My low-key cultivation of immortality was discovered by the emperor in my diary.

As the pillar of demonic energy dissipated, the panic and chaos across the land of Kyushu seemed to ease.

People began to leave their homes, and the shops on the streets gradually returned to their former liveliness, with smiles appearing on their faces more often.

However, beneath this apparent calm lies a new crisis.

At the emperor's request, Chu Lengyu went to the Ten Directions Forest, hoping to use the forest's power to appease the people and at the same time strengthen the crackdown on the believers of the plague god.

Because of Lin Jiuxiao, she had originally wanted to go to the Ten Directions Forest. Now that there was not much time left, she decided to go there herself, just as the emperor wished.

Chu Lengyu, dressed in a plain-colored robe, slowly landed at the entrance of the Ten Directions Forest.

Her arrival was not announced to the monks in the jungle beforehand, so her appearance surprised the disciples guarding the entrance.

"Master Chu, what brings you here?" The guarding disciple bowed respectfully.

Although they were surprised, they knew Chu Lengyu's identity and strength, so they dared not be negligent in the slightest.

Chu Lengyu nodded slightly and said, "I have come to discuss important matters."

The guard disciple immediately accepted the order and went to report.

Soon, an elderly monk came out to greet them. He seemed kind, but there was a hint of scrutiny in his eyes.

"Master Chu, I have long admired your name. May I ask what brings you here today?" Although the old cultivator's tone was polite, Chu Lengyu could sense the distance in his words.

The emperor should have informed the Ten Directions Forest beforehand.

Chu Lengyu got straight to the point: "I have come here on behalf of the Great Xia Dynasty, hoping to join forces with the Ten Directions Forest."

The old cultivator frowned slightly. He pondered for a moment, then said, "So that's how it is. This matter is of great importance and requires discussion among the abbots before a decision can be made."

Chu Lengyu nodded, indicating her understanding.

She was led into a council hall deep in the jungle, where several abbots had been waiting for some time.

The Ten Directions Forest is composed of ten major Taoist temples of the Great Xia Dynasty, and the ten abbots are the chief judges.

These abbots were all renowned figures in their respective regions, and their ages and seniority far exceeded Chu Lengyu's. Therefore, when facing her, they couldn't help but adopt an attitude of taking advantage of their age.

“Master Chu, we know your strength is extraordinary, but the Ten Directions Forest has its own rules, and we always act with caution,” an abbot said slowly.

Another abbot echoed, "That's right. We can't easily change our stance because of the slightest disturbance from the outside world. National Preceptor Chu, although you are the National Preceptor personally appointed by His Majesty, your Daoist registration is still under the Xuanzhen Temple. The decision regarding the Ten Directions Monastery still needs our joint discussion."

Chu Lengyu frowned slightly.

She could sense the seniority-based and conservative attitude of these abbots. If these abbots did not change their attitude, then it would be difficult to mobilize the power of the Ten Directions Forest.

She respected these people as her elders, which is why she was willing to take the time to come in person.

Why does it seem that in their eyes, her initiative to visit has become the basis for their imperious behavior?

These people are being a bit too shameless.

They couldn't possibly be unaware of the power of the parasitic plague god. In the previous battle, even the Ten Directions Forest was unable to resist the demonic smoke pillar, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries.

It can not only control people's minds, but also cause greater disasters. If it is not dealt with in time, the consequences will be unimaginable.

Do you really expect her to explain these things to children one by one and persuade them gently?

Chu Lengyu was displeased, and her face turned cold.

However, the attitude of these abbots did not change as a result; they still insisted on discussing the matter before making a decision.

Chu Lengyu stood in the center of the council hall, her patience gradually wearing thin.

She came to the Ten Directions Forest out of a sense of responsibility to the Great Xia and its people, as well as out of affection for Lin Jiuxiao. However, the attitude of these abbots made her feel deeply disappointed.

"Esteemed Abbots, at this moment we are facing the safety of the entire world, not a personal squabble." Chu Lengyu's voice carried a hint of coldness, and her sharp gaze swept over each of the abbots present.

One of the abbots frowned, somewhat displeased with her bluntness: "National Preceptor Chu, what do you mean by this? Our Ten Directions Monastery naturally has its own considerations, you don't need to be so impatient."

Chu Lengyu sneered: "Do you think I can't tell you're just being perfunctory?"

Another abbot tried to ease the tension: "National Preceptor Chu, you misunderstand. We are not delaying, nor are we indifferent to the safety of the people, it's just that..."

"Just what?" Chu Lengyu interrupted him. "Just unwilling to lower your pride, is that it?"

The atmosphere in the council hall became tense, and the faces of the abbots turned grim.

They had never been questioned so directly, especially on their own turf.

"Master Chu, you've gone too far!" An abbot slammed his fist on the table, his face full of anger.

Chu Lengyu remained unmoved: "Too much? If the Ten Directions Forest becomes an obstacle, I will not hesitate to take action against it as well."