Chapter 590 - 415: There Is an Ancient Saying: Speed Is Paramount in War

Guerrero spoke, drawing upon his extensive knowledge.

He had a passionate love for books and was well-versed in the classical texts from every nation and region of the world.

He was particularly fascinated by the ancient literature of the Great Xia Empire.

In his eyes, that great nation, which had once shone with unparalleled brilliance in ancient times,

possessed a profound and ancient wisdom and culture,

like an inexhaustible treasure trove.

And the phrase, "in war, speed is of the essence,"

was deeply ingrained in his mind.

Ming Chan stood quietly to the side like a silent statue, his expression growing ever more solemn.

His gaze shifted between Abbot Tonghua and Guerrero, a hint of resignation and disappointment in his eyes.

’He had already keenly perceived that both Abbot Tonghua,’

’and this aggressive Archbishop from the Bright Holy See had their minds firmly made up.’

’Just as Guerrero had predicted,’

’continuing to argue would be futile and only waste more precious time.’

And so, Ming Chan lowered his head, a dejected look on his face. With his hands still clasped together in a pious gesture,

he slowly turned and, with heavy steps, walked out of the magnificent and solemn grand hall.

His figure receded into the dim shadows of the hall, his retreating back an image of endless sorrow and frustration.

Watching Ming Chan’s retreating back, Guerrero gloated inwardly. A broad smile bloomed on his face,

like a flower in full blossom, his eyes flashing with the light of victory.

’In his mind, Ming Chan’s departure meant he had given up trying to stop them.’

’It signaled that the Buddha Country would soon join forces with the Bright Holy See to deliver a fatal blow to Chu He.’

Meanwhile, Abbot Tonghua remained standing quietly in his spot,

his expression as calm as still water, yet holding a faint, awe-inspiring authority that permitted no challenge.

He slowly raised his right hand and traced a mysterious, solemn gesture in the air,

one that seemed to channel the hidden powers of the universe.

In an instant, a powerful, formless halo of energy blossomed around him like a star.

The halo emitted a strange, dazzling light, enveloping Abbot Tonghua and making him appear like one of the Deities descended to the mortal realm.

The halo then expanded outward at extreme speed.

Wherever it passed, the air seemed to be twisted and compressed by an invisible hand,

letting out a faint SZZT.

Then, like ripples on a calm lake, the light weakened,

and eventually vanished, leaving only a faint, ethereal presence

lingering in the grand hall.

Before long, the heavy doors of the grand hall swung open with a dull CREAK,

and the sound of steady, powerful, and synchronized footsteps echoed from beyond the entrance.

Eighteen bald, burly men filed in, looking like eighteen titans.

Each was powerfully built with bulging muscles, exuding a strong, oppressive presence.

They were dressed in simple, solemn monastic robes that fluttered in the breeze, yet they gave off a sharp, deadly aura.

In their hands, they carried various disciplinary weapons.

Some held razor-sharp blades that glinted coldly in the dim hall,

looking as if they could tear through any obstacle.

Others gripped thick, sturdy Zen Staffs covered in mysterious Runes.

Upon entering the hall, the men uniformly brought a single palm to their chests in a precise gesture.

Facing Abbot Tonghua, they bowed in perfect unison.

With resounding, unified voices, they respectfully called out two words: "Abbot Tonghua."

The two men at the very front of the eighteen were especially remarkable, their faces stern and imposing.

One had eyes as sharp as an eagle’s, gleaming with a piercing light.

The other’s expression was calm and resolute, like ancient bedrock; he had the powerful air of a man who wouldn’t flinch if Mount Tai were to collapse before him.

"Gatekeeper Arhat. Subduing Tiger Arhat."

Abbot Tonghua’s voice was deep and powerful. "You two will immediately lead the Martial Monks

and proceed with utmost speed to the Demon Cave in the Great Xia Empire.

You must do everything in your power to stop Chu He’s reckless rampage.

Coordinate closely with the elite forces of our distinguished guests from across the ocean, the Bright Holy See,

and put a complete stop to Chu He’s utterly evil plan.

If possible, you must eradicate this devil, root and stem.

Only then can the people of this world be freed from suffering and return to a life of peace."

"Yes!"

The Gatekeeper Arhat and the Subduing Tiger Arhat answered in unison. Their voices thundered through the grand hall, exploding like a shockwave that made one’s blood stir.

Then, the two of them turned their gazes on Guerrero, their eyes like twin flames.

Their stares were so intense that even a man of Guerrero’s power

felt an invisible pressure that made his breath catch in his throat.

Guerrero marveled to himself,

’These two are extraordinarily powerful, far beyond any ordinary master.’

’It seems Abbot Tonghua isn’t just putting on a show.’

’He’s truly spared no expense, sending his very best to assist.’

At this thought, Guerrero’s smile grew even brighter. "In that case, I will see you on the soil of the Great Xia Empire."

He gave a slight, elegant bow to Abbot Tonghua in farewell,

then his body began to warp.

Light converged around him like a surging tide,

with countless specks of starlight swirling madly to form a massive, radiant vortex.

His body, like a bubble of pure energy,

then burst in a flash of dazzling light.

The explosion caused no damage, and when the light faded,

Guerrero was gone.