Although the followers who have been with us for many years are steadfast in their beliefs and pure of heart, this is a serious matter, and not everyone is willing to participate willingly. I believe it is best not to let them know about this for now. Once we have tested them and ensured that they truly wish to join us in opposing the Great Han Dynasty, we can inform them of the details.
Zhang Bao and Zhang Liang both nodded in agreement. Human hearts are difficult to read; even among close friends, caution is always necessary when it comes to matters that could cost lives.
At that moment, Zhang Liang suddenly leaned forward and whispered, "Elder Brother, since this Divine Stele is so extraordinary, should we consider some practical actions?"
"What do you want us to do specifically?" Zhang Bao asked, filled with questions.
Zhang Jiao glanced at Zhang Liang, understanding his thoughts. "Feel free to share your plan directly."
Zhang Liang chuckled softly and lowered his voice. "Historically, Han Gaozu Liu Bang once killed a snake; Xiang Yu also had his own exploits. Now that we are about to take action, should we not consider similar moves?"
Zhang Jiao nodded in agreement, believing that this suggestion was quite reasonable. Years of wandering and preaching had made them acutely aware of the people's almost blind faith in supernatural powers and omens.
"Speak plainly about your plans; there is no need for concealment," Zhang Jiao urged.
A smile appeared on Zhang Liang's face as he responded, "Many are unaware of the origins of the mysterious inscriptions that have descended from the heavens; even those with intent cannot discern their true nature. What’s more intriguing is that there are no recorded words on the Divine Stele. As we are among the first witnesses, this presents us with a rare opportunity."
Upon hearing this, Zhang Bao's eyes widened in realization. "Are you suggesting we carve words onto the Divine Stele?"
Zhang Liang nodded decisively. "Precisely. This will not only bolster the spread of my Taiping Doctrine but also allow us to inscribe prophecies about the impending downfall of the Han Dynasty on the stone."
With such prophecies as support, we will surely be able to overcome greater numbers with fewer forces and achieve our goals more efficiently. The Eastern Han Empire has stood for over four hundred years, its authority deeply rooted in the minds of countless people.
Especially the great story of Liu Xiu and the Han Dynasty, almost everyone firmly believes that the Liu dynasty is ordained by heaven.
Such divine prophecies can indeed sway public opinion. In particular, the prophecy inscribed on that colossal object capable of hovering in mid-air would undoubtedly shake the very foundations of Eastern Han rule. It could incite widespread response, rallying various heroes against the crumbling old powers.
Hiss!
Upon hearing these words, Zhang Bao gasped, startled by Zhang Liang's bold idea. If it were just an ordinary stone tablet, it might not be so alarming. But the Divine Stele that descended from the heavens is something else entirely. It is immense and astonishingly suspended in mid-air without any support.
Does this signify that a powerful celestial being exists behind the Divine Stele? If so, this action might provoke heavenly wrath. Would such a move not invite punishment from the immortals?
After a moment of contemplation, Zhang Liang replied, "Perhaps the Divine Stele is indeed a sign from heaven, urging us to take this courageous step. We do not seek personal gain; we act for the benefit of the people. The celestial beings will surely understand and not blame us for our intentions."
Upon hearing this, Zhang Bao still showed hesitation. Zhang Liang did not dare to make unilateral decisions either. Ultimately, their gazes turned to Zhang Jiao, and they spoke in unison: "Brother, please make the decision."
Zhang Jiao held his Nine-Section Staff and gently closed his eyes. Scenes of people suffering calamities—dying from hunger and cold, enduring thirst and harsh winters—echoed in his mind. Moreover, what did that unsupported stone tablet hovering in the air imply?
Perhaps, behind this stone tablet lies the true immortal. Such an action, could it not provoke the wrath of the immortal?
Zhang Liang fell silent for a moment before speaking, "Perhaps the stone tablet ended up here precisely for us to take this action?" Moreover, we are not acting for personal gain but for the benefit of all beings. I firmly believe that the deities of the heavenly realm would not punish us for this.
With that, he finished speaking.
Zhang Bao hesitated, uncertain. Zhang Liang also dared not make a rash decision, so he turned his gaze once again to Zhang Jiao.
Zhang Bao earnestly pleaded, "Elder Brother, please make the decision on this matter."
Leaning on his staff with his eyes slightly closed, Zhang Jiao felt a deep compassion for the suffering of the common people. The people have suffered under the long reign; if this action could alleviate their hardships, then let us proceed!
Having made up his mind, he declared, "We shall act accordingly. You will be responsible for this matter. It is of great importance, so it must be handled swiftly."
Zhang Bao immediately nodded in agreement, "I will follow Elder Brother's orders and ensure everything is taken care of."
Unbeknownst to them, Yun Xiao Yi had inadvertently established a temporal mark deep within the Taihang Mountains. This mark had now drawn the attention of others who intended to inscribe words upon it. Even if he were aware, he would not take it seriously.
An ordinary granite tablet was something he could easily recreate, perhaps even in a more grand and magnificent form.
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