Gou Zai Xi You Dao Chang Sheng

Li Yan steadied his mind and began the formal refining process.

He first activated the true fire of the sun, slowly burning the blood-red ball of light.

The sun's true fire is supremely yang and intense, capable of burning anything.

The crimson ball of light was burned by the true fire, and immediately began to emit wisps of black smoke.

The black smoke was the manifestation of the Lion Camel King's karma from his previous life.

Karma arises from actions and exists because of attachment.

The Lion Camel King had killed countless people and devoured countless living beings throughout his life, accumulating immense karma.

These karmic burdens are usually hidden deep within the primordial spirit, remaining unseen and unassuming.

Forced by the sun's true fire, they turned into black smoke and billowed out.

Li Yan was prepared.

He activated the twelve-petaled golden lotus, scattering rays of golden light that completely enveloped the black smoke.

Golden light entered and slowly blended with the black smoke.

The black smoke struggled for a few moments before being enveloped by layers of golden light and finally vanished into nothingness.

Refining karma is like peeling back silk threads; it cannot be rushed or hasty.

Li Yan patiently refined it little by little.

One wisp of black smoke, two wisps of black smoke, ten wisps, a hundred wisps...

After an unknown amount of time, no more black smoke emerged from the crimson light.

The original blood-red color gradually became clear and transparent, faintly revealing a golden light.

Li Yan felt relieved.

The karma has been exhausted; the next step is to refine its life essence.

With a slight thought, he drew upon the true water of the moon to gently cleanse the ball of light.

Taiyin True Water, being extremely Yin and gentle, can nourish all things.

The ball of light became warm and smooth after being washed by the real water.

The Lion Camel King's memories, insights, supernatural powers, and magical abilities from his previous life were all integrated into the true water, transforming into the power of origin.

Li Yan activated the twelfth-petaled golden lotus, slowly absorbing the primordial power.

Lotus Flower received this primordial power and immediately shone brightly.

On the petals, the mysterious symbols and characters flowed even more rapidly.

A faint roar of a lion could be heard emanating from within the lotus flower.

That was the Lion Camel King's life mark, the last long roar left after it was completely refined by Lotus.

Li Yan's heart stirred slightly, and he drew upon the power of origin, channeling it into the cave.

Upon receiving this source, the grotto-heaven trembled violently.

Above the dome, the sun, moon, and stars shone even brighter.

The earth, mountains, rivers, grasses and trees, are even more lush and verdant.

The dragon vein meanders, making it appear even more majestic.

The golden lotus blooms, dazzlingly beautiful.

The entire cave seemed to have been infused with new life, brimming with vitality.

Li Yan felt refreshed and his cultivation greatly improved.

[Cultivation Level: 80% of the Sixth Level of the Grotto-Heaven (within an area of ​​8,000 li)]

He looked away.

He drew upon the true fire of the sun to continue refining the azure light.

Although Peng Demon King was not as ruthless as Lion Camel King in his lifetime, he was still an old demon with heavy karma.

As soon as the sun's true fire ignited, wisps of black smoke immediately rose up.

Li Yan followed the same method, using a twelve-petaled golden lotus to completely refine the black smoke.

After refining the karma, the essence of life was cleansed with the true water of the moon.

Among them, his innate supernatural ability, "Soaring straight up ninety thousand miles," is the most precious.

This supernatural power is a secret transmission of the Golden-Winged Roc lineage, allowing one to travel a thousand miles in an instant, moving as swiftly as the wind.

Even a Taiyi Golden Immortal would find it difficult to match.

Li Yan secretly made a mental note of it, intending to study it carefully in the future.

After refining, the cyan light cluster transformed into pure essence.

Li Yan activated the twelve-petaled golden lotus and absorbed it.

Lotus received this primordial power, and then shone brightly again.

A faint cry of a roc could be heard emanating from within the lotus flower.

Li Yan drew upon this primordial power and poured it into the cave.

The cave trembled once more.

Within the grotto, the sun and moon shone together in a spectacular display.

Amidst the undulating mountains and rivers, one can hear the roars of dragons and tigers.

The twelve-petaled golden lotus also underwent subtle changes.

On the petals, there were originally only profound and mysterious characters engraved with the true meaning of the three religions.

At this moment, two more illusory figures appeared.

One is the image of the Lion Camel King, symbolizing "moving mountains and filling seas".

One of them is the image of the Roc Demon King's "Soaring Upwards".

These two illusory figures appeared and disappeared intermittently, merging with the lotus flower.

A sudden realization dawned on Li Yan.

These twelve golden lotuses were originally based on the true meaning of the three religions and incorporated his Dao of the Grotto Heaven.

Now that he has refined the primordial spirits of two Taiyi Golden Immortals, he has gained two more supernatural power imprints.

In the future, he will only need to think about it to activate these two supernatural powers.

Although it was not as powerful as the two demon kings in their true forms, it was still quite formidable.

As I pondered, a thought stirred within me, settling into the depths of my mind.

On the mirror, the numbers representing the aura of destiny are fluctuating rapidly.

24800.

26000.

28000.

The number soared all the way up, eventually stopping at 28,000 strands.

Li Yan looked closely and saw that on the mirror surface, there were rows of small golden characters, densely packed, arranged in several lines.

[Refine the Lion Camel King's primordial spirit, resolve his overwhelming karma, and obtain pure primordial power]

[Aura of Destiny +1000 (Exorcising demons and monsters, immeasurable merit)]

[Refine the primordial spirit of the Roc Demon King, resolve its profound karma, and obtain pure primordial power]

[Aura of Destiny +1000 (Exorcising demons and monsters, immeasurable merit)]

[The grotto-heaven absorbed the power of the origins of two Taiyi Golden Immortals, greatly increasing the power of the Five Elements and harmonizing the Yin and Yang energies.]

[Aura of Destiny +600 (Evolution of the Grotto-Heaven, Great Advancement in Daoist Cultivation)]

The twelve-petaled golden lotus flower, fused with the [Mountain Moving and Sea Filling] divine power imprint, has its power enhanced.

[Aura of Destiny +300 (Supernatural Powers Advance, Mystic Arts Achieve Their Own)]

[The twelve-petaled golden lotus flower merges with the [Soaring High] divine power imprint, enhancing its power.]

[Aura of Destiny +300 (Supernatural Powers Advance, Mystic Arts Achieve Their Own)]

[Current Affinity/Dharma Energy: 28000/10240]

Twenty-eight thousand strands!

Looking at the number, Li Yan felt a surge of joy.

This karmic connection is his very essence.

With these 28,000 strands of karmic energy, he could then plan what to do next.

Li Yan's mind stirred slightly as he looked at the mirror of his mind, where his cultivation level was manifested.

[Cultivation Level: 90% of the Sixth Level of the Grotto-Heaven (within a radius of nine thousand li)]

Nine thousand miles.

It's only a thousand miles away from the seventh level of that celestial realm.

Though a thousand miles apart, they may seem close, but in reality, they are worlds apart.

The sixth level of the grotto-heaven is called the "Small Thousand," and its limit is a radius of ten thousand miles.

The seven levels of the grotto-heaven are called the "Middle Thousand," which begins with a radius of ten thousand li and ends with a radius of one million li.

Although the microcosm has the sun, moon, stars, mountains, rivers, grass, trees, and living beings, it is ultimately just a small world.

There is no cycle of reincarnation or cause and effect, and no true birth and death.

The Middle Thousand Worlds are different.

Within the myriad worlds, one can establish reincarnation, determine cause and effect, and judge life and death.

Living beings are born within it, and after death they can enter the cycle of reincarnation and be reborn.

Cause and effect are intertwined, and good and evil are rewarded accordingly, without the slightest error.

Life and death cycle within it, life goes on endlessly, passed down from generation to generation.

That was a true world, though not as vast and boundless as the Great Thousand Worlds, it still possessed fundamental laws.

If Li Yan can reach the seventh level of the Cave Heaven, his cultivation, supernatural powers, and lifespan will all experience a qualitative leap.

At that time, even if a Tai Luo Golden Immortal were to appear before him, he would have some ability to protect himself.

With this in mind, Li Yan immediately activated the Qi of Fate, preparing to break through the final bottleneck in one fell swoop.

However, the moment he activated the energy of destiny, a strange feeling welled up in his heart.

That feeling was mysterious and indescribable.

It was as if there was a barrier standing outside the cave.

That barrier was invisible and formless, yet it was omnipresent.

No matter how much he tried to activate the power of fate, the barrier remained unmoved and did not budge an inch.

Li Yan frowned slightly and immediately increased the intensity.

The twenty-eight thousand strands of karmic energy remained completely still.

Li Yan's expression changed slightly.

This was the first time he had encountered such a situation in all his years of cultivation.

Previous breakthroughs, though involving bottlenecks, have never been so stubbornly persistent.

Calm your mind and carefully sense the reality or illusion of the barrier.

This feeling immediately sent a chill down his spine.

That barrier is a rule.

An inherent rule of the universe—

The sixth to seventh level of the grotto-heaven is a natural barrier.

The transition from the microcosm to the mesocosm represents a qualitative leap.

To cross this insurmountable barrier, brute force alone is not enough.

It requires something to guide it, a law to guide it, and an opportunity to create it.

Li Yan slowly opened his eyes, his gaze sparkling like stars, with a hint of solemnity in them.

He pondered for a moment, and then he had already made up his mind.

Since brute force won't work, let's try a different approach.

The goal is not to achieve breakthroughs, but to use deduction as a tool.

To deduce the method by which one breaks through to the seventh level of the Cave Heaven and the Middle Thousand Worlds.

To deduce the path by which the monkey attained the status of a Great Immortal.

These two things may seem unrelated, but they are actually connected.

If that monkey can achieve the Great Luo status, then they will have the right to sit at the table and look at the cards in this Journey to the West world.

With this in mind, Li Yan immediately activated the Qi of Fate and immersed his mind in the realm of deduction.

On that mirror of the heart, the twenty-eight thousand strands of karmic energy were rapidly depleted.

28000.

26000.

24000.

22000.

20000.

……

The number plummeted all the way down, eventually settling at eight thousand.

A full twenty thousand strands of karmic energy poured out.

The scene before my eyes suddenly changed.

Chaos surged, the five elements flowed, and the eight trigrams manifested.

Li Yan stood there, eyes closed and mind focused, letting the power of deduction guide him, leading his spirit into the darkness.

I don't know how much time passed.

From the chaos, the image gradually emerged.

The first image is of a magnificent palace.

That palace was ten thousand feet high and a thousand feet wide.

The entire piece is made of white jade and engraved with countless auspicious cloud patterns and dragon and phoenix designs.

Above the palace gate hangs a huge plaque.

The plaque bears three large characters: 【瑶池宫】.

In front of the Yaochi Palace, a huge peach tree stands tall and majestic.

That peach tree was a thousand feet tall, its canopy like a canopy, blocking out the sky and the sun.

Three thousand six hundred peaches hung on the branches.

The peaches were all as big as a bucket, bright red, juicy, and faintly glowing with a precious light.

It is the [Peach of Immortality] that blooms once every three thousand years, bears fruit once every three thousand years, and takes another three thousand years to mature.

Li Yan's gaze narrowed slightly.

Although these peaches are spiritual treasures of heaven and earth, and supreme treasures of the Heavenly Court, they are not something he can covet.

After all, there are countless restrictions and protections, both overt and covert, guarding the Yaochi Palace.

Even a Great Immortal wouldn't dare to trespass.

Li Yan continued to observe.

The scene slowly unfolded, extending inward from outside the Peach Garden.

Passing through layers of clouds and over numerous restrictions, they finally landed on the giant peach tree.

At the base of the peach tree, the soil churned, revealing several rootlets.

Those roots, as thick as a child's arm, were crystal clear and faintly shimmered with a precious light.

Wisps of purple mist entwined around the roots.

That purple aura was vast and profound, containing unparalleled mystery.

Li Yan's eyes flickered.

This was the first spiritual item he needed: the roots of the peach.

Although this item is not as precious as the peach itself, it is still part of the spiritual essence of heaven and earth, containing the meaning of endless life.

To break through the seventh level of the Grotto Heaven and evolve into the Middle Thousand Worlds, one must establish a World Tree within the Grotto Heaven.

It is used to calm the heavens and earth and stabilize the universe.

It is used to calm the heavens and earth and stabilize the universe.

The roots of the peach tree are the best foundation.

However, the roots of these peaches are buried deep in front of the Jade Pool Palace, nourished by the fortune of the Heavenly Court. How could they be so easily obtained?

Li Yan suppressed the turmoil in his heart and continued to observe.

The scene then shifts to a vast starry sky.

Countless stars, suspended in the void, slowly rotate.

The stars shone brightly, illuminating this world.

Among those stars, one shines the brightest.

It is as large as a bushel, and its light is as bright as day. It hangs in the center, overlooking all the stars.

It is the North Star, also known as the Imperial Star.

Li Yan's heart stirred slightly.

This was the second spiritual item he needed: Polaris Shards.

The North Star is the lord of all stars and the origin of all things.

Its stardust is formed from the essence of stars, containing the power of domination and the ability to harmonize.

To evolve the Middle Thousand Worlds, one must use fragments of the North Star as a catalyst to harmonize Yin and Yang and balance the Five Elements.

This ensures that within the grotto-heaven, all laws are in their proper place and perform their respective duties.

However, these North Star fragments, suspended high in the heavens and protected by the power of the stars, are difficult for even a Taiyi Golden Immortal to approach.

The scene shifts again, revealing a deep, secluded palace.

The palace, entirely constructed of cold jade, was hidden deep within the darkness, never seeing the light of day.

Above the palace gate hangs a plaque.

The plaque bears three large ancient seal script characters: 【轮迴司】.

Li Yan's heart skipped a beat.

The Reincarnation Bureau!

That is a sacred place in the underworld, which governs the six realms of reincarnation. Even Yama, the King of Hell, cannot enter it easily.

He seemed to be deep in thought.

The scene slowly shifted, passing through the many gates of the Reincarnation Bureau, and finally landed on a huge roulette wheel.

The roulette wheel was completely black and slowly rotated.

The wheel has six holes, each leading to one of the six realms: heaven, human, asura, animal, hungry ghost, and hell.

In the center of the roulette wheel hangs a jewel the size of a fist.

The pearl was crystal clear, with six faint, illusory figures moving within it.

It is the [Reincarnation Pearl], also known as the [Six Paths Pearl].

Li Yan's eyes narrowed.

This is the third spiritual item required: [Shattered Reincarnation Bead].

The Reincarnation Pearl is the pivot of the six realms and the core of reincarnation.

Its pearl fragments are formed by the power of reincarnation, containing the wonder of life and death transformation and the principle of cause and effect cycle.

To evolve the Middle Thousand Worlds, one must establish reincarnation, determine cause and effect, and judge life and death within a grotto-heaven.

The fragments of the rosary are the foundation of reincarnation.

However, this Reincarnation Pearl is suspended deep within the Reincarnation Bureau and protected by the fortune of the underworld. Even Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva cannot use it easily.

Li Yan secretly made a mental note of it.

The three spiritual items are: the root of a peach, fragments of the North Star, and fragments of a reincarnation bead.

One is in the Jade Pool of Heaven, one is among the stars in the Nine Heavens, and one is in the cycle of reincarnation in the Underworld.

Each one is a treasure of the Three Realms, something that can only be encountered by chance and cannot be sought after.

To obtain these three spiritual items, one must possess great fortune, wisdom, and courage.

at the same time.

Inside the Lingxiao Palace, Buddhists and Taoists clashed, while the Dragon Palace added to the chaos, resulting in a lively and heated exchange of words.

Just as Ao Shuo was about to speak again, he suddenly felt a vast power surge from the throne, making it hard for him to breathe.

The Jade Emperor's voice was like thunder, majestic and solemn.

That's enough.

As the two words fell, the entire hall fell silent.

Ao Shuo dared not speak further and could only kneel on the ground, trembling all over.

Venerable Kasyapa also put his palms together and bowed his head, ceasing his argument.

The Jade Emperor's gaze swept over the immortals in the hall, finally settling on Kasyapa.

"Venerable One, go back and tell the Tathagata that I am aware of this matter."

The imposter, whether framing the Heavenly Court or Mount Ling, is utterly despicable.

I will personally send people to investigate thoroughly and will show absolutely no leniency.

Kasyapa clasped his hands and said, "This humble monk accepts the decree. Thank you for your wise judgment, Great Heavenly Venerable."

Having said that, he turned to leave.

The Jade Emperor said, "Wait a moment."

Kasyapa turned back.

The Jade Emperor said, "Your Excellency, please return and convey another message to Buddha on my behalf."

Kasyapa said, "Great Heavenly Venerable, please speak."

The Jade Emperor said, "A great calamity is coming to heaven and earth, and all living beings in the three realms will suffer."

Buddhism and Taoism share the same roots, so why let such a trivial matter damage their harmony?

"I am willing to join hands with the Buddha to overcome this calamity together."

Upon hearing this, Kasyapa's expression shifted slightly, and he clasped his hands together, saying, "Great Heavenly Venerable, you are merciful. This humble monk will certainly convey your message."

Having said that, he transformed into a golden light and disappeared into the Lingxiao Palace.

After Kasyapa left, the immortals in the hall looked at each other in bewilderment.

Ao Shuo knelt on the ground, not daring to raise his head.

The Jade Emperor looked at Ao Shuo and shook his head slightly.

"Ao Shuo, you have been corrupted by the calamity and lost your mind. I do not blame you. Get up."

Ao Shuo kowtowed and said, "Thank you, Jade Emperor, for your mercy in not punishing me." He rose shakily and stepped aside.

The Jade Emperor then looked at the civil and military officials and said in a deep voice:

"By imperial decree, starting today, additional heavenly soldiers will be stationed at the South Heavenly Gate to strictly inspect those entering and leaving."

The Four Heavenly Kings each have their own duties, and none of them may make mistakes.

The Four Heavenly Kings bowed in unison: "As you command!"

The Jade Emperor then said, "Li Tianwang, go and investigate whether anyone has abandoned their post or acted suspiciously these days."

Li Jing, the Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King, cupped his hands and said, "Your subject obeys the decree."

The Jade Emperor nodded slightly, his gaze sweeping over the immortals in the hall before finally settling on Venus.

"Venus, you may remain. The rest of you, withdraw."

The immortals all bowed and filed out.

A moment later, only the Jade Emperor and Venus remained in the Lingxiao Palace.

The Jade Emperor sat high on his throne, his face calm and his eyes deep.

Venus stood in the hall, holding a whisk, awaiting the emperor's will.

After a long silence, the Jade Emperor slowly spoke.

"Jin Xing, what's your opinion on this?"

Venus flicked his whisk lightly and said slowly, "Your Majesty, this old minister believes that this matter is suspicious."

Venus said, "That imposter, who can impersonate a Taiyi Golden Immortal without revealing any flaws,..."

His cultivation level is at least at the peak of the Taiyi Golden Immortal realm, or even…

He paused slightly at this point.

The Jade Emperor asked, "Even what?"

Venus said, "Even a Great Luo Golden Immortal."

Upon hearing this, the Jade Emperor's gaze sharpened.

Great Luo Golden Immortals are extremely rare in the Three Realms.

If it really is a Grand Immortal making a move, then this matter becomes complicated.

Venus continued, "Furthermore, the imposter killed two birds with one stone."

By framing both Mount Ling and the Heavenly Court, they clearly intend to incite conflict between Buddhism and Taoism.

"If it weren't for His Majesty's wise judgment and timely suppression of this matter, I'm afraid that the Heavenly Court and Mount Ling would already be at each other's throats by now."

The Jade Emperor nodded slightly.

"So, who do you think is behind this?"

Venus pondered for a moment before saying:

"Your Majesty, this old minister dares to ask if you still remember the matter of the underworld collecting souls?"

The Jade Emperor raised an eyebrow slightly.

"You mean...?"

Venus nodded and said, "The souls that the underworld summons are those of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King of Flower Fruit Mountain."

If that monkey gets angry, it might wreak havoc in the underworld and have its name erased from the Book of Life and Death.

There were others behind this incident who were fanning the flames.

"Further ahead, the attack on Flower Fruit Mountain by the five demon kings was also orchestrated by someone."

"Each item, though seemingly isolated, is actually interconnected and all points to the Monkey King."

The Jade Emperor's expression turned slightly serious.

"You mean, the real target of the person behind this is the Monkey King?"

Venus said, "This old minister is merely speculating and dares not draw any conclusions."

However, when these events are connected, it's hard not to think things through.

"That Monkey King was born from a stone monkey, born with the innate Geng metal energy, with a unique destiny and extremely deep connections."

It is not impossible for someone to use him to stir up trouble in the Three Realms.

The Jade Emperor remained silent in thought.

Venus then said, "There is one more thing that this old minister must mention."

The Jade Emperor said, "Speak."

Venus said, "That Monkey King—your private portable library, accessible at any time. Since returning from the underworld, his temperament has changed drastically; he has become irritable and easily angered."

As far as this old minister knows, that is a sign that calamity and defilement are entering the heart.

"Did the turbidity of calamity enter the heart?"

Venus nodded and said, "That's right. The calamity on the Monkey King's body came about in a strange way."

It was as if someone had deliberately orchestrated this, intending to turn him into a puppet of calamity.

"If the Monkey King really loses control and wreaks havoc in the Three Realms, then neither the Heavenly Court nor Mount Ling will have peace."

As the Jade Emperor listened, his expression gradually became serious.

"So, what do you think should be done?"

Venus pondered for a moment, then slowly said, "This old minister has a plan, but I don't know whether I should speak of it."

The Jade Emperor said, "Speak."

Venus said, "Let them be granted amnesty."

The Jade Emperor raised an eyebrow slightly.

"To be granted amnesty?"

Venus nodded and said, "Exactly. Summon that Monkey King to the Heavenly Court, grant him an official position, and include him in the register of immortals."

"In this way, we can both monitor their movements to prevent them from going out of control and cause trouble, and also put an end to the thoughts of the person behind the scenes."

"This plan is good, but the monkey king is wild and untamed; how could he possibly be subject to human control?"

Venus smiled slightly and said, "Your Majesty is unaware of the truth. Although the Monkey King is wild and untamed, he also has a weakness."

The Jade Emperor said, "Oh?"

Venus said, "That Monkey King is loyal and righteous, and he values ​​his monkey grandchildren the most."

If you could consider the plight of his monkey offspring and grant him a peaceful life, he might not refuse.

"Furthermore, the Monkey King has cultivated to the peak of the Taiyi Golden Immortal realm, and is only one step away from becoming a Daluo Golden Immortal."

The Jade Emperor's eyes flickered slightly.

"Peak of the Taiyi Golden Immortal realm?"

Venus nodded and said, "That's right."

That monkey king was born with extraordinary talent; he had only cultivated for a few hundred years, yet he had already reached this level. Even in the Heavenly Court, such a feat was rare.

"If he wants to attain the Great Luo realm, it would take him countless eons to achieve it through his own arduous cultivation alone."

However, if one receives the blessing of Heaven's fortune and possesses celestial status, one can leverage the power of the Three Realms to achieve twice the results with half the effort.

The Jade Emperor listened, seemingly lost in thought.

Venus added, "And Li Yan is also a rare talent."

The Jade Emperor asked, "That rogue cultivator who once practiced alchemy in the Tushita Palace?"

Venus nodded and said, "That's right."

Although Li Yan was only at the sixth level of the Cave Heaven Realm, he was quite talented in alchemy.

Thirty-six batches of Nine-Turn Golden Elixir, each one perfectly round, not a single wasted elixir.

Such skill is rarely seen even in the Heavenly Court.

"Furthermore, he cultivates the Dao of the Grotto Heaven, which has something in common with Zhen Yuanzi, the ancestor of the Earth Immortals."

If he could be brought into the Heavenly Court, given time, he might very well become the next Zhen Yuanzi.

Upon hearing this, a strange light flashed in the Jade Emperor's eyes.

"Is Li Yan's relationship with the Monkey King quite close?"

Venus said, "That's right. Those two are not siblings, but they are closer than brothers."

The Monkey King braved the netherworld alone for him, and he set up formations to protect the mountain for the Monkey King; their bond was like that of brothers.

The Jade Emperor nodded slightly.

"If we summon that Monkey King, Li Yan will certainly not stay in the Heavenly Court alone."

Venus said, "Your Majesty is wise. Therefore, this old minister believes that it would be better to grant both of them amnesty."

"Then the Monkey King can be given a nominal position and a mansion, so that he can have a place to settle down and make a living."

As for Li Yan, he can be given a real position, specializing in alchemy, to serve our Heavenly Court.

"In this way, both of them will be happy, and our Heavenly Court will gain two talented individuals. Why not?"

The Jade Emperor pondered for a long time before slowly saying, "This plan is feasible."

However, the monkey king is untamed and difficult to control. What if he remains unruly even after being recruited?

Venus smiled slightly and said, "Your Majesty, rest assured. Although the Monkey King is wild, he values ​​loyalty and righteousness."

If you treat him with sincerity and courtesy, he will be deeply grateful and do his utmost.

"Furthermore, his monkey followers are still on Flower Fruit Mountain. As long as they are there, he will not dare to make any rash moves."

Upon hearing this, the Jade Emperor nodded slightly.

"Alright. As you say. Go and make preparations, and choose a day to descend to the mortal realm to recruit the Monkey King and Li Yan."

Venus bowed and said, "This old minister accepts the decree."

Having said that, he turned to leave.

The Jade Emperor replied, "Taibai."

Venus turned its head.

The Jade Emperor's gaze was profound.

"Jin Xing, remember this: this amnesty is ostensibly a reward for the merits of the Monkey King and Li Yan."

Venus was slightly taken aback, then suddenly realized.

"Your Majesty is wise. This old minister understands."

Having said that, he transformed into a golden light and disappeared into the Lingxiao Palace.

The Jade Emperor sat alone on his throne, gazing at the empty Lingxiao Palace.

After a long while, he sighed softly.

"A great calamity has struck the heavens and the earth, causing turmoil in the three realms; this is also an opportune moment..."

Two flowers bloom, one branch each.

In the Flower and Fruit Mountain, Li Yan secluded himself in a stone chamber and sat there for seven days.

Within seven days, he activated the power of destiny, deduced the secrets of heaven, and glimpsed the three spiritual objects needed to break through to the seventh level of the Cave Heaven.

Peach rootlets, North Star dust, and Reincarnation Pearl dust.

Each one is a treasure of the Three Realms, something that can only be encountered by chance and cannot be sought after.

He exited the realm of deduction and slowly opened his eyes.

His eyes sparkled with starlight, yet held a hint of solemnity.

To obtain these three spiritual items, one must possess great fortune, wisdom, and courage.

It would be extremely difficult for him to accomplish this on his own.

But if you add the monkey, it becomes somewhat possible.

That monkey was a stone monkey born with a unique destiny and profound fortune. It was most adept at turning misfortune into good fortune and turning disaster into auspiciousness.

With his help, these three magical items might not be without hope.

However, although the monkey has escaped the tribulation, its cultivation has not yet recovered, and it needs to recuperate for some more time.

Li Yan pondered for a moment, and then he had already made up his mind.

He stood up and walked out of the stone chamber.

Pushing open the stone door, one sees bright sunshine and lush vegetation outside the cave.

The monkeys gathered in twos and threes by the stream and under the trees, grooming themselves, picking lice, playing and frolicking, having a great time.

General Beng, leaning on his cane, was squatting on a rock, squinting in the sun.

Upon seeing Li Yan emerge, he quickly stood up and went to greet him.

"Master! You've emerged from seclusion!"

Li Yan nodded slightly and cupped his hands, saying, "General, you've worked hard. Where is the King?"

General Beng pointed and laughed, "The King is teaching those little monkeys to do somersaults in the peach grove over there!"

Li Yan looked in the direction he was pointing.

In the peach grove, a group of little monkeys were gathered in a circle, chattering and making a ruckus.

In the center of the circle, a golden figure was performing a somersault.

He flipped them over and over again, so fast that the little monkeys were dazzled and cheered.

Little Drill Wind squatted on the tallest peach tree, holding a big peach, eating it while looking around, his face covered in juice.

Li Yan smiled slightly and strode towards the peach grove.

As they approached, they saw Sun Wukong somersault into the air, then land steadily, clapping his hands and grinning:

"How about it? Isn't my somersault cloud amazing?"

All the little monkeys nodded in unison, their eyes filled with admiration.

"Your Majesty is amazing! Your Majesty is amazing!"

Sun Wukong was feeling triumphant and was about to do another somersault when he suddenly saw Li Yan approaching. He quickly withdrew his supernatural powers and went to meet him.

"Brother! You're out of seclusion!"

Li Yan nodded slightly and cupped his hands, saying, "Your Majesty, I have something to discuss with you."

Seeing his solemn expression, Sun Wukong immediately stopped joking and waved to the little monkeys.

"Go, all of you! I, Old Sun, have something to do. I'll teach you later!"

The monkeys scattered in a commotion.

Little Drill jumped down from the tree, ran to Li Yan's feet, raised its little head, and squeaked twice.

Li Yan squatted down and rubbed its little head.

Little Drill rubbed against his palm before turning around and skipping away.

Sun Wukong gazed at the backs of the little monkeys, his eyes filled with affection.

"These little things are quite interesting."

Li Yan smiled slightly and said, "Your Majesty is now like a loving father."

Sun Wukong chuckled and scratched his head.

"Brother, you said you had something to discuss, what is it?"

Li Yan said, "This is not the place to talk. Your Majesty, please come with me."

The two turned around and walked into the Water Curtain Cave.

Upon entering the stone chamber, Li Yan closed the stone door and sat down opposite Sun Wukong.

Seeing his solemnity, a hint of seriousness flashed in Sun Wukong's golden eyes.

"Brother, what's wrong?"

Li Yan pondered for a moment, then slowly asked, "Does Your Majesty know what realm lies above the Taiyi Golden Immortal?"

Sun Wukong was taken aback, then said, "Naturally, it's that Great Luo Golden Immortal."

Li Yan nodded slightly.

"Indeed. Your Majesty is now at the peak of the Taiyi Golden Immortal realm, just one step away from becoming a Daluo Golden Immortal."

Upon hearing this, a complex expression flashed in Sun Wukong's golden eyes.

"I, Old Sun, know. But this step is as difficult as climbing to heaven."

Li Yan said, "Does Your Majesty know why it is as difficult as ascending to heaven?"

Sun Wukong shook his head.

Li Yan said, "Because to attain the Great Luo, three things are required."

"The first is the Way, the second is the Law, and the third is the Register."

Sun Wukong frowned slightly.

"membership?"

Li Yan nodded and said, "Immortal status. Anything recognized by the Heavenly Court or Mount Ling is fine."

Upon hearing this, Sun Wukong's expression gradually became serious.

"Brother, do you mean that if I, Old Sun, want to attain the Great Luo realm, I absolutely need a celestial status from the Heavenly Court or Mount Ling?"

Li Yan nodded slightly.

"Exactly."

That day, when I was in the Heavenly Court, Venus told me that the Great Luo Path requires the power of the origin of Heaven and Earth and must be in harmony with the power of the Three Realms.

Without the approval of the Eastern and Western Heavens, and without possessing a celestial register, one cannot borrow the power of the origin of Heaven and Earth, nor unite the forces of the Three Realms.

"Even if you cultivate to the peak of the Taiyi Golden Immortal realm, you can only stop here. The gate to the Great Luo realm will be forever closed to you."

Upon hearing this, Sun Wukong's expression changed repeatedly.

He recalled those days when he struggled to break through that final bottleneck, but could never find the way in.

So that's where the problem lies.

"Then... what should I, Old Sun, do?"

Li Yan said, "During my seclusion this time, I used celestial divination to glimpse the three spiritual objects needed to break through to the seventh level of the Cave Heaven."

"Peach roots, North Star dust, and Reincarnation Bead dust."

"These three spiritual items are all supreme treasures of the Three Realms, which are rare and hard to come by."

"If Your Majesty can help me obtain these three spiritual treasures, I am confident that I can evolve the Middle Thousand Worlds."

"At that time, this cave of mine will become a true world."

"If Your Majesty wishes to cultivate within this humble abode, it will be as if you have your own world, your own celestial abode."

"Although it is not as vast as the Heavenly Court, it is enough to support the Great King in attaining the Great Luo Golden Immortal realm."

As Sun Wukong listened, a light gradually shone in his golden eyes.

"Brother, do you mean that I, Old Sun, don't need to go to the Heavenly Court or Mount Ling? I can attain the Great Luo realm simply by cultivating in your grotto-heaven?"

Li Yan nodded slightly.

"However, this matter needs to be considered carefully."

Those three spiritual items were all extraordinary.

Sun Wukong grinned and said, "Don't worry, brother! I, Old Sun, may not have much else, but I'm lucky and daring!"

Li Yan smiled slightly and was about to speak again when he suddenly felt a strange movement.

His expression changed slightly, and he stood up to look out of the stone chamber.

Sun Wukong sensed something, his golden eyes flashed, and he stood up.

"Hey bro, what's wrong?"

Li Yan said in a deep voice, "Someone is coming."

Having said that, he stepped out of the stone chamber and stood in front of the Water Curtain Cave.

Sun Wukong followed closely behind, standing beside him.

The two looked up.

A golden light appeared on the eastern horizon, descending from the heavens.

Within the golden light, a figure slowly walked towards them.

With white hair and a youthful face, a lean and refined appearance, he held a whisk in his hand and wore a robe embroidered with Bagua symbols.

It was Venus.

Li Yan's gaze narrowed slightly.

Why did Venus descend to earth?

Sun Wukong's golden eyes flashed, and he grinned, "Oh! It's that old man!"

Venus descended from the clouds and landed in front of the Water Curtain Cave.

He flicked his whisk lightly, looked at Li Yan and Sun Wukong, and smiled slightly.

"Gentlemen, how have you been?"

Li Yan cupped his hands and said, "Venus has come from afar. I am sorry for not welcoming you properly. Please forgive me."

Venus waved his hand and said, "Young friend, there's no need for such formalities."

"I have descended to the mortal realm on the orders of the Jade Emperor to read out his decree."

Upon hearing this, Sun Wukong's golden eyes flashed.

"Imperial edict? What imperial edict?"

Venus smiled slightly, took out a roll of yellow silk from his sleeve, and slowly unfurled it.

The yellow silk was covered with tiny gold characters.

Venus cleared his throat and recited aloud:

"By the mandate of Heaven, the Jade Emperor decrees..."

After reading half of the imperial edict, Venus raised his eyes and looked at the two people in front of him.

Sun Wukong's golden eyes gleamed, and his hairy face displayed ever-changing expressions, sometimes joyful, sometimes angry, making him unpredictable.

Li Yan, however, remained calm, simply standing with his hands at his sides, awaiting further instructions.

Venus flicked his whisk and continued:

"...I have heard an ancient saying: 'When heaven and earth interact, all things prosper; when superiors and inferiors interact, their wills are aligned.'"

Today, the East Sea Flower and Fruit Mountain, a place of outstanding natural beauty, has nurtured these two sages, truly a blessing for the three realms.

Sun Wukong was kind-hearted and had exceptional talent. Although he lived in the mortal realm, his heart was set on the righteous path.

I hereby appoint you as 'Bi Ma Wen' (弼马温), in charge of the Imperial Horse Supervisor, and in charge of 3,600 heavenly horses.

I hope you will diligently perform your duties and soon attain immortality.

Li Yan possessed a steadfast Daoist heart and profound knowledge of alchemy.

In the Tushita Palace, after forty-nine days, the elixir was completed through nine cycles, each pill perfectly round. This is truly a genius unprecedented in history.

"I hereby appoint you as 'Master of the Alchemy Chamber,' under the jurisdiction of the Tushita Palace, specifically in charge of alchemy and Taoist cultivation. Respectfully yours."

After the imperial edict was read, Venus put away the yellow silk and looked at the two of them with a smile.

"Gentlemen, aren't you going to thank me?"

Sun Wukong scratched his head, his golden eyes filled with confusion.

"弼马温 (Bima Wen)? That official title...sounds a bit strange?"

Upon hearing this, Li Yan's heart stirred slightly.

In his previous life, he read "Journey to the West," so how could he not know the origin of the name "弼马温" (Bima Wen)?

In the Imperial Stables, the position of horse breeder was of low rank and not considered a high-ranking official.

The monkey, newly arrived in the heavenly court, was naive and ignorant, and went off in high spirits.

Upon learning the truth, he flew into a rage, stormed out of the Southern Heavenly Gate, and returned to Flower Fruit Mountain, proclaiming himself the "Great Sage Equal to Heaven."

Now, this imperial edict is right before my eyes, exactly as described in the book.

However, Sun Wukong at this moment was no longer the naive stone monkey who had just entered the world of martial arts.

He experienced the agony of calamity penetrating his heart, and the gratitude of his brothers who saved him.

Furthermore, he experienced slaying the Demon King and glimpsing the secrets of the threshold of the Great Luo realm.

Upon hearing the words "弼马温" (Bìmǎwēn) again, he immediately formed a plan in his mind.

Li Yan looked at Sun Wukong and saw that his golden eyes were first filled with confusion, and then with contemplation.

Finally, it transformed into a glimmer of understanding.

Amidst that realization, a hint of anger was also faintly revealed.

Li Yan knew that this monkey had probably guessed something.

He immediately stepped forward, cupped his hands, and said:

"I am deeply grateful for the favor of Venus and the grace of the Jade Emperor. However..."

Venus asked, "But what?"

Li Yan said, "There is something I don't understand and would like to ask Venus for guidance."

Venus flicked his whisk lightly: "Speak."

Li Yan asked, "May I ask, Venus, what is the rank of the position of Bi Ma Wen? What is the salary? To which department does it belong? What are its duties?"

Upon hearing this, Sun Wukong's golden eyes flashed, and he looked towards Venus.

Venus paused for a moment, then laughed.

"Young friend, you are indeed quick-witted. In that case, I will not hide anything from you."

He said slowly, "The position of Bi Ma Wen is an official post in the Imperial Horse Administration, and its rank is... not among the highest."

His job was to oversee the herding of the celestial horses; though his rank was low, it was a leisurely and carefree existence.

Upon hearing this, Sun Wukong's anger intensified in his golden eyes.

"Second-rate? Does that mean it has no taste?"

Venus said, "Although you are not among the highest ranks, you still hold a celestial status and receive a salary. Your Majesty has just entered the Heavenly Court, so you will start from the bottom. As you make contributions in the future, you will naturally be promoted."

Sun Wukong grinned, but there was no joy in his smile.

"Old man, let me ask you, in the Heavenly Court, is there any official lower than the position of弼马温 (Bima Wen, a minor official in charge of keeping horses)?"

Venus paused for a moment, then said, "Well... there are a few."

Sun Wukong asked, "What are those people doing?"

Venus said, "There are heavenly soldiers guarding the gate, patrolling strongmen, and sweeping boys..."

Before he could finish speaking, Sun Wukong interrupted, "Then how does my job as the Keeper of the Heavenly Horses compare to theirs?"

Venus said, "Naturally, I am higher than them."

Sun Wukong asked, "How much taller?"

Venus said, "This..."

Sun Wukong laughed loudly, his laughter full of sarcasm.

"Old man, don't try to fool me!"

Although I, Old Sun, am in the mortal realm, I have heard my brothers say that in the Heavenly Court, officials are divided into nine ranks, and the ranks are further divided into senior and junior ranks.

Those who don't qualify are the lowest-ranking menial laborers!

"I, Old Sun, am a stone monkey born of nature. After cultivating for hundreds of years, I have already attained the status of a Taiyi Golden Immortal!"

Even the Four Heavenly Kings treat me, Old Sun, with utmost respect! And now you want me, Old Sun, to tend horses?

Venus's expression changed slightly, and he was about to explain.

Sun Wukong wouldn't let him speak, and continued:

"Hey, I'm asking you, in the Imperial Stables, who is in charge of the Heavenly Horses?"

Venus said, "It shall be under the jurisdiction of the Keeper of the Heavenly Horses."

Sun Wukong asked, "Who is in charge of the Keeper of the Heavenly Horses?"

Venus said, "Return...return to the Imperial Horse Stables Supervisor."

Sun Wukong asked, "Then what is the rank of the Supervisor?"

Venus said, "Fifth rank."

Sun Wukong said, "I, Old Sun, am just a lowly stable boy, without even a rank. Should I kowtow to the supervisor?"

Venus was speechless.

Sun Wukong then asked, "Let me ask you again, what is the rank of the head of the alchemy room?"

Venus said, "Sixth rank."

Upon hearing this, Sun Wukong looked at Li Yan and grinned:

"Brother, you're actually better than me, Old Sun. You're a sixth-rank official, at least you have a rank."

Li Yan shook his head slightly, looked at Venus, and said slowly:

"Venus, the Jade Emperor's intention, I understand."

Venus raised an eyebrow slightly: "Oh?"

Li Yan said, "The Jade Emperor wants to keep me in the Heavenly Court, but he doesn't want to give me real power."

The head of the alchemy workshop was in charge of refining elixirs. Although the position was prestigious, it was far removed from the imperial court.

As for Your Majesty…”

As he spoke, a complex emotion flashed in his eyes.

"Your Majesty is a Taiyi Golden Immortal. If you were given real power, I fear you would be difficult to control."

If we don't give them official positions, I'm afraid it will discourage people's enthusiasm.

Therefore, he was given the title of "弼马温" (Bima Wen), a title without real power, to be raised in the Heavenly Court and slowly tempered to erode his wild nature.

As Venus listened, his expression gradually became serious.

After a long while, he sighed.

"Young friend, your insight is remarkable; I admire you greatly. However, you are only half right."

Li Yan said, "Please enlighten me, Venus."

Venus said, "The Jade Emperor's offer of amnesty this time is truly sincere."

The position of Bi Ma Wen (弼马温), though insignificant, is not a disgrace.

"Does Your Majesty know why the official in charge of raising horses in the Imperial Stables is called Bi Ma Wen?"

Sun Wukong was taken aback.

Venus said, "This name originates from ancient times."

At that time, there were horse breeders who often kept a monkey in their stables.

Monkeys are agile and can startle horses, keeping them alert and vigilant.

Over time, this led to the saying "avoid horse plague."

"Later, the Heavenly Court established the Imperial Horse Administration and adopted this name, changing 'Bi' to 'Bi' to mean 'assistant,' which is reasonable since the Monkey King was raising the heavenly horses."

As Sun Wukong listened, his anger subsided slightly in his golden eyes, but he was still unwilling to accept it.

"Even so, he's still just a horse-raising official! Me, an esteemed Taiyi Golden Immortal, going to raise horses? Wouldn't that be a laughingstock?"

A professional novel website offering the most comfortable reading experience.