A few days later, after setting off with the Phoenix Clan, they first went to the Western Region Spirit Land, which was closest to the Phoenix Clan's main camp. Through the Star Gate within the Spirit Land, Jiang Yun and his group quickly arrived at Mount Sumeru.
At the plaza in the Mountain Valley where the Star Gate is located on Mount Sumeru, the Star Gate was flashing with light. A moment later, Jiang Yun and Kong Xuan's group stepped out of the void.
Kong Xuan looked up at the sacred Western Region mountain, Five-Colored Divine Light swirling in his eyes as if sensing the Spiritual Resonance within. Behind him, the Winged Immortal lazily stretched and complained, "Finally here! I've been so busy traveling that I haven't had a chance to properly appreciate the Spirit Land we passed. It's so boring!"
Jiang Yun laughed and said, "Yuyi, my Mount Sumeru is the Western Ancestral Vein, and its landscape is very different from your Southern Volcano."
I'll have someone show you around later. Don't you love traveling through the Primordial World? You can start by looking around inside the mountain gate.
Winged Immortal's eyes lit up. "I've always heard my Eldest Brother talk about your Mount Sumeru. Now that I'm here, I really have to take a good look at it."
I've also heard that your Western Teachings's Star Gate can be spread throughout the entire Western World; I'd like to try that too!
Kong Xuan frowned. "Don't be ridiculous! We're new here, let's settle the people first and get things done before talking about anything else."
Jiang Yun waved his hand. "It's alright, you can handle those things. Just have him come over when it's time to process the initiation."
He turned to the hundred Phoenix Clan cultivators behind him and said, "Since you have just arrived at Mount Sumeru, I will arrange for you to stay temporarily at 'Qixia Peak'. The spiritual energy there is abundant and the scenery is beautiful. You can cultivate there in peace for now."
A Phoenix Clan elder cupped his hands in thanks. "Thank you for the arrangements, Fellow Daoist Jiang."
Kong Xuan nodded slightly and instructed the clansmen, "After entering the mountains, strictly abide by the rules and do not cause trouble."
Everyone responded in unison.
Jiang Yun summoned his two junior brothers and instructed them, "Junior brothers, one of you take the Phoenix Clan members to Qixia Peak; the other go to the storeroom to fetch some Spiritual Fruit and Immortal Wine. Do not neglect the guests."
After you've settled them in, you can take Yuyi and the others who want to see the mountain scenery for a tour inside the mountain gate.
After the Phoenix Clan members left with the Two, Jiang Yun said to Kong Xuan, "Let's go, I'll take you to see the Ziwei Star Lord to discuss joining the sect."
Ziwei Palace, the Ziwei Star Lord was closing his eyes and wandering in the void, comprehending the Heavenly Dao Laws.
Sensing someone enter the hall, he came to his senses and saw Jiang Yun and Kong Xuan approaching together. He stood up with a smile and said, "Jiang Yun, this must be Kong Xuan, the Son of the Phoenix you mentioned?"
After meeting with the Phoenix Clan and the Ancestor Phoenix, he used the communication jade to convey some messages to the Ziwei Star Lord and others, and even informed Zhunti the Two, who were Jieyin in the Heavenly Realm.
Kong Xuan cupped his hands in greeting. "I am Kong Xuan of the Phoenix Clan. I have long admired Senior Ziwei's name. It is my great honor to meet you today."
The Ziwei Star Lord smiled and said, "Young friend, you're too kind. Please have a seat."
After the three sat down, Jiang Yun went straight to the point. "Uncle-Master, for this trip to the Immortal Volcano, Ancestor Phoenix intends to have Kong Xuan and Yuyi join our Western Teachings as Guardian Generals, and will also send a hundred elite Phoenix Clan disciples to accompany them to join the sect."
The Ziwei Star Lord tapped the table lightly with his fingertips and pondered, "The Phoenix Clan is an ancient clan with profound heritage. Their intention to join our sect will greatly benefit our sect's Fortune."
However, this is no ordinary matter. He looked at Kong Xuan and said, "The position of Guardian Generals can enjoy the sect's Fortune and should not be given lightly."
If you wish to assume this position, you must Heavenly Dao Oath, promising never to betray the sect for the rest of your lives. Fellow Daoist, are you willing?
Frankly speaking, a Dharma Protector like this, which requires both Fortune and talent, is truly unworthy of being held. It is only because Kong Xuan is the Son of the Phoenix, possessing the Phoenix Clan's Fortune, and whose strength and talent are also outstanding, that he was able to gain Jiang Yun's support.
Kong Xuan's expression was solemn. "Having joined the Western Teachings, I shall naturally abide by its rules. However..." His gaze sharpened, "I have a question. Does the position of Guardian Generals require the cultivation of specific Cultivation Method? May I be allowed to freely comprehend the Five Elements Great Dao within myself?"
The Ziwei Star Lord and Jiang Yun exchanged a glance and smiled, "Of course."
Our Western Teachings never restricts the path of cultivation for its disciples; as long as it does not violate the doctrine, everything is up to you.
After you join the sect, you will be given the "Mount Sumeru Treasure Record". You can refer to the methods of cultivation in it. Ultimately, we cultivators still need to forge our own path.
As the saying goes, "Those who learn from me live, those who imitate me die. Young friend, you possess exceptional talent and have the potential to attain enlightenment. Naturally, you cannot be confined to Dao Lineage."
Kong Xuan nodded. "In that case, I have no objection."
Jiang Yun added, "Furthermore, Ancestor Phoenix intends to gradually integrate the Phoenix Clan into the Western Teachings, a matter that requires the approval of the Two Religious Leaders. Currently, our two masters are still guests in the Heavenly Realm, so I suggest we first recruit Kong Xuan and others. Other matters can be decided upon upon their return."
The Ziwei Star Lord agreed, "Good."
Phoenix Clan members can first join the sect and cultivate, enjoying the same treatment as outer disciples. As for the position of Guardian Generals...
He pondered for a moment, "This position concerns the sect's Fortune; the sect leader must personally preside over the inauguration ceremony to gain the sect's Fortune and enjoy its Fortune." He then changed the subject, "I think we should temporarily take charge on behalf of the sect leader and bestow the title of 'Dharma Protector' upon Kong Xuan, and complete the ceremony after we Fellow Daoist Jieyin back."
Kong Xuan raised an eyebrow. "So, you mean I'm just a figurehead Dharma Protector now?"
The Ziwei Star Lord chuckled, "Fellow Daoist, don't be impatient."
Although you have no real power, you can use the church's resources first, including the vast collection of books in the Scripture Repository, which you can also visit.
He said meaningfully, "After you join the sect, you may also borrow Jiang Yun's Five Elements Spirit Pearls for a look."
Kong Xuan's eyes flickered slightly as he looked at Jiang Yun: "Really?"
Jiang Yun shrugged. "Once you join the sect, we'll be family. If you ever need anything, feel free to come to me."
Kong Xuan was pleased to hear this. "Alright, I'll accept the position of Dharma Protector."
The Ziwei Star Lord clapped his hands and laughed, "Good!"
"Then I will make arrangements on behalf of the Two Religious Leaders to select a suitable day and gather some disciples from Mount Sumeru to hold an initiation ceremony for the Phoenix Clan!"
After some time had passed and all preparations had been made, the Ziwei Star Lord and Jiang Yun summoned the disciples in charge of various departments and organizations within Main Peak of Mount Sumeru Mount Sumeru.
The Ziwei Star Lord and Jiang Yun stood on the platform, looking at the crowd below, and announced loudly, "Today, Kong Xuan of the Phoenix Clan and Winged Immortal have joined our Western Teachings and will temporarily assume the position of Guardian Generals!"
I am informing all disciples today, so that you may all be aware!
After the ceremony, the Phoenix Clan members were officially accepted into the Western Teachings, and the news was communicated to all the disciples of the sect!
Although the Phoenix Clan had semi-retired in the Primordial World, their reputation remained considerable. The news of their clansmen joining the Western Teachings quickly became a hot topic among the disciples, sparking much discussion.
When Kong Xuan saw this scene at the mountain gate, he shook his head helplessly. At this time, they were still temporarily staying on Qixia Peak and had not yet chosen their own mountain to build Cave Abode.
On this day, Kong Xuan sat alone atop the mountain, Five-Colored Divine Light flowing around him, as if he were comprehending the Five Elements of heaven and earth.
Hearing a sound, he opened his eyes and turned to look, only to see Jiang Yun walking over.
He handed a jade slip to Kong Xuan, saying, "This is the 'Five Elements World Derivation Art,' which may help you comprehend the Five Elements World."
Kong Xuan took the jade slip, scanned it with his divine sense, and was immediately moved. "You are actually willing to impart such a secret Dharma Form?"
Jiang Yun blinked. "Since we're fellow disciples, why hold back? But... if you feel bad about it," he lowered his voice, "How about you accompany me to explore the Demon Abyss sometime?"
Kong Xuan laughed and said, "Why not!"