportunity. However, in front of Fairy Zixia, he had no intention of bragging, so he didn''t mention that he had once stealthily consumed countless peaches from the Empress.


    After all, he still needed to ask her about the whereabouts of the chili peppers, and perhaps she wouldn''t tell him if she knew that he had once been at odds with the Heavenly Court?


    "That was all hundreds of years ago. By the way, Fairy Zixia, isn''t it? I, Old Sun, have a question for you. Have you ever seen chili peppers?" Thinking of his actual mission, Sun Wukong didn''t continue with idle chat and asked directly.


    "Chili peppers? What is that?" Upon hearing his question, Fairy Zixia asked curiously, her expression seemingly genuine, clearly never having heard of such a thing.


    "My master said that chili peppers are spicy as fire when eaten and look like light bulbs, with the red ones, grand as ox horns, being the best..." Hearing Fairy Zixia''s response, Sun Wukong recounted the description of chili peppers that Jiang Liu had once given him to Fairy Zixia.


    "Eh? Based on what you''ve described, I might indeed have seen them before!" After listening to Sun Wukong''s description, Fairy Zixia nodded her head, indicating recognition.


    "Oh? Really seen them? Where?" Sun Wukong asked eagerly.


    Whether it was what his master described or not, as long as it closely resembled the description, it was a significant clue.


    "In my previous life, I fought against demons and entered the Demon Realm. In a region governed by the me Demon, I saw a curious nt, merely a small tree over a foot tall, bearing many of the red, ox-horn-like things you speak of.


    I do not know what they are called precisely, but they seem quite simr to your description!" Fairy Zixia exined, clearly remembering the details, for it was there in the me Demon Domain that she had died.


    "The Demon Realm? The me Demon Domain? Do you know how to get there? Can you take me, Old Sun, to have a look?" Fairy Zixia''s words further excited Sun Wukong.


    Growing on a small tree just over a foot tall? Wasn''t this also what his master had described?


    "Ah? That domain of the me Demon is home to the ferocious Demon n and powerful beings; there are even several Demon Immortal Realm demons guarding it!" Upon hearing this, Fairy Zixia''s face showed a tinge of fear.


    "Hahaha, merely several Demon Immortal Realm demons, what''s there to worry about? Let''s go!" Sun Wukongughed heartily at Fairy Zixia''s words, clearly brimming with confidence and not regarding these details as a concern at all.@@novelbin@@


    "Great Saint, are we going now? Don''t you need to inform the Holy Monk?" The Yellow Wind Monster, upon hearing Sun Wukong''s determined deration to take a venture into the Demon Realm, hesitated and asked.


    "It''s fine. A trip to the Demon Realm is just to fetch some chili peppers; it won''t take too much time. Besides, Master has the Mystical Mirror and can see us at any time, so there''s no need to worry!" Waving his hand, Sun Wukong spoke nonchntly.


    During the conversation, Sun Wukong''s gaze fell upon Zixia and he asked, "Where is the entrance to the Demon Realm!?"


    "In a volcanic canyon in Julu Continent! If we were to fly from here, who knows how long it would take!" Upon hearing this, Fairy Zixia responded.


    "That really is quite far. The distance from here must be around two to three hundred thousand miles!" Sun Wukong nodded in agreement.


    The Journey to the West for Scriptures was merely a trek from Shanbu Continent to Niuhe State, south to west, a distance of a hundred and eight thousand miles. Yet they were now heading to Julu Continent in the northeast direction. Even as the crow flies, it would span half the world¡ªan undoubtedly long journey.


    "Here''s what we''ll do, you go find my Master and tell him not to be anxious. With my speed, it won''t be long before I''m back!" After some thought, considering the Yellow Wind Monster''s considerably slower flying speed for such arge distance, Sun Wukong said to the Yellow Wind Monster.


    "Alright, understood, Great Saint!"


    The Yellow Wind Monster was well aware that his own travel pace couldn''tpare to Sun Wukong''s¡ªafter all, one flip for him was a hundred and eight thousand miles, a renown feat in both the three realms and six paths. He nodded and turned to inform Jiang Liu.


    "Alright, let''s be on our way!" Watching the Yellow Wind Monster ride the wind away and quickly leave, Sun Wukong also said to Fairy Zixia.


    In the midst of speaking, Sun Wukong took Fairy Zixia''s hand, and with the Somersault Cloud activated, they instantly transformed into a streak of escape light, heading northeast and disappearing in the blink of an eye.


    The surrounding scenery was no longer clear to see. Zixia, led by Sun Wukong, only felt the surrounding scenery rapidly receding, reduced to mere streaks of lines, as if entering a kind of strange space.


    Dizzy and disoriented to the point that it would make one feel groggy if looked at too long, she simply closed her eyes.


    In no time at all, Zixia felt they came to a halt. When she opened her eyes, she found that the temperature between heaven and earth had risen markedly, and the air seemed to have grown hot.


    After taking in the surroundings, shock slowly surfaced on Zixia''s face.


    "You, you..." After surveying the surroundings, Zixia stared incredulously at Sun Wukong.


    "What''s up? Why are you looking at me like that!?" Confused by Zixia''s expression, Sun Wukong checked himself to see if there was any dirt on his clothes but found none.


    "How, how long was that? You''ve crossed such a distance already!? Who in the three realms can match your speed!?" Fairy Zixia eximed in disbelief as she looked at Sun Wukong.


    In such a short time, they had flown from the southern Shanbu Continent to the northern Julu Continent. If she hadn''t experienced it personally, Fairy Zixia would never have believed someone could achieve this feat.


    "Hahaha, don''t be surprised! I, Old Sun, have many more tricks up my sleeve; this is all pretty normal, just normal..."


    Hearing Fairy Zixia''s words, she was astounded by the speed of his Somersault Cloud. What betterpliment than her astonished expression? Sun Wukong couldn''t help butugh out loud.


    However, even though he couldn''t suppress the smile on his face, Sun Wukong''s mouth feigned modesty as he spoke.


    "Pfft..."


    Even though she knew from what she had seen that this unimpressive-looking monkey had capabilities far beyond her imagination, the sight of him acting this way made Fairy Zixia burst outughing.


    She thought that this monkey was actually quite adorable and very amusing.


    "What, what are youughing at?" Seeing Fairy Zixiaughing at him, Sun Wukong waspletely confused, not understanding what made herugh.


    "I''mughing because you''re really impressive! And I find you very amusing!" Zixia said, her face beaming with a smile.


    "You, fairy, your words are so boring. Who goes onplimenting someone like that? It makes one quite embarrassed. No matter how much you tter me, I, Old Sun, won''t be pleased!"


    His tail wagging behind him and his eyes nearly squinting, Sun Wukong said, "If you don''t believe it, try praising I, Old Sun, ten, no, twenty times, and see if I''ll be happy!"


    Zixia: "..."


    Meanwhile, Jiang Liu, holding the Mystical Mirror, had naturally seen everything between Sun Wukong and Yellow Wind Monster. However, though the Mystical Mirror showed the scene, it could not transmit sound.


    Watching Yellow Wind Monster and Sun Wukong part ways, Jiang Liu felt a quiet curiosity within.

 Chapter 216 Vajra Indestructible Body

    Jiang Liu, was sitting quietly cultivating.


    The Mystical Mirror was good, but it could only show images, not sounds. Watching Sun Wukong leave with a girl, he had no idea what was going on.


    Luckily, the Yellow Wind Monster traveled on the wind and wasn''t slow. After waiting for half a day, the Yellow Wind Monster finally arrived near Jiang Liu.


    With the Mystical Mirror, Jiang Liu could see that the Yellow Wind Monster was flying towards him. Seeing that the time was almost right, Jiang Liu prepared some barbecue skewers to wee him.


    Over the past few months, the Yellow Wind Monster had been searching for information about chili peppers, spending quite a bit of effort in the process.


    "Thank you, Holy Monk, thank you for your hospitality..." The Yellow Wind Monster, holding a dozen skewers, said excitedly to Jiang Liu.


    Although he was searching for chili peppers for the Holy Monk, the Yellow Wind Monster knew it was a form of redemption. The Holy Monk preparing skewers for him indeed made the Yellow Wind Monster feel grateful.


    "Hmm, you''ve been all over the mountains and seas, and although you haven''t achieved much, you''ve certainly endured a lot!" Jiang Liu replied.


    "By the way, your elder brother? Why didn''t hee back with you?" Zhu Bajie, who naturally also had a handful of skewers, stuffed his mouth full and asked the Yellow Wind Monster.


    "Oh, right! Holy Monk, I was just about to report this to you!"


    pping his head, the Yellow Wind Monster inwardly cursed himself for forgetting his original mission due to the food, saying, "The Great Saint and I have found information on where we might find chili peppers!"


    "Oh? Really? Where? Show me! Master, the spicy hot pot and spicy skewers you mentioned have a lead now?" Before Jiang Liu could reply, Zhu Bajie excitedly eximed in surprise.


    "It''s like this; I searched almost the entire Mortal World but couldn''t find the chili peppers. Then I thought of the Empress''s Glycyrrhiza Garden, which collects exotic herbs from all over the realms, so I went there to check¡­" The Yellow Wind Monster began, telling everyone about his secret trip to the Glycyrrhiza Garden.


    "In the end, the Great Sage and Zixia went together to the Demon Realm to search for the whereabouts of the chili peppers. I feared that the Holy Monk might get anxious waiting here, so I came to tell you!"


    "Zixia!?" While the news about the chili peppers delighted Jiang Liu, hearing the name of the fairy who went to the Demon Realm with Sun Wukong made his expression strange.


    Was this the terrifying power of the so-called True Fragrance Law? Sun Wukong always dered disdain for love and affection between men and women, iming he would never be ensnared by such feelings. So, was the True Fragrance Law now going to affect him?


    "By the way, Holy Monk, what''s wrong? Do you know this fairy named Zixia?" Seeing Jiang Liu''s expression, the Yellow Wind Monster asked curiously.


    "Oh, it''s nothing, it''s just that the name sounds pretty good!" Waving his hand, Jiang Liu didn''t borate further, but his heart had quietly sunk.


    Thinking about what Zhu Bajie had mentioned before, about Bodhisattva obtaining several red threads from Matchmaker God, this couldn''t be¡­another scheme designed by Bodhisattva, could it?


    Is this the near causal impact of that Red Thread?


    ¡­


    Let''s not talk about what Jiang Liu was thinking. In the volcanic clusters of Julu Continent, with Zixia''s guidance, Sun Wukong quickly found a crack leading to the underground. Leaping in with Zixia, they prated the crevice and entered the Demon Realm.


    The Demon Realm was murky, even the sky was a dark red, and thend was mainly ck, giving an oppressive feeling upon entering.


    Although the Demon Realm was independent of the Human Realm, it was intricately connected to the Human Realm, so many ces had pathways that linked the Mortal World and the Demon Realm.


    "This is the Demon Realm? It doesn''t look impressive at all; this is my first time in the Demon Realm!" Sun Wukong was quite intrigued, looking around, then shook his head, evidently not fond of the atmosphere of the Demon Realm.


    "Monkey, that me Demon Domain is about eight hundred li ahead from here. Let''s be careful and sneak over..."


    Since they were merely here to search for the so-called chili peppers, Zixia thought it best not to stir up trouble and to sneak in and gather some.


    "Just the Demon Realm, as you say, guarded only by a few Demon Immortals¡ªnothing to worry about! Rest assured, with me here, nothing will go wrong!" Waving his hand, dismissing the idea of sneaking over suggested by Zixia, Sun Wukong confidently pulled Zixia along as they hurried toward the so-called me Demon Domain, boldly and openly.


    "Who is this little one daring to trespass in my me Demon Territory!?" As Sun Wukong and Zixia flew forward, it wasn''t long before a demon with mes burning on his body appeared, blocking Sun Wukong and Zixia''s path.


    Looking at the Demon, with horns on his head, an ugly face, and legs like goat hooves, mes emanating from his body, standing about seventy to eighty zhang tall, resembling a seven or eight-story building, and holding a club as big as a pir, he looked terrifyingly fierce.


    "What an ugly fellow!" Observing the me Demon with horned head and fierce appearance, Sun Wukong,pared to him, naturally looked insignificant, but he showed no fear; instead, he glimpsed the corner of his mouth, mockingly said.


    "Hehehe, you little fellow, do have some eye¡ªindeed, I am the ugliest me Demon in this territory!"


    However, hearing Sun Wukong''s mockery, the me Demon was not angry at all; instead, he appeared very pleased and said with a wave of his hand, "Alright, seeing how sensible you are, I''m in a good mood. You better leave quickly, or else I won''t be polite!"


    "What, what is this situation?" Sun Wukong mocked the opponent, who not only did not get angry but actually seemed very happy, leaving Sun Wukong utterly baffled.


    "Monkey, this Demon Realm ispletely reversed from what we know. If you insult them, they actually get very pleased; if youpliment them, that''s when they get angry!"


    Seeing Sun Wukong''s baffled face, Zixia, who had been to the Demon Realm before and understood the situation, quietly reminded him.


    "So, the Demon Realm is actually like this? What a strange ce!" Hearing Zixia''s quiet exnation, Sun Wukong suddenly understood, but still found it hard to believe.


    He had visited many ces across the three realms and six paths but had never expected the Demon Realm to be such, no wonder the beings from the three realms and six paths never got along with those from the Demon Realm.


    "So, what should I say to make him angry?" Now understanding, Sun Wukong asked Zixia beside him.


    "Compliment him!" Zixia replied briefly and to the point.


    "Sorry, I, Old Sun, misspoke just now. You''re not ugly, you actually look quite handsome!" Looking at the hideous and fierce me Demon in front of him, Sun Wukong felt his statement was too against his heart.


    "You little rascal, asking for death!" As expected, this tactic was very effective. With Sun Wukong''s statement, the me Demon''s eyes bulged and the mes burning on his body seemed even more intense as he shouted angrily. Continue reading at empire


    Simultaneously, a huge Wolf Fang Club ferociously smashed down towards Sun Wukong.


    As the giant Wolf Fang Club fell, Sun Wukong, in front of it, looked almost like a mosquito inparison¡ªthin and small.


    However, seeing the falling Wolf Fang Club, Sun Wukong''s lips curled into a disdainful arc, he didn''t even bother using his Jingu Bang and simply headbutted it.


    "Monkey, be careful!" Seeing that Sun Wukong wasn''t dodging, Zixia cried out in rm.


    Thud!


    A loud sound echoed, like a drum at dusk or a bell at dawn, and the club struck Sun Wukong''s head, almost sparking, but Sun Wukong lookedpletely unharmed.


    "Hehehe, you think I, Old Sun, am small? I find you impressive but not much use¡­" With his Vajra Indestructible Body, Sun Wukong was unscathed after the me Demon hit him with the club, and he lifted his head and grinned.


    "So, so hard¡­" The me Demon took his Wolf Fang Club back and saw that several of its spikes were actually bent. Then looking at the unimpressive monkey in front of him, the me Demon eximed in surprise.@@novelbin@@


    "So awesome!" Zixia, witnessing this scene, also widened her eyes in shock at Sun Wukong.


    Unbelievable, although she had always known that Sun Wukong''s identity and capabilities were not minor, she hadn''t expected him to be much more formidable than she had anticipated.


    This me Demon looked to be at the Demon Marshal level yet a club struck down on him, and he was utterly undamaged?


    "Now, you try my club!" After withstanding the me Demon''s attack with his Vajra Indestructible Body, Sun Wukong asked with a smile.


    As he spoke, the Jingu Bang shimmered and also smashed towards the me Demon.


    Though the Jingu Bang looked small in Sun Wukong''s hands, as he swung it, it grew rapidly.


    The end that Sun Wukong held did not change, but the other end expanded rapidly in the wind, bing cone-shaped, and grewrger than the me Demon.


    Boom boom boom!


    With a strike of his club, the ground shook, and as Sun Wukong lifted the Jingu Bang, the me Demon was already reduced to a pile of mush.


    "Useless fellow!" Watching this scene, Sun Wukong scoffed and said to Zixia beside him, "Alright, let''s continue on our way!"


    Zixia stared nkly at Sun Wukong, feeling that this monkey was much more formidable than she had imagined.


    In the me Demon Domain, the me Demon n lived, and while their strengths varied, their appearances were simrrge and ugly.


    Sun Wukong boldly continued forward, walking straight ahead, and as he delved deeper into the me Demon Domain, he encountered more and more me Demons.


    Along the way, hundreds of me Demons were smashed into mush under Sun Wukong''s iron club.


    As they proceeded, Zixia, who watched beside him, had grown numb to the sight, but Sun Wukong''s power deeply shocked her.

 Chapter 217 I, Old Sun, Just Love It When the Demon Clan Scolds Me

    "Found it!"


    Along the way, he had killed numerous me Demons, several of whom had reached the Cultivation Level of a Demon King. Guided by Fairy Zixia, Sun Wukong quickly arrived at the edge of a sea of fire within the me Demon Domain. The air was extremely hot, and he could see tens of thousands of small trees growing near the sea of fire.


    These trees were truly small; evenpared to Sun Wukong''s stature, they didn''t reach up to his waist.


    Of course, what attracted Sun Wukong''s attention the most were the numerous fiery red, bullhorn-sized small fruits growing on the trees.


    Sun Wukong casually plucked one, squeezed it, and found that this tiny fruit was indeed hollow inside, unlike other fruits that contain flesh.


    After giving it some thought, Sun Wukong tossed it into his mouth and chewed it.


    Instantly, Sun Wukong''s face changed dramatically. He hurriedly spit out the red little chili pepper.


    Sticking out his tongue, he shouted continuously, feeling as though his entire tongue no longer belonged to him.


    "Eating it, hot and spicy as fire, indeed it is so. This must be the chili pepper Master spoke of!" After spitting out the small red chili pepper, Sun Wukong looked at the countless chili pepper trees and silently murmured to himself.


    Yes, Sun Wukong''s expression was somewhat weird. The Master had always praised how this chili was so and so, making Sun Wukong''s heart fill with anticipation ¡ª he had felt that the chili must be incredibly delicious. But now, after plucking one and tossing it into his mouth, Sun Wukong found that it was entirely different from the deliciousness he had imagined.


    Was it possible the Master was mistaken? Or was this not the chili pepper the Master had spoken of and merely looked simr?


    "No matter, let''s first take these back and ask the Masterter!"


    Although he found this thing not tasty at all and so spicy it made him want to cry, after some thought, Sun Wukong still decided to first take them back.


    With a thought, Sun Wukong took out a small cloth bag and recited a few Object Banishing Spells. The bag flew up into the air and expanded in the wind.


    Then, a strong suction force appeared. It was not just these tiny red chili peppers but also many chili pepper trees that were uprooted and directly fell into the bag.


    "Monkey, doing this, is it really alright?" Watching Sun Wukong''s actions, which involvedpletely uprooting everything from the me Demon n''s possession, Fairy Zixia looked somewhat uneasy and asked Sun Wukong.@@novelbin@@


    "Hehehe, no worries. Since we took some, might as well take them all at once!" Sun Wukong replied with a matter-of-fact attitude to Fairy Zixia''s concern.


    Take some and leave some? That was not Sun Wukong''s style.


    After all, he had once feasted in the Empress''s Peach Garden, having nearly eaten all therge peaches, and in the Doushuai Pce, he even blew on bottles containing Golden Cores...


    "Who is that guy!? How dare he cause trouble in our me Demon n''s territory!?"


    Having killed hundreds of the me Demon n, and now taking all these chili pepper trees, themotion was not small. Naturally, the me Demon n waspletely rmed, and a loud shout rang out.


    The ground shook and the mountains trembled as an enormous member of the me Demon n, standing a hundred feet tall and with mes burning all over his body as if he was a walking volcano, approached Sun Wukong and Fairy Zixia, looking down at them with massive eyes.


    "Wow, he''s huge!" Sun Wukong eximed dramatically upon seeing the hundred-foot tall figure.


    Nheless, Sun Wukong''s action of collecting the chili peppers did not stop. Countless chili peppers, including the chili pepper trees, were being sucked into his bag.


    "You monkey! You''re really good-looking!" The gigantic me Demon stared down at Sun Wukong and sternly shouted.


    "Hehehe, keep insulting, I, Old Sun, am not someone who gets angry over just a few words!" Hearing the me Demon cursing at him, Sun Wukong was not angered but instead smiled at the gigantic me Demon.


    "Hmph, you look good, really good, your whole family looks good, and also, you''re a good person!" Seeing that Sun Wukong did not mind the insults and seemed increasingly happy, the gigantic me Demon frowned slightly, subsequently spitting out an unending stream of such phrases.


    Listening to these "curses," joy appeared on Sun Wukong''s face.


    Although he knew that these wordsing from a demon''s mouth meant to insult him, they sounded incredibly pleasing to him, and Sun Wukong would have wished these demons to keep insulting him non-stop, never stopping.


    "This monkey, really interesting¡­" Watching Sun Wukong happily wagging his tail, yet deceiving the me Demon into continuously praising him, Fairy Zixia, although shocked by Sun Wukong''s profound strength, also found him very interesting.


    Not to mention someone like Sun Wukong, even just a Heavenly Immortal in the Immortal Realm would often act too high and mighty, too distant for someone like Fairy Zixia.


    But Sun Wukong, with his vain appearance, felt much more rtable to Fairy Zixia.


    "No, you monkey, you are not from our Demon Realm. You are from the outside! You''ve deceived me!" After loudly insulting Sun Wukong for a long while and seeing him bing even happier, the me Demon finally realized something and loudly eximed.


    As he spoke, a huge cleaving saber shed downward towards Sun Wukong.


    The Ruyi Golden Cudgel was raised, and Sun Wukong met the colossal cleaving saber head-on, like a fly rushing toward a chopping knife.


    With a loud crash, the me Demon felt an indescribable force surge toward him, causing him to involuntarily retreat two steps and shake the ground beneath him.


    Simrly, Sun Wukong also had a hard time, as his form was like a ball being smacked away, sent flying directly andnding on the ground, creating a huge crater!


    "This monkey, what tremendous strength!" The sheer force had even pushed him back two steps, the enormous me Demon inwardly marveled in surprise.


    "Impressive, this me Demon, his cultivation level must be almost one step into the realm of a Great Luo Golden Immortal, right!?" Sun Wukong, having been sent flying, albeit unharmed due to his Vajra Indestructible Body, felt that the other''s strength surpassed his own, causing him to quietly exim in astonishment.


    Before, Fairy Zixia had said that only Demon Immortals of the me Demon were guarding this ce, yet unexpectedly, one who nearly achieved the breakthrough to a Great Luo Golden Immortal had appeared.


    Could it be that when she first came here, she wasn''t significant enough to attract the attention of the strong among the me Demon n?


    Or was it because themotion he caused was too great, making the real powerhouses of the me Demon n unable to sit still?


    However, now was not the time to consider these things. Even though the strength of this member of the me Demon n exceeded Sun Wukong''s expectations, Sun Wukong was still very confident in his own strength, as his methods were not something just anyone couldpare to!


    After taking a deep breath, Sun Wukong grinned, looked at the me Demon, and said, "Want topete in size with I, Old Sun? If so, I, Old Sun, won''t be polite!"


    As soon as he spoke, Sun Wukong employed his Law of Heaven and Earth Divine Skills, and in an instant, he too transformed into a hundred-zhang-tall giant ape, his Ruyi Golden Cudgel in hand, now resembling a sky-supporting giant pir, and then, he ferociously smashed it down.


    In terms of size, Sun Wukong and this me Demon were not much different, and in terms of strength, with the use of the Law of Heaven and Earth Divine Skills, Sun Wukong actually surpassed the me Demon.


    Additionally, with the defense of the Vajra Indestructible Body, their battle shattered heavens and split earth, and it was visible that Sun Wukong had gained the upper hand.


    The me Demon n was strong, but their physical defense did not match Sun Wukong''s Vajra Indestructible Body, so when it chopped down with a saber, even if Sun Wukong took a hit, the damage wasn''t significant.


    Yet when Sun Wukong''s powerful swing collided, it was not so easy for the victim.


    Moreover, the greatest advantage of the me Demon ny in their power to control mes, but mes were precisely what Sun Wukong feared the least. Having trained inside the Supreme Elder Lord''s Eight Trigrams Furnace for seven cycles of seven days, he merely suffered tremendously but didn''t die, a testament to his resistance.


    Therefore, these mes did minimal damage to Sun Wukong, effectively nullifying the strength of this me Demon.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    With demonic mes soaring and fierce majesty shaking the world, the battle between the demon and the monster was truly Earth-shattering, and many of the me Demon n watching were left speechless.


    They hadn''t expected that this unimpressive-looking monkey would possess such formidable skills.


    "So impressive!" Fairy Zixia was even more dumbfounded.


    Watching the explosive ferocity of Sun Wukong, it was hard for her to link this giant ape with the loquacious little monkey who had been overjoyed at hearing a few pleasant words.


    "n Leader, it looks like this monkey demon is not our match!"


    Watching the unfolding battle, the defeat of the me Demon grew increasingly evident, and a few spectating me Demons appeared anxious.


    But at this level ofbat, they were unable to intervene; to participate in this level of battle, one must at least have the cultivation level of a Taiyi True Immortal, otherwise, others didn''t even stand a chance to get close. Find more to read at My Virtual Library Empire


    "Let''s capture this woman first then!" Since they couldn''t join the battle, helping in another way was the next best thing, and soon, a few me Demons set their sights on Fairy Zixia.


    Seeing that the monkey demon and this woman had arrived together, capturing this woman should certainly be useful.


    Regarding whether such actions appeared despicable and shameless? Well, sorry, but the words despicable and shameless are consideredmendatory in the Demon Realm!


    No sooner had they thought it than they acted; with a shift in their forms, two Demon Immortals of the me Demon n moved, heading straight for Zixia.


    Rolling demonic mes followed their movements, pressing directly towards Fairy Zixia.


    "Zixia!" Seeing this scene, Sun Wukong''s expression changed slightly.


    Zixia had said to sneak in, but Sun Wukong, brimming with confidence, had insisted on making a majestic appearance and guaranteed her safety with his presence.


    Now that Zixia was in danger, Sun Wukong naturally felt it was his responsibility.

 Chapter 218 Child, You Have Finally Grown Up

    Heavenly Court, within the pce of the Empress.


    With a bang, the expression of the Empress remained calm, but the exquisitely luxurious porcin cup in her hand fell heavily onto the desk in front of her, causing some of the kneeling Heavenly Soldiers and Generals at the lower end to tremble, burying their heads even lower.


    "What do you mean? A demon creature dared to barge into the Heavenly Court and enter my Glycyrrhiza Garden? It has turned the garden into a mess, and you still haven''t caught that demon creature?"


    Although the voice of the Empress was calm, the Heavenly Soldiers and Generals below felt as if they were freezing all over, their hearts filled with anxiety.


    Without waiting for these Heavenly Soldiers and Generals to answer, the Empress continued, "I am really curious and surprised¡ªwho exactly could it be, this Great Demon that dared to break into the Glycyrrhiza Garden and even escape through the South Heavenly Gate?"


    "Reporting to the Empress, the one that escaped was a Yellow-Furred Rat Demon, skilled in using the Samadhi Wind. When it blows, the fierce wind sweeps up sand, making it difficult for us to keep our eyes open. Thus, in a moment of negligence, we let it escape to the Lower Realm!" After a moment of silence, a Heavenly General spoke up.


    "A moment''s negligence?" The Empress shook her head slightly then asked, "If it was just a moment''s negligence, why did you return empty-handed? Could it be that once it passed the South Heavenly Gate, you could not continue the pursuit?"


    "Reporting to the Empress, we did continue the chase, but on the way, we encountered the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong. Somehow, he had managed to escape from the Five Elements Mountain. He imed that the Yellow-Furred Rat Demon was under his protection. We, we are no match for that monkey, so..." The leading Heavenly General carefully looked at the Empress before responding.


    "Sun Wukong!?"


    Hearing this, the always calm Empress slightly furrowed her brow and straightened up a bit, asking, "Was there any loss in the Glycyrrhiza Garden?"


    "There wasn''t any particr loss. It seems that the Yellow-Furred Rat Demon entered the Glycyrrhiza Garden in search of some exotic herbs and left empty-handed. However, a Fairy who tended the flowers and nts in the garden was forcefully abducted by the rat demon!" Shaking his head, the Heavenly General reported.


    Learning that her Glycyrrhiza Garden had not suffered any losses, the Empress''s expression slightly cleared.


    After pondering for a brief moment, she waved her hand and dered, "Since it was that mischievous monkey, and there were no substantial losses in the Glycyrrhiza Garden, let this matter pass. Inform the other fairies in the Glycyrrhiza Garden to properly repair the garden!"


    Hearing the words of the Empress summarily dismissing the matter, these Heavenly Soldiers and Generals were secretly shocked.


    Although the interference of Sun Wukong meant that they couldn''t really be med, they hadn''t expected the Empress to be so agreeable this time.


    It seemed that even the Empress had to give some respect to the identity and abilities of the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong?


    Though they were secretly surprised, these few Heavenly Soldiers and Generals kept their heads down, not daring to show their thoughts on their faces, and just heavily nodded, "Yes, Empress!"


    ...


    Let''s put aside the current situation in the Heavenly Court. In the Demon Realm, the battle between Sun Wukong and the Patriarch of the me Demon had reached an intense stage.


    The Patriarch, a half-step away from the Great Luo Golden Immortal Realm, possessed immense strength, but overall, he was still a bit inferior to Sun Wukong.


    If Jiang Liu were here, he would see that the Patriarch''s level was 80, and his experience points were nearly sufficient to break through to level 81. His character panel was also of the blue Elite Level.


    However, despite being slightly stronger than Sun Wukong in terms of cultivation level, Sun Wukong''s status as a Golden BOSS made his victory seem more and more certain.


    The Ruyi Golden Cudgel fell like a raging storm, forcing the Patriarch of the me Demon to retreat step by step.


    Yet, those me Demons had their attention on Zixia, which made Sun Wukong increasingly anxious.


    Great waves of demonic mes pressed towards Zixia, a level of power that Zixia could not withstand as a Demon Immortal.


    Under this overwhelming me, Zixia''s expression was terrified as she stepped back repeatedly.


    "Hmph! Overwhelming with numbers, I, Old Sun, will oblige you!" Seeing the scene of Zixia retreating in horror, Sun Wukong coldly snorted, plucked a strand of fur from the back of his head, and blew on it.


    In an instant, several dozen exteriorized bodies of Sun Wukong appeared, each wielding a golden cudgel and charging towards those me Demons while shouting loudly.


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    Simultaneously, he yelled, "You guys, absolutely shameless!"@@novelbin@@


    "Even if youpliment us, we aren''t going to stop!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s angry rebuke, these me Demons responded not with shame, but as if honored.


    The iron rods swept across, shredding the towering mes directly. The dozen exteriorized bodies of Sun Wukong shielded Zixia by their side, helping her break out toward the periphery of the me Demon Domain.


    At this moment, Sun Wukong also realized that if it were just him alone, there would be nothing to fear; however, with Zixia at his side, he had to be distracted to look after her, thus he could not focus entirely on the fight.


    So, he had dispersed those clones to protect Zixia as they left, while Sun Wukong''s original form stayed to continue the fierce battle.


    Since leaving the Five Elements Mountain, this was the first time Sun Wukong had encountered an opponent who could match him, which made Sun Wukong feel exhrated.


    Although dispersing some of his exteriorized bodies impacted his strength, the effect was small, and the ongoing battle remained fiercely contested between him and the Patriarch of the me Demon, nothing short of spectacr.


    After all, when Mo Liqing sessfully broke through to the realm of Taiyi True Immortal, his cultivation level was only about ten to twenty percent of Sun Wukong''s, and in front of Sun Wukong, he had no power to resist.


    Even among those of the same level, the gap was so significant, let alone these demons from the Demon Immortal Realm.


    "Monkey, you, you be careful!" At this critical moment, seeing that Sun Wukong could still spare some exteriorized embodiments specifically to protect her, Zixia was both astonished and moved.


    "Coming to the Demon Realm was my request for your help, naturally, your safety is my undeniable responsibility!" An exteriorized embodiment nearby, after knocking a me Demon away with his rod, turned back and said.


    After escorting Zixia away from the me Demon Domain, Sun Wukong then dismissed the divine skills of his exteriorized embodiments, leaving only one embodiment by Zixia''s side.


    With the dismissal of these exteriorized embodiments'' divine skills, Sun Wukong''s cultivation level surged, instantly regaining the advantage that the Patriarch of me Demon had momentarily pulled back.


    With the Law of Heaven and Earth, the Vajra Indestructible Body, and the Ruyi Golden Cudgel in hand, Sun Wukong fought more and more bravely, his iron rod swinging, forcing the Patriarch of me Demon to continuously retreat.


    Finally, after fighting for nearly half an hour, Sun Wukong''s iron rod struck the Patriarch of me Demon, smashing his form deep into the ground.


    Having fought for so long, Sun Wukong had thoroughly enjoyed himself, seeing that the Patriarch of me Demon no longer had much fighting power, Sun Wukong did not intend topletely annihte him.


    He withdrew his divine skills of Law of Heaven and Earth, the Ruyi Golden Cudgel reverted to the size of an embroidery needle and was tucked into his ear, and Sun Wukong leaped up, turning into a streak of escape light flying far away.


    "Monkey, monkey, you, you are really a good person!"


    Even though he had already defeated him, in this crucial moment, the monkey actually showed restraint?


    This left the Patriarch of me Demon puzzled, he said aloud.


    Sun Wukong paid no heed to the insults from the Patriarch of me Demon.


    For him, having obtained the item resembling a chili and having fought a vigorous battle with a powerful member of the demon n, Sun Wukong was very satisfied and in a good mood, he did not take the insults to heart.


    Naturally, with even the n leader defeated by this monkey, the other me Demons had no intention of rushing forward to their demise, they could only watch as Sun Wukong''s figure swiftly disappeared into the distance.


    Soon after finding Zixia, Sun Wukong took her away from the Demon Realm, again utilizing the technique of Somersault Cloud, turning into a stream of light, and rushed toward Jiang Liu.


    On the Shanbu Continent, Jiang Liu sat cross-legged, rotating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique as he quietly cultivated, getting ever closer to level 34, naturally, his motivation for cultivation was full.


    Beside him, Zhu Bajie and others were resting, of course, none of them were asleep, they were all waiting for Sun Wukong to bring back the chili they had heard about countless times.


    Zhu Bajie couldn''t help but swallow his saliva, from the first day he met his master until now, it wasn''t his first time describing the deliciousness of chili, and now that he finally had the chance, there was no way Zhu Bajie could sleep.


    After a session of practicing Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, and after circting his cultivation level through ny-nineplete cycles, Jiang Liu ended his practice, silently invoking his character panel.


    Immediately, a semi-transparent character panel appeared in front of Jiang Liu.


    ID: Jiang Liu.


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Compassionate Bodhisattva.


    Level: 33 (1140050/1150000).


    Equipment: Mixed Iron Rod (Epic Level): ¡­


    "Hmm, very good, just about 10,000 experience points left, and I can break through to level 34!" After checking the experience points on his character panel, Jiang Liu was very pleased and nodded.


    Thest 10,000 or so experience points ¨C after resting a while longer and practicing for a few more hours, he believed it would suffice.


    Whoosh!


    Just then, a streak of escape light shed across the sky, and immediately, Sun Wukong returned with Zixia in tow.


    "Master, I, Old Sun, am back!"


    "Eldest brother is back!" As Sun Wukong spoke, nearby Zhu Bajie, White Dragon Horse, and even Sha Wujing all climbed up at once.


    However, Jiang Liu looked at Sun Wukong, especially noting the hand held between Sun Wukong and Zixia, and showed a relieved smile on his face, nodding slightly: Child, you''ve finally grown up!

 Chapter 219 Wukong, Who Cant Be Helped Up When Mired in Mud

    Jiang Liu''s words made Sun Wukong''s face darken, as they reminded him of the saying from Jiang Liu, "One day as a teacher, a lifetime as a father."


    Did he really just act like he was his own father?


    "Master, stop kidding around, let''s talk properly!" Sun Wukong''s face was somewhat dark as he spoke.


    "Oh? Wukong, not bad, you''ve actually learned to steal Master''s words now!?" Sun Wukong''s remark indeed made Jiang Liu feel rather odd.


    Weren''t these the usual words he himself said to him?


    "Monkey Brother, heh heh heh, didn''t you say you''d never get involved in romantic affairs this lifetime, finding them too troublesome? It''s funny how your mouth says no, but your body is quite honest!"


    Zhu Bajie, of course, had noticed the hands of Sun Wukong and Fairy Zixia tied together and couldn''t help chuckling as he spoke with a suggestive eyebrow wiggle.


    "Ah... No, it''s not what you guys are thinking!"


    Upon hearing Zhu Bajie''s teasingments amidst all the eyebrow wiggling, Fairy Zixia also realized that her hand was still entwined with Sun Wukong''s. Her face immediately flushed red, she pulled away her hand, bowed her head, and felt too ashamed to look at Jiang Liu and the others.


    "This is bad..." Although Jiang Liu and Zhu Bajie were making fun of Sun Wukong and Fairy Zixia, the Yellow Wind Monster, on the other hand, turnedpletely pale and his mouth twitched slightly upon seeing this scene.@@novelbin@@


    Previously at the Glycyrrhiza Garden, he had forcibly taken Fairy Zixia away using physical force. Who would have thought that after her journey in the Demon Realm with the Great Saint, their feelings had warmed to such an extent?


    If, in the future, Fairy Zixia held a grudge and whispered sweet nothings, it could spell trouble for him!


    "Alright, alright, let''s focus on the important matters. Wukong, did you find the chili peppers?" Seeing Fairy Zixia''s shy demeanor, Jiang Liu spoke up to shut Zhu Bajie up and moved the conversation to the main topic.


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    Zhu Bajie and the others, upon hearing about the chili peppers, also showed excitement on their faces, looking expectantly at Sun Wukong.


    "Master, I''m not sure if these are really the chili peppers you were looking for!" Indeed, the chili peppers were now the focus of everyone''s attention. Sun Wukong took out a small cloth bag from his bosom and reached in with his monkey paw to pull out a handful of small red chili peppers.


    "They are indeed tiny, shaped like bull horns, and bright red!" Zhu Bajie and the others widened their eyes in surprise upon seeing the clutch of small red chili peppers in Sun Wukong''s hand, thinking they looked exactly like the ones their master had described.


    "How about it, Master? Are these the chili peppers you were looking for?" Everyone''s gaze, including Zhu Bajie''s, fell on the chili peppers in Sun Wukong''s monkey paw. After looking at them, they all turned expectantly towards Jiang Liu.


    Whether they were right or not, it was all up to Jiang Liu to decide.


    "Master, let me, Old Pig, take a try and see if these chili peppers are as delicious as you said!"


    Rtive to others, Zhu Bajie thoughzy, was more eager than Sun Wukong when it came to food. Without waiting for Jiang Liu to speak, he had already impatiently grabbed several small red chili peppers from Sun Wukong''s hand and stuffed them into his mouth.


    Watching Zhu Bajie''s actions, Sun Wukong''s mouth curled slightly in a smirk, and he deliberately kept quiet, waiting to see Zhu Bajie''s reaction.


    "Bajie, wait!" Seeing Zhu Bajie already moving to stuff the small red chili peppers into his mouth, Jiang Liu cried out in shock.


    Although he had always emphasized how delicious these chili peppers were, after all, they were just a very important condiment, not meant to be eaten like this¡ªwho eats them directly like that?


    However, Jiang Liu''s cry, though quick, was not as fast as Zhu Bajie''s actions. Along with the shout, Zhu Bajie had already popped the small red chili peppers into his mouth.


    Then, Jiang Liu saw Zhu Bajie immediately spit out the small red chili peppers from his mouth, his long pig tongue sticking out as he cried out from the spiciness, saying, "Master, big brother got it wrong, this isn''t the chili pepper you were looking for, this isn''t the Deliciousness you spoke of!"


    "Hahaha, Bajie, I told you to not be so hasty. I, Old Sun, also tried it earlier and reacted just like you, hahaha..." Seeing Zhu Bajie''s reaction, Sun Wukong was overjoyed and couldn''t help butugh out loud.


    Obviously, he had previously experienced the spiciness himself, so he deliberately wanted to see what Zhu Bajie''s reaction would be.


    "You misfortunate monkey, had I known it was like this, why didn''t you stop me, ah..."


    Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Zhu Bajie muttered crossly, but the spiciness in his mouth made it hard for him to say much. After only half a sentence, he was still sticking out his tongue, crying out from the spiciness.


    "Bajie, what Wukong brought back are indeed chili peppers, and they are the Superior Grade I mentioned!" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Jiang Liu spoke, taking a small red chili pepper from Sun Wukong''s hand and holding it up.


    "Ah! Master? Is this really the chili pepper you talked about? Didn''t you say these chili peppers were very delicious? Could it be you deceived me just like this misfortunate monkey? I, Old Pig, am honest and straightforward, how could you deceive me like this!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Zhu Bajie looked utterly wronged as he spoke.


    "You say we always need to add salt when cooking, but does anyone just stuff handfuls of salt directly into their mouth!?" Upon hearing Zhu Bajie''s aggrieved tone, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but speak irritably.


    Honest and sincere? You''ve got to be joking, right? He can fool others, but can he really fool himself?


    Wasn''t it him who jumped out wanting to eat humans the very first time we met?


    Not to mention, didn''t he once kiss Guanyin Bodhisattva on the mouth?


    With that being his past, does he really qualify to call himself sincere and honest?


    "Ah? Master, that makes sense!" Ignoring what Jiang Liu was ranting about internally, upon hearing him use salt as an analogy, the two people who had eaten raw peppers both nodded in agreement.


    Ignoring them, Jiang Liu just picked up a red chili pepper, gently bit off a chunk, and instantly felt an explosive spiciness appear in his mouth.


    This actually pleased Jiang Liu rather than shocking him; the pepper was extremely spicy, ridiculously so, which exined why Zhu Bajie, who had never tasted something this spicy, reacted so strongly.


    "Master? How is the taste!?" Seeing Jiang Liu calm down immediately without any sign of difort, Zhu Bajie secretly admired him and eagerly awaited Jiang Liu''s response.


    "Hmm, not bad, much better than I expected!" Jiang Liu nodded and replied.


    "Then, what are we eating today? Last time, Master, you mentioned a lot of dishes!" Zhu Bajie''s eyes lit up a whole lot, filled with anticipation, as soon as he heard Jiang Liu''s approval.


    It wasn''t just Zhu Bajie; even Sha Wujing, Sun Wukong, White Dragon Horse, and even the Yellow Wind Monster were looking forward to what Jiang Liu would say.


    "With so many people today, of course we''re eating hotpot! It''s only right for everyone to gather around and enjoy hotpot together!" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words and seeing everyone''s eager faces, Jiang Liu replied with a smile.


    "Monkey Brother, I''ve been away from Glycyrrhiza Garden for a while now, and it''s about time for me to head back. I won''t disturb you all!"


    Fairy Zixia, upon hearing that Jiang Liu and the others were preparing to dine together, thought for a moment; with so many people here and knowing only Sun Wukong, plus having a bit of an issue with the Yellow Wind Monster, she felt it might be awkward to stay and thus bid Sun Wukong goodbye.


    "Oh, you''re leaving? Well, alright then!" Sun Wukong, ever so straightforward, heard that Zixia wanted to leave and didn''t show any intent to ask her to stay, just nodded.


    "Fairy Zixia, since you had a hand in finding these chilies, and we''re just about to eat, why not stay and join us?"


    Hearing Sun Wukong respond so straightforwardly, Jiang Liu''s face darkened a bit, chiding Sun Wukong''s cluelessly blunt nature, which would likely leave him single forever. Regrettably, as his master, Jiang Liu feltpelled to cover for him somewhat.


    "No need, Grand Master, I..." Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s invitation to dine together, Fairy Zixia felt undeserving.


    Moreover, she had only shown the way for the little red peppers, it was really Monkey Brother who had, uh, gotten them; she certainly didn''t dare take the credit.


    Just as Fairy Zixia hadn''t quite finished speaking, Jiang Liu interjected, adding, "After we''re done eating, I''ll have Wukong escort you back!"


    "Well, then I would be remiss to decline..." Almost as if possessed, upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Fairy Zixia initially intended to refuse but changed her mind, even surprising herself.


    "Master, why should I be the one to take her back? Are you worried she''ll lose her way?" Sun Wukong, puzzled by the arrangement, queried Jiang Liu.


    "Don''t talk, no one thinks you''re mute!" Sun Wukong''s remark resulted in Jiang Liu''s face turning even darker as he responded irritably.


    This really was like having a teammate who was a liability. With his straightforwardness bordering on idiocy, Jiang Liu truly wondered if Zixia could ever fall for him.


    "Ah, Monkey Brother behaves like this and still such a beautiful fairy falls for him? Why does Old Pig only have Zhuzhu?" Even Zhu Bajie, watching from the side, couldn''t help but feel imbnced upon ncing at Sun Wukong.


    "But, I, Old Sun, am puzzled¡ªshouldn''t you, Master, be the one to rify this for me?" Seeing Jiang Liu looking somewhat displeased, Sun Wukong grew even more confused.


    "Think about it. Zixia was brought here by the Yellow Wind Monster. Just sending her back like this might make others suspect she''s been turned by the demon. They might trouble her, but if you escort her instead, given your reputation, who would dare bother her?" Sun Wukong sighed internally and exined.


    "I see now. Master, you always think things through thoroughly!" Upon hearing this, Sun Wukong finally understood.


    "This? You actually believe that?" Seeing Sun Wukong''s epiphany, Jiang Liu''s expression grew even darker.


    This was more than just having an ipetent teammate¡ªwasn''t this more like trying to prop up a wall of mud?

 Chapter 220 Spicy Hot Pot Launches

    The spicy hot pot was actually not much different from the hot pots before, the main difference was just the addition of chili as a seasoning. Because they had added Fairy Zixia and the Yellow Wind Monster to the group this time, the ingredients were prepared even more plentifully.


    Of course, the pot was still the same pot, unchanged.


    After all, the most unique aspect of hot pot dining is that no matter how many people you have, everyone can sit around the same pot.


    And the more people there are, the better the atmosphere.


    He took out some small chili peppers, roasted them until dry and ground them into powder, some of which he sprinkled directly into the pot to enhance the spiciness, and the remaining chili powder was naturally saved for future barbecues.


    Moreover, he threw in more than a dozen little red chilies that floated in the pot, looking quite attractive.


    A spicy hot pot, after all, really needs some chili peppers floating in it, doesn''t it? Otherwise, it feels like something is missing that aesthetic touch.


    Of course, since it''s a spicy hot pot, you have the heat, but how could itck fragrance?


    He sprinkled in some already-fried sesame seeds,


    and the broth, made from boiling bones, was rich and mixed with the aroma of sesame and the spiciness of chili, quickly spreading through the air as the soup simmered.


    The peculiar aroma made Zhu Bajie''s nose twitch constantly; meanwhile, his eyes gleamed as he stared at the pot of soup, licking the corners of his mouth unconsciously.


    "Hehehe, Master, when can we start eating? I, Old Pig, can hardly wait. Why not let me, Old Pig, have a sip of the broth first?"


    Apart from women, the thing Zhu Bajie cared about most was food. Smelling the wonderful scent wafting through the air, Zhu Bajie''s impatient voice betrayed his urgency.


    "Fool, stop yelling, if it reallyes to starting, you definitely can''t beat I, Old Sun!" Sun Wukong, naturally, was just as anxious, and upon hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, even Sun Wukong was tempted and spoke up.


    In the midst of their conversation, staring at the pot, they both felt their appetites surging.


    The Master was right; this spicy hot pot was indeed different from all the others we''d had before.


    Although we''ve had hot pot several times in the past, the aroma emitted this time waspletely different.


    With the addition of chili pepper to the seasonings, it was as if it brought the whole hot pot to life.


    Sun Wukong''s words caused Zhu Bajie to nce at him but left him unable to speak.


    Although he didn''t want to admit it, Zhu Bajie understood that if it really came down to a scramble for the hot pot broth, he truly couldn''t beat the monkey.


    Setting aside strength for the moment, a pig trying to beat a monkey for something? Could I match this monkey''s agility?


    "You guys... anyone who doesn''t know better would think I''ve been mistreating you!" Seeing the way Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie were acting, Jiang Liu shook his head with a somewhat exasperated smile, and said.


    Setting aside Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie''s thoughts, as the broth started to bubble, Jiang Liu naturally began to slowly add some ingredients into the pot¡ªmeat, mushrooms, vegetables...


    "Come on, everyone, take your seats!" Jiang Liu called out, addressing Fairy Zixia, the Yellow Wind Monster, and others nearby.


    As he spoke, he nced at White Dragon Horse who was eagerly watching, and said somewhat irritably: "Xiaobai, what are you standing there for? Come and join us!"


    "Thank you, Master!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, White Dragon Horse, transforming into a human, also found a stool and sat down. Read exclusive adventures at My Virtual Library Empire


    Being White Dragon Horse, transporting everyone was his usual role; hence, normally, he stayed in his horse form, as that was the basic expectation.


    If White Dragon Horse didn''t have Jiang Liu''s approval, he generally wouldn''t transform into a human form.


    "Right, that''s the spirit, that''s what creates the atmosphere!" ncing at Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, Sha Wujing, White Dragon Horse, the Yellow Wind Monster, and Fairy Zixia sitting around, plus himself, the group of seven gathered around the hot pot made for really good vibes.


    "Here, Bajie, have a drink..."


    What''s hot pot without booze? Jiang Liu took out two jars of fine wine from his storage space and offered them to Zhu Bajie.


    "Thank you, Master!" Zhu Bajie, delighted at the sight of two jars of fine wine ced in front of him, grabbed a jar and prepared to pour himself a drink, his heart secretly rejoicing.


    Indeed, the Master favored him the most¡ªtaking out wine and offering him the first drink.


    "What are you thinking!?" Seeing Zhu Bajie getting ready to pour himself a drink, Jiang Liu irritably cuffed him on the head, saying, "I told you to blow on it to cool it down! Drinking with hot pot should mean drinking chilled wine to really savor it!"


    "Oh, I misunderstood!" he scratched his head, Zhu Bajie said with an embarrassed look.


    As he spoke, he blew on two jars of wine, and soon, a thinyer of frost could be seen condensing on the jars.


    Having dawdled around at the Wuzhuang Temple for two months, and then traveling for so long, it was almost June by now. Although it wasn''t the height of summer, the weather was quite warm. Eating hot pot could indeed be a bit hot, so it was necessary to have some chilled wine.


    "Wow, it''s so spicy!" Sun Wukong, always the most nimble, grabbed a piece of meat with his chopsticks and put it in his mouth, only to find an intensely spicy and savory vor exploding in his mouth. Having never eaten anything too spicy before, the spiciness made Sun Wukong exim loudly, but he couldn''t bear to spit it out.


    After chewing a few times and swallowing, Sun Wukong felt it was too spicy to handle, yet it was also extremely delicious.


    "Mmm, so spicy, so good!" Zhu Bajie also ate with great gusto, nodding continuously.


    This spicy hot pot was a terrifying experience for Sun Wukong and the others who had not suffered the onught of spices before, but at the same time, it was an unforgettable experience.


    It was unbearably spicy, yet they couldn''t help but exim how addictive it was, as if there was some kind of magic power in it.


    Compared to Sun Wukong and the others, Jiang Liu found the taste just right. Satisfied, he nodded, took a sip of the chilled rice wine, and a bite of the hot and spicy hot pot. This life made Jiang Liu''s eyes squint; this was the ultimate enjoyment.


    Of course, in Jiang Liu''s opinion, this spicy hot pot had a slight w: the color of the soup base was milky white, the color of stock made from big bones.


    Actually, if there was chili oil poured into it, turning the soup base a fiery red color, then it would be a perfectbination of color, aroma, taste, and presentation.


    "It seems that sometimes I have to make some bean paste sauce to cook the buttery red soup!" Looking at the somewhat light-colored hot pot soup base, Jiang Liu murmured to himself.


    "Master is indeed amazing!" Having thoroughly enjoyed the spiciness, Sun Wukong and the others naturally saw Jiang Liu eating calmly and even contemting other things, which they greatly admired.


    No matter what, this spicy hot pot meal was so satisfying that even Fairy Zixia felt sweaty.


    Until the end, the remaining half pot of soup was fully consumed by Zhu Bajie. Everyone had their fill andy on the grass to rest, feeling life couldn''t be better.


    After resting for a while, Jiang Liu spoke up and asked the Yellow Wind Monster and Fairy Zixia, who were beside him, "How do you feel about eating spicy hot pot for the first time?"


    "Delicious, Holy Monk, you truly are the grand master of cuisine in all the realms! After eating this once, I will never forget it!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s question, the Yellow Wind Monster raised his thumb and praised Jiang Liu.


    Clearly, the spicy hot pot hadpletely conquered him.


    "It''s tasty indeed, but just a bit too spicy. If there could be a milder vor, that would be even better!" Upon hearing this, Fairy Zixia thought for a moment and offered her opinion.


    "Heh heh heh, we''ve had lighter-vored hot pots a few times before, but in my opinion, they''re nowhere near as satisfying as this spicy one!" Hearing Fairy Zixia''s suggestion, Sun Wukong chuckled and retorted.


    "Well, it seems that I''ll need to find a chance to make the Hot-Clear Pot. After all, people have different tastes; some like it spicy, others prefer it milder!" Hearing Fairy Zixia''s suggestion, Jiang Liu spoke up.


    "Hot-Clear Pot? What''s that?" Curious about Jiang Liu''s words, Zhu Bajie asked.


    Just the name sounded extraordinary; could there be other kinds of pots?


    "Yes, that''s a pot specifically for eating hot pot!" Jiang Liu nodded and spoke earnestly.


    "A pot just for hot pot!? What does it look like!? I''m so curious!" Hearing that there were special pots for hot pot, Zhu Bajie and the others were eagerly asking.


    "Alright, it''s gettingte. Wukong, you should hurry up and take Fairy Zixia back!" Not exining too much on this topic, Jiang Liu simply turned to Sun Wukong and instructed.


    "Okay, got it, Master!" Hearing Jiang Liu''smand, Sun Wukong nodded, stood up, and took Zixia with him to leave.


    "Fairy Zixia, when I make the Hot-Clear Pot, I''ll invite you over for hot pot again. I guarantee you''ll like it!" As Sun Wukong pulled Zixia away, Jiang Liu, after some thought, spoke up.


    He couldn''t help it; Sun Wukong, being such a hopeless case, didn''t understand the concept of a follow-up invitation, so as his master, he had to do it on his behalf.


    "Thank you for your hospitality, Great Master!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Zixia, who also found the hot pot delectable, nodded with a smile on her face.@@novelbin@@


    As the conversation ended, Zixia took Sun Wukong''s hand, and with a leap, they used the Somersault Cloud, turning into a streak of light and heading straight toward the South Heavenly Gate.


    "Indeed..." Watching Sun Wukong''s vanishing figure, Jiang Liu silently shook his head.


    Sending Fairy Zixia back, he was really in haste to escort her, without lingering on the road to seize some alone time with her.


    Over by the South Heavenly Gate, Muzha walked out, and suddenly, sensing something, he happened to see Sun Wukong holding Fairy Zixia''s hand, approaching the South Heavenly Gate.

 Chapter 221 He is the Great Sage Equal to Heaven?!

    Over the years, Muzha has been following Bodhisattva Guanyin and cultivating under her guidance, and whenever he had free time, he would naturallye to the Heavenly Court to meet with his father and brother, to cherish the time spent with family.


    During these times in the Heavenly Court, Muzha would feel somewhat of a headache after sitting for a while.


    There was no other reason, except that his own brother was still causing worry; although Third Prince Nezha''s fame had already spread throughout the Three Realms and Six Paths, and the reputation of his brother as the Great God of the Triple Altar Sea Gathering was resounding, his temperament was still somewhat capricious.


    Indeed, could the brother who had the audacity to extract the Dragon Prince''s tendons many years ago, despite having restrained his nature a lot over time, everpletely smooth out such traits? Wasn''t it almost an impossible task?


    Thinking about Nezha boasting that Sun Wukong had already emerged from the Five Elements Mountain and wanting to cross a few moves with Sun Wukong again, to test whether this monkey still retained some of his former courage and defiance.


    Reflecting upon his brother''s words, Muzha felt a headacheing on again.


    He had just spent quite some time persuading and barely managed to calm him down.


    Now was not like five hundred years ago.


    Back then, the monkey was just a freshly emerged Monkey Demon; fighting a battle, win or lose, didn''t matter much.


    But now, this monkey is a person of destiny in the great cmity of the Journey to the West, how could he be provoked so easily?


    His brother had alsoe through the Deification Cmity; does he not understand the terror of such a cataclysm?


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    If he fought Sun Wukong and fulfilled a cmity, what would be done if he died?


    Not to mention his cultivation level as a Taiyi True Immortal, how many Daluo Golden Immortals had perished during the initial Deification Battle?


    The once-dominant Sect of Intercepting, celebrated for its numerous Immortal followers, was nearly annihted; the power of such a cosmic cataclysm was not unknown to his brother, and yet he dared to provoke it so recklessly?


    On normal asions, one could ensure that their Spirit tform remained clear, but once involved in a disaster, it''s as if the Spirit tform is obscured, leading one to do many things they normally wouldn''t, only to end up confusedly fulfilling the cmity, resulting in their spirit perishing and their path ending!


    Muzha, with these concerns weighing heavily on his mind about his brother''s stubborn and belligerent nature, walked out of the South Heavenly Gate, when he suddenly felt something and looked up, just in time to see Sun Wukong and Fairy Zixia returning.


    Of course, his gaze also fell upon the hands of Sun Wukong and Fairy Zixia, sped together.


    "Hey, Envoy Muzha, long time no see¡­" Upon reaching the South Heavenly Gate, Sun Wukong greeted Muzha with a rxed and casual tone.


    "I have seen the Great Sage!" Hearing Sun Wukong greeting him, Muzha brought his palms together, bowed slightly, and performed a courteous salute while speaking.


    Upon saying this, Muzha followed up by asking, "Great Sage, aren''t you supposed to apany the Tang Monk and protect him on his Journey to the Western Heaven? What brings you to the Heavenly Court?"


    "I''m here to escort a friend back home!" Sun Wukong answered openly and earnestly.


    "I have seen Envoy Muzha!" Spotting Muzha''s gaze on her, Fairy Zixia quickly paid her respects, her heart also filled with surprise.


    Having spent a few years in the Heavenly Court, Zixia was naturally aware of some immortals and great Buddhas, and as Envoy Muzha, a direct subordinate of Guanyin and the elder brother of Third Prince Nezha, she of course had heard of him.


    Had she not expected that the monkey knew Envoy Muzha? Judging by the casual manner of his greeting, it seemed so.


    It appeared that she had somewhat underestimated the monkey''s status.


    "I have seen the Great Sage!" The nearby Heavenly Soldiers and Generals guarding the South Heavenly Gate also spoke in unison at this time, proactively paying their respects to Sun Wukong.


    "Hmm hmm hmm!" Nodding slightly, Sun Wukong immediately proceeded with Fairy Zixia towards the Glycyrrhiza Garden.


    His master had said, it wasn''t because he was worried she might lose her way that he escorted Zixia, but rather to give her face, ensuring more people saw them returning together so no one would dare trouble her. That''s why, even after reaching the South Heavenly Gate, Sun Wukong didn''t leave but escorted her directly to the Glycyrrhiza Garden.


    Five hundred years it''s been since hest visited the Heavenly Court, and upon returning at this moment, Sun Wukong''s heart indeed harbored many emotions.


    "What exactly is this monkey''s identity!?" Walking beside Sun Wukong, Fairy Zixia looked at him with astonishment.


    Hadn''t he said that he was just a lowly worker in the Peach Garden? Although that status was already quite high to her, why then were the Guardian Generals at the South Heavenly Gate so respectful towards him? Even capable of interacting with Envoy Muzha as equals?


    "I have seen the Great Sage!"


    "Great Sage, congrattions onpleting your sentence and regaining your freedom!"


    "I have seen the Great Sage!"


    ¡­


    As they walked along, any somewhat notable figure who saw Sun Wukong would first be startled, then quickly open their mouth to greet him.


    Sun Wukong, apanied by Zixia, proceeded towards the Glycyrrhiza Garden. He waved his hand to those who greeted him, acknowledging their salutations.


    Fairy Zixia at his side had be numb to the spectacle. Initially surprised by the reactions, she had grown used to it, and her understanding of Sun Wukong''s status and identity had be much clearer.


    He had previously mentioned he was a colleague of hers, that she managed the Glycyrrhiza Garden and he the Peach Garden. But could someone who managed the Peach Garden really be greeted with such reverence by so many of the Immortal Rank?


    Even Zixia had seen the likes of the Giant Spirit God and even Divine Generals of the level of the Four Heavenly Kings treating him with a mixture of respect and awe.


    Setting aside the confusion and astonishment in Zixia''s heart, she quickly returned to the Glycyrrhiza Garden with Sun Wukong.


    "Immortal Maiden, I have returned!" After entering the Glycyrrhiza Garden, Fairy Zixia approached an Immortal Maiden responsible for the garden.


    "Zixia? Weren''t you captured by an evil demon? How did you manage toe back safely!?" Indeed, upon seeing Zixia''s return, the Immortal Maiden of the Glycyrrhiza Garden said in surprise.


    "Reporting to the Immortal Maiden, the evil demon didn''t harm me and let me return," Zixia replied truthfully.


    "Nonsense!" Upon hearing Zixia''s words, the Immortal Maiden shook her head and said, "Demons are cruel and merciless; one that dared to intrude into the Glycyrrhiza Garden is even more vicious. Having been captured, there''s no way you could have survived. Tell me, were you subdued by that demon and involved in unspeakable acts?


    If you don''t confess, I''ll have to inform the Heavenly Soldiers and Generals to take you in for questioning!"


    "Cough cough, I brought Zixia here. What''s this? It seems you have some doubts?"


    Hearing the conversation from inside the garden, just as his master predicted, Sun Wukong leaped up and perched atop the garden wall, speaking out.


    "What monkey is causing amotion in my Glycyrrhiza Garden!?" Following the sound, the Immortal Maiden looked at Sun Wukong squatting on the wall and said in a low voice.


    "You wild monkey,e down at once! How dare you perch on the wall of the Empress''s Glycyrrhiza Garden? What kind of behavior is this!?" As the Immortal Maiden spoke, the surrounding Fairies also scolded Sun Wukong delicately.


    Perhaps it was the way Sun Wukong was squatting on the wall that drew attention, or maybe it was the rebuke of the Fairies, one after the other, that quickly brought the patrolling Heavenly Soldiers and Generals to the scene, who also spotted Sun Wukong.


    "The Heavenly Soldiers have arrived!" Seeing a group of seven or eight armed Heavenly Soldiers approaching, the Fairies all silently breathed a sigh of relief.


    The unruly monkey would surely receive a sound lesson from these Heavenly Soldiers, wouldn''t he?


    "Gr-, Great Sage, we pay our respects to the Great Sage¡­"


    The Fairies, who usually tended to flowers and nts in the Glycyrrhiza Garden, naturally did not recognize Sun Wukong, but how could these Heavenly Soldiers and Generals not know him? Instead of what they expected, the soldiers paid their respects to Sun Wukong.


    "Hmm, this Zixia Fairy of the Glycyrrhiza Garden is a friend of mine, Old Sun. I''ll be entrusting her care to you from now on!" Addressing the newly arrived soldiers, Sun Wukong rified the rtionship between himself and Zixia.


    "Zixia, I, Old Sun, will be leaving. When the master''s Hot-Clear Pot is ready, I''lle to get you for a hot pot meal!" After giving his instructions, Sun Wukong considered his mission aplished and called out to Zixia as he left.


    "Mm, monkey, take care on your way!" Zixia nodded slightly and responded.


    The monkey on the wall took a leap, used his Somersault Cloud divine skill, and in the blink of an eye, transformed into a streak of Escape Light that disappeared into the horizon.


    "Wow, Zixia, that monkey just now was so imposing. Is he your friend? Who is he?" As soon as Sun Wukong departed, the Fairies around Zixia crowded her, asking in amazement.@@novelbin@@


    "A monkey is just a monkey. Everyone calls him Great Sage. As for who he really is, he didn''t say¡­" Hearing the inquiries from her sisters, Zixia shook her head and replied.


    "Monkey? And a Great Sage? Could it be..." The Fairies might not know, but the Immortal Maiden at the side seemed to think of something, herplexion turning pale, a chill running down her spine.


    Hadn''t she just scolded him?


    No, no, it couldn''t be. The legendary figure was unbridled, ferociously cruel; even a hundred thousand Heavenly Soldiers couldn''t subdue him. If it really was him, having scolded him, how could there be any chance of survival? She must be overthinking.


    "By the way, several brothers of the Heavenly Soldiers, you all called that monkey Great Sage? Exactly who is he?" Curious herself, Zixia stepped forward to the soldiers who had not yet left and asked.


    "You''re a friend of the Great Sage and you don''t know who he is!?" The soldiers didn''t dare show their displeasure to Zixia, but her question made them exchange looks of uncertainty.


    "I asked him before, and he said he was a colleague like me; I take care of the flowers in the Glycyrrhiza Garden, and he used to take care of the Empress''s Peach Garden," Zixia answered.


    With a thud, as Zixia finished speaking, a noise came from behind, followed by the startled cries of several Fairies.


    Turning around, they saw the Immortal Maiden in charge of the Glycyrrhiza Garden had suddenly fainted.


    "You must have heard, haven''t you? Great Sage Equalling Heaven, Sun Wukong, indeed once managed the Empress''s Peach Garden for a while. That''s something everyone in the Heavenly Court knows, right?"


    "Ah! He is Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong!?"

 Chapter 222 Nezha and Sun Wukong Meet Again

    Although the maidens from the Glycyrrhiza Garden had never met the Great Sage Equalling Heaven, they had naturally heard the legends surrounding him.


    Just as Sun Wukong had stated, their Glycyrrhiza Garden was in charge of tending to Empress''s flowers and nts, while what Sun Wukong managed was the Peach Garden. When Sun Wukong was in charge of the Peach Garden, he almost ate all of the peaches clean, an incident known to all in the Three Realms and Six Paths!


    When that event urred, the fairies of the Glycyrrhiza Garden were all astonished, never expecting Sun Wukong to be so capricious.


    And of course, they had naturally heard of the subsequent legends about Sun Wukong.


    "So he is the Great Sage Equalling Heaven, Sun Wukong? No wonder..." Finally aware of the monkey''s true identity, Fairy Zixia murmured softly to herself, her mind suddenly feeling enlightened.


    No wonder, in the Demon Realm, the power Sun Wukong disyed was so formidable that he almost single-handedly defeated the entire me Demon n, forcefully taking the chili peppers from them.


    It was also no wonder that Sun Wukong''s reputation was so great; throughout the Heavenly Court, as he walked by, many Divine Generals and Superior Immortals took the initiative to greet him. Read new chapters at My Virtual Library Empire


    Of course, what was more important was Sun Wukong''s fearless character, unafraid of both heaven and earth.


    Back in the Demon Realm, had he chosen to sneak in quietly, he could have avoided a lot of trouble, yet the monkey insisted on making a grand entrance, brimming with a confidence that seemed arrogant to others.


    After realizing Sun Wukong''s identity, Zixia admired him even more in her heart, in addition to being surprised.


    Originally, he was just responsible for managing Empress''s Peach Garden, yet the monkey dared to challenge the entire Heavenly Court for the sake of his own freedom.


    Thinking about herself, she had been full of aspirations for the Immortal Realm but never imagined that upon arriving, she would be a Flower ve, spending her days apanying the flowers and nts, seemingly without any prospect of rising in status.


    That wasn''t the life she wanted. Although she longed for a change, she didn''t know where to start, nor did she have the courage or ability.


    "Zixia, you... you''re actually friends with the Great Sage Equalling Heaven? You''re really lucky!"


    Putting aside how troubled Zixia felt about her own future after thinking about Sun Wukong, the adjacent fairies, upon learning of Sun Wukong''s identity and realizing that it was the Great Sage himself who had personally delivered Zixia and had even specifically instructed the Heavenly Soldiers to take good care of her, casting envious nces at Zixia.


    "Hmm, indeed, it''s quite fortunate," Zixia replied, nodding to thements of the fairies nearby.


    Honestly asking herself, having been captured by an Evil Demon, she should have indeed been doomed ording tomon sense, yet she had met the Great Sage Equalling Heaven, not only escaping a life-threatening situation but also bing friends with him ¨C she truly was very fortunate.@@novelbin@@


    "Hey, hey, hey, Zixia, are you and the Great Sage... closer than just friends? Otherwise, why would he personally send you back? I remember that when I was alive, men in the Mortal World who wanted to pursue me would try to send me home alone!"


    "Zixia, I think the Great Sage likes you! Not only did he send you back, but he also specifically asked to dine with you next time. If he wasn''t interested, would he say that?"


    "Zixia, what do you think of the Great Sage? Even though he''s short and skinny, and not that good-looking, but you can''t beat his abilities. You''ve got to hold on tight to him. If you really end up with the Great Sage, soaring to the heights and bing a phoenix, don''t forget us sisters here!"


    ...


    The fairies around Zixia took turns voicing their thoughts, all of them envious of Zixia''s acquaintance with Sun Wukong and each one advising her to hold onto him tightly.


    If this were the modern world, it would be like a small office worker somehow knowing a high-ranked executive of arge corporation, and it seems that the executive might even be indicating his intentions to pursue the small office worker. Naturally, her colleagues would be extremely envious and would continuously remind her to seize the opportunity.


    The Cindere meeting her prince narrative, no matter the world, is probably a favourite and a fantasy for every girl, isn''t it?


    "Does he really like me? And more importantly, do I really like him?" Listening to the various remarks from the fairies around her, Zixia pondered this question quietly in her heart.


    Recalling the me Demon Domain, when she was being chased by a group of me Demons, how Sun Wukong had intentionally created several exteriorizations of his body to ensure her safety and help her escape¡­


    Thinking about this, Zixia felt a sweet and secure feeling in her heart.


    Leaving aside the situation in the Glycyrrhiza Garden, elsewhere, after Sun Wukong left the Glycyrrhiza Garden, he naturally transformed into an Escape Light, hurrying back towards Jiang Liu.


    However, flying through the sky, suddenly, a steel ring appeared, heading straight for him.


    Seeing this scene, Sun Wukong tensed up slightly, pulling out his Ruyi Golden Cudgel and sweeping it forward.


    With a ng, Sun Wukong''s form halted midair and the iing steel ring was repelled by his cudgel, sent flying back.


    "Alright, no need to hide anymore,e on out!" Suspended in midair, wielding the Ruyi Golden Cudgel, Sun Wukong called out.


    ```


    "Hehehe, it''s been a while since we''ve seen each other, but your reaction is still not bad!" As Sun Wukong''s words fell, a figure appeared, stepping on a ze of fire.


    Sun Wukong was only about one meter forty tall, and because he walked with a limp, he appeared even shorter, much like a child of about ten years old.


    Simrly, the one who appeared before Sun Wukong was indeed a child with an appearance carved from jade, also looking to be around ten years old.


    Looking at this child, who was extremely adorable with two buns on his head, the Chaos Heaven Silk wrapped over his shoulders, the Qiankun Ring slung askew, Wind-Fire Wheels under his feet, and a delicate Fire Tip Spear in his hands, decked in Dharma Treasures, it was indeed Nezha.


    "Defeated servant, have you forgotten the time when you lost to I, Old Sun, at Flower Fruit Mountain!?" Watching Nezha appear, Sun Wukong cracked a smile, his expression indiscernible between mockery and joy.


    "You, detestable!" Anger surfaced on the jade-like face of the child, but instead of being scary, it was rather adorable.


    Nezha cursed under his breath, and with a movement, he lunged forward, spear in hand.


    With his Strengthening Spells and dexterous Wind-Fire Wheels, coupled with the supremely yang Qiankun Ring and the supremely yin Chaos Heaven Silk, Nezha, when making a move, was not only powerful.


    The main thing was that these Dharma Treasures each had their own Divine Skills, and whenbined, they were ever-changing and dazzling to behold.


    "So many years and still such shy tricks!" Sun Wukong shook his head slightly and muttered ament about Nezha''s fighting style.


    In the midst of speaking, the Ruyi Golden Cudgel met the attack head-on.


    There was no need for too many Dharma Treasures--with only the Jingu Bang, let everything change; I hold steadfast to one rule!


    Having shed in the past, the fight between Nezha and Sun Wukong was fierce, with neither side holding back. The exchange of blows was quite a spectacle.


    The battlested hundreds of rounds, both adversaries fighting from the heavens to the earth, quickly disappearing from sight.


    Elsewhere, in a dense forest, Sun Wukongy quietly on a grassy patch, his head resting on the Ruyi Golden Cudgel, with one leg elegantly crossed over the other,zily chewing a de of grass.


    Simrly, Nezha''s Chaos Heaven Silk was wrapped around two trees, as hey in it like a hammock, embodying the epitome of leisure.


    The two bore no semnce to the fierceness they had disyed earlier.


    "You monkey, after being pinned under Five Elements Mountain for five hundred years, your skills have not declined¡ªit''s rather impressive!" Nezhay in his Chaos Heaven Silk, swinging his white and jade-like little feet.


    "Hehehe, you little whelp, how could you test my true strength? You were defeated by me back in the day and it''s the same now!" To Nezha''s words, Sun Wukong appearedpletely content, responding with a sharp tongue.


    At this remark, Nezha''s face color darkened. He retorted just as sharply, "Back then I did indeed lose to you, and onlysted some thirty to fifty moves, but now I''ve withstood several hundred moves against you. It seems that your strength has indeed diminished since then!"


    "You clueless tyke, if I, Old Sun, hadn''t been holding back just now, how could you have withstood hundreds of moves against me? I didn''t even use my Law of Heaven and Earth Divine Skills!" Sun Wukong didn''t appreciate Nezha''s words and retorted unhappily.


    "Likewise, this prince didn''t use his three heads and six arms Divine Skills either, so we both held back, right? Therefore, your strength has indeed weakened a bit from five hundred years ago!" Nezha wasn''t one to back down either, staring intently at Sun Wukong as he spoke.


    "Then fight again if you dare! Let''s see how many moves you can withstand against me!" Sun Wukong sat up, ring fiercely at Nezha.


    "Bring it on! I''m not afraid of you!" Nezha also sat up from the Chaos Heaven Silk, returning Sun Wukong''s re.


    The two stared each other down, eye to eye, like two bulls locked in a contest of wills.


    However, after a brief standoff, in a disy of tacit understanding, Sun Wukong and Nezha both suddenly burst outughing andy back down.


    "Monkey, regardless, congrattions are in order¡ªyou''ve endured five hundred years under Five Elements Mountain, and your tribtion is finally over!" Lying back down on his Chaos Heaven Silk, Nezha broke the silence.


    "Mhm! Thanks a lot!" Hearing Nezha''s congrattions, Sun Wukong nodded slightly in acknowledgment.


    "So what''s next? What do you n to do?" Nezha asked from his vantage point in the Chaos Heaven Silk.


    "Are you sincerely promising to protect the Tang Monk on the Journey to the West, and then ept ordination, joining the Buddhist Sect? Somehow, I just don''t see that being in your character!" Nezha quizzed.


    Faced with Nezha''s question, Sun Wukong maintained his silence, offering no reply.


    ```

 Chapter 223 The Extravagant Nezha

    ```


    The friendship between Sun Wukong and Nezha was indeed profound, which could be seen from the way they spoke to each other. Would they banter like this if their friendship hadn''t reached a certain level?


    Regarding why he was traveling to the West, if it had only concerned himself, Sun Wukong would have certainly told Nezha directly.


    In Sun Wukong''s view, he and Nezha were the type who could share their hearts with each other.


    However, this matter didn''t just concern him alone; it also involved his master''s life and death, and even Zhu Bajie''s. If the matter were to be exposed prematurely, it wouldn''t just be his own life that was threatened, but his master''s and junior brother''s as well.


    To bet his master''s and his junior brother''s lives for the sake of his friendship? Sun Wukong couldn''t do such a thing.


    Since he couldn''t tell, and simrly, since Sun Wukong didn''t want to deceive Nezha, naturally, he could only respond to this question with silence.


    Although Nezha looked like a young child, he had lived for nearly two thousand years and was already mature in mind.


    Seeing Sun Wukong''s silence, Nezha didn''t insist on prying to the bottom of it. Instead, he smoothly changed the topic to something else, like whether there were any interesting things encountered on the Journey to the West?


    Thinking about amusing incidents, Sun Wukong couldn''t help butugh out loud, and then recounted the story of the four sages testing their Zen hearts to Nezha.


    After all, when talking about the most interesting thing on the Journey to the West, was there anything more amusing than Zhu Bajie kissing Bodhisattva Guanyin?


    "Wow, Marshal Tianpeng reincarnated as a pig, and he actually, actually¡­" Hearing the story of the four sages testing their Zen hearts, Nezha''s eyes widened in astonishment.


    Suddenly, hey on the Chaos Heaven Silkughing and rolling, and then, with an ''ouch'', he actually rolled off the Chaos Heaven Silk and fell to the ground.


    "It seems, despite the hardship of dining in the wind and sleeping in the dew on your Journey to the West, there are still quite a few amusing incidents, much more interesting than my time in heaven!" Nezha said after chatting for a while about some funny incidents encountered on the Journey to the West.


    "Dining in the wind and sleeping in the dew? Hardship?" On hearing Nezha''s words, Sun Wukong''s expression was somewhat strange.


    "What''s wrong? Is something not right?" Sun Wukong''s strange expression caused Nezha to pause for a moment, looking at him curiously.


    "It''s true we often slept outside, but dining in the wind? Well, on this journey to the West, our meals seem to be much more delicious than any delicacy!" Thinking of the tasty meals and especially those grilled skewers and hotpot that the master made along the way, Sun Wukong involuntarily swallowed.


    "Are you joking? On your journey to the West, you should be thankful if you could eat your fill, yet you were able to eat well?" Sun Wukong''s words left Nezha sitting up, staring at him in confusion.


    "Do you think I look like someone who jokes?" Sun Wukong said impatiently to Nezha, who appeared surprised and bewildered.


    "How is that possible? Spending so much time cooking would greatly affect the pace of your journey to the West, wouldn''t it? You''ve been traveling for about a year now, right? How far have you gone?" After thinking for a while, Nezha asked Sun Wukong.


    "How far have we gone? Let me think, we took some detours, plus we stayed at Wuzhuang Temple for two months. We actually traveled for only about nine months, averaging twenty to thirty miles a day. That''s less than a thousand miles a month, so by now, we should have traveled about eight thousand miles!" Sun Wukong calcted quietly for a moment before speaking out a rough estimate.


    "The Journey to the West is one hundred and eight thousand miles. So you''ve been walking for a year and have only covered just a fraction of it? Are you really on a journey to the West or are you just traveling for fun?" Nezha said, barely able to suppress augh.


    "We had no choice; we kept encountering trouble along the way!" Sun Wukong spread his hands and said with some resignation.


    "You said your meals were very good? I still find it hard to believe. It''s gettingte, and it seems about time for dinner, right? How about Ie over and have a meal before leaving?" Nezha asked Sun Wukong as he looked at the sky, noting that it was gettingte.


    "Sure, let''s go!" Sun Wukong nodded in agreement and with those words, he leapt into the air and flew towards Jiang Liu.


    And Nezha? He used his ability to transform, turning into a handsome young man, and followed Sun Wukong in flight.


    Hadn''t he just been in a fierce battle with Sun Wukong, and now they were going to eat together? It didn''t seem quite fitting.


    So, it was better to transform and avoid drawing too much attention.


    ...


    At this time, Jiang Liu was cooking, boiling a pot of century egg and lean pork congee topped with a sprinkle of green onions, the aroma of which wafted around irresistibly, prompting an involuntary lick of the lips.


    Continue reading at My Virtual Library Empire


    He also stir-fried a few dishes with a mix of meats and vegetables, making this evening''s meal quite sumptuous.


    Although the Tang Dynasty didn''t have century eggs, making some wasn''t too difficult a task!


    Of course, due to Zhu Bajie, the big eater, the meal might have looked like just a few dishes mixed with meat and vegetables, but the portions were quiterge.


    Zhu Bajie alone could eat as much as ten people, and that was when he wasn''t even eating as much as he wanted.


    Before the dishes were ready, two streaks of escape light flitted by, and Sun Wukong together with Nezha, now disguised as a handsome young man, descended.


    "Hmm, it really smells good!" Nezha said in admiration afternding and twitching his nose a few times.


    ```


    "Wukong, who is this!?" Jiang Liu, who was cooking, nced at Nezha and asked Sun Wukong.


    "Master, this is my friend, his name is..."


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s question, Sun Wukong casually exined, but as he mentioned Nezha''s name, Sun Wukong paused slightly and then turned to Nezha, asking, "Right, what should I call you!?"


    "You can just call me Zha''er!" Upon hearing Sun Wukong''s question, Nezha nced at Sun Wukong with a somewhat patronizing look before answering.


    "What''s going on here?" Upon hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly.


    This monkey was doing quite well. First, he had brought a girl over for a meal, and now he had brought a friend. In Jiang Liu''s heart, there truly was a sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu, as if watching his own child bring home a girlfriend and friends for a meal.


    But Sun Wukong actually didn''t know his friend''s name? That seemed a bit fishy.


    With some suspicion in his mind, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on Nezha, and he silently murmured in his heart: Character UI.


    ID: Zha''er (Alias) (Blue).


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: War God.


    Level: 80.


    Equipment: Fire Tip Spear (Epic Level):...


    Wind-Fire Wheels (Epic Level), Chaos Heaven Silk (Epic Level), Qiankun Ring (Epic Level)


    ...


    Wow!


    Looking at the other party''s character UI, Jiang Liu felt it was somewhat dazzling. What was it that made him feel dazzled? It was the radiance of the wealthy!


    A whole set of Epic Level equipment on hand, a level 80 Blue UI; based on the level and color of the character UI, this person''s overall strength was only a bit less than Sun Wukong''s, maybe even just half a notch less?


    Moreover, this so-called Zha''er''s alias? Then looking at the equipment information on the character UI, the Qiankun Ring, Chaos Heaven Silk, Wind-Fire Wheels¡ªthese Dharma Treasures.


    With such distinctive Dharma Treasures, not even a fool would fail to recognize this person''s identity, right?@@novelbin@@


    "Who would''ve thought, Wukong and Nezha are such good friends? Just a trip to the heavens, and he''s already bringing Nezha home for a meal?" Realizing the identity of the handsome youth in front of him as Nezha, Jiang Liu was somewhat surprised internally.


    Of course, since the other party was using an alias and had no intention of revealing his identity, Jiang Liu naturally wouldn''t disclose it either.


    "Alright, the dishes are ready, everyone, please sit down and eat together!" With the cooking almost finished, soon, a big pot of preserved egg and lean pork congee, along with a few dishes of meat and vegetables, were all prepared, and Jiang Liu called everyone to the table.


    The Yellow Wind Monster hadn''t left¡ªso long as Jiang Liu didn''t send him away, he would contentedly mooch meals here.


    Although Zixia had left, Nezha hade in her ce, so the number of guests at the table had not decreased, and it remained lively.


    During the meal, a group of people sat together almost scrambling for the food, creating a fantastic atmosphere. Coupled with the food''s own deliciousness, this meal turned out to be very satisfying for Nezha.


    "It feels like I haven''t eaten enough! Tianpeng ate enough for at least a dozen people by himself!" Patting his stomach, Nezha looked at Zhu Bajie with a helpless expression, feeling a bit aggrieved.


    But actually, when he thought about it, hadn''t he himself eaten two big bowls in the fray?


    That was more than he usually ate at any time, so why did he feel like he had not eaten enough?


    Thinking about how, in the heavens, almost all the time he would be facing a table full of food alone, eating felt quite joyless.


    Indeed, eating here, both the vor and the atmosphere were so much better than when he ate alone.


    "Holy Monk, thank you for your hospitality. Nobor should go unrewarded, and today, having eaten a meal personally cooked by the Holy Monk, Zha''er has nothing to offer in return, so let me give you a little something, hoping the Holy Monk will like it!"


    Although he didn''t feel full, today''s meal was indeed very satisfying for Nezha, and even left him wanting more. Immediately after, Nezha said to Jiang Liu.


    As he spoke, Nezha''s hand made a gesture, and a delicately crafted small house appeared in his palm, and he handed it to Jiang Liu.


    "Is this a craft?" Looking at the small house in Nezha''s hand, Jiang Liu was inwardly puzzled.


    He reached out and took the small house.


    Bowing his head to look at it, as Jiang Liu''s gaze settled, the corresponding attribute information appeared before his eyes¡­

 Chapter 225 Wukong: Master 666

    Putting aside what everyone was thinking after they rested, that night, everyone was able to rest quite well.


    After all, staying in the Exquisite Immortal Mansion was much better than sleeping outside, right?


    With no words exchanged during the night, everyone got up the next morning, washed up, and Jiang Liu slowly cooked some in porridge with a few buns. Although it was simple fare, it tasted quite good.


    After that, Jiang Liu packed up the Exquisite Immortal Mansion and continued on their way.


    Walking through the mountain range, the mountain roads were rugged, but fortunately, Jiang Liu wasn''t in a hurry to travel, so the group of them felt like they were just enjoying a scenic mountain outing.


    After several days of travel like this, they happened to find a thatched hut at the foot of the mountain, where an old woman around sixty years old stood outside, looking out into the distance with her back toward them.


    "Hello, Benefactor," Jiang Liu greeted the old woman as he approached the thatched hut and noticed her longing gaze.


    "Oh, you, you all are demons!?" The old woman turned around and, seeing Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing''s fierce and ugly appearances, took a great fright and stumbled backward.


    Quick to react, Jiang Liu caught the old woman to prevent her from falling to the ground, "Benefactor, you misunderstand. My disciples may look unsightly, but they are indeed my followers. I am a monk on a pilgrimage to Western Heaven to seek scriptures from the Buddha!"


    "Oh, I see now!"


    Although still visibly shaken, the old woman seemed much reassured seeing Jiang Liu''s clean and schrly appearance.


    It''s like a mad dog without an owner can be scary, but if the mad dog has an owner who can control it, it tends to be somewhat more reassuring.


    Naturally, seeing Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing were somewhat the same concept.


    "What''s going on, Master?" Sun Wukong, watching Jiang Liu strike up a conversation with the old woman, felt a bit surprised internally, not understanding why his master would do such a thing.


    However, he didn''t say anything, just quietly watched.


    Having followed his master for nearly a year, Sun Wukong hade to understand the nature of Jiang Liu and knew that his actions always had a purpose.


    "Benefactor, I see you standing at your door, looking into the distance. Is there something wrong at home? Perhaps I may be able to help," Jiang Liu offered warmly.


    Yes, this was Jiang Liu''s purpose.


    Recently, Jiang Liu felt he hadn''t received a mission for a long time. Seeing the old woman''s situation, it seemed she might need help, so Jiang Liu took the initiative to inquire, hoping to trigger a mission.


    After all, if he could receive a mission and help someone in the process, why not?


    "Thank you for your kindness, Master. My husband went into the mountains yesterday to gather herbs and hasn''t returned all night. I''m very worried. Early today, my granddaughter also went to look for him, but she hasn''t returned yet either. Now, I am left alone at home, deeply concerned," the old woman expressed her worry.


    "The mountains, you say? I happen to be heading there myself. Do you need help?" Jiang Liu asked, guiding the conversation.


    "If so, thank you so much, Master!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s offer to help voluntarily, the old woman thanked him.


    Mission System, no response. This caused Jiang Liu to sigh inwardly, feeling that the system was a bit too inhuman.


    Jiang Liu continued, "Benefactor, for me to help, you need to formally ask me to do so!"


    "Formally ask?" His words made the old woman pause, then with a distressed expression, she said, "But I, an olddy, have nothing of value¡­"


    "No, you misunderstand, I am not asking for any kind ofpensation!" Jiang Liu shook his head, knowing his previous words could indeed be misleading.


    But there was nothing he could do¡ªif the other party didn''t formally ask him to do something, the Mission System wouldn''t respond at all. It wasn''t humanized in the slightest.


    "Oh, I, an olddy, request the help of the Master to find my husband and granddaughter in the mountains!"


    Although she did not understand why Jiang Liu insisted on a formal request, the old woman nodded earnestly and made her request.


    "Prompt: Mission ''Reunion'' triggered. Mission requirements: sessfully help the old woman find her husband and granddaughter. Sess: Jiang Liu gains 100000 Experience Points and a Perfect Level Treasure Chest *1. Failure: lose 100000 Experience Points. ept/Reject?"


    As expected, as soon as the old woman formally requested his help, the system''s prompt arrived on cue, triggering a passive mission.


    "Indeed, this system doesn''t have the slightest hint of Spiritual Wisdom; it''s all pre-programmed without any humanization!" Hearing the system prompt, Jiang Liu shook his head inwardly.


    I didn''t even botherining anymore and just took on the mission.


    Sure enough, sessfully triggering the mission made Jiang Liu happy, even though it was just a mission for 100,000 Experience Points and a Perfect Level Treasure Chest. But to Jiang Liu, even a small mosquito is meat.


    100,000 Experience Points was enough to make up for four or five days of cultivation.


    After casually epting the mission, Jiang Liu and hispanions continued westward into the mountains, followed by the grateful cries of the old woman behind them.


    "Master, moving deep into the mountains just to find two people is like looking for a needle in a haystack!" Zhu Bajie asked, walking beside Jiang Liu.


    Jiang Liu''s actions seemed somewhat out of ce, taking the initiative to help others, especially in such a difficult matter. Zhu Bajie never thought his master was such a warm-hearted person.


    "Bajie, you''re wrong there. No matter what, we are monks, don''t you understandpassion? Every time someone asked for help along the way, have I ever refused?" Jiang Liu replied righteously upon hearing Zhu Bajie''s words.


    Being able to look for someone andplete a task was indeed like looking for a needle in a haystack as Zhu Bajie had said. If it could drag on for a few more days, that would be even better.


    To Jiang Liu, this mission was still necessary.


    "Hmm, that''s true indeed. Master has always been kind-hearted!" Sun Wukong nodded in agreement as Jiang Liu finished speaking.


    Thinking about it, it seemed that on the road, his master had really not turned down any requests and had agreed to everything.


    "Is that so? Then why did you straight up refuse when I, Old Pig, asked you to teach me so I could be adored by all the girls!?" As soon as Jiang Liu mentioned it, Zhu Bajie felt even more heartbroken.


    It seemed that his master agreed to others'' requests, but refused his own?


    Zhu Bajie''s words were not only distressing for him, but Jiang Liu also felt quite stung.


    Thinking back to when Zhu Bajie had asked him and triggered a passive mission with rewards of a billion Experience Points and a Divine Level Treasure Chest, it had taken a tremendous amount of willpower for Jiang Liu to refuse that mission. Find more to read at My Virtual Library Empire


    After all, passive missions came with penalties. Jiang Liu didn''t believe he had the ability to turn Zhu Bajie into a Casanova. If he had really epted that mission, it was very likely that he''d have to suffer a penalty of a billion Experience Points.


    Thinking about such consequences made Jiang Liu hesitant.


    That appeared to be the only passive mission Jiang Liu had ever refused.


    "About that, the task you asked of your teacher, if your teacher couldn''t do it, how could I agree to it? When someone promises something, they must fulfill it, mustn''t they? I am a man of my word!"


    Though his mind was flooded with thoughts of the billion Experience Points'' reward and penalty, Jiang Liu managed to answer with a calm demeanor.


    "Um, Master is right for sure! He is indeed a man of his word!" Walking along the way, Sun Wukong appreciated this aspect of Jiang Liu the most. Unlike that Old Tathagata, Sun Wukong naturally couldn''t help but speak up.


    "Monkey Brother, are you perhaps the ''flunky'' Master mentioned recently? Always the one shouting ''666'' by the side?" Hearing Sun Wukong consistently supporting Jiang Liu, Zhu Bajie said with a strange look.


    It seemed that this role was usually his, right?


    "Fool, what I, Old Sun, sayes from the heart!" Sun Wukong replied, giving Zhu Bajie an annoyed look.


    "Second Brother, actually, Master is really right! As monks, we should embodypassion!" Not just Sun Wukong giving support, but at this moment, the usually marginalized and typically silent Sha Wujing, who rarely spoke up, suddenly did.


    At this moment, Sha Wujing nearly felt like crying. If Master hadn''t mentioned monkhood, he might have really forgotten his own status as a monk.


    Gambling, drinking, eating meat...


    Do these activities suit a monk?


    Fortunately, having apassionate heart still fits the identity of a monk, finally a saving grace.


    All along, Sha Wujing had been a quiet, almost invisible person. Sun Wukong was naturally frank and would often bicker, even daring to talk back to Master. Zhu Bajie always thought he was Master''s top flunky, always doing good talk and ttering Master.


    But now, listening to both Sun Wukong and Sha Wujing support Master, it seemed like he was the one conflicting with Master?


    With this thought, Zhu Bajie was suddenly rmed.


    "Master, you really have a heart of a Bodhisattva, warm and enthusiastic,passionate and generous, and you care immensely for us disciples..."@@novelbin@@


    A stream of praises flowed from Zhu Bajie''s mouth, leaving Jiang Liu and others stunned.

 Chapter 227 What are they playing?

    As Jiang Liu silently chanted in his heart, soon, a semi-transparent character panel appeared in front of him.


    ID: Mysterious Woman (Alias) (Blue).


    Gender: Female.


    Profession: Demon n


    Level: 70.


    Equipment: White Bone Whip (Legendary Level)...


    Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on the character panel, and he quickly spotted the information he needed.


    From this character panel, Jiang Liu naturally learned the identity of this woman.


    Just like when Nezha arrived, because he changed his appearance, his name was also an alias, but his profession, level, and equipment could not be hidden.


    Simrly, this woman must have used a transformation ability that makes it hard to discern her true face, yet her profession, character level, and equipment could not be concealed.


    Level 70? That''s not a low level!


    Sun Wukong is at level 80, so he''s at the peak of Taiyi True Immortal. So, what about level 70? It could be considered the peak of Heavenly Immortal, right? Stay updated with My Virtual Library Empire


    Of course, being from the Demon n, it means she''s a Demon Immortal.


    This strength is also enough to make her renowned in the Heavenly Court, someone like one of the Four Heavenly Kings...


    "So, is Lady White Bones herself visiting?!" Seeing the character level and especially equipment like the White Bone Whip, Jiang Liu understood the identity of this female demon.


    After all, following the original plot in the novel, after the ordeal at Wuzhuang Temple, it was time for the three battles with Lady White Bones.


    However, something seemed off about this situation, as it was getting dark. While he and his disciples were eating and ying Mahjong, why did Lady White Bones choose to knock on the door at night?


    Of course, even though he felt the plot was a bit off, wasn''t Lady White Bones delivering herself¡ªa walking experience bounty¡ªright to his door?


    Although Jiang Liu was surprised, he was mostly pleased.


    "Master!? Master, what''s wrong with you? What are you thinking about!?" As Jiang Liu pondered in surprise and delight, Lady White Bones noticed his thoughtful silence and couldn''t help but inquire.


    "Oh, it''s nothing, just a bit distracted. Big sister, since you''re hungry, pleasee in!" Regaining focus, Jiang Liu''s face wore a warm smile as he invited Lady White Bones inside.


    During the conversation, he directly led her towards the great hall.


    "What a warm-hearted Little Monk..."


    Following Jiang Liu, Lady White Bones watched his figure, her lips slightly curled with a smile, and unconsciously, she lightly licked her lips.


    Being a woman, she naturally preferred young men. The old man and the young girls weren''t really to Lady White Bones'' taste. Given a choice, Jiang Liu was undoubtedly superior in her eyes.


    A clean, handsome, exceedingly young, and kind monk such a fine example was rare for her even across many years.


    This made Lady White Bones almost unable to resist raising her hand slowly, almost about to make a move...


    However, upon directly entering the great hall with Jiang Liu, Lady White Bones instantly lowered her hand that had just been raised and a serious look shed across her eyes.


    Arge table, and Sun Wukong and his two brothers each sat on one side.


    Sun Wukong was bearable, just a short, thin monkey after all, but Zhu Bajie''s appearance was very robust, over 2 meters tall with a pig''s head and human body¡ªclearly a demon creature.


    Of course, the most striking was Sha Wujing, standing over 3 meters tall like a giant, his green-faced, ferocious appearance even more fearsome!


    Looking at the few around the mahjong table, Lady White Bones inwardly grew cautious. It seemed, the Little Monk wasn''t alone? Did he have a few ferocious-looking demon kinds by his side?


    Even so, she wasn''t in a rush to act; it was better to carefully ascertain the situation first.


    "Ah! A demon! There''s a demon here!" Despite her myriad thoughts, Lady White Bones reacted quickly, seeing Sun Wukong and the others, she disyed a frightened expression, fell to the ground, and started shouting loudly.


    "Well done, that acting could win an Oscar!" If Jiang Liu hadn''t earlier known her identity and level 70 via the character panel feature, he might have really been deceived by her.


    This made Jiang Liu inwardly marvel at such acting prowess, no wonder the Tang Monk was deceived by her in the original Journey to the West, leading to discord among the disciples and even driving Sun Wukong away.


    In terms of acting, Lady White Bones could indeed be considered the top actress in the world of Journey to the West!


    "Don''t be afraid, big sister, all three of them are my disciples. Although they look ugly, they are also people of the Buddhist Sect!"


    Since Lady White Bones was yacting, Jiang Liu didn''t rush into action; instead, he decided to watch and see what she was up to before speaking a few words offort.


    "Oh, it was your disciple, you say? But she looks quite terrifying!" Upon hearing Jiang Liu''sforting words, Lady White Bones''s expression stabilized slightly as she whispered.


    As she spoke, she slowly got up from the ground.


    "Benefactor, it so happens that I have some leftover food from tonight, please help yourself!" Seeing Lady White Bones stand up, Jiang Liu brought out some of the leftover food from the evening, dished it into a bowl, and handed it to Lady White Bones, saying,


    "Thank you, little master, you are really a good person! If it weren''t for you, I might have had nowhere to go tonight and would have been carried off by a wild beast!"


    As she took the bowl of food from Jiang Liu, Lady White Bones looked immensely grateful and said,


    However, as she looked down at the bowl of food, Lady White Bones''s expression faltered slightly, "What? There''s fish, shrimp, and meat, this is the food of your Buddhist Sect!? Aren''t you supposed to be vegetarians?"


    "Amitabha, the Buddha keeps us in his heart though meat and wine pass through our intestines. We monks are different from others; we don''t follow rules and precepts, only cultivating the spirit!"


    Upon hearing Lady White Bones''sment, Jiang Liu quietly chanted a Buddhist scripture before responding.


    "You can cultivate the spirit without observing the precepts? If that''s really possible, then your Buddhist skills aren''t modest, little master!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s exnation, Lady White Bones looked at him skeptically.


    "Oh? Big sister, you understand Buddhism as well!?" Lady White Bones''s remark surprisingly made Jiang Liu look at her in astonishment.


    It was hard to fathom¡ªcould the ferocious and ruthless White Bone Demon from the original plot also understand Buddhist teachings?


    "Only a little, myte husband was obsessed with Buddhism; I was merely influenced by him," Lady White Bones nodded slightly; she didn''t seem to want to borate on this topic and lowered her head to eat.


    Seeing that Lady White Bones didn''t want to talk, Jiang Liu didn''t press her. Just then, Zhu Bajie called on Jiang Liu toe over to the table. Therefore, Jiang Liu excused himself and sat down by the Mahjong table on the other side of the hall.


    "Master, who is this woman? Why did you invite her in!?" Sun Wukong, while ying Mahjong, quietly asked Jiang Liu.


    "Indeed, master, we are after all people of the Buddhist Sect, inviting a woman in isn''t quite proper!" Following Sun Wukong''s words, Sha Wujing next to him nodded and murmured in agreement.


    "Hehe, Junior Brother Sha makes a good point. Master, let me go convince her. If she really has nowhere to go, she can sleep in my room tonight!"


    Seeing the young woman that Lady White Bones had transformed into, Zhu Bajie''s eyes suddenly sparkled as he chuckled.


    "Bajie, stop talking nonsense and draw your card!" Jiang Liu, annoyed, said to him.


    Even though Zhu Bajie was much stronger than Lady White Bones, sometimes, mishaps could happen in the most unexpected ces, let alone in bed.


    Zhu Bajie was now on the same side as Sun Wukong, and Jiang Liu didn''t want him to encounter any mishaps.


    "Oh, alright!"


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, although Zhu Bajie felt somewhat reluctant, since the day Jiang Liu had revealed the true nature of their Journey to the West and even given him a Resurrection Scroll, Zhu Bajie had truly bonded with Jiang Liu.


    Zhu Bajie would still listen to his master.


    What exactly was Lady White Bones''s scheme ining here? Jiang Liu didn''t currently know. Since she wanted to yact, Jiang Liu would just y along for now.


    Therefore, as he and his disciples yed Mahjong, theypletely ignored her, letting her finish her meal first.


    Never mind that Jiang Liu and his disciples were all ying Mahjong at the moment; Lady White Bones carefully observed them, particrly focusing her attention on Sha Wujing for a moment.


    It couldn''t be helped; of the people at the Mahjong table, Sha Wujiing had thergest build and seemed the strongest.


    Her thoughts wereplete in her mind, but her face remained impassive as Lady White Bones casually took a bite of her food.


    "Huh?" After eating a piece of fish, Lady White Bones suddenly paused, looking at her bowl in surprise, finding the food incredibly delicious, far beyond what she had imagined.@@novelbin@@


    The speed of her eating visibly increased.


    Since the day Sun Wukong found chilies in the Demon Realm, spicy vor had be an essential part of their meals these days. Moreover, with Jiang Liu''s cooking skills, which werepletely different from the predominant steaming and boiling methods of this era,


    In Lady White Bones''s view, this meal was a delicacy she had never experienced before.


    "Delicious!" The speed of her eating increased even more, and Lady White Bones''s eyes brightened.


    Originally, Lady White Bones had only asked for some food as an excuse to enter; her real goal was still Jiang Liu, the tender and handsome Little Monk who was her true desire.


    However, lost in a moment of distraction, by the time Lady White Bones remembered her original intent, she looked down to discover that she had already eaten all the food in her bowl.


    Upon reflection, Lady White Bones didn''t rush to wash the dishes; instead, she held onto her bowl, pretending she hadn''t finished eating, and casually walked behind Jiang Liu.


    What were these Little Monks ying at?

 Chapter 228 The Three "Battles" with the White Bone Demon

    ying Mahjong seemed like just a simple game, but after learning more about it, one could find it intriguing and even be addicted.


    In his previous life, Mahjong was regarded as a quintessential part of the national culture, naturally possessing its unique charm; the ways to y Mahjong had been developed into a wide variety of methods.


    In the past, when women had nothing to do, wasn''t gathering to y a few rounds of Mahjong the best pastime?


    Jiang Liu and his disciples had agreed to y a few rounds; naturally, they were very enthusiastic about it. They yed Mahjong for about a Chinese Hour.


    Even Lady White Bones had been holding an empty bowl and watching for a long time.


    She seemed to have forgotten her original purpose foring to the courtyard and simply found the Mahjong game yed by Jiang Liu and his disciples quite interesting.


    "Alright, it''s gettingte, I''ll go rest," Jiang Liu estimated inwardly that it was probably around 9 in the evening, and he stood up.


    Firstly, it was time for him to cultivate and not be lost in worldly pleasures, and secondly, since Lady White Bones had been standing aside for so long, he should check out what she was really after.


    Why had she just stood to the side and watched them y Mahjong for so long without taking any other action?


    "Master, you''re leaving the table just like that? What a bummer¡­" Zhu Bajie and the others clearly hadn''t had their fill yet and felt regretful upon hearing what Jiang Liu said.


    "Yeah, yeah, Master, let''s y a few more rounds!" Sun Wukong also nodded, agreeing.


    They were just starting to enjoy themselves and now the Master was leaving?


    "Amitabha¡­" Sha Wujing didn''t say a word; whatever needed to be said had already been expressed by his two senior brothers. There was no point in him repeating it.


    Of course, more importantly, Sha Wujing had always felt that gambling was wrong, yet he couldn''t resist it. Given that, how could he have the nerve to ask to continue?


    "We already agreed earlier, we were only going to y a few rounds!" Jiang Liu shook his head as he nced at Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie.


    "Actually, I''ve been watching from the side for a while and feel like I''ve got the gist of it. Since the master is going to rest, why don''t I join you and y a few rounds?" At that moment, Lady White Bones suddenly intervened, volunteering herself.


    "You!?" Sun Wukong looked at Lady White Bones skeptically upon hearing her words.


    "Great, great, please take a seat!" Zhu Bajie, on the other hand, lit up upon hearing her and eagerly nodded.


    Master was leaving, but they could swap him for a beautiful woman at the table? What an unexpected surprise, right?


    "Sure!" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Lady White Bones didn''t bother with niceties, ced her empty bowl aside, and promptly took the seat Jiang Liu had just vacated.


    The rustling noise of shuffling Mahjong tiles started, and soon, the group was deeply engaged in the game at the table.


    "Am I misunderstanding something?" Jiang Liu didn''t rush off; instead, as he watched his three disciples and Lady White Bones fervently battle it out at the Mahjong table, the corners of his mouth twitched slightly.


    He felt the scene before him was rather subversive.


    "Could this be considered ''battling the White Bone Demon'' as well?" Observing the intense struggle between his disciples and Lady White Bones at the Mahjong table, a thought popped into Jiang Liu''s mind.


    It seemed that calling this ''battling the White Bone Demon'' might actually make some sense?


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu cast aside the clutter of thoughts in his mind and did not return to his room to rest, but instead sat down cross-legged in the great hall, quietly cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique.@@novelbin@@


    At the same time, he also kept an eye on Lady White Bones'' every move.


    Whether Sun Wukong and the others had detected Lady White Bones'' true identity, Jiang Liu didn''t know, but he was aware of it and naturally needed to keep a close watch.


    Although Sun Wukong''s Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze were powerful and should be able to see through the identity of a demon, surely, he didn''t maintain that state all the time, right?


    Just like with his character panel, he had to harbor some suspicion and activate the feature to unveil Lady White Bones'' identity.


    Otherwise, if he had no suspicions, wouldn''t he have been misled by Lady White Bones?


    Notification: Experience Points +6.


    Notification: Experience Points +6. Your adventure continues at My Virtual Library Empire


    Notification: Experience Points +6.


    ¡­


    Intent on keeping an eye on Lady White Bones, Jiang Liu fell into deep cultivation before he knew it and soon entered meditation.


    That night, only the sounds of the three battling Lady White Bones resonated throughout,sting all night until dawn''s light began to show, that was when Lady White Bones stood up, bidding farewell to Sun Wukong and the others.


    "Hehehe, you''ve lost quite a bit to this Old Pig overnight. Here''s your IOU, please press your handprint¡­"


    However, Zhu Bajie just chuckled, taking out an IOU and saying to Lady White Bones.


    ying Mahjong? Zhu Bajie dered he had never lost, always winning handsomely every time.


    "Hmph!" Seeing Zhu Bajie''s smug look, Lady White Bones felt very displeased, especially after almost losing a whole night, she found him increasingly intolerable.


    Yet, as a willing gambler epting her losses, Lady White Bones also snorted coldly and helplessly pressed her handprint onto the I.O.U.


    "Right, now off you go, and who knows if you''ll evere back, don''t you want to leave something as coteral? Maybe your shoes, or some personal clothing or something..."


    After securing the I.O.U., Zhu Bajie suddenly gleamed at Lady White Bones with shining eyes.


    It looked like he couldn''t wait to get a piece of her clothing for coteral.


    "You dirty pig! Am I the kind of person who would deny her debts? Hmph!" Although Zhu Bajie''s words made sense, they still offended Lady White Bones, who huffed angrily before turning to walk toward the door.


    There was no help for it, leaving something as coteral was something Lady White Bones had considered, but after ying all night, she had almost lost everything she had on her.


    Even if she wanted to leave coteral, she had nothing left to give, she couldn''t really strip off her clothes could she?


    "s, what a pity!" Watching Lady White Bones walk away, Zhu Bajie shook his head, regret on his face.


    After their master woke up and they had breakfast, they were going to continue on their journey. In truth, Zhu Bajie hadn''t really expected Lady White Bones to actually deliver the money, it had all been an excuse to keep a piece of her personal clothing.


    Sure enough, as the sun rose, Jiang Liu alsopleted his night-long cultivation and looked at his character panel. His experience points had risen a bit, and he nodded in satisfaction.


    "Eh? What about the big sister fromst night?" Seeing his disciples all present and ounted for but Lady White Bones missing, Jiang Liu asked with surprise.


    "Her? She yed Mahjong with us all through the night, and left as soon as it was daylight," Zhu Bajie responded upon hearing Jiang Liu''s inquiry.


    "yed Mahjong all night and left?!", hearing this, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly.


    Then what on earth was the real purpose of Lady White Bones'' visitst night?


    ...


    Leaving aside what was going through Jiang Liu''s mind, in another dwelling, two beautiful maids were sitting together in conversation, both looking puzzled and anxious.


    "How strange, ourdy went down the mountainst night, saying she was going to check whether the master of that estate was human or demon. Why hasn''t shee back yet?" said one maid, the confusion apparent in her voice.


    "Indeed, could it be that there''s a formidable demon hiding in the estate and ourdy has not returned as a result?" The other maid, too, looked anxious as she spoke.


    Lady White Bones'' failure to return home all night clearly made them nervous ¡ª such a thing had seemed unprecedented, hadn''t it?


    "What should we do? Should we light the signal for the Little Demons and go check the estate?" One maid suggested after some thought.


    "Perhaps not. Maybe ourdy got held up by some mundane matter. Besides, if there really is a formidable demon kind that even ourdy has fallen prey to, wouldn''t we just be marching to our deaths?" The other maid shook her head, showing a bit moreposure.


    Just as the two maids were worrying, a figure entered the dwelling.


    With a graceful figure and stunning looks, it was Lady White Bones.


    Only, her expression seemed displeased, and she appeared lost in thought.


    "Mydy, you''ve returned? How did it go, what did you find out about the estate?" Seeing Lady White Bones return, the two maids let out a sigh of relief and approached to ask.


    "Oh, it was alright, the investigation went fairly well!" Lady White Bones replied absentmindedly, interrupted from her thoughts by her maid''s question.


    Suddenly, her heart jolted awake, "Eh? Right, what was I doing at that estatest night? Why did I end up ying Mahjong the whole night without reason!?"


    She should have tested the mettle of those demons, shouldn''t she?


    Seeing theirdy''s distracted manner, the two maids looked at each other, perplexed.


    "Lady, the old man and the young girl fromst night have been cleaned up, shall we..." One of the maids asked cautiously after a moment of silence.


    "No rush, I''m a bit tired from battling it out all night; let''s sleep on it. We''ll deal with those two after I''ve woken up," Lady White Bones said with a yawn, gesturing with her hand.


    As she spoke, she leaned back on her throne and fell into a light sleep.


    The two maids naturally stood by her side loyally, keeping watch.


    Only today, it seemed as if theirdy was mumbling some iprehensible dreams.


    Rich!


    Touch!


    Winning, hahaha...

 Chapter 230 A Gamble Where You Win Either Way

    Lady White Bones''s hospitality was genuinely exquisite. Fromst night''s meal, it was clear that although Jiang Liu and hispanions were monks, they were not averse to meat, which is why she had prepared avish feast for them that evening.


    In the sky flew swans; on the ground roamed cattle and sheep; in the water swam fish and shrimp. There were fruits, pastries, and tea...


    Of course, there was no shortage of fine wine.


    So, when the banquet was ready, the sumptuous delicacies had Zhu Bajie and the others salivating with anticipation.


    Perhaps the taste of these dishes couldn''tpare with those cooked by Jiang Liu, but in terms of the richness of the ingredients, they naturally surpassed Jiang Liu''s cooking.


    Of course, what mattered most was that one could see Lady White Bones had indeed put a lot of effort into preparing these meals.


    "Thank you for the hospitality!" After letting Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie try the food, and seeing that they were bold and fearless and that eating these things had not affected them, Jiang Liu started to eat and spoke to Lady White Bones.


    "By the way, little master, may I ask what brings you to my White Bone Cave today?"


    At the table, as the atmosphere seemed quite pleasant, Lady White Bones addressed Jiang Liu with this question.


    Hearing Lady White Bones take the initiative to ask, Jiang Liu set down his wine cup and chopsticks, looked her in the eye, and said, "Actually, I havee here today to make an inquiry." Read exclusive chapters at My Virtual Library Empire


    "At the foot of White Tiger Ridge, we passed by a thatched cottage where an old woman stood, looking forlorn as if she were waiting for her husband and daughter to return home!"


    As he mentioned this, Jiang Liu paused for a moment before continuing, "I have taken up the old woman''s request toe to White Tiger Ridge to search for her husband and granddaughter''s whereabouts. After a whole day and night of searching without a trace, I wonder if you might know where they are?"


    Jiang Liu''s words caused Lady White Bones''s expression to shift ever so slightly; she knew perfectly well who Jiang Liu was talking about.


    After a brief moment of contemtion, Lady White Bones didn''t attempt to quibble. She nodded and admitted, "Yes, I know, and the people you''re looking for should be in my White Bone Cave right now!"


    "As I thought!" Jiang Liu was not surprised by Lady White Bones''s response; everything was within his expectations.


    However, the frankness of Lady White Bones''s admission did cause Jiang Liu some surprise.@@novelbin@@


    "What? Little master, do you intend to rescue them?" Lady White Bones, without waiting for Jiang Liu to speak, asked him proactively, her gaze fixed on him.


    "Indeed, I wonder if Lady White Bones would be willing to let them go? After all, I too have made a promise to someone," Jiang Liu replied earnestly, his gaze firmly on Lady White Bones.


    "That''s impossible!"


    Lady White Bones shook her head in response to Jiang Liu''s words, "Humans hunt and kill many wild animals for food, which in their own eyes, seems natural. Simrly, most of the Demon Kind are beasts that have cultivated into demons, and in turn, hunting humans for food appears just as natural to them. This is the natural cycle of the Heavenly Dao!"


    At this point, Lady White Bones paused and continued, "Though humans are the protagonists of heaven and earth, favored by the Heavenly Dao, the Heavenly Dao is impartial. My Demon n hunting humans is also in ordance with the Heavenly Dao. Since these humans have fallen into my hands, they are my quarry. How can I simply hand them over just because you ask?"


    "Absurd, the Demon Kind hunting humans is a great taboo, yet you speak of it as if it''s the natural cycle?"


    Sha Wujing, upon hearing Lady White Bones''s words, couldn''t help but m his bowl down hard on the stone table, rebuking her angrily.


    "A great taboo?"


    Sha Wujing''s words made Lady White Bones nce at him, and then the corner of her mouth curled into a scornful smirk, "I see you also are not of the Human n, so why hold onto such archaic notions? Who decided this so-called taboo? Was it decreed by the Heavenly Dao?"


    "Isn''t it merely stipted by those so-called Immortals and Buddhas! They are but mere beings under the Heavenly Dao, yet they presume to speak on its behalf? Isn''t thatughable?"


    "What arrogant nonsense!" Hearing Lady White Bones''s words, Sha Wujing, in anger, stood up, his Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff appearing in his grasp.


    Seeing Sha Wujing''s actions, Lady White Bones''s expression also tightened as she cracked her White Bone Whip with a snap.


    The whip entwined around Sha Wujing''s Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff.


    Sha Wujing held the staff with both hands, his mana flowing, muscles in his sturdy arms bulged out prominently, and veins popped up like little worms clinging to his arms.


    Lady White Bones held the White Bone Whip, evidently also exerting force!


    The two were locked in a standoff!


    In terms of appearance, Sha Wujing, standing more than three meters tall like a giant, seemed to possess an absolute advantage. Yet in terms of strength, despite holding the Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff, Sha Wujing seemed unable to gain the upper hand.


    A fineyer of sweat had already appeared on his forehead, but he was still unable to surpass Lady White Bones in the contest of strength.


    Theprehensive strength of a person, although rted to cultivation level, spell supernatural power, and the strength of the dharma treasures, can bergely gauged by the intensity of their physical strength.


    Seeing that the strength of this evil demon was not weaker than his own, Sha Wujing was secretly astonished.


    In fact, not only was Sha Wujing secretly astonished, but Lady White Bones was even more surprised. This robust-looking fellow indeed possessed formidable strength, actually having the cultivation of the Heavenly Immortal Realm.


    However, judging from cultivation levels, although everyone belonged to the same Heavenly Immortal Realm, hers was still a notch above his.


    With a thought, Lady White Bones'' demon qi vibrated, and she went from holding the White Bone Whip in one hand to wielding it with both hands.


    Then, with both arms exerting force and a twist of her waist, the towering Sha Wujing felt an indescribable surge of power and, instantly, found himselfpletely out of control and flying through the air.


    With a bang, Sha Wujing was thrown against the wall of the cave by Lady White Bones.


    From the sound of it, Sha Wujing''s fall this time was not light.


    After flinging Sha Wujing away, the corners of Lady White Bones'' mouth lifted slightly.


    From their physical stature, Sha Wujing appeared to be the strongest of the three demons. Now that she had him subdued, the pig demon and that short, skinny monkey seemed negligible byparison.


    "Amitabha Buddha..." Watching Sha Wujing being thrown away, Jiang Liu softly chanted a Buddhist mantra, his expression unchanged, evidently having mentally prepared for all this.


    After all, the gap between their levels was quite substantial. By the time you reach the sixties or seventies, the gap between each level, in terms of cultivation or experience points, is quite enormous.


    "Lady White Bones, what a move. But if you refuse to hand over the people, do you wish to have a bout with us!?" Ignoring Sha Wujing beside him, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on Lady White Bones.


    A level 70 blue elite¡ªone wonders how many good items would drop if she were defeated?


    "Indeed!" Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Lady White Bones nodded, looking triumphant and eager.


    But before Zhu Bajie and Sun Wukong beside him could stand up to meet the challenge, Lady White Bones quickly changed the subject, "Last night, I yed mahjong all night and lost everything. I can''t ept it; my luck can''t be that bad. Today, let''s have another showdown!"


    "What!?" At Lady White Bones'' words, Jiang Liu''s face stiffened slightly, his mouth twitching as he questioned whether he had heard wrong.


    "What did you say? By having a bout, you mean ying mahjong!?" Even Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, who were ready for action, were taken aback, exchanging nces before Sun Wukong stared at Lady White Bones and asked.


    "That''s right. That guy should be the strongest among you, right? If I were to fight you again, I''d just be bullying you. Let''s settle it with mahjong today instead!" Pointing at Sha Wujing, Lady White Bones seemed very sensible.


    "She must be addicted after ying mahjong all night long, right!?" Lady White Bones'' words left Jiang Liu''s face darkened, and he inwardly sneered.


    Since she mistook Sha Wujing to be the strongest of the three, it would be logical for her to be brimming with confidence after defeating him, then proceed to overpower Wukong and Bajie and capture him as well, fitting her personality, right?


    Yet, with such a prime opportunity at hand, she chose not to use it, instead proposing to settle the oue through mahjong?


    This clearly showed how big of a mahjong addiction she had.


    After staring at Lady White Bones for a while, Zhu Bajie then took out the IOU that Lady White Bones had signed that morning and waved it about.


    "Cough cough cough, mahjong, huh? You almost lost your underwearst night, and now I have your IOU in my hands. Now you''re suggesting this? With old debts unsettled, you want to gamble again?"


    Almost lost her underwear!?


    This remark made all the demons in White Bone Cave show varying expressions.


    Lady White Bones'' face turned even more awkward, finding the pig demon to be even more annoying. She red at Zhu Bajie and immediately said to a maid beside her, "Go to the treasury, bring some silver coins, and redeem my IOU!"


    "As you wish, mdy!" Following Lady White Bones''mand, the maid by her side naturally nodded.


    "All right, today, let''s set a time limit of three Chinese Hours. After three hours, if you lose, you must stay and y mahjong with me for not one, but three years. Of course, if I lose, the old man and the girl are yours to take!"


    "Great mercy! Regardless of winning or losing, it seems I''m in for a gain!" Upon hearing Lady White Bones'' proposition, Jiang Liu looked at her somewhat strangely.


    If possible, Jiang Liu thought losing might not be a bad option either!?

 Chapter 232 Rampage

    "I''ll take it!"


    "I got it!"


    "I''ve won!"


    "Thirteen orphans!"


    ...


    At the Mahjong table, Zhu Bajie really gave off the impression of being the God of Gamblers reborn, invincible in every direction.


    In a single round of Mahjong, it often hadn''t even been five or six turns before Zhu Bajie was close to winning; his gambling luck had always been good, but today it seemed to be even better than usual. It felt as though he was in a league of his own.


    It wasn''t just Lady White Bones and her maidservant; even Jiang Liu felt like he was taking a terrible beating this round with Zhu Bajie dominating the game as if he was the only one winning against three.


    Usually, the role of the dealer at the Mahjong table rotated, but when it came to Zhu Bajie, it seemed toe to a halt.


    Eighteen consecutive rounds as the dealer, eighteen consecutive wins. This made Lady White Bones feel like her Mahjong ying experience was unprecedentedly terrible.


    Althoughst night had been a bad loss, at least there had been some wins, just more losses than wins.


    But today, looking at the time, almost half an hour had passed, and she hadn''t won a single hand.


    Of course, what was even more exaggerated was the fact that she was sitting upwind from Zhu Bajie, making it highly likely that he would "eat" whatever she discarded next, even if she discarded two or three identical tiles in a row; he still found a way to eat them, which felt exceptionally frustrating.


    Finally, after feeding Zhu Bajie for the third consecutive time and then setting off the firecracker that allowed Zhu Bajie to win, Lady White Bones mmed the Mahjong table hard and stood up.


    With a loud bang, the square Mahjong table shattered under Lady White Bones''s hands.


    Naturally, the Mahjong tiles scattered all over the floor.


    "You pig-headed cheat, have you been swindling us!?" Pointing at Zhu Bajie, Lady White Bones''s pale face contorted with anger as she shouted.


    "Mydy!" Seeing Lady White Bones''s pale face, her maidservant seemed worried and called out to her.


    "Silence!"


    However, Lady White Bones simply turned her head to cast an angry re at her maidservant and scolded sharply, causing the maidservant to shrink back, not daring to say another word.


    "Hey, hey, hey, can''t handle losing, can you?" Seeing the Mahjong table reduced to rubble, Zhu Bajie felt a little disappointed. ncing at Lady White Bones, he said.


    "I, naturally, can afford to lose, but your luck these past two games has been a bit too excessive. You must have cheated!" Lady White Bones stared angrily at Zhu Bajie and dered sternly.


    "What, can''t ept that someone has good luck? By your reasoning, should Old Zhu win or lose?" Zhu Bajie gazed displeased at Lady White Bones and retorted.


    "Amitabha, Benefactor White Bone, I understand how you feel. Gambling is like that; you can suspect him of cheating, but without evidence, it''s a bit unreasonable to treat your suspicions as fact," said Jiang Liu, hands pressed together, as he spoke to Lady White Bones.


    Rtively speaking, Lady White Bones naturally had a better impression of Jiang Liu.


    Moreover, Jiang Liu''s reasoned words indeed made it difficult for her to refute.


    "Since the Mahjong table is ruined, shall we conclude this gambling session early? As per our earlier agreement, Benefactor White Bone, would you hand over the two humans to this humble monk?"


    Jiang Liu asked Lady White Bones, not intending to argue any further on the matter.


    Usually, a person who loses at Mahjong, especially to a devastating degree, indeed feels extremely distressed.


    Then, they would push the tiles away and quit the game!


    In Jiang Liu''s view, this was probably what Lady White Bones might be thinking.


    However, this time Jiang Liu miscalcted, or rather, hepletely underestimated White Bone Demon''s enthusiasm for Mahjong.


    Even though she was losing badly and the gaming experience was terrible, White Bone Demon had no intention of giving up just yet.


    "No, we can''t just leave it at that. I request a change of seats! I refuse to sit upwind from this pig-headed cheat any longer!" As soon as she finished speaking, White Bone Demon had a little demon bring another square table.


    "Alright, then, have it your way!" Requesting a change of seats is indeed a normal request in Mahjong, so Jiang Liu could not object. He nodded in agreement to Lady White Bones''s demand.


    This time, Lady White Bones''s luck turned out to be good. After rolling the dice to determine seating changes, only Zhu Bajie and Jiang Liu needed to switch ces.


    Lady White Bones, originally upwind of Zhu Bajie, now sat downwind of him.


    "Two of Bamboos!" Zhu Bajie was the dealer and started off by discarding a Two of Bamboos.


    "I''ll take it!" Lady White Bones''s eyes lit up, and she immediately "ate" a tile.


    In an instant, she felt as though the whole world had changed.


    Indeed, changing seats was the way to go; she finally "ate" a tile, which almost brought her to tears.


    "Eh? Is it really effective?" Witnessing this scene, Jiang Liu''s expression subtly changed as he marveled inwardly.


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu drew a tile, which turned out to be useless, so he discarded it. "Nine of Bamboos!"


    "Hahaha, I''ve won!" Seeing the Nine of Bamboos discarded by Jiang Liu, Lady White Bones''s eyes sparkled, and sheughed triumphantly.


    "Sorry, I won!" However, as Lady White Bones spoke, Zhu Bajie had already pushed his tiles forward.


    "This..." The expression on Lady White Bones''s face froze, then turned even paler.


    I always felt a breath stuck in my mouth, very ufortable, yet I could do nothing about it.


    Following the sequence, Zhu Bajie was upwind from me, and he would win the hand. There''s no such thing as winning simultaneously with one hit.


    With pent-up frustration, the White Bone Demon continued to y several rounds. Your next read is at My Virtual Library Empire


    "I''ve won!"


    "Sorry, I''m just one step ahead of you!"


    "Thirteen Wonders!"


    "I''ve won again!"


    "Pig head, this tile, are you going to win with it?"


    "Oh, you want to win? Then I won''t be greedy, I''ll just settle for a modest win!"


    ...


    With a bang, Lady White Bones mmed her hand on the table, breaking the second one into pieces.


    "s, poor thing..." Seeing Lady White Bones lose herposure in a fit of rage, Jiang Liu sighed in deep sympathy.


    Giving Lady White Bones a sympathetic nce, Jiang Liu couldpletely understand what she was feeling now.


    Zhu Bajie''s gambling luck was always explosively good, something Jiang Liu was well aware of, but ying Mahjong with the White Bone Demon today was particrly mystifying, as if Zhu Bajie perfectly countered Lady White Bones.


    She always seemed to be feeding cards to Zhu Bajie when she was downwind.


    Okay, finally it was my turn to change seats and sit downwind of Zhu Bajie, and then what? Time after time, Zhu Bajie snatched the winning tile before me.


    Even Jiang Liu, as a mere spectator, found this dismal beyond endurance, let alone Lady White Bones herself.


    "No more ying! Just like this!"


    After smashing the second table, Lady White Bones spoke, standing up furiously. Herplexion was pale as gold foil while she spoke.


    "Mydy, you, your face is so pale!" The maid beside her was startled by the appearance of the White Bone Demon and blurted out.


    "Ah! Mydy, she..."


    Following the maid''s exmation, other demons in the White Bone Cave, seeing Lady White Bones'' extremely pale face, also startled and looked at her with horror.


    "You, go bring those two out and hand them over, tell them to get lost!" Lady White Bones said sharply; her eyes gleaming with a strange red light as she ordered the two maids beside her.


    "Mydy, you, it''s better not to agree, eat those two humans first, you, you look kind of scary!" The two maids, terrified by Lady White Bones'' appearance, started to step back.


    "What''s happening!? Is this what they call seeing red from losing!? Those eyes are really red!" Jiang Liu was a bit frightened himself at Lady White Bones'' transformation and shocked inwardly.


    The original Lady White Bones had fair skin, a plump figure, and a stunning beauty, to say the least.


    But now, she had a frighteningly paleplexion and was ring with a pair of blood-red eyes, inducing a deep and ominous sense of evil.


    "Are you intending to defy yourdy''s orders!?"@@novelbin@@


    Lady White Bones'' voice became piercingly sharp, like a steel needle scratching on iron, giving one goosebumps just from listening.


    No sooner had she finished her words than she flicked her wrist, and the White Bone Whipshed out.


    The whip moved like a flexible serpent, instantly wrapping around the maid''s neck.


    With a snap, the maid''s neck was twisted and broken by the White Bone Whip.


    As the maid fell to the ground, her limbs twitched slightly before she stilled, then returned to her true form, a cat demon.


    "Ah! Mydy is having an attack!" With their personal maid taken down in one strike by Lady White Bones, all the demons in the White Bone Cave cried out in rm and began to flee in every direction.


    "This isn''t right... Lady White Bones seems a bit off! She gets sick?"


    As the demons scattered in panic and Lady White Bones appeared to have lost all reason, Jiang Liu was taken aback.


    "Wukong! Let''s subdue her first!" Even her own close maid wasn''t safe from her. Clearly, she was in a rampage.


    No matter what had caused this outburst, Jiang Liu felt it was best to subdue her first.


    "Right, Master!" Hearing Jiang Liu''smand, Sun Wukong hurriedly nodded and took out the Jingu Bang.


    Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra.


    Vajra Mantra.


    Guanyin Mantra.


    Silencing Zen.


    Sheep Transformation Technique


    ...


    Not caring whether his skills would actually work, Jiang Liu let loose all of his abilities in order to maximize his Contribution Points during the battle.

 Chapter 234 The Life and Death of Lady White Bones

    "You monk, ourdy sincerely offered you hospitality, and yet you raised your hand against us. No need to pretend anymore, kill or sh as you like, I won''t frown a bit!"


    The maid of Lady White Bones, however, appeared quite tough, her anger ring as she stared at Jiang Liu and spoke.


    "Although you did indeed seem very enthusiastic, from the looks of White Bone Benefactor, even you can strike down others. Could it be that we should not fight back when attacked?"


    Jiang Liu''s gaze fell upon this maid as he spoke.


    In fact, Jiang Liu was also somewhat curious about the appearance of Lady White Bones. What''s going on? Suddenly spiraling into madness for no reason?


    "Hmph, ourdy just fell ill, that''s all. Had it not been for you, how would she have fallen ill?"


    The maid snorted coldly. Although she was also somewhat horrified by Lady White Bones'' appearance, having followed her for a hundred years, she had a deep understanding of her and knew that she couldn''t be med. Find your next read on My Virtual Library Empire


    "Fell ill? What''s the situation? Tell me!" Jiang Liu inquired, raising his eyebrows slightly.


    "Ourdy is a member of the Demon n, formed from white bones. Therefore, to maintain her beautiful appearance, she must drink human blood every month. Only fresh living human blood can bring vitality, otherwise, she would turn into a skeleton!" the maid exined.


    "Even if she turned into a skeleton, that wouldn''t necessarily cause her to go into a frenzy, would it?" Jiang Liu asked, his brows slightly furrowed in surprise.


    "Ourdy has been a demon for over a thousand years now, and she must drink a bowl of human blood every month. She has grown ustomed to it over the years. I don''t know when it started, but if she goes too long without drinking, she bes irritable and cruel..." The maid paused and then continued.@@novelbin@@


    Jiang Liu''s brow deeply furrowed at this statement. Having lived for over a thousand years, eating at least one person per month, over all these years, she has consumed at least ten thousand people, right?


    No wonder there are no residents around White Tiger Ridge, the ce looks deste. Anyone with a bit of ability must have fled long ago, right?


    "Humph, kill this evil demon. She''s already addicted to eating people!" Sun Wukong, who was standing nearby, grimly revealed a corner of his mouth and spoke with a murderous glint in his eyes.


    "Addicted to eating people?" Jiang Liu asked, looking at Sun Wukong somewhat curiously.


    "Master, do you really not know?"


    Sun Wukong looked back at Jiang Liu with surprise and replied, "Human flesh and blood are greatly nourishing for the demons, which is why many of them can''t resist hunting humans. Do you think, after a Fierce Tiger has tasted blood and flesh, it could ever endure a diet of just vegetables and radishes every day?"


    Well, Sun Wukong''s analogy was quite vivid.


    So, to put it in modern terms, Lady White Bones is like someone who has developed an addiction?


    Or rather, something akin to drug dependency?


    "Wukong, have you ever eaten people?" Without rushing to consider Lady White Bones'' situation, Jiang Liu fell silent for a moment before asking Sun Wukong.


    "I, Old Sun, haven''t eaten any since I sought Immortals and seeded in my cultivation!" Sun Wukong paused a bit before answering.


    "Before I, Old Sun, embarked on my journey to seek the Dao, hunters often came to Flower Fruit Mountain to capture my fellow monkeys. As the Monkey King, I naturally led my kin in resistance, and I killed quite a few. In those days, I was naive and acted on my nature, and I did eat some of them!"


    Sun Wukong''s words made Jiang Liu nod his head in understanding. Before he became a disciple, Sun Wukong was not much different from ordinary demon monkeys; indeed, calling him a Demon Monkey was quite apt.


    Not until he traveled across the sea to seek the way and met Ancestor Bodhi did he truly achieve cultivation sess.


    It seems that Ancestor Bodhi would never allow him to engage in eating humans again.


    After asking Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu nced at Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing beside him.


    "Hehehe, master, I, Old Pig, am the most honest and simple..." Seeing Jiang Liu''s gaze turning towards him, Zhu Bajie shrank his head back and revealed a sycophantic smile.


    Waving his hand, Jiang Liu indicated that Zhu Bajie did not need to continue, then turned his gaze towards Sha Wujing on the side.


    "Amitabha!" Sha Wujing bowed his head, murmuring a Buddha mantra in a repentant manner.


    Alright, these two, although reincarnated from celestial beings, had entirely indulged themselves after bing demons, relishing in eating humans.


    In short, in the world of Journey to the West, demons eating humans is basically amon urrence. Given such arge environment, Jiang Liu inwardly sighed deeply.


    From a standpoint of justice, while Lady White Bones'' actions are entirely without fault, the fact that she had consumed tens of thousands of people was still something Jiang Liu found difficult to ept.


    However, from a personal standpoint, no matter how wrong Lady White Bones was, she had at least never tried to harm him, and that was a fact.


    To put it simply, Lady White Bones was a mass murderer, but at least this murderer had never harmed him personally!


    Of course, more importantly, this murderer was quite capable, and I happened to find that useful.


    With a level of 70 and a Blue Elite Level profile, that''s not low at all¡ªif I could subdue her, she would be a fine assistant in the future.


    Thus, after some thought, Jiang Liu had made up his mind.


    A moment passed, and the White Bone Demon, severely wounded and unconscious, saw her health bar slowly recover a bit. Although only a sliver of health remained, she gradually regained consciousness.


    Despite wearing luxurious clothes, beneath the fabric was no longer a body of flesh but a chilling skeleton.


    "Why, why haven''t you killed me!?" The Lady White Bones, waking up from the daze, looked towards Jiang Liu and the others, with two mes of Soul Fire flickering in her empty eye sockets.


    The flickering Soul Fire conveyed a sense of surprise, shock, and anger.


    "Amitabha, I''vee to understand your situation," Jiang Liu murmured a Buddhist chant and continued, "Even though you''ve never harmed me, you''ve injured countless humans. As you said, having in so many people, meeting your end at the hands of humans is also part of the cycle of justice, isn''t it?"


    "Hmph, indeed, you make sense; I have long anticipated that this day woulde! If you''re going to kill me, then do it!" Lady White Bones''s gaze fixed on Jiang Liu, her voice remarkably calm.


    When her own life and death were at stake, she surprisingly agreed with Jiang Liu''s words.


    "Heh heh heh, you, Evil Demon, indeed have some fate!" Seeing that Lady White Bones could face her own life and death so calmly, Sun Wukong raised his eyebrows and regarded her with some admiration.


    Previously, Lady White Bones had argued that humans hunt animals, which then cultivate into demons to hunt humans, affirming it as the cycle of righteousness. Although there''s some logic to what she said, in Jiang Liu''s view, it was just an excuse she made to justify eating humans.


    But now, seeing her facing her situation with suchposure caused Jiang Liu to see her differently as well.


    In terms of the real world, this would be the difference between a hypocritical saint and a true saint, wouldn''t it?


    The so-called hypocritical saints talk the talk but don''t walk the walk, preferring to demand that others live up to moral and ethical standards that they themselves can''t meet.


    For example, someone who speaks ofpassion and disdain for wealth yet betrays a friend for profit epitomizes a hypocritical saint.


    But a true saint is different. They not only expect good deeds from others but also adhere to the same standards, demanding the same of themselves!


    "Amitabha, in fact, as a monk,passion is in my heart. If you can promise me that you will no longer consume humans, I can spare your life," Jiang Liu said after a moment of silence, addressing Lady White Bones.


    Lady White Bones fell silently into contemtion. Merely forswearing the consumption of humans meant she could live?


    Was this trade worth it?


    "So, what you''re saying is that I may kill but not eat? It''s not reasonable. If a deity descends to subdue demons and protect the way, am I not allowed to fight back?" After a moment of silence, Lady White Bones queried Jiang Liu.


    "Of course, if someone wants to harm you, you naturally have the right to defend yourself, but you may kill, not eat," Jiang Liu nodded, speaking seriously.


    "Not eat? Would that not be wasteful? When you humans hunt, killing a rabbit or a deer, do you not take it home?" Lady White Bones found Jiang Liu''s words somewhat odd.


    "Consuming human flesh can be addictive. Do you think you can resist the temptation?" Jiang Liu''s gaze remained calm as he asked Lady White Bones.


    Indeed, if it were about those whomit crimes or seek their own death, if Lady White Bones chose to kill, then killing or eating seemed to make no difference.


    But once the craving set in, could she resist it?


    Just as the saying goes, "Wine and meat pass through the bowels, but Buddha stays in the heart." If one keeps Buddha in mind, consuming them is inconsequential.


    But can an ordinary person, indulging in alcohol and meat daily, truly control their inner self?


    It''s like children and their studies. Parents always instruct their offspring: no phones, noputers, and no ying around. In truth, as long as the child''s studies aren''t affected, a bit of ytime is not something the parents would fret over.


    But can the child''s temperament control their actions? Can they ensure that ying does not interfere with their studies?


    Lady White Bones fell silent for a moment, clearly pondering over all this. Eventually, she shook her head candidly and responded, "I can''t resist."


    "That''s the point. If you wish to live, you must not consume humans henceforth. If you agree to this, I''ll let you live. If not, then I must send you to be liberated," Jiang Liu stated inly.


    "I... I agree to your terms!"


    Faced with life and death, Lady White Bones ultimately made the right decision.


    Although humans like to eat meat, if eating meat means death, given the choice, anyone would know what to pick.

 Chapter 235 Special Equipment鈥�lack Sky Bone Wings

    ```


    There is no right or wrong; it''s just the perspectives of the Human n and Demon n that differ.


    From the humans'' viewpoint, Lady White Bones''s actions are undoubtedly wicked to the extreme. However, from the Demon n''s perspective, everything she did was justified.


    Just like humans hunting animals for meat seems natural, but from those animals'' perspectives, who lost their families, aren''t humans also evil to the extreme?


    Lady White Bones''s strength was stillmendable. If she could be recruited, she would be a valuable ally in the future.


    Therefore, after Lady White Bones promised no longer to consume humans, Jiang Liu didn''t insist on killing her and allowed her a chance to live.


    "Thank you, Little Monk! I''ll never forget this great kindness and favor!" Lady White Bones spoke out and watched as Jiang Liu left with the old man and the young girl, loudly expressing her gratitude.


    Indeed, gratitude was what Lady White Bones sincerely felt towards Jiang Liu.


    He could have easily killed her but chose to spare her life instead, and for that, she was genuinely thankful.


    Moreover, Lady White Bones discovered something very mystical about Jiang Liu and hispanions¡ªtheir true strength was inversely proportional to what they appeared to disy.


    For instance, Sha Wujing, despite being the bulkiest, turned out to be the weakest, while Sun Wukong looked thin and short, unimpressive, yet was the strongest.


    Among them, Jiang Liu appeared humble and polite, but when dealing with hundreds of Little Demons, without exception, he only caused them severe injuries and unconsciousness without taking their lives.


    This control over his own power had reached a jaw-dropping level.


    So, based on the inverse rtionship between their strengths and appearances, could it be that the Little Monk was the most formidable?


    Otherwise, why would all three demons refer to him as their master and seem so obedient to his words?


    "I was quite lucky this time around!" Thinking back on how she narrowly escaped death, Lady White Bones felt a mix of amazement and residual fear.@@novelbin@@


    "Mdy, are we, are we truly never going to eat humans again?"


    Watching Jiang Liu and his group walking away, a maidservant standing next to Lady White Bones hesitated for a moment before asking.


    "Of course, do my words count for nothing!? Since I promised, I will certainly keep my word!" Lady White Bones nodded and affirmed.


    ...


    Setting aside whatever was happening with Lady White Bones, meanwhile, Jiang Liu andpanions took a detour and returned to the base of White Tiger Ridge, safely delivering the old man and the young girl back home.


    Understandably, the family was overwhelmingly grateful.


    Hint: Mission "Reunion"pleted, earned Experience Points 100,000, received a Perfect Level Treasure Chest*1.


    As Jiang Liu returned the old man and young girl home, almost concurrently, the system''s notification sounded, pleasing Jiang Liu.


    Out of deep gratitude, the family of three insisted on warmly inviting Jiang Liu''s group for a meal.


    Hearing their invitation, Jiang Liu pondered for a moment before nodding in agreement.


    Firstly, staying for a meal could kill some time, and secondly, it allowed the family''s gratefulness to be somewhat relieved, making them feel better.


    Despite the home-cooked meal being quite inferior to Jiang Liu''s own cooking, with coarse salt used that lent a bitter taste to the dishes, Jiang Liu did not show any disdain but ate all the food unflinchingly.


    In contrast, Sun Wukong, and hispanions showed dissatisfaction with the meal.


    Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie looked as if they wanted to speak, but Jiang Liu red at them, signaling them to remain silent.


    As the saying goes, a gift of goose feathers sent from a thousand miles away embodies the giver''s deep respect. Perhaps these dishes may seem unptable to them, simple and nd, but for people in this era, having something to eat was good enough.


    This meal represented the elderly couple''s best hospitality. If they were to utter any words of disdain, wouldn''t it be like driving people to death from shame?


    "Thank you for your hospitality, but this humble monk must continue his journey westward, so I''ll not impose any further!" After the meal, Jiang Liu got back on the White Dragon Horse, sped his hands together, and thanked the family.


    Then, with their thanks and farewells, he turned and resumed his journey to the West.


    Sitting on the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu silently called ''Inventory Space'' in his mind, and indeed, there was one more treasure chest in the Inventory Space.


    It was just a Perfect Level Chest, so Jiang Liu wasn''t expecting much; it was better than nothing.


    Upon opening the chest, Jiang Liu quickly pulled out a pair of palm-sized wings, ck bone in design and quite cool-looking, albeit giving off an aura of evil and ominousness.


    Of course, as Jiang Liu''s gaze fell upon them, the corresponding Attribute Information also appeared before him.


    ck Sky Bone Wings (Perfect Level): Special Equipment, requires level 31, once equipped, can be unfurled for flight capability, flight speed dependent on one''s Cultivation Level, durability 35/55.


    ```


    "Huh? What a great item!" Seeing the attribute information for this pair of ck bone wings, Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up, feeling like he''d hit the jackpot.


    It seemed that, after ying mahjong for so long and losing for so long, his luck had finally turned around?


    Although there were no effects for attack and defense, flying is the dream of all humanity, right?


    With this equipment, wouldn''t I be able to fly!?


    I''m currently level 34, and ording to the human cultivation level ssification, I''m at the Controlling-Law Realm, which implies I can cultivate spells.


    And the level above that is the Divinity Transformation Realm.


    Back in Great Tang, when exorcising demons on Foutu Mountain and from my meeting with Princess Gaoyang a few days ago, I could confirm that at the Divinity Transformation Realm, one could control artifacts to fly. Experience new stories with My Virtual Library Empire


    Does that mean, barring any mishaps, once I level up to 41, I could also try to learn a Controlling Artifacts Flight skill?


    However, no matter what, being able to get a flight-rted piece of equipment in advance is still very exciting.


    What''s more important is, aside from my ten main equipment slots, I have three special equipment slots, and now with this ck Sky Bone Wings equipped, all my special equipment slots are finally filled.


    Skill Bookcase, Ninth Grade ck Lotus, and now these ck Sky Bone Wings.


    "Huh? Master? What is this thing!?" Watching Jiang Liu pull out the ck Sky Bone Wings from the Treasure Box, Sun Wukong asked with curiosity.


    Seeing the ck Sky Bone Wings, Sun Wukong was very pleased.


    "This is a special Dharma Treasure that can be used for flight. As long as one''s at the Controlling-Law Realm, they can use it!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s question, Jiang Liu exined.


    "It''s only for flight? That''s not very useful!" Sun Wukong''s enthusiasm dropped significantly upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    Flight? The speed of Sun Wukong''s Somersault Cloud is second to none in the Three Realms and Six Paths.


    "Once you reach the Divinity Transformation Realm, you can maneuver your own Dharma Treasures to fly. Besides flying, Dharma Treasures can also have offensive and defensive effects, so this thing is indeed a bit redundant!"


    Not only Sun Wukong felt this way, but Zhu Bajie, upon hearing about the function of the ck Sky Bone Wings, also shook his head.


    Sha Wujing naturally didn''t say anything.


    Although he usually eats and ys mahjong together with the others, Sha Wujing still felt there was a distance between him and his master, so he generally didn''t speak up.


    "It was just a Perfect Level treasure chest, what good items could I have hoped for? Having these ck Sky Bone Wings isn''t bad at all, at least I can fly now!"


    Even though Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie didn''t seem to think much of the ck Sky Bone Wings, Jiang Liu himself was still quite content.


    And, to take a step back, if I do decide to learn Controlling Artifacts Flightter on, would I need to invest a skill point in it?


    Now that I have these ck Sky Bone Wings, I can rely on the equipment''s function to fly, won''t this save me a skill point in the future?


    Thinking it over, it seems like a pretty good deal, doesn''t it?


    Without further ado, Jiang Liu immediately equipped the ck Iron Bone Wings in hisst special equipment slot, and then, he activated the equipment''s function.


    The ck wings suddenly unfolded behind Jiang Liu, and then they began to vibrate.


    Strangely enough, despite seemingpletely open to the wind, as soon as they fluttered, Jiang Liu actually took off, and after a few more flutters, he flew higher and higher.


    For his first flight, Jiang Liu found the sensation to be incredibly marvelous; soaring into the sky and looking down at thendscape from on high offered apletely different viewpoint.


    Looking down at the mountains and rivers beneath his feet, Jiang Liu felt an indescribable sense of delight.


    "Now I, too, can fly!" After freely flying for a while in mid-air and thoroughly enjoying the sensation of flight, Jiang Liu softly muttered to himself.


    Of course, in Jiang Liu''s opinion, the appearance of these ck Sky Bone Wings looked quite demonic, almost unsuitable for his status as a Holy Monk.


    If it were a pair of golden or pure white wings, perhaps it would have been more perfect.


    "Where did that evil demone from? Take this, sword!"


    Just as Jiang Liu was entertaining this thought, suddenly a loud shout rang out.


    Immediately, Jiang Liu saw a Flying Sword cutting through the air, its fierce sword light shooting straight towards him.


    "What''s going on!?"


    Caught off guard by the Flying Sword''s attack, Jiang Liu was shocked, and in the midst of his rm, he quickly cast the Vajra Mantra skill on himself.

 Chapter 236 The Taoist Tradition of Lv Dongbin

    Dodging was toote; Jiang Liu could only hastily construct ayer of Vajra Mantra defense for himself, then watched helplessly as the oing sword shed towards him.


    A pain shot through his body, and Jiang Liu could feel his health bar immediately drop a bit. Looking towards his attacker, he saw a human cultivator hovering mid-air, a young man about twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old.


    A flying sword, under his control, moved with a life-like agility.


    "Eh? You¡ªyou''re from the Human n!?" Looking at Jiang Liu, the man who had attacked him wore a face of astonishment, eximing in surprise.


    In his heart, Master Qingxu indeed felt quite amazed. Originally, from a distance, he saw a figure flying through the air, with a pair of sinister-looking ck bone wings on its back. Master Qingxu thought it must be a demon, for how could humans have such wings? Or rather, how could humans fly on their own? Usually, they used Controlling Artifacts Flight or directly soared on clouds, right?


    But unexpectedly, on closer inspection, it turned out that the one flying in mid-air wasn''t any demon but a human.


    "Is it really okay for you to strike without asking right from wrong!?"


    Watching the flying sword return to its owner''s control and slot back into its scabbard, Jiang Liu''s expression darkened, and he felt somewhat reluctant to retaliate.


    Initially, being attacked, in Jiang Liu''s view, was like having experience points delivered to his door. But since it was a misunderstanding and the other party had no intention to continue the attack, Jiang Liu felt it wouldn''t be right to persist in a conflict.


    And more importantly, if they really fought and his health bar emptied, it wouldn''t just result in severe injuries and unconsciousness, but death.


    "I''m sorry, Little Monk, I... I was a bit too impulsive..." Hearing Jiang Liu''s annoyed words, Master Qingxu showed an expression of embarrassment and guilt as he hurriedly apologized.


    "Character panel!" Not saying too much, Jiang Liu''s gaze settled on the other person, and immediately in his heart, he silently called out ''character panel''. Enjoy exclusive adventures from My Virtual Library Empire


    Quickly, a semi-transparent character panel appeared in front of Jiang Liu.


    ID: Master Qingxu.


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Taoist Priest.


    Level: 42.


    Equipment: Dragon-ying Sword (Perfect Level): Requires level 40, Attack Power +...


    After looking at the other party''s character panel, Jiang Liu understood this was a cultivator at the Divinity Transformation Realm.


    However, to be only twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old and already attaining the Cultivation Level of the Divinity Transformation Realm? Indeed, that was exceptional talent.


    To know, within the Great Buddha Temple of Great Tang, the monks of the Divinity Transformation Realm were not young.


    "Alright then, if it''s just a misunderstanding, let''s part ways here!" Shaking his head, Jiang Liu had no intention to engage further and turned around, preparing to leave.


    "Wait a moment!"


    However, seeing Jiang Liu turning to leave, Master Qingxu called out to retain him, and while ncing at the ck Sky Bone Wings on his back, he said, "Little Monk, this Dharma Treasure on your back doesn''t seem quite fitting for you. I suggest you switch it soon, otherwise, incidents like today won''t be scarce!"


    "What? Are you, sir, intending to present me with a Dharma Treasure that enables flight?" Hearing Master Qingxu''s words, Jiang Liu turned his head sideways and gave him a sharp look as he asked.


    "That, I actually don''t have such a Dharma Treasure on hand right now. How about I return to my sect to see if there is one?" Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Master Qingxu looked a bit embarrassed, pondered briefly, and then spoke.


    "Are you joking!?" The words of Master Qingxu made Jiang Liu look at him skeptically.@@novelbin@@


    A flying-type Dharma Treasure, casually mentioned, and he was really nning to give one to him? Was that true?


    Was this guy a fool? Or was he a tycoon like the Third Prince Nezha, casually handing out precious items as if it was nothing more than a small gesture?


    "Oh, I am Master Qingxu, a disciple of Heavenly Sword Observatory. What might I call this young master monk?" Seeing Jiang Liu stunned, Master Qingxu spoke up, introducing himself.


    "My name is Xuanzang. I am a monk from the Great Tang in the Eastern Land, on my journey to the Western Heaven to worship Buddha and seek scriptures!" Hearing Master Qingxu''s words, Jiang Liu replied, with no intention to hide anything.


    "How about it? Would you, Monk Xuanzang, be willing to visit my Heavenly Sword Observatory?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s introduction, Master Qingxu nodded slightly and then extended his invitation.


    "Very well, since that is the case, I will not refuse the offer!" After pondering for a short while, Jiang Liu nodded and agreed.


    If the other party really intended to give him a flying Dharma Treasure aspensation, Jiang Liu would ept it with a clear conscience.


    Of course, if the other party had other ideas or intended to calcte against him, wouldn''t that mean Jiang Liu now had a ''Heavenly Sword Observatory'' instance at his disposal?


    Fighting monsters and leveling up, isn''t that delightful!?


    No matter what their intentions were, for Jiang Liu, it was all beneficial and harmless. Given the circumstances, and the chance to stall for some time, Jiang Liu naturally had no intention of refusing.


    "Alright, let''s go then!"


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words and epting the suggestion, Master Qingxu nodded without saying much and turned around, ready to lead the way in front.


    "Wait!" However, Jiang Liu spoke up to halt him, saying, "I have several disciples apanying me. If we are to go, wait for my disciples to join us, will you?"


    "How old are you to have your own disciples!?"


    Seeing Jiang Liu''s face still carrying traces of youthful innocence, looking impossibly young, merely a junior monk, yet having disciples? This brought a look of astonishment to Master Qingxu''s face, almost unable to believe his ears.


    "Alright, let''s head down!" Nodding slightly, Jiang Liu did not intend to exin much. As his voice fell, he directly descended andnded right on the White Dragon Horse''s back.


    "A demon!? Little Master Xuanzang, when you mention disciples, you mean them!?"


    Master Qingxu, having descended by controlling his artifact, looked at Sun Wukong and the others, hisplexion inevitably changing slightly.


    Being a human monk, to have taken a few evil demons as disciples? No matter how one looked at it, it gave off a very strange feeling.


    "That''s correct, each of them is my disciple. Let''s proceed, Benefactor Qingxu," Jiang Liu said with a nod as he sat atop the White Dragon Horse.


    "Then, let''s, let''s proceed..." Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Master Qingxu''s face showed a hint of difficulty, but after a moment of silence, he nevertheless nodded his head.


    There was no helping it. Although he was not keen on bringing several demons back to the observatory, since he had extended the invitation, he couldn''t very well go back on his word, could he?


    "Little Master Xuanzang, do none of your disciples know the art of flight?" However, after waiting for a moment, seeing that Jiang Liu and hispany were simply walking on foot, Master Qingxu was slightly taken aback and asked with some surprise.


    "All of my disciples are certainly capable of flight, but as a poor monk traveling to Western Heaven to venerate the Buddha and seek the scriptures, it is necessary to take one step at a time all the way to Western Heaven.


    Hence, the pace is a bit slow, and cannotpare to flying, which must have caused you trouble, Benefactor Qingxu!" Jiang Liu nodded and exined, his tone remaining modest and courteous as he spoke.


    Regret, Master Qingxu really felt some regret at this moment!


    Why the impulsive offer after spotting a pair of ck wings, and then inadvertently agreeing to provide a flying Dharma treasure?


    What now? Not only does he have to bring back a group of evil demons, but also walk step by step the entire way?


    The distance which would have taken merely half an hour by controlling artifacts to fly, might now require two or three days on foot.


    Putting aside what was going on in Master Qingxu''s mind, under his leadership, Jiang Liu and the others slightly changed direction, heading northwest.


    "By the way, Benefactor Qingxu, does your Heavenly Sword Observatory also consist of sword cultivators like yourself?" Amidst the walk, Jiang Liu was in no rush to cultivate and instead started to make casual conversation with Master Qingxu beside him.


    "Indeed, our Heavenly Sword Observatory primarily cultivates the path of the sword. Our founding master has already joined the Immortal Rank and is in fact the Ancestor Lv Dongbin from the Upper rity Eight Immortals!" Responding to Jiang Liu''s inquiry, Master Qingxu nodded and then said with a proud expression.


    "Eh? Are you a grandson of thatd, Lv Dongbin!?" Overhearing Master Qingxu''s words, Zhu Bajie suddenly interjected with surprise.


    "You impudent demon, how dare you address my great ancestor by name!?"


    Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, referring to Lv Dongbin as ad, Master Qingxu''s eyes widened, clearly displeased, and admonished Zhu Bajie.


    "Heh heh heh, you little Taoist priest, quite the temper you have there. Back when your old pig was in heaven, the likes of Lv Dongbin would have to call me ''Marshal'' with respect. You little priest, seems to be more aplished than him!" Zhu Bajie was not angered by the young Taoist priest''s scolding; instead, he just smiled and replied.


    "Is this a power not described in the Journey to the West? The Taoist lineage of Lv Dongbin? Heavenly Sword Observatory!?" Without paying attention to the conversation between Master Qingxu and Zhu Bajie, Jiang Liu''s thoughts were stirring quietly to himself.


    This so-called Heavenly Sword Observatory wasn''t mentioned at all in the original story.


    "By the way, Benefactor Qingxu, why wander around instead of diligently cultivating in the Taoist temple? Is there something the matter?" With a seemingly casual demeanor, Jiang Liu asked Master Qingxu.


    "Well, indeed something has happened!" On hearing this, Master Qingxu readily nodded with a candid appearance.


    "Some five hundred li to the west, there lies Treasure Elephant Country. I''ve heard that the Princess of Treasure Elephant Country was abducted by a demon and has been missing for many years. Therefore, an Imperial List was issued to search and rescue the Princess. I was on my way to have a look. Who knew that I would encounter you mid-air!"


    Nodding, Master Qingxu did not hide anything and told Jiang Liu his business frankly.


    Five hundred li away? Treasure Elephant Country!?


    Upon hearing this, Jiang Liu became slightly moved: "It seems the plot with the Yellow-Robed Monster is about to start, isn''t it!?"

 Chapter 237 Soldiers First... Then Courtesy

    "Treasure Elephant Country! I advise you not to go!" Hearing Master Qingxu''s words, Jiang Liu shook his head and spoke sincerely.


    "Why?" Jiang Liu''s words left Master Qingxu looking at him in astonishment, unable to understand.


    From the direction he was heading, he seemed to be going to Treasure Elephant Country too, didn''t he? That means he probably hadn''t seen what Treasure Elephant Country was like either. So why was he discouraging him?


    "The demon creatures in Treasure Elephant Country are beyond your fighting capabilities! Going there would simply be a death sentence!" Jiang Liu shook his head and replied.


    This was the truth, especially the part about the Yellow-Robed Monster in the original text, which Jiang Liu still remembered clearly.


    Initially, during their encounter with the White Bone Demon, Sun Wukong and Tang Monk had a falling out after which the White Bone Demon banished Sun Wukong. Later, when they reached Treasure Elephant Country, Tang Monk fell into trouble, being turned into a tiger by the Yellow-Robed Monster, who then falsely used Tang Monk of being a demon and locked him in an iron cage.


    It was Zhu Bajie who went to Flower Fruit Mountain to request Sun Wukong''s return, and only then was Tang Monk saved.


    Interestingly, although the Yellow-Robed Monster imed a demon identity, he was actually a celestial being from Heavenly Court, the Kuimu Wolf, and originally held a high status.


    Because he fell in love with Princess Baihua Xiu of the Fragrance Hall, Baihua Xiu reincarnated and was born in Treasure Elephant Country. The Kuimu Wolf then transformed into the Yellow-Robed Monster and together with Baihua Xiu became a couple in the mortal world, having lived for thirteen years.


    From the original story, it is clear that the Yellow-Robed Monster was a character of deep feelings and loyalty, showing great care for Baihua Xiu. When Baihua Xiu suffered from a heartache, the Yellow-Robed Monster immediately spat out his own Shariputra exquisite inner alchemy pill to cure her ailment, which was telling of his character.


    Moreover, considering that the Yellow-Robed Monster''s inner core belonged to Buddhism and the exquisite inner alchemy pills belonged to Taoism, it reveals that he practiced both Buddhist and Taoist teachings.


    In the original story, during the battles at Lesser Thunder Monastery and subduing the Rhinoceros Demon, Kuimu Wolf exerted great effort to help.


    However, in the ordeal at Treasure Elephant Country, not only were the lovers separated, but the child born to Yellow-Robed Monster and Baihua Xiu was tragically killed.


    From this part of the story, it is evident that the Yellow-Robed Monster was quite pitiable, yet he stillter willingly helped those on the Journey to the West to subdue demons.


    It seems as if the Yellow-Robed Monster repaid cruelty with kindness!?


    "Have you been to Treasure Elephant Country? How do you know that I am no match for that demon!?" Jiang Liu''s words made Master Qingxu look at him curiously.


    "Hmm, by some fortunate coincidence, I somewhat know about that demon''s identity," Jiang Liu shook his head, indicating he didn''t wish to exin further.


    Seeing that Jiang Liu was not inclined to borate further, Master Qingxu did not press on. However, his expression was resolute as he said, "This trip to Treasure Elephant Country is a task given by my sect, and I must go. Otherwise, how could I live up to the trust my sect has ced in me?"


    "So be it, to each their own!" he spoke up to persuade the other, having done as much as he could; if the other did not listen, there was nothing more he could do.


    As they journeyed, they didn''t dawdle. After a few Chinese Hours, the sky gradually darkened. Led by Master Qingxu, Jiang Liu and the others reached the Heavenly Sword Observatory.


    The Heavenly Sword Observatory sat atop a high mountain. Remarkably, although the mountain soared into the clouds, its area was not extensive.


    It gave off the impression of a Heavenly Pir, naturally and steeply rising high, with the Taoist Temple situated right at the summit.


    Under Master Qingxu''s lead, as the group stood in front of the Heavenly Sword Observatory, they could see sword lights flickering above the temple, and inside, many people practicing swordsmanship.


    Heavenly Sword Observatory is a Taoist legacy left by Lv Dongbin in the mortal world. As Lv Dongbin was renowned for his swordsmanship, it was fitting that training in swordsmanship was the primary focus there.


    "Brother Master Qingxu! Who are these few?"


    As Master Qingxu led Jiang Liu and the group to the Heavenly Sword Observatory, many disciples practicing sword greeted them. Naturally, they all gave Jiang Liu and hispanions peculiar looks, particrly noticing Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing.


    "I shall meet my master. You all keep up the good practice!" After greeting these junior fellow disciples, Master Qingxu spoke.


    With that, he led Jiang Liu and the others into the main hall.


    "Qingxu, are these the demons you captured? Have you so quickly helped the King of Treasure Elephant Country subdue the demons?"


    Atop the main hall, a lean old man, dressed in a blue Taoist robe, his gaze falling on Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing, opened his mouth to speak.


    Master Qingxu hade down from the mountain to subdue demons in Treasure Elephant Country and now, upon returning, he clearly misunderstood something.


    "Master, that is not the case. I have not yet gone to Treasure Elephant Country; I merely encountered friends, identally hurt the young monk Xuanzang, so I have brought him back to apologize and make amends!" The expression on Master Qingxu''s face was guilty as he quickly exined the impulse that led him to strike Jiang Liu.


    "I see, I understand now!" Hearing this, the elderly man nodded slightly, his expression calm.


    However, he soon seemed to recall something and said, "Right, Qingxu, your uncle is looking for you, saying that your Qingxu Sword seems to be repaired, go and check on it!"


    "Alright!" Upon hearing his master''s words, Master Qingxu''s face lit up with joy, and he nodded, immediately turning around and leaving with delight.


    "Little Monk, did youe from the Great Tang in the Eastern Land? The Great Tang in the Eastern Land is a journey of ten thousand miles from here, indeed not easy.


    Since my disciple has wronged you, here is a bottle of healing medicine, which I give to you for your healing!" As soon as Master Qingxu had left, the old Taoist''s gaze fell on Jiang Liu, and amid his speech, he tossed out a bottle of pills.


    "What do you mean by this!? Are you, old Taoist, trying to go back on your word!?"


    Observing the other''s actions, Jiang Liu''s eyebrows slightly furrowed.


    Seeing him deliberately send his disciple away just now, Jiang Liu knew that things were about to change, and it seemed so indeed!?


    "Qingxu acted impulsively and hurt you, it is indeed his fault. However, from looking at you, your injuries are not severe, and this bottle of healing pills aspensation should suffice. I do not have many flying dharma treasures in Heavenly Sword Observatory, so please forgive me for not being able to agree!" Shaking his head, the old Taoist honestly replied.


    With these words, the old Taoist''s gaze fell once more on Jiang Liu and said, "Furthermore, Treasure Elephant Country is the ce Heavenly Sword Observatory wishes to go to spread the teachings. Therefore, the demon that kidnapped Princess Baihua Xiu, my Heavenly Sword Observatory will certainly subdue it. Little Monk, you might as well save your efforts!"


    "You mean to say, you want me to dissuade Qingxu from going to Treasure Elephant Country, telling him he cannot handle the demon there and just deceive him to eliminate apetitor!?" The old Taoist''s words made Jiang Liuugh.


    "Could it be not so? Qingxu has cultivated in the mountains for many years, and although his cultivation level has advanced rapidly, he does not understand worldly ways. You can deceive him, but not me!" Shaking his head, the old Taoist spoke with a sure expression.


    "No wonder!" Although the old Taoist''s demeanor irritated Jiang Liu somewhat, hearing his words, Jiang Liu suddenly realized the situation with Master Qingxu.


    In a moment of impulse, he had struck at himself, and casually mentioned that he would give himself a flying dharma treasure? He had actually agreed to it.


    Originally, he had found it a bit strange. Could there be any trickery? Now it seems, it was theck of worldly wisdom, or in other words, hecked social experience?


    Looking at Jiang Liu before him, the old Taoist couldn''t help but feel displeased, not because of the rivalry between the Buddhist Sect and Taoist Sect, but because Jiang Liu''s first impression on him was quite bad.


    Judging by Jiang Liu''s appearance, a boy of fifteen or sixteen, yet iming to have traveled thousands of miles from the Great Tang in the Eastern Land!?


    The old Taoist was skeptical about this.


    Moreover, looking at his side, following him were three demon creatures; as a disciple of the Buddhist Sect, yet associating with demons? This even more displeased the old Taoist.


    It was merely a misunderstanding, and he had actually taken it upon himself to requestpensation in a flying dharma treasure? This was utterly tactless.


    It was only because Qingxu did not understand worldly affairs and did not know how to refuse others that he had agreed to him. Would any ordinary person agree?


    It seems, sending Qingxu to the Treasure Elephant Country was the right decision. It should allow him to gain more experience!


    "You, little Taoist Priest, are too presumptuous, aren''t you? My master kindly warned you, and if you do not listen, that''s one thing, but to suspect my master too? That''s truly tactless!" Sun Wukong, hearing this, couldn''t help but intervene.


    Next to him, Zhu Bajie, self-proimed as the master''s leading servant, heard Sun Wukong speak up and could no longer hold back.


    He immediately spoke up, saying, "Goodness, little Taoist Priest, even if your ancestor Lv Dongbin arrived, he wouldn''t dare to speak like this. Yet you dare to doubt us?"


    "Insolence!" Hearing Zhu Bajie openly mention the name of ancestor Lv Dongbin, the old Taoist''s face filled with anger, and he rose, mming the table.


    "Although our Taoist and Buddhist sects differ, I do not ask for much respect from you, but you are not permitted to speak directly of my ancestor!" With these words, the old Taoist''s gaze fell on Jiang Liu as he spoke sharply.@@novelbin@@


    Although Zhu Bajie was the one who spoke, it was clear that Jiang Liu was the speaker among this group.


    Enjoy exclusive content from My Virtual Library Empire


    Whirl of activity!


    As the old Taoist rose and mmed the table, over a dozen sword-bearing disciples rushed in from outside the hall, all eying Jiang Liu and his group.


    "So, it''s time for a fight, huh? Quite good. Other people start with civility before resorting to force, but for me, it''s better to start with force before civility!" Seeing the atmosphere turning somewhat tense, Jiang Liu was not rmed but instead delighted.


    Without exining much, he smiled slightly, took out his mixed iron rod, and preempted by striking first.


    Discuss reasons?


    Well, better to strike first, gain some experience points before anything else. After defeating all these people, naturally, they won''tpete with him for subduing the Yellow-Robed Monster.


    In a way, this also counted as saving their lives, didn''t it?

 Chapter 238 Complaining to Lv Dongbin

    Jiang Liu was well aware that although his arrival at the Heavenly Sword Observatory had led to a misunderstanding and subsequent conflict, in truth, neither side was wrong¡ªit was simply a misunderstanding.


    Firstly, from his own perspective, he was flying through the air when he was suddenly attacked and injured by Master Qingxu, which seemed quite unreasonable, right?


    Then he casually remarked whether Master Qingxu intended to gift him a Flying Dharma Treasure. He did not actually expect Master Qingxu to agree, but since thetter had agreed, there was nothing wrong with Jiang Liuing to im it, was there?


    Furthermore, from Master Qingxu''s perspective, even though Master Qingxu had injured him, Jiang Liu''s injury appeared to be minor on the surface, and the Healing Medicine that he had given to Jiang Liu was a gesture of goodwill.


    As for Jiang Liu advising Master Qingxu not to go to the Treasure Elephant Country to subdue demons, from his own standpoint, he truly meant well.


    However, from the old Taoist''s perspective, it was natural for him to harbor suspicions about Jiang Liu.


    But, when Master Qingxu spoke, his tone wasn''t very kind, and likewise, Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie could hardly tolerate his doubtful attitude and tone, which is why the dispute and conflict arose.


    In reality, it was all just a misunderstanding that could be resolved with a few calm exnations¡ªnothing serious.


    However, Jiang Liu had a game system that allowed him to gain Experience Points from fighting monsters, which was much faster than mere cultivation. Thus, regarding the misunderstanding, he wasn''t in a hurry to rify.


    Even if he were to exin, it would have to wait until after a fight, right?


    While they were talking, Jiang Liu had already checked out this old Taoist''s character board: a level 52 white board, indicative of a Returning Void Realm cultivation level.


    Though not as strong as Sun Wukong and the others, he was still beyond Jiang Liu''s ability to handle.


    Once the fight started, Jiang Liu''s target would naturally shift to the other disciples of the Heavenly Sword Observatory. As for the old Taoist and other cultivators above Divinity Transformation Realm, Sun Wukong and the others would handle them.


    After traveling thousands of miles on the Journey to the West, they had be ustomed to this unwritten rule.


    Lifting his hand, Jiang Liu threw the Swift Fire Bead skill as he descended, exploding directly on a disciple with formidable power.


    A dozen long swords fell towards him, but the special effect of the shing Brilliance Shoes was triggered, and with a sh, he reappeared not far away.


    At the same time, he raised his hand again, and a Palm Thunder struck another disciple, with vicious lightning swiftly enveloping the victim.


    Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra, Demon-Subduing Mantra, and the skill of Arhat Fist were all enhanced on his own body. Jiang Liu swung the Mixed Iron Rod with ferocious power, causing significant damage to any Taoists who came close.


    Combining this with the asional use of the group attack skill Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, Jiang Liu was like a tiger among sheep when facing these Taoists below the Controlling-Law Realm.


    As the fight ensued here, many disciples of the Heavenly Sword Observatory quickly became aware of the conflict and hurried over.


    In addition to them, elder Taoists of the observatory also arrived.


    In a moment, the entire Heavenly Sword Observatory was engulfed in intense battle.


    After a short while, under Jiang Liu''s assault, hundreds of disciplesy on the ground with severe injuries, unconscious. Naturally, the elder Taoists of the observatory had been easily subdued by Sun Wukong.


    "Master Xuanzang! What are you doing!?" Master Qingxu rushed over after noticing the battle and, upon seeing the hundreds of disciples unconscious on the ground and Jiang Liu''s fierce dominance, eximed in shock.


    "Master Qingxu, you promised to give me a Flying Dharma Treasure, which is why I apanied you. Your master refuses to give it and even insults us. Tell me, am I wrong or are you?" Jiang Liu said, ceasing to fight as he saw Master Qingxu approaching.


    "Master!?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Master Qingxu looked at his own master with questioning eyes.


    Yet, seeing his master''s condition, Master Qingxu''s lips twitched slightly. His master, a great Returning Void Realm cultivator, was currently being stepped on by Sun Wukong.


    Sun Wukong, though appearing as a thin and short monkey, weighed heavily like Mount Tai on the old Taoist, making it impossible for him to rise.


    "Little Monk, how dare you, a Buddhist Disciple, be so ruthless? I will report this to the patriarchs¡ªsee how you''ll take the me!" The great Returning Void Realm cultivator, unable to move under a Demon Monkey''s foot, felt utterly humiliated as he yelled at Jiang Liu.


    "Wukong, let him go; let him make hisint!" Hearing the old Taoist''s words, Jiang Liu had a thought and then told Sun Wukong.


    What better way was there to clear up the misunderstanding than to have Lv Dongbin himselfe?


    Although Jiang Liu wanted to level up by fighting, he did not wish to harm Master Qingxu. Since he had arrived, it was time to address the misunderstanding after the fighting was done.


    As Jiang Liu spoke, Sun Wukong lifted his foot, and the old Taoist, who had been immobilized, swiftly rolled up to his feet.


    After giving Jiang Liu a deep look, he turned around, pinched three sticks of incense, lit them with his mana, and nted them in front of the statue of Lv Dongbin behind the main hall, murmuring words under his breath.


    As the Taoist acted, suddenly, the statue of Lv Dongbin seemed toe to life, its eyes shimmering with life.


    However, before the Taoist could even speak, the statue stepped down on its own, giving a bow to Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, "Lv Dongbin pays his respects to the Great Sage and Marshal Tianpeng!"


    "Mmm, Lv Dongbin, it is rare indeed to meet you!" Watching Lv Dongbin, Sun Wukong waved his hand nonchntly and greeted him.


    "Uh..." Seeing his own revered master manifest and actually take the initiative to salute the demon monkey and the pig demon, the Taoist next to him was frozen in shock, wearing a look of disbelief on his face.


    Could these two demon creatures actually recognize his own revered master? And judging from the looks of it, their status seemed even higher than that of his revered master?


    "May I ask? What has happened here? Is there some misunderstanding?"


    After paying respects to Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, Lv Dongbin looked around and saw that many of his disciples were severely injured and had passed out on the ground. He was slightly taken aback and felt bitter inside, but then he spoke up, asking Sun Wukong.


    "Indeed, it was merely a misunderstanding!" Hearing Lv Dongbin''s words, Jiang Liu took the initiative to exin, "The main issue was just a verbal dispute. Wukong and Bajie called you by your name directly, and they felt that you were insulted, which is why they started fighting!"


    "I see, that''s a relief!" Lv Dongbin sighed with relief inwardly upon hearing Jiang Liu''s exnation.


    It was good that it hadn''t resulted in any serious conflict.


    "Come, let me introduce you to them! This is Master Xuanzang, the Holy Monk of Great Tang, who is on a mission ordained by the Emperor of Tang and Bodhisattva Guanyin to seek scriptures at the Great Thunder Monastery of the Western Heaven. His three disciples are also renowned figures!"


    Since it was a misunderstanding and it had been resolved, Lv Dongbin spoke up to exin the identities of Jiang Liu and hispanions to all his disciples at the Heavenly Sword Observatory.


    The introduction left everyone at the Heavenly Sword Observatory dumbfounded.


    The Holy Monk of Great Tang?! On a mission ordained by the Emperor of Tang and Bodhisattva Guanyin to seek scriptures in the Western Heaven?!


    The Great Sage Equal to Heaven?!


    Marshal Tianpeng?!


    General Juanlian?!


    They were all deities from heaven who had descended to earth?! To protect Master Xuanzang on his Journey to the West?!


    My heavens, what kind of team was this?!


    At first, the Taoist harbored doubts about Jiang Liu''s words, and the words of Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie seemed even harder to ept.@@novelbin@@


    But now, after hearing his own revered master''s introduction, the old Taoist realized that they weren''t just posing ¨C they were genuinely impressive!


    "This old Taoist has eyes but could not see Mount Tai and has offended you all. I hope you won''t hold the past against me..." Continue your adventure with My Virtual Library Empire


    Seeing the way his own revered master seemed wary and eager to please them, the old Taoist, who had lived for many years, of course realized the gravity of the situation and quickly apologized to Jiang Liu.


    "Amitabha, since it was a misunderstanding, let''s put the matter to rest. As for today''s incident, let it be said that both sides were at fault!" Hearing the old Taoist apologize, Jiang Liu did not put on airs, but answered with modesty and politeness.


    Of course, if Jiang Liu''s body had not been stained with blood and wounds, and if he had not just defeated over a hundred disciples of the Heavenly Sword Observatory all by himself, his modest and polite demeanor might have been more convincing.


    "Master Xuanzang, regardless, the fault began with this old Taoist. Since Master Qingxu has agreed to give you a Flying Dharma Treasure, I shall fetch it for you now!"


    Aware of the exceptional identity of Jiang Liu and hispanions, far beyond what he had imagined, the old Taoist felt he was at fault and, as he spoke, raised his palm. Then, a Flying Dagger, shaped like wings, appeared in his hand.


    At that moment, the old Taoist felt a mix ofughter and tears inside. Flying equipment, although precious, was truly valuable only to cultivators below the Controlling-Law Realm; those in the Divinity Transformation Stage could already fly with their own Controlling Artifacts.


    With such an extraordinary identity, who would have thought they would take interest in a piece of flying equipment?


    "Eh? Is this flying equipment?"


    Even though Jiang Liu felt he already possessed a piece of flying equipment and didn''t really need another, he was somewhat struck by the winged Flying Dagger in the old Taoist''s hand.


    This piece of flying gear looked very different from his own ck Sky Bone Wings.


    "Feather Demon de!?" Master Qingxu, standing next to him, eximed quietly upon seeing the Flying Dagger in the old Taoist''s hand.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze fell upon the winged Flying Dagger, naturally, its attribute information also appeared before him.

 Chapter 239 Hot-Clear Pot

    Feather Demon de (Legendary Level): Special equipment, requires level 31, when equipped, allows for flight in the skies, with speed depending on one''s level, special effect: can shoot out all feather des, causing a fan-shaped attack on all targets in front, with the specific damage depending on own attack power, durability 80/120.


    Looking at the attribute information of this Feather Demon de, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but sh a glimmer of surprise and excitement in his eyes.


    Although in terms of main functionality, the Feather Demon de had the same effect as his Heavenly Demon Bone Wings, in terms of equipment quality, the legendary level was indeed a notch higher than the perfect level.


    He hadn''t tested the speed yet, but this special effect, which included a group attack effect, was essentially an additional attack skill for him, wasn''t it?


    "For the elder to bestow this upon me, I dare not refuse. Thank you, Master!" Having carefully reviewed the attribute information of the Feather Demon de, Jiang Liu felt secretly pleased and didn''t hesitate to express his gratitude.


    "Holy Monk Xuanzang, if you like it, that''s great!" Hearing Xuanzang''s reply and seeing his happy demeanor, the old Daoist nodded and spoke.


    Having lost the wife and the troops, for Heavenly Sword Observatory, this could indeed be described as losing the wife and the troops. Not only did they lose the Feather Demon de, but almost everyone in the Daoist temple had been beaten up. Even summoning their ancestor Lv Dongbin hadn''t been of any use.


    However, since the Heavenly Sword Observatory faced such a catastrophe and had offended such a significant figure, losing only a Feather Demon de inpensation seemed quite good.


    Take the smaller loss as a win, they thought. Offending such a person, if just one Feather Demon de could resolve this disaster, it couldn''t be better.


    After all, a Feather Demon de was merely a flying dharma treasure of little use to cultivators above the Divinity Transformation Realm.


    "This is very good!" Seeing the attitude between Jiang Liu and the old Daoist, Lv Dongbin also nodded in quiet satisfaction, feeling content with everything.


    The Journey to the West was a cmitous event of Heaven and Earth, something ordinary people would avoid at all costs, let alone provoke.


    The Heavenly Court was no longer keeping secret the matter of the Floral Mink of the Four Heavenly Kings descending to the Lower Realm and troubling the Journey to the West Team, leading to its demise.


    His own disciples had offended them, and to pacify the situation with just one dharma treasure was a much better oue than what befell the Four Heavenly Kings.


    Heaving a sigh of relief, seeing that the issue had been perfectly resolved, Lv Dongbin did not intend to stay any longer. After giving a fewst instructions, he turned and stepped onto his divine pedestal, his statue returning to its sculptural form.


    Clearly, Lv Dongbin''s true spirit had already departed.


    "Oh, Holy Monk Xuanzang!"


    By this time, the misunderstandings had been cleared up, and everyone was pleased. Suddenly, Master Qingxu seems to remember something and speaks up, "You mentioned that the evil demon causing trouble in Treasure Elephant Country is very powerful and not someone we can deal with. Is that true?"


    "That is correct, I urge you not to attempt to subdue demons and eliminate evil there, or else the consequences will be dire!" Jiang Liu nodded earnestly in response.


    This was the truth. How could they confront the Kuimu Wolf from heaven? After all, the Kuimu Wolf was a leader among the twenty-eight constetions in the heavens.


    "Understood, we will definitely not involve ourselves with Treasure Elephant Country again!"


    While they had initially suspected Jiang Liu wanted to eliminate a rival, the Daoists of the Heavenly Sword Observatory now believed his words unreservedly, nodding emphatically in response.


    "Alright, it''s gettingte! Disciples, let''s go!" With the matter at the Heavenly Sword Observatory concluded satisfactorily, treasures in hand, and experience points gained, Jiang Liu felt a deep sense of fulfillment. He called out, leading Sun Wukong and the others to continue their journey westward.


    Descending from Heavenly Sword Observatory, the mountain path was rugged, steep, and naturally tricky to navigate.


    But Jiang Liu swapped to the Feather Demon de, stowing the Heavenly Demon Bone Wings back into his bag, eager to test out the effects of the Feather Demon de.


    Moving with Jiang Liu''s intent, countless feather-like des suddenly spread out behind him, forming a set of wingsposed of Flying Daggers.


    Jiang Liu willed his new wings to move, and they thrashed violently behind him. Then, his figure shot up like a bolt of lightning.


    Whoosh whoosh whoosh!


    With the constant motion of the Feather Demon de, Jiang Liu could clearly feel the wind around him, cutting against his face like knives, causing a bit of pain.


    Having thoroughly tested the Heavenly Demon Bone Wings before, Jiang Liu could distinctly sense that the flight speed of the Feather Demon de was in apletely different league.


    If the previous flying speed of the Heavenly Demon Bone Wings was like that of a bicycle, then the current Feather Demon de was more like a motorcycle, with a significant improvement in speed.


    "Excellent, worthy of a legendary-level flying dharma treasure. This increase in speed is indeed substantial!"


    After flying for about half an hour and thoroughly experiencing the speed of the Feather Demon de, Jiang Liu was extremely satisfied and nodded his head in approval.


    With a thought, Jiang Liu decided to test the other special effect feature of the Feather Demon de.


    As his thoughtsmanded, the Feather Demon de on his back swung forward fiercely. In a blink, hundreds of flying daggers formed a fan shape and shot mercilessly toward the front.


    Without a target to attack, it was unclear just how powerful these flying daggers were.


    However, seeing more than a hundred flying daggers shoot out instantly, the sight was still incredibly imposing.


    "Not bad, when held in hand, it''s just a single Flying Dagger, but when deployed, it turns into hundreds, even a thousand daggers. Now I not only save a skill point for Controlling Artifacts Flight, but I also gain an offensive skill. This equipment is indeed very valuable!"


    After a thorough test of the Feather Demon de''s effect, Jiang Liu nodded in satisfaction.


    Stay updated through My Virtual Library Empire


    Afternding, naturally, it was alreadyte at night and Jiang Liu didn''t rush to continue his journey, instead, he took out the Exquisite Immortal Mansion.


    In high spirits, the master and disciples cooked arge pot of food, and after a satisfying meal of food and drink, they each went to rest.


    From the Heavenly Sword Observatory to the Royal City of Treasure Elephant Country was a distance of about five to six hundred li, and with the pace of Jiang Liu and hispanions, it took them nearly half a month to arrive at the capital of Treasure Elephant Country.


    "Bajie, Wujing, the two of you quickly change your appearances, we''re going into the city!" Arriving outside the capital, Jiang Liu looked at the bustling Royal City of Treasure Elephant Country and spoke.


    "Master, why is it only me and Junior Brother Sha who have to change? Doesn''t Monkey Brother need to transform?" Zhu Bajie asked, feeling somewhat unfair upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    Of course, while heined, Zhu Bajie''s actions were swift. Executing the mystic Divine Skills of the thirty-six Heavenly Gangs, he transformed into the handsome appearance he had when he was Marshal Tianpeng.


    "Well, my Art of Transformation skills... are not very proficient!" Sha Wujing said with some difficulty upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    Hearing that, Sun Wukong didn''t waste words. He pointed at Sha Wujing and gently exhaled a breath.


    Suddenly, Sha Wujing''s form, which was originally three to four meters tall, began changing rapidly and shrank to the size of a normal man, taking on the appearance of a robust Han warrior.


    "You, Monkey Brother, just stick with your original appearance when we enter the city. It won''t cause any rm, can you both do that?" Jiang Liu gave Zhu Bajie a yful roll of his eyes, seeing his sense of imbnce.


    "This¡­" Jiang Liu''s words left Zhu Bajie speechless.


    Alright, it was true. Sun Wukong, dressing in clothes, a monkey, would simply draw a few more nces when entering the city and not cause any rm. In this aspect, he indeed could notpare.


    No way around it, monkeys had their unique advantages, after all¡ªwalking upright was natural for them.@@novelbin@@


    As they talked, Jiang Liu and hispanions paid the city entrance tax and directly entered the Royal City of Treasure Elephant Country. Jiang Liu sat on the White Dragon Horse, apanied by the sunshiny Zhu Bajie and the robust Sha Wujing, with a monkey in tow. Thisbination, admittedly, did look a little odd.


    Upon entering the capital, as Master Qingxu had said, the Royal City of Treasure Elephant Country was covered with an Imperial List. The King was recruiting extraordinary individuals everywhere to subdue demons and save the Princess.


    After more than a decade, the King hadn''t given up, which showed his deep feelings for his daughter.


    However, it had been over a decade since Princess Baihua Xiu had been kidnapped and no one had managed to rescue her. Thus, anyone who knew a little about the situation dared not take down the Imperial List.


    After all, those with the courage to respond to the promation had done so long ago.


    The consequences were self-evident.


    Yet, after entering the city, Jiang Liu was not in a hurry to respond to the Imperial List, but instead inquired about the location of the best cksmith in the capital.


    "The best cksmith in the city? Naturally, you need to go to the Refined Iron Shop!" A man whom Jiang Liu had stopped to ask didn''t hesitate and immediately replied.


    "Refined Iron Shop? Could you please tell me how to get there?" Jiang Liu naturally asked for the location of the Refined Iron Shop and then made his way there.


    Refined Iron Shop truly lived up to its name as the best cksmith''s shop that the Royal City of Treasure Elephant Country had to offer¡ªarge cksmith''s shop with many cksmiths toiling away, sweating as they smithed, and mes bursting energetically all around.


    "Esteemed guest, may I ask what you wish to forge? Or perhaps you''re looking to buy something?"


    Seeing Jiang Liu arrive on a tall horse, clearly a very wealthy monk, a youngd ran over and asked.


    "Oh, I want to have a pot made, can you do custom orders here?" Jiang Liu nodded and inquired.


    "Just to forge a pot? We have many different pots in stock, esteemed guest¡ªIf you see one you like, you can buy it right away!" The youngd answered.


    "No, the pot I''m talking about is different from the ones you know!"


    Jiang Liu shook his head and said, "This pot I want is known as the Hot-Clear Pot!"

 Chapter 240 The Legendary Kitchenware

    "The Hot-Clear Pot, what a nice-sounding name ah, ''Envious of the mandarin ducks but not the immortals,'' Master is truly a master of picking up girls, even naming a pot sounds so pleasant,"


    Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Zhu Bajie thought to himself.


    No wonder Master seems to do nothing, yet simply by announcing his name and standing there, beautiful female demons flock to him. Could it be that, usually, Master has infused the art of attracting girls into his very bones?


    With a thought, Zhu Bajie secretly turned his back on Jiang Liu and the others, took out a small notebook from his sleeve, and also produced a tiny writing brush, beginning to jot down notes in the booklet.


    It seems that the sweet nothings Master taught him, although useful, still need to beplemented by other aspects.


    On this journey, he must stay alert, observe more, take note, and learn... Read new chapters at My Virtual Library Empire


    Setting aside what sort of schemes Zhu Bajie had in mind, the young servant of Refined Iron Shop was momentarily stupefied by Jiang Liu''s words, his expression nk: "Hot-Clear Pot? What kind of pot is that!?"


    "Let your manager speak," Jiang Liu said, seeing that the servant didn''t understand and not intending to exin too much.


    As the structure of the Hot-Clear Pot must be exined to the person who would make it, there was no need for further exnation.


    "This young Monk, do you have any specific requirements?" Following Jiang Liu''s remarks, a manager from the Refined Iron Shop quickly came over, curiously asking Jiang Liu.


    "The thing is, I want to forge a cooking pot, a special one for cooking meals, but this pot needs to be separated in the middle, dividing it into two sides!"


    Jiang Liu began to describe the structure of the Hot-Clear Pot to the manager from Refined Iron Shop.


    "Rest assured, with Refined Iron Shop''s craftsmanship, forging such a pot is not difficult. As you said, just by adding a partition inside the pot to divide it into two halves, right? We guarantee that nothing on either side of the pot will mix," the manager nodded in understanding, affirming that it wasn''t a difficult task, as Jiang Liu had clearly described.


    "Right, in addition, I need to forge a moreplex pot. Around the pot is meant for boiling food, but in the middle, it should have a volcanic shape, hollow inside, where charcoal can be ced!" Since he hade to forge pots, he naturally wanted to get all the cookware he needed made, so Jiang Liu went on to describe the structure of the Charcoal Copper Pot.


    "Hmm, this idea for the Charcoal Copper Pot is quite novel; it certainly demands some skill!" The manager said, after hearing Jiang Liu''s description.


    And to forge arge pot out of pure bronze, one with intricate design and requiring high craftsmanship?


    This seemed not so simple. Most importantly, the cksmiths had never made one before and had no experience to speak of.


    "Although the material costs for the two pots are not much, the technical requirements are indeed quite high. Perhaps in the whole Treasure Elephant Country, only your establishment can forge them. So, please," Jiang Liu said graciously with a bow after hearing the manager''s words.


    "Hahaha, very well, young Monk, you have good discernment. In the entire Treasure Elephant Country, the highest craftsmanship belongs to our Refined Iron Shop indeed!" As expected, everyone liked apliment, and a well-targeted one had an even better effect. The manager nodded happily upon hearing the praise.


    "Let''s do this: although the materials aren''t costly, your skills are valuable. How about I give you two taels of silver?" Afterplimenting the manager, Jiang Liu paused to think and then made his offer.


    Two taels of silver was definitely a high price. After all, Brother Xuanwu of Jinshan Temple didn''t earn two taels of silver even after conducting a major Buddhist ceremony.


    This was also because they indeed had not made a Charcoal Copper Pot before, and it would likely take several attempts. Jiang Liu hoped they would create practical and aesthetically pleasing cookware, hence the price he offered.


    After all, considering the high price, the Refined Iron Shop should strive for excellence, right?


    If the goods weren''t worth the price, wouldn''t it tarnish their own reputation?


    Besides, two taels of silver wasn''t a high price for Jiang Liu, but a good pot was very important for his future needs.


    "Two taels of silver!? Young Monk, five coins would suffice, there''s no need for so much!" the manager eximed in surprise after hearing Jiang Liu''s offer, speaking in a hurry.


    "Wait a moment, two taels isn''t much!" However, before Jiang Liu could reply, suddenly, a loud voice rang out from the side, interrupting the conversation between him and the manager.


    Therey a middle-aged Han man, bare-chested in the corner with several wine bottles at his feet, looking intoxicated. He seemed out of ce amidst the bustling and lively atmosphere of the Refined Iron Shop, with his disheveled and dirty appearance; uninformed, one might think he was a member of the Begger Gang.


    "Boss, it''s just crafting two pieces of cookware, this..." the manager turned back to look at the drunken middle-aged man sitting in the corner, his expression somewhat troubled.


    Raising his hand to stop the manager from speaking further, the disheveled Han man stood up and looked at Jiang Liu: "Little Monk, you''re willing to pay two taels of silver to forge cookware, so you must want to create two perfect pieces, right?"


    "Correct, as long as the quality is sufficient, I wouldn''t mind paying twenty or even two hundred taels of silver," Jiang Liu nodded earnestly.


    As the Imperial Brother of the Emperor of Tang, he had brought a substantial amount of silver coins on this trip, and with the ability to earn money through defeating demons, he could be considered affluent.


    Is something expensive? That''s not what Jiang Liu considered. What he cared about was just one thing:


    Is it worth it!


    Looking at the disheveled middle-aged man, Jiang Liu was inwardly curious¡ªcould such a person truly be the boss of the Refined Iron Shop? It seemed his craftsmanship must be splendid.


    Moreover, ording to the usual routines in dramas and even novels, doesn''t the appearance of a uniquely skilled person tend to be quite special?@@novelbin@@


    Character Panel!


    With curiosity, Jiang Liu looked at the other party and silently chanted in his mind. Immediately, a semi-transparent character panel appeared in front of Jiang Liu.


    ID: Li Tie (Golden).


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Divine Craftsman.


    Level: 18.


    ¡­


    "Divine Craftsman!?" Seeing the profession title on the other person''s character panel, Jiang Liu''s heart stirred.


    Not a cksmith, but a Divine Craftsman? That seemed to have a high level of prestige. Clearly, this person had a unique talent.


    "Very well, those who haggle over the creation of things are disrespecting both their tools and us who forge them. You, little monk, are willing to pay over the price, which clearly shows respect for our craftsmanship and the utensil you seek!" The man walked over, gazing at Jiang Liu as he spoke, admiring his attitude.


    Indeed, whether it was five silver coins or two taels of silver, it wasn''t important. What mattered were Jiang Liu''s recent words: The material isn''t worth much, but the craftsmanship is valuable.


    This attitude was very pleasant to hear.


    While speaking, Li Tie turned back to nce at the other cksmiths in the Refined Iron Shop and said, "Today, I will show you what real craftsmanship is and let you see that what we cksmiths seek is quality, not quantity. Without the heart of a craftsman like you allck, your skills will never reach the peak!"


    As his words ended, Li Tie went to the furnace. After weighing the hammer in his hand, in the blink of an eye, the hammer turned into a blur of shadows. Bang, bang, bang¡ªit struck down like a raging storm, as if it had a vendetta against the iron block.


    However, the other cksmiths from the Refined Iron Shop stopped what they were doing and crowded around, eyes wide with curiosity, watching every move Li Tie made, without even daring to blink.


    "Little Master, you''re very lucky today. The boss is willing to forge an item for you personally. His skills are quite extraordinary, and it''s rare for him to forge anything for anyone else, maybe just once every several years. You''ve struck it rich today!" The overseer, who was not a cksmith and had no intention of learning the craft, said to Jiang Liu.


    "I understand that!" Jiang Liu nodded, watching Li Tie''s movements with anticipation.


    Being only level 18 meant Li Tie''s cultivation level had reached only the Body Tempering Realm, but the golden character panel demanded respect.


    And a Divine Craftsman as a profession? It was quite intriguing to think what kind of unique pot he could create.


    "Are the objects forged by Li Tie really full of wonders? Could they be kitchen utensils with some incredible abilities? The legendary kitchen utensils?"


    While Jiang Liu expected eagerly, he also secretly wondered, thinking of an animation from his previous life called "Cooking Master Boy," which revolved around culinary arts.


    The legendary culinary utensils featured within had many special functions, almost like something out of fantasy.


    Regardless of Jiang Liu''s musings, Li Tie, who seemed sloppy while lying around drinking, became meticulous and strived for perfection once he stood by the furnace and began to work.


    Forging, quenching, cooling...


    All the steps felt very natural in his hands.


    The hammer struck down fiercely, like rolling thunder, seemingly eager topletely shatter the material.


    When the hammer tapped lightly, it was akin to spring rain, silent and moist, covering the whole material...


    Quickly, the most basic Hot-Clear Pot took shape under Li Tie''s hands.


    The round utensil had an "S" shaped partition in the middle, and the pot itself was even etched with meticulous patterns, appearing very profound and mysterious.


    "Done, take a look. Are you satisfied with this Hot-Clear Pot?" After finishing, Li Tie brought the pot over to Jiang Liu to ask.


    Taking it in both hands, Jiang Liu looked at the pot, its round shape, the "S" shaped partition in the middle, even the brim of the pot featured Bagua patterns.


    It gave the impression of a Tai Chi Bagua design.


    Naturally, as Jiang Liu''s gaze fell upon it, the attribute information of the Hot-Clear Pot also surfaced before his eyes.

 Chapter 241 Strange Attributes

    Taiji Yin-Yang Pot (Perfect Level): Cookware, Deliciousness +90%, Freshness +30%, with a Special Effect: Heartfelt, Durability 55/55.


    As Jiang Liu looked at the attribute information for the Yin-Yang Pot, he was momentarily stunned.


    The attributes for deliciousness and freshness were easy enough to understand; it seemed to suggest the food cooked in this pot would taste better and fresher, right?


    But what did this "Heartfelt" special effect mean? There was no exnation.


    Nevertheless, it''s impressive that cookware just forged has full durability.


    "Is this the work of the Divine Craftsman? A Yin-Yang Pot of perfect quality? Could there be legendary level or even epic level cookware in the future? What special effects would those have?" Jiang Liu couldn''t help but feel astonished and filled with eager anticipation.


    "How is it? Are you satisfied!?" Li Tie''s gaze rested on Jiang Liu, his eyes brimming with joy as he asked with a smile.


    "Great, this quality can''t just be crafted by any ordinary person. Food cooked with this pot will be even more delicious and fresh!" Jiang Liu nodded vigorously, his face alight with sheer delight as he eximed his admiration.


    "Good eye!" Pleased with his masterpiece, the Taiji Yin-Yang Pot, and Jiang Liu''s appreciation of his skills, Li Tie was even more pleased after hearing Jiang Liu''s praise.


    As the saying goes, "A good horse needs a Bole to recognize its worth." Li Tie naturally hoped that the person using his cookware would understand its value.


    Seeing Jiang Liu''s discerning eye reassured Li Tie quite a bit.


    Nodding, Li Tie turned and took out a fine piece of bronze iron from the treasure trove of his Refined Iron Shop, saying, "I have a meteoric bronzite here that I''ve always wondered what to craft with. Since Little Master, you have keen eyes, today I shall forge a Charcoal Copper Pot for you with it!"


    "Thank you!"


    Seeing that Li Tie had taken out an item especially for him, clearly in recognition of his discernment just now, Jiang Liu felt all the more joyful and expectant as he nodded emphatically.


    Without any idle talk, Li Tie got serious and focused intently.


    Quenching, removing impurities, then smelting, shaping, cooling, engraving...


    Each step was meticulous yet swift, giving the impression of natural grace and effortlessness.


    "This guy''s craftsmanship is really quite impressive; it''s almost like he''s attained the Dao in his technique!" Sun Wukong suddenly spoke up from the side.


    While Sun Wukong might not be as worldly as Zhu Bajie, he had cultivated under Ancestor Bodhi and thus had a keen eye for these matters.


    "Indeed, he truly is a remarkable and exceptional individual!" Zhu Bajie, unusually not arguing with Sun Wukong, nodded his head in agreement.


    Well, receiving suchments from two Taiyi True Immortals, it was clear that Li Tie''s smithing skills had indeed reached a very high level.


    Clearly, the forging of this Charcoal Copper Pot was carried out with even more care than the Taiji Yin-Yang Pot had been.


    When the Yin-Yang Pot was being forged, the cksmiths of Refined Iron Shop had all stared wide-eyed, watching intently; but now, as the Charcoal Copper Pot was being created, these same smiths were left dizzy with confusion, quickly losing the desire to watch and instead turning away to attend to their own tasks.@@novelbin@@


    "What''s going on here?" Seeing the cksmiths disperse one after another, Jiang Liu was somewhat surprised and said in a low voice.


    "The boss is getting serious now. These techniques are almost at the level of the Dao; they''re not something they canprehend. So, even if they were to watch, they wouldn''t gain anything from it," exined a supervisor nearby, hearing Jiang Liu''s astonished words.


    "I see!" Jiang Liu nodded in realization, his anticipation growing even more.


    The forging of the Charcoal Copper Pot was much more challenging than that of the Yin-Yang Pot, and Li Tie had clearly put more thought and used better materials this time.


    Therefore, this time the forging took a full Chinese Hour, and only then was itplete.


    A Charcoal Copper Pot, its edges engraved with dragon and phoenix patterns. From the design, a fiery red dragon could be seen breathing dragon fire, and on the other side, an equally fiery red phoenix breathed phoenix mes. Without any charcoal added, the pot already emanated a scorching sensation.


    Jiang Liu didn''t wait for Li Tie to bring over the Charcoal Copper Pot; he took the initiative to walk over and receive the pot from his hands.


    As his eyes settled on the Charcoal Copper Pot, naturally, the corresponding attribute information also appeared before him.


    Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot (Legendary Level): Cookware, Deliciousness +120%, Aroma +100%, Special Effect: Drunken Babble, Durability 88/88.


    Upon seeing the attributes of the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot, Jiang Liu''s heart was initially filled with joy. A cookware of legendary quality was truly worthy of being considered legendary, right?


    Indeed, both the deliciousness and aroma had significantly high increases.


    But thest special effect caused Jiang Liu''s mouth to twitch slightly.


    What was this "Drunken Babble" special effect all about? Surely there was no problem, right?


    "This pot, are you sure you don''t need to modify it a bit more? I always feel like something isn''t quite right!" Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly as he spoke to Li Tie.


    "Hahaha, this pot is a bit unusual, but all this is the will of Heaven, Little Master, you don''t need to worry about it! After all, as long as the food is delicious, that''s all that matters!"


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, a hint of embarrassment appeared on Li Tie''s face, but heughed it off. Clearly, he was aware of the special effect of the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot he smithed.


    As his words ended, Li Tie showed no intention of staying. He waved his hand and said, "Alright, I''ve just crafted two culinary tools, and I''m a bit tired, so I''m going to rest!"


    While speaking, Li Tie quickly walked away into the distance.


    "Wait, Master, how much for these two culinary tools?" Seeing Li Tie walk away briskly, Jiang Liu asked.


    "Whatever you think is good! Just give what you see fit!" Li Tie said dismissively, treating money as if it were dirt. In the blink of an eye, he had disappeared from sight.


    "This¡­" The people of the Refined Iron Shop looked at their boss''s behavior, utterly confused, not understanding what had just happened.


    "Although the special effect of the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot seems a bit tricky, it still has a great effect for eating!" Listening to Li Tie telling him to give whatever he thought fit, Jiang Liu pondered silently for a moment.


    The Perfect Level and Legendary Level pots were valuable. After a brief consideration, Jiang Liu took out fiverge gold ingots.


    "Here are five gold ingots, consider this the crafting fee!"


    As he finished speaking and stuffed the fiverge gold ingots into the steward''s hand, Jiang Liu didn''t linger. He turned and left with Sun Wukong and the others.


    "Such a generous gesture!" The boss himself had said let him give whatever he thought good, yet he gave fiverge gold ingots just like that? The steward was inwardly amazed, then turned to report to his boss.


    "This hand, sigh, I''ve really lost face today!"


    In the backroom of the Refined Iron Shop, Li Tie was alone, pping his left hand against his right, and his right against his left. After pping himself a few times, Li Tie felt overwhelmed with embarrassment.


    As the saying goes, the novice fears the experienced, the experienced fears the master, and the master fears missteps!


    In Li Tie''s view, he had made a misstep with the second Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot. Especially since the little monk''s critical eye seemed to catch it instantly, which made Li Tie too embarrassed to stay any longer, so he turned and fled the scene.


    Thud thud thud!


    Just as Li Tie was berating himself for his mistake, a knock on the door sounded, and the steward entered with the five gold ingots: "Boss, that little monk from before has already left, and he left these five gold ingots as the forging fee!"


    "What a gracious offer, one ingot is ten taels, and five ingots are a full fifty taels of gold!" Seeing the gold in the steward''s hands, Li Tie was both astounded and felt a twinge of guilt.


    If there hadn''t been a misstep, would the price of fifty taels of gold be worth it? Naturally.


    However, a misstep had been made, and it seemed like it wasn''t worth the fifty taels of gold anymore.


    But after all, he had told the man to give whatever he wanted, and he voluntarily gave fifty taels of gold, that wasn''t Li Tie''s problem, was it?


    With that thought, Li Tie felt somewhat better and instructed the steward to put away the fifty taels of gold.


    Let''s not focus on the current situation at the Refined Iron Shop; on the other side, having secured the two kitchen tools, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong left the Royal City.


    "Master, now that the pots are crafted, when can we enjoy another good meal?" Zhu Bajie, eyes gleaming with anticipation, asked Jiang Liu, full of eagerness.


    Zhu Bajie was already looking forward to it given his master''s superb cooking skills, now coupled with the new high-quality pots.


    Considering the smithing skills of that man they had met, if he were to craft a Dharma Treasure, it seemed the quality would also not be bad. One couldn''t help but wonder, how much more would such cookware, akin to a Dharma Treasure, enhance the food?


    "Don''t rush, you''ll have something to eat soon enough. For now, let''s go meet some demons nearby!" Jiang Liu shook his head and replied.


    Since they were passing by, it was natural for Jiang Liu to want to check on the Yellow-Robed Monster. He wasn''t in a hurry to reveal his identity publicly; he preferred to assess the situation of the Yellow-Robed Monster first.


    After stepping out of the Royal City, Sun Wukong immediately knew what to do. Stomping his feet, he called out, "Local Deity¡­!?"


    With a practiced air, Sun Wukong had be quite adept at summoning the Local Deity on their journey.


    "Wait, Wukong!" However, just as Sun Wukong was about to summon the Local Deity, Jiang Liu shook his head, stopping him.


    Although a Local Deity governs their territory, they are still only the lowest level of Earth Immortals.


    The Yellow-Robed Monster was the Kuimu Wolf reincarnated. Even if they were to question the Local Deity, it was unlikely they would know the current situation of the Kuimu Wolf.

 Chapter 242 Zixia, I, Old Sun, will take you out to eat

    ```


    Wanting to inquire about the situation with the Yellow-Robed Monster from the Local Deity was clearly an impossibility; after all, the Yellow-Robed Monster had descended to the Mortal World in secret. If the Local Deity could identify him, why would he still sneak around? He would have been caught by the Great Jade Emperor long ago.


    Therefore, seeing that Sun Wukong intended to summon the Local Deity to inquire about the whereabouts of the Yellow-Robed Monster, Jiang Liu immediately spoke up to stop him.


    "Master, if we don''t ask the Local Deity, how are we going to find the whereabouts of that evil demon!?" Sun Wukong looked somewhat puzzled as he asked Jiang Liu.


    "What can we do? Just search slowly, I guess!?" Jiang Liu had an expression of helplessness and spread his hands as he spoke.


    "Ah!? Just search aimlessly like that? Who knows when we''ll find anything! Isn''t this like looking for a needle in a haystack!?"


    Zhu Bajie murmured to himself in a low voice when he heard this.


    "Cough cough, it''s fine, no rush, we''ll take our time and search thoroughly!" However, Zhu Bajie''s murmur might have been better left unsaid as after he spoke, Jiang Liu''s eyes shone even brighter.


    Indeed, for Jiang Liu, spending time on something never felt troublesome.


    Besides, although the Yellow-Robed Monster had abducted Baihua Xiu for more than a dozen years, in Jiang Liu''s view, the Yellow-Robed Monster should not be too far from the Royal City of Treasure Elephant Country. If they spent more time searching, he believed they would eventually find him.


    Aimlessly searching was indeed not an easy task; they had looked for a long time without finding any trace of the Yellow-Robed Monster.


    By evening, Zhu Bajie naturallyined loudly about being tired, and at the same time, he looked at Jiang Liu with hopeful eyes.


    "Master, it''s gettingte; let''s rest for the day!" Following Zhu Bajie''sints of fatigue, Sun Wukong''s eyes also lit up as he looked at Jiang Liu¡ªthe long-awaited Hot-Clear Pot had finally been made.


    Sha Wujing, on the other hand, appeared to be wrestling with a dilemma.


    On one hand, he felt that drinking alcohol and eating meat were very wrong for a monk and should be abstained from.


    On the other hand, Sha Wujing was incredibly excited about tonight''s hot pot and couldn''t help but swallow hard, finding himself in a difficult situation, unable to decide.


    "Alright, Wukong, we''ll use the Hot-Clear Pot for dinner tonight!" Nodding his head, Jiang Liu was somewhat curious about the attributes of the two pots and wanted to try them out.


    Rtively speaking, the heartwarming effect of the Hot-Clear Pot seemed more stable.


    "We''re going to eat with the Hot-Clear Pot!? Okay then, I, Old Sun, will make a trip to invite Fairy Zixia to join us!" Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sun Wukong suddenly spoke up.


    "Eh, big brother, you still say there''s nothing between you and Fairy Zixia? The moment there''s good food, you think of her!" Upon hearing Sun Wukong''s remarks, Zhu Bajie teased him with a somewhat mocking tone.


    "You blockhead, have you forgotten? When we sent Fairy Zixia backst time, Master had said that once the Hot-Clear Pot was ready, we would invite her to eat with us. Master is a man of his word. If he forgot, naturally I should remind him!" Sun Wukong gave Zhu Bajie a disdainful look.


    "Hmm, Wukong''s words have indeed reminded me; I had indeed forgotten. It''s good that you remembered!" Jiang Liu, hearing this, nodded his head in agreement.


    However, Jiang Liu looked at Sun Wukong and smiled faintly, as if the words he spoke had a deeper meaning.


    "Not bad, haha, big brother, even Master himself had forgotten, but it''s really something that you remembered!" Zhu Bajie clearly caught the yful undertone in Jiang Liu''s words andughed out loud as he teased Sun Wukong.


    "Master, even you are making fun of I, Old Sun? Then I won''t go. After all, the one who breaks his word is you!"


    Hearing the back-and-forth between Jiang Liu and Zhu Bajie, Sun Wukong was somewhat embarrassed and blushed as red as his own bottom, eventually sitting aside.


    "Alright, Wukong, go ande back quickly!" Seeing Sun Wukong''s expression, Jiang Liu said with augh.


    Having said that and pausing for a moment, Jiang Liu then added, "By the way, if you happen to encounter your friend fromst time, also invite him over. After all, he gave us a big gift; treating him to a meal several times is also an act of courtesy!"


    "Yes, Master!" Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, instructing him to also invite Third Prince Nezha, Sun Wukong thought for a moment and then stood up.


    In the midst of speaking, he leapt up and, with the deployment of his Somersault Cloud, disappeared into the horizon in the blink of an eye.


    Preparing the ingredients for a hot pot naturally required some effort. As someone ustomed to eating hot pot year-round, the Exquisite Immortal Mansion was of course well-equipped with the necessary tables and chairs.


    Boiling the big bones for the broth and adding the chili peppers, the soup base in the Taiji Yin-Yang Pot was quickly ready.


    Both were based on the big bone broth, with half used for a fresh seafood soup base and the other half for a spicy soup base. Perhaps due to the effect of the Taiji Yin-Yang Pot, even without adding the ingredients, the mere broth seemed incredibly delicious.


    Zhu Bajie busied himself while drooling over that pot of broth, wishing he could drink it all up first.


    Indeed, this newly-forged pot, like a Dharma Treasure,bined with Master''s culinary skills, was truly the number one delicacy in the world.


    ¡­


    ```


    Let us not discuss Jiang Liu and others in the Mortal World, preparing delicious food. After using his Somersault Cloud, Sun Wukong quickly crossed the South Heavenly Gate and went directly to find Third Prince Nezha.


    Upon arriving at the residence of Third Prince Nezha, the Heavenly Soldiers guarding the entrance naturally hurried forward to pay their respects.


    "Where''s the Third Prince? Is he here!?" Sun Wukong had no time for small talk and directly asked.


    "Reporting to Great Sage, the Third Prince has gone out with Lord of Heavenly King to exorcise demons, and he''s not at home!" Hearing this, the Heavenly Soldier guarding the door quickly responded.


    "He went out to subdue demons?" Hearing this, Sun Wukong nodded and said nothing more; he turned to leave the residence and headed towards the Glycyrrhiza Garden.


    In the Glycyrrhiza Garden, Sun Wukong had personally brought Zixia here earlier and had mentioned the friendship between himself and Zixia, requesting the nearby Heavenly Soldiers to lend her some assistance.


    Therefore, Zixia has not been ostracized these days in Glycyrrhiza Garden. In fact, even the Immortal Maiden in charge of the garden has taken extra care of Zixia.


    "Ah, the Immortal Realm is just like this..." Zixia could sense the change in attitude among the fairies and Immortal Maidens towards her recently, and let out a inward sigh.


    She once thought the Immortal Realm was incredibly beautiful and longed for it with all her heart. But now, Zixia felt that the so-called Immortal Realm didn''t seem all that different from the Mortal World.


    It''s merely because people in the Immortal Realm live longer and have greater strength, right?


    "Hey, Zixia!" Just at this moment, a familiar voice suddenly rang out, interrupting Zixia''s thoughts.


    Zixia looked towards the voice and saw a skinny monkey squatting on the wall of the Glycyrrhiza Garden, waving at her.


    "Ah, Monkey!" Zixia''s eyes brightened with surprise as she looked at Sun Wukong squatting on the wall and eximed.


    But as soon as she spoke, she realized it wasn''t quite right and became somewhat restrained, saying, "Sun, Great Sage Sun..."


    "Sun what Great Sage, just call me Old Sun the Monkey; I quite like it!" Leaping forward, Sun Wukong jumped to Zixia''s side and naturally grabbed her hand, saying, "Come on, I''m taking you to have hot pot!"


    "Great Sage!"


    "We have seen the Great Sage!"


    As Sun Wukong leaped into the Glycyrrhiza Garden, all the surrounding fairies, even the Immortal Maidens, hurriedly greeted him.@@novelbin@@


    The respect they showed was so profound, they were almost ready to kneel and kowtow.


    "Alright, everyone go back to your own tasks. Otherwise, if your work isn''t done well, the Empress with her stingy nature might punish you. Old Sun will take Zixia to eat now!" Sun Wukong waved his hand at the greeting fairies.


    "Great Sage, please go ahead!" Since it was Sun Wukong who wanted to take Zixia away, the Immortal Maiden of Glycyrrhiza Garden naturally did not dare to stop him and quickly spoke up.


    However, the words from Sun Wukong about the Empress being stingy made all the fairies and Immortal Maidens promptly lower their heads.


    They all pretended not to hear what he said about the Empress. The Great Sage could speak so openly because of his own ability, but these others dared not say the same.


    Waving his hand, Sun Wukong said nothing more and, pulling Fairy Zixia along, leapt into the air and turned into a streak of Escape Light, quickly disappearing into the horizon.


    "The Great Sage seems to really like Zixia! He''s personallye to take her for a meal again!" Once Sun Wukong had left, the fairies of Glycyrrhiza Garden finally breathed a sigh of relief, feeling as if a huge weight had been lifted from their hearts, and they resumed their lively chatter in low voices.


    "A Divine Power Warrior once wanted to pursue me and was always inviting me out to eat, ah, how lucky Zixia is! Being captured by an Evil Demon, and yet it turned out she could connect with the Great Sage. Is this what they mean by a blessing in disguise?" Some envious fairiesmented.


    "I''m really curious though, with someone like the Great Sage personally taking Zixia to eat, I wonder what delectable things they will have? Dragon liver and phoenix marrow? Jadescent Nectar? Exquisite spirit fruits of the heavens and earth?" Some fairies swallowed hard, their faces filled with longing as they spoke.


    "Alright, alright, stop letting your imaginations run wild, you young maidens, and get back to work!" An Immortal Maiden, listening to these fairies dreamily specting, interrupted them impatiently and scolded.


    Meanwhile, Sun Wukong pulled Zixia along and rode his Somersault Cloud down to Mortal World.


    Halfway through the sky, Bodhisattva Guanyin moved on her Lotus tform and happened to witness this scene.


    "Bodhisattva, that is Fairy Zixia from the Empress'' Glycyrrhiza Garden. Her rtionship with Great Sage Sun is extraordinarily close!" Muzha, who was apanying Bodhisattva Guanyin, seemed to notice her curiosity and spoke up.


    Bodhisattva Guanyin nodded slightly, and suddenly remembered that she still had a strand of Red Thread from the Matchmaker God in her possession.

 Chapter 243 Heartfelt

    Within the Exquisite Immortal Mansion, Jiang Liu and his group had already prepared arge pot of hotpot, with spicy and seafood vors already simmering and sending out rich aromas.


    The ingredients were ready early, and Jiang Liu and the others had taken their ces at the dining table, which wasden with a variety of ingredients, looking incredibly abundant.


    "Why hasn''t Monkey Brother arrived yet?" With a pair of chopsticks in hand, Zhu Bajie kept looking outside, appearing restless.


    This was already numerous times that Zhu Bajie had mentioned this.


    Hot pot, in Zhu Bajie''s view, was a very delicious thing; ever since he found chili peppers, and now with a hot-clear potparable to a Dharma Treasure, hasn''t the vor of the hot pot elevated to a new level?


    Although he hadn''t started eating yet, just the smell of these broths was enough to make Zhu Bajie feel irresistible cravings, his mouth watering.


    "Bajie, in the three realms and six paths, who are some of the more formidable people when ites to crafting Dharma Treasures?" Since sitting idle was boring, Jiang Liu thought of the two pots he had crafted from the Divine Craftsman today and curiously turned to Zhu Bajie.


    Since they could craft Legendary Level kitchenware today, could they possibly find even more skilled craftsmen to create Epic Level or even Divine Level kitchenware in the future?


    "Crafting Dharma Treasures?"


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s inquiry, Zhu Bajie''s attention shifted from the hot pot, and without thinking, he spoke, "The most formidable, of course, is the Supreme Elder Lord. His golden pills are recognized as the best in the three realms and six paths, and besides alchemy, the Dharma Treasures he crafts are also top-notch!"


    "Hmm, that''s true!" Zhu Bajie''s remark made Jiang Liu nod in agreement.


    Looking through the original story, it seems every Dharma Treasure from the Supreme Elder Lord''s home was incredibly powerful.


    Like the Purple Gold Gourd that would suck in people when called if they answered, quite a powerful treasure able to outperform others and triumph despite weaker abilities.


    Like the Immortal Binding Rope, once bound by it, one was virtually helpless; like the Banana Leaf Fan, which was merely used by the Supreme Elder Lord to stoke the fire, and then there was the Vajra Bracelet that could capture all the weapons in the world¡ªSun Wukong had all the Heavenly Deities trying, and yet it was to no avail, all treasures escaped.


    "This rake of mine is also personally forged by the Supreme Elder Lord. Within the Heavenly Court, it''s definitely one of the top tier Dharma Treasures," Zhu Bajie then said.


    "This rake, forged by the Supreme Elder Lord personally using divine ice iron, borrowing the power of the realms'' supreme elements and virtues, the Thunder Deity of Nine Heavens, through Heavenly Mantras andbat forces, underwent forging for forty-nine days, and it was sessfullypleted!"


    "What a treasure! Even more formidable than big brother''s jingu bang!" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Sha Wujing, who had been silent, suddenly spoke, addressing Zhu Bajie.


    "Indeed, a fine treasure. Although it weighs less than half of the Jingu Bang, in terms of quality, it is indeed more formidable than the Jingu Bang!" Simrly, having already reviewed the attributes of the Jingu Bang and the Nine-Toothed Rake, Jiang Liu also nodded privately.


    The quality of this rake is indeed higher than that of the Jingu Bang.


    "Second brother, this rake is a supreme treasure. Listening to you, it seems the Lord put great effort into forging it. It appears Marshal Tianpeng has a great face even now!" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s speech, Sha Wujing also spoke, his expression thoughtful.


    "No, Junior Brother Sha, you are mistaken!"


    However, confronted with Sha Wujing''s thoughtfulments, Zhu Bajie shook his head and said, "Though the position of Marshal Tianpeng is high, merely relying on this status to have the Lord forge weaponry for you is impossible. After all, the Lord transcends the mundane, and even the Jade Emperor himself shows deference to him!"


    "Then, how did second brother manage it!?" Zhu Bajie''s words made Sha Wujing nod and then ask even more curiously.@@novelbin@@


    As the General Juanlian in the presence of the Jade Emperor, Sha Wujing naturally knew of the transcendent nature of the Supreme Elder Lord''s status.


    "Because, I am somewhat like a half-disciple to the Lord!" After a moment''s thought, regarding his identity, Zhu Bajie nheless told the truth.


    "A disciple!?"


    Listening to this, General Juanlian was slightly startled, looking at him incredulously, "As far as I know, the Lord has never taken any disciples. How could there be a half-disciple?"


    "These, I, Old Pig, better not say!" Scratching the back of his head, Zhu Bajie hehe''d with a smile, not intending to continue the conversation.


    "A disciple, huh?" However, it was Jiang Liu who was moved by these words.


    ording to legend, the Supreme Elder Lord seemed to be the good corpse transformed by the Sage Laozi, and Laozi''s Human Sect only had the sole disciple Xuandu.


    Zhu Bajie''s identity seemed to be that of Xuandu''s disciple!


    So, it appeared he was the only inheritor of the Human Sect, and indeed aptly called Laozi''s disciple?


    Thus, he could naturally also be considered half a disciple of the Supreme Elder Lord...


    "That''s really impressive!" Realizing this, Jiang Liu looked at Zhu Bajie, his eyes filled with more amazement.


    Zhu Bajie''s identity was more formidable than he had imagined. Was he the real powerhouse hidden within the Journey to the West team?


    Among the settings of Primordial and Journey to the West, there were many rumors, and even in an era that had experienced an information explosion, there were some things Jiang Liu could not confirm.


    For example, the identity issue of Zhu Bajie, although such rumors had long existed, Jiang Liu could never confirm them.


    It wasn''t until today, when Zhu Bajie said he was half a disciple of Supreme Elder Lord, that Jiang Liu could confirm the authenticity of this im.


    Just like the identity of Tathagata, which originally had three exnations.


    First, Tathagata was a prince from the Mortal World who achieved Buddhahood through enlightenment and thus became the Tathagata.


    Second, Tathagata''s identity was actually that of the Sect of Intercepting''s leading disciple, Taoist Duobao, who transformed into him after the Sect was defeated in the Deification War.


    Third, the identity of Tathagata was actually from Ancient Times during the great war between shamans and demons, where the Demon Emperor Taiyi''s ten Golden Crows were shot down, nine by Houyi, and the surviving one transformed into the Great Sun Tathagata.


    ording to various rumors and settings, Tathagata''s real identity had three versions.


    So, which one is true? Jiang Liu naturally found it difficult to confirm.


    "The issue with Zhu Bajie''s identity is even stranger!" Realizing that Zhu Bajie''s identity as the only disciple of the Human Sect, Jiang Liu felt even more amazed.


    This identity was far superior to that of Marshal Tianpeng, but how could he have fallen to such an end?


    Even though Sage Laozi believed in inaction and letting things take their natural course, the decline of a disciple of the Human Sect to this extent must not look good on him, right?


    "Eh, wait..." However, amidst the surprise, Jiang Liu suddenly had a startling realization.


    Zhu Bajie''s identity concerning his own Nine-Toothed Rake had never been explicitly discussed by him these days, so why mention it today?


    Although this was not some unspeakable secret, it surely isn''t something worth unting, right?


    As a disciple of the Human Sect, having fallen to such a state today, what is there to boast about? And besides, Zhu Bajie did not speak of it in a boasting tone.


    "Could it be!?" Amidst the astonishment, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on the Taiji Yin-Yang Pot on the table, causing a shock in his heart.


    This Taiji Yin-Yang Pot, besides adding attributes of freshness and deliciousness, also had a heartfelt special effect.


    Could it be, due to this special effect, it inadvertently influenced others?


    With this thought, Jiang Liu''s heart stirred slightly, and soon his eyes were on Sha Wujing beside him.


    Heartfelt?


    These days, he had been somewhat distant from him, and likewise, Sha Wujing was not sad but just followed along as if merely passing the days. So, what really was Sha Wujing thinking?


    After a brief contemtion, Jiang Liu organized his words and spoke, "Disciples, from here to our Journey to the West, there are still a hundred thousand miles to go, and I will have to trouble you to escort me all the way!"


    "Master, what are you talking about? Old Pig and you are already tied together!" Hearing what Jiang Liu said, Zhu Bajie spoke.


    "Master, on this journey west, I have put in the least effort and cannot ept such words!" Meanwhile, Sha Wujing, with a hint of guilt on his face, spoke.


    Originally, the fierce demons were almost all annihted by Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, and Sha Wujing was left to do some carrying tasks, merely killing off little demons.


    But now, due to the space for carrying all their belongings being taken up by Jiang Liu, Sha Wujing no longer had loads to carry.


    Moreover, with Jiang Liu''s own abilities to level up by fighting monsters, those little demons no longer required Sha Wujing''s intervention; Jiang Liu could handle them alone.


    Therefore, in this Journey to the West team, the value of Sha Wujing really could be considered negligible.


    "Cough cough, this journey west, my initial purpose was to obtain the True Scriptures of Tripitaka, to save all beings from the sea of suffering and guide them to the other shore. So what were your initial motives?"


    After clearing his throat, Jiang Liu was somewhat astonished by the heartfelt special effect, which seemed to make Sha Wujing feel guilty, then he proceeded to ask.


    "The initial purpose ? Old Pig naturally wanted to learn how to flirt with girls from you, master, hehehe. From what I''ve seen and thought along this journey, I feel I''ve already grasped the basics from you, master!" Zhu Bajie responded with a chuckle, evidently very satisfied with the journey west.


    Enjoying delicious food and drinks, having a great ce to stay, and learning techniques of flirting along the way...


    Zhu Bajie felt that this journey to the west was much more interesting than being a demon king on the mountain.


    Zhu Bajie''s response was within Jiang Liu''s expectations.


    Immediately, his gaze shifted to Sha Wujing beside him.

 Chapter 244 How Would You Choose Between Your Master and the Jade Emperor?

    ```


    The special effect of heartfelt sincerity subtly influenced Sha Wujing''s character.


    Originally, because it seemed like his master and others purposefully excluded him, Sha Wujing had no intention of warming up to their cold shoulders.


    But now, with a change of thought, Sha Wujing considered that, after all, they were fellow disciples on a journey together, andtely, they had been ying Mahjong and dining together, and the master didn''t seem to intentionally keep him out.


    In the past, he even purposely avoided eating with them, harboring little schemes, like waiting until they reached the Western Heaven to see the Buddha punish them for drinking, eating meat, and gambling, right?


    Upon this reflection, Sha Wujing felt a pang of guilt, as if he had been judging others by his own narrow standards. Facing Jiang Liu, an undertone of guilt emerged in his heart.


    After all, throughout the Journey to the West, his own existence had indeed seemed superfluous, as he hadn''t found his ce of value. It seemed reasonable that the master would look down on him for hisck of worth, didn''t it?


    If it were a normal situation and the Master had asked him about his original intention for the journey, Sha Wujing would never tell the truth. Instead, he would articte some grand principles, such as liberating all living beings or the well-being of the people.


    But now, with a trace of guilt in his heart, Sha Wujing spoke up, "Actually, Master, my purpose is not as noble as yours. It''s quite petty; I just want to properlyplete this journey and then be conferred a return to my position among Immortals and Buddhas, and not be a Demon anymore!"


    "That''s his only purpose!?" Hearing Sha Wujing''s words, Jiang Liu''s eyebrows raised slightly.


    This purpose wasn''t wrong in essence, but what Jiang Liu was more concerned about was whether Sha Wujing was fundamentally the Jade Emperor, or to say, an eye ced in the team by Tathagata.


    With this thought, Jiang Liu sank into a moment of contemtion before sorting his words and then asking, "If your Master had some matters, say personal ones, that he didn''t want others to know about, but the Buddha asked you about them, would you tell?"


    "This..." Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s inquiry, although the words seemed casual, Sha Wujing found himself at a loss for words, unsure of how to respond.


    To divulge it? That seemed unfair to the Master.


    But not to? How could he justify that to the Buddha? Moreover, his future prospects were all in the Buddha''s hands.


    Jiang Liu''s expression remained calm, his gaze resting on Sha Wujing, waiting for his answer.


    Sha Wujing hesitated, torn between loyalty and duty, unsure of how to respond, as if any answer would be wrong.


    The Master''s cid gaze seemed to exert a heavy pressure on Sha Wujing.


    "Master, I, Old Sun, am back!" Just then, a loud voice rang out, and immediately, Sun Wukong strode into the hall hand-in-hand with Fairy Zixia.


    "Ah, Fairy Zixia, wee, wee!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s call, Jiang Liu nced at Sun Wukong holding Zixia''s hand, speaking without a trace in his voice.


    "Phew..."


    With Sun Wukong''s arrival with Zixia, the Master turned his head away, and Sha Wujing felt the Master''s gaze move from him, as if a huge weight had been lifted from his shoulders, and he let out a long sigh of relief.


    "I greet the Holy Monk and all the gentlemen!" Fairy Zixia offered a respectful salutation to Jiang Liu and the others.


    Although she was merely a fairy from the Glycyrrhiza Garden, Zixia was unaware of the identities of Jiang Liu and Zhu Bajie, but she was well aware of Sun Wukong''s esteemed status.


    As the saying goes, birds of a feather flock together, and if they were Great Sage Equalling Heaven Sun Wukong''s master and fellow disciples, it was clear they too had extraordinary status.


    Partly because they had an original fondness for Zixia, and perhaps also because of Sun Wukong, the Journey to the West Team was quite fond of her.


    After ushering her to take a seat, Jiang Liu curiously looked at Sun Wukong and said, "Wukong, why have you only brought Fairy Zixia here? Where, uh, is your friend?"


    "Monkey Brother, don''t tell me you only remembered Fairy Zixia and forgot your very loyal and generous friend? I didn''t expect you to be such a fair-weather friend, forsaking fraternity for beauty. I, Old Pig, am ashamed to associate with you!"


    Following Jiang Liu''s words, before Sun Wukong could answer, Zhu Bajie suddenly spoke up, casting Sun Wukong in a disdainful light.


    "You blockhead!" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Sun Wukong easily grasped Zhu Bajie''s big ears with an air of annoyance, saying, "Do you, blockhead, have any ce to talk about others on this matter?"


    "Indeed, Second Brother, Big Brother is right, you really have no right to speak about favoring beauty over friendship!" Perhaps because of the influence of sincere empathy, Sha Wujing no longer considered himself an outsider. Hearing this, he couldn''t help but nod in agreement, siding with Sun Wukong.


    "Ouch, ouch, ouch, Monkey Brother, I was wrong!" Zhu Bajie quickly begged for mercy as Sun Wukong twisted his ear.


    Upon hearing Zhu Bajie plead, Sun Wukong finally released his grip and sat back down.


    He then looked at Jiang Liu and answered, "Master, my friend happened not to be home, so I only brought Zixia back!"


    ```


    "Not at home, huh? Then let it be, having the thought is enough. I imagine your friend would appreciate it too. But, Wukong, when Bajie said you favor beauty over friends just now, it seemed you didn''t intend to exin yourself.


    Instead, you went to twist Bajie''s ear, which rather looks like you''re trying to cover something up!" After nodding slightly, Jiang Liu continued teasingly with a turn of his talk,ughing as he looked at Sun Wukong.


    When Jiang Liu first met Sun Wukong, he ttered him with sweet words, making Wukong beam with delight.


    But now, after nearly a year on the Journey to the West, their rtionship had grown much more familiar...


    Jiang Liu found that jesting with Monkey in his free time seemed quite amusing.


    "Master, don''t be cheeky, speak properly..." Faced with Jiang Liu''s teasing, Sun Wukong wouldn''t dare to twist his ear like he did with Zhu Bajie, but his face turned a shade darker as he said discontentedly.


    Listening to Jiang Liu''s banter with Sun Wukong and seeing his helplessness brought a suppressed smile to Zhu Bajie''s face, nearly breaking intoughter.


    However, as Sun Wukong red over at him, Zhu Bajie quickly changed the subject, saying, "Alright, alright, let''s not talk anymore, let''s eat. This newly forged pot seems rather extraordinary, let''s taste it and see!"


    "Mm, Zixia, you should try it first. Last time you said you didn''t like spicy food, so this time Master made a Yin-Yang Pot, which should suit your taste," Wukong nodded and said to Zixia beside him.


    "Thank you, Holy Monk!" As soon as Sun Wukong spoke, Zixia felt as if the Yin-Yang Pot had been specially prepared for her, and her heart filled with both emotion and gratitude as she thanked Jiang Liu.


    "Wukong exaggerates, I had already nned to forge a Yin-Yang Pot, not solely for you!" Jiang Liu shook his head in response to Fairy Zixia''s thanks.


    During the conversation, he signaled everyone to sit down and begin the meal formally.


    I must say, leaving aside the Heartfelt special effect, the delicious and savory effects added by the Taiji Yin-Yang Pot indeed greatly enhanced the hot pot''s level of deliciousness.


    This meal, even Zixia seemed to cast aside her reserve and joined the scramble for food.


    A hot pot meal, approximately a hundred pounds of ingredients, ended up in everyone''s stomachs. Of course, most of it went into Zhu Bajie''s belly.


    After the hot pot, everyone rubbed their now rounder bellies.


    "Delicious, this hot pot is really delicious! This is living! With days like this, who''d want to be an Immortal?" Zhu Bajie, who''d eaten the most, was utterly satisfied, squinting his eyes and blissfully lounging like a content salted fish.


    "Brother, you''re wrong there. One should still strive to be an Immortal! Otherwise, one''s standing isn''t righteous and words aren''t proper," Sha Wujing, who was sitting nearby, shook his head as he heard these words.


    Inparison, Sha Wujing valued their Immortal and Buddha status the most.


    Of course, this might be because his status in the Heavenly Court was the lowest among his three brothers, so he was more attached to it. Discover more content at My Virtual Library Empire


    "Brother does make some sense!"


    But at this moment, Fairy Zixia, perhaps influenced by the Heartfelt special effect and no longer considering herself an outsider, chimed in, "Actually, the so-called Heavenly Court, as I see it, is full of scheming and conflict. There are too many rules. If one is capable, it''s not necessary to be an Immortal at all!"


    "Eh? Zixia, your perspective is quite interesting!" Hearing Zixia''s words, someone who clearly also could not stand the numerous rules of the Heavenly Court, Sun Wukong looked at her in amazement andmented.


    "Having such a perspective is no surprise, but it''s regrettable that, seeing through it all, you don''t have the means like Monkey here to break free," Zixia said with a shake of her head and a hint of helplessness, responding to Sun Wukong''s words.


    Indeed, one doesn''t need to be an Immortal if they are capable, yet shecked the ability to oppose the Heavenly Court as Monkey did.


    "Break free!? In truth, when have I, Old Sun, ever truly broken free?" Yet, in response to Zixia''sment, Sun Wukong''s voice turned somber.


    Although he aimed to overturn all the Immortals and Buddhas through this Journey to the West, he was, after all, still trapped in the Immortals and Buddhas'' scheme.@@novelbin@@


    If he truly had the ability, he would have marched to Lingxiao or the Great Thunder Monastery long ago...


    "This Heartfelt feature is kind of terrifying, subtly influencing everyone''s nature!"


    Jiang Liu, standing to the side and listening to the dialogue between Sun Wukong and the others, inwardly marveled.


    Luckily, he had been mentally prepared and thus consciously controlled himself, being very careful with his words.


    Otherwise, without realizing it, who knows what kind of shocking statements might have slipped out by now.

 Chapter 245 The Arrogant Brat

    ```


    Discover hidden tales at My Virtual Library Empire


    After observing in secret for a while, Jiang Liu had a rough understanding of the Taiji Yin-Yang Pot''s "heartfelt" special effect.


    In short, there''s a taboo in human interaction called "talking deeply on shallow acquaintance."


    This "heartfelt" effect seems to unintentionally create an illusion that one has a deeper rtionship with others than they actually do, leading them to utter words that they wouldn''t normally speak.


    For example, Zhu Bajie would not normally speak of his rtionship with the Supreme Elder Lord, but today, he involuntarily talked about it.


    For instance, Sha Wujing had never thought about integrating into the Journey to the West for Scriptures team, but suddenly he felt somewhat guilty and even took the initiative to strike up a conversation, something he wouldn''t normally do.


    Then there''s Sun Wukong; maybe he has some rapport with Zixia, but regarding matters that would embarrass him, he would never speak of them, but today, he seemed to have the interest to talk...


    Jiang Liu was vignt about this effect in advance, so he did not say anything inappropriate, which made him quite relieved afterward.


    Well, to put it simply, this Taiji Yin-Yang Pot is a bit uncanny.


    In a previous life, the dinner table was the best means to close the distance between people, which is why dining culture was so popr then


    However, this Hot-Clear Pot seems to be able to catalyze and even greatly magnify that effect!


    Actually, it''s not just Sun Wukong and the others, even Jiang Liu himself feels as if his rapport with his several disciples has deepened. In fact, while he was inquiring about Sha Wujing''s situation, an idea even shed through his mind.


    That is, if he can''tplete the task of kicking Sha Wujing out of the Journey to the West Team, it seems there wouldn''t be any punishment! If there''s no problem, why not keep him!?


    In short, after having Zhu Bajie and the others tidy up the bowls and the Hot-Clear Pot, Jiang Liu recalled the idea he had at the dinner table and felt secretly rmed.


    Unconsciously affecting others'' emotions, the effect of this Hot-Clear Pot is indeed somewhat simr to the Buddhist Sect''s methods of inducing demon possession.


    It''s also fortunate that he was on guard in advance, so he restrained himself, and even the words he hesitated to say, he forcefully kept to himself.


    Now that he thinks about it, if he wasn''t beforehand vignt, perhaps he would really have opened up to Sha Wujing, revealing his true n to lead everyone to overthrow the Heavenly Deities and Buddhists?


    Although at the dinner table, he specifically asked Sha Wujing, if he had some private matters that he didn''t want Tathagata to know about, would he tell Tathagata?


    At that time, Sha Wujing hesitated, wavering between speaking out and not.


    But that was under the effect of being heartfelt!@@novelbin@@


    Normally, without the effect of heartfelt interaction, would Sha Wujing still hesitate!? Clearly, he would definitely tell Tathagata!


    At this thought, Jiang Liu felt secretly rmed, thankful that he could see the attributes of the Hot-Clear Pot.


    At the same time, Jiang Liu also felt an urgency in his heart; having Sha Wujing stay in the team was indeed detrimental.


    It''s no good, he must find a way to kick him out of the Journey to the West Team as soon as possible!


    "Master, what are you thinking about?" Zhu Bajie and the others quickly finished tidying up the bowls and utensils, and seeing Jiang Liu in a ponderous mood, Sun Wukong approached and asked.


    "Oh, nothing much, I was just thinking about where the demon creature that kidnapped Princess Baihua Xiu could be!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s inquiry, Jiang Liu casually found an excuse to answer.


    "Huh? Do you know my mother?"


    However, following Jiang Liu''s words, suddenly an immature voice rang out from outside the Exquisite Immortal Mansion, calling in.


    "What''s the situation!?" Hearing someone shouting from outside, Jiang Liu and the others were slightly startled.


    As they were surprised, they saw a child walk in.


    The child looked to be about seven or eight years old, wearing a garment sewn from the pelts of some unknown animals, with clear eyes and an elegant appearance. Hands in his pockets and a twig in his mouth, he had a trailzing and extremely cool demeanor as he walked in.


    "What did you say just now, child? Princess Baihua Xiu is your mother!?" Seeing the child entering, Jiang Liu was silent for a moment before asking.


    "Hmm, this house is quite nice, although much smaller than my home, but everything is quite exquisite. I hadn''t expected there to be such a nice house here!"


    Though only a seven or eight-year-old child, with a blustering cool manner, the child looked around and seemed quite satisfied with the Exquisite Immortal Mansion, giving his candid appraisal, like a little adult.


    "You little scamp! Didn''t you hear my master talking?" Seeing the child''s irrelevant answers, Zhu Bajie, considering himself Jiang Liu''s top henchman, was the first to stand up, speaking with ack of good cheer.


    "Crashing into someone''s mansion, huh? Hm, you pig-headed one makes a point!"


    Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, the child nodded in agreement as if he found it reasonable, then continued, "So what? From now on, this Immortal Mansion is mine! All of you get out of here!"


    "You little brat, are you dreaming!?" Seeing the child''s insolent words, Sun Wukong, next to him who found the whole situation amusing, couldn''t help butugh and said.


    "Hey, you monkey, suchck of insight. I''m an Innate Taoist Body, a talent born to this world. It''s your fortune that I''ve taken a liking to your mansion. Hand it over quickly, else you''ll risk this Young Master cracking your monkey skull!"


    Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, the child pointed at Sun Wukong and cursed back at him.


    ```


    But the juvenile speech did not convey any sense of authority. Instead, it just made peopleugh.


    "Oh, you want to smash I, Old Sun''s head, huh? Give it a try!" Sun Wukong, confident in his skills, chuckled upon hearing this and even stretched his head forward.


    "Then don''t me me for not being polite, Young Master!" Seeing Sun Wukong in such a state, the child gulped, tried to bolster his courage, and spoke up.


    As he spoke, he lifted his little fists and smashed them down toward Sun Wukong''s head.


    With a ''bang,'' Sun Wukong''s head, which was tougher than refined iron, didn''t budge at all.


    Instead, the child clutched his own hand, crying out in pain and looking at Sun Wukong with a mix of shock and anger, eximing, "Is your monkey head made of iron? It''s so hard!"


    "Heh heh heh, didn''t you say you were going to smash I, Old Sun''s head? What''s the matter? Don''t have the ability?" Hearing the child''s words of shock and anger, Sun Wukong chuckled, mockingly asking.


    "Hmph, don''t get cocky! See how awesome I am!" The child retorted angrily to Sun Wukong''s mockery.


    In the midst of speaking, he raised his hand, and immediately a pair of delicate and mini hammers appeared in his hands, saying, "You monkey, dare you try my Mountain Crushing Hammer?"


    "Stop the nonsense; bring out whatever moves you have!" Hearing the child talk about using weapons, Sun Wukong almostughed, impatiently responding.


    "Then I won''t hold back!" The child bit his teeth, raised the iron hammer, and smashed it down toward Sun Wukong''s head again.


    With a ''thud,'' it was as if he had struck steel rather than flesh and blood.


    The iron hammer fell heavily and bounced high, leaving the child''s hands tingling with numbness, and his heart was rmed.


    Was this monkey''s head really that hard?


    "Character panel!"


    Jiang Liu didn''t interfere with Sun Wukong and the child''s yful scuffle. From the child''s recent words, Jiang Liu could roughly guess his identity. His gaze rested on the child as he silently called up in his heart.


    Immediately, a translucent character panel appeared in front of Jiang Liu.


    ID: Wolf-Chasing Boy (Blue).


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Demi Immortal.


    Level: 41.


    Equipment: Mountain Crushing Hammer (Perfect Level): ...


    "Wolf-Chasing Boy? That name is quite interesting. Also, Demi Immortal? So he''s half-human, half-immortal? It seems that he really is the child of the Yellow-Robed Monster and Princess Baihua Xiu?"


    "But how old is this child, to have reached Level 41?!" After seeing the child''s character panel, Jiang Liu silently marveled.


    Looking at the child, just seven or eight years old, but already achieving Level 41¡ªif judged by the cultivation level of human cultivators, that would beparable to the Divinity Transformation Stage.


    So, having a good fatherbined with the advantage of an Innate Taoist Body, he could achieve such aplishment?


    This truly made countless cultivators and demons blush with shame.


    Level 41, and the character panel was blue. Although it seemed trivial in front of Sun Wukong, being merely a toy for mockery, it had to be admitted that the bratty child''s boastful words did have some substance.


    Thud, thud, thud!


    Leaving Jiang Liu''s thoughts aside, the yful tussle between Sun Wukong and the bratty child continued. Regardless of the child pounding his dainty hammers on Sun Wukong''s head forty-nine times, until his hands were numb from vibration.


    Looking at Sun Wukong, he was stillpletely unharmed, not even a single monkey hair damaged.


    "Heh heh heh, little brat, your strength is a bit weak. It''s not even enough to tickle your Grandpa Sun. Now, how about I, Old Sun, give you a hit?" Sun Wukong chuckled, offering after the child had pummeled him forty-nine times and was gasping for air.


    "I, I..." Watching Sun Wukong emerge unscathed, the bold-talking brat stepped back in horror, looking at Sun Wukong.


    "What? You don''t dare?" Sun Wukong asked with amusement, mockingly teasing.


    "Come on, let''s do it! Stop beating around the bush!" Although there was some fear and caution in his eyes, the brat didn''t intend to run away but stood his ground defiantly, saying.


    "Heh heh heh, then I, Old Sun, won''t hold back!" Sun Wukong responded with augh.


    Then he bent a finger and approached the brat, flicking him gently on the forehead.

 Chapter 246 The Character Layout of the Yellow-Robed Monster

    Who am I!? Where am I? What am I supposed to do!?


    Having no idea how long he had been unconscious, Wolf-Chasing Boy gradually opened his eyes,ing to from his stupor with a triple dose of confusion. Discover exclusive tales on My Virtual Library Empire


    A momentter, his consciousness slowly started to clear up and, recalling the event that had passed, he abruptly got up.


    He had hammered that monkey''s head dozens of times with his Mountain Crushing Hammer without stirring a hair, yet with just a flick of its finger on his head, he had passed out?


    After getting up, Wolf-Chasing Boy realized he hadn''t been harmed; instead, someone had ced him in bed to sleep.


    When Wolf-Chasing Boy got up and walked out of the room, he found it was already daylight outside. In the hall, Jiang Liu and the others were sitting at the dining table, eating.


    "Awake, are you? Come join us for a meal!" Jiang Liu nced at Wolf-Chasing Boy and called out.


    "Humph, I have no dealings with you guys. Even if I starve to death, I won''t eat a bite of your food!" Wolf-Chasing Boy said, somewhat angrily embarrassed upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    Fighting with Sun Wukongst night was utterly humiliating. Eat someone else''s food now? Wolf-Chasing Boy felt he absolutely couldn''t lower his face to do that.


    "Oh, not eating, huh? Well, never mind then!" For Jiang Liu, inviting someone to eat was merely basic hospitality, but since the offer wasn''t appreciated, he let it go.


    Today''s breakfast was quite rich, a bowl of exceedingly thick porridge made using the Hot-Clear Pot.


    Although it was intended for hot pot, it seemed it worked for making porridge as well.


    Jiang Liu discovered that if he first cooked porridge in the Hot-Clear Pot, and didn''t circle around the Hot-Clear Pot while eating, the Heartfelt special effect wouldn''t trigger.


    A bowl of in porridge, light and nd, served with fried dough sticks and steamed buns, plus a few tea eggs, was quite a refined meal.


    Though his mouth proimed he''d rather die of starvation than eat a bite of their food, as Wolf-Chasing Boy''s eyes fell on their breakfast and his nose slightly twitched,


    smelling the aroma of the white porridge and eyeing those golden fried dough sticks, he couldn''t help but swallow.


    "If you want to eat, just eat!" Seeing Wolf-Chasing Boy''s expression, Sun Wukong smiled slightly, tossed a fried dough stick over, and said,


    After catching the fried dough stick, Wolf-Chasing Boy sniffed it lightly.


    The fragrance of fried food might be the most important aspect, prompting him to lick his lips before turning to Sun Wukong and saying, "Humph, since you''re so sincerely asking me, I''ll do you the favor and try a bite!"


    As he spoke, Wolf-Chasing Boy lightly bit into it, and his eyes instantly lit up!


    "Delicious!"


    ...


    A whileter, as Wolf-Chasing Boy watched the Exquisite Immortal Mansion shrink back to palm-size and get tucked away by Jiang Liu, his eyes filled with admiration and regret, he spoke, "Master, is the meal over already? I''m not even full yet. Do you always invite people to eat without letting them have their fill?"


    "Not full yet? You''ve had three bowls of white porridge, five fried dough sticks, two tea eggs, and two pork buns!" said Jiang Liu, his tone a mix of amusement and exasperation as he nced at Wolf-Chasing Boy.


    His appetite had indeed taken Jiang Liu by surprise; seeing his belly rounded out yet still iming to be unfilled!


    This embarrassed Wolf-Chasing Boy slightly, and he quickly changed the subject, his gazending on the Exquisite Immortal Mansion in Jiang Liu''s hands, "Your house turns out to be a real treasure! How amazing it is that you can bring your house along when you travel!"


    "Alright, kiddo, it''s gettingte. We''ve invited you to a meal, now you should take us to your home!" Not dwelling further on the topic of the Exquisite Immortal Mansion, Jiang Liu merely looked at Wolf-Chasing Boy and asked.


    "Sure, I''ve never brought friends home in all these years. If I bring you, my folks are sure to be delighted!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Wolf-Chasing Boy cocked his head thinking for a moment, then nodded and said.


    Indeed, a fight had sparked this friendship. After copsing, uh, staying over for a night at their ce, and having been treated to a scrumptious breakfast, it indeed seemed right to invite them back in return.


    This must be what Mom meant by reciprocation, right?


    As he spoke, Wolf-Chasing Boy lifted his hand, and the Mountain Crushing Hammer in his grasp grew enormously.


    Simultaneously, Wolf-Chasing Boy leaped atop the Mountain Crushing Hammer and took off flying into the distance, followed naturally by Sun Wukong and the others soaring through the clouds.


    As for Jiang Liu? There was no need to deploy the Feather Demon de, as the White Dragon Horse generated wind under its hooves and raced through the air in pursuit.


    The distance was neither far nor near, merely about a hundred li forward, and Wolf-Chasing Boy descended in arge mountain range.


    "We''re here, this is Wanzi Mountain, my home!" Afternding, Wolf-Chasing Boy exined to Jiang Liu and the others, proceeding towards a nearby cave.


    "Ah, Young Master, you''re back! You were gone for a whole night practicing Controlling Artifacts Flight, worrying the Great King and hisdy to death!"


    At the mouth of the cave, a wolf-headed Demon Marshal, noticing Wolf-Chasing Boy''s descent, reacted with a startled expression and quickly spoke,


    taking a closer look at Wolf-Chasing Boy to see if he had any injuries.


    "Wait, who are they!?" The Wolf Demon at the cave entrance, having noticed Jiang Liu and his group, scrutinized them for a moment before inquiring.


    Jiang Liu, White Dragon Horse, and Sun Wukong were not surprising characters, but the Wolf Demon mainly focused on the expressions of Sha Wujing and Zhu Bajie.


    Looking at these two with fierce faces, it was clear they were not easy to deal with.


    "Oh, they are all new friends that young master here made outside, so, today, I specially brought them back home for a visit!" Hearing the Wolf Demon''s query at the entrance, Wolf-Chasing Boy said.


    Well, since they were brought by the young master, the Wolf Demon naturally did not dare to say much more.


    After all, the king and thedy were at home, and how they would treat them was naturally determined by the king''s own procedures.


    "Wee, master, pleasee inside!" Having made up his mind, the Wolf Demon was quite enthusiastic, inviting Jiang Liu and his group into the cave abode.


    "So that''s how it is!" As for Jiang Liu, after listening to the dialogue between Wolf-Chasing Boy and the Wolf Demon at the entrance, he understood all at once.


    Wanzi Mountain was over one hundred miles away from the royal city of Treasure Elephant Country, not too far but not too near either; no wonder no demons hade looking for him all night.


    And, it''s no wonder that Wolf-Chasing Boy could run such a long distance.


    With a level of 41, just enough to reach the Divinity Transformation Realm, was he practicing Controlling Artifacts Flight? Thus, he flew directly there?


    Not to mention Jiang Liu''s thoughts, once inside the cave abode, Jiang Liu found that the cave looked quite beautiful, with the walls polished very smoothly and even embedded with several Luminous Pearls.


    The cave was dug through, allowing sunlight to shine in from every angle, and in ces where sunlight could reach, some beautiful flowers and nts were also grown.


    All in all, this cave of the Yellow-Robed Monster lookedpletely different from other demons'' abodes that Jiang Liu had seen before; indeed, the Yellow-Robed Monster was not a demon but an Immortal, making his dwelling quite extraordinary.


    Deeper inside the cave abode was a bright room where a man who appeared to be around thirty, with a short beard and wearing a yellow robe, was sitting.


    Opposite the stone table was a young woman who appeared to be in her early twenties, extremely beautiful and also dressed in silk, with an elegant demeanor.


    "Dad, Mom!" Seeing the man and woman sitting across the table, Wolf-Chasing Boy greeted them happily.


    "Wolf Boy, you''re back? Your mother was so worried about you!" Seeing Wolf-Chasing Boy return, Princess Baihua Xiu eximed excitedly, hugging Wolf-Chasing Boy in her arms.


    Next to them, the Yellow-Robed Monster looked at his returning child, and his expression softened slightly.


    Then, his gaze fell on Jiang Liu and the others.


    Staring at Jiang Liu and hispanions, the Yellow-Robed Monster did not show any anomaly, but when his gaze rested on Sun Wukong, his face slightly changed.


    Clearly, he recognized Sun Wukong.


    In fact, not only was the Yellow-Robed Monster sizing him up, but Jiang Liu was also observing them.


    Although Princess Baihua Xiu had been abducted by the Yellow-Robed Monster, from the recent situation, it seemed the Yellow-Robed Monster had not confined Princess Baihua Xiu, and he indeed seemed to treat her quite well.


    The fact that the couple could sit together calmly seemed to exin a lot.


    This was like those women from his previous life who were sold to the mountains; initially, they naturally did everything they could to escape, but after living there for a few years and even having children, the idea of leaving faded more and more.


    The current state of Princess Baihua Xiu might be reflective of such a mindset ¡­


    Musing to himself, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on the Yellow-Robed Monster, and he silently muttered to himself: "Character interface."


    A translucent character interface naturally appeared in front of Jiang Liu.


    ID: Yellow-Robed Monster (Blue).


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Immortal.


    Level: 73.


    Weapon: Hundred Tempering de (Legendary Level) ¡­


    "Such a high level!" Looking at the Yellow-Robed Monster''s character interface, Jiang Liu was secretly astonished.


    Level 73? This must be the realm of Taiyi True Immortal, right? And a blue character interface? It seems the strength of the Yellow-Robed Monster truly is extraordinary.


    But thinking about it, it makes sense, considering the Twenty-Eight Star Abodes already had a high status in Heavenly Court. As one of the foremostbatants among the Twenty-Eight Star Abodes, it made sense for him to have such strength.@@novelbin@@


    Using terms from his previous life, if Heavenly Kings and Li Jing, even Marshal Tianpeng from Zhu Bajie''s previous life belonged to the military,


    then Kuimu Wolf from the Twenty-Eight Star Abodes should be considered as belonging to the highmand of the Heavenly Court Armed Police Force.


    Having such strength was not surprising.

 Chapter 247 Master, Leave for My Sake!

    Watching the appearance of Sun Wukong, the Yellow-Robed Monster felt a natural sense of gravity in his heart. If possible, he did not wish to get involved with such a person.


    After all, this was someone with formidable strength who dared to challenge the Jade Emperor himself.


    Yet, without any reason, he couldn''t simply turn away a guest, could he? After all, a visitor whoes is a guest, especially one brought by his own son.


    "Since he is my son''s friend, then let him stay in my cave for the time being. I will prepare a feast to treat you allter!" the Yellow-Robed Monster said, sounding very enthusiastic.


    One reason was that one does not strike a smiling face; he hoped by treating them warmly, they would not find faults.


    Secondly, he also hoped to hasten their departure by feasting them soon.


    "Thank you, Great King, for your hospitality!" Upon hearing this, Jiang Liu responded with a humble and polite nod.


    Following the Yellow-Robed Monster''s order, the cave was quickly filled with fruits, vegetables, and delicious wines, looking quitevish.


    The Yellow-Robed Monster''s household of three naturally yed host, with even Princess Baihua Xiu dressing in beautiful gowns, ying the gracious hostess, and during the feast, she personally offered Jiang Liu two cups of wine.


    "My son is mischievous; I thank you masters for taking care of himst night!" seeing Jiang Liu, the Monk, indifferent to meat and wine, Princess Baihua Xiu raised her cup and said.


    Clearly, what her son didst night, Princess Baihua Xiu and the Yellow-Robed Monster had also inquired about once.


    "It''s nothing. I see Wukong and your child seem to have taken a liking to each other! It was no trouble at all!" Jiang Liu also raised his cup and drank it all at once.


    He spoke the truth; he could tell that Sun Wukong indeed liked the cool and tough demeanor of Wolf-Chasing Boy.


    Otherwise, Sun Wukong would not have spent time ying and joking with the child.


    "The Great Sage has taken a liking to my child; that''s his good fortune!" the Yellow-Robed Monster said to Sun Wukong.


    "Oh? You know I, Old Sun!?" Hearing the Yellow-Robed Monster''s words, Sun Wukong, his face full of glee, said smilingly.


    Wherever he went, people recognized him, calling out to him as Great Sage, which naturally made Sun Wukong very happy.


    "Oh? Father, do you know this monkey?" hearing his father''s words, Wolf-Chasing Boy curiously asked the Yellow-Robed Monster.


    Wolf-Chasing Boy didn''t know Sun Wukong''s status, but he had tested Sun Wukong''s capabilitiesst night, using all his might yet unable to inflict the slightest harm. His skills were terrifyingly formidable.


    "Of course I know him!"


    The Yellow-Robed Monster nodded his head, unclear whether he was answering Sun Wukong or his son, and said, "Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong. Even if the Great Jade Emperor dispatched a hundred thousand Heavenly Soldiers and Generals, they could not subdue him, the one who dared to cause Havoc in Heaven.


    In all the Three Realms and Six Paths, anyone slightly knowledgeable has heard of the Great Sage''s name!"


    "Hahaha, indeed, you demon creature, you are quite knowledgeable, not wrong!" Hearing the Yellow-Robed Monster''s praise, Sun Wukong nodded delightfully, feeling quite pleased with the Yellow-Robed Monster''spliments.


    Indeed, any somewhat knowledgeable person should have heard of I, Old Sun''s name; otherwise, it would mean their knowledge was insufficient.


    "Whoa? I had no idea! So you, monkey, you are so formidable!?" Wolf-Chasing Boy, appearing somewhat astonished and admiring, looked at Sun Wukong.


    Clearly, the cool and tough boy also had a restless spirit. Now hearing that Sun Wukong dared to cause Havoc in Heaven and that even a hundred thousand Heavenly Soldiers and Generals could not capture him, it kindled some admiration in Wolf-Chasing Boy.


    Like him, to be unrestrained and act on impulse, isn''t that it!?


    "Amitabha Buddha..." Although the atmosphere seemed quite pleasant, Jiang Liu quietly chanted a Buddha''s name, his gaze falling on Princess Baihua Xiu, and said, "When I was on my way here, I happened to pass through the Royal City of the King of Treasure Elephant Country where I saw that the Imperial List was posted everywhere in the city, stating that the King of the Treasure Elephant Country has persisted for over a decade, seeking a sage to bring the princess back home!"


    With a tter following Jiang Liu''s words, Princess Baihua Xiu''s wine cup dropped on the table, she froze, tears welling and then rolling down from her eyes.


    "Mother, what''s wrong!?" Seeing the state of Princess Baihua Xiu, Wolf-Chasing Boy, somewhat bewildered, spoke to Baihua Xiu.


    "Master, please refrain from speaking of the affairs of the Treasure Elephant Country!" Seeing his wife''s condition, the Yellow-Robed Monster also felt a surge of anger, but with Sun Wukong and his party nearby, he did not dare to take action and just darkened his expression, saying to Jiang Liu.


    "Ah, Great King, do you think you and Princess Baihua Xiu can keep things going like this, and it willst long!?" Facing the Yellow-Robed Monster''s words, Jiang Liu remained fearless, looked him directly in the eye, and sighed as he asked in return.


    "As the saying goes, even an honest official struggles to settle domestic affairs, this is my family matter, please do not interfere!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Yellow-Robed Monster also realized that he was specifically targeted, not merely invited home as a guest by his son, and his expression grew even uglier.


    "You demon creature, so it was you who abducted the princess of the Treasure Elephant Country!"


    As the discussion reached this point, the situation seemed to be clear as day. As Jiang Liu''s top henchman, Zhu Bajie mmed the table and rose to his feet, shouting angrily.


    "I, Old Pig, can''t stand fellows like you the most! If there''s a girl you fancy, just pursue her properly. What is this about abducting someone directly? What kind of behavior is that!"


    "So, your purpose is to take my wife away? So you''vee here to start trouble!"


    Seeing Zhu Bajie''s aggressive stance, the Yellow-Robed Monster waved his hand and a knife appeared in it, ring at Jiang Liu and the others as he spoke.


    Naturally, as confrontation became inevitable, many Little Demons surrounded them from within the cave, their eyes unfriendly as they stared at Jiang Liu and his group.


    "Master, Monkey, you, you''ve deceived me!?" Seeing his own father getting ready to take action, the Wolf-Chasing Boy also red at Jiang Liu and the others, shouting angrily, feeling deceived.


    He had kindly invited them to visit the cave, but had they actually deceived him?


    Sun Wukong, however, had no intention of starting a fight. Facing the look from Wolf-Chasing Boy, he seemed somewhat embarrassed to meet his gaze and simply turned his head, looking towards Jiang Liu, obviously waiting for Jiang Liu''s decision.


    "Bajie, put away your weapon!" Seeing the angry expression on Wolf-Chasing Boy''s face, Jiang Liu sighed softly inside and then spoke to Zhu Bajie.


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Zhu Bajie didn''t have much to say, still looking somewhat disgruntled as he put away his Supreme Treasure Golden Rake.


    As someone who aspired to be a Casanova, Zhu Bajie naturally detested methods like those of the Yellow-Robed Monster, which involved forcefully seizing women without any finesse.


    "Indeed, as I said, do you think you can reallyst with Princess Baihua Xiu like this?" After Zhu Bajie had put away his weapon, Jiang Liu''s eyes turned to the Yellow-Robed Monster, continuing to inquire.


    "Whether it canst or not, we''ve lived together for over a decade and have had our own child! I don''t seek eternity, just to cherish the present," the Yellow-Robed Monster replied earnestly, feeling somewhat relieved that Jiang Liu hadn''t resorted to violence, as he gazed intently back at him.


    "A decade has passed, has Princess Baihua Xiu ever visited her home? The heart is made of flesh; keeping her imprisoned here like this, could she possibly be happy? Shouldn''t love consider the needs of the other?" Jiang Liu pointed at Princess Baihua Xiu, who was weeping beside them, and asked the Yellow-Robed Monster.


    These words caused the Yellow-Robed Monster to pause for a moment. He turned his head to nce at his wife, finding himself at a loss for words.


    Indeed, having locked her up here for over a decade without a single visit home, it was only natural for her to miss her home, wasn''t it?


    However, although he felt a bit guilty, having acted this way for over a decade, the Yellow-Robed Monster was naturally not going to soften his heart just because of a few sentences from Jiang Liu.


    "Hmph, Master, don''t you think you''re meddling too much? This is my family matter. I will make my own decisions, and I don''t need an outsider like you interfering!" Shaking his head, the Yellow-Robed Monster put aside his brief moment of softness, staring seriously at Jiang Liu.


    As of today, for the Yellow-Robed Monster, his home had be a stable sanctuary where he lived with his child.


    This home, the Yellow-Robed Monster would never let it fall apart.


    "Great King, I have your best interests at heart!" Seeing the stubbornness of the Yellow-Robed Monster, Jiang Liu sighed helplessly and shook his head.


    Such infatuation was indeed admirable, but such actions, in Jiang Liu''s eyes, were extremely foolish!


    The Yellow-Robed Monster was a leader among the Star Abodes in heaven, a single day in heaven equating to a year on earth. Him disappearing for just over a dozen days didn''t matter much.


    But if this continued for the long term, an inevitable day of reckoning woulde. Could it be he didn''t know what the repercussions would be?


    "If you are thinking of starting a fight, then let''s make it clear, but if you truly have my best interests at heart, I advise you to leave now!" the Yellow-Robed Monster stated earnestly, his gaze fixed on Jiang Liu.


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    "All right, we''ll set aside Princess Baihua Xiu''s issue for now!"


    Ignoring the Yellow-Robed Monster''s attempt to dismiss him, Jiang Liu continued staring intently at him, pressing on: "Let''s talk about your problem. Do you think you can stay in the Mortal World forever? If your actionse to light, what do you think the consequences will be?!"


    "I!?" Jiang Liu''s words startled the Yellow-Robed Monster, his eyes filled with shock as he stared back at Jiang Liu.


    "Master, who exactly are you!? Do you know my identity!?"@@novelbin@@


    "Wolf-Chasing Boy has good aptitude, half-human, half-immortal, and he possesses an Innate Taoist Body!" Instead of directly answering the Yellow-Robed Monster''s question, Jiang Liu brought up Wolf-Chasing Boy''s qualities.


    "Half-human? Half-immortal?" This statement made Sun Wukong and the others shift their gaze between Baihua Xiu and the Yellow-Robed Monster.


    Half-human naturally came from Baihua Xiu''s lineage.


    And half-immortal...

 Chapter 248 Unveiling the Imperial List

    "You''re an immortal!?" Zhu Bajie naturally recognized the identity of the Yellow-Robed Monster and looked at him with boundless surprise.


    Clearly, he didn''t look like an immortal at all, and moreover, why would a high and mighty immortal kidnap women from the mortal world and y king of the mountain for over a decade for no reason?


    No matter how you think about it, it all seems quite inappropriate, doesn''t it?


    "An immortal? You, being an immortal, not only deserted your post but also hid here posing as a demon creature? What is the meaning of this!?" As for Sha Wujing standing beside him, he found it even harder to understand.


    He used to be General Juanlian of the Heavenly Court and became a demon creature only aftermitting an error. Why then would he shamelessly follow this Journey to the West? Wasn''t it just to be able to return to the Heavenly Court and be conferred the title of immortal or Buddha?


    And yet, this chap was originally an immortal, but secretly descended to the mortal world to be a demon creature?


    This was something that Sha Wujing found iprehensible and even harder to believe.


    "You, who exactly are holy! How could you possibly know my true identity!?" As Jiang Liu revealed his identity with a singlement, the Yellow-Robed Monster did not deny it; instead, he looked at Jiang Liu in astonishment.


    Hiding in Wanzi Mountain, he had lived joyfully as husband and wife with Princess Baihua Xiu for more than a decade, with no one knowing his true identity. How could this Little Monk see through him at a nce?


    "Me? I''m just a monk on my way to the Western Heaven to worship Buddha and seek scriptures!" upon hearing this, Jiang Liu replied.


    "A monk on his way to the Western Heaven to worship Buddha and seek scriptures!? I don''t quite understand!" The Yellow-Robed Monster shook his head, indicating his puzzlement at what Jiang Liu had said.


    Although the Journey to the West was a grand scheme set by the immortals and Buddhas, it was not something that just anybody could be privy to in advance. Besides, having descended to the mortal realm, Kuimu Wolf had been hiding for more than a decade and naturally knew nothing about the journey.


    "In short, poor monk is acting on the decree of the Emperor of Tang and Bodhisattva Guanyin to journey to the Western Heaven to worship Buddha and seek scriptures, and thesepanions have been enlightened by Bodhisattva Guanyin to protect and apany me along the way," he exined.


    "You''ve already met the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong. This is Marshal Tianpeng Zhu Bajie, and this is General Juanlian Sha Wujing. Also, outside, the steed is Aolie, the third son of the Western Sea Dragon King..."


    Jiang Liu did not intend to borate on the grand scheme of the Journey to the West, but simply introduced the members of his team and that was enough.


    Indeed, upon hearing the lineup of this scripture-seeking group, the Yellow-Robed Monster''s face showed a shocked expression.


    This team was terrifying indeed; even the third son of the Western Sea Dragon King was merely their steed?


    Though he didn''t know what this scripture-seeking journey was all about, from the lineup alone, the Yellow-Robed Monster could naturally sense that this was an affair arranged by the big shots among the immortals and Buddhas.


    "Alright, let''s continue discussing the issue between you and Princess Baihua Xiu, shall we?" Looking at the shocked expression on the Yellow-Robed Monster''s face, Jiang Liu proceeded to speak, bringing the topic back around.


    His gaze fell on the Yellow-Robed Monster, he said, "As I said, you descended privately to the mortal realm. How long do you think you can hide? If the Jade Emperor discovers your deeds, what do you think he will do?"


    Without waiting for the Yellow-Robed Monster to respond, Jiang Liu continued, "Take, for example, the matter of Eng God Yang Jian. Isn''t that a case in point? Do you think your rtionship with the Jade Emperor is closer than that of Eng God? Or do you believe your strength surpasses his?"


    "This..." Jiang Liu''s words weighed heavily on the Yellow-Robed Monster''s heart.


    Indeed, who was Eng God? He was the Jade Emperor''s nephew. But what was the oue after his mother fell in love with a mortal? What was the result?


    Though his methods were not bad, could they reallypare to Eng God''s?


    Though his status was not inferior, could it reallypare to the closeness between Eng God and the Great Jade Emperor?


    Thinking it over, if his private descent to the mortal world were to be discovered by the Great Jade Emperor, let alone his transformation into an evil demon, kidnapping a vige''s maiden to rule the mountain as a demon creature, what would the Great Jade Emperor do to handle the situation?


    His wife and children would surely not live!


    Leaving them aside, even what punishment he himself would face was hard to tell.


    Considering the consequences of his secret being exposed, the Yellow-Robed Monster was filled with terror, but then he quickly realized something. Since Jiang Liu had proactively brought up this point, clearly he was looking to help, wasn''t he? After all, he had just imed he sincerely wanted to assist.


    With this thought in mind, the Yellow-Robed Monster looked earnestly at Jiang Liu and said, "Holy Monk, do you possibly have a way to save me? Save our family of three?"


    "So, you want me to help you?" Upon hearing the words of the Yellow-Robed Monster, Jiang Liu felt a stir in his heart and fixed his gaze on him, asking.


    "Yes! I implore you, Holy Monk, please help me!" The Yellow-Robed Monster nodded and stared at Jiang Liu earnestly.


    Although Jiang Liu seemed to be just a very young Little Monk, given the protection he had from the likes of the Great Sage Equal to Heaven and the fact that he could see through the Yellow-Robed Monster''s identity at a nce, the Yellow-Robed Monster dared not regard him as an ordinary Little Monk.


    Hint: Triggered quest ''True Love''. Quest requirements: sessfully help the Yellow-Robed Monster and his family survive their ordeal, ensuring they remainpletely safe and alive. Quest sess will result in a reward of 600,000 Experience Points along with a Legendary Level Treasure Chest*1. If the quest fails, deduct 600,000 Experience Points. ept/Decline?


    As the Yellow-Robed Monster pleaded for help, almost at the same time, the system''s prompt sounded in Jiang Liu''s mind.


    The reward of a full 600,000 Experience Points made Jiang Liu''s eyes light up considerably. Indeed, as expected, after all his earnest persuasion, a passive quest had indeed been triggered.


    Furthermore, the rewards for this mission were quite substantial.


    "Good! We have quite a fate with the Wolf-Chasing Boy. Since that is the case, I am naturally willing to help you!" After hearing the exnation from the Yellow-Robed Monster, Jiang Liu nodded and replied.


    Of course, he had also epted the passive quest.


    "Then, how shall we proceed?" The Yellow-Robed Monster immediately asked Jiang Liu upon hearing his willing response.


    "There''s no need to do anything in particr. The main thing is to ''deceive the heavens and cross the sea''!" Shaking his head, Jiang Liu already had a rough n in mind.


    However, regarding this n, although Jiang Liu wanted to share it with the Yellow-Robed Monster, with Sha Wujing beside them, this man might very well be a spy, so Jiang Liu didn''t intend to reveal too much.


    "The specifics will be discussed after we''ve made a trip to the Royal City!" Having epted the task from the Yellow-Robed Monster, Jiang Liu said shortly afterward.


    "Alright then, if that''s the case, I''ll leave it all to the Holy Monk!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Yellow-Robed Monster had no objections and nodded in agreement.


    There was no other way; the Yellow-Robed Monster was not someone who trusted others easily, but at this point, he had no other choice.


    His weakness was in Jiang Liu''s hands. If Jiang Liu really wanted to deal with him, he only needed toin before the Jade Emperor and reveal everything about him, and he would be doomed.


    Therefore, with no other options, the Yellow-Robed Monster at this moment had to choose to trust Jiang Liu and hispanions.


    In any case, after a verbal agreement was more or less in ce, Jiang Liu and the others did not discuss this matter any further, and they continued to enjoy the feast.


    In the end, after a feast where both host and guests thoroughly enjoyed themselves, Jiang Liu and hispanions finally left Wanzi Mountain to return to the Royal City of Treasure Elephant Country.


    "Master, what exactly is your n? If the Jade Emperor finds out about this, he definitely won''t tolerate it!"


    As Marshal Tianpeng had a better understanding of the heavenlyws, Zhu Bajie, walking beside Jiang Liu, asked curiously.


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    However, Jiang Liu''s eyes swept past Sha Wujing without a trace and gave no exnation to Zhu Bajie, casually shaking his head and saying, "As for the specifics, let''s first make a trip to the Imperial Pce before discussing it."


    Zhu Bajie did not press for answers upon being brushed off by Jiang Liu¡ªhis question was merely asked out of rare curiosity, but in reality, he was not particrly concerned.


    After all, what truly interested Zhu Bajie were probably nothing more than women and fine food.


    Without further ado, Jiang Liu and hispanions did not rush on their journey; instead, they leisurely made their way back. A journey of over a hundred miles took them three whole days before they finally returned to the Royal City of Treasure Elephant Country.


    Upon entering the Royal City once again, Jiang Liu''s purpose was clear this time. He went straight to the Imperial List and removed the promation that the King of Treasure Elephant Country had been posting for over a decade.


    "Wow, someone has taken down the Imperial List!" Jiang Liu''s removal of the promation immediately caused an uproar in the Royal City.


    The news, like a stone thrown into tranquil water, created ripples that spread far and wide.


    When Princess Baihua Xiu was first abductered years ago, the King posted the Imperial List, and naturally, many extraordinary figures scrambled to im it, each hoping to be the first. However, those who took the challenge never returned, one after the other.


    This made many people horrified; naturally, it gradually dissuaded others from daring to take the promation down.


    Counting the days, it seemed that for the past few years no one had taken the challenge, right? Who would have thought that someone would dare do it today?


    Following the removal of the promation by Jiang Liu and hispanions, naturally, guards from the Royal Pce soon arrived. After scrutinizing Jiang Liu and the others, and despite finding Jiang Liu to be just a greenhorn Little Monk, not quite trustworthy, they couldn''t make the decision since the promation had been taken down.


    Therefore, the guards politely invited Jiang Liu and hispanions into the Royal Pce.


    Elsewhere, back on Wanzi Mountain, Princess Baihua Xiu sat alone in front of her vanity table, staring at the bronze mirror in front of her as tears welled up in her heart.


    Today, Jiang Liu''s words had once again stirred the homesickness in her heart. Over a decade had passed, and she wondered how her father the King and her mother the Queen were doing.


    "Mydy¡­" The Yellow-Robed Monster approached and gently wrapped his arms around her from behind, whispering lowly.


    "To think that after being husband and wife for over a decade, you''ve been keeping this from me all along¡ªyou are actually an immortal from heaven!"


    Turning her hand over to grasp the Yellow-Robed Monster''s broad palm, Princess Baihua Xiu turned around, her eyes filled with surprise, and said to him.

 Chapter 250 A Bug in the Game System!?

    "Ladies and gentlemen, there is no need to be afraid. This is my disciple. Although he might look hideous, he possesses great skills. The reason for his changed appearance is merely not to rm the citizens of the city!" Seeing the startled expressions of the King and his retinue, Jiang Liu spoke up tofort them.


    Hearing Jiang Liu''sforting words, the expressions on the King and his retinue brightened slightly, and they felt somewhat relieved.


    "Since that is the case, master, you need not take any action. For my daughter''s affair, I would trouble the master!" Realizing that the individuals before him were indeed not ordinary mortals, the King of Treasure Elephant Country came to trust in the capabilities of Jiang Liu and his group much more.@@novelbin@@


    Turning his thoughts around, even if Zhu Bajie was a demon creature, what of it? Using a demon to deal with another demon was indeed a great strategy, wasn''t it?


    Having witnessed the thirty-six divine transformations of Zhu Bajie, the King of Treasure Elephant Country felt no need to consider other methods.


    Hearing the words of the King of Treasure Elephant Country, Jiang Liu also understood that the King had begun to trust in their capabilities. From the way he addressed him, shifting from "Little Monk" to "Master," it was quite evident.


    "Please, Your Majesty, formally ask for help! It is essential to follow this protocol!" Moved by a thought, Jiang Liu spoke to the King.


    Previously, at the Yellow-Robed Monster''s ce, he had received a task. So, could formally requesting his help from the King trigger a task as well?


    ?


    Jiang Liu''s words made the King pause slightly, not understanding why this was necessary.


    But since Jiang Liu had spoken, the King pondered briefly and felt that a formal approach was better. He then nodded and said, "Today, I formally seek your help, hoping that the master can rescue my dear daughter. If sessful, I am willing to offer ten thousand taels of gold and countless treasures as thanks to the master!"


    Hint: Task "Deep Love for Daughter" triggered, task requirements: sessfully rescue Princess Baihua Xiu and return her to the pce of the King of Treasure Elephant Country. Sess rewards 280000 Experience Points, awards Perfect Level Treasure Chest*1. Failure deducts 280000 Experience Points. ept/Reject?


    As the King formally asked for help, indeed, a passive task was simultaneously triggered. Seeing the task begin, naturally, Jiang Liu didn''t waste words and immediately epted the task.


    "Indeed, this game system has no consciousness of its own and is not humane in the slightest!"


    Having epted this task, Jiang Liu chuckled inwardly, feeling as though the 280,000 Experience Points were simply being handed to him.


    If he hadn''t already met the Yellow-Robed Monster, then the King formally triggering such a passive task wouldn''t have surprised Jiang Liu at all.


    However, he had already arranged a meeting with the Yellow-Robed Monster, and if the game system had even a bit of intelligence, it should have known that this task was now extremely easy for him.


    Yet unexpectedly, there were still 280,000 Experience Points as a reward.


    No matter what, the game system merely operated ording to its settings, devoid of any intelligence, which, for Jiang Liu, wasn''t necessarily a bad thing.


    If he could find a loophole in the system, could he possibly exploit bugs to farm Experience Points?


    For instance? If he passed by a city besieged by a powerful demon devouring humans, causing all the city''s citizens to tremble with fear,


    and if he visited every citizen in the city and had them each formally request his help, could he then ept tens of thousands of tasks at once?


    At that time, would killing a single monsterplete thousands of tasks simultaneously!?


    At this thought, Jiang Liu felt somewhat excited. This could indeed be a loophole in the game system!


    Such a tactic? Theoretically, it seemed feasible!


    "Master? Master? What are you thinking about?"


    As Jiang Liu tested this, having epted the task from the King, his mind was filled with thoughts. Yet the King, having formally asked for his help, saw him simply standing there lost in thought and, somewhat surprised, asked.


    "Oh, nothing. I was just considering how to deal with the demon and rescue Princess Baihua Xiu for the King!" Interrupted by the King, Jiang Liu momentarily set aside his hypothesis to verifyter. With a humble and courteous demeanor, he responded to the King.


    "Do you have a way, master?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the King looked at him expectantly.


    "Rest assured, Your Majesty, I have a n!" Jiang Liu nodded, disying a confident demeanor.


    "In that case, I will leave everything in the master''s hands. If there is anything you need, I will do my utmost to assist!" Seeing Jiang Liu''s confident appearance, the King nodded and ced the matter entirely in Jiang Liu''s hands.


    Having received the King''smand and another task, Jiang Liu had no intention of staying in the royal city any longer and left, leading his disciples toward Wanzi Mountain.


    The distance of more than a hundred miles, yet Jiang Liu still showed no indication of hurrying. As darkness fell, he took out the Exquisite Immortal Mansion and everyone rested together.


    However, along the way, Jiang Liu quietly pondered how toplete the two tasks!


    Jiang Liu had toplete both the King''s mission and the one from the Yellow-Robed Monster.


    Actually, Jiang Liu had a rough idea of how toplete the missions, which was nothing more than deceiving the eyes of the heavens.


    However, thinking of how Sha Wujing, someone like a spy within his team, was beside him, Jiang Liu felt that it was best not to let him know about this n to deceive the heavens.


    Otherwise, it would be quite troublesome!


    After all, who was he trying to deceive? Was it not the Great Jade Emperor?


    \\"It seems I better find a way to send Sha Wujing away sooner rather thanter!\\" Thinking that Sha Wujing must not know about this mission, Jiang Liu gave it a thought and decided it was best toplete Sha Wujing''s mission first.


    An 80 million Experience Points reward - ifpleted, how many levels could he level up?


    \\"Bajie, you go to Wanzi Mountain first and say that I wish to take Princess Baihua Xiu to meet the King at the royal pce, hoping he would agree,\\" Jiang Liu turned his head and said to Zhu Bajie after formting a rough n.


    \\"Ah? Master, you want me to go?\\" Zhu Bajie,nguidly, was somewhat reluctant when he heard Jiang Liu''s words.


    He would rather stay by Jiang Liu''s side, where he could not only learn how to pick up girls but also enjoy delicious food.


    \\"You better go, and also deliver this letter to the Yellow-Robed Monster, hoping that he frees Princess Baihua Xiu,\\" Jiang Liu said with a re at Zhu Bajie and then pulled out a letter.


    \\"Alright, Master, I understand!\\" Zhu Bajie, having been red at by Jiang Liu, somewhat helplessly nodded his head, took the letter, and left the Exquisite Immortal Mansion.


    \\"Wukong!\\" As Zhu Bajie left, Jiang Liu suddenly spoke and turned to Sun Wukong.


    \\"Master, what are your orders!?\\" Hearing Jiang Liu calling him, Sun Wukong asked.


    \\"How about we have hot pot mutton today? We haven''t used the charcoal copper pot we madest time; please run to the Purple Bamboo Forest and invite Bodhisattva here to try the delicious hot pot mutton,\\" Jiang Liu said to Sun Wukong.


    \\"Ah!? Invite Guanyin Bodhisattva here!?\\" Sun Wukong looked at Jiang Liu, stupefied by his words.


    Cleary, Jiang Liu''s words took Sun Wukong by surprise.


    \\"Right, the Journey to the West is personally assigned to me by Bodhisattva, making her my guide. Having taken care of us all along, I think it''s appropriate to invite her for a meal as a gesture of gratitude,\\" Jiang Liu nodded and exined to Sun Wukong in a just and reasonable manner.


    Despite knowing Jiang Liu for so long and being on the same side, Sun Wukong naturally didn''t believe these were the real motivations behind his words.


    However, since Master did not wish to speak further, there obviously was some reasoning behind his discretion.


    These matters that required excessive thinking? Sun Wukong was not inclined to ponder too much; since Master asked him to invite her, he would simply go.


    \\"Alright, understood!\\" Sun Wukong pressed down on the doubts in his heart and nodded in agreement.


    \\"Oh yes, if Bodhisattva makes excuses, just tell her Bajie is not home today!\\" Suddenly remembering something, Jiang Liu added.


    At that statement, how could Sun Wukong not understand what was happening?


    He chuckled, leapt into the sky, and invoked his Somersault Cloud divine skill, transforming into a beam of escape light that instantly vanished into the horizon.


    Since they decided on the hot pot mutton, Jiang Liu naturally took out the charcoal copper pot, started some charcoal, and also brought out a whole sheep, letting Sha Wujing blow a breath of cold air to freeze the sheep, after which he thinly sliced the mutton like cicada wings.


    While Jiang Liu and his team were making their preparatory activities, on the other side, Sun Wukong used his Somersault Cloud and soon arrived at Mount Luojia in the South Sea, where he met Guanyin.


    \\"You monkey, instead of protecting Xuanzang on his Journey to the West for Scriptures, why have youe to my Purple Bamboo Forest?\\" Sitting on the Lotus tform, Guanyin, elegant and dignified, quietly looked at Sun Wukong and asked.


    \\"Hehe, Bodhisattva, along the way, Master has experimented with many delicacies. Recently, he even had someone make a bronze pot, which is incredibly delicious for eating. Thus, Master sent me to invite you,\\" Sun Wukong said with a warm and enthusiastic smile. Explore hidden tales at My Virtual Library Empire


    \\"Master said the Journey to the West is guided by you, Bodhisattva, and you have taken great care of him along the way. So, today, having these delicacies, he thought it fitting to invite you over, also as a small token of his gratitude,"


    Sun Wukong repeated Jiang Liu''s exnation to Guanyin.


    \\"Ah...\\" Sun Wukong''s words made Guanyin reflect on the hardships she encountered along the way, and she sighed inwardly.


    Fortunately, Xuanzang was still sensible, not making all her efforts in vain.


    This Journey to the West, with its eighty-one trials, was even harder for herself!

 Chapter 252 Drunken Nonsense

    "This second toast is naturally to the Bodhisattva!"


    Following the full ritual of toasting, Jiang Liu first toasted Sha Wujing and then raised his ss, saying, "Throughout this Journey to the West, the Bodhisattva has taken good care of me. Moreover, Gaoyang has also been under the Bodhisattva''s care, you have put in a lot of effort."


    "Amitabha, everything is for the sake of the people of the world!" Looking rather grand, Guanyin put down her chopsticks upon hearing this, swallowed the food in her mouth, and spoke.


    Although she spouted grand words, the image of Guanyin voraciously eating and drinking might lead others to believe that her persona had copsed.


    In the midst of talking, Guanyin also picked up the juice Jiang Liu had personally poured for her and drank it all in one go.


    "This third toast is to you, Xiaobai!" Immediately, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on the White Dragon Horse.


    In his past life, the culture of drinking at banquets had been taken to the extreme. Although Jiang Liu wasn''t much of a drinker, as an apprentice chef in a hotel, he had seen his fair share.


    When toasting, either everyone at the table is toasted together, drinking just one ss, or... Enjoy new stories from My Virtual Library Empire


    if you toast someone individually, then everyone at the table must be toasted individually as well, otherwise, it would seem like you are showing favoritism, wouldn''t it?


    "Master, me!?" The White Dragon Horse, transformed into human form, was startled by Jiang Liu''s words, put down his chopsticks, and looked somewhat ttered.


    Guanyin was a guest of honor with an esteemed status, and even if Sha Wujing was not favored by his master, he was still his disciple.


    But what about himself? He was just a mount, right? And yet, the master was toasting him earnestly too?


    "Exactly, you have carried me all this way, tirelessly and withoutint, of course, I ought to toast you!" Jiang Liu nodded and said.


    This was indeed true; because Xiaobai was extremely steady, even on the journey to the West, Jiang Liu could practice the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound without worrying about falling off the horse. Overall, since acquiring the White Dragon Horse, it had been a great help to him.


    "Thank you, Master!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the White Dragon Horse appeared grateful, feeling that all the hardships endured along the way were worthwhile.


    At least, the master understood and remembered it all.


    "Hehehe, Master, what about me, I, Old Sun?"


    As Jiang Liu finally tuned his gaze towards him, Sun Wukong raised his ss of juice, looking expectantly at Jiang Liu, waiting for him to speak highly of him.


    "Wukong, between you and me, no need for many words, everything is understood with this cup!"


    However, although the others had spoken ceremoniously, when faced with Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu said nothing and simply tilted his head back, downing the juice in his ss.


    "Everything is understood with this cup?" Sun Wukong felt somewhat disappointed.


    He had thought his master would have praised him with sweet words, but he said nothing at all.


    But in this way, Sun Wukong felt perhaps his rtionship with his master was indeed the best?


    Toasting to him without saying anything seemed to imply a closer rtionship between the two.


    Like how he didn''t have many friends, with Nezha being one, but whenever they met, they couldn''t help but brawl and banter.


    ...


    "Master, do you have some dissatisfaction with the eldest disciple!? If you have any grievances, just speak up; why keep it to yourself?


    The eldest disciple caused Havoc in Heaven back in the day, was defiant, and despised thews; it''s understandable if you have some dissatisfaction," just then, Sha Wujing suddenly spoke, seemingly attempting to create discord, which made Jiang Liu furrow his brows slightly.


    However, suddenly a thought struck Jiang Liu; this didn''t sound like something Sha Wujing would usually say¡ªcould it be? Just one cup of millet wine and the ''tipsy talk'' special effect of the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot was already taking effect?


    ''Tipsy talk,'' not ''drunken babble,'' meaning, just having drunk suffices to trigger it, without needing several more?


    Right, if he were truly drunk, there wouldn''t need to be a special effect from the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot, he would be babbling nonsensically on his own.


    "Third brother! Be cautious in your speech!" The White Dragon Horse, being more familiar with Sha Wujing, was startled by these words and hastily spoke in a low voice.


    Guanyin, having picked up her chopsticks again, frowned slightly upon hearing this and nced at Sha Wujing, however, chose not to speak.


    Even though she had personally brought all the members of the Journey to the West Team together, they were now indeed a team! She decided to wait and see.


    "Monk Sha, I rarely scold you on normal asions, more often the fool, so do you wish to experience the ''methods'' of your eldest brother now!?" Hearing Sha Wujing''s words, clearly insulting him, Sun Wukong naturally felt displeased, stared at Sha Wujing and coldly spoke, his expression unhappy.


    "Master, look, Big Brother is about to take action again!"


    However, facing Sun Wukong''s demeanor, Sha Wujing was not afraid; instead, he turned to Jiang Liu andined, "Big Brother is naturally brutal. Even if Second Brother faces a slight inconvenience, he resorts to hitting or scolding. I think you should really discipline him!"


    "Although what Sha Wujing is saying might be somewhat inappropriate, there is some truth to it!" Guanyin, who was nearby, silently nodded, feeling that Sun Wukong''s temper indeed needed some refining.


    It was certainly not right for him, with respect to his younger brothers, to always resort to hitting or scolding.


    This thought crossed her mind, and then Guanyin nced at Sun Wukong''s bald head, her eyebrows furrowing even more.


    What''s going on, the Golden Hoop that Xuanzang demandedst time, why hasn''t it been put on him yet?


    "Alright, Wujing, stop talking nonsense, you are drunk, go rest for now!" Opting for a strategic retreat, although Jiang Liu knew that Sha Wujing must have been affected by the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot, he nevertheless made an excuse saying that Sha Wujing was drunk.


    "Master, you are the one talking nonsense!"


    As Jiang Liu spoke, Sha Wujing retorted, "As our master, you are supposed to set an example for us disciples on this Journey to the West, but what actually? You drink, eat meat, gamble, and y mahjong. With such behavior, how can you ever reach Western Heaven and obtain the True Scriptures? Saying I am drunk? It''s merely a cup of rice wine; even if you give me a whole vat, I won''t get drunk!"


    "Wujing, Xuanzang is right, you are drunk, go and rest now!" Guanyin, who heard this, couldn''t help it and softly reprimanded him.


    It was okay for him to confront Sun Wukong; after all, they were brothers of the same generation.


    But Xuanzang is his master, their status and respect are distinct, and yet he dares to talk to his own master like that? How could Guanyin tolerate this?


    Moreover, gambling and ying mahjong? To her knowledge, wasn''t he gambling too? Drinking and eating meat! What is he doing now?@@novelbin@@


    He himself was ying mahjong and was still drinking and eating meat, yet he dared to use this to criticize his own master! How shameless can one be?


    "Bodhisattva, you enlightened me and let me join the Journey to the West team, allowing me to return among the Immortals and Buddhas, for which I am very grateful!" Turning around, Sha Wujing''s gaze fell on Guanyin as he spoke.


    However, before Guanyin could be pleased with his words, Sha Wujing switched topics and said: "By the way, Bodhisattva,st time you transformed into Ai''ai, what exactly happened between you and Second Brother? I am very curious. Could you please tell us about it?"


    Awkward silence!


    As Sha Wujing spoke, the previously harmonious and lively dinner suddenly turned awkward, and everyone at the table stopped eating, their gaze falling on Sha Wujing.


    "It''s over, what''s gotten into Third Brother today?" Putting down his chopsticks, White Dragon Horse covered his eyes, unable to bear looking.


    "Did he just throw out a trump card?" Hearing Sha Wujing''s words, and seeing the unhappy expression on Bodhisattva Guanyin''s face, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but chuckle inwardly.


    At the same time, Jiang Liu was also surprised inwardly, the special effect of the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot was indeed terrifying.


    After testing both the Eight Trigrams Hot-Clear Pot and the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot, Jiang Liu had gained a general understanding of his newly acquired kitchenware.


    If he wanted to befriend someone, he would use the Eight Trigrams Hot-Clear Pot to host a meal, the effect of heartfelt interactions was no joke.


    But if he wanted to sever ties with someone, then using the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot would be it, the effect of babbling nonsense while drunk was truly frightening.


    Just a cup of rice wine was enough to turn someone into an argumentative critic, venting at all friends until none were left, right?


    Nevermind what Jiang Liu was thinking, the expression on Bodhisattva Guanyin''s face naturally wasn''t pleasant.


    Sha Wujing''s words had brought back unpleasant memories for her.


    However, despite her anger, Guanyin also had some doubt in her heart; Sha Wujing''s words today were really inappropriate. Was there something fishy going on here?


    With these doubts in mind, Bodhisattva Guanyin concentrated and examined Sha Wujing intently.


    Well then, it was just a cup of rice wine, so he wasn''t drunk, and there were no signs of drugs or poison.


    Moreover, there were no signs of maniption or influence by methods like distorting someone''s nature...


    "So, these words were not due to someone else but came sincerely from his own heart?"


    After checking Sha Wujing''s condition with her wise eyes and finding nothing suspicious, Guanyin''s heart turned colder.


    However, Sha Wujingpletely ignored Bodhisattva Guanyin''s expression, chuckling, "I heard that Second Brother kissed you once, dare I ask, Bodhisattva, what did it feel like being kissed by a pig?"

 Chapter 253 Better to Die than Not to Ascend Among the Immortals and Buddhas

    The air had frozen to its utmost, to the extent that it seemed as though the air around had solidified.


    A bone-chilling coldness wafted from the Bodhisattva, causing everyone to feel a tremor in their hearts.


    "The Bodhisattva, true to a Heavenly Immortal Level of eighty-six and blue quality, indeed has an extraordinary Cultivation Level!"


    Without doing anything, just the shift in her mood seemed to plunge the environment into the depths of winter''s coldest month, which secretly astonished Jiang Liu.


    Sun Wukong and the White Dragon Horse, both shocked, stared at Wujing,pletely mystified by what was happening. Without any provocation, what was up with Wujing today?


    These words, they just didn''t seem like something he would mistakenly say.


    Could it be? Was it because of the Bodhisattva that he was manipted?


    But after thinking it over, Sun Wukong shook his head secretly. It''s impossible, why would the Bodhisattva scheme against him without reason?


    Moreover, by scheming against Wujing, she involved herself as well.


    The matters between her and Bajie were like taboos, which nobody ordinarily dared stir up. Today, Wujing''s words brutally tore open the well-concealed scars of the Bodhisattva and, moreover, deliberately rubbed salt into them.


    "How terrifying! The effect of the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot is truly frightening! Never again should anyone drink while using this pot!" All of a sudden, Wujing spoke out about the matter between Bajie and the Bodhisattva, startling Jiang Liu and making him secretly amazed by the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot.


    The legendary quality was indeed extraordinary, even if it was just a piece of kitchenware.


    "I am going to kill you!" In front of Xuanzang and everyone, she unreservedly spoke out, even asking her how she felt! The Bodhisattva felt as if she hadpletely lost her usual rationality and calmness at that moment.


    Losing her usual demeanor, she shouted loudly.


    Amidst the shouting, the Bodhisattva raised her hand and pped Wujing.


    Even though the Bodhisattva''s slender, delicate hands looked fair and lovely, the p was immensely forceful, giving one the sensation that it could shatter mountains.


    "Ah!"


    Panicking under the threat of death, Wujing screamed out at the Bodhisattva''s action, feeling the clear threat of death from the p.


    A Great Luo Golden Immortal against a Heavenly Immortal represented a gap of two entire major realms, naturally, the disparity in strength was as vast as the difference between the clouds and mud.@@novelbin@@


    This angered p would undoubtedly be fatal for Wujing!


    If the Bodhisattva really killed Wujing, what would be the consequences? As the chief of the Journey to the West, she would surely be punished.


    But simrly, if Wujing died, how would his task bepleted?


    Moreover, although Ksitigarbha manages all matters of life and death of the Immortals and Buddhas impartially, the matters of the Journey to the West rte to the rise and fall of the Buddhist Sect. Who could be sure if Wujing would be able to resurrect?


    In a sh, just as the Bodhisattva struck in anger, Jiang Liu''s mind raced briefly, firmly believing that his purpose wasn''t to kill Wujing.


    Thus, with a thought, Jiang Liu acted instantly.


    "Silencing Zen!" Pointing at the Bodhisattva, Jiang Liu uttered a low shout internally, and the Silencing Zen skill was released cast directly.


    A strange glow entwined around the Bodhisattva, and instantly, her power was immobilized, as still as stagnant water.


    Following that, a counter with the Sheep Transformation Technique hit her.


    In a sh of strange light, the Bodhisattva instantaneously transformed into a harmless littlemb.


    The Sheep Transformation Technique, normally ineffective against beings with the Art of Transformation, such as Sun Wukong, Bajie, and herself.


    However, if Silencing Zen is used in advance to silence the opponent, none of their magical supernatural powers can be used, naturally leaving room for the Sheep Transformation Technique to work.


    "Wujing, go! From now on, I''ll act as if I never had you as a disciple," Jiang Liu turned to Wujing, his expression somber. Your next journey awaits at My Virtual Library Empire


    "Go!?" At this life-and-death moment, his mind jolted, and Wujing came back to his senses,pletely dumbfounded.


    What exactly had he said just now? Apart from the White Dragon Horse, had he scolded everyone?


    "Hurry and leave! I am hereby expelling you from the school! Go now! After all, we once shared a master-disciple bond. This is all the help I can offer you!" Seeing Wujing''s baffled and stunned expression, standing still, Jiang Liu spoke out, calling loudly.


    In Jiang Liu''s view, the development of events was much smoother than he had originally nned.


    Jiang Liu hadn''t expected that Wujing would bring up this issue, nor did he expect the Bodhisattva to rage to such an extent, even manifesting a desire to kill.


    But since it hade to this, it was an opportunity thates once in a thousand years.


    At the cusp of life and death, everyone knows what choice to make. If Wujing didn''t want to die, running away was his only option.


    And since he had expressed expelling him from the sect, if he turned and fled for his life, wouldn''t his task bepleted?


    80 million experience points, how many levels would that be enough for me to rise? 10 levels? Or 20 levels!?


    Now, the experience required for me to level up is just over 1 million, not to mention, afterpleting this task, I''ll get a Divine Level Treasure Chest.


    Sha Wujing''s expression hesitated; his master was expelling him from the sect, and even Bodhisattva Guanyin wanted to kill him. It seemed his only option was to run for his life!


    "Hurry up and go! Why aren''t you leaving!?" Jiang Liu urgently said, seeing Sha Wujing still hesitating without any intention to flee.


    Almost at the same time, Bodhisattva Guanyin, who had changed into a littlemb, regained her original form.


    After all, the Sheep Transformation Technique could onlyst for 2 seconds.


    As Bodhisattva Guanyin changed back, without giving her any time to react, Jiang Liu thought quickly, and from his special equipment slot, the Ninth Grade ck Lotus moved by his will and appeared above Guanyin''s head.


    At the same time, a strange light fell, trapping Bodhisattva Guanyin, buying Sha Wujing time to escape!


    "No!"


    However, just at this critical moment, Sha Wujing suddenly spoke out loudly, "I won''t go!"


    Looking at the Ninth Grade ck Lotus above her head, Bodhisattva Guanyin''s face darkened¡ªit was originally one of her treasures. She hadn''t expected that Xuanzang would use it against her today.


    With a thought, the Buddhist power surged around Bodhisattva Guanyin, forcefully breaking open the bind of the ck Lotus.


    Although the Ninth Grade ck Lotus was a precious treasure, Xuanzang''s Cultivation Level was too low, unable to unleash even one percent of its effects to bind her; it was, of course, impossible.


    "Bodhisattva, your disciple has sinned deeply and is willing to ept punishment!"


    As Bodhisattva Guanyin broke the bind, Sha Wujing hastily knelt in front of her, his demeanor sincerely ready to ept punishment.


    Though the effects of the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot were mighty, it was merely influencing others'' natures unconsciously. Now that a significant issue arose and his life was at stake, the tension in his heart meant that the pot''s effects could no longer sway Sha Wujing.


    Thinking of his outrageous babbling just then, Sha Wujing truly regretted it so much that he felt green in the gills; he knelt down in front of Bodhisattva Guanyin.


    Begging for mercy!


    At this moment, Sha Wujing knew clearly that all he could do was beg for mercy. If Bodhisattva could spare his life, nothing would be better.


    But if she could not spare him, then so be it if he died.


    Having been demoted to Liusha River for so long, Sha Wujing no longer wished to be a demon; he wanted to return to the ranks of the Immortal Gods. If he could not return, he would rather die!


    Looking at Sha Wujing kneeling in front of her, Bodhisattva Guanyin''s expression was dark as water, without any nonsense, she raised her palm and immediately sent Sha Wujing flying with a p.


    Sha Wujing had been sent flying with a p,nding on the ground, spitting out a mouthful of fresh blood, his face pale. Multiple times he tried to rise but failed to do so.


    It was obvious his injuries were severe; he was nearly killed by Bodhisattva Guanyin''s p.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, it was clear that under the p, Sha Wujing''s health bar quickly reduced by arge chunk. What was once a full health bar now depleted to about one tenth.


    Apparently, after her own intervention, Bodhisattva Guanyin had calmed down slightly. Although she was still angry, her killing intent had significantly diminished. Otherwise, that p could have instantly killed Sha Wujing.


    "Hmph!"


    Looking at Sha Wujing, who had been severely injured and flung to the ground by her p, Bodhisattva Guanyin''s expression remained dark as water, and she let out a cold snort, then turned and left without saying anything more.


    Although still enraged, at this moment she had regained some reason. Guanyin was very clear that she ultimately couldn''t truly kill him, could she?


    And what''s the point of scolding him? She had already beaten him half to death, and his attitude of admitting his mistakes was quite good; what''s the point in scolding him further?


    Besides, the topic had shifted to her and Zhu Bajie. No matter how much she insulted him, it would all circle back to this topic, so naturally, Guanyin didn''t intend to dwell on it any longer.


    "Bodhisattva, I''m sorry, it is my disciple who has failed!" The meal hadn''t even been finished and ended unhappily; watching Guanyin turn to leave, Jiang Liu spoke.


    "Xuanzang, it is not your fault!" She nced back at Jiang Liu, shook her head, and said.


    With that, her figure transformed into a beam of escape light, swiftly disappearing.


    Watching Bodhisattva Guanyin leave, Jiang Liu sighed quietly in his heart, then turned and looked at Sha Wujing.


    At a juncture between life and death, he would rather be killed by Bodhisattva Guanyin than escape and save his life!?


    The choice Sha Wujing made indeed surprised Jiang Liu,pletely beyond his expectations.


    The more Sha Wujing acted in this way to be among the ranks of the Immortals and Buddhas, the more Jiang Liu didn''t want to keep him, the more he wanted to drive him away.


    "Master... Master... I''m sorry, I... I... made it difficult for you!" Lying on the ground, Sha Wujing looked at Jiang Liu, his eyes also filled with a sense of guilt.

 Chapter 254 Sha Wujing: Master, I am willing to sacrifice everything for you

    Although all of Sha Wujing''s actions had been orchestrated by Jiang Liu, in this moment facing Jiang Liu, Sha Wujing''s heart was filled with guilt, he always felt that he had let his master down.


    Continue reading at My Virtual Library Empire


    Along the journey, the master seemed to always treat him poorly, intentionally or unintentionally marginalizing him. Therefore, Sha Wujing had resolved that as long as he couldplete this Journey to the West and sessfully be awarded, there was no need to deliberately please him.


    However, today, after spouting nonsense and scolding his master, and evenshing out at Bodhisattva Guanyin, when faced with the Bodhisattva''s fury and her intent to kill him, the master unexpectedly jumped out, regardless of past grievances, to protect him from Bodhisattva Guanyin.


    What was the master''s attitude towards Bodhisattva Guanyin? It was evident from the fact that he had specially invited the Bodhisattva for a meal.


    The Bodhisattva had taken great care of him throughout the journey to the West, even guiding him to embark on this path, yet at a critical moment, as a disciple of the Buddhist Sect, he dared to strike at Bodhisattva Guanyin to create a chance for his escape.


    Thinking of this, Sha Wujing''s heart overflowed with gratitude towards Jiang Liu, and at the same time, he finally agreed with White Dragon Horse''s words.


    The master was indeed someone who appeared cold on the outside but was warm on the inside; he seemed not to care about him on the surface, but when it mattered, it was clear that he valued their master-disciple rtionship deeply.


    Facing Jiang Liu, Sha Wujing''s heart was filled with guilt; at the same time, he made a silent resolve that from now on their journey to the West, he would do his utmost to serve diligently and forbearingly, vowing never to speak out of turn again!


    "Guilt? There''s no need for that¡­" Seeing the look in Sha Wujing''s eyes, Jiang Liu''s lips twitched slightly, feeling that the sensation was very strange.


    All of this had been his own scheming, trying to drive him away, kick him out of the Journey to the West team, but now, he was so grateful to him?


    Was this what people called selling someone out and having them thank you for it?


    At that moment, Jiang Liu even felt as if he had be a viin.


    In movies and anime alike, those who betray others yet receive immense gratitude typically belonged to the viin''s set, right?


    Shaking his head silently, Jiang Liu shook these strange feelings from his mind. Although there was a sense of guilt towards Sha Wujing, he felt sorry about scheming against him.


    But, after all, this involved his own major affairs, so, despite feeling guilty, he was unrepentant about it all.


    As the saying goes, if our paths do not align, we cannot scheme together.


    His goal was to overturn all the deities in Western Heaven, not only to save Gaoyang but also to save himself. Zhu Bajie and Sun Wukong were already on his side, and even White Dragon Horse would eventually join his lines.


    Only Sha Wujing, since he was not of the same heart and might even be a spy for the Immortals and Buddhas, naturally, Jiang Liu was determined to drive him out.


    Although he schemed against him and felt guilty, he acted out of necessity for himself and for those like Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie who trusted him, without regret!


    After all, his goal was merely to kick him out of the team, not to take his life, right?


    In doing so, he hadn''t crossed his own moral line! Could he really risk himself, Gaoyang, and even Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie?


    "Wujing, you offended Bodhisattva Guanyin today. I advise you to hide for a few days!"


    Looking at Sha Wujing in front of him, seeing his expression of deep gratitude, Jiang Liu, though unrepentant, felt some guilt and spoke after a moment.


    "Ah!? Hide for a few days!? Master, are you really driving me away? No, I won''t go! Please, Master, don''t drive me away!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s statement, Sha Wujing''s face grew anxious, shouting loudly, with an appearance unwilling to leave no matter what.


    "If I could have driven you away, I would have done so already!" Sha Wujing''s attitude secretly made Jiang Liu scoff.


    He would rather die than flee, making it even more impossible for Jiang Liu to drive him away, so he shook his head and said, "No, I''m not driving you out, just having you hide for a few days."


    "Hide for a few days? Why is that!?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words that he wasn''t being driven away, Sha Wujing rxed a bit, but he was puzzled and looked at Jiang Liu, asking.


    "It''s simple, don''t you remember the incident where Bajie offended the Bodhisattva?" Seeing Sha Wujing''s expression, Jiang Liu looked at him somewhat helplessly and said.


    "Master, why are you bringing that up again!?" It was because of that incident that he had almost been killed by Bodhisattva Guanyin; hearing Jiang Liu mention it again startled Sha Wujing, who nced around.


    "I''m not talking about the incident itself, but don''t you remember what happened afterward? Bajie happened to encounter the female demon Zhuzhu, then Zhuzhu even got pregnant with Bajie''s child, but what was the oue? Zhuzhu and her child in her belly died, killed by whom!?" Seeing Sha Wujing''s expression, Jiang Liu gave him an exasperated look.


    "He died at the hands of Bodhisattva Guanyin!" On hearing this, Sha Wujing answered in a daze.


    Upon these words, he seemed to have realized and his face suddenly turned pale, saying, "Back then, didn''t Bodhisattva Guanyin save Second Brother''s life? You''re saying that the Bodhisattva deliberately tried to kill him?"@@novelbin@@


    "Wujing, let me put it this way, after Zhuzhu was killed, Bajie left for some time, didn''t he? Do you know where he went? He went to see the Matchmaker God, initially wanting to seek revenge for pulling the Red Thread between him and Zhuzhu, but do you know how the Matchmaker God responded?" Jiang Liu didn''t speak too directly but instead outlined Zhu Bajie''s subsequent actions.


    "The Matchmaker God? This indeed has something to do with him, so how did he respond at that time!?" Sha Wujing asked, following Jiang Liu''s words.


    "The Matchmaker God replied that the Red Thread between Bajie and Zhuzhu wasn''t pulled by him. Moreover, a long time ago, Bodhisattva Guanyin had also taken a few strands of Red Thread from the Matchmaker God..." Jiang Liu''s gaze rested on Sha Wujing as he spoke.


    "Could it be!? All of this is..." Hearing this, Sha Wujing''splexion changed drastically.


    It''s not to say Sha Wujing was foolish; even a fool, upon hearing these things, would understand what the truth was.


    "Think about it for yourself, shortly after Bajie offended Bodhisattva Guanyin, he soon suffered a romantic tragedy, losing both his wife and child. So, I advise you toy low for a few days before talking!" Jiang Liu nodded, advising Sha Wujing.


    "I, I..." Hearing this, Sha Wujing felt a chill in his heart, finding everything too horrifying.


    To think that he had always been in the Journey to the West Team, yet such events had happened within the team and he had been oblivious?


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sha Wujing indeed felt that he should hide for a few days, yet he was afraid that hiding would mean truly leaving the Journey to the West Team.


    After a moment of silence, Sha Wujing''s gaze turned serious as he stared at Jiang Liu, saying, "Master, you said it yourself, to go and hide for a few days, you better not abandon me!"


    "Don''t worry, I may not have many great virtues, but keeping my word is something I take seriously!"


    "How about this, go hide for a few months, or even a year or so, I''ll stay right here in Treasure Elephant Country and won''t leave. Whenever youe back, we''ll continue the Journey to the West!" Jiang Liu nodded, showing a very loyal demeanor as he spoke to Sha Wujing.


    "Master!"


    On hearing Jiang Liu, Sha Wujing, grateful for his master''s willingness to even dy the journey for a year and a half on his behalf, knelt down immediately with heartfelt bows, making thudding sounds.


    "Master''s kindness and grace, I can never repay in this lifetime. On the road to the West hereafter, I will surely dedicate every shred of myself!"


    "Alright, you may go now. No need for more words!" Seeing Sha Wujing''s state, Jiang Liu waved his hand and showed a deeply affectionate look between master and disciple.


    "Master, I will go now!" Nodding his head, Sha Wujing took three steps and kept looking back, unwilling to leave, then turned around and soared into the clouds.


    "Phew, finally managed to persuade him to leave..." Watching Sha Wujing finally leave the team, Jiang Liu let out a long sigh of relief.


    Sha Wujing had left, but the mission was notpleted; it clearly didn''t count as expelling him from the discipleship, and Jiang Liu was not concerned about it.


    Though the mission was unfinished and disappointing, it was good that it made him leave temporarily. At least concerning the Yellow-Robed Monster''s devious n, he no longer had to worry about Sha Wujing, the spy, leaking it.


    Of course, if Sha Wujing could really stay hidden for a year or more, Jiang Liu would be even happier.


    Wouldn''t that allow him to legitimately take his time in Treasure Elephant Country for a year and a half, giving himself a better chance to cultivate?


    "s, I didn''t expect that even if he were to die, he still wouldn''t want to leave the Journey to the West Team. Indeed, acquiring 80 million Experience Points isn''t that easy!"


    Thinking of Sha Wujing''s choice, and that his seemingly foolproof mission was still upleted, Jiang Liu inevitably felt a bit disappointed.


    He sighed inwardly, shook his head, and stopped thinking about it. Turning around, he returned to his room to cultivate.


    Just today, by scheming against Sha Wujing, he ended up feeling incredibly grateful, almost ready toy down his life for him, this unexpected development left Jiang Liu somewhat bemused.


    Apart from that, with Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing gone and Jiang Liu back in his room, only Sun Wukong and White Dragon Horse were left. Even the delicious food in the Dragon and Phoenix Yin Yang Pot seemed less appetizing.


    A night passed quietly, and the next morning, after Jiang Liu and others washed up and packed a bit, they continued towards Wanzi Mountain...

 Chapter 256 Disgusting Task

    Looking at his character panel, Jiang Liu felt a mix of worry and joy in his heart.


    The worry was that the Experience Points needed for leveling up were indeed bing more and more numerous, now requiring 2 million Experience Points to level up.


    Of course, the joy came from the improvement in his level, which was certainly a good thing.


    Level 35, having been in this world for over a year. If using the terms of online games, reaching level 35 in more than a year would indeed be slow.


    However, when viewed from the perspective of "Journey to the West," progressing from an ordinary person to the Controlling-Law Realm in just over a year could be considered remarkably fast.


    Thinking of his current level, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on his ck Jade Prayer Beads.


    Legendary Level equipment, with only one special effect, which was to reduce the equipment level requirement by 5.


    In other words, he should be able to wear level 40 equipment now.


    Invisibly, this would elevate his strength to another level.


    "Master, I apologize for neglecting you, as my daughter and I are reunited after a long separation. Please apany us back to the pce, and I will make sure to express my gratitude properly!" the King said, his joy from the reunion with Princess Baihua Xiu stabilizing slightly as he noticed Jiang Liu and the others who had been standing nearby.


    Then, he enthusiastically invited Jiang Liu and hispanions into the pce.


    "Amitabha, I understand the King''s feelings," Jiang Liu said, his palms pressed together as he chanted a Buddhist phrase softly.


    During their conversation, they naturally entered the pce following the King''s warm invitation.


    Naturally, the rewards he had promised earlier were indispensable, and Jiang Liu did not refuse the offered ten thousand taels of gold.


    Along the way, he had many expenses, especially with Zhu Bajie, the big eater, whose food intake could match that of a dozen people.


    If it were possible to pay, Jiang Liu naturally did not wish to exploit themon people under the guise of begging for alms.


    ...


    Let''s not dwell on the situation in Treasure Elephant Country for now; elsewhere, in the Purple Bamboo Forest, Guanyin sat quietly by the Lotus Pond, holding some Spirit Fruits in her hand and carelessly tossing them into the pond.


    Fish and shrimp in the Lotus Pond scrambled for the food, but Guanyin''s mind was filled with numerous thoughts.


    This time, Jiang Liu had invited her to enjoy mutton using a charcoal copper pot, a gesture Guanyin appreciated deeply.


    Although they parted on less than cheerful terms, she had to admit that the delicacies Jiang Liu had crafted were indeed delicious.


    Moreover, what pleased Guanyin the most was Jiang Liu''s thoughtfulness, showing that he still cared for her despite some benefits, which eased some tensions over the ck Lotus disputes.


    However, thinking of Sha Wujing, Guanyin''s brows slightly furrowed again.


    Sha Wujing''s behavior that day was unusual, and Guanyin felt something was amiss.


    With her wisdom, few things in the Three Realms could be concealed from her. No drunkenness, no drugging, no witchcraft, yet Sha Wujing still blurted out nonsense.


    "No wonder, I''ve always felt that Xuanzang had some reservations about Sha Wujing. I merely thought it was because in his previous nine lives he was devoured by him, a result of karma. But, was it because of Sha Wujing himself?"


    Thinking of the usually silent Sha Wujing and his recent outbursts, a realization dawned on Guanyin.


    "Bodhisattva, what does it feel like to be kissed by a pig!?"


    Thinking of Sha Wujing, it was inevitable for Guanyin to recall his question to her.


    And this question, upon recall, made Guanyin grip the Spirit Fruit in her hand a bit tighter, immediately pulverizing it.


    The fish and shrimp that were scrambling for food in the Lotus Pond could feel the Bodhisattva''s displeasure, quickly diving to the bottom of the pond, disappearing from sight.


    Thinking of Sha Wujing, Guanyin felt very displeased, her thoughts far from clear.


    If she wished for rity of thought, this matter could not just be left unresolved.


    After all, she was of the Great Luo Golden Immortal Realm, and Sha Wujing? Merely a Heavenly Immortal, his cultivation only a fraction of hers. How could she let the insult pass?


    Did she no longer care about the dignity of an immortal?


    With a thought, Guanyin raised her hand, and soon, a faint glow of red appeared, followed by a strand of Red Thread appearing in her hand.


    "Amitabha, the trial of love is the hardest to ovee. Xuanzang, Wukong, and Bajie all have their own love tribtions. Wujing cannot remain unaffected! Thisst strand of Red Thread will let you face your destiny, adding to the eighty-one hardships," Guanyin murmured to herself.


    And with that, she gently threw the strand of Red Thread, which, following her motion, disappeared into the void.


    Leaving aside what Guanyin was nning as retribution for Sha Wujing, elsewhere, in a secluded mountain, Sha Wujing was alone, feeling very displeased.


    It had been several days since he left the Journey to the West Team, and he had already traveled thousands of miles away from Treasure Elephant Country. However, due to his appearance, in these few days, several groups of human cultivators had attacked him, iming he was an evil Demon and intending to Exorcise him.


    If it had been before he joined the Scripture Seeking Team, he would have just killed these people, given that he was a Demon.


    But having joined the scripture-seeking team, Jiang Liu couldn''t just kill indiscriminately, so these days, even though he possessed the cultivation level of a Heavenly Immortal, he was ironically chased around by a bunch of cultivators from the Returning Void Realm and Divinity Transformation Realm.


    One day, Sha Wujing sat on a cliff in the remote mountains, staring at the distant scenery, yet feeling a profound sadness in his heart.


    He thought to himself that he once was General Juanlian, even a confidant of the Jade Emperor, yet now, he had fallen to such a plight.


    "s..." Thinking of his recent tribtions, Sha Wujing couldn''t help but let out a deep sigh.


    Indeed, being a demon had no advantages, always being the target of everyone''s attacks.


    If he truly just wanted to be a demon and upy a Water Mansion, life could have been blissful.


    But deep down, he didn''t want to be a demon; he aspired to be among the Immortals and Buddhas, not to consort with demon kind.


    A lone demon creature¡ªthis life truly wasn''t meant for living.


    Whoosh!


    Putting aside the sorrow in Sha Wujing''s heart and the strengthened resolve of the scripture-seeking team to return to their celestial positions, at that moment, suddenly, an auspicious cloud appeared on the horizon, followed by two Heavenly Generals d in golden armor.


    "Divine Generals, this is the disruptive demon who also injured many of my disciples. Please, divine generals, bring this evil demon to justice promptly!" An old man, his face bruised and swollen, bitterly pointed at Sha Wujing while standing beside the two Heavenly Generals.


    Sha Wujing recognized him as the Returning Void Realm cultivator who had previously tried to subdue him but ended up being beaten by him. Unexpectedly, he had managed to summon the Heavenly Generals from the heavens to subdue him.@@novelbin@@


    "What kind of evil demon dares to be so arrogant!" The two Heavenly Generals, imposing in their demeanor, said to Sha Wujing, their weapons trembling in their hands as they pointed at him.


    If he were still recognized as General Juanlian or known by the Heavenly Generals, it might have been a different story. But since his fall to the mortal world, Sha Wujing had lost his original appearance. Now resembling a three-meter-tall, incredibly muscr demon, naturally, even acquaintances from the Heavenly Court could not recognize him.


    "Both of you, stop, I...I am not an evil demon..." Seeing the two Heavenly Generals about to attack, Sha Wujing hurriedly tried to exin.


    "You''re not an evil demon? Then what are you!" Seeing Sha Wujing trying to exin, the two Heavenly Generals frowned slightly and questioned him.


    "I, I..." Hearing these two Heavenly Generals question him, Sha Wujing stumbled over his words, unable to speak.


    Why had he left the Journey to the West Team in the first ce? Wasn''t it to hide and keep Guanyin from noticing his presence? Therefore, he couldn''t divulge his name.


    But if he didn''t reveal that he once was General Juanlian, or that he was a member of the scripture-seeking team, how could he identify himself?


    "Hmph, you deceitful demon, trying to buy time, are you!?" Seeing Sha Wujing at a loss for words, the two Heavenly Generals spoke sternly.


    In the midst of their speaking, their weapons trembled and they attacked Sha Wujing.


    Facing the attack of two Demon Generals, Sha Wujing, naturallycking the will to fight, turned and fled.


    This Heavenly General had the cultivation of a Heavenly Immortal, not weaker than himself, and more importantly, he was unwilling to reveal his identity, so he didn''t dare to use the Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff. Outnumbered and outmatched, how could Sha Wujing be a match for these two Demon Generalsbination?


    So, he had no choice but to turn and flee for his life.


    "Evil demon, don''t you dare escape!" Seeing Sha Wujing fleeing, the two Heavenly Generals naturally became more invigorated, shouting loudly as they chased in his direction.


    ...


    Inside the Royal Pce of the Treasure Elephant Country, the King indeed kept his word and immediately brought out ten thousand taels of gold.


    This so-called ten thousand taels of gold wasn''t just a hollow promise of rewarding with ten thousand copper coins; it was genuinely ten thousand taels of gold.


    Jiang Liu didn''t stand on ceremony, epting all ten thousand taels of gold without hesitation, and quickly stowed them away into his inventory space.


    "Oh, Master Xuanzang, how was the princess rescued? Could you tell us about it!?" As soon as Jiang Liu had stowed away the gold, the King immediately asked him.


    "Oh, it was quite the fierce battle, so intense that it dimmed the heavens and blotted out the moon!" Jiang Liu nodded and described apletely fictional battle.


    Descriptions like a palm strike shattering the sky, or lifting a mountain and hurling it like a stone at the opponent...


    His narration was a vivid depiction, echoing the fight scenes from fantasy novels of a previous life, leaving the King speechless with astonishment.


    "In the end, the demon threw the princess out, unable to defeat us, and turned to flee for his life. We prioritized rescuing the princess, naturally catching her, so the evil demon managed to escape!"


    After a spirited exnation that showcased the potential of a storyteller, Jiang Liu concluded.


    "Ah! The evil demon escaped? What should we do now? If you, master, leave, what if the evil demones back for revenge? Master, please see it through to the end, remove this evil demonpletely," hearing the oue, the king grew anxious and pleaded.


    TIP: Quest "Exorcise the Demon" triggered. Quest requirement: Eliminate the Yellow-Robed Monster. Sess reward: Experience Points 8000000, reward Epic Level Treasure Chest*1. Failure penalty: Deduct Experience Points 8000000. ept/Refuse?


    As the King voiced his plea for help, the system''s prompt also sounded.


    Seeing this passive quest trigger, Jiang Liu''s lips twitched slightly¡ªan 8 million Experience Points reward for this quest? The head of the Yellow-Robed Monster was indeed valuable!


    However, this temptation was but a momentary flicker; Jiang Liu naturally refused.


    He couldn''t just be swayed by profit when he had already made a promise. Was this quest from the system just to annoy him?

 Chapter 257 Level 40 Legendary Level Equipment

    "Don''t worry, my King, I will surely handle this matter properly for you!"


    Although Jiang Liu rejected the task prompt from the system, facing the King of Treasure Elephant Country, he nodded solemnly, agreeing to his request. After all, it was part of his own n.


    While he had agreed to exorcise demons, as long as Jiang Liu and hispanions were present in Treasure Elephant Country, the King was not worried. After all, if he truly wanted to leave, the King''s own seal would still be needed on the Travel Permit que.


    Thus, upon the Princess''s return, the entire Royal City of Treasure Elephant Country celebrated for several days, and the King did not rush Jiang Liu to exorcise demons.


    Simrly, Jiang Liu was not in a hurry since, even after dealing with this matter, he would still be waiting in Treasure Elephant Country for Sha Wujing''s return.


    In the blink of an eye, five days passed. Princess Baihua Xiu had left the pce for over a decade and now she had finally returned home. Naturally, she spent those days with the King and Queen in the royal pce.


    During this time, the King and Queen naturally asked Baihua Xiu about her life over the past decade.


    Hearing that for the past ten years, Baihua Xiu had actually married an evil demon and even given birth to a half-human, half-demon child, the King and Queen were naturally heartbroken.


    Watching her parents cry in sorrow, Princess Baihua Xiu struggled several times to speak up and admit that the Yellow-Robed Monster was not an evil demon, but rather had the identity of a deity.


    However, considering Jiang Liu and Yellow-Robed Monster''s n, Princess Baihua Xiu forcibly held back and did not speak out.


    "No matter, no matter, my daughter, from now on you stay close to us, and no one will ever bully you again!" Amidst the tears, the King and Queen of Treasure Elephant Country patted Baihua Xiu''s hand andforted her in a low voice.


    They were themselves deeply grieved, yet they did not forget tofort Baihua Xiu in this touching family scene.


    And what of Jiang Liu''s side? They too had been staying in the royal pce during these days. Not only did the King hold them in high regard, but the people of the pce also saw them as great heroes. They took such good care of Jiang Liu that he was nearly waited on hand and foot.


    Of course, during these days, while staying in the royal pce of Treasure Elephant Country, Jiang Liu also diligently cultivated his Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    In just five days, he had gained over a hundred thousand experience points.


    Today, seeing that the celebrations in Treasure Elephant Country were nearly over, the King once again held a banquet for Jiang Liu and the others.


    At the banquet, Jiang Liu announced that the fleeing evil demon had been located, so they could act today to capture it.


    "If so, I thank the master for taking action!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the King stood up and raised a toast to him.


    Although the King was fearless of the demon causing trouble with Jiang Liu around, not having taken action to subdue the demon in these past days, there was certainly a hint of unease in his heart.


    "There''s no need to thank me, this was something I had promised to do!" Jiang Liu waved his hand dismissively and spoke in a very carefree manner.


    "Come, bring out the gift I have prepared!" The King of Treasure Elephant Country then suddenly turned around and spoke to a nearby attendant.


    At the King''smand, the attendant nodded and then turned to leave, going to fetch the item.


    "Holy Monk, you had previously imed the Imperial List and rescued the Princess. I promised to reward you with ten thousand taels of gold as a token of gratitude. Today, as you take action to eradicate the demon and prevent future troubles for our Treasure Elephant Country, how could I remain empty-handed?


    Therefore, I found a suitable treasure for the Holy Monk in the royal treasury some days ago, and I hope you will not refuse!" Noticing the puzzled look on Jiang Liu''s face, the King spoke up.


    Without waiting for Jiang Liu to ask, the King continued, "This is a Buddhist Treasure, said to be thebined remains of a Buddhist monk''s relic and a ring, formed upon his passing more than a hundred years ago, named Buddha Relic Dharma Ring. I believe it''s the perfect gift for the Holy Monk!"


    "Oh? A treasure, huh? The King is quite generous!" Jiang Liu thought to himself, pleased with the King''s words.


    He had been feeling a bit regretful these past days for rejecting the system''s task with an 8 million experience points reward, but since the King had a gift for him, it felt like a slight constion for his loss.


    In a moment, the attendant who had left returned with an exquisitely crafted small box.


    Opening the box before Jiang Liu, a pure white, jade-like ring with what appeared to be a naturally embedded relic was revealed. It looked simple rather than intricate but was nheless natural.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze fell upon the ring, the corresponding attribute information also appeared before his eyes:


    Buddha Relic Dharma Ring (Legendary Level): Requires level 40, Attack +3200, Special Effect: Overbearing Pressure, when worn, can weaken the attack and defense attributes of targets with a lower level by 20%, Durability 33/70.


    "Great equipment!" Jiang Liu inwardly praised the item.


    It was indeed befitting of a Level 40 piece of equipment. Although it was only at the Legendary Level, the additional attack power was as high as 3200, far exceeding his own Epic Level main weapon, the Mixed Iron Rod, which had no level requirement.


    Looking at his own gear, the Huali Law Ring was a Level 20 Legendary Level piece of equipment with a mere added attack power of around 300, which now seemed quite inadequate. Jiang Liu had no intention of being polite; he directly removed the Huali Law Ring and slipped the Buddha Relic Dharma Ring onto his finger.


    Indeed, thanks to the special effects of the ck Jade Prayer Beads, even though I''m only level 35, I sessfully put on a level 40 Legendary Level Equipment. With this piece of equipment in hand, Jiang Liu''s Attack Power surged by a great margin.


    Moreover, the most important aspect is the special effects of the Buddha Relic Dharma Ring, which are very useful. If it were to be used in a group battle against minor minions, it would naturallye with a weakening aura.


    "Not bad, I like it very much!" Jiang Liu was very pleased with the equipment befitting its Legendary Level status for level 40, nodded and said, while also ncing at the King of Treasure Elephant Country.


    "Since Master Xuanzang likes it, then that''s good!" Seeing that Xuanzang didn''t refuse out of politeness, the King of Treasure Elephant Country also nodded.


    Everyone was smart. Since Master Xuanzang had epted the treasure, it was expected that he would do his utmost to exorcise the demons with all his might and sess.


    "Master, let me, Old Pig, take care of such a trivial Evil Demon!" At this moment, Zhu Bajie stood up with a roastedmb leg in hand, feasting merrily, and loudly said.


    "Very well, since that''s the case, Bajie, it''s all yours!" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Jiang Liu considered for a moment and then nodded in agreement.


    As soon as these words were spoken, Zhu Bajie raised his hand, and the Nine-Toothed Rake appeared in his grasp. With a leap, he soared on a cloud and flew straight towards Wanzi Mountain.


    Upon arriving at Wanzi Mountain, without much fuss, Zhu Bajie started to holler at the entrance of a cave. After a few verbal exchanges, they immediately came to blows.


    Zhu Bajie''s strength was formidable when he took action.


    However, as a leader of the seventy-two Star Abodes and at the realm of Taiyi True Immortal, Kuimu Wolf had simrly extraordinary Cultivation Levels.


    After hundreds of exchanges, neither was able to gain the upper hand.


    It wasn''t until they both used the Law of Heaven and Earth Divine Skills that they exhibited earth-shattering power with every move.


    The battle caused a huge disturbance and didn''t end until sunset.@@novelbin@@


    It seemed that neither could best the other, and the surrounding tens of miles turned into ruins, with even Wanzi Mountain itself being toppled.


    By dusk, Zhu Bajie returned to the Royal City, dragging his exhausted body.


    "How did it go, Bajie? Did you eliminate that Demon?" Seeing Zhu Bajie returning with a tired expression, Jiang Liu asked.


    Naturally, the King of Treasure Elephant Country next to him widened his eyes in anticipation as he looked at Zhu Bajie.


    "Master, that Evil Demon''s methods seem to have be even more formidable since west encountered it. I fought with it all afternoon and yet it was a stalemate!" Shaking his head, Zhu Bajie said somewhat helplessly.


    "Oh? That powerful? It seems I may need to help," Jiang Liu inquired upon hearing Zhu Bajie''s words.


    "There''s no need for that, Master. I discovered some news. When I was hurling insults at that Evil Demon, I found out that it wasn''t an ordinary evil creature, it seems to be an Immortal from heaven who secretly descended to the Lower Realm!" Waving his hand, Zhu Bajie suddenly spoke up.


    "An Immortal from heaven secretly descended to the mortal world? Is that so?" Jiang Liu''s brows furrowed slightly upon hearing this.


    "An Immortal?" Even the King of Treasure Elephant Country was taken aback, somewhat astonished.


    What''s the situation? The creature that had abducted his daughter for over a decade turned out to be an Immortal in a blink of an eye? Was this true or false?


    "Wukong, in this case, the matter is of great consequence. Go to the Heavenly Court, investigate, and see if there''s any Immortal who has secretly be a demon in the Lower Realm," Jiang Liu said after pondering for a moment, turning his head towards Sun Wukong.


    "Alright, Master, I''ll go now!" Hearing this, Sun Wukong naturally didn''t hesitate, nodded, and said. In the midst of speaking, Sun Wukong leapt up, turned into a beam of Escape Light, and rapidly vanished into the horizon.


    "An Immortal? That''s right, whether true or false, of course, we need to investigate thoroughly to know!" Agreeing with Jiang Liu''s decision, the King of Treasure Elephant Country nodded approvingly and muttered to himself.


    ¡­


    Let''s leave aside what happened in Treasure Elephant Country for now. Far away, thousands of miles from the Treasure Elephant Country, by a riverbank, a woman with horns on her head and a voluptuous figure was washing clothes.


    With tworge tubs of clothing to wash, the task seemed arduous.


    Yet, just at that moment, a tall figure appeared, floating on the water''s surface and drifting downstream.


    The woman was slightly taken aback, pondered for a moment, and then strenuously dragged the figure to shore, checking for breath and pulse.


    "Still alive! Such a robust man, he must be over ten feet tall!"

 Chapter 258 Half-Demon Amei

    Sha Wujing slowly opened his eyes after an unknown amount of time, looking around to find himself in a dimly lit cave.


    He shook his head, and his memories slowly became clear.


    He had been severely injured and had passed out under the pursuit of two Heavenly Generals, which made Sha Wujing shake his head, feeling that his current situation had developed into an incredibly miserable state, even more miserable than his time in Liusha River.


    After all, back in Liusha River, he had been quite a dominant force.


    Originally, Sha Wujing was not afraid of two Heavenly Generals of the Heavenly Immortal Realm, but, fearful of exposing his identity and even hesitant to use his own weapon, he waspletely unmatched against the two of them.


    Fighting and retreating, he finally forcefully struck back, injuring both Heavenly Generals severely, but simrly, he was badly hurt.


    "Hey, are you awake? What''s your name?"


    As Sha Wujing opened his eyes, pondering his current predicament and feeling that life was enveloped in darkness, suddenly, a clear voice rang out beside him.


    Looking in the direction of the voice, he saw a woman dressed in coarse clothes standing before him, sporting a pair of horns on her head. She wasn''t particrly beautiful, just ordinary, with even some freckles visible on her face, but her eyes curiously surveyed Sha Wujing.


    "My name is, my name is Liusha¡­" Sha Wujing hesitated slightly before responding.


    He then asked, "Miss, was it you who saved me? Thank you for your lifesaving grace!"


    "It''s nothing, just a lift of a hand!" The woman shook her head, looked at Sha Wujing, and after a slight pause, asked, "Why did you end up in the water? Did something happen to you?"


    "Yes, I am being pursued. You know, there''s always someone who likes to engage in Subduing Demons and Eliminating Evil, I, sigh¡­"


    Speaking of his situation and thinking of being chased by two Heavenly Generals, Sha Wujing sighed deeply, shaking his head helplessly.


    "So that''s it!" Hearing Sha Wujing''s response, the female demon nodded slightly in understanding.


    Being of the Demon Kind, she naturally understood the plight of the Demon n. On the surface, the Human n feared the Demon Kind, but those who were afraid were just ordinary humans. Many humans engaged in cultivation liked engaging in the deeds of Subduing Demons and Eliminating Evil, even living in seclusion deep in the mountains to avoid other humans.


    "By the way, may I know how to address you, youngdy?" Sha Wujing asked, considering that she had saved him from the river.


    "Oh, everyone calls me Amei, you can call me that too!" Upon hearing Sha Wujing''s words, the female demon said somewhat embarrassedly and shyly, as if she didn''t have a formal name.


    "Amei? It sounds endearing¡­" Murmuring the name quietly, Sha Wujing nodded and said.


    "Hey, Amei? Where have you disappeared to!?" Just then, amotion erupted outside the cave, loudly calling out.


    "Ah!" Hearing this voice, Amei''s face changed, and she quickly told Sha Wujing not to make a sound before rushing out of the cave.


    Outside the cave, a robust Wolf Demon stood upright, transformed into a walking grey wolf, and scolded, "The Great King kindly took you in, having you work properly, yet you stealthily hid away?"


    "Wolf Vanguard, I, I wasn''t cking off, I¡­" Amei quickly knelt down, trembling in fear as she spoke.


    "Still trying to argue? I saw the clothes you discarded by the riverbank. You weren''t back for a good quarter of an hour!"


    With a smack, he drew out his Wolf Tail Whip, the Wolf Demon angrily scolded her and then, without any courtesy,shed out with three severe strikes on Amei, causing her to scream in pain.


    "Stop!" Find more to read at My Virtual Library Empire


    Inside the cave, although Sha Wujing did not know what exactly was happening, the screams from outside prompted him toe out. Seeing Amei being whipped to the ground, her skin split open in several ces, he couldn''t help but cry out.


    "Hahaha..." Seeing Sha Wujing emerge from the cave, the Wolf Demonughed mockingly, pointing at him and saying, "I wondered why this wretch hid in the cave for so long, turns out, you''ve learned to sneak away with a lover, huh? Hahaha!"


    Though Sha Wujing was tall and intimidating, standing over three meters high with a fearsome appearance, in the view of the Wolf Demon, anyone who mixed with a wretch like Amei couldn''t be a formidable character, just a tall figure to scare people.


    "No, I didn''t¡­" Hearing the Wolf Demon''s mockery, Amei, lying on the ground, replied with a flushed face, denying it.


    "Oh, still want to talk back to me!? Let''s see if I don''t properly teach you a lesson today!" With Amei fighting back, the Wolf Demon''s eyes bulged, and he raised his whip again.


    However, this time, Sha Wujing quickly grabbed the opponent''s wrist and, with a forceful push, flung the Wolf Demon flying out.


    With a bang, the Wolf Demonnded on the ground, even smashing arge rock and involuntarily letting out a scream of pain. Frightened by the sight of Sha Wujing, he dared not continue the fight and fled with his tail between his legs, like a beaten dog.


    "Cough, cough, cough..." After throwing the Wolf Demon out, Sha Wujing couldn''t help but cough twice, feeling a sharp pain in his chest.


    His injuries were very severe at the moment.


    Feeling a sense of helplessness in his heart, the master seemed to possess a kind of red potion, a healing elixir. However, throughout the journey, when they encountered powerful demon creatures, it was always the eldest and second senior brothers who took action, and he himself had no achievements. Thus, he didn''t have the potion. Otherwise, at this moment...


    "Ah, you, why did you attack? That Wolf Vanguard is not simple!" Amei, standing nearby, eximed in surprise as she saw Wujing actually fight and fend off the Wolf Vanguard.


    "Amei, who exactly are you?" Taking a deep breath to suppress the injuries inside his body, Wujing looked at Amei with some astonishment and asked.


    "That Wolf Demon just now was merely a Demon Soldier, but looking at you, you can almost transform into human form. Judging by the situation, you should be a Demon Marshal, right?"


    Wujing indeed felt surprised, as Amei looked almost indistinguishable from a human, save for a pair of horns on her head. Yet, she was bullied by just a mere Demon Soldier?


    "I, I am just the lowest Little Demon¡­" Hearing Wujing''s question, Amei lowered her head and said softly.


    "The lowest Little Demon? Then why can you transform into a human form? What is your true form?" Wujing grew even more astonished. The lowest Little Demon? Isn''t that just a demon? Yet she can transform?


    "I, this is not transformation. I was just born this way!" Hanging her head, Amei said in a somewhat embarrassed and timid voice.


    "My father is an Ox Demon of the Hundred Beasts Mountain, a Demon Marshal under Eldest King, but my mother was a human woman he captured. I am a Half-Human Half-Demon, and I have looked this way since birth. Ever since my parents died ten years ago, I, I just¡­" With her head bowed, Amei briefly outlined her background.


    "Half-Demon!?" Realization dawned upon Wujing upon hearing this.


    The existence of a Half-Human Half-Demon, no wonder she was born looking like this. Such an existence, caught between the cracks of Human n and Demon n, neither epted by the humans nor the demons.


    If she had a father of the Demon Marshal rank, it might have been better, but, with even her father dead for ten years, living here in thends of the Demon n, naturally the days were not easy¡­


    "You, you better leave quickly. Although that Wolf Vanguard is only a Demon Soldier, his father is one of the top three kings of the Hundred Beasts Mountain!" Perhaps genuinely concerned for Wujing''s safety, or perhaps unwilling to dwell further on her own origins, Amei hastily said to Wujing.


    "Amei, let me ask you, why are you so kind to me since we just met by chance?" Instead of hastening to flee, Wujing curiously looked at Amei and asked.


    "Because, because you''re the only one who has ever said my name in a kinder way!" Amei replied.


    For Amei, who had always been bullied, receiving even slightly equal treatment from someone was deeply moving.


    "But if I leave, what will you do? They''ll probably beat you at least, won''t they?" Wujing thought for a moment and then asked.


    "I¡­" Thinking about what might happen to her after Wujing left and the Wolf Vanguard and his men returned, Amei trembled slightly, fear in her heart.


    She hung her head and said, "I, I''m used to being beaten anyway. You, you better run quickly. I see you are from the Demon n, trespassing on Hundred Beasts Mountain, they will kill you!"


    "Then I definitely cannot leave!" Hearing Amei''s words, Wujing shook his head, his expression resolute.


    Shortly, a flurry of rapid footsteps sounded, and immediately, a group of Wolf Demons appeared, surrounding both Wujing and Amei.


    At the same time, a gaunt old man, leaning on a cane, walked over.


    "One of the top three kings!" Seeing the old man walking out with a cane, Amei''s face changed color, and she quickly knelt down, prostrating herself on the ground.


    However, the old man paid no attention to Amei and instead fixed his gaze on Wujing, asking, "Friend, where are you from? What brings you to my Hundred Beasts Mountain?"


    "I''m just passing through here!" Looking at the old man, who hadpletely transformed into a human form, he must be at least at the Demon King Level.


    Moreover, one of the top three kings? That also means there''s still the Eldest King and the second king?


    Wujing, severely injured, did not wish to engage with the group of demons and thus replied calmly.


    "Passing through? So, where are you headed?" After a brief pause of silence, the old man continued to inquire.


    "This¡­" Hearing this, Wujing hesitated for a moment, somewhat at a loss for an answer.


    Where was he actually headed? He hadn''t really thought it through.


    "Seeing you appear as a demon, may I ask what your cultivation level is?" Observing Wujing''s appearance, the third King continued to inquire.


    "I, I am a Demon Marshal," Wujing paused slightly before answering the third king.


    "Hmm, since you have no ce to go, why not stay at my Hundred Beasts Mountain?" Hearing Wujing''s response, the third king''s eyes lit up slightly as he asked.@@novelbin@@


    A Demon Marshal? And an injured one at that?


    Wouldn''t it add some strength to have him under hismand?

 Chapter 260 Seeing Nezha Again

    Did Sun Wukonge to the Heavenly Court just to save face for the Great Jade Emperor?


    This statement originally made many people scoff in their hearts.


    Firstly, would this rascal monkey really be so kind-hearted?


    Secondly, and most importantly, this mere rascal monkey, although skilled, when it''s time for the Great Jade Emperor to lose face, can he really protect him?


    But one must admit, if what he said was true, then, indeed, there might be some reason in it.


    Were there really gods from the heavens who secretly descended to the Mortal World to be demons? Not to mention whether the Jade Emperor would be heartbroken if this monkey killed one with a strike, just the act of gods secretly descending is enough to embarrass the Heavenly Court.


    It''s like a high-ranking official of a country secretly engaging in illegal businesses, isn''t it?


    If this matter were really exposed, known to all under heaven, wouldn''t that be a loss of national dignity?


    "Someone, go and check if any immortals have secretly descendedtely!" The Great Jade Emperor said after a brief moment of silence.


    With the words of the Great Jade Emperor, naturally, people quickly began to act and investigate.


    It did not take long before the matter reached the Lingxiao Hall, stirred out by the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong, and personally investigated by the Great Jade Emperor, which naturally meant efficiency was high.


    In no time at all, someone arrived.


    "Your Majesty, after careful investigation, Kuimu Wolf from the Twenty-Eight Star Abodes has been missing for over ten days!" an immortal knelt before the Great Jade Emperor and reported.


    "You, monkey, did show some concern!" Slightly waving his hand to dismiss the reporting immortal, the Great Jade Emperor''s gaze fell on Sun Wukong as he spoke.@@novelbin@@


    This statement was clearly apliment, acknowledging that Sun Wukong''s actions were appropriate.


    "Wukong, for this matter, what do you think should be done?" After praising Sun Wukong, the Great Jade Emperor then asked him.


    "Since it''s your affair, naturally, you, Great Jade Emperor, should decide yourself. I, Old Sun, wouldn''t presume to interfere!" Sun Wukong replied with an air of disinterest regarding the Jade Emperor''s query, letting the Jade Emperor handle it himself.


    This reply pleased the Great Jade Emperor, who nodded in approval inwardly.


    However, the thought of dealing with the matter himself felt rather thorny to the Great Jade Emperor.


    If someone from the Heavenly Court truly went down to capture him, wouldn''t the matter be known to everyone?


    By then, that one of the Twenty-Eight Star Abodes, Kuimu Wolf, had actually descended to the Mortal World to be a demon. Wouldn''t that suggest that life in the Heavenly Court was inferior to that of a demon creature? Where would the dignity of the Heavenly Court be ced?


    "Thousand-Mile Eye, Wind-Listening Ear, you check what the situation with Kuimu Wolf is!" Yet without immediately saying anything further, the Great Jade Emperor promptly issued hismand.


    Following the will of the Jade Emperor, two immortals from those present stepped forward and utilized their divine skills to seek out information.


    In no time at all, the two deities conferred briefly and then unified their report, saying, "Your Majesty, Kuimu Wolf has indeed settled in Wanzi Mountain next to Treasure Elephant Country and has even had a son with a human¡­"


    Hearing this, the Jade Emperor''s brow furrowed slightly. It was one thing for an immortal to secretly descend and be a demon, but to also have a child?


    After pondering for a moment, the Great Jade Emperor then said to Sun Wukong, "Wukong, as the saying goes, ''one shouldn''t trouble two masters for one matter.'' Since that''s the case, let''s leave it to you to take action! Don''t expose his identity as an immortal, just capture him under the guise of exorcising demons. As for his child, that is a stain on the Heavenly Court¡­"


    ...


    While a day in the heavens is a year on Earth, Sun Wukong''s trip to the Heavenly Court could be described as a quick round trip, but still, it took some time for those immortals to check which one had secretly descended.


    For the Mortal World, in the blink of an eye, two months had passed.


    Reminder: Experience Points +6.


    Reminder: Experience Points +6.


    Reminder, Experience Points +6.


    ...


    Jiang Liu, that day, was still in the Royal Pce, sitting cross-legged in cultivation. With two months'' time and no need to travel, he had more time for cultivation than usual.


    After thepletion of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, Jiang Liu silently recited the character panel in his mind.


    Looking at his own character panel, the 2 million Experience Points needed for upgrading, which now stood at 1.7 million, he nodded in satisfaction.


    At this rate, in another ten to fifteen days, he should be able to level up to level 36.


    The King of Treasure Elephant Country had not urged them in the two months they waited, aware of the saying that a day in the heavens equals a year on Earth.


    Thus, during these two months, he was waiting leisurely for Sun Wukong''s return.


    It wasn''t long before Sun Wukong returned from the Heavenly Court, bringing the imperial decree with him.


    Apart from Sun Wukong, the Great Jade Emperor also sent Third Prince Nezha toe together to subdue demons and eliminate evil.


    Although this task had been entrusted to Sun Wukong by the Great Jade Emperor, after all, it was the responsibility of the Heavenly Court. It wouldn''t be appropriate to leave everything to Sun Wukong without lifting a finger, right?


    To show importance, the Great Jade Emperor sent Nezha along as well, which could also be seen as expressing the stance of the Heavenly Court.


    "Master, I, Old Sun, have returned!" Landing from the sky alongside Nezha, Sun Wukong greeted Jiang Liu with a shout.


    "Wukong, who is this!?" Seeing Nezhaing with Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu was slightly startled and then pretended not to recognize him, asking the question.


    Thest time Nezha came, he had used his transformation ability to deceive others.


    "This is Third Prince Nezha, sent by the Jade Emperor to cheer for me, I, Old Sun!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s question, Sun Wukong chuckled and responded.


    "What nonsense are you spouting, Monkey? The Jade Emperor thinks you are insufficient alone, that''s why His Highness sent me to assist you!" Unable to tolerate Sun Wukong''s words, Nezha retorted irritably. Enjoy exclusive content from My Virtual Library Empire


    Cheer for him? As if I am only fit to cheer for him?


    "You little brat, for years you have been defeated by me, I, Old Sun. Do I still need your help!?" ncing at Nezha, Sun Wukong responded irritably.


    "You are infuriating me, Monkey; if you dare, let us battle it out for three hundred rounds!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s habit of offensive quipping, the delicately handsome Nezha became flushed with rage and cried out loudly.


    "Uh, their rtionship seems to be quite solid!" Observing the angry banter between Sun Wukong and Nezha, Jiang Liu actually felt their rtionship was rather good.


    After all, if they weren''t on good terms, why would Nezha have generously gifted the Exquisite Immortal Mansion previously?


    Their manner of interacting reminded Jiang Liu of his past life''s interactions with a few close friends back in school.


    "Alright, Monkey, Third Prince, both of you simmer down a bit. Let''s discuss how we are going to exorcise the demon, shall we?" Seeing the back and forth mockery between Sun Wukong and Third Prince Nezha, Zhu Bajie couldn''t help but intervene as the peacemaker.


    "Do we even need to discuss how to subdue the demon? Leaving it to me alone is sufficient!" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Sun Wukong spoke confidently, clearly confident in his own abilities.


    "Amitabha, Wukong, let your master assist you in this battle!" However, hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu suddenly spoke up, volunteering to fight.


    No matter how you look at it, the Yellow-Robed Monster was of the level of a Taiyi True Immortal. If he could earn some Contribution Points from this, wouldn''t there be great loot to drop?


    Moreover, most importantly, only by participating in the battle himself could he ensure that Sun Wukong didn''t kill the Yellow-Robed Monster, since killing him would merely leave him severely injured and unconscious.


    "Good, Master, let''s go together when the timees!" Upon hearing this, Sun Wukong thought for a moment and then nodded in agreement.


    "Eh? Holy Monk, are your skills very impressive as well!?" Although it wasn''t Nezha''s first time seeing Jiang Liu, hearing Jiang Liu''s volunteer surprised him and he looked at him curiously.


    This monkey, without even participating himself, wants Tang Monk to help? Could Tang Monk be even more powerful than him?


    More importantly, if Tang Monk truly had no skills, and the Monkey had to be distracted to protect him once the battle started, how could he possibly agree to it?


    "Heh heh heh, my master''s methods are beyond your imagination!" Hearing Nezha''s surprisedments, Sun Wukong chuckled.


    Not to mention his master''s fighting abilities, but Sun Wukong was well aware of his support skills.


    With him assisting from the sidelines, his own strength would surge immensely!


    "Oh? I hadn''t thought of that. So, the Holy Monk actually has such skills!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s praise for Jiang Liu, Nezha looked at Jiang Liu in surprise.


    Of course, there was also a hint of expectation in his eyes. The Monkey was hard to impress, and to receive such praise was no small feat.


    "It''s just some peculiar abilities!" Responding to Nezha''s expectant words, Jiang Liu humbly replied in a low voice.


    ...


    Meanwhile, at Hundred Beasts Mountain.


    There was a stream in the mountain, and in front of Sha Wujing was ced some food, all meaty and paired with strong liquor, but he hadn''t touched it at all.


    After a short while, Amei, with horns on her head, came over carrying a big bowl of white porridge and approached Sha Wujing.


    "Thank you, Amei!" Hearing her approach, Sha Wujing opened his eyes, picked up the bowl of porridge in front of him, and expressed his gratitude.


    "I¨CI should be the one taking care of you!" Hearing Sha Wujing''s thanks, Amei appeared ttered.


    Seeing Amei''s reaction, Sha Wujing smiled slightly and said nothing further.


    Drinking a spoonful of the porridge, its nd taste warmed his heart and lungs.


    "General Liusha, why do you always dislike eating meat? If you only drink porridge, wouldn''t the other generals in the mountains look down on you?" After hesitating for a while, Amei mustered the courage to ask Sha Wujing.


    "Because this meat is hard to eat!"

 Chapter 261 One-on-One with the Divinity Transformation Stage

    Yes, it was unptable. Back when I was a demon at Liusha River, even Sha Wujing had his share of blood and flesh, and even humans, which at the time he found quite delicious.


    However, after spending just over half a year with Jiang Liu, Sha Wujing found that his pte had beenpletely spoiled by his master. The ordinary flesh and blood he was now trying to eat already seemed unptably bad to him.


    In his heart, he felt a sudden longing for the days when he and his master would eat grilled skewers and hot pot together.


    "Unptable?!" Sha Wujing''sment caused Amei, who was beside him, to look at him with surprise, finding it iprehensible.


    For a demon, where was one like him that ate vegetarian every day? Was he still a demon?


    He really was quite different from other demons.


    "By the way, how is your injury recovering?" Knowing about Sha Wujing''s injuries, Amei hesitated for a moment before asking him.


    "Hmm, after resting for the past two months, my injuries have recovered about seventy percent!" Upon hearing Amei''s inquiry, Sha Wujing nodded without any intention of concealing his condition.


    "By the way, if you have time, take off the clothes you''re wearing!" After looking at Sha Wujing, Amei hesitated briefly before speaking.


    "Ah!? Take off my clothes? You..." This remark made Sha Wujing, who was in the midst of sipping porridge, stiffen in movement, looking at Amei with some astonishment.


    "What are you thinking about!" Seeing Sha Wujing''s expression, Amei realized the ambiguity in her previous words, and her face reddened slightly, she said, "I see your clothes haven''t been washed for some days; I''ll wash them for you!"


    "Although because of you, the others at Hundred Beasts Mountain no longer bully me like before and I don''t have to do theundry for all demons, the only thing I can help you with is washing clothes and cooking!" With her head lowered slightly, Amei said.


    "Oh, oh, thank you..."


    Awkwardly nodding his head, Sha Wujing felt an odd sensation in his chest and struggled to express his thoughts in words. In the end, all he could do was thank Amei.


    ...


    Let''s not discuss life in seclusion at Hundred Beasts Mountain, on the other hand, at Wanzi Mountain, Sun Wukong and Nezha were flying over with theirpanions.


    At the same time, the Feather Demon de on Jiang Liu''s back vibrated and followed them through the air. The journey of over a hundred li was covered in no time.


    "Master, is there anything you want to say?" After descending from mid-air, Sun Wukong asked Jiang Liu.


    "No need for any nonsense, let''s just get on with it!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s question, Jiang Liu shook his head.


    All that needed to be done was to carry out the n that had already been arranged. Moreover, if he took the initiative to strike, even if his health bar waspletely depleted, he would not die but would fall into aa due to serious injuries.


    "Alright!" Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sun Wukong nodded.


    Without any further ado, he reached into his ear and pulled out his Jingu Bang, smashing it down toward Wanzi Mountain.


    As Sun Wukong made his move, the Jingu Bang grew with the wind, instantly bing as colossal as a Heavenly Pir, and with a thunderous crash, it struck Wanzi Mountain.


    In an instant, the earth shattered and Wanzi Mountain seemed as if it was about to copse.


    Naturally, this tremendousmotion caught the attention of many little demons. Twenty or thirty little demons, at the very least of the Demon Soldier Realm, all rushed out.


    Unlike other Demon Kings, the Yellow-Robed Monster had stealthily descended to the mortal world, so he had no desire to develop his own power, content with guarding his wife and children. Therefore, Wanzi Mountain was not arge domain and had not many subordinate little demons.


    Demon-Subduing Mantra, Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra, Arhat Fist...


    Watching these little demons rush out, in Jiang Liu''s eyes, they were all Experience Points. Without any redundant words, Jiang Liu quickly buffed himself with several enhancing statuses and then made his move.


    Raising his hand, he cast the Swift Fire Bead spell, which exploded on one Demon Soldier''s head.


    With equipment and Buffs, the Swift Fire Bead, an attack skill from a Taoist, had extraordinary power. The bead exploded on the Demon Soldier''s head, instantly emptying its health bar¡ªa one-shot kill!


    Notification: Gained Experience Points 250, money 22.


    As Jiang Liu one-shotted the little demon of the Demon Soldier Realm, the system notification sounded in his mind, which brought him inner joy.


    The disparity between great realms was immense. With his own level at 35, plus the augmentation from equipment and skills,pared to little demons of the Demon Soldier Realm, the difference in strength was indeed like night and day.


    It wasn''t surprising that he could one-shot this little demon.


    Like a tiger entering a flock of sheep!


    Facing these twenty or thirty little demons, Jiang Liu was like a tiger among sheep, constantly swinging the Epic Level Mixed Iron Rod in his hand. Coupled with the 30% ignore-defense effect, these powerful and heavy attacks meant that even beings at the Demon General Level were not a match for him.


    "Oh? Master Xuanzang''s fighting spirit is quite high, he feels like a Wrathful Vajra from the Buddhist Sect!" Although Jiang Liu''s cultivation level and strength were negligible in Nezha''s eyes, seeing Jiang Liu''s fighting spirit and enthusiasm, Nezha was taken aback and eximed in admiration.


    "Master Xuanzang, you dare to ughter so wantonly on my Wanzi Mountain!" Just then, a childish roar of anger sounded.


    Immediately, a figure as fast as lightning pounced towards Jiang Liu, reaching him almost in the blink of an eye.


    "So fast!" Jiang Liu couldn''t help but silently admire the figure that had instantly appeared before him.


    However, his reaction was also swift; almost at the same time, he cast a Vajra Mantra on himself.


    With a thud, the opponent''s attack was indeed powerful, but the 80% damage exemption meant Jiang Liu''s health bar didn''t drop much¡ªonly his figure was forced back considerably, and he felt a bit of dullness and difort in his chest.


    "It''s Wolf-Chasing Boy!" Recognizing the assant, Sun Wukong moved, ready to join the fray.


    ording to the usual rules, a Divinity Transformation Stagebatant or someone of at least Demon Marshal level should be handled by oneself.


    "Wukong, there''s no need for you to intervene," Jiang Liu said with a shake of his head as he sensed Sun Wukong''s move to act.


    In terms of levels, Wolf-Chasing Boy was at level 41, just entering the Divinity Transformation Realm, while he himself was at level 35, not too far behind.


    Today, Jiang Liu felt that he could use this opportunity to try a solo fight against a cultivator in the Divinity Transformation Realm to see if he could handle it by himself.


    "He wants to face Wolf-Chasing Boy alone!?" Sun Wukong was briefly taken aback by Jiang Liu''s words, then his gaze filled with a mix of astonishment and expectation.


    Back when Jiang Liu faced Master Lingxu, due to the final part of his ss change quest, he soloed a Wolf Vanguard, a Demon General-level opponent; that fight was a narrow escape from death.


    And now, was his master going to fight a cultivator in the Divinity Transformation Realm by himself?


    Unbeknownst to him, had his master''s strength improved by a whole major realm? This rate of growth was indeed impressive!


    Facing Wolf-Chasing Boy, just one move was enough for Jiang Liu to realize that his opponent''s speed was incredibly fast.


    So, was this an agility-focused opponent? He would have to be more careful then.


    With a thought, a ck Lotus blossomed above Jiang Liu''s head, its misty light enveloping his entire body, providing him with enhanced defense capabilities.


    This Ninth Grade ck Lotus was a special ss of equipment thatbined attack, defense, and control. Faced with Wolf-Chasing Boy, Jiang Liu had no intention of holding back. Stay tuned to My Virtual Library Empire


    Whoosh!@@novelbin@@


    Fast, Wolf-Chasing Boy''s speed was unbelievably fast. At only level 41, his Blue Elite Level status made him extraordinary.


    Jiang Liu could barely see a flicker before Wolf-Chasing Boy appeared right in front of him, his palm transforming into a wolf-like w as it reached toward Jiang Liu.


    The speed was rapid, and the force was immense.


    Raising the Mixed Iron Rod in his hands, Jiang Liu blocked Wolf-Chasing Boy''s w, but the fierce power that followed forced him to retreat several steps and left his arms feeling slightly numb.


    This made Jiang Liu internally marvel.


    Incredibly fast speed and very high attack power, indeed worthy of a Blue Elite Level entity?


    However, while he was amazed internally, Jiang Liu''s actions did not slow down. Seeing Wolf-Chasing Boy press the attack, Jiang Liu wasted no words. He pointed at Wolf-Chasing Boy and whispered in his heart, "Sheep Transformation Technique!"


    Baa...


    Wolf-Chasing Boy, fast to an outrageous degree, turned into an innocent-looking littlemb under a strange light in an instant, bleating in bewilderment, even his cry turned into that of a sheep.


    "Palm Thunder!"


    Seizing the moment while Wolf-Chasing Boy was in a harmless form from the Sheep Transformation Technique, Jiang Liu grabbed themb''s horns and immediately released azure thunder from his palms that engulfed Wolf-Chasing Boy''s entire body.


    With this Palm Thunder attack, Jiang Liu could clearly see the health bar over Wolf-Chasing Boy''s head drop by about one-tenth.


    At the same time, Jiang Liu saw Wolf-Chasing Boy''s body turn a watery blue color, and his health bar continually dropped as if it were a deting balloon.


    "Hmm, lucky, the 5% poison chance of the Green Phosphorus Poison Ring triggered!"


    Seeing this, Jiang Liu nodded inwardly.


    Sun Wukong and Nezha, standing nearby, did not interfere and instead focused on Jiang Liu, witnessing the strength he disyed. It seemed like he even had the upper hand over Wolf-Chasing Boy?


    "Without realizing it, the master''s strength has been elevated to this level? This rate of growth truly is remarkably fast!"


    Sun Wukong thought back to when he first met Jiang Liu andpared it with now, the strength had increased by tens, even hundreds of times!


    Looking at the disparity in cultivation levels, the early stage of Body Tempering Realm was roughly ten times that of Qi Refinement Realm.


    Simrly, the cultivation level of Meridian Unblocking Realm was about ten times that of the Body Tempering Realm.


    And Controlling-Law Realm was about the same leap from the Meridian Unblocking Realm.


    And so on!

 Chapter 262 Major Equipment Update

    From the character panels, both Jiang Liu and Wolf-Chasing Boy were of Blue Elite Level.


    Level-wise, Wolf-Chasing Boy was 6 levels higher than Jiang Liu.


    However, due to his own buffs, control skills, and some equipment enhancements, in terms ofposite strength, Jiang Liu was nearly on par with Wolf-Chasing Boy.


    Therefore, their back-and-forth exchanges seemed quite lively, especially with Wolf-Chasing Boy''s swift and iparable speed, which somewhat overwhelmed Jiang Liu.


    After a fierce battlesting only half a cup of tea, both Jiang Liu and Wolf-Chasing Boy''s Health Points had quickly dropped below half, making them both appear battered and bruised.


    Nevertheless, Jiang Liu found a moment to cast the "Guanyin Mantra" on himself.


    The fully upgraded "Guanyin Mantra" instantly restored 25% of Jiang Liu''s Health Point Value, visibly elerating the healing of his injuries by a significant margin!


    As the only healing skill avable to him and a single-target one at that, the Great Perfection Layer "Guanyin Mantra" naturally had a powerful restorative effect.


    The ensuing battle held no more suspense.


    If other professions were evenly matched in strength, the oue could be hard to predict. But facing an opponent like Compassionate Bodhisattva, when the odds were even, victory was assured for the Compassionate Bodhisattva.


    Healing abilities could indeed y a game-changing role in one-on-one fights.@@novelbin@@


    Palm Thunder!


    In the end, Jiang Liu outpaced the Wolf-Chasing Boy in speed, instantly appearing behind him with the special effect of the shing Brilliance Shoes, and grabbed his shoulders.


    Azure lightning once again surged from Jiang Liu''s palms, engulfing the already battered Wolf-Chasing Boy, who copsed to the ground as his Health Bar was instantly depleted.


    Notice: You have gained 31,500 Experience Points and 10 taels of money.


    Almost simultaneously with Wolf-Chasing Boy''s Health Bar being emptied, the system notification sounded.


    The hefty sum of over 30,000 Experience Points was equivalent to a whole day of cultivation for Jiang Liu, and he nodded in satisfaction with this reward.


    As Wolf-Chasing Boyy severely wounded and unconscious, the sparse Little Demons of Wanzi Mountain were nearly all dealt with.


    With some anticipation, Jiang Liu opened his inventory space.


    Indeed, after defeating Wolf-Chasing Boy, who was at the Divinity Transformation Stage, several items had appeared in his inventory space.


    Setting aside the potions, there was also a Skill Book and a bracelet.


    "Damn it, you''re asking for death! Wolf Boy!"


    However, before Jiang Liu could thoroughly inspect the spoils, a loud shout suddenly erupted, filled with piercing hatred.


    Suddenly, the Yellow-Robed Monster ran out of the cave, his eyes red with hatred, and yelled at Jiang Liu and the others.


    "It''s Kuimu Wolf indeed!" Having a prominent reputation as a War God in Heavenly Court, Third Prince Nezha naturally recognized Kuimu Wolf. Observing the Yellow-Robed Monster, Third Prince Nezha inwardly noted.


    However, he had no intention of exposing his identity; after all, even the Jade Emperor wouldn''t want the beings of all three worlds to know that a deity from heaven had secretly be a demon in the Lower Realm.


    "Nezha!?" The Yellow-Robed Monster, with eyes filled with hatred, changed his expression slightly upon seeing Nezha.


    With Nezha''s presence, the Yellow-Robed Monster knew his identity had been exposed.


    "Nezha, wave the g and cheer for I, Old Sun while I take down this Evil Demon!" Seeing the Yellow-Robed Monster appear, Sun Wukong spoke up.


    "Smelly monkey, go wave the g for me. I alone am enough!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, how could Nezha bear it? He shouted loudly and immediately, like a sh of lightning, lunged straight at Kuimu Wolf.


    "He''s mine! Let I, Old Sun handle this!" Seeing Nezha make a move, Sun Wukong''s face changed, and he too advanced.


    Suddenly, all three were embroiled inbat together, causing the earth to shatter and the scene to be instantly chaotic.


    As Nezha''s attention was drawn away, Jiang Liu walked over to Wolf-Chasing Boy and took out a Monkey Hair.


    Without drawing Nezha''s notice, the Monkey Hair transformed into the appearance of Wolf-Chasing Boy''s corpse.


    As for the real Wolf-Chasing Boy? His form was concealed, disappearing from view.


    Having discreetlypleted these actions as the battle raged on, Jiang Liu was about to lend a hand when he noticed that with a raise of his hand, Nezha''s red Chaos Heaven Silk had already securely bound the Yellow-Robed Monster, leaving him unable to move.


    Although his Health Bar was still more than half full, clearly, the Yellow-Robed Monster had been subdued, leaving no opportunity for Jiang Liu to intervene.


    Both Sun Wukong and Nezha were stronger than the Yellow-Robed Monster, and nearly out of a sense ofpetition, they moved together against him, quickly overpowering him.


    With the Yellow-Robed Monster bound by the Chaos Heaven Silk, Nezha had no intention to linger there any longer. For him, his mission on this descent to earth was aplished.


    He took a careful look around Wanzi Mountain; all demonsy on the ground, severely wounded and unconscious.


    The Wolf-Chasing Boy next to them seemed lifeless, his body now a motionless corpse.


    ```


    Nezha looked over and understood that the task assigned by the Jade Emperor was indeedpleted, so he didn''t say much. After snorting coldly at Sun Wukong, his figure shed, and he took the Yellow-Robed Monster straight back to the Heavenly Court.


    "Wukong, let''s head back too!" Jiang Liu said, looking over Wanzi Mountain and feeling quite satisfied with his n.


    As he spoke, the body of the Wolf-Chasing Boy turned into whiskers and returned to Sun Wukong, and the previously invisible Wolf-Chasing Boy reappeared.


    After thinking for a moment, Jiang Liu took off the Heavenly Demon''s Marvelous Look kasaya he was wearing and covered the Wolf-Chasing Boy''s body with it.


    Soon, the appearance of the Wolf-Chasing Boy changed. Although he still looked like a seven or eight-year-old boy, his features had significantly altered.


    Jiang Liu decided to give the Heavenly Demon''s Marvelous Look kasaya to the Wolf-Chasing Boy, considering that the level 30 equipment was somewhat redundant for him now.


    Immediately, Jiang Liu took out a kasaya made entirely of pearls from his inventory space and put it on.


    The pure white pearls, strung together, formed a kasaya that looked even more opulent andmanding.


    This was something that Holy Monk Jinchi had given him back at the Guanyin Zen Temple, and now, he finally met the requirements to wear it.


    Sun Wukong, holding the Wolf-Chasing Boy, flew up into the air, while the Feather Demon de on Jiang Liu''s back also started to vibrate gently, and the two flew towards the direction of the King of Treasure Elephant Country''s royal pce.


    Notification: Completed the task "True Love," earned 600000 Experience Points, and received a Legendary Level Treasure Chest*1.


    Notification: Level has increased by 1, current level is 36.


    As Jiang Liu was flying mid-air, suddenly, a system notification sounded.


    Having been only 200,000 Experience Points short of leveling up, the 600,000 Experience Points credited had sessfully brought him to level 36.


    Jiang Liu didn''t check his character profile but opened his inventory space and took out a Legendary Level Treasure Chest.


    Without dy, Jiang Liu opened the chest.


    He was quite lucky this time, as it yielded a main weapon for level 40, which was exactly what Jiang Liu could use.


    Checking the attribute information, although the quality was not as good as his currently equipped and enhanced Epic Level Mixed Iron Rod, its attributes were significantly higher.


    Without hesitation, Jiang Liu equipped the new weapon, and simultaneously, he equipped a level 40 bracelet that had dropped from the defeated Wolf-Chasing Boy.


    In no time at all, his gear had beenpletely renewed.


    Character Profile!


    With a silentmand in his heart, a translucent character profile appeared in front of Jiang Liu.


    ID: Jiang Liu.


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Compassionate Bodhisattva.


    Level 36 (365000/2800000). Experience exclusive tales on My Virtual Library Empire


    Equipment:


    Divine Tree Staff (Legendary Level): Required level 40, Attack Power +3500, special effect: Double Strike ¨C after every three attacks, the fourth attack can produce a double strike effect, Durability 50/60.


    Clothing: Pearl Kasaya (Perfect Level): Required level 40, Defense +2200, special effect: reduces all iing damage by 5%, Durability 30/40.


    Helmet: Vidyaraja Crown (Legendary Quality): No level requirement, Defense +1800 (10-100000, varies with one''s own level), special effect: can convert 10% of damage dealt to the target into self-health point, Durability 55/100.


    Ne: ck Jade Dharma Bead (Legendary Level): Required level 35, Defense +1800, special effect: can reduce the level requirement of equipment by 5, Durability 35/50.


    Belt: Silk Belt (Perfect Level): Required level 40, Defense +1050, Durability 45/50.


    Ring: Green Phosphorus Poison Ring (Legendary Level): Required level 25, Attack Power +450, special effect: 5% chance to poison the target when attacking, causing double the user''s Attack Power in damage over 300 seconds, Durability 14/25.


    Ring: Buddha Relic Dharma Ring (Legendary Level): Required level 40, Attack Power +3200, special effect: Overbearing Pressure ¨C when wearing this ring, it can weaken any target of lower level by 20% of their Attack and Defense Attributes, Durability 32/70.


    Bracelet: Dragon Soul Bracelet (Legendary Quality): Required level 25, Defense +440, special effect: Moving Clouds and Rain ¨C can summon the Dragon King Power to bring down Sweet Dew, Cooldown Time 10 days, Durability 22/25.


    Bracelet: Jade Bracelet (Legendary Level): Required level 40, Defense +2800, Durability 52/55.


    Shoes: shing Brilliance Shoes (Legendary Level): Required level 20, Defense +460, special effect: can instantly move within a 10-meter radius, Cooldown Time 300 seconds, Durability 14/30.


    Special essory: Skill Bookcase (Special essory): can hold three skill books from other professions, granting the ability to learn their skills.


    Special essory: Ninth-Grade ck Lotus: Special Equipment, no level requirement, when activated, can cause damage, Defense reduction, and immobilization effect, actual effect based on one''s own Cultivation Level, never wears out.


    Special essory: Feather Demon de (Legendary Level): Special Equipment, required level 31, allows one to fly in the sky after equipping, the actual speed depends on one''s level, special effect: all Feather des can be shot out to strike all targets in front in a fan-shaped attack, the actual damage is based on one''s own Attack Power, Durability 79/120.


    The Divine Tree Staff was just obtained from the Legendary Level Treasure Chest; the Pearl Kasaya was a gift from Holy Monk Jinchi before, and its Defense Attribute is slightly higher than the Heavenly Demon''s Marvelous Look by about 200; the Silk Belt was obtained from the Perfect Level Treasure Chest afterpleting a task for the King of Treasure Elephant Country; the Buddha Relic Dharma Ring was a present given by the King of Treasure Elephant Country some days ago; and the Jade Bracelet was a drop from the defeated Wolf-Chasing Boy.


    In these recent days, the upgrade of these pieces of equipment haspletely refreshed Jiang Liu''s gear.


    ```

 Chapter 263 Monk Sha Runs Away

    He nced at his character panel, and Jiang Liu was quite satisfied with his current situation and nodded in approval.


    Thepletely refreshed equipment had invisibly boosted his strength by a notch.


    The strength of the equipment''s attributes, although rted to its quality, was also associated with the level requirements.


    Like the Divine Tree Staff, it was only Legendary Level, but after all, it could only be used by those above level 40, which had higher attributes than the Epic Level Mixed Iron Rod that had been previously enhanced.


    Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong were flying in mid-air, and within moments, the two of themnded within the Royal Pce of the Treasure Elephant Country.


    For Jiang Liu, this trip to Treasure Elephant Country had been quite fruitful; most importantly, he hadpleted both tasks from the Yellow-Robed Monster and the King, which made Jiang Liu slightly ponder the game system loophole he had been considering earlier.


    He would need to find time to experiment with it properly to see if the loophole could actually be exploited.


    "Wee back, Master Xuanzang, how did it go!?" No sooner had Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong returned than the King of the Treasure Elephant Country spoke, looking earnestly at Jiang Liu.


    "We aplished our mission, and the Third Prince Nezha has taken away the Yellow-Robed Monster to the Heavenly Court!" Jiang Liu nodded slightly as he responded.


    "Oh, he''s already taken him away!?"


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the King of the Treasure Elephant Country did not show much joy on his face, and even felt an unexinable sense of regret.


    If it had indeed been a demon creature that had abducted his daughter, it would have been a joyous asion for Jiang Liu to subdue that dreadful demon.


    However, now that he knew his son-inw was an immortal, the King of the Treasure Elephant Country felt quite differently.


    Seemingly, as a mortal emperor, having an immortal son-inw was something to be proud of?


    Yet, immortals should not harbor mortal desires, something the King also knew, hence, despite feeling a touch of regret, he had nothing to say.


    "Master, what do we do next?" With the matter of the Yellow-Robed Monster settled, Sun Wukong immediately asked Jiang Liu.


    "We will wait here for Wujing," Jiang Liu replied upon hearing Sun Wukong''s question.


    He had promised Monk Sha that he would wait for him in the Treasure Elephant Country, and naturally, he could not go back on his word.


    Moreover, if he could use this opportunity to buy some time in the Treasure Elephant Country, why not?


    "Wee to stay in my Treasure Elephant Country, Master Xuanzang!" Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s intention to stay in the Treasure Elephant Country, the King was quite enthusiastic in his response.


    Without any objection, and after chatting with the King for a bit, Jiang Liu turned around and headed back to his residence to meditate and cultivate, seizing every minute and every second to enhance his cultivation level.


    However,e nightfall, a series of footsteps approached the yard, and it was Princess Baihua Xiu d in a ck long robe.


    Concerning the incidents that had urred on Wanzi Mountain that day, Princess Baihua Xiu naturally had many questions.


    Jiang Liu did not intend to hide anything from her and recounted the events at Wanzi Mountain in detail.


    Moreover, for the severely injured Wolf-Chasing Boy, Jiang Liu had recited two Guanyin Mantras, significantly healing his wounds and allowing mother and son to reunite.


    "Indeed, Master is a person with a cold exterior but a warm heart!" Whispered the White Dragon Horse, who had observed all of Jiang Liu''s actions and mentally nodded.


    He felt that although the Master gambled, drank, ate meat and seemed to indulge in everything, his heart was indeed very kind, truly worthy of a benevolent person cultivated through ten lifetimes.


    Concerning the Kuimu Wolf affair, he had broken thews of heaven by secretly helping Kuimu Wolf and his family save their lives, even giving his kasaya to the Wolf-Chasing Boy.


    With the Third Brother, although he seemed cold toward him throughout their journey, the Master dared to confront Bodhisattva Guanyin to save the Third Brother at a critical moment.


    Now, he was willing to dy the great undertaking of the Journey to the West just to wait here for the Third Brother''s return.


    Jiang Liu, settled in the Royal Pce of the Treasure Elephant Country, quietly waited, pondering in his heart, hoping that Monk Sha would hide for a longer period, the longer he hid, the more he could dy.


    Thus, a month passed in a blink.


    During this month, Jiang Liu diligently cultivated and, having nothing else to do, even asked the King of the Treasure Elephant Country to inquire about the traces of demon creatures around, helping Treasure Elephant Country in subduing demons and eliminating evil.


    Therefore, these days, not only did Jiang Liu level up by defeating monsters and gained a lot of experience points, but the King of the Treasure Elephant Country also expressed great wee for Jiang Liu''s extended stay.


    Meanwhile, at the Hundred Beasts Mountain!


    Monk Sha hid at Hundred Beasts Mountain, and these past three months had been rather heartening; with the three-month period passed, his injuries hadpletely healed.


    Stay tuned to My Virtual Library Empire


    Over these three months, at Hundred Beasts Mountain, Monk Sha, as one of the top ten Demon Marshals, held a status only under the four Demon Kings. He harbored no ambitions of supremacy, typically engaging in fights against those who came to subdue demons and eliminate evil or having frictions over territory and treasures with other Demon Kings nearby.


    Life was extremely peaceful as the three months went by.


    It seemed that the Bodhisattva had no intentions of seeking him out, which somewhat rxed Monk Sha''s mind.


    Of course, over these three months, the rtionship between Monk Sha and Amei had grown increasingly close.


    There were no major events; Amei simply cared attentively for Monk Sha, taking care of his daily needs and diet. Yet, under her care, Monk Sha felt an unprecedented peace in his heart.


    One day, Monk Sha was quietly meditating while Amei was softly cleaning his room, making the floor spotless.


    Suddenly, a series of panicked footsteps sounded, and soon after, two Wolf Demons rushed in with a terrified look, eximing, "Demon Marshal Liusha, quick,e out and help!"


    "What happened!?" Seeing the panic-stricken expressions of the two Wolf Demons, Monk Sha asked in surprise.


    "The Eldest King, he fought with the Dragon King Ying over a Dharma Treasure and has been killed. Now Dragon King Ying is leading his demonic creatures heading straight for our Hundred Beasts Mountain. Several Great Kings have asked us to prepare for battle!" eximed the Wolf Demon hastily.


    "The Eldest King? Dead!?" Hearing this, Monk Sha slightly furrowed his brows, feeling a heavy heart.


    All he wanted was to properly hide at Hundred Beasts Mountain and avoid drawing attention for a while, but now, even the Eldest King was dead?


    Had Hundred Beasts Mountain reached a critical moment of life and death?


    "Alright, I understand! I''ll help right away!" His heart weighed heavy, but Monk Sha''s face betrayed no emotions as he nodded heavily.


    "Amei, where are you going!?" After sending the two Wolf Demons away, Monk Sha watched Amei turning around and unexpectedly asked.


    "Aren''t you going to fight? I am going to get your weapons!" Amei turned her head and asked Monk Sha in confusion.


    "No, you misunderstood!" Hearing Amei''s words, Monk Sha shook his head and said, "Actually, I don''t wish to engage in battle. I''m leaving Hundred Beasts Mountain!"


    Yes, hiding at Hundred Beasts Mountain was to avoid being noticed. Now that the extinction of Hundred Beasts Mountain was imminent, Monk Sha naturally had no intention of staying.


    Otherwise, at a critical moment of life and death, could he really hold back?


    So, Monk Sha felt fleeing was the best strategy out of thirty-six, and his escape was paramount!


    "You, you want to flee!?" Monk Sha''s words made Amei''s eyes widen, her look of disbelief evident as he uttered the words of abandoning the field.


    "I have my own difficulties, I can''t stay!"


    Monk Sha shook his head, having no intention of intervening in the fights among Demon Kings. With these words, he paused briefly then said, "Amei, will youe with me?"


    "Come with you!?" Hearing Monk Sha''s words, Amei appeared hesitant.


    Although she had no pleasant memories at Hundred Beasts Mountain, the mostfortable experience she had was staying by Monk Sha''s side, but regardless, Hundred Beasts Mountain was where she had grown up. To leave suddenly was not an easy decision for her.


    "What? Don''t you want toe with me?" Seeing the hesitation in Amei''s expression, Monk Sha started to feel nervous, and grabbing Amei''s shoulders, he stared seriously at her and asked.


    Having her shoulders grasped and meeting Monk Sha''s intense gaze, Amei hesitated for a moment before nodding and said, "I, I will!"


    "Then great, let''s go now!" Seeing Amei nod her agreement, Monk Sha felt immediately uplifted and very happy.


    In the midst of their discussion, they packed up and taking advantage of the chaos at Hundred Beasts Mountain, the two silently fled towards the distance.@@novelbin@@


    The shes of two great Demon n forces, with hundreds of demons fighting each other, turned the entire Hundred Beasts Mountain into a scene resembling Asura Purgatory for a while.


    Monk Sha, unashamed, took Amei''s hand and walked out of Hundred Beasts Mountain.


    Along the way, any demon that attacked him was swiftly dealt with.


    Amei following beside Monk Sha felt a strong sense of security; regardless of who attacked, Monk Sha was able to instantly defeat them. His formidable power was awe-inspiring.


    Even Demon Marshals with the heads of beasts and bodies of humans seemed nothing in front of Monk Sha; no one could stop his strides.


    Although Monk Sha left rapidly, his overwhelming power quickly caught the attention of Dragon King Ying.

 Chapter 264 The Snipe and the Clam Grapple

    Dragon King Ying, despite being named the Dragon King, was in fact not a true Dragon King but merely a horned Flood Dragon.


    His cultivation level was quite impressive, having reached the Demon King Realm, even stronger than ordinary Demon Kings. However, Wujing had no intention of fighting him and instead turned to leave with Amei, departing from the contentious Hundred Beasts Mountain.


    Life, after all, is full of unexpected turns. Wujing might not wish to engage with Dragon King Ying, but that did not mean Dragon King Ying held the same reluctance.


    Watching Wujing leading Amei away like a sharp knife cutting through distance, no one, not even his own Demon Marshals, could stop him. This caused Dragon King Ying''s brows to furrow deeply.


    Immediately, he made a move, lunging towards Wujing.


    "Who would have thought there was such a master hidden within Hundred Beasts Mountain?" realizing Wujing''s formidable strength, Dragon King Ying was inclined not to let him leave.


    Such a powerful individual attempting to flee without a fight? In Dragon King Ying''s view, there must be some trickery at y in Hundred Beasts Mountain, better to stop him first before anything else.


    Whoosh!


    Dragon King Ying raised his hand, and in an instant, a mighty ck torrent of water emerged, rushing towards Wujing with an imposing momentum.


    Being at the peak of Demon King, Dragon King Ying was just one step away from shedding the mortal coil and reaching the realm of Demon Immortal.


    Yet, faced with Dragon King Ying''s aggressive attack, Wujing struck back with the palm of his hand.


    Reluctant as he was to draw attention, but since he was on the verge of departure, there was no need to hide anything. His Heavenly Immortal Realm cultivation level was disyed, and with that palm, the spell unleashed by Dragon King Ying was shattered by Wujing.


    Furthermore, the relentless force of his palm mmed into Dragon King Ying''s body. With a scream, Dragon King Ying was sent plummeting to the ground from mid-air.


    "What!? How is this possible!?" Seeing this scene, the chaotic situation in Hundred Beasts Mountain seemed to freeze for a moment, and countless people turned their heads in shock, looking at Wujing and then at Dragon King Ying, who had been smacked to the ground.


    The Demon Creatures were well aware of Dragon King Ying''s cultivation level; he could be said to be the most powerful Demon King within thousands of miles.


    Yet he was simply pped to the ground with one hit? Who on earth was this person!?


    "Demon Marshal Liusha!? How can this be? He, he..." The Demon n of Hundred Beasts Mountain, looking at Wujing, filled their eyes with disbelief.


    They recognized Wujing, of course, and knew he was one of the top ten Demon Marshals of Hundred Beasts Mountain, but with the strength of the Demon Marshal Realm, he had pped Dragon King Ying to the ground with one palm swing? How could this be possible!?


    "Liusha, you..." Not just the Demon n of Hundred Beasts Mountain and those under Dragon King Ying''smand, even Amei could hardly believe her eyes, watching Wujing by her side with a stunned expression.


    Although Amei''s cultivation wasn''t high, she still had some understanding of strength, and Dragon King Ying was also pped to the ground with a palm strike?


    He couldn''t possibly be just a Demon Marshal, so who exactly was he?


    Moreover, if he possessed such formidable power, why did he im to be a Demon Marshal all this time and hide within Hundred Beasts Mountain?


    "Enough, don''t ask too many questions now; I''ll exin itter..." Seeing Amei''s astonished expression looking for an exnation, Wujing shook his head without intending to elucidate further.


    During the conversation, he continued to flee into the distance with Amei.


    This time, whether it was the Demon n of Hundred Beasts Mountain or those under Dragon King Ying''smand, no Demon dared to attack them, only managing to watch Wujing and Amei escape into the distance.


    "Demon Immortal!?" At that moment, Dragon King Ying also picked himself up from the ground, raising his head and staring seriously at the figure of Wujing, his eyes filled with solemnity.


    With his own cultivation, to be smacked to the ground with a single palm strike, the opponent must have reached the realm of Demon Immortal.


    Faced with the existence of a Demon Immortal tier, Dragon King Yingcked the courage to continue the fight.


    Thud! Just as Wujing and Amei were about to leave the region of Hundred Beasts Mountain, suddenly, a semi-transparent barrier appeared in the void.


    Wujing''s head bumped into the barrier, and he was directly bounced back.


    "What''s going on here!?" Rubbing his head, somewhat in pain, Wujing stared at what was before him, then quickly came to an understanding.


    It turned out someone had sealed the mountain,pletely encircling Hundred Beasts Mountain and allowing no one to escape. Stay updated with My Virtual Library Empire


    "I had only hoped to trap some small fry, but I didn''t expect to a big fish!" At the same time, a cheerful voice sounded, and figures began to appear. Moreover, there were two huge Flying Ships in the sky, hovering mid-air.


    "Humans!?" Sha Wujing felt his heart sink slightly at the sight of these figures and the flying ship suspended in midair.


    On the side of Hundred Beasts Mountain, Dragon King Ying and several Demon Kings, who had been locked in a chaotic battle, also stopped in their tracks. They noticed that the entire battlefield had been sealed off without their knowledge, and each of their faces looked exceedingly ugly.


    "Who are you? People from Immortal Artifact Sect!?" Although the Demon n was locked in strife, faced with such a situation, both sides ceased fighting and stared intently at these newly appeared individuals and the numerous silhouettes on the hovering flying ship.


    The Immortal Artifact Sect was well-known to the Demon n. It was a cultivation sect within thousands of miles, and in normal times, the Immortal Artifact Sect and the nearby Demons would fight incessantly.


    But judging by today''s stance, the Immortal Artifact Sect seemed to have moved beyond mere skirmishing. They were intent on capturing all the Demons of Hundred Beasts Mountain in one fell swoop!


    "You have quite the appetite! Do you intend to annihte both me and these fellows from Hundred Beasts Mountain together!?"


    At this moment, Dragon King Ying''s voice was heavy as he shouted at the people from the Immortal Artifact Sect.


    "You Demon Creatures have been a scourge upon the Mortal World, so our Immortal Artifact Sect naturally must act in Heaven''s name to mete out justice!" A figure with white hair and a beard stepped forward, looking impassioned as he loudly addressed the inhabitants of Hundred Beasts Mountain and Dragon King Ying.


    "Bullshit!"@@novelbin@@


    Hearing the old man''s words, Dragon King Ying was the first to respond, his voice filled with anger as he bellowed, "For so many years, you Immortal Artifact Sect have hunted down members of my Demon n under the guise of Subduing Demons and Eliminating Evil, only to collect Demon Skin, Demon Bone, and Demon Blood for your artifact crafting.


    When ites to cruelty, we are no match for you hypocrites of the Immortal Artifact Sect!"


    "Enough with your useless prattle!"


    Hearing Dragon King Ying''s words, the old man waved his hand dismissively and said, "With my Heavenly Net Formation unfolded, even those Immortals who have shed their mortal coil can''t escape. Today, all of you will die, and without your Demon Creatures causing chaos, the world will certainly return to a state of peace and order!"


    "Dragon King Ying, no more talk. The Immortal Artifact Sect has clearly made up their minds to annihte us today. We have to join forces now; there might still be a glimmer of hope!" At this time, Leopard King from Hundred Beasts Mountain spoke out, calling to Dragon King Ying.


    Among Hundred Beasts Mountain''s four Great Demons, Eldest King Tiger King had long been in, so now, Leopard King was considered the ruler of Hundred Beasts Mountain.


    "Right! At a time like this, we must..." Dragon King Ying nodded in agreement, but before he could finish his sentence, a sudden change urred.


    With a swish of light, suddenly, a beam appeared on Leopard King''s body.


    A blood-red light shot out from Leopard King''s chest in the blink of an eye, piercing through Leopard King''s head.


    After being prated by this beam of blood-red light, Leopard King''s body could be seen withering instantly, like a mummified corpse, and copsed to the ground.


    "Blood-Transforming Divine Needle!" Seeing this light instantly kill Leopard King, Dragon King Ying by his side cried out in shock.


    "Hahaha..." The elder from Immortal Artifact Sect burst intoughter and said, "Dragon King Ying, did you think the Blood-Transforming Divine Needle was unowned? I merely tossed out a bait, and sure enough, you and that Cat King of Hundred Beasts Mountain fought to the death over it!"


    "Damn it! Our Eldest King is Tiger King, not Cat King!" The disdainful and mocking words infuriated the Demons of Hundred Beasts Mountain, who shouted loudly.


    "So it turns out this was all a trapid out by your Immortal Artifact Sect!" Upon hearing this, Dragon King Ying had a sudden realization and was filled with shock and anger.


    "Enough with the talk already! Let''s fight!" Observing the Demons in a mixture of shock and rage, the elder from Immortal Artifact Sect felt a great sense of satisfaction, losing the desire to continue the conversation, and gestured downwards with a wave of his hand.


    With the elder''s signal, the cultivators outside quickly brandished their Dharma Treasures,unching an attack against the Demons.


    Dharma Treasures fell like a meteor shower upon Hundred Beasts Mountain.


    The Heavenly Net Formation was like a vast, trapping all the Demons of Hundred Beasts Mountain within it, and then all the attacks rained down upon the trapped Demons, leaving them no chance to escape.


    In an instant, screams filled the air as numerous Demons of Hundred Beasts Mountain suffered heavy casualties. Under the concentrated Dharma Treasure attacks, the Demons fell like wheat before the sickle.


    At this critical juncture between life and death, Sha Wujing no longer cared for anything else and took out his Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff, mming it fiercely into the void of the Great Formation.


    Following Sha Wujing''s attack, ripples erupted in the Heavenly Net Formation, like a calmke struck by a shower of pebbles.


    However, despite Sha Wujing''s attack causing ripples across the formation, the Great Formation showed no signs of copsing.


    "Demon Immortal, what an unexpected prize this is!"


    Sha Wujing''s actions naturally drew the attention of the people from Immortal Artifact Sect, and the leading elder''s eyes narrowed slightly.


    If they could eliminate this Demon Immortal, would he not make an excellent material for crafting an Immortal Dharma Treasure?

 Chapter 265 Group Healing Skill

    Heavenly Court, Doushuai Pce.


    Supreme Elder Lord sat quietly, embodying the very image of an immortal with a majestic demeanor.


    In front of the Supreme Elder Lord, the Bodhisattva in white robes sat opposite him.


    Soon after, a boy came over with a tray holding two cups of clear tea, cing one in front of Supreme Elder Lord and the other in front of the Bodhisattva.


    "Bodhisattva, please enjoy the tea!" After Supreme Elder Lord took a sip from the cup in front of him, he then spoke.


    "Thank you, Supreme Elder Lord!" After the Supreme Elder Lord had taken a sip, the Bodhisattva then picked up the tea cup in front of her and murmured her thanks.


    "Bodhisattva, you have been busy dealing with matters of the Journey to the Westtely. What brings you to my Doushuai Pce today?"


    After putting down his tea cup, Supreme Elder Lord calmly looked at the Bodhisattva in front of him and asked, cutting straight to the point without any preamble.


    "Supreme Lord, I havee today to ask a favor!" After taking a sip of the clear tea, the Bodhisattva put down her cup and spoke with her head slightly bowed.


    "In front of me, there is no need for you to act as a disciple!" However, Supreme Elder Lord slightly furrowed his brows in response to the Bodhisattva''s words.


    The Bodhisattva''s face stiffened slightly, but in the blink of an eye, she regained herposure and, after a brief silence, said, "I havee to request a favor from you!"


    "Speak freely," said Supreme Elder Lord, his expression remaining calm.


    "The path of the Journey to the West, the eighty-one difficulties, are all predestined, but Xuanzang in this life, as a person of destiny, has experienced many oddities.


    His cultivation has been advancing by leaps and bounds daily, and he has even gained a preliminary grasp of the Power of Laws, so it appears the eighty-one difficulties will be challenging to fulfill in their entirety!" The Bodhisattva spoke frankly in front of Supreme Elder Lord, with no intention of beating around the bush.@@novelbin@@


    "Oh!?" Enjoy new stories from My Virtual Library Empire


    Upon hearing this, Supreme Elder Lord slightly raised his eyebrows with a look of surprise, saying, "Xuanzang is but a sixteen-year-old youth, isn''t he? His cultivation is progressing at such a rate!?"


    "Indeed, to my knowledge, he has been cultivating for just over a year, and his cultivation level has already reached the Controlling-Law Realm!" The Bodhisattva nodded slightly and answered.


    "Controlling-Law Realm!?" The look of surprise on Supreme Elder Lord''s face deepened.


    Although the Controlling-Law Realm seemed trivial to Supreme Elder Lord, the fact that one could reach such a stage in just a year''s time...


    At this rate, given a few more years, wouldn''t he be able to shed his mortal body and achieve the Immortal Path!?


    "Has someone taught him his cultivation?" After a moment of silence, Supreme Elder Lord asked the Bodhisattva.


    "Of course not!" Shaking her head, the Bodhisattva answered, "To my knowledge, he only received the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique after the Incense Offering Ceremony before setting off for the Journey to the West, and he has been cultivating alone without guidance..."


    "Just one technique without any guidance? And yet such rapid growth!?" Hearing this, Supreme Elder Lord looked somewhat restless as he eximed in surprise.


    Supreme Elder Lord was somewhat moved. Such an unpolished gem, if given proper guidance, what would his rate of growth be then!?


    In modern terms, it''s praiseworthy to get into prestigious universities like Tsinghua or Peking University with the help of a renowned teacher.


    But what if someone bought some textbooks and managed to get into a top high school through self-study alone? With such talent, who wouldn''t be amazed?


    "Supreme Lord, Xuanzang is a disciple of Buddhism, a disciple of the Tathagata..." Seeing the expression on Supreme Elder Lord''s face, the Bodhisattva could guess his thoughts and promptly reminded him.


    Hearing the Bodhisattva''s reminder, any notion the Supreme Elder Lord had of cherishing such talent evaporated instantly, and he silently shook his head in resignation.


    Buddhism is destined to prosper. It seems that matters ordained by the Heavenly Dao are indeed inevitable.


    "Destiny is elusive and yet a palpable existence. Not just you and I, even a Primordial Sage would find it hard to exin clearly. Since Xuanzang is favored by destiny and born with the ability to touch the Power of Laws, this is a fortunate turn for Buddhism.


    The eighty-one trials may be significant, but given the circumstances, I believe Buddhism must be overjoyed, right?" The Supreme Elder Lord picked up his tea cup again and began speaking.


    The Bodhisattva didn''t object to his words.


    It was true; though Jiang Liu was growing rapidly and even had the assistance of the Power of Laws, making the eighty-one difficulties difficult toplete in full, overall, since Jiang Liu was a Buddhist disciple, Buddhism felt more joy than concern over this matter.


    "Therefore, it is precisely because of this that I havee to ask for a favor today. I hope you can lend a helping hand to add more trials," said the Bodhisattva, not refuting Supreme Elder Lord''s words.


    "The Journey to the West is a great tribtion. The recent death of the Floral Mink has spread throughout the Heavenly Court. If I were to let one of my disciples take part in the tribtion, wouldn''t that be making a statement?" Supreme Elder Lord gazed at the Bodhisattva, questioning.


    To have a disciple face a tribtion wasn''t the main point; rather, his stance at this critical juncture was crucial.


    With these words, it was clear that Supreme Elder Lord was ready to make significant sacrifices.


    The Bodhisattva Guanyin fell silent for a moment, and then gritted her teeth, "Amitabha, it''s been said that monkey knocked over the Eight Trigrams Furnace long ago. Although it''s been such a long time since, and the Supreme Elder Lord has already repaired it, the furnace is slightly wed due to the limitations of the materials. My willow branch can cut it in half..."


    ...


    In the Heavenly Court, the Bodhisattva Guanyin found the Supreme Elder Lord, and what sort of transaction they were engaged in for the moment shall not be told.


    At this time, within the Treasure Elephant Country, Jiang Liu, wielding his Divine Tree Staff, was in a dark forest over three hundred miles away from the Royal Pce. Demon after demon continuously emerged, and thousands of soldiers from the Treasure Elephant Country, brandishing their weapons, charged towards these demons to y them.


    Lately, when Jiang Liu had nothing else to do, he would meditate and cultivate, and during his leisure time, he would have the King of Treasure Elephant Country search for the whereabouts of demon creatures.


    Once found, Jiang Liu was quite willing to take the initiative to subdue demons and eliminate evil.


    The King of Treasure Elephant Country also realized that Jiang Liu seemed very enthusiastic about subduing demons and eliminating evil. Therefore, he dispatched many people to search for the demons'' whereabouts.


    After all, the more demon fiends Master Xuanzang subdued, the more it benefited his own Treasure Elephant Country, didn''t it?


    This time, after locating a group of demon creatures entrenched here, the King of Treasure Elephant Country allocated two thousand soldiers for Jiang Liu tomand, and lead them to subdue the demons, hence the current scene ensued.


    The battles between the thousands of soldiers and the demons were naturally very intense, and of course, both sides suffered casualties.


    Jiang Liu sat atop the White Dragon Horse,manding these soldiers, and indeed appeared quite formidable.


    Of course, if Jiang Liu were not wearing the Pearl Buddha Robe but a general''s armor instead, it would have been even more appropriate.


    The Swift Fire Beads were continuously being flung from Jiang Liu''s hands; these were only small demons of the demon level, and there were very few demon soldiers capable of bipedal movement. To Jiang Liu, these were naturally insignificant.


    After a brief fight, and seeing many soldiers had fallen, Jiang Liu raised his Divine Tree Staff.


    Following his movement, a silvery-white holy object, as if descending from the sky, thundered down, crashing directly onto the ground.


    With this holy object nted in the ground, an invisible wave spread out from it, and all soldiers swept by this wave began to slowly heal their wounds.


    This was a skill book obtained by Jiang Liu after he had singlehandedly defeated the Wolf-Chasing Boy, which happened to be a skill of the Compassionate Bodhisattva.


    Hand of Healing (Middle Level): Summons an indestructible holy object from the sky. Within a radius of one hundred meters, all friendly targets heal 1% of their maximum health points every second,sting for 10 seconds, with a cooldown period of 1200 seconds.


    This was another healing ability of the Compassionate Bodhisattva, apart from the Guanyin Mantra. Unlike the single-target healing effect of the Guanyin Mantra, the Hand of Healing provided a group healing effect.


    At the primary level, it could onlyst for 5 seconds. Thankfully, he had enough skill points, so Jiang Liu upgraded the skill to the middle level, extending its duration to 10 seconds.


    Though a 10-second duration would only recover 10% of the health points, which was far less than the Guanyin Mantra, as a means of group healing, this skill was very effective in a melee.


    Moreover, as the skill level would increase in the future, the duration would be longer, and the effects would be better.


    After a fierce battle, with Jiang Liu taking action and the aid of the group healing Hand of Healing, hundreds of demon creatures were in, giving Jiang Liu nearly 100,000 experience points, which made him nod in satisfaction.


    After the battle ended and the skills had cooled down, Jiang Liu used the Hand of Healing several more times, allowing the soldiers'' wounds to nearly fully recover, before he stopped to rest.


    Just then, a streak of light shed across the sky, and Sun Wukong''s figure appeared, descending from midair.


    "Wukong, why have youe?" Jiang Liu was slightly startled to see Sun Wukong and asked in surprise.


    These were only little demons, a rabble, not even a single demon marshal among them; what was the need for him toe specifically?


    "Master, go back. Junior Brother Sha has returned!" Sun Wukong said as hended.


    "Wujing!? He''s back!?" Jiang Liu''s eyebrows rose slightly, finding it a bit strange.


    It had only been a little over three months since he left, hadn''t it? How could he be back so soon?


    With a thought, Jiang Liu instructed the soldiers to return on their own, while he rushed back to the Royal Pce of Treasure Elephant Country with Sun Wukong. In no time, the distance of three hundred miles was traversed under the hooves of the White Dragon Horse.


    When he saw Wujing again, Jiang Liu was taken aback.


    Usually, Wujing was somewhat silent and reticent, but that was just because he chose not to speak.


    But now, seeing Wujing again, Jiang Liu noted he seemed even more silent, especially with the lifeless aura emanating from him, giving the impression of an old man on the brink of decay.

 Chapter 267 Pingding Mountain

    ````


    Treasure Elephant Country, Royal Pce.


    Princess Baihua Xiu sat quietly in the garden of the Royal Pce, with some food and wine ced in front of her, under the thick moonlight, quietly gazing at the sky.


    It was uncertain whether she was watching the moon or awaiting something from the heavens.


    At night, a summer breeze blew gently, bringing a hint of coolness.


    Wolf-Chasing Boyy in the grass of the garden, seemingly ying by catching bugs.


    Although he had achieved the Divinity Transformation Realm in cultivation, he was still very young, at the most carefree and innocent age.


    After looking at the sky for a while, Princess Baihua Xiu slowly retracted her gaze, nced at her son, and a slight smile formed at the corners of her mouth seeing his lively manner.


    As Holy Monk Xuanzang had said, there was not much she could do but to wait here diligently.


    Fortunately, even though her husband was gone, she still had her son by her side forpany.


    "Madam¡­" Just as Princess Baihua Xiu was feelingforted watching Wolf-Chasing Boy ying alone, suddenly, a familiar voice rang out, ting her expression.


    Looking towards the source of the voice, she saw a figure emerging from a corner of the garden, who else could it be but the Yellow-Robed Monster?


    Of course, there was no longer any need to hide his identity, and thus, the aura emanating from him was nothing like an evil demon.@@novelbin@@


    Being one of the twenty-eight constetions, the Star Monarch Kuimu Wolf seemed to gather the starlight of the heavens upon himself as he walked out.


    "Husband, you, you''ve reallye back!? Are you alright!?" Princess Baihua Xiu said, both shocked and overjoyed upon seeing Kuimu Wolfing out.


    Although Master Xuanzang had already said that even if her husband was captured and taken back to the Heavenly Court, he would probably not be severely punished, as the y he had directed made Kuimu Wolf suffer quite miserably already.


    However, one thing is theory, and seeing it with one''s own eyes is another matter.


    "Hmm, all is well. What Master Xuanzang said is very true. I was captured and taken back to the Heavenly Court, but the Jade Emperor only punished me by making me tend the fire for Supreme Elder Lord!" Kuimu Wolf nodded and spoke with a smile on his face.


    As he spoke, Kuimu Wolf reached out his arms, intending to embrace Baihua Xiu.


    "Ah, dad, you''re back?" However, another figure beat Baihua Xiu to the embrace, diving directly into Kuimu Wolf''s arms and excitedly addressing him.


    "Who is this?" Kuimu Wolf, holding the child in his arms, was momentarily stunned, looking at Baihua Xiu with surprise.


    What was happening? How could an unfamiliar young boy call him dad?


    "Oh, I forgot, I''ve changed my appearance!" Seeing the bewildered look on his father''s face, Wolf-Chasing Boy also reacted, undoing the transformation effect of the Heavenly Demon''s Marvelous Look and returning to his original form.


    "Wolf-Chasing Boy? You, you''re wearing Master Xuanzang''s kasaya!?" Seeing Wolf-Chasing Boy return to his original form and looking at the kasaya on him, Kuimu Wolf eximed in surprise.


    "Indeed, husband. Holy Monk Xuanzang said if Wolf-Chasing Boy wishes to stay with me, he cannot show his true form, so he gave his kasaya to Wolf-Chasing Boy. This kasaya seems to be able to disguise us?" Seeing the astonishment on Kuimu Wolf''s face, Princess Baihua Xiu nodded and said.


    "Certainly, this kasaya is indeed a precious treasure, but¡­" Kuimu Wolf responded with admiration as he stared at the Heavenly Demon''s Marvelous Look on Wolf-Chasing Boy, which had even fooled him, indicating that the kasaya was no ordinary garment.


    "But what?" Seeing Kuimu Wolf''s expression, Baihua Xiu looked at him with some surprise.


    "But this kasaya belongs to Master Xuanzang, and he directly gifted it to Wolf-Chasing Boy. How shall I ever repay such a kindness?" Kuimu Wolf shook his head, his expression one of gratitude mixed with a feeling of unworthiness.


    "It seems that Holy Monk Xuanzang is not a person expecting anything in return. However, if you feel indebted, husband, find a precious treasure in return when the timees, as reciprocity is the way of courtesy!" Princess Baihua Xiu spoke thoughtfully after pondering for a moment.


    "Hmm, it seems that is all we can do!" Agreeing that Baihua Xiu''s suggestion was sensible, Kuimu Wolf nodded in assent.


    In the midst of their conversation, the couple embraced each other¡­


    As time passed, day after day, after departing from Treasure Elephant Country, Jiang Liu''s group had been on their Journey to the West for two months without realizing it.


    In these two months, nothing significant had happened along the way. They practiced meditation, and if they encountered Little Demon or bandits on the road, Jiang Liu took care of them, acquiring some Experience Points. Life was rather pleasant.


    It should be noted that, a few days ago, Jiang Liu''s level had risen again, reaching the 37th level.


    ````


    Having stayed in Treasure Elephant Country for a little over a month and then travelled for about another two months, Jiang Liu had spent a total of three months in cultivation andbating demons to level up before he finally gained a level.


    To Jiang Liu, the pace seemed somewhat slow.


    With the boost to his level, naturally, came an additional Skill Point, which Jiang Liu invested in the group healing skill, Hand of Healing.


    Having advanced to a high-level Hand of Healing, its duration increased from 10 seconds to 15 seconds, and the effect had naturally improved significantly.


    One day, as Jiang Liu sat atop his horse, suddenly, a faint sound of crying came from the road ahead.


    "Crying in these deste mountains and jungles? How can this be?" Hearing the crying, Jiang Liu, who had been meditating on the back of the White Dragon Horse, opened his eyes, a slight confusion arising in his heart.


    Could it be the workings of some strange demon kind?


    "Master, shall I go and take a look?" Seeing the confusion on Jiang Liu''s face, Sha Wujing spoke up and asked.


    Ever since his return from the previous incident, Sha Wujing had been trying his best to prove his worth within the scripture-seeking team, being extremely diligent.


    "That would be good, go take a look," Jiang Liu nced at Sha Wujing and, after a brief moment of contemtion, nodded in agreement.


    As the words fell, Sha Wujing followed the crying and left. After a short while, he caught a Han Dynasty man around forty years old, as if an eagle catching a chick.


    This Han Dynasty man appeared to be about forty, sturdy in build, with a full beard that made him look quite rough. He also had a machete on his back, clearly not someone who seemed benevolent.


    However, in front of the over three meters tall Sha Wujing, the gigantic difference in their build made the capture look as effortless as an eagle catching a chick.


    "Ah! A demon! Don''t eat me! Don''t eat me!" The man may have looked rugged and fierce, but his wailing and shouting exposed his cowardice; he was clearly terrified by Sha Wujing''s appearance.


    "Amitabha, benefactor, there''s no need to panic..." Seeing the man crying out in terror, Jiang Liu spoke with a pleasant demeanor.


    "You? Who are you?" The man''s fearful expression eased slightly upon seeing Jiang Liu, a handsome young monk with an elegant and refined appearance. He asked in surprise.


    It must be said that sometimes good looks are indeed very important. Jiang Liu''s handsome featuresbined with his humble and courteous demeanor indeed made him seem trustworthy.


    Yet, ncing back and forth between Jiang Liu and his frighteningpanions, Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing, the man felt a remarkable strangeness.


    What exactly was this group? A clear-eyed and handsome monk traveling with these terrifying demon creatures?


    "This humble monk hails from the Great Tang in Eastern Land, on a pilgrimage to the Western Heaven to seek scriptures. We passed by here and heard your crying just now. What happened to you? Is there any way this humble monk can be of help?" Jiang Liu asked the man with his palms pressed together in a very approachable manner.


    Although he didn''t know what troubles the man might be facing, surely he was encountering some kind of difficulty. By actively offering to help, wouldn''t this prompt a mission?


    "I, I''ve made myself aughterstock in front of this little monk!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s offer, the man felt embarrassed that his crying had been overheard.


    Yet, recalling the circumstances he was in, the man sighed deeply and said, "Little monk, you can''t help with my troubles. Moreover, if you''re on your way to seek scriptures in the Western Heaven, I advise you to take a different path."


    "Take a different path? Why is that?" Although advised to detour, which Jiang Liu was inclined to do, there still needed to be a reason for such advice.


    "Actually, I''ve always lived just ahead, at Pingding Mountain. I''m a viger there, but some days ago, two powerful evil demons arrived and they gathered a group of smaller demons. Now, it has be a nest for demon creatures. So, I advise you, little monk, to take a different path!" the man exined.


    "Pingding Mountain!?" Upon hearing this, a faint movement stirred in Jiang Liu''s heart.


    Though Jiang Liu didn''t remember the original Journey to the West in great detail, he very clearly recalled the name Pingding Mountain.


    In his previous life, he had yed a street arcade game adapted from Journey to the West, called "The Legend of the West," and the first level was Pingding Mountain. The level''s bosses were the minor boss Silver Horn King and the major boss Gold Horn King.


    "So, have Ie to Pingding Mountain? Because I started my journey to the West ahead of time, the Gold Horn King and the Silver Horn King have just arrived at Pingding Mountain?" With thoughts of Pingding Mountain in mind, Jiang Liu felt something stirring within.


    "Viger!?"


    Regardless of what was going through Jiang Liu''s mind, Zhu Bajie, who was beside him, spoke up after hearing what the man said and scrutinizing his appearance, "Why do I feel that you don''t look like a viger? Could it be that you''re one of the bandits from Pingding Mountain?" Experience more on My Virtual Library Empire


    "This..." Zhu Bajie''sment left the man momentarily embarrassed and at a loss for words.


    "Bandit or not, as the saying goes, ''Lay down the butcher knife and you will attain Buddhahood on the spot.'' Benefactor, as long as you''re willing to repent and do good, that''s what matters," Jiang Liu said, waving off the issue of whether the man was a viger or a bandit.


    With that said, he paused briefly before continuing, "Benefactor, even if you are a bandit, I am still willing to help you. Do you need me to subdue the demons for you, to take back your vige?"

 Chapter 269 Little Monk, Do You Wish to Take Me as Your Master!?

    "What''s wrong? Master, do you perhaps recognize these two demons!?" Seeing the surprise on Jiang Liu''s face, Sun Wukong curiously asked.


    "Oh, I might have heard a few things about them!" In response to Sun Wukong''s question, Jiang Liu thought for a moment and then nodded slightly.


    "Well, Master, you are really amazing. Along the way, it seems you know a thing or two about many demons we''ve met!" Sun Wukong said upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words. Read new adventures at My Virtual Library Empire


    "Hmm, probably because I have some sources of information that you all don''t know about!" Jiang Liu said, waving his hand, clearly with no intention of borating on the matter.


    After all, he couldn''t very well say that this world was nothing more than a novel in his previous life, could he?


    Jiang Liu didn''t intend to exin further, and Sun Wukong naturally didn''t ask more. Having traveled together for so long, Sun Wukong hade to know a bit about Jiang Liu, including some of the secrets others might not be aware of.


    For example, although he was just a very young Little Monk, he knew about the conditions of many demon creatures miles away.


    Another example was how he could casually produce brand-new Dharma Treasures.


    Yet another was how he would suddenly disy magic and divine skills that Sun Wukong had never seen before.


    For Sun Wukong, such things had bemonce.


    "So, what''s next? Once those demon creatures'' godfather arrives, should we just take action directly?" Without further inquiry, Sun Wukong was merely curious and somewhat impatient as he looked at Jiang Liu and asked.


    "No rush, let''s just wait and see," Jiang Liu said after thinking it over, feeling that it was better not to act rashly.


    The two boys of the Supreme Elder Lord have a godfather? Who could that be? This made Jiang Liu specte.


    But such spection was something Jiang Liu dared not believe in his heart.


    If it was really as he imagined, then the situation would be far more terrifying than he had anticipated.


    "Alright! We''ll do as you say, Master!" Hearing what Jiang Liu said, Sun Wukong and the others naturally had no objections.


    Despite Jiang Liu''s cultivation level being much inferior to their own, Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie sincerely admired his wisdom.


    Lacking deep strategic wisdom themselves, they thought that since Master''s strengthy in his wisdom, it was better to let the Master take charge of the nning. They, as disciples, would simply follow hismands.


    The master-disciple group had a clear division ofbor, and theyplemented each other well.


    Next, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong remained in the Exquisite Immortal Mansion without hurrying to Pingding Mountain to subdue demons and eliminate evil. They felt it was best to take a long-term view and thoroughly investigate the situation at Pingding Mountain before making a decision.


    As night gradually fell, Jiang Liu personally cooked and produced a table full of delicious dishes.


    The master and disciples drankrge bowls of wine and ate big chunks of meat, truly enjoying themselves.


    However, as night deepened, suddenly, a knocking sound came from outside.


    "Master, I will go open the door!" Hearing the knocking sound from outside, Sha Wujing spoke up and quickly walked towards the door.


    After opening the door, Sha Wujing saw an elder with white hair and beard standing at the doorway, who appeared to have an air of elegance and Taoist charm. After asking a few questions, Sha Wujing brought the elder inside.


    "Master, this old gentleman says he is passing by and seeks to stay for the night!" Having brought the old gentleman in, Sha Wujing spoke to Jiang Liu.


    "Gentlemen, I am passing through this area and seek the inconvenience of staying the night, please grant me this convenience!" The old man walked in and addressed Jiang Liu.


    "This old gentleman, it seems you are not an ordinary person!"


    Not in a hurry to agree, and likewise not in a rush to refuse, Jiang Liu observed the man and spoke.


    Sha Wujing and Zhu Bajie, with their frightening appearances, normally would make ordinary people scream "demon" upon seeing them, yet this elder waspletelyposed, showing no sign of panic whatsoever.


    "This humble old man has lived long enough and seen much, so nothing really surprises me. If you truly were demons who wished to eat me, there would be no escape for me anyway!" The elder shook his head, demonstrating an eptance of whateveres his way.


    In modern terms, he was easy-going, or in the context of Journey to the West, it was as if he had reached a state of mind free from earthly concerns.


    "Character UI!" Jiang Liu didn''t hurry to respond. Instead, his gaze fell upon the elder, and in his heart, he uttered a lowmand.


    A semi-transparent character UI appeared in front of Jiang Liu.


    ID: Mysterious Old Man (Blue UI).


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Taoist.


    ```


    Level: 98.


    Equipment: None.


    As Jiang Liu looked at the character profile information in front of him, the corners of his mouth twitched slightly.


    Is this some kind of joke? A level 98 with a blue UI! From the level alone, surpassing level 91 should mean a Quasi-Saint Level existence, right?


    And a full 98 levels?


    Doesn''t that mean he''s at the pinnacle of the Quasi-Saint Realm?


    In the Three Realms and Six Paths, such a figure at the Quasi-Saint Level, and almost at the peak, should only amount to a few, shouldn''t it? Looking at his attire, not a single piece of equipment, it''s clearly impossible to deduce his identity from his equipment.


    "The fragrance is tantalizing! This old man has trekked a long way over the mountains, and hasn''t eaten till now. Could you please spare a pair of chopsticks for me?" Without waiting for Jiang Liu''s answer, the old man''s nose twitched slightly as he nced at the exquisite wine and dishes on the table beside him, his eyes lighting up as he spoke.


    "You''re wee to, sir."


    Facing a level 98 powerhouse, Jiang Liu felt a serious sense of gravity within, but on the surface, he remained humbly polite, revealing none of his inner thoughts.


    Although he couldn''t discern the old man''s identity from the character profile, now that they were at Pingding Mountain, and with the Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King seemingly having a godfather toe, the identity of this level 98 old man could naturally be guessed to some extent.


    After receiving Jiang Liu''s nod of assent, the old man made himself at home, taking a seat at the dining table, with Wujing quickly setting a pair of chopsticks for him.


    "Mmm, delicious. Who cooked these dishes? They really are superb!" The old man, with his air of immortal Taoism, set all pretenses aside as he gulped down the wine and devoured the meat, nodding appreciatively.


    "The humble monk is to credit!" Upon hearing the old man''s query, Jiang Liu spoke up.


    "Oh? You, the Little Monk, have quite an admirable culinary skill!" Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s response, the old man nodded and gave his praise.


    "As long as you enjoy the meal, sir!" Regardless of the other''s identity, even if he were just a very ordinary old man, Jiang Liu would have been a hospitable host.


    At the dining table, the old man didn''t show any intentions of probing indirectly; his main attention was on the delectable food, seemingly just there for a free meal.


    "The likelihood of him being the Supreme Elder Lord is at least seventy to eighty percent. He came here especially, could it really be just to freeload a meal?"


    After observing for a moment, Jiang Liu realized the old man indeed appeared only interested in dining, without inquiring or prying into anything, and this surprised him.


    Of course, since he wasn''t asking anything, Jiang Liu felt somewhat relieved.


    If he would leave after having his fill, nothing could be better.


    However, the presence of the Supreme Elder Lord in person during the cmity at Pingding Mountain, as described in the original work, filled Jiang Liu with a foreboding gravity.


    Indeed, due to his own butterfly effect, the storyline had changed.


    Furthermore, with a figure like the Supreme Elder Lord making an appearance, it seemed that Jiang Liu''s hopes of ying and plundering treasure were futile.


    The dinner proceeded with both host and guest enjoying themselves thoroughly, and once all the dishes were finished, everyone finally put down their chopsticks.


    Without needing a word, Wujing conscientiously took it upon himself to clean up and wash the dishes.


    "Burp, how satisfying, the food was truly delicious!" After a hearty belch, the old man looked quite content.


    Once finished, his gaze fell on Jiang Liu as he asked, "However, to my knowledge, aren''t monks supposed to be vegetarians? You seem quite different from the usual monks, don''t you think?"


    "Amitabha, as the saying goes, ''Meat and wine pass through the intestines, but Buddha stays in the heart.'' As long as one keeps Buddha in their heart, whether one consumes alcohol or meat is irrelevant.


    Without Buddha in the heart, even if one wears out meditation cushions and can recite all scriptures from memory, it would be in vain," replied Jiang Liu, chanting a Buddha''s name in a low voice before answering.@@novelbin@@


    "So, what you''re saying is that cultivating Buddhism is about cultivating the mind?" Raising his eyebrows slightly at Jiang Liu''s response, the old man asked again.


    "In my view, it should be so. And I believe it''s the same with cultivating Taoism," Jiang Liu nodded and answered.


    "Hahaha, quite right, your perspective is indeed insightful. There''s essentially no real difference between cultivating Buddhism and Taoism; what truly matters is cultivating one''s own heart!" The old man seemed to be quite pleased with Jiang Liu''s answer,ughing heartily in agreement.


    However, after uttering these words, suddenly, the Supreme Elder Lord''s gaze fell on Jiang Liu as he asked, "You seem quite remarkable. What do you say? Little Monk, would you be willing to take me as your master?"


    "Ah! Take you as my master?" The words of the Supreme Elder Lord made Jiang Liu''s eyes widen in astonishment, looking at him in disbelief.


    Clearly, the Supreme Elder Lord bringing up this unexpected proposal had caught Jiang Liu off guard, leaving him somewhat flustered.


    ```

 Chapter 270 Samadhi True Fire

    With appreciative eyes, the Supreme Elder Lord watched Jiang Liu and felt that this young Little Monk, truly worthy of being the Tathagata''s second disciple reincarnated, truly a person of destiny, seemed to have spoken the true essence of cultivation in just a few words.


    Indeed, so-called cultivation is not solely about the height of one''s cultivation level, nor is it about spell supernatural power and such; what truly matters is the cultivation of the heart!


    Spell supernatural power, or to say, cultivation level, can be achieved with the help of external forces, but cultivating the heart relies on oneself alone.


    Moreover, the ultimate result of a person is not just about reaching the peak through mere cultivation; the final oue also depends on the cultivation of one''s state of mind.


    In short, those who pay great attention to their state of mind do not necessarily be Daluo Golden Immortals or reach the level of Quasi-Saints.


    However, all Quasi-Saints are inevitably those who value their state of mind greatly.


    The Supreme Elder Lord felt great admiration for Jiang Liu, even more for his growth speed, and that he had even begun to graspw-type abilities, which aroused a desire to cherish and recruit talent in the Supreme Elder Lord, prompting him to express a desire to take on a disciple.


    Jiang Liu looked at him with astonishment, pondering the consequences of such a decision. The Supreme Elder Lord, a level 98 powerhouse, wanted to take him as a disciple?


    In that case, would he then possess a master capable of standing against the Tathagata?


    Would his Journey to the West then be assured of safety?


    Considering these points, Jiang Liu felt somewhat tempted.


    Yet, no matter what, he was currently a disciple of the Buddhist Sect and a key figure in the Journey to the West for Scriptures. If he agreed, wouldn''t it mean he was betraying the Buddhist Sect?


    By then, what kind of reaction would it provoke from the Buddhist Sect? Experience more content on My Virtual Library Empire


    If that were so, perhaps he wouldn''t have to worry about his safety, but isn''t Gaoyang still in Guanyin''s hands?


    "Hahaha..."


    Jiang Liu remained calm with an unchanged expression, not answering, but beside him, Sun Wukong couldn''t help but burst intoughter upon the Supreme Elder Lord''s words, looking at him as one would at a fool, saying, "You old man, are quite interesting. On our first meeting, you say you want to take my master as your disciple? Then wouldn''t I, Old Sun, be your grand-disciple?


    What virtues and abilities do you have, old man?"


    "Yeah, old man, you want to be my Grand Master? What skills do you have? Besides, even if it''s about taking disciples, it''s not so casual, is it?" Zhu Bajie also chimed in with his remarks.


    Logically speaking, whether he epted disciples or not, Bajie couldn''t be bothered to care about what his master agreed to.


    But Sun Wukong made a point; if their master really agreed, wouldn''t Bajie be someone else''s grand-disciple for no reason?


    Bajie couldn''t tolerate that, so naturally, this matter concerned him too.


    "Actually, I also wanted to ask, you seem very fond of taking disciples, old sir, but how many disciples do you have now?" Following the words of Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, Sha Wujing also didn''t want to iste himself from the group, and turned his gaze to the Supreme Elder Lord to ask.


    "My abilities are not small, and as for how many disciples I have... till now, I haven''t taken a single disciple!" In response to the three brothers'' statements, the Supreme Elder Lord replied.


    Upon saying this, the Supreme Elder Lord''s gaze settled on Jiang Liu, then continued, "What do you say? Little Monk? Why don''t you consider it? If you agree, you''ll be my first and foremost disciple!"


    Jiang Liu''s expression became somber; the words of the Supreme Elder Lord made him realize that he was, after all, talking to just the Supreme Elder Lord, not the Sage Laozi!


    "Thank you for your kindness, but after all, I am a disciple of the Buddhist Sect, and if I were to join your sect..." After a moment of silence, Jiang Liu shook his head slightly and replied.


    "It''s all right. It was just a spur of the moment thought, a casual remark!" The answer from Jiang Liu left the Supreme Elder Lord silent for a moment before he shook his head with some disappointment and helplessness.


    In fact, the Supreme Elder Lord regretted his words the moment they were uttered. His desire to cherish talent was natural, but trying topete with the Buddhist Sect for disciples was not easy.


    Having shown his desire to cherish talent, the Buddhist Sect would naturally protect their own even more fiercely, preventing him from seeding.


    The Supreme Elder Lord also understood that whether Jiang Liu agreed or not, the likelihood of this mattering to fruition was slim; the only oue would be some strife arising between him and the Buddhist Sect.


    As a Quasi-Saint, just like the Tathagata is a Quasi-Saint, behind him stood a Saint, and the Tathagata had Saints backing him as well. He was indeed not confident in outmaneuvering the Buddhist Sect.


    Originally, there were two Saints behind the Buddhist Sect, while the Three Pure Ones were like branches of the same stem, a full three Saints who could overpower by one.


    But ever since the Deification...@@novelbin@@


    The Supreme Elder Lord''s words weren''t picked up by Jiang Liu. When he said it was just a casual remark, Jiang Liu knew it wasn''t entirely casual or entirely true.


    Perhaps he indeed harbored the idea of taking Jiang Liu as a disciple, but after considering it himself, Jiang Liu also understood it was an impossibility.


    The matter of the Journey to the West was key to the rise of Buddhism, and he was central to the Journey; the Buddhist Sect would not let him go.


    Furthermore, Gaoyang was still in the hands of the Buddhist Sect.


    Since it was impossible, Jiang Liu naturally had to refuse.


    At this time, even though they were matching wits and courage with the Buddhist Sect, having set up many pitfalls for Bodhisattva Guanyin along the way, Jiang Liu didn''t have the capability to confront them openly and break off rtions. He could only pretend to be very loyal to the Buddhist Sect in order to lull them intocency¡­


    "Alright, now we''ve finished dinner, what do you usually do after meals?" Not dwelling further on the issue of epting disciples, Supreme Elder Lord quickly diverted the topic and asked Jiang Liu and the others.


    "Generally? I''m usually cultivating!" Jiang Liu thought for a moment and then replied.


    "Heh heh heh, we usually y Mahjong or Fight the Landlord!" Upon hearing this, Sun Wukongughed and said.


    "y Mahjong? Fight the Landlord?" Hearing this, Supreme Elder Lord''s eyebrows raised slightly, he then said, "I''m old and don''t sleep much anymore. How do you y this Mahjong? Could you maybe teach an old man?"


    "Heh heh heh, sure! Old man, you should join us too!" Hearing this, Zhu Bajieughed and looked quite enthusiastic.


    When ying Mahjong, if the master didn''t have time, they would simply have to entertain themselves with Fight the Landlord.


    It seemed that the master was going to cultivate again, and it was rare for someone toe and join in. Zhu Bajie, of course, was very weing.


    Who has the best experience when ying Mahjong? Naturally, it''s those who can easily win.


    Since Zhu Bajie was winning almost every time, his experience was the best; thus, he was particrly eager about the activity of ying Mahjong.


    Seeing Zhu Bajie''s eager demeanor and how he readily set up the Mahjong tiles, Supreme Elder Lord naturally sat down.


    Then, following their instructions, he quickly learned the basic rules of Mahjong.


    "Hmm, these Mahjong tiles seem a bit too rough!"


    However, as a master of alchemy and artifact refining, once Supreme Elder Lord understood the rules of Mahjong and looked at the tiles that had been simply carved out of ordinary wood, he seemed unable to fully restrain himself.


    In the midst of their conversation, Supreme Elder Lord waved his hand gently, and in an instant, a thick me suddenly appeared, engulfing all the hundred-odd Mahjong tiles.


    In the span of half a cup of tea, these Mahjong tiles were refined by the mes and came out looking much more exquisite. They felt very smooth to touch, excellent in hand, and holding them was like grasping fine jade.


    "Eh? You old man, your methods are indeed extraordinary!" Watching Supreme Elder Lord effortlessly refine the Mahjong tiles in the air, Zhu Bajie expressed his surprise.


    Zhu Bajie''s sharp eyes could, of course, see that Supreme Elder Lord''s move was quite remarkable.


    "Was that just now¡­ Samadhi True Fire!?" As for Sun Wukong, his eyes slightly narrowed.


    Unlike Zhu Bajie, whose attention was captured by Supreme Elder Lord''s artifact refining technique, Sun Wukong focused on the me, for in the three realms and six paths, those who couldmand Samadhi True Fire were very few.


    What about Sha Wujing? He remained silent, as he couldn''t quite discern what was special about Supreme Elder Lord''s casual disy.


    "It''s just practice makes perfect!" Supreme Elder Lord waved his hand dismissively in response to Zhu Bajie''spliments, appearing unconcerned.


    After showing off his skill, everyone had some understanding of his abilities. Supreme Elder Lord did not borate, and naturally, no one asked further.


    Soon, they started shuffling the Mahjong tiles, with the sound of tiles ttering.


    Jiang Liu, watching this scene, silently marveled at Supreme Elder Lord''s capabilities, but he said nothing and returned to his room to sit in meditation and cultivate.


    However, contrary to his expectations, Supreme Elder Lord had taken the initiative to appear; this made Jiang Liu''s heart grow heavy.


    He did not understand what the motive behind Supreme Elder Lord''s appearance was.


    Was he truly just bored and decided to take a stroll in the Lower Realm? Jiang Liu did not believe it.


    He had deliberately changed his appearance and knocked on his door; clearly, he was targeting him, wasn''t he?


    "It seems that I''ve done something to catch the attention of Supreme Elder Lord, haven''t I?" Thinking this, Jiang Liu grew more vignt.


    For a figure like Supreme Elder Lord to personally descend to the Lower Realm in search of him, and also to make an excuse to stay through ying Mahjong¡ªhe wondered what exactly he nned to do.


    However, based on the offhand remark Supreme Elder Lord had made about taking him as a disciple, Jiang Liu felt that perhaps he had no ill intentions, right?


    Such a lofty figure, no matter his purpose, couldn''t be stopped by him nor could he be sent away; if he wanted to stay, then just let him stay.


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu pondered for a moment, found no answer, and thus didn''t spend further effort on it.


    His spirit immersed, he began to cultivate the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.

 Chapter 271 The Supreme Elder Lord Addicted to Fight the Landlord

    They yed Mahjong straight through to the wee hours, everyone still bursting with energy, especially the Supreme Elder Lord who seemed to be getting the hang of it. He was bing increasingly familiar with the rules of Mahjong and hardly noticed the passage of time.


    The four of them at the table, each with a cultivation level of the Heavenly Immortal Realm, yed Mahjong without ever feeling tired.


    However, after midnight, as one game ended, Sha Wujing thought for a moment, then stood up and said, "Shall we call it a day? I still have some things to tend to!"


    As he spoke, Sha Wujing got up to take care of the dishes.


    ying Mahjong, it was okay to leave cleaning tasks like dishwashing forter.


    But topletely neglect these chores just because of ying Mahjong? Sha Wujing couldn''t do that.


    After cleaning up the dishes, he still had to sweep the floor and wipe the furniture. Although it wasn''t a daily task, he had to do it every few days.


    "What to do? Shall we stop here for today?" Seeing Sha Wujing busy with household chores, Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie exchanged nces, then said somewhat helplessly.


    They certainly couldn''t expect Sha Wujing to drop all his chores just to y Mahjong, right?


    "Wait a moment¡­" Just as Sun Wukong finished speaking, the Supreme Elder Lord suddenly piped up, "Didn''t you just say that aside from the four ying Mahjong, there are three others who y Fight the Landlord? Let''s give that a try while we n for it?"


    "Fight the Landlord, huh? Sounds good!" Hearing the Supreme Elder Lord''s suggestion, Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie thought for a bit and then nodded in agreement. They promptly took out ying cards and exined the rules to the Supreme Elder Lord.


    Simrly, when he saw their ying cards, the Supreme Elder Lord criticized them just as he had criticized the crude craftsmanship of their Mahjong tiles.


    Immediately afterward, the Supreme Elder Lord conjured up his Samadhi True Fire and effortlessly crafted a beautifully patterned deck of poker cards.


    After learning the rules of Fight the Landlord, it didn''t take long for the Supreme Elder Lord to catch on and enjoy the game. He found the small paper cards endlessly fascinating.


    ...


    With no further conversation during the night, when Jiang Liu awoke from his cultivation the next morning and saw Sun Wukong and the others gathered and fiercely ying Fight the Landlord, the corners of his mouth twitched slightly.


    These guys really had good stamina, staying up all night ying Mahjong and poker cards?


    It reminded him of his past life, where a group of close friends would rent a room in a hotel to y cards.


    "Could it be because the world of Journey to the West is socking in entertainment activities, that these card and Mahjong games are so addictive? What if there were more types of entertainment?" Seeing this scene, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but mutter to himself.


    Of course, shaking his head, Jiang Liu didn''t ponder too much on this.


    ying cards and Mahjong were just pastimes to keep them upied during their idle moments. After all, his journey to the West was a matter of life and death, not just about enjoying scenic views, so he didn''t have much time to consider these leisure activities.


    After getting up, Jiang Liu didn''t waste words and quickly prepared a hearty breakfast.


    Soon after, having hosted the Supreme Elder Lord for breakfast, thetter left the Exquisite Immortal Mansion satisfied.


    After leaving, the Supreme Elder Lord naturally arrived at the cave in Pingding Mountain. The Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King treated him well, affectionately calling him godfather.


    Meanwhile, they also waited for Jiang Liu and his party to enter the mountain.


    However, Jiang Liu was not in a hurry to enter the mountain, instead sending Sun Wukong to carefully gather information about Pingding Mountain, such as the number of Little Demons and any treasures found there.


    After spending two days at Pingding Mountain without seeing Jiang Liu enter the mountain, the Supreme Elder Lord and others started feeling a bit bored.


    Having nothing better to do, the Supreme Elder Lord quickly crafted several exquisite decks of poker cards and Mahjong sets using some materials.


    Since the items were crafted, they couldn''t just sit unused, so the Supreme Elder Lord pulled in the Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King to y Fight the Landlord with him.


    Since it was the Supreme Elder Lord who initiated it, how could the Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King refuse? They naturally joined in the game.


    ying Fight the Landlord and waiting for Jiang Liu and his party to enter the mountain turned out to be quite a pleasant way to pass the time!


    During those two days, Sun Wukong also visited the cave on Pingding Mountain several times, moving in and out without attracting any attention.


    After going back and forth, Sun Wukong had be very familiar with the situation at Pingding Mountain.


    "Master, Pingding Mountain is ruled by the Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King, under whom are three Demon Marshals, five Demon Generals, and fifteen Little Demons. It seems that both the Silver Horn King and Gold Horn King have a cultivation level at least of a Demon King, and possibly even that of a Demon Immortal..."


    "Also, that old man who came begging for food a few days ago is actually their godfather, and these past few days, he''s been ying Fight the Landlord with his two godsons in their cave dwelling!"


    "Moreover, I''ve also found out about their treasures. Indeed, they possess some powerful artifacts called the Purple Gold Gourd, the Jade Pure Bottle of Mutton-Fat Jade, the Seven-Star Precious Sword, the Banana Leaf Fan, and the Shaking Golden Rope. The effects of these treasures are all tremendously powerful..."


    During the back-and-forth over several days, Sun Wukong had gathered detailed information about Pingding Mountain and rted everything to Jiang Liu clearly.


    "What? Shaking Golden Rope? Seven-Star Precious Sword? Purple Gold Gourd and such?"


    Upon hearing those initial descriptions, Zhu Bajie showed little reaction, but upon hearing about the Dhama Treasures, his face slightly changed, and he asked in surprise.


    "Right, what is it? Blockhead, do you know about these things?" Sun Wukong nodded and looked at Zhu Bajie with some astonishment.


    "I, Old Pig, certainly know of them!"


    Upon hearing this, Zhu Bajie did not intend to keep it a secret. He nodded and said, "These treasures belong to the Doushuai Pce! Like that Banana Leaf Fan, it''s used for fanning the mes in the Eight Trigrams Furnace!"


    "Treasures from the Doushuai Pce? All fell into the hands of Demon Creatures? Are the demons on Pingding Mountain so formidable? Or is it that easy for the Doushuai Pce to be robbed? Almost all have been stolen by the demons?" Upon learning that these treasures were from the Doushuai Pce, Sun Wukong''s expression turned slightly odd.


    "Wukong, isn''t it not the first time that the Doushuai Pce has been robbed?" Upon hearing Sun Wukong''s remark, Jiang Liu meaningfully looked at him and said.


    What right did he have to speak of theft at the Doushuai Pce? Wasn''t it him who had sneaked into the Doushuai Pce during the Havoc in Heaven and blew on the Supreme Elder Lord''s Golden Pills?


    "This..." Sun Wukong found himself embarrassed, and Jiang Liu''s words left him speechless.


    "Could all these treasures really be from the Doushuai Pce? Then these two Demon Creatures must be extraordinary!" After ncing at Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, stroking his plump double chin and appearing thoughtful, said.


    "Right, and their godfather can evenmand Samadhi True Fire. Could it be that they have connections with the Doushuai Pce?" Following Zhu Bajie''s remark, Sun Wukong also nodded, having realized what was happening, and said in surprise.


    "Master, if there really is a connection with the Doushuai Pce, we should perhaps take a detour," said Zhu Bajie after some thought.


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    "What? Blockhead, are you afraid of the people in the Doushuai Pce?" Upon hearing this, Sun Wukong said to Zhu Bajie, not in a good mood.


    "Hey, wait a second..." However, as he finished speaking, Sun Wukong suddenly remembered something and said, "I recall you mentioning before that the Supreme Elder Lord was somewhat like your grandmaster?"


    At this, Sun Wukong looked at Zhu Bajie with some surprise and said, "Blockhead, since the treasures from Doushuai Pce havee to the Mortal World, don''t you want to clear this up? And you even think of bypassing it?"


    "Monkey Brother, you don''t know. Samadhi True Fire is not easy to endure. If we really start fighting, I, Old Pig, would be in a predicament whether to fight or not to fight!" Zhu Bajie said, his face showing a troubled expression.


    If these treasures were indeed stolen from the Doushuai Pce, Zhu Bajie naturally felt bound to take action.


    But if the demons of Pingding Mountain indeed had deep connections with the Doushuai Pce, wouldn''t it be like a great flood washing over Dragon King Temple if they really made a killing move?@@novelbin@@


    Thus, Zhu Bajie found the situation at Pingding Mountain rather tricky.


    "Hmm, Bajie indeed makes a valid point!" Jiang Liu could naturally understand Zhu Bajie''s dilemma and nodded slightly.


    Originally, Jiang Liu had considered the idea of killing and robbing treasure and, at the very least, even if not killing, still robbing.


    However, upon discovering that a great figure like the Supreme Elder Lord had personally intervened, Jiang Liu lost that intention and, if possible, really wanted to take a detour.


    Yet, thinking of how he had previously pressured the Bandit to beg him, his mind grew somewhat troubled about the uing task.


    If it were an active mission, he could simply take a detour, but with a passive mission, failing toplete it would mean a penalty of 800,000 Experience Points.


    Given his current situation, losing 800,000 Experience Points could indeed mean a downgrade, couldn''t it?


    "Hmm, if that''s the case, then I, Old Sun, shall make a trip to the Doushuai Pce to ask the Supreme Elder Lord what exactly is going on," Sun Wukong said after some thought.


    "Is that so? That could work!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu thought for a moment and then nodded in agreement.


    If they couldn''t avoid it, Pingding Mountain would certainly face a cmity, but if Sun Wukong could make a trip to the Doushuai Pce and force the Supreme Elder Lord to appear, that would be the best solution of all,pleting the task without bloodshed.

 Chapter 272 Enjoying the View of Heavenly River Clouds Together

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    After receiving Jiang Liu''s nod of approval, Sun Wukong leaped into the air and directly summoned his Somersault Cloud, flying towards the Heavenly Court.


    It didn''t take much time, and soon Sun Wukong arrived at the Doushuai Pce.


    After knocking on the door, the gate of Doushuai Pce was opened. However, the person who opened it was not someone from Doushuai Pce but Kuimu Wolf instead.


    "Eh? You? What are you doing here!?" Sun Wukong was slightly taken aback and asked with surprise upon seeing Kuimu Wolf opening the door.


    "Great Sage, it''s you. The Jade Emperor has punished me to stoke the fire for Supreme Elder Lord here in Doushuai Pce, so that''s why I''m here!" Kuimu Wolf exined upon hearing Sun Wukong''s question.


    Having said that, Kuimu Wolf paused for a moment, then counter-asked, "Great Sage, what about you? Do you have some business here?"


    "I have some matters to discuss with the Supreme Elder Lord, where is he?" Sun Wukong nodded and spoke.


    "Unfortunately!"


    Upon Sun Wukong''s inquiry about Supreme Elder Lord''s whereabouts, Kuimu Wolf shook his head and said, "The Supreme Elder Lord and his two attendant boys have disappeared, saying they wanted to take a walk and are not at home. Right now, I''m the only one here keeping watch over the pce!"


    "Not at home!? That makes things a bit troublesome!" Sun Wukong frowned slightly upon hearing this.


    After thinking it over, since the Supreme Elder Lord was not at home and even Kuimu Wolf did not know his whereabouts, naturally, Sun Wukong had no intention of staying any longer and turned around to leave.


    Just as Sun Wukong turned to leave, Kuimu Wolf called out to him, "Great Sage, wait a moment!"


    "What is it? Is there something else?" Sun Wukong turned back and asked.


    "Master Xuanzang values cultivation very much, doesn''t he?"


    Kuimu Wolf''s gaze fell on Sun Wukong and he spoke, "As far as I know, Master Xuanzang is extremely diligent in his cultivation. I happen to have a Golden Pill here which can add somewhat to a cultivation level. Would the Great Sage be able to deliver it to Master Xuanzang for me? It would serve as a reciprocal gift for the kasaya he gave to my child!"


    As he spoke, Kuimu Wolf took out a palm-sized box from his bosom.


    Sun Wukong took the box with ease, opened it and looked inside, where a longan-sized Golden Corey.


    The Golden Elixir''s entirely golden body appeared semi-transparent, and within its depths, one could faintly see spiritual energy in the shape of a dragon, ceaselessly flowing and swimming inside the pill, lifelike.


    "Alright, rest assured, I''ll take it back for you!" Seeing the appearance of the pill, Sun Wukong nodded, pocketed it, and then turned to leave.


    Originally, after stowing away the Elixir, Sun Wukong had intended to return to the Lower Realm, but as he flew through mid-air, suddenly a series of calling voices arose, halting Sun Wukong.


    "Monkey, Monkey..."


    Hearing the familiar voice, Sun Wukong followed the sound, then twisted his waist and descended from the sky.


    It was Fairy Zixia who was calling out to him.


    At that moment, Zixia, carrying a pot of strange flowers and nts, was walking along the path and just happened to see Sun Wukong, prompting her to call out.


    The Heavenly Court is a ce of importance, and ordinary people are not privileged to fly around at will. Naturally, Sun Wukong''s leaping over was eye-catching.


    "Zixia, what a coincidence. Where are you headed!?" Sun Wukong called out with a smile after descending.


    "Oh, I''m taking this pot of nts and flowers to offer to the Empress. How about you? What brings you to the Heavenly Court again!?" Zixia asked in return.


    "I came to seek Supreme Elder Lord, but unfortunately, only Kuimu Wolf was guarding Doushuai Pce, and the Supreme Elder Lord''s whereabouts are unknown!" Sun Wukong shook his head and unreservedly recounted the reason for his visit to Heaven.


    "Oh, I see!" Hearing the reason for Sun Wukong''s visit, Zixia looked a bit disappointed.


    "What''s the matter?" Seeing that Zixia appeared somewhat off, Sun Wukong inquired.


    "Nothing, it''s nothing..." Zixia shook her head and said, "If you have matters to attend to, you should go ahead. I must also present these nts and flowers to the Empress!"


    "Oh, alright, you go on with your errands as well!" Sun Wukong nodded and said without further thought.


    However, as Sun Wukong turned and waved goodbye, Zixia gently pursed her lips in thought, then seemingly mustered great courage and said, "Oh right, Monkey, I''ve heard that there''s a breathtaking scene in Heaven, the Cloud Sea by the Heavenly River. It''s said to be very beautiful. Let''s go and see it together when we have time, okay?"


    "The Cloud Sea by the Heavenly River, you say? I have time now!" Upon hearing Zixia''s invitation, Sun Wukong thought for a moment and, finding no pressing matters, readily agreed with a nod.


    "Great, then wait for me. After I offer the flowers to the Empress, we''ll head there!" Hearing how readily Sun Wukong agreed, Zixia''s face bloomed with joy as she nodded.


    After making the arrangement, Fairy Zixia, brimming with excitement, quickened her pace towards the Empress''s pce.


    Being just an ordinary little fairy from the Glycyrrhiza Garden, after presenting the flowers and nts, Zixia naturally left and flew straight to the bank of the Heavenly River under the guidance of Sun Wukong.


    As expected, the Heavenly River looked incredibly beautiful; the clouds at the bank from afar, where the water and clouds met, could truly be described as magnificent.


    Aboard a cloud, Sun Wukong and Zixia, the two of them sat quietly on top of the cloud, without saying much, just quietly admiring the view, asionally making conversation; the atmosphere was very harmonious and natural.


    ¡­


    The Heavenly Court''s Monkey had been invited by Zixia to enjoy the scenery, something Jiang Liu naturally knew nothing about. He remained in the Mortal World, quietly waiting for Sun Wukong''s arrival, passing the time by practicing Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound; his days were rather peaceful.


    Although the little demons from Pingding Mountain were patrolling everywhere, searching for any passing humans,


    Jiang Liu had not entered the mountain, and thus, no little demons came down from Pingding Mountain.


    However, after waiting for several days without Sun Wukong''s return, Jiang Liu felt somewhat surprised. Going up to the Heavenly Court to ask something shouldn''t take too long, should it? Why then had so many days passed without his return?


    Nevertheless, while he felt puzzled, Jiang Liu was not the least bit worried about Sun Wukong''s safety.


    Not to mention Sun Wukong''s own strength, even if he did encounter any danger, would the Tathagata and the others really stand by and allow it?


    Thus, after waiting for about a week, Sun Wukong finally descended from mid-air.


    "Wukong, what took you so long!?" Jiang Liu inquired as he watched Sun Wukong descend from mid-air.


    "Oh, on the way back, I ran into Zixia. She invited me to admire the clouds by the Heavenly River, so I apanied her for a while, which is why I was dyed!" Sun Wukong replied.


    "Zixia took the initiative to invite you! Did anything happen between you two?"@@novelbin@@


    Although Jiang Liu was not one for gossip, hearing Sun Wukong''s words and considering that Fairy Zixia herself had extended the invitation, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but feel curious and asked with implied meaning.


    "Anything happen? What could happen?" Sun Wukong looked at Jiang Liu with a puzzled face, clearly not understanding.


    "This monkey, it''s not just emotional intelligence he''scking; could it be that he genuinely has no concept of love in his heart? A monkey sprung from a rock, could his heart also be made of stone?" Seeing Sun Wukong''s clueless expression, Jiang Liu''s face darkened slightly as he internally voiced his criticism.


    Fairy Zixia had taken the initiative to invite him to see the sights ¡ª even a fool should understand what that means, shouldn''t they?


    "The scenery at the Heavenly River, huh?" However, hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Zhu Bajie looked somewhat conflicted.


    When he was a Marshal in the Heavenly River, Zhu Bajie had always harbored the wish to invite Fairy Chang''e to view the scenery together.


    Yet this wish remained unfulfilled to this day, and to think that his eldest brother seemed to have easily obtained what he had long desired?


    Shaking his head, Zhu Bajie quickly cast away the slight sentiment from his mind, his expression turning sleazy as he said, "Monkey Brother, are you truly clueless, or are you just pretending? Didn''t anything happen between you two? Like, did you hug or kiss or something?"


    "Hug? Why hug for no reason? Kiss? What''s the point of lips touching lips?" Turning his head, Sun Wukong still seemed puzzled and asked in return.


    "How can you be so hard to get through to?" Seeing Sun Wukong''s demeanor, Zhu Bajie shook his head inwardly while also feeling somewhat envious.


    How could someone so oblivious to romantic feelings attract a fairy''s pursuit?


    Why doesn''t I, Old Pig, receive such treatment? The heavens truly are unjust.


    "Great Sage, did you manage to inquire about the Supreme Elder Lord during your trip to the Heavenly Court?" Sha Wujing, who had remained silent until now, suddenly interjected and asked Sun Wukong, bringing the conversation back to the main topic.


    "Oh, bad luck this time, the Supreme Elder Lord was not home; I came back empty-handed!" Hearing Sha Wujing''s words, Sun Wukong turned and replied to Jiang Liu.


    "Came back empty-handed, huh?" Jiang Liu murmured inwardly.


    This didn''t surprise him in the least; it simply confirmed what Jiang Liu had suspected all along ¡ª that mysterious old man was indeed the Supreme Elder Lord.


    "By the way, I did run into the Kuimu Wolf, and he asked me to deliver a Golden Core to Master, saying it was in return for the kasaya you gave him!" Right after that, Sun Wukong took out the Golden Core given by the Kuimu Wolf and handed it to Jiang Liu.


    "Oh? A Golden Core? A reciprocal gift?" Upon hearing this, Jiang Liu''s eyes lit up briefly, and he reached out to take the box Sun Wukong was offering.


    As the box opened, naturally, he saw the half-translucent golden core, its spiritual energy condensed into a dragon shape.


    As Jiang Liu cast his gaze upon it, the core''s attribute information appeared before him, filling him with immense delight!

 Chapter 273 Jiang Liu Ascends to the Heavenly Court

    Dragon Spirit Pill (consumable): After taking it, Experience Points will increase by 8000000, and the effect will decrease with subsequent uses.


    Seeing the attribute information of this pill in his hand, Jiang Liu was overjoyed.


    A full 8 million Experience Points? This was a huge gain. He remembered that when he first encountered Master Lingxu in front of Guanyin Zen Temple, the Spirit Elixir he got was quite good, granting him 500,000 Experience Points, which was already a rare treasure for him at the time.


    Butpared to this Dragon Spirit Pill given by Kuimu Wolf, it was far inferior, not even one-tenth as effective.


    For Jiang Liu, the kasaya from the Heavenly Demon''s Marvelous Look was actually not very high in effect, after all, the effect of the Pearl Kasaya was strong, it was just that the Heavenly Demon''s Marvelous Look had an added special effect of transformation.


    To trade such a receable piece of equipment for a Dragon Spirit Pill? This was indeed a highly profitable deal for him.


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    Without any further ado, Jiang Liu opened his mouth and swallowed the Dragon Spirit Pill at that moment; almost simultaneously, a series of system prompt sounds started ringing in Jiang Liu''s mind.


    Prompt: Gained 8000000 Experience Points.


    Prompt: Level up by 1, current level 38.


    Prompt: Level up by 1, current level 39.


    As the Dragon Spirit Pill was swallowed, a series of system prompt sounds echoed in his mind, Jiang Liu felt a refreshing current flow through his body, much like taking a cool bath in the heat of summer, incrediblyfortable.


    With the consumption of the Dragon Spirit Pill, his level also increased directly by two levels, reaching level 39.


    Following the level up, Jiang Liu looked down at himself and silentlymanded: Character panel.


    The semi-transparent character panel appeared in front of Jiang Liu, naturally, his gaze primarily focused on the level section.


    Level: 39 (358600/5000000)


    "Indeed..." Seeing his level, or rather, the Experience Points needed for his next level up, Jiang Liu inwardly shook his head resignedly.


    Now, the Experience Points he needed for leveling up had reached 5 million, which was getting more and more exaggerated.


    However, anyway, leveling up to 39 was a good thing,


    And, a full 8 million Experience Points, for Jiang Liu, also meant saving about two to three months of cultivation time, this gain was still very substantial, setting aside his level, just feeling the surging power within him, Jiang Liu could feel a great increase.


    "Now, finally reaching level 39, from the character level, levels 41 to 50 belong to the Divinity Transformation Realm, right? I''m getting closer and closer to the Divinity Transformation Realm!"


    After looking at his character level, Jiang Liu nodded in satisfaction inwardly.


    Moreover, he was filled with even greater anticipation. At level 10, he had unlocked the inventory space, at level 20, he had unlocked the quest function, and at level 30, he had unlocked the character panel.


    He wondered what new function level 40 would unlock.


    "Master, what are you thinking about?" As the level consecutively went up by 2 levels, and while Jiang Liu''s thoughts wandered after consuming the pill, Sun Wukong spoke up, interrupting Jiang Liu''s thoughts.


    "Oh, your master was a bit distracted. We really have to thank Kuimu Wolf, the effect of this pill is truly amazing!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu snapped back to reality and responded.


    "But it''s just a mere Dragon Spirit Pill, how amazing can it be? Back in the day, I, Old Sun, don''t even know how many such pills I''ve eaten!" However, while Jiang Liu expressed his admiration for the pill, Sun Wukong just curled his lips dismissively.


    "Er, you are a great figure, iparable..." Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly, and he inwardly shook his head.


    "Indeed!" At this time, Zhu Bajie, who was next to them, also spoke up and nodded, "I heard that the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill concocted by the Supreme Elder Lord is truly formidable. Mankind consumes one, and it''s enough to ascend to the Immortal Realm!"


    "Enough for a mortal to ascend to the Immortal Realm? So it turns ordinary people into Heavenly Immortals instantly? How much Experience Points does that require?" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Jiang Liu felt incredibly excited.


    Indeed,pared to the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill, this so-called Dragon Spirit Pill seems insignificant, doesn''t it?


    Just then, a sudden sh of inspiration struck Jiang Liu''s mind.


    He remembered during the Havoc in Heaven, when Doushuai Pce was empty, Sun Wukong had sneaked into Doushuai Pce, andmitted a mischief with the pills of the Supreme Elder Lord.


    At this time, wasn''t the Supreme Elder Lord also down in the Mortal World?


    If he sneaked into the Doushuai Pce now...


    Thinking of these possibilities, Jiang Liu''s heart heated up, if he could just get a Nine Revolutions Golden Pill to consume.


    The cultivation level of a Heavenly Immortal? Wouldn''t that be level 61 and above? Wouldn''t he be able to level up more than 20 levels in the blink of an eye?


    As the saying goes, ''men die for wealth as birds die for food''. High riskes with high return, although doing this would surely offend the Supreme Elder Lord, but, after all, he was currently the core of the Journey to the West Pilgrimage Team; even if he burned down the entire Doushuai Pce, the Buddhist Sect would still go all out to protect him, wouldn''t they?


    If one were to offend the Supreme Elder Lord, the benefit has been taken by oneself, and the matter of cleaning up is left to the Buddhist Sect?


    Thinking it over, could there be any harm to oneself?


    The more he thought, the hotter his heart became, and Jiang Liu''s anticipation grew more intense.


    Then, after forcing himself to think calmly for quite a while, Jiang Liu analyzed the consequences of this matter in detail, and found there was absolutely nothing to worry about.


    Though the road to the West, upon reaching Western Spirit Mountain, would be the time for him and the Buddhist Sect to finally confront each other, before that arrival, he was very safe indeed.


    Even if he wanted to die, the Buddhist Sect would definitely go to great lengths to save him!


    "Wukong, do you believe Kuimu Wolf is keeping watch at Doushuai Pce?" With the inconceivable benefits in mind, which were enough to tempt Jiang Liu, he broke the silence after a long pause and suddenly asked Sun Wukong.


    "Indeed, that is so!" Nodding his head, Sun Wukong answered.


    "For you, this Dragon Spirit Pill might not mean much, but for me, it represents a significant step forward in my cultivation level. Both emotionally and logically, I think I ought to thank Kuimu Wolf!" Nodding slightly, Jiang Liu spoke.


    "Go thank him?" Jiang Liu''s words left Sun Wukong looking at him in some surprise.


    Though his master spoke reasonably, Kuimu Wolf had said that the Dragon Spirit Pill was merely a return gift; was there really a need to thank him specifically?


    "As the saying goes, nobody mes you for being too polite. What do you think? How about you take me to Doushuai Pce, and let me personally thank him?"


    While this action seemed unnecessary, in order to make a trip to Doushuai Pce, he still needed a justified and dignified reason, didn''t he?


    "Too many courtesies and one might be called a fool," muttered Zhu Bajie to himself, disapproving of Jiang Liu''s words.


    Although being overly polite wasn''t necessarily a bad thing, there was a limit, beyond which it becamepletely irrational.


    In Zhu Bajie''s view, the master''s decision to personally thank Kuimu Wolf really seemed somewhat illogical.


    The master, a fool? Impossible. The master, who called himself Holmes Xuanzang, possessed a level of wisdom far surpassing I, Old Pig, by countless measures.


    Thus, there must have been a deeper reason for the master''s actions, mustn''t there?


    Zhu Bajie realized that there was a deeper meaning to Jiang Liu''s actions; naturally, Sun Wukong wasn''t foolish either and could perceive it as well.


    Looking intently at Jiang Liu, Sun Wukong then asked, "Master, is there perhaps another reason for your visit?"


    "Ahem, you deserve it; I''ve never been to Heavenly Court, nor seen the scenery of the Immortal Realm. If I could take advantage of this opportunity to visit, it would also be a chance to broaden my horizons!" Hearing Sun Wukong ask him directly, Jiang Liu coughed awkwardly and then quickly found an excuse.


    "Master, you want to have a look at Heavenly Court? Alright then, let''s go!" After some thought, Sun Wukong also nodded and said, no longer asking further.


    "Alright, Bajie, you and the others wait here for me; I will go with Wukong for a stroll in Heavenly Court ande right back!" After getting a nod from Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu turned and told Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing.


    Upon saying this, without wasting any time, Sun Wukong took Jiang Liu, immediately performed the Divine Skill of the Somersault Cloud, leaped up and turned into a streak of Escape Light, and in the blink of an eye, they arrived at the South Heavenly Gate.


    The speed of the Somersault Cloud was extremely fast, so fast that everything around them was a blur, making one feel somewhat dizzy and disoriented.


    When Jiang Liu regained his senses, he then realized, he had unknowingly already stood before a majestic gate.


    The gate had threerge characters written on it: South Heavenly Gate.


    "We meet the Great Sage!"@@novelbin@@


    Sun Wukong had arrived at the South Heavenly Gate with Jiang Liu, and a few of the guarding Heavenly Soldiers and Generals collectively spoke out, greeting Sun Wukong with a bow and saluting him.


    "Mhm mhm mhm, hello there!" Waving his hand, Sun Wukong was not putting on airs and, taking Jiang Liu, proceeded towards the South Heavenly Gate.


    "Wait a moment, Great Sage, who is this Little Monk?"


    Although it was the Great Sage who brought him, the guarding Heavenly Soldiers and Generals dared not obstruct, but with a stranger entering Heavenly Court, they at least needed to ask, didn''t they?


    "What? This is I, Old Sun''s master; is there a problem?" Hearing the question from the Heavenly Soldiers and Generals, Sun Wukong felt somewhat embarrassed in front of his master and turned his head, asking rather displeased.


    "Not at all, you are too serious, Great Sage!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, the few Heavenly Soldiers and Generals quickly shook their heads.


    "Alright, master, let''s go!" Satisfied with the answer from the Heavenly Soldiers and Generals, Sun Wukong turned and spoke to Jiang Liu.


    Speaking, Sun Wukong led Jiang Liu straight into the South Heavenly Gate.


    Wasn''t his master keen on thoroughly observing the grandeur of Heavenly Court? Thus, they didn''t hurry along, and as they walked, they appreciated the view, flying mid-air, admiring everything at leisure¡­

 Chapter 274 Jadescent Nectar

    Sun Wukong, apanied by Jiang Liu, flew conspicuously through the Heavenly Court.


    Along the way, almost everyone was walking below, while only Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong flew overhead, naturally attracting attention.


    No Heavenly Soldiers or Generals dared to stop them, which made Sun Wukong secretly hope that he had made a good impression in front of his master this time, and Master would surely praise him, right?


    Thinking about his master''s praise, Sun Wukong realized that during their recent Journey to the West, his master hadn''t reallyplimented him at all, had he?


    Looking down upon the entire Heavenly Court from high above, Jiang Liu truly found himself intoxicated by the scenery.


    Pavilions, terraces, and towers, adorned with carved dragons and painted phoenixes, and all of these Heavenly Court buildings stood above the clouds, bathed in a halo of rosy light, quite eye-catching for Jiang Liu who was visiting the Heavenly Court for the first time.


    However, after flying for a short while, as Jiang Liu looked down at the countless Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriorsing and going below, he found it odd that only he and Sun Wukong were flying, and asked with some curiosity, "Wukong, it seems we''re the only two flying? It looks like a lot of people are watching us!"


    "Master, not just anyone is entitled to fly in the Heavenly Court. With I, Old Sun''s status, of course, I have that privilege!"


    Waiting for so long, Jiang Liu finally spoke up. Realizing he was unaware of these rules of the Heavenly Court, Sun Wukong replied with a smug look on his face.


    "So you mean, you deliberately brought me along to show off?" Sun Wukong''s response left Jiang Liu with a somewhat darkened expression.


    Seeing Jiang Liu''s expression seem a little off, Sun Wukong paused for a moment before quickly exining, "It''s not exactly showing off on purpose. Well, how to put it, since it''s your first time in the Heavenly Court and you want to see the scenery, naturally, you need to stand high to see far, right?"


    "Let''s hurry up and descend!" Sun Wukong''s words made the corner of Jiang Liu''s mouth twitch, and while he wanted to scold him, he couldn''t find a reason and could only quickly tell Sun Wukong to descend.


    What a joke. Coming to the Heavenly Court to see the scenery was just a pretext; his real goal was to sneak into the Doushuai Pce to steal Immortal Pills, ideally without anyone noticing.


    What was Sun Wukong doing showing off like this?


    "Oh, all right then..." Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sun Wukong reluctantly shook his head and descended, feeling that his master was rather difficult to serve.


    Afternding, there were finally not so many people watching him, and Jiang Liu heaved a silent sigh of relief within.


    Looking at Sun Wukong''s expression, Jiang Liu could roughly guess his thoughts. After some thought, heforted him, "Alright, Wukong, as human beings, we should be modest, you know? There''s truth in ''The tree that stands out in the forest is the one that gets cut down.'' You should understand..."


    "Why!?" However, Sun Wukong seemed unconvinced by Jiang Liu''sforting words and shook his head, saying, "I, Old Sun, would rather be known by everyone in the world, valued by everyone. Modest? That''s not I, Old Sun''s style!"


    Jiang Liu: "..."


    Sun Wukong''s words sounded like those of a rebellious teenager around fifteen or sixteen, always feeling like he was invincible in the world, always wanting to do something earth-shattering and extraordinary, unwilling to be ordinary. This attitude left Jiang Liu speechless.


    "Okay, my bad!" Seeing Sun Wukong''s demeanor, Jiang Liu silently shook his head, realizing his mistake.


    Teaching Sun Wukong to be modest? Just the thought seemed impossible, right?


    It was like trying to teach Zhu Bajie fidelity and hard work for wealth¡ªan evidently impossible task.


    "Great Sage, hello!"


    "Great Sage, long time no see!"


    "Great Sage, I heard you were protecting the Tang Monk on his Journey to the West for Scriptures. What brings you to the Heavenly Court today?"


    ...


    It must be said that although Sun Wukong was only at level 80, the pinnacle of Taiyi True Immortal, his golden aura was enough to be considered on par with a Daluo Golden Immortal. As they walked on, many people greeted Sun Wukong one after another.


    It was evident that Sun Wukong held significant prestige in the Heavenly Court.


    Jiang Liu, watching from the side as they walked, couldn''t count how many groups of people had greeted Sun Wukong, and sighed helplessly in his heart.


    Alright, even after descending, without showing off, with Sun Wukong by his side, it waspletely impossible for him to keep a low profile.


    Apart from the Heavenly Soldiers and Generals, and even the Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriors, there were many Superior Immortals of the Immortal Rank who also took the initiative to greet Sun Wukong, such as the Eight Immortals from the Upper Grottoes...


    They continued on their way, a bustling scene as they headed straight towards the Doushuai Pce.


    "By the way, Wukong, can you get some fine wine in the Heavenly Court? You know, the kind that can make a person blissfully intoxicated in no time at all?"


    After walking for a while, Jiang Liu thought of stealing Immortal Pills right under Kuimu Wolf''s nose and realized it was best to get him drunk first. He immediately asked Sun Wukong.


    "Ah, a wine that intoxicates one into blissful oblivion? Naturally, that has to be the Great Jade Emperor''s Jadescent Nectar! That taste, back then I, Old Sun, had only a few extra cups at the Peach Banquet and I was utterly drunk..." Hearing Jiang Liu''s question about fine wine, Sun Wukong couldn''t help but lick his lips.


    "Jadescent Nectar!? Can you get a hold of some!?"


    Right off the bat, you could tell it wasn''t ordinary¡ªhow could the wine from the Peach Banquet be anything but excellent? Jiang Liu asked Sun Wukong.


    "That, that goes without saying. What can''t I, Old Sun, do? Even if you want to taste the Empress''s peaches, I could get them for you!"


    Although his face showed a hint of difficulty, hearing Jiang Liu''s inquiry, Sun Wukong had toply; otherwise, wouldn''t he be losing face? He patted his chest, making a thunderous sound, and imed boldly.


    As his words concluded, Sun Wukong told Jiang Liu to wait, and he quickly set off in search of the Jadescent Nectar.


    At the wine pool, several Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriors were drawing a jug of Jadescent Nectar, obviously preparing to send it to the Jade Emperor.


    "Great Sage!" Recognizing Sun Wukong as he approached, the Divine Power Warriors gripped their jugs and took two steps back in rm.


    "Hehehe, so you guys are collecting wine for the Jade Emperor again? Could you spare some for I, Old Sun?" Sun Wukong chuckled as he eyed the jug of Jadescent Nectar in the warrior''s hands and inquired.


    "Not possible! Great Sage, this Jadescent Nectar is a treasure of the Jade Emperor, a jug of which is only brewed every few hundred years. If we give it to you without permission, we could not bear the punishment," one of the warriors hurriedly refused, shaking his head in rm.


    "Psh, it''s just some wine. The Jade Emperor Old Man hasn''t said a thing, and you''re being so stingy!" Sun Wukong retorted sharply, a fierce light shing in his eyes as he tried in vain to talk them into it.


    In the midst of speaking, he leapt forward and snatched the jug of wine from the warrior''s hands, noting that there wasn''t much in the jug.


    Having initiated action, whether it was one jug or one vat... it was toote for niceties.


    Without politeness, Sun Wukong helped himself, grabbed arge, ten-pound wine vat, poured the jug into it, and then filled up an entire vat. Holding the vat, he turned and ran away.


    Jiang Liu was waiting outside, and in no time, he saw Sun Wukong running over with a huge vat of wine.


    "Master, let''s go!" Holding the vat, Sun Wukong pulled Jiang Liu and quickly fled.


    "Hey, Wukong, what''s the rush? Did they not give it to you, so you took it by force!?" Seeing Sun Wukong''s impatience, Jiang Liu frowned and asked.


    "How could that be possible? What kind of person am I, Old Sun? The Great Sage Equal to Heaven! What''s wrong with drinking a little wine from the Jade Emperor? The Jade Emperor Old Man won''t be that petty, right? After all, with the Kuimu Wolf incident, we preserved the Jade Emperor''s face!" Sun Wukong replied, not wanting to lose face in front of Jiang Liu.


    "Er, that makes some sense!" Jiang Liu was somewhat convinced by Sun Wukong''s words, nodding to himself.


    Actually, even if taking a step back, if for this matter the Jade Emperor did be angry, wouldn''t the Buddhist Sect clean up the mess after all?


    It couldn''t possibly be that something as trivial as a vat of wine would affect the major task of Journey to the West for Scriptures, could it?


    Of course, if it did have an impact, that might not be so bad either? It would just give more time for dilly-dallying?


    It seemed, no matter the calction, he was in a no-lose situation!


    After a brief reflection, Jiang Liu didn''t think much further and, along with Sun Wukong, made their way to Doushuai Pce, then knocked on its gates once more.


    After a moment, Kuimu Wolf opened the door to Doushuai Pce. Seeing Sun Wukong at the entrance, he was stunned for a moment: "Great Saint? Why have you returned?"


    As he spoke, Kuimu Wolf opened the door fully and only then did he notice Jiang Liu standing beside him, his expression turning to one of both shock and joy: "Master Xuanzang!? I didn''t expect you to be here as well!"


    "Amitabha, I havee today to express my thanks, grateful for the Dragon Spirit Pill which has brought my cultivation level a step further," Jiang Liu said humbly and politely as he expressed his gratitude.


    "Hehehe, we''ve brought some fine wine!" Sun Wukong also held up the wine vat in his hand and chimed in. Your next read awaits at My Virtual Library Empire


    "This is Doushuai Pce, after all, not my residence.


    Drinking wine here seems inappropriate, moreover, a Dragon Spirit Pill was but a token of my thanks, Master Xuanzang; there''s no need for you to specificallye to express gratitude¡­" Hearing the words of Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong, Kuimu Wolf''s expression showed difficulty; it seemed wrong to drink wine in Doushuai Pce, given his culpable state.


    "What''s in here is the Jade Emperor''s Jadescent Nectar; are you sure you don''t want to drink!?" Hearing Kuimu Wolf''s reluctance, Sun Wukong countered with a sly smile.


    "Jadescent Nectar!?"@@novelbin@@


    At that, Kuimu Wolf''s eyes lit up, and he couldn''t help but swallow hard as he looked at therge, ten-pound wine vat in Sun Wukong''s hands.


    "Drink!"


    The once hesitant expression on Kuimu Wolf''s face instantly turned fervent and enthusiastic.

 Chapter 275 Supreme Elder Lord: Xuanzang should restrain Monkey from stealing, right?

    Those days, after Supreme Elder Lord descended to the mortal realm, he found life more boring than his time in the Doushuai Pce in heaven. His days were mostly spent ying Fight the Landlord, and it seemed there was nothing else to do.


    Although ying Fight the Landlord was fun, he couldn''t possibly immerse himself in it every day.


    Otherwise, no matter how enjoyable it was, he would eventually grow tired of it.


    While ying Fight the Landlord, he was also waiting for Jiang Liu and the others to enter the mountain. However, after waiting for so long, there was still no sign of Jiang Liu and his group approaching the mountain, which somewhat surprised the Supreme Elder Lord.


    "What''s going on? Why haven''t they moved? Are they stopped at the foot of Pingding Mountain?"


    After pondering for a moment, the Supreme Elder Lord felt he should make another trip to the Exquisite Immortal Mansion.


    For one, he could find out why Xuanzang and hispanions had stopped at the foot of Pingding Mountain and hadn''t moved.


    Secondly, he could see how they had been spending their days in the Exquisite Immortal Mansion during all this time.


    Mahjong and Fight the Landlord were games he had learned from them. Besides these, did they have other ways to entertain themselves and pass the time?


    With a thought, the Supreme Elder Lord decided not to stay in his cave any longer. He left immediately, descended from Pingding Mountain, and headed straight to the Exquisite Immortal Mansion.


    Without any superfluous words, the Supreme Elder Lord knocked directly on the gate of the Exquisite Immortal Mansion.


    Soon, the gate was opened by Sha Wujing.


    "Elder? Is it you? What brings you here!?" Seeing the Supreme Elder Lord standing at the door, Sha Wujing was slightly taken aback, then asked.


    "Oh, it''s nothing much. I was just passing by and thought I''d stop by for a visit!" Hearing Sha Wujing''s words, the Supreme Elder Lord responded, nonchntly.


    As he spoke, he walked directly into the Exquisite Immortal Mansion, while asking, "By the way, where''s your master? Is the Little Monk here?"


    "I''m sorry, Elder, but you''re really out of luck!" Hearing this, Sha Wujing shook his head as he spoke.


    "Oh? Not here? Where did he go?" Hearing Sha Wujing''s words, the elder turned back in surprise and asked.


    Sha Wujing had naturally heard the earlier conversations among Jiang Liu and others, so he knew this old man might have some connection with the Doushuai Pce.


    Thus, after a moment of silence, he thought it best to bring up the Doushuai Pce to scare him a bit and said, "My master and elder brother have ascended to heaven!"


    "Ascended to heaven, to where?!" The Supreme Elder Lord became even more puzzled, knowing they were supposed to be on their journey to the west. Now they had ascended to heaven?


    "They have gone to the Doushuai Pce!" Sha Wujing answered.


    "Doushuai Pce!" Hearing this, the Supreme Elder Lord''s brows lifted slightly, showing even more surprise, and he asked, "Do you know why your master and elder brother went to the Doushuai Pce?"


    Seeing the change in the Supreme Elder Lord''s expression, who clearly reacted to the name of the Doushuai Pce, Sha Wujing internally said this old man indeed had some connections to the Doushuai Pce.


    However, outwardly, he maintained a calm demeanor and said, "I''m not sure about that. I overheard their conversation; they mentioned something about wanting the Supreme Elder Lord toe for Subduing Demons and Eliminating Evil!"


    "Well, if you''re not sure, then let it be!" Hearing Sha Wujing''s response, the Supreme Elder Lord shook his head, somewhat helplessly.


    Since they weren''t there, the Supreme Elder Lord naturally had no intention of lingering. After a wave of his hand, he turned around and left the Exquisite Immortal Mansion.


    With each step, the Supreme Elder Lord turned and walked in the direction of his cave, silently pondering within.


    To ascend to heaven to find him, wanting him to Subduing Demons and Eliminating Evil? So, did they already know that the demon of Pingding Mountain was connected to him?


    If so, this cmity was indeed tricky. Before even encountering adversity, they wanted him to intervene?


    "Unexpectedly, Xuanzang and his group are so formidable, not in strength, but in their attentiveness and wisdom. No wonder the Bodhisattva said it''s hard toplete the eighty-one tribtions!" Realizing that even his own intervention might not guarantee oveing this tribtion, the Supreme Elder Lord suddenly understood.


    "Wait, wait..." Although the Supreme Elder Lord''s mind was preupied with Jiang Liu and the so-called eighty-one difficulties, in that moment, he suddenly realized: they had gone to the Doushuai Pce?


    It wasn''t just Xuanzang; that Monkey, Sun Wukong, had gone there too!?


    "Damn, my Immortal Pills!" Realizing that he was not in the Doushuai Pce at this time and that Sun Wukong, a person with a prior record, had actually gone there, the Supreme Elder Lord''s face drastically changed.


    No longer daring to dy, he moved swiftly, flying directly towards the Heavenly Court.


    Being a level 98 character of a Quasi-Saint rank, it didn''t take the Supreme Elder Lord long to reach the Heavenly Court.


    In front of the South Heavenly Gate, the Supreme Elder Lord''s steps halted slightly, and he stopped.


    "Greetings, Supreme Elder Lord!" Seeing the figure of the Supreme Elder Lord, several Heavenly Soldiers and Generals kneeling in front of the South Heavenly Gate hurriedly bowed and greeted him.


    "Dispense with the formalities. Please tell me, has Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong, entered?" Although anxious inside, the Supreme Elder Lord maintained hisposure and asked in a calm manner.


    "He has seen him; the Great Sage brought his master, Holy Monk Xuanzang, and they have already entered!" The guard at the South Heavenly Gate nodded as he replied.


    "Phew, that''s a relief..." Hearing that Sun Wukong was staying with Jiang Liu, the Supreme Elder Lord''s heart secretly rxed.


    As for the monkey''s character, the Supreme Elder Lord naturally would not trust him, given that he was a habitual offender.


    However, he did trust Jiang Liu''s character somewhat. If Xuanzang and that monkey were together, he believed they would restrain each other, right?


    With this thought, the elderly figure onstage felt somewhat more at ease.


    Now that he had returned to the Heavenly Court, naturally, the Supreme Elder Lord thought for a moment and then headed towards the Doushuai Pce to first check on his own home''s situation.


    Just as he had risen into the air, barely a moment had passed when he suddenly saw several Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriors with grieving faces, cursing Sun Wukong under their breath.


    The Supreme Elder Lord, who had sharp ears, heard them cursing Sun Wukong and felt a slight stirring in his heart, promptly descending from his cloud.


    "We greet the Supreme Elder Lord!" Seeing the Supreme Elder Lord descending, the Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriors hurriedly knelt down and paid their respects to the Supreme Elder Lord.


    "What is the matter with you few? Why curse the Great Sage Sun!?" Looking at the Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriors before him, the Supreme Elder Lord asked with some astonishment.


    These Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriors dared to curse Sun Wukong? Had they eaten the courage of a bear and a leopard?


    Or was it that? Had that monkey done something outrageous again?


    "We greet the Supreme Elder Lord, we, we..." Hearing the Supreme Elder Lord''s words, the Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriors were startled and appeared afraid to speak.


    "It''s alright, what has that Rascal Monkey done again? Tell me!" Seeing the frightened demeanor of the Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriors, the Supreme Elder Lord waved his hand and kindly asked.


    "To report to the Supreme Elder Lord, that monkey has stolen the Jade Emperor''s Jadescent Nectar again!" Hearing the kind inquiry from the Supreme Elder Lord, the Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriors did not conceal anything, speaking out loudly, feeling utterly aggrieved.


    "Yes, not only did he steal the Imperial Wine, but he also directly took away an entire big jar, at least ten pounds! Supreme Elder, as you know, Jadescent Nectar is hard toe by, usually even the Jade Emperor only drinks a small pot during festive asions, worth celebrating..." Nearby, another Immortal Maiden eximed dramatically.


    Although Jadescent Nectar doesn''tpare to the peaches of the Empress in terms of preciousness, as an almost exclusive drink of the Jade Emperor, Jadescent Nectar could still be regarded as the finest wine in the Heavenly Court, equally precious.


    Now, Sun Wukong had stolen away an entire big jar, and it could be seen as both a serious and not so serious incident.


    After all, it was just a jar of wine, but it rted to the Jade Emperor''s dignity, and it depended on how the Jade Emperor would judge it.


    However, for these Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriors, this incident was indeed a huge issue!


    "Oh? That Rascal Monkey is so bold!?" Hearing this, the Supreme Elder Lord''s expression also shifted slightly, clearly surprised.


    He hadn''t expected that after five hundred years, this Rascal Monkey would still be sowless. Discover more content at My Virtual Library Empire


    "Let me ask you, didn''t that Xuanzang see his disciple stealing the Imperial Wine and stop him?" In his astonishment, the Supreme Elder Lord continued to ask, feeling it was unreasonable.


    Wasn''t Xuanzang with the Rascal Monkey? He wasn''t managing things either?


    "Xuanzang!?" The Supreme Elder Lord''s words left the Immortal Maidens and Divine Power Warriors ncing at each other in confusion.@@novelbin@@


    After looking at each other for a moment, they all shook their heads, saying, "At that time, apart from the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong, we did not see anyone else there!"


    "This is bad!" This answer caused the Supreme Elder Lord''s face to change drastically.


    Clearly, although Sun Wukong had brought Xuanzang to the Heavenly Court, he seemed to have left his master behind and acted alone.


    If Xuanzang had been by his side, the Supreme Elder Lord would not have been so worried, but without the restraint of his master, had this monkey gone rampant again?


    Now that he dared to steal the Imperial Wine, naturally, he would also dare to sneak into his own Doushuai Pce to steal the Immortal Pills.


    At this thought, the Supreme Elder Lord felt an urgency like ants on a hot pan, where could he afford to dally?


    His form transformed into an Escape Light, shing like lightning towards the Doushuai Pce.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, inside the Doushuai Pce, Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu, and Kuimu Wolf were already seated at a table.


    They spread out threerge bowls, and Sun Wukong filled each of the big bowls with Jadescent Nectar.


    "Good stuff!"


    Before even drinking, Jiang Liu looked down at the exceptional wine in the bowl, the corresponding attribute information making him greatly praise it in his mind.

 Chapter 276 Stealing the Pill

    Jadescent Nectar (consumable): After drinking, it can enhance one''s aptitude, Experience Points +563,800; note: highly prone to drunkenness, drink with caution.


    Upon viewing the attribute information of the Jadescent Nectar, Jiang Liu''s heart naturally burst with ecstatic joy.


    A bowl of Jadescent Nectar could provide more than half a million Experience Points to him at home? Considering this bowl was roughly about half a jin, then the whole jar of Jadescent Nectar probably contained around 40 bowls, right?


    In that case, if he were to finish off the remaining liquor, wouldn''t he gain approximately 20 million Experience Points!?


    Moreover, more importantly, this Jadescent Nectar was different from Elixirs; whether it was the Spirit Elixir given to him by Master Lingxu before or the Dragon Spirit Pill provided by Kuimu Wolf, the effect would decrease with each subsequent consumption.


    However, Jadescent Nectar didn''te with such a caveat, the only drawback being its tendency to induce drunkenness easily.@@novelbin@@


    What''s more, could it really also boost one''s own aptitude?


    If so, by drinking more, with his aptitude elevated, wouldn''t his experience gain rate increase dramatically when he cultivated the Heavenly Dragon Zen Soundter on?


    The effects of the Ginseng Fruit he had previously had were still benefiting Jiang Liu to this day.


    "Come on! Let''s have a taste!" Regardless of Jiang Liu''s thoughts upon seeing the Jadescent Nectar''s attributes, they each poured themselves a bowl, and Sun Wukong, lifting his, said.


    "Here we go!" Staring at the exquisite liquor in the bowl, which was indeed the Jadescent Nectar from the Jade Emperor, Kuimu Wolf''s face beamed with a mix of astonishment and excitement, as he boldly raised his bowl.


    Sun Wukong and Kuimu Wolf both drank with hearty gusto, and with each mouthful of Jadescent Nectar, they downed about one-third...


    As for Jiang Liu? Naturally he wasn''t as bold as they were, surely not considering the hint at the end of the attribute.


    Highly prone to drunkenness¡ªand his alcohol tolerance didn''t seem to be particrly good¡ªhe decided to y it safer.


    After all, his visit to the Doushuai Pce wasn''t merely for drinking; if he got Kuimu Wolf drunk without affecting himself, that would truly be foolish.


    After gently sipping, Jiang Liu tasted an intense explosion of vor that filled his mouth instantaneously.


    Moreover, he was surprised to find that, though the alcohol was initially fragrant in his throat, this fragrance lingered, refusing to fade away.


    Alert: Gained 36,500 Experience Points!


    As the sip of Jadescent Nectar went down, almost at the same time, the system prompt appeared.


    This delighted Jiang Liu inwardly, one sip for over 30,000 Experience Points? What could be an easier way to level up than this?


    Indeed, the best items are always in the hands of Immortals and Buddhas; just a sip of liquor was worth a whole day of arduous cultivation.


    "Hahaha, what a fine drink! The Jade Emperor''s Jadescent Nectar truly is the finest liquor in the Three Realms. Thest time I drank was just a half jug blessed by the Jade Emperor, and I can''t even remember how many hundreds of years ago that was!"


    After downing a third of his drink, Kuimu Wolf wiped the liquor stains from the corner of his mouth with his sleeve, feeling utterly content and shouting aloud.


    "Indeed, splendid, only a drink from the Jade Emperor has such vor!" Sun Wukong also nodded his head in agreement andughed, his eyes narrowed as if in extreme satisfaction. Explore new worlds at My Virtual Library Empire


    Thest time he had enjoyed a drink as much was five hundred years ago during the ruckus at the Peach Banquet.


    "Today''s liquor is plentiful, let''s keep iting!" Watching the vigorous way Kuimu Wolf and the others drank, Jiang Liu raised his bowl once more, urging them on.


    "Holy Monk, aren''t you drinking like a bit of a sissy? When drinking liquor, a man should guzzle it down with big swigs to make it interesting!" Kuimu Wolf remarked after noticing that Jiang Liu''s bowl of Jadescent Nectar hadn''t decreased much.


    "Ah, my tolerance for alcohol isn''t great; I can only sip it lightly. Wukong has a good tolerance, let him keep you entertained!"


    Hearing Kuimu Wolf''sment, Jiang Liu was slightly taken aback; was the alcohol already getting to him? He promptly suggested that Sun Wukong next to him join in for more rounds.


    "Hehehe, then I won''t be polite! Holy Monk, you''re missing out on the fun!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Kuimu Wolf chuckled and continued to lift his bowl along with Sun Wukong, drinking down inrge gulps. Gurgling down, the remainder of the bowl was finished in one go.


    You inrge swigs, I inrge swigs¡ªSun Wukong and Kuimu Wolf indeed drank with great vigor.


    However, the bolder their drinking style, the faster they got drunk. Perhaps their tolerance was genuinely good, but after finishing their respective bowls, they both began to appear tipsy.


    Then, after each had another bowl, they both slurred their words, tight in the grip of drunkenness.


    Lastly, when Kuimu Wolf and Sun Wukong finished their third bowl, they werepletely sloshed, copsed on the ground, each hugging their bowls and quickly fell into a deep slumber.


    Different from them, Jiang Liu had only taken a few sips, not even half a bowl down, yet he had already rued 200,000 Experience Points.


    Touching his heated cheeks, with just those few sips, Jiang Liu also felt a moderate drunkennessing on.


    Looking over, there were about ten jin worth of liquor in the jar, and at least six or seven jin was left; naturally, Jiang Liu promptly stashed it away.


    After collecting the Jadescent Nectar, Jiang Liu immediately began to search around Doushuai Pce. It didn''t take long before he found the Elixir Storage Chamber within the pce.


    Good heavens, it was filled with elixirs!


    Jiang Liu casually took a gourd containing elixirs from the side and poured one out. As he examined the pill closely, the corresponding attribute information appeared before him.


    "Detoxification Pill (consumable): After ingestion, it can eliminate 95% of all toxic effects. Each subsequent dose''s effectiveness decreases by 5%."


    "A Detoxification Pill!? What a treasure! It can eliminate 95% of toxicity? If only Gaoyang had such a pill when he was afflicted with the Corrupting Spirit Poison," Jiang Liu thought joyously as he read the pill''s attribute information.


    He shook the gourd, then emptied all the elixirs, about a dozen or so, into his bag space in one go and casually threw the now empty gourd onto the ground.


    Then, he noticed another exquisitely crafted small porcin bottle nearby. Jiang Liu curiously took it, pouring out a yellowish-brown elixir that seemed fairly unremarkable in appearance.


    But as Jiang Liu''s gazended on this elixir, just the same, the corresponding attribute information emerged.


    "Soul-Returning Pill (consumable): If the cadaver remains undamaged, ingesting this pill can summon the lost soul back from the Underworld and revive the dead!"


    "What a treasure, a true resurrection marvel!" Jiang Liu was ecstatic as he looked at the attribute information for the Soul-Returning Pill.


    He poured out them out and found that there were only three. Jiang Liu collected these three Soul-Returning Pills as well, and the small porcin bottle was also discarded aside.


    "Eh? Is that a treasure box!?" After searching for a moment, suddenly, a treasure box appeared before Jiang Liu.


    Having searched the Elixir Storage Chamber, Jiang Liu roughly figured out that the more elixirs a container held, the lower their value seemed to be.


    For example, the Detoxification Pills were stored in arge gourd, indicating the lowest value, while the resurrection-capable Soul-Returning Pills were kept in a small porcin bottle, totaling only three.


    Then, what sort of precious elixirs might be hidden inside this palm-sized exquisite treasure box?


    Jiang Liu was somewhat excited. Could it be? Was this the Nine Revolutions Resurrection Pill?


    Thinking of the Nine Revolutions Resurrection Pill, an elixir that could instantly raise one''s level by more than twenty, Jiang Liu felt a burning desire in his heart. He walked over and picked up the treasure box.


    Taking a deep breath, he slowly opened it.


    Indeed, the elixir inside the treasure box was more precious. As he lifted the lid slightly, Jiang Liu saw a glimmering, purple Spirit Pill inside.


    There was only one, obviously of immense value!


    "Sun Wukong!? Kuimu Wolf! How have you two be intoxicated here within my Doushuai Pce? What a mess; how did the door to the Elixir Storage Chamber get opened?"


    However, just at that moment, Jiang Liu suddenly heard the voice of an old maning from outside.


    Upon hearing this voice, Jiang Liu was rmed and didn''t have time to check the pill''s properties. He hurriedly tossed it into his bag space, and the treasure box containing the elixirs was also discarded on the ground.


    Almost simultaneously, as the treasure boxnded on the floor, the Supreme Elder Lord rushed in, fuming with urgency.


    "Xuan... Xuanzang... is that you!?" The Supreme Elder Lord appeared as an old man with white hair, holding a horsetail whisk, an image of celestial elegance. However, upon seeing Jiang Liu, he was stunned.


    He had thought it would be the rascal Sun Wukong ruining his magical medicines. Who would have thought that the Monkey, thoroughly drunk, had passed out, and instead, it was Xuanzang who had entered his Elixir Storage Chamber?


    Looking at Xuanzang, whose face was flushed red with the smell of alcohol, it was evident he was also intoxicated.


    ncing at the gourd, porcin bottle, and treasure box on the floor, the Supreme Elder Lord''s face grew even uglier: "My elixirs!"


    "Burp, who, who are you, old man? What do you want?"


    Life is like a y, entirely dependent on acting. Seeing the Supreme Elder Lord charging in, Jiang Liu belched with drunken eyes, smiling as he spoke.


    "Where, where are the elixirs from inside?" The Supreme Elder Lord picked up the treasure box from the floor, saw that it was empty, and asked urgently.


    "Eat, ate them, yeah, I, burp, I ate them all," belching again, Jiang Liu replied with a grin.


    "You, you!" The Supreme Elder Lord, with bristling whiskers and bulging eyes, took the gourd and the small porcin bottle, sniffed at them, and then stared intently at Jiang Liu: "You, you ate all the elixirs from inside?!"


    "Yes, yes sir, do you, do you want some too? There''s a lot of elixirs here! Let''s eat them together!" nodding, Jiang Liu said.


    "Alright, go to sleep now!" Having received Jiang Liu''s affirmative reply, the Supreme Elder Lord frowned, then waved his hand at Jiang Liu.


    As he did so, Jiang Liu''s eyes rolled back and he promptly passed out¡­

 Chapter 278 Curse

    The Journey to the West involves traveling westward until reaching the Great Thunder Monastery to meet the Tathagata and to seek the True Scriptures from the Tathagata''s hands.


    However, the Tathagata has now appeared before him on his own initiative. Naturally, Jiang Liu has to inquire whether the Tathagata has brought the True Scriptures with him, specially delivered to him!?


    The expression on Buddha''s face remained very calm, giving no clue to his thoughts.


    Still, in the face of Jiang Liu''s inquiry, the Tathagata remained silent for a moment, then shook his head and said, "The True Scriptures cannot be imparted lightly. Only if you spare no effort and travel the eighty thousand li, bringing the True Scriptures back to the Great Tang in the Eastern Land, will the countless popce truly cherish them!"


    "So, I still have to travel eighty thousand li, is that right?" Hearing the Tathagata''s words, Jiang Liu responded somewhat helplessly.


    Although he remained respectful in the face of the Tathagata, his facial expression seemed to say, "You could easily bring it here, yet you insist on making me go through the trouble to fetch it."


    After his words fell, Jiang Liu then looked at the Tathagata and continued, "I beseech Buddha, when mypanions and I were passing Pingding Mountain, we encountered two demon creatures blocking the way, and these two demons even have a godfather who possesses the ability to use Samadhi True Fire. Even Wukong did not dare to confront them. I ask that you personally take action to subdue these demons, so that your disciple may continue his westward journey!"


    "This..." The words of Jiang Liu made the Tathagata''s expression waver with hesitation.


    Originally, from Jiang Liu''s perspective, since you did not bring the True Scriptures over, requiring me to travel eighty thousand li to retrieve them, then I shall go.


    But since I happened to encounter formidable demons on the way, and you are here, it could not hurt to help me out while you''re at it, right?


    Yet really, the Tathagata cannot interfere.


    For one, this is one of the ordeals within the eighty-one tribtions.


    Secondly, would he take action against the Supreme Elder Lord? Though both are of a Quasi-Saint cultivation level, in terms of status, he is certainly inferior!


    "Buddha? Is this not possible either?" Seeing the Tathagata hesitating without speaking, Jiang Liu frowned slightly with a hint of helplessness in his voice.


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    "Amitabha, the eighty thousand li westward journey is inherently fraught with hardship, and these tribtions are all a part of your quest to the West. Thus, you should not readily seek help from others. Of course, if you really cannot resolve an issue on your own, then it is eptable to seek assistance from above!" After intoning a low chant, the Tathagata responded.


    "But, I feel that I cannot resolve it now!" Assuming a manner of pressing the Tathagata, Jiang Liu verbally nudged the Tathagata, urging him to take action along with the Supreme Elder Lord.


    "How do you know it cannot be resolved without even trying?" To Jiang Liu''s words, the Tathagata shook his head, equally determined not to intervene.


    "Alright then, if that''s how it is, your disciple understands!" After pressing several times and seeing no change in the Tathagata''s stance, Jiang Liu shook his head helplessly, his demeanor one of great disappointment.


    Looking at Jiang Liu''s disappointed face, the Tathagata also felt a bit awkward.


    This Journey to the West is a great cmity destined by heaven and earth, and even he cannot overly intervene. But of course, Jiang Liu knows none of this.


    From Jiang Liu''s perspective, the request he had just made was quite reasonable, right?


    "By the way, Buddha, may I know the purpose of your visit?" After shaking his head in disappointment, Jiang Liu then turned his gaze back to the Tathagata, his tone casual as he spoke.


    "This..." The question from Jiang Liu left the Tathagata uncertain of how to respond for a moment.


    Originally, the purpose of the Tathagata had been to reprimand him properly. How could he go to the Doushuai Pce to drink? And even got drunk!


    Being drunk was one thing, but he even consumed some elixirs in the Doushuai Pce!


    And not only did he consume elixirs, he consumed very precious ones that had no effect on him!


    But at this moment, after Jiang Liu''s continuous requests which he did not fulfill, he was to reprimand him again?


    Even the Tathagata was at a loss for words at this time.


    "It''s nothing major, just that after you became drunk at the Doushuai Pce, you consumed quite a number of elixirs. So, I went on your behalf to apologize to the Supreme Elder Lord," the Tathagata finally said, deciding not to scold Jiang Liu.


    Of course, having done something on his behalf, the Tathagata naturally had to mention it, as if to curry favor.


    "Your disciple is at fault, causing Buddha to apologize on my behalf!" Understanding what the Tathagata meant, Jiang Liu went along with the Tathagata''s words, expressing his gratitude profusely.


    That was the response he wanted. Seeing Jiang Liu looking grateful, the Tathagata nodded slightly, saying, "To atone andpensate the Supreme Elder Lord, I have given away many precious treasures and brought shame upon myself. I hope you will remain undaunted and never give up on your westward quest!"


    "Rest assured, Buddha, your disciple will surely bear your teachings in mind!"


    What should have been a scolding turned into an encouragement. Jiang Liu nodded vigorously, as if eager to show his utmost devotion for the Tathagata.


    Seeing Jiang Liu behaving this way, the Tathagata was finally satisfied. With a slight nod of his head, he then left with a swift movement of his figure.


    Naturally, the scenery around them changed back to its original appearance.


    "Phew, it''s a good thing I acted quickly, otherwise I would have been unable to avoid a scolding from Buddha today!" Watching Tathagata leave and the scenery change back, Jiang Liu secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    Just thinking about it, Jiang Liu knew that Tathagata, having had to clean up after him, must be in a bad mood, anding to find him would certainly not bring good news.


    However, fortunately, the mission of Journey to the West was of greater importance, and his own identity was also significant, so Tathagata was unwilling to press him too hard.


    Therefore, after showing great disappointment, he had no intention of scolding him further.


    "Ah, what a pity, I didn''t find the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill. The chances of stealing an Immortal Pill in the future are almost impossible, right?" Shaking his head, Jiang Liu put Tathagata''s concerns behind him and immediately felt a pang of regret.


    Let''s not dwell on Jiang Liu''s thoughts for now; beside him, Sun Wukong, following Tathagata''s departure, slowly opened his eyes and looked around.


    "Master, where are we?" Sun Wukong asked Jiang Liu, looking at the unfamiliar scenery around them.


    "I''m not sure either; I woke up just a bit earlier than you!" replied Jiang Liu, shaking his head after hearing Sun Wukong''s question.


    "Alright! It seems I, Old Sun, drank a bit too much Imperial Wine and passed out drunk, didn''t I?" After thinking for a moment, Sun Wukong, more or less recalling what had happened before, spoke.


    While talking, Sun Wukong naturally prepared to return to the Exquisite Immortal Mansion with Jiang Liu.


    However, Sun Wukong, attempting to use his Somersault Cloud Divine Skills, failed after trying, and to his surprise, fell from mid-air.


    "What''s going on? Is the hangover from this wine really that strong!?" Watching Sun Wukong fail to perform his Somersault Cloud, Jiang Liu was taken aback.


    Back in his past life, drunk driving was strictly prohibited. Could it be that the world of Journey to the West was the same?


    After being drunk, Sun Wukong couldn''t even summon his Somersault Cloud!?


    "Even a horse stumbles, heh, Master, I, Old Sun, will try again!" Sun Wukong said, scratching his head after tumbling to the ground, looking confused, then immediately spoke to Jiang Liu.


    In the middle of speaking, he leaped up, flipped in mid-air, and tried to use his Somersault Cloud Divine Skills once more.


    But, without exception, Sun Wukong fell from the sky again,nding prone on the ground in a face-first flop.


    "Master, something''s wrong, it''s like all my mana has disappeared! Who could have done this to I, Old Sun!?" Sun Wukong, climbing up from the ground, looked upset and turned to speak to Jiang Liu.


    "All your mana has disappeared!?" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu''s heart sank, and his eyes quickly fell on Sun Wukong, mentallymanding: Character Pane!


    As Jiang Liu''s character pane appeared, a semi-transparent disy surfaced in front of him.


    No changes were apparent in the character''s level or other aspects, but Jiang Liu noticed an additional status behind Sun Wukong''s name.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on this status, the corresponding information emerged before him.


    "Cursed status: under this condition, all mana values cannot be mobilized,sting 72 hours!"


    "Cursed status!?" Seeing this status on Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu was momentarily stunned, feeling bewildered.


    There was no reason for Sun Wukong to have such a status without cause.


    Clearly, someone took advantage of Sun Wukong''s drunken sleep to inflict this status on him.


    And since Tathagata had just appeared, with Sun Wukong passed out in front of him, he couldn''t possibly have missed it, could he?


    "To give Sun Wukong such a status, only Tathagata, Great Jade Emperor, and Supreme Elder Lord have the power to do so, right? It seems that one of these three is behind this status, and each of them seems to have a motive to take action?"


    After pondering for a while, Jiang Liu somewhat understood Sun Wukong''s situation.


    Fortunately, the duration of this status wasn''t very long, just a mere 72 hours, so obviously, one of the bigwigs used this method to give Sun Wukong a warning.


    "Sun Wukong!?"


    Just as Sun Wukong was distracted by his own situation, suddenly a voice called out, shouting at Sun Wukong.


    "Huh? Who is calling I, Old..." Sun Wukong began to respond reflexively.@@novelbin@@


    However, before he could finish, his form rapidly shrank, then he was whisked aside and sucked into a Purple Gold Gourd.


    A demon creature with a silver horn held the Purple Gold Gourd andughed triumphantly.

 Chapter 280 Wukong, quickly tie me up with a rope

    Jiang Liu, within this demon''s cave abode, was entirely fearless, and to these little demons, he seemed indifferent to life and death.


    For instance, if Silver Horn King wanted to capture him? Fine, no need for you to catch me, I''ll follow you myself to save the trouble of a fight.


    Or if Gold Horn King said he wanted to eat him? Sure, up to you, kill or slice, all fine!


    A certain old demon beside them, obviously nearing the end of his life, couldn''t bear the thought that eating a piece of Jiang Liu''s flesh would grant him immortality, leapt up in impatience to make his move, only to be nearly knocked unconscious by a p from Silver Horn King.


    On the surface, it looked like they really intended to eat Xuanzang, but all of this was just for show. Actually killing him would be asking for trouble, so naturally, Silver Horn King couldn''t let the old demon actually kill Jiang Liu.


    Facing the bemused expressions of the little demons, Silver Horn King could only speak up and say they would keep him for a few days before deciding.


    Hearing Silver Horn King''s words, the little demons in the cave naturally couldn''t say anything and stepped forward with ropes to bind Jiang Liu, cing him in a stone chamber on one side to prevent his escape.


    "Sigh, I''ve been on this Journey to the West for over a year now, and finally I''ve been captured by a demon creature?" Inside the stone chamber, Jiang Liu looked at the ropes binding him and couldn''t help but shake his head with some emotion.


    Well, as a character like Tang Monk, wouldn''t it be somewhat illogical not to get captured by demons?


    Yet, such restraints seemed superfluous for him.


    Though the rope seemed specially made, imprisoning him and unbreakable, couldn''t he just cast a Dispel Curse on himself to break free from this state?


    But now that he had been captured, and Sun Wukong had lost his mana, imprisoned in the Purple Gold Gourd, what next? How should he save himself?


    Or rather, how should he y out this heavenly ordeal?


    Jiang Liu was not in a hurry, contentedly waiting and even sitting down calmly, closing his eyes and silently practicing the Cultivation Technique of Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    And so, in the blink of an eye, three days had passed.


    Jiang Liu remained contentedly in his ce, while Sun Wukong was trapped in the Purple Gold Gourd, unable to escape even as his mana was restored.


    What about Zhu Bajie and the others? They were naturally still waiting in the Exquisite Immortal Mansion.


    The master and eldest brother had gone to heaven, so a dy of a few days or even a month or two was not unusual.


    One day, Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King were alone, having found excuses to send away all the little demons within the cave.


    "What do you think we should do next? How should we arrange for someone to rescue Tang Monk!" Gold Horn King looked around and immediately began discussing the next steps with Silver Horn King.


    ording to the master''s instructions, capturing Tang Monk and holding him in this demon cave would count as a fulfillment of the ordeal, right?


    The next step was simply to finish ying out this act, so Tang Monk could be sessfully rescued, and the matter would then be satisfactorily concluded.


    "Hmm, indeed, we do need to think of a n!" Hearing this, Silver Horn King nodded in agreement.


    Immediately after, the two started deliberating on how to legitimately facilitate Tang Monk''s rescue.


    "That monkey is locked in the Purple Gold Gourd, so it seems we need to find a way to let him out," Gold Horn King mused, feeling that the situation ultimately rested on Sun Wukong.


    "Hmm, having him locked up for these days, he should have suffered a bit, hmph¡­" Silver Horn King nodded, still bearing a grudge about Sun Wukong causing Havoc in Heaven and being shoved into the Eight Trigrams Furnace, feeling quite satisfied thinking about Sun Wukong confined in the Purple Gold Gourd.


    After a brief discussion, Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King had every intention to secretly release Sun Wukong; naturally, this made the task much simpler.


    That night, after drinking a few extra cups, Silver Horn King was somewhat tipsy. He took out the Purple Gold Gourd and shook it, clearly showing signs of drunkenness, and said, "That monkey has been shut in here for so many days, I wonder if he''s dead yet?"


    Sun Wukong, imprisoned within the Purple Gold Gourd, lit up at the sound from outside. The demon outside seemed drunk? Might there be a chance?


    Inside the Purple Gold Gourd, Sun Wukong''s eyes rolled around a few times before he shouted, "I''m not dead, I, Old Sun, am still alive, hahaha!"


    "Damn, this monkey still has so much energy to shout so loudly!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s shout from inside, Silver Horn King was displeased.


    Finding it unsatisfactory, he grabbed the Purple Gold Gourd and shook it violently several times, causing Sun Wukong inside to stagger and yell, and only then did Silver Horn King nod in satisfaction.


    "You little demon outside, I, your Grandpa Sun, am like a tiger that has fallen to the ins and is bullied by dogs today because you sneak-attacked me! Otherwise, with just your ability, I could crush you to death with one finger!" Sun Wukong protested vigorously from inside the gourd, shouting out loud.


    "You''re still stubborn? What abilities do you, this monkey, have? Daring to puff yourself up at a time like this!?" cing the Purple Gold Gourd on the table and burping from alcohol, Silver Horn King asked scornfully.


    "Listen up, I, your Grandpa Sun, am the Great Sage Equal to Heaven who caused Havoc in Heaven five hundred years ago. The tricks I know are countless, and little demons like you only dare to scheme against me when I''m not paying attention!" Sun Wukong in the gourd spoke loudly, doing his best to belittle Silver Horn King.


    "Hahaha, this monkey, you''re infuriating this Great King!"


    Listening to Sun Wukong''s words, which kept belittling him, Silver Horn King half genuinely and half pretentiously cried out in fury.


    "The less capable a person is, the bigger their temper tends to be, while those who truly have skills simply take action. If you''re really capable, why don''t you let me out? If you can beat me fair and square, I''ll take back what I just said!" Mockeryced Sun Wukong''s voice, which continued to ring from within the gourd.


    Provocation, though a simple trick, must be said to sometimes be particrly effective - the simpler the ruse, the more likely it is to work.@@novelbin@@


    Whether genuinely angered by Sun Wukong, or perhaps due to his drunken state, the Silver Horn King seemed to havepletely fallen for Sun Wukong''s provocation.


    "Fine, today this great king will see just what skills you, a short and scrawny monkey, actually possess to boast so boldly before me!"


    With that deration, Silver Horn fumbled for a moment before sessfully picking up the Purple Gold Gourd, and then, he opened its mouth.


    As soon as the Purple Gold Gourd was opened, naturally, Sun Wukong, who couldn''t wait to be released, shot out as a streak of light and leapt free.


    However, before Wukong could make a move, Silver Horn King, who had opened the mouth of the gourd, suddenly listed to one side and copsed onto the table, falling fast asleep.


    "Heh heh heh, this guy..." Seeing Silver Horn King passed out drunk, Sun Wukong smirked with a smile.


    He thought about attacking and killing him right there, but after a moment''s hesitation, he didn''t make a move.


    "Hey, wake up, wake up. Where''s my master?" Sun Wukong nudged the sleeping Silver Horn King and asked.


    But Silver Horn King, looking as if he were dead to the world like a pig, didn''t respond at all to Sun Wukong''s shoving.


    After considering the situation, Sun Wukong decided not to make a move that would startle the enemy. He picked up the Purple Gold Gourd and after plucking one of his hairs and blowing on it to create an identical copy of himself, he ced it inside. He then positioned the gourd properly back on the table.


    Next, he employed a transformation skill to assume the appearance of a little demon and began to wander about the cave dwelling.


    After roaming around for a bit and chatting with a few little demons, he quickly learned from them where Jiang Liu was imprisoned.


    However, when Sun Wukong arrived at the stone chamber, he found the door shut and two little demons standing guard, preventing anyone from entering.


    Seeing this, Sun Wukong paused in his steps, but then he cracked a sly smile.


    Using one of his seventy-two transformations, he turned into a tiny mosquito and flew straight over, then slipped through the crack in the door of the stone chamber.


    Master, Master...


    Jiang Liu sat on the ground, circting the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound cultivation technique, feeling the gradual increase of Experience Points when suddenly, the weak cry of a mosquito broke his concentration, prompting him to open his eyes.


    Did he just hear Wukong''s voice?


    However, looking around the stone chamber, he saw only himself.


    "Master, I''m right here!" As soon as Jiang Liu opened his eyes, Sun Wukong dispelled his transformation, reverting to his monkey form and appearing before Jiang Liu.


    While speaking, Sun Wukong nced at the ropes binding his master and said, "Master, let me untie you first!"


    As he was about to untie the ropes...


    "Wait, Wukong..." But as Sun Wukong went to untie the ropes, Jiang Liu hastily spoke up, stopping him.


    "What is it?" Sun Wukong looked at Jiang Liu, puzzled.


    "Just leave, do not rescue me, and even tell Bajie and the others not toe for me!" Jiang Liu shook his head as he spoke.


    "What!?" Sun Wukong''s words made Sun Wukong''s eyes bulge in bewildered surprise.


    "Dispel Curse!"


    Without further exnation, Jiang Liu cast a Dispel Curse on himself, able to eliminate all control type effects.


    As expected, with the skill enacted, the ropes that bound him undid themselves, and Jiang Liu regained his freedom.


    He moved his limbs and stretched, saying, "You see, these ropes couldn''t hold your teacher. If I wanted to escape, I would''ve done so long ago!"


    "Then why are you..." Sun Wukong felt his head couldn''t quite keep up.


    If his master could find a way to escape, why had he remained there? And now, he was even insisting that Sun Wukong and Bajie not rescue him?


    "It''splicated, and I can''t exin it all in a few words. Just listen to me and do note for me!" Jiang Liu shook his head, indicating he was not inclined to exin further, merely instructing Sun Wukong.


    "Well, alright then!"


    After some thought, considering his master must have his reasons, Sun Wukong, having great trust in Jiang Liu, decided not to ask any more questions and turned, preparing to leave.


    "Sigh, wait a second, Wukong, don''t be in such a hurry to leave. Tie me up quickly with the ropes. I can untie them, but I can''t tie them on myself..."

 Chapter 282 How about we secretly release Tang Monk?

    Panicked, at this moment, both Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King, after ncing at each other, felt a bit panicked.


    Because the development of events hadpletely gone beyond their expectations, what had been originally nned hadpletely changed by now, and it was a change thatpletely exceeded their own ns.


    Inside the cave, the little demons were eagerly waiting to eat the flesh of Tang Monk, each one looking as famished as a wolf.


    Although the two of them were powerful enough to suppress them, if they had to wait too long, nobody knew whether these little demons might collude together and secretly kill Tang Monk to eat his flesh.


    If that happened, their sins would be great.


    After all, being demon creatures, their determination naturally was not strong. Without the temptation of Tang Monk''s Evesting Flesh, there was no need to worry that they would dare to defy their will. However, having waited so patiently for so long, Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King could feel the patience of their subordinates nearly grinding down.


    Originally, they had nned to have Sun Wukonge to the rescue, but who knew that once Sun Wukong got his freedom, he wouldn''te to the rescue!


    Well, maybe Sun Wukong had some grievances with Tang Monk? This monkey was originally a fierce and unyielding creature.


    So, keep the script the same, but rece Sun Wukong''s role with Zhu Bajie? That way, there shouldn''t be any problems, should there?


    But then? The two brothers had been waiting here for one day, and it was already the middle of the night. And Zhu Bajie and his group still hadn''te to the rescue?


    At this point, both Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King felt a bit panicked again.


    The situation seemed to have reached a point where it was difficult to back out. If they didn''te to the rescue, they surely couldn''t just release Xuanzang, could they?


    "Big brother, what do you think this means? Could it be that Tang Monk is such a poor master? He is about to die, and his disciples don''t even bother to ask?" Silver Horn King said to Gold Horn King with a slightly strange expression, voicing hisints.


    "This is unreasonable!"


    A puzzled look filled the face of Gold Horn King, who said, "Even if Tang Monk''s character is very poor, his disciples shouldn''t all fail toe to the rescue, right? What then is the meaning behind Guanyin Bodhisattva arranging for them to protect Tang Monk on his Journey to the West?"


    "So, big brother, you mean that there might be some other reasons why they aren''ting to the rescue?" Hearing what Gold Horn King said, Silver Horn King also found it somewhat usible and nodded in agreement.


    "It must be so!"


    Rtively speaking, Gold Horn King also felt that there had to be some hidden intricacies that they didn''t know about; otherwise, deliberately noting to the rescue made no sense at all.


    Only, what could be the reasons that were keeping Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie froming to the rescue? Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King had absolutely no idea.


    "What should we do next!?" After thinking for a while, Silver Horn King asked.


    "Hmm, maybe we should still go and investigate. See if we can find out why they aren''ting to the rescue!" Gold Horn King suggested. No matter what, it was not right to keep Tang Monk stuck in the cave like this; it was better to find out the situation first.


    "What is going on! This task was supposed to bepleted easily; why has it be so difficult..." Silver Horn King felt almost tearful.


    To get them toe to the rescue, yet not make it too obvious? Even releasing him is this difficult?


    This is too hard!


    Over the next two days, Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King quietly approached the Exquisite Immortal Mansion to see what Sun Wukong and his group were thinking and what they had been up to these days.


    However, after observing in secret for two days, they came up with nothing.


    They only saw Sun Wukong and his group adopting a totally indifferent attitude, spending every day in the Immortal Mansion just eating and drinking, boisterously consuming hotpot.


    After eating, once the dishes were cleaned up, they sat together to y Fight the Landlord.


    Even White Dragon Horse, transformed into human form, joined in to y Mahjong!


    Hidden in a concealed spot, Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King were almost dumbfounded.


    What was going on with these guys? Knowing that their master was captured, they neither came to the rescue nor showed concern, and instead, they had the leisure to y Fight the Landlord and Mahjong?


    Is this the protection Guanyin Bodhisattva expected them to provide to Tang Monk on his Journey to the West?


    If the timing had been suitable, Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King felt they really should go andin to Guanyin Bodhisattva!


    "Big brother, what can we do about this?" Seeing the attitude of Sun Wukong and his group, seemingly determined not toe to the rescue andpletely indifferent about Tang Monk''s capture, Silver Horn King was almost on the verge of crying.


    "This, this, I don''t know what to do at the moment!" Hearing this, Gold Horn King also shook his head.


    Yes, what should they do about the current situation? Should they jump out and beg Sun Wukong and his group toe to the rescue?


    Wouldn''t this ordeal then seem like a joke?


    "How about, we just release Tang Monk?" After a moment of silence, Gold Horn King spoke up, suggesting.


    "Release him!? No way!" Upon hearing this, Silver Horn King''s expression changed as he firmly shook his head, saying, "Big brother, we finally captured Tang Monk, and we''re close to seeding in this ordeal. If we release him now, wouldn''t all our efforts have been in vain?"


    "No, when I said ''let him go,'' I didn''t mean to actually release him. These days, the Tang Monk has been quite docile inside the cave. Let''s pretend that he''s very obedient, unbind him, and create an opportunity for him to escape. What do you think?" Seeing the Silver Horn King shake his head resolutely, the Gold Horn King spoke up and repeated his idea.


    "This..."


    Upon hearing this, the Silver Horn King thought for a moment, and then shook his head with a pained expression. "Now, what else can we do? Sun Wukong and the others aren''ting to rescue him. It seems we''re left only with this n that isn''t really a n. Let''s hope the Tang Monk can manage his own escape!"


    Notification: Experience Points +6.


    Notification: Experience Points +6.


    Notification: Experience Points +7.


    ...


    Inside the demon''s cave, Jiang Liu sat on the ground. The ropes around his body had somehow been untied, and he quietly cultivated the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound. Notifications from the system continuously resounded in Jiang Liu''s mind.


    Afterpleting a Complete Cycle 981 times, Jiang Liu ceased his cultivation, opened his eyes, and then pulled out a bowl of Jadescent Nectar from his space storage, taking a sip of it.


    Notification: Gained 35,320 Experience Points.


    With this sip of Jadescent Nectar, system notifications arrived as expected.


    Because he had been tied up and showed no resistance while locked up here, the Gold Horn King and his followers had removed his bonds.


    And Jiang Liu? He drank a sip of Jadescent Nectar daily, not only to increase his Experience Points but also to improve his aptitude.


    Imperceptibly, his aptitude seemed to have improved again.


    For instance, during cultivation, he usually gained 6 Experience Points, but now, asionally the system would surprise him with notifications of 7 Experience Points.


    Isn''t this a sign of improved aptitude?


    After he stopped cultivating, Jiang Liu silently invoked his character panel and saw that to ascend from level 39 to level 40, he needed a total of five million Experience Points. He currently had only about 2.2 million, still a long way off.


    Seeing these Experience Points, Jiang Liu really wanted to drink more Jadescent Nectar and get drunk¡ªit would be better to first level up to 40 anyway.


    However, being inside the demon''s cave surrounded by demons, Jiang Liu decided not to rush.


    Drinking a sip of Jadescent Nectar each day was more beneficial for absorption, anyhow.


    Just at that moment, the door of the stone chamber was pushed open and the Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King walked in.


    As they opened the door, Jiang Liu quickly hid the Jadescent Nectar.


    "Tang Monk, how is it? Having stayed in our demon''s cave for nearly half a month, how do you feel!?" The Gold Horn King approached, chuckling heartily as he spoke to Jiang Liu.


    "You evil demon, spare me the nonsense. If you''re going to kill, then kill. This poor monk isn''t afraid of death!" Sitting on the ground, Jiang Liu, hearing this, slightly lifted his eyelids and spoke calmly to the Gold Horn King, a manner that indeed seemed indifferent to life or death.


    "Great! Hahaha!" However, hearing Jiang Liu''s words, not only did the Gold Horn King not get angry, but he also nodded andughed heartily, admiring the Tang Monk''s demeanor. "This Great King appreciates such fearlessness in a man. It''s such a pity that, if not for the distinction between humans and demons, perhaps we could have been friends!"


    Toward the end, the Gold Horn King''s face was filled with a look of regret and wistfulness.


    "Oh? So, you''re here to kill me today?" Jiang Liu''s expression remained calm as he nced at the Gold Horn King and spoke.


    "You''ve been recuperating in this cave for nearly half a month. By now, you should be well recuperated. I''ve decided that tomorrow I will kill and eat your flesh, and let all the little demons in this cave taste your Evesting Flesh!" He nodded emphatically, the Gold Horn King dered.


    "Oh, okay!" Jiang Liu nodded calmly upon hearing this.


    At his side, the Silver Horn King twitched the corner of his mouth slightly.


    Brother, we''re talking about eating you, and you just respond with an "Oh"? Can''t you give a reaction that''s a bit more reasonable?


    "Great King, are we really going to eat this Evesting Flesh tomorrow?" Although Jiang Liu showed little reaction, the little demons following them were visibly excited, immediately gazing intently at the Gold Horn King as they asked.


    "Nonsense, has there ever been a time when this Great King''s words were not to be taken seriously?" The Gold Horn King nced sideways at the little demons, speaking impatiently.


    "No, no! I''m just too excited. Thank you, Great King!" Hearing the Gold Horn King''s words, the little demons were so excited that they were almost incoherent.


    "They want to kill and eat me? What mischief are they up to now? Sigh..." Jiang Liu sighed inwardly.


    Having lingered here for nearly half a month, Jiang Liu had hoped to stay for a few more months. Surely they weren''t trying to find a way to make him leave?


    No! Under no circumstances could he leave!@@novelbin@@


    "Now, they say there''s always avish meal before an execution. Today, my cave will hold a banquet to celebrate the feast of your Evesting Flesh in advance. You''re invited to attend and enjoy thisst sumptuous meal!"

 Chapter 284 Want to Force a Grand Finale?

    Heavenly Court, Doushuai Pce.


    Supreme Elder Lord stayed in his own pce, quietly awaiting Sun Wukong''s search for him.


    After a chat with Guanyin, he learnt that Xuanzang''s condition was rather peculiar; thus, Supreme Elder Lord took the initiative to incarnate as Gold-Horn and Silver-Horn''s foster father and personally met Xuanzang.


    Following the visit, Supreme Elder Lord was indeed attracted by Jiang Liu''s situation, and he even considered taking him as a disciple out of appreciation for his talent.


    For Supreme Elder Lord, having met Jiang Liu meant that his purpose of descending to the mortal realm was achieved. Moreover, encountering the theft of elixirs within Doushuai Pce, Supreme Elder Lord hurried back, feeling no more reason to stay below.


    ording to the original n, after Gold-Horn and Silver-Horn had captured Xuanzang, the Dharma Treasures in their possession should have caused that rascal monkey, Sun Wukong, some suffering, and then he woulde seeking his assistance, right?


    Sitting quietly in front of his Eight Trigrams Furnace, the Samadhi True Fire burned within. Momentster, as the furnace opened, over a hundred mahjong tiles, transparent and smooth as jade, flew out.


    They then automatically flew into a treasure box.


    With a gentle flick of his hand, the mahjong set within the treasure boxnded aside.


    Looking around, there were over a hundred simr treasure boxes.


    With nothing better to do, Supreme Elder Lord had casually forged over a hundred mahjong sets using his Eight Trigrams Furnace.


    Besides mahjong, there were also palm-sized brocade boxes, obviously containing decks of poker cards.


    "Hmm, both Fight the Landlord and ying mahjong are indeed quite interesting. No wonder the people at Wuzhuang Temple are so deeply influenced!" After casually forging another set of mahjong tiles, Supreme Elder Lord nodded to himself.


    He quietly contemted, considering that when he was idleter, it might be fashionable to asionally give a set of mahjong or poker cards to other immortals and buddhas


    "My Lord, my Lord, I''ve returned..."


    Just as Supreme Elder Lord was about to take some spirit stones and prepare to forge a few more mahjong sets, suddenly a rush of hurried footsteps sounded, and immediately thereafter, Gold-Horn King charged in.


    "Is it you? How did youe back? Is Xuanzang''s issue resolved!?" Seeing Gold-Horn King rushing in, Supreme Elder Lord was slightly startled and curiously asked.


    "My Lord, yes, I''vee for help!" Hearing Supreme Elder Lord''s words, Gold-Horn King looked somewhat embarrassed and awkwardly spoke. Read new chapters at My Virtual Library Empire


    "For help!?"


    Hearing this, Supreme Elder Lord was puzzled for a moment, then expressed his surprise, "Purple Gold Gourd, Jade Pure Bottle of Mutton-Fat Jade, Seven-Star Precious Sword, Shaking Golden Rope, and Banana Leaf Fan¡ªwith so many treasures at your disposal, you couldn''t defeat that monkey and now youe seeking help!?"


    Without waiting for Gold-Horn King''s response, Supreme Elder Lord continued, "Ah, wait, that''s not right! If you really couldn''t defeat him, why not just give Xuanzang back to them and let the matter conclude smoothly? There''s no need for you to seek help!"


    "My Lord, naturally we understand what you''re saying, but the situation has developed beyond our expectations!" Hearing Supreme Elder Lord''s words, Gold-Horn King was almost on the verge of tears.


    If things were as he mentioned, he would havepleted the task long ago; there wouldn''t be a reason to wait until now.


    "So, what exactly happened? Tell me!" Seeing Gold-Horn King''s demeanor, Supreme Elder Lord pondered for a moment before asking.


    There was no choice; he had been awaiting Sun Wukong''s call for aid, but unexpectedly, instead of that rascal monkey showing up, one of his own child servants had arrived.


    "It''s like this, my Lord..."


    Hearing Supreme Elder Lord''s inquiry, Gold-Horn King hurriedly began, exining everything that had urred in the Lower Realm in great detail.


    Though they knew the master was in their hands, Sun Wukong and his brothers were still eating and sleeping as usual, even spending time ying mahjong and Fight the Landlord, showing no concern for their master, Tang Monk''s, life.


    Besides Sun Wukong and his brothers, there was also something highly unusual about Tang Monk himself.@@novelbin@@


    He had specially got himself and the little demons all drunk, yet Tang Monk showed no intention of escaping from Pingding Mountain; in fact, he even returned to the sealed stone chamber on his own?


    The situation was truly difficult for them now.


    The little demons inside the mountain cave were eagerly awaiting the consumption of Tang Monk''s flesh, but here, including Tang Monk himself, none seemed eager to save themselves or escape. They could not really let Tang Monk die by their own hands, could they?


    "Eh? Is that really what happened?" Hearing the events from the Lower Realm, Supreme Elder Lord also froze, his face showing surprise as he spoke.


    Indeed, anyone would find these issues surprising.


    After all, theportment and techniques of the Journey to the West Team werepletely unconventional!


    "My Lord, what should we do next?" Seeing Supreme Elder Lord also showing a surprised expression and pondering, Gold-Horn King asked.


    "Hmm, now that I know your situation, you may go back. I know what to do!" After pondering for a moment, Supreme Elder Lord waved Gold-Horn King away.


    For Gold-Horn King, trust in Supreme Elder Lord was natural. Since he said he had a solution, there was no need for further questions. Nodding his head, embodying a mix of uneasy thoughts, he turned and left.


    "Interesting..." As soon as Gold Horn King left, Supreme Elder Lord thought about the utterly unusual actions of Jiang Liu and hispanions, a slight smile curling at the corners of his mouth.


    Appearing somewhat intrigued and curious.


    What exactly were Xuanzang and hispanions selling in their gourd? Why were they acting this way?


    Could it be that Xuanzang already knew that Gold Horn and Silver Horn were his own people? Therefore, he was fearless, knowing that they wouldn''t harm his life?


    It seemed that this was the only exnation that made sense.


    After all, Xuanzang and the Rascal Monkey, Sun Wukong, had already visited the Doushuai Pce once. Since neither he nor the two child servants were in the Doushuai Pce at that time, it was possible that they had guessed something.


    Now that the true nature of things had been figured out by Xuanzang and hispanions, continuing the charade seemed pointless.


    Thinking it over, Supreme Elder Lord also started moving, preparing to descend to the Lower Realm to take a look.


    Just as he was about to move, he seemed to remember something, and his steps briefly halted.


    Immediately after, he raised his hand and took one set each of the Mahjong and Poker cards he had crafted. Then, he turned and left.


    ...


    Within the cave on Pingding Mountain, Jiang Liu was still serenely seated, cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound in a cross-legged posture.


    Even though the Little Demons outside were already sharpening their knives eagerly, Jiang Liu was stillpletely unconcerned about his own safety. His calm mastery impressed many of the Little Demons.


    Facing death yet remaining so tranquil, he truly deserved the title of Holy Monk from Great Tang, didn''t he?


    Only then, his flesh and blood must have extraordinary effects, capable of granting longevity, right?


    After a moment, Gold Horn King returned from a trip to the Heavenly Court.


    However, before Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King could say anything, suddenly, a beam of light descended from the sky.


    At the same time, the dignified Supreme Elder Lord, riding on a Green Ox, appeared in the sky.


    The appearance of this beam of light seemed to pierce through heaven and earth momentarily, causing celestial phenomena and faint sounds of immortals.


    "Hey, Great Brother, Second Brother,e and look at this!" At the foot of Pingding Mountain, in the Exquisite Immortal Mansion, witnessing this spectacr change in the heavens and the earth, Sha Wujing hurriedly called out to the inside.


    "Holy cow, who is this descending? What a show-off!" Watching the distant, faint celestial sounds, Zhu Bajie rubbed his sleepy eyes andined.


    Sun Wukong ced his monkey paw over his eyes and looked towards the direction of the falling light beam, then spoke, "Oh, it''s that old geezer Supreme Elder Lording down, idiot, you''re not wrong in saying that he''s quite the show-off today!"


    "Ptooey, ptooey, ptooey..." Hearing that it was Supreme Elder Lording down, Zhu Bajie''s face changed, then he quickly spit several times and softly pped his own pig mouth with his palm.


    Okay, he waspletely talking nonsense just now.


    Anyone could say it, but it just had to be Supreme Elder Lord who descended, and Zhu Bajie wasn''t supposed to say it.


    "Is it Supreme Elder Lord who has descended? Then, what should we do?" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Sha Wujing asked.


    "Hmm, since the old geezer himself hase down, let''s go meet him. Also, I, Old Sun, have a question for him about why he made I, Old Sun, lose my mana for several days!"


    Thinking it over, Sun Wukong remembered the previous incident when he had woken up with his manapletely depleted, and grumbled.


    As he spoke, he leaped up and flew towards Pingding Mountain.


    "Boy, aren''t youing out!? When else would you!?" Sitting high on the Green Ox''s back, Supreme Elder Lord dered from his elevated position.


    His voice wasn''t loud, but empowered by mana, it clearly transmitted downwards.


    Following Supreme Elder Lord''s speech, naturally, Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King quickly ran out.


    Upon seeing Supreme Elder Lord, they feigned a terrified demeanor.


    "You two boys, you''ve been restless and secretly fled to the Lower Realm to be Demons, even capturing Tang Monk to eat his flesh? Committing such a grave error, won''t you follow me back to the Doushuai Pce to be punished!?" From his high position, Supreme Elder Lord said.


    "Ancestor Master, we dare not, we were wrong!" Hearing Supreme Elder Lord''s words, Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King knelt down and began to beg for mercy.


    "This is an attempt to skip the most exciting part of the y and move straight to the grand finale, is it!?"


    Inside the cave on Pingding Mountain, Jiang Liu walked out and upon seeing the scene before him, his face darkened.


    Thinking of just ending it like this? Did anyone ask him about it!?

 Chapter 285 How about trying a hundred and eighty Nine Revolutions Golden Pills?

    "Old man¡­" In the sky, a streak of light shed by, and immediately Sun Wukong arrived in front of the Supreme Elder Lord, calling out to him.


    "Great Saint!" Seeing Sun Wukong flying over, the Supreme Elder Lord slightly nodded his head in greeting, addressing him as Great Saint.


    Although he referred to him as Rascal Monkey behind his back, the Supreme Elder Lord still showed considerable respect to his face.


    "Old man, I, Old Sun, must ask you, I clearly remember passing out drunk in your Doushuai Pce that day. Why, after descending to the Lower Realm, could I not summon any of my mana at all? Did you do something to me, Old Sun!?" Sun Wukong was direct with his questions, not beating around the bush.


    "Great Saint, you''re misunderstanding me¡­"


    Regarding Sun Wukong''s words, the Supreme Elder Lord looked aggrieved and said, "The one who acted was not this Taoist priest, but the Jade Emperor!"


    "Jade Emperor!?" Hearing what the Supreme Elder Lord said, Sun Wukong frowned.


    Immediately understanding the reason, Sun Wukong curled his lips and said discontentedly, "That Jade Emperor Old Man is really stingy. Was it necessary to be so petty just because I stole a jar of his Imperial Wine?"


    "Alright, Holy Monk, Great Saint, this matter is settled now, and I should return to Doushuai Pce¡­" Waving his hand, the Supreme Elder Lord said.


    As he spoke, he waved the sleeves of his Taoist Robe, and the Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King, both dressed as boy servants in Taoist robes, immediately appeared by the Supreme Elder Lord''s side.


    "Ah, wait, Elder Lord¡­" However, just as the Supreme Elder Lord was about to turn around and leave with his two boy servants, Jiang Liu suddenly spoke up. Enjoy more content from My Virtual Library Empire


    "May I ask what else is there, Holy Monk Xuanzang?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s call, the Supreme Elder Lord turned around and asked.


    "Elder Lord, I feel that you have acted somewhat inappropriately in this matter¡­"


    Although the Supreme Elder Lord held a very prestigious position, Jiang Liu, now a member of the Buddhist Sect and backed by the entirety of the sect, looked at the Supreme Elder Lord with neither fear nor timidity.


    "Oh? Are you referring to my two boy servants descending to the Lower Realm as demons and troubling you? Indeed, this Taoist priest was in the wrong here, and I apologize to you, Holy Monk. Rest assured, these two boy servants were presumptuous and reckless. I will certainly discipline them severely when I return!"


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Supreme Elder Lord thought he was holding onto the issue of his two boy servants troubling him, and did indeed give Jiang Liu enough face by personally apologizing.


    "No, Elder Lord, you misunderstand!" However, hearing the Elder Lord''s words, Jiang Liu shook his head, indicating that this was not his point.


    He continued, "Actually, being captured by them and staying in the Demon Creature''s cave, it didn''t really trouble me, so I am not particrly angry with them!"


    "The broad-mindedness of the Holy Monk is admirable!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Supreme Elder Lord naturally followed the conversation, praising Jiang Liu.


    "However, although I don''t mind these matters, there are things that must be minded, so I say, Elder Lord, you have acted inappropriately!" Waving his hand, Jiang Liu was not dizzy from the Supreme Elder Lord''s ttery and continued speaking.


    "Please, Holy Monk, speak inly!"


    The Supreme Elder Lord looked intently at Jiang Liu, curious in his heart. Since he himself was not troubled by being captured and confined in this cave, what else could he be concerned about?


    "In those days, I was of Imperial Brother status in Great Tang, and additionally the Holy Monk of Great Tang, enjoying riches and honors, having everything one could ask for, right, Elder Lord?"


    Without further ado, Jiang Liu then invoked his identity as the Holy Monk of Great Tang.


    "Indeed, it is so!" Nodding his head, the Supreme Elder Lord also knew that Jiang Liu''s words were true.


    "Initially, when Bodhisattva Guanyin enlightened me, I agreed to go through hardships, step by step, covering eighty-one thousand miles to Western Heaven to worship Buddha and seek sutras. I had prepared my mind to face all the hardships along the way!" Jiang Liu nodded and continued speaking.


    "Such fearless and selfless spirit of the Holy Monk is indeed touching to all heavenly deities and Buddhas!" The Supreme Elder Lord nodded in agreement, continuing with anotherpliment.


    "However, although I was mentally prepared for all difficulties on the road to Western Heaven, it seems rather unjust for a deity to intentionally trouble me in the Lower Realm, doesn''t it?"


    Changing the direction of the conversation, Jiang Liu''s gaze turned to the Supreme Elder Lord, pausing slightly before continuing: "Initially, the Floral Mink under the Four Heavenly Kings descended to trouble me, and although it was a mistake, it served as a warning. However, today, if the Elder Lord easily took people away, wouldn''t it mean in the future that any heavenly deity could descend to the Lower Realm and trouble me?"


    Jiang Liu looked intently at the Supreme Elder Lord, his face disying anger, unwillingness, determination, and a hint of grievance.


    Indeed, it was like thepany had assigned a very difficult project, and he had voluntarily taken it up and prepared mentally to handle this challenging task.


    However, this did not mean that he could ept people within thepany also deliberately setting traps for him, could it?


    Acting, this y at Pingding Mountain was directed personally by the Doushuai Pce, and he himself was an unwilling participant. Now, wanting to prematurely force the ending and withdraw? Jiang Liu would not agree!


    "If indeed all the deities and Buddhas in heaven made your life difficult, perhaps Tathagata and Guanyin would be chuckling with joy! You may not know, but the previous incidents with the Floral Mink and this time, It was Guanyin herself who personally requested us to make your life difficult from the Lower Realm!"


    Jiang Liu''s words made the corners of the Supreme Elder Lord''s mouth twitch slightly as he muttered darkly to himself.


    Of course, these thoughts remained unspoken, for he would never dare to say them out loud.


    However, it must be said, from Jiang Liu''s perspective, who was unaware of the true nature of the Journey to the West, his words indeed were not wrong.


    Seeing the Supreme Elder Lord at a loss for words, Jiang Liu did not wait for him to speak, but continued with a sense of riding on the victory, saying, "Some days ago, this poor monk visited the Doushuai Pce, and after some drinking, mistakenly consumed several of your Miraculous Elixirs, it was indeed my fault. Hence, Tathagata himselfpensated you personally, didn''t he?"


    Supreme Elder Lord: "..."


    With these words, the Supreme Elder Lord understood what Jiang Liu meant.


    From the perspective of Xuanzang, indeed it was fair. Yes, he had made a mistake, consumed a few pills, which, although indeed precious like the Demon Emperor Pill, were useless to him, and still, Tathagata personally came to apologize andpensate him.


    So now? When his own people came down to the Lower Realm and made things difficult, just a verbal apology and taking people away?


    Seeing it from the perspective of Xuanzang, no wonder he felt what he was doing was unkind!


    Moreover, by mentioning Tathagata''s situation, Jiang Liu clearly intended to make him pay up.


    Partly, it was to follow the pattern of how Tathagata hadpensated him, partly as a deterrent to let the heavens see that even he had to make reparations, discouraging other deities from troubling him.


    Upon thinking this, the Supreme Elder Lord chuckled inwardly to himself.


    From Xuanzang''s perspective, he was right; however, from his own perspective, he wasn''t wrong either. This was something the Buddhist Sect was very aware of, so giving somepensation was eptable as he could always im it back from the Buddhist Sect!


    The Buddhist Sect surely wouldn''t want to see him bearing the burden after helping them, right? Otherwise, no deity would be willing to assist them in the future!


    With this thought, although the Supreme Elder Lord inwardly chuckled, he put on a remorseful expression and hesitated before speaking, "Then, how would the Holy Monk like to bepensated?"


    "It''s very simple! Just somepensation from you, Supreme Elder Lord!"


    Upon hearing the Supreme Elder Lord''s words, Jiang Liu responded.@@novelbin@@


    He then rified, "As I just mentioned, as the Holy Monk of Great Tang with the status of Imperial Brother, I have already enjoyed endless glory and wealth. I ask forpensation not out of greed for your possessions but just to make other immortals cautious and stop them from troubling me!"


    "What kind ofpensation would you consider, Holy Monk?" After pondering for a moment, the Supreme Elder Lord, with a resigned expression as if preparing for a heavy loss, asked Jiang Liu.


    "Hmm, Supreme Elder Lord, your art of alchemy is unmatched in all the realms!"


    After talking so much and finally seeing the Supreme Elder Lord agree to thepensation, Jiang Liu felt secretly delighted and tteringly uttered, "I hear your proudest creation is the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill? How about just giving me eight hundred and ten to try?"


    Although the Supreme Elder Lord had prepared himself for thepensation, even ready for him to ask excessively since whatever hepensated could be reimed from the Buddhist Sect, still, upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, he was stunned and gaped at Jiang Liu.


    Not just the Supreme Elder Lord, even Zhu Bajie and the others nearby were taken aback upon hearing Jiang Liu''s proposal, looking at him incredulously.


    "Pfft..." As for Sun Wukong nearby, with fewer concerns, upon hearing this, he couldn''t help but burst intoughter.


    Sitting atop the White Dragon Horse, he even joyously did a somersault, finding his master''s words highly amusing.


    Seeing the Supreme Elder Lord''s face turning as dark as the bottom of a pot, right?


    "Holy Monk, might you be misunderstanding something? The Nine Revolutions Golden Pill is indeed my proud creation, but the materials are incredibly precious, and the concoction extremely challenging. Not even a single pill can be produced in a thousand years, yet you ask for a hundred and eighty..." His lips twitching, the Supreme Elder Lord spoke with a somewhat rueful smile as he looked at Jiang Liu.


    "Supreme Elder Lord, that''s not fun anymore, is it? If not a hundred eighty, then forget it, how about just ten or eight? That should be alright, right?"


    Seeing the Supreme Elder Lord''s troubled look, Jiang Liu spoke as if making a great concession.

 Chapter 286 Only children make choices, I want it all of course!

    As the saying goes, ask for the moon and settle for a few coins¡ªJiang Liu knew that Nine Revolutions Golden Pills were very precious, so asking for a hundred and eighty just to try them was out of the question.


    But ask for the moon, and sometimes, you end up with more than what you had initially hoped for, right?


    The Supreme Elder Lord calmly looked at Jiang Liu without uttering a word.


    Indeed, from the initial asking of a hundred and eighty, now down to ten or eight, it seemed like a colossal concession. However, even with ten or eight, it''d be impossible for the Supreme Elder Lord to satisfy him.


    "Supreme Elder Lord, what''s with that look? You''re not going to give me even one, are you?" Seeing the expression on the Supreme Elder Lord''s face, Jiang Liu''s own expression turned peculiar as he spoke.


    Promisingpensation and giving nothing at all? That seemed somewhat unreasonable.


    "Actually, if you do want a Nine Revolutions Golden Pill, I can give you one!"


    The Supreme Elder Lord finally spoke up, relenting. His words filled Jiang Liu with immense joy!


    He had specifically found an excuse to visit the Doushuai Pce and even had Sun Wukong fetch the Jadescent Nectar, all for the sake of that one Nine Revolutions Golden Pill, hadn''t he?


    Who would have thought that the Supreme Elder Lord would now relent and agree to give him one?


    This was truly like searching high and low for someone and then finding them where the lights were waning!


    "However..."


    Yet, before Jiang Liu could celebrate, the Supreme Elder Lord switched gears and continued, "The value of the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill lies in its ability to let an ordinary person achieve the Cultivation Level of a Heavenly Immortal in an instant. However, everyone has their limits in what they can endure. If your improvement is solely based on the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill, you may reach the Heavenly Immortal Realm but will never be able to break through again in this lifetime!"


    "So, if you want it, I can give it to you, but I advise against it. On the other hand, with your current Cultivation Level, I think a Triple-Transformation Golden Pill would suit you best!"


    "This..." Jiang Liu was momentarily stunned by the Supreme Elder Lord''s words, looking at him in amazement.


    A Nine Revolutions Golden Pill had such side effects? Taking it would mean being stuck in the Heavenly Immortal Realm forever? He had never heard of this before.


    Yet, Jiang Liu didn''t doubt the Supreme Elder Lord''s words.


    After all, the Heavenly Immortal Realm was an elevation many couldn''t achieve in their entire lifetime. Even being stuck in the Heavenly Immortal Realm for life would make countless people envious.


    "This is a Nine Revolutions Golden Pill, and this is a Triple-Transformation Golden Pill. Pick one..."


    After discussing the drawbacks of the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill with Jiang Liu, the Supreme Elder Lord wasn''t bothered to exin further. He extended his hand, presented two golden pills, and ced them before Jiang Liu.


    The Nine Revolutions Golden Pill showed nine stripes, while the Triple-Transformation Golden Pill had three stripes.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze lingered on them, corresponding Attribute Information appeared before his eyes.


    Triple-Transformation Golden Pill (Consumable): Upon consuming, obtain 40,000,000 Experience Points. Subsequent consumption, effect halved.


    Nine Revolutions Golden Pill (Consumable): Upon consuming, obtain 2,560,000,000 Experience Points. Subsequent consumption, effect zero. Note: The lower the level when consuming this pill, the greater the side effects, with diminishing Experience Points from monster battles, possibly reaching zero.


    "Hiss..." Seeing the effects of the Triple-Transformation and Nine Revolutions Golden Pills, Jiang Liu gasped in surprise.


    The Triple-Transformation Golden Pill would grant 40 million Experience Points, which was not a small amount.


    But the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill yielded an even more terrifying number¡ª2.56 billion Experience Points!


    So does that mean, to grow from an ordinary person to the Heavenly Immortal Realm, about 2.56 billion Experience Points were needed?


    Triple-Transformation, with only 40 million, but the Nine Revolutions with 2.56 billion? The disparity seemed way too vast.


    Could it be that a single-transformation pill gives 10 million, a double-transformation gives 20 million, a triple gives 40 million, a quadruple 80 million, and so on?


    It seemed likely that this was the only way to make sense of it. Nine transformations for exactly 2.56 billion!?


    The Nine Revolutions Golden Pill, with its whopping 2.56 billion Experience Points, indeed made Jiang Liu''s heart burn with desire. A single consumption, and he could instantly rise above level 61, right?


    But thinking of the aftermath, the virtual end to his growth thereafter, Jiang Liu''s enthusiasm cooled significantly.


    After considering the benefits of both the Nine Revolutions and Triple-Transformation Golden Pills, Jiang Liu clearly knew which to choose.


    He reached out and took both the Nine Revolutions and Triple-Transformation Golden Pills into his hands, chuckling, "Supreme Elder Lord, there''s no need to be so stingy. Since you''ve brought them out, how can there be any reason to take them back?"


    Kids are the ones who make choices; adults, of course, want it all!


    "Xuanzang, you¡­" Seeing Jiang Liu take both golden pills, the Supreme Elder Lord had a somewhat helpless smile on his face.


    If Sun Wukong was the one making such a move, it might still make sense, but Xuanzang, the reincarnation of the circumspect and courteous Master Golden Cicada, doing something like this was unexpected for the Supreme Elder Lord. Continue reading on My Virtual Library Empire


    "Xuanzang, with such greed, aren''t you afraid you won''t achieve Buddhahoodter on?" Seeing Jiang Liu gleefully stash away both golden pills, the Supreme Elder Lord, though feeling the pinch, still couldn''t bring himself to seize them back. He could only speak with a tone of disapproval.


    "Heh heh heh, achieving Buddhahood? What''s that?"


    However, in response to Supreme Elder Lord''s words, Jiang Liu showed an indifferent attitude, and said, "Could it be? Mere strict adherence tomandments, fasting, and chanting is enough to achieve Buddhahood? Enlightenment is not about actions but the heart, isn''t it?"


    "As long as there is a clear mirror in the monk''s heart, even if I drink wine, eat meat, gamble, and kill, I can still be a Buddha!"


    "In this life, I do not cultivate good deeds, but revel in killing and arson. Suddenly, I shake off the golden shackles here, and break the jade locks. Huh! News of the tide from Qiantang River arrives, and today I finally realize that I am myself."


    Unmoved by the words of Supreme Elder Lord, Jiang Liu eventually spoke up and recited the Zen poem from Lu Zhishen''s meditation.


    "Huh? This Little Monk, your wisdom root is indeed very profound!"


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s view on achieving Buddhahood, particrly thest verse which seemed to perfectly describe his own situation, Supreme Elder Lord looked at Jiang Liu with a hint of amazement and said.


    "Many thanks for your grace, Supreme Elder Lord!" In response to Supreme Elder Lord''s praise, Jiang Liu did not show any arrogance, but simply expressed his gratitude for the elixir that had been bestowed upon him.


    Of course, this statement was also an implicit way of seeing him off. Having obtained the Golden Core, Jiang Liu naturally did not wish to linger any longer with such a powerful being.


    The presence of one at the Quasi-Saint Level could almost kill him with a mere breath, and being around someone like that¡ªfeeling one''s life not in one''s own control¡ªwas hardly aforting sensation.


    Nodding slightly, Supreme Elder Lord didn''t show any intention to stay longer either.


    After listening to Jiang Liu''s understanding of Buddhahood, Supreme Elder Lord felt even more regretful, contemting how wonderful it would be if such a promising individual were a disciple of his own sect instead of the Buddhist Sect.


    At this thought, Supreme Elder Lord''s gaze unnoticeably swept over Zhu Bajie beside him, and with a flick of his finger, two streaks of light hit Zhu Bajie on the head.


    Without saying much more, Supreme Elder Lord mounted the Green Ox and left. Naturally, the two boys transformed by Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King also followed Supreme Elder Lord away.


    As the Supreme Elder Lord and the two boys departed, the Little Demons of Pingding Mountain turned pale with fright and turned to flee for their lives.


    They had been eager to eat the longevity meat of Tang Monk; now, seeing such a formidable figure as Supreme Elder Lord personally descend to take away the two Great Kings and eyeing the formidable appearance of Tang Monk''s party, how could these Little Demons from Pingding Mountain dare to stay?


    "Stop them!" Seeing the Little Demons scattering in retreat, how could Jiang Liu let them escape? He shouted out loud.


    To Jiang Liu, these Little Demons were essentially Experience Points.


    With the Divine Tree Staff raised in his hand and the Feather Demon de unfurling behind his back, Jiang Liu focused his thoughts, and a multitude of de-like feathers shot out following his movements, falling upon the crowd of Little Demons.


    The Feather Demon de vibrated as it moved closer, and the Divine Tree Staff swung repeatedly, continuously striking the Little Demons.


    The battle waspletely one-sided; even the Demon Marshal level creatures could hardly threaten Jiang Liu.


    Thus, after about half an hour or so, the group of Little Demons were all beaten into severe injuries and unconsciousness by Jiang Liu''s attacks.@@novelbin@@


    All in all, from this battle, Jiang Liu gained another two to three hundred thousand Experience Points and some loot burst forth.


    However, after a nce, none of it seemed very valuable; the highest quality were only Perfect Quality equipment, and naturally, Jiang Liu was not interested.


    Notification: Quest "Subduing Demons at Pingding Mountain"plete, received 800,000 Experience Points, Legendary Level Treasure Chest *1.


    Following Jiang Liu defeating all the Little Demons and leaving them severely injured and unconscious, the system''s notification sounded in his mind.


    Another 800,000 Experience Points were credited, and Jiang Liu felt a secret joy.


    Silently invoking his character panel, he checked his level. To level up from 39 to 40, he would need 5 million Experience Points; he was already past 3 million.


    However, this was not the time to consider these things. After checking his character panel, Jiang Liu took out the two Golden Pills he had just extorted from the Supreme Elder Lord.


    The Nine Revolutions Golden Pill would naturally not be consumed immediately; he set it aside in his inventory space and directly swallowed the Triple-Transformation Golden Pill.


    As the Triple-Transformation Golden Pill was swallowed, in an instant, Jiang Liu felt a warm force suddenly explode out, but in the blink of an eye, it diffused into his limbs and bones.


    At the same time, an overwhelming surge of Cultivation Level roared within him, quickly absorbed by Jiang Liu.


    Concurrently, a constant stream of system notifications appeared.


    Notification: Gained 40,000,000 Experience Points.


    Notification: Level increased by 1, current level 40.


    Notification: Level increased by 1, current level 41.


    Notification: Level increased by 1, current level 42.


    Notification:


    ...

 Chapter 287 New Feature - Life Profession

    "Character Panel!"


    Following the continuous system prompts, Jiang Liu''s heart uttered a low shout, and immediately, a semi-transparent character panel appeared in front of Jiang Liu.


    ID: Jiang Liu (Blue)


    Gender: Male


    Profession: Compassionate Bodhisattva


    Level: 43 (16500000/18000000)


    Equipment: Divine Tree Staff...


    After the Triple-Transformation Golden Pill was consumed, the continual system prompts now showed him that his character level had jumped from 39 to 43, an increase of four levels.


    Moreover, looking at the final experience point situation, he wasn''t far from rising to level 44 either.


    The Triple-Transformation Golden Pill, with a total of 40 million experience points, was truly extraordinary. Seeing all this, Jiang Liu nodded in satisfaction.


    Of course, with the increase in level, Jiang Liu also gained another 4 skill points.@@novelbin@@


    After some thought, Jiang Liu invested the skill points into several key skills, and soon, his skill tree underwent new changes.


    He opened his list of skills and nodded in satisfaction once more.


    Silencing Zen (Primary Level 1): Requires level 1, long-range release, can silence the target for 2 seconds, during which no skills can be used, cooldown time 30 seconds.


    Arhat Fist (Great Perfection 4): Increases attack power by 15%, duration 180 seconds.


    Vajra Mantra (Great Perfection 4): Summons the mysterious power of Vajra to bless an ally, reducing the next four iing damages by 80%, cooldown time 50 seconds.


    Swift Fire Bead (Great Perfection 4): Fires a ball of mes to cause single-target damage within a 10-meter radius, attack power +100%, cooldown time 10 seconds.


    Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound (Fifth Layer 1+2+2+2+2): Produces a dragon''s chant from the mouth, repelling all nearby enemies, attack power +1800, cooldown time 300 seconds; additionally, during normal cultivation state, gains 5(+3) experience points every 10 seconds, next-level upgrade requires level 51.


    Guanyin Mantra (Great Perfection 4): Restores 25% of maximum health, cooldown time 600 seconds.


    Demon-Subduing Mantra (High-Level 3): Increases an ally''s attack power by +500, duration 300 seconds, cooldown 60 seconds.


    Sheep Transformation Technique (Primary Level 1): Transforms any target into a harmless littlemb for 2 seconds, during which they cannot attack or use skills, cooldown time 300 seconds.


    Dispel Curse (Primary Level 1): Removes control effects such as silence, immobility, transformation, and dizziness from a target, cooldown time 600 seconds.


    Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra (Great Perfection 4): Increases ally''s attack power by +25%, duration 300 seconds, cooldown 60 seconds.


    Palm Thunder (High-Level 3): After capturing the target, can unleash the power of thunder within the palm, attack power +1800+120%, cooldown time 60 seconds.


    Hand of Healing (Great Perfection 4): Summons an indestructible holy object from the sky, within a radius of a hundred meters, all ally targets recover 1% of their maximum health per second, duration 20 seconds, cooldown 1200 seconds.


    After reviewing his list of skills, Jiang Liu noticed a new change in the property of Arhat Fist. The attack power boost from the Great Perfection Realm of Arhat Fist was down to only 15%.


    It seemed that as his level increased, this increase was bing lower and lower! Could it be because this skill wasn''t a system skill, so rted information didn''t emerge?


    Secondly, Vajra Mantra was also maxed out by Jiang Liu, with a cooldown of only 50 seconds and the ability to exempt four attacks from 80% of the damage, which could definitely be called a divine skill!


    Of course, Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound was also promptly ranked up to the fifthyer by Jiang Liu. Originally, he could gain 5 experience points every 10 seconds, but with thebined enhancement of the Ginseng Fruit and the Jadescent Nectar, his aptitude was higher, allowing him to gain 8 experience points every 10 seconds.


    This was quite good, meaning that if he meditated and cultivated, he would gain more experience points.


    Finally, the Hand of Healing skill was also maxed out by Jiang Liu, extending its duration to a full 20 seconds.


    Recovering 1% every second for 20 seconds amounted to a group healing of 20% of health, didn''t it? This was truly worthy of being a divine skill of the Compassionate Bodhisattva.


    In sum, with the skill points leftover, and the four new ones gained from the level increase, he poured all 43 skill points into upgrades without any leftovers.


    But his list of skills had beenpletely renewed, as if a generational change had urred.


    After the Triple-Transformation Golden Pill, with 40 million experience points credited, his level skyrocketed by four, reaching level 43, and he updated his list of skills.


    However, before Jiang Liu could think further, suddenly, the sound of another system prompt caused his figure to stiffen for a moment.


    Prompt: Having reached level 41, a new feature, Life Profession, is unlocked. Mentally recite ''Life Profession'' to open the corresponding panel.


    This system prompt caused Jiang Liu''s figure to stiffen briefly, and then, he was overjoyed.


    Life Skills, having waited so long, were Life Skills finally unlocked? Explore hidden tales at My Virtual Library Empire


    ```


    The majority of equipment that burst forth was endowed with durability; the more it was used, the more the durability would decrease. If it really dropped to zero, unless there was an item like repair oil, there would be no choice but to helplessly watch as the equipment was damaged beyond repair.


    Atst, had a life profession finally appeared?


    "Life profession!"


    With joy, Jiang Liu silently recited to himself, and soon, a semi-transparent interface appeared in front of him.


    This interface provided three options: cksmith, tailor, and pharmacist.


    Quite simply, a cksmith was someone who forged and repaired metal items, such as weapons, nes, and rings.


    As for a tailor? That pertained to items like clothing, shoes, and wrist guards.


    Naturally, a pharmacist was rted to elixirs, such as blood-recovery potions, mana potions, or detoxification pills.


    Amidst his excitement, Jiang Liu''s main focus was on the cksmith option, and soon, the corresponding functions disyed before him.


    After opening a life profession, Jiang Liu felt an enlightened sensation rising in his heart; knowledge about the basics of cksmithing, tailoring, and pharmacology materialized out of thin air in his mind, as if recalling long-forgotten memories.


    Himself now being a cksmith apprentice, he could only craftmon-level equipment. It was necessary to forge or repair a thousand pieces ofmon-level equipment before his skill proficiency would increase¡­


    The life skills of a tailor and pharmacist functioned in the same manner.


    "Hey, master, what are you thinking about?"


    Seeing Jiang Liu immersed in his thoughts and silent for a long time, Sun Wukong couldn''t contain his curiosity and interrupted by asking.


    Ever since consuming the Triple-Transformation Golden Pill, Jiang Liu had first advanced in level, then he was busy updating his skills and now he was engrossed with life professions; seeing him spacing out, Sun Wukong naturally asked out of curiosity.


    "Oh, it''s nothing! Just got lost in thought for a bit!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s question, Jiang Liu shook his head and said, temporarily pushing aside the issue of life professions.


    "Lost in thought?" Sun Wukong nced at Jiang Liu curiously but did not dwell on it further, simply nodding to himself silently.


    Indeed, there had been many instances of the master spacing out along their journey; it was not something out of the ordinary.


    "Alright, disciples, let''s pack up and continue our journey!" Shaking his head, Jiang Liu didn''t say more, calling out to Sun Wukong and the others.


    After taking back the Exquisite Immortal Mansion, Jiang Liu mounted the White Dragon Horse and proceeded onward.


    The three disciples also resumed following behind Jiang Liu.


    However, riding on the back of the White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu quietly pondered: Forging and repairing a thousandmon-level pieces of equipment to enhance life skills?


    Life skills could not be improved by using skill points, which was troublesome indeed.


    Common equipment, then fine-level, perfect-level, legendary-level, epic-level, divine-level¡­


    Advancing one''s life profession skills seemed not to be such an easy task.


    However, he recalled that in the game, yers who chose life professions could also earn experience points by merely forging and repairing equipment, thereby leveling up.


    It seemed that practicing these life skills would be a viable leveling path in the future.


    Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound was indeed powerful, but he had reached the fifthyer already, out of a total of just sixyers; after all, it was a divine skill from the mortal world.


    It seemed necessary for him to take the opportunity to find a new cultivation technique to practice.


    In his inventory, he still had one unused Reset Scroll.


    When the right time came, he would wash away all his skill points and reallocate them into newly acquired skills.


    Shaking his head and continuing westward, Jiang Liu temporarily set aside these chaotic thoughts, inwardly calcting his gains from this venture.


    On the whole, this ordeal at Pingding Mountain had brought about tremendous gains for Jiang Liu!


    Indeed, the greatest gains were the Triple-Transformation Golden Pill and the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill.


    Though he wouldn''t consume the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill right now, it was, after all, worth 2.5 billion experience points. If he couldn''t eat it now, what''s to say he couldn''t in the future?


    Once he reached level 60, consuming it should have no side effects, he expected.


    Moreover, the Jadescent Nectar was a treasure. Aside from the three pounds or so Sun Wukong and Kuimu Wolf had drunk back and forth while at Doushuai Pce, the remaining seven pounds fell into Jiang Liu''s hands.


    Drinking a mouthful each day not only increased experience points but also improved his constitution¡ªa truly valuable item.


    Therefore, for Jiang Liu, the rewards from the ordeal at Pingding Mountain were very substantial indeed.


    He had obtained two golden pills from the Supreme Elder Lord. Whether it was a loss for the Supreme Elder Lord or he would ask Tathagata to reim it, it was of no concern to Jiang Liu, was it?


    "Master is so powerful!" While Jiang Liu pondered over his gains, Sun Wukong looked at him discreetly with admiration.


    ```

 Chapter 288 Black Chicken Country

    Sun Wukong truly admired Jiang Liu from the bottom of his heart. Jiang Liu had just negotiated with the Supreme Elder Lord, almost using persuasive dialogue, and actually obtained a Nine Revolutions Golden Pill and a Triple-Transformation Golden Pill!?


    Thinking about himself, he could only steal to eat Peaches; to eat Golden Pills, he also had to steal; now, to drink Imperial Wine, he still had to steal...


    For this matter, he was even schemed against by the Jade Emperor, who sealed his mana for several days.


    Look at Master again? Just by moving his lips a bit, he was able to get Golden Pills from the Supreme Elder Lord!?


    Indeed, Master was truly incredible. He was too straightforward sometimes, which was no wonder he had suffered so much. It was truly deserved that he was called Holmes Xuanzang.


    It seemed that for some matters in the future, he really should listen to Master! He couldn''t handle these things by himself,cking Master''s broad strategic view.


    Although he had long known of Jiang Liu''s wisdom, witnessing this scene, Sun Wukong''s heart filled with immense admiration for Jiang Liu.


    If even Sun Wukong felt this way, not to mention the likes of Zhu Bajie and the others around him, who were all amazed as they watched Jiang Liu.


    Dare to negotiate with the Supreme Elder Lord and even sessfully negotiate it down? Master was indeed very powerful!


    "What''s this? A set of Mahjong and a set of Poker cards?"


    Although amazed at Jiang Liu''s capability, Zhu Bajie, after picking up the two streaks of light that had just hit his head, opened them and saw the Poker cards and Mahjong crafted by the Supreme Elder Lord during his leisure time in Doushuai Pce, which delighted Zhu Bajie immensely.


    First, the items were gifts from the Supreme Elder Lord, showing that he still held Zhu Bajie in his heart; second, the items personally crafted by the Supreme Elder Lord naturally looked many times better than the original Poker cards and Mahjong.


    In short, seen from a modern perspective, it was like the difference between a Ferrari and a hand-driven tractor.


    ...


    On and on, after leaving Pingding Mountain, Jiang Liu and hispanions continued their journey. They traveled for about two more months.


    During these two months, they asionally fought demons and practiced the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound; of course, they didn''t miss experimenting with new dishes.


    Hence, the disciples spent two months traversing, grazing and nibbling their way forward, covering over two thousand miles on their journey to the West.


    Tip: Gained 9 Experience Points.


    Tip: Gained 8 Experience Points.


    Tip: Gained 9 Experience Points.


    ...


    Jiang Liu sat on the White Dragon Horse, the steady horseback asfortable as sitting on the ground, practicing the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, and the sound of gaining experience points was incessant.


    Unaware, while practicing the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, he mostly gained 9 points of experience.


    In these two months, Jiang Liu''s own cultivation, along with the asional monster fighting, had cumtively gained him more than 2 million experience points. Coupled with the daily sips of Jadescent Nectar, he also harvested more than 2 million experience points. Naturally, a few days ago, Jiang Liu sessfully reached level 44. Your next chapter awaits on My Virtual Library Empire


    "s, Master, there seems to be some noise up ahead!" While Jiang Liu was cultivating on the back of the White Dragon Horse, suddenly, Sun Wukong, who was scouting ahead, spoke up.


    "Noise? Are there Demon Creaturesing?" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu''s eyes brightened, somewhat expectantly said.


    With more than 30,000 experience points from the daily sip of Jadescent Nectar and about the same from meditation, Jiang Liu was now able to gain about 70,000 experience points every day.


    However, to ascend from level 44 to 45 requires a full 20 million experience points.


    Looking at his situation, he had only about 3 million. There was still a long way to go, so naturally, Jiang Liu hoped to earn experience points by fighting demons.


    "No, it''s not demons. It seems like there is some human army fighting ahead!" After casting Golden Light and looking ahead, Sun Wukong then immediately shook his head and spoke.


    "Human armies fighting? Then let''s just leave it!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu slightly shook his head and said, showing little interest in that.


    However, just as Jiang Liu was about to say this aloud, suddenly, a new idea struck him.


    An army? Wouldn''t that mean a lot of people were there?


    Naturally, if there were many people, there would also be many weapons in the army, right? Damaged weapons should be the leastcking there, right?


    "Amitabha, as Heaven holds virtue for all life, since we''ve encountered armies fighting, how can we stand by? Disciples, let''s go and take a look. If possible, why don''t we try to convert their weapons into peace? Saving a life is better than building a seven-story pagoda, and we would save so many lives," Jiang Liu decided, speaking righteously.


    "You''re the Master, so what you say goes!" Upon seeing Jiang Liu''s righteous demeanor, Sun Wukong looked unenthusiastic.


    Having known him for so long, Sun Wukong was well aware of the Master''s character. Uncharacteristically righteous without cause? That didn''t seem like him; he must have had his own calctions.


    However, what exactly was he scheming? Jiang Liu couldn''t figure it out on his own, and since he did not take the initiative to exin, Sun Wukong also didn''t feel the need to pry any further.


    As for Zhu Bajie? He did not utter a single word. Given hiszy nature, no matter where they were going or what they were supposed to do, he would never object. In any case, he just had to follow along and blend in!


    Having food and drink along with the opportunity to learn a few tricks for wooing girls was more than enough for him.


    The cheesy lines his master taught him, he recited silently in his heart every day, and had memorized them thoroughly!


    "Master truly possesses greatpassion and benevolence!" It was Sha Wujing who spoke up next to Jiang Liu, expressing his admiration.


    Ever since that day when he offended Guanyin, and Jiang Liu had bluntly stood up to Guanyin to protect him, Sha Wujing had turned from a merely indifferent member of the Journey to the West Team into something akin to a hardcore fan of Jiang Liu.@@novelbin@@


    Not strong enough on his own? Then he would do everything within his power to handle all affairs in the team.


    And the rest of the time? All he needed to do was to firmly stand by his master''s side and be responsible for cheering him on vociferously.


    Let''s leave those disciples for a moment. As for the righteous words of Jiang Liu, everyone had their own mindsets. Following Jiang Liu''sst words, the group continued to move forward.


    After about the duration of a half incense, amidst the deafening war cries, they finally saw it¡ªthe numerous soldiers mixed together, fighting furiously. The scene was one of bodies strewn all over, with non-stop war cries and screams echoing in their ears.


    On this battlefield, the value of life seemed to be diminished to nothing.


    "Everyone, stop! Stop at once!" Seeing the ferocious battle, Jiang Liu cleared his throat and then, incorporating the Cultivation Technique of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound into his voice, he shouted loudly. His voice spread across the entire battlefield.


    However, the cries of battle continued unabated. Despite Jiang Liu''s loud shouting, the soldiers seemedpletely indifferent to his call.


    "Sun Wukong, it''s your turn!" After shouting three times with no effect, Jiang Liu''s face darkened. He turned his head and spoke to Sun Wukong.


    "Hehehe, I, Old Sun, understand!" Sun Wukong nodded and said with a smile. While speaking, he reached into his ear and pulled out the Ruyi Golden Cudgel.


    He lifted the Golden Cudgel and mmed it down. Following Sun Wukong''s motion, the Golden Cudgel swelled in the wind and instantaneously transformed into a massive pir ten meters in diameter, heavily smashing into the ground.


    This strike almost seemed to split the earth itself; all soldiers engaged in the battle were knocked to the ground. Seeing the ground almost pulverized, each of them stared in horror at the Golden Cudgel.


    The diameter of the Golden Cudgel was ten meters, its sheer sizeparable to a three- or four-story building.


    With a lift of his hand, the Golden Cudgel shrank back down to the size of a sewing needle and was ced back into his ear by Sun Wukong.


    "Amitabha, sirs, may I have a word, please? As it is said that Heaven values life, I hope you could cease fighting," Jiang Liu stepped forward with a humble and polite manner, following the ground-shattering strike by Sun Wukong which had almost flipped over all the soldiers.


    Generals from both sides approached, looked at Jiang Liu, then at Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and Sha Wujing standing beside him, and swallowed hard, showing a terrified expression.


    "Great master, your words, we will certainly follow!" one of the generals quickly nodded and said, though his heart was shaking with fear.


    If even the smallest monkey among them was this formidable, what about the Pig Demon beside him or even that ridiculously gigantic man?


    "Indeed, we naturally follow the great master''s words!" another general also nodded in agreement.


    "May I ask, which countries'' soldiers are you? Is this a battle between two nations?"


    Looking at the remaining soldiers, along with those who had died, it appeared there were more than ten thousand people involved in the conflict. A battle between two nations but with only so few troops didn''t seem right!


    "Great master, you are mistaken. Actually, we are not from two warring nations; we belong to the same country!" Following Jiang Liu''s statement, both generals huffed and then simultaneously answered.


    "Both? From the same country? Then what is this..." Hearing their statements, Jiang Liu became even more astonished.


    "Great master, I was personally dispatched by the king to exterminate these rebels! Please, lend me your aid! General Lu,manding his troops, dares to rebel!" One of the generals suddenly spoke up, seeking Jiang Liu''s assistance.


    "Master, do not listen to General Zhang''s nonsense! Over the years, His Majesty has been overly militant, often issuingpletely irrational decrees. We suspect His Majesty has been deceived by a Demon Person, hence, we seek to purge the king''s side, not tomit treason!" The other general quickly spoke as well, addressing Jiang Liu.


    "This¡ªone ims he was ordered by the king to exterminate rebels, while the other says the king has been deceived by demon people and thus aims to purge the king''s side? It really is a case of ''each granny swears her own grandson the fairest''!" Listening to these generals arguing, each hoping Jiang Liu would support them, he sighed inwardly with helplessness.


    "By the way, has your king really changed a lottely?"


    After pondering for a moment and watching the two generals arguing back and forth, Jiang Liu promptly asked the general responsible for suppressing the rebellion.


    "This..." Hearing Jiang Liu''s inquiry, the general''s face showed hesitation, seemingly at a loss for how to respond.


    Well, looking at his expression, Jiang Liu could understand what was going on.


    "By the way, which country is this?"


    "This is ck Chicken Country!"

 Chapter 289 I Can Help You Repair Weapons

    "ck Chicken Country...?"


    Upon hearing the words of the two generals and realizing his current location, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly.


    Jiang Liu naturally remembered the situation in ck Chicken Country.


    In the original plot of "Journey to the West," the section about the ck Chicken Country is quite unique. What''s special about it? It''s that the King of ck Chicken Country was killed by a friend, who then threw the body directly into a well. But astonishingly, there was a Well Dragon King living in that well!


    This Well Dragon King preserved the King of ck Chicken Country''s body for a very long time, which eventually allowed Sun Wukong to sessfully retrieve the Soul-Returning Pill and resurrect him.


    It''s strange, isn''t it? A Dragon King in a well!?


    Setting that aside for the moment, at least from what the original plot tells us, what General Lu thought about the need to clear the King''s court was correct. The emperor had been reced, so his feeling over the years that something was amiss was not wrong.


    But if he were to actually go to ck Chicken Country, the situation could be quite problematic.


    Because the change in the king was not due to treacherous courtiers beside him, but rather because the king himself hadpletely changed into another person!


    "Master! Please lend me your strength!" General Lu, seeing the support in his eyes, spoke up, requesting Jiang Liu''s assistance.


    Having just witnessed Sun Wukong''s capabilities, both General Lu and General Zhang were thinking of obtaining Jiang Liu''s help.


    Only with his help, could theypletely defeat the opponent!


    "Master, "allnd under the heavens belongs to the King," no matter what General Lu says, this treachery cannot escape its charges. Please help me subdue him and bring him back to face the King!"


    Seeing General Lu speaking up, General Zhang naturally didn''t want to fall behind and joined in.


    Notice: Mission "Royal Law" triggered, requirements¡ªsessfully capture General Lu and return to the Royal City of ck Chicken Country to await the King''s judgment, sess reward 500,000 experience points, failure penalty 500,000 experience points, ept/Reject?


    Notice: Mission "Purification of the King''s Side" triggered, requirements¡ªsessfully help General Lu find the true reason behind the King of ck Chicken Country''s drastic change in temperament and restore his former disposition, sess reward 1,500,000 experience points and a Legendary Treasure Chest, failure penalty 1,500,000 experience points, ept/Reject?


    As the two generals argued and both sought Jiang Liu''s help, the system notifications sounded almost simultaneously in his mind, instantly triggering two quests.


    Looking at the two triggered passive quests, Jiang Liu pondered silently to himself.


    From the situation, these two quests seemed to be opposing each other, as were the stances of these two men, so he could only choose one, right?


    Simrly, he could only help one of the generals, right?


    However, after pondering to himself for a moment, Jiang Liu epted both triggered passive quests!


    Just as when the Supreme Elder Lord once presented two Golden Cores and let Jiang Liu choose, only children make choices. If there are benefits, of course, he''d take them all!


    What does it matter if these two people are opposed to each other? Now that he had epted both quests, he just needed to find a way toplete them.


    This act was like betting on both yer and bank in gambling.


    But then again, was there any problem with that? Surely there was a way toplete them both, right?


    After epting both missions, Jiang Liu''s mind slightly shifted, and immediately, his gaze fell on General Lu as he spoke, "Regardless of whether you harbor doubts in your heart, and regardless of whether these doubts are truly reasonable, as a subject, openly defying the King''s orders is wrong!"


    Upon hearing this, a smile of satisfaction appeared on General Zhang''s face.


    Naturally, the corresponding effect was that General Lu''s face turned very ugly.


    "Master! You..." Upon hearing this, General Lu looked shocked and eximed.


    However, having made up his mind, Jiang Liu was not about to listen to him any further. He waved his hand and spoke seriously to General Lu, "I hope you will surrender willingly and apany this poor monk to the Royal Pce to see the King!"


    "No! The King has gone mad, I won''t go back with you!" Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, General Lu''s spear trembled in his hand as he spoke earnestly.


    "Amitabha, if you intend to resist, then I regretfully must act!"


    Seeing that General Lu was a level 28 figure, which was equivalent to the Meridian Unblocking Realm in human cultivation, Jiang Liu raised his Divine Tree Staff.


    "Then, Master, don''t me me for being impolite!" Seeing Jiang Liu raise his Divine Tree Staff, General Lu shouted loudly, and in the midst of speaking, he thrust his spear directly towards Jiang Liu.


    In face of General Lu''s attack, Jiang Liu did not dodge or evade but simply swung his Divine Tree Staff directly towards the opponent.@@novelbin@@


    With a single move, the spear was knocked flying by Jiang Liu''s Divine Tree Staff. Buddha Relic Dharma Ring (Legendary Level): Requires Level 40, Attack +3200, Special Effect: Overbearing Pressure. Wearing this ring diminishes the attack and defense attributes of targets lower than one''s own level by 20%, Durability 33/70. Affected by the special effect of this legendary ring, General Lu''s abilities were originally inferior to Jiang Liu''s, and now the gap had widened even further.


    With a smack, the Divine Tree Staff hit General Lu on the head, arge damage value appeared, and immediately after, the health bar above General Lu''s head was emptied in an instant, his eyes rolled back, and he fell directly to the ground.


    Notification: Gained Experience Points 1070, gained money 500.


    As soon as General Lu passed out, almost simultaneously, the system''s notification appeared.


    After all, it''s just a Level 28 presence, so the experience points gained aren''t much, just over 1000, which made Jiang Liu frown slightly.


    Even though it''s a Level 28 from the Meridian Unblocking Realm,parable to a Demon Soldier, just over 1000 experience points?


    Could it be because my own level has increased, so when high levels fight low level monsters, the experience points are diminished?


    Thinking about it, when I was around Level 20, killing a Level 28 monster always gave more experience points than this, right?


    However, thinking about it, now that such a Level 28 exists, I can almost kill with one move. Even if I encounter ones above Level 31 and think about adding the Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra, with the Demon-Subduing Mantra and Arhat Fist buffs, I believe I could also kill with one move, right?


    One move, to gain over 1000 experience points?


    If there are enough monsters for me to fight, and I strike a thousand or eight hundred times a day, wouldn''t I gain one million experience points in a day?


    Looking at it this way, this is much better than just painfully cultivating alone!


    It''s just a pity this is the real world''s Journey to the West, not an online game, so there aren''t so many monsters of the same level gathered together that can constantly respawn for me to fight.


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    With the help of elixirs, I have improved to Level 44 in just over a year. This growth rate is extraordinarily fast for Journey to the West, but if this were a real online game, only reaching Level 44 after more than a year? I believe such a game would no longer have any yers by now.


    "How about you guys? Are you going to take action?"


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu cast away all the random thoughts in his mind and soon, his gaze fell on the soldiers behind General Lu, and he spoke, eager to try.


    These soldiers, due to years of training and fighting, also had their own levels.


    One move per person, or even a mass attack if released, would bring him quite a bit of experience points from these few thousand soldiers, right?


    "We, we surrender¡­"


    However, although Jiang Liu was eager to strike at these soldiers, seeing how Jiang Liu had instantly killed General Lu with one move, the soldiers looked at each other, and then spoke up.


    "Surrender? You guys, are you really that spineless? General Lu at least dared to resist. Don''t you dare?" Hearing the soldiers surrender, Jiang Liu felt somewhat disappointed and provocatively said.


    "We are no match for the master, you don''t have to use such provocation!" However, in response to Jiang Liu''s words, one of the vanguards shook his head and said to Jiang Liu.


    "Actually, if you all united, perhaps, you really could defeat me," Jiang Liu said with a somewhat helpless expression, still somewhat unconvinced.


    "No need, we surrender, we surrender right now!" Seeing Jiang Liu''s disappointed look, the remaining soldiers, their faces changing in terror, hurriedly shook their heads, feeling even more frightened.


    This Monk, despite looking humble and polite, turned out to be so terrifying. It seemed he wouldn''t stop until he had defeated everyone!


    "Thank you, master, thank you for your help!"


    Regardless of Jiang Liu''s current mood, General Zhang, watching him instantly kill General Lu and then having the other soldiers surrender voluntarily, was naturally extremely grateful.


    Indeed, strength is truly powerful. With great strength, the rebels that he hadn''t been able to defeat after so much effort were easily handled by the master.


    "Amitabha, General Lu is not dead; just in time, I was about to go to the Royal Pce to meet the King and exchange travel permits. How about we go together?" cing his hands together in a humble and polite manner, Jiang Liu said.


    "Of course!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words about apanying him, General Zhang nodded and said.


    After discussing it, General Zhang sent some people to confiscate all the weapons of these rebels and then guarded them in ce, waiting for the King''s final decision.


    As for himself, he took hundreds of soldiers and went with Jiang Liu towards the Royal City of the ck Chicken Country.


    "By the way, with nothing much to do, I have recently dabbled a bit in the Path of Artifact Refining, I wonder, General Zhang, do you have any damaged or partially damaged weapons? On our journey, I can help you repair some of them!"


    While on the road, Jiang Liu suddenly remembered something, and spoke up.

 Chapter 290 One-click Repair

    "Ah? Repair our weapons!?" General Zhang was slightly stunned by Jiang Liu''s words.


    "Indeed, all the damaged, or soon-to-be damaged weapons, you may bring them over. I can help you repair them on the way if there''s nothing else to do!" Jiang Liu nodded and spoke to General Zhang.


    Since it was just some damaged and about-to-be-damaged weapons, naturally, there was nothing to fear.


    Hearing this, General Zhang pondered for a moment before nodding, "In that case, thank you, Master!"


    During the conversation, General Zhang also ordered two more horse-drawn carts to be prepared, taking out some of the damaged sabers, spears, swords, and halberds from the barracks and cing them in the carts.


    Of course, materials needed to repair the weapons, such as Hard Ironwood and some copper and iron, also had to be prepared.


    After spending a few more Chinese Hours to get these things ready, the several hundred-strong troop finally set off, heading towards the direction of the Royal City in ck Chicken Country.


    "Is the Royal City due west?" Looking in the direction of the Royal City, Jiang Liu casually took out a damaged Iron Tire Bow in hand and, while checking the direction, asked nonchntly.


    "Correct, from here to the west, about eight hundred li away, we can reach the Royal City. Rest assured, Master, although we''re carrying goods, our speed will not be slow. We should be able to get there in about five or six days!" General Zhang replied to Jiang Liu''s inquiry, nodding his head.


    "Actually, we don''t need to go so fast!" Hearing General Zhang''s words, Jiang Liu''s face darkened slightly, and he immediately said.@@novelbin@@


    "Ah? We don''t need to go so fast?" Jiang Liu''s words left General Zhang stunned for a moment, looking at him incredulously.


    After pondering for a moment, he then asked, "Um, I''d like to ask, Master, how much ground do you normally cover in a day when you travel?"


    "Us? Roughly thirty to fifty li a day!" Hearing this, Jiang Liu hadn''t opened his mouth yet, but Zhu Bajie couldn''t help but speak up and answer.


    "A day!? Thirty to fifty li!?" Zhu Bajie''s response made General Zhang''s eyes widen in disbelief as he stared at Jiang Liu and the others.


    Alright, I made a mistake, I misspoke just now. I shouldn''t have asked them how far they travel in a day, but rather how far they ''stroll and enjoy the scenery'' in a day.


    Yes, only thirty to fifty li a day? Even if they were strolling and enjoying the scenery, they couldn''t possibly be so slow, could they?


    "Amitabha, life has its limits, but paths are limitless. Chasing the limitless with the limited is futile..." Jiang Liu muttered a Buddhist chant under his breath before speaking.


    "Err, the Master''s words seem to make some sense!" Jiang Liu''s words made General Zhang pause and nod his head.


    But immediately after, he still shook his head and said, "Master, you are a transcendent being, while I am just an ordinary person. So, there''s no need for you to enlighten me. I only know that what needs to be done, must be done. Life is short!"


    "Master said it well!" Considering himself Jiang Liu''s number one follower, Zhu Bajie naturally had to stand up for him upon hearing General Zhang''s rebuttal, saying, "Master''s words indeed capture the essence of the Taoist principle of inaction!"


    Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie usually didn''t get along, so hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Sun Wukong had no qualms about twisting Zhu Bajie''s big ears and taunting, "So, is this the reason for your usualziness, you blockhead!?"


    Sha Wujing also wanted to speak, but with someone having already expressed agreement and someone else disagreement, after some thought, Sha Wujing didn''t know what else to say, so he just shut his mouth and didn''t speak.


    Aside from Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie''s bickering, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on the Iron Tire Bow in his hand.


    It was visible that there was arge crack on the edge of the bow, as if it had been shed by a sharp de. If the string were pulled forcefully again, it could very likely snap the entire bow.


    Naturally, as Jiang Liu''s gaze settled on the Iron Tire Bow, the corresponding Attribute Information appeared before him.


    Old Iron Tire Bow (Common Level): Attack +7, Durability 1/10.


    "Well, an Iron Tire Bow by itself is just that, was there a need to add an ''Old'' prefix?" Jiang Liu inwardly shook his head as he looked at the attributes appearing before him.


    Immediately, he mentally called up Life Skills and opened the cksmith Skill Panel, then ced the Iron Tire Bow on it.


    At the same time, he added a bit of Iron Ore.


    In front of Jiang Liu, he could see the cksmith Skill Panel, as if there was a furnace spinning.


    To Sun Wukong and the others, however, they saw the Iron Tire Bow floating in front of Jiang Liu.


    Then, a brilliant light shed, and within a few breaths, the Iron Tire Bow was repaired.


    Holding the Iron Tire Bow in hand, it was visibly clear that the entire bow looked somewhat worn, but where the crack was, there was now a brand-new iron seal.


    This was the freshly added Iron Ore, which had perfectly fused with the body of the Iron Tire Bow.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze fell once more, naturally, the attributes of the Iron Tire Bow reappeared.


    Repaired Iron Tire Bow (Common Level): Attack +7, Durability 9/9.


    The Attack Power remained unchanged, but the Durability had been fully restored! However, instead of the full 10 points of Durability, there were now only 9 points left!?


    This caused Jiang Liu to frown slightly. Was it a setting of the system, or did the repairs somewhat damage the weapon itself?


    Tip: Gained 42 Experience Points!


    Within just a few breaths, the Iron Tire Bow had been repaired. At the same time, the system''s notification appeared, which made Jiang Liu slightly startled, then overjoyed. He didn''t dwell on the issue of durability anymore.


    Just like that, could I really earn 42 Experience Points!?


    To me, repairing equipment using the Skill Panel is easy and quick¡ªit''s practically one-click repair, right?


    I knew that with Life Professions, both smithing and repairing could yield Experience Points.


    However, I never expected that using a Life Profession would be just like in games, where you simply click a button to aplish the task¡ªa foolproof one-click repair.


    But, what about all this knowledge rted to Life Professions that suddenly popped into my head¡ªwhat''s up with that?


    "Wow, just like that, the Iron Tire Bow has been sessfully repaired!?" Jiang Liu secretly marvelled in his heart, while General Zhang, who had just lowered the hand he had in front of him, looked at Jiang Liu with even greater astonishment.


    "Here, give it a try!" Jiang Liu casually tossed the Iron Tire Bow to General Zhang and said.


    "Okay!" General Zhang nodded and took the bow that Jiang Liu had thrown to him.


    While talking, he pulled on the bowstring to test it. Indeed, the draw weight was still impressive, and most importantly, the repaired spot had no awkward feeling at all.


    "Master is truly skilled; such a quick flick of the Cultivation Technique, and it''s done, much more capable than those so-called cksmiths!" After thoroughly testing the Iron Tire Bow, General Zhang gave Jiang Liu a thumbs-up and praised him.


    "Hmm, you''d better blink a few more times then!" Jiang Liu replied with augh upon hearing General Zhang''sment.


    In the middle of talking, he leapt onto the horse carriage from the White Dragon Horse, his eyes shining as he looked at the various weapons inside the carriage that appeared almost as scrap metal.


    To Jiang Liu, these were all Experience Points.


    Notification: You have gained 55 Experience Points.


    Notification: You have gained 65 Experience Points.


    Notification: You have gained 82 Experience Points.


    ...


    One piece of equipment after another, as Jiang Liu repaired them, they kept beingpleted. These weapons, in his hands, were effortlessly restored to their former glory.


    Each repair took merely about ten seconds, which for Jiang Liu, was several times faster than practicing the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    However, with each repair needing the aid of the cksmith Profession''s Skill Panel, to everyone else, Jiang Liu seemed to be cing the weapons before him and then they would be enveloped by a brilliant light, somewhat dazzling to behold.


    Then, after a few breaths, the weaponry would be fully repaired¡ªconvenient and fast!


    "Today, I''ll repair a thousand, no, ten thousand pieces of equipment!"


    After repairing one piece of equipment after another, and watching his Experience Points soar, Jiang Liu felt triumphant.


    It seemed, finding a national treasury or arge repository of a major power, then entering it to be solely responsible for refurbishing or even crafting equipment, might be a good idea!?


    It appears that as long as there''s enough equipment, the Experience Points gained could exceed those from practicing the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound!


    Regardless of what Jiang Liu was thinking, as he repaired one piece after another, the Experience Points steadily climbed.


    Moreover, with each repair, he could feel his knowledge and understanding of the equipment slowly growing.


    For instance, repairing an Iron Tire Bow normally required infusing Iron Ore and other smithing steps, which might take over half an hour.


    But with the Life Skills Panel, it only took about ten seconds.


    However, it''s not like the Life Skills simply repaired the equipment for him; instead, the skills seemed to help Jiang Liupress the steps and processes into just about ten seconds.


    Everything felt as if Jiang Liu himself was methodically repairing the equipment.


    In just a short while, dozens of pieces of equipment had been repaired, and Jiang Liu had easily gained thousands of Experience Points.


    But along with it, Jiang Liu noticed his body and mind were slowly bing exhausted.


    It felt as if he had spent hours, meticulous hand-crafting these repairs.


    "It seems that I''ve been the one repairing the equipment all along, and the Life Skills Panel is just helping mepress the time." After feeling the unusual fatigue in his body and mind, as if he had been repairing equipment all night, Jiang Liu thought for a moment and understood the process.


    After pondering for a short while, Jiang Liu casually picked up another de.


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    My mind is already filled with extensive knowledge about equipment. If I put even more effort into it, or even use better materials to repair this de, what then?

 Chapter 291 Strengthen Equipment (Burst Update #1)

    Broken Battle Saber (Common Level): Requires level 5, Attack +12, Durability 1/10.


    Jiang Liu lowered his head to nce at the nearly destroyed battle saber, and the corresponding attribute information surfaced in front of him.


    He pondered deeply in his heart for a moment, thinking of using iron ore to earnestly temper the metal into steel and then carefully repairing the battle saber.


    After calcting in his heart how the repair process for the saber should work, he took out the sword along with arge chunk of iron ore and ced them in the cksmith Skill slot, pressing the repair button.


    In front of Jiang Liu, the icon resembling a furnace began to spin, and a dazzling light burst forth once again.


    While the light was shining brightly here, Sun Wukong and the others next to him acted as if they didn''t notice anything at all.


    After repairing equipment for countless times, from the initial surprise and curiosity to their current indifference, Sun Wukong and his party had grown ustomed to it.


    Only Zhu Bajie mumbled to himself, hoping that their master would not stay upte doing these things at night. Otherwise, the sudden appearance of dazzling light would make it difficult for them to sleep.@@novelbin@@


    Sun Wukong, who was nearby, overheard Zhu Bajie''s low muttering and turned his head to nce at him before smirking to himself.


    Are you kidding? This idiot, once he''s asleep, not even thunder can wake him, and he''sining about a bit of light keeping him from sleeping?


    "Eh? This time, it seems a bit different!" Sha Wujing, who was nearby, noticed that the dazzling light wassting longer than usual and was quietly surprised, turning his head to look at Jiang Liu.


    Usually, repairing this equipment would take about the same amount of time, only ten or so seconds toplete. But this time, the light in front of Jiang Liusted for a good half a minute before dissipating.


    The duration of the light was at least double the length it was before, and naturally, Sun Wukong and the others also noticed the change, now looking over with curious eyes.


    Phew...


    After more than half a minute had passed, the light finally converged, and Jiang Liu exhaled a turbid breath, feeling an increased sense of fatigue in his body and mind.


    Thispletely confirmed Jiang Liu''s spection; it seemed as though pressing a button was all it took to repair the equipment, but the actual amount of energy needed to repair an item did not decrease.


    It''s just that the skills of Life Professions greatlypressed the time needed for all these tasks.


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    As the light receded, a shiny new battle saber appeared in front of Jiang Liu, looking brand new.


    Jiang Liu took it in his hand and scrutinized it closely. The repair, which had taken more than half a minute toplete, hadpletely transformed the appearance of the saber, entirely different from previous repairs.


    Naturally, as Jiang Liu''s gaze swept over it, the attribute information for the saber also appeared.


    Battle Saber (Common Level): Requires level 5, Attack +18, Durability 9/9.


    "Indeed!" Seeing the attribute information of the new saber in his hands, Jiang Liu was inwardly delighted.


    Not only did it look brand new, but the key thing was that the attributes of the saber had also improved, with the original additional 12 attack points bing 18, and the level requirement remained unchanged.


    "From this situation, isn''t this more than just a repair? This is practically refinement, or I might even call it enhancement!" Jiang Liu thought to himself as he looked at the saber, now renewed and improved in attributes.


    In the cksmith Profession, you just throw things into the appropriate spot on the Skill Panel and press a button, and I had thought this was only for repairs, but it turns out enhancement is also possible.


    The specifics of how to operate it depend on how I want to manage it.


    Tip: You have gained 180 Experience Points.


    As Jiang Liu examined the saber that had been repaired¡ªor to be more precise, enhanced¡ª the system notification chimed, pleasing him.


    Indeed, the enhancement seemed to require more effort on his part. Therefore, the longer the duration of the light, the greater the Experience Points he received.


    "Good saber!"


    Not only was Jiang Liu examining the saber in his hands, but also many soldiers nearby, feeling the extended duration of the light, looked at the now-transformed saber in Jiang Liu''s hands, loudly eximing.


    "Wow, it does look much newer indeed!" Amon battle saber might not impress Sun Wukong and his peers, even if enhanced, but seeing a rusty de turn brand new in Jiang Liu''s hands made Sun Wukong widen his eyes.


    Then, smilingly, he approached and said to Jiang Liu, "Master, I, Old Sun, have used the Jingu Bang for many years, and it''s looking a bit dirty. Could you help me clean it up too? Make it shiny and golden, more decent to look at?"


    "Monkey, can''t you see your master is still practicing? Let me improve my technique before we discuss it," Jiang Liu looked at Sun Wukong unenthusiastically and replied.


    "Oh, master, how long will it take for you to master this craft?" Sun Wukong asked with a hint of disappointment but still somewhat hopeful.


    "I don''t know!" Jiang Liu, however, simply shook his head in response to Sun Wukong''s question.


    To go from a cksmith Apprentice to a formal cksmith, one has to repair or forge 1000 pieces ofmon-level equipment. Who knows if the advancementter on will be even more difficult.


    When would he be able to repair the Jingu Bang? Jiang Liu himself was indeed unclear.


    "Master, did Supreme Elder Lord impart to you some of the Path of Artifact Refining!?" It was Zhu Bajie who came forward at this time, his expression likewise filled with curiosity as he asked Jiang Liu.


    For so long, they had not seen their master fiddle with these weapons, but after seeing Supreme Elder Lord a few days ago, their master began to practice the Path of Artifact Refining, which is why Zhu Bajie made such an association in his heart.


    "This has nothing to do with the Supreme Elder Lord; alright, your teacher has his own matters to attend to..."


    Waving his hand, Jiang Liu was not in the mood to engage in idle chat with Sun Wukong and others. He set the strengthened battle saber to one side and, after some thought, took out some more materials.


    As Jiang Liu ced the brand-new battle saber aside, a soldier, quick-eyed and deft-handed, tried to take it away.


    But someone was quicker than him; for a moment, several soldiers seemed ready to fight over it.


    In the end, a junior leader came over and took the battle saber away. Examining the remarkable weapon carefully for a moment, the leader secretly marveled in his heart, The battle saber looked extraordinary, and it was extremely sharp.


    Jiang Liu naturally didn''t care about themon-level strengthened battle saber being snatched away by several soldiers. Afterpleting the repairs, he considered his job done, and his thoughts returned to his Skill Panel.


    This time it was no longer about merely repairing equipment but about trying to craft a piece of equipment.


    A cksmith naturallybined the functions of forging, repairing, and strengthening weapons into one.


    Thus, the use of the cksmith Skill Panel was not about what it could do, but rather what he wanted to do, wasn''t it?


    Having repaired so many weapons, he had gained some insight intomon-level equipment.


    With a thought, Jiang Liu determined the specific procedures for the equipment he wanted to create, and immediately took out some materials to put in.


    This time, the dazzling lightsted for a full minute before it finally dissipated.


    Immediately afterward, a silver-white ring appeared in front of Jiang Liu, looking brand new and bright.


    Wiping the sweat from his forehead, Jiang Liu focused his gaze, and soon the ring''s Attribute Information emerged.


    Hundred Tempering Ring (Common Level): Required Level 20, Attack +80, Durability 25/25.


    "Oh?" Looking at the Attribute Information of the Hundred Tempering Ring, Jiang Liu''s expression brightened.


    Although it was just a ring, the added Attack Power reached an impressive 80 points? Truly befitting the Level 20 requirement, wasn''t it?


    "Come, try out this ring and see how effective it is?" After some thought, Jiang Liu handed the ring to a nearby soldier and said.


    "A ring!?" The soldier was stunned as he looked at the ring handed to him by Jiang Liu.


    Then obediently nodding his head, he took the ring and slipped it onto his finger.


    "Try it out and see if you feel any stronger?" As soon as the soldier had the ring on, Jiang Liu asked.


    Nodding his head and feeling somewhat perplexed inside, nevertheless the soldier drew his own saber and performed a set of sword techniques before striking arge roadside stone, creating a crack in it.


    "Master, there''s no change at all!" Feeling his palm vibrating to numbness, the soldier sheathed his saber and answered.


    "So, if the level isn''t high enough, you can wear the ring, but it can''t exert its effect, right?" Hearing the soldier''s response, Jiang Liu looked at the soldier''s character panel¡ªhis level was only 8¡ªmuttering to himself.


    "General Zhang, why don''t you give it a try?" After trying the ring on the Level 8 soldier, Jiang Liu took back the Hundred Tempering Ring and handed it to General Zhang to try.


    "Me?" General Zhang looked at Jiang Liu with puzzlement. Hadn''t it already been tested? Why should he try it now?


    But, just trying it wouldn''t hurt.


    After a brief moment of contemtion, General Zhang nodded, put on the ring, and also began to test it with movement.


    As soon as he started, General Zhang felt an invisible power within the ring merge with his strength, enhancing his ability by a certain margin!


    Performing a set of saber techniques, it was fierce and powerful, attracting the attention of several nearby soldiers, who looked on with expressions of admiration.


    "General, you seem to have be even more formidable!"


    A few of General Zhang''s trusted aides, who had a better understanding of his cultivation level, whispered among themselves after seeing this scene.


    (PS: This is the first update for today. I intend to buckle down and make up for the pledged bonus chapters that have been dyed for two months¡ªit''s time to fulfill that promise. I''m not sure how many chapters I will manage to write today, but at the very least, expect five or six chapters as a base.)

 Chapter 292 Life Profession Upgrade (2nd Update)

    "Master, is this ring really such a treasure? Is this what a treasure is!?" After trying it out properly, General Zhang came back to his senses, looking at Jiang Liu with astonishment and asked.


    A single ring could enhance his strength; naturally, General Zhang liked it very much.


    A ring that could increase strength? If that wasn''t a treasure, what was?


    "If you like it, then it''s yours!" Jiang Liu said with a slight smile.


    The other party had provided the materials, and after he had finished refining them, he could earn proficiency. Of course, Jiang Liu didn''t care much about thismon level equipment and didn''t mind simply gifting it to General Zhang.


    "Thank you, Master! Thank you so much!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, actually offering the ring to him, General Zhang was overjoyed, nodding repeatedly in gratitude.


    After a thorough trial, Jiang Liu confirmed the characteristics of life professions, such as the cksmith profession. Now that he was a cksmith apprentice, he could craft, repair, and strengthen anymon level equipment. Your next chapter is on My Virtual Library Empire


    In the future, as his profession level increased, he believed he could handle equipment of fine level, perfect level, and even legendary level, and so on.


    Moreover, unlike his other skills, which only needed skill points, for life professions, he needed to continuously improve his proficiency.


    Having understood the life professions, Jiang Liu''s gaze involuntarily swept over Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and the others, as he secretly began strategizing in his heart.


    Once his life profession level was upgraded, he could certainly custom-make powerful equipment for them.


    Sun Wukong was already so strong now; if he were to custom-make a set of equipment for him, wouldn''t Wukong''s strength rise again?


    After all, he had just tried it¡ªthe equipment he crafted could indeed be used by others.


    Just like how he could use equipment gifted to him that wasn''t system-generated, like the Vidyaraja Crown and the Buddha Relic Dharma Ring.


    Furthermore, Jiang Liu secretly nned that if he were to create his own faction in the future, he could seclude himself and diligently train these life skills.


    By then, he could forge countless pieces of equipment. Should he mount a counterattack on Spirit Mountain, wouldn''t the forces under hismand benefit from a batch of equipment?


    Thinking of this, Jiang Liu nodded inwardly.


    While his own strength improvement was crucial, he would inevitably need to gather a powerful force to confront Spirit Mountain in the future. Hence, enhancing his life profession abilities was extremely important for him.


    Imagine leading a mighty force into battle against Western Spirit Mountain, all members equipped and even supplied with healing potions and mana potions for sustained fights.


    By then, their overallbat ability would surely increase significantly, right?


    "In the future, I can arm Wukong and the others to the teeth!" After dreaming about the future, Jiang Liu murmured to himself, feeling even more motivated to practice his life profession.


    Repairing equipment seemed easy, just tapping a button on the skill panel, but after continuously repairing a hundred or so pieces, Jiang Liu was exhausted. It felt simr to the sensation of staying up all night online, leaving him feeling mentally and physically drained.


    Why did he travel to the world of Journey to the West? Wasn''t it because he died suddenly while ying games all night?


    So when he felt exhausted, Jiang Liu didn''t insist on continuing. Instead, hey down in a spot on the carriage and soon fell into a deep sleep despite the bumpy ride.


    Seeing Jiang Liu''s condition, General Zhang also instructed the carriage to slow down to lessen the jolts.


    In this way, after about two Chinese Hours of travel, Jiang Liu finally opened his eyes.


    After inquiring about the time, he realized he had slept for four hours. Pondering for a moment, he shook his head.


    Repairing a hundred and eighty pieces of equipment had gained him about six thousand experience points, but sleeping for four hours could have earned him at least ten thousand more through cultivation. This was a considerable loss!


    Initially, tapping his finger for a few seconds to gain dozens of experience points seemed much quicker than cultivating.


    But having considered the overall situation, Jiang Liu realized it was a total loss.


    Nevertheless, as he was only a cksmith apprentice for the time being, he anticipated that when he advanced to crafting fine quality equipment, the experience gained would increase significantly.


    Therefore, Jiang Liu didn''t intend to stop; this was just an initial investment.


    Looking at the long-term, training in these life professions was very worthwhile.


    Next, Jiang Liu sat on White Dragon Horse''s back, repairing equipment at intervals, no longer daring to handle a hundred at once; instead, he casually repaired about ten pieces every two hours or so.


    Anyone would tire from sprinting 10 kilometers at once, with few able to endure it.


    However, running a kilometer every hour or two was something that almost anyone could withstand.


    It was like sipping Jadescent Nectar daily.


    On the road ahead, with meditation and equipment repair, partaking in a daily sip of Jadescent Nectar, life was very content.


    The two huge carriages'' worth of damaged equipment amounted to over a thousand pieces. With Jiang Liu deliberately telling General Zhang to slow the pace, the journey of several hundred miles took seven to eight days, upon which they finally caught sight of the ck Chicken Country Royal City.


    With onest push to repair twenty or thirty pieces of equipment, Jiang Liu dusted off his hands and leapt from the carriage back onto White Dragon Horse.


    Sitting on the horseback, he silently called up the life profession panel, then his gazended on his cksmith life profession.


    After repairing 1,000 pieces ofmon level equipment, I had sessfully advanced to a primary level cksmith.


    However, to further my advancement, I would need to repair and forge 1,000 pieces of fine level quality equipment and 3,000 pieces ofmon level equipment.


    "Thank you so much, Master. I truly can''t thank you enough!" said General Zhang, surprised and delighted, as he looked at Jiang Liu with immense gratitude, incessantly expressing his thanks.


    For General Zhang, if there was someone in his life whom he could consider a benefactor, Jiang Liu was definitely one.


    The very young-looking little monk appeared to be a person of great determination, who didn''t hesitate to make the arduous journey from the Great Tang in the Eastern Land to the Western Heaven to pay homage and seek scriptures, earning unparalleled admiration.


    More importantly, Master Xuanzang had been exceedingly kind to him, capturing the rebellious General Lu upon their first meeting, and even gifting him a treasured ring.


    Now he had even helped repair over a thousand damaged weapons within the military camp ¡ª to him, this was truly a great favor.


    "No need for thanks, it was but a trifling matter," said Jiang Liu, modestly waving his hand in response to General Zhang''s grateful words.


    Indeed, these were onlymon level equipment, and I had now risen to the rank of a primary level cksmith.


    If he could, bringing in two cartloads of fine quality equipment would indeed make me owe him a debt of gratitude as deep as that to my own forebears.


    "Master, please, let us enter the pce together to meet His Majesty!" General Zhang, extending a hand in a guiding gesture, invited Jiang Liu and his entourage into the royal city, and they directly headed towards the royal pce.


    Upon arriving at the royal pce, someone went in to announce their arrival, and shortly after, a person came out to let everyone know they could enter.


    Jiang Liu and his disciples, naturally, along with General Zhang overseeing General Lu, entered the royal pce and came into the great hall.


    As Jiang Liu and the others entered the great hall, naturally, it caused quite a disturbance, simply because Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing looked dreadfully terrifying, much like demons.


    "You are the monk who hase from the Great Tang of the Eastern Land!?"


    Without haste in dealing with General Lu''s matter, the king seated on the throne surveyed Sun Wukong and the others, his face showing no fear, and eventually, his gaze settled on Jiang Liu and he inquired.


    "Indeed, I have seen the king," Jiang Liu nodded, demonstrating humility and politeness, as he brought his palms together and bowed.


    "Character panel!"


    Looking at the King of the ck Chicken Country, Jiang Liu inwardly chanted, and immediately, the character panel of the king appeared before him.


    ID: King of the ck Chicken Country (White)


    Gender: Male


    Profession: King@@novelbin@@


    Level: 60


    Equipment: ...


    "A level 60 white panel? So, does this mean he''s at the peak of the Returning Void realm?" Jiang Liu mused to himself after ncing at the so-called King of the ck Chicken Country''s character panel.


    "Hmm, since the Holy Monk of the Great Tang is on a pilgrimage to the Western Heaven to pay homage and seek scriptures, I, as the king, shall not impede your westward journey. Come, someone, exchange the travel permit que for the Holy Monk and send him on his way westward!" After observing Jiang Liu, especially Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing, the King of the ck Chicken Country spoke, exhibiting a very agreeable demeanor, and even proactively ordered his people to exchange the travel permit que for him.


    Though he verbally imed he didn''t dare to dy the great cause of Jiang Liu''s westward scripture-seeking journey, the king didn''t even prepare a simple meal after meeting them. Judging by the king''s attitude, he apparently couldn''t wait for Jiang Liu and his party to leave, as if he were all but sweeping them out with a broom.


    "This isn''t following the usual conventions at all!" Jiang Liu was taken aback upon hearing the words of the pretender king.


    "Hehehe, you, king, are so stingy. After traveling thousands of miles, you can''t even prepare a simple vegetarian meal. Your miserliness takes the cake, far more than even the old Jade Emperor..."


    Sun Wukong, upon hearing the words of the King of the ck Chicken Country, spoke indignantly, disdainfully addressing the king.


    Below, the civil and military officials looked at each other, and there were also muted discussions, apparently agreeing that the king''s actions were indeed impolite; after all, these were esteemed guests from the Heavenly Empire.


    "You monkey, how dare you!" A young man by the side of the King of the ck Chicken Country stood out and berated Sun Wukong antagonistically.


    "Crown Prince, stop this mor ande back," said the King of the ck Chicken Country as the young man stepped forward.


    "Crown Prince!?" Jiang Liu looked at the young man with a somewhat strange expression, then at the King of the ck Chicken Country, with a look of sympathy.


    Kill your father, ravish your mother, and be your father.


    Wasn''t this a vivid depiction of what this impostor king had done to the Crown Prince?


    Poor child, acknowledging a thief as father, and yet so filially devoted.


    After the King of the ck Chicken Country called back the Crown Prince, he nced at Jiang Liu and hispanions. With monks on a mission to the Western Heaven for scriptures, and clearly formidable disciples, he naturally did not wish to interact with them more than necessary, lest his identity be revealed.


    However, now that they were insisting on staying for a meal, the King of the ck Chicken Country inwardly deliberated for a moment and then reluctantly sighed.


    "This king merely did not wish to dy the Holy Monk''s important westward journey. But since you wish to stay, of course I will prepare avish vegetarian feast to wee the Holy Monk and his disciples..."


    (PS: "Kill your father, ravish your mother, and be your father," was initially going to be the title of this chapter. Since many people said it might lead to reports, I will change it.)

 Chapter 293 This King is Fake (3rd Update)

    Unpleasant!


    The King of ck Chicken Country and Jiang Liu each found the other disagreeable.


    After all, the King of ck Chicken Country knew his own identity, so knowing that Jiang Liu was no ordinary person, he wished they would leave as soon as possible.


    On the other hand? Jiang Liu and hispanions naturally found the King of ck Chicken Country unpleasant as well.


    Jiang Liu knew from the start that this King of ck Chicken Country was an impostor. As for Sun Wukong and the others? They felt that the king regarded them with disfavor.


    Throughout their journey, they had passed through many towns and countries, such as the Treasure Elephant Country, where they had always been received warmly and respectfully. Only this King of ck Chicken Country, who could not bother to serve them even vegetarian meals. It would be strange if Sun Wukong liked him.


    "No need, I, Old Sun, have eaten countless delicacies, dragon liver and phoenix marrow, why would I covet your simple vegetarian meal? Since the king does not sincerely wee us, we naturally will not shamelessly stay!" Sun Wukong bared his teeth and said very impolitely to the King of the ck Chicken Country.


    Hearing him say this made it as if they came to scrounge for food and drink. Sun Wukong agreeing to that would be strange indeed.


    "Hmph, such a tactless king, to belittle us like this..." Zhu Bajie also spoke up at this time, clearly annoyed.


    Although Zhu Bajie often squabbled with Sun Wukong, at this moment, he was on the same front with Sun Wukong.


    "You people are audacious!" Although he had just been reprimanded by his own father, being in the grand hall, as the king being spoken to impolitely by some foreigners, the Crown Prince, in his youthful vigor, could not tolerate it and scolded angrily.


    The Great Tang? It indeed is the supreme nation of the Heavenly Empire, but what of it? Thousands of miles away from this ce, there''s no need to fear them! Were these uninvited guests bullying their way here?


    In the grand hall, the civil and military officials all looked at each other and started whispering among themselves.@@novelbin@@


    The civil officials mainly felt that their king indeedcked in hospitality, thus, they thought the faulty first with the king.


    But the military officials, being more hot-blooded, felt that although the king was in the wrong, these people from the Great Tang were so rude; wasn''t that underestimating the ck Chicken Country?


    The military officials all gripped their weapons, awaiting the king''s order to capture these audacious monks in one fell swoop.


    "Master, please say less!" Seeing the tense situation between Jiang Liu''s group and the king, General Zhang, who was beside them, implored urgently.


    Immediately after, General Zhang lowered his head, and said to the king: "Your Majesty, Master Xuanzang and hispanions helped me capture the traitorous General Lu, and even helped our military camp repair over a thousand broken weapons; the Master holds no ill intentions!"


    "Hahaha! Traitor!"


    However, General Lu, who had been silent beside them, suddenly burst intoughter at this moment,ughing loudly towards the civil and military officials in the grand hall: "Look at what the king has be, is he still the king we know? I thought there was indeed a viin whispering nder into the king''s ear!"


    At these words, General Lu slightly paused, then loudly added: "Someone once told me, saying the king is fake, that the real king had been killed by him, and then this Demon person himself turned into the king. I did not believe it at first, but now, it seems there is a seventy percent chance it''s true. You demon! Who exactly are you!? Daring to impersonate our King of the ck Chicken Country!?"


    By the end, General Lu''s voice was fierce as he shouted loudly at the King of the ck Chicken Country sitting on the throne!


    "What!? Fake!?" When General Lu uttered these words, it was earth-shattering, startling all the civil and military officials in the grand hall.


    Of course, the shock was merely from the news itself, as for whether they believed it? It was a matter of opinion.


    Some thought that General Lu was talking nonsense, as although the king''s temperament had changed, it hadn''t been for just a year or two, how could he be fake?


    Of course, there were also some who took these words seriously, and remembered them, though they were dubious in their hearts.


    "Ignorant of imminent death, daring to make such outrageous statements here!" Hearing General Lu''s words, alleging in front of the full court that he was fake, the King of ck Chicken Country was startled and then furiously yelled.


    "Guards! Take this traitorous fellow out and behead him!" With a great wave of his hand, the frustrated King of the ck Chicken Country shouted loudly.


    Following the king''smand, naturally, several armored warriors quickly came in, dragging General Lu out of the great hall.


    The civil and military officials in the grand hall looked at each other, some feeling that the king''s reaction was overly strong, unreasonable, almost like he was trying to cover something up.


    Naturally, there were also those who thought that, as the king, being used by a traitorous person of being fake, it was normal to be furious.


    "Wait a moment..." Just as General Lu was about to be dragged away to be executed, Jiang Liu suddenly spoke up, stepped forward, and said to the King of the ck Chicken Country, "This General Lu was captured by me! But his words are not without foundation! I think the king''s identity ought to be verified!"


    "Master Xuanzang! How could you!?" Hearing Jiang Liu stand up and speak, General Zhang looked at him incredulously.


    After all, whether true or false, wasn''t this a matter for the ck Chicken Country itself? Yet he wanted to get involved, how could that be good?


    "Amitabha, I am a monk who delights in helping others!"


    Upon hearing General Zhang''s words, Jiang Liu turned his head and said, pausing slightly before continuing, "Therefore, when you asked for help, I did not refuse and took action to capture General Lu!"


    "However, General Lu also sought my help. His purpose was to investigate the truth behind the King''s transformation, to see if there really was a treacherous scoundrel by the King''s side. Now it seems that General Lu''s words were not without reason, and I naturally could not ignore his plea for help!"


    Jiang Liu''s words rified his position; after all, he was from the Great Tang, and it wasn''t appropriate for him to meddle in the affair of the real and fake kings of the ck Chicken Country.


    But, if someone sought his help, that was a different matter.


    "Wukong, your Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze are said to prate a Demon''s illusions, aren''t they? Take a look, is this King of the ck Chicken Country real or fake?" As soon as he spoke, Jiang Liu immediately turned to Sun Wukong beside him.


    "Hehehe, well now, daring to impersonate the King? I, Old Sun, have never seen an Evil Demon quite so bold. Let I, Old Sun, take a look at what exactly you are!" Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s call, Sun Wukongughed heartily and said.


    During this exchange, Sun Wukong''s eyes emitted a golden light as he looked towards the King of the ck Chicken Country. With his Divine Skills of the Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze, Sun Wukong immediately saw through the King''s true form.


    "Hehehe, so that''s the kind of Evil Demon you are¡ªa Lion Demon!" After casting a nce at the fake King of the ck Chicken Country with his Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze, Sun Wukong chuckled and said.


    "What!? A Lion Demon!?" The words of Sun Wukong caused shock amongst the civil and military officials in the hall, all exchanging incredulous looks, finding it hard to believe.


    Of course, not everyone took Sun Wukong''s words seriously; some were still doubtful.


    "Swift Fire Bead!" However, Jiang Liu didn''t pay much attention to their reactions. As soon as Sun Wukong revealed the fake King of the ck Chicken Country''s identity, Jiang Liu raised his hand.


    A fiery ze hurled directly towards the King of the ck Chicken Country.


    The sudden attack caught the civil and military officials in the hall off guard, making it toote for them to intervene. They could only watch as the fiery ze smashed toward the King.


    Faced with the approaching me of the Swift Fire Bead, the King of the ck Chicken Country hesitated for a moment and then raised his hand in response, pping it down!


    At this point, the King of the ck Chicken Country also realized he had no choice. If he didn''t respond, he would be attacked, and, left with no other options, he waspelled to act.


    Didn''t you see the monkey nearby, raising his Golden Hoop staff as well?


    Being a level 60 entity, significantly higher than Jiang Liu, he smashed down his palm, instantly shattering that group of Swift Fire Bead!


    "And you still say you''re not an Evil Demon!"


    Seeing that the King of the ck Chicken Country had shattered Master Xuanzang''s Spell attack with a p, an extraordinary feat, General Lu, who was bound nearby, shouted angrily.


    "I, I naturally have divine strength!" Upon hearing General Lu''s shout, the King of the ck Chicken Country looked around at all the civil and military officials, who were eyeing him skeptically, and forcefully defended himself.


    Naturally, no one was inclined to believe his words at that point.


    Sun Wukong grinned, leapt into the air, and charged directly towards the King of the ck Chicken Country.


    By then, the King of the ck Chicken Country also realized that his exnations were futile. Seeing Sun Wukong attacking him, he could only turn and flee for his life.


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    "Think you can escape!?" However, seeing the King of the ck Chicken Country start to flee, Jiang Liu secretly chuckled and promptly pointed his finger, activating the Sheep Transformation Technique.


    Baa!


    Under the effect of the Sheep Transformation Technique, the King of the ck Chicken Country instantly turned into a harmless littlemb, bleating confusedly.


    The Golden Hoop staff came crashing down, and with one blow, the health bar over the King of the ck Chicken Country''s head was instantly emptied, plunging him into a critically injured anda state.


    In front of Sun Wukong, a mere Lion Demon of the Demon King Realm was naturally obliterated in one move.


    Alert: Gained Experience Points 2520.


    As soon as Sun Wukong''s staff came down, the game''s prompt sounded.


    Since only the Sheep Transformation Technique was executed, the assist contribution wasn''t significant, thus yielding only over 2000 Experience Points.


    "Wukong, check if that Crown Prince is really genuine!" Seeing that everyone''s attention was captured by the situation, Jiang Liu immediately followed up.

 Chapter 294 The Forgotten "Swift Fire Bead" (4th Update)

    What! The Crown Prince is also fake!?


    Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, everyone in the great hall changed their expressions dramatically, and in an instant, their attention fell upon the Crown Prince.


    At this moment, the Crown Prince, seeing his father turn into an evil demon, was already finding his mind a nk te, suddenly heard Jiang Liu''s words and noticed everyone''s gazes focusing on him.


    The looks in their eyes startled the Crown Prince, who then hurriedly said, "Wait, I''m real, I''m not an evil demon!"


    "Whether you are or not, you saying so doesn''t count!" Upon hearing the Crown Prince''s words, Sun Wukong chuckled and said.


    Serving as Jiang Liu''s ace fighter, Sun Wukong obviously had no intention of questioning Jiang Liu''s judgment. While speaking, his eyes shone with golden light, and using his divine skill, Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze, he looked over at the Crown Prince.


    Of course, by this time, all eyes in the great hall were on the Crown Prince, filled with surprise¡ªcould it be? Was even the Crown Prince a fake?


    However, after staring with the Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze for a moment, Sun Wukong shook his head, turned to Jiang Liu, and said, "Master, you¡­"


    At this point, Jiang Liu was just setting down the body of the Lion Demon and, seeing the astonished look in Sun Wukong''s eyes, Jiang Liu said, "I was checking if this Lion Demon had really died!"


    "Not dead, but close to it!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s exnation, Sun Wukong replied, unconcerned.


    He then added, "Master, this Crown Prince is real, and not an illusion transformed by a demon."


    "Hmm, it seems that only the King was fake," Jiang Liu nodded and said.


    "Master, so what shall we do next? Kill it?" Looking at the demon creature next to him, severely wounded and on the verge of death, already reverted to its lion form, Sun Wukong asked for instructions.


    "No need to rush that, let''s first ask him how he plotted against the King, and where the body is!" Jiang Liu shook his head and said.


    "Yes, that makes sense!" This remark from Jiang Liu had everyone in the great hall, including Sun Wukong and the civil and military officials, nodding in agreement.


    At this point, everyone was sure that the King had indeed been reced by an evil demon, so naturally, they needed to find out from him where the real King had gone before celebrating anything.


    ¡­


    Following the revtion of the fake King on the Golden Pce, naturally, Jiang Liu became a hero-like figure for the ck Chicken Country.


    Temporarily setting aside his sorrow, the Crown Prince arranged for Jiang Liu and his party to stay temporarily in the Royal Pce.


    The Lion Demon that had been knocked unconscious was also bound, waiting for him to awaken so they could inquire about the whereabouts of the real King''s corpse.


    It''s worth mentioning that General Lu, who was originally arrested for treason, was released without charges after the King''s true identity was exposed.


    Even more so, as the first general who dared to stand against the King, his prestige vastly increased at this moment.


    After regaining his freedom, General Lu was naturally very grateful to Jiang Liu.


    Although it had been Jiang Liu who captured him initially, Jiang Liu had soon made a verbal agreement with him in secret: once they reached the Royal City, he would help him reveal the King''s true face.


    Naturally, it was also Jiang Liu who told him that the King was an imposter and instructed him to look for an opportunity to disclose this news in the great hall.


    Therefore, following today''s revtion of the fake King in the great hall, Jiang Liu''s two subsequent passive quests were also bothpleted.


    The rewards of 500,000 and 1,500,000 Experience Points were instantly credited, and he also received a Legendary Level Treasure Chest.


    Though the revtion of the fake King was a cause for celebration, considering that they didn''t even know where the real King''s corpse was, everyone couldn''t feel happy, and naturally, there were no celebrations.


    In the Royal Pce, after having dinner, Jiang Liu went back to his room to rest.


    As for Sun Wukong and the others? The three sat down to y Fight the Landlord.


    But before beginning his cultivation, Jiang Liu stretched out his hand and brought out a treasure chest, the Legendary Level Treasure Chest awarded forpleting the quest.@@novelbin@@


    As Jiang Liu opened the chest, his face twitched, and he took out a huge axe from inside.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze fell upon the axe, the corresponding attribute information appeared.


    Xuanhua Axe (Legendary Level): Requires Level 48, Attack Power +7800, Special Effect: All Skills'' Cooldown Time -10%, Durability 88/100.


    "Hiss¡­" Seeing the attribute information for this piece of equipment, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but take a sharp intake of breath.


    Not only was this axe extravagant in design, but it also seemed terrifyingly powerful¡ª7800 Attack Power?


    This was more than double the Divine Tree Staff''s bonus, after all, the Divine Tree Staff only had an attack bonus of 3500!


    "I''m a monk, using a Zen Staff or a Monk Staff can be justified, but carrying such a huge axe doesn''t fit at all, does it?" Looking at the massive axe, then at his 16-year-old delicate and handsome Little Monk appearance, Jiang Liu inwardly shook his head, feeling it was totally mismatched.


    However, the whopping 7800 attack bonus made Jiang Liu swallow hard.


    Pushing aside the hesitations in his heart, Jiang Liu momentarily diverted his focus from the Xuanhua Axe and then took out two Skill Books from his inventory space.


    Yes, two skill books¡ªthose were the items Sun Wukong had just obtained after he knocked the Lion Demon unconscious."


    Jiang Liu had specifically asked Sun Wukong to check whether the Crown Prince was a demon, drawing everyone''s attention, then took the opportunity to feel for items beneath the Lion Demon''s body."


    Of course, there''s no need to mention the several potions he found as well."


    One of the skill books caught Jiang Liu''s eye, and he discovered it was a swordsmanship skill book avable after a Swordsman ss change, "Fiery sh," while the other was a skill for the profession of Compassionate Bodhisattva, "Strengthening Protective Mantra."


    "Fiery sh"¡ªfrom the name of this skill alone, Jiang Liu could tell that it was a closebat attack technique."


    After a careful thought, his own closebat attack techniques were indeed very scarce; did he have only Palm Thunder? Moreover, it required capturing the target before it could be used."


    After some consideration, Jiang Liu realized that his remote attack means, such as the special equipment Feather Demon de, could take over that role, so he turned his attention to his special equipment''s skill bookcase."


    Swift Fire Bead, Palm Thunder, and Sheep Transformation Technique¡ªthese three skill books upied the skill bookcasepletely, taking up three spots."


    Jiang Liu reached out and took the skill book for Swift Fire Bead from the case."


    Notification: You''ve gained 4 Skill Points!


    As Jiang Liu took out the skill book, the system''s notification sounded in his mind. It was the return of the 4 Skill Points from the Swift Fire Bead."


    Simultaneously, the Swift Fire Bead skill also vanished from Jiang Liu''s skill list."


    "Swift Fire Bead? How was it used again!?"


    It was like something he still remembered had suddenly slipped his mind¡ªJiang Liu thought hard but could no longer recall the techniques for using the Swift Fire Bead."


    He only remembered that he used to be able to cast it, but now, he couldn''t perform it at all."


    This feeling was simr to someone who had learned to make paper airnes or paper frogs as a child and was quite skilled at it."


    But as they grew older and thought back on it, they could only remember that they had known how to fold them as a child, but how exactly? That, they had forgotten¡­ Explore more at My Virtual Library Empire


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu then ced the "Fiery sh" skill book into the skill bookcase."


    Notification: Do you want to spend 1 Skill Point to learn Fiery sh?


    Without any fuss, Jiang Liu chose to learn it."


    After learning, a new skill appeared before Jiang Liu, and he examined Fiery sh''s skill attributes."


    Fiery sh (Primary Level 1): Summon the power of fiery mes, attaching it to your weapon to deliver a heavy sh to the target, Attack Power +1000 +20%, with an additional burn effect causing equal damage over 100 seconds, Cooldown Time 60 seconds."


    "Hmm, this skill adds 1000 base Attack Power, which is not bad, although a 20% increase is a bit low. However, the burn effect is very handy, effectively doubling the damage!" Jiang Liu muttered to himself as he nodded in satisfaction after reviewing the attributes of Fiery sh."


    Moreover, the burn effectsts for 100 seconds, but the skill''s Cooldown Time is only 60 seconds? Wouldn''t it be possible to inflict double burn effects? "


    After all, it''s just a Primary Level skill, so having such an effect is pretty good."


    After calcting in his mind for a moment, Jiang Liu went on to learn the other skill book."


    Strengthening Protective Mantra.


    This was another buff ability of Compassionate Bodhisattva."


    As a Support profession, having an attack power-boosting buff skill like the Demon-Subduing Mantra, why wouldn''t there be a buff skill that increases Defense Ability?


    Upon reaching level 44, he gained an additional Skill Point, and just now the Swift Fire Bead had returned 4 Skill Points to him."


    So, Jiang Liu used all of the remaining 4 Skill Points to enhance the Strengthening Protective Mantra to the highest level."


    Another skill icon appeared in Jiang Liu''s skill list, and its corresponding attributes naturally emerged as he checked them."


    Strengthening Protective Mantra (Great Perfection): Increases a friendly target''s defensive power by +25%,sting 300 seconds, Cooldown 60 seconds."


    "Satisfied!" Jiang Liu couldn''t help but show a pleased smile upon seeing the Strengthening Protective Mantra skill."


    At this time, he had finallypensated for his shorings in defense."


    For attack, he had Demon-Subduing Mantra and Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra; for defense, Strengthening Protective Mantra, and for damage immunity Vajra Mantra; healing included the single-target Guanyin Mantra and the group healing Hand of Healing¡­"


    Only at this time, did he truly feel like a Compassionate Bodhisattva of the Support profession."


    "Hmm, all that''s missing now is the resurrection skill, Soul-Returning Spell! Only after finally acquiring the Soul-Returning Spell skill will I be a trulyplete Compassionate Bodhisattva!"


    Looking at the skills in his skill list, Jiang Liu nodded emphatically with a satisfied expression."

 Chapter 295 So the Master is Afraid of This? (5th Update)

    For Jiang Liu, this visit to the Royal Pce of the ck Chicken Country had been highly fruitful, yielding two Skill Books, both of which were very practical.


    Furthermore, the Xuanhua Axe had be even more formidable.


    Its 7800 attack aside, the 10% cooldown time reduction on all skills was also very practical, so, this time, the gains were indeed significant.


    However, as Jiang Liu was fiddling with the skills he had just learned and the Xuanhua Axe, suddenly, at this moment, he felt a chill breeze.


    At this time, in the peak of the hot weather of August or September, as the chill wind blew over, Jiang Liu even felt goosebumps popping up on his skin.


    "What''s going on?" Feeling thispletely irrational chill breeze, Jiang Liu was secretly astonished.


    "Elder Tang..."


    Just then, simultaneously, an eerie, ethereal voice sounded, and immediately, a semi-transparent figure materialized in front of Jiang Liu, gradually solidifying.


    "It''s... haunted..."


    Watching the figure''s semi-illusory body slowly solidify, its ghastly appearance approaching, Jiang Liu''splexion turned to fright, he leaned back, and, startled, retreated, staring in terror at the advancing figure.


    "Elder Tang, don''t be afraid, I mean no harm!" Seeing Jiang Liu''s terrified look, the figure also stopped and spoke.


    However, being a Lost Soul and floating mid-air without touching the ground, his reassurances that Jiang Liu should not be afraid carried absolutely no conviction.


    "Tssk, where did this Wandering Soule from, daring to intrude into my master''s room!"


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    At Jiang Liu''s frightened cry, naturally, it drew the attention of Sun Wukong and the others. Bursting through the door with a kick, Sun Wukong stormed in and looked at the Lost Soul, speaking sternly.


    "Master, what, what''s wrong with you?" Sun Wukong''s fierce demeanorpletely frightened the Lost Soul into shrinking to a side, while Zhu Bajie, very attentively, came beside Jiang Liu, gently patted his back, and asked with concern and somefort.


    "It''s, it''s nothing..." Seeing Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie entering, Jiang Liu''s expression stabilized somewhat, but he still looked at the Lost Soul with lingering fear.


    "Master, it''s just a mere Wandering Soul, nothing to be afraid of!" Wujing, standing by, looked at the Lost Soul and then at Jiang Liu, and said with a somewhat strange expression.


    The master''s own Cultivation Level was not low, already at the Divinity Transformation Realm, and he had beenposed even when facing the Demon King, Demon Immortals, even Guanyin and the Supreme Elder Lord, even negotiating terms with the Supreme Elder Lord.


    Yet, the master was actually afraid of ghosts!?


    "Wait, big brother, doesn''t this Wandering Soul''s appearance look familiar?" Just then, Zhu Bajie also scrutinized the ghost that had intruded into Jiang Liu''s room and spoke.


    "Familiar? Eh? Isn''t this the King of the ck Chicken Country''s appearance? No wonder I, Old Sun, felt annoyed at the sight of him!" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s reminder, Sun Wukong realized and spoke.


    "Yes, gentlemen, I am indeed the King of the ck Chicken Country; I intruded uninvited today because I have a request, and I hope Elder Tang can assist me..." Following the recognition by Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, the Lost Soul knelt on the ground and nodded, pleading.


    "You, what do you need our help with?" With Sun Wukong and the others by his side, Jiang Liu felt somewhat moreposed. Hearing the words of Zhu Bajie, he also recognized the identity of the ghost, bolstered his courage, and asked.


    "Holy Monk, I was indeed the King of the ck Chicken Country, but regrettably, I was harmed by a sworn brother in the Imperial Garden, who threw my body into a well and took on my appearance. I beseech the Holy Monk to help me rid the Evil Demon!" Knelt on the ground, the King of the ck Chicken Country spoke, pleading.


    "You, you mean, this? Today, today, we, as a group of disciples, have already subdued that Evil Demon and revealed his identity. We are, we are about to search for your body!" Hearing the King of the ck Chicken Country''s words, Jiang Liu still stuttered a bit as he spoke.


    "Ah!?" Jiang Liu''s words stunned the King of the ck Chicken Country, who immediately rejoiced and knelt deeply before Jiang Liu.


    "Alright, you, you can go back now. Your body is in the well in the Imperial Garden, right? I understand. Tomorrow, we will have the Crown Prince and others, go, go retrieve your body!" Waving his hand, Jiang Liu spoke to the King of the ck Chicken Country, allowing him to leave.@@novelbin@@


    "Many thanks, Holy Monk, many thanks, Holy Monk!" The King of the ck Chicken Country''s ghost kept thanking him profusely and then immediately dissipated into a wisp of bluish smoke.


    With the departure of the King of the ck Chicken Country, naturally, the spooky feeling in the room, and the following, quickly dissipated as well.


    Phew...


    With the King of the ck Chicken Country''s departure, Jiang Liu felt as though a huge stone had finally been lifted off his chest, and he exhaled a long breath of foul air.


    The eerie feeling gave one the sensation of a bunch of icy snakes crawling on one''s body, causing an extremely ufortable feeling.


    "Master, are, are you alright?" After waiting for half a tea''s time, Jiang Liu''s originally paleplexion had regained some color. Zhu Bajie, somewhat worried, asked.


    "It''s alright, it''s alright!" Waving his hand, it took him half a tea''s time to calm down, Jiang Liu shook his head and said.


    "Hehehe, Master, I never expected that you would be afraid of ghosts!" However, at this moment, Sun Wukong, who was next to him, burst intoughter after seeing that Jiang Liu had fully recovered and teased him.


    "This, this..." Hearing Sun Wukong''s teasing words, Jiang Liu wanted to retort, but his previous behavior made any rebuttal seem feeble, right?


    I am afraid of ghosts!? Truthfully, even Jiang Liu hadn''t expected that!


    Having been in the Journey to the West world for so long and never encountering a ghost, plus now that his cultivation level was at the Divinity Transformation Stage, what was there to fear about ghosts?


    However, Jiang Liu himself did not expect that when he saw the King of the ck Chicken Country, he couldn''t suppress the fear in his heart.


    At that moment, his time at Jinshan Temple echoed in Jiang Liu''s mind.


    He had spent a long time at Jinshan Temple, listening to Elder Xuanwu mentioning his departure, Jiang Liu very much wanted to go with him.


    However, when he heard that Elder Xuanwu was going to help the lost souls transcend, realizing that this world might have demons and ghosts, he thought it over and decided not to apany him.


    Thinking about it now? Was the fear rooted deep in his subconscious all along, just that he hadn''t noticed it?


    Feeling afraid of ghosts? It was unexpected to Jiang Liu, and now that he had calmed his mind, he thought it might be due to his nature.


    It''s like how women could easily crush a cockroach but still feel terrified of them, and how many people could step on a mouse, yet are very afraid of mice.


    Moreover, in Jiang Liu''s view, it might also be because he watched too many rted dramas and movies in his previous life, usually in the form of horror films, which left a deep-seated influence in his mind!?


    Thinking it over, regardless of the reason, Jiang Liu understood that his fear of ghosts had now be a reality.


    It seemed that facing such things, it was better to keep his distance!


    "Squeak, squeak, squeak..."


    Unable to contain his delight, as he had usually lost more than won in verbal spats, but today, he finally discovered a weak spot in his master, making Sun Wukong very amused, nearly somersaulting with joy.


    "Although Master is extremely wise and mature, he is still only sixteen years old, right?" Having traveled with Jiang Liu for so long, it was the first time Zhu Bajie saw Jiang Liu scared, finding it quite novel, and it also made the master seem more real.


    It turns out, he too was a normal person who could feel fear.


    "Master, seeing as you are adept at conquering your path, should we take a trip to the Underworld? There are many wandering spirits and ghosts there; perhaps it would allow you a good ughter!" Sun Wukongughed heartily, teasing Jiang Liu with his suggestion.


    "Monkey, I have been somewhat neglectful of you all this time, that''s my fault!" Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly, then he seriously looked at Sun Wukong and admitted his mistake.


    "For Bajie, I at least taught him some methods to win a girl''s heart, and for Wujing? I even vouched for him in front of the Bodhisattva, but you, I seem to have never done anything for..."


    "Eh?" These unexpectedly profound words from Jiang Liu made Sun Wukong pause, and he couldn''t continue his teasing.


    Had the master suddenly had a change of heart?


    "Wukong, wait, just as master has been practicing the Art of Artifact Refining these days, let me sew you a tiger skin skirt? You''ve been requesting this for a year, and I still haven''t sewn it for you, that''s my failing..."


    Any touch of emotion that had just started forming in Sun Wukong''s heart disappeared instantly.


    "Alright, Master, you should rest early. I, Old Sun, am leaving! Bajie, Wujing, let''s continue to y Fight the Landlord!" With a twitch of his lips, Sun Wukong felt uninspired to talk further with Jiang Liu, calling Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing to leave.


    "Wait, wait..."


    However, as he watched them leave, with only himself left in the room, Jiang Liu felt a bit uneasy and called out.


    Immediately getting up, he said, "I''m also in the mood today, let''s... let''s y all night together?"


    "Four people? Are we continuing to y Mahjong?" Hearing Jiang Liu, Zhu Bajie asked.


    "No, not Mahjong anymore, ying Mahjong and Fight the Landlord every day gets a bit boring. Let''s call Xiaobai up, I''ll teach you a card game for five people tonight..."

 Chapter 296 Legends of the Three Kingdoms (6th Update)

    ```


    Initially, Jiang Liu took out Mahjong to y on New Year''s Eve simply because he was idle and wanted to relive his past life. He crafted a crude set of Mahjong tiles and spent the whole night ying with his disciples to pass the time.


    Then, he casually brought out poker cards to y Fight the Landlord as a change of pace and, of course, to prevent them from pestering him to y Mahjong during his cultivation practice.


    To Jiang Liu, both Mahjong and poker were distractions, and given his Journey to the West, it was as if he was racing against life itself¡ªhow could he afford to idle away his time?


    Most of the time, it was his disciples who yed among themselves, while Jiang Liu seized every moment to cultivate.


    However, tonight, after being disturbed by the Lost Soul of the King of the ck Chicken Country, Jiang Liu felt rather uneasy staying in his room alone.


    So, he indulged himself and decided to join Sun Wukong and the others.


    Mahjong and poker cards had already been yed for half a year and had indeed be monotonous; Jiang Liu believed his disciples felt the same, so he decided it was time to introduce something new.


    "Oh? Master, a new card game? What is it?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie showed expectation and curiously asked Jiang Liu.


    Mahjong and poker cards, both introduced by Jiang Liu, were extremely amusing.


    Now, there were even newer things to y with? What could they be?


    "Wait a moment, let me create a deck first!" With a slight smile, Jiang Liu said.


    As he spoke, his mind moved, trying to see if his Life Profession could craft the cards.


    The materials needed for the cards were naturally hard cardboard, and as for paper, it was made from wood and water, among other materials.


    After pondering the process and method of making them, Jiang Liu spoke up and had his disciples gather the necessary materials.


    Then he opened his Life Skills panel and ced all the materials, even the pigments needed for drawing, onto it, pressing a button.


    Dazzling light shed,sting for two whole minutes.


    It seemed that making a deck of cards required more effort than crafting an equipment item of level 20 or above?


    After two minutes, the brilliant light gradually faded, and then a new deck of cards with beautifully drawn pictures appeared before Jiang Liu.


    "Hehehe, it really worked!" Looking at the new set of cards in his hands, Jiang Liu smiled and nodded.


    "Eh? Master, these cards arepletely different from the ones used for Fight the Landlord!" However, Sun Wukong, who was beside him, was curiously looking at the new cards in Jiang Liu''s hands, picked a few, and said in surprise.


    "Drawing out the sheeps? This is a picture of a hand drawing a sheep. What does this mean?"@@novelbin@@


    "What''s this? A spy? What does that mean?"


    "Attack? What does ''Attack'' mean on this card?"


    ...


    "Come on, disciples, let me exin to you. This card game is called ''Legends of the Three Kingdoms.'' It randomly matches five yers as the Lord, Loyal Ministers, Spy, and two Rebels..."


    After gathering all the cards, Jiang Liu began to carefully exin the rules of the Legends of the Three Kingdoms game to Sun Wukong and his fellows.


    Considering the rules, the Legends of the Three Kingdoms game naturally offered more interest than Mahjong or Fight the Landlord; it was moreplex and more extensive.


    For instance, the identities: four different roles to be chosen randomly.


    Or Health Points: different characters have different limits.


    Then the Equipment: various odd equipments with their unique effects.


    There were also Hand Cards, Attacks, Dodges, and not to mention the functional cards like Create Barriers and Drawing out the Sheep.


    Of course, the crux was one''s Role: characters like Zhuge Liang, Cao Cao, Hua Tuo, etc., all had entirely unique traits...


    Together with Steeds and weapons that set the Attack distance, and so on.


    Role Cards, Character Cards, Equipment Cards, along with various Hand Cards, resulted in an endlessly variablebination, which naturally greatly increased the interest.


    Moreover, except for the Lord, everyone''s identities were secret, known only to themselves, so it was a battle of wits and courage.


    Listening to Jiang Liu exin these rules, Sun Wukong and the others were already dazzled.


    "Alright, got all that!?" After going through a litany of rules, Jiang Liu himself felt his mouth was dry and asked Sun Wukong and the others.


    "Understood, understood! Master, let''s y a few rounds to practice?" Sun Wukong, always the impatient one, quickly said to Jiang Liu.


    "Okay, then let''s draw for our Role Cards now. Everyone, don''t reveal your identities except for the Lord!" Nodding, Jiang Liu said.


    With five Role Cards spread out on the table, each took one.


    Jiang Liu looked at his own card and saw the words "Spy" written on it.


    ```


    "Hehehe, I, Old Sun, am the Lord, who among you is a Loyal Minister!?" Sun Wukong revealed his Role Card with a big smile and asked.


    Of course, no one would answer that question, since everyone knew that apart from the Lord''s identity, all others had to be kept secret.


    "Alright, now let''s draw the Character Cards! I''ve exined all the different characters and their special traits on the mission card, so if you don''t understand something, take a look for yourself!" After nodding his head, Jiang Liu went on to speak.


    After drawing the Role Cards and Character Cards and assigning themselves the appropriate Health Point cards, the game began. Everyone drew their cards; Jiang Liu happened to be seated upwind of Sun Wukong.


    "I, Old Sun, am the Lord, eh!?" Sun Wukong, clutching a handful of Hand Cards, nced at them, swept his gaze over Jiang Liu and the others, then suddenly flung an Attack card at Zhu Bajie sitting opposite him. As he did, he shouted fiercely, "Attack!"


    "Damn, you damn gue of a Monkey, why the hell are you attacking me!?" Zhu Bajie jumped in surprise, checked his hand, and as luck would have it, didn''t have a Dodge, so he had to lose a Health Point.


    "Hehehe, with that pig head of yours, you don''t look like a good guy. There''s a three in four chance you''re bad, so of course I, Old Sun, have to take you down first!" Hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Sun Wukong replied with a sly smile.


    In an instant, the battlemenced, with both sides going back and forth.


    Sun Wukong attacked Zhu Bajie. Sha Wujing, who was sitting at the lower hand, drew his cards and equipped two Equipment Cards but held onto his cards without ying, looking sly and assessing the situation.


    After Zhu Bajie drew his cards, he saw that because of the distance, he couldn''t attack Sun Wukong and could only reluctantly turn to White Dragon Horse sitting next to him.


    Yet, when White Dragon Horse made his move, he aimed directly at Sun Wukong, his unbending will made it clear he was ying the role of a Rebel.


    Although they were just ying with cards, the five disciples each had their own schemes and attacks.


    Within moments, White Dragon Horse''sst Health Point was taken out by Jiang Liu, who imed the remaining cards for himself.


    "Wukong, don''t worry, I''m here to help you!" After taking out White Dragon Horse, Jiang Liu called out to Sun Wukong, then turned to attack Zhu Bajie!


    "Hehehe, Master is a Loyal Minister!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sun Wukong nodded vigorously, as clear as if looking into a mirror.


    Then, Sun Wukong took action and eliminated Zhu Bajie, who turned out to be another Rebel!


    After that, the situation simplified, and Sun Wukong and Jiang Liu joined forces to attack Sha Wujing.


    One against two, Sha Wujing stood no chance, and hisst Health Point was taken by Sun Wukong. Turning the Role Card over¡ªit read: Loyal Minister!


    "Hahaha, uh..."


    Having defeated Sha Wujing and thinking the game was over, Sun Wukong startedughing triumphantly, but stopped abruptly when he saw the Loyal Minister Role Card.


    "Monkey, sorry, but as the Lord, since you''ve taken out a Loyal Minister, you have to discard all your cards!" Jiang Liu said with a wicked smile to Sun Wukong.


    Without a shred of courtesy, he dumped all of Sun Wukong''s cards onto the table.


    In the end, without exception, Sun Wukong, the Loyal Minister, ended up in Jiang Liu''s hands.


    "How could this be! Master, weren''t you a Loyal Minister?" Sun Wukong looked at his own ''death'' and spoke to Jiang Liu with some disbelief.


    "That''s the essence of being a Spy! Make the Lord think you''re a Loyal Minister, convince the Rebels you''re one of them. That''s the true essence of a Spy!" Jiang Liu said with a sly smile.


    Winning at Legends of the Three Kingdoms isn''t just about having good luck or drawing good cards; besides luck, strategic y is even more important.


    "I, Old Sun, refuse to ept this, let''s go again!" Sun Wukong, though not contemtive, was very unsatisfied and said loudly.


    As his words fell, the second round began, and this time, Jiang Liu drew the Lord''s Role Card.


    "Hehehe, Master, I, Old Sun, am here to help!" After everyone had drawn their Hand Cards, Sun Wukong immediately dered his loyalty to Jiang Liu.


    "Snatch by Trickery!" The target was Sun Wukong.


    "Create Barriers!" The target was still Sun Wukong.


    Continue your journey with My Virtual Library Empire


    "Undermining the Enemy!" Yet again, the target was Sun Wukong.


    Finally, Jiang Liu threw down an Attack card.


    "Master, what are you doing!?" Sun Wukong was on the brink of tears, watching the treatment he received. Had he not made his position clear enough?


    "Hmm, you just don''t look like a good guy! There''s a three in four chance, so of course, I have to take you down first!" Jiang Liu said, his lips curling into a slight smile.


    He was just parroting the words Sun Wukong had said to Zhu Bajie back to him.


    "Ha, ha, ha, Master, well said!"


    Hearing this, Zhu Bajie burst intoughter, feeling refreshing as if he had drunk a cup of ice water on a scorching summer''s day, thoroughlyfortable.


    Indeed, out of all three disciples, Master still liked I, Old Pig, the best.


    Didn''t he? Now, Master was even helping Old Pig exact revenge!

 Chapter 297 Monk Sha: I Also Want a Soul-Returning Pill (7th Update)

    I must say, in terms of fun, Legends of the Three Kingdoms is indeed much more intriguing than ying Mahjong or Fight the Landlord.


    Identities, characters, equipment, hand cards... the differentbinations are ever-changing and infinite.


    Five people together, matching wits and trying to keep their identities secret while trying to deduce the others'', this game is really entertaining.


    Even for the Lord, it''s the same, their identity may be out in the open, but among the other four, who can be trusted as a Loyal Minister?


    You can''t just mess around with this, otherwise, if a Loyal Minister dies by your hand, then all your hand cards are gone.


    So, after battling throughout the night until dawn streaked the skies, they were surprised when a Pce Maid came to invite Jiang Liu and the others for breakfast.


    What''s going on? It felt like just the blink of an eye, as if they had just gotten familiar with the rules of Legends of the Three Kingdoms, and it was already dark?


    "Alright, let''s stop here for today! We can y together some other time," Jiang Liu said as he looked at the sky outside, which was already bright. It had been so long sincest night''s haunting, and this was when he truly became calm.


    "Master, you should have brought out this Legends of the Three Kingdoms earlier, it''s so much fun. I, Old Sun, could y it for a year, no, even ten or eight years, and I wouldn''t get tired of it!" Sun Wukong replied, showing his reluctance despite knowing that they had to stop for now, andined a bit to Jiang Liu.


    "Master, Big Brother is right!" Sha Wujing chimed in, standing beside Sun Wukong.


    Fight the Landlord and ying Mahjong are fun, but they seem a bit too childishpared to Legends of the Three Kingdoms, right?


    "This game, I feel, is not as fun as ying Mahjong!" However, differing from Sun Wukong and Sha Wujing, Zhu Bajie shook his head and voiced his disagreement.


    Perhaps because Zhu Bajie considered himself to be the number one follower of the Master, he had to firmly stand on the Master''s side.


    Or maybe it was because Zhu Bajie was naturallyzy and couldn''t be bothered to think too much, preferring games like Mahjong or Fight the Landlord that didn''t tax his brain much ¨C thus, he wasn''t too fond of strategy games like Legends of the Three Kingdoms.


    "You idiot, it''s just because you''rezy, azy pig!" Sun Wukong was not amused with Zhu Bajie singing a different tune and scolded him.


    "That''s right, Big Brother, I am azy pig! What''s wrong with being azy pig!?" However, Zhu Bajie wasn''t ashamed of Sun Wukong''s words but rather took pride in them.


    The White Dragon Horse reverted to its white horse form and returned to its stable.


    Jiang Liu and the others? They chatted and bantered while walking, looking very lively. Led by a Pce Maid of ck Chicken Country, they reached the dining table and began enjoying the breakfast prepared for them.


    While eating, Sun Wukong and the others were endlessly chatting, discussing various aspects of Legends of the Three Kingdoms, such as which character was more powerful, which weapon was more "kick-ass".


    Jiang Liu''s lips twitched slightly at this sight, yet he found that everything before him seemed very familiar.


    In his past life, when he and his close friends liked to y games in inte cafes, they would often chat about gaming topics while skewering barbecue at a roadside stall afterward, right?@@novelbin@@


    For instance, which equipment was level-less, never wearing out, how much it was worth, which pet was more powerful...


    "Thinking about it, since Legends of the Three Kingdoms is a card game, could I make it into a holographic version in the future?" The idea suddenly struck Jiang Liu as he saw how much they enjoyed ying Legends of the Three Kingdoms.


    If he could turn this card game into a holographic version, it would be even more convenient to y, wouldn''t it be more interesting?


    In the past life, downloading mobile apps was a matter of technology.


    But I have immortal techniques, and in the world of Journey to the West, who says I can''t rece technology with magic?


    My cksmith Profession Level is too low now, but when it gets higher, might I be able to craft such devices?


    "What am I thinking about? Am I getting sidetracked by these diversions?" Pondering these questions, Jiang Liu immediately shook his head and inwardly chastised himself.


    I''m still on my Journey to the West, and when I reach the Great Thunder Monastery of the Western Heaven, my life and death are uncertain.


    So, isn''t it of utmost importance to improve my strength to survive right now?


    And I have the mind to research these things? Do I have a death wish!?


    However, on second thought, Jiang Liu felt that all this might not be such a bad thing.


    To build a force capable of contending with the Great Thunder Monastery, why not start by using entertainment to gather poprity? This could be a good tactic, right?


    A massive Entertainment City? In the future, use magic to revive a holographic version of Legends of the Three Kingdoms, or even Hearthstone, league games, or massive online games?


    Thinking diverged further and further as his thoughts wandered farther and askew...


    Discover exclusive content at My Virtual Library Empire


    It was only when Jiang Liu''s spoon scooped up nothing that he snapped back to reality.


    During his muddled musings, he had unknowingly finished everyst bit of the rice porridge in his bowl.


    Jiang Liu shook his head, temporarily shelving these messy thoughts. He decided to consider them after improving his cksmith Profession Skills and establishing his own faction.


    For now, his focus remained on enhancing his personal strength and leveling up his Life Skills.


    Some timeter, after Sun Wukong and the others had finished their breakfast, Jiang Liu spoke, instructing the Pce Maid to summon the Crown Prince and several key civil and military officials.


    "What instructions does Holy Monk Xuanzang have for us?" The Crown Prince, leading several senior figures of the ck Chicken Country, approached Jiang Liu with respectful humility, showing none of his former youthful arrogance.


    "Crown Prince,st night, the King''s lost soul found me and asked me to avenge him and to rescue his remains..." Jiang Liu began, recounting the previous night''s events to the Crown Prince.


    "My father, his remains are in the well of the Imperial Garden?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Crown Prince was struck with grief and cried out in sorrow.


    "Crown Prince, moderate your sorrow. Now that we know where His Majesty''s remains are, we should retrieve them without dy," one of the civil and military officials consoled after learning of the matter, as they observed the Crown Prince''s distress.


    As they spoke, Jiang Liu and the party made their way to the well in the Imperial Garden.


    There was arge stone pressing down upon the well''s opening.


    After the Lion Demon had pushed the King down, it had found an excuse to seal the well.


    Sun Wukong extended his arm and gave it a push, and the heavy stone on top of the well, light as a feather to him, was effortlessly pushed aside.


    Then, with a thud, it crashed to the ground, causing the earth to tremble slightly.


    The military officials beside them gasped at the scene, unable to believe their eyes as they looked back and forth between Sun Wukong''s short and thin frame and the massive stone, which they estimated weighed at least ten thousand jin, and they were astonished.


    Master Xuanzang truly is a Holy Monk from Great Tang. Could it be that this unremarkable-looking monkey possesses such terrifying strength!?


    "All right, Wukong, who among you will go down to fetch the old King''s remains?" As the stone was pushed aside, Jiang Liu reflexively stepped back a few paces, fearful of the well''s ominous presence. He turned to Sun Wukong and the others to ask.


    "Master, let me go!" Sha Wujing took the initiative to volunteer, unable to contribute in other affairs but confident in handling this task, as he strove to prove his worth.


    "Hmm, you go then," Jiang Liu nodded and responded to Sha Wujing''s offer.


    With Jiang Liu''s consent, Sha Wujing immediately jumped into the well.


    From his experiences as a demon in Liusha River, he felt quite at home in the waters of the well.


    Jiang Liu and the others waited silently, but after nearly half an hour, Sha Wujing finally emerged, carrying the King of the ck Chicken Country''s remains on his back.


    "Master, there''s a Dragon King in the well, calling himself the Well Dragon King. He says although the King has been dead for many years, his corpse is still intact. If we can obtain a Miraculous Elixir, it may be possible to bring him back to life!" Sha Wujing reported to Jiang Liu after he carried up the King''s body.


    With a thump, the Crown Prince fell to his knees beside them. Then, he kowtowed to Jiang Liu, pleading, "Holy Monk, please save my father! For such a great kindness, ck Chicken Country will never forget it!"


    Alert: A task "Revival" has been triggered. Task objective: Resurrect the King of the ck Chicken Country. Uponpletion, receive 850,000 Experience Points and a *1 Perfect Level Treasure Chest. If failed, 850,000 Experience Points will be deducted. ept/Decline?


    As the Crown Prince implored Jiang Liu with a bow, and a system prompt appeared at this moment, yet another passive task was initiated.


    "Rise, Crown Prince. Rest assured, leave this matter to me!" With a reward of 850,000 Experience Points, it was but a small effort for Jiang Liu, so naturally, he epted and helped the Crown Prince to his feet.


    "Master, can you really bring the dead back to life?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s ready eptance, Sha Wujing''s eyes widened in surprise as he asked.


    "I n to have Wukong ask Supreme Elder Lord for a Soul-Returning Pill!" Jiang Liu nced at Sha Wujing, puzzled by his intense reaction.


    "Big brother, when you ask for the Soul-Returning Pill, could you perhaps get one more?" Sha Wujing turned back, his eyes filled with earnest plea as he addressed Sun Wukong.

 Chapter 299 This is the Soul-Returning Pill that Master Secretly Hid (9th Update)

    Soon, the eyshes of the King of the ck Chicken Country twitched a few times, and then, his eyes gradually opened.


    "Thank you, Holy Monk, for saving me!" After waking up, the King of the ck Chicken Country uttered his thanks to Jiang Liu, his expression brimming with joy.


    Clearly, having had his throne usurped and been dead for so many years, now being able to return to life and reim his royal seat was, naturally, a matter of great joy for the King of the ck Chicken Country.


    "No, there''s no need to thank me, helping others is the motto of this humble monk!"


    Looking at the King of the ck Chicken Country expressing his thanks, Jiang Liu always remembered the night his wronged soul hade to his room. He always felt very ufortable, and so he waved his hand and spoke.


    "Thank you, Holy Monk!" After the King himself had offered thanks, the Crown Prince and several civil and military officials of the ck Chicken Country also followed suit, thanking Jiang Liu in unison.


    Hint: Forpleting the task "Revival," you have gained 850,000 Experience Points and a Perfect Level Treasure Chest*1.


    As the King of the ck Chicken Country came back to life, the system''s prompt sounded at this moment.


    The 850,000 Experience Points were credited, and although he had not leveled up, Jiang Liu could feel his Cultivation Level had improved a bit. As for the Perfect Level Treasure Chest, he was not in a hurry to open it and set it aside for now.


    With the resurrection of the King of the ck Chicken Country, what followed was a national celebration, and Jiang Liu and his disciples were treated as honored guests by the King of the ck Chicken Country, regarded as distinguished visitors throughout the ck Chicken Country.


    After celebrating for an entire day, Jiang Liu and the others finally returned to their resting ce.


    However, although the cheerful atmosphere was easily infectious, Sha Wujing seemed somewhat out of ce amidst the day''s festivities, as if he had slipped back into the somber and sad days he had experienced upon his initial return.


    By nightfall, after channeling his True Yuan through a Complete Cycle eighty-one times, Jiang Liu ceased his cultivation and immediately opened his storage space, taking out the Perfect Level Treasure Chest.


    However, it turned out to be just a level 40 Perfect Level weapon; Jiang Liu shook his head inwardly and stored it in his space forter use.


    Perhaps it would be good to practice his Life Profession Skills when idle in the future? For instance, by destroying Fine Level Quality Equipment, repairing it, and then repeating the process, couldn''t that be a way to brush up on his skill proficiency?


    The only issue was that every repair would decrease the maximum durability of the equipment by one point, so he would need to find more Fine Level equipment to practice on.


    Thus, this Perfect Level equipment would be useful in the future.@@novelbin@@


    However, now was not the time to brush up on Life Profession proficiency. After stowing the Perfect Level weapon into his storage space, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on a certain Soul-Returning Pill.


    Because in the original story, the King of the ck Chicken Country had obtained the Soul-Returning Pill from the Supreme Elder Lord, Jiang Liu had Sun Wukong ask for it from the Supreme Elder Lord for this resurrection.


    Firstly, there was no need to use his own, and secondly, at that time, no one knew that he hadn''t consumed the pill, but rather stored it in his space.


    But now, seeing Sha Wujing''s desire for it, Jiang Liu pondered for a moment and still took one out.


    Then he left his room and knocked on the door of Sha Wujing''s room.


    "Master!" Opening the door, Sha Wujing saw Jiang Liu standing at the doorway and was slightly startled, not understanding what could bring his master to him in the dead of night.


    But without asking further, Sha Wujing invited Jiang Liu into his room.


    "Wujing, today you said you wanted a Soul-Returning Pill, right?" After entering Sha Wujing''s room, Jiang Liu didn''t beat around the bush and got straight to the point.


    "Yes, Master!" Sha Wujing nodded, as the request had been made in front of his master, so he affirmed upon hearing Jiang Liu''s question.


    "I still have one here, I''ll give it to you!" Without any fuss, Jiang Liu took out a Soul-Returning Pill and handed it to Sha Wujing.


    "Master, you, this..." Looking at the Soul-Returning Pill given to him by Jiang Liu, Sha Wujing was taken aback, then looked at him in astonishment.


    He was astonished that his master would give him a Soul-Returning Pill and also wondered how his master had one. If he truly possessed it, why then had he specially sent his eldest disciple to ask for it from the Supreme Elder Lord?


    "This pill was secretly saved by me during the drinking session at the Doushuai Pce. I don''t know why you want it, and I won''t force you to tell me, just take it!" Giving the Soul-Returning Pill to Sha Wujing, Jiang Liu shook his head with a sigh.


    Perhaps because Sha Wujing''s experiences resonated with his own, Jiang Liu''s feelings of alienation from him gradually subsided.


    Moreover, Jiang Liu could clearly feel that these days, Sha Wujing was making an effort to integrate into the Scripture Seeking team.


    He too, was a pitiful person!


    What was more important was that the events that unfolded around him had been facilitated by Jiang Liu himself!


    "Master, do you really not want to know about what happened between Amei and me?" However, seeing Jiang Liu hand over the Soul-Returning Pill and then prepare to leave, Sha Wujing fell silent for a moment before speaking up.


    "Oh? Are you willing to talk about it today? Then I am willing to listen¡­" Hearing what Sha Wujing had to say, Jiang Liu, who was getting up to leave, sat back down, fixing his gaze on Sha Wujing. Your next read awaits at My Virtual Library Empire


    "Actually, it started back when I left you, Master, and traveled north..." Sha Wujing said after another moment of silence.


    From his mouth, Jiang Liu came to understand that after leaving, Sha Wujing was being pursued by killers all the way, under the guise of Subduing Demons and Eliminating Evil.


    And because he didn''t want to expose his presence and risk being discovered by Guanyin, Sha Wujing didn''t dare to use his Dharma Treasure nor draw attention to himself.


    Fleeing northward like this, he ultimately was seriously injured under thebined attack of several Heavenly Soldiers and Generals...


    Then, he was saved by a half-demon girl from the Demon n and stayed under themand of a Demon King. Pretending to be a Demon Marshal, Sha Wujing was quite good at hiding; no one discovered his true identity.


    In those quiet days, that half-demon Amei constantly took care of Sha Wujing''s daily life, and gradually, feelings developed between them.


    However,ter on, a human Cultivation Sect attacked the Demon Nest and even set up a Great Formation that even Heavenly Immortals would find difficult to break through. In that critical moment, Sha Wujing fled with Amei, but the power he exhibited drew targeted attacks from the human cultivators.


    His own cultivation level being of the Heavenly Immortal Realm, he naturally had the ability to protect himself. However, Amei was just a weak half-demon, and so, in that great battle, she perished.


    At that moment, Envoy Muzha, from the followers of Guanyin, appeared, iming that the catastrophe was meant for Sha Wujing to endure and that he should not cling to personal affections, but rather should cast them aside and continue on the Journey to the West for Scriptures.


    "So, I encased Amei''s body in ice within an ancient ice cave of a thousand years, hoping to find a way to resurrect herter, and then I resumed the Journey to the West for Scriptures!"


    In the end, Sha Wujing spoke, his eyes falling on the Soul-Returning Pill. A smile quickly spread across his face as he said, "Now things are looking up. With this Soul-Returning Pill, I can revive Amei right away!"


    "Hmm, go ahead then," Jiang Liu said with a slight nod, having heard Sha Wujing''s words.


    Given Sha Wujing''s pace and ability to soar on clouds, it wouldn''t take much time to make the round trip, and naturally, Jiang Liu was willing to wait for him.


    Of course, even if he took a long time, Jiang Liu was willing to wait all the same.


    "Thank you, Master!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, which contained no hint of stopping him, Sha Wujing''s heart filled with even more gratitude.


    Without dy, Sha Wujing departed that very night, soaring into the clouds and flying toward the direction of the Ancient Ice Cave.


    "Ah, the trouble with feelings¡­" Jiang Liu watched as Sha Wujing soared into the sky and left, shaking his head to himself.


    After Sha Wujing revives Amei, won''t he have a girl waiting for him?


    Zhu Bajie has Zhuzhu waiting for him.


    What about himself? He has Gaoyang.


    It seems only Sun Wukong and the White Dragon Horse are left, aren''t they?


    Thinking of Sun Wukong, Jiang Liu wondered how he was doing with Fairy Zixia. It seemed that the monkey hadn''t visited the Heavenly Court to see her for some days, had he?


    Lost in thought, Jiang Liu shook his head to himself and then turned back to his own room to continue his cultivation.


    Meanwhile, in the Purple Bamboo Forest of the South Sea, Bodhisattva Guanyin sat in serene meditation when suddenly, a premonition struck her, sensing that the spell she had secretly ced in that thousand-year-old cave had been triggered.


    "Muzha!" After musing quietly for a moment, Bodhisattva Guanyin called out.


    At Bodhisattva Guanyin''s call, Envoy Muzha approached, "What instructions do you have, Bodhisattva?"


    "Go to the Ancient Ice Cave and see if something has happened there. Remember, those on the Journey to the West must not harbor any personal affections. Understand?" The Bodhisattva''s expression remained calm as she addressed Envoy Muzha.


    "Understood, Bodhisattva!" Responding to the words, Envoy Muzha nodded earnestly, then turned and left.


    Muzha was aware of the situation at the Ancient Ice Cave. Upon his arrival, he happened to see Sha Wujing lifting Amei''s body and witnessed her opening her eyes anding back to life.


    "Eh!? Juanlian actually found a way to resurrect her!?" Seeing this, Muzha tensed up a bit inside.


    Recalling Bodhisattva''s recent specific admonitions, Muzha roughly understood what her intentions were.


    His gaze gradually became colder.

 Chapter 301 The Dragon King of Jing River Reappears

    ```


    Dragon Pce, although a part of the Heavenly Court''s forces, holds little sway within the entire power structure of the Heavenly Court; it was simply tasked by the Heavenly Court to guard the four seas and to carry out the work of distributing rain and clouds.


    If described with modern terminology, it was nothing more than some officials in a remote area far away from the Imperial Capital.


    They may look like local emperors on their own turf, but they are still far from the center of power, therefore not really significant.


    Isn''t there a saying, "Even a seventh-rank official in front of the Prime Minister''s gate is higher than the rest"? An official from the capital always holds higher status than one from the provinces.


    As the third son of the Western Sea Dragon King, Aolie knew well the delineation of powers within the Heavenly Court.


    Thus, after his uncle was wrongfully killed, he saw an opportunity for vindication in the Journey to the West Team; even if it meant only bing the Scripture Seeker''s mount, he would be as if coated in gold.


    Once he was bestowed a spiritual title at the Western Spirit Mountain, his identity and status would transform. Wouldn''t he then have a say in his own case?


    So, even though their goals were different, Aolie''s thoughts were quite simr to those of Sha Wujing. Both wished to make their way through this Journey to the West to receive their spiritual titles after reaching Western Heaven.


    However, today, floating midair, he heard his master and two senior brothers speaking with dissatisfaction, even hatred, towards the Immortals and Buddhas. This greatly shocked Aolie!


    Firstly, now that they were all a part of the Buddhist Sect, such rhetoric was truly inappropriate. Should others overhear, who knows what Buddha might think?


    Secondly, if they were all punished, then his goal of being bestowed a spiritual title in Western Heaven would burst like a bubble.


    Therefore, even though Aolie was aware that he held the lowest position in the team, he could not help but speak up to remind Jiang Liu and the others.


    Yet, at that moment, his master did not reprimand him, but instead gave him a bracelet?


    Aolie naturally recognized the bracelet; under normal circumstances, his master always wore it on his wrist.


    "This bracelet..."


    Turning his head in midair to look at the bracelet, Aolie''s eyes immediately filled with curiosity and confusion as he looked towards Jiang Liu, not understanding the significance of Jiang Liu giving him the bracelet.


    However, before Aolie could speak and ask, suddenly, a dragon''s roar came from within the bracelet.


    Then, the phantom of a divine dragon emerged, sticking its head out from the bracelet and flying straight out. Its ethereal figure was clearly that of a Dragon Soul.


    The lost soul of the Dragon King of Jing River flew out from the bracelet and promptly took on the appearance of a dragon-headed humanoid, who stood before Aolie.


    "Uncle... Uncle?" Staring at the human form of the lost soul in front of him, Aolie stopped in midair, speaking in disbelief.


    Wasn''t his uncle killed a long time ago? Shouldn''t his lost soul be detained in the Underworld? Why was it here?


    His uncle had defied the decree of the Jade Emperor¡ªafter all, the order to execute him was issued personally by the Jade Emperor.


    Those killed by the Jade Emperor''s decree should naturally remain in the Underworld. Who would dare release them? Otherwise, where would the Jade Emperor''s face go?


    "Aolie, it''s been such a long time!" The Dragon King of Jing River floated in front of Aolie, looking at his nephew, the Little White Dragon, withplex and joyous eyes.


    The Dragon King of Jing River had always cherished his nephew, and after being with Jiang Liu for such a long time, he understood Aolie''s purpose in joining the Scripture Seeking journey¡ªit was to vindicate himself, which deeply moved the Dragon King.


    "Uncle, how are you here? What... What exactly is going on?" Aolie asked his uncle in astonishment.


    "All of this, I owe thanks to the Holy Monk..."


    The Dragon King of Jing River began to speak, and then shared with Aolie everything that had happened to him, especially the events that had unfolded in Chang''an City.


    "There must be trickery in this!" Upon hearing about the events in Chang''an, Aolie also realized that something seemed amiss, and said so.


    How could the Jade Emperor''s orders not have been issued yet, and yet someone knew them earlier, clearly and precisely specifying the time and quantity of rainfall?


    This is something no mortal fortune teller could possibly achieve, right?


    "s, I only me myself. When my great cmity was approaching, my Spirit tform was clouded over. The Holy Monk gave me a veiled warning, but in my anger, I failed to heed his advice and acted against the Jade Emperor''s will..." With a long sigh, the Dragon King of Jing River appeared full of regret.


    Cmities, feared even by the gods and Buddhas, are not only terrifying in their own right, but also because they cloud people''s rity, driving them to make irrational decisions, even courting their own doom.


    ```


    Looking back, the Dragon King of Jing River realized that this was exactly what had happened to him at the time.


    "Is there really such a divine being in this world, with an unrivaled art of prediction!? I don''t believe it, unless he is the reincarnation of Fuxi! If I have time, I must go to Chang''an City and find this Yuan Shoucheng, to investigate thoroughly!"


    After pondering for a long time, Aolie finally spoke to the Dragon King of Jing River, affirming his promise.


    "Actually, I knew a little about that matter at the time¡­" Sitting on Aolie''s back and listening to the conversation between Aolie and the Dragon King of Jing River, Jiang Liu suddenly spoke up.


    "Master, what else do you know!?" Aolie asked curiously upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    Indeed, judging from Uncle''s words, when they were in Chang''an City, Master seemed to have noticed something, or knew something, and had hinted to Uncle. So, isn''t itpletely within reason that he knew something?


    "Yuan Shoucheng, I know a little about him¡ªhe is the uncle of Daoist Yuan Tiangang of Chang''an City!"


    Jiang Liu shared what he knew, "I''ve met Daoist Yuan Tiangang a few times, and once, I casually discussed his uncle with him. The Daoist said that his uncle sets up a stall in Chang''an City every day, using Daoist Yuan Tiangang''s fame to swindle and deceive people!"@@novelbin@@


    "Just a swindler!? But he was able to predict the Jade Emperor''s decree in advance? And even gave pointers for others to dredge up the Water n from Jing River!?" Jiang Liu''s words confirmed Aolie''s suspicions.


    Indeed, this matter was incrediblyplicated, and surely, the person capable of such feats couldn''t be an outsider; it had to be one of the Immortals and Buddhas, with tremendous influence at that.


    Seeing Aolie''s expression, Jiang Liu could roughly guess what he was thinking but didn''t take the initiative to tell him anything.


    Since he wanted to investigate the truth, let him do the investigation. The truth he discovered would always be much more credible than anything he himself could tell.


    Luckily, being the third Prince of the Western Sea Dragon King, Aolie was already part of the system of Immortals and Buddhas, so he had his own thoughts about what to do and how to do it, without any need for Jiang Liu to worry.


    In fact, whether Zhu Bajie, Sha Wujing, or even Aolie, they were all born within the system of the Heavenly Court and thus had a certain perspective.


    Only Sun Wukong had spent little time in the Heavenly Court before causing Havoc in Heaven and falling out with the Jade Emperor, leading to his reckless behavior.


    While flying mid-air, the affection between Aolie and his uncle was clearly very deep, so they chatted as they flew.


    asionally discussing their respective matters and reminiscing about Aolie''s childhood, of course, they also discussed the truth behind the Dragon King of Jing River''s death and spected on various topics extensively.


    Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong didn''t interrupt, and the group continued flying rapidly towards the direction of the Ancient Ice Cave.


    Where was the Ancient Ice Cave? Naturally, Jiang Liu had no idea.


    But, he had heard Sha Wujing mention that after leaving Treasure Elephant Country, he had traveled north for thousands of miles, so Jiang Liu had a general idea of the area.


    "Master, you seem a bit strange!" However, while flying through the sky, Sun Wukong suddenly drew closer to Jiang Liu and said.


    "Strange? In what way am I strange?" Jiang Liu turned his head in surprise and asked Sun Wukong.


    "Aren''t you very afraid of vengeful ghosts and spirits? Then why aren''t you afraid of this dragon? You''ve even carried him with you for so long?" Sun Wukong looked at Jiang Liu, bewildered.


    "Well, perhaps it''s because he''s a dragon, not a human? So I''m not afraid?" Jiang Liu pondered Sun Wukong''s question before replying.


    Indeed, in some domestic horror films from his previous life, the vengeful ghosts and spirits always looked like people, and they even wore strange and terrifying makeup to evoke fear. But there were none that were dragons, right?


    So, even though he knew that the Dragon King of Jing River was also a vengeful spirit, Jiang Liu was not afraid at all.


    "Alright, so you''re odd, Master. Both are vengeful spirits, yet you''re not afraid of the dragon, only human ones!" Sun Wukong spread his hands and said helplessly.


    No matter how he thought about it, the idea of his master being afraid of ghosts was something Sun Wukong could notprehend.


    "Okay, we should be getting close to our destination. Monkey, take a look and see if you can find any trace of Junior Brother Sha!" Not wanting to dwell on this issue, Jiang Liu wore a serious expression and spoke to Sun Wukong.


    "Roger that!"


    Sun Wukong nodded, his eyes shing with golden light as he gazed into the distance!


    (PS: The situation at Qidian has be quite scary, I remember two or three years ago, I could make it into the top 10 of Qidian''s sales chart by making around eight or nine thousand yuan a day. But yesterday, we made more than 10,000, with seventy or eighty donations, yet we only ranked thirteenth, sigh...)

 Chapter 302 Demon Possession

    His eyes glowed with golden light, and after scanning the distance for a moment, Sun Wukong withdrew his supernatural powers, his face also filled with a shocked expression as he incredulously said, "Master, Junior Brother Sha has indeed met with an ident. He, he has sumbed to demon possession¡­"


    "Demon possession!?" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu''s heart also tightened.


    The situation of demon possession naturally made Jiang Liu think of the Holy Monk Jinchi from the Guanyin Zen Temple back in the day.


    Back when Jinchi had sumbed to demon possession, Jiang Liu still remembered it vividly. He hadn''t expected that now, Sha Wujing would also sumb.


    "Quick, let''s go and see¡­" Without waiting to ask Sun Wukong what exactly happened, since they weren''t far away, Jiang Liu urged.


    Sensing the gravity of the situation since Sha Wujing was possessed, Sun Wukong transformed into a stream of light, darting toward Sha Wujing''s location like lightning.


    Meanwhile, Aolie also pulled himself together and followed behind Sun Wukong.


    Among the members of the Journey to the West team, Aolie and Sha Wujing had the best rtionship. Now, hearing that Senior Brother Sha was possessed, Aolie felt exceptionally heavy-hearted.


    As for the soul of the Dragon King of Jing River, it had returned to the Dragon Soul Bracelet.


    Soon after, the Dragon Soul Bracelet was worn on Aolie''s wrist.


    A journey of merely several hundred miles passed in the blink of an eye, and soon, Jiang Liu and hispanions arrived at Great Snow Mountain covered in millennium frost.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, they could see a young man battling Sha Wujing ¡ª who else could it be but Envoy Muzha?


    However, judging from the situation of the battle, Muzha was surprisingly at a disadvantage.


    And Sha Wujing? Enshrouded in dark aura, he appeared like a mad tiger,pletely out of character, even diametrically opposed to his usual demeanour.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    The Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff in Sha Wujing''s grasp felt ferociously menacing, violently striking towards Muzha like a tempestuous storm.


    Muzha also had a golden staff in hand, but was continuously forced to retreat under Sha Wujing''s attacks.


    At that moment, Sha Wujing looked truly frenzied, as he did not dodge or evade Muzha''s counterattacks and relentlessly aimed the Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff at Muzha, a sheer picture of desperation.


    Muzha, rmed by this reckless stance, couldn''t help but continually back away.


    "Master, should I go separate them?" Seeing this scene, Sun Wukong pondered briefly before asking Jiang Liu.


    This looked like a disaster waiting to happen.


    "No hurry, let''s watch and see!" Observing Sha Wujing''s desperate vigor, Jiang Liu could somewhat guess what was going on and gestured no to Sun Wukong by shaking his head.


    Jiang Liu remembered an old saying from his past life; never push an honest man to his limits because, while teasing an honest man seems easy up to a point, pushing him past these boundaries can make him explode with a ferocity surpassing the fiercest scoundrels.


    In Jiang Liu''s view, Sha Wujing''s current state was just like that of an honest man whose limits had been breached!


    At this moment, the killing intent in Sha Wujing''s heart was so intense that even from a distance, Jiang Liu could clearly feel it. Any attempt to mediate would be futile, and might even cause a permanent rift between Sun Wukong and Sha Wujing.


    Hence, naturally, Jiang Liu had no intention of permitting Sun Wukong to intervene in the fight.


    Besides, Bodhisattva Guanyin had her schemes daily. Today had escted to this extent, but since Sha Wujing was winning, why would Jiang Liu intervene?


    Intervening would clearly mean aiding Guanyin against Sha Wujing, wouldn''t it?


    "Character panel!"


    Although he had stopped Sun Wukong from intervening, seeing Sha Wujing vehemently overpower Muzha surprised Jiang Liu deep inside; his gaze fixed on Sha Wujing as he muttered to himself, opening Sha Wujing''s character panel.


    Soon, a semi-transparent character panel appeared before Jiang Liu.


    ID: Sha Wujing (Blue)


    Gender: Male


    Profession: Demon


    Level: 71


    Equipment: Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff¡­


    Looking at Sha Wujing''s character panel, Jiang Liu was secretly startled. From the profession column, it was clear that Sha Wujing had really sumbed to demon possession, and seeing his level? He had actually reached level 71?


    Wasn''t this characteristic of a Taiyi True Immortal?


    After his possession, Sha Wujing''s strength had unexpectedly skyrocketed, advancing him straight to the status of Taiyi True Immortal?


    "Is this, this the legendary ''when ckened, three times stronger; when whitewashed, three times weaker''?" Jiang Liu pondered inwardly after seeing Sha Wujing''s character panel.


    "Help...help me¡­"


    At this moment, it''s hard to say what exactly Jiang Liu was thinking. On the other hand, Envoy Muzha, under Sha Wujing''s attack, was already struggling to cope and could be said to be covered in wounds. Noticing Sun Wukong and hispanions nearby, Muzha urgently called out to Jiang Liu and the others for help.


    "Master, are we really not going to take action?" Hearing Envoy Muzha''s call for help, Sun Wukong appeared frantic, scratching his ears and cheeks.


    It seemed he too was caught in a moral dilemma, wanting to rush to the rescue, yet Jiang Liu''s words made him hesitate and not go forward.


    "Monkey, are you very close to Muzha? Why..." Seeing Sun Wukong so impatient, Jiang Liu''s brows slightly raised, surprised by his reaction.


    Given Sun Wukong''s nature, shouldn''t he wish for all the Heaven''s Immortals and Buddhas to vanish into thin air? Why then, upon seeing Muzha about to be killed, was he so eager? It didn''t make sense.


    "Envoy Muzha, after all, is Nezha''s brother. If he were killed while I merely stood by, how could I, Old Sun, face himter on!" Sun Wukong said, still scratching his ears and cheeks.


    These words from Sun Wukong slightly moved Jiang Liu, reminding him of Nezha and softening his heart somewhat.


    Indeed, regardless of everything else, Sun Wukong and Nezha could be considered friends, their connection simr to the close ties Jiang Liu had with his own friends in a previous life. Their first meeting, when Nezha gifted him the Exquisite Immortal Mansion, indeed counted as a favor.


    Thinking of Nezha, Jiang Liu felt troubled too, torn between acting and not acting.


    If he acted, it would wrong Sha Wujing; if he did not act, it would wrong Nezha.


    Feeling troubled, Jiang Liu hesitated, while Sun Wukong, anxious and scratching, had already drawn his Golden Hoop Staff and was ready to intervene. Yet, he still watched Jiang Liu, waiting for his word.


    Thud!


    Just then, the Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff fell, and its sharp edge thrust directly at Muzha, blood sttering.


    Although Muzha narrowly dodged a fatal hit, the staff''s blow severed his right armpletely at the shoulder under Sha Wujing''s merciless attack.


    Amid his screams, Muzha quickly retreated.


    However, Sha Wujing''s gaze remained chillingly cold as he continued his relentless assault on Muzha, this time aiming for his head.


    "Master, I''m going!" Seeing this, Sun Wukong could no longer hold back. He shouted and lunged forward.


    "Sheep Transformation Technique!"


    Not only did Sun Wukong lunge forward, but almost at the same moment, Jiang Liu also raised his hand, pointing it at Sha Wujing, and activated the Sheep Transformation Technique.


    As the sharp edge of the staff was about to hit Muzha''s head, a bizarre sh of light passed by, instantly transforming him into a harmless littlemb.


    The Sheep Transformation Technique onlysted for a brief two seconds, and in a moment, Sha Wujing had returned to his original form.


    By then, however, Sun Wukong had already positioned himself in front of Muzha.


    "Sun Wukong, step aside!" Seeing Sun Wukong blocking in front of Muzha, Sha Wujing shouted and lifted the Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff for a vicious sweep.


    Facing Sha Wujing''s attack, Sun Wukong stood his ground, unflinching.


    Thud!


    The blow stabbed directly into Sun Wukong''s shoulder. The small and thin Monkey, struck by the staff, spurted blood.@@novelbin@@


    With Sha Wujing standing over three meters tall and Sun Wukong around 1.4 meters, the striking difference in their statures was rming.


    Blood spurted; the staff struck with brutal force, stunningly embedding its de''s edge in Sun Wukong''s shoulder bone.


    Sun Wukong did not retreat. His face, smeared with sshed blood, showed no trace of pain, but instead, he reached out a monkey w, gripping the Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff firmly while his eyes, steely and fixed, bored into Sha Wujing.


    "Junior Brother Sha, now you address me by my name; have you stopped calling me Senior Brother?" Sun Wukong''s gaze was steely and filled with unprecedented seriousness.


    "Big, Big Brother, you..." Seeing his own attack severely wound Sun Wukong, Sha Wujing''s eyes welled up with a mixture of shock and guilt.


    Hiss... Seeing this, Jiang Liu sharply inhaled a breath of cold air.


    What was happening? How could Wujing wound Wukong? Wasn''t he endowed with an indestructible Vajra body?


    Surprised, Jiang Liu quickly realized what was happening and let out a long sigh.


    Indeed, Sun Wukong, with his indestructible Vajra body, should be unharmed by Sha Wujing''s attacks. In the original scriptures, Sun Wukong stood still while enemies struck him, their weapons having no effect whatsoever on his Vajra body, proving its formidable strength.


    So, the fact that Sun Wukong was wounded could only mean one thing¡ªit was intentional!


    Why intentional? Of course, Jiang Liu understood!


    Not acting would wrong Nezha, while acting would wrong Sha Wujing.


    Hence, he used his own body to shield Sha Wujing''s attack while concealing his Vajra body''s supernatural powers, right?


    "This monkey, having known him for so long, he sure looks quite handsome at this moment!"


    Understanding Sun Wukong''s intentions, and seeing his resolute posture and gaze, even Jiang Liu couldn''t help but admire him.

 Chapter 303 Demon Realm Intervenes

    Monk Sha, head bowed, gazed at Sun Wukong before him, his eyes filled withplex emotions.


    The monkey''s paw held his Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff, which felt as though it were pinned down by a mountain, unable to be budged in the slightest.


    Witnessing his own Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff wounding Sun Wukong, even severely, Monk Sha felt even more guilt in his heart.


    If Sun Wukong had merely jumped out to block Monk Sha, he would have been furious, believing that Sun Wukong was helping Muzha to confront him.


    But now, seeing Sun Wukong injured by his own hand, Monk Sha''s heart, on the contrary, felt guilt towards Sun Wukong.


    "Sun Wukong..." Although he was looking down, Monk Sha still seemed much shorter in presencepared to Sun Wukong, giving the impression that he was looking up to him as he spoke, "I have already left the Journey to the West team! You and I are no longer from the same sect!"


    "Left!? So, you''re nning to defect!?" Sun Wukong slightly furrowed his brows, still intently staring at Monk Sha as he spoke.


    "Yes, I have to leave. In this life, I am determined to stand against all Buddhas!" Facing Sun Wukong''s words, Monk Sha nodded heavily, speaking loudly as if making a deration to the heavens and the earth.


    Thunder rumbled!


    As Monk Sha spoke, the sky suddenly echoed with the sounds of thunder, as if filled with endless anger.


    At the same time, from the west, a brilliant Buddhist Light pierced through the clouds in the night sky, and faint chants of sublime teachings could be heard in the sky. Continue your saga on My Virtual Library Empire


    Initially, Jiang Liu was very pleased to hear Monk Sha''s loud deration, but upon seeing this scene, the joyous expression on his face faded.


    If Monk Sha was wholeheartedly intent on going to the Western Heaven for investiture, then the more determined he was, the less Jiang Liu wanted him.


    However, the more Monk Sha harbored enmity towards the Heavenly Deities and Buddhas and the less he wanted to go to the Western Heaven, the more Jiang Liu felt delighted.


    For Jiang Liu, perhaps this was the most suitable teammate?


    Originally, Jiang Liu wanted to kick Monk Sha out of the Journey to the West team, even taking on a task to do so.


    But being kicked out didn''t mean he couldn''t be brought back!


    Now, the task had already beenpleted, and 80 million Experience Points had already been obtained. In Jiang Liu''s eyes, now was the best time to bring Monk Sha back into the Journey to the West team.


    "Wujing..."


    Sun Wukong was too straightforward. With the arrival of the Buddhist light and faint chants from afar, clearly, great powers from the Great Thunder Monastery in the Western Heaven were watching this. Jiang Liu, concerned about Sun Wukong saying something inappropriate, took the initiative to speak, stepping forward a few paces towards Monk Sha.


    "Master..." Seeing Jiang Liu, Monk Sha''s eyes filled with guilt, reflexively wanting to call out "Master."


    However, before he could say it, Monk Sha stopped himself, then bowed his head slightly, appearing hesitant to look at Jiang Liu, and said, "Holy Monk Xuanzang!"


    "Come back!" Jiang Liu''s gazended on Monk Sha, as he spoke, "Whatever it is, your master can resolve it perfectly for you! Don''t you trust your master?"


    Indeed, Sun Wukong was recruited into the team with the goal of overturning the Heavenly Deities and Buddhas.@@novelbin@@


    Zhu Bajie was recruited for the same reason.


    Even the future Little White Dragon Aolie was the same.


    In Jiang Liu''s view, now was the best time to pull Monk Sha back into the team. However, being watched by a Western Heaven powerhouse, these words couldn''t be spoken now; he could only persuade him to return first and find a time with no one around to frankly disclose everything.


    "¡­" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words and seeing his sincere eyes, Monk Sha struggled emotionally.


    Steadily gazing at Jiang Liu, after a long while, Monk Sha still shook his head, saying, "Holy Monk Xuanzang, thank you for your care all this way, but my mind is made up!"


    Monk Sha truly did not want to return to the Journey to the West team anymore.


    In Monk Sha''s view, Jiang Liu and the others would surely receive titles upon reaching the Western Heaven. Unfortunately, he had already resolved to stand against the Immortals and Buddhas, so how could he possibly return?


    Could it be that his master would go along with him and oppose the Heavenly Deities and Buddhas?


    In Monk Sha''s view, although his master was very kind to him and he truly trusted him, there was a saying: ''Those who differ in their paths do not n together.''


    Staying on, whether for himself or for his master, would be no good.


    After shaking his head, Monk Sha nced at Muzha, whose arm had already been severed by him, then at Sun Wukong holding his Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff. Then he released his hands and turned to leave.


    "Wujing, wait, listen to your master. I can definitely provide you with a perfect resolution; don''t go!" Seeing Monk Sha turning to leave, Jiang Liu spoke out, urgently saying.


    But Monk Sha, without turning his head, walked away.


    Having calmed down a bit, Monk Sha also knew that the Buddhist Sect powerhouses in the Western Heaven were watching here, and killing Muzha for revenge was impossible.


    Alone, Monk Sha stepped away slowly towards the distance.


    "Amitabha, Buddha, I..." In the Purple Bamboo Forest, Bodhisattva Guanyin''s expression was very grim as she softly chanted a Buddhist mantra.


    This scene waspletely beyond Guanyin''s expectations, and she had not foreseen that Monk Sha, usually so honest, would have such an intense bacsh.


    Now, the situation had be unmanageable.


    "Bodhisattva Guanyin, no need to me yourself!" From the side of Great Thunder Monastery, the voice of Tathagata sounded as if crossing the boundaries of space, "If a mistake can be remedied, that is enough!"


    "Remedy!?" Hearing the words of Tathagata, a thought struck Bodhisattva Guanyin, and she understood what Buddha meant.


    Monk Sha was heaven-sent, one of the irreceable Scripture Seekers. He could not be allowed to leave now¡ªnot at all!


    The only solution for now was to use forceful measures to keep him here, and think about the long-term nter.


    If he were allowed to leave now, finding himter would prove much more difficult.


    With a thought, Bodhisattva Guanyin threw her hand out, and immediately, a strand of rope flew out with her motion, turning into a streak of light, and disappeared into the horizon.


    In the Great Snow Mountain, Monk Sha, feeling a sense and preparing to leave, raised his head and could see a strand of golden rope appearing, bounding towards him.


    rmed, he tried to flee, but even having reached level 71, stepping into the realm of Taiyi True Immortal, how could Monk Sha be a match for Guanyin?


    The rope bound him, and he simply could not escape!


    Just as the ck rope was about to fully bind Monk Sha, suddenly, a de light appeared out of the void.


    Under the severe chill of the de, the golden rope instantly broke into countless pieces.


    "Blood-Transforming Divine de!?"


    Watching the streak of de light, Bodhisattva Guanyin''s face involuntarily changed, and she eximed in rm.


    "Blood-Transforming Divine de!? Could it be Yu Hua from the Investiture of the Gods, the same who once wounded Nezha and Master Leizhen? His de is rumored to be undefeatable beneath the Quasi-Saints!" Upon hearing the shocked voice from the void, Jiang Liu''s mind stirred.


    "So, Monk Sha''s demon possession was incited by your Demon Realm!? How dare the Demon Realm meddle in the affairs of the Buddhist Sect!" A voice boomed from the void, sternly shouting.


    "Hehehe, what you call incitement from our Demon Realm? We merely went with the flow; the main cause lies with you!" A pitch-ck Demon de, floating mid-air, responded sharply and mockingly.


    "Amitabha, there is a decree among the Three Realms that people of the Demon Realm may not interfere in the matters of the Three Realms! You have overstepped your boundaries!" Amidst intensifying Buddhist Light, another voice rang out from the void.


    "Hehehe, after Monk Sha''s demon possession, he naturally belongs to our Demon Realm. What''s wrong with me bringing him back to the Demon Realm!?" The voice within the Demon de spoke again.


    Though they were Immortals and Buddhas, ultimately, achieving their goals still depended on power.


    From the void, the Demon de ascended into the sky, with torrential Demonic Qi surrounding it.


    Simrly, in the void, the Buddhist Light shone brilliantly, and the chant resonated powerfully!


    Clearly, a significant power from the Buddhist Sect and a big shot from the Demon Realm were shing in the void. Jiang Liu had no chance to intervene, only witnessing in the night sky the collision between Buddhist Light and Demonic Qi, a truly earth-shaking sight.


    Eventually, within the void, the Demonic Qi took form as a huge hand, grabbed Monk Sha, and rapidly vanished without trace, taking the Demon de with it.


    Although Sun Wukong reacted quickly, wanting to stop them, his heavily injured body simply was not up to the task.


    As the Demon de disappeared, the brilliant Buddhist Light in the sky also gradually faded.


    However, Monk Sha was taken away, and clearly, the well-prepared Demon Realm had won this round.


    "So that''s what happened!" Jiang Liu, unable to intervene, merely watched as the big shots from the Buddhist Sect and the Demon Realm shed in the void. Still, from their few words, he could roughly deduce the truth of the matter.


    Clearly, Monk Sha''s demon possession wasn''t merely his own doing¡ª the Demon Realm had also been secretly pushing the envelope.


    No wonder they say that after his demon possession, Monk Sha''s strength had surged so significantly that even Muzha could not raise his head against him.


    It seems that all this was the handiwork of the Demon Realm.


    With the Buddhist Sect making a move to keep Monk Sha, naturally, the already prepared Demon Realm also made their move.


    One side had been prepared in secret, while the other acted hastily.


    Thus, the result was that the Demon Realm gained the upper hand and took Monk Sha away.


    "The Demon Realm, has the Demon Realm actually intervened in the Journey to the West!?" Jiang Liu murmured to himself as he helplessly watched Monk Sha being taken away.


    Monk Sha, merely a Heavenly Immortal¡ªwas he really worth such attention from a major figure of the Demon Realm? Clearly, the Demon Realm also wanted to have a hand in the Journey to the West.


    Blocking the Journey to the West, or using Monk Sha as an entry point to divide some of the journey''s Destiny...

 Chapter 306 He Returned Riding the White Dragon

    Although Jiang Liu said he possessed the Feather Demon de, the flying speed of the equipment was linked to his own cultivation level, which was only at the Divinity Transformation Realm. Naturally, Jiang Liu''s flying speed was no match for Aolie''s at the Heavenly Immortal Realm.


    Why would he fly on his own when he could ride atop such an exceptional mount as Aolie? Jiang Liu felt he definitely hadn''t had his head mmed in a door.


    A dragon''s roar resounded, and the White Dragon Horse transformed back into a white dragon, soaring high above the heavens. Jiang Liu sat on the dragon''s back, as fast as lightning, and disappeared into the horizon in the blink of an eye.


    Naturally, after Jiang Liu set off, Sun Wukong and Bajie also took to the skies, following him on either side.


    Under the moonlight, they flew swiftly towards Chang''an City, overlooking thendscapes that receded rapidly below them, not at all retracing their steps, which put a smile on Jiang Liu''s face.


    For beings at least at the Heavenly Immortal Realm, a distance of ten thousand li was not considered far.


    After reaching the Immortal Realm, one could soar clouds andmand the fog, traveling across the "three mountains" and the "five peaks," and even the "fivekes and four seas" within a single day.


    Therefore, with the White Dragon Horse at full speed, the distance of ten thousand li was merely half an hour''s time, and they had already crossed it.


    From high above, Jiang Liu could already see the situation in Chang''an City and the chaotic battle near the Great Buddha Temple was also clearly visible to him.


    Seeing this, Jiang Liu''s eyebrows raised slightly. To him, did this mean all the demon creatures from beneath the Great Buddha Temple had surged out? Wasn''t this just delivering experience points to him?


    ...


    At the Great Buddha Temple, the Heavenly Master Hall and the monks of the temple joined forces, possessing great strength, but the demon creatures from underground seemed endless. Under this relentless assault, the people from the Heavenly Master Hall and the Great Buddha Temple werepletely overwhelmed.


    More and more demon creatures were erupting from the Underground Demon Cavern. It seemed only a matter of time before their defenses were torn apart.


    "Ah, what a mess!" Saint Monk Longhai, having requested help from the Local Deity, had naturally returned early. But seeing that the defenses of the demon cavern were almost in shambles, Saint Monk Longhai felt a reluctant helplessness in his heart.


    Even with the Local Deity helping him find Xuanzang, it had been over a year since he left. How much time would it take for Xuanzang toe back?


    Moreover, with Xuanzang''s cultivation level, even if he were brought back now, what could he, with his mere Body Refining Realm cultivation, do?


    If they were to wait for Xuanzang to be effective, it would require at least a decade or even several decades of cultivation for him to reach the Divinity Transformation Realm and be of any help!


    He really wondered what deep meaning Tathagata had in having him search for Xuanzang to help out!


    "Aow..."


    Just as the defenses were copsing and bing unsustainable, suddenly a loud dragon''s cry echoed from the sky, drawing everyone''s attention.


    A white light appeared from the west, and under everyone''s gaze, the white dragon dived rapidly toward the Great Buddha Temple.


    "A dragon!?" Observing the dragon descending from the sky, everyone in the Great Buddha Temple was secretly startled.


    For ordinary people, dragons, along with phoenixes and qilins, were divine beasts that existed only in legends.


    "A dragon? Really, a dragon has appeared? With its arrival, it''s unknown whether it''s friend or foe!" At the Great Tang Imperial Pce, Emperor Li Shimin was naturally watching the situation at the Great Buddha Temple. Seeing the descending white dragon, he said with some worry.


    "Your Majesty!"


    Yuan Tiangang was close by, protecting Li Shimin. Hearing this, Yuan Tiangang also looked in that direction for a while before turning his gaze back and saying, "Your Majesty need not worry, this white dragon is clearly friend not foe, as there is a young monk sitting on the back of the white dragon, none other than the Holy Monk Xuanzang!"


    "Is it Jiang..." Hearing Yuan Tiangang, Li Shimin was slightly stunned. However, just as he began to speak, realizing something was amiss, he quickly changed his words, "You mean the Imperial Brother? He has actually returned!?"


    "Indeed, this old Daoist would not mistake it, it is Holy Monk Xuanzang who hase back, clearly to rescue Chang''an City from danger!" Yuan Tiangang nodded, secretly marveling in his heart.


    A little more than a year since he left for the Journey to the West, and tonight, as Chang''an City faced cmity, he had actually returned riding a white dragon?


    Could it be? In just over a year''s time, had he already reached the Western Heaven and been anointed by Buddha and Bodhisattva?


    "Since the Imperial Brother has returned, I shall personally go and see for myself!" Hearing it was Jiang Liu who hade back, Li Shimin thought for a moment and then said.


    "Your Majesty, although Holy Monk Xuanzang holds a respected position, his cultivation is not high and he is still very young, hardly sufficient to ensure yourplete safety. A wise man does not stand beneath a copsing wall, and at this moment, the Great Buddha Temple is the most dangerous ce. This old Daoist advises against going there!" Hearing Li Shimin''s words, actually wanting to go to the Great Buddha Temple, Yuan Tiangang strongly opposed.


    "It''s alright, if the Imperial Brother can return by riding a white dragon, then he must be no ordinary man! Besides, aren''t you here to guard me?" Li Shimin waved his hand, showing a fearless expression, his demeanor resolute.


    "Since this is the case, this old Daoist will naturally apany you!" Seeing that Li Shimin had made up his mind, Yuan Tiangang remained silent for a moment and then inwardly sighed helplessly before saying to Li Shimin.


    There was nothing to be done, whether to go or not was only his to advise, the final decision was still up to the Emperor of Tang.


    Since he had made up his mind to go, all he could do was focus on thinking about how to ensure his safety.


    Seeing that Yuan Tiangang no longer tried to stop him, Li Shimin nodded, did not bring any guards with him, only chose a few experts with cultivation, and then headed toward the Great Buddha Temple.


    "Saint Monk Longhai, have I arrived toote!?" Along with the dive of the white dragon, Jiang Liu leapt from the back of the white dragon, addressing Saint Monk Longhai.


    "You? You are Xuanzang? You, you''ve already reached the Divinity Transformation Realm?" Staring at Jiang Liu whonded in front of him, Longhai wore an expression as if he had seen a ghost, his look incredulous.


    You must be joking, right?


    In just a little over a year''s time, had he directly surpassed the Meridian Unblocking Realm and Controlling-Law Realm to reach the Divinity Transformation Realm?


    Bang!


    However, before Longhai and Jiang Liu could catch up, suddenly, a vast expanse of ck mes appeared.


    The overwhelmingly powerful mes shattered the already fragile defenses effortlessly.


    In an instant, countless demon creatures surged out like a tidal wave.


    "We''ll talkter!" Seeing this scene, Jiang Liu shook his head and said to Longhai. As he spoke, the Feather Demon de behind him unfolded. Continue reading stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    In a sh, hundreds of feather-shaped flying daggers, following Jiang Liu''s movements, shot towards these demon creatures like a torrential rain.


    Amid continuous screams, the demon creatures suffered heavy casualties.


    Ah!


    As the special effect of the Feather Demon de activated, Jiang Liu opened his mouth again and let out a loud, resonant dragon chant, a skill effect of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.@@novelbin@@


    The invisible waves instantly repelled numerous demon creatures, and in front of Jiang Liu, a vast expanse of damage numbers sprouted, looking incredibly spectacr!


    The Buddha Relic Dharma Ring, that was equipment capable of weakening the attack and defense attributes of beings lower in level than Jiang Liu by 20%.


    Therefore, under the influence of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, all demon creatures below the level of a Demon Marshal suffered severe injuries.


    Whoosh!


    Moving like lightning, just then, a wolf-headed humanoid demon wolf appeared, charging at Jiang Liu as fast as lightning.


    Its sharp ws extended, seeming like five streaks of cold light, wing towards Jiang Liu.


    "A Demon Marshal!? That means, its level is almost the same as mine!?" Seeing this wolf-headed demon, Jiang Liu''s lips slightly curved into a smile, and he immediately raised his hand.


    An exaggeratedly shaped giant axe appeared in Jiang Liu''s hand, none other than the Xuanhua Axe.


    Without any further words, Jiang Liu raised the giant axe in his hand, and simultaneously, fierce mes ignited upon it.


    The handsome and attractive young monk, holding an exaggeratedly shaped giant axe, mixed with the power of mes, smashed directly towards the demon wolf,


    O!


    Amid the howls, both arms of the demon wolf were shattered by Jiang Liu''s strike, and visibly, the power of the mes engulfed the entire body of the demon wolf, causing it to scream continuously.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, he could also see that the health bar above the demon wolf''s head had dropped by about one-third following this move.


    The Fiery sh, besides the damage caused by the initial sh, simrly, the subsequent burning effect also caused equivalent damage values.


    As the me scorched, the health bar above the demon wolf''s head quickly plummeted.


    Without wasting words, seeing the demon wolf in a burning state, Jiang Liu immediately made his move and grabbed the demon wolf''s head.


    He activated the Palm Thunder skill instantaneously; violent lightning burst forth from the palm of Jiang Liu''s hand.


    The fierce blue lightning exploded in the blink of an eye,pletely engulfing the body of the demon wolf.


    As Jiang Liu removed his palm, only a sliver of health remained on the demon wolf''s head.


    In an instant, that slight bit of remaining health was burnt away by the burning effect, falling to the ground and twitching a few times before lying still.


    The demon wolf that had initiated the attack on Jiang Liu naturally left behind only its corpse.


    Notification: Gained Experience Points 6850, Money 800.


    Following Jiang Liu''s easy defeat of the demon wolf with one move of Fiery sh and one Palm Thunder, almost simultaneously, the system notification rang out.


    "Wow, so powerful..."


    Watching a Demon Marshal with cultivation levelparable to Divinity Transformation Realm being effortlessly in by Jiang Liu, who appeared to have no trouble at all, the Holy Monk Longhai sucked in a breath of cold air.


    Although it was only a Divinity Transformation Realm cultivation level, based on these techniques, his strength must have already touched the threshold of the Returning Void Realm, right?


    "I, I have indeed be much stronger..."


    Actually, seeing the Demon Marshal of the demon wolf being effortlessly in by himself, Jiang Liu also felt profoundly moved.


    He still remembered the first time he had entered the Demon-Suppressing Hall, when a Demon Marshal level Electric Light Leopard had put him through a near-death experience; if not for the desperate counterattack by Little Witch and Daoji, he would have been killed long ago.


    Yet today, facing a Demon Marshal that escaped from the Demon Cave again, it took only two moves to effortlessly kill it.


    This made Jiang Liu inwardly reflect and genuinely feel the improvement in his strength.

 Chapter 307 Grinding and Leveling Up is the True Path

    Hand of Healing!


    Looking around at the people in the Great Buddha Temple and Heavenly Master Hall, each of them seemed to have some injuries to lesser or greater degrees. Jiang Liu''s thoughts stirred, and he no longermented over the issue of his own strength increase over the past year. He raised his hand to beckon.


    An indestructible Holy Object descended from the heavens,nding on the ground with a thud. Immediately, invisible fluctuations emitted from this Holy Object.@@novelbin@@


    As the waves from these Holy Objects swept over, the injuries of the surrounding people rapidly healed.


    In 20 seconds'' time, it was possible to restore 20% of their maximum Life Value, which was enough to significantly alleviate the injuries of those who were severely wounded.


    For those with lighter injuries, this wave of healing was enough to nearlypletely restore them.


    "Good, what miraculous methods, how powerful..."


    Seeing the effects of the Hand of Healing and how it significantly improved the conditions of many present within arge area, the crowd in the Great Buddha Temple was startled, and they all looked at Jiang Liu with amazement.


    "Is this, this the Holy Monk with the twelve Scar of Precepts? In just a little over a year, he has actually, actually..." Saint Monk Longhai, standing beside him, felt his worldview crumbling as he watched the methods disyed by Jiang Liu.


    Ordinary people, if they wished to reach the Divinity Transformation Stage of cultivation, would often need upwards of a hundred and eighty years, right?


    But wasn''t Xuanzang only on his Journey to the West for a little more than a year?


    Without looking, Longhai could tell that Xuanzang''s journey must surely be filled with hardships, sleeping in the open and facing numerous challenges. That meant even less time for cultivation, yet he had improved to such an extent?


    If he were really allowed to just stay put, not needing to travel, wouldn''t his Cultivation Level be even higher, perhaps even having the chance to hit the Returning Void Realm!?


    Thinking about this, the possibility of Xuanzang reaching the Returning Void Realm in just a year or two shocked Saint Monk Longhai even more.


    How much time had it taken for himself to cultivate to the Returning Void Realm?


    "Xuanzang, if these Demon Creatures can be converted, please do convert them thoroughly. Buddha said, ''Saving one life is better than building a seven-story pagoda.''"


    Although his heart was extremely shocked, seeing a powerful Demon Marshal being taken down by Jiang Liu in just a few moves, Longhai hastily spoke up.


    He didn''t actually want to convert these Demon Creatures, but since the Tathagata himself had said it, what could he do? He could onlyply. Stay updated with My Virtual Library Empire


    Thud, thud, thud...


    Looking like a fair and handsome young monk, Jiang Liu was dressed in a Pearl Buddha Robe, but in his hand, he sped an exaggeratedly designed axe, swinging it ceaselessly. Every Demon General and lesser Demon Creature stood no chance against him, with almost every single one being taken down in a single blow.


    Meanwhile, the continuous system notifications sounded, steadily increasing Jiang Liu''s Experience Points.


    Hearing this, Jiang Liu turned his head to look at Longhai and said, "Amitabha, I am indeed converting them. Look, I haven''t killed these Demon Creatures. Only those who actively try to kill me do I y!"


    Powerful, following the intense battle, Jiang Liu''s strength was extremely formidable, almost like a tiger entering a flock of sheep.


    As one progresses to theter stages, the Experience Points needed to level up increase, and conversely, the amount of Experience Points reflects one''s Cultivation Level.


    This also means that, the higher the level, the greater the gap between each level of cultivators.


    In fact, this could be seen from the bonus to Jiang Liu''s weapon''s Attack Power.


    With the same Legendary Level Equipment, at around level 20, it typically adds a few hundred points of Attack Power, at level 30, it''s over a thousand, and now at level 40, the Attack Power has increased by seven or eight thousand.


    Beings one level higher have almostplete overpowering strength against those a level lower.


    Take these Demon Generals, for instance; hardly any of them can stand against Jiang Liu, and those who can survive more than three moves under his hand are definitely among the elite of the Demon Generals.


    Just as when Mo Liqing, who had just entered the Taiyi True Immortal stage, was utterly outssed by Sun Wukong - peers are outmatched, let alone inferiors.


    Unless one is like Jiang Liu, with a host of Equipment buffs, Buffs and Healing methods for sustainability, along with unique control abilities like Silence and Transformation...


    Only with such an array of methodsbined is there a hope for challenging those at higher levels.


    But even then, during the final part of his job-change challenge, when he fought against a Demon General with a higher level, Jiang Liu nearly died.


    So, in front of an existence like Jiang Liu, who vaguely possesses the ability to challenge higher levels, even a Demon Marshal is no match, let alone the Demon Generals, who are essentially walking Experience Points delivery.


    Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and Little White Dragon, who were nearby, had no intention of joining the fight.


    So far, the highest Cultivation Level among the Demon Creatures that had emerged from the Underground Demon Cavern was that of a Demon Marshal. Sun Wukong and the others clearly understood that in this situation, it was better not to interfere and to let their master take action.


    All they needed to do was block these Demon Creatures and prevent them from escaping the Great Buddha Temple.


    Notification: Gained 880 Experience Points, acquired 120 gold.


    Notification: Gained 1320 Experience Points, acquired 250 gold.


    ```


    Tip: Gained 620 Experience Points, earned 88 coins.


    ...


    With the Xuanhua Axe in hand, Jiang Liu was like a tiger among sheep, and these demon creatures were no match for him, while the system''s notifications kept ringing in his ears.


    For Jiang Liu, these were indeed delightful sounds.


    The Demon-Subduing Mantra, Arhat Fist, Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra, coupled with the weakening special effect of the Buddha Relic Dharma Ring towards monsters of a lower level, and the Xuanhua Axe with an Attack Power of 7800...


    Most demon creatures were felled by a single strike of Jiang Liu''s axe, and the notifications for gaining Experience Points kept popping up. For Jiang Liu, this truly was the best tactic for battling monsters and leveling up.


    Indeed, ever since awakening his gaming abilities, battling monsters to level up was the true path.


    Just like this, with an unending stream of monsters, and with every strike of his axe worth several hundred Experience Points on average, in a minute he could farm a whopping twenty to thirty thousand Experience Points, equivalent to a whole day''s hard cultivation!


    The never-ending flow of demon creatures seemed infinite, and for Jiang Liu, this was simply a feast for a glutton.


    The battlested only about five minutes, but through battling, Jiang Liu had already gained over 100,000 Experience Points on his character''s profile, which brought him great joy.


    If such opportunities kept presenting themselves, he believed it wouldn''t take many years for him to raise his level enough to go head to head with Tathagata Buddha himself, would it?


    Unfortunately, such battles couldn''t possiblyst that long.


    After about fifteen minutes, the surging demon creatures, realizing that Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie were blocking them and with Jiang Liu ughtering through them like a tiger entering a flock of sheep, understood that breaking through was impossible, and the intensity of their charge began to slow down greatly.


    "Why have you all stopped? Could it be that you''ve all turned into good people?"


    Feeling the halted charge, the demon creatures that poured out from the Demon Cave began to group together instead. Jiang Liu swung his axe and knocked a Demon General unconscious before he taunted the demon creatures.


    Fury!


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, which implied they were good people¡ªa curse in the eyes of demon creatures¡ªeach one red at Jiang Liu with anger in their eyes.


    But upon seeing so many demon creatures lying unconscious on the ground, they seethed with rage internally yet dared not act against Jiang Liu.


    Thud, thud, thud...


    Just then, a series of footsteps were heard from within the Underground Demon Cavern, and at the same time, a pitch-ck me slowly spread out, radiating a sensation brimming with heat and ferocity.


    "This me, could it be..."


    The person had yet to emerge, but already, ck mes were spreading out from the Demon Cave. Jiang Liu had a hunch, feeling that these mes looked very familiar.


    A ck lion, immensely huge, nearly the size of an ox, stepped out. On the back of the lion sat a girl who looked to be about fifteen or sixteen years old.


    The girl was dressed in a flowing gown, exuding an erect and graceful presence, but the surrounding swirl of ck mes made her seem formidable, not to be underestimated.


    Behind the girl followed a dozen Demon Beings with fierce appearances, each exuding a steady presence.


    "Hey, Bajie, this ck me... doesn''t it look familiar?" Monkey Brother Sun Wukong nced at the girl riding the ck lion and focused more on the ck mes around her before speaking up to Zhu Bajie beside him.


    Although he was reluctant to admit it, after spending so much time together, Sun Wukong knew that Marshal Tianpeng, who had been around for countless years, truly had better vision than himself.


    "Monkey Brother, this ck me is Samadhi True Fire tainted with Demonic Qi, thus it can be referred to as Samadhi Demonic Fire," Zhu Bajie took a nce and replied.


    "So, it''s Samadhi True Fire? No wonder it looked familiar!" Upon hearing Zhu Bajie''s words, Sun Wukong nodded slightly.


    "What''s the background of this witch?"


    Zhu Bajie''s gaze turned serious as he intently watched the girl. "Samadhi True Fire is one of the top mes between heaven and earth. In the entire three realms, only a handful of people can control it. This witch doesn''t seem to have a high Cultivation Level¡ªhow can she manage to harness Samadhi True Fire?"


    Indeed, it was evident at a nce that the girl''s Cultivation Level wasn''t high, yet the Samadhi True Fire was a great killing weapon!


    In short, this was like a child wielding a knife.


    The child might not be strong, but holding a knife was a different story. Even a grown adult could be killed by such a child!


    "Xuanzang, long time no see!"


    The girl riding the ck lion emerged from amongst the demon throng, and upon spotting Jiang Liu, she greeted him with a smile.


    "You? Did you overdose on growth hormones or something?"


    However, upon seeing the girl in front of him, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly as he uttered his retort.


    ```

 Chapter 308 So This Is How Character Page Colors Are Divided

    Yes, hormones. To Jiang Liu, did this little witch truly consume something like hormones?


    He remembered when he first met her in the Demon-Suppressing Hall, she was just a little girl around six or seven years old, right? And now, in just over a year, she''s transformed into a youngdy?


    From her appearance, she looks to be almost his own age!


    "Hormones? What is that?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the little witch sitting atop the ck lion tilted her head slightly, stared at Jiang Liu for a moment, and then her eyes lit up, "Is it another tasty thing?"


    Thinking of something delicious, the little witch couldn''t help but remember the extremely tasty grilled meat she had in the Demon-Suppressing Hall, and she licked the corner of her lips, her eyes gleaming as she looked at Jiang Liu.


    ...


    Meanwhile, the Saint Monk Longhai and the people from Heavenly Master Hall werepletely disordered by the situation.


    Just by the looks of it, they knew that the girl appearing on the back of the ck lion must be terrifyingly strong. Didn''t they see all the other demon beings standing behind her?


    And yet, Master Xuanzang was having a colorful conversation with this witch. They seemed to be very familiar with each other, on good terms?


    Not only the people from Heavenly Master Hall and Great Buddha Temple were thrown into disarray by the wind, even the demon beings behind the little witch looked at each other, their faces full of astonishment.


    In the eyes of the demon beings, especially those from the Demon-Suppressing Hall, humans were rather fearsome, particrly those with bare heads.


    After the recent scuffle, the demon beings could tell that among these humans, Jiang Liu held a high status. And now, their queen appeared to be very familiar with this human? This, seemed like a good thing, didn''t it?


    "No wonder..." With surprise in his heart, Saint Monk Longhai felt as if he understood everything.


    No wonder when he sought the help of the Tathagata to save them by subduing demons and eliminating evil, the Tathagata instead directed him to find Master Xuanzang for rescue. Was this the reason why?


    Since when had Master Xuanzang be so familiar with the demon n in the Demon-Suppressing Hall?


    "Ahem..." After talking with the little witch for a while, Jiang Liu seemed to realize that the atmosphere was bing a bit strange. He cleared his throat twice, his gaze falling on the little witch as he asked, "So, you all have run out from the Underground Demon Cavern? Are you nning to wreak havoc in Chang''an City?"


    "We have been sealed in the demon cavern, suppressed underneath. Today we found the seal broken, of course, we had to escape!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s question, the little witch replied as if it were the most natural thing to do.


    Upon saying this, the little witch nced around at the people from Heavenly Master Hall and Great Buddha Temple with a somewhat fearful expression, and then said to Jiang Liu: "Brother Xuanzang, you will protect me, right? I want to take these nsmen back to the Demon Realm!"


    "This witch, she''s so good at pretending!" Seeing the little witch''s frightened demeanor, the people from Heavenly Master Hall and Great Buddha Temple twitched at the corners of their mouths. It seemed that she was the queen of these demon n¡ªwas she supposed to be scared?


    However, looking at the little witch''s demeanor, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but chuckle inwardly.


    A year had passed, and she was still afraid of humans, especially those with bald heads. She hadn''t changed that at all?


    Hint: Task "Demon Protecting" triggered. The task requires helping the demon n from the Underground Demon Cavern at Great Buddha Temple return to the Demon Realm. Uponpletion, receive 15,000,000 Experience Points and one Epic Level Treasure Chest. If failed, deduct 15,000,000 Experience Points. ept/Decline?


    Following the little witch''s words, almost simultaneously, a system prompt appeared. This passive task took Jiang Liu by surprise.


    What''s the situation? A reward of 15 million Experience Points? Is this for real?


    Although passive tasks generally offer higher rewards than active tasks, still, aren''t 15 million Experience Points a bit too exaggerated? Could it be that this task is extremely difficult?


    "Are you unwilling, Brother Xuanzang?" Seeing Jiang Liu in deep thought and not immediately agreeing, the little witch''s expression turned somewhat dim as she spoke up.


    "Willing! Of course, I''m willing!" Hearing the little witch''s words, Jiang Liu snapped back to reality and replied affirmatively.


    As he spoke, he directly epted the task.


    Perhaps this task was challenging, but after thinking it over, Jiang Liu couldn''t decipher where the difficulty could lie.


    Was it the cultivators in the mortal world trying to stop him? With his current strength, could any ordinary cultivator stop him?


    From these demon n members? Wouldn''t they obey him? And weren''t Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie more than just decorations?


    Or perhaps the Immortals and Buddhas from heaven might trouble him? With the Journey to the West Team''s destiny on their side and the faces of Sun Wukong and the others, unless there were some Deities or Daluo Golden Immortals and above, even Immortals and Buddhas shouldn''t obstruct him, right?


    So after a moment of thought, Jiang Liu quickly made a decision, feeling that he could take on this task, which naturally meant he wouldn''t be shy to ept it.


    "Holy Monk Xuanzang, you..."


    Hearing the conversation between Jiang Liu and the little witch, he actually intended to protect these demon beings and return them to the Demon Realm? A few experts from Heavenly Master Hall changed their expressions and wanted to speak up to prevent it.


    "Amitabha, esteemed ones, this is the divine will of the Tathagata, the Buddha says there is virtue in all creatures being cherished..." However, as the people from Heavenly Master Hall were about to voice their objections, Saint Monk Longhai stepped forward, pressing his palms together and addressed them.


    With Saint Monk Longhai speaking up, Jiang Liu naturally didn''t need to argue with the people from Heavenly Master Hall anymore.


    He waved his hand, and the surrounding monks from Great Buddha Temple cleared a path for them.


    "Let''s go!" With the monks from Great Buddha Temple making way, Jiang Liu said.


    "Yes!" The little witch nodded and a smile formed on her face as well.


    He promptly turned his head back to look at the Demon n members behind him and said, "Follow me and leave this ce with Brother Xuanzang. Remember, do not act recklessly and cause unnecessary trouble..."


    "Yes, Queen!" As the Little Witch''s words fell, the Demon n members behind her spoke in unison.@@novelbin@@


    "Qu-Queen!?" Hearing the Demons address the Little Witch, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly. Then, he turned his gaze upon the Little Witch, silently reciting the character panel in his mind.


    At the same time, the Little Witch''s character panel appeared before Jiang Liu.


    ID: Little Witch (Golden)


    Gender: Female


    Profession: Demon


    Level: 50


    Equipment: ...


    "What!? A golden panel!?" Seeing the Little Witch''s character panel, Jiang Liu was slightly taken aback, feeling astonished. For a moment, he found the information on this character panel somewhat iprehensible.


    Sun Wukong had a golden panel, but Supreme Elder Lord was only blue in quality. Why then did the Little Witch also have a golden panel?


    Wasn''t this a bit chaotic?


    Logically speaking, shouldn''t Supreme Elder Lord at least be an avatar of Sage Laozi? His character panel amounts to only blue, yet Sun Wukong and the Little Witch actually have golden panels?


    Could it be that Supreme Elder Lord''s aptitude was inferior to theirs?


    Bewildered, after pondering for a moment, Jiang Liu felt that there could only be one exnation.


    That was the issue of their respective strengths.


    For example, a Level 10 character with a whitemon panel, taking into ount their aptitude, magic supernatural power, and so on, might have abat power of 100. But for a blue quality,bat power would definitely be higher, at least 150, or even 200, or up to 300.


    What about the golden panel then? Even if the level is 10, the overallbat power could reach more than 300, or even 400, or over 500, right?


    Upon closer thought, it seems that only with such an exnation does the color quality of the character panels make sense.


    Therefore, at Level 80, Sun Wukong''sprehensive strength is much greater than that of other ordinary Level 80 characters with a white panel, which is why he is of golden quality.


    And at the Quasi-Saint level, Supreme Elder Lord might be stronger than a regr Quasi-Saint with a white panel, but not by much, so he could only be of blue quality?


    With this calction, it seemed to make sense.


    "So, the so-called character panel quality isn''t about being very powerful, but about being much more powerful than others of the same level, which then determines the quality," Jiang Liu realized.


    With this, could it be exined?


    However, it seemed to fit the rules of the game as well.


    A Level 50 blue elite monster could be more powerful than a Level 30 golden BOSS, right?


    "Imperial Brother, Imperial Brother..." Just as the monks from the Great Buddha Temple moved aside to make way, Li Shimin appeared and approached Jiang Liu.


    Looking at Jiang Liu, Li Shimin had aplex expression in his eyes. He then said, "You''ve returned? Did youe back on purpose to save Chang''an from danger?"


    "Amitabha, how could I not return when Chang''an is in trouble!" Upon hearing this, Jiang Liu said with a look of righteous indignation.


    "Good, good, good..." Jiang Liu''s response made Li Shimin smile, repeatedly expressing his approval.


    Clearly, he was very satisfied with this answer.


    Having not seen Jiang Liu for over a year, Li Shimin was also in a good mood.


    Although they bore the title of sworn brothers on the surface, in his heart, Li Shimin regarded him as half a son-inw.


    Simrly, Jiang Liu felt the same way. Looking at Li Shimin again, he nodded silently in his heart.


    After more than a year, Li Shimin was at the prime of his life, still as vigorous as ever.


    "By the way, Your Majesty, on my journey to the West, I had the fortuitous chance to meet Gaoyang!" After a brief silence, Jiang Liu suddenly opened up to Li Shimin.


    "Gaoyang? You saw her? How is she?" Sure enough, Li Shimin''s eyes lit up with surprise upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    "Wait, Brother Xuanzang, who is this man?" At this time, the Little Witch, riding on her ck lion, moved forward a few steps. Her gaze fell on Li Shimin as she inquired.


    "He is the Emperor..." After ncing back at her, Jiang Liu responded. Experience more on My Virtual Library Empire


    Seeing the Little Witch''s puzzled look, Jiang Liu added, "In terms you would understand, he''s like our king, ruling over tens of millions ofmon people!"


    "King?"


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s exnation, the Little Witch looked at Li Shimin curiously, then shook her head in iprehension. "I really don''t understand. This uncle doesn''t seem that strong, yet he can be your king? Humans are indeed a strange race!"

 Chapter 311 Demon Realm Instance Opens

    Brocade Kasaya (Divine Level) (in Colored Cloud Boundary g): Soul Bound, Defense +1000000000, No Level Requirement, Special Effect: When the user dies with the soul intact, they can resurrect within a certain amount of time, Description: Rumored to be an Ancient Chaos Supreme Treasure, transformed from a petal of the Thirty-Six Tier Chaos Green Lotus, impervious to all but the Power of Sage! Never wears out, remaining seal time 72 hours.


    Nine-Ring Staff (Epic Level) (Godying Spear) (Semi-Sealed): Soul Bound, No Level Requirement, Attack +10000000, Special Effect: Can activate an active effect, granting immunity to attacks from targets below level 100 for 300 seconds, Description: Rumored to be an Ancient Chaos Supreme Treasure, transformed from the stem of the Thirty-Six Tier Chaos Green Lotus, carries a ferocious aura, if one''s own strength is insufficient, it will backfire. Never wears out, remaining seal time 72 hours.


    "Holy crap!?"


    Jiang Liu''s eyes widened in disbelief as he looked at the attributes of the two unsealed pieces of equipment.


    With no level requirement and never wearing out, these attributes are so high they''re suffocating.


    The Brocade Kasaya, having its seal undone, jumped straight from Epic Level to Divine Level, but how much was added to the defense?


    Just looking at the string of zeroes, enough to hurt one''s eyes, and counting carefully, it''s an additional 1 billion defense value!?


    Just looking at this number makes one feel breathless.


    And look at the description, nothing but the Power of Sage can break it?


    Does that mean this defense can''t be broken by the likes of Master Zhenyuan, Tathagata, or even the Great Jade Emperor?


    "So, with a defense of 1 billion, even a Quasi-Saint would have difficulty breaking through?" Based on the attributes of this equipment, Jiang Liu could roughly estimate just how strong a Quasi-Saint was.


    Of course, the likes of the Jade Emperor cannot break it because the Quasi-Saint''s power is insufficient, but whether these big shots have other Dharma Treasures to target this Brocade Kasaya is another matter.


    And what about the in Colored Cloud Boundary g? Isn''t that one of the Five-Direction gs?


    Thinking about the Five-Direction gs, they are indeed imed to be impervious to all but the Power of Sage, so all of this makes sense.


    It just didn''t ur to me that the in Colored Cloud Boundary g was transformed from a petal of the Thirty-Six Tier Chaos Green Lotus?


    What kind of treasure is the Thirty-Six Tier Chaos Green Lotus? Legend has it that it nurtured the Great God Pangu during the chaos period.


    Gulping, okay, I digress, my current Cultivation Level is only at the Divinity Transformation Realm, the level of Saints and the Great God Pangu are far beyond what I can imagine right now.


    In any case, a fully unsealed in Colored Cloud Boundary g, with defense impervious to all but the Power of Sage, is indeed enough to ensure my safety.


    And this Nine-Ring Staff, even in its semi-unsealed state, has given me an additional 10 million Attack Power!?


    Though it''s much lesspared to the in Colored Cloud Boundary g, this Attack Power is already very formidable for me, at least much stronger than Sun Wukong''s Jingu Bang and Zhu Bajie''s Nine-Toothed Rake. Truly befitting an Innate Supreme Treasure.


    Moreover, from the description, it is the same series as the in Colored Cloud Boundary g, being from the stem of the Thirty-Six Tier Chaos Green Lotus!


    It''s just a pity that Guanyin only unlocked a bit of the seal on the Godying Spear. An Attack Power of 10 millionpared to a Defense of 1 billion is not a small difference.


    But looking at the description of the Godying Spear, if one''s strength is insufficient, it can harm the wielder, so Jiang Liu had noints.


    After all, in the legends of primordial times, the Godying Spear is among the Innate Supreme Treasures and indeed one of the top murderous weapons between heaven and earth.


    "Thank you, Bodhisattva!" Looking at the attributes of the unsealed kasaya and Nine-Ring Staff, Jiang Liu expressed his gratitude to the Bodhisattva Guanyin, ted.


    Although there are only 72 short hours, if operated properly, could he not also gain a massive amount of Experience Points by killing monsters for levels during these 72 hours?


    "Amitabha, Xuanzang, you should go now. Although I have unsealed these two Treasures, you only have three days and three nights. Remember that!"


    After unsealing the two Treasures, the Bodhisattva Guanyin deeply regarded them, a sh of longing in the depths of her eyes, and then, earnestly cautioned Jiang Liu.


    in Colored Cloud Boundary g, Godying Spear!


    These two Treasures can be regarded as the top treasures for the entire Buddhist Sect, and for Guanyin, who is greedy enough to im two of the three hoops, it''s naturally coveted.


    But unfortunately, though Guanyin dares to be greedy for hoops, for these two treasures, she wouldn''t dare even with several more guts; she knows the weight of what''s at stake here.


    ¡­


    Leaving aside Guanyin, who had helped Jiang Liu unseal the Brocade Kasaya and Nine-Ring Staff, on the other hand, Sun Wukong, after chasing the Peacock Great Bright King Bodhisattva for a long and far distance, perhaps because the Bodhisattva grew impatient with the chase, relented and let go.


    After catching the Formation Map, Sun Wukong looked down to check it and finding no damage, he returned.


    Mount Foutu is not particrly far from Chang''an City. Hovering midair, after scanning with his Golden Light, Sun Wukong naturally spotted the trail of Jiang Liu and the others.


    He descended from his cloud andnded on Mount Foutu.


    "Wukong, have you sessfully defeated that big bird and taken it back from its ws?" Seeing Sun Wukong return with the Formation Map, Xuanzang asked with some surprise.


    "No, that bird seems extraordinary, I chased her for a long time but couldn''t catch up, and she couldn''t shake me off either, so she finally gave it up!" After shaking his head, Sun Wukong responded.


    "Could it be that she simply ran out of patience? More likely, she hadpleted her own task and took the initiative to return, right?" Jiang Liu inwardly sneered upon hearing Sun Wukong''s words.@@novelbin@@


    Before Guanyin made an appearance, Jiang Liu hadn''t really thought much about the copse of the Demon-Suppressing Hall in Chang''an City.


    However, following the copse of the Demon-Suppressing Hall, the instruction from Tathagata for Longhai to find him and return, and then Guanyin''s appearance, reminding him to take a trip to the Demon Realm...


    Jiang Liu came to understand that all of this was probably a scheme concocted by Guanyin and the others behind the scenes.


    Despite their schemes, which he considered to be aimed at him, Jiang Liu was well aware that they were actually helping him.


    After all, if he was sessful in bringing Sha Wujing back, then his team for the Journey to the West for Scriptures would truly be fully assembled.


    On the surface, it was about seeking scriptures in the West, but in reality, it was about overturning the Great Thunder Monastery!


    Moreover, Guanyin''s actions were unequivocally aiding him inpleting his task.


    As soon as Sha Wujing defected, the thought of bringing him back stirred in Jiang Liu''s mind, naturally triggering a system task.


    Task Alert: "Return to the Sect." Task requirement: Sessfully persuade Sha Wujing to rejoin the Journey to the West Team. Upon taskpletion, Jiang Liu will gain 22,000,000 Experience Points and receive an Epic Level Treasure Chest*1.


    Since it was a voluntary task, there were no penalties for failing this "Return to the Sect" mission.


    "You all give it a try and see if you can activate the passage to the Demon Realm!" Continue your adventure at My Virtual Library Empire


    Though his thoughts were numerous, Jiang Liu showed no sign of it as he took the Formation Map from Sun Wukong''s hands and handed it to the Little Witch, saying.


    "Alright! Brother Xuanzang, you''re such a good person!" The Little Witch earnestly nodded as she took the Formation Map from Xuanzang, thanking Jiang Liu in the process.


    "No, don''t curse me by helping you!" Jiang Liu twitched at the corner of his mouth when he heard the Little Witch calling him a good person.


    While others might not know it, Jiang Liu was aware that the moral perspectives of the Demon n and humans were nearly theplete opposite.


    Calling him a good person? In the Demon Realm, that waspletely an insult.


    "No, I didn''t mean to insult you with thatment!" The Little Witch, who was unfolding the Formation Map, shook her head upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words.


    "Eh? You''re speaking pleasantly now? That doesn''t sound like you at all!" Jiang Liu said with a slight smile at the Little Witch''s words.


    "I, I..." The Little Witch looked down at the Formation Map, her expression hesitant, as if she felt something was amiss. Praising someone by calling them a good person? Had she changed?


    Or was it that, without realizing it, she was about to be reformed by Brother Xuanzang?


    The Little Witch felt a startle in her heart at that thought.


    But disregarding the Little Witch''s inner thoughts, as she unfolded the Formation Map, the other members of the Demon n also gathered around one by one.


    They all knew that to return to the Demon Realm, they had to infuse their Demonic Qi together.


    The Little Witch suppressed her personal thoughts and began to focus on channeling her Demonic Qi wholeheartedly.


    As the Little Witch and the thousands of Demon n members behind her took action, a dense Demonic Qi storm erupted in an instant, transforming the whole Foutu Mountain as if it were part of the Demon Realm.


    With the continued infusion of Demonic Qi, naturally, the entire Formation Map lit up at this moment, bursting forth with dazzling brilliance.


    Jiang Liu, Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and White Dragon Horse were all watching on the side, silently observing everything.


    For Jiang Liu, his heart was naturally overjoyed; he felt as if he had stumbled upon an incredible opportunity this time.


    Having broken the seals on the Brocade Kasaya and Nine-Ring Monk''s Staff, relying on these two pieces of equipment, his current Attack Power was likely even stronger than Sun Wukong''s, perhaps he had already reached thebat strength level of a Great Luo Golden Immortal.


    This venture into the Demon Realm was akin to entering a dungeon in the Demon Realm.


    Not to mention, he had taken on two tasks that would allow the opening of Epic Level Treasure Chests.


    In the midst of Jiang Liu''s anticipation, as the Formation Map was activated, the Demon Realm seemed to sense the presence of Demonic Qi on this side.


    Then, the void cracked open, transforming into a spiraling passage that slowly appeared before everyone.


    "The Demon Realm dungeon, has opened!"


    Jiang Liu wasted no time, equipping both his Brocade Kasaya and Nine-Ring Monk''s Staff; both items shimmered with flowing light.

 Chapter 312 Fighting Monsters for Five Minutes, Counts as Two Months of Cultivation

    "Eh, Master, your kasaya and monk''s staff seem different today!" Sun Wukong nced over, his gazending on Jiang Liu, observing his brocade kasaya and Nine-Ring Staff with a surprised look on his face.


    These two pieces of equipment were not new to Sun Wukong, but today, they appeared to be shimmering with light, which waspletely different from their usual appearance.


    "Yes, this kasaya and staff are now a bit more powerful than usual!" Hearing this, Jiang Liu nodded, his face breaking into a smile as he spoke.


    Of course, this was a reason to be pleased. The Nine-Ring Staff and the brocade kasaya were treasures, and ording to the setting of the primordial world, the Godying Spear belonged to the lower ranks of the Innate Supreme Treasures, while the in Colored Cloud Boundary g was also at the level of an Innate Spirit Treasure.


    Although they were usually in a sealed state, Jiang Liu wondered if he could unseal these two pieces of equipment himself once his life profession skills reached a certain level.


    At this thought, Jiang Liu''s heart filled with anticipation.


    And now, hadn''t Guanyin given him three days to experience this?


    "All right, Brother Xuanzang, the passage has begun. Let''s say our farewells for now. I hope we have the chance to meet again!" At this moment, the passage summoned from the Demon Realm hadpletely stabilized, and the Little Witch turned her head, her gaze falling on Jiang Liu as she spoke.


    "I never said we should part ways!" At the Little Witch''s words, Jiang Liu responded with a slight smile, "In my life, I''ve never visited the Demon Realm. This might be a good opportunity to take a look. How about it, disciples? Shall we go together?"


    Of course, thetter half of this statement was directed at Sun Wukong and his fellow disciples.


    "Ah? You want to go to the Demon Realm too!?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Little Witch was taken aback, surprised.


    But seeing the look in Jiang Liu''s eyes, which wasn''t joking, the Little Witch pondered for a moment, showing no intention of stopping him, though her expression was somewhat uneasy. "Brother Xuanzang, everyone in the Mortal World is very hostile towards our Demon n. Simrly, in the Demon Realm, they probably dislike you humans, right? If you go... "


    "Don''t worry, we''re very strong. We can definitely take care of ourselves!" Jiang Liu patted his chest confidently.


    Indeed, with a defensive treasure like the in Colored Cloud Boundary g in his possession, Jiang Liu wasn''t too worried about his safety.


    "Since that''s the case, then let''s go together!" Seeing Jiang Liu''s confidence, the Little Witch decided and nodded, no longer saying more.


    While talking, Jiang Liu and the Little Witch took the lead and walked into the passage, and naturally, thousands of demons followed behind, entering one after another.


    The passage wasn''t very long; after only about dozens of steps, Jiang Liu found himself emerging into an expansive space.


    Arriving in the Demon Realm for the first time, Jiang Liu of course wanted to take a good look at the scenery of the Demon Realm.


    Comparatively speaking, the sky of the Demon Realm seemed dim, reminiscent of the twilight in the Mortal World, with a dark red hue hanging in the sky that felt quite oppressive.


    At one end of the passagey a series of continuous mountains, but the stone of the mountains was ck, a deste sight.


    Naturally, on the side of the passage, hundreds of demons were waiting, having been guided to open the passage.


    "Eh? Humans!?"


    The lead demon''s gaze fell on the Little Witch, and even when looking at Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, showed no particr reaction, but when his eyesnded on Jiang Liu, his face showed surprise. After a moment of thought, he nodded slightly and said, "Is this human your captive?"


    "Sorry, but I''m not a captive. I''m just here to stroll around the Demon Realm and take in the scenery. I wonder if you wee me? I think you''re all good people, you wouldn''t refuse, right?" Jiang Liu spoke in response to the lead demon''s words.


    "Damn it!" Being called a good person angered the demons; their faces darkening with rage as they shouted. Amid their cries, a horned demon raised arge knife in his hand and shed directly at Jiang Liu.


    Bang!


    However, Jiang Liu simply raised his Nine-Ring Staff and struck down towards the demon''s head.


    With just one move, the demon''s knife shattered, and the momentum of the Nine-Ring Staff unabated, it struck the demon''s head, emptying his health bar instantly, and a system prompt appeared. Read thetest on My Virtual Library Empire


    Prompt: Gained 18,700 Experience Points, earned 3 taels of money.


    "Hehehe..." Hearing the system''s prompt, a smile spread across Jiang Liu''s face.


    Indeed, these three days were the perfect time for him to rack up as much experience as possible.


    If it were likened to a game, he was now like someone who had consumed a double, no, a tenfold Experience Pill.


    Within the next 72 hours, it was as if he could gain ten times the experience from battling monsters.


    "Ah! You human, you''ve got some nerve!" Because it was the demon who struck first, when Jiang Liu''s Nine-Ring Staff made its hit, the aggressive demon immediately died. The lead demon, with a mix of shock and anger on his face, stared at Jiang Liu and roared.


    "Eh? Master suddenly became so powerful, he''s even reached the Demon Marshal realm, hasn''t he? He killed with just one hit!?" Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, watching Jiang Liu instantly kill his opponent, also wore faces full of amazement as they looked at him.


    "So, are you all going to take action too?" Jiang Liu shook his head somewhat helplessly as he looked at the demons, each with angry eyes fixed on him.


    During the conversation, Jiang Liu took the initiative, directly rushing towards the demons.


    With the Nine-Ring Staff in hand, adding 10 million Attack Power, these members of the Demon n werepletely no match for Jiang Liu.


    With one urate strike after another, every demon that the Nine-Ring Staff hit was killed instantly.


    And their attacks? Jiang Liu had no intention of dodging at all, letting their attacks fall on him as they pleased.


    With a full 1 billion in Defense Power, he now seemed like a super big boss; their attacks were so weak they couldn''t even tickle him.


    The number of demons in this mountain range didn''t seemrge, but it was far from small.


    Hundreds of demons, without exception, fell to the ground in the blink of an eye, all severely injured and on the brink of death under Jiang Liu''s attacks.


    "Awesome!"


    For Jiang Liu, this battle was apletely one-sided ughter. In total, these hundreds of demons had managed to hold on for merely five minutes under his might, but in that brief span, he had gained over 2 million Experience Points frombat alone.


    The Experience Points gained in this short five-minute battle were equivalent to two months of his cultivation.


    These were many low-level demons, after all. If these demons had all been Demon Kings or even at the Demon Immortal level or above, Jiang Liu felt that with this wave, he might have gained tens of millions of Experience Points with a single staff swing.


    For Jiang Liu, this was the first time since he had gained the abilities of the game system that he could reap so many Experience Points from battle, and naturally, he felt extremely exhrated.


    "Brother Jiang Liu, you look even more like someone from the Demon Realm than we do!"


    The Little Witch and the others had no intention of helping out their former kin in the battle; they just watched from the sidelines. After the battle ended so swiftly, the Little Witch eximed in amazement at Jiang Liu.


    They had known Jiang Liu for over a year, butparing his strength then to what he had shown now, it had increased by leaps and bounds, thousands or even hundreds of thousands of times over.


    What''s more, back at the Demon-Suppressing Hall, he seemed very eager to find and battle Demon Beings, and now, this desire seemed even more intensified.


    "Amitabha, I am helping them, and also saving them!" Hearing the Little Witch''s words, Jiang Liu responded with his palms pressed together in prayer.@@novelbin@@


    Yes, if he made the first move, they would not die; they were just severely injured and on the verge of death.


    If he were to wait until they struck first, the consequences would be quite different; it would be a field strewn with corpses.


    "Master is so powerful today!" the White Dragon Horse beside him, having witnessed the entire battle, also said with admiration as he saw how easily Jiang Liu dealt with all the demons.


    It was odd. With such great strength, why did the Bodhisattva Guanyin still enlighten three senior brothers to escort him to the Western Heaven for the scripture seeking?


    Master alone could fight his way to the Western Heaven, right?


    In a mere five minutes ofbat, he had amazingly earned 2 million Experience Points, a colossal gain that filled Jiang Liu with joy.


    After pondering for a moment, he raised his hand, and the Skill of the Hand of Healing activated.


    With a boom, a Holy Object descended from the sky and imnted itself heavily into the ground, after which invisible ripples spread out, sweeping over the demons.


    The Health Bars of all the demons on the ground were emptied, but under the power of the Hand of Healing, their Health Bars rapidly recovered.


    Seeing the Health Bars of hundreds of people recover at the same time was a spectacr sight.


    In just 20 seconds, their Health Bars had recovered by about 20%.


    Even though their injuries were still very serious, these demons were gradually waking up one by one.


    "What do you say? Do you still want to fight!?" After the skirmish and sessfully pulling these demons back, Jiang Liu''s eyes were full of eagerness, as he naturally wanted to farm another wave.


    "No, no more, we, we are willing to submit!"


    Seeing the look in Jiang Liu''s eyes, the leading Demon Immortal was startled and quickly shook his head.


    It was a joke; with Jiang Liu''s Nine-Ring Staff finishing each with a single swing without exception, such means had already made them deeply aware of the gap in strength. Fight again? That would be suicidal.


    For the demon race, might is right, and it was only logical to submit when outmatched.


    "Truly terrifying! Humans are all terrifying, especially the bald ones, and those with the most scars of precepts on their heads are the most terrifying of all!"


    To the side, many demons who had escaped from the Demon-Suppressing Hall murmured to themselves, feeling even more frightened.


    Fortunately, the Queen seemed to be quite familiar with this monk named Xuanzang, so he had no intention of striking; otherwise, had he acted against them, the consequences would have been unimaginable!

 Chapter 313 The Monk, Should Be Just This Tough

    "What a treasure!" In contrast to the Little Witch''s surprise, Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie''s eyes were fixed on the Nine-Ring Staff in Jiang Liu''s hands.


    It was obvious to Sun Wukong and the others that Jiang Liu''s remarkable performance today was not solely reliant on his own strength, but also on the staff in his hand and the defensive capabilities of the kasaya he wore, which made him so powerful.


    Though Sun Wukong had always known about the existence of the Nine-Ring Staff and the Brocade Kasaya, this seemed to be the first time he truly witnessed the power of these two treasures.


    Even a Demon Immortal could be killed with just one strike from the Zen Staff?


    The quality of this Zen Staff was extraordinary.


    And that kasaya he wore was even more terrifying¡ªseemingly nullifying any attack!


    ...


    "Are you sure you really won''t fight back? Cough, cough, cough¡­" Seeing that the demons seemed to have been frightened by him, Jiang Liu deeply regretted it, while coughing a few times as if ill, seemingly tempting the demons to strike.


    "That''s too fake, isn''t it?" Seeing Jiang Liu covering his mouth and coughing, the corners of the demons'' eyes twitched slightly, and they inwardly sneered.


    The ethics of the demon n werepletely opposite to those of humans, so the term cunning and deceitful was apliment among the demons, who were ustomed to all sorts of devious tricks.


    Jiang Liu pretending to cough to provoke them into acting? How could these demons be fooled?


    "Master, we are willing to submit, truly and sincerely willing to submit!"


    Despite their inward mockery, the leading Demon Immortal still opened his mouth to respond earnestly, not daring to show his real feelings.


    "So, I just came from the Human Realm and killed one of yourpanions, and none of you want revenge?" Jiang Liu still asked, somewhat unconvinced.


    "In our demon n, it ispletely natural for the weak to be killed by those with greater strength! We will not be angered, nor will we think of revenge! Please be assured, master!"


    The more Jiang Liu wanted to fight, the more fearful the heart of the Demon Immortal became; he lowered his head and hurriedly said.


    "Ah¡­" Seeing that these demons truly had no intention of fighting back, Jiang Liu felt somewhat helpless and sighed deeply, then said no more.


    Well, since these demons no longer intended to fight, Jiang Liu naturally had nothing more to say.


    He looked down at the Nine-Ring Staff in his hand, which had about 70 hours left in its unsealed state¡ªthis was the time spent waiting for Sun Wukong to return at Foutu Mountain, and he didn''t have much time left.


    "Since you are willing to submit to me, then that''s great. I have a question for you!" After a brief silence, Jiang Liu spoke to the Demon Immortal.


    "Please ask, master. I will withhold nothing and will tell everything!" With his head bowed, the Demon Immortal answered in a submissive posture, while the other demons behind him, all severely injured, also kept their heads down, not daring to look at Jiang Liu.


    "I ask you, there is a weapon in the Demon Realm called the Blood-Transforming Divine de. Do you know whose weapon it is?" Without mincing words, Jiang Liu looked at the demon and asked.


    "Of course, we know!" Hearing this, the demon nodded vigorously and said, "The Blood-Transforming Divine de is indeed the treasure of Demon Venerable Yu Hua of our demon n!"


    "Indeed, it''s Yu Hua!" Hearing the Demon Immortal''s words, Jiang Liu secretly nodded.


    "Demon Venerable? So, is this so-called Demon Venerable equivalent to the Daluo Golden Immortal of the Heavenly Court?" Hearing the Demon Immortal''s words, Jiang Liu also roughly understood Yu Hua''s abilities.


    "Do you know where this Yu Hua is?" Without mincing words, Jiang Liu continued to speak to the Demon Immortal.


    "Of course, Demon Venerable Yu Hua naturally stays in the Blood Knife Cave, but s, it is far from here, at least eighty thousand li away!" The Demon Immortal nodded and continued to respond.


    "Eighty thousand li away!? In what direction?" Jiang Liu nodded slightly, his expression unchanged, and followed up with a question regarding the location of the so-called Blood Knife Cave.


    Having learned what he needed to know, Jiang Liu waved his hand and dismissed the demons.


    "Brother Xuanzang, are you going to the Blood Knife Cave?" From the other side, the Little Witch, having heard Jiang Liu''s words, moved forward two steps and asked.


    "Yes, I indeed need to make a trip to the Blood Knife Cave!" Jiang Liu nodded slightly in response.


    As he spoke, he paused and said, "At this moment, I have already brought you to the Demon Realm; now it is time to part ways. I hope we meet again..."


    "No!" However, hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Little Witch shook her head and said, "Brother Xuanzang, if you are going, let me apany you. You helped me, and now, I want to help you!"


    "Eh? You seem to have be a good person too! Aren''t your demon n the ones who see loyalty and righteousness as shameful?" Listening to the Little Witch''s words, Jiang Liu was somewhat surprised as he looked at her and said astoundedly.


    "I, I¡­"


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the Little Witch suddenly became aware, lowered her head and thought. Indeed, wasn''t the idea of repaying kindness scorned by the demon n? Why then did she want to do it?


    Could it be? Was she really being transformed by Brother Xuanzang?


    "Queen!" The countless demons from the Underground Demon Cavern who had followed the Little Witch back to the Demon Realm were startled by her words and looked at Jiang Liu in rm.


    Indeed, the monks among humans were the most frightening, with their transformative abilities invoking fear.


    Unexpectedly, even the Queen was about to be converted without realizing it?


    They opened their mouths, a few Demon Marshals wanted to speak up and persuade her, but thinking about the overwhelming power Jiang Liu had just disyed, the words of these demons ended up stuck in their throats.


    Forget it, it''s better not to anger this terrifying monk.


    "Since you want to go, let''s go together!" Although surprised by the Little Witch''s words, Jiang Liu thought about it and then nodded in agreement.


    Explore hidden tales at My Virtual Library Empire


    For Jiang Liu, although the Little Witch''s level was only 50, her Samadhi Demonic Fire was indeed a powerful weapon, which could somewhat help when things got rough.


    Moreover, most importantly, the Little Witch''s level was 50, not much different from his own, so they could form a team!


    So, while she fought monsters, he could gain experience. What could be more thrilling than that?


    "Okay! Brother Xuanzang! Let''s go together!" Although the Little Witch was also surprised by her own grateful mindset, hearing Jiang Liu agree, she was very happy and nodded vigorously with augh.


    "Alright, you all just wait here. I''ll be back soon!" After getting Jiang Liu''s confirmation, the Little Witch immediately turned around and spoke to her subordinates.


    "Yes, Queen!" Hearing the Little Witch''s words, these demons from the Underground Demon Cavern all nodded in unison.


    "There''s no time to dy, let''s set off!" There was a time limit to experiencing his two great treasures, so Jiang Liu did not intend to waste time and spoke up.


    As he spoke, Jiang Liu jumped onto the back of the White Dragon Horse.@@novelbin@@


    Understanding Jiang Liu''s intentions, the White Dragon Horse kicked up clouds and trotted off directly into the sky.


    Naturally, Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and the Little Witch also flew, heading toward the direction of the Blood Knife Cave where the Great Luo Demon Venerable Yu Hua resided.


    Eighty thousand li was neither near nor far.


    After all, this was not the Journey to the West for Scriptures, where one needed to walk step by step, enduring eighty-one tribtions along the way.


    "Master, considering the existence of the Great Luo Demon Venerable, he must be very formidable. Should we perhaps n more thoroughly?"


    After running in the sky for half an hour and neither master nor brothers having uttered a word, White Dragon Horse, unable to stay silent any longer, spoke up.


    A Daluo Golden Immortal was an influential figure in the Heavenly Court; by the same logic, the power of the Great Luo Demon Venerable would certainly not be weaker than Sun Wukong and the Eng God, Yang Jian.


    Just rushing over so openly to persuade Third Brother toe back? Isn''t that a bit too straightforward?


    The saying goes, a strong dragon does not suppress the local snake, but the current situation was like a strong snake trying to suppress the local dragon!


    The eldest brother is not known for subtleties, straightforward as he is, and the second brother, naturallyzy, doesn''t bother to exert himself or even think too much about it.


    But for Master to also act this way? This forced White Dragon Horse to speak a word of caution.


    "Xiaobai, sometimes overthinking is pointless!" Hearing White Dragon Horse''s words, Jiang Liu shook his head and said to him.


    Not to mention the 10 million attack boost from the Nine-Ring Staff, with the 1 billion defense of the Brocade Kasaya, Jiang Liu felt he was already in an invincible position.


    Below a Saint, nothing could be broken, so what was there to fear from a mere Great Luo Demon Venerable? Besides, why worry?


    Moreover, the Great Luo Realm? Although Sun Wukong is only at the level of a Taiyi True Immortal, his golden status panel''s strength is almostparable to the Great Luo Realm.


    If I give him another couple of Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantras and Protective Mantras, surely, Sun Wukong will not be weaker than that Great Luo Demon Venerable Yu Hua, right?


    Not to mention, Zhu Bajie and the others are by our side.


    For Jiang Liu, that so-called Blood Knife Cave was the real ce to gain a substantial amount of experience points.


    "No need to overthink things!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, the White Dragon Horse looked a bit perplexed and somewhat baffled.


    "Correct, it''s safe to think carefully before acting, but sometimes, overthinking only leads to missed opportunities. Yu Hua clearly won''t expect us to raid hisir so swiftly, so going now will catch himpletely off guard!" Jiang Liu nodded seriously and exined.


    Besides, in a frontal battle, Jiang Liu saw himself having a greater chance of winning. So what was there to be scared of? A monk! should be exactly this resolute!


    Tip: Complete the task "Demon Protecting," gain 15,000,000 Experience Points, and receive an Epic Level Treasure Chest*1.


    Tip: Level increased by 1, current level is 48.


    Just then, suddenly, a system notification appeared, a cooling sensation spreading from the inside out, making Jiang Liu feelpletely refreshed.


    His level had now reached 48, a step closer to the significant milestone of level 50.


    Thrilled, Jiang Liu opened his inventory space, his gaze falling on the epic-level treasure chest...

 Chapter 314 Random Teleportation Stone

    Epic Level, although not as high as Divine Level, was still considered to be of very high quality¡ªit was even superior to Legendary Level.


    With anticipation in his heart, Jiang Liu slowly opened the treasure chest. Enjoy exclusive chapters from My Virtual Library Empire


    "Eh, what is this thing!?" However, when Jiang Liu opened the chest, he looked at the content, twitched his face, and felt it was a bit odd.


    Inside the chest was a stone.


    The stone looked like one that could have been casually picked up on the road, except it was engraved with a few Mysterious Runes that werepletely unintelligible.


    The drab stone,cking even the slightest aesthetic, was all that the Epic Level chest contained? Just an ugly stone?


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze fell upon the stone, naturally, the attribute information also appeared before him.


    Random Teleportation Stone (Consumable): After use, it can teleport the target randomly to any corner of the current world, with a cooldown time of 1 day and 10/10 remaining uses.


    "Ah? A Random Teleportation Stone? And it can be used 10 times? If used well, this thing could be a great treasure for escaping, right!?" Beaming with joy after reading the stone''s attribute information, Jiang Liu felt secretly delighted.


    Moreover, from the description of the Random Teleportation Stone, it was not only useable on oneself but also on others.


    Imagine, if faced with an unbeatable opponent, using a Random Teleportation Stone to just send them away? Wouldn''t that be delightful!?


    Okay, it doesn''t matter if it''s ugly, as long as it''s useful.


    The ability to use random teleportation 10 times was still highly valuable, so to say it was worth of the Epic Level might not be too far-fetched?


    "Master, what is this stone?"


    Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, who were beside Jiang Liu, were not new to seeing him open treasure chests, so they didn''tment much. However, they were curious to see Jiang Liu take out such an unimpressive stone and, after a look, contentedly put it away and asked.


    "Hmm, it''s a quite unique stone! It might be used to escape in a crucial moment!" Jiang Liu exined with a slight smile upon hearing the question.


    Well, given Sun Wukong''s personality, he immediately lost interest upon hearing it was something used for escaping.


    Flying continued at full speed, and the group quickly streaked across the sky of the Demon Realm.


    Jiang Liu felt that this trip to the Demon Realm was his chance to earn a huge amount of Experience Points. Plus, if the Divine Level Potions were used properly, this round could yield unprecedented rewards!


    So, did Jiang Liu need to devise a long-term strategy or think carefully about how to approach Blood Knife Cave?


    No need! Battle was all that was needed!


    If he could catch them off guard this round, he''d surely earn a massive amount of Experience Points. What else was there to consider?


    "Hehehe, Master, I like the sound of that! That''s how it should be, just be bold!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sun Wukong at his side couldn''t help but grin and seemed eager to try.


    The Demon n of the Great Luo Realm? Sun Wukong felt an itch in his palms and was even more fond of his Master''s boldness.


    "Hmm, Master, you''re truly brave and strategic!" Even Zhu Bajie next to him nodded in admiration upon hearing this and was very impressed by Jiang Liu.


    Was Master''s cunning strong? Zhu Bajie had never doubted it.


    He had always thought of Master as someone who preferred strategizing, but when it really came to acting, Master''s courage was equally astonishing, not just his strategy!


    "Alright, Master, I understand!" As Jiang Liu spoke, the White Dragon Horse seemed to be inspired by his words too, nodding in agreement.


    In the midst of their conversation, the pace of their galloping hooves quickened, and several streaks of light in the sky became even faster.@@novelbin@@


    "By the way, I''ll give you two Dharma Treasures!" However, just at that moment, Jiang Liu suddenly turned his head, a thought crossed his mind, and he looked at the Little Witch and spoke.


    Although the Little Witch was high-level, reaching level 50, her strongest ability was nothing more than the Samadhi Demonic Fire, and she didn''t possess any high-quality equipment, something Jiang Liu knew just by ncing at her character screen.


    So, as he spoke, Jiang Liu raised his hand, and the Zen Wooden Staff appeared in his grasp, which he then handed to the Little Witch.


    After obtaining the Xuanhua Axe, the Zen Wooden Staff was naturally outssed, but still, with an added 3000 Attack Power, it was somewhat useful.


    "Ah? A Dharma Treasure for me!?" The Little Witch was stunned as she looked at the Zen Wooden Staff Jiang Liu handed to her.


    However, after a moment of contemtion, Jiang Liu did not refuse, instead, he reached out and took the Zen Wooden Staff in his hand.


    "And here, take these too..." Some equipment that had just been phased out, such as the Golden Cicada Buddha Robe, and some of rtively lower quality, like high-level but only Perfect Level equipment, or even those less powerful than the Legendary Level Equipment he was already wearing.


    Regardless of how much the attributes added up, having them was better than nothing, right? Jiang Liu took them all out in one go and handed them to the Little Witch.


    Being able to form a team meant that for every bit of strength the Little Witch gained, Jiang Liu would earn more Experience Points, so naturally, he did everything possible to arm her to the teeth.


    Following Jiang Liu handing over his equipment to her, within a short while, the Little Witch had undergone quite a transformation.


    Dressed in equipment with a tattered Golden Cicada Buddha Robe and holding a Zen Wooden Staff, she looked like a female nun.


    "Hmm, it looks somewhat strange, but as long as the strength has increased, that''s what matters!" After looking at the Little Witch, who now resembled a nun, Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly, but a satisfied nod came from his face.


    "Yeah, not bad, these Dharma Treasures have indeed enhanced my strength!" The Little Witch nodded her head, too, after putting on the equipment.


    She could clearly feel that her strength had indeed improved with these pieces of equipment.


    As for whether she looked good in this full set of gear?


    Please, there''s no such concept in the Demon Realm. For the Demon Realm, only utilitarian strength matters. Looking good? Completely worthless!


    They flew all the way, making no attempt to hide their forms, so naturally, many from the Demon n took notice of them along the way.


    However, with the intention of making a quick work at the Blood Knife Cave and valuing rapid action, Jiang Liu did not stop to confront these demons on the road.


    The other members of the Demon n? If there''s time left after sorting out the Blood Knife Cave situation, Jiang Liu wouldn''t mind causing a ruckus in the Demon Realm.


    ...


    Not stopping for the demons they encountered on the road, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong quickly covered the distance of eighty thousand li and arrived within the territory of the Blood Knife Cave.


    As expected of the ce where a Demon Lord of the Great Luo Realm resides, the Blood Knife Cave was situated atop a ck Mountain that was tens of thousands of meters high. Sun Wukong could see that the mountain was teeming with countless members of the Demon n, at the very least, tens of thousands.


    "Master, should we just storm in?" Sun Wukong asked, eyeing the scape of the Blood Knife Cave with an impatient demeanor.


    "No, although we have nothing to fear, our purpose here isn''t just to fight," replied Jiang Liu, shaking his head at Sun Wukong''s question. "Our goal is to find your Junior Brother Sha. If a big fight were to make him leave or even get moved by Yu Hua, wouldn''t our efforts have been in vain?"


    At that point, Jiang Liu paused slightly and added, "So it''s best not to startle the enemy. Let''s try to see if we can meet your Junior Brother Sha first!"


    Indeed, although Jiang Liu was also eager to fight and gain a massive amount of Experience Points, priorities had to be clear.


    If he were indeed able to overpower the Blood Knife Cave only to have Sha Wujing moved elsewhere, wouldn''t it be a wasted effort?


    With tens of thousands of demons right here, and none going anywhere, it was better to try to meet Sha Wujing and get him back into the team first, right?


    Once the mission was aplished, it wouldn''t be toote to fight!


    "Oh, I see. So what do we do, Master?" Sun Wukong, who was initially ready for a tough fight and quite stirred up, now asked with a hint of disappointment, having heard they couldn''t make a move yet.


    "Monkey Brother, the Master has courage and strategy; that''s the true path to victory!" Zhu Bajie, ever the number one supporter of Jiang Liu, couldn''t help but speak up at that moment, and shouted out a round of apuse for Jiang Liu.


    "Well, Wukong, to convince Wujing toe back, I must meet him myself. So, this time it''s not just you infiltrating the Blood Knife Cave alone; I need to go in as well. Can you manage that?" After a brief pause, Jiang Liu asked Sun Wukong.


    "Don''t worry, Master! With my seventy-two transformations, I can disguise you as one of the Demon n too. It shouldn''t be a problem to blend in," Sun Wukong said, patting his chest confidently in response to Jiang Liu''s inquiry.


    "Good! Then the rest of you wait here. Wukong and I will go scout it out first," Jiang Liu said, satisfied with Sun Wukong''s response. He then turned to Zhu Bajie and the others and instructed them to wait.


    The Little Witch, Zhu Bajie, and White Dragon Horse halted on the outskirts of the Blood Knife Cave''s mountain and hid, resting and waiting.


    As for Sun Wukong? He uttered an incantation and blew a breath towards Jiang Liu, who in the blink of an eye, was transformed into a demon with a stark red body and a single horn on his forehead.


    And Sun Wukong? He turned into a mosquito andnded on Jiang Liu''s shoulder.


    Immediately after, Jiang Liu headed straight for the midst of the Blood Knife Cave''s mountain.

 Chapter 315 The Only Thing Sun Wukong Cant Change

    The Blood Knife Cave was extraordinarilyrge, and the Demon n numbered in the tens of thousands, so for Jiang Liu, who had taken on the appearance of a demon, entering the mountain was not difficult at all.


    However, entering the core area of the Blood Knife Cave was not so easy.


    But that was not really a problem, either. Once inside the mountains of the Blood Knife Cave, Jiang Liu calmly surveyed his surroundings and quickly located a target.


    A target that seemed to have a status and position of some importance.


    Immediately after, Jiang Liu followed behind him and sessully entered a pine forest where he unsuspectingly struck, naturally killing the demon with a single move.


    Although on the surface it appeared that Jiang Liu and the demons were not much different, it was merely an illusion.


    In reality, Jiang Liu still wore the Brocade Kasaya and held the Nine-Ring Staff, and naturally, an ordinary demon was killed with a single strike.


    "Wukong, let''s transform into his appearance and infiltrate..." After killing the demon with the staff, Jiang Liu spoke.


    "Alright, Master!" Transformed into the figure of a mosquito and perched on Jiang Liu''s shoulder, Sun Wukong responded.


    But hardly had Sun Wukong reverted from his mosquito form to his original form when suddenly a shocked cry rang out.


    "You two, who are you? How dare you attack a Demon Being of my Blood Demon Cavern!?"


    A lean Demon Marshal with the head of a leopard looked at Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong in astonishment, while ncing at the demon that Jiang Liu had just killed.


    Whoosh!


    Despite his surprise, this demon reacted quickly. Seeing his direct superior, a majesty of the Demon King realm, silently killed, the Demon Marshal knew he was no match for Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong and quickly withdrew.


    At the same time, a signal was released and exploded mid-air.


    With the special effect of the shing Brilliance Shoes activated, the Demon Marshal''s retreat was fast, but Jiang Liu''s ability to blink was faster, and he appeared behind the demon almost in the blink of an eye.


    Then, without any more words, he continued to smash the head of the Demon Marshal with his Nine-Ring Staff.


    Almost simultaneously, the health bar emptied instantaneously, and the Demon Marshal copsed, granting Jiang Liu a hefty 20,000 Experience Points.


    "Refreshing!" A single hit that yielded over 20,000 Experience Points thrilled Jiang Liu immensely.


    Unfortunately, their current mission was to retrieve Monk Sha, so these demons needed to be dealt withter.


    After quickly killing this demon, Jiang Liu saw that following the rm signal, many demons had already begun converging from all around.


    "Wukong, hurry, let''s both transform into pine trees!" Seeing many demons approaching, Jiang Liu urgently said to Sun Wukong.


    As they were in the middle of a pine forest in the mountain, transforming into pine trees seemed most fitting.


    "But, Master, I..." However, upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sun Wukong sounded somewhat troubled.


    "What''s wrong? You can''t transform into a tree?"


    Seeing Sun Wukong''s troubled expression, Jiang Liu asked in surprise.


    Wasn''t Sun Wukong capable of transforming into anything with his Art of Transformation?


    Seeing the demons closing in, Sun Wukong had no time to exin further. He pointed at Jiang Liu and instantly transformed him into a peach tree using his Divine Skills.


    At the same time, Sun Wukong himself also transformed into the figure of a peach tree.


    Within moments, dozens of demons appeared and upon finding the severely injured and unconscious Demon Marshal, they were secretly stunned. They then began a thorough search for their assants.


    "Wait, we surrounded this area when we came, no matter which direction the enemy fled, they should have encountered us, but they evidently haven''t. So, the enemy must still be here!"


    A few demons reasoned among themselves, prepared to spread out and search, but then one of the demons suddenly spoke up,


    "Still here?" Hearing this demon''s words, the others thought about it and nodded in agreement, then began searching meticulously.


    "Wait, look at those two peach trees, don''t they seem strange?" After searching for a moment, one of the demons suddenly pointed at the peach trees Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong had transformed into and asked.


    In the midst of this dense pine forest, the sudden appearance of two peach trees naturally attracted attention.


    "Indeed, I''ve been to this forest several times and have never seen peach trees here before!" With the demon''s words, other demons also nodded, looking puzzled.


    This conversation made the surrounding demons aware that there was indeed something unusual about the two peach trees.


    Immediately, the leading demon raised his hand and arge knife appeared, striking directly at the peach tree Jiang Liu had transformed into.


    With a bang, the knife struck Jiang Liu. Because he was wearing the Brocade Kasaya, the blow felt merely like a tickle.


    Naturally, in the eyes of the other Demon n members, this mighty Demon Marshal couldn''t even chop down a peach tree with one strike?


    Indeed, this tree was extremely peculiar, defyingmon logic.


    As the strike came down, the Divine Skills of the Art of Transformation on Jiang Liu were lifted. Without wasting words, a pair of huge wings unfolded behind him, and then, hundreds of feather-like Flying Daggers appeared, sweeping toward these Demon n members.


    Since he was discovered, he might as well take action and eliminate all these Demon n members who had discovered him.


    He remembered a saying from the game "Assassin''s Creed" well, "The most perfect infiltration is to kill all the targets that have discovered you; naturally, there''s no one left to discover you."


    Therefore, once discovered, Jiang Liu didn''t bother being polite. He burst forth into action, and his Nine-Ring Staff continuously struck down on these Demon n members.


    Simrly, seeing his disguise had been recognized, Sun Wukong also directly took out his Jingu Bang, and then, with a swing of his Iron Rod that grew in size as it caught the wind, he swept it across these Demon n members.


    In just a few breaths'' time, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong had erupted into action. Both of their strengths werepletely overwhelming, so naturally, dealing with these Demon n members was an easy task.


    This wave of ughter was quick and decisive, ending almost as soon as it had begun.


    However, for Jiang Liu, even this brief ughter had provided him with a good six to seven hundred thousand Experience Points.@@novelbin@@


    "Let''s go!" After annihting all these Demon n members, Jiang Liu said to Sun Wukong, and then, the two quickly left.


    They ran out seven or eight li before stopping in a secluded area in the mountains of the Blood Demon Cavern.


    "Monkey, why didn''t you transform us into pine trees just now? Why insist on bing peach trees?"


    After stopping, Jiang Liu finally had the time to speak to Sun Wukong, turning his head with his gazending on Sun Wukong, he asked.


    "Master, I, Old Sun..." Hearing Jiang Liu''s inquiry, Sun Wukong''s face showed a troubled expression as if he had some unspeakable difficulties.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, a look of surprise and inquiry remained as he curiously watched Sun Wukong.


    Sun Wukong had long mastered the seventy-two transformations, and in his hands, it seemed he could change into anything in the universe.


    Tables, chairs, benches, flying birds, swimming fish, there was almost nothing he couldn''t change into.


    Yet, he couldn''t be a pine tree? If it weren''t for this monkey dropping the ball just now, he wouldn''t have been discovered by those demons, right?


    "Master, I can indeed transform into a pine tree, but, I''m not quite proficient at it, please don''t ask anymore!" Showing some difficulty, and seemingly unable to speak freely, after a long silence, Sun Wukong finally spoke to Jiang Liu.


    "Not proficient at turning into pine trees? That wasn''t mentioned in the original work!" Sun Wukong''s words left Jiang Liu somewhat astonished.


    Was transforming into a pine tree the weakest of the seventy-two transformations? Or was it Sun Wukong''s weakness? This seemed to make no sense.


    Pine trees are nothing special, right?


    Moreover, wasn''t there a time in the original work where Sun Wukong did transform into one?


    "Wait a second, I understand now!"


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    Considering the time in the original work when Sun Wukong had transformed into a pine tree, Jiang Liu suddenly realized what was going on.


    In "Journey to the West", Sun Wukong''s seventy-two transformations really seemed to enable him to change into anything in the universe, but, the original work only mentioned his transformation into a pine tree once.


    That was the time during his cultivation in the Moon Three-Star Cave under Ancestor Bodhi, studying the seventy-two transformations. When he mastered his art, his fellow disciples egged him on to demonstrate his new skill.


    Just like a normal person ying a game and wanting to show off a newly learned skill a few times after learning it, right?


    So, when his fellow disciples challenged him, they pointed at a random pine tree for Sun Wukong to transform into.


    Naturally, Sun Wukong changed into the appearance of a pine tree just as his fellow disciples had said.


    But what happened afterward? It happened that Ancestor Bodhi came out and saw Sun Wukong unting his seventy-two transformations in front of others, so he drove Sun Wokung from the Moon Three-Star Cave.


    Perhaps from that time on, bing a pine tree became a mental block for Sun Wukong?


    So, he was very reluctant to transform into a pine tree again?


    Looking carefully, it seemed that since then, despite countless uses of the Art of Transformation, Sun Wokung really had never transformed into a pine tree again?


    "Alright, Monkey, let''s continue our infiltration! Although we weren''t caught, at least we caused some confusion; let''s move on!"


    Understanding why Sun Wokung was reluctant to transform into a pine tree, Jiang Liu internally sighed but didn''t me him further, realizing that being driven out of the Moon Three-Star Cave by Ancestor Bodhi was a knot in Sun Wokung''s heart.

 Chapter 316 Wujing, do you know why I was distant from you at first?

    Although Sun Wukong could have disguised himself as a pine tree and gone undetected, he obstinately chose to be a peach tree, resulting in their discovery, which somewhat vexed Jiang Liu.


    However, after understanding why Sun Wukong refused to transform into a pine tree, the frustration in Jiang Liu''s heart dissipated.


    His reluctance to take the form of a pine tree was likely a festering sore in his heart, proving just how much he cared about being expelled from Ancestor Bodhi''s tutge.


    Didn''t his concern for his master, Ancestor Bodhi, exemplify the utmost respect for his teacher and his teachings?


    After leaving, Jiang Liu realized that both his and Sun Wukong''s tracks had been exposed, so they needed to meet up with Sha Wujing as quickly as possible.


    While the chaos in the pine forest had not yet spread, Jiang Liu had Sun Wukong transform him into the appearance of the Demon King they had just seen and continued towards the interior of Blood Knife Cave.


    As the existence of a Demon King, Jiang Liu had some status within Blood Knife Cave and faced little difficulty making his way through.


    Once inside, Jiang Liu took a closer look around and soon discovered Sha Wujing''s location.


    Since Sha Wujing had been taken away, many events had transpired for Jiang Liu, who had ventured to the Thousand-Year Snow Mountain and even visited Chang''an City. Yet, all these events happened over the course of a single night.


    Jiang Liu had followed closely and now arrived at Blood Knife Cave shortly after Sha Wujing. Thus, the neer brought by the Great Luo Demon Venerable Yu Hua and the special attention he received were fresh topics of interest in the cave.


    Knowing Sha Wujing''s whereabouts, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong carefully made their way towards his location.


    "Halt! This is a distinguished guest of the Demon Lord, do not disturb!" Yet, as they approached the area where Sha Wujing was held, a demon guard blocked Jiang Liu''s path.


    Jiang Liu silently invoked the character UI in his mind: a Level 68 being, certainly on the level of a Demon Immortal.


    "Alright, alright, I was merely curious about who the Demon Lord brought over!" Jiang Liu, disguised as the Demon King, said obsequiously, nodding and bowing.


    As he spoke, he slowly backed away, ready to leave.


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    However, in that moment, Jiang Liu''s expression suddenly changed, and he pointed behind the Demon Immortal, eximing, "Who are you!?"


    At those words, the Demon Immortal reflexively turned to look.


    At the same time, Jiang Liu''s Nine-Ring Staff smashed down hard on the Demon Immortal.


    Tip: Gained 88500 experience points, gained 50 taels of money.


    With a single strike, Jiang Liu had killed the Demon Immortal-level being, and the system''s prompt arrived like an unexpected encounter.


    After the one-hit kill on the Demon Immortal-level being, Jiang Liu moved and continued deeper into the cave.


    The so-called Blood Knife Cave was more than just a rocky cavern; inside the mountain was a vastplex of buildings.


    Making his way through, and after dispatching several demon guards, Jiang Liu arrived at a grand hall where Sha Wujing was, also the main hall of the Great Luo Demon Venerable Yu Hua.


    Sha Wujing, this Transcendent Demon Technique is the pinnacle of my own cultivation. Now that you are at the Taiyi Realm, with my Demon Arts and your destiny, it won''t take long for you to reach the peak of the Taiyi Realm. In the future, even breaking through the Great Luo Realm is within the realm of possibility!"


    Inside the grand hall, the Great Luo Demon Venerable Yu Hua appeared calm as he set his eyes on Sha Wujing and spoke.


    Thank you, Demon Lord!" Already sumbed to demon possession, Sha Wujing showed no sign of rejection, nodded, and reached out to ept the Demon Arts given to him by Yu Hua.


    Hmm, also..." Watching Sha Wujing ept his Transcendent Demon Technique, a satisfied gleam shed across Yu Hua''s eyes as he continued speaking.@@novelbin@@


    However, as he was speaking, Yu Hua''s brows furrowed slightly, and he turned to look at Jiang Liu entering the grand hall.


    Why are you here!? Who allowed you toe!?" Yu Hua asked in a low voice.


    Having brought Sha Wujing back, it was a critical moment for their first interaction¡ªno ordinary person should be allowed to interrupt.


    My lord, there is trouble!"


    Startled by Yu Hua''s words, Jiang Liu was also shocked to find not only Sha Wujing but also Yu Hua himself present. But Jiang Liu had a quick wit and, hearing the words, shouted with an rmed expression, "Our Blood Knife Cave has been invaded, and they say there''s a monkey with a hairy face and thunder god-like mouth, known as Sun Wukong!"


    Oh? Sun Wukong dares toe into the Demon Realm!?" Hearing his adopted persona''s words, Yu Hua stood up, his face showing a mix of shock and anger, and withrge strides, he headed outside.


    However, as he passed by Jiang Liu, Yu Hua suddenly struck out, aiming a palm at Jiang Liu''s chest.


    With a thud, the palmnded firmly on Jiang Liu''s chest.


    But with the Brocade Kasaya''s defense of one billion, Yu Hua waspletely unable to affect him, and the palm strike left Jiang Liu unmoved.


    "How, how did you discover me!?" After being hit with a palm strike, Jiang Liu was startled and looked at Yu Hua with curiosity.


    "Hmph, Great King? In my Blood Knife Cave, there is no such title!" Yu Hua sneered in response to Jiang Liu''s question.


    Although he sneered on the surface, Yu Hua was greatly shocked inside.


    He had struck unexpectedly with a palm, and with his own strength, even a Quasi-Saint should have suffered some damage, right? But this guy in front of him didn''t even flinch.


    "Who on earth are you!?" The look in his eyes grew much heavier as Yu Hua stared at Jiang Liu intently and asked.


    Could it be that a high-level being on par with the Tathagata himself had personallye to the Demon Realm?


    "Who is this?" Sha Wujing, next to them, was also somewhat stunned by the sudden appearance of this scene, and looked at Jiang Liu with surprise.


    With a shift in form, as Jiang Liu released his seventy-two transformations of divine skills, he returned to his original appearance.


    He held the Nine-Ring Monk''s Staff and wore a Brocade Kasaya, both of which exuded misty treasure light, making him look very extraordinary!


    "Wukong, take action!" Having revealed his true form, Jiang Liu then uttered these words.


    "Defiant demon, take this blow from I, Old Sun!" Following Jiang Liu''smand, Sun Wukong also dissolved his Art of Transformation and, with a loud shout, raised his Ruyi Golden Cudgel and smashed it down towards Yu Hua.


    At a full 85 levels of blue UI, Yu Hua had reached the Great Luo Realm, and his strength was remarkable.


    Seeing Sun Wukong swing into action, Jiang Liu followed by pointing a finger, casting a Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra and Protective Mantra on Sun Wukong.


    With both of these buff skills cast on Sun Wukong, his attack and defense abilities were both raised by 25 percent.


    With the power Sun Wukong already had, receiving a 25 percent boost in strength was incredibly formidable.


    The Jingu Bang swept across, shing with Yu Hua''s Blood-Transforming Divine de. Their back-and-forth battling soon became furious and intense...


    Sun Wukong, with his golden UI and strength that was naturally not weaker than that of a Daluo Golden Immortal, was able to fend off Yu Hua for the moment with the buffs bestowed by Jiang Liu.


    Of course, as their battle raged on, the whole pce began to tremble and started copsing, attracting more and more members of the Demon n to the scene.


    Knowing his time was urgent, Jiang Liu turned his head to look at Sha Wujing.


    "Master... Holy Monk Xuanzang, what, what are you doing here!?" Sha Wujing said in astonishment as he looked at Sun Wukong and Jiang Liu, his face filled with disbelief.


    Clearly, Sha Wujing had not expected that, having only just arrived in the Demon Realm, his master and elder brother would already be in pursuit.


    "Holy Monk Xuanzang, you, you should go back. I''ve already made myself clear before, I will no longer seek the scriptures, and I swear to oppose the Immortals and Buddhas for this lifetime!" Though shocked by the appearance of Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong, Sha Wujing soon collected his wits and spoke earnestly to Jiang Liu.


    "No, I came here today to make things clear! You made yourself clear before, but I hadn''t had my say yet!"


    Giving a nce at the increasing number of Demon n members rushing towards them, knowing there wasn''t much time left, Jiang Liu sped up his speech.


    "Wujing, do you know why I was reluctant for you to join the Journey to the West Team at the beginning? Even after you first joined, I deliberately kept my distance, did you not sense that?" Jiang Liu asked.


    "This, indeed, why is that?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Sha Wujing was startled and, remembering his initial days in the Scripture Seeking Team, became curious and asked with surprise.


    Yes, why did the master keep his distance from him without a reason in the beginning?


    "Because, those with diverging paths do not scheme together!" spoke Jiang Liu earnestly.


    "Ah!? Why, why is that!?" Jiang Liu''s words made Sha Wujing even more stunned. ''Those with diverging paths do not scheme together''!? Where had he differed in ''path'' from his master at that time?


    "Originally, when the Buddhist Sect plotted against Gaoyang and me, forcing me to go to Western Heaven to seek scriptures, I made a vow to overturn the heavens and the Immortals and Buddhas!"


    "Wukong was suppressed under the Five Elements Mountain for five hundred years. Do you think his temper would be so easily smoothed out? He agreed to apany me not because he was moved by me but because we shared the same goal¡ªto fight our way to Spirit Mountain!"


    "Bajie and Zhuzhu were in love, just like you, they were all manipted by Guanyin. Even the child in Zhuzhu''s belly, Bajie''s child, died, so Bajie''s thoughts align with mine as well..."


    "Even Xiaobai, the Little White Dragon, will eventually join me on the same front."


    "Only you, you wanted to seek scriptures in Western Heaven to be granted a title, so your path differed from mine, and naturally, I was unwilling for you to join!"


    As he said this, Jiang Liu looked at Sha Wujing, who had his eyes wide and mouth agape, looking as if he had seen a ghost, and then asked:


    "Now, Wujing, let me ask you one thing, are you willing to continue our journey west with me, to overturn those all-epassing Immortals and Buddhas!?"

 Chapter 317 Taking Divine Medicine

    At that moment, Sha Wujing truly felt as though his entire worldview had copsed.


    So the purpose of Master and my brothers'' journey to the West was actually this!? This waspletely beyond Sha Wujing''s expectations!


    But he had to admit, after knowing this truth, Sha Wujing felt an epiphany, and all the things he couldn''t understand before suddenly made sense in the face of this truth.


    Originally, his purpose was to go to the Western Heaven to be conferred a title, so Master was unwilling to ept him, and even after he joined the team, Master deliberately kept his distance.


    Sha Wujing used to be puzzled by this, but now, he felt he understood.


    Originally, Master did not follow the monastic discipline, killing, drinking, eating meat, gambling¡ªhe did it all, and Sha Wujing could not understand it. Could it be that the saying, "Through my guts liquor and meat do pass, in Buddha''s heart it leaves no trace," was the reason he could drink and eat meat?


    Now, Sha Wujing had a simr revtion.


    Bullshit! It was all just excuses from Master, the real reason was he never intended to achieve Buddhahood!


    Furthermore, all along the way to the West, Master had been practicing his cultivation with life-or-death determination, extremely diligent; however, the journey itself was dragged out, as if he wished to proceed at a snail''s pace. Sha Wujing had never understood this in his heart.


    Now, Sha Wujing''s mind cleared as well, realizing Master''s goal was to fight a bloody battle on Spirit Mountain; so along the way, he wanted to intentionally waste time, to strengthen himself as much as possible?


    "So it turns out, this is the real truth! To think I''ve been with the Journey to the West team for about half a year, and before this, I hadn''t noticed at all!" After understanding the truth, Sha Wujing felt a sense of realization, yet he also felt a bit ridiculous.


    Originally, he wanted to coast along until they reached the Western Heaven for his conferment, which is why Master did not want him.


    But now, having be possessed by a demon and thus utterly opposed to the Immortals and Buddhas, he truly gained Master''s recognition.


    So, had Master even dashed into the Demon Realm to bring him back into the Scripture Seeking Team? Experience new stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    "What do you say? No matter what your decision is, I will respect it!" Seeing Sha Wujing with his mouth agape and eyes wide open, looking as if he had seen a ghost, Jiang Liu remained silent for a long while, giving him plenty of time to consider, before finally asking.


    The members of the Demon n were rushing over more and more, and indeed, there was not much time left for Sha Wujing to think!


    Following Jiang Liu''s words, Sha Wujing also snapped back to reality, immediately kneeling down to Jiang Liu, and at the same time loudly dering, "Disciple Sha Wujing! Pays respect to Master!"


    Why did he leave the Journey to the West for Scriptures team before? That was because Sha Wujing felt that his purpose was divergent from Master and the others'', staying any longer would have been meaningless, so he resolutely decided to leave the team.


    But now, Master and his brothers hade to the Demon Realm, revealing to him the truth of the matter.


    Given this, Sha Wujing felt it better to return to the Journey to the West team rather than stay unfamiliar in the Demon Realm.


    "Hahaha, good, very good!" Hearing Sha Wujing''s words, Jiang Liu''s face showed joy as heughed out loud.


    After this ordeal, Sha Wujing''s strength improved by leaps and bounds, crossing directly into the Taiyi Realm, which naturally made him a very good ally for Jiang Liu.


    "Sha Wujing, why would you go back? Have you forgotten how those heavenly deities treated you!?"


    On the other side, Yu Hua, who was fighting furiously with Sun Wukong, turned his head upon hearing this and happened to see Sha Wujing kneeling to Jiang Liu to be his disciple, and shouted in shock and dismay.


    The casual conversation between Jiang Liu and Sha Wujing just now was naturally not heard by Yu Hua, but when Sha Wujing loudly yelled to take Jiang Liu as his master, that voice was definitely heard by Yu Hua.


    "Thank you, Demon Lord, for your favor, but my life is destined to be linked to the Journey to the West, inseparable from it. I will always remember the Demon Lord''s kindness!" Hearing Yu Hua''s shout, Sha Wujing shook his head and said.


    Clearly, even though he spoke courteously, Sha Wujing had made up his mind to follow Jiang Liu back.


    "Naive, you are truly too naive!" Hearing Sha Wujing''s words, Yu Hua''s face showed both shock and anger as he said, "Even if you agree to return, those so-called Immortals and Buddhas will never trust you again, and besides, you are now a demon. I think it''s more appropriate for you to stay in the Demon Realm!" Yu Hua shook his head as he spoke.


    Having publicly dered his opposition to the Immortals and Buddhas and now being possessed, even if he was willing to return to the Scripture Seeking team, it was unlikely that those deities would ever trust him again.


    Doesn''t Sha Wujing understand this principle? Does he really need to be reminded?


    "I have made up my mind!" Yu Hua meant well and spoke sensibly, but Sha Wujing shook his head.


    He waspletely unconcerned about such matters.


    Indeed, if this trip to the Western Heaven was to fight a bloody battle on Spirit Mountain, then after their arrival, did it matter whether those Immortals and Buddhas trusted him or not?


    "Alright, since that''s the case, let''s leave now!" Regardless of everything, Jiang Liu was content to get the nod from Sha Wujing and was willing to return. This was indeed good news for Jiang Liu, who nodded with a smile on his face as he spoke.


    However, Jiang Liu''s words werepletely pointless at this moment. Tens of thousands of demons from the Demon n had appeared, surrounding the area inside and out, making it clearly impossible for Jiang Liu and the others to leave.


    On the other side, the sh between the Blood-Transforming Divine de and the Ruyi Golden Cudgel sent a powerful rebounding force that made Yu Hua flip backwards in mid-air andnd steadily on the ground, his eyes fixed on Sun Wukong with a grave expression.


    Was this monkey truly the one who caused Havoc in Heaven? Although he was considered a junior, his abilities were indeed astonishing, and even Yu Hua found it difficult to subdue him.


    Yet, as a being of the Great Luo Realm, although Sun Wukong managed to block the attack, the intense rebounding force also pushed him back quite a bit.


    Rubbing his arm, Sun Wukong felt a numbness in his limb.


    "Attack! Everyone, attack!" After ncing at Sun Wukong and Jiang Liu, Yu Hua''s face darkened as he shouted the order.


    "Yes, Demon Lord!" Following Yu Hua''s cry, the countless surrounding demons shouted loudly in response and immediately went on the offensive.


    "Wukong! Fight with all your might!" At this point, Jiang Liu''s face also wore a serious look as he called out to Sun Wukong.


    Hearing Jiang Liu''s call, Sun Wukong knew that it was indeed a critical moment, and he nodded silently before taking a deep breath.


    Instantly, Sun Wukong''s figure began to inte like a balloon, and in just a moment, he transformed into a colossal ape a hundred zhang tall.


    An aura of menace erupted from his body, giving the impression of an unparalleled ferocious beast, and the Ruyi Golden Cudgel in his hand transformed into a massive pir.


    "Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra", "Protective Mantra", "Vajra Mantra"...


    Following Sun Wukong''s transformation, Jiang Liu also cast several skills on Sun Wukong, updating his abilities.


    "Hmm, the Law of Heaven and Earth divine ability? Did you think I don''t possess such power? Witness my Heavenly Demon Law Manifestation!" Observing Sun Wukong''s Law of Heaven and Earth ability, Yu Hua appeared quite solemn, but the corner of his mouth twitched slightly, and as he spoke, his figure also swelled up rapidly.


    "Thinking of using divine ability!? Did you ask me first?" However, watching Yu Hua''s actions, Jiang Liu''s eyes narrowed, and with a pointed finger towards Yu Hua, the Silencing Zen skill was instantly unleashed.


    The silencing type of control effect immediately caused the demonic qi within Yu Hua''s body to be like still water, unable to mobilize.


    Naturally, Yu Hua, who was in the midst of using his supernatural power, was thwarted, and his body, which had been rapidly expanding, deted like a punctured balloon, shrinking back quickly.


    "What, what kind of ability is this!?" Feeling the dead stillness of the demonic qi in his body and unable to mobilize it, Yu Hua stood stunned and incredulously thought to himself.


    Whoosh!


    But Sun Wukong wasn''t about to give him the chance to ponder any longer; seeing that Jiang Liu''s Silencing Zen had taken effect, the colossal Ruyi Golden Cudgel came smashing down like a heavenly pir.@@novelbin@@


    Feeling as if the entire sky had darkened, Yu Hua looked up in horror at the thick pir descending from Sun Wukong and could only raise his Blood-Transforming Divine de to meet it.


    With a thunderous roar, it was as if a giant stick was being fiercely smashed down onto an ant. Under this massive and heavy strike, Yu Hua''s figure was violently pressed down by the blow from Sun Wukong''s cudgel.


    As the cudgel struck, the entire mountain of the Blood Knife Cave trembled violently.


    ...


    Elsewhere, Zhu Bajie, White Dragon Horse, and Little Witch were all waiting for Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong to return with information. At this moment, they felt the entire mountain shake and even saw from a distance the mighty scene of Sun Wukong''s Law of Heaven and Earth, prompting them all to stand up.


    It was clear that the battle inside Blood Knife Cave had begun, and their master and senior brother had been discovered.


    "Second Senior Brother, let''s go!" White Dragon Horse leaped forward, transforming into White Dragon mid-air, and headed straight for the Blood Knife Cave.


    At the same time, Little Witch was quick to follow suit.


    Seeing Little Witch and White Dragon Horse on the move, Zhu Bajie had no excuse to loaf around and also took flight.


    Meanwhile, more and more demons began to emerge in the vicinity, a number that was truly rming.


    With a grave expression, Jiang Liu opened his storage space and retrieved the Divine Medicine.


    Pulling the cork off the Divine Medicine, he took a big gulp!

 Chapter 318 Rapidly Increasing Experience Points

    Tip: All skill mana costs reduced by 100%, cooldown times for all skills and equipment effects reduced by 90%, movement speed +60%, attack speed +100%, toughness and control reduction +25%, critical hits deal 25% additional damage, Dragon n resistance +35%, duration 3200 seconds.


    After Jiang Liu gulped down a big mouthful of Divine Medicine, the system''s prompt appeared at this moment.


    With a total duration of 7200 seconds, this single gulp gave him 3200 seconds of duration, consuming almost half in one go.


    Crying out loudly, a demon creature with an elephant''s head charged towards Jiang Liu, its massive meteor hammer smashing down fiercely at him.


    However, with a light tap of his feet, Jiang Liu swiftly dodged, simultaneously lifting his Nine-Ring Monk''s Staff and struck directly at the elephant-headed demon, sending it flying.


    Whether it was the dodging motions or the speed of his strikes, Jiang Liu could feel a significant improvement.


    The 100% attack speed boost and the 60% increase in movement speed clearly greatly enhanced Jiang Liu''s swiftness.


    Tip: Gained 23,500 Experience Points, and 15 taels of gold.


    At the same time, another demon with a leopard''s head appeared in front of Jiang Liu, its sharp ws shing towards him.


    Jiang Liu was still very fast, watching the sweeping ws, he raised his hand.


    The response waste, but his palm, arriving faster despite acting second, grasped the leopard''s head. Then, a deep blue lightning surged out from Jiang Liu''s palm, instantly sweeping over the opponent''s body: it was the Palm Thunder skill in action.


    Tip: Gained 5,500 Experience Points, and 2 taels of gold.


    Huu, huu, huu!


    At the same time, seven or eight Dharma Treasures nearly hit Jiang Liu simultaneously.


    Faced with so many attacks, Jiang Liu couldn''t dodge in time. The special effect of shing Brilliance Shoes activated, his figure shed, instantly breaking free from the encirclement of these demons. Then, with a sweep of the Nine-Ring Monk''s Staff, he sent several nearby demon creatures flying all at once.


    Tip: Gained 2,200 Experience Points, and 530 gold coins.


    Tip: Gained 42,000 Experience Points, and 18 taels of gold.


    Tip: Gained 330 Experience Points, and 20 gold coins.


    ...


    A sweeping strike, although not a skill, was very effective with the Nine-Ring Monk''s Staff''s attack power at a mighty 10 million, making it invincible below the Taiyi Realm. Any demon creature struck by the staff, whose cultivation level had not reached the Taiyi Realm, would be killed instantly.


    Like a tiger entering a flock of sheep, the increased movement and attack speeds allowed Jiang Liu to strike more frequently, naturally resulting in numerous demon creatures being instantly killed by him.


    To Jiang Liu, this seemingly endless appearance of the Demon n was akin to an incredibly rich feast of Taotie.


    During the battle, Jiang Liu didn''t just focus on the demon creatures he wanted to eliminate but also paid attention to the fight between Sun Wukong and Yu Hua.


    Seeing Yu Hua summon the Blood-Transforming Divine de, Jiang Liu wasn''t sure if Sun Wukong could truly withstand this famous treasure from the Deification, so he pointed his finger again.


    The Silencing Zen skill hit Yu Hua, plunging him into silence once more.


    Under the boost of Divine Medicine, the cooldown time of Silencing Zen was merely a paltry 3 seconds, but its duration was 2 seconds.


    Simply put, if Silencing Zen were continuously cast on a person, they would only have 1 second every 2 seconds to use their power, so how could they fight like this?


    After being continuously hit by Jiang Liu with over a dozen Silencing Zen skills, even asionally interspersed with one or two Sheep Transformation Technique skills, Yu Hua was utterly dominated by the control, with Sun Wukong''s Golden Hoop Staff causing him serious injuries.


    Despite being furious and shouting, Yu Hua waspletely unable to change any of it.


    The battle continued, and within moments, Zhu Bajie and the Little White Dragon also came over; naturally, Jiang Liu cast the Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra and Protective Mantra skills on them.


    A mere 6 seconds of cooldown time was all it took to max out the Buff state for them.


    Even, every two minutes, regardless of its necessity, a Hand of Healing skill would fall, and as Zhu Bajie and the others joined the fight, the pressure on Jiang Liu eased a lot.


    Of course, as Jiang Liu was teamed up with the Little Witch, the Experience Points he gained also increased.


    Having received the buff from the Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra and a set of equipment from Jiang Liu, the Samadhi Demonic Fire''s supernatural power was unleashed, the ck mes causing numerous members of the Demon n to cry out in pain.


    "Great technique!"


    Noticing an increase in the system''s prompts for gained Experience Points, Jiang Liu watched the dark mes form a sea of fire and felt immense joy in his heart.


    Indeed, in such chaotic battles, the most effective tactics are those like the Little Witch''s group attack skills.


    With a thought, Jiang Liu took a deep breath and let it out, his voice activating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound skill. The invisible soundwaves spread out, causing countless Demon n members'' health bars to empty¡­


    A one-sided affair!


    Though outnumbered, Jiang Liu and his team were clearly in a passive situation, but from the looks of the battlefield, they were overwhelmingly dominant.


    As the battle went on, a steady stream of Experience Points flowed into Jiang Liu''s possession. During his spare moments, he opened his inventory to check and frowned at what he saw.@@novelbin@@


    Somehow, his inventory space was already filled to the brim. With the full slots, it was clear that auto-looting the obtained equipment was no longer an option.


    Faced with this situation, Jiang Liu regretted the loss and decided to take out the roughly a hundred bottles of Mana Potion from his inventory and tossed them to Zhu Bajie and the others! That freed up a slot.


    But almost at the same time, a bracelet instantly appeared in a cell of this package space, upying the position.


    He wanted to tidy up his inventory space properly, but considering that every second was incredibly valuable to him now, and getting to work could yield a lot of Experience Points every second,


    Jiang Liu clenched his teeth, forced himself to stay calm, and chose not to check the situation in his inventory space. It was better to focus on leveling up first.


    In just a short span of ten minutes, Jiang Liu found that he had earned more than 10 million Experience Points, a rate of progression in battle that was unprecedented for him, where he could kill an opponent with every move.


    "Wukong, your master hase to help you!"


    After about ten minutes of battle, even though he was at the Great Luo Realm, Yu Hua was almost under Jiang Liu''splete control, at death''s door, with not much health left on his health bar, and Jiang Liu spoke up.


    While speaking, he leaped forward, lunging toward Yu Hua.


    10 million Experience Points, facing the Great Luo Realm''s Yu Hua, I wonder how effective it will be?


    Sensing Jiang Liu''s attack, Yu Hua also turned around, transforming the Blood-Transforming Divine de into a beam of light that arrived in front of Jiang Liu.


    With a bang, the Nine-Ring Staff collided with the Blood-Transforming Divine de.


    Jiang Liu only felt a surge of great forceing at him, causing him to involuntarily take three steps back.


    Looking at Yu Hua, he wasn''t faring much better; he, too, stumbled three steps backward.


    However, lowering his head to nce at the Dharma Treasure in his hand, Yu Hua noticed a rice-grain-sized nick had formed on his Blood-Transforming Divine de after that touch, which made him feel both distressed and increasingly rmed as he stared at the Nine-Ring Staff in Jiang Liu''s hands.


    "What kind of treasure is this guy holding, that it could, it could actually damage my Blood-Transforming Divine de..." Yu Hua silently thought to himself, incredulous.


    "So that''s how it is!" Setting aside Yu Hua''s thoughts, after the head-on sh with Yu Hua, Jiang Liu nodded silently to himself upon seeing Yu Hua retreat three steps just like him.


    The 10 million Attack Power attached to the Nine-Ring Staff seemed to have reached the level of a Daluo Golden Immortal then?


    "Does this mean that my Attack Power is roughly on par with a Daluo Golden Immortal now?" Upon realizing this, Jiang Liu gained a new understanding of his current situation.


    Defensively speaking, d in the Brocade Kasaya, he was virtually invincible, with a 1 billion Defense Value that spoke for itself.


    However, in terms of Attack Power, his Attack Power was now approximately at the level of a Daluo Golden Immortal.


    No wonder those Demon Marshals, and even the creatures below the level of a Demon Immortal, were no match for him, easily killed in a single move.


    Notification: Earned 4,200 Experience Points, earned 730 coins.


    Notification: Earned 63,000 Experience Points, earned 22 taels of gold.


    Notification: Earned 130 Experience Points, earned 9 coins.


    ...


    This battle quickly passed, and in about twenty minutes, Jiang Liu had gained an almost voluminous amount of Experience Points.


    This was not only due to Jiang Liu''s own efforts but also due to the Experience Points gained from the Samadhi Demonic Fire used by the Little Witch in the team.


    Notification: Level up by 1, current level 49.


    After roughly twenty minutes, suddenly, a system notification rang out, causing Jiang Liu to be stunned.


    Stay tuned for updates on My Virtual Library Empire


    I''ve reached level 49 already? This leveling up seems way too easy, doesn''t it?


    Character panel!


    With a thought, Jiang Liu pulled up his character panel, and soon, a semi-transparent character panel appeared in front of him.


    ID: Jiang Liu (Blue)


    Gender: Male


    Profession: Compassionate Bodhisattva.


    Level: 49 (153,200/36,000,000).


    Equipment: ...


    Jiang Liu''s gaze mainly fell on the experience bar behind his character level, watching closely as it visibly increased.


    Having noted the current Experience Points, just over 150,000, Jiang Liu then continued to fight.


    Meanwhile, he silently counted to ten seconds, then looked back at his Experience Points bar.


    The bar from just over 150,000 had now increased to just over 360,000.


    "Hiss..."


    Although he had already had a notion, seeing his Experience Points grow by over 200,000 in just ten seconds made Jiang Liu draw in a sharp breath.


    Of course, there was surprise, but it was mostly joy...

 Chapter 319 Divine Skill - "Soul-Returning Spell

    Yu Hua''s cultivation level had reached the Great Luo Realm, a level that, even within the Heavenly Court, solidified his status as a prominent figure. Naturally, his identity in the Demon Realm was also extraordinary.


    The Demon n of the Blood Knife Cave numbered in the tens of thousands. When they swarmed into battle, they resembled an endless, surging tide...


    However, faced with this infinite horde of demons, Jiang Liu secretly rejoiced.


    His Divine Medicine''s effect wouldst for nearly an hour. During this time, the more demons there were, the better. Otherwise, if he defeated all of them before the effect of the Divine Medicine wore off, wouldn''t that be a waste?


    Fortunately, he hadn''t consumed all the Divine Medicine in one gulp but had wisely only drunk half of it.


    After all, such a precious substance would undoubtedly prove to be extremely useful once the true blood battle at Spirit Mountainmenced.


    Looking at the tens of thousands of demons now, even if he were alone, his attack speed and the group attack effect of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound that urred every few seconds meant he could take down tens of thousands of demons himself. Adding Bajie and the others to the mix, these tens of thousands of demons might not even be sufficient for them to kill.


    On another front, the Little Witch''s Samadhi Demonic Fire was a true group attack move. The ck mes, spreading like a sea of fire, swept toward the demons, eliciting continuous screams of agony. Naturally, this also meant a vast amount of Experience Points flowed into Jiang Liu''s possession.


    Watching the Little Witch''s attacks rake in countless Experience Points, Jiang Liu felt immense inward delight.


    Indeed, teaming up was the quickest way to y monsters and level up. Experience tales at My Virtual Library Empire


    In his Journey to the West Team, even the member with the lowest level, the White Dragon Horse, was already over level 60.


    Well, he was almost level 50 himself. After growing a bit more, he should be able to team up with the White Dragon Horse, right? That was certainly good news.


    Bang!


    Leaving aside what Jiang Liu was pondering feverishly, elsewhere, Yu Hua''s injuries grew more severe under Sun Wukong''s relentless onught. Observing Sun Wukong still bursting with vigor, Yu Hua felt a sense of despair sinking in.


    If it were a fair fight, Yu Hua was confident he wouldn''t falter. However, the silence from Silencing Zen every three seconds, interspersed with asional Sheep Transformation Techniques, and even Jiang Liu''s Hand of Healing every two minutes, had be a formidable strategy.


    Fighting until now, Sun Wukong and his team''s Health Bar had always been brimming full, never once dropping below 70%, which drove Yu Hua to the edge of despair.


    It wasn''t Sun Wukong''s techniques that were causing despair but these nearly unsolvable controlling moves that did.


    The Blood-Transforming Divine de was a Dharma Treasure of heaven and earth, and with this de, almost anyone below Quasi-Saint could be yed.


    That meant even those who reached the level of Great Luo Golden Immortal could be killed by the Blood-Transforming Divine de, indicating its fearsome reputation.@@novelbin@@


    However, that "almost" signified that there were indeed some special exceptions, and as it turned out, Sun Wukong was precisely such an exception.


    The Vajra Indestructible Body meant that Sun Wukong''s innate defensive ability was perhaps even stronger than his Attack Power. Although the Blood-Transforming Divine de was capable of injuring Sun Wukong, killing him was not an easy task.


    With Hand of Healinging into y every two minutes, the Divine de actually managed to strike Sun Wukong several times. Yet, in just moments, Sun Wukong''s injuries would heal, rendering the fight seemingly unwinnable.


    Escape!


    After nearly half an hour of struggle, Yu Hua, a being of the Great Luo Realm, was thoroughly overpowered by Sun Wukong, which he found hard to ept. However, the insurmountable control exhibited by Jiang Liu left him with no choice but to think of fleeing to save his own life.


    Was this too terrifying? Was this cmity truly such an ordeal on the Journey to the West? Even at the Great Luo Realm, was he still not a match?


    "Thinking of escaping!?" Although much of Jiang Liu''s attention was on the battle with the surrounding demons, he had also kept part of his focus on Yu Hua; after all, this was the first opportunity on his Journey to the West to y an opponent of the Great Luo Realm.


    ording to the experience he had gathered, the higher the level discrepancy with one''s foes, the greater the Experience Points gained, and the higher the likelihood of obtaining quality loot.


    Defeating Yu Hua should at least yield an Epic Level item, wouldn''t it?


    With this in mind, how could Jiang Liu let him escape?


    "Sheep Transformation Technique!"


    As Yu Hua turned to flee, Jiang Liu raised his hand, and a Sheep Transformation Technique descended upon him.


    Simultaneously, the special effect of the shing Brilliance Shoes activated, bringing Jiang Liu directly in front of Yu Hua, followed by a Fiery sh and Palm Thundernding directly on his opponent.


    With Jiang Liu''s attack nowparable to a Great Luo Golden Immortal Level, his hits dealt tremendous damage to Yu Hua.


    After nearly half an hour ofbat, Yu Hua''s Health Bar, which had only a sliver remaining, emptied following the impact of these two skills. Yu Hua''s body ignited in mes and, with a final scream, he fell into a critically injured and dying state.


    Notice: You''ve gained 1,085,800 Experience Points and 3,000 taels of money.


    As Yu Hua''s Health Bar emptied, the system''s notification rang through Jiang Liu''s mind.


    1.08 million Experience Points delighted Jiang Liu; a being of the Great Luo level was indeed impressive. Even though he wasn''t the main force in the battle and only contributed partially, he still reaped so many Experience Points?


    Of course, it was lucky that Sun Wukong couldn''t team up with me, which meant that the equipment dropped by the in Yu Hua couldn''t be picked up automatically.


    Otherwise, given that my inventory space was already full, if Yu Hua had been in by me, the equipment dropped would not have been able to fit into my inventory space, wouldn''t that be a waste?


    Facing Yu Hua, Jiang Liu had no intention of sparing his life.


    Seeing him critically injured andatose, Jiang Liu approached, and without any superfluous words, followed up with another hit of his staff, immediately ending Yu Hua''s life.


    Then, Jiang Liu searched Yu Hua''s body and indeed, a number of good items were under it.


    These were items dropped by a being of Great Luo Realm. Jiang Liu took a careful look: a skill book and several pieces of equipment; naturally, there were also quite a few potions.


    Seeing these items, Jiang Liu was overjoyed. As he set his gaze on them, the attribute information of all these items appeared before him.


    After a brief selection, he picked up the skill book and an ancient-looking ring.


    There was also a bracelet that he was in need of, which Jiang Liu promptly wore on his wrist.


    Holy Demon Bracelet (Perfect Level): Required level 50, Defense +2000, Durability 32/50.


    It was just a perfect level bracelet, but being in need of one, the additional 2000 points of defense value was better than nothing.


    Though the bracelet''s quality wasn''t high, the ring was a real treasure. Being the first Great Luo Realm being to be killed, how could it not drop something valuable?


    Godying Ring (Epic Level): Required level 55, Attack +13000, Special Effect: Active ability, consumes 10% of current maximum life value to double the damage of the next attack, no cooldown time, Durability 80/100.


    Epic level equipment, this made Jiang Liu inwardly sigh.


    Killing an opponent of Great Luo Realm for the first time, although Jiang Liu felt certain an Epic Level piece of equipment should drop, there was still a glimmer of hope in his heart, wondering if a Divine Level piece might drop. Now it seemed he was expecting too much.


    With a level requirement of 55, even with the effect of the ck Jade Prayer Beads lowering the level restriction by five, he would still have to wait until he reached level 50.


    Was I now level 49? Just right, with the gains from this, I could level up to 50 and then be able to use it. Naturally, Jiang Liu also ced the Godying Ring into his inventory space.


    Last was the skill book. When Jiang Liu''s eyes fell on it, they were filled with ecstatic delight!


    The Compassionate Bodhisattva''s level 60 skill book, "Soul-Returning Spell".


    Now that I''m still a distance away from level 60, I''ll have to keep this book in my inventory for a time.


    Yet, the acquisition of the "Soul-Returning Spell", a resurrection type skill book, was a truly divine skill for Jiang Liu. Wasn''t its value much higher than any Divine Level equipment?


    Resurrection, an exclusive privilege almost monopolized by Immortals and Buddhas. If I''m determined to overturn the entire Heavenly Deities, then I must break their monopoly.


    The ability of "Soul-Returning Spell" might just be what I need to disrupt the Immortals and Buddhas'' control, obviously of significant value to me.


    Not having acquired Divine Level Equipment, I indeed felt a bit regretful at first. But now that "Soul-Returning Spell" has been looted, I feel that it''s worth being more delighted about than any other drop.


    "Ah! The Demon Lord, the Demon Lord has actually been killed!"


    While Jiang Liu was consumed with his thoughts, elsewhere the many members of the Demon n from the Blood Knife Cave were shocked at the sight of Yu Hua''s death, eximing in disbelief.


    At this moment, Jiang Liu also snapped back to reality, realizing he was still under the precious effect of divine medicine, and quickly collected his thoughts.


    Jiang Liu picked a few lower quality pieces of equipment from his inventory, discarded them, and then collected the Godying Ring, "Soul-Returning Spell", and of course, the Blood-Transforming Divine de that fell to the ground after Yu Hua''s death into his inventory space.


    Having reaped a full reward, his eyes wandered back to the Demon n members.


    With about 20 minutes left of the effect''s duration, of course, it couldn''t be wasted, so Jiang Liu continued to charge at the demons, the battle still entirely one-sided.


    However, following the death of Yu Hua, many across the Three Realms and Six Paths were shaken, reacting in different ways.


    "Amitabha, Yu Hua has actually been killed? Xuanzang is doing better than I imagined!" On the side of the Great Thunder Monastery, Tathagata felt a sensation, chanted a Buddha''s name, and softly spoke.


    "Yu Hua? Truly courting death, it''s hard to believe he was a part of the Deification War!" In a corner of the Demon Realm, a man smirked andughed disdainfully.


    The heavenly disaster is something people normally shy away from, yet he foolishly hoped to share a part of the merit. Now what? He''s lost everything, including his life.


    "Yu Hua? Seems he''s the first from the Journey to the West cmity to die at Great Luo Realm, isn''t he? Indeed, even at the Great Luo Realm, it''s hard to ensure one''s safety during heavenly disasters!" Atop Lingxiao Hall, the Jade Emperor lightly stroked his beard, mumbling to himself.


    "Red center, I win! Hahaha¡­" Over at Wuzhuang Temple, Master Zhenyuan, who was ying mahjong with several disciples, also felt something and stopped, concentrating deeply.

 Chapter 320 Level 50 New Features Unlocked

    Hint: Level increased by 1, current level 50!


    Hint: Social System unlocked, you can silently recite "Social System" to open the corresponding interface.


    Hint: Completed the mission "Return to the Sect", gained 22,000,000 Experience Points, and received an Epic Level Treasure Chest*1.


    ¡­


    After Yu Hua was executed, Jiang Liu naturally continued to stay and fight.


    Although the effect of the Divine Medicine had worn off by the end, the power of the Nine-Ring Staff and the Brocade Kasaya was still unsealed, so it did not affect his fighting at all. Stay connected with My Virtual Library Empire


    Latterly, as the demons of the Blood Demon Cavern were almost all defeated, Jiang Liu''s level increased again, sessfully reaching level 50.


    With the appearance of the system prompt, Jiang Liu found that the mission was finallyplete, and indeed, new functions had been unlocked.


    "This wave, really made a killing!" Jiang Liu thought to himself with secret joy after receiving the system''s prompt.


    ncing at the demons of the Blood Demon Cavern who were nearly all down, of course, mostly due to the efforts of Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie.


    But even so, Jiang Liu was still very satisfied.


    "Social System!" After sessfully unlocking the new function, Jiang Liu naturally wanted to study it thoroughly, murmuring in his mind.


    Soon, a semi-transparent interface appeared before Jiang Liu''s eyes.


    Indeed, this was a social type of interface, simr to the Life Profession, with several options including Mentor-Disciple, Guild, and Friends.


    Clearly, the Social System now included three types of social interactions.


    However, Jiang Liu was at a loss as to how precisely to use these categories, and needed to study them carefully.


    However, now was not a good time to study.


    "Master, all these demons are now down, what next? What should we do?" As the demons of the Blood Demon Cavern were dead or wounded, lying everywhere, Sun Wukong spoke up and asked Jiang Liu.


    "We''ve finished our business here, let''s leave for now!" Looking at the battered scene, Jiang Liu thought for a moment and shook his head, saying.


    For Jiang Liu, being able to bring Wujing back was already considered mission aplished.


    "Okay, Master, are we going back now?" Sun Wukong nodded and then immediately asked.


    "No, we''re not in a rush to leave!"


    But, hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu shook his head and answered solemnly, "Since we''vee to the Demon Realm, how can we leave so easily? Let''s stay a few more days and see if we can convert some of the many demons here!"


    Just joking? The three-day trial period for the Nine-Ring Staff and Brocade Kasaya had just begun, how could they easily leave? They naturally had to stay in the Demon Realm to fight a good battle.


    "The master is trulypassionate!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, a righteous expression on his face, regardless of whether what he said was true or false, Zhu Bajie hurriedly spoke up, cheering Jiang Liu with a "666".


    In the days that followed, Jiang Liu and his disciples really stayed in the Demon Realm without any intention of leaving.


    Under the pretense of converting the Demon n, Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong''s group looked for demons to confront everywhere.


    With an Attack Power of 10 million,parable to the attack power at the Great Luo Golden Immortal Level, they defeated almost all the demons with a single move.


    It was a pity, however, that initially, when they encountered groups of demons, Jiang Liu could really get into the fights, butter on, it seemed the demons also knew of his presence, and far fromrge numbers of them ganging up on him, they scattered and fled before he even encountered them.


    As a result, in about three days, he only gained about 40 million Experience Points.


    Although this gain was still significant,pared to the bloodbath in the Blood Knife Cave where he gained over 60 million Experience Points in just an hour, it was naturally much less.


    However, even so, Jiang Liu had just leveled up by 1, raising his level to 51.


    After searching around and finding no trace of any demons, Jiang Liu shook his head somewhat helplessly and silently recited "Character Interface".


    The semi-transparent character interface appeared in front of Jiang Liu, his gaze mainly focused on his level, observing it briefly, Level 51 (17,000,000/45,000,000).


    "Alright, Wukong, we''ve been in the Demon Realm for three days now, let''s head back!" Satisfied with his current level information, Jiang Liu nodded and spoke to Sun Wukong.


    Just as they were preparing to find the connection point between the Demon Realm and the Mortal World, suddenly, a passage slowly formed in front of them.


    "Holy Monk, we were ordered by the Bodhisattva! To fetch you back from the Demon Realm!" As the passage opened up, two bald-headed Dharma Protector Vajras from the Buddhist Sect walked out and said to Jiang Liu and the others.


    "Eh? How did the Bodhisattva know our location in the Demon Realm!?" Hearing the Dharma Protector Vajra''s words, Jiang Liu and hispanions naturally exited through the passage, yet were even more curious.


    "It''s because there is a mark on the Nine-Ring Staff, through which the Bodhisattva can sense your location!" There was nothing that couldn''t be said, one of the Dharma Protector Vajra answered.


    As they spoke, Jiang Liu and hispanions had already left the Demon Realm.


    After guiding Jiang Liu and hispanions back, the two Dharma Protector Vajras didn''t stay any longer, turning around and departing to report back.


    With the departure of the two Dharma Protector Vajras, Jiang Liu carefully surveyed his surroundings, his expression turning somewhat dark.


    This ce was unmistakably the ck Chicken Country; the appearance of the nearby Royal City of ck Chicken Country was familiar to Jiang Liu.


    "So, has the Bodhisattva sent me back to the ck Chicken Country again? I entered the Demon Realm from Foutu Mountain, couldn''t they let me return to Foutu Mountain?"


    Originally thinking he might retrace his Journey to the West? Seeing the Royal City of ck Chicken Country, Jiang Liu realized that it was impossible, shaking his head helplessly and ranting silently in his mind.


    However, after three days and three nights, it was still nighttime in the Mortal World.@@novelbin@@


    After some thought, Jiang Liu, along with Sun Wukong and the others, reached a rural area, took out the Exquisite Immortal Mansion, and went inside to rest.


    Having journeyed through the Demon Realm, everyone was arguably quite exhausted this time around.


    Returning to his own room, Jiang Liu thoroughly sorted through the gains from this excursion to the Demon Realm.


    First and foremost, it was about the gains in Experience Points. In just three short days, his level had already advanced to 51.


    From the leveling perspective, he was now considered a Great Cultivator in the Returning Void Realm! Having advanced to this realm in just over a year could indeed be described as incredibly rapid progress.


    First, it was the Dragon Spirit Pill given by the Kuimu Wolf, then the Triple-Transformation Golden Pill from Supreme Elder Lord, and adding this excursion to the Demon Realm, Jiang Liu found that he had only just advanced to the Divinity Transformation Stage not long ago, and in the blink of an eye, he had reached the Returning Void Realm.


    Recently, his speed of level advancement had indeed been impressively swift.


    Next, of course, was the gain in equipment. The Epic Level equipment, Godying Ring, was dropped by Yu Hua when he was killed, and the Skill Book "Soul-Returning Spell" was even more valuable.


    Additionally, havingpleted the task of Wujing''s return to his sect, he opened an Epic Level Treasure Chest that granted him another new Skill Book ¨C a level 50 Spell Attack Skill, "Lotus Spell."


    This was an offensive Skill of the Compassionate Bodhisattva and the only group attack Skill, which happens to be what Jiang Liu currentlycked in terms of attack capabilities.


    Jiang Liu naturally learned it right away and used three Skill Points in one go to upgrade this Skill to a High-Level.


    Lotus Spell (High-Level): Summons pure Buddhist Power from the heavens, transforming into nine lotus phantoms, dealing damage of 1200+30% Attack Power to targets within a 100-meter radius, Cooldown Time 20 seconds.


    Looking at the Lotus Spell Skill, Jiang Liu nodded to himself.


    Though as an offensive Skill of the Compassionate Bodhisattva the damage was not particrly high, its cooldown time of only 20 seconds was quite exceptional. Having switched professions to Compassionate Bodhisattva until now, it certainly hadn''t been easy to acquire an attack Skill.


    Of course, as a new feature unlocked after level 50, Jiang Liu had also spent some time exploring the Social System these past few days.


    The mentor-mentee interface, this feature''s highlight, is that a mentor can team up in mentor-mentee mode.


    A mentor can bring a disciple to fight monsters for leveling, ignoring the level restrictions.


    This means that a level 100 mentor could team up with a level 1 disciple for leveling, but unfortunately, only mentors can bring disciples¡­


    Looking at his mentor-mentee interface, Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, Wujing, and White Dragon Horse were all listed as his disciples, and their levels were all higher than his own.


    Forget it, mentor bringing disciple for team leveling? Let''s not think about that anymore.


    Next, there was of course the friends interface.


    However, currently, only the Little Witch was on his friends list.


    After some thought, Jiang Liu opened the Little Witch''s page and sent a voice message: "Little Witch, what are you doing right now?"


    "Eh? Xuanzang brother? I''m taking a bath. Do you want to video chat with me again?" As the message was sent, Jiang Liu soon received a reply from the Little Witch.


    Well, to put it simply, the friend''s functionality is very simple, somewhat simr to chat software from his former life, where you can send messages and even videos.


    When he had first unlocked the social feature, Jiang Liu had tried it out with the Little Witch.


    Overall, the chat functionality between friends was somewhat simr to the Divine Sensemunication of this world, only without distance limitations and more privacy.


    "Uh, well, you should rest early!" Hearing this response from the Little Witch, Jiang Liu hesitated, wondering whether to agree or not.


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu suppressed the tempting thought, responded, and then closed the chat.


    Lastly, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on the guild feature.


    Looking at this guild feature, Jiang Liu''s expression turned much more serious.


    This feature required a Guild Creation Token to take effect after establishing a guild.


    By chance, he had one Guild Creation Token in his possession! It had been stored for quite some time!

 Chapter 321 Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound Great Achievement

    Guild Creation Token, to create a guild or not? Of course, this was necessary.


    But, should it be established now?


    Jiang Liu hesitated for a moment, feeling that there was no rush for the time being.


    Although he, too, wanted to establish his own force as soon as possible, to be prepared for the blood battle at Spirit Mountain, the journey of a hundred and eight thousand miles had only just begun, and he had barely traveled over ten thousand miles; there was still time, no need to be too eager.


    So, after pondering for a short while, Jiang Liu decided to think it over for a few more days before making a decision.


    With a thought, Jiang Liu closed the social interface and, focusing his mind, continued to cultivate the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound technique.


    Tip: Gained 10 Experience Points.


    Tip: Gained 10 Experience Points.


    Tip: Gained 11 Experience Points.


    ¡­


    With the level reaching 51, naturally, Jiang Liu had invested two Skill Points, elevating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound to the sixth and final level.


    Originally, he gained 6 Experience Points every ten seconds, but with the bodily enhancement from the Ginseng Fruit, coupled with the recent daily consumption of Jadescent Nectar, the 6 points had turned into 10 points, and asionally even an increase of 11 points would pop up.


    Having elevated the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound to its maximum level, the cultivation went even faster.


    However, realizing this was the highest level of the technique, Jiang Liu couldn''t help but sigh inwardly.


    Did this mean that the Experience Points he gained from cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound wouldn''t see any more improvement?


    But, with the level increase, the Experience Points required became ever greater, and his growth rate through cultivation would slow down over time, wouldn''t it?


    "Indeed, the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound is, after all, just a Divine Skill of the Great Buddha Temple. Even though it''s considered top-notch in the Mortal World, to the future me, it seems rather mediocre. I should find another Cultivation Method soon. Fortunately, I have been saving a Reset Scroll and haven''t used it yet!"


    Thinking to himself that he had already maxed out Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, Jiang Liu made a mental note of this matter.


    A night passed without words, and as dawn broke the next day, Jiang Liu and the others gradually woke up.


    Yet, just as Jiang Liu had finished washing up, he noticed a figure busily at work.


    Looking intently, who else could it be but Sha Wujing?


    Carrying arge bucket, Sha Wujing held a rag in his hands, meticulously wiping each piece of furniture in the Exquisite Immortal Mansion.


    Seeing Jiang Liue out, Sha Wujing turned his head and said, "Master, you''re up? The house is dirty everywhere; I''m wiping everything down!"


    "Hmm, Wujing, with you not around, no one would take care of these things at home!" Watching Sha Wujing voluntarily taking on the household chores, Jiang Liu felt an unexpected warmth and nodded with a slight smile.


    "Master, are you preparing breakfast? Do you need help?" Sha Wujing, seeing Jiang Liu''s actions, knew what should be done at this time and asked.


    "No need, just a simple and light breakfast in the morning is fine. I can manage on my own, you go ahead with your work!" Jiang Liu said, waving his hand dismissively.


    Just as he was about to turn around and prepare breakfast, a sudden thought struck Jiang Liu, and he turned around, saying, "Right, Wujing, I haven''t seen you use the Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff these days, where is your Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff?"


    "That... when we were at the Blood Knife Cave, Demon Venerable Yu Hua said he wanted to help upgrade my Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff, so he took it to be reforged. Then, after we destroyed the whole Blood Knife Cave, my Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff ended up missing!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s inquiry, Sha Wujing responded with an embarrassed look. Find your next adventure on My Virtual Library Empire


    "It''s gone? Well, I happen to have a weapon on me, which I''ll give you. It should be quite suitable for you!" Hearing Sha Wujing''s response, Jiang Liu nodded and said.


    As he spoke, Jiang Liu lifted his hand and, from his carry-on space, took out a demon de as dark as ink.


    Having taken out the demon de, Jiang Liu inspected it and the corresponding attributes appeared before his eyes; in his gaze, there was a sense of reluctance as he sighed to himself.


    Blood-Transforming Divine de (Epic Level): Requires level 70, Attack +2400000, Special Effect: For Demon n use, increases attack by 50%, Durability 320/500.


    Looking at the attributes of the Blood-Transforming Divine de, Jiang Liu inwardly sighed with resignation.


    An additional 2.4 million in Attack was not mediocre, far exceeding Sun Wukong''s Jingu Bang¡ªthe Golden Hoop, which only provided a mere 280,000 in Attack.


    But the 50% Special Effect for use by the Demon n seemed to indicate that this Demon de was most suited for Sha Wujing.


    After undergoing Demon Transformation, Sha Wujing''s level had risen to 71, stepping into the Taiyi Realm, making this weapon a rare treasure for him.


    "This, this isn''t..." Seeing the Blood-Transforming Divine de that Jiang Liu had taken out, Sha Wujing was stunned. He naturally recognized the treasure that was the Blood-Transforming Divine de.


    "Yes, when Yu Hua died, this Blood-Transforming Divine de became masterless, so naturally I didn''t hesitate to take it. Now, it seems most suitable for you, take it!"


    Although parting with equipment with 2.4 million attack power made Jiang Liu''s heart ache, he really had no idea when he would be able to sessfully use level 70 equipment. Considering this, he might as well give it to Sha Wujing.


    Now, since everyone was on the same side, enhancing Sha Wujing''s strength meant also enhancing his own overall strength, didn''t it?


    "Thank you, Master! Thank you, Master!" Fully aware of the treasure''s preciousness, Sha Wujing did not say much upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words and nodded heavily before putting away the Blood-Transforming Divine de.


    Having be famous during the Deification War, Sha Wujing was very clear that with this treasure, his overall strength would greatly increase.


    Though catching up to his two senior brothers was impossible, reducing the gap between them was definitely within reach.


    "All right, go on with your tasks!" After handing the Blood-Transforming Divine de to Sha Wujing, Jiang Liu waved his hand and went about his own business.


    This morning, Jiang Liu indeed hadn''t spent much thought on preparing breakfast, so he simply cooked some vegetables and green onions and cut some meat into shreds to make a pot of vegetable, meat, and green onion noodles.


    Nevertheless, the fragrance of the noodles mixed with that of the meat quickly roused Zhu Bajie from hiszy sleep.


    Though by nature sluggish, Zhu Bajie could be quite diligent when there was good food to be had.


    After the master and disciples finished breakfast, Sha Wujing conveniently washed the dishes, and then they closed up the Exquisite Immortal Mansion and continued on their way, resuming their westward journey.


    ...


    Leaving aside the westward road and the events urring with Jiang Liu''s group, at this moment, within the Great Thunder Monastery of the Western Heaven, the Tathagata Buddha sat quietly on his Lotus tform, with Bodhisattva Guanyin slightly bowing her head before him.


    "Indeed, only Buddha''s wisdom is unparalleled. After Xuanzang entered the Demon Realm, as expected, he persuaded Wujing to return, and even killed his way through various challenges, spreading the name of our Buddhist Sect!" Bodhisattva Guanyin said with an admiring look on her face,plimenting the Tathagata.


    "Amitabha, all things simplyply with the Heavenly Dao," the Tathagata Buddha said with a calm expression, responding to Guanyin''s praise withposed words.


    "Actually, this time it was my fault. I didn''t expect Wujing to suddenly resist so strongly. Although he has resumed the westward Journey to the West, he has now be a demon. The presence of a demon within our Journey to the West team might be a stain..." Afterplimenting the Tathagata, Guanyin immediately continued with an apology.


    "It doesn''t matter, as long as one sincerely turns towards goodness, demons, just like monsters, can be converted!" The Tathagata Buddha answered with a still serene expression.


    Guanyin paused at these words, then understanding dawned, and she nodded to herself in agreement.


    Certainly, having someone turn into a demon within the Journey to the West team could indeed tarnish the Buddhist Sect''s reputation.


    But from another perspective, if even a demon could be converted, wouldn''t that show the profundity of the Buddhist teachings even more?


    Everything is rtive after all!


    "Amitabha, I understand, thank you for the guidance, Buddha!" Suddenly enlightened, Bodhisattva Guanyin softly chanted a Buddhist mantra.


    ...@@novelbin@@


    Within the Demon Realm, inside an immensely majestic hall, dozens of members of the Demon n stood on both sides of the hall, each with amanding presence, clearly having extraordinary cultivation.


    At that moment, suddenly, the leading throne twisted through space, and a robust figure appeared out of thin air upon it.


    After taking his seat, he nced at the members of the Demon n below and said, "Yu Hua, that fool, sought his own demise, daring to covet the merit of the Journey to the West. His death was well deserved!"


    The man sitting on the throne spoke calmly, but the many demons below all bowed their heads, not daring to even breathe too loudly.


    A lowly monk, relying on two treasures, had caused a ruckus in the Demon Realm, which indeed was a great loss of face for the Demon n.


    But in the great cmity of the world, one misstep could lead to obliteration, and Yu Hua was a perfect example of this. Therefore, nobody dared to intervene recklessly.


    If anything, the embarrassment of the Demon n was all caused by Yu Hua''s own actions.


    "From this day on, whenever the Journey to the West Team appears, my Demon n shall avoid them. Of course, if anyone decides to act against this advice, I certainly will not stop them! However, should any danger arise, do not me my Demon n for standing by and doing nothing!"


    ...


    In another ce, within the dark and mysterious void, a man dressed in a ck Taoist robe slowly opened his eyes, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly.


    "Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound? You''ve reached the top already, haven''t you? Good, good, it seems I need to send him a cultivation technique that can directly point to the Great Dao. Cough, cough..."

 Chapter 322 Red Boy

    ```


    Hint: Gained 280 Experience Points.


    Jiang Liu raised his hand, and a delicate and magnificent ring fell into his grasp.


    He took a look, and the previously damaged part of the ring was now fully restored. As Jiang Liu''s gazended on the ring, the corresponding attribute information emerged.


    Fine Bronze Ring (Fine Level): Requires Level 22, Attack +105, Durability 1/1.


    After seeing the attribute information of the ring, Jiang Liu shook his head helplessly. Initially, the ring had a total of 20 points of durability, but after his numerous repairs, its durability had plummeted to just 1 point.


    Shaking his head, he found it worthless now and casually discarded the ring beside the road.


    He then opened his storage space and with a sweeping nce, quickly took out a longsword. Read new adventures at My Virtual Library Empire


    As Jiang Liu''s gazended on it, the attribute information of the longsword also appeared before his eyes.


    Fine Steel Sword (Fine Level): Requires Level 33, Attack Power +480, Durability 35/35.


    Upon seeing the attributes of the Fine Steel Sword, Jiang Liu nodded in satisfaction and immediately took out his Xuanhua Axe, unceremoniously smashing it down onto the sword.@@novelbin@@


    After several strikes, the Fine Steel Sword became twisted, almost reducing to a piece of junk.


    Upon closer inspection, the severely damaged sword had its durability significantly reduced.


    Next, he opened the panel for Life Professions and ced the half-destroyed sword into it, then selected the cksmith option.


    A dazzling burst of light shed by, and in a moment, the Fine Steel Sword was restored to its original state, exquisite and sharp.


    However, as Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on it, the durability had dropped from 35 to 34.


    At the same time, with the repair, Jiang Liu also gained 380 Experience Points.


    Immediately after, Jiang Liu took out the Xuanhua Axe again, smashed it several more times, distorting the Fine Steel Sword once more, and then repaired it again...


    He repeated the process over and over, for more than a dozen times, until finally the Fine Steel Sword, now with only 15 points of durability left, was put away.


    Today''s daily routine of life profession training hade to an end.


    Looking at his cksmith panel, to reach a Primary Level cksmith, one needed to forge or repair 3000 pieces of Common Level equipment and 1000 pieces of Fine Level equipment. The progress bar for Common Level hadn''t started, but the progress for Fine Level had already increased by more than 300 proficiency points.


    This whole journey, every day he would take out Fine Level equipment to damage and repair, cycling through the process twenty to thirty times. Raising proficiency was indeed very easy.


    After stopping the daily life profession training, Jiang Liu proceeded to take a swig of the Jadescent Nectar, listening to the rise of over 30,000 Experience Points in his mind, he sighed inwardly.


    There''s a saying that fits well, "Time has changed, and nothing remains the same; what''s left are mere memories."


    Having ventured through the Demon Realm and experiencing the thrill of ughtering monsters with every move, gaining tens of thousands of Experience Points, drinking the Jadescent Nectar afterward and gaining over 30,000 Experience Points no longer felt significant.


    Since leaving the Demon Realm, three months had passed.


    However, despite tirelessly cultivating during these three months, along with the benefits of the Jadescent Nectar, as well as leveling up throughbat, he had only gained a total of 12 million Experience Points.


    Upon checking his experience bar, he saw it required a full 45 million Experience Points to level up to 52. The amount of Experience Points needed for leveling up was getting higher and higher, and his own leveling seemed to be getting harder and harder.


    Making a quick calction in his mind, he was now getting around 11 Experience Points every ten seconds from cultivating Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, which was only possible after the dual enhancements from the Jadescent Nectar and the Ginseng Fruit; otherwise, it would have been only 6 points.


    Sixty-six Experience Points a minute? And for an hour? Roughly 4000 points, at most. Deducting time for cooking, eating, and personal hygiene, cultivating for ten hours a day was considered diligent work, resulting in just 40,000 Experience Points, right?


    Forty thousand a day, over three months, would be about 5 million points. Add the Jadescent Nectar''s daily effect of over 30,000 points, plus leveling up throughbat and life professions, asionally epting a few small tasks, he had indeed done well to gain 12 million Experience Points in three months.


    Yet, whenpared to the 45 million Experience Points needed to level up, it looked as though it would take nearly a year, wouldn''t it?


    Unconsciously, had the time required for leveling up be so exaggerated?


    "Indeed, the Returning Void Realm is considered thest realm for human cultivators. Beyond that lies shedding the mortal body to achieve the Immortal Path, so isn''t it normal for the rate of advancement to slow down? Don''t ordinary people seeking Immortal Cultivation spend hundreds of years just to reach the peak of the Returning Void Realm?"


    Although Jiang Liu understood that taking one year to advance from level 51 to 52 was not slow in the context of Journey to the West, it was still too slow for him.


    If things continued this way without any change on his part, perhaps ten or even twenty yearster when he reached Western Heaven, he might not have reached level 61.


    Shaking his head, Jiang Liu cast aside these messy thoughts. It was hard to alter the pace of leveling up throughbat, as there were only so many demons on the road. So, if he wanted to maximize the chances of gaining Experience Points, there were only a few options avable.


    One was to find heavenly treasures like the Jadescent Nectar, which could be consumed to directly improve cultivation without severe side effects.


    ```


    Secondly, there''s the life profession; by practicing this profession and repairing and forging one''s own equipment, the experience points gained can be quite considerable, serving as an extra channel for acquisition.


    Lastly, and most importantly, there is the issue of practicing cultivation techniques.


    For cultivators in the mundane world, practicing a cultivation technique like the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound is definitely viable, but I have already reached the Returning Void Realm and am moving towards the Immortal Path, so the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound has be increasingly inadequate for me.


    Do I still need to find a more exquisite method of cultivation?


    Save me... Save me...


    Jiang Liu sat on the back of the White Dragon Horse, his mind full of thoughts. After cultivating for three months and still having a long way to go before leveling up, the sense of urgency within him grew stronger. However, shortly thereafter, a tender voice crying out for help suddenly echoed through the air.


    Hearing this, Jiang Liu paused, then immediately felt a surge of excitement.


    Someone is calling for help? That means someone needs assistance, doesn''t it? If that''s the case, a quest might be triggered!


    Feeling eager, Jiang Liu was now seeking experience points with the same urgency with which young people in modern society seek to earn money. Realizing that a quest might emerge, Jiang Liu didn''t need to have Sun Wukong and the others scout ahead and lightly squeezed the horse''s sides.


    The White Dragon Horse understood Jiang Liu''s intention and quickened its pace, trotting forward.


    It turned out that within a small grove ahead, there was a delicate-looking child bound with ropes and tied to a tree.


    The child''s tender face was filled with pain, prompting a feeling of heartache in those who looked on.


    "Master, wait..." Just as Jiang Liu dismounted the White Dragon Horse and was about to approach to investigate, Sun Wukong suddenly pulled Jiang Liu back, cautioning, "In these wild and deste hills, why would there be a little kid tied up here? It seems rather fishy. Let I, Old Sun, see if this child is an evil demon!"


    As he spoke, Sun Wukong activated his Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze, looking at the child.


    "Master, Big Brother is right, let''s be cautious!" Demon Monk Wujing, who was as solid as a tower, followed with a nod, positioning himself in front of Jiang Liu, his hands gripping the Blood-Transforming Divine de, exuding an air of unmatched authority.


    However, it didn''t take long for Sun Wukong to frown in surprise and turn his head, saying, "Master, I, Old Sun, couldn''t discern this child''s true form. It seems he might just be a human!"


    "Your Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze can''t tell? Could it be that he isn''t an evil demon?" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu was also surprised.


    Indeed, a delicate child, restrained and tied to a tree in this remote wilderness, even Jiang Liu found it suspicious.


    However, seeing that Sun Wukong hasn''t figured it out, Jiang Liu wasn''t convinced and his gaze fell on the bound child, silently thinking: Character Panel!


    As Jiang Liu thought this, a translucent character panel appeared before him.


    ID: Red Boy (Golden).


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Demon.


    Level: 63.


    Equipment: Red Tassel Spear (Epic Level)...


    "So it''s him!" Jiang Liu recognized the character panel in front of him, realizing.


    It meant that after leaving the ck Chicken Country for three months, I had encountered Red Boy?


    Looking closely, a Level 63 being was no trivial matter, especially since the quality was marked as golden!


    ording to Jiang Liu''s estimation, the color of one''s character panel primarily depends on how much one exceeds those of the same level.


    The talent and abilities of Red Boy were rated as golden quality?


    Considering that, the mastery of Samadhi True Fire, along with a father like the great Demon King Ox, seemed reasonable enough to justify a golden quality.


    Most importantly, even Sun Wukong''s Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze were unable to see through him?


    Does that mean that Red Boy, like the Little Witch, also possessed an Innate Taoist Body?


    "Great master, great master, please save me, save me..." Regardless of Jiang Liu''s thoughts, the Red Boy, bound and with a pained expression, pleaded desperately to Jiang Liu.


    "Master, be careful!"


    Even though his own Fiery Eyes and Golden Gaze couldn''t detect anything unusual, Sun Wukong still didn''t feel at ease and reminded Jiang Liu.

 Chapter 323 The Tears of Red Boy

    "Wukong, you guys are just too dramatic! Didn''t you see how pitiful this child is? Are we really going to stand by and do nothing!?"


    Even though he was aware of Red Boy''s identity, Jiang Liu ignored Sun Wukong''s attempt to dissuade him; he even pretended not to recognize Red Boy as he spoke.


    While talking, Jiang Liu walked straight over to Red Boy to untie the ropes binding him.


    Of course, on the surface, it looked like Jiang Liu trusted Red Boypletely, but in reality, he was fully alert inside.


    The ability of his shing Brilliance Shoes was already secretly prepared, and if Red Boy made a move, he would immediately dodge.


    By then, if Sun Wukong and the others took action, with him providing support on the side, they might be able to take Red Boy down, right?


    From the perspective of the game, with the golden interface, Red Boy was a Golden BOSS. Defeating him would not only yield a high amount of Experience Points as a reward, but there was also a high chance for good equipment to drop.


    After all, a Golden BOSS that doesn''t drop good loot? That would be unreasonable, wouldn''t it?


    With his vignce silently raised, ready for Red Boy to strike at any moment, especially with his mastery of Samadhi True Fire, who knows if this brat¡ª


    Err, no, who knows if this bull child might just turn him into a skewer.


    After all, from the original story, one could tell that this kid was nearly spoiled rotten by his parents.


    No wonder, with only one beloved son, and one with exceptional talents at that, it waspletely understandable how important he was to Demon King Ox and his wife.


    However, as Jiang Liu finished untying Red Boy, despite being on guard, Red Boy showed no intention to attack, but instead looked as if he was on the verge of tears, appearing very pitiable.


    "What''s wrong with you!?" Seeing Red Boy''s state, Jiang Liu''s guard was still up as he asked him. Enjoy more content from My Virtual Library Empire


    "Master, I''ve been tied up for so long, It feels awful, my hands and feet arepletely numb, I can''t walk!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s question, Red Boy continued to y the pitiful role as he spoke.


    Without waiting for Jiang Liu to speak again, Red Boy immediately continued, "Um, Master, could you please take me home!?"


    Alert: Quest "Homing" triggered. Quest requirement: Sessfully escort this little boy home. Uponpletion, reward Experience Points 1,800,000, Perfect Level Treasure Chest*1. If failed, lose Experience Points 1,800,000. ept/Decline?


    As Red Boy spoke, the quest alert from the system simultaneously appeared before Jiang Liu''s eyes.


    "What, what''s going on!?" Faced with this sudden quest that had triggered, Jiang Liu stood dumbfounded.


    Could Red Boy''s deceptive words actually trigger a quest?


    Under normal circumstances, aren''t quests only triggered when someone genuinely asks for assistance?


    Does this mean? Red Boy was sincerely asking him to take him home? Was this just a ploy to bait the prey toe closer?


    Realizing the quest and what was on Red Boy''s mind, the corners of Jiang Liu''s mouth twitched slightly.


    Even though Red Boy was powerful, Jiang Liu felt no fear with Sun Wukong and his two disciples by his side for protection.


    Since Red Boy wanted to deceive him into taking him home, why not just go along with the n?


    1.8 million Experience Points, when he had earned 12 million in three months of hard training. Could an errand, equivalent to nearly half a month of his arduous cultivation, be any easier? How could he not ept this quest?


    With a thought, Jiang Liu epted the quest and nodded slightly to Red Boy, saying, "Alright, in that case, I will take you home. As monks, we must bepassionate. How can we turn a blind eye to those in need?"


    "Hehehe, Master, if this hairy child can''t move his hands and feet and can''t walk, let me, Old Sun, carry him for a while," hearing Jiang Liu agree, Sun Wukong volunteered with a grin.


    As he spoke, Sun Wukong''s gaze fell on Red Boy, "How about it? How would you like to be carried by your Grandpa Sun for a bit?"


    "No, I don''t want to¡­" Looking at Sun Wukong, Red Boy shrank back with a scared look and said, "You, you look too frightening, I''m, I''m scared!"


    Meanwhile, as Red Boy''s gaze swept over them, Sun Wukong was a short, thin monkey, Zhu Bajie, obese with a huge pig head, and Sha Wujing, in his demonized form, looked even more ferocious and terrifying...


    In the end, Red Boy''s gaze settled on Jiang Liu, "Master, you''re the best-looking here. The three of them are too ugly; you should carry me instead? I''m just a child after all, not very heavy, and you can definitely manage to carry me a bit!"


    "Monkey Brother, I think this kid is really annoying. Didn''t Master say before that a cheeky and annoying child like this is called a brat?" Zhu Bajie was aware he didn''t look good, but hearing Red Boy speak so bluntly annoyed him, his mouth twisting slightly in dissatisfaction.


    "That''s right, Bajie, this is what Master referred to as a brat," Sun Wukong agreed, also looking displeased at Red Boy, finding the sight of him increasingly vexing.


    "You want me to carry you?" Jiang Liu was startled by Red Boy''s request, inwardly he refused.


    Red Boy was certainly no saint, and he possessed a technique like the Samadhi True Fire. Jiang Liu had had a profound experience with the power of Samadhi True Fire just a few days earlier in the Demon Realm through an encounter with the Little Witch.


    Not to mention, Red Boy''s level was even higher than the Little Witch''s.


    "Thinking too much, aren''t you? As the saying goes, ''A gentleman doesn''t stand under a dangerous wall,'' and you want me to carry him?" Jiang Liu naturally wouldn''t agree to be so cautious of Red Boy. With a silent chuckle, he shook his head and was about to decline.


    Task Trigger: You''ve triggered the "Childlike Innocence" task. Task Requirements: carry the mysterious little boy for 3,000 steps. If sessful, you will receive 300,000 Experience Points. If you fail, 300,000 Experience Points will be deducted. ept/Reject?


    However, almost at the same time, the system''s prompt appeared again, causing Jiang Liu to hesitate for a moment.


    Is this for real? Just carry him for 3,000 steps to get a 300,000 Experience Points reward?


    That averaged out to 100 Experience Points per step, right?


    The words of refusal that had just been on the tip of his tongue were immediately swallowed back. Jiang Liu nodded solemnly and said, "Amitabha, since you have sincerely requested this, I shallpassionately fulfill your wish. Monks should indeed bepassionate by nature!"


    "Master!?" Hearing Jiang Liu''s agreement surprised Monkey Brother and the others, who exchanged bewildered looks.@@novelbin@@


    They couldn''t understand why their master was so indulgent with this brat.


    "Really!? Thank you so much, master!" Red Boy''s face broke into a smile as he heard Jiang Liu''s consent and he nodded vigorously, preparing to climb onto Jiang Liu''s back.


    "Ah, wait..." But Jiang Liu stopped him as Red Boy eagerly tried to scramble onto his back.


    Red Boy looked at Jiang Liu with puzzlement, not understanding his intentions.


    "You see, young one, if I am to carry you, it must be done with dignity! This is no light matter," Jiang Liu said with a nurturing look while addressing Red Boy.


    As he spoke, he took out the Brocade Kasaya from his storage space and draped it over himself.


    There was no choice, for 300,000 Experience Points, he was all in.


    Nheless, necessary precautions were a must, so Jiang Liu wore the Brocade Kasaya.


    "Master, you..." Seeing Jiang Liu don a magnificent kasaya and behave so seriously, Red Boy felt moved, eventually pressing his lips together without speaking.


    "What is it? Why don''t you climb on?" Jiang Liu crouched down in front of Red Boy and waited for a while without feeling him get on. He turned his head, looking puzzled, and asked.


    "No, it''s nothing..." Responding to Jiang Liu, Red Boy replied and then quietlyy on Jiang Liu''s back.


    After ascertaining the direction to Red Boy''s home, Jiang Liu took strides forward.


    3,000 steps for 300,000 Experience Points? That means 100 Experience Points per step!


    Jiang Liu felt the system could give him more of such tasks.


    If every step could yield him 100 Experience Points, Jiang Liu thought he could walk to the ends of the earth!


    "Master, why are you so good to me?" After walking for a while, Red Boy, lying on Jiang Liu''s back, asked.


    Even though the generous words were just a pretext for Jiang Liu to put on the Brocade Kasaya, they were incredibly touching to Red Boy.


    "Does being good to someone need a reason?" Jiang Liu walked on, carrying Red Boy, and replied nonchntly.


    Following Jiang Liu''s reply, Red Boy fell silent, and after a long while, a faint "thank you" echoed behind Jiang Liu, almost too quiet to hear.


    If he hadn''t been leaning right against Jiang Liu, it would''ve been almost inaudible.


    After some time, suddenly, Jiang Liu felt a slight coolness on his back, along with a moist sensation.


    It made Jiang Liu''s heart skip a beat.


    What was happening? Was Red Boy, lying on his back, crying?


    Jiang Liu proceeded forward, carrying Red Boy, while Monkey Brother and the other disciples looked at each other in astonishment, their faces filled with disbelief.


    This child had appeared mysteriously and strangely, and the master''s response today seemed unusual.


    But one couldn''t deny that watching the master carry the child forward created a somewhat heartwarming scene.

 Chapter 324 The Rebellious Child

    ```


    Jiang Liu, with Red Boy on his back, took one step after another, moving forward.


    If it were said in modern terms, would one step yield 100 Experience Points? System, hold it right there. If this task were to go on forever, I''d walk you into bankruptcy!


    320 steps... 321 steps... 322 steps...


    With Red Boy on his back, Jiang Liu''s pace was steady as he walked on, while silently counting his steps in his mind.


    "1999 steps... 2000 steps... 2001 steps..."


    "I feel that the numbness in my legs has improved a lot!" However, just as Jiang Liu hit a little over 2000 steps, Red Boy suddenly stirred, struggling to get down from Jiang Liu''s back.@@novelbin@@


    At this moment, Red Boy''s heart was filled withplex emotions.


    For so many years, he had been living alone in Withered Pine Stream. His father ran off with a fox demon, and his mother stayed on her own. What used to be a happy family of three was now scattered in different directions. Red Boy could no longer remember how long it had been since hest gathered with his parents.


    As Jiang Liu carried him on the road today, it inadvertently brought back memories of his father carrying him when he was a child.


    Over the years, whenever Red Boy discovered someone hade to Withered Pine Stream, he would use this trick to deceive them.


    The humans he usually encountered were up to no good, so they all became Red Boy''s snacks.


    But today, Jiang Liu seemed to be sincerely willing to help him, and it made Red Boy somewhat recall the fatherly love deep in his memories. Thus, his heart softened, and he no longer thought of harming Jiang Liu but instead wanted to get down from his back.


    However, sensing Red Boy''s movement behind him, Jiang Liu reflexively acted, holding him firmly to prevent him from falling off, and said, "Wait, don''t move, you might fall!"


    "It''s okay now; my hands and feet have recovered. I can walk on my own!" Red Boy, intending to let Jiang Liu and hispanions go, spoke out.


    "No way!"


    But hearing Red Boy''s words, Jiang Liu firmly refused, saying, "Since I promised to carry you, how can I let you walk on your own? What would my word be worth then? Let me tell you, I mayck other virtues, but I take promises very seriously. I do what I say!"


    There was no choice. The task required him to carry Red Boy for at least 3000 steps, and now that he had already walked more than 2000, how could he give up?


    "You... you don''t have some unspeakable reason for wanting to keep carrying me, do you!?"


    Red Boy wanted to walk on his own, yet the monk actually refused? This made Red Boy somewhat skeptical of Jiang Liu.


    "Amitabha, you were the one who asked to be carried, and you also decided the direction. Do you think I could have any unspeakable reasons!?" With that, Jiang Liu muttered a Buddhist chant under his breath and retorted after hearing Red Boy''s words.


    "This..." Jiang Liu''s response left Red Boy momentarily at a loss for words, unable to speak, but he had to admit that Jiang Liu''s words made some sense.


    After thinking it over carefully, although his intuition told him that the other party seemed to have some secrets, when Red Boy thought about it rationally, he couldn''t think of any reason either.


    "Right, I haven''t asked yet. What''s your name?" Not wanting to dwell on this issue any longer, Jiang Liu pondered for a moment before suddenly changing the topic with a question.


    "I''m called Red Boy; that''s what everyone calls me!" Upon hearing Jiang Liu''s words, as expected, Red Boy''s attention was diverted as he answered.


    As soon as he spoke, Red Boy curiously asked Jiang Liu, "By the way, master, what do they call you?"


    "This humble monk''s Dharma name is Xuanzang!" Jiang Liu replied.


    "You''re Master Xuanzang!?" Hearing Jiang Liu dere his identity, Red Boy eximed in surprise.


    "Eh? You know me?" Red Boy''s reaction made Jiang Liu somewhat astonished as he asked.


    "Yes, my mother mentioned you before," Red Boy replied with a nod.


    "Your mother!?" The mention of his mother made Jiang Liu look a bit peculiar.


    Red Boy''s mother was none other than Princess Iron-Fan. Why would she mention him out of the blue?


    The affair between him and Gaoyang was sworn on the Heavenly Dao, bing known to many in the Three Realms, so many fairies, even demonesses, seemed to take a liking to this theme, considering him the most devoted man in the Three Realms. They worshiped him as if he were a star, just like Second Sister Luan did at the time.


    But no matter what, Princess Iron-Fan was a married woman, and her son was already so big. Could it be that she harbored simr feelings for him?


    This thought was somewhat strange to him.


    Fortunately, Red Boy''s subsequent words alleviated much of the weird feeling in Jiang Liu''s heart.


    "Back then, when I was at my mother''s cave, I heard my father and mother arguing. It seems that my dad had a fox¡ªah, found another woman, so my mom said that if my dad were even one-tenth as faithful as you, Master Xuanzang, it would be more than enough..." Red Boy started to speak, narrating the past events with striking resemnce to Jiang Liu.


    ```


    "So that''s how it is!" Upon hearing Red Boy''s words, Jiang Liu''s heart suddenly understood.


    Thinking about the original story, Demon King Ox indeed had a roving eye, and it wouldn''t be strange for Princess Iron-Fan to say those words.


    "s..." However, after his words had fallen, Red Boy let out a soft sigh.


    "What''s the matter? Why do you sigh for no reason?" Jiang Liu asked in surprise upon hearing Red Boy''s sigh.


    "It''s a pity that since the day I met my father, I''ve never seen him again. I don''t know where he has gone, and even my mother doesn''t know..." After a long sigh, Red Boy said in a low voice.


    While speaking, Red Boy paused briefly, then continued, "I always remember when I was a child, my father would carry me on his back and take me out to have fun. Unfortunately, these past few hundred years, I''ve hardly had the chance to see him even once, leaving me alone to pass my days in Withered Pine Stream Fire Cloud Cave..."


    "s..." Hearing Red Boy''s words, Jiang Liu also let out a soft sigh.


    From the original story, one could see that Red Boy was exceptionally talented, a true prodigy. Otherwise, Guanyin wouldn''t have noticed him, put a hoop on him, and taken him back to be the Good Wealth Child.


    Moreover, from the original story, one had to admit that Red Boy indeed had a somewhat wayward personality, aplete rebel.


    Despite knowing that Sun Wukong and his own father were sworn brothers, Red Boy showed no regard for face at all.


    However, Red Boy''s words today allowed Jiang Liu to see a different side of him.


    His situation seemed to be quite different from the Red Boy Jiang Liu originally remembered.


    Indeed, if you think about it carefully, originally, Red Boy lived with his parents, and the family of three could be said to be pretty happy, right?


    But what about now? The family of three lives in three different ces; even Red Boy doesn''t know where his father is.


    Is it not within reason for a childing from such a family environment to develop a rebellious nature?


    "Mage, why do you sigh?" Lying on Jiang Liu''s back, Red Boy naturally also heard Jiang Liu''s sigh and asked in bewilderment.


    "I''m sighing for you!" replied Jiang Liu upon hearing this.


    "For me?" Red Boy was stunned, somewhat surprised, not understanding why Jiang Liu would sigh for him.


    "You must really miss your parents, don''t you?" Jiang Liu said, thinking of how Red Boy had justin on his back and seemed to have secretly shed a few tears.


    Red Boy: "..."


    Facing Jiang Liu''s words, Red Boy didn''t know how to reply for a moment.


    Could he say he didn''t miss them? Such an obvious lie, Red Boy couldn''t bring himself to say it.


    But to say he did miss them? After all, he was now the master of the Withered Pine Stream Fire Cloud Cave, and such words felt somewhat embarrassing to admit!


    "Hey, you evil demon, caught yourself out, didn''t you!?" Just then, Sun Wukong, who had been silent, suddenly spoke up. Baring his teeth and ring fiercely, he stared at Red Boy and said.


    "You said your home was up ahead, right? Turns out, you and your parents live separately! So I want to ask you, could an ordinary human child survive alone in these mountains? You are an evil demon!"


    "That''s right, you bear child, trying to deceive us. Now you''ve finally shown your true colors, haven''t you? Master, be careful, this bear child is a demon; don''t let him harm you!" This time, Zhu Bajie rather unusually joined forces with Sun Wukong, pointing the finger at Red Boy as well.


    "Master, Elder Brother and Second Brother are right!"


    Your journey continues with My Virtual Library Empire


    Following his two brothers'' remarks, Sha Wujing, who was next to them, naturally couldn''t stay out of it either. He joined in and stated his position.


    Tip: Task "Childlike Innocence"pleted, gain Experience Points 300000!


    Right at that moment, the system notification appeared. Unbeknownst to him, Jiang Liu had carried Red Boy all this way, walking about another 1000 steps, and finallypleted the task.


    Whoosh!


    With the taskpleted, Jiang Liu also stopped walking. At the same time, Red Boy, who had been lying on Jiang Liu''s back, suddenly flipped over and jumped down.


    Raising his hand, a Red Tassel Spear appeared in his grasp, pointed straight at Sun Wukong and the others. His youthful voice, though, was filled with boundless bravado, "That''s right, I am of the Demon Kind, so what!? Do you want to make a move? I''m not afraid of you guys!"


    "Red Boy, calm down!"


    But just as the standoff was about to escte, Jiang Liu took a deep breath and then showed a kindly smile on his face, gently consoling.


    s, my life is so hard, a task worth 1.8 million Experience Points. If I fail, I''ll lose 1.8 million Experience Points, nearly half a month''s cultivation of Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound wasted! I can only do my best to calm this rebel child deprived of fatherly and motherly love.


    (PS: I am so upet. This evening, after I finished writing a 3000-word chapter and was about to upload it, the draft got lost. I was seriously upset to the point of crying... then, after calming down for over an hour, what else could I do? Rewrite it. This chapter, I''m writing for the second time and, indeed, it feels quite different from the first time. Truly, even if you rewrite the same chapter, it turns out different...)

 Chapter 325 Hide and Seek is for Kids

    Red Boy, holding a Red Tassel Spear, stared intently at Jiang Liu and hispanions.


    To be honest, rather than disliking Jiang Liu, Red Boy found himself somewhat fond of him.@@novelbin@@


    Having followed him for a while, he really seemed like a good person, unlike others he had encountered before.


    But now, since his identity had been exposed, Red Boy naturally sought to protect himself.


    Although he thought Jiang Liu was a good person and felt some fondness for him, the others, including Sun Wukong, did not look like easy opponents.


    Therefore, it was not only Sun Wukong and his group who were cautious around Red Boy, but Red Boy was equally cautious around them.


    Yet, even though his identity had been exposed, Master Xuanzang still spoke to him with a kind and pleasant demeanor, urging him to stay calm?


    Red Boy slightly turned his head, his gazending on Jiang Liu as he spoke, "Master Xuanzang, I am of the Demon Kind, are you not afraid of me?"


    "Demons are indeed fearsome, but then, are humans not fearsome as well? As long as one has a kind heart, regardless of being a human or demon, they are the same!"


    "Little do you know, this life you are human, but shedding this skin, entering the Path of Beasts, what stops you from bing a demon in the next life?" Jiang Liu''s face still wore a pleasant expression, his voice gentle as he spoke to Red Boy.


    Red Boy: "..."


    It must be said, Jiang Liu''s demeanor indeed felt heartwarming to Red Boy, and on reflection, Master Xuanzang''s words also seemed quite reasonable.


    Within the six paths of reincarnation, does it truly matter what kind one is?


    "Amitabha Buddha..." After a moment of silence, Red Boy put away his Red Tassel Spear, brought his hands together in a gesture of respect towards Jiang Liu, and said, "You truly live up to the reputation of the Holy Monk from Great Tang, no wonder my mother held you in such high esteem; you indeed inspire conviction!"


    After speaking, Red Boy pondered for a moment and then said, "Holy Monk, my me Cloud Cave is not far ahead. If the master does not mind, why note visit my cave? Let me also offer you our local hospitality!"


    Initially, Red Boy indeed harbored malicious intentions, but now, no longer holding such thoughts and not wanting to expose his identity further, he asked Jiang Liu and his group to leave.


    However, since his identity had now been exposed, Red Boy wanted to invite them to his me Cloud Cave to extend his hospitality.


    "Amitabha Buddha, it is better toply respectfully!" Hearing Red Boy''s words, Jiang Liu nodded and responded.


    With 1.8 million Experience Points on the line, he naturally must visit the me Cloud Cave, especially since Red Boy had personally extended an invitation. How could Jiang Liu refuse?


    "Great King? Ha ha ha..."


    Although Jiang Liu had nodded and agreed, Sun Wukong, hearing Red Boy refer to himself as ''Great King'', couldn''t help but burst into loudughter, "Whose child are you, you milk-nosed brat iming to be a ''Great King''? It''s utterlyughable, Old Sun is tickled to death!"


    "Hmph, you Monkey, you''re really annoying!" As a rebellious child, hearing Sun Wukong''s words made Red Boy give him a sidelong nce, responding in an equally irritated tone.


    At that, Red Boy paused briefly, then continued, "You ask who my parents are? Well, you''d better stand firm and listen well, my father is the renowned Demon King Ox!"


    "The son of Demon King Ox!?" Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing, standing nearby, were taken aback upon hearing Red Boy''s words, exchanging nces.


    The identity of Demon King Ox, they were naturally aware of, definitely a notorious figure within the Demon n, even heard of during their earlier times in the Heavenly Court as Marshal Tianpeng and General Juanlian.


    But immediately after, Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing nced weirdly at Sun Wukong, smirking secretly.


    Back then, the alliance of the seven sages of Flower Fruit Mountain was well known throughout the three realms...


    "You, you are the son of Demon King Ox!?" Sun Wukong, hearing Red Boy announce his lineage, was also stunned and looked at him in surprise.


    "Indeed, it seems you Monkey do have some insight, having heard of my father''s name!" Seeing Sun Wukong''s astonished expression, Red Boy nodded, his posture proud as he spoke.


    "Your father''s title is Great Sage of Heaven Equal, while I, Old Sun, am known as Great Sage Equal to Heaven, do you understand?" After sizing up Red Boy, Sun Wukong''s eyes held a hint of appreciation.


    At first, seeing such a bratty child like Red Boy, Sun Wukong naturally disliked him, but now, knowing his identity, he subtly nodded, somewhat feeling like he was looking at his own child.


    Yes, boys should be a bit rebellious and mischievous, otherwise, how could he truly be considered a son of Demon King Ox?


    "Great Sage Equal to Heaven!?" Sun Wukong''s words made Red Boy look at him curiously.


    "Correct, I, Old Sun, am the Great Sage Equal to Heaven, Sun Wukong!" He nodded, Sun Wukong also looking at Red Boy with some anticipation.


    So, having learned his own identity, should Red Boy now acknowledge his kin?


    "You better not meet my father! Otherwise, you''re in for it!" Red Boy said, curling his lips in a sympathetic expression as he looked at Sun Wukong. "You''re called Great Sage Equal to Heaven, which means you''re equal to heaven, but my father? He''s called Great Sage of Heaven Equal. If you meet my father, he might just tten you..."


    Great Sage Equal! It''s a phrase, so logically speaking, Great Sage Equal to Heaven and Great Sage of Heaven Equal, their meanings aren''t much different!


    But, to some extent, the character for "Equal" can be understood as "Exterminate," as in, going to Withered Pine Stream Fire Cloud Cave to exterminate demons.


    So, Great Sage of Heaven Equal can also be understood as Exterminator of Heaven.


    One is Great Sage Equal to Heaven, the other Exterminator of Heaven; hmm, from their titles, Sun Wukong indeed seems a notch below Demon King Ox, even suggesting being dominated...


    "You, you mischievous child, are really annoying!" Sun Wukong was both angry and helpless after hearing Red Boy''s words.


    He grimaced with anger, but felt like he couldn''t hit or scold him. In the end, he could only swear softly and then said, "Aren''t you going to greet your uncle? I, Old Sun, and your father are sworn brothers!"


    "Humph, don''t try to fool me, you monkey. I''ve been educated! My father had many tutors for me over the years!" Red Boy naturally didn''t believe Sun Wukong''s words and gave him a disdainful look as he spoke.


    Sometimes, the most frustrating thing is a rebellious child; you can''t really hit or scold them, but they contradict everything, and it really drives you mad.


    This must be how Sun Wukong is feeling right now.


    Jiang Liu watched Sun Wukong''s behavior, chuckling to himself.


    This was the first time he had seen Sun Wukong so flustered yet unable to take action.


    After chuckling for a while, Jiang Liu then spoke up: "Red Boy, what Wukong said is indeed true. He and your father are sworn brothers. By that connection, you should really be calling him uncle!"


    "Ah!?"


    Red Boy was skeptical of what Sun Wukong said, but he believed Jiang Liu more. Since Holy Monk Xuanzang said so, it was probably true, right?


    However, even with almostplete belief in his heart, being asked to call a stranger he just met ''uncle'' was too much for Red Boy to ept right away.


    So, with a bit of pride, Red Boy turned his head away and said, "Humph, we''ll see. I''ll have to ask my mother about this; I won''t easily believe you guys!"


    While speaking, Red Boy and the group quickly arrived at a cave, with three big characters written above it: me Cloud Cave


    "The Great King is back, the Great King is back..." As Red Boy and others returned, a few little demons guarding the entrance happily shouted, then opened the gate. Explore more at My Virtual Library Empire


    "Children, prepare the feast. Today, I will entertain distinguished guests!" Red Boy announced with a spirited tone.


    "Alright, Great King!" Following Red Boy''smand, the numerous little demons responded in unison.


    Red Boy indeed had an imposing look, though if he were a bit older rather than resembling a seven or eight-year-old child, he would be even more convincing.


    Preparing a feast was naturally not a quick task; even with everyone in me Cloud Cave working on it, it''d still take a Chinese Hour to get ready.


    "Holy Monk, my me Cloud Cave has many twists and turns; ordinary people entering might get lost after a few circles. How about we y hide and seek? I''ll hide, and you guys try to find me!"


    As they waited for the feast to start, feeling bored, Red Boy suddenly suggested this to Jiang Liu.


    "Hide... hide and seek...?" Red Boy''s suggestion took Jiang Liu by surprise.


    Being a Demon Immortal and the master of me Cloud Cave, Red Boy actually liked ying hide and seek?


    Well, that suits his childish nature...


    "You didn''t design me Cloud Cave with all those twists just to y hide and seek, did you?" Jiang Liu looked at Red Boy with a knowing gaze, as if seeing through his trick.


    "Cough, I, I..." Jiang Liu''s remark made Red Boy''s face turn red, and he looked embarrassed, not knowing whether to confirm or deny it.


    "Humph, hide and seek? That''s just a children''s game!" Sun Wukong said dismissively, waving his hand and adding with a contemptuous tone.


    "Master, take out the cards. While we still have time, how about we y a few rounds of Legends of the Three Kingdoms?" Sun Wukong suggested to Jiang Liu.


    "Oh yes, I haven''t yed in a few days, and I''m really itching to y!" Zhu Bajie eximed, his eyes lighting up, eagerly looking at Jiang Liu.


    "Master, Big Brother and Second Brother are right!"


    Even Sha Wujing, upon hearing the discussion about ying Legends of the Three Kingdoms, lit up and spoke up in agreement!

 Chapter 327 Princess Iron-Fan in Turmoil

    "Ah! Mercy, mydy! Mydy, mercy..."


    A golden rope, one end tied to an eagle, the other end oddly looped around a mountain. Then, the sharp, knife-like gale swept toward the eagle, transforming the golden rope into a straight stick-like form.


    Princess Iron-Fan stood quietly, holding a verdant Banana Leaf Fan, watching as the fierce wind gradually died down before lifting the fan again and gently waving it at the eagle.


    With the swaying of the Banana Leaf Fan, the terrible gale burst forth once more, engulfing the voice of the eagle.


    After waving the Banana Leaf Fan three times, Princess Iron-Fan raised her hand, and the golden rope was retracted.


    The eagle, now bereft of the ability to even maintain basic flight, plummeted from midair and crashed heavily onto the ground.


    So grand a being from the Demon King Realm, yet it couldn''t even sustain its power of flight.


    Princess Iron-Fan, with a calm demeanor, put away her Banana Leaf Fan and nced at the eagle, which appeared so feeble it seemed it could die at any moment, before turning back to enter her Banana Leaf Cave.


    Nearby, two female demons came over to help the eagle up.


    An hourter, within the Banana Leaf Cave, Princess Iron-Fan still sat quietly on her throne, serene, holding a cup of tea with a regal air, lookingpletely different from just moments before.


    The feeble eagle was then brought before Princess Iron-Fan.


    "Now, do you know how to address me?"


    Lightly sipping her tea, Princess Iron-Fan raised her eyelids and calmly gazed at the eagle.


    The eagle, unable to even transform into human form, fluttered its wings weakly and managed to stand up, bowing its head toward Princess Iron-Fan and said, "I have seen the gentle, elegant, and beautiful Lady Princess Iron-Fan!"


    "Hmm..." Hearing the eagle''s address, Princess Iron-Fan nodded her head.


    Her expression was still serene, but the atmosphere had noticeably lightened as she spoke, "Alright, stop your ttery. I will ask you, what purpose brings you to my Banana Leaf Cave? Is it perhaps that my son misses his mother?"


    "No, uh, yes, yes..." The eagle started to shake its head but then quickly had a sh of insight and corrected itself with a nod.


    Upon this remark, the eagle followed by saying, "After leaving your highness, my king has missed you greatly. He is so distressed that he cannot eat or drink properly and is utterly downcast every day!"


    "Ah, my poor child..." Hearing these words from the eagle, the bond of mother and child tugged at Princess Iron-Fan''s heart, making her feel immensely heartbroken.


    Thinking of her son, missing her deeply to the point of not eating, she felt an unbearable heartache.


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the me Cloud Cave.


    "Wow, it smells amazing!"


    Jiang Liu had already set up the Eight Trigrams Hot-Clear Pot, and as the broth within boiled, Red Boy, who was ying Legends of the Three Kingdoms with Sun Wukong and his brothers at the card table, stretched his neck toward Jiang Liu, inhaling deeply through his nose.


    The excitement for Legends of the Three Kingdoms seemed to diminish significantly.


    For a child, there are two major loves: eating and ying.


    Now, ying the most interesting Legends of the Three Kingdoms while smelling the tumbling broth from the Eight Trigrams Hot-Clear Pot, Red Boy felt his happiness was off the charts.


    ...


    Back in the Banana Leaf Cave, Princess Iron-Fan took a silk handkerchief from a female demon next to her and dabbed the tears at the corner of her eyes.


    Thinking of her son''s earnest longing and how he wasn''t eating, tears of pity fell from her eyes.


    It took quite an effort to calm the surging emotions of pity, her gazending on the eagle, she asked, "So, is it that your king sent you to invite me to see him?"


    "To report back to the gentle, elegant, and beautiful Lady, apart from conveying the king''s deep longing, there is another matter I came to ask about," said the eagle, bowing its head.


    "Oh? What matter is that?" said Princess Iron-Fan, putting down her handkerchief and inquiring.


    "Today, a group of people arrived at the me Cloud Cave, among them a monkey with a face like Thunder God''s mouth iming to be the sworn brother of Demon King Ox. My king feels there might be deception, so he sent me to ask if it''s really true because if..." Readtest stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    "What!?" Princess Iron-Fan suddenly stood up as if her rear was on fire.


    "You foolish eagle, why didn''t you mention such important news earlier!" Princess Iron-Fan''s face turned grim, her eyes zing with anger as she stared at the eagle and scolded.


    "Mydy, I, I, I wanted to say it from the beginning, but you were punishing me, not giving me a chance to speak..."


    Watching Princess Iron-Fan''s vehement reaction, the eagle felt immensely fearful and unjustly defended itself.


    Fearful, indeed, the eagle was truly scared now.


    Initially, even if its address as ''olddy'' angered her, at least on the surface, thedy could maintain a calm demeanor.


    But now, such a strong reaction from her?


    "It''s over..."


    In response to the Eagle''s justification, Princess Iron-Fan didn''t pay attention, her mind was upied with concerns about me Cloud Cave; she suddenly felt dizzy, as if even the sky had turned gray.


    "The monkey with the hairy face that thunders? Demon King Ox''s sworn brother?"


    Princess Iron-Fan, of course, knew the identity of the monkey with the hairy face that thunders ¡ª it was Sun Wukong!


    And where was Sun Wukong now? Wasn''t he journeying to the West with Xuanzang of the Great Tang, seeking scriptures?


    Did Princess Iron-Fan herself not know this? The so-called scripture seeking was but a great disaster between heaven and earth.


    At this time, all the deities in heaven feared getting involved with these scripture seekers, anxious they might unwittingly be dragged in and meet their demise.


    Just like a few days ago, the Journey to the West Team reportedly visited the Demon Realm.


    Demon Venerable Yu Hua, who dared to intervene in the matters of the journey, was a renowned figure since the Era of Deification. A being of the Great Luo Realm, he just died like that, and even his Blood Knife Cave waspletely destroyed, it was said.


    The power of this great disaster was once again disyed before everyone.


    Therefore, when Princess Iron-Fan heard that her child had encountered the Journey to the West team and, what''s more, that the team had apparently gone into the me Cloud Cave, she felt her head was spinning.


    Princess Iron-Fan knew her child''s temperament; if he really had met the scripture seekers, it was almost certain to cause displeasure.


    At that moment, under the catastrophe, wouldn''t her child be facing great danger?


    "No, I must go there myself!" Realizing her son might be in great danger, Princess Iron-Fan could no longer sit still. She stood up and prepared to rush toward the me Cloud Cave.


    "Madam, you must not go!"


    Hearing Princess Iron-Fan''s words, two female demons nearby immediately approached, hastily holding her back, saying, "Master repeatedly instructed before he left; it''s best not to leave the cave these recent years, especially to avoid the Journey to the West team. If you go now, isn''t that seeking disaster?"


    Indeed, the most terrifying aspect of this heavenly disaster was that it clouded the mind, leading one to act foolishly in confusion and potentially ending one''s life.


    To the two female demons by her side, knowing how fearsome the journey team was, yet the Lady still wanted to approach them, wasn''t this a sign of courting disaster?


    "Do not persuade me!" However, Princess Iron-Fan did not heed the words of the two female demons, determined to act alone.


    "My child is in trouble, facing immediate danger; how can I, as a mother, just stand by? If indeed it is a disaster, I''d rather face it with my child!"


    With these words, Princess Iron-Fan moved swiftly, stirring up a whirlwind and vanished from Banana Leaf Cave, flying towards the me Cloud Cave.


    "Madam, did she, perhaps misunderstand something?"


    The Eagle, who had no chance to speak until Princess Iron-Fan had left, finally muttered tentatively, "It seems that our Great King has a fairly good rtionship with Master Xuanzang!"


    ...


    In mid-air, Princess Iron-Fan moved like lightning, at full speed, stirring up a whirlwind, feeling as if the scenery around her was rapidly retreating backwards.


    With her Taiyi Realm cultivation level, although the distance from Banana Leaf Cave to me Cloud Cave was tens of thousands of miles, it would not take much time.


    In just about half an hour, she had already arrived inside me Cloud Cave.


    She didn''t even bother with the Little Demons at the mouth of me Cloud Cave; with an urgent heart, Princess Iron-Fan waved her Banana Leaf Fan and charged into the cave with a formidable presence.


    She was determined that if her child indeed was in trouble, she would fight desperately against the Journey to the West Team!


    Even if it meant fighting a hopeless battle, she had no regrets even in a hundred deaths!


    "Wow, delicious! This spicy hot pot is really tasty!"


    "Come on, my children, go bring two more jars of aged wine!"


    "I love the spiciness of this; the vor is so good! Indeed, the monkey was right, this spicy hot pot is truly the best delicacy in all three realms!"


    Red Boy, tasting this hot pot for the first time, together with the deliciousness added by the Eight Trigrams Hot-Clear Pot special effect, felt like he could swallow his own tongue, loudly praising it.


    While speaking, he maneuvered his chopsticks swiftly,peting vigorously with Zhu Bajie and Sun Wukong, entirely in the manner of fighting over food.@@novelbin@@


    The atmosphere was incredibly lively and harmonious.


    "Hehehe, this spicy hot pot is delicious, and the dishes Master makes are also tasty, like the cumin grilled meat is exceptional!" Zhu Bajie picked up arge slice of mutton with his chopsticks, stuffed it into his mouth, and spoke with great relish.


    "Hmm, not bad, Second Brother is right!" Sha Wujing, his mouth full of food, nodded in agreement upon hearing this.


    "Hehehe, besides the cumin grilled meat, I, Old Sun, also really like Master''s cooking, like mao blood hot, chopped chili fish head, and even the preserved egg and lean meat porridge; in short, as long as it''s Master''s cooking, I, Old Sun, like it all!" Meanwhile, Sun Wukong also nodded along.


    "Hmm, Big Brother is also right!" Sha Wujing continued to nod.


    "Is that so? Wow, Holy Monk, you, you really should stay in me Cloud Cave for a few more days, no, a few more months at least!" Red Boy said, his eyes shining as he stared at Jiang Liu.


    Princess Iron-Fan, who had charged in with the Banana Leaf Fan, seeing this scene, waspletely disoriented by the wind.


    "What, what is going on here, who am I? Where am I? What am I supposed to do..."

 Chapter 328 Green Lotus Taoist Scripture

    It''s no wonder Princess Iron-Fan was utterly confused at this moment. The scene before her eyes was nothing like what she had imagined, evenpletely contradictory.


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    What was going on? Why were her child and the Journey to the West Team so lively and seemingly close?


    And to think she had rushed in with the Banana Leaf Fan, didn''t that silly vulture rify the situation?


    "Eh? Mother, you''re here!?"


    Never mind how Princess Iron-Fan appeared disheveled in the wind, Red Boy had obviously noticed her presence by now, disying a look of both surprise and delight as he spoke and approached.


    "Red Boy''s mother? Princess Iron-Fan?" Hearing Red Boy''s words, Jiang Liu nced at the woman who rushed in, especially noting the Banana Leaf Fan in her hand, and murmured quietly to himself.


    At the same time, he felt a bit astonished internally. What was happening? Why had Princess Iron-Fane here? This wasn''t in the original story.


    If the original story had included Princess Iron-Fan and others arriving at the me Cloud Cave, Red Boy would not have been taken away by Guanyin to be the Good Wealth Child.


    "Sister-inw, long time no see!" At that moment, Sun Wukong approached Princess Iron-Fan, greeting her respectfully.


    "Nephew, my respects!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s greeting, Princess Iron-Fan followed suit with her own courteous gesture.


    It seemed that both parties were quite polite.


    The biggest conflict between Princess Iron-Fan and Sun Wukong in the original text was over Red Boy. Now that everyone appeared joyfully harmonious, it naturally suggested that the brotherly rtionship between Demon King Ox and Sun Wukong still existed.


    "Really? This monkey is truly Father''s sworn brother!?"


    Hearing the conversation between Sun Wukong and Princess Iron-Fan, Red Boy nodded silently to himself, convinced of Sun Wukong''s identity without further questions.


    "This, I presume, must be Holy Monk Xuanzang? I have long heard of Holy Monk Xuanzang''s renown and never expected to meet him today..." After greeting Sun Wukong, Princess Iron-Fan then turned her gaze towards Jiang Liu and spoke.


    "Amitabha, Princess Iron-Fan, I''ve seen you," Jiang Liu also set down his chopsticks and sped his hands together, bowing politely to Princess Iron-Fan.


    "Holy Monk Xuanzang, you indeed are an extraordinary person¡­" After observing Xuanzang for a moment, Princess Iron-Fan slightly nodded and remarked.


    Master Xuanzang was exceedingly handsome and notably devoted, a fact well known across the three realms. Initially, the stories between him and Princess Gaoyang were known to anyone with a bit ofpetence.


    Yet, ever since he embarked on the Journey to the West for Scriptures, there had been no reports of him being moved by any other woman. Such a man naturally made women feel an instinctual fondness.


    Furthermore, Xuanzang normally appeared humble and easy to speak with, but for his disciple Wujing, he had bravely ventured into the Demon Realm, fiercelybating enemies and even causing the death of Yu Hua from the Great Luo Realm.


    Such ruthless actions were indeed startling.


    People constantly ruthless are feared, but someone humble and polite on regr asions who could turn fierce when necessary is truly admirable.


    Just like a person, if one is very astute in both life and in business, people, including close friends and family, tend to keep a distance from them.


    On the contrary, if one is shrewd in business but simple in personal life, they indeed seem more approachable and genuine.


    Master Xuanzang gave off exactly this kind of impression.


    "Mother, please take a seat. Holy Monk Xuanzang has personally prepared a spicy hot pot. This is considered one of the top delicacies in all three realms. Mother, you must try it too..."


    Although Red Boy was somewhat rebellious and willful, he was very filial to his mother. Surprised that she had unexpectedlye to me Cloud Cave, he quickly pulled Princess Iron-Fan to a seat at this time.


    Of course, another chair and a set of chopsticks were added by a little demon from me Cloud Cave.


    "Mmm, it smells wonderful!" Now that her initial tension had subsided, Princess Iron-Fan put away the Banana Leaf Fan, her attention finallynding on the spicy hot pot as she sniffed and eximed in astonishment.


    "Here, Mother, try this..." Red Boy, appearing quite filial, proactively ced a slice ofmb into Princess Iron-Fan''s bowl and spoke.


    "My son is indeed filial!" Watching Red Boy''s actions, Princess Iron-Fan expressed her gratification.


    Then she took the slice ofmb, put it in her mouth, and her eyes instantly lit up.


    "Delicious, my son wasn''t exaggerating, this spicy hot pot is truly the top delicacy of the three realms!" Nodding significantly, Princess Iron-Fan sincerely praised.


    For a moment, Princess Iron-Fan dropped all pretenses of her usual noble demeanor, joining in the eager food grabbing.


    At arge round table, Jiang Liu and the others shared the food in a joyful and harmonious atmosphere.


    Most importantly, the trust-enhancing effects of the Eight Trigrams Hot-Clear Pot escted their camaraderie drastically, almost giving the impression of longtime friends.


    ...


    Setting aside the bustling activity around me Cloud Cave, elsewhere in Moyun Cave, Mount Jilei, the Demon King Ox, who had horns atop his head and looked brilliantly heroic, was lying on a jade bed.


    In his arms, he embraced a delicate and graceful young girl, whoy weakly in his embrace.


    Demon King Ox had fallen into a deep sleep, snoring like thunder.


    Just then, suddenly, a violent tremor shook the area, as if to bring the whole Mount Jilei crumbling down, startling the jade-faced girl on the bed into a shrill scream.


    Naturally, the sleeping Demon King Ox also jerked his eyes open.


    ring with eyes asrge as brass bells, Demon King Ox rolled out of bed and hastily donned his clothing, appearing majestic and furious as he strode out of the cave within moments.


    "Who are you? Daring to disturb my sleep, are you tired of living?" Demon King Ox red with wide eyes at a strange man in front of him and asked, frowning.


    The man in front of Demon King Ox appeared to be half-human, half-dragon, exuding a sharp Qi of Geng Metal that made Demon King Ox feel secretly rmed with its sky-reaching aura.


    "Demon King Ox, is it? I''ve heard that you recently acquired the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture in the Ancient Immortal Cave. I''d like to borrow it to have a look. Would you mind?" The man, unarmed and calm, spoke to Demon King Ox, seemingly disregarding the renown of the mighty Demon King Ox.


    "Who are you?" Hearing this, Demon King Ox was secretly startled, as this person dared to approach him and even knew his identity.


    Regardless, Demon King Ox considered himself a Great Demon with a prominent reputation across the Three Realms, and ordinary people did not dare to seek trouble with him.


    "Who I am is not important, but the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture is. It contains profound teachings of the Great Way. If I could obtain it, perhaps I couldprehend the Holy Way. Could I borrow it to take a look?" The half-human, half-dragon man said, his expression showing some impatience as he continued to address Demon King Ox.


    "Hmph, let''s see what you''re capable of then!" Demon King Ox retorted coldly.


    During the speech, Demon King Ox shook his iron stick and struck at the man.


    "You stubborn ox, I knew you wouldn''t agree so easily. Now let me show you what I can do!" The half-human, half-dragon man, unconcerned by Demon King Ox''s response, which was within his expectations, replied.


    As he spoke, the man did not use any weapon but merely clenched his fists and punched at Demon King Ox''s iron stick.


    With a loud bang!


    After the man''s fist collided with the iron stick in Demon King Ox''s hand, Demon King Ox was forced to step back two steps, feeling a numbing sensation in his palm.


    Looking at the opponent, his fist appeared red-gold and, after making contact with Demon King Ox''s weapon, waspletely unscathed, even without stepping back half a step!


    "Who exactly is this divine being?" Power-wise, he was now a notch weaker, which secretly rmed Demon King Ox.


    Known as the Great Strength Bull Demon King, the title of ''great strength'' described his immense power, did it not?


    Yet today, he found himself outmatched in strength by such a mysterious being.


    When did such a formidable being appear among the Three Realms and Six Paths?


    Of course, despite being internally shocked, Demon King Ox was not so easily defeated. Maintaining hisposure, he lifted his iron stick again and struck at this mysterious man.


    The mysterious man, equallyposed, raised his iron fists and continued to pound down with one punch after another.


    No weapons, no spells, just a pair of iron fists!


    Yet with just his fists, he could smash any weapon and negate any spell or divine skill.


    This mysterious man''s fight method was very singr, yet extremely powerful, putting Demon King Ox at a disadvantage.


    The metallic attribute had always been the bane of Demon King Ox.


    In the original text, despite battling Sun Wukong, it was challenging to subdue Demon King Ox. Even Third Prince Nezha, with his supremely resilient and yang treasure, the Qiankun Ring, could restrain Demon King Ox, showing his weakness toward Vajra treasures like the Qiankun Ring.


    And this man, with a Qi of Geng Metal that Demon King Ox had never seen before, made him realize he was outmatched after a brief encounter, leading him to retreat and flee into the distance.


    "Thinking of escaping? The Green Lotus Taoist Scripture is a treasure I must obtain!"


    Once involved in a fight, this mysterious half-human, half-dragon man was certainly not going to let it go, his form shifting as he pursued Demon King Ox.


    In just moments, the chase between the two figures vanished beyond the horizon.

 Chapter 330 Hand of Healing Can Be Played Like This?

    What the existence of the twelve Ancestral Witches meant, Demon King Ox was very clear about.


    In ancient times, the Witch and Demon ns suppressed the entire Primordial Continent, and the other races barely survived under their oppression.


    At that time, even the Saints had not attained their saintliness, and facing the overwhelming power of the Witch and Demon ns, they had to momentarily retreat, showing the strength of these two ns.


    Unfortunately, fate is as harsh as a knife, and the heavens decreed that the Witch and Demon ns must withdraw from the world''s stage. A great battle between Witches and Demons made the heavens and earth lose their color, and it also nearly led to the extinction of these two ns, thus providing other races with the opportunity to grow.


    It was only following this great battle between Witches and Demons that the Human n began to gradually develop and eventually became the protagonist of heaven and earth.


    Although this individual, chasing after him, had only acquired a bit of the bloodline of the Ancestral Witch Rushou, after a battle, Demon King Ox could feel that his opponent''s strength was superior to his own, and he had no choice but to fight and flee at the same time.


    At the same time, he felt a deep sense of gravity in his heart; worthy indeed of the Ancient Witch n, even just a strand of bloodline possessed such formidable power.


    It seems that this guy''s strength, even in the Great Luo Realm, definitely belongs to the top tier of existences.


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    Huff!


    The half-human, half-dragon man, running barefoot on the earth, moved with extreme speed. With a mighty leap, he created a huge crater with his step; simultaneously, the soaring figure threw a fierce punch toward Demon King Ox''s back.


    The punch, heavy and forceful, gave one a feeling of being unmatched.


    After all, the Qi of Geng Metal is known for its destructive power.


    Demon King Ox, feeling the attack approaching swiftly from behind, didn''t care whether he could withstand it, as he swung his iron stick backward to meet the man''s fist.


    With a bang, Demon King Ox''s body, like a smacked flying ball, was fiercely mmed down from midair.


    His figure even directly smashed through a mountain and heavily crashed to the ground, nearly flipping the entirend over.


    At the same time, the half-human, half-dragon man alsonded from midair, then positioned himself next to Demon King Ox, stretched out his hand, and seized Demon King Ox''s neck, lifting him up directly.


    "I''m asking you onest time,"


    the half-human, half-dragon man, his eyes filled with tyrannical and murderous intent, seriously stared at Demon King Ox, said, "Where is the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture? If you don''t hand it over, I''ll have to extract your divine soul and search through your soul memory! Then, you will cease to exist without even a chance for rebirth!"


    "I, I''ll hand it over!" Hearing the man''s words, Demon King Ox''s face slightly changed.


    The Soul Searching Technique is not something everyone knows, but Demon King Ox didn''t dare gamble with his own life; thus, after a brief moment of silence, he could only nod and speak.


    While speaking, he raised his hand and pulled out a finely crafted treasure box from within his bosom.


    "Open it!" Upon seeing the treasure box, obviously containing very intricate restrictions, the mysterious man said in a deep voice.


    Demon King Ox didn''t bother with pointless talk, stretching his hand to cast several dozens of spells thatnded on the treasure box. Then, the light from the box shed, and slowly, it opened.


    An ancient lotus flower, within the treasure box, slowly bloomed; upon a closer look, one could see that each petal of the lotus bore very peculiar symbols.


    These symbols seemed to contain indescribable fundamental truths of heaven and earth.


    "The Green Lotus Taoist Scripture, in hand!" Looking at the lotus blooming within the treasure box, the mysterious man''s eyes lit up with joy; meanwhile, he reached out his hand toward the treasure box and grabbed the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture in his hand.


    Huff!


    However, just at that moment, suddenly, a whooshing sound arose, and the forceful Ruyi Golden Cudgel came smashing fiercely towards the man.


    With one hand holding the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture, the mysterious man swung his other hand, flinging Demon King Ox who he was gripping away, then immediately reached with his bare hand toward his own head to grab something.


    With a snap, Sun Wukong''s Ruyi Golden Cudgel was caught in the man''s bare hand just like that.


    "Sss, this guy, so strong!" Although he had braced himself mentally, seeing his own Golden Cudgel being directly grabbed by someone still shockingly surprised Sun Wukong internally.


    Such a technique, even among the Three Realms, wasn''t something many could possess, right?


    "Hand of Healing!"


    Seeing Sun Wukong make his move, Jiang Liu naturally wouldn''t just stand by idly, raising his hand, a holy object descended from the sky, smashing toward the mysterious man.


    "Hmph, a bunch of jumping clowns!"


    Feeling the holy object descending from the sky, the mysterious man''s mouth curled in disdain, twisted his wrist, and astonishingly also sent Sun Wukong flying out, simultaneously, throwing a punch toward the descending holy object.


    Although the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture was already in hand, since they dared to make a move against him, he wouldn''t be polite any longer!


    Boom!


    The mysterious man''s fist smashed on the holy object.


    However, he discovered that the Holy Object waspletely immobile, and then, the Holy Object that had descended from the sky was firmly pressing down on the man''s body.


    "No, this can''t be possible!"


    He struck with a punch, but nothing moved; now with this strange thing pressing on him, he couldn''t move at all? The Mysterious Man shouted incredulously.


    With both hands, he grabbed the Holy Object that had descended from the sky, trying to lift it, but the Holy Object still did not budge, regardless of how much strength he exerted.


    Buzz!


    An invisible wave spread from the Holy Object, swept over Demon King Ox''s body, and rapidly healed his injuries.


    At the same time, Jiang Liu pointed his finger towards Demon King Ox, casting the Guanyin Mantra Skill.


    The Guanyin Mantra could directly restore 25% of the maximum Life Value along with the effect of the Hand of Healing. Visibly, Demon King Ox''s injuries were rapidly healing.


    In particr, Demon King Ox himself felt it even more profoundly.


    "What, what kind of strange ability is this, my injuries have already recovered to about sixty to seventy percent?" Feeling his injuries healing swiftly inside, Demon King Ox thought to himself in disbelief.


    "Big brother, are you alright?" At this time, Sun Wukong turned around and came over to Demon King Ox, asking.@@novelbin@@


    "Sworn brother, it''s you who came!" Seeing Sun Wukong beside him, Demon King Ox said with a smile filled with joy on his face, feeling moved.


    As they spoke, Demon King Ox''s eyes swept over andnded on Jiang Liu, and after evaluating him for a moment, he said, "This must be Holy Monk Xuanzang, right? It''s true what they say, you never really know someone until you meet them. Holy Monk, truly skilled indeed!"


    Demon King Ox''s words were truly from the heart, and were not just to tter Jiang Liu.


    Seeing the man with the Rushou Bloodline being pressed down by the Holy Object and struggling for a long time unable to push the object off himself, Demon King Ox was extremely shocked.


    The strength of this man had just been felt by Demon King Ox; how could such a seemingly small object immobilize the other party?


    The skills of Holy Monk Xuanzang were indeed startling.


    "So, the Hand of Healing can be used this way too?" Not only was Demon King Ox stunned, but actually, Jiang Liu too was somewhat stunned watching the half-human half-dragon man unable to move under the Hand of Healing.


    Hand of Healing (Great Perfection): Summons an indestructible Holy Object from the sky, within a radius of a hundred meters, all friendly targets heal 1% of their maximum Life Value every second, duration 20 seconds, cooldown 1200 seconds.


    Closely examining his own skill list, he read the description for the Hand of Healing Skill, starring a Holy Object summoned from the sky.


    An indestructible Holy Object?


    So that''s it! From this perspective, can we say that the Hand of Healing is also a Law-Type Skill?


    Recalling the most popr Marvel series movies from a previous life, Thor''s hammer seemed to have some kind ofw-type ability whereby no one except specific individuals could lift the hammer.


    Now this man being pressed down by the Holy Object, isn''t it just like the scenes in Marvel movies, where others cannot lift Thor''s hammer?


    "Eh? What is that!?" At this time, Jiang Liu''s gaze sharpened seeing something by the side of the man¡ªa Lotus-like Treasure fell out from a Treasure Box.


    Clearly, the Holy Object from the Hand of Healing had smashed onto the ground, causing the object in the man''s hands to fall down.


    "You bastard, what on earth is this thing? Let me out! And, that Green Lotus Taoist Scripture is mine!"


    The man pressed under the Hand of Healing saw Jiang Liu''s gazend on the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture and hurriedly tried to reach for it, but being immobilized on the ground, he couldn''t quite grab it.


    "Green Lotus Taoist Scripture? Seems like a good thing!" Hearing the man''s words, Jiang Liu was intrigued.


    Looking around, the effect of the Hand of Healing still had a few more seconds, Jiang Liu walked over and picked up the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture from the ground.


    "Wukong, what are you waiting for? Why aren''t you taking the opportunity to strike now!?" After picking up the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture, Jiang Liu didn''t have time to examine it and instead shouted loudly to Sun Wukong.


    Indeed, with the man unable to move under the Hand of Healing, wasn''t it the best opportunity to strike? Were they just watching the show?


    "No, I, Old Sun Wukong would act, how could I take advantage of someone''s plight? If I am to act, I must defeat him fair and square!" Listening to Jiang Liu, Sun Wukong shook his head and spoke.


    "Right, sworn brother, well said!" Hearing this, Demon King Ox by the side also raised his thumb in admiration and said.


    Jiang Liu: "..."


    Well, keeping in mind the original tale, Sun Wukong with his 72 transformations could be a small creature, and if he wished to attack stealthily, hardly any Demon Creature posed a threat to him on the Journey to the West, right?


    Every time he decided to engage, he usually released his transformation, grabbed the Jingu Bang and charged forward.


    His unwillingness to take advantage of others seemed reasonable too?

 Chapter 331 Immortal Classics

    Since Sun Wukong was not willing to take advantage of someone''s vulnerability, Jiang Liu naturally didn''t force him, but, an existence that could trounce Demon King Ox? Jiang Liu looked at the man pinned under the Hand of Healing, silently invoking the character UI in his mind.


    Suddenly, the corresponding character UI appeared in front of Jiang Liu.


    ID: Mysterious Man (Golden)


    Gender: Male


    Profession: Shaman


    Level: 85


    Equipment: None


    Observing the man''s details, Jiang Liu was slightly stunned, focusing particrly on the golden UI of this mysterious man, his profession as a Shaman, and his level of 85.


    A Level 85 Golden BOSS UI? So, an existence of the Great Luo Realm? And even a golden UI of the Great Luo Realm?


    Shaman? The legendary Witch n?


    On closer thought, the legendary Witch n really did seem extraordinary. No wonder an existence like the Demon King was overwhelmed by this man.


    Jiang Liu turned his head and nced over; although Demon King Ox reached Level 82, he was only a Blue UI, which was inferior to this mysterious man.


    Realizing this, Jiang Liu''s mind was filled with curiosity. When he arrived just now, did he see this Shaman of the Witch n and the Demon King fighting over a strange lotus he held in his hand?


    Was this so-called Green Lotus Taoist Scripture a treasure worth fighting to the death over by two beings of the Great Luo Realm?


    Curiously, Jiang Liu nced down at the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture in his hand.


    As Jiang Liu''s gazended on it, the attribute information for the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture also appeared in front of him.


    Green Lotus Taoist Scripture (Skill Book): Consumes 10 Skill Points. By contemting its mysteries, it gives experience points twice the level of the practitioner every 10 seconds during cultivation. Additionally: the higher the aptitude, the better the effect. Do you want to learn it?


    "Sss!" Seeing the attribute information of the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture, Jiang Liu gasped in amazement, his eyes filled with surprise.


    He had already cultivated the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound to the sixth level, investing 11 Skill Points. He was gaining 11 experience points every ten seconds, which was even after the enhancement of his aptitude by the Ginseng Fruit and Jadescent Nectar.


    But what about this Green Lotus Taoist Scripture? It provided twice the experience points of one''s own level? And the better the aptitude, the greater the bonus? The higher the cultivation level, the greater the bonus?


    At his current level of 51, twice? That was 102 points! Upon reflection, it meant the effects of cultivating this Green Lotus Taoist Scripture were roughly ten times those of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound!


    This was a real Immortal ssic!


    Thinking it over, about 600 experience points a minute? What about an hour of cultivation? That''d be 36,000 experience points?


    Sss, in just one hour, it was like cultivating Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound for a day!


    All along, Jiang Liu had been cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, valuing this Cultivation Technique because it was among the top Divine Skills from the Great Buddha Temple, not avable to ordinary people.


    But now,pared to this so-called Green Lotus Taoist Scripture, Jiang Liu realized that the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound was nothing.


    This truly supported the saying:paring oneself to others will only make you despondent,paring goods will make them seem disposable.


    Ideally, shouldn''t a treasure fought over in such a manner be shared by others? However, keeping it for oneself doesn''t really seem justifiable.


    Jiang Liu''s thoughts raced as his gaze fixed on the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture, thinking of memorizing it, then rewriting itter. Wouldn''t that work the same way?


    Just like the initial days with the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound...


    However, as Jiang Liu''s eyes focused on the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture, he realized he couldn''t understand the numerous runes on it at all.


    As far as the eye could see, it truly felt like reading a heavenly book¡ªmemorizing it? That seemed an impossible task.


    "Kill!"


    As Jiang Liu''s attention was fixed on the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture and 20 seconds had quickly passed, with the Hand of Healing disappearing, the man who had been pinned down finally stood up. His gaze locked on Jiang Liu, he shouted angrily and leaped forward with a surging momentum, charging at Jiang Liu.


    Having been pinned down, the man felt extremely humiliated, and naturally, his heart was filled with hatred toward Jiang Liu.


    "Hmph, take this strike from I, Old Sun!" Sun Wukong quickly sidestepped to block in front of Jiang Liu, smashing his Ruyi Golden Cudgel directly at the man.


    "Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra!" As Sun Wukong made his move, Jiang Liu naturally cast a Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra skill on him.


    At the same time, he swiftly cast a Protective Mantra skill on Demon King Ox.


    With the strength of Sun Wukong and Demon King Ox, their attack power and defense ability each increased by 25%, a significant enhancement.


    Together, the brothers immediately pressured the mysterious man, putting him at a disadvantage.


    With the effects of the Protective Mantra and even the Vajra Mantra boosting his own attributes, Demon King Ox could feel his defense reaching a terrifying level, hence, he actively took on the role of absorbing damage.


    Meanwhile, Sun Wukong, wielding the Ruyi Golden Cudgel,unched a series of powerful, unrelenting attacks at the man.


    "Damn it!" After a short fight, the man from the Witch n realized he could not possibly be a match for both Sun Wukong and Demon King Ox. Soon, the health bar above the man''s head dropped below half, and his injuries were severe.


    Finally, after casting a fierce nce at Jiang Liu and the others, he turned and left.


    With a stomp, the ground split open, and in an instant, the man shot off like a cannonball, disappearing into the horizon.


    Apart from their innate divine abilities, the Witch n primarily relies on physical attacks, hardly ever employing spells, and thus, theyck even the ability to fly...


    "Alright, my brother, let''s not pursue him!" Seeing Sun Wukong eager to continue the chase, Demon King Ox stopped him and said, "This man is very mysterious; we don''t know what might happen if we push him too hard. It''s better not to chase him; driving him off is enough!"


    Well then, since Demon King Ox spoke thus, Sun Wukong thought it over and decided against continuing the chase.


    "Holy Monk, my brother, thank you both foring to my aid, or I, Old Ox, would have been dead many times over today. I cannot forget this great kindness!" After driving off the mysterious man of the Witch n, Demon King Ox earnestly thanked Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong.@@novelbin@@


    "Where does thate from, big brother? When we became sworn brothers, didn''t we agree that I, Old Sun, would never just stand by and watch?" Sun Wukong waved his hand, seemingly unconcerned.


    "Well, Demon King Ox, if you really want to thank me, um, cough cough, how about you give me the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture?" Hearing this, Jiang Liu, though somewhat embarrassed, still took the initiative to speak up.


    Asking for a reward for his good deed was indeed embarrassing for Jiang Liu, even downright shameful, but for a treasure like the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture, he was willing to swallow his pride.


    With it, his growth rate would greatly increase, and the stronger his strength, the safer his life would be.


    In the face of life, what do a few embarrassing moments count for?


    Just like in his previous life, which man didn''t care about losing face? But when it came to earning money for the family, stooping low and begging were nothing. When ites to making money, pride has no value!


    "Ah?" When Jiang Liu spoke these words, both Demon King Ox and Sun Wukong were stunned.


    Demon King Ox did not expect Jiang Liu to make such a direct request.


    As for Sun Wukong, knowing his master''s character well, knew he was not the type to ask for a reward for his kindness. Could it be that he was truly determined to obtain the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture?


    "Holy Monk, what are you talking about?" Although stunned at first, Demon King Ox quickly recovered and waved his hand generously, saying, "If it weren''t for your intervention, Old Ox here would have lost not just the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture but my life too. Now, keeping my life is already a gain. If the Holy Monk likes the scripture, then it is yours to have!"


    "Thank you!" Hearing Demon King Ox''s words, Jiang Liu nodded heavily and sincerely expressed his gratitude.


    Although it was a lifesaving grace, considering that Demon King Ox had fought desperately for the scripture, the fact that he was willing to give it to him now made Jiang Liu sincerely grateful.


    "Where is that? Holy Monk, you are straightforward in your desires and do not use underhanded methods. This is something Old Ox truly admires!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Demon King Ox turned his head and paid him apliment.


    "Alright, alright, Master, big brother, let''s not praise each other anymore!" Watching the two of them shower each other withpliments, Sun Wukong, feeling a bit left out, shook his head and interrupted their exchange.


    "Cough cough, actually, I was only a supporting character in today''s rescue. Even if I hadn''te, Wukong would certainly have been here, so I dare not take credit!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu coughed and attributed the merit to Sun Wukong.


    "Ah, my virtuous brother truly values loyalty and righteousness!" Following Jiang Liu''s words, Demon King Ox nodded at Sun Wukong and earnestly spoke.


    "Hehehe, I, Old Sun, have already said, let''s not praise each other anymore. Even if you turn around and praise me, I, Old Sun, won''t be pleased!"


    Hearing the words of Jiang Liu and Demon King Ox, Sun Wukong''s eyes narrowed in a smile, and his tail swung left and right, but his mouth spokepletely insincere words.


    "Alright, let''s head back for now!" Having saved the person, Jiang Liu spoke up, preparing to return with Sun Wukong.


    "Oh, Holy Monk, have a safe journey!" Hearing that Jiang Liu and Sun Wukong were leaving, Demon King Ox nodded and spoke, showing no intention of apanying them.


    Joking aside, they were at the heart of a great cmity; friendship aside, staying with them for an extended time was not something Demon King Ox was willing to do.


    The terror of the great cmity was clearer to Demon King Ox than to anyone...


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    But after bidding farewell, Demon King Ox couldn''t help but ask one more question, "By the way, Holy Monk, my brother, how far along on your Journey to the West for Scriptures have you gotten now?"

 Chapter 332 Reset Points

    "Oh, big brother, we''ve just arrived at the Withered Pine Stream Fire Cloud Cave!" Upon hearing Demon King Ox''s inquiry, Sun Wukong responded.


    "Withered Pine Stream Fire Cloud Cave!?" Upon hearing Sun Wukong''s answer, Demon King Ox was slightly startled. This ce sounded familiar.


    Wait a minute, isn''t this where Red Boy lives!?


    Confused, although they were sworn brothers, bound by deep affection and righteousness, Demon King Ox had always maintained a respectful distance from the Journey to the West Pilgrimage Team due to his fear of the cataclysmic tribtions of heaven and earth.


    Unexpectedly, this group had actually ventured into his son''s territory?


    "Brother-inw, you, you haven''t gone on a killing spree in the Withered Pine Stream Fire Cloud Cave, have you!?" Realizing that Jiang Liu and hispanions were currently near the Fire Cloud Cave, Demon King Ox''s heart raced as he nervously asked Sun Wukong.


    "Big brother, what are you talking about? Red Boy is my nephew, how could I possibly go on a killing spree?" Sun Wukong replied, shaking his head at Demon King Ox''s words.


    "Phew, that''s a relief!" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Demon King Ox let out a long breath and nodded quietly to himself.


    The monkey still remembered the kinship of sworn brothers, not bad at all. He had just been scared half to death by their conversation.


    "By the way, aside from Red Boy, your sister-inw is also in the Fire Cloud Cave now, big brother. Won''t you go and have a family reunion?" Sun Wukong said to Demon King Ox after the words were spoken.


    "This¡­" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Demon King Ox looked somewhat hesitant.


    A family reunion? Demon King Ox naturally wanted that, but the Journey to the West Team was at the center of this heavenly tribtion. If something went wrong, wouldn''t his whole family be wiped out?


    Sometimes, the heavenly tribtion made no sense at all; not only if you were caught in it, sometimes you couldn''t even escape it if you wanted to.


    Take the example of the Deification Tribtion, where Lady Sanxiao from the Ind of Immortality had originally decided to remain indoors and not leave.


    Yet, in the end? Didn''t she still suffer tribtions?


    However, after pondering quietly for a moment, although Demon King Ox preferred not to have too much contact with Jiang Liu and hispanions, upon reconsideration, even if it was to face death, a family should be together.


    Thus, Demon King Ox nodded and said, "Brother-inw makes a good point. It''s been quite some days since Ist saw my child; I should go and visit him!"


    As soon as the words were spoken, the three of them directly flew toward the direction of the Fire Cloud Cave.


    With Sun Wukong leading, they were naturally fast; in the blink of an eye, the three of them had descended into the Fire Cloud Cave.


    Once inside the Fire Cloud Cave, seeing his wife and child were indeed alright, and even seemed to be very close with Zhu Bajie and others, Demon King Ox truly felt relieved.


    "Father!" Seeing Demon King Ox enter the cave, Red Boy was naturally very happy and joyfully rushed over.


    Seeing that Demon King Ox had safely returned, Princess Iron-Fan''s heart secretly filled with joy.


    Yet, as Demon King Ox''s gaze fell on her, Princess Iron-Fan snorted and turned her gaze away.@@novelbin@@


    "Wife, I, old Ox, am back!" Holding Red Boy in his arms and seeing that Princess Iron-Fan clearly looked angry, Demon King Ox grinned and gently patted her shoulder, saying softly.


    "Hmph, why did youe back? Didn''t you go off with that fox demon? Don''t you just like that fox demon? Why bothering back?" Upon hearing this, Princess Iron-Fan coldly spoke to Demon King Ox.


    "Wife, listen to what you''re saying. No matter how good that Jade-Faced Fox is, she''s just for fun. You and Holy Infant are my family. Alright, alright, no more anger¡­" Demon King Ox said nonchntly, gently patting Princess Iron-Fan''s shoulder and speaking softly.


    It must be said, although Demon King Ox was a phnderer, he was quite adept at mollifying his wife.


    In just a few words, Princess Iron-Fan was unable to maintain her stern face anymore. After chatting a few more sentences, looking at the wounds on Demon King Ox, she appeared distressed, and the family of three looked harmonious and joyful.


    "No wonder in a past life, when describing someone impressive, they often said it was ''awesome,'' indeed, Demon King Ox is super awesome!" Watching hime back from womanizing and mollify his wife in just a few words, Jiang Liu was absolutely astonished.


    Right then, he nced at Zhu Bajie beside him, giving him a nudge with his mouth, clearly saying, "See that, pighead? That''s real skill, learn something!"


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    ...


    In a stone chamber, Jiang Liu sat cross-legged but did not rush to cultivate as it was alreadyte night. After Demon King Ox was rescued and everyone had chatted, they dispersed to rest.


    Jiang Liu entered the stone chamber alone and immediately opened his storage space. Then, a scroll and the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture, which looked like a lotus, were taken out by Jiang Liu and ced in front of him.


    Prompt: Would you like to use the Reset Scroll?


    As Jiang Liu took out the scroll, a system prompt appeared.


    The Reset Scroll had been lying in Jiang Liu''s storage for a very long time. In Jiang Liu''s view, now indeed was the most appropriate time for him to use it.


    Following the prompt, Jiang Liu directly unfolded the scroll.


    An odd glow burst forth from the Reset Scroll and plunged directly into Jiang Liu''s body.


    Instantly, the area between Jiang Liu''s brows lit up, followed by thousands upon thousands of threads spilling out from between his brow, condensing mid-air, astonishingly morphing into multiple Skill Books.


    Even the Skill Books ced inside the Skill Bookcase emerged.


    Silencing Zen, Demon-Subduing Mantra, Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra, Vajra Mantra¡­


    One after another, the Skill Books appeared in front of Jiang Liu, showcasing the skills Jiang Liu had learned and stored in the Skill Bookcase.


    Now that all his skills had been reset, Jiang Liu remembered nothing, unable to perform any skills.


    Of course, he was left with 51 Skill Points.


    After a moment of contemtion, Jiang Liu thought about it and picked up the Skill Books one by one to properly allocate his Skill Points, quickly updating the relevant skill list.


    After reallocating the Skill Points, Jiang Liu checked his skill list, which now appeared before him.


    Silencing Zen (Primary Level 1): Requires level 1, long-distance release, can silence the target for 2 seconds, skills cannot be used while silenced, cooldown time 30 seconds.


    Vajra Mantra (Great Perfection 4): Summons the mysterious power of Vajra to bless an ally, reducing the next four instances of damage by 80%, cooldown time 50 seconds.


    Fiery sh (Great Perfection 4): Summons the power of fierce fire, imbued onto a weapon to deliver a heavy sh to the target in front, Attack Power +2500+50%, also inflicts burn damage equal to the attack,sting 100 seconds, cooldown time 60 seconds.


    Guanyin Mantra (Great Perfection 4): Restores 25% of maximum Life Value, cooldown time 600 seconds.


    Sheep Transformation Technique (Primary Level 1): Transforms any target into a harmless littlemb for 2 seconds. During this state, the target cannot attack or use skills, cooldown time 300 seconds.


    Dispel Curse (Primary Level 1): Removes control effects such as silence, immobilization, transformation, and dizziness from a target, cooldown time 600 seconds.


    Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra (Great Perfection 4): Increases an ally''s Attack Power by 25%,sting 300 seconds, cooldown time 60 seconds.


    Palm Thunder (Great Perfection 4): Grasps a target, then releases the power of thunder within the palm, Attack Power +3200+150%, cooldown time 60 seconds.


    Hand of Healing (Great Perfection 4): Summons an indestructible holy object from the sky, all allies within a 100m radius heal 1% of their maximum Life Value per second,sting 20 seconds, cooldown time 1200 seconds.


    Strengthening Body-Protection Spell (Great Perfection 4): Increases an ally''s defensive power by 25%,sting 300 seconds, cooldown time 60 seconds.


    Lotus Spell (Great Perfection 4): Summons the pure Buddhist Power from the skies, transforming into nine lotus illusions, affects targets within a 120m radius, inflicting added damage of 1500+40% Attack Power, cooldown time 15 seconds.


    Green Lotus Taoist Scripture (10): During cultivation, gains experience points equivalent to twice his level every 10 seconds, additionally, the higher the aptitude, the better the effect.


    Some skills, like Arhat Fist, had be impractical; thus, Jiang Liu had no intention of relearning them.


    Simrly, the normal Demon-Subduing Mantra also became much less effective, so Jiang Liu had no intention of learning it again.


    Although he had fewer skills, Jiang Liu''s allocation of Skill Points had be more reasonable.


    Silencing Zen, Sheep Transformation Technique, and Dispel Curse were three control-type skills, mainly meant for their control effects, only varying slightly in duration and cooldown time after assigning several Skill Points.


    Therefore, for Jiang Liu, just dropping 1 Skill Point into these was sufficient for use.


    Apart from these three skills, Jiang Liu disyed a ''spare no expense'' attitude toward the other skills, upgrading them all to the highest level.


    For instance, Fiery sh, initially at the primary level, now had escted to Great Perfection, greatly boosting its Attack Power, aplete transformation.


    Simrly, Palm Thunder was also maxed out, further enhancing its Attack Power boost.


    Of course, the only mass-attack skill of the Compassionate Bodhisattva, Lotus Spell, was also upgraded to the highest level, enhancing the range and damage of the skill.


    Having looked it over, his 51 Skill Points had beenrgely invested, totaling 45 Skill Points, leaving 6 Skill Points on hand for reserve, which was fairly good.


    After adjusting his skill list with the aid of the Reset Scroll, Jiang Liu''s eyes nced at the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture with some anticipation.


    What would it be like to cultivate under the state induced by the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture?


    Sitting cross-legged, Jiang Liu quickly entered into meditation, his mind clear and his inside coursing with vibrant True Yuan.


    Shortly after, the system''s notification for gaining Experience Points every ten seconds appeared.


    Notification: Obtaining Experience Points¡­

 Chapter 333 Mocked by the System?

    ```


    Hint: Gained 85 Experience Points.


    Hint: Gained 85 Experience Points.


    Hint: Gained 85 Experience Points.


    ...


    As Jiang Liu cultivated, the system''s notification sounds kepting incessantly, but after hearing this notification, Jiang Liu''s face turned somewhat dark.


    Are you kidding me? Only 85 points! Didn''t the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture state that the experience gained should be twice one''s level?


    I''m at level 51 now, so shouldn''t I be getting 102 Experience Points?


    Only 85? What kind of nonsense is this?


    Green Lotus Taoist Scripture (10): When cultivating, gain experience equal to twice your own level every 10 seconds. Additionally, the higher your aptitude, the better the effect.@@novelbin@@


    After carefully reading the information on the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture, Jiang Liu''s gaze finally rested on the description that the better the aptitude, the better the effect, and then his face darkened even more.


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    So, conversely, does that mean the worse the aptitude, the worse the effect?


    I should have gained 102 Experience Points, but now I can only get 85?


    Is this, in a way, the system mocking my poor aptitude?


    "This, this Immortal ssic, is truly extraordinary!" His face slightly dark, but then a hint of resignation shed through Jiang Liu''s heart.


    It must be said that after the enhancement of the Ginseng Fruit and the Jadescent Nectar, Jiang Liu believed that his aptitude had improved a lot, which was evident when he practiced the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    However, now that he was cultivating the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture, Jiang Liu realized that after all, the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound was just a Cultivation Method of the Mortal World, whereas the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture was a true Immortal ssic, a treasure even Great Luo Golden Immortal-level beings would fight over.


    Therefore, while there were bonuses for cultivating the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound, could it be that when cultivating the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture, not only was there no bonus, but it actually had a weakening effect?


    However, although the Experience Points gained were only 85, which was somewhat lower than the expected 102 points, there was no denying that the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture deserved to be called a true Immortal ssic, for the Experience Points I received while cultivating it were indeed eight times that of the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound!


    Looking at it this way, if I were to cultivate for 10 hours a day, could I gain about 300,000 Experience Points?


    Such a rate of growth was iparable to methods like the Heavenly Dragon Zen Sound.


    After calming his mind, Jiang Liu continued his cultivation, sitting quietly on the bed and entering meditation.


    I don''t know how long it had been when Jiang Liu slowly opened his eyes to find that it was already daylight outside, and after a whole night of cultivation, he didn''t feel tired at all; on the contrary, he felt very spirited.


    Character Profile!


    Looking down at himself, Jiang Liu inwardly chanted, and soon, a semi-transparent character profile appeared in front of him.


    ID: Jiang Liu (Blue).


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Compassionate Bodhisattva


    Level: 51 (19.2 million/45 million)


    Equipment: ...


    "Hm, not bad at all, truly worthy of being a real Immortal ssic, one night of cultivation and I''ve gained almost 300,000 Experience Points, that''s great!"


    After genuinely cultivating for an entire night and seeing the status on his character profile, Jiang Liu nodded in satisfaction to himself.


    "Master, Master,e out for breakfast!" After finishing his cultivation and freshening up, soon, the shouts of Sun Wukong came from outside.


    Jiang Liu walked out of the Stone Chamber to see that breakfast had already been prepared in me Cloud Cave. It turned out Princess Iron-Fan had made it herself.


    "Amitabha, thank you!" Joining his hands together, Jiang Liu said his thanks humbly and politely.


    "Holy Monk Xuanzang, what are you thanking me for? You and my uncle saved Old Ox; I just prepared a little food. How can it merit such gratitude!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s thanks, Princess Iron-Fan shook her head and said, meanwhile gesturing for Jiang Liu and the others to sit down.


    "Master Xuanzang, you must stay a few more days in my me Cloud Cave!" At the dining table, Red Boy spoke up, addressing Jiang Liu.


    With delicious food to eat, the fun game of Legends of the Three Kingdoms to y, and his parents here, Red Boy felt that this was simply the happiest time for him.


    So, somewhat reluctantly, Red Boy wanted Jiang Liu to stay for a few more days.


    Hearing his son''s words, Demon King Ox''s expression turned a bit bitter. He wanted to refuse, but couldn''t bring himself to say it.


    Although from the point of rtionship, Demon King Ox also hoped that Sun Wukong and Jiang Liu would stay longer, allowing his family to properly show their hospitality.


    However, since the Journey to the West Team was at the center of a great cmity, Demon King Ox had an innate fear of it.


    ```


    After all, Demon King Ox had truly given his all during the cmitous Deification Cataclysm.


    "Holy Infant, Master Xuanzang bears the important mission of the westward Journey to the West for Scriptures. How can he afford to stop and y with you? Stop speaking nonsense!" After a moment''s thought, Demon King Ox spoke up, rebuking Red Boy with a deep voice.


    "No! I want Master Xuanzang to stay! I haven''t mastered Legends of the Three Kingdoms yet! Uncle Sun Wukong mentioned there are also Fight the Landlord and Mahjong, all very fun games!" However, Red Boy''s rebellious nature would not allow him to simply obey; hence, upon hearing these words, he shook his head and responded.


    "You child..." Seeing Red Boy''s demeanor, Demon King Ox felt both angry and helpless, at a loss for words in the moment.


    "Actually, this monk would like to stay for some days as well," Jiang Liu uttered, coughing dryly, as he observed the father and son seeming on the cusp of quarreling.


    Without waiting for Demon King Ox and Red Boy to say more, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on Red Boy and he asked, "In recent days, I have wished to practice more on the Path of Artifact Refining. Does your me Cloud Cave have any equipment that needs forging or repairing?"


    "We have! Even if we don''t, I''ll create the conditions for you!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s inquiry, Red Boy stood up, thumping his chest as he said.


    "Why do I feel an ominous premonition!?" As Red Boy''s words fell, a few Little Demons serving at the dining table exchanged nces, and then one of them whispered.


    "I, I think I feel the same!" A Little Demon beside the first one shrank his neck and nodded in agreement.


    ...


    Leaving the situation at me Cloud Cave aside, at this time, within the Purple Bamboo Forest of the South Sea, Bodhisattva Guanyin sat in tranquility.


    In front of hery a little notebook, and Guanyin silently perused the records within, which astonishingly detailed the trials of the westward Journey to the West for Scriptures.


    Golden Cicada''s demotion, threats at birth, casting into the river at full moon, being bitten at Foutu Mountain, pleading before Buddha to save Gaoyang, Guanyin Zen Temple, Bajie''s Love Tribtion, abduction at Pingding Mountain, entering the Demon Realm to search for disciples...


    Bodhisattva Guanyin silently counted the tribtions listed in the Cmity Book, sighing softly within her heart. The westward journey had gone on for so long, and the schemes had beenid for an equally lengthy period, yet there had only been a mere nine tribtions.


    It seemed unknowable how long it would take to umte theplete set of eighty-one trials.


    In Bodhisattva Guanyin''s view, many events ought to have counted as tribtions.


    For example, the obstruction at Liusha River, the trial of Zen hearts by the four saints, the Yellow-Robed Monster of Treasure Elephant Country, the True and False Monkey King, subduing demons in ck Chicken Country, and so on, shouldn''t they all count as tribtions?


    Even that time, after much effort, she begged Mo Liqing to send Floral Mink to create a tribtion.


    But what in the end? Despite Floral Mink''s death, it still didn''t count as a tribtion?


    Sighing inwardly, having only gathered nine tribtions thus far, where would she find the remaining seventy-two trials? Bodhisattva Guanyin began to ponder.


    Even in her heart, she doubted whether, along the eighty-one thousand miles of the westward path, she would truly manage to arrange the eighty-one trials.


    After examining the details, Bodhisattva Guanyin put away the Cmity Book and gazed into the distance, her eyes seemingly transcending the boundaries of time and space to observe a far-off scene.


    "Ah, Demon King Ox?" Guanyin mused for a long time before sighing softly to herself, beginning to devise a n in her heart.


    Demon King Ox was a Great Luo Realm being, and in principle, as another of the Great Luo Realm, Bodhisattva Guanyin was reluctant to provoke him lightly.


    Yet, considering the eighty-one necessary tribtions and the current shortfall, she saw no alternative but to include Demon King Ox in her designs.


    After a moment of contemtion, a rough n began to take shape in Bodhisattva Guanyin''s heart, gradually solidifying into rity.


    ...


    In the days that followed, Jiang Liu and his group stayed within the me Cloud Cave without immediate intentions to depart.


    One reason was Red Boy''s invitation. He hoped that Jiang Liu''s group would stay for food and drink.


    After all, the meals Jiang Liu cooked were genuinely delicious, and besides Legends of the Three Kingdoms, Sun Wukong had also taught Demon King Ox and his family how to y Mahjong and Fight the Landlord.


    Initially, Demon King Ox internally opposed the idea of Jiang Liu''s group staying in me Cloud Cave.


    However, after three days, Demon King Ox himself took a seat at the gaming table, bing engrossed in ying Legends of the Three Kingdoms.


    But, as much as Demon King Ox enjoyed ying Legends of the Three Kingdoms, Princess Iron-Fan beside him preferred ying Mahjong even more.


    Therefore, these past few days saw ongoing debates about what to y.


    Jiang Liu paid little regard to their situation, focusing mainly on his Cultivation and the repair of equipment.


    During these days, his proficiency in Life Skills increased as he advanced in repairing equipment.


    "Hey, do you know? I heard that Master Xuanzang is immortal, and eating a piece of his flesh grants evesting life!"


    However, amid this tranquility, whispers of ndestine discussions began to emerge.


    (PS: Have you noticed that under this author ount, there''s anotherplete 4 million-word novel titled "Professional yer in Another World"? Ah, with the ability to level up through fights and blow up equipment in another world, what would it be like? You can go check it out. It''s somewhat simr to this Journey to the West. It was previously obscured for some baffling reason, but after a recent review by the auditing department, the book is now unblocked. Indeed, how could my writings, the work of such a pure child, ever be banned...)

 Chapter 335 The Most Cowardly Demon King Ox in History

    Thud! Thud! Thud!


    Under normal circumstances, Jiang Liu looks like nothing more than a handsome young monk with a modest and polite demeanor. However, when he makes a move, holding a huge Xuanhua Axe in his hand, the ferocity of his onught ispletely at odds with his original temperament.


    As he brought the giant axe down in sessive strikes, the Demon King was forced to retreat continuously,pletely overpowered.


    "Damn it," the Demon King cursed after a moment of fiercebat. Seeing Jiang Liu''s axe descending, he made no move to block it, instead bringing his cleaving saber straight down toward Jiang Liu''s chest.


    It was a do-or-die gambit, clearly intended to force Jiang Liu to defend himself.


    However, in the Demon King''s mind, while Jiang Liu surely had to parry to protect himself, his movements didn''t change at all.


    This left the Demon King utterly shocked. What was happening? Was this Holy Monk Xuanzang truly ready to risk his life against him?


    In the blink of an eye, it was already toote to change his move. Jiang Liu''s axe struck the Demon King''s shoulder, and amid a scream of agony, one of his arms waspletely severed.


    Experience new stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    With a splurting sound, the Demon King''s cleaving saber alsonded on Jiang Liu''s shoulder, blood spilling out.


    However, this cut was merely a superficial wound on Jiang Liu''s chest, not deep enough to damage even bone, just a flesh wound.


    With strong Defense Equipment and the damage immunity from the Vajra Mantra reducing 80% of the injury, the Demon King''s strike inflicted minimal damage on Jiang Liu, barely managing to leave a scratch.


    Jiang Liu''s Health Points, following the strike, decreased by a mere 5% or so.


    For the Demon King, however, things were different. With an arm severed, his Health Points plummeted by 20%. Now, it looked like only a third of his Health Points remained.


    "I will take you down with me!" By this point, the Demon King realized the gravity of his wounds and that victory was impossible for him. His eyes filled with madness, he shouted loudly at Jiang Liu.


    Simultaneously, an immense surge of Demon Qi erupted, and his body started to swell up rapidly like an inted balloon.


    "A self-destructive skill?" Jiang Liu''s heart tensed as he observed the Demon King''s transformation.


    Extending his hand toward the Demon King, he cast the Silencing Zen, striking him with its power.


    In an instant, the Demon Qi within the Demon King became as stagnant as still water, unable to be mobilized. Simultaneously, the inted figure swiftly deted, rapidly returning to its original form.@@novelbin@@


    Seeing the baffled look on the Demon King''s face, Jiang Liu, without further ado, charged forward again, his Xuanhua Axe falling continuously.


    Then, with a final move of Palm Thunder, he grabbed the Demon King''s head.


    Lightning furiously poured forth, instantly enveloping his entire body andpletely consuming his form.


    Notification: Earned 45,600 Experience Points, received 880 silver taels.


    As soon as the Demon King was gravely injured and on the brink of death by Jiang Liu''s hand, the system''s notification sounded almost simultaneously, prompting Jiang Liu to nod to himself in approval.


    As expected of a Demon King level existence, defeating him awarded a whopping more than 40,000 Experience Points, equivalent to over an hour''s worth of cultivation with the Green Lotus Taoist Scripture.


    After dispatching the Demon King in a one-on-one fight without expending much effort, Jiang Liu looked down at his own injury, immediately healing himself with the Guanyin Mantra, restoring his Health Points to full before opening his inventory space with satisfaction.


    Upon defeating the Demon King, some desirable loot appeared, the most important of which was arge Bronze Chest.


    "A Bronze Chest? What is this?" With the item appearing in his inventory space, Jiang Liu felt a sense of wonder, different from the usual Treasure Chests he encountered.


    As Jiang Liu''s gaze settled on the Bronze Chest, the corresponding Attribute Information quickly appeared before him.


    "Gang''s Treasury (Special Item): Can be ced in the gang''s stronghold. Members of the gang can deposit and withdraw items at will. The Gang Leader can open it from a distance, space is 100*100 slots!"


    "Sss, what a treasure!" Jiang Liu gasped at the Attribute Information of the Bronze Chest, feeling both shocked and ted.


    100*100 slots? That''s a total of 10,000 slots!


    Compared to this chest, his own inventory space seemed like nothing more than a fabric pouch!


    "No wonder it''s an excellent item for storing an entire gang''s treasures, the space is truly massive!" After carefully examining the capacity of the Bronze Chest, Jiang Liu nodded to himself, quite satisfied with what he found.


    Of course, what mattered most was that the Gang Leader could open it from afar?


    Doesn''t this mean that no matter where I go, I can deposit and retrieve items from this treasure at will?


    It''s as if I''ve been given a super-huge additional inventory space!


    If in the future I end up like during the battle in the Demon Realm, with my inventory space filled, I can just transfer everything to the Gang''s Treasury, couldn''t I just continue looting automatically?


    ```


    Of course, although the Bronze Chest from the Gang''s Treasury was desirable, it could only be used after establishing a gang and cing it in the gang''s territory.


    Therefore, it was currently of no use!


    Whoosh!


    Just as Jiang Liu''s thoughts were upied with the Bronze Chest, silently contemting the creation of a gang, a dazzling light suddenly appeared, binding his entire body and rendering him immobile.


    The sudden, stealthy attack left Jiang Liupletely unable to react.


    "What''s happening!?" Suddenly ambushed, Jiang Liu was instantly bound, and at the same time, a feeling of the world spinning came over him, making him feel somewhat dazed and heavy-headed.


    When Jiang Liu regained his senses, he realized that he had been bound, and a wholly red, one-horned Flood Dragon was clutching him, flying off into the distance.


    Despite the stealth attack, the ability to instantly capture him and flee into the distance without even needing to check the opponent''s character panel, Jiang Liu could sense that this red Flood Dragon was extraordinary.


    Jiang Liu swiftly opened the Social System panel and sent a message via the Master-Disciple channel, calling for help from Sun Wukong.


    In me Cloud Cave, Sun Wukong, who was originally lounging with his legs crossed, resting, suddenly sprang up, having heard his master''s cry for help!


    With just a thought, Sun Wukong leapt to his feet, waking up Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing as well.


    "Monkey Brother, what''s up? It''s the middle of the night!" Rubbing his eyes, Zhu Bajie muttered sleepily.


    "Bajie, Wujing, this is bad, Master is missing, I heard him call for help using his Divine Skills!" Sun Wukong said with an urgent look on his face.


    "What!? Master is missing!?" Upon hearing this, both Zhu Bajie and Sha Wujing''s expressions changed dramatically.


    Sun Wukong busily went in search of his master, quickly leaving me Cloud Cave.


    Themotion here was also noticed by the Little Demons of me Cloud Cave, who promptly informed Demon King Ox and his family.


    "It''s over!" Hearing this news, Demon King Ox''s face turned exceedingly grim.


    The members of the Journey to the West Team were the eye of the storm in a major cmity; indeed, it had been a mistake to keep them in me Cloud Cave.


    Now something had indeed happened, and this was troublesome!


    "What!? Something happened to Holy Monk Xuanzang in my me Cloud Cave!?"


    Leaving aside why Demon King Ox looked so troubled, nearby Red Boy, who was courageous as a calf unafraid of tigers, heard of Jiang Liu''s trouble, grabbed his Red Tassel Spear, and mes of Samadhi True Fire rose from his body as he spoke angrily, ready to rush out and help. Who dared toy hands on Holy Monk Xuanzang in me Cloud Cave? Wasn''t that a p to his own face?


    "Wait, Holy Infant, don''t go..." However, seeing Red Boy angrily preparing to join the battle, Demon King Ox''s expression changed again as he urgently spoke up to stop Red Boy.


    "Father, why?" Turning his head in confusion, Red Boy looked at Demon King Ox, unable to understand. How could he stand idly by in such a situation?


    "Don''t go! Listen to me! If we get involved, the odds are against us!" Hearing Red Boy''s words, Demon King Ox''s expression darkened, but he still blocked Red Boy, not allowing him to proceed.


    "Father, when you were in trouble before, Uncle Wukong and Holy Monk Xuanzang came to your rescue!" Hearing his father speak as if afraid of death, Red Boy found it hard toprehend.


    In Red Boy''s heart, his father had always been a man of indomitable spirit, fearless, yet today, what had happened to him?


    Without even seeing who their adversary was, he was already too frightened to act?


    "Holy Infant, some things areplicated and can''t be clearly exined, just listen to your father! Don''t go!" Exining was too troublesome, Demon King Ox simply stared seriously at Red Boy and spoke.


    "Sigh..." Princess Iron-Fan, seeing the dispute between her husband and son, inwardly sighed.


    Why her husband did not act, Princess Iron-Fan was well aware.


    If Demon King Ox was afraid of neither heaven nor earth, then there was one thing in the world that he feared the most, which was the major cmity.


    Princess Iron-Fan understood clearly that what her husband truly feared was not the person who dared to abduct Holy Monk Xuanzang, but rather the identity of Holy Monk Xuanzang and hispanions, the individuals fated for the current cmity.


    Any mishap involving him would strike fear in her husband, prompting him to keep his distance.


    "Alright, Holy Infant, no more arguing. There is reason in what your father says; just listen to him this time!"


    Despite knowing her son''s rebellious nature, Princess Iron-Fan also joined in, softly persuading Red Boy.


    "Indeed, we might even be better off leaving this ce; mydy, let''s return to Emerald Cloud Mountain for a few days!" Demon King Ox nodded in agreement, even feeling that staying in me Cloud Cave was unsafe.


    "Holy Infant, haven''t you always wanted to go back to Banana Leaf Cave? Let''s do it today, the three of us, and spend some time there, shall we?"


    ```

 Chapter 337 Jiang Liu Forced to Show Off His Wealth

    The four great continents, among them, North Julu State is the most chaotic, infested with demons, akin to a mortal purgatory.


    In the extreme north of North Julu State, there lies a great marsh, which, although not as vast as the four seas, is still one of the leading marshes in all the three realms, named: Yunmeng.


    In the midst of Yunmeng Marsh, there is a Dragon Pool, where originally lived a Red Python. By a stroke of serendipitous fortune, it received a strand of dragon bloodline passed down from ancient times and transformed into a Flood Dragon, ruling over Yunmeng Marsh for many years as king.


    Today, this Flood Dragon emerged from the depths, only to return several dayster. Upon its return, its colossal dragon w was clutching a young monk.


    "ording to legends, a person who has cultivated for ten lifetimes, eating a piece of your flesh could grant one longevity and immortality!"


    In the Flood Dragon Pool of Yunmeng Marsh, the fiery red Flood Dragon took on human form, appearing as an old man withpletely red hair and beard, and with glowing eyes, he stared at Jiang Liu and said.


    While speaking, the corner of his mouth even subtly licked, clearly regarding Jiang Liu as prey.


    Character UI!


    Jiang Liu remainedposed, seriously observing the blood-red Flood Dragon in front of him. He silently chanted in his mind, and at that moment, a character UI appeared before Jiang Liu.


    ID: Fire Flood Dragon (Blue).


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Demon.


    Level: 88


    Equipment: ¡­


    "A level 88 with a Blue UI!?" As he looked at the level information of this figure before him, Jiang Liu''s heart sank slightly.


    It was evident from the character UI that the strength of this Fire Flood Dragon was terrifyingly potent; perhaps it was only one step away from the Quasi-Saint realm?


    "Amitabha, this ce is tens of thousands of miles away from South Shanbu State. How did you even capture me? From where did you get the information!?" With a somewhat heavy heart, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell upon the Fire Flood Dragon and he opened his mouth to ask, also as an attempt to buy some time.


    "Where I got the information is none of your concern. Although my cultivation level grants me thousands more years of life, if eating you can grant eternity, wouldn''t that be the icing on the cake?"@@novelbin@@


    This Fire Flood Dragon seemed quite straightforward and did not show any interest in Jiang Liu''s words.


    "What ce is this?" Jiang Liu scanned the surroundings and asked.


    "Don''t bother asking. It''s pointless to say more to a man about to die," the Fire Flood Dragon replied, with no intention to answer Jiang Liu''s question.


    While speaking, its eyes narrowed slightly, clearly getting ready to take action.


    "Wait!" Seeing that the Fire Flood Dragon was about to attack, Jiang Liu spoke up.


    "Trying to buy time? Sadly, I am not interested in idle chatter," the Fire Flood Dragon said calmly as it stepped forward towards Jiang Liu, even flipping a dagger into his hand as he spoke.


    "Rest assured, death by one quick slice. You won''t feel a thing and should consider it an honor that I would consume you to extend my life!"


    "Nonsense, how would you know it''s painless if you''ve never died!?" Jiang Liu retorted indignantly in response to the Fire Flood Dragon''s words.


    Your adventure continues at My Virtual Library Empire


    Though he was grumbling, Jiang Liu''s mind was extremely active.


    In theory, the Fire Flood Dragon intended to devour him now and seemed impatient to wait; initiating a topic to distract him did not seem easy.


    Unlike theatrical demons like Gold Horn King and Silver Horn King, who, even after capturing him, hesitated to truly make a move.


    But judging by this Fire Flood Dragon''s demeanor, it was seriously resolved to consume him.


    Resist? That was obviously impossible to achieve, given the 88-level Blue UI. How could he resist?


    But buying time? The Fire Flood Dragon, with its impatient mannerisms, clearly didn''t want to waste any.


    What other choices did he have, or rather, what topics might catch its attention?


    "If it''s just for the sake of longevity and immortality, truly, I have another item that could take the ce!" Amidst his rapid thoughts, Jiang Liu spoke.


    "Another item to take its ce? What is it!?" Jiang Liu''s words indeed caught the Fire Flood Dragon''s attention, prompting it to ask with a calm expression.


    However, it did not halt its advance, continuing to step towards Jiang Liu.


    "Look, what is this!?" Left with no other choice but to stall for time, Jiang Liu quickly opened his bag space and took out one of the three Life Fruits he had stored from Wuzhuang Temple before.


    The crystal-clear fruit, resembling a child, was taken out and immediately released a strange fragrance that revitalized the spirit of those who smelled it.


    "Eh? Could this be the legendary Life Fruit!?"


    Upon seeing the Ginseng Fruit in Jiang Liu''s hand, the Fire Flood Dragon''s attention was indeed drawn away, and it spoke with an ted expression.


    ```


    Yes, why did the Fire Flood Dragon want to eat Jiang Liu? Its purpose was none other than his flesh of eternal life, wasn''t it?


    Naturally, the Fire Flood Dragon was also very interested in other things that could bring immortality.


    Speaking of which, in this world, things that can increase one''s lifespan are indeed rare, with only three famous types.


    First is the Empress''s Peaches, second is Immortal Zhenyuan''s Ginseng Fruit, and third is the Supreme Elder Lord''s Golden Pills.


    Unfortunately, all three of these are not easy to obtain, so ordinary creatures can only dream about them, without any way to acquire them.


    Of course, aside from these three, there are other alternative methods, such as using the hearts and livers of one thousand one hundred and eleven children as a medicinal primer; this indeed can craft an elixir of life.


    But this method is far too cruel and loaded with karmic consequences, deterring most from pursuing it.


    Thus, the recent rumors, that consuming a piece of flesh from a monk journeying to the West can grant immortality, seem like the easiest way to achieve it, after much consideration, right?


    "I didn''t expect that you, a monk, would actually have something as precious as Ginseng Fruit in your possession! Give it to me!" Watching Jiang Liu with the Ginseng Fruit in hand, the Fire Flood Dragon''s eyes filled with excitement and greed, as it spoke.


    As it spoke, the Fire Flood Dragon stretched out its hand, reaching for the Ginseng Fruit in Jiang Liu''s hand.


    Never mind whether eating this little monk would truly grant eternal life, at least, the Ginseng Fruit from Wuzhuang Temple could indeed give one longevity¡ªthat was a fact!


    Seeing the Fire Flood Dragon reaching for his Ginseng Fruit, Jiang Liu activated the special effect of his shing Brilliance Shoes, dodged in a sh, and put the Ginseng Fruit back into his storage space.


    "Wukong, you must hurry, or your master will really be eaten by this creature!"


    On the surface he remained calm, but in fact, Jiang Liu had already opened the disciple interface and was sending a message to Sun Wukong, transmitting his voice.


    "Master, you say that the evil demon carried you northward, but exactly where, I do not know. I, Old Sun, must search thoroughly!" Sun Wukong''s reply came quickly in their conversation.


    Clearly, Sun Wukong also felt somewhat aggrieved.


    "Master, dy as long as possible please, I, Old Sun, will hasten my search. You said it was deep in the ocean, right? I, Old Sun, understand!" At the same time, Sun Wukong also sent a message, hoping his master could buy some more time for him to search.


    "What, you won''t give it to me!?" After missing his target, the Fire Flood Dragon''s face grew ugly, and it asked Jiang Liu with anger on its face.


    "No, no, no, besides the Ginseng Fruit, this poor monk has other fine things in his possession! Guaranteed to please you!" Upon hearing this, Jiang Liu shook his head and said.


    "What other things!?"


    Although aware that Jiang Liu was merely stalling, the Fire Flood Dragon''s attention was indeed captured by the mention of other fine things.


    "Do you know of the Supreme Elder Lord''s Nine Revolutions Golden Pill? I just happen to have one!" Smiling slightly, Jiang Liu flipped his palm, and a Nine Revolutions Golden Pill appeared in his hand.


    "What a treasure!" Seeing the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill in Jiang Liu''s hand, the Fire Flood Dragon''s face once again filled with desire.


    While the side effects of the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill were too terrifying for those with low cultivation levels, for those with high cultivation, it was definitely a tonic.


    The level 88 Fire Flood Dragon was already at the level of a Daluo Golden Immortal. In his view, consuming this Golden Pill would not cause any difort; on the contrary, it could enhance his cultivation level, perhaps even advancing him to the peak of Great Luo or even stepping halfway into the Quasi-Saint Realm with one foot?


    "Struck it rich!" Looking at Jiang Liu who sessively took out the Ginseng Fruit and the Nine Revolutions Golden Pill, the Fire Flood Dragon felt as if it had made a fortune.


    Initially, it was just a monk it had caught who could grant immortality upon consumption, but who could have expected it was now a buy one, get two free situation?


    "Do you have any other treasures?"


    Despite fully understanding that Jiang Liu was just buying time, with great confidence in its own strength, the true Fire Flood Dragon was not in a hurry to eat Jiang Liu but looked at him expectantly.


    Having already presented the Ginseng Fruit and Nine Revolutions Golden Pill, who knew if he had any other treasures!?


    "Then, how about this Demon Emperor Pill!?"


    After pondering for a moment, under the Fire Flood Dragon''s expectant gaze, Jiang Liu immediately presented the Demon Emperor Pill he had obtained in Doushuai Pce.


    "Demon Emperor Pill!"


    Looking at the pill in Jiang Liu''s hand, the Fire Flood Dragon''s eyes sparkled.


    Even though it didn''t know the effects of this pill, nor had it ever heard the name ''Demon Emperor Pill,'' the Fire Flood Dragon could feel a clear, instinctual desire for it¡ªas if a person wandering the desert for three days and three nights suddenly saw an oasis.


    ...


    Whoosh!


    Meanwhile, regardless of what was happening in Yunmeng Marsh, another figure, Red Boy, flew rapidly across the sky.


    As he dashed through the air, a long tail of me trailed behind him.


    ```

 Chapter 338 Red Boy to the Rescue

    ```


    Struck gold!


    All I did was catch a Tang Monk, but it came with bonuses like Ginseng Fruits, Demon Emperor Pills, and Nine Revolutions Golden Pills? For the Fire Flood Dragon, this can be said to be a windfall.


    It''s like modern people buying a second-hand car and finding hundreds of thousands of cash hidden inside¡ªa surprise, just like finding a treasure.


    "Give them to me, give me all of them!" The Fire Flood Dragon, unable to contain its impatience, looked at Jiang Liu and said hurriedly.


    Ginseng Fruits, Nine Revolutions Golden Pills, and especially that magical Demon Emperor Pill¡ªthe Fire Flood Dragon felt an insatiable craving for them!


    "I can''t just give them to you, what if you still eat me after I do!?" Jiang Liu flipped his hand, pocketing the Demon Emperor Pill as well and shook his head as he spoke.


    "Don''t worry, my goal is for longevity and immortality. If you give me those things, and I can live forever, why would I still need to eat you!?"


    The Fire Flood Dragon had a fiery temper, but the treasures Jiang Liu carried forced it to suppress its eagerness, trying to speak to Jiang Liu as calmly as possible.


    "Empty promises. You say you won''t eat me, but that''s just your word. Who knows if you''ll keep your promise!" Jiang Liu shook his head, still appearing very distrustful.


    Dying tactics!


    Why was Jiang Liu showing off? Taking out things like the Nine Revolutions Golden Pills one by one, he could dy time.


    Now, pocketing those items, apart from him, no one else could take them out from his storage space, which also served to dy time.


    Eating him granted longevity, but did the Fire Flood Dragon really not want the Ginseng Fruits, Nine Revolutions Golden Pills, and the Demon Emperor Pill?


    Jiang Liu didn''t believe it would easily let go.


    Since it couldn''t bear to, it naturally wouldn''t kill him. As long as it didn''t kill him, he could figure out ways to dy time.


    "Dammit!"


    The Fire Flood Dragon was indeed trying to be patient with Jiang Liu for the sake of the treasures, but seeing him hesitate and unwilling to trust or relinquish the items, the Fire Flood Dragon''s rage started ring up even more.


    A strong and scorching aura spread from the Fire Flood Dragon''s body, making him feel like an active volcano erupting. The water surrounding the Flood Dragon Pool was even starting to boil gradually.


    "Monk, you have no right to bargain with me. Hand them over when I tell you to, or I''ll eat you now!"


    The Fire Flood Dragon was impatient, even more so than Sun Wukong, with no patience to wrangle with Jiang Liu any longer, it said angrily.


    "I''ve said it before, if I can ensure my survival, then I''ll give the items to you. With you looking like this, how can I trust you?" Jiang Liu retreated a little, feigning a half-real, half-fake fearful demeanor as he spoke to the Fire Flood Dragon.


    "Well then, I don''t want those items! I''ll just eat you now!"


    The exceedingly irritable and impatient Fire Flood Dragon furrowed its brows tightly. Making a hard decision, it truly abandoned the idea of the Ginseng Fruits and lifted its hand, striking down toward Jiang Liu.


    For a being of the Great Luo Golden Immortal level, this palm strike felt as though the whole universe was pressing down, leaving no room to dodge.


    Taking a deep breath, Jiang Liu raised his hand and quickly drew the Nine-Ring Staff from his storage space.


    With the Nine-Ring Staff taken out, an invisible barrier appeared,pletely enveloping Jiang Liu.


    With a thud, the Fire Flood Dragon''s palmnded on the barrier of the Nine-Ring Staff, causing it to tremble slightly.


    But it was not broken! Continue your saga on My Virtual Library Empire


    "Eh? Another treasure!?" Seeing the Nine-Ring Staff that Jiang Liu took out could block its attack, the Fire Flood Dragon''s eyes lit up.


    Initially, it had only wanted to capture Jiang Liu for the longevity effect of his flesh, but who knew that he would carry so many treasures with him?


    "Hey, Monkey, if you don''te and save me, your master is going to be done for!"


    Putting aside the Fire Flood Dragon''s surprise and delight, after taking out the Nine-Ring Staff, Jiang Liu spoke to Sun Wukong through the disciple dialogue box.


    Nine-Ring Staff (Epic Level) (Sealed): No level requirement, Attack+??? Special Effect: Can activate an active effect to exempt attacks from targets below level 90 for 300 seconds. Note: Equipped with soul binding upon use, the rest of the equipment is under a seal, retaining only the special effect.


    With the Nine-Ring Staff in a sealed state, it still retained its special effect, which could exempt the Fire Flood Dragon''s attacks, but it could onlyst for 300 seconds.


    If this duration also passed, he might have no choice but to put on his Brocade Kasaya and hope for resurrection after being killed.


    "I''ming, I''m on my way, Master. Bajie, Junior Brother Sha, Little White Dragon, and Red Boy are all searching for you in different ces!" Following Jiang Liu''s message, Sun Wukong soon replied.


    "Eh? Red Boy is also here?" Hearing Sun Wukong''s words, Jiang Liu was slightly taken aback, eximing in surprise.


    "Yeah, the son of my big brother is indeed led by righteousness!" Sun Wukong''s response was clearly filled with pride.


    Red Boy voluntarilying to help was both surprising and touching.


    ```


    "But, with Red Boy already here, why haven''t Demon King Ox and his wifee?" Although the appearance of Red Boy touched Jiang Liu''s heart, another thought quickly made him feel even more astonished.


    What''s going on? Could it be that Demon King Ox is a coward, valuing his own life over his son''s?


    Bang Bang Bang!


    The continuous attacks fell one after another upon the barrier of the Nine-Ring Staff, causing violent vibrations and ripples with the assault of the Fire Flood Dragon.


    However, despite the ripples crossing over, the barrier remained firm, showing no sign of copsing.


    Despite the Flood Dragon''s strength, it was only level 88, and the Nine-Ring Staff couldpletely negate attacks below level 90.


    "It won''t do, who knows when Wukong will be able toe, what if the effect of the Nine-Ring Staff wears off, then what? Do we really have to rely on the resurrection effect of the Brocade Kasaya?"


    Watching the Fire Flood Dragon''s attacks fall like a tempest, and the time of the special effect of the Nine-Ring Staff steadily dropping, Jiang muttered to himself with apprehension.


    Having journeyed in the world of Journey to the West for over a year, Jiang knew much about this world.


    For instance, revival with a Soul-Returning Pill requires one to maintain a whole body.@@novelbin@@


    Although the Brocade Kasaya could resurrect someone, if he were to be eaten by the Fire Flood Dragon, could he still be revived?


    Jiang himself was not absolutely certain...


    After pondering in silence for a moment, Jiang promptly made up his mind. He couldn''t rely on the special effect of the Brocade Kasaya; he had to consider other means.


    He reviewed his skill list carefully and went over his equipment list thoroughly but found no good solution.


    Then, Jiang opened his inventory space and carefully examined the various items within.


    His eyes suddenly lit up.


    Divine Medicine!


    With the ability to negate 90% of the cooldown time, he could use Silencing Zen every 3 seconds, silencing for 2 seconds, and in between, could he buy some time by interjecting the Sheep Transformation Technique control skills?


    Of course, there was also another unassuming stone that reassured Jiang even more.


    The Random Teleportation Stone, that''s the real lifesaver, isn''t it?


    If the special effect of his Nine-Ring Staff wore off and Sun Wukong had not yet arrived, he would have to use this to escape!


    Indeed, having traveled so far, he still had many means to protect himself!


    Phew...


    Jiang''s gaze settled on the Random Teleportation Stone, and then he took out this unprepossessing stone. With not much time left of the Nine-Ring Staff''s special effect, he prepared to activate the stone''s teleportation ability and flee when suddenly, a long tail me appeared in the sky.


    This streak of light, just like a meteor falling, headed straight for the Fire Flood Dragon.


    Sensing the iing attack, the Fire Flood Dragon turned its head and punched towards the streak of light.


    With a ''bang'', the Fire Flood Dragon stood unmovable.


    Looking at the Samadhi True Fire clinging to his fist like a parasite, the Fire Flood Dragon slightly frowned, shook his hand, and extinguished the mes instantly.


    As a descendant of the Ancient Dragon n, the mighty Samadhi True Fire did not affect him much.


    Besides, his cultivation level was higher!


    "What a formidable creature!" The Fire Flood Dragon remained unscathed, but Red Boy was sent flying, doing a backflip in mid-air andnding on the ground, wiping the blood from his mouth. As he faced the Fire Flood Dragon, particrly seeing his normally invincible Samadhi True Fire extinguished, it gave him a grave expression.


    This was the first time he had encountered someone unharmed by the Samadhi True Fire.


    "Red Boy, get out of here, you''re no match for him!" Jiang, seeing that it was Red Boy who had found him first, urgently shouted, his voice filled with worry and trepidation.


    Although Red Boy was talented, he was only at the Heavenly Immortal Realm while the Fire Flood Dragon was at the Great Luo Realm; their strengths were worlds apart.


    His greatest trump card, the Samadhi True Fire, was ineffective, and staying here meant certain death!


    "I won''t leave! I am not one to fear death! Holy Monk! I will definitely save you!" Red Boy eximed loudly, his Red Tassel Spear in hand.


    ...


    Meanwhile, elsewhere, Demon King Ox and Princess Iron-Fan were flying through the sky at high speed.


    Suddenly, Princess Iron-Fan''splexion slightly changed, "Oh no, my lord, I sense that the Holy Infant is injured!"

 Chapter 339 The Red-Eyed Demon King Ox

    Although Demon King Ox didn''t want his family involved in this catastrophic heavenly ordeal, he had even resorted to force, capturing Red Boy and taking him back home, but he had underestimated his own son''s power of Samadhi True Fire and was surprised when Red Boy burned the ropes and escaped.


    Connected by heart to her son, once Princess Iron-Fan learned from Demon King Ox about the danger of getting involved, she left Banana Leaf Cave without hesitation to look for Red Boy.


    Demon King Ox wanted to stop her, but Princess Iron-Fan took out her Banana Leaf Fan with a firm attitude, insisting she had to go.


    Princess Iron-Fan had always been gentle and graceful towards herself, and today she had unexpectedly confronted him with the Banana Leaf Fan?


    Demon King Ox was inwardly shocked and also felt a heaviness in his heart; how simr was this to those brothers and sisters from Green Tour Pce back in the day?


    Was it the cmity of heaven and earth that affected their minds, making them do things they normally wouldn''t?


    Suchpulsion made Demon King Ox afraid toply, and only then did Princess Iron-Fan turn and leave!


    Demon King Ox stayed alone in Banana Leaf Cave for a long time, realizing that his wife and child had both left and were about to be drawn into the catastrophe of the Journey West. Should he still be hiding?


    After thinking for a long time, Demon King Ox clenched his teeth and made his choice again.


    The previous time, when he knew Jiang Liu and his group had arrived at me Cloud Cave, although Demon King Ox was afraid of the heavenly ordeal, he had still clenched his teeth and gone to me Cloud Cave.


    Simrly, this time faced with the same situation, Demon King Ox clenched his teeth and followed after them.


    What was a heavenly catastrophe if his wife and child were to die under this great disaster? Living would be meaningless for him.


    Thus, although he knew this departure might be without return, Demon King Ox had no choice but to go.


    Indeed, mother and son were connected by heart, and moreover, when the Red Tassel Spear was forged, a drop of Princess Iron-Fan''s essence blood was used. Thus, she could sense Red Boy''s location and even more feel whether Red Boy was injured.


    "What, the Holy Infant is injured!?" Hearing his wife''s words, Demon King Ox''s face changed dramatically with shock.


    Then, he increased his speed a bit and quickly flew towards the Flood Dragon Pool in Yunmeng Marsh.


    ¡­


    "Red Boy, I appreciate your intention, but you are not his match; staying here is just senselessly throwing your life away! Don''t worry, I have my ways of protecting myself!" At Flood Dragon Pool, seeing that just the rebounding force itself had reduced Red Boy''s health bar by a third, Jiang Liu urgently spoke to him.


    "No, Holy Monk, don''t deceive me! If you truly could protect yourself, why were you unable to fight back!?" Ready to risk his life, Red Boy, holding the Red Tassel Spear, stared intently at the Fire Flood Dragon and spoke, his expression firm with no intention of backing down.


    "Oh? Whose child are you? I like your style! What do you say? Would you like to be my disciple!?" Although the Fire Flood Dragon was angered by Red Boy''s sneak attack, he had more admiration for his talent.


    So young, yet able to wield Samadhi True Fire? And this sacrificial spirit was admirable; the Fire Flood Dragon quite liked Red Boy and was willing to take him as a disciple.


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    "Get lost! Why would I, young master, need to be your disciple!?" however, rebellious by nature, Red Boy would not agree. Hearing this, he unapologetically said.


    "Well then, since that''s the case, don''t me me for being rude!" Somewhat regretfully shaking his head, the Fire Flood Dragon no longer insisted.


    As he spoke, the Fire Flood Dragon lifted his hand again, and simrly, blistering mes ignited in his hand.


    The crimson Dragon Fire, seemingly even more intense than Red Boy''s Samadhi True Fire by three times.


    Whoo!


    Seeing the Fire Flood Dragon''s move, Red Boy didn''t waste words; all the Samadhi True Fire rushed into his Red Tassel Spear, then, amid a ze, he thrust the spear directly at the opponent.


    Simrly, the Fire Flood Dragon''s raised hand also swung down, and the crimson fierce me also pressed down towards Red Boy.


    Crimson mes met crimson mes, the two fires fiercely collided, making the whole world seem as though it had turned into a ming purgatory.


    The water level within tens of miles around Yunmeng Marsh dropped a notch, instantly evaporated by the fearsome mes.


    As the aftermath of the explosion dissipated, Jiang Liu looked back to find the Red Tassel Spear fallen aside, and Red Boy, charred ck,y on the ground in a pitiful state.


    With barely any intact skin visible on his entire body, but he was still struggling to stand up from the ground.


    However, after several attempts, he failed.


    At that very moment, the effect time of the Nine-Ring Staff hadpletely passed, and the barrier surrounding Jiang Liu had also dissipated.


    Jiang Liu hurried over to Red Boy''s side. Looking at his condition, he felt both guilt and gratitude.


    In Jiang Liu''s eyes, it was clear to see that Red Boy''s health bar was down to a mere sliver.


    It looked as though he might die at any moment.


    "You child, I ask you onest time, are you willing to be my disciple!?" The Fire Flood Dragon, while unaffected, slowly raised the hand burning with Dragon Fire, still looking at Red Boy and spoke.


    If he hadn''t held back just now, with his Daluo Golden Immortal cultivation level, it would have beenpletely possible to kill Red Boy in one move.


    "Pah, young master me, just, just wouldn''t, wouldn''t..." Struggling to stand but failing, though he looked utterly miserable, Red Boy nevertheless endured without crying out in pain, only spitting out towards the Fire Flood Dragon.


    "Don''t move, I''ll help you heal!" Seeing that Red Boy''s health bar on his head had only a sliver of health left, Jiang Liu hurriedly said.


    While speaking, he lifted his hand to activate the Guanyin Mantra skill.


    "Holy Infant!" However, just at that moment, suddenly, a shrill scream erupted.


    Jiang Liu followed the sound, only to see that Princess Iron Fan and Demon King Ox had flown over.


    "Holy Infant, how are you? Are you alright!?" Bonded by motherly love, seeing Red Boy''s body resembling burnt charcoal, Princess Iron Fan was bursting into tears, holding Red Boy in her embrace.


    "Holy Infant!" Demon King Ox, however, didn''t react as dramatically as Princess Iron Fan, but seeing Red Boy''s pitiable state, his face was equally grim as water.


    Immediately, his eyes fell on the Fire Flood Dragon beside him.


    "You, deserve to die!" Demon King Ox''s eyes gradually became blood-red, and at the same time, a terrifying demonic qi emanated from his body.


    Without much nonsense, Demon King Ox raised his hand, summoned the iron stick in his hand, and smashed it directly towards the Fire Flood Dragon,pletely with a life-or-death attitude.


    Watching Demon King Ox''s attack, the Fire Flood Dragon slightly furrowed his brows, raised his fists likewise, and met Demon King Ox head-on.


    With a bang, Demon King Ox''s iron stick collided with the Fire Flood Dragon''s fist.


    The tremendous force that erupted caused both Demon King Ox and the Fire Flood Dragon to take three steps back respectively, apparently, in terms of strength, they were evenly matched.


    Although both were in the Great Luo Realm, and both had the blue UI, Demon King Ox was renowned for his strength, but the Fire Flood Dragon had a higher level, so in their bout of strength, they seemed evenly matched.


    Taking a deep breath!


    With just one move, Demon King Ox knew that the enemy''s strength was greater than he had imagined, and harboring intentions of murder, he had no intention of entangling further, his figure swelled against the wind, and in a moment, he transformed into a giant a hundred feet tall, clearly using the Divine Skill ''Law of Heaven and Earth.''


    Realizing Demon King Ox''s power, the Fire Flood Dragon also let out a resonant dragon cry, and immediately, he soared and transformed into a gigantic crimson flood dragon in mid-air.


    The forms of ''Law of Heaven and Earth'' and the giant flood dragon shed, both at the level of Daluo Golden Immortal; this battle could be described as earth-shattering, sun- and moonlight obscured.


    "Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra!"


    "Strengthening Body-Protection Spell!"


    "Vajra Mantra!"


    "Guanyin Mantra!"


    Watching the battle over there, Jiang Liu naturally lifted his hand and repeatedly applied several Buff skills on Demon King Ox.


    Of course, the final Guanyin Mantra, Jiang Liu cast on Red Boy.


    With 25% maximum life value restored, as this Guanyin Mantra fell, visibly, Red Boy''s body rapidly recovered a segment.


    As far as the eye could see, he had approximately recovered to one-third of his health.


    "Here, drink this potion!" Following the Guanyin Mantra, Jiang Liu then took out a Healing Potion and offered it to Red Boy.


    The Hand of Healing skill could also heal, but given that Demon King Ox and the Fire Flood Dragon seemed evenly matched, Jiang Liu kept a healing method in reserve, just in case.


    "Thank you, Holy Monk!" Following the Guanyin Mantra, Red Boy''s injuries had somewhat recovered. He stood up, not being polite, took the potion from Jiang Liu''s hand, and guzzled it down.


    Bang bang bang!


    Not to mention that Red Boy''s injuries had now about halved, next to them, the battle between Demon King Ox and Fire Flood Dragon had escted into an intense phase.


    With fiery red eyes, Demon King Ox, obviously frantic due to Red Boy''s injuries, acted with a reckless abandon.


    Facing his frenzied attacks, Fire Flood Dragon had no choice but to summon up all his energy to face everything.


    With a bang, the iron stick imbued with demonic qi collided fiercely once more with the Fire Flood Dragon''s fist engulfed in Dragon Fire, causing Demon King Ox to stagger back two steps.


    But simrly, the Fire Flood Dragon was forced back even more, seemingly retreating further than Demon King Ox.


    "This guy, he''s grown even stronger!"


    Feeling Demon King Ox''s increased strength, which was significantly stronger than before, the Fire Flood Dragon inwardly tensed up, while his gaze subtly swept Jiang Liu.


    He saw that Demon King Ox''s boost in strength was all due to the Buff skills that Jiang Liu had just applied.@@novelbin@@

 Chapter 341 Little White Dragon Evolves

    The higher the level, the more Experience Points needed to level up, and since Experience Points are equivalent to Cultivation Level, the disparity between each level in theter stages is very significant.


    Just like when Mo Liqing advanced to the Taiyi Realm, he had no ability to fight back in front of Sun Wukong, which is indicative.


    Although Red Boy is highly talented, he is only at the Heavenly Immortal Realm, and even the Taiyi Realm could easily crush him, let alone the Fire Flood Dragon of the Great Luo Realm?


    If it weren''t for the Fire Flood Dragon taking an interest in his talent and both being masters of controlling fire, even with the protection of the Vajra Mantra, Red Boy would have been killed instantly.


    Therefore, when Red Boy appeared to save himself, Jiang Liu shouted at him to leave.


    Because Jiang Liu knew very well that Red Boy would not be a match for the Fire Flood Dragon, even with his own support alongside.


    In the recent battle with Demon King Ox, Jiang Liu also made quite a few contributions, such as the Strengthening Demon-Subduing Mantra, Strengthening Body-Protection Spell, Vajra Mantra, and Hand of Healing, all of which he cast.


    Unfortunately, the power of the Dragon Pearl far exceeded Jiang Liu''s expectations.


    As the Dragon Pearl began to copse, Jiang Liu had thought of stopping it, but he simply couldn''t.


    Originally, using the ability of Silence to control the Fire Flood Dragon seemed to be the best method to Jiang Liu, so he had remotely cast the Silencing Zen.


    But unfortunately, the Dragon Pearl still exploded, which was unexpected to Jiang Liu.


    Could it be? Had his Silencing Zen been ineffective?


    ¡­


    As for why his Silencing Zen had failed, he no longer had the mind to delve into it at this time, as his focus was all on Little White Dragon.@@novelbin@@


    His silent attitude reflexively made Jiang Liu feel a hint of unease. Explore new worlds at My Virtual Library Empire


    "The Demon King is fine, he''s only injured, and Red Boy too, he''s just been knocked unconscious, still alive, only¡­ Princess Iron-Fan, she has already turned to ashes..." Feeling the seriousness in Jiang Liu''s gaze and his inquiry, Little White Dragon began to speak.


    Jiang Liu: "¡­"


    This result left Jiang Liu silent; upon reflection, everything seemed within reason.


    Although Red Boy was already injured, he was far enough away; he survived, and being at the Heavenly Immortal Cultivation Level, it wasn''t surprising that he lived.


    As for Demon King Ox? Originally being at the Great Luo Cultivation Level and seeing the Silencing Zen fail at thest moment, he reflexively gave him a Vajra Mantra.


    Able to negate 80% of damage, it wasn''t surprising that he survived even at the center of the explosion.


    But for Princess Iron-Fan, with a cultivation level not matching Demon King Ox and without the protection of the Vajra Mantra, turning to ashes seemed logical.


    ¡­


    Several hourster, Jiang Liu and his group had already left the Yunmeng Marsh, where a monumental tomb stood, inscribed with the epitaph of Princess Iron-Fan.


    With severe injuries, Demon King Ox knelt in front of the tombstone, silent.


    Red Boy''s injuries had fully healed, standing to the side with his head bowed and tears falling, yet he restrained himself from crying aloud.


    Jiang Liu stood behind, his heart filled with mixed feelings, but most of all, guilt.


    From any angle, the family of Demon King Ox hade to rescue him, which had led to the death of Princess Iron-Fan.


    "Big brother, I''m sorry, it''s all my fault¡­" Sun Wukong said.


    Seeing Demon King Ox like this for the first time since he had known him, Sun Wukong felt a bit guilty and stepped forward to apologize.


    Sun Wukong indeed felt guilty, as saving people was originally his responsibility, but unfortunately, his luck had been bad, wandering around North Julu State for a long time, and he had failed to find his way to Yunmeng Marsh.


    Kneeling in front of the grave, Demon King Ox turned his head to look at Sun Wukong beside him, his eyes lifeless, and then slowly stood up and unexpectedly charged straight at Jiang Liu.


    With a bang, a fist hit Jiang Liu squarely in the chest, sending him flying.


    With a crack, Jiang Liu felt several ribs break instantly, unable to help spitting out a mouthful of fresh blood.


    The health bar on his head immediately lost half.


    "Damn you, you bastard!"


    Having broken several of Jiang Liu''s ribs with one punch, Demon King Ox wanted to strike again, but Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and Sha Wujing, the disciples, quickly rushed up and stopped Demon King Ox.


    "Big brother, it''s all my fault, pour out your anger on me!" Sun Wukong shouted, holding onto Demon King Ox''s arm.


    "Wukong, all of you back off!" Clutching his chest, Jiang Liu struggled to stand up from the ground, wiping the blood from the corner of his mouth, and spoke to Sun Wukong and the others in a low voice.


    As he spoke, Jiang Liu''s gaze fell on Demon King Ox, "I''m sorry, this is all my fault. If only I had escaped sooner, Princess Iron-Fan wouldn''t have died!"


    "Hmph! That''s not what I''m angry about!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, Demon King Ox angrily said, "It was Holy Infant''s and my wife and my own decision toe and save you! We came prepared!"


    Jiang Liu: "¡­"


    The words of Demon King Ox both touched and surprised Jiang Liu.


    He was moved that Demon King Ox and his family hade to rescue him, prepared to face death if necessary.


    But he was surprised, not at that, but why then was Demon King Ox angry?


    "You have divine skills, capable of saving people from imminent peril, so why, when the Dragon Pearl exploded, did you use this divine skill on me instead of on my wife!?" Demon King Ox red with his crimson eyes, staring intently at Jiang Liu as he spoke angrily.


    Alright, Demon King Ox was angry about the Vajra Mantra; he was infuriated that, when it was a critical moment, Jiang Liu had used the Vajra Mantra on himself instead of on Princess Iron-Fan.


    "Even you were almost killed by the explosion, had it been used on Princess Iron-Fan, both of you might have died!" After ncing at the health bar above Demon King Ox''s head, which had only a little left, Jiang Liu paused before speaking to exin.


    Even under the protection of the Vajra Mantra, Demon King Ox was nearly killed by the explosion of the Dragon Pearl. Would Princess Iron-Fan have survived even with the Vajra Mantra?


    And what about Demon King Ox? Was he not also certain to die?


    If used on Demon King Ox, perhaps one of them could be saved, but if used on Princess Iron-Fan, it was most likely that both would perish!


    In that critical moment, Jiang Liu couldn''t think so much and reflexively cast the Vajra Mantra on Demon King Ox.


    "I''m sorry, I, I didn''t have time to consider all that!" Though Jiang Liu felt he hadn''t done wrong, how could emotions be measured simply by the calculus of loss? After exining, he then sincerely apologized.


    "You, you..." Watching Jiang Liu apologize, tears streamed down Demon King Ox''s face, but, to continue punishing him? Demon King Ox could no longer bring himself to do it.


    Could he really have killed him?


    "I, I can help you recover from your injuries?" Seeing Demon King Ox raise his fist, then let it drop weakly, Jiang Liu spoke.


    "No need!" However, to Jiang Liu''s words, Demon King Ox directly refused.


    "Master, let them have their peace," seeing Demon King Ox had no intention of aggressing, Sun Wukong and the others naturally let go, then came over, whispering.


    "Sigh..." With a sigh, Jiang Liu nodded and spoke.


    Jiang Liu and his disciples moved hundreds of meters away to sit, while Demon King Ox and Red Boy stayed by Princess Iron-Fan''s grave.


    Perhaps now, the only person who couldfort Demon King Ox was Red Boy himself.


    "Master, this is something I picked up when I found you!"


    The disciples sat together, and after a while, White Dragon Horse opened his mouth and spat out a broken pearl.


    Jiang Liu nced at it, and the corresponding attribute information appeared.


    Broken Ancient Candle Dragon Pearl (Special Prop): Consumption will permanently enhance the purity of the Dragon n bloodline and significantly improve aptitude. Note: The deeper the Dragon n bloodline, the greater the effect.


    "Is this the Dragon Pearl that exploded earlier? It hasn''t beenpletely destroyed!?" Looking at the information of this pearl, Jiang Liu was taken aback.


    Logically, shouldn''t the Dragon Pearl have utterly vanished after exploding?


    Wait a second? Ancient Candle Dragon Pearl? But wasn''t the pearl spat out by the Flood Dragon earlier?


    Could it be? This pearl wasn''t its own!?


    Realizing this, Jiang Liu''s mind brightened, no wonder his Silencing Zen was ineffective against the Flood Dragon, unable to prevent the explosion of this pearl, because it wasn''t actually its own!


    No wonder, after the Flood Dragon spat out the pearl, it visibly started regressing toward a python!


    This pearl survived the explosion? Was it because his Silencing Zen yed a role, causing an error in the Flood Dragon''s detonation, or because the pearl wasn''t its own, so the Flood Dragon couldn''t fully detonate it?


    "Since you''ve got it, you might as well eat it yourself; this broken pearl will greatly benefit you!" Realizing this, Jiang Liu thought for a moment and then spoke to White Dragon Horse.


    It was suited only for Little White Dragon to enhance Dragon n bloodline and aptitude.


    Besides, who would want to eat something spat out from its horse mouth?


    "Alright, thank you, Master!" Hearing Jiang Liu''s words, that he was directly given this broken pearl, White Dragon Horse was overjoyed, and in speaking, he swallowed the pearl back down!


    As he swallowed the pearl, White Dragon Horse could feel its power rapidly spreading through his limbs and body, involuntarily taking on the form of a white dragon.


    On his originally pure white dragon body, some crimson patterns emerged, giving it a mysterious and ancient aura.


    With a painful groan, the usual four toes on Little White Dragon''s ws transformed into five, bing a Five-wed White Dragon.


    ID: Aolie (Golden)


    Gender: Male.


    Profession: Dragon.


    Level: 66.


    Equipment: ¡­