Chapter 501: Winds and Clouds Converge at the Red Lotus, Chan and Jie Ignite a Secret Strife

Chapter 501: Winds and Clouds Gather at Hong Lian, Chan Jiao and Jie Jiao Ignite a Secret Conflict

In the realm of Beiming, within the Bai Ze ancestral land, Li Changshou's paper effigy sat by the shore of a lake, patiently watching a group of Bai Ze playing and frolicking by the water.

The Bai Ze looked similar to deer, but their bodies were adorned with intricate patterns. They were naturally gentle and kind, possessing extraordinary wisdom, and were talented at discerning the true nature of things, good or ill fortune. It was said that if a Bai Ze appeared, there would be a sage ruler in the world.

However, since the ancient war of the dragons and phoenixes, the Bai Ze had rarely appeared in the world.

In the desolate Beiming, the Bai Ze had established their ancestral land. They lived peaceful lives, but were aware of the great changes happening outside.

Li Changshou's paper effigy had been stationed here for a long time. He didn't disturb the Bai Ze, merely observing their lives. He also didn't take on human form, instead appearing as a small, unassuming white animal that would lie quietly by the lake, resembling a sheep or a small deer.

Recently, Bai Ze had been visiting him more frequently. They would speak to him in hushed tones, sharing news they had gathered from outside.

This time, the Bai Ze brought news about the "Red Lotus Gathering."

"The Western Sect's eight hundred sects are gathering in the Red Lotus Mountains. They are preparing to openly compete for the position of Great Saint," a Bai Ze with wise eyes spoke softly. "Great Saint Hong Lian is on the verge of falling. He has set this up to select his successor."

"The position of Great Saint?" Li Changshou's paper effigy transmitted his thoughts.

"Yes, Great Saint Hong Lian is one of the few remaining ancient powers," the Bai Ze replied. "He holds a high position in the Western Sect and possesses immense power. His passing is imminent, and he is choosing his successor to inherit his position and power."

"This is the internal affair of the Western Sect," Li Changshou said. "Why are they making such a big fuss about it? Why are they inviting cultivators from outside?"

"It is not an invitation," another Bai Ze chimed in. "The Western Sect has made a public declaration, welcoming all those who have a connection to the Buddha. Those who possess the essence of the lotus and are within the Five Elements are welcome to participate."

Li Changshou's paper effigy remained silent for a moment, then sighed inwardly.

The Western Sect. This was a significant event.

He knew the true nature of the Western Sect. They were not a benevolent religious sect; they were a formidable power vying for control in the prehistoric world. Their methods were often underhanded and their ambitions vast.

The "Red Lotus Gathering" was not a simple internal succession ceremony. It was a carefully orchestrated event to attract talent and expand their influence. By framing it as a selection for the position of Great Saint, they were attempting to legitimize their actions and attract those with potential.

And inviting those with "the essence of the lotus" and within the "Five Elements" was a clear attempt to lure those with karmic ties to the Western Sect, or those who could be easily swayed.

Li Changshou's paper effigy contemplated the potential implications of this event. The Western Sect was on the rise, and their actions would undoubtedly impact the balance of power in the prehistoric world. This "Red Lotus Gathering" was a clear sign of their growing confidence and ambition.

The Bai Ze continued to share news. They spoke of the growing tension between Chan Jiao and Jie Jiao. The disciples of both sects were increasingly coming into conflict, albeit in secret. There were rumors of small skirmishes and disputes over resources and territories.

"The conflict between Chan Jiao and Jie Jiao is intensifying," a Bai Ze with a worried expression said. "It is said that some disciples have already come to blows."

Li Changshou's paper effigy listened intently. He knew that the relationship between Chan Jiao and Jie Jiao was delicate. They were both branches of Dao Sect, but their philosophies and approaches to cultivation were vastly different. Chan Jiao emphasized the cultivation of personal virtue and the pursuit of enlightenment, while Jie Jiao embraced diversity and accepted disciples from all backgrounds, regardless of their origins.

These differences, coupled with the growing competition for resources and influence in the prehistoric world, were inevitably leading to friction.

The "Red Lotus Gathering" and the escalating conflict between Chan Jiao and Jie Jiao were two significant events that were shaping the landscape of the prehistoric world. Li Changshou understood that these events were interconnected and would have far-reaching consequences.

He needed to be prepared. He needed to stay informed and adapt to the changing circumstances.

The Bai Ze continued to share their insights and observations, their wise eyes reflecting the concerns and anxieties that were spreading across the prehistoric world. Li Changshou's paper effigy listened patiently, absorbing the information and formulating his strategies.

The winds and clouds were gathering at Hong Lian, and the subtle conflict between Chan Jiao and Jie Jiao was a clear sign of the brewing storm. The prehistoric world was entering a new era, an era of increasing conflict and uncertainty.

Li Changshou, the little immortal of Ren School, knew that he had to navigate these turbulent times with caution and wisdom. His own path was intertwined with the fate of the prehistoric world, and he needed to be prepared for whatever the future held.

He thanked the Bai Ze for their information and continued to observe the tranquil scene by the lake, his mind working tirelessly to analyze the unfolding events and plan his next moves. The peace of the Bai Ze ancestral land was a stark contrast to the turmoil that was brewing outside, a reminder of the delicate balance of power and the ever-present threat of chaos in the prehistoric world.