Journey to the West: Starting with the True Lord of the Pure Land

After several rounds of drinks and the enjoyment of the spiritual fruits, the conversation gradually turned to the path of cultivation.

Han Yu Shuibo gently waved his jade fan and said slowly:

"Recently, I have been adjusting the water flow at the bottom of the stream and have made some progress in understanding the principle of water's gentleness overcoming its strength."

Though the water's current may be weak, its continuous flow, when gathered into a powerful surge, can still shake mountains. However, if it is too yielding and lacks ambition, it also presents a challenge.

The Earth God stroked his beard and nodded:

"Although I am a man of shallow understanding, I believe that the key to protecting a place lies in nurturing it."

The earth, rich in vitality, nurtures all things silently, seemingly inactive, yet brimming with life itself.

Upon hearing this, the White Stone Mountain God pondered and said:

"Indeed. The mountains and rocks are silent, yet they receive the essence of the sun and moon, gather spiritual energy to give birth to plants and trees, and nurture birds and beasts; this too is the Great Dao."

Everyone nodded in approval.

The Black Wind Mountain God, growing impatient, interjected:

"What you three gentlemen are saying is too complicated!"

In my opinion, cultivation is about refining one's inner strength and tempering the body, using sheer power to overcome any challenge. Whether it's water or earth, wind or mountains, as long as your fist is strong enough, the principle will prevail.

As he spoke, he waved his palm, which was as big as a palm leaf fan.

The Earth God chuckled and pointed at the Black Wind Mountain God, saying:

"You dark-skinned fellow, still as reckless as ever. If everyone were like you, what would be the point of the profound mysteries of Taoist magic?"

The Black Wind Mountain God wasn't annoyed, and chuckled:

"What do you know, you old-fashioned folk? This is called hitting the nail on the head! By the way..."

Suddenly, something occurred to him, and he looked at Chen Jiao with piercing eyes:

"Fellow Daoist Xuanling, I have heard that your Yunmang Mountain has taken on a new look in recent years, and your methods are swift and decisive, bringing great benefits to this old man of the land."

I observed that your aura was like thunder yet not thunder, like water yet not water; it is indeed a wondrous method.

"May I ask, fellow Daoist, what are your insights into the power of thunder and the nourishment of water?"

He asked directly, his gaze intense, as if he genuinely wanted to investigate.

Upon hearing this, the pavilion fell silent.

The land god of Yunmang stroked his beard and smiled, while the mountain god of Baishi glanced sideways, and the water god of Hanyu also put down his book.

The two gods had long heard of the formidable reputation of the Xuanqing Cave Master, and his previous few words had already been astonishing; now they were eager to hear his true words.

Chen Jiao paused slightly in his cup-holding hand, then looked up to meet the gaze of the Black Wind Mountain God.

Seeing that his eyes were clear and there was no intention to test or make things difficult for him, but rather a certain sincerity in discussing the truth and seeking the truth.

He pondered for a moment, and in an instant, the water control supernatural power of the ancient Xuanjiao incarnation was engraved in his mind, and all the things that his original self had used to control thunder magic for hundreds of years came to mind.

Within the heart of Tao, ripples arise like water, and thunder roars in all directions.

Seeing him pondering for a long time, the four gods couldn't help but wonder if he was stumped.

The land deity of Yunmang quickly tried to smooth things over:

"Fellow Daoist Xuanling, I personally witnessed the Qingjing Yunmang Mountain. It truly embodies profound thunder magic and exquisite water element."

As soon as he finished speaking, the four gods looked at Chen Jiao in astonishment, their hearts trembling.

Chen Jiao's aura seemed to subtly harmonize with the water elements of heaven and earth, and even the rhythm of thunder in the darkness, creating a sense of communion between heaven and man.

Chen Jiao took a deep breath, then said slowly:

"I dare not claim to have profound insights; these are merely my humble opinions."

"Water is the most yielding, benefiting all things without striving, dwelling in places that others disdain, thus it is close to the Way."

His voice was calm, like the gentle murmur of a stream:

"Water gathers to form a deep pool, unfathomable in its depth; when it rages, it becomes a raging torrent, capable of shattering mountains and splitting rocks. Its gentleness can nourish all things silently, while its strength can also destroy clouds and collapse mountains."

After a slight pause, he continued, "Thunder is the most powerful and fierce, originating from the heavens, its sound reverberating for miles, causing evil spirits to flee and all things to awaken from their dormant state."

Yet thunder and rain are both gifts from Heaven. After the thunder's fury, sweet rain often falls, nourishing the parched earth and bringing life back to life.

"Therefore, in my view, water and thunder, though seemingly opposite in strength and gentleness, are actually mutually generating in the relationship of yin and yang."

Water is the foundation of thunder, and thunder is the transformation of water.

Without the vast rising of water, how could thunder and lightning arise from the clouds? Without the shaking and opening of thunder, how could clouds be transformed into rain to nourish the lower realm?

His tone remained calm throughout, yet every word was clear:

"The path of cultivation is also based on this principle; one may lean towards gentleness and restraint, or emphasize firmness and progress."

However, if one can comprehend the wonder of the balance between strength and gentleness, and the transformation of Yin and Yang, one may be closer to the true nature of the Way of Heaven.

For example, this Yunmang Mountain was once choked with demonic energy, like a stagnant pool. The thunder is used to cleanse it, not to destroy it, but to dredge it.

Rain nourishes, not only fostering growth but also purifying. Only through a balance of gentleness and strength can clarity be achieved.

After speaking, he lowered his eyes, took a sip of tea, and said no more.

His words, though devoid of esoteric terminology, clearly and thoroughly elucidated the relationship between water and mines and the principles of strength and gentleness, and also subtly reflected his practice in governing Yunmang Mountain, demonstrating a lofty vision.

Like throwing a stone into the lake of everyone's hearts, creating ripples.

A moment of silence fell over the room.

As Chen Jiao narrated calmly, an indescribable Daoist aura quietly emanated from his body.

At the summit of Bi Ning Peak, the sky was usually clear and the weather was fine. But now, without any warning, wisps of clouds began to rise from the void.

At first, it was as thin as gauze, but in an instant, it became as thick as ink, gathering from all directions and pressing low over the mountaintop.

Yet it carries not a trace of gloom or malevolence; instead, it exudes a vibrant vitality that nourishes all things and is poised for growth.

There was no thunder in the clouds, but specks of azure light quietly emerged, flowing like water, with a faint, low hum that could not be heard by the ear but penetrated straight to the soul.

It was as if a thunder pool in the heavens was brewing, or as if a vast ocean was surging in the depths.

This is not a magic or supernatural power, but rather the manifestation of principles, which triggers a natural interaction between the spiritual energy of heaven and earth.

"Words become law... the essence of Tao is innate?"

Han Yushui murmured in shock, nearly dropping the book in his hand.

As the official in charge of the Water Palace, he was most sensitive to changes in the water element. At this moment, he clearly felt the joyful exuberance of the water spirit in the surrounding world and the hidden power of thunder. The two coexisted harmoniously, as if they were one.

The White Stone Mountain God took a slow breath. He had been guarding this peak for hundreds of years, and for the first time, he felt as if the mountains beneath his feet were breathing anew, subtly aligning with the strange phenomenon in the sky.

For the first time, his gaze towards Chen Jiao carried genuine solemnity and respect.

The land deity of Yunmang was so excited that he trembled all over. He pointed at the strange phenomenon in the sky, then looked at Chen Jiao, his lips trembling, but he couldn't say a word.

Only then did he realize that this neighbor, who usually kept a low profile and appeared gentle and kind, had actually reached such an unbelievable level of Taoist cultivation.

Black Wind Mountain God suddenly stood up, his burly body leaning slightly forward, staring intently at Chen Jiao, his chest heaving violently.

He had the highest level of cultivation and the deepest understanding.

It was not the oppression of power, but a manifestation of the Dao that pointed directly to the source, like a great bell striking his Dao heart.

His eyes first showed shock, then a hint of confusion, and finally transformed into an extremely complex sense of inquiry and longing.

He boasted of his exceptional comprehension, mastery of martial arts and combat techniques, and unique insights into the Black Wind Path.

However, compared to these profound and insightful theories that touch upon the fundamental principles of Yin and Yang, strength and gentleness, they seem rather narrow-minded.

He possessed the Daoist mind and wisdom, but he only focused on honing his martial arts skills and never truly took discussions of metaphysics and Daoism to heart.

Only now did he understand the essence of cultivation.

The Black Wind Mountain God was deeply moved; his voice, devoid of its previous boldness, carried an unprecedented solemnity:

"What a profound statement: water is the foundation of thunder, and thunder is the transformation of water! What a perfect balance of strength and gentleness! Fellow Daoist Xuanling, your insight is truly extraordinary, and your Daoist techniques are profound! Today's discussion has been far more beneficial than a hundred years of arduous cultivation!"

He bowed deeply to Chen Jiao, his posture much more humble than before.

The Mountain God of White Stone and the Water God of Cold Rain also rose and bowed respectfully, their eyes no longer showing any disdain, only reverence. The Earth God was even more honored, beaming from ear to ear.

Chen Jiao also took this opportunity to carefully comprehend the wondrous harmony of water and thunder, and his aura became increasingly profound and unfathomable.

His recent insights were a natural and profound elevation of his understanding of the principles of water and mines, which he expressed with deep feeling.

It was inevitable that it would move heaven and earth; it was by no means an intentional show.

Suddenly seeing the three deities bowing, Chen Jiao quickly rose to return the greeting: "I was moved by a sudden inspiration, and Heaven and Earth have shown their favor. I dare not take credit for it."

The strange phenomenon lasted for about ten breaths before quietly receding like a tide.

This unusual phenomenon has given this small meeting a different meaning.

When everyone discussed the Dao again, their tone became more solemn, and they implicitly centered on what Chen Jiao said.

As the sun began to set, the jade fruit was exhausted and the fine wine was gone. Only then did everyone rise, bid each other farewell, and say that they would seek each other's guidance in the future. They then dispersed on their own escape lights.

Before departing, the Black Wind Mountain God gave Chen Jiao a deep look, his gaze complex, which ultimately boiled down to just one sentence:

"Fellow Daoist's words are like thunder in my ears. Black Wind Mountain... awaits your arrival at any time."

Having said that, he transformed into a black gust of wind and vanished.

Chen Jiao returned together with the land deity of Yunmang.

The Earth God leaned closer and whispered:

"Fellow Daoist Xuanling, from today onwards, your reputation will likely spread throughout the entire circle of mountain and water deities within a thousand miles."