Bayar the War Dog and the Psychic Embrace Ritual

During the Yuan Dynasty, as Mongol cavalry swept across Eurasia, the army held a unique tradition: warriors often marched to battle with war dogs. These canines were not just assistants but indispensable companions on the battlefield. They aided in scouting enemy positions, protecting their masters, and even charging into combat. Yet behind this tradition lurked an unknown secret—the Xuanling Sect’s Psychic Embrace and Enhancement Ritual.

Kublai Khan, the Yuan emperor, owned a beloved dog named “Bayar” (Mongolian for “hero” or “warrior”), whose fearlessness had saved Kublai from danger multiple times. Dissatisfied with mere loyalty, Kublai wished Bayar could understand his thoughts and become a perfect combat partner. He ordered the search for a master who could fulfill this goal.

One day, Chen Minghan, the Chief Xuanling Master of the Xuanling Sect, was summoned to the palace. Proficient in the Psychic Embrace Ritual, Chen excelled in forging spiritual bonds between humans and sentient animals. Though aware of the danger, he ventured forth to protect his sect’s legacy. In the palace, Kublai coerced Chen to perform the ritual, aiming to enhance Bayar’s loyalty and combat prowess.

Reluctantly, Chen took out a talisman, chanted incantations, and watched it transform into a golden light that enveloped Kublai and Bayar. Instantly, Kublai felt a spiritual connection with Bayar, sensing its joys and sorrows. Bayar also appeared more alert, its eyes gleaming with vitality.

Amazed, Kublai praised Chen: “Master Chen, this ritual has not only connected my mind with Bayar’s but also allowed me to feel its loyalty and love. The Xuanling Sect’s Psychic Embrace Ritual is truly a marvel!” Chen humbly replied: “Your Majesty, this ritual not only bridges humans and spiritual animals but also nurtures compassion, enabling one to sense the harmonious coexistence of all things—and to rule with benevolence that wins the world and its people.”

Chen knew using the ritual for war and slaughter violated the sect’s principles. War brought gains but also devastated lives, plunging civilians into misery through endless campaigns. To protect the sect from exploitation and express his opposition to war, he decided to retire.

One night, Chen fled the palace and vanished into the populace. Thus, the Xuanling Sect’s legacy faded during the Yuan Dynasty, reappearing only after the dynasty’s fall in the Ming period.

Chen’s retreat safeguarded the sect’s heritage, prevented the ritual from being misused in war, and upheld the Xuanling Sect’s tenets. His actions embodied the sect’s anti-war philosophy and respect for life. Though the emperor’s belligerence and selfishness drove Chen into seclusion, his deeds left a precious legacy. The Xuanling Sect’s Psychic Embrace Ritual thus became a legend, inspiring later generations to pursue peace and harmony.