Lao Tzu is Ji Gong

However, above, two images of saints manifested: the saints Zhunti and Jieyin.

It was truly magnificent. On both sides, there were three thousand Buddhas arranged in dense rows, bathed in Buddha's light, making the place holy and radiant. Even Bodhisattvas would probably be unable to open their eyes if they entered.

Although Li Xiuyuan was shocked, he suppressed his shock and walked step by step to the front of the main hall to pay his respects to the two saints.

During this time, it was always others who bowed to him. Today, finally, it was he, the sage, who bowed to him.

Chapter 583 Recruiting Subordinates

Although Li Xiuyuan was witnessing a grand scene, he remained calm and spoke first, saying, "This disciple pays respects to the two sages."

Saints Zhunti and Jieyin nodded without speaking, but then Buddha Tathagata spoke up, saying, "Li Xiuyuan, your Buddhahood has already been conferred. Please return to your position."

Li Xiuyuan no longer regards the Buddha Tathagata, so he directly pays homage to the two saints. Logically speaking, although the Buddha Tathagata, as the current head of Buddhism, is not as good as the two saints, it is only right and proper that Li Xiuyuan should pay homage to him.

Today's scene was quite grand. Although Li Xiuyuan was more capable than him, Li Xiuyuan's disregard for him at such a grand occasion made him lose face and filled him with resentment.

Upon hearing this, Li Xiuyuan didn't argue with him and walked towards an empty Buddha seat to the side. This Buddha seat was at the very top, and in terms of status, it was probably only lower than the present, future, and past Buddha seats.

Li Xiuyuan was also satisfied. Although the Buddha had intentionally diminished his glory today, Li Xiuyuan's reputation had already been established throughout the Three Realms, so he was not worth mentioning.

However, as soon as Li Xiuyuan returned to his rightful place in the Buddha's seat, the two saints spoke up. First, the saint Zhunti said, "The Great Sun Heavenly Dragon Buddha has only cultivated for a little over a thousand years, yet he has already become a quasi-saint and holds a Buddha's seat. What great fortune he has!"

Li Xiuyuan said, "Thank you for your praise, Your Majesty. It is an overstatement." However, as soon as Li Xiuyuan finished speaking, the Sage of Reception spoke again, "Tianlong, you don't need to refuse. Both Sage Zhunti and I think highly of you."

Over the years, you have grown step by step, and both the Sage Zhunti and I have provided you with much guidance, both openly and secretly. You just don't know it. In the future, you must work harder to sever the Three Corpses and attain sainthood as soon as possible.”

Upon hearing this, Li Xiuyuan was secretly delighted. Although the Buddha did not give him a kind look, both saints quickly praised him, making him realize the situation clearly.

These two sages probably genuinely intend to draw me into their camp. If that happens, I'll likely no longer need to fear the Three Pure Ones. Although the Jie and Chan sects are separate entities, they are ultimately all descended from Pangu, the Three Pure Ones, belonging to the Daoist school, not the Buddhist school.

Moreover, they are all on the Great Way, unlike the Buddhist approach of taking shortcuts. Therefore, even the Sages Zhunti and Jieyin feared they might not be a match for the Three Pure Ones, as Buddhism has always been suppressed by Taoism.

Even a sect with only one sage like the Jie Sect is someone they can't afford to offend. But if Buddhism could gain another sage, the situation would be vastly different. Buddhism would inevitably surpass Taoism, allowing it to truly flourish.

Even Sun Wukong's journey to the West to obtain Buddhist scriptures, which was secretly supported by Li Xiuyuan, was probably part of the great rise of Buddhism.

These two sages praised Li Xiuyuan in front of many Buddhas, making Li Xiuyuan especially proud. At this moment, all the Buddhas in the heavens looked at Li Xiuyuan and all had the desire to curry favor with him.

Seeing this scene, Buddha was not pleased. He couldn't help but complain in his heart: "These two saints really don't understand. I went to suppress Li Xiuyuan, but these two saints praised him in public. It really makes me lose face."

Li Xiuyuan naturally noticed the Buddha's displeasure, but he became even happier. The Buddha had always intentionally suppressed him. It seemed that in the future, only Li Xiuyuan would be able to suppress the Buddha.

However, the two saints did not give up at this time, and spoke again: "Buddha Tianlong, in recent years, although the Buddha of Great Sun Tathagata has devoted all his energy to governing Buddhism, he is ultimately unable to do so. You can assist him well in the future."

The two saints spoke these words. The entire Buddhist hall erupted in uproar. The meaning of their words was crystal clear: they were intentionally supporting Li Xiuyuan, hoping he would seize power from the Buddha.

Upon hearing this, the Buddha was trembling with anger, but dared not retaliate as the Sage was present. The Buddha understood the Sage's intention to support Li Xiuyuan, and despite his anger, he still addressed Li Xiuyuan, saying, "Great Sun Heavenly Dragon Buddha, I would be eternally grateful for your continued assistance in the future."

Li Xiuyuan smiled and said, "Buddha, you are too kind. As the Lord of the Western Paradise, Buddha, your status is so noble. It is truly an honor for me, Li Xiuyuan, to be able to participate in this grand event with the current Buddha and promote the prosperity of Buddhism." After such polite exchanges, he withdrew from the scene.

First, the two saints' physical forms disappeared, and then all the Buddhas withdrew. However, Li Xiuyuan secretly arranged to meet with Dingguang Huanxi Buddha and Maitreya Buddha later.

However, it will probably be a little delayed. This is because Li Xiuyuan had just come down from the Buddhist hall when many Buddhas came to join in the fun.

Li Xiuyuan could only deal with them one by one. Although he had many friends among the Buddhas, it was all just forming good karma. There were very few who were actually willing to become his followers.

However, Li Xiuyuan also managed to win over a few of them. These "Buddhas" were either powerless or had eccentric personalities in the past. So, they were won over by Li Xiuyuan.

Among them, the ones who were ultimately willing to go with Li Xiuyuan were Medicine Buddha, Treasure Void Buddha, and Amoghasiddhi Buddha. Although their power and cultivation were not as great as Tathagata's, they were still Buddhas, only inferior to quasi-saints.

After a conversation, Li Xiuyuan went with the three Buddhas to the place where he had agreed to meet Maitreya Buddha and Dingguang Huanxi Buddha.

This place is also a beautiful spot in the sacred Buddhist mountain, called Buddha Mist Sea.

This Buddha Mist Sea, with its vast valleys and mountains shrouded in mist and clouds, is truly magnificent. However, being located in a sacred mountain, the peaks are adorned with numerous Buddha statues, adding to its mystique.

And it is because he is deep in the sacred mountain. Therefore, above the sea of ​​clouds, there is always a thin layer of Buddha's light, which adds to the sanctity of this vast and mysterious Buddha mist sea. It is so beautiful that it cannot be touched, and inspires awe from afar.

Chapter 584 Establishing a Relationship

Li Xiuyuan, along with Medicine Buddha, Treasure Buddha, and Amoghasiddhi Buddha, arrived at this mountain. Looking into the distance, they saw Maitreya Buddha and Dipankara Buddha sitting on the cliff face.

Li Xiuyuan sent a telepathic message from afar, saying, "I had some trivial matters to attend to, which is why I was delayed. I hope you two won't take offense."

Although Li Xiuyuan was far away from them, these were all powerful figures with great supernatural abilities, so he naturally heard everything clearly.

Upon learning of Li Xiuyuan's arrival, both Dipankara Buddha and Maitreya Buddha rose to greet him. However, upon seeing Bhaisajyaguru Buddha, Ratnakara Buddha, and Amoghasiddhi Buddha who had come with Li Xiuyuan, they had some doubts.

Maitreya Buddha knew these three Buddhas quite well; in fact, they were probably all on par with him. However, due to certain reasons, they, like him, had been buried among the Buddhas for a long time and had not made much of a name for themselves.

Not knowing how Li Xiuyuan had used various methods to bring these three Buddhas here, Maitreya Buddha immediately asked, "Heavenly Dragon Buddha, why have these three Buddhas come today as well? Could it be that they are here like me and Dipankara Buddha?"

Li Xiuyuan smiled and said, "Maitreya Buddha, as the future Buddha, is truly prescient. The three Buddhas, who were previously unknown, have also come today to form an alliance with us."

"Oh! If that's the case, then that's excellent!" Maitreya Buddha was quite pleased to hear this. Although Li Xiuyuan was leading the way, their power still seemed somewhat weak. Now, with the addition of three top-tier Buddhas, their strength had grown considerably.

Li Xiuyuan smiled and said, "Alright, this Buddha Mist Sea is a rare and beautiful sight in the Three Realms. Let's find a place to stay here and discuss this in detail."

In the arena, Li Xiuyuan was the leader, so everyone agreed indifferently. Then, under Li Xiuyuan's guidance, they found a relatively flat large rock and sat down cross-legged.

After everyone took their seats, Li Xiuyuan spoke first, saying, "Everyone, let's introduce ourselves first. Although you all know each other to some extent, it's better to get to know each other better in the future. Future Buddha, you are the highest-ranking Buddha here, so you should speak first."

Immediately, Maitreya Buddha sighed and said, "Everyone, I am Maitreya Buddha. The Jade Emperor originally wanted to enfeoff me in the Buddhist realm so that I could become the future Buddha and take the position of Tathagata."

But unexpectedly, Buddha was too domineering. He held onto his power and refused to relinquish it, so no progress was made for a long time. Buddha also severely suppressed me, and the Jade Emperor treated me as a pawn, ignoring me completely. This went on for who knows how many years.

It was only after meeting the Great Sun Dragon Buddha that I gained some clarity of direction. Therefore, I am willing to form an alliance with the Dragon Buddha and await his command in the future, all for the sake of having a way out.

After Maitreya Buddha finished speaking, Li Xiuyuan continued, "What Maitreya Buddha said is all true. I, Li Xiuyuan, was originally just an unknown nobody, but thanks to the guidance of two sages several times, I finally attained Buddhahood."

However, the world is in turmoil, and while I possess strength, I lack influence. Without influence, even a strong fist cannot fight against many. I am deeply grateful that you all have shown no disdain and are willing to form an alliance with me. We will certainly look after each other in the future.”

Li Xiuyuan was clever. Although the two sages had unintentionally given him guidance, it was insignificant. Li Xiuyuan's statement, however, led them to believe that he had been supported by the two sages for a long time. This way, they would likely follow him wholeheartedly in the future.

Although it was just Li Xiuyuan's words, the attitude of the two sages towards him today is indeed worth pondering. Based on this alone, it shows they have nothing to fear—they are not afraid of being disbelieved, nor are they afraid of being disobedient.

After Li Xiuyuan finished speaking, everyone heard that his words mentioned two sages, which could be considered a reassurance to them. If they had the backing of two sages in the future, they would certainly be much more justified in their actions.

This gave them a bit more courage for no reason. Li Xiuyuan naturally noticed the change in their expressions and couldn't help but feel secretly pleased with himself.

However, there were still a few Buddhas whose names were not mentioned. Li Xiuyuan said, "Alright, next up is Dingguang Huanxi Buddha."

Dipankara Buddha chuckled and said, "Everyone, I am Dipankara Buddha. I hope you will help me in the future."

Dipankara Buddha wasn't introduced much because he was quite prominent among the Buddhas for a time. However, this was all due to his romantic history. For example, he once forcibly had sexual relations with several female bodhisattvas for cultivation, which caused a great uproar and chaos throughout the entire Buddhist realm.

Back then, after Li Xiuyuan caused havoc in the Heavenly Palace, he went to the Tang Dynasty and forcibly took the life of an Indian girl. Later, he discovered that she was also a descendant of the Buddha of Dipankara. Presumably, this Buddha of Dipankara, like him, often went to the mortal world to look for beauties and seek pleasure.

Then, everyone nodded, indicating that they understood, and the remaining three Buddhas began to appear. These three Buddhas had all come with Li Xiuyuan, so they were considered the latter.

Then the Medicine Buddha spoke up: "Everyone, I am the Medicine Buddha. I attained Buddhahood through medicine. I have saved countless injured people by making medicine, and thus I became a Buddha."

After the Medicine Buddha finished speaking, everyone praised him. Li Xiuyuan even said, "The Medicine Buddha is a person who has performed great deeds, so it is only right that he became a Buddha. It's just that Tathagata can't stand others standing out and always suppresses them."

Then, the Buddha of Emptiness spoke up: "Everyone, I am the Buddha of Emptiness. When I attained Buddhahood, I was renowned far and wide, but later the Tathagata deliberately suppressed me, to the point that my reputation has been completely ruined."

Everyone sighed, saying that the Buddha was really petty and couldn't stand seeing others in the limelight.

Then, the last Buddha, Amoghasiddhi, gave a brief introduction, and everyone understood. Li Xiuyuan then spoke, "The future will surely be turbulent and unpredictable. We should advance and retreat together in order to ensure our safety. Let us make a covenant today."

..........................

Chapter 585 Farewell to Bodhidharma

Li Xiuyuan and the other five Buddhas exchanged ideas and eventually reached a consensus that if they were in danger in the future, the others would need to help them.

Furthermore, everyone unanimously recognizes Li Xiuyuan as their leader, and the others must obey his commands. Li Xiuyuan, in turn, has an obligation to protect them.

There were six Buddhas in total, plus Li Xiuyuan. They all exchanged jade tokens so that they could communicate with each other in the future.

After explaining everything, Li Xiuyuan stood up and said, "Gentlemen, today's agreement is considered fulfilled. If there is any rebellion, I will certainly kill it. If there is any disturbance in the future, you must inform each other in case of any unforeseen circumstances."

Besides Li Xiuyuan, the Great Sun Heavenly Dragon Buddha, the only other person present was Maitreya Buddha. At this moment, Maitreya Buddha also stood up and said with a smile, "That's natural. If anyone rebels, we will definitely kill them with all our might. However, we have lived in Mount Ling for a long time, and we will visit each other often in the future, so we are more familiar with each other."

Then, knowing that the meeting was about to end, the group stood up. Li Xiuyuan said, "What Maitreya Buddha said makes a lot of sense. I am not often at Mount Ling, but the five of you are all on duty there year-round, so you can help each other."

After Li Xiuyuan finished speaking, everyone flattered him again before turning and leaving. In the end, only Li Xiuyuan and Maitreya Buddha remained.

Li Xiuyuan laughed and said, "Isn't the Future Buddha leaving yet?"

Maitreya Buddha smiled and said, "Great Sun Heavenly Dragon Buddha, is there anyone else who wants to meet us?" Li Xiuyuan nodded and said, "That's right. I have a disciple named Bodhidharma, who is now the chief of the Eighteen Arhats, the Dragon-Subduing Arhat."

He'll be here soon, you should meet him, so you can look out for each other in the future.

Upon hearing this, Maitreya Buddha clicked his tongue in amazement and said, "I had long heard of the newcomer's renowned reputation, who leads the eighteen golden Arhats. I never imagined he was a disciple of the Great Sun Dragon Buddha. But the Tathagata Buddha has always been narrow-minded; how could he allow your disciple to take the head seat among the Arhats?"

Li Xiuyuan smiled and said, "I have a disciple in the mortal realm who was bullied by the Buddha. So I stepped in to teach the Buddha a lesson. The Buddha didn't want to be beaten, so he begged for mercy and agreed to one condition. So I sent my disciple, who was cultivating diligently in the mortal realm, to the Western Paradise to sit in the seat of the head of the eighteen Arhats."

Although the Buddha regretted it, there was nothing more he could say.

After Li Xiuyuan finished speaking, Maitreya Buddha couldn't help but sigh, "Strength is the means. If I had the means and strength of the Great Sun Dragon Buddha, I'm afraid I would have taken the position of Tathagata Buddha long ago. I wouldn't let this Tathagata Buddha still occupy the position of the master of the Buddhist sect of Mount Ling."

Li Xiuyuan smiled wryly, "That's true. The Tathagata Buddha is domineering and narrow-minded. Over the years, Maitreya Buddha has suffered a lot. But the Future Buddha can rest assured, if there is any movement in the future, we will definitely drive the Tathagata Buddha down and then let the Future Buddha become the Present Buddha. As for me, I am used to being free and do not want to manage so many Buddhas."

Therefore, I'm afraid I'll have to trouble you with these matters in the future.

Maitreya Buddha was secretly pleased upon hearing this. Although Li Xiuyuan had previously hinted at his position as the Lord of the Western Paradise, his mention of it again put Maitreya Buddha at ease.

In reality, Li Xiuyuan had little interest in the position of the Lord of the Western Paradise. Like the Buddha and the Jade Emperor, he wanted to be a puppet emperor, dealing with trivial matters all day long.

Li Xiuyuan had already planned ahead, intending to have Maitreya Buddha ascend the throne and become the ruler of the Western Paradise. However, he would be manipulating things from behind the scenes, and any necessary actions would simply require a greeting to Maitreya Buddha.

Li Xiuyuan is now a top-tier quasi-saint, comparable to a saint, and will become a saint in one step. Naturally, Li Xiuyuan looks down on the position of Lord of the Western Heaven.

However, he also arranged to meet Bodhidharma here later. They would catch up, but he had something to give him: the Wind Spirit Fan.

The Wind Spirit Fan is a rare treasure. Li Xiuyuan had studied it and discovered that if the Wind Spirit Fan were used in conjunction with the Arhat Formation, it could unleash even greater power. It would be easy to achieve twice the result with half the effort.