Chapter 228: Western Pure Land
Yang Ling stood at the edge of a huge underground cave. In front of him was a vast sea of lava. Bubbles were surging on the surface from time to time. When they burst, they released dazzling light, illuminating the surrounding rocks with colorful colors.
When lava flows, different textures form on its surface, some like sparkling water, and some like molten metal, sparkling with metallic luster.
The air was filled with a scorching heat; even if one stood at a safe distance, one could still feel the heat that could almost melt everything.
The hot steam made everything in sight appear distorted and blurry.
The magma sea rumbled from time to time, which was the power released from deep in the earth's crust. Sometimes, the sound of huge bubbles bursting, accompanied by the sound of magma splashing, was like thunder underground.
This sea of magma is not static; it flows at a slow and steady rhythm, sometimes forming whirlpools and sometimes surging waves.
Just as Yang Ling was staring at the lava sea, suddenly, the center of the magma seemed to be torn apart by some force, and hot liquid splashed everywhere.
An intense light burst out from the depths of the magma. It was a three-legged golden crow, like a dazzling sun, illuminating all directions.
Every feather of the Three-legged Golden Crow seemed to be woven from pure fire from the sun. When its wings flapped, they brought up billowing heat waves, making the surrounding air seem to be on fire.
There was a gleam of arrogance in its eyes, which was the gaze of a supreme being.
However, facing this sudden challenge, Yang Ling seemed unusually calm. He smiled faintly, moved slightly, and appeared above the Golden Crow.
He didn't know when a simple long sword appeared in his hand. The sword was glowing with a faint blue light, and seemed to contain endless power of heaven and earth.
Yang Ling lightly swung the long sword in his hand, and the sharp sword energy turned into sword nets as thin as hair, blocking the retreat of the three-legged golden crow.
The Golden Crow let out a hissing cry and flapped its wings to try to break through the sword net, but the sword energy was like a dragnet, and no matter how the Golden Crow struggled, it could not escape.
At this moment, Yang Ling showed his powerful strength. His magic power seemed to breathe with the heaven and earth and resonate with the universe.
There was a hint of determination in his eyes, and then he flicked his fingers lightly, and streams of pure solar fire gushed out of the Golden Crow's body and were easily absorbed by him.
As the Sun's True Fire was being absorbed, circles of subtle fluctuations appeared around Yang Ling's body. Under the nourishment of the Sun's True Fire, his magic power expanded rapidly like an oasis in the desert.
His aura became stronger and stronger, and his entire body seemed to have transformed into a vortex of magical power, constantly spinning and absorbing the energy of heaven and earth around him.
As the sun's true fire continued to be absorbed, Yang Ling's body seemed to be undergoing some strange changes. A faint golden light began to appear on his skin, like the rising sun, shining brightly.
His magic power reached a new level at this moment. It was a powerful force that almost tore the void and could compete with heaven and earth.
The three-legged golden crow no longer had any power to resist in Yang Ling's hands. Its body gradually became dim and finally turned into a ball of fire and was completely absorbed by Yang Ling.
Yang Ling, nourished by this force, became even more powerful than before. His eyes could penetrate the void, and he seemed to be able to see a higher level of cultivation.
On the lava sea, everything returned to calm, leaving only Yang Ling's increasingly deep and determined eyes, foreshadowing that he will have even more brilliant achievements in the future.
Yang Ling jumped lightly and landed steadily on a protruding rock.
He sat down cross-legged, closed his eyes slightly, and began to circulate the magic power in his body, guiding the true sun fire he had just absorbed to flow through his meridians and merge into his own magic power.
As Yang Ling's magic power was activated, the high temperature around him seemed to begin to gather on him. The heat of the magma sea was no longer a threat, but instead became a boost to his cultivation.
The roar of the lava seemed to be accompanying his practice, and everything seemed so harmonious.
Time passed slowly in this scorching space, and light began to flicker around Yang Ling's body, which was a sign of the perfect fusion of his magic power and the true fire of the sun.
Soon, a colorful auspicious cloud slowly emerged above the head, rolling and emitting a warm and sacred light.
Amidst the auspicious clouds, a Taoist tree slowly grew. Its trunk seemed to be made of colored glaze, transparent and sparkling with colorful luster.
The branches are lush, and every leaf seems to contain the mystery of the Tao, quiet and profound.
The most amazing thing is that on the Dao tree, there are crystal clear Heavenly Fire Dao fruits, each of which contains infinite power of heaven and earth.
Yang Ling knew that this was an important sign of his cultivation. The Heavenly Fire Dao Fruits were the key to his retreat this time. They contained supreme magical power that could help him reach a higher level of cultivation.
As time went by, the Heavenly Fire Dao Fruit gradually matured and emitted a more dazzling light. Yang Ling's magic power was also constantly increasing. He felt that his body was recast, and every breath was full of strength.
At this moment, Yang Ling had completely forgotten the time in the outside world, and his entire mind was immersed in cultivation.
His soul seemed to be connected with heaven and earth, feeling the pulse of the universe and realizing the true meaning of the Tao.
During this retreat without any onlookers, Yang Ling's strength improved by leaps and bounds without him noticing, and his cultivation achieved a qualitative leap in this sea of lava.
……
For most creatures in the ancient world, Xiniu Hezhou is a remote and mysterious place.
This place is full of unknown dangers and opportunities.
Although the mountains and rivers here are magnificent and the landforms are varied, with towering mountains, deep canyons, vast plains and dense forests, most areas are relatively barren and far less prosperous than Dongsheng Shenzhou and Nanshanbuzhou.
In this land, there live various mythical creatures, such as demons, ghosts, gods and spirits. They hide in deep mountains and forests, or in deep caves, adding a sense of mystery and unpredictability to this land.
In the central part of Xiniuhezhou, Mount Xumi stands tall, its peak piercing the clouds, like a huge lighthouse between heaven and earth, illuminating the whole world. Clouds and mists linger on the mountainside, like a fairy's veil, swaying gently in the wind, covering the mystery of the mountain. The sunlight shines through the clouds and sprinkles on the body of Mount Xumi, shining with golden light, as if it is a gift from the gods, giving the mountain endless sacredness and solemnity.
At the foot of the mountain, in the lush forest, exotic flowers and plants bloomed, emitting bursts of fragrance, attracting all kinds of rare mythical animals to play in it. Occasionally, a crisp bird song broke the silence. It was a phoenix flying in the forest, its feathers were colorful, like a rainbow in the sky.
On the mountainside, an ancient temple is hidden among the lush trees, with its golden roof gleaming in the sun. In the temple, monks chant scriptures in a low voice, and the melodious sound of the bells echoes through the valley, conveying tranquility and peace.
As the altitude increases, the vegetation gradually becomes sparse, and finally near the top of the mountain, only hard rocks and eternal ice and snow remain. However, even in such an environment, one can feel a kind of otherworldly tranquility, as if the mind has been purified and the soul has been sublimated.
Mount Xumi is not only a miracle of nature, but also a symbol of faith and spirit. It stands there quietly, witnessing the changes of countless years, but always maintaining its mystery and solemnity.
Taoist Gou Chen was wearing a green robe and stepping on colorful auspicious clouds, floating slowly from the sky.
His eyes were fixed on Mount Sumeru in front of him, which was the holy land of Western religion and also the destination of his trip.
The clouds rolled around him, as if adding a touch of mystery to his arrival. However, Taoist Gou Chen was not in a relaxed mood, his brows were slightly furrowed, and his heart was full of uneasiness.
He knew that the two saints of Western religion were not easy to talk to.
Their prestige in the prehistoric world is known to everyone, and the purpose of his trip is to ask the two saints to help him regain power in heaven.
Although Gou Chen Dao Ren had countless guesses in his mind, he also understood that only by facing it could he know the result. So he took a deep breath, gathered his mind, and urged the clouds to speed up.
Not long after, Taoist Gou Chen reached the top of Mount Xumi. His eyes penetrated through the layers of clouds and mist and saw a huge shadow on the top of the mountain. It was an incomparably huge world.
The phantom of this universe was shining, as if it contained endless secrets and power. It was suspended above the top of Mount Xumi, emitting a holy brilliance that made it impossible to look directly at it.
Taoist Gou Chen knew that this was the treasure of Western religion - the phantom of the Pure Land. It was not only the center of faith of Western religion, but also the Pure Land that countless practitioners dreamed of.
Taoist Gou Chen stood on the top of Mount Xumi, looking at the floating shadow of the Pure Land, and shouted in a deep voice: "Report to the Western Patriarch, I, the disciple Gou Chen, have come to ask for an audience!"
The sound reverberated on the mountain top, penetrating the clouds and reaching the depths of the Pure Land. For a moment, the mountain wind stopped, the clouds stagnated, and it seemed that the whole world was waiting for something.
A moment later, waves of light appeared in the shadow of the Pure Land world. A boy in white clothes walked out slowly from the waves of light.
He has a thin figure, a kind face, and eyes like mirrors, revealing a clear temperament.
The boy in white came up to Taoist Gou Chen, bowed slightly, and said in a calm tone: "The leader has learned that the emperor is coming, so he sent me to lead the way. Please follow me."
When Taoist Gou Chen heard this, he was excited. He knew very well how rare it was to be able to enter the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.
He quickly returned the greeting and said respectfully, "Thank you for leading the way, boy."
The White Lotus Boy turned around and stepped into the shadow, followed closely by the Taoist Gou Chen.
As the two walked, the phantom of the Pure Land world gradually unfolded and turned into a gate of light. The light in the gate flowed, like a passage to another world.
After passing through the light gate, Taoist Gou Chen only felt a gentle force enveloping him. The scene around him changed rapidly, and he heard bursts of Buddhist chanting, which sounded like nature, bringing great comfort to his soul.
After a moment, Taoist Gou Chen found himself in a vast sea of lotus flowers. The lotus flowers were in full bloom, emitting a faint fragrance. Each lotus seemed to contain a profound breath, which made people involuntarily feel admiration.
The White Lotus Boy led the Taoist Gou Chen through the sea of lotus flowers. From time to time, golden light descended from the sky and shone on the lotus flowers, making the whole world look peaceful and solemn.
Finally, the two came to a towering palace. The palace was magnificent and golden. In front of the door stood two solemn golden-bodied Bodhisattvas, holding magical instruments, guarding this holy land of pure land.
The White Lotus Boy stopped and said to Taoist Gou Chen, "Fellow Taoist, please wait here for a moment. I will go and inform the leader."
Taoist Gou Chen nodded, his heart full of anticipation and awe for the two leaders he was about to meet. He knew that this meeting might determine his future fate.
He looked around and saw an endless green ocean. The emerald green grass was as soft as silk and swayed gently in the wind, as if welcoming this guest from afar.
On the grass, colorful flowers are blooming, emitting bursts of fragrance, making people feel relaxed and happy.
The sky of the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is pure blue without a speck of dust. The sun shines down from the sky, warm but not scorching, bringing endless vitality to this land.
Taoist Gou Chen bathed in the warm sunshine and felt that his body and mind were purified.
In this paradise, Gou Chen Taoist saw a crystal clear stream, the gurgling sound of the water was like the sound of nature, making people forget the troubles of the world. By the stream, various rare animals lived in harmony, playing by the water or foraging leisurely on the grass. There was no fear of predation or being preyed, only peace and tranquility.
Soon, the White Lotus Boy returned with a smile on his face: "The leader is ready to meet you, please follow me."
Taoist Gou Chen took a deep breath and followed the White Lotus Boy into the palace. A solemn atmosphere filled him. He knew that he was about to face one of the most mysterious and powerful beings in the prehistoric world.
Soon, led by the White Lotus Boy, he passed through the gate of the treasure palace and arrived deep in the Pure Land of Bliss.
It's completely different here than outside.
In the sky, many wonderful flowers such as Mandala continuously fall from the clouds. They are like messengers from heaven, lightly descending with blessings from heaven.
As soon as these ceiling lights touched the ground, they disappeared silently like an illusion in an instant, without any need for cleaning, leaving behind a clean and peaceful environment.
The ground was covered with seven treasures, flat and vast, without the steepness of undulating mountains or the depth of ravines.
Every inch of land is so flawless, emitting a faint precious light, making people feel as if they are walking on the stars.
Countless palaces and pavilions are carefully constructed with seven treasures. They are either suspended in the air or placed on the ground. Their sizes are varied and unpredictable.
These buildings are magnificent and exquisite, each showing its own unique charm and style. Outside the pavilions is an open space where colorful trees are neatly arranged. These trees are also made of seven treasures, colorful and shining with the light of gems.
Above the colorful trees are nets woven from gold, pearls, and hundreds of other treasures. They sway gently in the breeze, making pleasant heavenly sounds, as if countless musical instruments are playing at the same time, harmonious and beautiful.
In the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, all things emit infinite precious fragrance, the aroma is pervasive, and the fragrance makes people feel relaxed and happy.
Here, precious flowers are in full bloom, rare birds are flying, auspicious beasts are strolling, the Seven Treasures Pond is sparkling, and the Eight Meritorious Waters are crystal clear. Every place is a moving picture.
From the ground to the sky, all things are releasing light, including the seven treasures, palaces, pavilions, treasure pools, colorful trees, lotus flowers, etc., are all radiating brilliant light, making the entire deep Pure Land of Bliss naturally bright without the need for the illumination of the sun and the moon, just like daylight.
In the heart of the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, there is a pool of water made of eight treasures. It is tranquil and deep, with a mirror-like surface and clear bottom. It reflects the brilliance of the surrounding seven treasures and flashes a soft and mysterious light.
The pool water is purified by eight rare treasures, and every drop contains infinite merit and wisdom. It not only nourishes the creatures in the Pure Land, but also purifies the soul, giving all beings coolness and tranquility.
By the pond, an ancient Bodhi tree stands tall, its roots deeply embedded in the fertile soil of the Pure Land. Its lush branches and leaves, with a canopy of green shade, provide a shelter for all living beings.
Every leaf of the Bodhi tree exudes a faint golden glow, as if carrying the wisdom and compassion of the Buddha.
As the breeze blows, the leaves sway gently, making a rustling sound, which, along with the crisp sound of water beside the Eight Treasures Merit Pond, together play a quiet and sacred hymn to life.
Suddenly, ripples appeared in the Eight Treasures Merit Pool, golden light flickered on the water surface, and golden lotuses slowly grew, as if absorbing endless spiritual energy from the water.
The golden lotus gradually blossomed, each petal distinct and shining brightly, until it was fully open, revealing a saint in robes with a sad face.
The Saint of Reception had a sad face, with his hands clasped together. Behind him, golden light spread out like ripples, warm and peaceful.
At the same time, under the ancient Bodhi tree, the figure of the Zhunti Saint gradually appeared. He stood under the tree, his figure upright, like a jade statue, surrounded by a faint golden light, making the ancient tree look even more sacred and mysterious.
When Taoist Gou Chen saw this, he was extremely shocked and immediately knelt on the ground, clasped his hands together, kowtowed repeatedly, and bowed to express his immense admiration and gratitude to the two saints.
He knew that being able to meet the two saints here was a rare opportunity and an opportunity he must seize.
Saint Zhunti looked at Taoist Gou Chen's piety, nodded slightly, and said softly: "Daoyou, get up."
When Taoist Gou Chen heard the voice, he was so excited that he could hardly suppress it, but he did not dare to disobey in the slightest. He just raised his head slightly, revealing a pair of eyes full of awe.
Saint Zhunti walked lightly and came in front of Taoist Gou Chen. With an invisible force in his hand, he lifted him up and said gently, "We can just call each other Taoist friends. No need to be polite."
When Taoist Gou Chen heard this, he was moved and waved his hand quickly: "The saint is so virtuous, how dare I belittle myself."
The Saint Jie Yin also approached with a smile, his eyes were gentle, as if he could see into people’s hearts: “Fellow Daoist Gou Chen, we have sensed your sincerity.
If you want something on this trip, you may as well speak frankly. "
Taoist Gou Chen raised his head, his eyes revealed a firmness, he took a deep breath, and poured out all the grievances and anger in his heart one by one: "Reporting to the two saints, Yang Ling and his wife secretly married and had children, openly violating the heavenly law, and Haotian God favored his sister and abused his power for personal gain. Not only did he not punish me, but he also framed me and made me lose my authority in heaven.
Only the two saints can see the injustice in my heart, and I hope the saints can make a decision for me. "
There was a slight tremor in Taoist Gou Chen's voice, and he was obviously very emotional. There were tears in his eyes, as if he was telling about the injustice and helplessness he had suffered.
After hearing this, Saint Jie Yin showed a trace of deep thought between his brows. He shook his head slowly, with a detached tone: "The affairs of the Heavenly Court are complicated, and it is not appropriate for us to ask about them. Besides, Lord Haotian is the Lord of the Heavenly Court, and his decision has its own reasons."
When Taoist Gou Chen heard this, his heart sank. He then saw Saint Zhunti step forward and asked solemnly, "Fellow Taoist Gou Chen, what are you thinking? Do you want to return to heaven, or do you want revenge?"
This question was like a heavy hammer hitting Taoist Gou Chen's heart. He was silent for a moment, and finally spoke slowly: "Sage, as long as Haotian is in power, I am afraid it will be difficult for me to return to heaven.
Besides, even if I come back, what can I do?
The struggle for power is never-ending.
I might as well stay in the Pure Land, listen to the teachings of the saints, practice and improve myself, and perhaps I can find the true way to liberation."
There was a hint of relief in Taoist Gou Chen's eyes, and his voice became calm, as if he had let go of all the burdens and hatred.
The Saint Jie Yin and the Saint Zhunti looked at each other, with approval in their eyes.
Saint Zhunti said softly: "Fellow Daoist Gou Chen, it is rare for you to have such enlightenment. In this case, we will certainly teach you."
When Taoist Gou Chen heard this, his heart was filled with excitement. He knew very well that this was a rare path of spiritual practice and also an opportunity to cleanse his soul.
He kowtowed again, his voice full of gratitude: "Thank you for your mercy, both saints. Gou Chen is willing to practice here devoutly and live up to your high expectations."
The Saint Jie Yin nodded slightly, signaled Taoist Gou Chen to stand up, then turned around and pointed to a palace: "That is where you practice, you can meditate there with peace of mind, and if you gain anything, you can come to us at any time."
Taoist Gou Chen stood up and looked at the palace, his heart full of anticipation and yearning.
He knew that from now on, his path would be completely different, and all this was thanks to the two saints who were high above him.
He bowed and walked slowly towards the palace. His back looked determined and lonely, but under the shining light of the Pure Land, he seemed full of hope.
The Saint Jieyin watched the figure of Taoist Gou Chen walking away, then turned around and smiled at the Saint Zhunti, with a tone of relief: "It seems that the pace of the Western Great Prosperity can no longer be stopped. Even an old minister of the Heavenly Court like Gou Chen has thrown himself into our arms."
A deep light flashed in the eyes of the Saint Zhunti. He nodded slightly, but then frowned again: "Brother Jieyin, although Gou Chen has joined us, there are still those demons behind him who are unwilling to lose power.
If they can also be accepted by the West, it will undoubtedly be a great help to us in promoting Western teachings."
After hearing this, the Saint Jie Yin pondered for a moment, and the smile on his face gradually faded, replaced by a cautious look: "Brother Zhunti is right, but these remnants of the demon race have heavy karma. If we easily accept them into the Western Religion, I am afraid we will also have to bear their karma. I am afraid this move will only make the gains outweigh the losses."
Saint Zhunti sighed slightly, with a complex emotion flashing in his eyes: "Yes, the karma of these remnants of the demon race is indeed not so easy to resolve. If we accept them indiscriminately, I am afraid it will affect the purity of the Western Pure Land."
The two saints sat facing each other, and the air seemed to be filled with a hint of contemplation. The saint who guided them spoke slowly, "We still have to use the light of wisdom to discern their sincerity. If they can truly convert to Buddhism, we will naturally be overjoyed; if they have ulterior motives, we will not force them."
A sharp light flashed in the eyes of the Saint Zhunti, and he slowly said: "Didn't Jiejiao take in a group of remnants of the demon race in the beginning, and use this power to become the largest sect in the prehistoric world?
If Jiejiao can do it, so can we.
If our Western Paradise can embrace these demons and convert them into members of our Western religion, it will not only increase our power, but also reduce the number of enemies in Heaven. Why not do it?"
After hearing this, Saint Jie Yin raised his eyebrows slightly, and after thinking for a moment, he nodded in agreement: "Junior Brother Zhunti is right, this matter is indeed worth a try.
However, it will take time to get these demons to join our Buddhist sect willingly. I'll leave it to you to take care of this matter."
Saint Zhunti nodded, his eyes gleaming with strategy: "Of course we must proceed with caution in this matter, but we cannot show up in person.
Since Fellow Daoist Gou Chen has already joined our Western Religion and has old ties with the demon clan, it would be better to let him come forward and lobby those demon clans.
It would be the best if they could convert to Buddhism because of Fellow Daoist Gou Chen."
The Saint Jie Yin smiled slightly, and seemed quite satisfied with the Saint Zhunti’s proposal: “If Daoist Fellow Gou Chen can successfully persuade the demon tribe, it will also be an achievement for him.
Okay, let's do as you say. We will first convey this to Daoist Fellow Gou Chen and see how he responds."
The Bodhisattva Cundi nodded, and then his figure moved, turning into a gust of breeze and floating towards the palace where the Taoist Gou Chen was practicing.
Taoist Gou Chen was immersed in his spiritual practice in the palace when he suddenly felt a breeze blowing past him. He opened his eyes and saw Saint Zhunti standing in front of him.
Saint Zhunti smiled and said, "Daoist friend Gou Chen, there is something I need your help with."
Taoist Gou Chen stood up quickly and asked respectfully, "What do you want, sage?"
The Saint Zhunti slowly told the plan: "The Western Pure Land wants to recruit more believers, including those fallen demons. You have a history with them, so why don't you go out and persuade them to join our Buddhist sect. What do you think?"
When Taoist Gou Chen heard this, he was shocked and then pondered for a moment. He knew that this was a rare opportunity and also a test for himself.
He took a deep breath and answered firmly: "Don't worry, Saint. Gou Chen will do his best and live up to your high expectations."
The Bodhisattva Cundi nodded and smiled, then turned around and disappeared as a breeze, leaving the Taoist Gou Chen standing alone in the palace with a firm gaze, as if he had seen hope for the future.
(End of this chapter)