Chapter 1226: Seclusion
Finally, after delaying for nearly two years, Qi Xuansu formally put forward his own program, ideology, and slogan.
This meant that Qi Xuansu had officially entered the initial stage of competing for the position of the eighth-generation Grand Master.
Among the four contenders, Qi Xuansu’s slogan was the longest. “Bold innovation, equal mutual assistance, and harmonious development.”
This was undoubtedly unfavorable for publicity. Moreover, the theme itself was far too ordinary.
During periods of internal unity, being ordinary could unite the majority, as it signaled moderation. But in the current climate of intensifying internal struggles and widening ideological divisions, only extremity could garner sufficient support—either this or that, black or white. Under such circumstances, being ordinary became a disadvantage, pleasing neither side.
For instance, Zhang Yuelu’s slogan of reforming the Daoist Order would greatly stir the enthusiasm of those dissatisfied with the status quo. They believed change was always good and would naturally support Zhang Yuelu. Li Changge’s slogan of using the Daoist Order’s sword to win more for the Daoist Order was even more capable of inciting people’s emotions. It was driven not only by enormous interests but also by grand ambition.
At first glance, Qi Xuansu’s long slogan seemed somewhat repetitive or similar to Yao Pei’s, almost like an elaboration of Yao Pei’s ideas. This also reflected Qi Xuansu’s current position within the Quanzhen Sect. But upon closer inspection, one would discover that Qi Xuansu and Yao Pei were still fundamentally different. The key lay in equal mutual assistance.
This would undoubtedly provoke dissatisfaction among many within the Daoist Order. Most Daoists believed they were superior and that outsiders must depend on the Daoist Order, so why should there be equality? What kind of ‘mutual’ assistance would it be when it was essentially charity? How could that be called harmony?
After learning of this slogan, Chen Jianchou felt that it was far too ordinary. If he were not Qi Xuansu’s secretary, he would certainly have considered Qi Xuansu incompetent.
Chen Jianchou and Qi Xuansu’s fates were deeply intertwined, sharing both fortune and downfall. Thus, Chen Jianchou hoped that Qi Xuansu could go further. However, once Qi Xuansu had decided on this slogan, Chen Jianchou was powerless to change it.