Chapter 474: Longevity, Debate, Crowd, Bear

Deep in the Blood Sea, seeking hidden lands, a tall pagoda emerged, its saints suppressing all heroes.A soft chuckle, then curses without end—all for this sword, Qingping.

With the direct manifestation of Sect Master Tongtian, this Reincarnation Pagoda was undeniably doomed today. Li Changshou quickly made the most secure adjustments to the various plans he had developed in his mind.Today, he intended to declare the Incense Fire God Kingdom an antithesis to the righteous path. This would ensure that whether the Heavenly Court directly interfered with the Three Thousand Worlds in the future, or subtly managed them through the Lintian Palace, they could always claim the moral high ground.

As Li Changshou uttered the words "Incense Fire God Kingdom," the expressions of many adept practitioners of the Western Sect changed.After saying this, Li Changshou turned around and bowed to Sect Master Tongtian once more."Uncle-Master, before this debate begins, could you first sever the connection between the Reincarnation Pagoda and the Heavenly Dao? Otherwise, once your disciple here has finished railing, if the pagoda has already transformed into a Heavenly Dao treasure, that would truly be awkward."

Sect Master Tongtian narrowed his eyes, chuckled softly, and said, "Good." His right hand seemingly casually traced along the sheathed sword by his side.With a clear and resonant hum, the Qingping Sword was unsheathed.The sword's body rippled like water; its edge held the ultimate Dao.Sect Master Tongtian sat on a cloud and swung his sword casually; the sword, his body, and his posture were so naturally harmonious.The sword light unleashed by the Qingping Sword was initially dim and faint gray, seemingly incredibly slow. But as it flew every hundred zhang, it gained a degree of sharpness and a measure of brilliance. By the time it passed over the heads of the Saints' disciples, it was like a towering tsunami!The Great Dao vibrated but did not shatter; the cosmos disintegrated but self-repaired in an instant!From this single sword strike, Li Changshou saw endless vitality, Zhao Gongming saw a strike of immense power, Yunxiao saw the essence of lightness and agility, Jinling saw cracks in heaven and earth…Kong Xuan's face showed contemplation, and a hint of gloom entered his eyes.True Immortal Yuding was slightly lost in thought, his eyes revealing an expression not dissimilar to Kong Xuan's.True Immortal Huanglong wanted to quietly praise it but found himself seemingly plunged into a vortex of time. Although in his perception, time flowed at a normal speed, as he was about to speak, his mouth merely opened, unable to utter a sound.It was only then that Huanglong realized that this sword strike was, in fact, incredibly swift. It was simply that the Saint had deliberately used a technique to grant those who ventured here today an opportunity to comprehend the Saint's Dao.

The sword light ultimately transformed into a surging tide of seven-colored swords, crashing onto the large hand extended by Zhunti's manifestation.But the Zhunti Saint's manifestation couldn't block even a fraction of it; the sword tide seemed to merge into heaven and earth.Boom!The Reincarnation Pagoda trembled, and the Heavenly Dao power on it instantly dissipated. The pagoda's connection with the Heavenly Dao was severed.The Zhunti Saint's manifestation's left hand slowly lowered, maintaining its dignified and majestic appearance.The old Daoist within the pagoda's nostrils trembled slightly, but he did not utter a single cold snort.Li Changshou and the other Daoist Immortals all gained something; the insights contained within that single sword strike were truly immense.However, from the perspective of the Western Sect's disciples, Sect Master Tongtian's sword strike just now was very straightforward.The sword was unsheathed, a flash of sword light, and the connection between the pagoda and the Heavenly Dao…It was gone.All their arrangements and preparations over so many years—from building the pagoda to entering this place to guard it, and then cleverly calculating to conceal this location…All had amounted to nothing.At this point, several of Jieyin's disciples transmitted messages to the assembled Western Sect disciples, instructing them on how to respond to Daoism's impending challenge.From the moment Zhunti was forced to manifest and confront the Heavenly Court's Water God, their Western Sect had been on the defensive.Now, with Sect Master Tongtian arriving in person, and the Human Sect's ultimate treasure, the Taiji Diagram, already displayed, the Heavenly Court's Water God wished to debate 'Incense Fire God Kingdom' with them. His intention was to destroy the Western Sect's tens of thousands of years of influence across the Three Thousand Worlds.Their only option now was to debate.These disciples of Jieyin Saint were specifically cautioning them not to speak lightly later. If they did speak, they should adhere to several key tenets, firmly asserting that the Incense Fire God Kingdom served to enlighten all beings, and so forth.

The Western Saint disciples cautiously retreated beneath the Saint's manifestation, arranging themselves in tiers, sitting cross-legged and silently chanting scriptures, just as they would when listening to sermons on Spirit Mountain.Ksitigarbha, riding Di Ting, sat on the highest tier in the middle.Currently, the dozen or so other individuals beside him, arranged in parallel, were the 'main force' for responding to Li Changshou's upcoming challenge.Looking at the Daoist side…The scene was rapidly taking a peculiar turn.Zhao Gongming, the man in the Primordial World best at playing with spheres—ahem, controlling orb-type magic treasures—was now utilizing his divine abilities. He controlled twenty-four projection orbs distributed in various directions, recording the entire scene.True Immortal Yuding and True Immortal Huanglong, who were not adept at speaking, were now holding several specially made bronze mirrors. They used their magic power to connect to the Water God's Residence's main bronze mirror in the Heavenly Court, projecting the scene here to various parts of the Heavenly Court.The Water God's Media and Entertainment System finally came into use.In the Heavenly Court, some first noticed the suddenly added live stream and curiously glanced at it.Soon, someone recognized Zhao Gongming, who had visited the Heavenly Court several times.As this news spread, throughout the Heavenly Court, a buzz quickly spread. Bronze mirrors everywhere switched to this 'channel,' and Heavenly Soldiers, Heavenly Generals, Immortal Maidens, and female officials gathered in throngs to watch the chief external disciple of the Jie Sect.This viewing quickly led to recognition of the various powerful figures sharing the frame with Zhao Gongming, and major treasures like the Taiji Diagram and Xuanhuang Pagoda were also confirmed.And when several powerful Daoist cultivators continuously referred to a young Daoist as 'Chang Geng,' the Heavenly Court gradually became abuzz."Is Water God's true form actually this handsome and dashing?""No wonder he won the heart of Immortal Yunxiao!"Before long, news came from the Heavenly River Naval Forces. Ao Yi, who was closest to the Water God, confirmed the identity of this young Daoist as their Heavenly Court's 'ordinary god of authority.'He also casually mentioned that this was not the Water God's original appearance.The flames of gossip were already burning fiercely, but when Li Changshou turned around, took a bronze mirror, and proactively explained what was happening, the entire Heavenly Court trembled."The Western Sect sought to establish a second reincarnation system. Fortunately, Uncle-Master Tongtian intervened and thwarted their conspiracy.Next, my senior brothers, senior sisters, and I will debate the matter of the Incense Fire God Cult with the Western Sect.I'm broadcasting the situation here to let everyone in the Heavenly Court know that the Heavenly Court is not fighting alone for all beings; the powerful cultivators of Daoism also always stand on the side of righteousness.By my command, other Heavenly Court recorders, close your live streams.Today, Heavenly Court Recorder Li Chang Geng presents to you…Uncle-Master, would you like to make an appearance?""Come," Sect Master Tongtian said, flicking his finger. His body was enveloped by sword light, yet his true silhouette could still be seen.Li Changshou spoke seriously into the bronze mirror: "Everyone, prepare yourselves. Do not be disrespectful in the presence of the Saintly Lord. Appearing on screen next is one of the Three Pure Ones of Daoism, Saintly Lord Tongtian!"The bronze mirror slowly turned towards Sect Master Tongtian. The Jade Emperor and Queen Mother stood up and bowed; all the immortal deities, Heavenly Soldiers, and Heavenly Generals knelt in reverence, holding their breath.They truly hadn't expected that watching a live stream would require them to bow their heads in reverence…Ahem!They genuinely hadn't expected to be so fortunate as to witness the actual image of a Saint in this lifetime!Then they heard Li Changshou say: "True Immortal Yuding, please hold this bronze mirror for me. I appreciate it.""It's nothing," True Immortal Yuding smiled, holding up two bronze mirrors and continuing to track Li Changshou's movements.Thus, in front of all the immortal deities and Heavenly Soldiers throughout the Heavenly Court, Li Changshou began to explain the key points of the debate.With Sect Master Tongtian's Dao rhyme present, the Western Sect could not easily detect their conversation.Even if there were Western Sect spies in the Heavenly Court, the distance was too great for them to relay information."First, we must not fall into their sophistry. Even if we speak slowly, we must think clearly before speaking.The most important point is that if their questions are full of traps, we should simply ignore them and not bother to answer. We are here to debate the matter of the Incense Fire God Kingdom, not to engage in a Q&A.Our goal is to leave them speechless, to make them realize that what they have done is wrong and immoral towards heaven, earth, and all living beings.I will step forward first. If I can't hold my own, Senior Brother Duobao will take over. If Senior Brother Duobao can't hold his own, then I will have to trouble you…"Immortal Yunxiao nodded slightly, her beautiful eyes shining brightly.She had thought Li Changshou would still restrict her from appearing, not allowing her to directly confront the Western Sect.True Immortal Taiyi pondered for a few moments, feeling a little uncertain at this point. He whispered, "Then, this poor Daoist…""Senior Brother, you are the finale," Li Changshou said with a serious expression, his voice firm. "If we can't win the debate against them, then you are free to play, say what you want, and do what you want.""Time to rally the team!""With Sect Master Tongtian here, if we start, we'll win!""Excellent!"True Immortal Taiyi's eyes gleamed brightly. Having suffered two setbacks previously, he suddenly regained the confidence befitting a Daoist Saint's disciple!Li Changshou looked to the side. Golden Spirit Holy Mother and Kong Xuan shook their heads with remarkable synchronicity.Golden Spirit Holy Mother smiled: "Call me for a direct confrontation."Kong Xuan also said: "Rather than trying to reason with others, I'd rather fight the two Western Sect Leaders…""Oh!"Li Changshou quickly interrupted, saying seriously: "Fellow Daoist, watch your words."Kong Xuan smiled and nodded, not taking it too seriously.At present, Li Changshou further instructed them on the dangers and drawbacks of the Incense Fire God Cult. As all of them were powerful cultivators who had practiced Dao for many years, how could they not understand these principles?With all preparations complete, Li Changshou turned, and four figures simultaneously stepped forward.True Immortal Yuding on the side used his immortal power to push out the bronze mirror, steadily illuminating the four figures and also showcasing the Western Sect's formation.On the Western Sect's side, twelve Saint disciples simultaneously moved forward.Ksitigarbha jumped off Di Ting's back. Though he walked on the very edge, his gaze met Li Changshou's, with a hint of battle intent in his eyes.If their Western side lost this battle, their situation would become increasingly difficult later.Daoism had already secured an eighty percent victory today; for them to stage a desperate counterattack, they would surely have to…"Come," Li Changshou gently called out. A flash of green light passed by his side—it was a large green-furred dog that had arrived before Li Changshou, nuzzling against his feet.Li Changshou smiled: "Mister Bai Ze asked me to convey his regards to you. Go back now."The divine beast flicked its long tail and turned to retreat behind Ksitigarbha.A vein throbbed on Ksitigarbha's forehead, his expression utterly exasperated. He turned to glare at Di Ting.Di Ting, however, seemed unfazed, even displaying an excellent expression of 'Master, I'm doing this for your own good.'Before the battle, unsettling their minds.

The old Daoist standing in the center of the Western Sect's formation stepped forward and cupped his hands to Li Changshou and the three others, saying: "This poor Daoist is…""A disciple of the Western Sect," Li Changshou said calmly. "You don't need to announce your Daoist title; otherwise, I fear you won't even find peace flying on clouds in the future.Today, I declare that the Incense Fire God Kingdom is a great scourge upon heaven and earth!You all use the Incense Fire God Kingdom, performing divine feats in front of people, to delude the masses and accumulate incense merit. And now you want to build a second reincarnation system to complete the Incense Fire God Kingdom.What? If not for the intervention of numerous Daoist masters today, and the direct action of Saintly Lord Tongtian, would you, after establishing this second reincarnation system, use it to shackle all living beings, turning every spirit into a puppet for you to collect incense merit?I truly must ask, what exactly does your Western Sect intend to do?Could it be that you intend to use this system to hollow out the Heavenly Court, suppress Daoism, and subsequently usurp Heaven itself?!"Rumble—Divine thunderbolts appeared at the bottom of the Blood Sea, blossoming above Li Changshou's head and beneath his feet, making his face appear even more solemn."Water God, your words are pure slander!"The old Daoist said firmly: "Our Western Sect is also a great sect of heaven and earth, fundamentally teaching mortals to be virtuous. How is it that in the Water God's mouth, it becomes turning all spirits into puppets for incense merit, becoming a shackle for all living beings?The Water God's words are too biased, and the Heavenly Dao must not be so easily swayed.""Is that so?"Li Changshou smiled calmly, pulling out a precious orb from his sleeve. Within the orb, scene after scene appeared…In front of an Incense Fire Temple in a Great Thousand World, thousands of mortals continuously prostrated themselves in worship. In the distance, farmland was overgrown with weeds, and many mortals were emaciated to the bone.Li Changshou said coldly: "Are you truly so lacking in incense offerings?""Water God, we are unaware of this scene. This is absolutely not the intention of our Western Sect…""The Saint is right here!"Li Changshou shouted firmly, "Two Saintly Lords are present here, and you still dare to speak so carelessly!"The old Daoist frowned: "Our Western Sect has many divine kingdoms across the Three Thousand Worlds. This is merely a corner of one place. It must be that the local administrator was too eager for quick success, not the original intention of our Western Sect.""Eager for quick success?"Li Changshou retorted: "You call the wishes of all beings 'merit' and the incense of all beings 'profit'?Are the myriad living beings in this world, in the words of your Western Sect, merely objects of 'merit and profit'?!"The old Daoist's brow furrowed deeply, already defeated in this exchange…Another old Daoist from the side spoke: "Mortals are ignorant; they do not know the ways of Heaven, nor recognize their destiny. They lived their hundred years in vain. We merely guide them…""Indeed, mortals are ignorant, which is why you take advantage of them.But from ancient times to the present, humanity has long been educated by human sages. They inherently know how to farm and understand weather patterns. Among mortals, there are often intelligent individuals who serve as teachers to others, possessing skills and ingenuity.Open your eyes and see how prosperous and wonderful the mortal realm of the Southern Continent is!Mortal ingenuity is no less than that of cultivators; their songs, poems, and various talents are no less than those who quietly cultivate in the mountains!Living out a hundred years in vain? How thick-skinned must you be to utter such words?I think it is because they cannot be used by you, cannot provide you with incense merit, that they 'live out a hundred years in vain,' is that it?""Water God, how can you be so…""Water God!" an old Daoist cursed, "You can establish the Sea God Cult to collect incense, but we cannot?The Water God inherently holds many prejudices against our Western Sect, and now you say you can, but we cannot. What kind of logic is this?Does the Water God perhaps believe that you can now dictate everything in this world with a single word?"Li Changshou curled his lip slightly, took a jade slip from his sleeve, and directly flicked it onto the old Daoist's face. "This is the doctrine of my Sea God Cult. You've probably already secretly read it.Take it and read it carefully. If you don't know how to run an Incense Fire God Cult, I can teach you.But don't try to mislead perception here!In my Sea God Cult, those who enter the temple are pilgrims. They farm, fish, hunt, gather, and trade; they all possess a skill to support themselves and understand the meaning of self-improvement and tireless effort!Worshipping the Sea God is merely for peace of mind, to find a spiritual solace.Your Western Sect transforms entire Great Thousand Worlds into your own divine kingdoms, forcing countless mortals to focus solely on worship and procreation, providing you with a continuous stream of incense!Look!Look at all of this!"Li Changshou casually threw out seven or eight precious orbs, inside which light and shadows flowed, revealing scene after scene."You tell your followers that crops needn't be tended, and worshipping gods will yield harvests.And what's the result?In famine years, food is insufficient, and millions of mortals starve to death in this Great Thousand World!Behind the temples lie piles of white bones, and within the great cities roam vicious wolves and carrion-eating eagles!If you had done even a single good deed, truly protected this place to have favorable weather, you wouldn't be so passive today, speechless under my scolding!Why did the Heavenly Dao establish the Heavenly Court? It is to tell you long-lived immortals who possess cultivation but lack virtue the difference between an immortal and a god!Without the virtue to become a god, no matter if you cultivate longevity and call yourself a deity, you are merely a rogue god or a malicious spirit!You just happened to be born in ancient or primordial times, a bit stronger than other beings in the present era!I, Li Chang Geng, came from a mortal background and have cultivated for less than five hundred years!Where do you get your sense of superiority, or your self-satisfaction?!"The eyes of the twelve old Daoists from the Western Sect were wide with shock, and some of them trembled all over.Ksitigarbha, however, said: "Water God, you also seem to be a 'wild god' who received a Heavenly Court conferment, and now you turn around and say that this is impermissible and wrong. Is this not too hypocritical?"Li Changshou didn't waste words arguing, calmly stating: "I received a Saint's command to assist the Heavenly Emperor. Are you questioning my Saintly Teacher?"Ksitigarbha also said: "We also received our Saintly Teachers' command to establish the Incense Fire God Kingdom. Are you insulting my Saintly Teachers?""Saints possess Saintly virtue and are examples for all beings! How dare you slander them in such a manner?"Li Changshou proclaimed loudly:"Ksitigarbha, do you perhaps think that by splashing this dirty water onto the Saintly Lords, you can silence the voices of all living beings in the world?The Incense Fire God Kingdom harms all sides, suppresses the innate nature of mortals, ruins their lives, and turns them into instruments for you to collect merit—this is an undeniable fact!Such scenes, these projection orbs, I have as many as you want; my Water God's Residence is filled with several large rooms of them.This matter is beyond your dispute, and I have already stated clearly that it is you, the disciples of the Western Saints, who have deceived your superiors and subordinates, swapped out the good for the bad, and engaged in base schemes, using this to selfishly gain merit and fortune for your own cultivation and for plundering the spiritual energy of heaven and earth!I implore the Saints to witness!"The Western Sect was silent. The manifestation of Saint Zhunti slowly opened his mouth:"This matter, this poor Daoist will certainly investigate thoroughly. Let's end today's proceedings here."Sect Master Tongtian snorted, his face cold, and said: "My Chang Geng has spoken so much, wasted so much effort, and you just want to end it with a single sentence?"Saint Zhunti said: "Do you and I truly want to fight today?""I won't use magic treasures," Sect Master Tongtian said calmly. "This time, don't just talk; let's fight outside Heaven."Saint Zhunti's manifestation immediately fell silent.Seeing this, Li Changshou sighed inwardly and voluntarily took half a step back.True Immortal Taiyi, who had kept his eyes closed, understood the signal. He slowly opened his eyes, which gleamed brightly, and his red robe billowed.He looked enlightened, his voice soft, as if muttering to himself:"I almost forgot, Saintly Lords also have varying strengths."