Heaven-Defying Rebel Sage

PS: [In the next few days, thanks to the recommendation from Sanjiang, there will be three updates a day. Also, I’m asking for Sanjiang votes, as we’re nearly at the bottom...]

Wukong and Yuan Hong were on their way when they suddenly saw an elderly Taoist lying on a tree, singing a song. The Taoist’s voice was ancient and carried an indescribable feeling, a captivating charm that made both Wukong and Yuan Hong feel as though they could "hear the Dao in the morning and die content in the evening."

The song went, "Primordial essence merges with the innate, through countless calamities, it’s simply nature’s way. Vastly spreading the great Dharma without effort, thus unmovable, known as the initial mystery."

Finishing the song, he shook his horsetail whisk twice and then sang, "Born from the Lotus, upon the serene dais, the profound Canon of the Three Vehicles unfolds. Exquisite relics transcend the worldly, luminous pearls without parallel in the dust."

Both could not help but stop in their tracks and listen carefully.

Yuan Hong frowned and said, "The first song praises the Taoist Sect, but the latter praises the Buddhist Sect of the West."

Wukong nodded and said, "I’m afraid it’s another case of someone betraying Taoism for Buddhism."

Although their voices were soft and they stood above the clouds, the Taoist heard them loud and clear. He said, "Your words are mistaken. The Buddha originated from the Dao; they share the same source and both can realize the boundless Primordial. The Taoist Sect has its Dao, and so does the Buddhist Sect. To speak of betrayal is incorrect!"

Yuan Hong asked, "Who are you, brother Daoist?"

Upon a closer look from Wukong, the Taoist was dressed in a blue Taoist robe, appeared middle-aged, but his hair and beard were of a snow-white color, giving him a kind and benevolent appearance.

"Master!" Yuan Hong heard Wukong shout loudly, followed by a somersault to descend, and he quickly followed.