Stirring Up Conflict

"However, this humble monk has a question that has been troubling him. I hope you fellow Daoists will give it some thought."

Amitabha's gaze deepened, as though it could pierce through the fog.

"As this humble monk understands it, worthy nephew Ao Lie should have been waiting quietly at Eagle Stream Ravine for Venerable Guanyin's summons, embarking upon the westward path of Scripture Seeking to fulfill his destined opportunity and Merit.

This was an ordained fate, one concerning the Karmic Bonds of many parties. Why, then... did he suddenly appear upon the battlefield outside Wind Snow City in Southern Jambudvipa? And why did he happen to encounter White Lotus Boy, only to lose his life?"

He paused, and a hint of prompting skepticism entered his voice.

"Worthy nephew Ao Lie possessed a special status, and his whereabouts should have remained secret. Yet he abruptly appeared on the battlefield and became embroiled in this slaughtering tribulation. Could it be... that someone had done this deliberately? Could someone, knowing full well who he was, have intentionally placed him in danger? Perhaps even... used him as a chess piece, a sharp blade, to achieve some unspeakable purpose?"

The moment these words were spoken, they seemed to be a question, but the intent to sow discord within them was obvious! He had subtly directed the spearhead toward whoever might have "arranged" for Ao Lie to appear on the battlefield! And among those present, who was most likely to have "arranged" it? Naturally, it was Lin Zhu—the leader of the camp Ao Lie had belonged to when he last appeared!

The Platinum Dragon Emperor's icy dragon pupils shifted slightly. He glanced at Amitabha and snorted coldly.

"Hmph! Amitabha, while your words do seem intended to evade responsibility for your own inadequate supervision, it is indeed