Chapter 2300: Dong Yang Clan

"Daoist Qingfeng, this Huangyuan Temple is a heritage of the Pure Land lineage, and it's one of the largest Buddhist temples of the Pure Land lineage in Shengfan Pass..."Chen Long led Qin Sang to a temple.Upon arriving at Shengfan Pass, Qin Sang intended to inquire about information related to the "Ten Directions Pure Land Sutra." He learned that the Pure Land lineage was very prosperous in Lizhou, with most common people adhering to its teachings.Huangyuan Temple was the closest to Qingyan Temple, where they were staying.

"Amitabha! This humble monk greets Deacon Chen..."The monk guarding the temple gate had already noticed them and recognized Deacon Chen.All the monks at Huangyuan Temple were cultivators, but on the first and fifteenth days of each lunar month, they would open the temple gates wide to welcome worshipers. Mortals were invited inside to offer incense and pray to Buddha, and the monks often discussed Buddhist principles with lay practitioners, leading to a thriving flow of visitors.In this aspect, there was a significant difference between Buddhism and Taoism.Most Taoist masters lived in seclusion in famous mountains and great rivers, subsisting on wind and dew, and were rarely seen by mortals.

Deacon Chen was clearly familiar with the monk. He stepped forward and whispered a few words, and the monk promptly invited them into the temple."True Immortal, please be seated. I will go inform the abbot."The monk hurried away.

Soon after, Qin Sang sensed a quiet and peaceful aura, like a tranquil, deep pool or an undisturbed ancient well.His expression solemn, he stood up and looked towards the hall entrance. An old monk stepped inside, bowed to him with clasped hands, and his voice, like a grand bell, resonated, "This humble monk is Tanyuan. I apologize for making you wait, True Immortal.""Not at all! It is I who have disturbed the Holy Monk's peaceful cultivation..."Qin Sang returned the bow.

In this era, the Daoist and Buddhist schools, one based in the East Sea and the other in the Buddhist Lands of the Western Regions, maintained a respectful distance. Thus, while Qin Sang and the old monk didn't become instant friends, there was no tension between them.Qin Sang explained his purpose, handing over a jade slip. "I was fortunate enough to acquire a fragmented scripture of profound mysticism. I wish to inquire about its origin. Please enlighten me, Holy Monk."Abbot Tanyuan's face immediately registered surprise upon seeing the scripture. He exclaimed, "This is the 'Ten Directions Pure Land Sutra'!""Is it a true Pure Land scripture?" Qin Sang pressed."Indeed!"Tanyuan stared intently at the scripture. "Forgive my presumption, but may I ask where the True Immortal obtained this fragmented scripture?"Qin Sang did not answer, but instead asked, "What is the origin of this scripture, and are there still true inheritors of it in this era?"

Abbot Tanyuan looked up at Qin Sang, hesitated, and then truthfully replied, "This scripture is a supreme text of our Pure Land lineage. It is said that its true transmission in this era resides at Xiangji Temple within the Buddhist Lands. However, no disciples practicing the 'Ten Directions Pure Land Sutra' have traveled outside from Xiangji Temple for a very long time. Therefore, it's hard to say if the lineage has truly been passed down.""Has the Holy Monk not visited Xiangji Temple either?" Qin Sang asked."For some unknown reason, many years ago, several revered temples in the Buddhist Lands withdrew from the mortal world, and Xiangji Temple is among them. They send a Buddhist disciple into the world periodically. Unfortunately, though we are both of the Pure Land lineage, I have never had the chance to meet one," Abbot Tanyuan said regretfully as he returned the jade slip to Qin Sang.He regretted not only the inability to meet a Buddhist disciple from Xiangji Temple, but also the fragmented scripture itself.The scripture's content was largely limited to the Golden Core and Nascent Soul stages; the cultivation level was too low. Even if it was a true scripture, no profound principles could be deciphered from it."When the True Immortal discovered this fragmented scripture, were there any other items nearby?" Abbot Tanyuan couldn't help but ask.Perhaps those items could provide clues to other fragments of the scripture.Qin Sang shook his head. If there were other clues, he wouldn't have easily presented this fragmented scripture.This scripture had been brought back from Zhongzhou by a monk from Jiguan Temple before the Storm Realm's ascension. When Qin Sang first encountered this scripture, he was very interested and personally visited Jiguan Temple.The monks of Jiguan Temple, facing Qin Sang, were highly cooperative and told him everything they knew.It turned out that the monk who acquired the fragmented scripture had never entered the Sword Pavilion in Zhongzhou. Instead, he had purchased it outside the Sword Pavilion from another Zhongzhou cultivator whose identity and lineage were completely unknown, making any further investigation impossible.

"In that case, I shall not disturb the Holy Monk any further," Qin Sang said, rising to take his leave.Abbot Tanyuan quickly interjected, "Forgive my presumption, but may I ask if we could keep this fragmented scripture for our younger disciples to study and contemplate?"The fragmented scripture wasn't very helpful to them, but observing it would certainly provide much inspiration to the younger generation."It is merely a fragmented scripture. Holy Monk, you may dispose of it as you wish. I only hope that if you ever encounter a Buddhist disciple from Xiangji Temple in the future, you could introduce them to me," Qin Sang said casually."Thank you, True Immortal!"Abbot Tanyuan called over the monk from before. "Go pick three Huangyuan Apricots.""Three?"The monk's face was filled with shock. He glanced at Qin Sang and quickly affirmed, "Yes.""True scriptures are not to be lightly given away! Our temple has a Huangyuan Apricot tree whose fruits, when consumed, can enhance the soul. Please, True Immortal, you must accept them."Abbot Tanyuan said earnestly.The monk went and returned, holding a wooden tray on which lay three golden-yellow apricots, emitting a fragrant aroma that refreshed the senses.Qin Sang did not stand on ceremony and readily accepted the three Huangyuan Apricots, bowing before departing.

Leaving Huangyuan Temple, Deacon Chen remarked with an envious expression, "True Immortal, you may not know this, but these Huangyuan Apricots blossom every three hundred years, bear fruit three hundred years later, and ripen only after nine hundred years. They are incredibly precious, and Huangyuan Temple is named after this tree. Five years ago, when the fruits ripened, Holy Monk Tanyuan invited fellow cultivators to a Huangyuan Dharma Assembly. Our City Lord received one, and has longed for another ever since."Qin Sang chuckled, "So it seems I was fortunate, arriving here to deliver the scripture just when the fruits ripened."He thought to himself that the treasures unearthed from the Sword Pavilion were indeed extraordinary.Although he didn't gain any major opportunities this time, receiving three Huangyuan Apricots made the trip worthwhile."Where does the True Immortal wish to go next?" Deacon Chen asked."Deacon Chen, you've been very helpful these past few days. I would like to explore on my own."Qin Sang dismissed Deacon Chen, changed his attire, and blended into the crowd.He had brought out all the treasures unearthed from the Sword Pavilion that seemed related to Buddhism, and now was a good opportunity to investigate their origins.

For a long time afterward, Qin Sang continuously appeared in various parts of Shengfan Pass under different guises.Sometimes he would take out items and specifically seek out appraisers.Sometimes he would participate in small trade fairs.Other times, he would befriend like-minded Buddhist cultivators, and during their discussions on profound principles, he would find an excuse to present his treasures for their admiration.

One day, upon returning to Qingyan Temple, Qin Sang felt a surge of heavenly might enveloping the temple. The protective array was active, and the monks were on high alert.Deacon Chen let out a long breath of relief and quickly stepped forward. "Congratulations, True Immortal! Daoist Friend Wuzhao is about to break through!"He had assumed Wuzhao was Qin Sang's junior, and if she failed her tribulation at Qingyan Temple, it would be difficult to explain. He only relaxed when Qin Sang returned.Qin Sang looked towards the quiet chamber, where Yin Fire was condensing in the void.He stood his ground and did not take Wuzhao out of Shengfan Pass. The heavenly tribulation for both the Witch Clan and human cultivators was the same, and there were quite a few Witch Clan cultivators in Shengfan Pass, so exposure was not a concern.Three calamities descended from the sky, with dark clouds gathering.The anomaly was concealed by the temple's protective array, but the fluctuations were difficult to mask, attracting many gazes.When the tribulation lightning dissipated, Qin Sang walked towards the backyard. Wuzhao sat cross-legged in the courtyard, having successfully passed her inner demon tribulation, though her pretty face was filled with lingering fear.Seeing Qin Sang, her delicate body trembled, and her face turned pale. She nearly believed she was still trapped in her inner demons.That terrifying gaze had reappeared during her inner demon tribulation. Had Qin Sang not later provided her with elixirs to dispel her fear, she might have been irrevocably lost.Qin Sang observed her reaction and couldn't help but chuckle. He had only intended to teach them a lesson, but hadn't realized he had left such a deep impression."Greetings, Senior..."Wuzhao, realizing her lapse in etiquette, quickly supported her weak body and bowed."Well done! After breaking through, you should stabilize your cultivation as soon as possible and strive to evolve your innate spirit insect. Once Shiliu breaks through, we will depart..."Qin Sang offered a few pointers, then walked towards his own quiet chamber.This was his third year in Shengfan Pass. He had delayed his departure for two reasons: first, to wait for Shiliu and the other to break through, and second, to await news from the City Lord of Guangsha City.Establishing a relationship with a Witch Clan tribe in advance would significantly ease their operations in the Witch Clan territory.

Closing the door, the Qianjun Ring shimmered, and an object flew out, instantly bathing the room in golden light.This object was a palm-sized golden fragment, yet incredibly heavy. One side had a smooth curve, while its other edges showed clear signs of breakage. After much effort, this was the most valuable Buddhist treasure he had appraised during this period.Of course, there were also many other items without spiritual light or fluctuations, whose power was either completely lost or whose true nature remained concealed.Qin Sang recalled the Buddhist cultivator's assessment of this item."When this item was intact, it must have been a golden cymbal! I'm afraid it was a true treasure-grade Buddhist artifact..."The individual held the golden fragment before his eyes, unable to put it down.Qin Sang had studied the Daoist lineage of artifact refining, but the Buddhist school also possessed its unique techniques. Although he had previously discerned some clues, he couldn't be certain.The person who identified the golden fragment's true nature was proficient in Buddhist artifact refining. Qin Sang immediately felt a connection with this individual, and discussing the art of refining with him proved very fruitful.The previous true treasure fragment had been refined into the Mingshan Armor by Master Qi and himself. Qin Sang was not currently in need of spirit treasures, but refining this golden fragment would certainly deepen his understanding of Buddhist artifact refining techniques.Subsequently, Qin Sang rarely left his dwelling, dedicating himself to comprehending this golden fragment until the restrictions on his cave mansion were triggered, startling him awake.

The person outside was Deacon Chen.Qin Sang's expression shifted slightly. He let Deacon Chen in. "Does your City Lord have news?""True Immortal, your insight is impeccable," Deacon Chen stepped forward and bowed. "The City Lord has instructed that if the True Immortal has not changed his mind, he should proceed to Glorious Manor within ten days!"

The night was deep, with stars and moon hidden from view.Faintly, mountain shadows stretched across the land, resembling ferocious beasts lurking in the darkness.Within the gloom, several figures appeared, flying unhurriedly from the horizon.A dignified voice resounded from among them, "You all wait here. I will go myself.""Understood! City Lord, please be careful!"The others immediately stopped.The leader's speed surged, and he vanished into the depths of the darkness in the blink of an eye.

He sped along, crossing several mountain ranges, then descended from the sky to stand on a mountaintop, silently calculating the time.After the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, his eyes lit up, and he smiled, "Brother Jiumie is indeed punctual!""Apologies for keeping you waiting, Brother Xia..."As the voice sounded, the ground cracked open, and a creature resembling a dragonfly flew out.Perhaps 'a behemoth' would be a more fitting description; this dragonfly's wingspan exceeded that of an eagle, and its body was larger than a tiger or leopard.Pale blue flames burned on its wings, and the firelight illuminated the face of the man on the mountaintop, who was none other than the City Lord of Guangsha City.The dragonfly hovered before him, with one person seated cross-legged on each of its wings.The person on the right was entirely enveloped in a black robe, with a mask covering their face. The other was a capable young man.The City Lord of Guangsha City glanced at the person on the right, then smiled and bowed to the young man, "I didn't expect Brother Jiumie to come in person. How is the Third Elder?"

"He's doing very well! Ever since Brother Xia sent those nine beauties, the Third Elder looks several years younger. The cultivation methods of the Huanxi Sect are truly remarkable."Jiumie jumped to the ground, laughing heartily and giving a thumbs-up.The City Lord of Guangsha City chuckled, "If Brother Jiumie likes them, next time I'll also help you gather some excellent cultivation partners, all guaranteed to be beauties.""I'm still young; I don't need to practice Yin-nourishing and Yang-replenishing!"Jiumie flung a ring to the City Lord of Guangsha City.A moment later, the City Lord of Guangsha City's voice, full of surprise, rang out, "These Phoenix Eye Grasses...""It was a recent abundant harvest, so I'm giving you more to avoid your incessant chattering when we meet," Jiumie scoffed."It's only because your Dongyang Clan's cultivation techniques are too brilliant, and the quality of your spirit medicines is too good, leading to short supply!"The City Lord of Guangsha City pocketed the ring, his face beaming with joy, then his smile faded. "Brother Jiumie, what important matter brings you here? Also, who is this Daoist Friend?""Just call him Wuyan; don't ask anything else!"Jiumie waved his hand, answering for the other person, then countered, "You sent a letter last time saying there was a Daoist who raised butterflies. Is that person still here?"

The City Lord of Guangsha City knew what to be curious about and what not to be, so he withdrew his gaze from Wuyan. "Daoist Qingfeng is at Glorious Manor. I was just about to introduce him to Brother Jiumie.""That's good! This person could ring the first jade drum and has a spirit insect in the mid-sixth transformation stage, so his strength certainly won't be lacking."Jiumie said, his eyes, however, fixed on Wuyan.The City Lord of Guangsha City sensed something and his brow furrowed slightly.Jiumie observed his change in expression and smiled, "Daoist Friend Wuyan has encountered some trouble and wishes to find a few strong individuals to fight his way back.""Hmph!"Wuyan's voice was hoarse and grating, like iron plates rubbing together. It was unclear if it was a deliberate disguise or naturally so.The City Lord of Guangsha City felt a chill down his spine, sensing a cold gaze shooting out from beneath the mask, staring intently at him."Is there such a coincidence in the world? I need help, and there's a human expert waiting right here?"*This person is quite suspicious*, the City Lord of Guangsha City thought to himself.The City Lord of Guangsha City had always kept his distance from such individuals.As for Daoist Qingfeng, he had waited for three full years in Shengfan Pass, indicating an urgent need for Witch Clan spirit medicines. If Wuyan could satisfy his demands, he should be able to persuade him, the City Lord of Guangsha City mused.Jiumie scoffed, "Wuyan, if you don't trust me, why ask for my help? You only approached me just before setting off. That person has been waiting here for three years! If the Third Elder hadn't needed to refine the Yin essence gained from dual cultivation, he would have come in person three years ago! Do you think Brother Xia and I can foresee the future, or did you yourselves mishandle your affairs and leak information?"Despite being reprimanded by Jiumie to his face, Wuyan did not react. He secretly exchanged a few whispered words with Jiumie through spiritual transmission, eventually nodding.Jiumie's anger turned to joy. He said, "Brother Xia, please trouble yourself to invite that Daoist to meet with us."