Chapter 991: Agreement Reached

Chapter 485: Leaked Military IntelligenceChapter 991: Agreement Reached

"So, this is also the reason why the master suddenly came out of seclusion and tried his best to promote cooperation between Shaolin Temple and my palace" Li Chen asked.

"The monk clasped his hands together and bowed slightly. 'This humble one has spent a hundred years in vain, long ago seeing through life and death. For those of the Buddhist lineage, death is nothing more than another reincarnation. Those who have not attained enlightenment, who have not become Buddhas, are simply going through an endless cycle of rebirth, constantly seeking their true self.'"

"This is just the end of this cycle, and the beginning of the next."

"Reflecting on the past, this humble monk has been abandoned by his parents since childhood. He has lived in the temple ever since he was able to understand things. For over a hundred years of this muddled existence, although he eats vegetarian meals and recites Buddhist scriptures every day, he still cannot grasp the true meaning. It makes one ashamed."

“In my life, I haven't done anything earth-shattering. Looking back, I haven't benefited the country, contributed to society, or made any significant contributions to Buddhism. All I have done is practice martial arts. But for every meal and every day, I feel deeply indebted. Therefore, in the remaining time of my life, I hope to secure a path for Buddhism.”

"It is a blessing, Your Highness, that you are an enlightened ruler. With your royal word, this monk can attain enlightenment even in death, and smile contentedly in the afterlife."

Li Chen quietly watched Jie Wàng, listening intently as he finished his words.

Regardless of one's stance, at least retaining a pure heart for Buddhism is something Li Chen admires.

At this point, Li Chen was certain that the lifespan of Jie Wangsheng wouldn't be long. He said that if it was going to achieve nirvana in a month, it wouldn't last until the next month.

At the very end of his life, this old monk discarded his pride and status, running back and forth between the East Palace and North and South Shaolin temples. There was absolutely no personal gain involved, he was entirely devoted to the public good.

"I am here because of you."

Li Chen decided to give the old monk a good ending at this last stage of his life.

"As I promised you before, I won't go back on my word. But let me reiterate, Shaolin can be the foremost righteous sect in the world, it can open its temple doors wide and accept followers from all corners of the land. However, all this must be under the Imperial court's jurisdiction."

“The imperial court will not interfere in Shaolin's internal affairs, nor will it dictate how they observe their vows and practice meditation. However, the court will certainly guard against any actions that Shaolin should not take. Anyone who crosses the line will be dealt with decisively. This applies to all schools across the land, including Taoism.”

"Amitabha."

Jie Wang stood up, clasped his hands together and bowed to Li Chen. "Your Highness, as I have said, I have told the truth. I believe that for at least twenty years after my death, no one from Shaolin will break this agreement. Beyond that, I cannot see the future. If later generations insist on going against what we have agreed upon, I am powerless to stop them. Please, Your Highness, act according to our agreement today."

"Very good."

Li Chen nodded and said, "If that's the case, then let's just settle it like that."

Jie Wàng said: "Those eight hundred martial monks, Your Highness can call upon at any time. Each one of them is the elite of Shaolin, and they practice Shaolin battle formations. They cooperate tacitly, a result of years of accumulation. If Your Highness uses them, they can be used as a surprise weapon."

"Furthermore..."

Jie Wang hesitated for a moment, as if he had made up his mind. He said, "Although my time is short, I can still help your Highness once more."

“Within this month, this monk will not leave the Jing'i region. This monk will remain at White Horse Temple to give lectures, and within this month, if Your Highness needs anything, you may send someone to inform this monk.” alone couldn't do it, so this burly and wicked relative became useful."However, this vicious relative wouldn't be any better even if they teamed up with bandits outside. How could they possibly help...