Daoist Duobao said bitterly, "I shall obey whatever First Senior Uncle commands."
"Excellent. Though the Western Buddhist school is one of the eight hundred side paths and not Pangu's direct orthodox lineage, its Dharma Gates are exquisite, its mysteries deeply concealed. Its momentum is already like the rising sun soaring into the sky; only by following the tide can one choose the best course. Daoist Jieyin thinks far ahead, yet the Buddhist school's foundations remain shallow and its teachings crude—precisely what our Profound Sect seeks. Their Western Paradise alone occupies the Western Ox Continent; its fortune cannot harmonize with the Heavenly Dao, nor can it encompass the Primordial World. There will ultimately be shortcomings.
"Today, this humble daoist wishes to help you attain the supreme fruition of Buddhahood, command all Buddhas, and take the position of 'below one man, above ten thousand Buddhas.' Are you willing or not?"
After speaking, Laozi closed his eyes and sat quietly, awaiting his reply.
Overturning seas churned within Daoist Duobao's heart. He rejoiced—for if this truly came to pass, he would leap to the Western Teachings' third honored position, below only the two Saints. Yet he grieved as well—from this day forth, he would betray the Interception Sect and leave Tongtian's gate. How could his heart bear it? His master's fate was still unknown, his junior brothers and sisters' lives and deaths uncertain. One hand alone could not clap; how could he restore the Interception Sect's incense and legacy?
At this thought, desolation filled his chest.
A hundred flavors warred within him, yet in the end, he was moved by this sole glimmer of life.
"This disciple... is willing."
His tone was low, laden with shame and guilt, yet every word was like a nail—unyielding and indestructible.
Laozi slowly opened his eyes. His gaze