Ch. 681Having to Break the Buddhist Precepts / Strange Signs Appear in Heaven and Earth
Key Plot Points and Events
- Bodhisattva Lingji tests General Juanlian and Marshal Tian Peng using avatars, 'Ai Ai' and 'Zhen Zhen', respectively.
- Juanlian resists the temptation of Mahayana Buddhism, while Tian Peng struggles with lustful desires.
- Tian Peng's self-control wavers, but he repeatedly pulls back from acting on his desires, driven by his ambition for sainthood and Exchange Points.
- Heavenly Emperor Haotian and the Grand Supreme Elder Lao watch the trials, expressing concern for Tian Peng's resolve.
- The Haotian Mirror, Heavenly Emperor Haotian's natal spiritual treasure, becomes blurred and then entirely gray and white, indicating an anomaly related to Saints.
Character Developments
- General Juanlian demonstrates strong self-control and Buddhist resolve.
- Marshal Tian Peng shows weakness in the face of temptation but maintains his ambition for sainthood.
- Bodhisattva Lingji feels conflicted about his attempts to tempt Marshal Tian Peng.
Significant Themes
- Temptation and self-control: Characters face trials that test their resolve and commitment to their goals.
- Ambition vs. temptation: Tian Peng's desire for sainthood helps him resist immediate gratification.
- The power of Saints: The Haotian Mirror's reaction hints at the influence of Saints, although none are present.
Character Interactions
- Bodhisattva Lingji tests Juanlian and Tian Peng, trying to make them break their Buddhist precepts.
- Juanlian and Tian Peng both struggle with temptation but ultimately resist.
- Heavenly Emperor Haotian and the Grand Supreme Elder Lao observe the trials, discussing the disciples' resolve.