Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, inwardly lamenting his exhaustion. He had spent the entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan, leaving him utterly drained. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation without a moment’s respite. How could he survive this relentless pace?
Having already pledged himself as a disciple, Mei Qing couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully encouraged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Both of you can take turns, but I’m stuck in an endless cycle. Is there no end to this torment?” Mei Qing thought, feeling utterly helpless.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion. Mei Qing, in a daze, saw himself walking to the other cushion, sitting cross-legged, closing his eyes, and entering a deep, meditative state as if asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?” Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state, observing himself meditating while simultaneously feeling like a bystander, as if watching himself sleep in a dream.
“Why is this happening?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling faintly. “Surprised, aren’t you?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and the room around them began to fade, their seated forms gradually dissolving. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon shone brightly in a cloudless sky; below, the sea stretched endlessly, its surface shimmering with light.
Mei Qing recognized a faint shadow to the south—it was Yunxiang Island. They had instantly appeared above the vast ocean they had once traveled.
Master Ku, robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea, smiling gently. “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, you must first understand our sect’s divine powers. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the foundation lies in our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine powers are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine powers are but empty illusions. The essence of our cultivation lies in the Four Dharma Realms’ Dependent Origination.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted his robe and sat suspended in mid-air, his voice resonating like the chime of jade, each word a sweet nectar to Mei Qing’s ears.
This discourse continued throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku chuckled, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all but a dream. Awaken, awaken!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, finding himself still seated in Master Ku’s room. The morning sun streamed in, illuminating Master Ku’s serene, jade-like face.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled. “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally radiant and gentle. Simultaneously, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Though indoors, he distinctly felt the warmth of the rising sun, like a gentle stream flowing from his crown into his body. His inner energy, like a golden sun, resonated with a clear, melodious sound, while a purple aura rose, illuminating the surrounding moonlight. The sun and moon energies intertwined, refining his essence into pure, golden-purple droplets that cascaded onto his glowing golden core.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded approvingly. He rose silently and stepped outside, the door closing softly behind him. Gazing at the morning glow and the clear sky, he smiled brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining his energy, nurturing his golden core, and awoke. Feeling more vigorous than ever, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the harmony of Daoist principles and techniques. Previously, Mei Qing’s lack of a master had limited his progress. But under the guidance of Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his understanding deepened, and his cultivation advanced by leaps and bounds.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, focusing on talismans, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine powers in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, neither Zhang Shisan nor Master Ku inquired about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or offered direct guidance. Zhang Shisan had Mei Qing practice the Five Elements Talismans daily, while sharing his knowledge and experiences. Master Ku, in dreams, led Mei Qing to experience various divine powers and understand the intricacies of their sect’s methods.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his earlier understanding had been. The “Six Characteristics” were far more profound than he had imagined.
He had thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external expressions—joy, anger, sorrow, and so on. Under Master Ku’s guidance, he realized his earlier view was narrow-minded and underestimated the depth of these divine powers.
The Six Characteristics—Total, Particular, Same, Different, Formation, and Destruction—are interconnected and mutually supportive. When fully realized, they harmonize seamlessly. At higher levels of cultivation, they can influence minds, communicate with spirits, and manifest boundless divine powers.
Master Ku’s teaching method differed greatly from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to achieve these powers but instead demonstrated them for Mei Qing to experience. In dreams, Mei Qing’s senses became extraordinarily acute, allowing him to perceive things that were otherwise impossible to see, hear, or describe.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. The Huayan Sect values insight above all else. A disciple with good comprehension can grasp things instantly, while those lacking it may struggle for a lifetime without progress.
Mei Qing’s exceptional talent for navigating the boundary between dreams and reality was rare. Most people need time to adapt to such experiences, but Mei Qing not only entered and exited dreams effortlessly but also used them to deepen his cultivation. Master Ku even wondered if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
While teaching Mei Qing wholeheartedly, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to take Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With such talent, if Mei Qing had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, he might have achieved the status of an Arhat or even enlightenment.
But regret was futile. Master Ku could only sigh at the whims of fate.
Mei Qing, however, remained unaware of these thoughts. While he admired the depth and mystery of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he found himself more drawn to talismans.
This was natural, as Mei Qing’s foundation was in Daoism. His relationship with Bi Zhen had further deepened his connection to Daoist scriptures and practices. The Shenxiao Thunder Method he cultivated was purely Daoist, and his preference for talismans was instinctive.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than Huayan’s divine powers. Though he focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and variations kept him deeply engrossed and endlessly fascinated.
Mei Qing lost track of time, oscillating between the two schools of thought. It wasn’t until Master Ku halted both his and Zhang Shisan’s teachings that he realized seven days had passed.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased with the interruption.
“For us, perhaps, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adapt. Though he rests during dream cultivation, his mind still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead, nodding in agreement. As an experienced cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s point. However, his eagerness to impart all his knowledge to Mei Qing, coupled with Mei Qing’s exceptional progress, had caused him to overlook this.
“Being cooped up in a room isn’t ideal. Let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’ve rusted from sitting too long. I just remembered—last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister aura and possibly some entanglements… But since you suggested it, let’s go and see what secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “This matter seems unwise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. Mei Qing, it’s best not to get involved.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you think Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, inwardly lamenting his exhaustion. Having spent the entire day drawing talismans under Zhang Shisan’s guidance, he was utterly drained. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation, leaving him no respite. It felt as though he was being worked to death.
Yet, having already pledged himself as a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully urged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Between the two of you, I’m being worked to the bone. Is there no end to this?” Mei Qing thought, on the verge of tears.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a strange sensation, as if he were watching himself from afar. He saw himself walk to the other cushion, sit cross-legged, close his eyes, and enter a deep, meditative state, as if asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath and settling into tranquility, while simultaneously feeling as though he were standing aside, observing himself, much like one might see themselves sleeping in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. He looked up to see Master Ku smiling gently beside him.
“Surprised, aren’t you?” Master Ku asked.
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing caught himself and quickly corrected, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and the room around them began to fade, along with their seated forms. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon hung high, and a cool breeze swept across the endless sky. Below, the shimmering waves of the sea stretched to the horizon.
Mei Qing recognized a faint shadow to the south—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea where they had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea, as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my sect, you must first understand our divine powers. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Profound Mysteries. But the foundation of our practice lies in the Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine powers are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine powers are but empty illusions. The essence of our practice is encapsulated in the phrase ‘Dharma Realm Dependent Origination.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
They continued this discourse throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all but a dream. Awaken, awaken!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, his spirit returning to his body. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, the morning sun casting its light through the window, illuminating Master Ku’s serene face.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally warm and radiant. Within him, his true essence flowed naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly feel the first rays of the sun, like a warm stream entering from the crown of his head and permeating his entire body. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the surrounding moonlight. The sun and moon spiraled together, refining pure true essence, which dripped like golden-purple liquid onto his golden core.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s state of cultivation, he nodded in approval. He rose silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing softly behind him. Looking at the morning glow filling the courtyard, he gazed at the clear sky and the refreshing autumn breeze, a bright smile spreading across his face.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had undergone nine cycles of refinement, nurturing his golden core, and then awakened. Feeling a surge of vitality within him, far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the harmonious balance of Daoist principles and techniques, neither can be neglected. Previously, without a master or sect, Mei Qing’s progress had been limited. No matter how much he refined and cultivated, his advancement had slowed. But now, with the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual potential had been unlocked, and his progress felt like a thousand miles in a single day.
In the following days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, focusing on talismans, and Master Ku at night, exploring divine powers in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, it seemed as though the two masters had agreed not to inquire about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or to guide him in that regard. Zhang Shisan, aside from having Mei Qing draw the Five Elements Talismans daily, shared his knowledge and experiences with talismans. Master Ku, on the other hand, guided Mei Qing through various divine powers in dreams, allowing him to deeply understand the paths of cultivation.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Beyond the Four Realms and Ten Profound Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were vastly different from what he had imagined.
He had once thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external expressions—joy, anger, sorrow, and the like. But under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized how limited his perspective had been.
The Six Characteristics are: Total Characteristic, Distinct Characteristic, Same Characteristic, Different Characteristic, Rising Characteristic, and Decaying Characteristic. When these are fully realized and harmonized, they become seamlessly integrated. At higher levels of cultivation, one can influence minds and communicate with spirits without uttering a word or making a move, wielding boundless divine powers.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine powers was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to achieve them but instead demonstrated each power to Mei Qing. This approach was mystical, but when Mei Qing was in the dream state, his senses became extraordinarily acute. He could perceive things that were otherwise impossible to see or hear, and understand concepts that defied verbal explanation.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. In the Huayan Sect, the most crucial quality in a disciple is their ability to comprehend. If a disciple is gifted, they grasp everything at a glance; if not, even a century of relentless effort would yield no understanding.
Mei Qing’s natural talent was exceptional, especially his ability to navigate the boundary between dreams and reality. Even for those with excellent aptitude, adapting to the interplay of dreams and reality usually takes time. But Mei Qing not only entered the dream state effortlessly on his first attempt but also triggered insights into cultivation upon awakening. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
Thus, while dedicating himself to teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to take Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, achieving the status of an Arhat or even enlightenment would not have been impossible.
But there was no remedy for regret, and Master Ku could only sigh at the whims of fate.
Mei Qing, however, was oblivious to these thoughts. In his heart, while he recognized the depth and profundity of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he still found himself more drawn to talismans.
This was hardly surprising. Mei Qing’s foundation had been laid in Daoism. His relationship with Bi Zhen had further deepened his connection to Daoist scriptures, and he had cultivated the Golden Elixir Nineteen Techniques and translated the Shenxiao Secret Methods. Though not formally a Daoist, his heart had long been aligned with Daoist principles. The Shenxiao Thunder Method he practiced was purely Daoist, and his preference for talismans was a natural inclination.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than Huayan’s divine powers. Although he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and dual-element calculations offered endless fascination, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time, shuttling between the two paths of cultivation. It wasn’t until Master Ku stopped teaching and prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased with Master Ku’s interruption.
“For us, it’s nothing, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Even though he can rest during his nocturnal journeys, his spirit still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion is counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead in realization. As an experienced cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s point. However, in his eagerness to impart all his knowledge to his new disciple and impressed by Mei Qing’s exceptional progress, he had overlooked this.
“Instead of staying cooped up here, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’ve rusted from sitting too long. I just remembered—last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister aura and possibly some entanglements… But since you suggested it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll uncover whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “I don’t think that’s wise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best for Mei Qing to avoid getting involved.”
“Karmic consequences?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Are you suggesting Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
“You two can take turns, but I have to keep going nonstop—can’t you let a guy live?!” Mei Qing wanted to cry but couldn’t.
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, inwardly lamenting his exhaustion. Having spent the entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan, he was utterly drained. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for rigorous cultivation without a moment’s respite, leaving him on the verge of collapse.
Yet, having formally become a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully encouraged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Are you two taking shifts? I’m being worked to death here!” Mei Qing thought, feeling utterly helpless.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a strange sensation as he watched himself walk to the other cushion, sit cross-legged, close his eyes, and enter a deep, meditative state, as if asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a tranquil state, while simultaneously observing himself from the side, as if watching himself sleep in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling gently beside him. “Surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and the room around them began to fade, their seated forms gradually dissolving into nothingness. When Mei Qing looked again, they were standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above them, the stars and moon shone brightly in a cloudless sky, while below, the shimmering waves of the boundless sea stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing recognized a faint shadow in the south—it was Yunxiang Island. They had suddenly appeared above the vast sea they had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea, chuckling softly. “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my sect, you must first understand our divine abilities. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the foundation lies in our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are but empty promises. The essence of our cultivation lies in the Four Dharma Realms and their origins.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
They continued this discourse throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku chuckled, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all but a dream. Awake, awake!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, finding himself still seated in Master Ku’s room. The morning sun streamed in, illuminating Master Ku’s serene, jade-like face.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally warm and gentle. Simultaneously, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly feel the first rays of the sun, like a warm stream, entering his body from the crown of his head. The golden energy within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the surrounding moonlight. The sun and moon energies intertwined, refining his essence into a pure, golden-purple liquid that dripped onto his golden core.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded approvingly. He stood up silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing softly behind him. Gazing at the morning glow in the courtyard and the clear, refreshing sky, he smiled brightly.
Within moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining his energy, nurturing his golden core, and awoke. Feeling a surge of vitality far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the harmonious balance of Daoist principles and techniques. Previously, without a master or sect, Mei Qing’s progress had been limited. But under the guidance of Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual insight was awakened, leading to a sudden leap in his cultivation.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, focusing on talismans, and Master Ku at night, delving into divine abilities. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, neither master inquired about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or offered guidance on them. Zhang Shisan had Mei Qing practice the Five Elements Talismans daily, while Master Ku led him through various divine abilities in dreams, exploring the depths of their sect’s teachings.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. The “Six Characteristics” were far more profound than he had imagined.
The Six Characteristics refer to the Total Characteristic, the Distinct Characteristic, the Same Characteristic, the Different Characteristic, the Arising Characteristic, and the Ceasing Characteristic. When fully realized, they harmonize seamlessly, allowing one to influence minds, communicate with spirits, and wield boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s teaching method was unique—he never explained directly but demonstrated the abilities for Mei Qing to experience. In dreams, Mei Qing’s senses became extraordinarily acute, allowing him to perceive things beyond normal comprehension.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. The Huayan Sect valued insight above all. A gifted disciple could grasp concepts instantly, while a less talented one might struggle for a lifetime without progress.
Mei Qing’s exceptional talent made Master Ku wonder if he might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha. While he was fully committed to teaching Mei Qing, he couldn’t help but regret agreeing to share him with Zhang Shisan as a lay disciple. With such talent, Mei Qing could have achieved enlightenment within the Huayan Sect.
But regret was futile. Master Ku could only sigh at the whims of fate.
Mei Qing, however, remained unaware of these thoughts. While he admired the depth and mystery of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he found himself more drawn to talismans.
This was natural, as Mei Qing’s foundation was in Daoism. His relationship with Bi Zhen and his study of Daoist scriptures had deeply influenced him. Even though he wasn’t formally a Daoist, his heart was aligned with Daoist principles. His current practice of the Divine Thunder Method was purely Daoist, and his preference for talismans was instinctive.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than Huayan’s divine abilities. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and transformations kept him deeply engrossed.
Mei Qing lost track of time, shuttling between the two sects. It wasn’t until Master Ku stopped teaching and prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“Seven days is nothing in the pursuit of immortality,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased with the interruption.
“For us, perhaps, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Even though he can rest during dream cultivation, his spirit still tires. Balance is essential. Overexertion is counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan nodded, realizing his oversight. As an experienced cultivator, he understood the importance of balance. But in his eagerness to impart knowledge and impressed by Mei Qing’s rapid progress, he had neglected this.
“Instead of staying cooped up, let’s go out for a change,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’ve rusted from staying indoors. I just remembered—last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister energy and possible entanglements… But since you suggested it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “This matter seems unwise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. Mei Qing, it’s best not to get involved.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Are you suggesting Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
Mei Qing felt a strange dizziness. Suddenly, he saw himself gently walking toward the other cushion, sitting cross-legged, slowly closing his eyes, breathing deeply and evenly, his expression serene, as if he had fallen asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I now?”
Only then did Mei Qing realize he seemed to be sleepwalking. He could see himself sitting on the cushion, regulating his breath and entering meditation, while simultaneously feeling himself standing beside, watching blankly—just like seeing one’s own sleeping form within a dream.
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent the entire day drawing talismans under Zhang Shisan’s guidance, utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had snatched him away for further cultivation, leaving him no respite. Was he not going to be worked to death?
However, since he had already become a disciple, it was inconvenient to voice such complaints. What was even more infuriating was that Zhang Shisan not only didn’t stop Master Ku but also cheerfully urged Mei Qing to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“You two can take turns, but I’m stuck in an endless cycle. Is there no end to this torment?” Mei Qing felt like crying but had no tears left.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had been placed at some point. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat down on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden daze and saw himself walking lightly to the other cushion, sitting cross-legged, closing his eyes, and breathing deeply, as if he had fallen asleep.
“Asleep? Then what is this…”
Mei Qing realized he was in a state akin to sleepwalking. He could see himself sitting on the cushion, meditating and calming his breath, while simultaneously feeling as though he was standing aside, watching himself, as if one could see their own sleeping form in a dream.
“What is this?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling slightly beside him. “How is it? Are you surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Realizing his words were inappropriate, Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is happening?”
Master Ku smiled faintly. Suddenly, the surroundings of the guest room began to fade, and the images of the two sitting cross-legged gradually dissolved into nothingness. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon hung high, and a wild breeze blew across a cloudless sky. Below, the shimmering waves stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing carefully observed and noticed a faint dark line in the south, which seemed familiar—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea they had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my sect, you must first understand our divine abilities. As I’ve mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the most fundamental is our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are but empty promises. The essence of our sect’s cultivation lies in the four words: Dharma Realm Dependent Origination.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
This discourse continued throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set in the west, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed, “The moon gives way to the sun. It’s all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing was startled and suddenly returned to his body, waking quietly. He found himself still sitting cross-legged in Master Ku’s room, the surroundings unchanged. A ray of morning sunlight shone into the room, illuminating Master Ku’s face, which was as smooth as jade.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally bright and gentle. At the same time, the true energy within his body began to flow naturally. Although he was still indoors, he could clearly feel the radiance of the rising sun, like a warm stream, entering from the top of his head and flowing through his body. The golden sun within him resonated, and purple energy surged, causing the moonlight beside it to shine brightly. The sun and moon intertwined, refining pure true energy, which dripped like golden-purple liquid, bathing the golden core in a radiant halo.
Seeing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, Master Ku was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded subtly. He stood up silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the morning glow filling the courtyard and the clear sky above, he couldn’t help but smile brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had undergone nine cycles of refinement, condensing and nurturing his golden core before waking up. Feeling the vigorous energy within him, far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the mutual support of both the Dao and its techniques; neither can be neglected. Previously, without a master or sect, Mei Qing’s progress in Dao techniques had been limited. No matter how much he refined, his progress had slowed. But now, with the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual insight was triggered, and he felt as though he had advanced a thousand miles in a single day.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, explaining talismans in detail, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed everything eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, it seemed as though the two masters had agreed not to ask about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or to guide him directly. Zhang Shisan, aside from having Mei Qing draw the Five Elements Talismans daily, taught him various talisman knowledge and shared his own experiences. Master Ku, on the other hand, always guided Mei Qing through the experience of various divine abilities in dreams, allowing him to deeply understand the sect’s methods.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after truly becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Not to mention the Four Realms and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were vastly different from what he had imagined.
Previously, Mei Qing had thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external forms—joy, anger, sorrow, and so on. But under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized he had been like a frog in a well, vastly underestimating these divine abilities.
The Six Characteristics refer to the Total Characteristic, the Distinct Characteristic, the Same Characteristic, the Different Characteristic, the Pure Characteristic, and the Impure Characteristic, each complementing the other. When all are fully realized, they naturally integrate without obstruction. At the highest level of cultivation, one can influence minds and communicate with spirits without uttering a word, wielding boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine abilities was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to achieve them but instead demonstrated each ability for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was quite mystical. When Mei Qing was in the dream state, his senses became extraordinarily acute. Many things that were impossible to see, hear, or describe in words became clear and comprehensible in the dream.
What Master Ku found most satisfying about Mei Qing was his exceptional aptitude. In the Huayan Sect, the most crucial quality in a disciple was insight. If the disciple was talented, they would understand everything at a glance. If not, even a hundred years of hard work would yield no comprehension.
Mei Qing’s talent was extraordinary, particularly in navigating the boundary between dreams and reality. Even for those with excellent aptitude, adapting to the interplay between dreams and reality usually took time. But Mei Qing not only entered the dream state effortlessly on his first attempt but also triggered insights upon waking, deepening his cultivation. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing was the reincarnation of some enlightened being.
Thus, while teaching Mei Qing with all his heart, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to take Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, not only could he have achieved the state of an Arhat, but even enlightenment and Buddhahood were within reach.
But alas, there was no cure for regret. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictable nature of fate.
Mei Qing, however, was completely unaware of these thoughts. In his heart, although he found the Huayan Sect’s teachings profound and mysterious, he still preferred talismans.
This was not surprising. Mei Qing had initially been introduced to cultivation through Daoist foundations. Later, influenced by Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, practiced the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Shenxiao Secret Methods. Although he was not formally a Daoist, his heart had long been aligned with Daoist principles. The Shenxiao Thunder Method he was now practicing was purely Daoist, and his preference for talismans was natural.
Moreover, talismans were far more interesting than Huayan’s divine abilities. Although he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and experiments with different talisman forms were endlessly fascinating, and he delved deeper into them with growing enthusiasm.
Mei Qing completely lost track of time, shuttling between the two Daoist paths. It wasn’t until one day when Master Ku not only stopped teaching him but also prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. What’s seven days?” Zhang Shisan was displeased with Master Ku’s interruption and grumbled.
“For us, it’s nothing. But Mei Qing is new to this path and needs time to adapt. Although he can rest during his dream state, his mental energy will inevitably tire. Besides, balance is key. Overexertion is counterproductive,” Master Ku said calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded repeatedly. As a seasoned cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning. However, having just found such a talented disciple, he was eager to impart all his knowledge to Mei Qing. Moreover, Mei Qing’s exceptional performance made it easy to overlook the need for rest.
“Instead of staying cooped up here, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan said, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I’ve been sitting here so long I’ve grown rusty. Speaking of which, I remember last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister aura and possibly some entanglements… But since you’ve suggested it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll dig out whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “This matter seems inappropriate. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best for Mei Qing not to get involved.”
“Karmic consequences?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you think Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
“Ahh—Master, you also sleepwalk—” Realizing his words were inappropriate, Mei Qing hastily corrected himself: “Master, what exactly is going on here?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent an entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan and was utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for more rigorous training, leaving him no respite. It felt as though he was being worked to death.
However, since he had already become a disciple, it was inappropriate to voice his complaints. What made it worse was that Zhang Shisan not only didn’t stop Master Ku but also cheerfully encouraged Mei Qing to follow him, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Both of you can take turns, but I’m stuck in an endless cycle. Is there no mercy?” Mei Qing thought, feeling utterly helpless.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat down on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation. He watched as his body walked over to the other cushion, sat down cross-legged, closed his eyes, and began to breathe deeply, as if he had fallen asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a state akin to sleepwalking. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath and entering a state of deep calm. At the same time, he felt as though he was standing aside, watching himself, as if he were observing his own sleeping form in a dream.
“What’s going on?” Mei Qing was shocked. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling faintly beside him. “Surprised, aren’t you?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you sleepwalking too—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, realizing the inappropriateness of his words. “Master, what is happening?”
Master Ku smiled, and suddenly the room around them began to fade, along with their seated forms. When Mei Qing focused his gaze again, he found himself standing in a vast, misty expanse. They were suspended in mid-air. Above them, the stars and moon shone brightly, and a cool breeze blew across the cloudless sky. Below, the shimmering waves of an endless sea stretched out in all directions.
Mei Qing looked carefully and noticed a faint dark line in the south, which seemed familiar—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea he had once traveled.
Master Ku’s robes fluttered as he walked leisurely across the dark sea, as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly and said, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, you must first understand the divine abilities of our sect. As I’ve mentioned before, the Huayan School is renowned for its Four Dharmadhatus, Six Characteristics, and Ten Profound Gates. But the most fundamental of all is our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are like drawing a cake to satisfy hunger. As for the path of our sect’s cultivation, it lies in the four words: Dharmadhatu Dependent Arising.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, seemingly suspended in mid-air. His voice resonated like the sound of gold and jade, each word flowing into Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
Master Ku continued his teachings throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set in the west, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed and said, “The moon gives way to the sun. It’s all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing was startled. Suddenly, his soul returned to his body, and he awoke quietly. He found himself still sitting cross-legged in Master Ku’s room, the surroundings unchanged. A ray of morning sunlight streamed into the room, illuminating Master Ku’s face, which was as smooth as jade.
As if sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled. “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, appeared particularly bright and gentle. At the same time, the true energy within his body began to flow naturally. Although he was still indoors, he could clearly feel the radiance of the rising sun, like a warm stream flowing from the top of his head and permeating his entire body. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the moonlight beside it. The sun and moon spiraled and refined each other, and pure true energy, like golden-purple liquid, dripped down, bathing the golden elixir in a halo of light.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Seeing Mei Qing’s state of cultivation, he nodded in approval. He stood up silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the courtyard bathed in morning light, he gazed at the clear sky and felt the refreshing autumn breeze. A radiant smile spread across his face.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had undergone nine cycles of refinement between the sun and moon, condensing and nurturing his golden elixir. When he awoke, he felt a surge of energy within him, far surpassing his previous state. Knowing that his progress had been rapid, he was overjoyed.
Cultivation has always been a balance of both Dao principles and techniques, neither of which can be neglected. Mei Qing, having no master or sect before, had been limited in his cultivation of Dao techniques. Thus, after reaching a certain level, no matter how much he refined and cultivated, his progress had slowed. But now, with the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual potential had been awakened, and he felt as though he was advancing by leaps and bounds.
In the following days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him. During the day, Zhang Shisan meticulously explained talismans, while at night, Master Ku guided him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three of them found great joy in the process.
However, it seemed as though the two masters had agreed not to ask Mei Qing about his previous cultivation methods or to provide any direct guidance. Zhang Shisan, aside from having Mei Qing draw the Five Elements talismans daily, taught him various talisman knowledge and shared his own experiences. Master Ku, on the other hand, always took Mei Qing into dreams, allowing him to experience and comprehend various divine abilities, carefully savoring the path of the sect.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan School’s “Six Characteristics” method, but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how shallow his previous understanding had been. Not to mention the Four Dharmadhatus and Ten Profound Gates, even the “Six Characteristics” were vastly different from what he had imagined.
Previously, Mei Qing had thought that the Six Characteristics referred to six different external appearances, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. But under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized he had been like a frog at the bottom of a well, vastly underestimating these divine abilities.
The Six Characteristics refer to the general characteristic, the specific characteristic, the identical characteristic, the different characteristic, the arising characteristic, and the ceasing characteristic. When these are fully realized and harmonized, they naturally interpenetrate without obstruction. When cultivated to a high level, they can silently captivate the mind, communicate with spirits, and manifest boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine abilities was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to do anything but simply demonstrated the abilities for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was quite mystical, but when Mei Qing was in the dream state, he found that his senses became extraordinarily acute. Many things that were impossible to see, hear, or describe in words became clear and comprehensible in the dream.
Master Ku was particularly satisfied with this aspect of Mei Qing. In the Huayan School, the most crucial factor in selecting disciples was their innate understanding. If a disciple had the right aptitude, they would grasp everything at a glance; if their talent was lacking, even a hundred years of hard cultivation would yield no progress.
Mei Qing’s natural talent was exceptional, and he had a rare gift for navigating the boundary between dreams and reality. Even for those with excellent aptitude, adapting to the interplay between dreams and reality usually took some time. But Mei Qing not only entered the dream state effortlessly on his first attempt but also managed to awaken his potential and comprehend cultivation upon waking. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of some enlightened being.
Thus, while wholeheartedly teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to take Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan School, it wouldn’t have been impossible for him to attain the fruit of an Arhat or even achieve enlightenment.
But alas, there was no medicine for regret. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictability of karmic connections.
Mei Qing, however, was completely unaware of this. In fact, although he found the Huayan School’s teachings profound and mysterious, he still preferred talismans.
This wasn’t surprising, as Mei Qing had initially entered the Daoist path. Later, influenced by Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, cultivated the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Shenxiao Secret Methods. Although he wasn’t formally a Daoist, his heart had long been aligned with the Daoist tradition. Now, as he cultivated the Shenxiao Thunder Method, a purely Daoist technique, his preference for talismans was only natural.
Moreover, talismans were far more interesting than Huayan divine abilities. Although he was currently focused on the Five Elements talismans, the endless combinations of different talisman forms and the experimentation with dual Five Elements talismans were endlessly fascinating, drawing him deeper and deeper into their study.
Mei Qing completely lost track of time, shuttling between the two Daoist traditions. It wasn’t until one day when Master Ku not only stopped teaching him but also prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he suddenly realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. What’s seven days?” Zhang Shisan was displeased with Master Ku’s interruption and grumbled.
“For us, it’s nothing, but Mei Qing has just entered this path and needs time to adapt. Although he can rest and meditate during his nightly spiritual journeys, his mental energy is bound to tire. Besides, the principle of alternating tension and relaxation applies. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku said calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded repeatedly. As a seasoned cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning perfectly. However, having just acquired an excellent disciple, he was eager to pour all his knowledge into Mei Qing. Moreover, Mei Qing’s performance was so outstanding, unlike the usual struggles of a beginner, that Zhang Shisan had overlooked this aspect.
“Instead of staying cooped up in the room, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan said, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head vigorously. “I’ve been sitting so long I’ve grown rusty. Speaking of which, I remember that when I last met Master, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister energy and possibly some entanglements… But since you’ve suggested it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll dig out whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, said, “I don’t think that’s advisable. Since there are entanglements, there’s bound to be karmic involvement. It’s better for Mei Qing not to get involved.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you think Mei Qing should be entangled in karma as well?”
Looking up, the sky was clear, stars and moon shining high, wild winds blowing gently. Looking down, shimmering waves stretched endlessly below.
Examining carefully, Mei Qing noticed a dark line in the southern horizon—familiar indeed. It was Yunxiang Island. He suddenly realized they had instantly appeared above the Mihai sea they had once traveled.
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, inwardly lamenting his exhaustion. Having spent the entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan, he was utterly drained. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for cultivation without a moment’s respite, leaving him on the brink of collapse.
Having already pledged himself as a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully urged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn.
“Between the two of you, I’m being worked to death!” Mei Qing thought, on the verge of tears.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a strange sensation, as if he were watching himself from afar. He saw himself walk to the other cushion, sit cross-legged, close his eyes, and enter a deep, meditative state, as if asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath and settling into tranquility, while simultaneously feeling as though he were observing himself from the side, as if one could watch themselves sleep in a dream.
“What is this?” Mei Qing exclaimed in shock. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling gently beside him. “Surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is happening?”
Master Ku smiled, and the room around them began to fade, their seated forms gradually dissolving into nothingness. When Mei Qing looked again, they were standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon hung high, with a cool breeze blowing and not a cloud in sight. Below, the shimmering waves of the boundless sea stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing carefully observed the southern horizon, where a faint dark line seemed familiar—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had suddenly appeared above the vast sea he had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, you must first understand our sect’s divine powers. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the foundation lies in our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine powers are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine powers are but empty illusions. The essence of our cultivation lies in the four words: Dharma Realm Dependent Arising.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
Master Ku continued his teachings throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all but a dream. Awaken, awaken!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, his spirit returning to his body. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, the morning sunlight streaming in, illuminating Master Ku’s serene, jade-like face.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally bright and gentle. Simultaneously, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly feel the warmth of the rising sun, like a gentle stream flowing from the crown of his head, permeating his entire being. Within him, a golden sun resonated, its purple energy rising, illuminating the surrounding moonlight. The sun and moon spiraled together, refining pure energy that dripped like golden-purple liquid onto his glowing golden core.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded approvingly. He rose silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing softly behind him. Gazing at the morning glow in the courtyard, he looked up at the clear sky, the crisp autumn breeze brushing past, and a radiant smile spread across his face.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining the sun and moon, nurturing his golden core, and awoke. Feeling a surge of vitality far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation, by nature, requires the harmonious balance of Daoist principles and techniques, neither of which can be neglected. Previously, without a master or sect, Mei Qing’s progress had been limited. No matter how much he refined his energy, his advancement had slowed. Now, with the dedicated guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual potential had been unlocked, and his progress felt like a thousand miles in a single day.
Over the following days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns instructing him—Zhang Shisan during the day, teaching the intricacies of talismans, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine powers in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings voraciously, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, as if by mutual agreement, neither master inquired about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods nor offered guidance on them. Zhang Shisan focused on teaching Mei Qing the Five Elements talismans, sharing his knowledge and experiences, while Master Ku led Mei Qing through various divine powers in dreams, exploring the depths of their sect’s teachings.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his understanding had been. Beyond the Four Realms and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were far more profound than he had imagined.
Previously, Mei Qing had thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external manifestations, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. Under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized how limited his perspective had been.
The Six Characteristics—Total, Distinct, Same, Different, Arising, and Ceasing—are interdependent and mutually supportive. When fully realized, they harmonize seamlessly. At higher levels of cultivation, one can influence minds, communicate with spirits, and wield boundless divine powers without uttering a word or making a move.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine powers differed greatly from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to achieve them but instead demonstrated each power for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was mystical, but in his dreams, Mei Qing found his senses heightened, perceiving things that were otherwise impossible to see, hear, or describe, all with perfect clarity.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. In the Huayan Sect, the most crucial quality in a disciple is their ability to comprehend. A talented disciple grasps concepts instantly, while a less gifted one may struggle for a lifetime without understanding.
Mei Qing’s exceptional talent and natural affinity for navigating the boundary between dreams and reality were rare. Most individuals, no matter how gifted, require time to adapt to the interplay of dreams and reality. Mei Qing, however, not only entered and exited dreams effortlessly but also triggered insights into cultivation during his dream states. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
Thus, while dedicating himself to teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to accept Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s potential, had he been ordained into the Huayan Sect, achieving the status of an Arhat or even enlightenment would not have been impossible.
But there was no turning back. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictable nature of fate.
Mei Qing, however, remained oblivious to these thoughts. While he recognized the profound depth of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he found himself more drawn to talismans.
This preference was natural. Mei Qing had initially built his foundation in Daoism. His relationship with Bi Zhen had further deepened his connection to Daoist scriptures, and he had studied the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques and translated the Shenxiao Secret Methods. Though not formally a Daoist, his heart had long been aligned with Daoist principles. The Shenxiao Thunder Method he now practiced was purely Daoist, and his affinity for talismans was a natural extension of this.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than Huayan’s divine powers. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements talismans, the endless combinations and dual-element experiments offered endless fascination, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time, oscillating between the two schools of thought. It wasn’t until Master Ku halted his teachings and prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“Time is meaningless in cultivation. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased by the interruption.
“For us, perhaps, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Though he can rest during dream states, his mental energy is still taxed. Balance is key. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead, nodding in agreement. As a seasoned cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning. However, his eagerness to impart his knowledge to Mei Qing, coupled with Mei Qing’s exceptional performance, had caused him to overlook this.
“Staying cooped up here isn’t ideal. Let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching lazily. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’ve rusted from staying still. I just remembered—last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems… off. There’s something sinister about it, and it might be entangled in something. But since you suggested it, let’s go and see what secrets it holds.”
Master Ku, however, interjected, “I don’t think that’s wise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best if you avoid getting involved, Mei Qing.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you think Mei Qing should be entangled in karma as well?”
“The magical abilities and cultivation path relate as root and branch. Without the path, magical powers are merely illusions. Our sect’s cultivation path lies entirely in the concept of ‘Dependent Origination of the Dharma Realm.'”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent the entire day drawing talismans under Zhang Shisan’s guidance and was utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation, leaving him no respite. He feared he might collapse from sheer fatigue.
However, since he had already become a disciple, it was inappropriate to voice such complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but also cheerfully encouraged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Are you two planning to take shifts? I’m being worked to the bone here!” Mei Qing thought, feeling utterly helpless and on the verge of tears.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat down on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a strange sensation as he watched himself walk over to the other cushion, sit cross-legged, close his eyes, and begin meditating, his breathing slow and steady, as if he had fallen asleep.
“Am I asleep? Then what’s happening to me…?”
Mei Qing suddenly realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath and entering a deep state of tranquility, while simultaneously feeling as though he was observing himself from the side, as if he were watching himself sleep in a dream.
“What’s going on?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling gently beside him. “Surprised, aren’t you?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, realizing the inappropriateness of his words. “Master, what’s happening?”
Master Ku smiled, and suddenly the room around them began to fade, along with their seated forms. When Mei Qing focused his gaze again, he found himself standing in a vast, misty expanse. They were suspended in mid-air. Above them, the stars and moon shone brightly, and a cool breeze swept across the cloudless sky. Below, the shimmering waves of an endless sea stretched out in all directions.
Mei Qing carefully observed the scene and noticed a faint dark line in the south, which he recognized as Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea he had once traveled.
Master Ku, his robes fluttering in the wind, walked leisurely across the dark sea as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly and said, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, it’s essential for you to understand our sect’s divine abilities. As I’ve mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharmadhatus, Six Characteristics, and Ten Profound Mysteries. However, the foundation of our practice lies in the Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are merely empty promises. The core of our practice is encapsulated in the phrase ‘Dharmadhatu Dependent Arising.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, seemingly suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, flowed into Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
Master Ku continued his teachings throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set in the west, the first light of dawn began to break in the east. Master Ku chuckled and said, “The moon gives way to the sun. It’s all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, his spirit returning to his body. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, the surroundings unchanged. A ray of morning sunlight streamed into the room, illuminating Master Ku’s face, which now appeared as smooth and radiant as jade.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled. “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, seemed exceptionally warm and gentle. At the same time, he felt his internal energy flowing naturally. Although he was still indoors, he could distinctly sense the first rays of the sun, which felt like a warm stream of energy entering his body from the crown of his head and flowing through him. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the moonlight within him. The sun and moon energies intertwined, refining each other, and pure spiritual energy dripped like golden-purple liquid, bathing his golden core in a radiant glow.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s state of cultivation, he nodded in approval. He stood up silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the morning glow filling the courtyard and the clear, crisp sky above, he couldn’t help but smile brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining the sun and moon energies, nurturing his golden core. When he awoke, he felt a surge of vitality within him, far surpassing his previous state. Delighted by his rapid progress, he couldn’t contain his joy.
Cultivation always requires the harmonious integration of both the Dao and its techniques. Mei Qing, who had previously lacked a master and a proper sect, found his progress in Dao techniques severely limited. No matter how much he practiced, his progress had slowed down. However, under the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual potential was awakened, and he felt as though he had advanced by leaps and bounds.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him. During the day, Zhang Shisan meticulously explained talismans, while at night, Master Ku guided him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, it seemed as though the two masters had agreed not to inquire about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or to offer any direct guidance. Zhang Shisan focused on teaching Mei Qing the intricacies of talismans and sharing his own experiences, while Master Ku led Mei Qing through various divine abilities in dreams, allowing him to deeply understand the path of cultivation.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. The “Six Characteristics” alone were far more profound than he had imagined.
He had once thought that the Six Characteristics referred to six different external expressions, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. Under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized how narrow his perspective had been.
The Six Characteristics refer to the Universal, the Particular, the Similar, the Different, the Integrated, and the Disintegrated. When these are fully realized and harmonized, they become mutually inclusive and unobstructed. At higher levels of cultivation, one can subtly influence others, communicate with spirits, and manifest boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine abilities was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform them but instead demonstrated each ability for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was incredibly effective, as Mei Qing found his senses heightened in dreams, allowing him to perceive things that were otherwise impossible to see, hear, or describe.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. In the Huayan Sect, the most crucial quality in a disciple is their ability to comprehend. A talented disciple can grasp concepts instantly, while a less gifted one might struggle for a lifetime without understanding. Mei Qing’s exceptional talent made Master Ku wonder if he might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
As a result, while Master Ku devoted himself to teaching Mei Qing, he couldn’t help but regret agreeing to share him with Zhang Shisan as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, he might have not only achieved the state of an Arhat but possibly even attained Buddhahood.
However, there was no use in regretting the past. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictable nature of fate.
Mei Qing, on the other hand, was completely unaware of these thoughts. In his heart, while he admired the depth and profundity of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he found himself more drawn to talismans.
This was not surprising, as Mei Qing had initially been introduced to cultivation through Daoist foundations. Later, influenced by Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, practiced the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Shenxiao Secret Methods. Although he was not formally a Daoist, he had long identified with the Daoist path. The Shenxiao Thunder Method he was now practicing was a purely Daoist technique, so his preference for talismans was natural.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than the Huayan Sect’s divine abilities. Although he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and experiments with different talisman forms and the dual Five Elements calculations were endlessly fascinating, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time as he immersed himself in both Daoist and Huayan practices. It wasn’t until Master Ku stopped teaching and prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“Time flies in cultivation. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased by Master Ku’s interruption.
“For us, it’s nothing, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Even though he can rest during his nightly spiritual journeys, his mind still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded in agreement. As an experienced cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning. However, he had been so eager to impart his knowledge to Mei Qing and so impressed by his rapid progress that he had overlooked this.
“Instead of staying cooped up here, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching lazily. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I’ve been sitting here so long I’ve started to rust. Now that you mention it, I remember wanting to investigate the Fishbone Temple the last time we met. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister energy and possibly some entanglements… But if you want to go, let’s check it out. We’ll see what secrets it holds and uncover them all!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “I don’t think that’s wise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best for Mei Qing to avoid getting involved.”
“Karmic consequences?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Are you suggesting Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. Having spent the entire day drawing talismans under Zhang Shisan’s guidance, he was utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation without a moment’s respite, threatening to wear him out completely.
Yet, having formally become a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully urged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Are you two taking shifts while I’m stuck in an endless cycle? Is there no end to this torment?” Mei Qing felt like crying but had no tears left.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation. He saw himself walking to the other cushion, sitting cross-legged, closing his eyes, and breathing deeply, as if falling asleep.
“Am I asleep? Then what is this…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a state of tranquility, while simultaneously feeling as though he were watching himself from the side, as if observing his own sleeping form in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling gently beside him. “Surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Realizing his words were inappropriate, Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and the room around them began to fade, their seated forms gradually dissolving into nothingness. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon hung high, with a cool breeze blowing and not a cloud in sight. Below, the shimmering waves of the boundless sea stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing carefully observed the southern horizon, where a faint shadow seemed familiar—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea they had once traveled.
Master Ku, his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, you must first understand our sect’s divine abilities. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the foundation of our path lies in the Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are but empty promises. The essence of our cultivation lies in the four words: Dharma Realm Dependent Origination.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
Master Ku continued his teachings throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set in the west, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing was startled, his soul returning to his body as he quietly awoke. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, the surroundings unchanged. A ray of morning sunlight streamed into the room, illuminating Master Ku’s serene, jade-like face.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally bright and gentle. Simultaneously, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly feel the warmth of the rising sun, like a gentle stream entering his body from the crown of his head. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the moonlight beside it. The sun and moon spiraled together, refining pure energy that dripped like golden-purple liquid onto his glowing golden core.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded approvingly. He stood up silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the morning glow filling the courtyard and the clear, crisp sky, he smiled radiantly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining the sun and moon, nurturing his golden core, and then awoke. Feeling a surge of vitality within him, far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation, by nature, requires the harmonious balance of doctrine and technique. Mei Qing, previously without a master or sect, had been limited in his progress. No matter how much he refined his techniques, his advancement had slowed. Now, under the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual potential was unlocked, and his progress felt like a thousand miles in a single day.
Over the following days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, explaining talismans, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, as if by mutual agreement, neither master inquired about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods nor offered guidance on them. Zhang Shisan focused on teaching Mei Qing the intricacies of talismans and sharing his own experiences, while Master Ku led Mei Qing through various divine abilities in dreams, helping him understand the path of cultivation.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics” method, but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Beyond the Four Realms and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were far more profound than he had imagined.
He had once thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external expressions, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. Under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized how limited his perspective had been.
The Six Characteristics—Total, Distinct, Same, Different, Arising, and Ceasing—are interconnected and mutually supportive. When fully realized, they harmonize seamlessly. At higher levels of cultivation, they can influence minds, communicate with spirits, and manifest boundless divine abilities without a word or movement.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine abilities differed greatly from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform them but instead demonstrated each ability for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was mystical, but in his dreams, Mei Qing found his senses heightened, allowing him to perceive and understand things that were otherwise impossible to see, hear, or describe.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. In the Huayan Sect, the most crucial quality in a disciple is their ability to comprehend. A talented disciple can grasp concepts instantly, while a less gifted one might struggle for a century without understanding.
Mei Qing’s exceptional talent, especially in navigating the boundary between dreams and reality, was rare. Most people, no matter how gifted, need time to adapt to the interplay of dreams and reality. Mei Qing, however, not only entered and exited dreams effortlessly but also used these experiences to deepen his cultivation. His talent made Master Ku wonder if he might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
Thus, while dedicating himself to teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing to share him with Zhang Shisan as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, achieving enlightenment or even Buddhahood might have been within reach.
But regret was futile, and Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictability of fate.
Mei Qing, however, remained unaware of these thoughts. In his heart, while he admired the depth and mystery of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he found himself more drawn to talismans.
This preference was natural. Mei Qing’s foundation had been laid in Taoism. His relationship with Bi Zhen had further deepened his connection to Taoist scriptures, and his cultivation of the Golden Elixir and study of the Shenxiao Secret Method had solidified his affinity for Taoist practices. Even though he wasn’t formally a Taoist, his heart had long been aligned with Taoist principles. His current practice of the Shenxiao Thunder Method was purely Taoist, and his preference for talismans was a natural extension of this.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than divine abilities. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and transformations of different talisman forms provided endless fascination, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time, oscillating between the two paths of cultivation. It wasn’t until Master Ku stopped teaching and prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased at being interrupted.
“For us, it’s nothing, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Though he can rest during dream journeys, his mental energy still tires. Balance is key; overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead, nodding in agreement. As an experienced cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning. However, in his excitement over finding such a talented disciple and Mei Qing’s exceptional performance, he had overlooked this.
“Instead of staying cooped up, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’ve rusted from sitting too long. I just remembered—last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister energy and possible entanglements… But since you suggested it, let’s go and see what secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, interjected, “I don’t think that’s wise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best for Mei Qing to avoid getting involved.”
“Karmic consequences?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Are you suggesting Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his exhaustion. Having spent the entire day drawing talismans under Zhang Shisan’s guidance, he was utterly drained. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation, leaving him no respite. He feared he might collapse from sheer fatigue.
However, having formally become a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully urged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Between the two of you, I’m being worked to the bone. Is there no end to this?” Mei Qing thought, on the verge of tears.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a strange disorientation. He watched as his body moved to the other cushion, sat cross-legged, closed his eyes, and began to breathe deeply, as if falling asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a deep state of tranquility. Simultaneously, he felt as though he was observing himself from the side, as if one could watch oneself sleep in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. He looked up to see Master Ku smiling gently beside him.
“Surprised, aren’t you?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled. The room around them began to fade, and their seated forms gradually dissolved into nothingness. When Mei Qing looked again, they were standing in mid-air. Above them, the stars and moon hung high, and a cool breeze blew across a cloudless sky. Below, the vast ocean shimmered endlessly.
Mei Qing recognized a faint shadow to the south—it was Yunxiang Island. They had suddenly appeared above the vast sea they had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea, chuckling softly.
“Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, you must first understand our sect’s divine abilities. As I mentioned before, the Huayan School is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Profound Mysteries. But the foundation lies in our sect’s Dharma Path.
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are but empty promises. The essence of our cultivation lies in the four words: ‘Dharma Realm Dependent Arising.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, flowed into Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
They continued this discourse throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to lighten. Master Ku laughed softly.
“The moon gives way to the sun. It was all but a dream. Awake, awake!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, finding himself still seated in Master Ku’s room. The morning sun streamed in, illuminating Master Ku’s serene face.
“Have you understood?” Master Ku asked, opening his eyes and smiling.
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally warm and bright. Within him, his true essence flowed naturally. Though indoors, he could distinctly feel the radiance of the rising sun, like a warm stream entering his body from above. His inner golden crow resonated, and a purple aura surged, illuminating the moonlight within him. The sun and moon spiraled together, refining his essence into pure, golden-purple droplets that bathed his golden core.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded approvingly. He rose silently and appeared outside the room, the door closing softly behind him. Gazing at the morning glow in the courtyard, he smiled brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had undergone nine cycles of refinement, nurturing his golden core. He awoke, feeling more vigorous than ever, and was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the harmony of doctrine and technique. Previously, Mei Qing’s progress had been limited due to lack of guidance. But under the tutelage of Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual insight had been awakened, and his progress soared.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, focusing on talismans, and Master Ku at night, exploring divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, neither Zhang Shisan nor Master Ku inquired about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or offered guidance on them. Zhang Shisan had Mei Qing practice the Five Elements Talismans daily, sharing his knowledge and experience. Master Ku, in dreams, guided Mei Qing to experience various divine abilities and understand the Dharma Path.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan School’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his understanding had been. The “Six Characteristics”—Total, Particular, Same, Different, Formation, and Destruction—were far more profound than he had imagined.
Master Ku’s teachings were vastly different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform divine abilities but simply demonstrated them. In dreams, Mei Qing’s senses became extraordinarily acute, allowing him to perceive things that were otherwise impossible to see or hear.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. The Huayan School valued insight above all. A talented disciple could grasp concepts instantly, while a less gifted one might struggle for a lifetime without understanding.
Mei Qing’s exceptional talent made Master Ku wonder if he might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha. He regretted agreeing to share Mei Qing with Zhang Shisan as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s potential, he could have achieved enlightenment within the Huayan School.
But there was no turning back. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictability of fate.
Mei Qing, however, remained unaware of these thoughts. While he admired the depth and mystery of the Huayan School, he found himself more drawn to talismans.
This was natural, as Mei Qing’s foundation lay in Taoism. His relationship with Bi Zhen and his study of Taoist scriptures had deeply influenced him. The Shenxiao Thunder Method he practiced was purely Taoist, and his preference for talismans was instinctive.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than Huayan’s divine abilities. Though he focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and calculations fascinated him, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time, shuttling between the two schools of thought. It wasn’t until Master Ku halted both his and Zhang Shisan’s teachings that he realized seven days had passed.
“Seven days is nothing in the pursuit of the Dao,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased at the interruption.
“For us, perhaps, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Though he rests during dream cultivation, his spirit still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion is counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan nodded, understanding the wisdom in Master Ku’s words. As a seasoned cultivator, he knew the importance of balance. However, his eagerness to impart his knowledge to Mei Qing, coupled with Mei Qing’s exceptional progress, had made him overlook this.
“Instead of staying cooped up, let’s go out for a change,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’ve rusted from staying indoors. I remember wanting to investigate the Fishbone Temple the last time we met. Since we have nothing else to do, why don’t we go there today?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems… off. There’s an air of malevolence, and it might be entangled with something. But if you’re set on going, let’s see what’s hidden there. We’ll uncover whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “This matter is unwise. If there are entanglements, there will be karmic consequences. It’s best for Mei Qing to avoid them.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you think Mei Qing should be bound by karma as well?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, inwardly lamenting his fate. He had just spent an entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan, utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation without a moment’s rest. It felt like he was being worked to death.
Having already become a disciple, it was inconvenient to voice such complaints. What irked him more was that Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully urged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“You two can take turns, but I’m being worked to the bone. Is there no end to this?” Mei Qing felt like crying but had no tears left.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden daze and saw himself walking to the other cushion, sitting cross-legged, closing his eyes, and breathing deeply, as if he had fallen asleep.
“Asleep? Then what is this…”
Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a state of tranquility. At the same time, he felt as though he was watching himself from the side, like seeing one’s own sleeping form in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling faintly beside him. “What? Are you surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Realizing his words were inappropriate, Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled slightly, and the room’s surroundings began to fade, along with the images of the two sitting in meditation. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon hung high, with a cool breeze blowing and not a cloud in sight. Below, the sea shimmered endlessly.
Mei Qing carefully observed and noticed a faint shadow to the south, familiar to him—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea he had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea, chuckling softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my sect, you must first understand our sect’s divine abilities. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Phases, and Ten Mysteries. But the most fundamental is our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are but empty promises. The essence of our cultivation lies in the four words: Dharma Realm Dependent Origination.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
This discourse continued throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, his soul returning to his body. He found himself still sitting in Master Ku’s room, the morning sun casting its light into the room, illuminating Master Ku’s serene face.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally bright and gentle. Simultaneously, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly feel the warmth of the rising sun, like a gentle stream entering his body from the crown of his head. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the surrounding moonlight. The sun and moon intertwined, refining pure energy that dripped like golden-purple liquid onto his glowing golden core.
Seeing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, Master Ku was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded in approval. He stood up silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the morning glow in the courtyard and the clear sky above, he couldn’t help but smile brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of sun and moon refinement, nurturing his golden core, and woke up. Feeling a surge of vitality within him, far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the synergy of both the Dao and its techniques, neither can be neglected. Mei Qing, previously without a master or sect, had been limited in his cultivation, causing his progress to slow down after reaching a certain level. Now, with the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual insight was triggered, leading to rapid advancement.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, explaining talismans in detail, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, it seemed as though the two masters had agreed not to inquire about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or offer guidance on them. Zhang Shisan focused on having Mei Qing draw the Five Elements talismans daily, sharing his knowledge and experiences. Master Ku, on the other hand, led Mei Qing through various divine abilities in dreams, allowing him to deeply understand the sect’s methods.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Phases” method, but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Beyond the Four Realms and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Phases” were vastly different from what he had imagined.
He had once thought the Six Phases referred to six different external appearances, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. Under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized how limited his perspective had been.
The Six Phases refer to the General Phase, Specific Phase, Same Phase, Different Phase, Formation Phase, and Destruction Phase, each complementing and completing the others. When all are fully realized, they naturally integrate without obstruction. At higher levels of cultivation, one can influence minds and communicate with spirits and ghosts without uttering a word or making a move, wielding boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine abilities was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform them but instead demonstrated each ability for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was quite mystical. When Mei Qing was in the dream state, his senses became exceptionally acute, allowing him to perceive things that were otherwise impossible to see, hear, or describe, all with clarity and understanding.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. The Huayan Sect valued insight above all else in selecting disciples. A talented disciple would grasp concepts immediately, while a less gifted one might struggle for a century without comprehension.
Mei Qing’s exceptional talent and natural affinity for navigating the boundary between dreams and reality were rare. Most people, even those with good aptitude, needed time to adapt to the interplay of dreams and reality. Mei Qing, however, not only entered the dream state effortlessly on his first attempt but also triggered insights into cultivation upon waking. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing was the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
While wholeheartedly teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to take Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With such talent, if Mei Qing had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, achieving the state of an Arhat or even enlightenment would have been within reach.
But there was no turning back, and Master Ku could only sigh at the whims of fate.
Mei Qing, however, was oblivious to these thoughts. In his heart, while he recognized the depth and profundity of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he still preferred talismans.
This preference was natural. Mei Qing had initially been introduced to cultivation through Daoist foundations. Later, influenced by Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, practiced the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Divine Thunder Method. Though not formally a Daoist, he had long identified with Daoist principles. The Divine Thunder Method he was now practicing was purely Daoist, and his preference for talismans was a natural extension of this.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than the Huayan Sect’s divine abilities. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements talismans, the endless combinations and calculations involved in their creation were endlessly fascinating, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time, shuttling between the two cultivation methods. It wasn’t until Master Ku stopped teaching and prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased at being interrupted.
“For us, it’s nothing, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adapt. Though he can rest during dream states, his spirit still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion is counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead in realization. As an experienced cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s point. However, he had been so eager to impart his knowledge to his new disciple and so impressed by Mei Qing’s rapid progress that he had overlooked this.
“Being cooped up here isn’t doing us any good. Let’s go out for a change,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’m rusting from staying indoors. I just remembered, the last time I met with Master, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister aura and possibly some entanglements… But since you suggested it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll dig out whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “This matter seems inappropriate. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best for Mei Qing not to get involved.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Are you suggesting Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, inwardly lamenting his exhaustion. Having spent the entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan, he was utterly drained. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for rigorous training without a moment’s respite, leaving him feeling as though he might collapse from sheer fatigue.
Having already pledged himself as a disciple, Mei Qing couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully urged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Between the two of you, I’m being worked to the bone. Is there no end to this?” Mei Qing thought, feeling utterly helpless.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion. Mei Qing, in a daze, found himself sitting on the other cushion, legs crossed, eyes closed, breathing deeply, as if he had fallen asleep.
“Asleep? Then what is this…?” Mei Qing suddenly realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a deep trance, while simultaneously feeling as though he was observing himself from the side, as if one could watch oneself sleep in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling gently beside him. “Surprised, aren’t you?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and suddenly the room around them began to fade, their seated forms gradually dissolving into nothingness. When Mei Qing looked again, they were standing in a vast, misty expanse, suspended in mid-air. Above them, the stars and moon hung high, the wind blew freely, and the sky was clear. Below, the sea shimmered endlessly.
Mei Qing carefully observed the scene and noticed a faint shadow to the south, which he recognized as Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea where they had once traveled.
Master Ku, his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, it’s time you learned our mystical arts. As I mentioned before, the Huayan School is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Profound Mysteries. But the foundation of our practice lies in the Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and mystical arts are interconnected; without the Path, the arts are but empty promises. The essence of our practice is encapsulated in the phrase ‘Dharma Realm Dependent Origination.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
Master Ku continued his teachings throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, his spirit returning to his body. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, the morning sunlight streaming in, illuminating Master Ku’s serene face.
Noticing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally warm and radiant. Simultaneously, he felt his internal energy flowing naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly sense the first rays of the sun, like a warm stream, entering his body from the crown of his head. Inside him, a golden sun resonated, its purple energy rising, while the moonlight within him also brightened. The sun and moon spiraled together, refining his energy, which dripped like golden-purple liquid onto his glowing golden core.
Seeing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, Master Ku was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s state of cultivation, he nodded approvingly. Master Ku rose silently and appeared outside the room, the door closing softly behind him. He gazed at the morning glow in the courtyard, the clear sky, and the refreshing breeze, a bright smile spreading across his face.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining the sun and moon, nurturing his golden core, and then awoke. Feeling a surge of vitality far greater than before, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation, by nature, requires the harmonious integration of doctrine and practice, neither of which can be neglected. Previously, without a master or school, Mei Qing’s progress in mystical arts had been limited. Despite his efforts, his advancement had slowed. Now, under the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual potential had been unlocked, and his progress felt like a thousand miles in a single day.
Over the following days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him. Zhang Shisan focused on talismans during the day, while Master Ku explored mystical arts in dreams at night. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, as if by mutual agreement, neither master inquired about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods nor offered guidance on them. Zhang Shisan had Mei Qing practice drawing the Five Elements Talismans daily, while also imparting knowledge and personal experiences about talismans. Master Ku, in dreams, guided Mei Qing to experience various mystical arts and delve into the intricacies of the Dharma Path.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan School’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Beyond the Four Realms and Ten Profound Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were far more profound than he had imagined.
He had once thought the Six Characteristics referred to six distinct external appearances, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. Under Master Ku’s careful instruction, he realized how narrow his perspective had been, underestimating the depth of these mystical arts.
The Six Characteristics—Total, Distinct, Same, Different, Arising, and Ceasing—are mutually supportive and harmonious. When fully realized, they seamlessly integrate. At higher levels of cultivation, one can influence minds, communicate with spirits, and wield boundless mystical powers without uttering a word or making a move.
Master Ku’s teaching style differed greatly from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform the arts but instead demonstrated them for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was remarkably effective, as Mei Qing found his senses heightened in dreams, perceiving things that were otherwise impossible to see, hear, or articulate.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. In the Huayan School, the most crucial quality in a disciple is insight. A talented disciple grasps concepts instantly, while a less gifted one may struggle for a lifetime without understanding. Mei Qing’s exceptional talent for navigating the boundary between dreams and reality was rare. Most people, even those with good aptitude, need time to adapt to the interplay of dreams and reality. Mei Qing, however, not only entered dreams effortlessly on his first attempt but also triggered insights into the Dharma Path upon waking. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
As a result, while wholeheartedly teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to take Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With such talent, if Mei Qing had been ordained into the Huayan School, he might not only achieve the state of an Arhat but even attain Buddhahood.
But there was no use in regretting what couldn’t be changed. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictable nature of karma.
Mei Qing, however, was oblivious to these thoughts. In his mind, while he recognized the profundity and wonder of the Huayan School’s teachings, he still found himself more drawn to talismans.
This preference wasn’t surprising. Mei Qing had initially built his foundation in Taoism. Later, influenced by his relationship with Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Taoist scriptures, practiced the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Shenxiao Secret Methods. Though not formally a Taoist, he had long identified with Taoist principles. The Shenxiao Thunder Method he was now practicing was a purely Taoist art, and his fondness for talismans came naturally.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than Huayan’s mystical arts. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations of talisman forms and the calculations of dual Five Elements within a single talisman offered endless variations and intellectual stimulation, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time, shuttling between the two schools of thought. It wasn’t until Master Ku stopped teaching and also prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that Mei Qing realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased at being interrupted.
“For us, it’s nothing, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Though he can rest during nightly dream journeys, his spirit still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded in agreement. As an experienced cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning. However, in his eagerness to impart all his knowledge to his new disciple and impressed by Mei Qing’s exceptional performance, he had overlooked this.
“Instead of staying cooped up here, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’ve rusted from sitting still. It reminds me—last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems off, with some sinister energy and possibly some entanglements… But since you suggest it, let’s go and see what secrets it holds. We’ll dig out whatever treasures or dangers lie within!”
Master Ku, however, interjected, “I don’t think that’s wise. If there are entanglements, they likely involve karmic ties. Mei Qing, it’s best you avoid such matters.”
“Karmic ties?” Zhang Shisan scoffed. “Do you think Mei Qing should avoid all karmic entanglements?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent the entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan and was utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation, leaving him no moment of respite. It felt as though he was being worked to death.
However, since he had already become a disciple, it was inappropriate to voice such complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but even cheerfully encouraged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“You two can take turns, but I’m being worked to the bone! How am I supposed to survive this?” Mei Qing felt like crying, but no tears came.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had been placed at some point. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat down on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden daze. He watched as his own body walked to the other cushion, sat down cross-legged, closed its eyes, and began to breathe deeply, as if falling asleep.
“Am I asleep? Then what is this…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a state akin to sleepwalking. He could see himself sitting on the cushion, meditating and calming his breath, while simultaneously feeling as though he was standing aside, watching himself, much like one might see themselves sleeping in a dream.
“What’s going on?” Mei Qing was shocked. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling faintly beside him. “How is it? Are you surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you sleepwalking too—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, realizing the inappropriateness of his words. “Master, what is happening?”
Master Ku smiled, and suddenly the room around them began to fade, including their seated forms. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon hung high, and a cool breeze blew across the cloudless sky. Below, the shimmering waves of the sea stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing carefully observed and noticed a faint shadow to the south, which he recognized as Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea he had once traveled.
Master Ku’s robes fluttered as he walked leisurely across the dark sea, as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, you must first understand the divine abilities of our sect. As I mentioned before, the Huayan School is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the most fundamental is the path of our sect.”
“The path and the abilities are interconnected; without the path, the abilities are like a painted cake—useless. The essence of our cultivation lies in the four words: Dharma Realm Dependent Origination.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice resonated like the ringing of gold and jade, each word flowing into Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
This discourse continued throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set in the west, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed and said, “The moon gives way to the sun. It’s all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing was startled and suddenly returned to his body, waking quietly. He found himself still sitting in Master Ku’s room, the surroundings unchanged. A ray of morning sunlight streamed into the room, illuminating Master Ku’s face, which now appeared as smooth as jade.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled. “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, seemed exceptionally bright and gentle. At the same time, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Although he was still indoors, he could clearly feel the radiance of the rising sun, like a warm stream flowing from the top of his head and permeating his entire body. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the moonlight beside it. The sun and moon intertwined, refining each other, and pure energy dripped like golden-purple liquid, bathing the glowing golden core.
Seeing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, Master Ku was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded subtly. He stood up silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the courtyard bathed in morning light and the clear sky above, he couldn’t help but smile brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining the sun and moon, nurturing his golden core, and then woke up. Feeling the surge of energy within him, far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the harmony of both the Dao and its techniques; neither can be neglected. Mei Qing had previously been without a master or a sect, which greatly limited his progress. No matter how much he refined and cultivated, his advancement had slowed. But now, with the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual insight was triggered, and he felt as though he was progressing by leaps and bounds.
In the following days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him. During the day, Zhang Shisan meticulously explained talismans, while at night, Master Ku guided him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed it all eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, as if by mutual agreement, neither of them asked Mei Qing about his previous cultivation methods or offered any guidance on them. Zhang Shisan had Mei Qing focus on drawing the Five Elements Talismans while sharing his knowledge and experiences. Master Ku, on the other hand, led Mei Qing through various divine abilities in dreams, allowing him to deeply understand the path of their sect.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan School’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Not to mention the Four Realms and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were vastly different from what he had imagined.
He had once thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external expressions, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. But under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized he had been like a frog at the bottom of a well, vastly underestimating these divine abilities.
The Six Characteristics refer to the Total, the Particular, the Same, the Different, the Living, and the Decaying. They complement and complete each other. When all are present, they naturally merge without obstruction. At the highest level of cultivation, one can influence minds and communicate with spirits without uttering a word, wielding boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s method of teaching was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to do anything; instead, he simply demonstrated the abilities for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was quite mystical, but when Mei Qing was in the dream state, his senses became extraordinarily sharp. Things that were impossible to see or hear, or even put into words, became clear and comprehensible in the dream.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. In the Huayan School, the most crucial quality in a disciple was insight. If the disciple was talented, they would understand everything at a glance; if not, even a hundred years of hard work would yield no progress.
Mei Qing’s natural talent was exceptional, especially his ability to navigate the boundary between dreams and reality. Even for those with good aptitude, adapting to the interplay of dreams and reality usually took time. But Mei Qing not only entered the dream state effortlessly on his first attempt but also triggered insights upon waking, deepening his cultivation. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
Thus, while wholeheartedly teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to take Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With such talent, if Mei Qing had been ordained into the Huayan School, not only could he have achieved the state of an Arhat, but even enlightenment and Buddhahood might have been within his reach.
Unfortunately, there was no cure for regret, and Master Ku could only sigh at the whims of fate.
Mei Qing, however, was completely unaware of these thoughts. In his heart, while he acknowledged the profound depth and mystery of the Huayan School’s teachings, he still preferred talismans.
This was hardly surprising. Mei Qing had initially been introduced to cultivation through Daoist foundations. Later, influenced by Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, cultivated the Golden Elixir Nineteen Techniques, and translated the Shenxiao Secret Methods. Although he wasn’t formally a Daoist, his heart had long been aligned with Daoism. The Shenxiao Thunder Method he was now practicing was purely Daoist, and his preference for talismans was only natural.
Moreover, talismans were far more interesting than Huayan’s divine abilities. Although he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and dual-element calculations were endlessly fascinating, and he found himself delving deeper and deeper, never tiring of it.
Mei Qing completely lost track of time, shuttling between the two schools of thought. It wasn’t until one day when Master Ku not only stopped teaching but also prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing!” Zhang Shisan was displeased with Master Ku’s interruption and grumbled loudly.
“For us, it’s nothing, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adapt. Although he can rest during his dream travels, his spirit still tires. Besides, balance is key. Overexertion is counterproductive,” Master Ku said calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded repeatedly. As a seasoned cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning. However, he had been so eager to impart his knowledge to his new disciple, and Mei Qing’s exceptional performance had made him overlook this.
“Instead of staying cooped up here, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan said, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I’ve been sitting so long I’ve grown rusty. Speaking of which, I remember last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple doesn’t seem quite right. There’s something sinister about it, and it seems to be entangled with something… But since you’ve suggested it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll dig out whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, interjected, “I don’t think that’s wise. If there’s entanglement, it’s likely tied to karma. Mei Qing, it’s best not to get involved.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Are you suggesting Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
Within moments, Mei Qing completed nine cycles of sun-moon refining, stabilizing and nurturing his golden elixir, then awoke. Checking his inner energy, he found it more vigorous than ever, realizing his progress had accelerated, which filled him with joy.
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent the entire day drawing talismans under Zhang Shisan’s guidance, utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had snatched him away for further cultivation, leaving him no moment of respite. Was he not being driven to his death?
Having already pledged himself as a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully urged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“You two can take turns, but I’m being worked to the bone! Is there no mercy?” Mei Qing felt like crying but had no tears left.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation. He saw himself walking to the other cushion, sitting cross-legged, closing his eyes, and breathing deeply, as if falling asleep.
“Am I asleep? Then what is this…?”
He realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a state of deep calm. At the same time, he felt as though he was standing aside, watching himself, as if one could see their own sleeping form in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling gently beside him. “Surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Realizing his words were inappropriate, Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and suddenly the room’s surroundings began to fade, along with the figures of the two sitting in meditation. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon hung high, and a cool breeze blew across the cloudless sky. Below, the shimmering waves of the boundless sea stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing carefully observed and recognized a faint dark line in the south—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea he had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea, as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my sect, you must first understand our divine abilities. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharmadhatus, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the most fundamental is our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are but empty illusions. The essence of our cultivation lies in the Four Dharmadhatus and Dependent Origination.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, like the ringing of gold and jade, resonated in Mei Qing’s ears, as refreshing as sweet nectar.
They talked through the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set in the west, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, his soul returning to his body. He found himself still sitting in Master Ku’s room, the surroundings unchanged. A ray of morning sunlight streamed in, illuminating Master Ku’s face, which glowed like jade.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally bright and gentle. At the same time, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly feel the radiance of the rising sun, like a warm stream entering from the top of his head and flowing through his body. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the moonlight beside it. The sun and moon intertwined, refining pure energy like golden-purple liquid, dripping onto the glowing golden core.
Seeing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, Master Ku was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded in approval. He stood up silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the morning glow filling the courtyard and the clear sky above, he couldn’t help but smile brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining the sun and moon, nurturing his golden core, and woke up. Feeling a surge of vitality within him, far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the harmony of both the Dao and its techniques; neither can be neglected. Mei Qing, having no master or sect before, had been limited in his cultivation. Thus, after reaching a certain level, no matter how much he refined his energy, his progress had slowed. Now, with the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual insight was triggered, and he felt as though he had advanced a thousand miles in a single day.
For the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, explaining talismans in detail, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, as if by mutual agreement, neither Zhang Shisan nor Master Ku asked about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or offered any guidance on them. Zhang Shisan had Mei Qing draw the Five Elements Talismans daily while explaining the knowledge and his own experiences. Master Ku, on the other hand, led Mei Qing through various divine abilities in dreams, allowing him to deeply understand the sect’s methods.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Beyond the Four Dharmadhatus and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were vastly different from what he had imagined.
He had once thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external expressions—joy, anger, sorrow, and so on. Under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized how narrow his view had been, underestimating the depth of these divine abilities.
The Six Characteristics refer to the Total, the Particular, the Same, the Different, the Universal, and the Disintegrating. When all are present and harmonized, they become seamlessly integrated. At higher levels of cultivation, one can influence minds, communicate with spirits, and wield boundless divine abilities without uttering a word or making a move.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine abilities was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform them; instead, he demonstrated each ability for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was mystical, but when Mei Qing was in the dream state, his senses became extraordinarily acute. Things that were impossible to see or hear, or even describe in words, became clear and vivid in the dream.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. In the Huayan Sect, the most crucial quality in a disciple is their insight. If a disciple is gifted, they grasp everything at a glance; if not, even a century of relentless cultivation would leave them clueless.
Mei Qing’s talent was exceptional, especially his ability to navigate the boundary between dreams and reality. Even for those with great aptitude, adapting to the interplay of dreams and reality usually takes time. Mei Qing, however, not only entered the dream state effortlessly on his first attempt but also triggered insights and cultivation upon waking. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
Thus, while dedicating himself to teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to take Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With such talent, if Mei Qing had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, achieving the status of an Arhat or even enlightenment would not have been impossible.
But there was no use regretting what couldn’t be changed. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictability of fate.
Mei Qing, however, was oblivious to these thoughts. In his heart, while he admired the depth and profundity of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he still preferred talismans.
This was hardly surprising. Mei Qing had started his cultivation journey with Daoist foundations. Later, influenced by Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, cultivated the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Divine Thunder Method. Though not formally a Daoist, he had long identified with the Daoist path. His current practice of the Divine Thunder Method was purely Daoist, and his preference for talismans was natural.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than Huayan’s divine abilities. Though he was now deeply immersed in the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and experiments with dual-element talismans were endlessly fascinating, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time, shuttling between the two sects. It wasn’t until Master Ku stopped teaching and prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased at being interrupted.
“For us, it’s nothing, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adapt. Though he can rest during dream cultivation, his spirit still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion is counterproductive,” Master Ku said calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded in agreement. As a seasoned cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s point. However, having just found an exceptional disciple, he was eager to impart all his knowledge to Mei Qing. Moreover, Mei Qing’s remarkable progress had made him overlook the need for rest.
“Staying cooped up here isn’t good. Let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan said, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’m rusting from staying still. I just remembered—last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems… off. There’s something sinister about it, and it might be entangled with something… But since you suggested it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll dig out whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “This doesn’t seem wise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. Mei Qing, it’s best not to get involved.”
“Karmic consequences?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you think Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, inwardly lamenting his exhaustion. Having spent the entire day drawing talismans under Zhang Shisan’s guidance, he was utterly drained. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation without a moment’s respite, leaving him on the brink of collapse.
Yet, having formally become a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully urged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn.
“Between the two of you, I’m being worked to the bone! Is there no end to this?” Mei Qing thought, feeling utterly helpless.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation, as if he were watching himself walk to the other cushion, sit cross-legged, close his eyes, and enter a deep, meditative state, almost as if he were asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a tranquil state, while simultaneously feeling as if he were observing himself from the side, as if one could watch themselves sleep in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling gently beside him. “What? Are you surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Realizing his words were inappropriate, Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and suddenly the room’s surroundings began to fade, including their seated forms. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon hung high, with a clear, cloudless sky. Below, shimmering waves stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing carefully observed and recognized a faint shadow in the south—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea they had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea, chuckling softly. “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, you must first understand our sect’s divine abilities. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharmadhatus, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the foundation lies in our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are but empty promises. The essence of our cultivation lies in the four words: Dharma Realm Dependent Origination.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, resonant and clear, flowed into Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
This discourse continued throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to lighten. Master Ku laughed softly, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all but a dream. Awaken, awaken!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, his spirit returning to his body. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, the morning sun casting its light into the room, illuminating Master Ku’s serene, jade-like face.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally bright and gentle. Simultaneously, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly feel the first rays of the sun entering his body like a warm stream, flowing from his crown to his core. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the surrounding moonlight. The sun and moon intertwined, refining pure energy that dripped like golden-purple liquid onto his radiant golden core.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded approvingly. He rose silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing softly behind him. Gazing at the morning glow filling the courtyard and the clear, crisp sky, he smiled brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining the sun and moon, nurturing his golden core, and awakened. Feeling a surge of vitality far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation inherently requires the harmony of Daoist principles and techniques, neither can be neglected. Previously, without a master or sect, Mei Qing’s progress had been limited. Despite his efforts, his advancement had slowed. But under the guidance of Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual insight was suddenly awakened, leading to rapid progress.
Over the following days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, explaining talismans, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, as if by mutual agreement, neither master inquired about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods nor offered guidance on them. Zhang Shisan focused on teaching Mei Qing the intricacies of talismans and sharing his own experiences, while Master Ku led Mei Qing through various divine abilities in dreams, exploring the depths of their sect’s methods.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Beyond the Four Dharmadhatus and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were far more profound than he had imagined.
He had once thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external expressions—joy, anger, sorrow, and so on. Under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized how limited his perspective had been.
The Six Characteristics—Total, Distinct, Same, Different, Arising, and Ceasing—are mutually supportive and harmonious. When fully realized, they seamlessly integrate. At higher levels of cultivation, they can silently captivate minds, communicate with spirits, and manifest boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s teaching style differed greatly from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform divine abilities but simply demonstrated them to Mei Qing. This approach was mystical, but in dreams, Mei Qing found his senses heightened, perceiving things that were otherwise impossible to see, hear, or describe, with clarity and understanding.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. In the Huayan Sect, the most crucial quality in a disciple is their insight. A talented disciple grasps concepts immediately, while those lacking in aptitude may struggle for a lifetime without comprehension.
Mei Qing’s exceptional talent, especially in navigating the boundary between dreams and reality, was remarkable. Most people, even those with good aptitude, need time to adapt to the interplay of dreams and reality. Mei Qing, however, effortlessly entered and exited dreams, even triggering insights into cultivation. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing was the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
Thus, while wholeheartedly teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to accept Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, achieving the status of an Arhat or even enlightenment would have been within reach.
But there was no turning back. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictability of fate.
Mei Qing, however, was oblivious to these thoughts. In his heart, while he admired the depth and profundity of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he still preferred talismans.
This preference was natural. Mei Qing had initially entered the path of cultivation through Daoist foundations. Later, influenced by Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, cultivated the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Shenxiao Secret Methods. Though not formally a Daoist, he had long identified with Daoist principles. His current practice of the Shenxiao Thunder Method was purely Daoist, and his preference for talismans was a natural extension of this.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than Huayan’s divine abilities. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and calculations, the myriad transformations, and the intellectual challenges they presented kept him deeply engrossed and endlessly fascinated.
Mei Qing lost track of time, oscillating between the two paths of cultivation. It wasn’t until Master Ku halted his teachings and stopped Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased by the interruption.
“For us, it’s nothing. But Mei Qing is new to this path and needs time to adjust. Though he can rest during nightly dream journeys, his mental energy is bound to tire. Balance is key. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku calmly explained.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead in agreement. As an experienced cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning. However, having just found an exceptional disciple, he was eager to impart all his knowledge to Mei Qing. Moreover, Mei Qing’s remarkable progress had made him overlook the need for rest.
“Being cooped up in this room isn’t doing us any good. Let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching lazily. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head, “Indeed, I feel like I’ve rusted from staying indoors. I just remembered—last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned, “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister aura and possible entanglements… But since you suggest it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll uncover whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, interjected, “I don’t think that’s wise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best for Mei Qing to avoid getting involved.”
“Karmic consequences?” Zhang Shisan sneered, “So you think Mei Qing should be entangled in karma as well?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent the entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan, leaving him utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for more rigorous training, leaving him no respite. It felt as though he was being driven to his death.
However, since he had already become a disciple, it was inappropriate to voice such complaints. What irked him even more was that Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but also cheerfully encouraged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“You two can take turns, but I’m stuck in an endless cycle. Is there no mercy?” Mei Qing felt like crying, but no tears came.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had been laid out at some point. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat down on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden daze. He watched as his body, as if in a dream, walked over to the other cushion, sat down cross-legged, closed his eyes, and began to breathe deeply, his mind calm and focused, as if he had fallen asleep.
“Asleep? Then what is this…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a state of sleepwalking. He could see himself sitting on the cushion, meditating and regulating his breath, while simultaneously feeling as though he was standing to the side, watching himself, much like one might see themselves sleeping in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was shocked. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling faintly beside him. “How is it? Are you surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, realizing the inappropriateness of his words. “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and suddenly the room around them began to fade, along with their seated forms. When Mei Qing focused his gaze again, he found himself standing in a vast, misty expanse. They were suspended in mid-air. Above them, the stars and moon hung high, the wind blew freely, and the sky was clear and cloudless. Below, the shimmering waves of an endless sea stretched out in all directions.
Mei Qing looked carefully and noticed a faint dark line to the south, which seemed familiar—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea where they had once traveled.
Master Ku’s robes fluttered in the breeze as he walked leisurely across the dark sea, as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly and said, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, it’s only natural that you first understand the divine abilities of our sect. As I’ve mentioned before, the Huayan School is renowned for its Four Dharmadhatus, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the most fundamental of all is the path of our school.”
“The divine abilities are the branches and leaves, but without the path, they are merely empty promises. The path of our school’s cultivation lies in the four words: ‘Dharmadhatu Dependent Arising.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, like the ringing of gold and jade, resonated in Mei Qing’s ears, as refreshing as sweet wine.
Master Ku continued to expound on these teachings throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set in the west, the first light of dawn began to break in the east. Master Ku laughed and said, “The moon gives way to the sun. It’s all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing was startled. Suddenly, his soul returned to his body, and he quietly awoke. He found himself still sitting cross-legged in Master Ku’s room, the surroundings unchanged. A ray of morning sunlight streamed into the room, illuminating Master Ku’s face, which was as smooth and radiant as jade.
As if sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled. “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally bright and gentle. At the same time, he felt the true energy within his body flowing naturally. Even though he was indoors, he could distinctly sense the warmth of the rising sun, like a gentle stream flowing from the top of his head, permeating his entire body. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the moonlight beside it. The sun and moon intertwined, refining each other, and pure true energy, like golden-purple liquid, dripped down, bathing the golden core in a radiant halo.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Seeing Mei Qing’s state of cultivation, he nodded silently. He stood up quietly and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing softly behind him. Looking at the courtyard bathed in the morning glow, he gazed up at the clear sky, the cool breeze brushing past him, and a bright smile spread across his face.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining the sun and moon, nurturing his golden core, and then awoke. Feeling the vigorous energy within him, far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation, by nature, requires the harmonious balance of both the Dao and its techniques. Mei Qing, who had previously lacked a master or a school, had been limited in his progress. No matter how much he refined and cultivated, his advancement had always felt slow. But now, with the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, he had touched upon a profound insight, and his progress felt like a thousand miles in a single day.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him. During the day, Zhang Shisan meticulously explained talismans, while at night, Master Ku guided him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed it all with great enthusiasm, and all three found joy in the process.
However, it seemed as though the two masters had agreed not to ask Mei Qing about his previous cultivation methods or to offer any guidance on them. Zhang Shisan, aside from having Mei Qing draw the Five Elements Talismans daily, taught him various talisman knowledge and shared his own experiences. Master Ku, on the other hand, always took Mei Qing into dreams to experience different divine abilities and explore the path of their school.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the “Six Characteristics” of the Huayan School, but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how shallow his previous understanding had been. Not to mention the Four Dharmadhatus and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were vastly different from what he had imagined.
Previously, Mei Qing had thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external appearances, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. But under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized how narrow his view had been, and how he had underestimated these divine abilities.
The Six Characteristics refer to the Total Characteristic, the Distinct Characteristic, the Same Characteristic, the Different Characteristic, the Living Characteristic, and the Decaying Characteristic. When these are fully realized and harmonized, they naturally interpenetrate without obstruction. When cultivated to a high level, they can silently captivate the mind, communicate with spirits, and unleash boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine abilities was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to do anything; instead, he simply demonstrated the abilities for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was quite mystical, but when Mei Qing was in the dream state, he found that his senses became extraordinarily sharp. Many things that were impossible to see or hear, or even to describe in words, became clear and vivid in the dream.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude for this. In the Huayan School, the most crucial quality in a disciple was their ability to comprehend. If a disciple had the right aptitude, they would understand everything at a glance. But if they lacked talent, even a hundred years of hard work would yield no progress.
Mei Qing’s natural talent was exceptional, and he had a rare gift for navigating the boundary between dreams and reality. Even those with good aptitude usually needed some time to adapt to the interplay between dreams and reality. But Mei Qing not only entered the dream state with ease on his first attempt but also managed to trigger insights and cultivate his path upon waking. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of some enlightened being.
Thus, while Master Ku devoted himself wholeheartedly to teaching Mei Qing, he couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to take Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan School, it wouldn’t have been impossible for him to attain the fruit of an Arhat, or even to achieve enlightenment and become a Buddha.
But alas, there was no cure for regret, and Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictable nature of karmic connections.
Mei Qing, however, was completely unaware of these thoughts. In his heart, although he recognized the depth and profundity of the Huayan School’s teachings, he still found himself more drawn to talismans.
This was hardly surprising. Mei Qing had initially entered the path of cultivation through Daoist foundations. Later, influenced by his relationship with Bi Zhen, he had studied a great deal of Daoist scriptures, cultivated the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Mysterious Thunder Method. Although he wasn’t formally a member of the Daoist tradition, his heart had long been aligned with it. The Mysterious Thunder Method he was now cultivating was a purely Daoist technique, so his preference for talismans was only natural.
Moreover, talismans were simply more interesting than the divine abilities of the Huayan School. Although he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations of different talisman forms and the experiments with dual Five Elements calculations were endlessly fascinating, and he found himself delving deeper and deeper into them, never tiring of the pursuit.
Mei Qing had completely lost track of time, constantly shuttling between the two traditions. It wasn’t until one day when Master Ku not only stopped teaching him but also prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he suddenly realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. What’s seven days?” Zhang Shisan was clearly unhappy with Master Ku’s interruption and grumbled loudly.
“For you and me, it’s nothing. But Mei Qing has just entered this path and needs time to adjust. Although he can rest and meditate during his nocturnal journeys, his mental energy is bound to be taxed. Besides, the principle of alternating tension and relaxation applies here. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku said calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded repeatedly. As a seasoned cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning perfectly. It was just that, on one hand, he was so excited to have found such a talented disciple that he wanted to pour all his knowledge into Mei Qing at once. On the other hand, Mei Qing’s performance was so exceptional, so unlike the usual struggles of a beginner, that he had completely overlooked the need for balance.
“Instead of staying cooped up in this room, why don’t we go out and stretch our legs?” Zhang Shisan stretched lazily and said, “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head vigorously. “I’ve been sitting here so long I’m starting to rust. Now that you mention it, I remember that the last time I met with Master, I was thinking of investigating that Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned slightly. “That temple doesn’t seem quite right. There’s something sinister about it, and it seems to be entangled with something… But since you’ve suggested it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll dig out whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, shook his head. “I don’t think that’s a good idea. If there’s some entanglement, it’s likely to involve karmic connections. It’s best for Mei Qing not to get involved.”
“Karmic connections?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Are you suggesting that Mei Qing should avoid karmic connections altogether?”
Mei Qing had previously touched upon the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics” doctrine. Yet only after formally joining the sect did he realize how superficial his earlier understanding had been. Beyond the Four Realms and Ten Mysteries, even the Six Characteristics were entirely different from what he had imagined.
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent the entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan, leaving him utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had snatched him away for cultivation without a moment’s rest. How could he survive this relentless pace?
Having already pledged himself as a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully encouraged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn.
“Are you two taking shifts while I’m left to work non-stop? This is unbearable!” Mei Qing felt like crying but had no tears left.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation. He watched as his body walked to the other cushion, sat down cross-legged, closed his eyes, and began to breathe deeply, as if falling asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion while simultaneously observing himself from the side, as if watching his own sleeping form in a dream.
“What is this?” Mei Qing was startled. He looked up to see Master Ku smiling gently beside him. “Surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is happening?”
Master Ku smiled, and the room around them began to fade, their seated forms gradually dissolving. When Mei Qing focused again, they were standing in mid-air. Above them, the stars and moon shone brightly in a cloudless sky. Below, the vast ocean stretched endlessly, its surface shimmering with light.
Mei Qing noticed a faint shadow to the south—the familiar shape of Yunxiang Island. They had suddenly appeared above the ocean where they had once traveled.
Master Ku, his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea. “Mei Qing, since you’ve joined my sect, you must first understand our divine abilities. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharmadhatus, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the foundation lies in our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected. Without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are like drawing a cake to satisfy hunger. Our cultivation path is rooted in the principle of ‘Dependent Origination of the Dharmadhatu.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted his robe and sat down mid-air. His voice, resonant and clear, flowed into Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
They talked through the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku chuckled, “The moon gives way to the sun. It’s all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, finding himself still seated in Master Ku’s room. The morning sun streamed in, illuminating Master Ku’s serene face.
“Have you understood?” Master Ku asked, opening his eyes with a gentle smile.
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, seemed especially radiant. At the same time, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Though indoors, he could distinctly feel the warmth of the rising sun, like a gentle stream entering his body from above. The golden energy within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the surrounding moonlight. The sun and moon energies intertwined, refining his essence into pure, golden-purple liquid that dripped onto his golden core.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, nodded in approval. He stood up silently and appeared outside the room, the door closing softly behind him. He gazed at the morning glow in the courtyard, the clear sky, and the refreshing breeze, a bright smile spreading across his face.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining his essence, nurturing his golden core. He awoke, feeling more vigorous than ever, delighted by his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the harmony of both the Dao and its techniques. Mei Qing, previously without a master, had been limited in his progress. But under the guidance of Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his cultivation had advanced by leaps and bounds.
For the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, explaining talismans, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed it all eagerly, and all three found joy in the process.
However, neither master asked about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or offered guidance on them. Zhang Shisan focused on teaching Mei Qing to draw the Five Elements Talismans and shared his knowledge and experiences. Master Ku, in dreams, led Mei Qing to experience various divine abilities and understand the intricacies of the Dharma Path.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally joining the sect did he realize how shallow his understanding had been. The “Six Characteristics” were far more profound than he had imagined.
The Six Characteristics—Total, Particular, Same, Different, Arising, and Ceasing—are interdependent and mutually supportive. When fully realized, they harmonize seamlessly. At higher levels of cultivation, they can silently influence minds, communicate with spirits, and manifest boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s teaching style was vastly different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform the divine abilities but simply demonstrated them. In dreams, Mei Qing’s senses became extraordinarily acute, allowing him to perceive things that were otherwise impossible to see, hear, or describe.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. The Huayan Sect valued insight above all else. A talented disciple could grasp concepts instantly, while a less gifted one might struggle for a lifetime without understanding.
Mei Qing’s exceptional talent made Master Ku wonder if he might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha. While he was fully committed to teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing to share him with Zhang Shisan as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s potential, he might have achieved enlightenment or even Buddhahood within the Huayan Sect.
But there was no turning back. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictability of fate.
Mei Qing, however, remained unaware of these thoughts. While he admired the depth and mystery of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he found himself more drawn to talismans.
This was natural, as Mei Qing’s foundation was in Daoist practices. His relationship with Bi Zhen and his study of Daoist classics had deeply influenced him. Even though he wasn’t formally a Daoist, his heart leaned towards Daoism. His current cultivation of the Divine Thunder Method was purely Daoist, and his preference for talismans was instinctive.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than Huayan’s divine abilities. Although he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and calculations fascinated him, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time, shuttling between the two sects. It wasn’t until Master Ku stopped teaching and prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“Seven days is nothing in the pursuit of the Dao,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased by the interruption.
“For us, perhaps, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Even though he can rest during dream cultivation, his spirit still tires. Balance is essential. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan nodded, understanding the wisdom in Master Ku’s words. As a seasoned cultivator, he knew the importance of balance. But in his eagerness to impart his knowledge to Mei Qing and impressed by his rapid progress, he had overlooked this.
“Instead of staying cooped up, let’s go out and explore,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’ve rusted from staying inside. I remember wanting to investigate the Fishbone Temple the last time we met. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some dark energy and possible entanglements… But if you want to go, let’s check it out. We’ll uncover whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “This matter seems unwise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best for Mei Qing to avoid them.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Are you suggesting Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
The Six Characteristics included Total Characteristic, Specific Characteristic, Common Characteristic, Different Characteristic, Integral Characteristic, and Disintegrating Characteristic, each pair complementing the other. When fully realized simultaneously, they naturally merged seamlessly. At the highest level, without sound or movement, they could captivate minds, connect with spirits and ghosts, offering boundless magical abilities.
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, inwardly lamenting his exhaustion after a full day of drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation without a moment’s rest, leaving him utterly drained.
Having already pledged himself as a disciple, Mei Qing couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully urged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn.
“You two can take turns, but I’m being worked to the bone! How am I supposed to survive this?” Mei Qing thought, on the verge of tears.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had been laid out. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation, as if he were sleepwalking. He saw himself calmly walk to the other cushion, sit cross-legged, close his eyes, and enter a deep, meditative state, as if asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?” Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state, observing himself meditating while simultaneously feeling detached, as if watching himself sleep in a dream.
“Why is this happening?” Mei Qing exclaimed in shock. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling gently. “Surprised, aren’t you?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you sleepwalking too?” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what’s going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and the room around them began to fade, their seated forms dissolving into nothingness. When Mei Qing focused again, they were standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon shone brightly in a cloudless sky; below, endless waves shimmered.
Mei Qing recognized a faint shadow in the south—the familiar shape of Yunxiang Island. They had instantly appeared above the vast sea where they had once traveled.
Master Ku, robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea, saying softly, “Since you’ve entered my school, Mei Qing, you must first understand our sect’s divine abilities. As I mentioned before, the Huayan School is renowned for its Four Dharmadhatus, Six Characteristics, and Ten Profound Gates. But the foundation lies in our sect’s path of cultivation.”
“The path and the abilities are intertwined; without the path, the abilities are mere illusions. Our sect’s cultivation path is encapsulated in the phrase ‘Dharmadhatu Dependent Arising.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, flowed into Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
They talked through the night, until the moon set and the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku chuckled, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, finding himself still seated in Master Ku’s room. The morning sun streamed in, illuminating Master Ku’s serene face.
“Have you understood?” Master Ku asked, opening his eyes and smiling.
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, seemed especially warm and radiant. At the same time, he felt his internal energy flow naturally, sensing the sun’s essence like a warm stream entering his body. His inner energy surged, resonating with the sun and moon, their pure essence condensing into a golden elixir within him.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden energy surge, nodded in approval. He rose silently and stepped outside, closing the door behind him. Gazing at the morning glow and the clear sky, he smiled brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining his energy, nurturing his golden elixir. He awoke, feeling more vigorous than ever, delighted by his rapid progress.
Cultivation, Mei Qing realized, required both method and technique. Previously, without proper guidance, his progress had slowed despite his efforts. But under the tutelage of Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his understanding deepened, and his progress accelerated.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, focusing on talismans, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found joy in the process.
However, neither Zhang Shisan nor Master Ku asked about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or offered unsolicited advice. Zhang Shisan had Mei Qing practice the Five Elements Talismans daily, while Master Ku led him through various divine abilities in dreams.
Mei Qing had previously studied the Huayan School’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his earlier understanding had been. The “Six Characteristics” were far more profound than he had imagined.
The Six Characteristics—Total, Particular, Same, Different, Formation, and Destruction—were interconnected and mutually supportive. When fully realized, they allowed for seamless integration and boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s teaching style differed from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained things directly but instead demonstrated the abilities for Mei Qing to observe. In dreams, Mei Qing’s senses became extraordinarily acute, allowing him to perceive things that were otherwise impossible to see or hear.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. The Huayan School valued insight above all else. A talented disciple could grasp concepts instantly, while a less gifted one might struggle for a lifetime without understanding.
Mei Qing’s natural talent was exceptional. He adapted to the dream state effortlessly, even triggering breakthroughs upon waking. Master Ku couldn’t help but wonder if Mei Qing was the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
As he devoted himself to teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku felt a pang of regret for agreeing to share him with Zhang Shisan as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, he could have achieved enlightenment, perhaps even Buddhahood, had he fully entered the Huayan School.
But there was no turning back. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictability of fate.
Mei Qing, however, remained unaware of these thoughts. While he admired the depth and intricacy of the Huayan School’s teachings, he found himself more drawn to talismans.
This was unsurprising, as Mei Qing’s foundation lay in Taoism. His relationship with Bi Zhen and his studies of Taoist classics had deepened his affinity for Taoist practices. Even though he wasn’t formally a Taoist, his heart leaned naturally toward Taoism.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than Huayan’s divine abilities. Although he focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and transformations fascinated him, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time, shuttling between the two schools of thought. It wasn’t until Master Ku halted his teachings and stopped Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized seven days had passed.
“Seven days is nothing in the realm of cultivation,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased by the interruption.
“For us, perhaps, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Even though he rests during dream cultivation, his mind still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion is counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan nodded, realizing the truth in Master Ku’s words. As a seasoned cultivator, he understood the importance of balance. But his eagerness to impart his knowledge to Mei Qing, coupled with Mei Qing’s exceptional progress, had blinded him to this.
“Instead of staying cooped up, let’s go out and explore,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’ve rusted from staying still. I remember wanting to investigate the Fishbone Temple the last time we met. Since we have nothing else to do, why don’t we go there?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems off, with a sinister aura and some unknown connections… But if you want to go, let’s see what secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “This doesn’t seem wise. If there are connections, there may be karmic entanglements. It’s best for Mei Qing to avoid them.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan scoffed. “Do you want Mei Qing to be bound by karma too?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent the entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan, utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for cultivation, leaving him no moment of respite. It felt as though he was being worked to death.
However, since he had already become a disciple, it was inappropriate to voice such complaints. What was even more frustrating was that Zhang Shisan not only didn’t stop Master Ku but also cheerfully encouraged Mei Qing to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Both of you can take turns, but I’m stuck in an endless cycle. How am I supposed to survive this?” Mei Qing thought, on the verge of tears.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had been laid out at some point. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat down on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden daze. He saw himself walking lightly to the other cushion, sitting cross-legged, closing his eyes, and breathing deeply, as if he had fallen asleep.
“Asleep? Then what is this…”
Mei Qing realized he was in a state akin to sleepwalking. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath and entering a state of deep calm. At the same time, he felt as though he was standing aside, watching himself, much like how one might see themselves sleeping in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling faintly beside him. “How is it? Are you surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Realizing his words might be inappropriate, Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled slightly. Suddenly, the surroundings of the guest room began to fade, and the images of the two sitting cross-legged gradually dissolved into nothingness. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in a vast, misty expanse. They were suspended in mid-air. Above them, the stars and moon hung high, with a cool breeze blowing and not a cloud in sight. Looking down, he saw endless rippling waves beneath their feet.
Mei Qing carefully observed and noticed a faint dark line in the south, which seemed familiar—it was Yunxiang Island. He then realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea they had once traveled.
Master Ku’s robes fluttered gracefully as he strolled leisurely across the dark sea, chuckling softly. “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my sect, it’s only natural that you first understand the divine abilities of our school. As I’ve mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Profound Mysteries. However, the most fundamental aspect is the path of our sect.”
“The divine abilities are the branches, while the path is the root. Without following the path, the divine abilities are but empty illusions. As for the path of our sect, it lies in the four words: Dharma Realm Dependent Origination.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
This discourse continued throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set in the west, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed softly, “The moon gives way to the sun. All is but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing was startled. Suddenly, his soul returned to his body, and he quietly awoke. He found himself still sitting cross-legged in Master Ku’s room, with the surroundings unchanged. A ray of morning sunlight streamed into the room, illuminating Master Ku’s face, which was as smooth as jade.
As if sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, appeared exceptionally bright and gentle. At the same time, the true energy within his body began to flow naturally. Although he was still indoors, he could distinctly feel the radiance of the rising sun, like a warm stream entering from the top of his head and flowing through his body. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura surged, causing the moonlight beside it to shine brightly. The sun and moon revolved and refined each other, and pure true energy, like golden-purple liquid, dripped down, gently bathing the golden elixir within the luminous halo.
Seeing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, Master Ku was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s state of cultivation, he nodded in approval. He slowly stood up and silently appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the courtyard filled with morning light, he gazed at the clear sky, feeling the refreshing autumn breeze, and couldn’t help but smile brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had undergone nine cycles of refinement by the sun and moon, nurturing and solidifying his golden elixir, and then awoke. Feeling the vigorous energy within his body, far surpassing his previous state, he knew his progress had been rapid and couldn’t help but feel overjoyed.
Cultivation has always required the mutual support of both the Dao and its techniques; neither can be neglected. Mei Qing, having previously lacked a master or a sect, found his progress in Dao techniques severely limited. Thus, after reaching a certain level, no matter how much he refined and cultivated, his progress always seemed to slow down. However, after receiving dedicated guidance from both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual insight was suddenly awakened, and he felt as though he had advanced a thousand miles in a single day.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan explained talismans during the day, while Master Ku imparted divine abilities in dreams at night. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, as if by mutual agreement, neither of them asked Mei Qing about his previous cultivation methods or offered any guidance on them. Apart from having Mei Qing draw the Five Elements Talismans daily, Zhang Shisan also explained various aspects of talismans and shared his own experiences. Master Ku, on the other hand, always took Mei Qing into dreams, allowing him to experience various divine abilities and deeply understand the sect’s path.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how shallow his previous understanding had been. Not to mention the Four Realms and Ten Profound Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were vastly different from what he had imagined.
Previously, Mei Qing had thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external expressions, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. After receiving Master Ku’s careful instruction, he realized he had been like a frog at the bottom of a well, vastly underestimating these divine abilities.
The Six Characteristics refer to the Total Characteristic, the Distinct Characteristic, the Same Characteristic, the Different Characteristic, the Rising Characteristic, and the Decaying Characteristic, each complementing and completing the others. When all are simultaneously present, they naturally integrate without obstruction. When cultivated to a high level, they can captivate the mind, communicate with spirits, and manifest boundless divine abilities without a single word or movement.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine abilities was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform them but instead demonstrated each ability for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was quite mystical. When Mei Qing was in the dream state, he found his five senses and six consciousnesses becoming exceptionally sharp. Many things that should have been impossible to see or hear, or that were beyond description, became clear and comprehensible in the dream.
Master Ku was particularly satisfied with Mei Qing’s aptitude in this regard. In the Huayan Sect, the most crucial aspect of selecting disciples was their innate understanding. If a disciple was gifted, they would grasp everything at a glance; if they lacked talent, even a hundred years of relentless cultivation would yield no progress.
Mei Qing’s natural talent was exceptional, and he had a remarkable aptitude for navigating the boundary between reality and dreams. Even for those with excellent innate abilities, adapting to the interplay between dreams and reality usually took some time. However, Mei Qing not only entered the dream state effortlessly on his first attempt but also managed to trigger insights and deepen his cultivation upon awakening. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of some enlightened being.
Thus, while wholeheartedly teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to accept Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, not only could he have achieved the state of an Arhat, but even enlightenment and Buddhahood might have been within his reach.
Unfortunately, there was no remedy for regret. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictability of karmic connections.
Mei Qing, however, was completely unaware of these thoughts. In his heart, although he recognized the profundity and mystery of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he still found himself more drawn to talismans.
This was not surprising. Mei Qing’s initial foundation had been in Daoism. Later, influenced by Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, cultivated the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Divine Thunder Secret Methods. Although he was not formally a Daoist, his heart had long been aligned with Daoist principles. The Divine Thunder Method he was now cultivating was purely Daoist, so his preference for talismans was only natural.
Moreover, talismans were simply more interesting than Huayan’s divine abilities. Although he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations of different talisman forms and the experiments with dual Five Elements calculations were endlessly fascinating, drawing him deeper and deeper into their study.
Mei Qing completely lost track of time, shuttling between the two Daoist paths. It wasn’t until one day when Master Ku not only stopped teaching him but also prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he suddenly realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. What’s seven days?” Zhang Shisan was displeased with Master Ku’s interruption and grumbled loudly.
“For you and me, it’s nothing. But Mei Qing has just entered this path and needs time to adapt. Although he can rest and meditate during his nightly spiritual journeys, his mental energy is inevitably strained. Besides, the principle of alternating tension and relaxation applies here. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku said calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded repeatedly. As a seasoned cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning perfectly. However, having just acquired an exceptional disciple, he was eager to impart all his knowledge to Mei Qing. Moreover, Mei Qing’s performance was so outstanding, unlike the usual struggles of a beginner, that Zhang Shisan had overlooked the need for moderation.
“Instead of staying cooped up in the room, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan said, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head vigorously. “Indeed, I’ve been sitting so long I’m starting to rust. Now that you mention it, I recall that the last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together, master?”
Zhang Shisan frowned slightly. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister energy and perhaps some entanglements… But since you suggest it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll dig out whatever treasures or secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, interjected, “I don’t think that’s wise. Since there are entanglements, there’s bound to be karmic involvement. It’s better for Mei Qing not to get involved.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you think Mei Qing should also be entangled in karma?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent the entire day drawing talismans under Zhang Shisan’s guidance, leaving him utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation, leaving him no moment of respite. It felt as though he was being driven to the brink of collapse.
However, having already pledged himself as a disciple, it was inappropriate to voice such complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but also cheerfully encouraged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“You two can take turns, but I’m being worked to the bone! Is there no end to this?” Mei Qing thought, on the verge of tears.
Inside Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had been placed at some point. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat down on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation. He watched as his own body walked to the other cushion, sat down cross-legged, closed its eyes, and began to breathe deeply, as if falling asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a state akin to sleepwalking. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a state of deep calm. At the same time, he felt as though he was standing aside, watching himself, much like one might see themselves sleeping in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling faintly beside him. “Surprised, aren’t you?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you sleepwalking too?” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, realizing the inappropriateness of his words. “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled. Suddenly, the room around them began to fade, and their seated forms gradually dissolved into nothingness. When Mei Qing looked again, they were standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above them, the stars and moon hung high, with a cool breeze blowing and not a cloud in sight. Below, the shimmering waves of the sea stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing carefully observed their surroundings and noticed a faint dark line to the south, which he recognized as Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea they had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my sect, it’s only natural that you first understand our sect’s divine abilities. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the most fundamental of all is our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are but empty promises. As for the path of our sect’s cultivation, it lies in the four words: Dharma Realm Dependent Origination.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, seemingly suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
Master Ku continued his teachings throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set in the west, the eastern sky began to lighten. Master Ku laughed softly, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing was startled. Suddenly, his soul returned to his body, and he quietly awoke. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, with the morning sun casting its light through the window, illuminating Master Ku’s serene face.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, appeared exceptionally bright and gentle. At the same time, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Although he was still indoors, he could distinctly feel the warmth of the rising sun, like a gentle stream flowing from the top of his head down through his body. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, causing the moonlight beside it to shine brightly. The sun and moon intertwined, and pure energy, like golden-purple liquid, dripped down, bathing his golden core in a radiant glow.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s state of cultivation, he nodded in approval. He stood up silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the morning glow filling the courtyard and the clear, crisp sky, he couldn’t help but smile brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had undergone nine cycles of sun and moon refinement, solidifying and nurturing his golden core. When he awoke, he felt a surge of vitality within him, far surpassing his previous state. Realizing his rapid progress, he was overjoyed.
Cultivation, by nature, requires the harmonious integration of both Daoist principles and techniques, neither of which can be neglected. Previously, without a master or sect, Mei Qing’s progress in Daoist techniques had been limited. No matter how much he refined his skills, his progress had slowed. But now, under the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual insight had been awakened, and he felt as though he was advancing by leaps and bounds.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him. During the day, Zhang Shisan meticulously explained talismans, while at night, Master Ku guided him through divine abilities in his dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, it seemed as though the two masters had agreed not to inquire about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or offer any guidance on them. Zhang Shisan, aside from having Mei Qing draw the Five Elements Talismans daily, shared his knowledge and experiences with talismans. Master Ku, on the other hand, led Mei Qing through various divine abilities in his dreams, allowing him to deeply understand the sect’s methods.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics” method, but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Not to mention the Four Realms and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were vastly different from what he had imagined.
He had once thought that the Six Characteristics referred to six different external appearances, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. But under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized how narrow his perspective had been, and how he had underestimated these divine abilities.
The Six Characteristics refer to the General Characteristic, Specific Characteristic, Similar Characteristic, Different Characteristic, Common Characteristic, and Decaying Characteristic, each complementing and completing the others. When all are fully realized, they naturally integrate without obstruction. At higher levels of cultivation, one can subtly influence others’ minds, communicate with spirits, and wield boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine abilities was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform them but instead demonstrated each ability for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was quite mystical. When Mei Qing was in his dreams, his senses became extraordinarily acute. Many things that were impossible to see, hear, or describe in words became clear and comprehensible in his dreams.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. In the Huayan Sect, the most crucial aspect of selecting disciples was their innate understanding. If a disciple had the right aptitude, they would grasp things immediately; if not, no amount of explanation would help, even after a hundred years of arduous cultivation.
Mei Qing’s natural talent was exceptional, and he had a remarkable ability to navigate the boundary between dreams and reality. Even for those with good aptitude, adapting to the interplay between dreams and reality usually took some time. But Mei Qing not only entered his dreams effortlessly on his first attempt but also managed to awaken his spiritual insight and deepen his cultivation upon waking. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
As a result, while Master Ku devoted himself wholeheartedly to teaching Mei Qing, he couldn’t help but regret agreeing to share Mei Qing as a disciple with Zhang Shisan, especially as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, it wouldn’t have been impossible for him to achieve the status of an Arhat or even attain enlightenment.
But there was no use dwelling on regrets. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictability of fate.
Mei Qing, however, was completely unaware of these thoughts. In his heart, while he recognized the depth and profundity of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he still found himself more drawn to talismans.
This wasn’t surprising. Mei Qing had initially entered the Daoist path through foundational practices. Later, influenced by his relationship with Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, cultivated the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Shenxiao Secret Methods. Although he wasn’t formally a member of the Daoist tradition, he had long identified with its principles. The Shenxiao Thunder Method he was now practicing was a purely Daoist technique, and his preference for talismans came naturally.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than Huayan’s divine abilities. Although he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations of different talisman forms and the calculations involved in dual-element talismans offered endless variations and intellectual stimulation, making him increasingly engrossed and delighted.
Mei Qing lost track of time, constantly moving between the two Daoist traditions. It wasn’t until one day when Master Ku not only stopped teaching but also prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased with Master Ku’s interruption.
“For us, it might be nothing, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Although he can rest and meditate during his nightly spiritual journeys, his mental energy is bound to tire. Besides, the principle of balance applies. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded in agreement. As an experienced cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning. However, having just acquired an exceptional disciple, he was eager to impart all his knowledge to Mei Qing. Moreover, Mei Qing’s performance was so outstanding, showing none of the usual struggles of a beginner, that Zhang Shisan had overlooked the need for moderation.
“Being cooped up in this room isn’t doing us any good. Let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head vigorously. “I feel like I’m getting rusty. Now that you mention it, I remember wanting to investigate the Fishbone Temple the last time we met. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned slightly. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister aura and possibly some entanglements… But since you suggested it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll dig out whatever treasures or secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, interjected, “I don’t think that’s a good idea. If there are entanglements, there’s bound to be karmic consequences. Mei Qing, it’s best not to get involved.”
“Karmic consequences?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Are you suggesting that Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, inwardly lamenting his exhaustion. Having spent the entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan, he was utterly drained. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation without a moment’s respite, leaving him feeling as though he might collapse from sheer fatigue.
Yet, having already pledged himself as a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully encouraged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Between the two of you, I’m being worked to the bone. Is there no end to this?” Mei Qing thought, on the verge of tears.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation. He watched as his own body moved to the other cushion, sat cross-legged, closed its eyes, and began to breathe deeply, as if falling into a deep sleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a state of deep tranquility. Simultaneously, he felt as though he was observing himself from the side, as if one could watch oneself sleep in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. He looked up to see Master Ku smiling gently beside him. “Surprised, are you?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and the room around them began to fade, their seated forms gradually dissolving into nothingness. When Mei Qing looked again, they were standing in a vast, misty expanse, suspended in mid-air. Above them, the stars and moon shone brightly in a cloudless sky, while below, the shimmering waves of the boundless sea stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing noticed a faint shadow to the south, familiar yet distant—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea he had once traveled.
Master Ku, his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea, his voice light and amused. “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, it’s essential you understand our sect’s divine arts. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharmadhatus, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the foundation of our practice lies in the Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine arts are intertwined; without the Dharma Path, divine arts are but empty promises. The essence of our practice is encapsulated in the phrase ‘Dharma Realm Dependent Arising.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted his robe and sat down, seemingly suspended in mid-air. His voice, resonant and clear, flowed into Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
They conversed through the night, until the stars shifted, the moon set, and the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku chuckled, “The moon gives way to the sun. It’s all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, his spirit returning to his body. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, the morning sun casting its light through the window, illuminating Master Ku’s serene face.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled. “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally warm and radiant. Simultaneously, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly feel the first rays of the sun, like a warm stream, entering his body from the crown of his head. Within him, a golden sun resonated, its purple energy rising, while the moonlight within him also brightened. The sun and moon energies intertwined, refining his essence into pure, golden-purple liquid that dripped onto his golden core, enveloped in a luminous haze.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded approvingly. He rose silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing softly behind him. Gazing at the morning glow in the courtyard, he looked up at the clear sky, the crisp autumn breeze brushing past him, and a bright smile spread across his face.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining the sun and moon energies, nurturing his golden core, and then awoke. Feeling a surge of vitality within him, far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation, by nature, requires the harmonious balance of Daoist principles and techniques. Mei Qing, having previously lacked a master, had been limited in his progress. Despite his efforts, his advancement had slowed. But now, under the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual insight had been awakened, and his progress had accelerated exponentially.
Over the following days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns instructing him—Zhang Shisan during the day, delving into the intricacies of talismans, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine arts in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
Yet, as if by mutual agreement, neither master inquired about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods nor offered guidance on them. Zhang Shisan focused on teaching Mei Qing the art of drawing the Five Elements Talismans, sharing his knowledge and experiences. Master Ku, in their dream sessions, led Mei Qing through various divine arts, helping him understand the subtleties of their practice.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Beyond the Four Dharmadhatus and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were far more profound than he had imagined.
He had once thought the Six Characteristics referred to six distinct external manifestations—joy, anger, sorrow, and the like. Under Master Ku’s careful instruction, he realized how narrow his view had been, underestimating the depth of these divine arts.
The Six Characteristics—Total, Distinct, Same, Different, Arising, and Ceasing—are interdependent and mutually supportive. When fully realized, they harmonize seamlessly. At higher levels of cultivation, they can influence minds, communicate with spirits, and manifest boundless divine powers.
Master Ku’s teaching style differed greatly from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform the divine arts; instead, he demonstrated them for Mei Qing to observe. This method was remarkably effective, as in his dreams, Mei Qing’s senses became extraordinarily acute. He could perceive things that were otherwise impossible to see or hear, and grasp concepts that defied verbal explanation.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. In the Huayan Sect, the most crucial factor in selecting disciples was their innate understanding. A talented disciple could grasp concepts with ease, while a less gifted one might struggle for a lifetime without progress.
Mei Qing’s exceptional talent, especially his ability to navigate the boundary between dreams and reality, was rare. Most individuals, no matter how gifted, required time to adapt to the interplay of dreams and reality. Mei Qing, however, not only entered and exited dreams effortlessly but also used these experiences to deepen his cultivation. His talent was so remarkable that Master Ku wondered if he might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
As Master Ku devoted himself to teaching Mei Qing, he couldn’t help but regret agreeing to share him with Zhang Shisan as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s potential, if he had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, he might not only achieve the state of an Arhat but even attain Buddhahood.
But there was no turning back. Master Ku could only sigh at the whims of fate.
Mei Qing, however, remained oblivious to these thoughts. While he recognized the depth and profundity of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he found himself more drawn to the art of talismans.
This preference was natural, given his foundation in Daoist practices. His relationship with Bi Zhen had further deepened his connection to Daoism, leading him to study Daoist scriptures and cultivate the Golden Elixir Nineteen Techniques. Though not formally a Daoist, his heart had long been aligned with Daoist principles. His current practice of the Divine Thunder Method was purely Daoist, and his affinity for talismans was a natural extension of this.
Moreover, the art of talismans was far more engaging than the divine arts of the Huayan Sect. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and variations, the interplay of different talisman forms, and the calculations involved in dual-element talismans were endlessly fascinating, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time, oscillating between the two schools of thought. It wasn’t until Master Ku halted his own teachings and stopped Zhang Shisan from instructing him that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased with the interruption.
“For us, perhaps, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Though he can rest during his dream journeys, his spirit still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead in realization. As a seasoned cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning. However, in his eagerness to impart his knowledge to his new disciple and impressed by Mei Qing’s rapid progress, he had overlooked this.
“Instead of staying cooped up here, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you say, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’ve rusted from sitting too long. I just remembered—last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister aura and possibly some entanglements… But if you’re set on it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll uncover whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “I don’t think that’s wise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best if Mei Qing avoids getting involved.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan scoffed. “Do you think Mei Qing should be entangled in karma as well?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. Having spent the entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan, he was utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation without a moment’s respite. How could he survive this relentless pace?
Having already become a disciple, it was inconvenient to voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but also cheerfully urged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“You two can take turns, but I’m stuck in an endless cycle. How am I supposed to live like this?” Mei Qing felt like crying, but no tears came.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden daze. He saw himself walking to the other cushion, sitting cross-legged, closing his eyes, and breathing deeply, as if falling asleep.
“Am I asleep? Then what is this…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a state of deep calm. At the same time, he felt as though he was watching himself from the side, as if he could see his sleeping form in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. He looked up to see Master Ku smiling gently beside him. “Surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled. Suddenly, the room’s appearance began to fade, and the images of the two sitting on the cushions gradually dissolved. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon hung high, and a cool breeze blew. Below, endless waves shimmered.
Mei Qing carefully observed and noticed a faint shadow to the south, familiar to him—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea he had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea, as if strolling in a garden. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, you must first understand our sect’s divine abilities. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharmadhatus, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the most fundamental is our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected. Without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are like drawing a cake to satisfy hunger. Our sect’s cultivation path is encapsulated in the phrase ‘Dharmadhatu Dependent Arising.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
Master Ku continued teaching throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed, “The moon gives way to the sun. It’s all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, his soul returning to his body. He found himself still sitting in Master Ku’s room, the morning sunlight streaming in, illuminating Master Ku’s serene face.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally bright and gentle. Simultaneously, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly feel the warmth of the rising sun, like a gentle stream flowing from his head down through his body. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the moonlight beside it. The sun and moon intertwined, refining pure energy that dripped like golden-purple liquid onto his glowing golden core.
Seeing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, Master Ku was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded in approval. He stood up silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Gazing at the morning glow in the courtyard and the clear sky above, he smiled brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining the sun and moon, nurturing his golden core, and then woke up. Feeling a surge of vitality far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the harmony of both Daoist principles and techniques. Previously, Mei Qing, without a master or sect, had been limited in his cultivation, and his progress had slowed despite his efforts. Now, with the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, he had touched upon a profound inspiration, feeling as though he had advanced a thousand miles in a single day.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, explaining talismans in detail, and Master Ku at night, imparting divine abilities through dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, as if by mutual agreement, neither Zhang Shisan nor Master Ku asked about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or offered any guidance on them. Zhang Shisan focused on teaching Mei Qing the intricacies of talismans and sharing his own experiences, while Master Ku led Mei Qing through various divine abilities in dreams, helping him deeply understand the sect’s methods.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Beyond the Four Dharmadhatus and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were vastly different from what he had imagined.
He had once thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external expressions, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. Under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized he had been like a frog in a well, vastly underestimating these divine abilities.
The Six Characteristics refer to the Universal, the Particular, the Identical, the Different, the Producing, and the Perishing. When all are simultaneously present, they naturally interpenetrate without obstruction. At higher levels of cultivation, one can subtly influence minds, communicate with spirits, and wield boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s teaching style was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform the abilities but instead demonstrated them for Mei Qing. This approach was incredibly effective, as Mei Qing found his senses and awareness heightened in dreams, allowing him to perceive and understand things that were otherwise impossible to see, hear, or describe.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. In the Huayan Sect, the most crucial quality in a disciple is their ability to comprehend. With the right disciple, everything becomes clear at a glance; with a less gifted one, even a hundred years of exhaustive effort might yield no understanding.
Mei Qing’s exceptional talent, especially his natural affinity for navigating the boundary between dreams and reality, was rare. Most people, no matter how gifted, need time to adapt to the interplay of dreams and reality. Mei Qing, however, not only entered and exited dreams effortlessly but also triggered insights into cultivation methods. His talent made Master Ku wonder if he might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
Thus, while wholeheartedly teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to accept Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With such talent, if Mei Qing had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, he might not only achieve the state of an Arhat but could even attain Buddhahood.
Unfortunately, there was no turning back. Master Ku could only sigh at the whims of fate.
Mei Qing, however, was entirely unaware of these thoughts. In his heart, while he recognized the depth and profundity of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he still preferred talismans.
This preference was natural. Mei Qing had initially entered the path of cultivation through Daoist foundations. Later, influenced by his relationship with Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist texts, cultivated the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Divine Thunder Method. Though not formally a Daoist, he had long identified with Daoist principles. The Divine Thunder Method he practiced was purely Daoist, and his preference for talismans was a natural extension of this.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than the Huayan Sect’s divine abilities. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and experiments with different talisman forms and dual-element calculations were endlessly fascinating, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time, constantly moving between the two paths of cultivation. It wasn’t until Master Ku stopped teaching and also prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased at being interrupted.
“For us, it’s nothing, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Though he can rest and meditate during his nightly journeys, his spirit still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded in agreement. As an experienced cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s point. However, he had been so eager to impart his knowledge to his new disciple, and Mei Qing’s exceptional performance had made him overlook the need for moderation.
“Instead of staying cooped up here, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I feel like I’ve rusted from staying inside. I just remembered—last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister aura and possibly some entanglements… But since you suggested it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll uncover whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, interjected, “I don’t think that’s wise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best for Mei Qing to avoid getting involved.”
“Karmic consequences?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Are you suggesting Mei Qing should also be entangled in karma?”
As for Mei Qing himself, he had no such awareness. In his heart, although he acknowledged the Huayan Sect’s profound doctrines, he still favored talismans more.
This wasn’t surprising. Mei Qing had originally built his foundation in Daoism. Later, with Bi Zhen’s guidance, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, practiced the Nineteen Golden Elixir Methods, and translated the Shenshao Secret Techniques. Though not officially a Daoist disciple, he had long identified with Daoism. Now cultivating the Shenshao Thunder Method, an utterly pure Daoist technique, his preference for talismans was only natural.
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent an entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan, leaving him utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation, leaving him no respite. It felt as though he was being worked to death.
However, having already pledged himself as a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but even cheerfully urged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“You two can take turns, but I’m being worked to the bone. Is there no mercy?” Mei Qing thought, on the verge of tears.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had been laid out. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation. He saw himself walking to the other cushion, sitting cross-legged, closing his eyes, and entering a deep, meditative state, as if asleep.
“Asleep? Then what is this…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a state of tranquility. At the same time, he felt as though he was standing aside, watching himself, as if one could see themselves sleeping in a dream.
“What is this?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling faintly beside him. “How is it? Are you surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is happening?”
Master Ku smiled. Suddenly, the room around them began to fade, and their seated forms gradually dissolved into nothingness. When Mei Qing looked again, they were standing in a vast, misty expanse, suspended in mid-air. Above them, the stars and moon hung high, and a cool breeze blew across the cloudless sky. Below, the shimmering waves of the boundless sea stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing carefully observed and recognized a faint dark line to the south—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea they had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea, as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, you must first understand the divine powers of our sect. As I’ve mentioned before, the Huayan School is renowned for its Four Dharmadhatus, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the most fundamental is our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine powers are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine powers are but empty illusions. As for the path of our sect’s cultivation, it lies in the four words: Dharmadhatu Dependent Arising.”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, like the ringing of gold and jade, resonated in Mei Qing’s ears, as sweet as fine wine.
Master Ku continued his teachings throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed, “The moon gives way to the sun. It’s all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing was startled. Suddenly, his soul returned to his body, and he awoke quietly. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, the surroundings unchanged. A ray of morning sunlight streamed into the room, illuminating Master Ku’s face, which was as smooth as jade.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally bright and gentle. At the same time, the true energy within his body began to flow naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly feel the radiance of the rising sun, like a warm stream flowing from the crown of his head, permeating his entire body. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the moonlight beside it. The sun and moon intertwined, refining each other, and pure true energy, like golden-purple liquid, dripped down, bathing the golden elixir in a halo of light.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s state of cultivation, he nodded subtly. He rose silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the courtyard bathed in morning light, he gazed at the clear sky and the refreshing autumn breeze, a radiant smile spreading across his face.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had undergone nine cycles of refinement, condensing and nurturing his golden elixir. When he awoke, he felt a surge of vitality within him, far surpassing his previous state. Knowing that his progress had been swift, he was overjoyed.
Cultivation has always been a balance of Daoist principles and techniques, neither of which can be neglected. Mei Qing, having had no master or sect before, found his progress in Daoist techniques limited. No matter how much he refined his energy, his advancement always seemed to slow down. But now, with the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual insight was suddenly awakened, and he felt as though he was making leaps and bounds.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, explaining talismans in detail, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine powers in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, as if by mutual agreement, neither of them asked Mei Qing about his previous cultivation methods or offered any guidance on them. Zhang Shisan, aside from having Mei Qing draw the Five Elements Talismans daily, shared his knowledge and experiences about talismans. Master Ku, on the other hand, always took Mei Qing into dreams, allowing him to experience various divine powers and deeply understand the sect’s methods.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan School’s “Six Characteristics” method, but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Not to mention the Four Dharmadhatus and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were vastly different from what he had imagined.
He had once thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external expressions—joy, anger, sorrow, and so on. But under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized how narrow his view had been, underestimating the depth of these divine powers.
The Six Characteristics refer to the Total Characteristic, the Distinct Characteristic, the Same Characteristic, the Different Characteristic, the Pure Characteristic, and the Defiled Characteristic. When these are fully realized and harmonized, they become mutually inclusive and unobstructed. At higher levels of cultivation, one can subtly influence others, communicate with spirits, and wield boundless divine powers.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine powers was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to achieve them but simply demonstrated them for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was quite mystical. When Mei Qing was in the dream state, his senses became extraordinarily acute. Many things that were impossible to see or hear, or even describe in words, became clear and vivid in the dream.
What Master Ku found most satisfying about Mei Qing was his exceptional aptitude. In the Huayan School, the most crucial factor in selecting disciples was their innate understanding. If a disciple had the right aptitude, they would grasp things immediately; if not, no amount of explanation would help, even after a hundred years of cultivation.
Mei Qing’s talent was extraordinary, especially in navigating the boundary between dreams and reality. Even for those with excellent aptitude, adapting to the interplay between dreams and reality usually took some time. But Mei Qing not only entered the dream state effortlessly on his first attempt but also managed to awaken his spiritual insight and deepen his cultivation upon waking. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
Thus, while wholeheartedly teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to take Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s aptitude, if he had been ordained into the Huayan School, it wouldn’t have been impossible for him to attain the state of an Arhat or even achieve Buddhahood.
But there was no use regretting it now. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictability of fate.
Mei Qing, however, was completely unaware of this. In his heart, while he recognized the profundity and mystery of the Huayan School’s teachings, he still preferred talismans.
This was hardly surprising. Mei Qing’s foundation had been laid in Daoism. Later, influenced by Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, cultivated the Golden Elixir Nineteen Techniques, and translated the Shenxiao Secret Methods. Though not formally a Daoist, he had long identified with Daoist principles. The Shenxiao Thunder Method he was now practicing was purely Daoist, so his preference for talismans was natural.
Moreover, talismans were far more interesting than Huayan’s divine powers. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations of different talisman forms and the experiments with dual Five Elements calculations were endlessly fascinating, drawing him deeper and deeper into their study.
Mei Qing completely lost track of time, shuttling between the two Daoist practices. It wasn’t until one day, when Master Ku not only stopped teaching him but also prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing, that he suddenly realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased that Master Ku had interrupted him.
“For us, it’s nothing, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adjust. Though he can rest during his dream state, his spirit still tires. Besides, balance is key. Overexertion is counterproductive,” Master Ku said calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded in agreement. As a seasoned cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s point. But having just found such a talented disciple, he was eager to impart all his knowledge to Mei Qing. Moreover, Mei Qing’s exceptional performance made it easy to overlook the need for moderation.
“Staying cooped up in this room isn’t good. Let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan said, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I’ve been sitting so long I’ve grown rusty. Speaking of which, I remember last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing to do today, why don’t we go there, Master?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister aura and possible entanglements… But since you suggest it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll dig out whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “I don’t think that’s wise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best for Mei Qing not to get involved.”
“Karmic consequences?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you think Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent the entire day drawing talismans for Zhang Shisan and was utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation, leaving him no respite. It felt as though he was being worked to death.
However, having already become a disciple, it was inappropriate to voice such complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but even cheerfully encouraged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Both of you can take turns, but I’m being worked around the clock. Is there no end to this?” Mei Qing felt like crying but had no tears left.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation. He watched as his body walked to the other cushion, sat down cross-legged, closed its eyes, and began breathing deeply, as if falling asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a state akin to sleepwalking. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a state of deep calm. At the same time, he felt as though he was standing aside, watching himself, much like one might see themselves sleeping in a dream.
“What’s going on?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling faintly beside him. “Surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you sleepwalking too?” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what’s happening?”
Master Ku smiled, and the room around them began to fade, along with their seated forms. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon hung high, and a cool breeze blew across the cloudless sky. Below, the shimmering waves of the boundless sea stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing looked carefully and saw a faint shadow to the south, which he recognized as Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the vast sea where they had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, it’s time for you to understand our spiritual methods. As I’ve mentioned before, the Huayan School is renowned for its Four Dharmadhatus, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the most fundamental is our path of cultivation.”
“The path and the spiritual methods are interconnected. Without the path, the methods are like a painted cake—useless. The essence of our cultivation lies in the four words: ‘Dharmadhatu Dependent Arising.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
This discourse continued throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set in the west, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed, “The moon gives way to the sun. It’s all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, his spirit returning to his body. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, the morning sunlight streaming in and illuminating Master Ku’s serene face.
Noticing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally bright and gentle. At the same time, he felt his internal energy flowing naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly sense the warmth of the rising sun, like a gentle stream entering his body from above. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the moonlight within him. The sun and moon intertwined, refining his energy into pure, golden-purple liquid that dripped onto his golden core.
Master Ku, seeing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded in approval. He stood up silently and appeared outside the room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the morning glow in the courtyard and the clear sky above, he smiled brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining his energy, nurturing his golden core, and woke up. Feeling a surge of vitality far greater than before, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the harmony of both the Dao and its methods. Mei Qing, having no master before, had been limited in his progress. No matter how much he refined his energy, his advancement had slowed. But now, with the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, he had a breakthrough, feeling as though he had advanced a thousand miles in a single day.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, explaining talismans, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through spiritual methods in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed it all eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, both masters seemed to have agreed not to ask about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or offer unsolicited advice. Zhang Shisan focused on teaching Mei Qing the intricacies of talismans and his own experiences, while Master Ku guided Mei Qing through various spiritual methods in dreams, helping him understand the path of cultivation.
Mei Qing had previously studied the “Six Characteristics” of the Huayan School, but only after becoming a disciple did he realize how shallow his understanding had been. The “Six Characteristics” alone were far more profound than he had imagined.
He had thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external appearances, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. But under Master Ku’s guidance, he realized how narrow his view had been.
The Six Characteristics—Total, Particular, Identity, Difference, Integration, and Disintegration—are interconnected and mutually supportive. When fully realized, they harmonize seamlessly. At higher levels of cultivation, one can influence minds, communicate with spirits, and wield boundless power without uttering a word or moving a muscle.
Master Ku’s teaching style was vastly different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to do things but simply demonstrated the spiritual methods for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was mystical, but in his dreams, Mei Qing found his senses heightened, perceiving things that were otherwise impossible to see, hear, or describe.
What Master Ku appreciated most about Mei Qing was his exceptional aptitude. In the Huayan School, the most crucial quality in a disciple is their ability to comprehend. A talented disciple can grasp things instantly, while a less gifted one might struggle for a hundred years without understanding.
Mei Qing’s talent was extraordinary, especially in navigating the boundary between dreams and reality. Most people, no matter how gifted, need time to adapt to the interplay of dreams and reality. But Mei Qing not only entered and exited dreams effortlessly but also used them to deepen his cultivation. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing was the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
As a result, while teaching Mei Qing with all his heart, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing to share him with Zhang Shisan as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan School, he might not only achieve the state of an Arhat but even attain Buddhahood.
But regret was futile. Master Ku could only sigh at the whims of fate.
Mei Qing, however, was oblivious to these thoughts. While he admired the depth and profundity of the Huayan School’s teachings, he found himself more drawn to talismans.
This wasn’t surprising. Mei Qing had started his cultivation journey with Daoist foundations. Later, influenced by Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist texts, practiced the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Shenxiao Secret Methods. Though not formally a Daoist, he had long identified with the Daoist path. His current practice of the Shenxiao Thunder Method was purely Daoist, and his preference for talismans came naturally.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than the spiritual methods of the Huayan School. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and variations kept him deeply engrossed and endlessly fascinated.
Mei Qing lost track of time, shuttling between the two schools of thought. It wasn’t until Master Ku stopped teaching and also halted Zhang Shisan’s lessons that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased at being interrupted.
“For us, it’s nothing. But Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adapt. Though he can rest during dream cultivation, his spirit still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded in agreement. As an experienced cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s point. But he was so eager to impart his knowledge to Mei Qing, and Mei Qing’s exceptional progress had made him overlook the need for rest.
“Instead of staying cooped up, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I’ve been sitting so long I’m starting to rust. I just remembered—last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister aura and possibly some entanglements… But since you’re interested, let’s go and see what’s hidden there. We’ll dig out whatever secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “I don’t think that’s wise. If there are entanglements, there’s likely karmic involvement. It’s best for Mei Qing to avoid such things.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you think Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent the entire day drawing talismans under Zhang Shisan’s guidance, leaving him utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation, leaving him no respite. He feared he might collapse from sheer fatigue.
However, having already become a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but also cheerfully urged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Both of you can take turns, but I’m stuck in an endless cycle. Is there no end to this torment?” Mei Qing thought, on the verge of tears.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation. He saw himself walking lightly to the other cushion, sitting cross-legged, closing his eyes, and breathing deeply, as if falling asleep.
“Am I asleep? Then what is this…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a state akin to sleepwalking. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a state of deep calm. At the same time, he felt as though he was watching himself from the side, like seeing oneself sleep in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. He looked up to see Master Ku smiling gently beside him. “How is it? Are you surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you sleepwalking too—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and suddenly the room’s surroundings began to fade, along with the images of the two sitting in meditation. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon hung high, and a cool breeze blew across the cloudless sky. Below, the shimmering waves of the boundless sea stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing carefully observed and recognized a faint dark line in the south—it was Yunxiang Island. He realized they had instantly appeared above the Ming Sea, where they had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea as if strolling in a garden. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, you must first understand our sect’s divine abilities. As I mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the most fundamental is our sect’s Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are interconnected; without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are like drawing a cake to satisfy hunger. As for our sect’s cultivation path, it lies in the four words: ‘Dharma Realm Dependent Arising.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
Master Ku continued his teachings throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set in the west, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing was startled and suddenly returned to his body, waking quietly. He found himself still sitting in Master Ku’s room, the surroundings unchanged. A ray of morning sunlight streamed into the room, illuminating Master Ku’s face, which glowed like jade.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, appeared exceptionally bright and gentle. At the same time, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Although still indoors, he could clearly feel the radiance of the rising sun, like a warm stream entering from the top of his head and flowing through his body. The golden sun within him resonated, and purple energy surged, illuminating the moonlight beside it. The sun and moon intertwined, refining pure energy that dripped like golden-purple liquid onto the glowing golden elixir within him.
Seeing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, Master Ku was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s state of cultivation, he nodded in approval. He stood up silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the morning glow filling the courtyard and the clear sky above, he couldn’t help but smile brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining the sun and moon, nurturing his golden elixir, and then woke up. Feeling a surge of vitality within him, far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the mutual support of both the Dao and its techniques; neither can be neglected. Mei Qing, having no master or sect before, had been limited in his cultivation of techniques. Thus, after reaching a certain level, no matter how much he refined and cultivated, his progress had slowed. But now, with the dedicated guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his spiritual insight was triggered, and he felt as though he had advanced by leaps and bounds.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, meticulously explaining talismans, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, as if by mutual agreement, neither Zhang Shisan nor Master Ku asked Mei Qing about his previous cultivation methods or offered any guidance on them. Zhang Shisan, aside from having Mei Qing draw the Five Elements Talismans daily, explained the knowledge and his own experiences with talismans. Master Ku, on the other hand, led Mei Qing through various divine abilities in dreams, allowing him to deeply understand the sect’s methods.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics” method, but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. Not to mention the Four Realms and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were vastly different from what he had imagined.
Previously, Mei Qing had thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external appearances, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. But under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized he had been like a frog at the bottom of a well, vastly underestimating these divine abilities.
The Six Characteristics refer to the General Characteristic, Specific Characteristic, Same Characteristic, Different Characteristic, Formation Characteristic, and Destruction Characteristic, each complementing and supporting the others. When all are fully realized, they naturally integrate without obstruction. At higher levels of cultivation, one can captivate minds, communicate with spirits, and wield boundless divine abilities without uttering a word or making a move.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine abilities was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform them but instead demonstrated each ability for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was quite mystical, but when Mei Qing was in the dream state, his senses became extraordinarily acute. Many things that were impossible to see, hear, or describe in words became clear and comprehensible in the dream.
Master Ku was particularly satisfied with Mei Qing’s aptitude. In the Huayan Sect, the most crucial quality in a disciple is insight. If a disciple has the right aptitude, they understand everything at a glance; if not, even a hundred years of hard work would yield no comprehension.
Mei Qing’s natural talent was exceptional, and he had a remarkable ability to navigate the boundary between dreams and reality. Even for those with excellent aptitude, adapting to the interplay of dreams and reality usually takes time. But Mei Qing not only entered the dream state effortlessly on his first attempt but also triggered insights upon waking, deepening his cultivation. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
Thus, while wholeheartedly teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing with Zhang Shisan to take Mei Qing as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, achieving the status of an Arhat or even enlightenment and Buddhahood would not have been impossible.
But there was no use regretting what couldn’t be changed. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictable nature of fate.
Mei Qing, however, was completely unaware of these thoughts. In his heart, while he recognized the profound depth and mystery of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he still preferred talismans.
This was not surprising, as Mei Qing’s foundation had been laid in Daoism. Later, influenced by Bi Zhen, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, cultivated the Nineteen Golden Elixir Techniques, and translated the Shenxiao Secret Methods. Although not formally a Daoist, he had long identified with the Daoist tradition. The Shenxiao Thunder Method he was now cultivating was purely Daoist, so his preference for talismans was natural.
Moreover, talismans were far more interesting than Huayan’s divine abilities. Although he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and variations, the experimentation with dual-element talismans, and the myriad possibilities made the study increasingly fascinating, and he found himself deeply engrossed.
Mei Qing completely lost track of time, shuttling between the two Daoist traditions. It wasn’t until one day when Master Ku not only stopped teaching but also prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased at being interrupted by Master Ku.
“For us, it’s nothing, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adapt. Although he can rest and meditate during his nightly spiritual journeys, his mind still tires. Besides, the principle of balance applies. Overexertion is counterproductive,” Master Ku said calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded repeatedly. As a seasoned cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning. However, having just acquired an exceptional disciple, he was eager to impart all his knowledge to Mei Qing. Moreover, Mei Qing’s performance was so outstanding, unlike the usual struggles of a novice, that Zhang Shisan had overlooked the need for moderation.
“Instead of staying cooped up in the room, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan said, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head vigorously. “Indeed, I feel like I’ve grown rusty. Now that you mention it, I remember wanting to investigate the Fishbone Temple the last time we met. Since we have nothing to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister aura and possibly some entanglements… But since you suggested it, let’s go and see what secrets it holds. We’ll dig out whatever treasures are hidden there!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “I don’t think that’s advisable. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic connections involved. It’s better for Mei Qing not to get involved.”
“Karmic connections?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you think Mei Qing should avoid karmic connections altogether?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, inwardly lamenting his exhaustion. He had spent the entire day drawing talismans under Zhang Shisan’s guidance, leaving him utterly drained. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation, leaving no room for rest. It felt as though he was being pushed to the brink of collapse.
Yet, having formally become a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully encouraged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“You two can take turns, but I’m being worked to the bone! Is there no mercy?” Mei Qing thought, on the verge of tears.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion. Mei Qing, in a daze, watched as his own body moved to the other cushion, sat cross-legged, closed his eyes, and began to breathe deeply, as if falling asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?” Mei Qing realized he was in a state akin to sleepwalking. He could see himself meditating on the cushion while simultaneously feeling as though he was observing himself from the side, like watching oneself sleep in a dream.
“What’s happening?” Mei Qing exclaimed in shock. Looking up, he saw Master Ku smiling faintly. “Surprised, aren’t you?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you sleepwalking too?” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what’s going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and the room around them began to fade, their seated forms dissolving into nothingness. When Mei Qing focused again, they were standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon shone brightly, and below, endless waves shimmered. In the distance, a faint shadow of Yunxiang Island appeared familiar.
Master Ku, robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea, saying, “Since you’ve joined my school, you must first understand our divine abilities. As I’ve mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharmadhatus, Six Characteristics, and Ten Profound Mysteries. But the foundation lies in our Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path is the root of all divine abilities. Without it, such powers are mere illusions. The essence of our practice is encapsulated in the phrase ‘Dharmadhatu Dependent Arising.'”
As he spoke, Master Ku casually lifted his robe and sat mid-air, his voice resonating like the chime of golden bells, each word a sweet nectar to Mei Qing’s ears.
This discourse lasted the entire night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku chuckled, “The moon gives way to the sun. All is but a dream. Awake, awake!”
Mei Qing jolted, his spirit returning to his body. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, the morning sun casting its light on Master Ku’s serene face.
“Have you understood?” Master Ku asked, opening his eyes with a smile.
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, seemed exceptionally warm and radiant. Simultaneously, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Though indoors, he could distinctly sense the sun’s essence, a warm stream entering his body from above. Inside, a golden sun resonated, its purple energy mingling with the moon’s radiance, their interplay refining his core.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, nodded in approval. He rose silently and stepped outside, the door closing behind him. Gazing at the morning glow and the clear sky, he smiled brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refinement, nurturing his golden core. He awoke, feeling more vigorous than ever, delighted by his rapid progress.
Cultivation required the harmony of both doctrine and technique. Previously, Mei Qing’s lack of a master had limited his progress. Now, under the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, his cultivation had advanced by leaps and bounds.
Over the following days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day with talismans, and Master Ku at night with divine abilities. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found joy in the process.
Yet, neither master inquired about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or offered direct guidance. Zhang Shisan focused on talismans and his own experiences, while Master Ku led Mei Qing through divine abilities in dreams.
Mei Qing had previously studied the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but now he realized how superficial his understanding had been. The true depth of the Six Characteristics—Total, Particular, Same, Different, Formation, and Destruction—was far beyond his initial comprehension.
Master Ku’s teaching style was unique. He never explained but simply demonstrated the divine abilities, allowing Mei Qing to experience them directly in dreams. In this state, Mei Qing’s senses became extraordinarily acute, perceiving things that were otherwise impossible to see or hear.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. The Huayan Sect valued insight above all. A gifted disciple could grasp concepts instantly, while a less talented one might struggle for a lifetime. Mei Qing’s ability to navigate the boundary between dreams and reality with ease made Master Ku wonder if he was the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
Despite his satisfaction, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing to share Mei Qing with Zhang Shisan as a lay disciple. With such talent, Mei Qing could have achieved great heights within the Huayan Sect, perhaps even enlightenment.
But regret was futile. Master Ku could only sigh at the whims of fate.
Mei Qing, however, remained unaware of these thoughts. While he admired the depth of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he found himself more drawn to talismans. His foundation in Taoism, nurtured by his relationship with Bi Zhen and his study of Taoist classics, had instilled in him a natural affinity for talismans.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than divine abilities. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements talismans, the endless combinations and transformations fascinated him, drawing him deeper into their study.
Lost in his dual cultivation, Mei Qing lost track of time. It wasn’t until Master Ku halted both his and Zhang Shisan’s teachings that he realized seven days had passed.
“Seven days is nothing in the path of cultivation,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased with the interruption.
“For us, perhaps, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adapt. Though he rests during dream cultivation, his spirit still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion is counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan nodded, acknowledging the wisdom in Master Ku’s words. As an experienced cultivator, he understood the importance of balance. Yet, in his eagerness to impart his knowledge to Mei Qing, he had overlooked this.
“Instead of staying cooped up, let’s go out for a change,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing stretched as well, shaking his head. “I’ve grown rusty from staying indoors. I remember wanting to investigate the Fishbone Temple the last time we met. Since we’re free today, why don’t we go?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple has an ominous aura, and there seem to be some entanglements there… But if you’re set on it, let’s go and see what secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “This matter seems ill-advised. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best for Mei Qing to avoid such complications.”
“Karma?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you intend to drag Mei Qing into karma as well?”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, secretly lamenting his fate. He had just spent an entire day drawing talismans under Zhang Shisan’s guidance and was utterly exhausted. Now, Master Ku had snatched him away for cultivation, leaving him no moment of rest. He feared he might collapse from sheer fatigue.
However, having already become Master Ku’s disciple, it was inappropriate to voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but cheerfully encouraged him to follow Master Ku diligently, promising to teach him more talismans at dawn the next day.
“Both of you can take turns, but I’m stuck in an endless cycle. Is there no end to this?” Mei Qing thought, feeling utterly helpless.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had been laid out. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation. He watched as his own body walked to the other cushion, sat down cross-legged, closed its eyes, and began to breathe deeply, as if falling asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a state akin to sleepwalking. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath and entering a state of deep calm. At the same time, he felt as though he were standing aside, observing himself, much like one might see themselves sleeping in a dream.
“What’s happening?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling faintly beside him. “Surprised?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you sleepwalking too?” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, “Master, what’s going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and the room around them began to fade, including their seated forms. When Mei Qing looked again, they were standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above them, the stars and moon hung high, and a cool breeze blew across the cloudless sky. Below, the sea shimmered endlessly.
Mei Qing recognized a faint shadow to the south—it was Yunxiang Island. They had instantly appeared above the vast ocean where they had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea. He chuckled softly, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, you must first understand our sect’s divine abilities. As I’ve mentioned before, the Huayan Sect is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Profound Mysteries. But the foundation of our practice lies in the Dharma Path.”
“The Dharma Path and divine abilities are intertwined; without the Dharma Path, divine abilities are but empty promises. The essence of our cultivation lies in the phrase ‘Dharma Realm Dependent Arising.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, like the ringing of gold and jade, resonated in Mei Qing’s ears, as refreshing as sweet nectar.
Master Ku continued his teachings throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed, “The moon gives way to the sun. It’s all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing jolted awake, returning to his body. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, the morning sun casting its light on Master Ku’s serene face.
Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled, “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, illuminated by the morning light, was exceptionally warm and bright. At the same time, his internal energy began to flow naturally. Though still indoors, he could distinctly feel the first rays of the sun, like a warm stream, entering his body from the crown of his head. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the moonlight beside it. The sun and moon spiraled together, refining pure energy that dripped like golden-purple liquid onto his glowing golden core.
Seeing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, Master Ku was momentarily surprised. Observing Mei Qing’s cultivation state, he nodded in approval. He rose silently and appeared outside the room, the door closing softly behind him. Looking at the morning glow in the courtyard and the clear sky above, he smiled brightly.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had completed nine cycles of refining the sun and moon, nurturing his golden core. He awoke, feeling more vigorous than ever, and was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation always requires the balance of both doctrine and technique. Previously, without a master or sect, Mei Qing’s progress had been limited. But under the guidance of Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, he had experienced a breakthrough, feeling as though he had advanced by leaps and bounds.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, focusing on talismans, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, neither Zhang Shisan nor Master Ku asked about Mei Qing’s previous cultivation methods or offered direct guidance. Zhang Shisan had Mei Qing practice the Five Elements Talismans daily, while Master Ku led him through various divine abilities in dreams, allowing him to deeply understand the Dharma Path.
Mei Qing had previously studied the Huayan Sect’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after becoming a disciple did he realize how superficial his previous understanding had been. The “Six Characteristics” were far more profound than he had imagined.
The Six Characteristics refer to the General Characteristic, Specific Characteristic, Same Characteristic, Different Characteristic, Rising Characteristic, and Decaying Characteristic. When fully realized, they harmonize seamlessly. At higher levels of cultivation, they can silently influence minds, communicate with spirits, and manifest boundless divine abilities.
Master Ku’s teaching style was vastly different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to perform divine abilities but instead demonstrated them for Mei Qing to observe. This method was mystical, but in his dreams, Mei Qing found his senses heightened, allowing him to perceive things that were otherwise impossible to see, hear, or describe.
Master Ku was particularly pleased with Mei Qing’s aptitude. The Huayan Sect valued insight above all else. A talented disciple could grasp concepts instantly, while a less gifted one might struggle for a lifetime without understanding.
Mei Qing’s exceptional talent for navigating the boundary between dreams and reality was rare. Most people needed time to adapt, but Mei Qing effortlessly entered and exited dreams, even gaining insights into cultivation. Master Ku began to wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
While fully committed to teaching Mei Qing, Master Ku couldn’t help but regret agreeing to share him with Zhang Shisan as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan Sect, he might have achieved enlightenment or even Buddhahood.
But there was no turning back. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictability of fate.
Mei Qing, however, remained unaware of these thoughts. While he admired the depth and mystery of the Huayan Sect’s teachings, he found himself more drawn to talismans.
This was natural, as Mei Qing’s foundation was in Taoism. His relationship with Bi Zhen and his study of Taoist scriptures had deeply influenced him. The Thunder Method he practiced was purely Taoist, and his preference for talismans was instinctive.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than Huayan’s divine abilities. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements Talismans, the endless combinations and experiments with different forms and dual elements kept him endlessly fascinated.
Mei Qing lost track of time, oscillating between the two schools of thought. It wasn’t until Master Ku stopped teaching and prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing that he realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“Seven days is nothing in the realm of cultivation,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, unhappy with the interruption.
“For us, perhaps, but Mei Qing is new to this. He needs time to adapt. Though he can rest during dream cultivation, his mind still tires. Balance is key. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead in agreement. As an experienced cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s point. He had been so eager to impart his knowledge to Mei Qing, and Mei Qing’s exceptional performance had made him overlook the need for moderation.
“Instead of staying cooped up, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head. “I’ve been feeling rusty. I just remembered—last time we met, I wanted to investigate the Fishbone Temple. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister energy and possible entanglements… But if you’re set on it, let’s go and see what’s hidden there!”
Master Ku, however, disagreed. “This matter seems unwise. If there are entanglements, it’s best not to involve Mei Qing in the karmic consequences.”
“Karmic consequences?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you think Mei Qing should avoid all karma?”
“Staying locked up in this room won’t do. Let’s go out and stretch our legs.” Zhang Shisan yawned. “What do you say, disciple?”
Mei Qing stretched and shook his head vigorously: “Indeed, I’ve almost grown rusted shut. Come to think of it, last time we met, I was planning to investigate that fish-bone temple. Since we’re free today, why not go together, Master and disciple?”
Zhang Shisan frowned slightly: “That temple seems troublesome, with some sinister energy and entanglements… Still, since you insist, let’s go see what treasures they’ve got hidden there!”
Mei Qing followed Master Ku with a heavy heart, inwardly lamenting his exhaustion. He had just spent the entire day drawing talismans under Zhang Shisan’s guidance, leaving him utterly drained. Now, Master Ku had whisked him away for further cultivation, leaving him no respite. It felt as though he was being pushed to the brink of collapse.
However, having already pledged himself as a disciple, he couldn’t voice his complaints. To his dismay, Zhang Shisan not only didn’t intervene but even cheerfully encouraged him to follow Master Ku’s teachings, promising to impart more talismans the next morning.
“Between the two of you, I’m being worked to the bone. Is there no end to this?” Mei Qing thought, on the verge of tears.
In Master Ku’s guest room, two meditation cushions had mysteriously appeared. Master Ku led Mei Qing inside, gently closed the door, and sat down on the left cushion.
Mei Qing felt a sudden disorientation. He watched as his body, seemingly of its own accord, walked to the other cushion, sat down cross-legged, closed its eyes, and began to breathe deeply, as if falling asleep.
“Asleep? Then what am I…?”
Mei Qing realized he was in a dreamlike state. He could see himself meditating on the cushion, regulating his breath, and entering a state of deep calm. At the same time, he felt as though he was standing to the side, observing himself, as if he were watching himself sleep in a dream.
“What is happening?” Mei Qing was startled. When he looked up, he saw Master Ku smiling gently beside him. “Surprised, aren’t you?”
“Ah—Master Ku, are you also sleepwalking—” Mei Qing quickly corrected himself, realizing the inappropriateness of his words. “Master, what is going on?”
Master Ku smiled, and the room around them began to fade, along with their seated forms. When Mei Qing focused again, he found himself standing in mid-air, surrounded by a vast, misty expanse. Above, the stars and moon hung high, and a cool breeze blew across the cloudless sky. Below, the shimmering waves of the ocean stretched endlessly.
Mei Qing looked carefully and saw a faint dark line to the south, which he recognized as Yunxiang Island. He realized they had suddenly appeared above the vast ocean he had once traveled.
Master Ku, with his robes fluttering, walked leisurely across the dark sea as if strolling through a garden. He chuckled softly and said, “Mei Qing, since you’ve entered my school, it’s only natural that you first understand the divine abilities of our sect. As I mentioned before, the Huayan school is renowned for its Four Dharma Realms, Six Characteristics, and Ten Mysteries. But the most fundamental is the path of our sect.”
“The divine abilities are the branches and leaves, but without the path, they are but empty promises. The path of our sect’s cultivation lies in the four words: ‘Dharma Realm Dependent Arising.'”
As Master Ku spoke, he casually lifted the hem of his robe and sat down, suspended in mid-air. His voice, clear and resonant, reached Mei Qing’s ears like sweet nectar.
Master Ku continued his teachings throughout the night. As the stars shifted and the moon set in the west, the eastern sky began to brighten. Master Ku laughed and said, “The moon gives way to the sun. It was all but a dream. Wake up, wake up!”
Mei Qing was startled and suddenly returned to his body, waking quietly. He found himself still seated in Master Ku’s room, the surroundings unchanged. A ray of morning sunlight streamed into the room, illuminating Master Ku’s face, which was as smooth as jade.
Sensing Mei Qing’s gaze, Master Ku slowly opened his eyes and smiled. “Do you understand now?”
Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity. Master Ku’s smile, bathed in the morning light, was exceptionally bright and gentle. At the same time, the true energy within his body began to flow naturally. Though still indoors, he could clearly feel the radiance of the rising sun, like a warm stream flowing from the top of his head and permeating his entire body. The golden sun within him resonated, and a purple aura rose, illuminating the moonlight beside it. The sun and moon intertwined, refining pure true energy that dripped like golden-purple liquid, bathing the glowing golden core.
Master Ku, noticing Mei Qing’s sudden surge of energy, was momentarily surprised. Seeing Mei Qing’s state of cultivation, he nodded in approval. He stood up silently and appeared outside the guest room, the door closing quietly behind him. Looking at the morning glow filling the courtyard, he gazed at the clear sky and felt the refreshing autumn breeze, a bright smile spreading across his face.
In just a few moments, Mei Qing had undergone nine cycles of refinement, condensing and nurturing his golden core, and then woke up. Feeling the vigorous energy within him, far surpassing his previous state, he was overjoyed at his rapid progress.
Cultivation, by nature, requires the harmonious balance of Daoist principles and techniques, neither of which can be neglected. Mei Qing, having previously lacked a master or a school, had been limited in his progress. No matter how much he refined and cultivated, his advancement had always felt slow. But now, with the guidance of both Zhang Shisan and Master Ku, he had touched upon a profound insight, and his progress had accelerated dramatically.
Over the next few days, Zhang Shisan and Master Ku took turns teaching him—Zhang Shisan during the day, explaining talismans in detail, and Master Ku at night, guiding him through divine abilities in dreams. Mei Qing absorbed their teachings eagerly, and all three found great joy in the process.
However, as if by mutual agreement, neither Zhang Shisan nor Master Ku asked Mei Qing about his previous cultivation methods or offered any guidance on them. Zhang Shisan, aside from having Mei Qing draw the Five Elements talismans daily, explained the various aspects of talismans and shared his own experiences. Master Ku, on the other hand, always took Mei Qing into dreams, allowing him to experience and understand the divine abilities, carefully guiding him along the path.
Mei Qing had previously encountered the Huayan school’s “Six Characteristics,” but only after formally becoming a disciple did he realize how shallow his previous understanding had been. Not to mention the Four Realms and Ten Mysteries, even the “Six Characteristics” were far more profound than he had imagined.
He had once thought the Six Characteristics referred to six different external expressions, such as joy, anger, sorrow, or worry. But under Master Ku’s careful guidance, he realized how limited his understanding had been.
The Six Characteristics—Total, Particular, Same, Different, Rising, and Falling—are mutually supportive and harmonious. When fully realized, they naturally integrate without obstruction. At higher levels of cultivation, one can influence minds, communicate with spirits, and wield boundless divine abilities without uttering a word or making a move.
Master Ku’s method of teaching divine abilities was entirely different from Zhang Shisan’s. He never explained how to achieve them but instead demonstrated each ability for Mei Qing to observe. This approach was quite mystical, but when Mei Qing was in the dream state, his senses became extraordinarily acute. Things that were impossible to see, hear, or describe in the waking world became clear and comprehensible in the dream.
What Master Ku found most satisfying about Mei Qing was his exceptional aptitude. In the Huayan school, the most crucial quality in a disciple is their ability to comprehend. If a disciple has the right aptitude, they can grasp things at a glance. But if they lack the innate talent, no amount of explanation or effort will help them understand.
Mei Qing’s natural talent was extraordinary, particularly in his ability to navigate the boundary between dreams and reality. Even for those with excellent aptitude, adapting to the interplay of dreams and reality usually takes time. But Mei Qing not only entered the dream state effortlessly on his first attempt but also managed to trigger insights and deepen his cultivation upon waking. Such talent made Master Ku wonder if Mei Qing might be the reincarnation of a living Buddha.
As a result, while Master Ku devoted himself wholeheartedly to teaching Mei Qing, he couldn’t help but regret agreeing to share him as a disciple with Zhang Shisan, especially as a lay disciple. With Mei Qing’s talent, if he had been ordained into the Huayan school, he might not only have achieved the state of an Arhat but could even have attained Buddhahood.
But there was no use regretting what couldn’t be changed. Master Ku could only sigh at the unpredictable nature of karma.
Mei Qing, however, was completely unaware of these thoughts. In his heart, while he recognized the depth and profundity of the Huayan school’s teachings, he still found himself more drawn to talismans.
This wasn’t surprising. Mei Qing had initially entered the path of cultivation through Daoist foundations. Later, influenced by his relationship with Bi Zhen and guided by her, he had studied numerous Daoist scriptures, practiced the Nineteen Golden Core Techniques, and translated the Divine Thunder Method. Though not formally a member of the Daoist school, he had long identified with its principles. The Divine Thunder Method he was now practicing was purely Daoist, so his preference for talismans was only natural.
Moreover, talismans were far more intriguing than the divine abilities of the Huayan school. Though he was currently focused on the Five Elements talismans, the endless combinations of different talisman forms and the calculations of dual Five Elements within a single talisman offered endless variations and intellectual stimulation, drawing him deeper into their study.
Mei Qing lost track of time, constantly moving between the two schools of thought. It wasn’t until one day, when Master Ku not only stopped teaching but also prevented Zhang Shisan from continuing, that he suddenly realized he had been cultivating non-stop for seven days.
“In cultivation, time is meaningless. Seven days is nothing,” Zhang Shisan grumbled, displeased at being interrupted by Master Ku.
“For us, it may be nothing, but Mei Qing is new to this path and needs time to adjust. Though he can rest and meditate during his nightly journeys, his spirit still grows weary. Besides, the principle of balance applies here. Overexertion can be counterproductive,” Master Ku replied calmly.
Zhang Shisan slapped his forehead and nodded in agreement. As an experienced cultivator, he understood Master Ku’s reasoning. However, having just found such a talented disciple, he was eager to pour all his knowledge into Mei Qing. Moreover, Mei Qing’s exceptional performance had made him forget that even the most gifted beginners need time to adapt.
“Instead of staying cooped up in this room, let’s go out and stretch our legs,” Zhang Shisan suggested, stretching lazily. “What do you think, disciple?”
Mei Qing also stretched and shook his head vigorously. “I feel like I’ve grown rusty from staying indoors. Now that you mention it, I remember wanting to investigate the Fishbone Temple the last time we met. Since we have nothing else to do today, why don’t we go there together?”
Zhang Shisan frowned. “That temple seems a bit off, with some sinister aura and possibly some entanglements… But since you want to go, let’s check it out and see what secrets it holds!”
Master Ku, however, interjected, “I don’t think that’s wise. If there are entanglements, there may be karmic consequences. It’s best for Mei Qing not to get involved.”
“Karmic consequences?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “Do you think Mei Qing should avoid karma altogether?”
“Karmic consequences?” Zhang Shisan sneered. “According to you, should we also involve Mei Qing in those consequences?”
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