Confucian and Taoist scholar

Chapter 764 The Rightful Rule of the World

Yun Xiao couldn't help but say, "I'll go urge them later and tell them to hurry up..."

The Shu Emperor said calmly, "How fast is 'as soon as possible'? I'll give you at most three more years. You must at least compile a Daoist scripture that is close to the sacred level, no matter what kind it is..."

Yun Xiao's expression was a bit twisted. Three years to complete? That would probably make those Taoist masters lose a lot of hair.

The Emperor of Shu paused for a moment, then slowly continued, "Now that the orthodox Buddhism is flourishing, the Empress has also been studying Buddhist scriptures recently. She believes that the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas who appear in the world, shedding their golden bodies to save people from suffering and deliver all sentient beings, are true saints..."

"Don't you Taoists want to one day see the orthodox Buddhism rise in Shu and take away the incense offerings that should belong to you?"

Yun Xiao's brows twitched, wondering if the Shu Emperor was serious. He could actually say something like that.

The Shu Kingdom was founded on Taoism, and its position remained unchallenged by other religions for hundreds of years.

However, if Empress Furong wanted to build several Buddhist temples in Shu to enshrine Buddhas and Bodhisattvas and invite some eminent Buddhist monks to spread Buddhism, then no one would dare to stop her.

Yun Xiao suddenly felt a headache coming on and quickly said, "This humble Taoist will certainly convey His Majesty's words to them."

This matter concerns the future of all Taoist sects in the Shu Kingdom, and Yun Xiao doesn't want Qingyang Palace to bear the burden alone.

The Shu Emperor simply smiled faintly, "There is one more thing."

Yun Xiao regained his composure and said, "Your Majesty, please speak."

The Shu Emperor said unhurriedly, "General Wang's attack on the Chu Kingdom will not stop anytime soon. Your Taoist sects should send some people to occupy the Chu territories, clean up the influence of incense and deities as soon as possible, and completely return those territories to our Great Shu."

Although the Shu emperor was addicted to pleasure, he was not indifferent to or ignorant of political affairs.

He was the one who made the final decisions on important national affairs.

Upon hearing this, Yun Xiao said, "I will inform all the major sects about this matter as soon as possible."

The Shu Emperor waved his hand and said leisurely, "Go down! Don't disappoint me in your work."

Yun Xiao bowed and took his leave, then lightly departed from the palace.

The Shu Emperor sat there, rhythmically tapping his thigh with his fingers, and murmured, "The fate of heaven is ever-changing; who in this world can truly be considered the rightful ruler of the realm..."

……

"So, these are the two things. What do you all think..."

Yun Xiao found a group of Taoist masters who were compiling scriptures in Furong City and relayed the Shu Emperor's words to them word for word.

Upon hearing this, everyone's expressions varied, and none of them spoke first.

Sending people to occupy the Chu region to clean up the incense and religious practices is relatively easy to discuss, since these Taoist sects have previously contributed manpower and resources.

As for compiling the true scriptures of Taoism, that's what they find difficult.

"Three years is far too short. Thirty years might be possible..."

A Taoist master said in a low voice.

If true scriptures were so easy to compile, then all sorts of classic texts would probably be commonplace.

Yun Xiao couldn't help but roll his eyes. He could wait thirty years, but that person couldn't wait that long.

If this drags on for a few more years, some of the Taoist temples will be converted into Buddhist temples.

Someone muttered, "His Majesty still thinks that young man is capable, this is simply..."

He paused, unsure how to respond.

They all knew that the earliest parts of the Taiping Jing were written by Lu Zheng from the incomplete scrolls, adding his own understanding.

But they didn't think Lu Zheng could actually compile a complete Taoist scripture.

The Shu emperor said that intentionally to provoke and provoke them.

Even the Shu emperor probably didn't believe it.

Yun Xiao coughed lightly and said, "I have a suggestion."

Upon hearing this, everyone turned to look at Yun Xiao, eager to hear what solutions this master could offer.

Yun Xiao said slowly, "How about I go to the North... oh, the Taiping Domain, and have him try to write one? As for whether it succeeds or not? If it succeeds, that's good; if it doesn't, we're just doing what His Majesty ordered..."

Some people frowned upon hearing this, thinking to themselves, "His Majesty was just saying that in a fit of anger. Are you really going to ask that young man to participate in compiling the scriptures?"

Someone asked doubtfully, "I heard that he is establishing the Taiping Domain. How could he have time to compile any scriptures? If he is just doing it perfunctorily and cobbling together a scripture, wouldn't His Majesty be able to tell?"

Yun Xiao said leisurely, "I know him quite well. He's easy to talk to and always does things seriously and diligently. I heard he does have a lot of things to do. Why don't various sects send some people over to help him eliminate demons and monsters and improve people's livelihoods... It won't take too much effort anyway. Then let him compile scriptures in his spare time. It would be a way of helping each other out..."

"In the end, everyone did their best to complete the task. If no one can compile the true scriptures on time, it means that His Majesty is making things difficult for them. I don't think His Majesty will be too angry."

Upon hearing Yun Xiao's suggestion, everyone thought for a moment that it really didn't seem like a problem.

Anyway, sending some disciples to the Taiping Domain isn't a big deal.

The high-ranking figures of the Daoist sect looked at each other and discussed the matter for a while before deciding to do as Yun Xiao suggested.

Anyway, that's what the Shu emperor said; if things really don't go well, they can at least shift the blame.

Yun Xiao smiled and thought to himself that when he met Lu Zheng again, he would have to make Lu Zheng treat him well. This time, he had helped Lu Zheng to win over some more Taoist sects.

As for Lu Zheng compiling the true scriptures of the Daoist sect, Yun Xiao still held onto a slight possibility.

It's better than these Taoist masters arguing for half a month over a single sentence of scripture...

Yun Xiao would rather run errands and deliver messages than do any work here.

Afterwards, Yun Xiao took the various scripture drafts and some Taoist classics that everyone had contributed free of charge, intending to bring them to Lu Zheng for reference.

This also shows that their Taoist sect truly took the Shu Emperor's words seriously, so that they wouldn't be able to find any fault with them later.

……

Taiping Domain, Baize District.

Xiao Yan found Kong Lingyu and said with a strange look in her eyes, "There's some news that I don't know whether to call good news or bad news. Do you want to know?"

Kong Lingyu was stunned by Xiao Yan's words, somewhat confused. "What do you mean?"

Xiao Yan placed one hand on Kong Lingyu's shoulder and took out a piece of intelligence with the other.

"I hope you won't have too much of a reaction after reading this message."

Kong Lingyu was somewhat puzzled and curiously checked the intelligence report.

With just a glance, Kong Lingyu's beautiful eyes widened instantly, and she began to examine the text carefully, not missing a single word.

"This this……"

Kong Lingyu's expression kept changing, and she felt like her mind was completely blank.

Kong Lingyu stared blankly at Xiao Yan, "Is this true?"

Xiao Yan's expression was slightly complicated as she said, "Although I'm also reluctant to believe it, the information coming from multiple places is pretty much the same. The Confucian issue can't be kept secret..."

The Pacific region has multiple communication channels with major powers.

Therefore, while many people in the lower ranks of the dynasty were still unaware of the upheaval in Confucianism, intelligence had already been sent to Taiping Domain through various channels.

When Xiao Yan first received this news, she was startled, thinking that someone was playing a joke on her.

However, this was no joke; it actually happened, and there were many eyewitnesses. It's just that most of the eyewitnesses were unaware of the truth.

Kong Lingyu felt a little confused. What did it mean that all the Confucian sages enshrined in the Temple of Literature had passed away, and even the great Confucian scholars from prominent families could not get any response when they pleaded with the sages?

It is said that some people witnessed strange occurrences within the Kong family compound in the State of Qi, with the relic of Confucius enshrined there seemingly leaving.

However, the news has not yet been confirmed...

"How could this be? How could this happen..."

Kong Lingyu looked incredulous; as a descendant of Confucius, she simply couldn't believe such a thing.

Suddenly, Kong Lingyu stared at Xiao Yan, her eyes wide with surprise and disbelief. "Could it be him? How... how could he do that..."

Judging by the timeline, Lu Zheng was likely already in the State of Qi when the incident occurred.

Down with the Confucian establishment, rescue Confucius!

The Confucian family was not physically defeated, but Confucius himself passed away, which caused considerable damage in reality.

A glint flashed in Xiao Yan's eyes; she knew exactly who Kong Lingyu was referring to.

Actually, she also felt that this matter had something to do with Lu Zheng.

After all, it's not impossible that Lu Zheng was able to invite all the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas down to earth and all the Confucian sages up to heaven.

Xiao Yan said quietly, "Lingyu, you can't just say things like that. There's no intelligence that mentions Mr. Lu being involved in this matter. How could you possibly think it's related to him?"

"Could it be that Mr. Lu has become so powerful that he can drive Confucian sages out of the Confucian Temple and forbid them from receiving offerings from the people?"

Kong Lingyu's expression froze; these words were far too outrageous.

She couldn't find a reasonable explanation for the time being, and felt a tightness in her chest.

After all, such a major event had occurred in the family, concerning her ancestors; how could she remain calm and composed?

Xiao Yan patted Kong Lingyu and said, "With something like this happening to Confucianism, the Kong family probably won't be able to take care of you for the time being. Just stay here and focus on your career! Don't worry about this or that; this isn't something you can handle anyway. Relax..."

That's what she said, but Kong Lingyu felt that she wasn't that carefree.

Xiao Yan further advised, "It's not just Confucius who has passed away; other sage families have also encountered misfortunes. Some people are even more anxious than you!"

Kong Lingyu was speechless for a moment; she really couldn't refute anything.

I imagine the older generation of the Kong family must be extremely anxious.

She stood there stunned for a while before asking, "Mr. Lu is back?"

Xiao Yan shook her head. "I don't know. It shouldn't be that fast, right? I'll let you know as soon as I hear any news about him."

Kong Lingyu sighed inwardly, feeling that if she asked Lu Zheng, he probably wouldn't offer any explanation.

She couldn't help but look up at the sky. She had rescued Confucius, but she never expected it to be done in this way.

After that, Confucianism and Taoism declined, which truly saved those ancient sages and worthies.

Xiao Yan couldn't help but say, "If you're really worried about your family, you can go back now."

Kong Lingyu snapped out of her daze, shook her head, and said softly, "I'd better not go back. I can't be of any help here anyway; they need me more here!"

Xiao Yan praised, "Not bad, not bad. You're willing to sacrifice your family for the greater good. You're very thoughtful now."

Kong Lingyu: ...

Kong Lingyu noticed that Xiao Yan's gaze was a little strange, and couldn't help but ask, "Why are you looking at me like that?"

Xiao Yan chuckled and said, "Because he said the same thing to me before."

Kong Lingyu was at a loss for words, not knowing whether to laugh or cry.

……

In the northern region, at Yongding City.

"Huh? He actually went to the State of Qi and did something like that?"

Upon learning about the Confucian Temple, Qingwan's face lit up with joy.

She was certain that the departure of the Confucian sages was directly related to Lu Zheng.

Qingwan had previously thought that Lu Zheng was going to reason with the people from Jixia Academy.

The result was that they ended up arguing with the Confucian sages...

Qingwan went to the propaganda department in the city and asked someone to print the news in the newspaper.

It should be sent to various places in the Northern Region and the Taiping Region to spread the word and let everyone know about this matter.

People from the dynasty, including An Dingyuan, who were working in Yongding City, also quickly received news of this momentous event, and they were all shocked.

Even Zhang Wencheng, the great scholar, was a little confused, thinking that someone was spreading rumors.

Only Qingwan, who understood Lu Zheng best, remained calm. She even used the important artifacts left behind by Lu Zheng to convey information to the officials guarding various regions, informing the relevant leaders of Taiping Domain to invite some people to Yongding City for discussions.

Qingwan then instructed Zhang Daru to notify some major powers in the Northern Region.

Before long, representatives came from various regions of the Taiping Domain and many forces in the Northern Domain.

A group of people gathered together, making it quite lively.

Qingwan looked at everyone and said loudly, "Many of you haven't met before, but you can get to know each other after the meeting. Now, let's get down to business!"

Everyone turned to look at Qingwan.

Qingwan slowly said, "I believe you are already aware of the changes in Confucianism and Taoism. The world is currently undergoing a great transformation unprecedented in thousands of years. Taoism, immortals, and the divine path are no longer a concern. Confucian sages have passed away, and the orthodox Buddhist tradition has only just begun to recover..."

"The ones who can serve as role models for the world are right here! Let us create a peaceful world together, and let us be the true rulers of the world. What do you all think?"

Everyone reacted differently upon hearing this, and they were all quite surprised.

Especially the representatives of those demon forces, their eyes were unreadable; they really dared to think and speak their minds.

Qingwan glanced at everyone and said, "This is one of our goals. Don't you have any confidence?"

Someone couldn't help but say, "Putting everything else aside, Confucianism has suffered such a fate, yet some sages still enjoy offerings in the world. This is like a starved camel..."

Given that there were Confucian and Taoist scholars present, he didn't finish his sentence, but he just wanted everyone to understand the meaning.

Even the Confucian school, which has suddenly undergone changes, is probably no match for them all combined. So how can they be considered the orthodox school of the world?

Moreover, what strength do they have to compete with those great dynasties for legitimacy?

Qing Wan said calmly, "The right to rule lies in the will of the people. Whether we can contend for it depends on what we can do and how we can influence the situation in the world..."

Qingwan paused, then said softly, "Can't the people's aspirations also be the aspirations of the sages?"

“Some of you have not witnessed certain things firsthand, things that happened to Lu Zheng.”

Upon hearing this, everyone's hearts stirred, as some of them had indeed witnessed some incredible scenes.

Lu Zheng can be said to be someone who has gained the approval of all the sages and the Great Dao.

Qingwan continued, "Some families or individuals who act improperly will be rejected by sages and the Great Way! But others will gain a lot... Don't you understand?"

"The reason I've called you all here today is to tell you not to be affected by what's happening elsewhere. Just do your own thing, and you'll be rewarded one day."

Everyone's expressions shifted slightly, sensing that Qing Wan's words had a hidden meaning. (End of Chapter)