The Three Teachings Converge into One: The Path of the Mortal and the Saintly is the Same

Poetry:

Dark clouds gather within Jintang City, and the people are bewildered by the dead waters and plague.

Why fear wolves and jackals blocking the way? A benevolent heart can cross the Tianjin gate.

Several days later, the delegation arrived at the capital of Kucha.

This city is far larger than Gaochang, with high and thick city walls, dense buildings, bustling markets, and a mix of people from various ethnic groups.

The golden roofs of the Buddhist temple gleamed in the sunlight, and the sounds of bells, chimes, and chanting could be faintly heard, creating a truly prosperous scene.

King Yuchi Fushizhan of Kucha received Su Qingxuan and his entourage in the grand main hall of the royal palace.

The old king, with his white hair and beard, sat on a throne covered with a magnificent carpet. He seemed somewhat frail, speaking slowly. He responded to Su Qingxuan's greetings and gifts with only polite formalities, his attitude courteous yet distant.

What truly drew attention was an old monk standing to the side and behind the throne.

He wore a deep purple robe with gold trim, was tall, had a simple face, and deep, ancient eyes. He held a string of dark prayer beads in his hand.

It was Kumarajiva, the national preceptor of Kucha and one of the important leaders of Buddhism in the Western Regions.

He remained silent throughout, simply observing Su Qingxuan with a gaze that seemed to penetrate the depths of one's heart.

Several princes stood on either side of the hall, each with a different expression—some curious, some indifferent, and some harboring hidden hostility.

Su Qingxuan presented the official letter and gifts, and when discussing the attack on Chigu, his tone remained calm, only saying that it was "a misunderstanding, or perhaps a frame-up by thieves."

But the attendant gently placed the waist badge of the Kucha royal guard, which had been found on the corpse, on the table in front of the king.

The atmosphere inside the hall froze instantly; you could hear a pin drop.

The old king, Yuchi Fushizhan, changed his expression and began to cough.

The princes exchanged glances, their meaning unclear.

The Grand Preceptor Kumarajiva's gaze lingered on the waist token for a moment before slowly shifting to Su Qingxuan, his expression still unfathomable.

After a long pause, the old king finally gasped, "Such a thing has happened... It must be... it must be a bandit impersonating someone, trying to ruin the diplomatic relations between Kucha and our superior nation! I... will certainly investigate this thoroughly!"

His words sounded weak and listless.

Kumarajiva then slowly spoke, his voice deep and magnetic, and his Xia language was surprisingly fluent:

"Benefactor Su, you have been frightened. This matter is strange. Since my king has promised to investigate it thoroughly, he will surely give you an explanation. You have come a long way and must be tired. Please rest assured. Although Kucha is small, we know how to treat our guests."

Although the words were polite, the "attack" was downplayed and the delegation was implied that they should observe proper etiquette and not investigate further.

Su Qingxuan smiled slightly, no longer dwelling on the matter, and instead discussed trade and cultural exchange with the king.

The old king nodded and agreed, saying that he needed to discuss it with the royal advisor and his ministers.

The first meeting ended in a subtle and oppressive atmosphere.

In the days that followed, Su Qingxuan's experiences in Kucha were indeed a hundred times more complicated and difficult than those in Gaochang.

Invited to lecture at a royal temple, some scholars in the audience, acting on instructions, questioned the Confucian concept of "benevolent governance" using profound Buddhist principles, even going so far as to say, "Buddhist teachings are boundless; why need Confucianism and Taoism?"

When the accompanying medical officers were arranged to provide free medical consultations in the market, local shamans incited the ignorant masses, claiming that Central Plains medicine was evil magic and would anger the gods.

When the Great Xia caravan traded with the locals, they were frequently harassed and extorted by local thugs, who were clearly backed by someone.

The inn where we stayed that night was also attacked by several stray arrows and venomous snakes. Although no one was injured or killed, it made us very uneasy.

Faced with all of this, Su Qingxuan remained calm and composed.

When questioned by scholars, he cited classical texts and used their own arguments against them, even invoking Buddhist teachings on "compassion for the world" and "equality of all beings" to cleverly demonstrate that "benevolent governance" is the best practice of compassion in the world, which convinced many sincere scholars and monks from Kucha.

The sorcerer caused trouble, so he made the physician demonstrate his superb medical skills in public, curing several intractable diseases that the sorcerer had declared incurable. Facts speak louder than words, the people saw it with their own eyes, and the rumors were dispelled.

Instead of resorting to force directly to deal with the harassment by local thugs, he pressured the King of Kucha through formal diplomatic channels, forcing him to strengthen security management.

As for nighttime assassinations, Chi Ying and the guards dealt with them. After several such attacks, the attackers suffered heavy losses and gradually disappeared.

However, the real turning point came from a sudden disaster.

A serious disease suddenly broke out in a large village near the capital of Kucha.

The patient first experiences vomiting and diarrhea, followed by a persistent high fever and the appearance of alarming red rashes all over their body. They often die rapidly within two or three days.

The epidemic spread extremely quickly, causing widespread panic in the village and resulting in serious casualties. Even several imperial physicians who went to treat the patients contracted the disease and died.

Rumors spread throughout Kucha, some saying it was divine punishment, others saying it was the work of demons. The king was anxious and at a loss. The royal advisor, Kumarajiva, proposed to hold a large-scale sacrificial ceremony to drive away the plague.

Upon hearing the news, Su Qingxuan took the initiative to lead his accompanying medical officers to the epidemic area to investigate and provide treatment.

Zhou Wenjin and others tried their best to dissuade him: "Prime Minister Su! This epidemic is dangerous. Even the imperial physicians are helpless. How can you, with your precious health, lightly venture into such a dangerous place?"

"Furthermore, our dynasty has not yet fully established a close relationship with Kucha. If this trip fails, we might be falsely accused of spreading disease. What should we do then?"

Su Qingxuan shook his head, his tone firm: "Doctors have the heart of parents; how can we stand by and watch someone die? Besides, the epidemic is raging; if we allow it to spread, it may harm the mission and the very foundation of the Kingdom of Kucha."

"I also have some knowledge of medicine, so there might be something I can do. Even if there are risks, I cannot stand idly by."

He looked at Chi Ying, who had been silent all along. Chi Ying nodded silently and began to check her medicine pouch and protective gear.

Lin Wanqing and Xiao Lingyue also expressed their willingness to go and help, but Su Qingxuan declined, only asking them to stay in a safe place to organize the medicinal books that might be needed.

Su Qingxuan took only a few of the most experienced, bold and meticulous old physicians, as well as Chi Ying and a small team of volunteers to escort him. After taking simple protective measures, he went straight to the plague village.

The village was a scene of utter desolation, filled with the stench of corpses and faint wails; the living avoided it like the plague.

Despite the filth, Su Qingxuan personally examined the patient's symptoms, investigated the water and food sources, and inquired in detail about the course of the illness.

With his extraordinary intuition and profound medical knowledge, he quickly determined that this was not "divine punishment" but an extremely ferocious "cholera," the source of which was most likely the village's only well being contaminated by dead animals or filth.

He immediately ordered: all patients and suspected cases to be isolated;

Seal off the polluted well and draw water from a clean water source at a distance;

The waste from patients and dead animals were centrally incinerated;

The entire village was thoroughly cleaned and sprinkled with lime;

The accompanying physician, following his prescription, urgently prepared a large quantity of herbal decoction and distributed it to patients and those who were not yet ill as a preventative measure.

What is most touching is that, faced with a dying Kucha child abandoned by his family in a dilapidated house, Su Qingxuan disregarded the physician's advice and personally carried him to a clean tent that had been temporarily erected.

The child clenched his teeth and refused to take the medicine.

After a moment's thought, Su Qingxuan bent down, put the medicine in his mouth, and slowly fed it into the child's mouth. He then used his pure and gentle internal energy to help the child neutralize the medicine and protect his heart meridian.

He did all this with a focused and calm expression, as if he were doing something perfectly natural, completely ignoring the child's face covered in filth and horrifying red spots.

This scene was witnessed by the Grand Preceptor Kumarajiva, who had rushed to the scene upon hearing the news but was only observing from a high point outside the village.

Kumarajiva was a truly accomplished monk who, despite wielding power, remained pure in his Buddhist heart.

He strained his eyes and clearly saw the young prime minister, whose purple robe was stained but whose demeanor remained refined, carefully wiping the corner of the child's mouth.

His eyes were gentle and compassionate, and his whole being exuded a pure, bright, and vibrant aura. This was not a pretense, but a natural expression of his genuine benevolence and profound cultivation.

Kumarajiva stood still for a long time.

In my ears came the sounds of weeping and prayer, filled with hope and gratitude, carried on the wind and gradually rising from the village.

He recalled Su Qingxuan's words and actions after entering Kucha: neither humble nor arrogant, repaying evil with kindness, and breaking the deadlock with wisdom.

Now, disregarding their own safety, they personally go to the front lines to save lives and heal the wounded... How can those princes and nobles who fight for power and only know how to scheme be compared to them?

This is clearly the heart of a Bodhisattva and the conduct of a sage!

After a long while, Kumarajiva sighed, a sigh that carried both relief and shame.

He turned to the terrified King of Kucha, his nobles, and several princes behind him and said in a deep voice:

"This is not divine punishment, but man-made disaster. Human factors have caused the water source to become unclean."

"What Premier Su did was truly compassionate and fearless, fulfilling the great vow of the Buddha, 'If I don't go to hell, who will?' I, this old monk, am no match for him!"

Having said that, he disregarded all restraint, tore off the damp cloth that had been covering his mouth and nose, and personally walked into the epidemic area. He came before Su Qingxuan, clasped his hands together, and bowed deeply.

"Benefactor Su, I am late. Please speak freely, and the people of Kucha will fully cooperate!"

The Grand Preceptor's attitude instantly reversed the official stance of Kucha.

Under Kumarajiva's prestige and strict orders, the epidemic prevention measures were thoroughly implemented.

The epidemic was quickly brought under control, its spread was contained, and most patients recovered under the careful treatment of Su Qingxuan and the medical officers.

As a result of this incident, the attitude of everyone in Kucha, from the king to the common people, toward Su Qingxuan and the Great Xia delegation underwent a fundamental change.

The old king held Su Qingxuan's hand, tears streaming down his face, and called him a "living bodhisattva who saves people from suffering."

The prince who had secretly sabotaged the affair was so ashamed that he imitated the ancient customs of the Central Plains and went to the gate of the post station to apologize.

The people revered Su Qingxuan as a god, and spontaneously gathered outside the palace and post station to burn incense and kowtow, moved to tears of gratitude.

The atmosphere at the grand banquet that followed, which served as both a celebration and a farewell, was completely different from when they first met.

The nobles of Kucha vied to toast Su Qingxuan with utmost respect and enthusiasm. The Grand Preceptor, Kumarajiva, rose from his seat and approached Su Qingxuan, offering a respectful greeting with the most solemn Buddhist ceremony, and proclaimed:

"Prime Minister Su has the compassion of all living beings, wisdom as vast as the sea, and unparalleled courage. He has grasped the true essence of Buddhist compassion and also embodies the spirit of Confucianism and Taoism."

"I am willing to do my utmost to promote an eternal alliance between Kucha and Great Xia, and to establish translation centers in Buddhist temples of all sizes in my country to translate the classics of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism of Great Xia, so that the people of Kucha may also bask in the light of the Central Plains civilization and transform hostility into peace."

The King of Kucha immediately rose and announced that he would form a brotherhood alliance with the Great Xia and fully open trade routes.

It was agreed to establish permanent post stations and government-run schools, and to select princes and outstanding scholars to accompany Su Qingxuan's delegation back to Daxia to learn Central Plains culture and skills.

However, just as the banquet reached its climax, with guests and hosts enjoying themselves and clinking glasses, another unexpected event occurred!

A low-ranking nobleman responsible for pouring wine at the end of the table (later found to be a henchman hired by a disgraced prince) suddenly launched an attack when everyone was off guard!

He pulled a blue, poisoned dagger from his sleeve, and with uncanny movements bypassed several people, aiming straight for Su Qingxuan's back!

This sudden attack came without warning, and the close proximity caused a burst of screams from the crowd. The guards were only a few steps away, and it seemed that it would be too late to come to the rescue!

In a flash, Xiao Lingxi, who had been sitting quietly eating grapes to Su Qingxuan's side and slightly behind—

Caught by the cold glint in her peripheral vision, she didn't hesitate. With a sharp cry, she lunged forward like a taut spring, recklessly using her slender body to crash into the assassin!

"Pfft!"

The sound of a dagger piercing flesh was sickening.

Xiao Lingxi's collision was executed with all her might and with great skill, striking the assassin's elbow, which was holding a dagger.

The assassin's arm veered off course, and the dagger lost its aim, failing to pierce Su Qingxuan's back. Instead, it plunged deep into Xiao Lingxi's right shoulder blade, reaching the hilt!

At the same time, Chi Ying reacted with ghostly speed. The instant Xiao Lingxi lunged forward, a dark dagger about a foot long appeared in her hand. With a flick of her wrist, the dagger transformed into a streak of black light, striking first and then striking the assassin's throat with unparalleled precision.

The assassin made two gurgling sounds from his throat, his eyes hardened with murderous intent, and he fell backward, blood spurting out.

Xiao Lingxi, too, staggered and fell to the ground with a muffled groan as she was struck by the force of the impact.

The blood gushing from the shoulder wound instantly turned a chilling purplish-black and spread to the surrounding skin at a visible speed—the dagger was coated with a deadly poison!

"Lingxi!" Su Qingxuan, who had been calm and composed all along, finally changed his expression drastically!

He didn't even bother with the dead assassin; he rushed forward, knelt on one knee, and carefully supported Xiao Lingxi's limp body.

The area was scalding hot to the touch; the purplish-black poisonous gas spread much faster than ordinary poisons, clearly indicating its extremely potent toxicity.

"Quick! Get my medicine box! Take 'Qingxin Yulu Pills' and 'Badu Powder'! Prepare the cleanest hot water, strong liquor, and a white cloth! Hurry—!"

Su Qingxuan gave the order urgently, his voice trembling slightly, a tremor he himself was unaware of.

He pointed his fingers swiftly, striking a dozen or so acupoints around Xiao Lingxi's wound, using his profound internal energy to forcefully seal the meridians and slow the spread of the poison.

But the feedback from his fingertips made his heart sink further—

This poison is strange and domineering, like a carbuncle clinging to the bone, constantly eroding the true qi defense line he has set up!

The medicine box was brought out, and hot water was prepared.

However, Xiao Lingxi had fallen into a deep coma, her face was as pale as paper, her breath was weak, and her jaw was clenched, making it impossible for her to swallow medicine or water.

The crowd gathered around, extremely anxious.

The royal physician of Kucha stepped forward to examine the wound and the blood, shaking his head repeatedly and saying in a trembling voice, "This poison... seems to be a mixture of several rare poisons from the Western Regions, fatal upon contact with blood... I... am powerless to help..."

Su Qingxuan looked at the woman in his arms, whose face was rapidly losing color, and felt her life force disappearing as quickly as sand in an hourglass.

A surge of emotion, a mixture of immense panic, heart-wrenching pain, and chilling rage, gripped his heart.

He barely hesitated before pouring out three fragrant "Qingxin Yulu Pills" from the jade bottle, putting them in his mouth without even looking at them, and they instantly dissolved with his internal energy.

Then he bent down, gently pried open Xiao Lingxi's cold, tightly clenched teeth with one hand, and pressed his lips to hers, covering them with his own. He slowly but firmly transferred the cool medicinal liquid from his mouth into her mouth. He then added a mouthful of warm water and repeated the process.

The warm touch, mixed with the bitterness of herbs and the faint, dry scent of the Western Regions on her lips.

At this moment, Su Qingxuan was completely focused, with no distractions, and only focused on doing everything he could to save the patient.

After administering the medicine, he immediately helped her up and held her against his chest, pressing one palm against her Mingmen acupoint on her back.

The pure and vast true energy, which had merged the essence of the three religions, surged in without reservation, protecting her faltering heart meridian and forcibly guiding it to the wound on her shoulder blade, attempting to force out the deadly poison.

Time slipped away slowly in the suffocating silence.

Fine beads of sweat appeared on Su Qingxuan's forehead, sliding down his angular profile, and his face turned slightly pale.

With his cultivation level that was almost at the pinnacle, the effort he put into this, even at the cost of his vital essence, was enormous.

But his eyes were calm and deep, revealing an unwavering resolve.

The tent was completely silent; everyone held their breath, watching the two embracing.

Lin Wanqing bit her lower lip hard, her nails digging into her palms;

Xiao Lingyue closed her eyes and clasped her hands together, her chanting barely audible, while the prayer beads on her fingertips spun rapidly.

Chi Ying stood guard beside Su Qingxuan, her eyes scanning the surroundings warily, like a mother beast protecting her cubs.

I don't know how much time passed; it felt like just a moment, yet also like an eternity.

Xiao Lingxi suddenly coughed violently, her body trembled, and with a "whoosh," she vomited a mouthful of foul-smelling, purplish-black blood!

As she coughed up the blood, a faint trace of color returned to her pale face. Her long eyelashes fluttered a few times, and she slowly opened her eyes.

After the initial confusion upon waking, the first thing she felt was the lingering warmth and bitter taste of medicine on her lips, and the deep eyes so close to hers, filled with weariness, worry, and relief.

Su Qingxuan's face was only inches away from hers, and she could hear his breath.

Xiao Lingxi was stunned at first, then realized what had happened. Her pale cheeks suddenly flushed with two extremely faint but unusually striking blushes.

She instinctively tried to avoid his gaze and struggle, but was firmly held in place by the undeniable seriousness and deep concern in Su Qingxuan's eyes.

"Don't move, the poison hasn't been completely removed yet." Su Qingxuan's voice was low and hoarse, carrying a slight weariness from the depletion of his internal energy, yet it was exceptionally clear and steady.

He carefully laid her down, took the silver knife that had been heated over a fire, and with steady and skillful movements, removed the blackened and ulcerated flesh around the wound. He then applied a thick layer of "detoxifying powder" and tightly bandaged it with a white cloth soaked in strong liquor.

Throughout the entire process, Xiao Lingxi bit her pale lower lip tightly, her body drenched in cold sweat, yet she didn't utter a single sound.

But her moist almond-shaped eyes stared unblinkingly at Su Qingxuan's focused and serious profile, so close to her, as if trying to etch his current appearance deep into her soul.

After finishing the treatment, Su Qingxuan breathed a slight sigh of relief and gestured for the female physician who was already prepared to step forward and take over the care.

He stood up, his body swaying almost imperceptibly before regaining his balance. He bowed to the King of Kucha, the Grand Preceptor, and the crowd watching, his voice regaining its usual gentleness, yet carrying an undeniable force:

"I am deeply sorry to have disturbed your enjoyment. This woman is my... companion. She was poisoned while saving me today. I humbly request Your Majesty to arrange a completely quiet and safe place for her to recuperate. I will remember this kindness."

The King of Kucha and his entourage were already terrified by these successive changes, and upon hearing this, they hurriedly agreed.

Immediately arrange for the most comfortable and quiet side hall in the palace to be used, assign the most capable maids and royal physicians to it, and strictly order a news blackout and strengthen the palace's defenses.

The gazes directed at Su Qingxuan were filled with indescribable shock and awe.

This Prime Minister Su was not only exceptionally benevolent, but he was also incredibly loyal and devoted to those around him (though the specific relationship is unknown, judging from his anxiety and the fact that he personally fed the medicine to them orally, the relationship must have been very close), even at the cost of his own life.

The people of Kucha were more open-minded than those in the Central Plains, and this action made them feel genuine and sincere.

Xiao Lingxi was carefully carried to a side hall for placement.

Su Qingxuan stayed by her side for most of the night, personally using his internal energy to help her neutralize the effects of the medicine and expel the remaining poison. Only when her breathing was completely stable and she fell into a deep sleep, her pulse weak but her life no longer in danger, did he get up and leave.

Standing on the towering observatory of the Kucha royal palace, the night wind, carrying the dryness and chill of the desert, ruffled his slightly damp hair and robes.

Looking up at the exceptionally bright and vast starry sky of the Western Regions, with the Milky Way stretching across the heavens like a ribbon, Su Qingxuan's emotions were difficult to calm.

He had already locked onto the assassin's aura, and even before the assassin suddenly attacked, he had several ways to kill him instantly without harming him in the slightest.

But... he never expected that Xiao Lingxi, this seemingly naive and sometimes willful girl—

In that instant, she displayed such resolute courage, using her own flesh and blood to shield him from that fatal blow! This affection was fervent, pure, and unreserved, weighing a ton.

Today, the act of "lips touching teeth" and administering medicine orally is a great transgression in terms of worldly etiquette.

For his Taoist heart, which had cultivated itself for many years and maintained a calm and tranquil mind, this was no less than throwing a boulder into the ground, stirring up ripples that were difficult to quell.

But he has no regrets.

Life is at stake, saving lives is of utmost importance. How can we let mere etiquette or momentary mental block prevent us from helping someone in distress?

However... after this incident, Xiao Lingxi's deep affection and the connection that came at the cost of her life are probably impossible to avoid or sever.

On the path of spiritual practice, wealth, lust, fame, profit, and love are all difficult obstacles to overcome, but the obstacle of love is perhaps the most entangled and also the most dangerous.

As the night breeze grew cooler, he slowly exhaled a long breath, his eyes regaining their firmness and clarity.

However, deep inside, the hard and cold shell that had been deliberately built up for cultivation, responsibility, and the impending ascension seemed to have quietly cracked open with a tiny fissure due to today's anxiety, panic, heartache, and the warmth and bitterness conveyed between the lips for a moment.

A strange, tender, human-like concern and stirring of emotions quietly seeped in.

Xiao Lingxi's injuries were extremely severe. Although the poison had been neutralized, she had lost too much blood and her vital energy was greatly depleted.

In addition, the dagger injured his tendons and bones. According to the doctor's diagnosis, he needs to rest for at least a month before he can barely regain his mobility, and he must not be subjected to any bumpy or strenuous travel.

Su Qingxuan then made a decision that surprised everyone: the main force of the mission would remain in Kucha for the time being.

A group led by Zhou Wenjin continued to refine the terms of the alliance with the Kucha side and arrange matters such as schools and translation centers;

Another group of elites stayed behind to protect and care for Xiao Lingxi as she recovered from her injuries.

He himself will only take Chi Ying, Lin Wanqing, Xiao Lingyue, fifty of the most elite guards, and a few necessary interpreters and clerks with him, traveling lightly and simply to the Kingdom of Khotan further west.

"Prime Minister Su, absolutely not!" Zhou Wenjin objected vehemently, even stepping forward disregarding etiquette.

"The Kingdom of Khotan has never had any contact with the Central Plains. Its state religion, the 'Cult of Light,' is very powerful and its doctrines are xenophobic. King Tohti is weak, and the high priest Ahura is domineering and extremely unfriendly to non-believers."

"Taking only such a small group is tantamount to throwing lambs to the slaughter! If anything goes wrong, we will be condemned to death! It would be better to wait until Miss Xiao's injuries stabilize before we proceed!"

"Precisely because Khotan is xenophobic and its religious authority is paramount, it is all the more necessary for me to go there personally, and I must travel light and with minimal entourage." Su Qingxuan had regained his usual composure, but his tone left no room for argument:

"If we send a large army, it will be seen as a threat of force, which will only provoke stronger hostility and confrontation, and may even lead to conflict. Sending a small entourage will show our sincerity and demonstrate that we are not here for conquest, but for friendship."

"The matter of Kucha must have already reached Khotan. The Khotan High Priest Ahura is no fool. I am going there not to intimidate, but to discuss the Way."

"Discussing the Dao?" Zhou Wenjin was taken aback.

"Not bad." Su Qingxuan turned his gaze to the west, towards the direction of Khotan, where the shadows of snow-capped mountains appeared even more majestic in the night.

"The state religion of Khotan emphasizes asceticism, dedication, and unwavering faith in one true God, rejecting other religions. While its doctrines may have some extreme and xenophobic aspects, its believers are devout and steadfast in their faith."

"To deal with fanatical beliefs, military intimidation and the lure of benefits are often ineffective and may even backfire. Only by engaging with, confronting, and guiding them with a grander, more inclusive, and more fundamental 'Tao' can we truly succeed."

"I wish to discuss with his High Priest Ahura the origin of heaven and earth, the nature of all living beings, the true meaning of divine mercy, and the great way of benevolence and tolerance."

He looked at Zhou Wenjin and smiled slightly, a smile that appeared particularly clear under the starlight: "Wenjin, you are reliable and capable. I trust you most to stay and oversee things. Make sure everything is settled with the Kucha side; this is the cornerstone of stability in the Western Regions. Furthermore…"

"Take good care of Miss Xiao. Once her condition stabilizes, she can slowly travel west to Khotan to meet me. If... if things don't go well, I will send someone to inform you. You can then act accordingly, either returning to Kucha or retreating back to Yumen. The most important thing is to protect everyone and continue our mission."

Zhou Wenjin knew that his mind was made up and that he had thought things through deeply. She could only accept the order with tears in her eyes, but her heart was filled with worry.

The next morning, Su Qingxuan went to visit Xiao Lingxi.

Xiao Lingxi had woken up, her face still pale. She leaned weakly against the soft pillow. When she saw Su Qingxuan come in, her eyes lit up for a moment, then she lowered her eyes in a fluster, her cheeks slightly flushed.

"How are you feeling?" Su Qingxuan sat down on the edge of the couch, his tone gentle.

"Much better... much better, Brother Su." Xiao Lingxi's voice was barely audible, and she dared not look at him.

"I told you... I've studied Taoist magic and martial arts, but... my skills are lacking, and I've caused you... trouble."

"Nonsense." Su Qingxuan shook his head gently, his gaze falling on her tightly bandaged shoulder. He paused for a moment before saying:

"I will be setting off for Khotan today. Your injuries are not yet healed, so it is not advisable for you to travel. You should stay here and rest. Lord Zhou will make the arrangements. Once you are better, you can join us."

Xiao Lingxi suddenly looked up, her eyes instantly welling up with tears and urgency: "Brother Su! I... I can do it! I..."

"Listen to me." Su Qingxuan interrupted her, his voice gentle yet carrying an undeniable force. "Khotan is far away, and the situation is unclear. If you come along, you'll only distract me. Staying here to recover will be a great help to me."

He reached out, seemingly wanting to ruffle her hair as he always did, but paused slightly midway, instead tucking the blanket around her. "I will leave behind the best physicians and guards. Take your medicine on time, and don't be willful."

Xiao Lingxi gazed at his beautifully shaped jawline so close to hers, smelling his faint, reassuring, and refreshing scent. All the words she wanted to say stuck in her throat, and in the end, she could only manage a choked "Mmm," while tears streamed down her face.

Su Qingxuan sighed inwardly, took out a silk handkerchief, gently wiped away her tears, and whispered, "Take care." After saying that, he got up and left without lingering.

Xiao Lingxi watched his tall figure disappear around the corner of the porch, then buried her face in the silk handkerchief that still held the warmth of his fingertips, and sobbed silently.

Su Qingxuan, accompanied only by Chi Ying, Lin Wanqing, Xiao Lingyue, and fifty riders in two light carriages, quietly left the capital of Kucha and sped towards the Kingdom of Khotan.

As you head west, the scenery changes again. Oases become scarcer, and deserts and Gobi once more take center stage. However, the outlines of distant snow-capped mountains become increasingly clear and majestic, and the air grows drier and colder.

Along the way, the atmosphere in Khotan was distinctly different from that in Kucha and Gaochang.

In the villages and towns, uniquely shaped domed temples can be seen everywhere, and priests and ascetics dressed in black robes appear and disappear, while the eyes of the people are filled with vigilance and rejection.

The market was deserted, with little regard for outsiders, and even a hint of hostility.

Occasionally, caravans would pass by, but they always traveled in a hurry and kept a very low profile.

Chi Ying and her guards maintained the highest level of vigilance throughout the entire process.

Lin Wanqing and Xiao Lingyue rode in the same car, and both of them became even more silent.

Lin Wanqing would occasionally glance out of the car at the strange scenery and the repulsive gazes, her cool eyes thoughtful.

Xiao Lingyue kept her eyes closed and twirled the prayer beads, but the faint light on the "Seven Treasures Tranquilizing Sandalwood Beads" seemed to flow a little faster than usual.

Several days later, they arrived at the capital of Khotan.

The city was similar in size to Kucha, but its architectural style was quite different, with many domed towers. The tallest and most magnificent building in the city was the "Great Temple of Light," which was built entirely of white stone and shone brightly in the sunlight.

The royal palace, on the contrary, appeared small and simple.

King Tohti of Khotan received Su Qingxuan and his entourage in his rather simple palace. His attitude was reluctant and his etiquette perfunctory, clearly indicating that he was under immense pressure.

The one who truly controlled the situation was the high priest Ahura, who sat on a high-backed chair covered with snow-white sheepskin, above the king's right.

Ahura was about fifty years old, with a thin face, pale skin, and deep-set eyes, but his gaze was as sharp as a hawk's, as if it could pierce through people's hearts.

He wore an elaborate black robe embroidered with golden suns and flames, a tall crown, and held a scepter inlaid with a large red gemstone.

He exuded an aura of authority and life-or-death power, as well as an almost fanatical obsession.

"Guests from the East who have traveled a long way," Ahura's voice was dry and cold, with a heavy Khotanese accent, and it slowly rang out through the interpreter, his gaze fixed on Su Qingxuan's face as if it were a physical object:

"You come from that vast and distant Eastern empire, holding a high position and wielding great power. You've traversed thousands of miles of desert to come to my kingdom, which worships the one true God of Light. What brings you here? Is it to spread your heretical and blasphemous ideas?"

The atmosphere inside the hall instantly plummeted to freezing point.

The nobles of Khotan glared at him, their hands on their daggers.

The guards of the Great Xia Dynasty tensed their muscles and their breathing became heavy.

Chi Ying's hand had already quietly reached for the short blade at her waist.

Su Qingxuan sat calmly in the guest seat, seemingly unaware of the invisible yet heavy pressure.

He smiled slightly and, through an interpreter, replied in a calm and clear voice: "Honorable High Priest, Qingxuan has come not to transmit my Eastern teachings, but to... inquire about the Way."

"Ask the question?" Ahura's lips curled into a cold, mocking smile.

"Our religion in Khotan originates from the supreme and only true God of Light, the sole truth in the world, illuminating all directions. What do you have that requires you to come to this land of light to inquire?"

"High Priest," Su Qingxuan said calmly, his clear gaze meeting Ahura's sharp stare, "why is the God of Light so merciful? Why does he love all people?"

Ahura frowned slightly, seemingly displeased that the other party dared to ask a question in return, but still answered with doctrine: "God is the source of light, life, and truth."

"God loves the world, therefore He gives light to dispel darkness, gives land to grow all things, and gives life to experience God's grace. Believers should make offerings devoutly, strictly observe the precepts, and purify their souls so that they may receive God's grace and, after death, their souls may ascend to the eternal kingdom of light and enjoy ultimate bliss."

"Good." Su Qingxuan nodded, his tone still calm.

"God loves the world and gives everything. So, please tell me—"

"Does God love the people of the Great Xia in the East? Does He love the people of the northern grasslands? Does He love the people of the southern islands? Does He love the lone traveler in the desert, the tribes herding in the snowy mountains, and... the distant beings who have never heard the holy name of the God of Light?"

Ahura's face darkened, and he said coldly, "Those who believe in and serve my God will be loved and protected by Him. Those who do not believe are foolish and ignorant, and their souls will fall into eternal darkness, a sin of their own choosing."

"If there is even one person," Su Qingxuan said slowly, his gaze sweeping over the Khotan nobles who were listening intently in the hall:

"Born in a desert oasis, he never heard the holy name of the light in his life, but he was hardworking and honest, filial to his parents until the end, friendly to his neighbors and fellow villagers, helped the poor and needy, never did evil, and even protected the weak."

"After this person dies, will their soul return to the light or fall into darkness? Does God love or hate this person?"

"It is a misfortune for a place not to have heard of the name of God, and it is also a sin of that place. But not believing in the one true God is the greatest sin, and it is unforgivable."

Ahura's tone was firm, but a barely perceptible flicker of emotion flashed in his eyes—this issue was not without controversy within the church.

"Then," Su Qingxuan's voice suddenly became clearer, carrying a power that pierced straight to the heart, "if God's love and mercy are only bestowed upon those who believe in Him and worship Him, is this love conditional? Is it... somewhat narrow, somewhat limited?"

"As our ancient Eastern sages said, 'All men are brothers within the four seas.' They also said, 'Do not do to others what you would not have them do to you.'"

The Buddha also said: "All sentient beings are equal and all possess Buddha-nature."

"Our ancient Taoist sages in the Central Plains also said: 'Heaven and earth are ruthless, treating all things like straw dogs'—this does not mean that heaven and earth are heartless, but that heaven and earth view all things equally, without bias."

"True compassion and supreme benevolence should be like the sunlight that shines on all things, nourishing and nurturing all beings regardless of belief or disbelief, social status or race, or distance or kinship."

"The true way of inclusiveness is like the ocean, which embraces all rivers and does not discriminate against small streams. It is because of its selflessness and lack of desire that it can become so vast and endure through the ages."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over everyone in the hall again, his tone sincere:

"When Su traveled to the Western Regions, he passed through the neighboring country of Gaochang and saw that the people there were suffering from water shortages and that the farmland was in ruins. So he taught them how to dig wells to draw water."

"When passing through Kucha, he encountered people suffering from serious illnesses and provided them with medical treatment."

"What Su did was not because they believed in Confucianism, Buddhism, or Taoism."

"Simply because they are human beings, like myself, creatures who experience hunger and thirst, fear illness and pain, yearn for sustenance and peace. Is this thought and action 'heretical'? Does it violate the very essence of 'benevolence'?"

The hall was silent, save for the occasional crackling of charcoal in the brazier. Many Khotan nobles looked thoughtful and whispered among themselves.

Ahura's expression shifted. Su Qingxuan's words did not directly attack the core of his beliefs, but rather explored the universality of "benevolence" and the inclusiveness of "Tao," and provided concrete examples.

They had already heard about what had happened in Gaochang and Kucha, and had even sent spies to verify it, confirming that it was indeed true.

Su Qingxuan continued, his voice deep and powerful: "High Priest, the God of Light bestows light and land upon believers."

"Our Great Xia is willing to trade with Khotan, bringing silk, porcelain, tea, books and crafts from the Central Plains in exchange for Khotan's fine jade, fine horses, carpets and medicinal herbs."

"With the free flow of commerce and trade, goods can be transported freely, and the people of Khotan can gain real benefits and their lives can gradually become more prosperous."

"This is not plunder or seizure, but mutual benefit and sharing. This is not forced conversion or change of religion, but the exchange and coexistence of civilizations."

"If we close our borders and shut out people from afar simply because of differing beliefs, leaving our people impoverished and isolated, is this loving our people or harming them?"

"When the Supreme God sees his devout people suffering because of isolation, will he be pleased with their xenophobic 'piety,' or will he pity their hardship in making a living?"

"Furthermore," he changed the subject, his tone becoming more serious, his gaze sharp as he stared directly at Ahura.

"When Qingxuan came, he saw that on the border of your country, some tribes were fighting endlessly over water and grass, and some refugees were suffering from hunger and cold."

"Furthermore, I have heard that the Abbasid Caliphate to the west is growing stronger every day, with its iron cavalry advancing eastward. Its sects are also exclusive, and its conquests are extremely fierce."

"Khotan is located in a remote corner. If it could join hands with our Great Xia, as well as with Kucha, Gaochang, and other friendly states in the Western Regions, to exchange goods, support each other, and jointly resist foreign aggression, wouldn't that be more in line with the divine will to bless believers and ensure their peaceful and prosperous lives?"

Why confine yourself to this isolated place, stranded on the edge of this perilous desert?

Ahura fell silent.

He was not a delusional fanatic; his ability to wield power in Khotan for decades demonstrated his wisdom and foresight. Su Qingxuan's words struck him like heavy hammer blows.

He was aware that Khotan's exclusive religion led to the decline of commerce, the weakening of its national power, and the suffering of its people. He was also already keenly aware of the threat from the Abbasid Caliphate to the west.

However, the conservative forces within the church were too powerful, and his own authority was tied to them, making it difficult for him to take the initiative to change things.

Su Qingxuan said no more, but waited quietly, his gaze clear and calm.

The hall was deathly silent. Everyone, including King Tohti, held their breath and stared at the high priest.

Time passes little by little.

Ahura slowly rose to his feet, his movements slightly hesitant.

He walked to the center of the main hall and stood beneath a huge mural depicting the God of Light holding a torch to dispel darkness and bless believers. He looked up at the majestic statue and remained motionless for a long time.

The eyes of the deity in the mural seem to be looking down at him.

After a long while, Ahura slowly turned around. The stubbornness and coldness on his face seemed to have melted away a little, replaced by a deep weariness and a sense of relief.

He walked up to Su Qingxuan and, with the most solemn etiquette in Khotan, almost like paying respects to a divine messenger, placed one hand on his chest and bowed deeply to Su Qingxuan.

"Su Xiang's words were like a spring in the desert, like a beacon in the dark night, awakening me from my dullness, which was indulging in dogma and stuck in my ways."

Ahura's voice was dry, yet it resonated clearly throughout the temple.

"The love of the gods, perhaps... was something I had understood too narrowly in the past. Khotan is willing to reopen its doors, willing to engage in trade and commerce with Great Xia and all nations that uphold benevolence. It is also willing to... listen to the voices of other civilizations and wisdom, as long as they do not contradict the light of benevolence."

King Tohti breathed a long sigh of relief and quickly rose to announce, "I also wish to forge an eternal alliance with the superior nation of Great Xia, to exchange trade, and to jointly defend against foreign aggression!"

A seemingly inevitable and intense conflict was averted in a "discussion" that was more dangerous than any sword fight.

That evening, the King of Khotan hosted a banquet, which, though not as grand as that of Kucha, had eased the tension.

Ahula even took the initiative to talk with the scholars brought by Su Qingxuan, inquiring about the astronomy and calendrical calculations of the Central Plains.

After the banquet, Su Qingxuan declined the lavish palace arranged by the king and stayed at the post station instead.

In the stillness of the night, he stood by the window. The Milky Way hung low in the Khotan night sky, seemingly within reach. The cool moonlight shone on the exotic domed buildings, casting a pale, silvery glow.

Today's debate in the palace may seem like he won by relying on his eloquence and magnanimity, but in reality, it was extremely dangerous.

Verbal disputes can sometimes be more dangerous than actual combat. If one's doctrines are refuted or one's fanaticism is aroused, it can immediately lead to death.

His ability to persuade Ahura was not merely due to his eloquence, but also to the genuine trust and virtue he had accumulated since leaving Yumen Pass, through his experiences of gifting skills in Gaochang, fighting the epidemic in Kucha, risking his life to save others, and treating people of all ethnicities equally.

These actions, which align with his words and deeds and benefit all living beings, have laid the most solid foundation for his "theory" today, forcing even a figure like Ahura to face it squarely, ponder it deeply, and even be convinced.

He suddenly recalled a scene he had witnessed at a street corner on his way to the inn at dusk:

Several ragged Khotan children were gathered around an old Xia craftsman, watching him weave a lifelike grasshopper from sturdy grass leaves he had picked at random.

The children stared wide-eyed, cheering with delight, their eyes filled with the purest curiosity and joy, having long forgotten their elders' warnings about "heretics".

The old craftsman, who had been silent all the way, also showed a rare, honest smile.

At that moment, Su Qingxuan felt a surge of warmth in his heart.

"The Way is not far from man."

He murmured to himself in the cool moonlight.

The way of the sage is all-encompassing and supreme, yet it is not suspended high in the heavens, inspiring awe.

It is in these ordinary streets and alleys, in the clear, smiling eyes of children, in the skillful fingertips of craftsmen, and in every little thing that allows people to drink clean water, eat their fill, and stay away from illness and fear.

read more, walk more.

No matter how many principles are in books, nothing compares to seeing the vastness of the world with your own eyes, experiencing the everyday life of humanity, and feeling and practicing them with a childlike heart.

The way of the sage is found in the high halls of the court, and also in the far reaches of the world; it is found in the classics, histories, philosophical works, and even in the sand, the wind, and the laughter of children.

Perhaps, I really was too tense with myself before.

I always thought that if I shouldered a heavy responsibility, I had to be perfect, have no miscalculations, keep my mind calm and pure, and not be tainted by worldly dust.

But they forgot that they are first and foremost "human beings," with flesh and blood, joy and sorrow, and love and attachments.

Acknowledging and accepting all of this may be the true beginning of "attaining enlightenment," rather than becoming heartless and devoid of desire, turning into a clay or wooden sculpture.

As soon as this thought arose, he felt an unprecedented clarity and comfort in his mind. The original true energy of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism in his body, which had long been close to perfection but had not been fully integrated due to deliberate suppression and mental stagnation, suddenly surged and flowed, becoming perfectly harmonious and unimpeded. Its connection with the spiritual energy of the surrounding world became incredibly clear and vibrant.

His divine sense automatically spread out, instantly reaching thousands of miles. The undulating desert, the desolate snow-capped mountains, the vitality of the oasis, and even the vast plateau further west, where a restless and oppressive atmosphere faintly emanated... all kinds of scenes appeared in detail, and then instantly withdrew without any hesitation.

He could even clearly "see" the faint candlelight that had not been extinguished in Xiao Lingyue's room not far from the inn, and her soft chanting of scriptures;

Lin Wanqing's figure writing by the window;

A red-tasseled figure stood guard outside his door, holding a sword, his profile as serene and protective as a sculpture.

And... far away in a side hall of the Kucha royal palace, Xiao Lingxi's brows were still slightly furrowed in her sleep, and the indistinct "Brother Su" was unconsciously murmured from her lips...

A gentle, bright, vast yet profound and inclusive aura, no longer under his control, naturally spread silently around him, enveloping the entire inn and continuing to gently ripple outwards.

It is not overbearing or domineering, but rather like spring rain nourishing all things, quietly and silently.

The staff and guards in the embassy, ​​who were feeling uneasy because they were in a foreign land, suddenly felt a sense of calm, their fatigue lessened, and a strange sense of peace and courage rose from the bottom of their hearts.

Even the Khotan soldiers on duty in the courtyard felt a sense of calm, and their grip on their spears relaxed unconsciously.

Everyone looked in the direction of the small building where Su Qingxuan lived.

Under the cool moonlight, the small building was quiet, the windows were wide open, and a tall figure could be vaguely seen standing by the window, surrounded by a hazy, holy halo. Although he was there, he gave people the illusion that he was about to melt into the moonlight and merge into the sky.

As if sensing something, Chi Ying suddenly looked up at the window, and a deep, almost panicked tremor flashed across her usually calm eyes.

Her knuckles were slightly white as she gripped the sword.

Meanwhile, far away in Kucha, Xiao Lingxi, who had been awakened from her sleep by a sudden heart palpitation, looked around blankly, feeling an inexplicable emptiness and throbbing in her heart, as if something extremely precious was slipping away from her.

She clutched her chest in bewilderment, gazing out the window at the equally cold moonlight of the Western Regions. She didn't know why this sudden palpitation had come from; only a vague fear silently gripped her soul.

The next morning, Su Qingxuan felt refreshed and his aura was more harmonious and restrained than ever before.

Under the complex yet respectful gaze of the King of Khotan and the High Priest Ahura, the mission, traveling light and with minimal entourage, once again embarked on its westward journey.

We meandered towards the Pamir Mountains, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, rumored to be closer to the sky, yet also hiding more unknowns and challenges.

Behind me, the white domed temple of Khotan gleamed in the morning sun, like a beautiful golden lotus slowly blooming.

It is:

The warmth of blood still lingered on my lips and teeth, and the starlight reflected in my image suddenly seemed divine.

Why fear the distant Jade Terrace? A single thought of clarity is all it takes to reach the Jade Palace.