Although that was true, Samael could not help feeling somewhat stirred by the outcome before him. He pursed his lips, scoffed, and shook his head.
"If I remember correctly, Buddhism preaches salvation for all people. Yet now it abandons these countless living beings to their fate. So much for this so-called 'universal salvation.'"
"Buddhism saves people, but it also depends on karmic opportunity. One may offer guidance, but if the opportunity has not arrived, even guidance will not take hold. Like Venerable Maudgalyayana—despite his divine powers, he ultimately achieved nothing."
Sanzang gently shook his head and explained in a deep voice. Then she looked toward the bustling street and mortal life beyond the wall, a smile in her eyes.
"But I believe that one day, all living beings will reach enlightenment and transcend this boundless sea of suffering."
"Oh, please. Vulture Peak is gone..."
Samael raised his teacup and rolled his eyes at Sanzang, who was feeding him empty promises, complaining irritably.
"Do not seek the Buddha far away upon Vulture Peak; Vulture Peak lies within your own heart. Everyone possesses a Vulture Peak pagoda, where they may cultivate beneath it."
Unbothered, Sanzang smiled and recited the verse, her gaze clear and profound.
"Before the World-Honored One attained enlightenment, he was merely an ordinary man of the Shakya clan. Only after seeing his true nature, clarifying his heart, and attaining Bodhi did he free himself from the endless vexations of the mortal world, roaming the infinite with what was finite. Why can these countless beings not do the same?"
Samael's hand paused slightly. A look of realization entered his eyes as he murmured softly.
"A Buddha is a person who has attained enlightenment; a person is a Buddha who has yet to attain enlightenment..."
If heaven would not save mankind,