Southern Continent, Baiyun County.
A spacious courtyard stands in East City.
It's heard that war has sparked again recently, but it hasn't yet reached this peaceful county.
In the early morning, under the large locust tree outside the courtyard, a tutor is conducting a morning reading session with a group of children. To alleviate their fatigue, the old scholar pulls out a leisure book from his sleeve.
He picks up from where he left off yesterday, reading with rhythm: "Thus, after practicing for 3,200 kalpas, one attains the Golden Immortal, known as the Pure and Natural Awakened King Buddha, guiding the Bodhisattvas to suddenly realize the orthodox Mahayana, gradually entering the marvelous path of emptiness. After yet another billion kalpas, one finally attains the Jade Emperor."
"Teacher, how long is a kalpa?"
The children immediately become interested, gathering around bustlingly.
"A kalpa is 129,600 years." The old scholar, feigning profundity, closes his eyes.
