At the foot of Spirit Mountain, several reception monks blocked the path of three demon kings trying to ascend.
King Roc shouted at the top of his lungs, "What’s the meaning of this? We’re well acquainted with King Earth-Store—are you telling us we can’t even climb the mountain?"
In an instant, the passing monks all turned to stare, their footsteps coming to a halt.
"My apologies, honored guests." The lead reception monk pressed his palms together, bowed, and replied with a blank expression, "This is sacred Buddhist ground—no outsiders may trespass. Besides, forgive my bluntness, but I cannot be certain you truly know King Earth-Store as you claim."
"What did you say?" King Gloomape nearly lunged forward, but King Liontusk grabbed him and held him back.
Holding the furious King Gloomape behind him, King Roc cocked his head and stared at the lead monk, his voice cold: "Are you saying... we’re lying?"
By now, more than ten passing monks had stopped, each casting deliberate or furtive glances their way.
"Yes." The lead reception monk answered directly.
For a moment, a twitch flickered at the corner of King Roc’s eye.
Facing the three fierce demon kings, the young reception monk showed not a hint of fear. His gaze, meeting King Roc’s, was icy and emotionless.
The reception monk’s eyes flicked to King Roc’s clenched fist, then said coldly, “This is Spirit Mountain. Whatever you do, please think twice before acting.”
You!' King Roc was momentarily speechless, pacing a few steps before stomping back and pointing at the monk. "Send someone to ask King Earth-Store. Ask him if we know each other, ask him if he’ll let us ascend!"
No need to rush, honored guest.' The reception monk lowered his gaze and replied coldly, 'Buddhist disciples are everywhere. King Earth-Store surely already knows you are here. Someone will come with his message soon.'
As they spoke, a monk hurried down the steps and approached the group.
He pressed his palms together, bowed to the reception monk, then bowed to King Roc. "Message from King Earth-Store: Spirit Mountain’s rules forbid anyone who has not left the household from ascending. Even if you know the Venerable, the rule stands."
The reception monk slowly raised his head, spread his hands. "You all heard that?"
Leave home?' King Roc let out a derisive laugh. 'Leave home? What’s that—just shaving a few hairs? We’ll do it right now! All three of us!'
Right, we’ll do it now!' King Liontusk quickly echoed.
The monks present burst into laughter, even those watching from afar. The three demon kings flushed with embarrassment.
What... what do you mean by this?