235: Chapter 235 The Power of the Dragon and Elephant, Nighttime Operation

Chapter 235: Dragon-Elephant Strength, Night Operation

Night fell, and the township situated on the edge of the city was enveloped in a profound silence.

The fields, woods, and sparse houses all vanished into a peaceful darkness.

Only a few scattered lights flickered faintly, waiting for those returning late at night.

Inside a sprawling Buddhist hall, prayer flags fluttered and precious parasols hung high.

On the surrounding walls, resplendent thangkas caught the eye, filled with bizarre and mysterious religious patterns, telling ancient stories of the Buddha's teachings.

At this moment, the evening chanting was at its peak, with the sounds of bells and drums roaring in unison, shaking the soul.

Hundreds of lay believers, devotees, and lamas sat neatly in a ring around the towering altar in the exact center, together forming a solemn and sacred mandala for cultivation.

With pious expressions and murmuring mouths, the sound of chanting spiraled and echoed within the main hall, as if whispering and confiding in the statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.

Upon the altar sat a middle-aged lama of about forty years old.

He wore a black and red monk's robe, with gold-embroidered borders at the collar and cuffs, displaying a low-profile luxury.

His cheeks looked thin with distinct contours, and a pair of tortoise-shell-rimmed glasses perched on his high-bridged nose, adding a touch of scholarly elegance to him, while a pair of meticulously trimmed mustaches gave him an extra trace of majesty.

At this moment, his eyes were half-closed, sitting in a standard lotus posture, his posture as steady as a mountain, as if merging into one with the altar.

His hands formed a mudra in front of his abdomen, fingertips touching gently.

With the mantras murmured in his mouth, the surrounding air seemed to fluctuate slightly, guiding the rhythm of the Sanskrit chants and immersing the entire Buddhist hall in a solemn yet peaceful atmosphere of cultivation.

Meanwhile, the chanting beneath the altar grew more vigorous and powerful, resembling a roaring river surging with endless Power Of Faith.

Fine beads of sweat gradually oozed from the foreheads of the lay believers and monks, yet their gazes grew increasingly firm, reflecting their persistent belief in seeking the Buddha under the lights.

The lingering Sanskrit chants pierced through the carved doors and windows of the hall, drifting toward the mountain forest outside the temple, startling a few resting birds and blending into the boundless night.

At that moment, footsteps came from outside the door.

With a soft "creak."

Two lamas dressed in black robes hurried in, their gazes directed straight at the lama sitting high on the altar.

Their footsteps paused slightly, seemingly wanting to report an important matter yet fearing to disturb this sacred practice.

They then tiptoed to find an empty seat and sat down, clasping their hands together and chanting scriptures along with the others, quickly blending into the ranks of the evening chanting.

Unwittingly, the night grew late, the sound of chanting gradually subsided, and the evening session neared its end.

The lay believers and monks slowly stood up, clasped their hands together, and bowed deeply to the presiding lama on the altar to express gratitude for the day's cultivation time.

Afterward, they orderly exited the main hall, disappearing into the night-shrouded corridors.

Leaving only the slightly flickering oil lamps and three figures.

The lama sitting on the altar slowly opened his eyelids, swept his gaze toward the two who had entered earlier, and parted his lips lightly:

"Zaxi, Duoji, you're back?"

"Venerable One."

The two lamas clasped their hands together, bent over with lowered heads, and responded with respectful salutes and tones.

"How did it go this time?"

Looking at their empty hands, the Venerable One could not help slightly furrowing his brows: "Where is the golden bumpa bottle?"

Hearing the Venerable One's inquiry, the leading Zaxi stepped forward with a hint of shame on his face and reported:

"Today, your Disciples obeyed the Venerable One's command to search for the whereabouts of the holy object. During this period, we encountered some setbacks, but fortunately, we finally fulfilled our mission and obtained a crucial piece of news."

Seeing that his Disciple under his seat spoke evasively and clearly failed to complete the mission as desired, the Venerable One revealed a trace of displeasure and commanded in a deep voice:

"Tell me clearly in detail."

"Yes, Venerable One."

Zaxi swallowed a mouthful of saliva and chose to report truthfully:

"According to your prediction, the two of us went to Liuli Old Street where the holy object once appeared. After making inquiries, we locked onto an antique dealer named Xu Sanduo. He recently obtained an item flowing out from the Ancient Tomb in Xishan, suspected to be the golden bumpa bottle we have been diligently searching for, so we went over to investigate."

"After entering the shop, we didn't beat around the bush and directly stated our intentions to the shopkeeper, thinking that as an ordinary businessman, seeing our lineup, he would surely cooperate obediently."

"However, that Xu Sanduo played dumb and refused to reveal the truth. Out of impatience, I resorted to coercive measures to let him know our strength and make him submit obediently."

"Who would have thought that there was a formidable character in the shop at that time, catching us off guard..."

"Indeed."

Saying this, the impatient Duoji beside him immediately took over the conversation:

"Venerable One, that person has formidable martial arts and subdued Zaxi with a single Move. His methods were extremely sharp."

"I was guarding the door and keeping watch, and before I could even help, I was thrown to the ground by him. At that time, I intended to use my ability to deal with him, but Senior Brother Zaxi stopped me..."

Hearing this, the Venerable One knitted his brows tighter, his eyes filled with doubt:

"Just by using martial arts, he was able to subdue both of you?"

Seeing this, Zaxi hurriedly added:

"Venerable One, not only are that person's martial arts Moves exquisite, but his strength is also astonishingly huge. If calculated according to the levels of the Dragon-Elephant Prajna Technique, he has reached at least the eighth layer. I have now cultivated to the fifth layer; compared to him, it is simply a world of difference, leaving me with no power to retaliate."

While reading his expression, he carefully explained to prove that he did not handle things poorly, but rather that the opponent was simply too strong and beyond their capability range.

The Venerable One's gaze narrowed slightly as he pondered inwardly when such a formidable figure had emerged in the Dongdu Jianghu.

You must know that the Dragon-Elephant Prajna Technique belongs to the supreme Protector divine skill of the Esoteric Sect, divided into a total of thirteen layers.

This Cultivation Technique is fierce, violent, and extremely overbearing. Its function is very simple, which is to enhance fist strength—the so-called one force overcomes ten techniques.

Every time one Cultivates to a layer of the Dragon-Elephant Prajna Technique, one possesses the strength of one dragon and one elephant, which is the strength of a giant python plus an adult elephant, roughly estimated to be about three tons.

If one Cultivates to the eighth layer, a single punch can unleash an impact force of at least twenty tons, and the destructive power is so enormous that it exceeds ordinary people's imagination.

In today's technological era where Spiritual Qi is thin, relying purely on Physical Body strength to reach this level can already be considered a local overlord.

Even within the Esoteric Sect, which pursues an indestructible vajra Physical Body, such people are few and far between.

Weighing it in his heart, the Venerable One nodded slightly, choosing to believe Zaxi's judgment, and then asked again:

"Do you know his background? Could he be personnel from other factions preparing to contend for the holy object?"

"Pardon your Disciple's incompetence; at that time we were at a disadvantage and had no ability at all to investigate his background in detail."

Zaxi said with a face full of shame, and then continued:

"However, precisely because of this person's help in questioning, we learned from Xu Sanduo's mouth that the golden bumpa bottle has already fallen into the hands of the Lu family."

"The Lu family?"

Hearing this, the Venerable One's eyes behind his lenses narrowed slightly, seemingly weighing the credibility of these words.

Although he had come to Dongdu for less than a year, he had long heard of this veteran conglomerate family.

The Lu family's influence across both black and white realms was intricately connected and reached the heavens. If they really obtained the golden bumpa bottle, any subsequent attempt to snatch food from the tiger's mouth would bring immense variables.

Zaxi and Duoji stood in place, not daring to act rashly, lowering their heads and condensing their breaths, quietly waiting for further instructions from the Venerable One.

The main hall was silent for a moment, save for the flickering candlelight, with light and shadows dancing on the three people's faces, reflecting expressions of solemnity or nervousness.

After a long while, the Venerable One asked again:

"What about after that? Did you manage to find out any other news?"

Zaxi felt a chill in his heart, knowing that the Venerable One meant to ask whether he had verified the situation.

Thus, keeping his head lowered, he respectfully replied:

"On our way back, the two Disciples deliberately sought out our usual informants and made inquiries from various sources. We found that some recent actions of the Lu family did indeed seem unusual, and it seemed they were being secretly watched by several other factions."

"Moreover, I obtained a piece of news from an underground black market trading post that someone leaked word in secret, claiming that the collector of the golden bumpa bottle intends to send it to the annual International Shadow Auction."

"Therefore, Disciples believe that the probability of the golden bumpa bottle falling into the Lu family's hands is very high."

Duoji also stepped forward and said somewhat anxiously:

"Venerable One, this golden bumpa bottle originally ought to be something belonging to our Black Sect. We must absolutely not allow it to flow into the auction and lose our dignity. If the Sect Master learns of this news, I'm afraid he will blame us."

The Venerable One nodded gently, a sharp glint flashing in his eyes:

"The Lu family... Hmph, a dignified conglomerate always reaching the heavens in Dongdu, yet this time they actually leaked the news; I'm afraid they have ulterior motives..."

He murmured thoughtfully, tapping his fingers lightly on the altar he sat upon, seemingly pondering countermeasures.

After a moment, he slowly spoke:

"Ever since I was demoted to Dongdu to preach a year ago, although I have gone through hardships, I have also been fortunate enough to receive the call of the Divine Lord."

"Now that I have received the news of the golden bumpa bottle's emergence, it seems to be heaven's favor towards me. If I can seize this holy object and welcome it back, it will surely help me regain my footing within the sect. When I return to the snowlands in the future, perhaps I can even rely on this merit to contend for the position of Dharma King!"

The Venerable One stood up, his tall figure appearing even more majestic under the illumination of the candlelight.

"The golden bumpa bottle concerns the Legacy of our Dharma lineage and is the key item to open numerous rituals and revive the prestige of the Black Sect. This seat is determined to win it. Since all factions are already stirring, we cannot sit still and wait for death."

Sweeping his sharp gaze across the two, the Venerable One continued:

"Zaxi, Duoji, these few days you continue to keep an eye on the movements of all sides, especially watching the Lu family closely. Report back the moment there is any news. When the timing is ripe, we will launch our operation. Even if it is a dragon's pool or tiger's den, we must welcome the golden bumpa bottle back to the temple."

"As long as you loyally attend to matters, this seat naturally will not treat you unfairly. When I ascend the throne of the Dharma King in the future, the two of you will be my left and right Protectors."

"As you command, Venerable One!"

Zaxi and Duoji answered in unison, clasping their hands together, their eyes filled with intense fervor.

The Venerable One waved his hand:

"Go down and prepare well."

The two bowed and retreated, and the main hall returned to silence.

Only the Venerable One stood alone on the altar, his gaze staring fixedly at the night outside the window, seemingly still pondering something.

Hotel room.

The crystal chandelier, like an upside-down starry tree, cast down a dazzling curtain of light.

The modular stereo played soothing classical music, resembling gently flowing stream water.

With a soft "creak."

The heavy and exquisite glass door of the bathroom was pushed open, and the hazy water vapor wrapped in the comfort after bathing drifted out together.

Fang Cheng walked barefoot, wearing only a bath towel, revealing his tight and well-lined chest muscles.

His hair was wet, a few strands hanging over his forehead, adding a touch of lazy casualness.

The lighting in the room was adjusted to just the right warm yellow, neither dazzling nor glaring, creating a cozy and luxurious atmosphere.

The melodious tune echoed leisurely by his ear, as if he were in a serene music hall.

Fang Cheng paced toward the window, the electric curtains slowly sliding apart to both sides, revealing a full floor-to-ceiling window.

The lush scenery of the hotel garden rushed into view, various flowers seeming to wear a light veil.

Looking out into the distance, Yulong Lake resembled a giant mirror, shimmering with fine silver light, embracing the starry sky and hazy moonlight into its arms.

Such poetic beauty, taken in all at once, was simply refreshing and delightful.

After being intoxicated for a little while, Fang Cheng turned around, his gaze falling on the food cart.

The midnight snack he had ordered earlier had already been delivered by the waiter.

Several portions of steak had just come out of the pan not long ago, still sizzling with heat and exuding a rich meaty aroma.

Fang Cheng casually pinched a piece, opened his mouth, and shoved it directly into his mouth.

His sharp teeth cut into the steak, and the meat juices instantly exploded in his mouth. He could not help chewing more vigorously, his cheeks bulging accordingly.

After swallowing in a few gulps, a look of satisfaction appeared on his face.

Fang Cheng then picked up a bottle of red wine worth several thousand yuan, directly uncorked the stopper, and chugged it down into his mouth like drinking mineral water.

After a hearty gulp, he wiped his lips and let out a comfortable hum:

"This is what I call enjoying life..."

Having money in the future and permanently booking a room in a hotel actually seemed really nice.

The thought flashed through his mind, and Fang Cheng couldn't help laughing self-deprecatingly.

In the past, he always said his uncle made a windfall and spent money recklessly; now he himself had turned into this appearance.

Perhaps it confirmed that old saying: near vermilion one gets red, near ink one gets black.

But money, after all, once earned should be spent; being a miser is definitely not a good thing.

Fang Cheng calculated in his heart that after successfully selling those few antiques, he could first buy a car for getting around.

Having a car would make going to work or going out to run errands much more convenient, and he could also take the opportunity to practice his Driving skills—killing two birds with one stone.

It's just that this matter cannot be rushed; he still had to wait at least a week or two.

At the thought of antiques, Fang Cheng's expression turned slightly solemn.

After experiencing what happened yesterday afternoon, he suggested that Xu Sanduo temporarily close the shop door and avoid the limelight for a while.

After all, when those two lamas were communicating in the language of the snow plateau, Fang Cheng heard it crystal clear; it seemed there was still a big figure called a Venerable One behind them.

A golden bumpa bottle of extraordinary origin would inevitably involve quite a few factions.

Once a small antique dealer like Xu Sanduo got entangled in it, I'm afraid not even his bones would be left.

Even Fang Cheng himself, facing such a complex and intricate situation, could not guarantee he would escape unscathed.

While pondering, Fang Cheng's gaze looking outside the floor-to-ceiling window suddenly froze, as if attracted by something.

He saw that outside the hotel's main gate, his uncle walked hurriedly toward a black sedan parked not far away.

Through the car window glass, people sitting inside could be vaguely seen—both men and women, of various appearances.

They either sat upright or whispered to each other, exuding a mysterious vibe.

Among them, an old man wearing round-framed glasses seemed to be precisely that mysterious guest who appeared at Master Lin's shop a few days ago.

Fang Cheng furrowed his brows slightly.

Although they had only met once, relying on his photographic memory, he would definitely not remember incorrectly.

Could they be his uncle's business partners?

While he was secretly guessing, a deep and powerful engine sound came from his ears again.

Fang Cheng turned to look, and a red sports sedan with smooth lines came into view.

The beauty Driving this sports car was bright and moving, her eyes turning gracefully—it was none other than Lin Chuqiao.

He saw her Driving the car, following leisurely behind the commercial car, heading towards Huxi Road, and soon disappearing into the night.