Chapter 226: Unity of Heart and Action is True Merit

Chapter 226: Unity of Heart and Action is True Merit

At the halfway point of the mountain, the temple stood pristine and orderly. However, the faded yellow courtyard walls and the gray, ancient temple roof told of its age and history at a single glance.

The abbot, with long white brows and a flowing beard, exuded a gentle, compassionate aura. He stood silently at the temple entrance, hands pressed together in a gesture of greeting, his presence calm and dignified.

His gaze fell upon the three figures making their way up the mountain path.

"From where do the three benefactors come?" the abbot asked in a soft, resonant voice that traveled for miles without being jarring.

In an instant, Chen Xun and his companions stood before the temple.

"We come from lands far away, passing through these mountains. We have questions in our hearts and have come to seek answers. We hope not to trouble you," Chen Xun said calmly, meeting the abbot’s eyes.

"Moo~" The black ox lowered its head slightly, giving a polite greeting.

Xiao Chi, however, remained hidden behind the black ox, his eyes darting around warily. He had already hidden the glow of his Flame Light beneath the ground, not trusting the tranquil scene before him. Unlike his two elder brothers, Xiao Chi had no faith in Buddhas or celestial beings, and he was ready to warn them of any deception or danger.

"Abbot, why does this temple not house any Buddha statues?" Chen Xun asked, frowning slightly as he glanced at the black ox, his tone seemingly righteous. "How are we supposed to make offerings if there’s no Buddha to venerate?"

Chen Xun raised an eyebrow, impressed by the abbot’s serene confidence. "Interesting... so, you’re saying that offerings are unnecessary, and that what matters is the merit gained through one’s actions?"

The abbot smiled kindly. "Precisely, benefactor. One can accumulate great merit not through material wealth, but by aligning their heart with their actions. It is this unity that brings one closer to enlightenment."

"Moo?" The black ox tilted his head, as if contemplating this new perspective.

Xiao Chi, still cautious, couldn’t help but mutter, "Sounds nice, but what’s the catch?"

The abbot chuckled softly, as though he had overheard Xiao Chi’s thoughts. "There is no catch, little one. Only the journey of the heart."

Chen Xun, now intrigued by the abbot’s words, nodded thoughtfully. "Perhaps this path of cultivating merit through heart and action is something worth considering."

"Moo~" The black ox snorted in agreement, still processing the concept.

As they stood in the courtyard of the ancient temple, surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere, a sense of calm began to settle over the group.