It wasn't just their strength that was deeply feared, but more critically, their stances were entirely at odds—despite their masters being the closest of sworn brothers.
The matter of the Buddha Bone Relic involved a significant secret, and their masters had discovered this secret from an ancient text, hence both had always coveted that particular relic.
On this issue, their opinions diverged; Shen Wuben's master advocated for retrieving the Buddha Bone Relic to comprehend the secret it held, whereas Monk Wukong's master believed in the natural law of Buddhist karma, insisting it should not be forcibly sought after, or disaster would surely ensue…
Thus, the two old monks became estranged, their once close relationship now marred by a very obvious rift, developing into a clear opposition.
