Thunder rang through the heavens, Buddhist chants never ceased, and resplendent heavenly light rose from the east, casting upon temples built of golden tiles and jade bricks, setting off their shimmering splendor.
Jiangxi, Great Thunderclap Temple.
Before the temple gates formed from condensed heavenly light, gusts of celestial wind suddenly swept up. Then a large-bellied monk, capable of containing all things, materialized from the wind and stepped forth.
This man was Rong E. Not only was he broad and fat, but his face was exceedingly ugly; one look at him made people unable to resist a feeling of disgust. Yet this was deliberate on his part. The Buddhist temple he had established accepted not devout believers, but evil disciples. This was the very foundation of his Buddhist Dharma.
At the same time, he was one of the finest among the Arhats of the Pure Land.
"Rong E has arrived!"
Seeing him, an Arhat with a compassionate smile and the Thirty-two Perfect Marks hurried forward. "We have been waiting for quite some time."
"So it is Vimala."
Arhat Rong E smiled in reply. Both were Venerables of the Pure Land, having realized the three meanings of slaying thieves, no rebirth, and worthiness of offerings. Their rank was equivalent to Foundation Establishment Late Stage.
"Amitabha." Arhat Rong E first recited the Buddha's name, then asked in a grave voice, "I have long remained outside the temple and do not know the situation within. May I ask why the Bodhisattvas have summoned us? By my reckoning, it should not yet be time for the Dharma assembly. At the very least, should we not wait until Supreme Victory Bodhisattva returns to his seat?"
"Ah, Rong E, you do not know!"
Venerable Vimala sighed upon hearing this, then lowered his voice. "Supreme Victory Bodhisattva has