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Master Liaojin slowly opened his eyes, his gaze gentle yet profound, as if he could see right through people's hearts. He raised one palm in return, his voice calm and mellow, like a spring breeze and gentle rain.
“Young Master Li, Mr. Changsun, there’s no need for such formalities. Climbing the mountain on a snowy night shows your sincerity. The Buddhist community is vast and has always welcomed believers from all directions. How can you say we are disturbing you? Please have a seat.”

As he spoke, he gestured to the two prayer cushions that had been prepared in the hall.

"Thank you, Master!"

After thanking him, Li Shimin took off his black sable fur coat, which was covered in snowflakes, and handed it to the young novice monk who stepped forward. Underneath, he wore a well-tailored dark blue casual robe, which made him look even more dashing. He then sat down with Changsun Wuji with composure and an attitude that was neither humble nor arrogant.

"I have long heard that Jingnian Temple is a sacred Buddhist site, renowned for both Zen and martial arts. Seeing it today, I realize that its great reputation is well-deserved. The grandeur of this temple and the demeanor of the masters are truly admirable."

Li Shimin spoke earnestly, looking sincerely at Zen Master Liaojin, while also not neglecting Liaokong, who sat quietly to the side. He noticed that when he spoke, Zen Master Liaokong's withered fingers twitched very slightly, indicating that he was not completely detached from worldly affairs.

Master Liaojin smiled slightly, his smile as gentle as ripples on an ancient pond: "Young Master Li, you flatter me. The Zen temple is merely a place for recluses to cultivate themselves. Its small scale is nothing more than the accumulation of the efforts of generations of patriarchs and believers from all directions, used to worship the Buddha and encourage their practice. It is Young Master Li, on the other hand, who is a young hero, who has fought on the battlefield, helped the country, and whose name is known throughout the world. He is truly worthy of our respect."

The two exchanged a few pleasantries, seemingly polite, but in reality, they were both observing each other. Inside the hall, the fragrance of sandalwood wafted, and the sound of chanting drifted faintly through the thick walls, adding to the serene atmosphere.

Li Shimin knew that beating around the bush with these reclusive sages was pointless and would only make him appear insincere. After a moment's thought, he decided to get straight to the point, his gaze fixed intently on the figure before him, his voice clear and steady:
"Master Liaojin, I have come here with some questions in my mind. I hope you can enlighten me."

"Oh? What doubts do you have, Young Master Li? Please speak frankly."

Master Liaojin remained calm and composed, waiting patiently.

"The current state of the world must be crystal clear to you, Master."

Li Shimin's tone was solemn, carrying a heavy burden of concern for the country and its people: "Emperor Yang lost his virtue, the world collapsed, heroes rose up, vying for the Central Plains. The people were displaced and suffered unspeakably. I, Shimin, am unworthy, but thanks to my father's trust and the soldiers' valiant efforts, I was able to raise an army in Jinyang, and do my utmost to quell the chaos, restore peace and order to the world, and let the people regain their tranquility."

After a pause, Li Shimin observed the Zen Master Liaojin's reaction. Seeing that the other party was still listening attentively, he continued, "However, the chaotic situation is complex and cannot be resolved in a day. Luoyang is located in the heart of the Central Plains and is a strategic location fought over by military strategists. Now, Wang Shichong has seized power here. Although he has a large army and is powerful, he is suspicious, cruel, and ungrateful. He is by no means a person who can be entrusted with the world. Although I have important business to attend to in Luoyang, I also have the intention of observing the situation. Seeing that the people of Luoyang under Wang's rule have temporarily gained some breathing room, they are walking on thin ice, and their future is worrying, which makes me very uneasy."

At this point, Li Shimin raised his voice slightly: "The world does not belong to one person, but to all people. The virtuous will rule it, and the unvirtuous will lose it. Although I dare not claim to be virtuous, I am willing to emulate the ancient sage kings, to govern diligently, and to relieve the people from their suffering. This vast land needs a monarch who can end the wars and bring peace and order; these hundreds of millions of people need a benevolent ruler who can sympathize with their hardships and reduce taxes and levies!"

The words echoed in the main hall, creating a peculiar resonance with the faint chanting of scriptures.

The four guardian Vajras each had a different expression: Bu'en's gaze was sharp, Bu's face was expressionless, Bu's expressionless was thoughtful, and Bu's lips curled slightly, seemingly unimpressed by this "grand discourse." Zen Master Liaojin remained peaceful, while Zen Master Liaokong remained unmoved.

Master Liaojin spoke slowly, his voice still calm: "Young Master Li has lofty ambitions and cares deeply for the common people, which I admire. However, the Buddhist order is a pure land, and those outside the secular world do not directly intervene in the changes of dynasties. You have come here to ask me, Young Master, what stance does Jingnian Temple take in this game of the world?"

Li Shimin met the gaze of the monks with composure, without flinching: "Master, you are wise. I know that the Zen temple is detached from worldly affairs, aiming to save all sentient beings and pursue the true meaning of Buddhism. I do not ask the Zen temple to send monk soldiers to help me conquer cities and territories. That would be asking the impossible and would also tarnish the purity of Buddhism."

He then changed the subject, his tone becoming extremely sincere: "However, the overall situation of the world concerns the well-being of all living beings. The Pure Land is not in the Western Paradise, but in the hearts of the people; peace is not in the mountains and forests, but in the world. If the world is always engulfed in war and demons run rampant, and the people are living in dire straits, how can we truly save all living beings and practice the compassionate thoughts of Buddha, even if there are thousands of temples and tens of thousands of scriptures?"

His gaze swept over the solemn golden statue of the Three Buddhas, and Li Shimin's voice was heavy with sorrow: "I have heard that the Buddha has a fierce and wrathful gaze to subdue demons and monsters, all to clear obstacles on the path of cultivation and protect the true Dharma. This chaotic world is the greatest 'demonic obstacle,' hindering the hearts of all beings from turning to the Buddha and cutting off the place where countless people can live in peace. What I wish to do is to use that fierce and wrathful gaze to sweep away all demons and restore a peaceful world to the world!"

These words touched upon the intersection of Buddhist ideals and secular conflicts, elevating the pacification of the world to the level of "protecting the Dharma and subduing demons." Changsun Wuji nodded secretly, thinking to himself that the Second Young Master's words were indeed to the point.

Master Liaojin pondered for a moment, his eyes flickering slightly, clearly indicating that Li Shimin's words had stirred something within him. He glanced at his senior brother Liaokong, who still had his eyes closed, and said slowly, "Young Master Li's words are not without reason. Our Buddha's compassion is certainly not about simply avoiding the world. However… the safety of the hundreds of monks in the monastery must also be carefully considered. Although Wang Shichong is not a wise ruler, he is currently treating the monastery with considerable courtesy. If our temple rashly expresses its opinion, I fear…"

This is the key point: Zen monasteries are not completely indifferent to worldly affairs; they need to consider the risks to their own survival and their stance.

Li Shimin knew that at this moment, he had to demonstrate sufficient sincerity and commitment. He leaned forward slightly, his gaze intense, and his tone solemn:
"Master Liaojin, Venerable Monk Liaokong, and the four Dharma Protectors, I, Shimin, am here tonight not as the Duke of Qin of the Li Tang dynasty, but with a sincere heart yearning to end this chaotic world, to swear an oath to you all, and also to the Buddha!"
If one day, Emperor Shimin is fortunate enough to receive the Mandate of Heaven, quell the chaos, and unify the land, he will surely issue an edict in the name of the emperor, bestowing upon Jingnian Zen Monastery the title of "Protective Zen Forest," to be eternally honored in the state sacrifices of the Tang Dynasty! The monastery's status will surpass that of all other Buddhist temples in the world!

Upon hearing this, even the four guardians, who had remained expressionless, subtly changed their expressions.

Protecting the Nation Zen Temple! This signifies unparalleled glory and the most authoritative official recognition, bringing immeasurable benefits to the temple's future development.

With a slight smile, Li Shimin's promise became increasingly specific: "Secondly, I promise that I will never interfere in the internal affairs of the Zen monastery, nor will I send officials, levy taxes, or conscript monks as soldiers. All the Zen monastery's rules, regulations, and traditions of practice will be left to the monastery's own discretion, maintaining its fundamental aloofness from worldly affairs!"

This clause dispelled the biggest concern that the Zen temple might be controlled and exploited by the imperial court.

"Thirdly, the Li Tang imperial family will uphold Buddhism and protect the orthodox teachings. Shimin is willing to donate funds to build and expand the temple's halls, cast Buddha statues, translate scriptures, and support eminent monks from all directions! This will make Jingnian Temple not only a sacred place of martial arts, but also a center of Buddhist studies throughout the world, benefiting all living beings and illuminating the Dharma!"

"What Shimin seeks is not the private gain of one's own family or clan, but the public good of all people. He wishes to establish this auspicious connection with Jingnian Temple. If this is accomplished in the future, the temple can, with the help of the court, spread Buddhism more widely, educate people's hearts, and achieve supreme merit. The Tang Dynasty also needs the power of Jingnian Temple, which upholds righteous thoughts and guides people towards goodness, as the cornerstone of the nation and the refuge of the people's hearts. This is mutually beneficial and complementary, and it is all for a common goal—to create a peaceful and prosperous world, so that the compassionate light of Buddhism can shine on every inch of land, and all sentient beings in the world can find peace!"

After saying this, Li Shimin said no more, but sat quietly, looking at Jin and Liaokong, waiting for their response.

Changsun Wuji also held his breath, knowing that Li Shimin had already offered the most favorable terms he could. A silence fell over the hall, broken only by the occasional crackling of the ever-burning lamps.

Master Liaojin lowered his eyes in deep thought, his fingers slowly moving a string of sandalwood prayer beads, clearly weighing the pros and cons.

The conditions proposed by Li Shimin, especially the status of the "Protective Zen Monastery" and the guarantee of "absolutely no interference in internal affairs," were extremely attractive to the monastery. This would ensure that the monastery would not only be preserved during future dynastic changes but would also rise to a higher level.

The Zen Master Liaokong, who had always been as still as a statue, finally made a more noticeable movement at this moment. His slightly closed eyelids slowly lifted.

Suddenly, it was as if two warm and profound lights illuminated the slightly dim palace. There was no sharpness in his gaze, yet it seemed to be able to see through the darkness and illuminate the deepest thoughts in people's hearts. He did not look at Li Shimin, but looked towards the direction of the wind and snow outside the palace, as if his gaze could penetrate the layers of palace walls and see into the chaotic world.

After a moment, Liaokong withdrew his gaze, turned to Zen Master Liaojin, and nodded very slightly.

Seeing Master Kong's statement, Zen Master Liaojin turned to look at Li Shimin again, clasped his hands together, and uttered a Buddhist chant:
“Amitabha! Young Master Li’s sincere heart, lofty aspirations, and respect for Buddhism and the Zen monastery have been felt by this old monk and my senior brother. Your wish to create a peaceful and prosperous world and let the compassionate light of Buddhism shine throughout the world is the same as the Buddhist aim of universal salvation. Although Jingnian Zen Monastery is a secluded place of quiet cultivation, it cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering of the people.”

"The Zen temple wishes to forge this auspicious connection with Young Master Li."

These few words, like a clap of thunder in spring, resounded in the hall and also exploded in the hearts of Li Shimin and Changsun Wuji.

It worked!
Master Liaojin's tone turned serious: "However, the Zen Monastery has its principles. We will not directly participate in military affairs, nor will we provide monk soldiers to assist you in battle. But... the Zen Monastery can promise that within Luoyang, and even among Buddhist believers throughout the land, it will not support any forces that act perversely or are cruel and inhumane. If you, young master, can truly lead your troops to Luoyang one day to relieve the people's suffering, the Zen Monastery can guarantee that it will not become an obstacle to you. Furthermore, at the appropriate time, the Zen Monastery can mediate for you, appease the local people, and reduce the resistance and casualties of your campaign. This would also be a great act of merit."

Upon hearing this, Li Shimin was overjoyed, but remained calm on the surface, bowing deeply and saying, "Shimin thanks the Venerable Kongshen, Master Liaojin, and all the Dharma Protectors! I will remember the kindness of the Zen Monastery, and if I achieve anything in the future, I will certainly live up to my promise today!"

Master Liaojin nodded with a smile: "I hope that you will not forget your original intention and keep the common people in mind."

Just then, the Fearless Monk, one of the Four Protectors, suddenly snorted coldly, his voice booming like a bell: "Young Master Li, your words are beautiful! But I wonder if your martial arts are worthy of your ambition? I want to test whether you have the ability to fulfill your promise in this chaotic world!"

Before he finished speaking, Bu Ju swayed in the wind, like a tiger released from its cage, and struck Li Shimin's shoulder with a palm. This palm strike seemed simple and unadorned, but it contained the fierce true power of his Demon-Subduing Staff Technique, which he had honed for many years. The palm wind howled, and the force rushed towards him, even stirring up the surrounding air!
The change happened so suddenly that Changsun Wuji's expression changed drastically, but he had no time to react.

"drink!"

A glint flashed in Li Shimin's eyes. He did not dodge. He lowered his waist, sat on his horse, exhaled and opened his mouth. His right fist went straight to meet the attack. He used the "Stabilizing the Mountains and Rivers" move from the "Qin King's Formation-Breaking Fist," a unique skill passed down in the Li family and derived from a fragment of the "Longevity Manual."
"boom!"

Their fists clashed, producing a dull, resounding crash like leather being struck. A shockwave emanated from the two men, causing the nearby ever-burning lamps to flicker.

Li Shimin swayed slightly, a faint cracking sound coming from the gold bricks beneath his feet, but he stood firm, his expression unchanged. The monk, however, stumbled back three steps before regaining his footing, his face filled with astonishment. He never expected that this young prince of the Li Tang dynasty possessed such pure and profound inner strength, and that his fist techniques were so majestic and upright, imbued with an inviolable imperial aura!

Master Liaojin spoke up at the opportune moment: "Don't be afraid, step back. Young Master Li is a distinguished guest of our temple, and you must not be rude."

Undeterred by the monk's changing expression, he finally clasped his hands together and bowed, saying, "Yes, Abbot."

His gaze toward Li Shimin held less contempt and more solemnity.

Li Shimin also withdrew his fist and returned the greeting, saying calmly, "I am not afraid of the master, you are too kind."

Although brief, this exchange allowed the people of Jingnian Temple to see Li Shimin's strength more directly—not only in his words and ambitions, but also in his own exceptional talent, excelling in both literature and martial arts, far surpassing ordinary scions of noble families.

Master Liaokong's gaze fell on Li Shimin again, this time lingering a little longer. A faint hint of appreciation seemed to flash across his calm, still eyes.

Master Liaojin smiled and said, "Young master, you are indeed extraordinary. Today's karmic connection has been established, and it is getting late. The wind and snow are fierce. Why don't you two stay overnight in our guest room and continue your journey down the mountain tomorrow?"

The purpose of the persuasion had been achieved, even exceeding expectations. Li Shimin bowed again, saying, "I would be more honored to accept your invitation. Thank you for your kind invitation, Master."

Immediately, a monk who was in charge of receiving guests stepped forward and led Li Shimin and Changsun Wuji to their guest rooms.

Stepping out of the main hall, Li Shimin took a deep breath of the cool air, feeling all the pent-up emotions in his chest dissipate, and a surge of heroic spirit welled up within him. Looking back at the bronze hall and magnificent complex, which appeared even more mysterious in the night and snow, he whispered to Changsun Wuji:
"Wuji, this trip has been worthwhile. This auspicious connection with Jingnian Temple may become an important step in establishing our rule in Luoyang and even pacifying the world in the future."

Changsun Wuji nodded and said softly, "The promise the Second Young Master just made..."

His gaze swept across the main hall, and Li Shimin said softly, "Every word comes from the heart. If I gain the empire, I will fulfill this promise. This is not for expediency, but truly for the sake of this empire; it is only right!" (End of Chapter)