Today there is only one chapter, I’m ashamed…
I’m a bit tired, brothers, let Old Ji have a moment to catch his breath. I promise double updates tomorrow.
This section was difficult to write. It might be tiring for readers, but it’s even more exhausting for Old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing smiled bitterly, knowing that Bi Zhen must have developed a deep resentment toward him. He guessed she must have believed he was still angry about her previous underhanded tactics during their magical duel, and that he was now deliberately retaliating by teasing her. In truth, Mei Qing was exactly as he appeared—why couldn’t she believe it and kept insisting he must have practiced some arcane techniques?
Sighing deeply, Mei Qing helplessly said, “Master Bi, I think you’ve misunderstood me. I don’t know what you mean by these magical arts, and I truly haven’t learned any other techniques. If you wish me to explain those Daoist scriptures, it’s not impossible. But there are many phrases I don’t understand myself, so interpreting them would be difficult. Perhaps you could briefly explain the basic theory of Daoist practice to me, so I can grasp the general idea and my interpretations won’t stray too far.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, observing his sincere expression, which didn’t seem feigned at all. Her heart wavered. She wouldn’t have believed Mei Qing’s words under normal circumstances, but the current situation offered no logical explanation. After much deliberation, Bi Zhen made up her mind and said, “Then I shall follow your suggestion. However, my teachings come from the Qingjing sect of the Quanzhen school, which focuses on female alchemy and thus cannot be exchanged with you. Fortunately, the path to the Golden Elixir is essentially the same. How about I offer you a different alchemical method instead?”
Mei Qing knew Bi Zhen still didn’t trust him, and he smiled bitterly, saying, “What would I need your alchemical method for? I just don’t understand the arcane terms written on those scrolls. I only wish for you to explain a bit, so I won’t misinterpret them when I explain the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s beautiful eyes flickered with realization. Only now did she begin to believe Mei Qing truly didn’t understand Daoist principles, which left her astonished and uncertain. After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “Then I shall follow your suggestion. My mind is unsettled today, so let’s begin tomorrow. Please return here, and I will explain what I know to you in detail.”
Pausing for a moment, she continued, “However, there is one thing. Daoist teachings are traditionally passed down from master to disciple. Strictly speaking, I shouldn’t be teaching you Daoist principles. However, since you have already embarked on the Daoist path, we are essentially fellow practitioners. Mutual discussion and exchange should be acceptable. What do you think, Master Mei?”
Mei Qing nodded, saying, “I have no objection. But there is one request: every time you call me ‘Daoist friend,’ it makes me feel quite uncomfortable. If you must address me, please use my courtesy name ‘Sanqing.’ Please don’t call me Daoist friend anymore.”
“Sanqing?” Bi Zhen smiled, “That makes me more inclined to believe you haven’t truly practiced Daoism. Tell me, which Daoist would dare take such a title? How about I just call you by your given name, and you may call me Bi Zhen. It feels awkward for you to address me as ‘Master Bi.'”
“Wonderful,” Mei Qing felt delighted, “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… could we perhaps skip your testing methods?”
Bi Zhen’s face reddened slightly as she replied, “That… is indeed a bit of a problem. To be honest, at first I was just being stubborn and rash, engaging you in a magical duel without much thought. Only recently did I realize my heart demons had already stirred, and now I’m stuck, unable to extricate myself. For a Daoist practitioner, the greatest fear is not knowing when calamity will strike. I’ve been at the Golden Liquid stage for some time now, hoping to cross this threshold and solidify the Golden Elixir, but I’ve yet to find the right opportunity. Now that I sense an opening, I believe this duel with you is my trial. If I pass, the path ahead will be wide open. If I fail, I may never reach the Dao in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel frustrated, saying, “So this contest of ours must continue? But… shouldn’t one avoid calamity if possible? Why are you so insistent on clinging to it?”
Bi Zhen couldn’t help but laugh at Mei Qing’s words, saying, “You really don’t understand at all. For a Daoist practitioner, calamity and opportunity always come hand in hand. Can you really avoid them just by trying? Don’t be upset—it’s my calamity, but it’s also your calamity. It’s my opportunity, but it’s also your opportunity. If you weren’t a Daoist practitioner, how could I dare to test you with such a major technique? Since we’ve come this far, the time must be nearly ripe. At this point, we must both be extremely cautious, striving to unlock this barrier together. Never let your guard down.”
Mei Qing sighed, saying, “Fine, fine, you win. Let’s continue the contest. We’ve been at it for so long already, what do I have to fear? Just be careful one day I really can’t hold out anymore, and the one who suffers will be you.”
Bi Zhen laughed sweetly at Mei Qing’s words, saying, “You make it sound so frightening. To be honest, I have several powerful techniques at my disposal. If you dare to act recklessly, it might be you who ends up at a disadvantage.”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived earlier than usual at the Rensheng Palace. As he entered the courtyard, Bi Zhen’s young Daoist apprentice, Mingjing, came forward to greet him, saying that Bi Zhen was waiting in the back garden and asked him to meet her there.
Since the Rensheng Palace had once been a royal retreat, it naturally had a small garden behind it. Though modest in size, the garden was quite distinctive. As soon as he entered, he was greeted by lush greenery, with cypresses and pines standing tall. Walking along the forest path, the dense greenery and the rustling of the pines created a feeling of transcending the mundane world.
Before long, he reached a turn in the path where a stone platform stood, with a small pavilion perched gracefully atop it. Climbing the steps, he saw two ancient cypresses rising like pillars of smoke toward the sky. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Daoist robe, was practicing an unknown martial art beneath them.
The morning sun shone from the east, reflecting golden glimmers off the pine needles, making Bi Zhen appear like a fairy from a painting. Her movements were deceptively slow, yet graceful, her hands tracing arcs like falling petals and birds in flight, weaving around her body.
As she completed the final movement, Bi Zhen brought her palms together, then slowly pressed them downward, coming to a gentle stop. She exhaled deeply, her entire form becoming still.
In recent days, Mei Qing had been so caught up in their magical duel that he hadn’t had much time to truly observe this beautiful Daoist lady. Now, with a rare moment of peace, he took the opportunity to admire her for a while, feasting his eyes.
Unfortunately, just as Mei Qing was lost in admiration, Bi Zhen finished her exercise, turned around, and smiled sweetly at him, her eyes flashing with an unusual light—then, with a bang, it began again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing had been prepared, so he didn’t lose his composure. He calmly walked over and sat on a nearby stone bench, his eyes fixed on Bi Zhen with a smile, saying, “Ancients spoke of fairies dancing across the waves, but that was just legend. Now, watching Bi Zhen’s graceful movements, I see a celestial being in the flesh. The ancients’ words were truly not exaggerated.”
Since they had already made clear the necessity of resolving their conflict yesterday, Mei Qing no longer wished to remain solely on the defensive. Inspired by his admiration, he openly expressed his appreciation without hesitation.
Bi Zhen’s eyes sparkled with approval as she smiled, saying, “You’ve become clever overnight, haven’t you? Knowing how to use words to break through illusions. But calling it ‘graceful dancing’ is embarrassing. This is the Nine Birds Exercise, a common method of physical cultivation. What’s so graceful about it?”
“Physical cultivation?” Mei Qing was momentarily puzzled, then smiled, saying, “So physical cultivation refers to martial arts or movement techniques? I always thought physical cultivation meant guiding the internal energy through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen paused for a moment, then burst into laughter, explaining, “Guiding internal energy through the meridians is called ‘qi circulation.’ Physical cultivation refers to bodily techniques. Although physical cultivation often incorporates qi circulation methods, the two are fundamentally different. For a learned gentleman like you to make such a mistake, it’s quite amusing. I’m afraid people will laugh until their jaws ache if this gets out.”
As she spoke, she sat down on the stone bench beside him, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing, laughing continuously.
Mei Qing had watched Bi Zhen practicing for a while, her face flushed with exertion, making her especially enchanting. Seeing her laugh so joyfully, he felt his heart stir, and he quickly composed himself, asking, “Bi Zhen, why are you so happy today? What’s making you laugh so much?”
Bi Zhen gently shook her head, replying, “No particular reason. I just suddenly feel very relaxed, so I can’t help but laugh.”
Seeing Bi Zhen’s innocent, carefree smile, Mei Qing also felt a sense of ease and was about to join in her laughter.
At that moment, the swirling energy within him tightened, suddenly vibrating as if something was pulling at it, making it feel unstable. Mei Qing was startled and quickly focused his mind, realizing that although Bi Zhen’s smile today wasn’t as provocative as before, it carried an even more insidious danger.
This technique, however, was not as easily dispelled as the previous lustful illusions. Once it had entered his heart, it was difficult to remove. Although Mei Qing tried his best to resist, his heart continued to waver, unable to calm.
“Qing, you’re clinging to appearances. If it’s not desire, why force emptiness? Instead of struggling, why not let things take their natural course?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like celestial music, rang in his ears. To Mei Qing, her words were like the sound of a great bell, resonating deeply within him.
Upon hearing Bi Zhen’s words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had rung in his ears, and his mind instantly calmed. He laughed heartily, saying, “Indeed! When one should laugh, one should laugh. Why try to transform it? Bi Zhen, your techniques are becoming more and more refined.”
Bi Zhen smiled, saying, “Qing, your progress is remarkable. If I remain stagnant, I would be too ashamed to face you. Just now, I had a sudden insight into this technique, and I’m afraid I embarrassed myself in front of you.”
Mei Qing thanked her, saying, “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But I’m curious—since you are a Daoist practitioner, why do you speak of emptiness and desire? If we are to compete with techniques, why did you feel the need to remind me just now?”
Just then, the young Daoist apprentice Mingjing gracefully approached from below the platform, carrying a plain wooden tea tray, which he placed on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the tea broth bright and translucent, releasing a faint mist. A delicate fragrance drifted with the wind, entering their nostrils and giving a feeling as if a breeze were rising beneath their armpits.
Bi Zhen gently gestured for him to proceed, then delicately picked up a cup of tea, bringing it to her nose to savor its aroma before taking a small sip, her expression serene. Mei Qing, without hesitation, picked up a cup, savoring its flavor. It had a slight bitterness at first, followed by a lingering fragrance that permeated his chest.
“Do you know the origins of the Daoist school, Qing?” Bi Zhen asked, not answering his previous question but instead posing a new one.
“If I’m not mistaken, it should originate from the Daoist philosophy of Laozi and Zhuangzi among the pre-Qin scholars. Later, in the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the Daoist religion in Heshan Mountain, Sichuan, giving rise to the Daoist tradition.”
Today, only one chapter, I feel ashamed…
I’m a bit tired, my brothers, let Old Ji catch his breath. I promise a double update tomorrow.
This part is quite challenging to write. It might be tiring for you to read, but it’s even more exhausting for Old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter laugh, realizing that Bi Zhen probably harbored resentment towards him. She likely thought he was deliberately retaliating for her previous attempt to outwit him in their duel, hence the teasing remarks. In truth, that was exactly the case, but why couldn’t she believe it? She insisted on thinking he had mastered some mystical Daoist technique.
With a long sigh, Mei Qing said helplessly, “I fear there’s a misunderstanding, Bi Zhen. I don’t know what Daoist techniques you’re referring to, but I truly haven’t studied any other forms of magic. If you’d like me to interpret these Daoist scriptures, it’s not an impossible task. However, many of the phrases are beyond my comprehension, making it quite challenging. Perhaps you could briefly explain the foundational theories of Daoism to me, so I can have a better understanding and avoid making too many errors in my interpretations.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, seeing the sincerity on his face, which didn’t seem feigned. She felt a wave of uncertainty. Based on Mei Qing’s own words, Bi Zhen would never believe him. But the current situation left her without a reasonable explanation. After much deliberation, she finally made up her mind and said, “Very well, I’ll go along with you. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen School, which focuses on female alchemy and naturally cannot be exchanged with you. Fortunately, the Great Dao of the Golden Elixir is universal. I’ll gift you another set of alchemical techniques, how about that?”
Mei Qing, hearing Bi Zhen’s words, knew she still didn’t trust him. He smiled wryly and said, “What would I do with your alchemical techniques? The profound terms written there are beyond my comprehension. I was hoping you could explain them to me, so I don’t get lost when interpreting the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s eyes flickered, and only then did she begin to believe that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand Daoist principles. She was filled with doubt and confusion. After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “Very well, I’ll go along with you. Today, I’m not in the right state of mind. Starting tomorrow, please come back here, and I’ll explain everything I know to you.”
She paused for a moment, then continued, “However, there’s one thing to note. Daoist techniques are traditionally passed down through master-disciple relationships, and it’s not customary for me to teach a fellow practitioner. But since you’ve already entered the Dao, and we are fellow practitioners, it’s not entirely inappropriate for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Mei Qing?”
Mei Qing nodded and said, “I have no objections. But there’s one thing I’d like to ask. You keep calling me ‘fellow practitioner,’ which makes me a bit uncomfortable. If you don’t mind, just call me by my courtesy name, ‘San Qing,’ and let’s drop the formal titles.”
“San Qing?” Bi Zhen smiled. “I’m starting to believe you haven’t practiced Daoism. What practitioner would dare take such a name? How about I just call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. I also feel a bit awkward being called ‘Real Person.’”
“That’s perfect,” Mei Qing said cheerfully. “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… can we skip the test you had in mind?”
Bi Zhen’s face turned slightly red. “That’s… a bit complicated. To be honest, at first, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about our duel. Only now do I realize that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m deeply entangled, unable to extricate myself. For practitioners, the most feared thing is not knowing when a tribulation will strike. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for some time, hoping to cross this threshold and condense my Golden Elixir, but the opportunity has eluded me. This time, I sensed a slight opportunity, and I believe this duel with you is my tribulation. If I pass it, the skies will clear; if I don’t, I’m afraid I’ll never glimpse the Great Dao in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel a bit frustrated. “So, this duel of ours has to continue? But isn’t a tribulation something you should avoid? Why are you so eager to hold onto it?”
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words. “You really don’t understand. For practitioners, tribulations and opportunities go hand in hand. How can you simply avoid them? And don’t be upset—this tribulation of mine is also your tribulation. My opportunity is also your opportunity. If you weren’t a practitioner, I wouldn’t dare test you with such techniques. Since we’ve reached this point, it’s almost time. Now, we both need to be extra cautious and strive to break free from this lock together. We must not let our guard down.”
Mei Qing sighed. “Alright, alright, whatever you say. Let’s continue the duel. It’s been going on for so long, what do I have to fear? Just be careful, if I can’t hold on one day, it’ll be you who suffers.”
Bi Zhen giggled at Mei Qing’s words. “Why does that sound so ominous? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to act recklessly, who knows who’ll end up suffering?”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As soon as he entered the courtyard, he saw Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Ming Jing, approaching him, saying that Bi Zhen was waiting for him in the back garden.
The Rensheng Palace, once a royal retreat, naturally had a small garden in the back. Though not large, it was quite distinctive. As Mei Qing entered the garden, he was greeted by lush greenery, with towering pines and cypresses lining the paths. Walking along the shaded trails, the verdant scenery and the rustling of the pine needles in the wind gave him a sense of detachment from the mundane world.
After a short walk, he saw a small pavilion perched on a green stone platform at a bend in the path. Ascending the steps, he noticed two ancient cypress trees rising like smoke pillars into the sky. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Daoist robe, was practicing an unknown set of martial arts under the trees.
The rising sun cast golden reflections on the pine needles, making Bi Zhen appear like a fairy from a painting. Her movements seemed slow yet swift, her hands tracing arcs like birds in flight or falling petals, gracefully flowing around her body.
With the final movement, Bi Zhen brought her palms together, then pressed them downward, slowly coming to a stop and exhaling deeply, her entire body becoming still.
In recent days, Mei Qing had been so focused on their duel that he hadn’t truly taken the time to observe this beautiful Daoist priestess. Now, with a clear mind, he took the opportunity to admire her, thoroughly enjoying the sight.
Unfortunately, just as Mei Qing was lost in his reverie, Bi Zhen finished her practice and turned to him with a sweet smile, her eyes flashing with a strange light—and then, with a bang, it began again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing was prepared this time and didn’t lose his composure. He walked over slowly and sat on a stone bench, his eyes still fixed on Bi Zhen as he smiled and said, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on water, but that was just a legend. Seeing your graceful movements today, you rival the immortals. I’m not exaggerating.”
Since they had agreed yesterday that their duel needed to come to an end, Mei Qing decided not to remain on the defensive. Inspired, he openly expressed his admiration without reservation.
Bi Zhen, hearing Mei Qing’s words, showed a hint of approval in her eyes and smiled. “How is it that after just one night, you’ve become so clever, knowing how to use words to break the illusion? But calling it a dance is embarrassing. This is the Nine Animal Exercises, just a common form of guiding energy. What’s so graceful about it?”
“Guiding energy?” Mei Qing was momentarily stunned, then laughed. “So, guiding energy is this kind of martial arts or movement practice? I always thought it was about directing the flow of energy through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen was also taken aback for a moment, then burst into laughter, explaining to Mei Qing, “The flow of energy is called ‘circulating qi.’ Guiding energy, however, is a physical practice. Although guiding energy involves circulating qi, the two are not the same. For someone as learned as you, Mei Qing, to make such a mistake—if word got out, people would laugh their teeth out. I’m surprised you dared to say it.”
As she spoke, she sat down on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing, laughing uncontrollably.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s flushed face after her practice, found her even more captivating. As she continued to laugh, he felt his heart stir and quickly composed himself, asking, “Bi Zhen, what’s making you so happy? Why are you laughing so much?”
Bi Zhen shook her head slightly and replied, “No particular reason. I just suddenly felt very light-hearted and couldn’t help but laugh.”
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s pure, untainted smile, also felt a sense of lightness and was about to laugh along.
At that moment, the vortex of energy in his chest tightened, causing a sudden tremor, as if something was pulling at it, making it unstable. Mei Qing was startled and quickly steadied his mind, realizing that Bi Zhen’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was even more dangerous in its subtlety.
However, this technique was not as easy to dispel as the previous flames of desire. Once it entered the heart, it was difficult to remove. Although Mei Qing tried his best, his heart remained unsettled, swaying uncontrollably.
“Qing Shao, you’re too attached. If it’s not about form, why cling to emptiness? Instead of struggling, why not let it flow naturally?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like a heavenly melody, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply within him.
Hearing Bi Zhen’s words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had been struck in his mind, and he suddenly understood. He laughed and said, “Indeed. When it’s time to laugh, why suppress it? Bi Zhen, your techniques are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Zhen smiled. “Qing Shao, you’re making rapid progress. If I stay in the same place, wouldn’t that be embarrassing? Just now, I felt a new insight into this technique, and I’ve gained some benefits. I hope you don’t mind me laughing.”
Mei Qing thanked her. “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But since you’re a Daoist, why talk about emptiness and form? Since we’re dueling with techniques, why did you choose to enlighten me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Ming Jing approached from below, carrying a simple wooden tea tray, which he placed on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with wisps of steam rising. A delicate fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing and invigorating.
Bi Zhen gestured gracefully, picking up a cup of tea and bringing it to her nose to inhale its aroma before taking a small sip, her face showing a serene expression. Mei Qing, not standing on ceremony, also took a cup and savored its flavor. The initial bitterness gave way to a subtle fragrance that filled his chest.
“Qing Shao, do you know the origins of Daoism and from which era it stems?” Bi Zhen asked, not answering Mei Qing’s question but posing one of her own.
“If I remember correctly, it originated from the Daoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the religion at Heming Mountain in Shu, marking the beginning of Daoism as a formal religion.”
“Qing Shao, you’re quite knowledgeable. However, within Daoism, there are rituals, principles, and techniques. The principles are derived from the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals were established by Zhang Ling and passed down through generations; the techniques, however, originated from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Zhen explained.
“Are you referring to the Immortal School during the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The Immortal School was a faction during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, standing alongside Daoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike other schools that focused on governance, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, the Immortal School’s fundamental goal was simple: immortality.
Bi Zhen smiled at Mei Qing’s question. “You’re not entirely wrong. Immortality was indeed the goal of the Immortal School. However, the pursuits of the Immortal School were far more complex than those four words. It’s just that secular people, especially emperors, valued the techniques of immortality solely for the sake of longevity, and over time, the Immortal School became associated only with the pursuit of immortality.”
She then went on to explain to Mei Qing the lineage of Daoism, which actually inherited from the ancient Daoist and Immortal schools. Its principles were derived from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while its practices were heavily influenced by the Immortal School.
“Methods of cultivation are numerous and varied. Daoist cultivation, like Buddhist and Confucian practices, is a form of cultivation. However, in Daoism, we refer to cultivation as ‘refinement’ because the path of the Golden Elixir begins with the concept of ‘refining.’ Broadly speaking, Daoist cultivation methods can be divided into two schools: Talismanic and Alchemical.”
“The Talismanic school focuses on refining qi, while the Alchemical school focuses on refining elixirs. The Talismanic school, also known as the Talismanic Water school, involves drawing talismans and using the forces of yin and yang to harness the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are derived from the Celestial Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao schools of the Talismanic school. Other branches include Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which merged into the Zhengyi Dao during the Yuan Dynasty.”
“The Alchemical school, also known as the Golden Elixir school, can be further divided into Internal Alchemy and External Alchemy. External Alchemy involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs, which are then consumed to achieve enlightenment. The Nine Animal Exercises I performed earlier can be considered part of External Alchemy.”
“However, External Alchemy has long been lost, and the alchemical techniques passed down in the world, often referred to as the Yellow and White Arts, are mostly fraudulent and not to be trusted. Internal Alchemy, on the other hand, has gradually become the mainstream and is considered the proper path of cultivation.”
Internal Alchemy, also known as “Returning the Elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of External Alchemy to describe the process of refining the body. The body is the furnace, the essence and qi are the ingredients, and the spirit is the fire. Through this process, one refines the elixir within the body to progress on the path of the Great Dao.
Unlike the Talismanic school, which established sects and recruited disciples openly, Internal Alchemy was initially passed down secretly, hidden among the people, and rarely known to the world. Later, figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gained fame, especially Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who brought it to prominence.
It wasn’t until Wang Ji (also known as Wang Chongyang) founded the Quanzhen School during the Northern Song Dynasty that Internal Alchemy became an established sect. Wang Ji’s seven disciples, known as the Seven Masters of Quanzhen, became famous throughout the land. Since the sect was established in the north, it was also known as the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School, on the other hand, was passed down from Zhang Boduan, known as the Purple Yang Master, and later through five generations to Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Masters of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun merged the Northern and Southern Schools into one, forming the Golden Elixir tradition as it is known today.
Today, I can only manage one chapter, and I feel quite ashamed…
I’m a bit tired, my dear brothers, please allow old Ji to catch his breath. I promise to double the updates tomorrow.
This section is quite challenging to write. Perhaps it’s tiring for you to read, but it’s even more exhausting for old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter laugh, realizing that Bi Zhen probably harbored resentment towards him. She likely thought that he held a grudge against her for her previous attempt to ambush him during their duel, and that he was deliberately retaliating by teasing her. In truth, that was exactly the case, but why couldn’t she believe it? She insisted on thinking that he had cultivated some kind of mystical technique.
With a long sigh, Mei Qing said helplessly, “I’m afraid there’s a misunderstanding, Zhenren. I don’t know what you mean by the cultivation of mystical arts, but I truly haven’t studied any other techniques. If Zhenren wishes for me to interpret these volumes of Taoist scriptures, it’s not an impossible task. However, many of the phrases are beyond my comprehension, and interpreting them would indeed be difficult. Perhaps Zhenren could briefly explain the foundational theories of Taoist practice to me, so that I might have a better understanding and avoid making too many errors in my annotations.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, seeing the sincerity on his face, which didn’t seem feigned. She felt a wave of uncertainty. Based on Mei Qing’s own words, Bi Zhen would never believe him. But the current situation left her without a reasonable explanation. After much deliberation, she finally made up her mind and said, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen lineage, which is a female alchemy practice, and naturally, it cannot be exchanged with you. Fortunately, the Great Dao of the Golden Elixir is universal, so I’ll gift you another set of alchemical methods. How does that sound?”
Seeing Bi Zhen’s response, Mei Qing knew she still didn’t trust him. He smiled wryly and said, “What would I do with your alchemical methods? The profound terms written there are beyond my understanding. I merely wish to trouble Zhenren to explain some of them to me, so that I won’t be completely lost when interpreting the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s eyes flickered, and only then did she begin to believe that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand the Taoist principles. She was filled with doubt and uncertainty. After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. Today, my mind is unsettled, so starting tomorrow, please return here, and I’ll explain everything I know to you.”
After a pause, she continued, “However, there’s one thing to note. Taoist practices are entirely dependent on lineage, and by rights, I should not be teaching you these methods. But since you’ve already entered the Dao, we are fellow practitioners, and it seems acceptable for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Fellow Daoist Mei?”
Mei Qing nodded and said, “I have no objections. But there’s one thing I’d like to ask. Zhenren keeps addressing me as ‘Fellow Daoist,’ which makes me quite uncomfortable. If Zhenren wishes to address me, just call me by my courtesy name, ‘Sanqing,’ and please don’t refer to me as a fellow practitioner anymore.”
“Sanqing?” Bi Zhen smiled. “I’m starting to believe that you haven’t cultivated the Dao. What practitioner would dare to take such a name? How about I simply call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. Addressing me as Zhenren also feels inconvenient.”
“That’s perfect,” Mei Qing said cheerfully. “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… Bi Zhen, can we skip the test you had in mind?”
Bi Zhen’s face flushed slightly as she replied, “That… is a bit troublesome. To be honest, at first, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about dueling with you. Only now have I realized that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m already deeply entangled, unable to extricate myself. For practitioners, the most feared thing is not knowing when a tribulation will strike. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for some time now, hoping to cross this threshold and condense my Golden Elixir, but the opportunity has yet to come. This time, I sensed a slight opportunity, and I believe that dueling with you is my tribulation. If I overcome it, the skies will be clear; if not, I’m afraid I’ll never glimpse the Great Dao in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel a bit frustrated. “So, does that mean our duel must continue? But—can’t tribulations be avoided? Why are you so determined to hold on?”
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words. “You really don’t understand, do you? For practitioners, tribulations and opportunities go hand in hand. How can they be avoided?—Don’t be upset. In fact, my tribulation is also your tribulation. My opportunity is also your opportunity. If you weren’t a practitioner, I wouldn’t dare to test you with such methods. Since we’ve reached this stage, it’s almost time. Now, we should both be cautious and strive to break free from this lock together. We must not let our guard down.”
Mei Qing sighed. “Alright, alright, whatever you say. Let’s duel if we must. It’s been so long already, what do I have to fear? Just be careful, if I can’t hold on one day, it’ll be you who suffers.”
Bi Zhen giggled at Mei Qing’s words. “Why does that sound so ominous? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to act recklessly, who knows who’ll end up suffering?”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As soon as he entered the courtyard, he saw Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Mingjing, approaching him, saying that Bi Zhen was waiting for him in the back garden.
The Rensheng Palace, once a royal retreat, naturally had a small garden in the back. Though not large, it was quite distinctive. Upon entering, Mei Qing was greeted by a lush expanse of pine and cypress trees. Walking along the forest path, the verdant greenery and the rustling of the pine needles in the wind gave one a sense of detachment from the world.
Not far ahead, at a bend in the path, there was a small stone platform with a pavilion that seemed ready to take flight. Ascending the steps, Mei Qing saw two ancient cypress trees towering like pillars of smoke, reaching for the sky. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Taoist robe, was practicing an unknown set of movements beneath the trees.
The sun had just risen in the east, casting golden reflections off the pine needles, making Bi Zhen appear like a fairy from a painting. Her movements seemed slow yet swift, her hands tracing arcs like birds in flight or falling petals, gracefully flowing around her body.
With a final motion, Bi Zhen brought her palms together, then pressed them downward, slowly coming to a stop. She exhaled deeply, her entire body still.
In recent days, Mei Qing had been so focused on dueling with Bi Zhen that he hadn’t truly taken the time to observe this beautiful Taoist priestess. Now, with a rare moment of clarity, he watched her with admiration, thoroughly enjoying the sight.
Unfortunately, just as Mei Qing was lost in his reverie, Bi Zhen finished her practice and turned to him with a sweet smile, her eyes flashing with a strange light—and with a bang, it began again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing was prepared, so he didn’t lose his composure. He walked over slowly and sat on a stone bench, his eyes still fixed on Bi Zhen as he smiled and said, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on water, but that was just a legend. Seeing Bi Zhen’s graceful movements today, I can truly believe it.”
Since they had already agreed yesterday that their duel must come to an end, Mei Qing decided not to remain passive. Feeling inspired, he openly expressed his admiration without reservation.
Bi Zhen’s eyes showed a hint of approval as she smiled and said, “How is it that after just one night, you’ve become so clever, knowing how to use words to break through appearances? But calling it a dance is quite embarrassing. This is the Nine Animals Exercise, a simple form of guiding energy. What’s so graceful about it?”
“Guiding energy?” Mei Qing was momentarily stunned, then laughed. “So, guiding energy is this kind of exercise or movement? I always thought it referred to guiding the flow of energy through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen was also taken aback for a moment, then burst into laughter, explaining to Mei Qing, “The flow of energy is called ‘Qi circulation.’ Guiding energy, however, is a physical practice. Although guiding energy also involves Qi circulation, the two are not the same. For someone as learned as you, Mei, to make such a mistake—if word got out, people would laugh their heads off. How dare you say such a thing?”
As she spoke, she walked over and sat on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing as she continued to laugh.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s flushed face after her practice, found her even more captivating. As she laughed, he felt his heart stir, but he quickly composed himself and asked, “Bi Zhen, what’s making you so happy that you’re laughing like this?”
Bi Zhen shook her head slightly and replied, “No particular reason. I just suddenly feel very relaxed and can’t help but laugh.”
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s pure, untainted smile, also felt a sense of ease and was about to laugh along.
At that moment, the vortex of energy in his heart tightened, causing a sudden tremor, as if something was pulling at it, making it unstable. Mei Qing was startled and quickly steadied his mind, realizing that Bi Zhen’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was even more dangerous.
However, this method was not as easy to dispel as the previous flames of desire. Once it entered the heart, it was difficult to remove. Though Mei Qing tried his best, his heart remained unsettled.
“Young Master Mei, you’re fixated. Since it’s not about desire, why try to empty it? Instead of struggling, why not let it flow naturally?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like a heavenly melody, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply within him.
Hearing Bi Zhen’s words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had been struck in his heart, and he suddenly calmed down. He laughed and said, “Indeed. When it’s time to laugh, why suppress it? Bi Zhen, your methods are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Zhen smiled. “Young Master Mei is making rapid progress. If I were to remain stagnant, wouldn’t that be embarrassing? Just now, I felt a sudden insight into this method, and I’ve gained some understanding. I hope you don’t mind my laughter.”
Mei Qing thanked her. “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But since you’re a Taoist, why speak of emptiness and desire? Since we’re dueling with methods, why did you choose to enlighten me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Mingjing approached with a simple wooden tea tray, placing it on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with wisps of steam rising gently. A delicate fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing the senses.
Bi Zhen gestured gracefully, picking up a cup of tea and bringing it to her nose to savor the aroma before taking a small sip, her expression serene. Mei Qing also took a cup, savoring the taste. It was slightly bitter at first, but then a subtle fragrance filled his chest.
“Young Master Mei, do you know the origins of Taoism and from which era it stems?” Bi Zhen asked, not answering Mei Qing’s previous question.
“If I remember correctly, it originated from the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the religion at Heming Mountain in Shu, marking the beginning of Taoism.”
“Young Master Mei is quite knowledgeable. However, within Taoism, there are rituals, principles, and methods. The principles are derived from the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals were established after Zhang Ling founded the religion and have been passed down since; the methods, however, originated from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Zhen explained.
“Are you referring to the immortals of the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The immortals were a school of thought during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, standing alongside Taoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike other schools that focused on governance, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, their fundamental goal was simple: immortality.
Bi Zhen smiled at Mei Qing’s question. “You’re not entirely wrong. Immortality is indeed the goal pursued by the immortals. However, their cultivation aims for more than just those four words. But in the secular world, especially among emperors, the focus on immortality techniques has reduced the immortals’ pursuit to just that.”
She then explained to Mei Qing that Taoism’s lineage actually stems from ancient Taoist and immortal traditions. Its principles are derived from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while its practices are heavily influenced by the teachings of the immortals.
“There are countless paths to cultivation; Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian practices are all forms of cultivation. However, in Taoism, we refer to cultivation as ‘refinement’ because the path of the Golden Elixir begins with the concept of ‘refining.’ Broadly speaking, Taoist cultivation methods can be divided into two schools: Talismanic and Alchemical.”
“The Talismanic school refines Qi, while the Alchemical school refines the elixir. The Talismanic school, also known as the Talismanic Water school, involves drawing talismans and using the forces of Yin and Yang to harness the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are derived from the Celestial Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao traditions, which are part of the Talismanic school. There are also other sects like Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which merged during the Yuan Dynasty to form the Zhengyi Dao.”
“The Alchemical school, also known as the Golden Elixir school, can be further divided into Internal and External Alchemy. External Alchemy involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs, which are then consumed to achieve enlightenment. The Nine Animals Exercise I performed earlier is considered part of External Alchemy.”
“However, External Alchemy has long been lost, and the so-called alchemy techniques passed down in the world, often claiming to produce gold and silver, are mostly fraudulent and unreliable. Internal Alchemy, on the other hand, has gradually become the mainstream, representing the true path of cultivation.”
Internal Alchemy, also known as “Returning Elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of External Alchemy to describe the process of refining the body’s essence, Qi, and spirit within the body, as if refining an elixir, to progress towards the Great Dao.
Initially, Internal Alchemy was not as openly taught as the Talismanic school, with its own sects and disciples. Instead, it was often passed down secretly among individuals, hidden from the world. Later, figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gained fame, with Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin becoming the most prominent, gradually bringing Internal Alchemy to the forefront.
It wasn’t until Wang Chongyang of the Northern Song Dynasty founded the Quanzhen Sect that Internal Alchemy became an established school. Wang Chongyang, known as Wang Zhe, had seven disciples, collectively known as the Seven Masters of Quanzhen, who became renowned throughout the land. As the sect was established in the north, it became known as the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School, on the other hand, traces its lineage to Zhang Boduan, the Purple Yang Zhenren, and was passed down through five generations to Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Masters of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun merged the Northern and Southern Schools, forming the Golden Elixir tradition as it is known today.
Today, I can only manage one chapter, and I feel quite ashamed…
I’m a bit tired, my friends. Please allow Old Ji to catch his breath. I promise to double the updates tomorrow.
This section is quite challenging to write. It might be tiring for you to read, but it’s even more exhausting for Old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter laugh, realizing that Bi Zhen probably harbored resentment towards him. She likely thought that he held a grudge against her for her previous attempt to outwit him in their duel, and that he was deliberately retaliating by teasing her. In truth, that was exactly the case, but why couldn’t she believe it? She insisted on thinking that he had mastered some kind of Taoist technique.
With a long sigh, Mei Qing said helplessly, “I’m afraid there’s a misunderstanding, Bi Zhen. I don’t know what Taoist techniques you’re referring to, but I truly haven’t studied any other forms of magic. If you’d like me to interpret these Taoist scriptures, it’s not an impossible task. However, many of the phrases are beyond my understanding, and interpreting them would indeed be difficult. Perhaps you could briefly explain the basic theories of Taoist practice to me, so I can have a better grasp and avoid making too many mistakes in my interpretation.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, seeing the sincerity on his face. It didn’t seem like he was lying, which left her feeling conflicted. Based on Mei Qing’s own words, Bi Zhen would never believe him. But the current situation also left her without a reasonable explanation. After much deliberation, Bi Zhen made up her mind and said, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen School, which focuses on female alchemy. Naturally, I can’t exchange it with you. Fortunately, the path of the Golden Elixir is universal, so I’ll gift you another set of alchemical techniques. How does that sound?”
Mei Qing, hearing Bi Zhen’s words, knew she still didn’t trust him. He smiled wryly and said, “What would I do with your alchemical techniques? The profound terms written there are beyond my comprehension. That’s why I wanted to trouble you to explain them to me, so I don’t get lost when interpreting the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s eyes flickered, and only then did she begin to believe that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand Taoist principles. She was both surprised and doubtful. After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. Today, my mind is unsettled, so starting tomorrow, please come here again, and I’ll explain everything I know to you.”
After a pause, Bi Zhen continued, “However, there’s one thing I must say. Taoist practices are strictly passed down through master-disciple relationships, and it’s against the rules for me to teach you Taoist techniques. But since you’ve already entered the path, we are fellow practitioners, and it’s acceptable for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Fellow Practitioner Mei?”
Mei Qing nodded and said, “I have no objections. But there’s one thing I’d like to ask. You keep calling me ‘Fellow Practitioner,’ and it makes me quite uncomfortable. If you don’t mind, just call me by my courtesy name, ‘San Qing,’ and please don’t refer to me as a fellow practitioner anymore.”
“San Qing?” Bi Zhen smiled. “I’m starting to believe you haven’t practiced Taoism. What Taoist practitioner would dare to take such a name? How about I just call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. I also feel uncomfortable being addressed as ‘Bi Zhen.’”
“That’s perfect,” Mei Qing said cheerfully. “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… Bi Zhen, can we skip the test you had in mind?”
Bi Zhen’s face turned red as she replied, “That… is indeed a problem. To be honest, at first, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about dueling with you. Only now have I realized that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m deeply entangled, unable to extricate myself. For a Taoist practitioner, the most frightening thing is not knowing when a tribulation will strike. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for some time, hoping to cross this hurdle and condense my Golden Elixir, but the opportunity has yet to come. This time, I sensed a slight opportunity, and I believe that dueling with you is my tribulation. If I overcome it, the sky’s the limit. If I don’t, I’m afraid I’ll never have the chance to glimpse the Great Dao in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel frustrated. “So, does that mean our duel has to continue? But… isn’t a tribulation something you can avoid? Why are you so eager to hold onto it?”
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words. “You really don’t understand at all. For a Taoist practitioner, tribulations and opportunities go hand in hand. You can’t just avoid them. And don’t be upset—this tribulation is mine, but it’s also yours. This opportunity is mine, but it’s also yours. If you weren’t a Taoist practitioner, I wouldn’t dare to test you with such a powerful technique. Since we’ve reached this stage, it’s almost time. Now, we both need to be extra cautious and work together to break free from this lock. We must not let our guard down.”
Mei Qing sighed. “Alright, alright, whatever you say. Let’s duel then. It’s been going on for so long, what do I have to fear? Just be careful that one day I might not be able to hold on, and it’ll be you who suffers.”
Bi Zhen giggled at Mei Qing’s words. “Why does that sound so scary? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to act recklessly, who knows who’ll suffer?”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As soon as he entered the courtyard, he saw Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Ming Jing, approaching him. Ming Jing informed him that Bi Zhen was waiting in the back garden and invited Mei Qing to join her there.
The Rensheng Palace, once a royal retreat, had a small but distinctive garden in the back. As Mei Qing entered the garden, he was greeted by a lush landscape filled with towering pines and cypresses. Walking along the forest path, the deep green surroundings and the sound of the wind through the pines gave him a sense of transcendence.
Not far ahead, he saw a small pavilion perched on a stone platform at a bend in the path. As he climbed the steps, he noticed two ancient cypresses standing like pillars of smoke, reaching towards the sky. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Taoist robe, was practicing an unknown set of movements under the cypresses.
The rising sun cast golden reflections on the pine needles, making Bi Zhen appear like a fairy from a painting. Her movements seemed slow yet precise, her hands tracing arcs like birds in flight or falling petals, gracefully flowing around her body.
With a final movement, Bi Zhen brought her hands together, pressed them downward, and slowly came to a stop, exhaling deeply and standing still.
Mei Qing, who had been so focused on their duel, hadn’t had much time to truly observe this beautiful Taoist priestess. Now, with a clear mind, he took the opportunity to admire her, and it was a feast for his eyes.
Just as Mei Qing was lost in his reverie, Bi Zhen finished her practice and turned to him with a sweet smile, her eyes flashing with a strange light—and then, with a bang, it happened again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing was prepared this time and didn’t lose his composure. He walked over calmly and sat on a stone bench, his eyes fixed on Bi Zhen as he said with a smile, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on water, but that was just a legend. Seeing Bi Zhen’s graceful movements today, I can believe it’s true.”
Since they had agreed the day before that their duel had to come to an end, Mei Qing decided not to remain passive. Feeling inspired, he openly expressed his admiration without hesitation.
Bi Zhen, hearing Mei Qing’s words, showed a hint of approval in her eyes and said with a smile, “How is it that after just one night, you’ve become so clever, knowing how to break through appearances with words? But calling it a dance is embarrassing. This is the Nine Birds Exercise, a common form of guiding energy. What’s so graceful about it?”
“Guiding energy?” Mei Qing was momentarily stunned, then laughed. “So, guiding energy is this kind of movement or exercise? I always thought it was about directing the flow of energy through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen was also surprised for a moment, then burst into laughter, explaining to Mei Qing, “Directing the flow of energy is called ‘moving qi.’ Guiding energy, however, is a physical exercise. Although guiding energy involves moving qi, the two are not the same. For someone as learned as you, Mei Qing, to make such a mistake—if word got out, people would laugh their teeth out. How dare you say such a thing?”
As she spoke, she walked over and sat on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing as she continued to laugh.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s flushed face after her practice, found her even more captivating. Her laughter made his heart race, so he quickly calmed himself and asked, “Bi Zhen, what’s so funny? Why are you laughing so much?”
Bi Zhen shook her head slightly and replied, “No particular reason. I just suddenly felt very relaxed and couldn’t help but laugh.”
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s pure and carefree smile, also felt a sense of ease and was about to laugh along.
At that moment, the vortex of energy in his heart tightened and began to tremble, as if something was pulling at it, threatening to collapse. Mei Qing was startled and quickly focused his mind, realizing that Bi Zhen’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was even more dangerous.
However, this technique was not as easy to dispel as the previous one. Once it entered the heart, it was difficult to remove. Despite his efforts, Mei Qing’s heart remained unsettled.
“Mei Qing, you’re too attached. If it’s not about desire, why try to empty it? Instead of struggling, why not let it flow naturally?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like a heavenly melody, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply within him.
Hearing Bi Zhen’s words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had been struck in his heart. He suddenly understood and calmed down, laughing heartily. “Indeed. When it’s time to laugh, why suppress it? Bi Zhen, your techniques are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Zhen smiled. “Mei Qing, you’re making rapid progress. If I stay stagnant, I’d be ashamed. Just now, I felt a new understanding of this technique, and I’m glad you found it amusing.”
Mei Qing thanked her. “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But since you’re a Taoist practitioner, why talk about emptiness and desire? Since we’re dueling with techniques, why did you enlighten me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Ming Jing approached, carrying a simple wooden tea tray, which he placed on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with wisps of steam rising gently. A delicate fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing and invigorating.
Bi Zhen gestured gracefully, picking up a cup of tea and bringing it to her nose to savor the aroma before taking a small sip, her expression serene. Mei Qing also took a cup, savoring the taste. It was slightly bitter at first, but then a subtle fragrance filled his chest.
“Mei Qing, do you know the origins of Taoism and from which era it began?” Bi Zhen asked, not answering Mei Qing’s question but posing one of her own.
“If I remember correctly, it originated from the Taoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the religion at Heming Mountain in Shu, and that’s when Taoism as a religion began.”
“Mei Qing, you’re quite knowledgeable. However, within Taoism, there are rituals, principles, and techniques. The principles are derived from the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals were established after Zhang Ling founded the religion and have been passed down since; the techniques, however, originated from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Zhen explained.
“Are you referring to the immortals of the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The immortals were a school of thought during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, standing alongside Taoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike other schools that focused on governance, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, their fundamental goal was simple: immortality.
Bi Zhen smiled at Mei Qing’s question. “You’re not entirely wrong. Immortality was indeed the goal of the immortals. However, their pursuit was far more complex than those four words suggest. But over time, especially among emperors and the elite, the focus on immortality became so prominent that the immortals’ teachings were reduced to just that.”
She then went on to explain in detail that Taoism’s heritage was rooted in ancient Taoist and immortal traditions. Its principles were derived from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while its practices were heavily influenced by the teachings of the immortals.
“The path of cultivation is vast and varied. Taoist cultivation, like Buddhist and Confucian practices, is a form of cultivation. However, in Taoism, we refer to it as ‘refinement’ because the path of the Golden Elixir begins with the concept of ‘refining.’ Broadly speaking, Taoist refinement can be divided into two schools: Talismanic and Alchemical.”
“Talismanic refinement focuses on qi, while Alchemical refinement focuses on the elixir. The Talismanic school, also known as the Talismanic Water school, involves drawing talismans and using the forces of yin and yang to harness the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are derived from the Celestial Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao schools, which are part of the Talismanic tradition. There are also other schools like Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which were unified into the Zhengyi Dao during the Yuan Dynasty.”
“The Alchemical school, also known as the Golden Elixir school, can be further divided into Internal and External Alchemy. External Alchemy involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs, which are then consumed to achieve enlightenment. The Nine Birds Exercise I performed earlier is considered part of External Alchemy.”
“However, External Alchemy has long been lost, and the so-called alchemy practiced today, often referred to as ‘yellow and white,’ is mostly fraudulent and unreliable. Internal Alchemy, on the other hand, has become the mainstream and is considered the true path of cultivation.”
Internal Alchemy, also known as “Returning the Elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of External Alchemy to describe the process of refining the body. The body is the furnace, essence and qi are the ingredients, and the spirit is the fire. Through this process, the elixir is formed within the body, leading to the Great Dao.
Unlike the Talismanic school, which established sects and recruited disciples, Internal Alchemy was initially passed down secretly among individuals and remained largely unknown to the public. It wasn’t until figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gained fame, especially Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, that it began to emerge.
During the Northern Song Dynasty, Wang Ji (also known as Wang Chongyang) founded the Quanzhen School, establishing it as a formal sect. Wang Ji’s seven disciples, known as the Seven Masters of Quanzhen, became renowned. Since the sect was based in the north, it was also called the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School, on the other hand, was passed down from Zhang Boduan, also known as Ziyang Zhenren. After five generations, it reached Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Masters of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun unified the Northern and Southern Schools, forming the Golden Elixir tradition as it is known today.
Today, only one chapter, I feel ashamed…
I’m a bit tired, my brothers, let Old Ji catch his breath. I promise a double update tomorrow.
This part is quite challenging to write. It might be tiring for you to read, but it’s even more exhausting for Old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter laugh, realizing that Bi Zhen probably harbored resentment towards him. She likely thought he was deliberately retaliating against her for her previous attempt to outwit him in a duel, hence the teasing remarks. In truth, he was just being himself, but she stubbornly refused to believe it, insisting that he must have practiced some form of Taoist magic.
With a long sigh, Mei Qing said helplessly, “I fear there’s a misunderstanding, Bi Zhen. I don’t know what Taoist techniques you’re referring to, but I truly haven’t studied any other forms of magic. If you wish for me to interpret these Taoist scriptures, it’s not an impossible task. However, many of the phrases are beyond my comprehension, making it quite challenging. Perhaps you could briefly explain the basic theories of Taoist practice to me, so I can have a better understanding and avoid major errors in my interpretations.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, seeing the sincerity in his expression, which didn’t seem feigned. She felt a wave of uncertainty. Based on Mei Qing’s own words, Bi Zhen would never believe him. But the current situation left her without a reasonable explanation. After much deliberation, Bi Zhen made up her mind and said, “Very well, I’ll go along with you. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen School, which is a female practice, and naturally, I cannot exchange it with you. Fortunately, the Great Path of the Golden Elixir is universal. I can offer you another set of alchemical techniques instead.”
Mei Qing, hearing Bi Zhen’s words, knew she still didn’t trust him. He smiled wryly, “What would I do with your alchemical techniques? The profound terms written there are beyond my understanding. I merely wish to trouble you for some explanations to avoid confusion when interpreting the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s eyes flickered, finally somewhat convinced that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand Taoist principles. She felt a mix of surprise and doubt. After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “Very well, I’ll go along with you. Today, my mind is unsettled. Starting tomorrow, please return here, and I’ll explain everything I know to you.”
At this point, Bi Zhen paused for a moment, then continued, “However, there’s one thing to note. Taoist practices are entirely dependent on master-disciple transmission. By rights, I shouldn’t be teaching you Taoist methods. But since you’ve already entered the path, and we are fellow practitioners, it seems acceptable for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Fellow Daoist Mei?”
Mei Qing nodded, “I have no objections. But there’s one thing I’d like to ask. You keep calling me ‘Fellow Daoist,’ which makes me quite uncomfortable. If you don’t mind, just call me by my courtesy name, ‘San Qing,’ and please don’t refer to me as a fellow practitioner anymore.”
“San Qing, huh?” Bi Zhen smiled, “I’m starting to believe you haven’t practiced Taoism. What practitioner would dare to take such a name? How about I just call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. I also feel uncomfortable being addressed as ‘Zhenren.'”
“That sounds great,” Mei Qing said cheerfully, “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… can we skip the tests you had in mind?”
Bi Zhen blushed slightly, “This matter… is indeed troublesome. To be honest, initially, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about dueling with you. Only now do I realize that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m deeply entangled, unable to extricate myself. For practitioners, the most feared thing is not knowing when a tribulation will strike. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for some time, hoping to cross this hurdle and condense my Golden Elixir, but the opportunity has been elusive. This time, sensing a slight opportunity, I believe this duel with you is my tribulation. If I pass it, the skies will be clear; if not, I fear I’ll never glimpse the Great Path in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel frustrated, “So, we have to continue this duel? But—can’t we just avoid this tribulation? Why are you so insistent on holding onto it?”
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words, “You really don’t understand. For practitioners, tribulations and opportunities are intertwined. How can you just avoid them?—Don’t be upset. In fact, my tribulation is also your tribulation. My opportunity is also your opportunity. If you weren’t a practitioner, I wouldn’t dare to test you with such methods. Since we’ve reached this point, it’s almost time. Now, we should be even more cautious, hoping to unlock this lock together, and not slack off.”
Mei Qing said, “Alright, alright, whatever you say. Let’s duel, it’s been a long time, and I’m not afraid. Just be careful, if I can’t hold on one day, it’ll be you who suffers.”
Bi Zhen giggled at Mei Qing’s words, “Why does it sound so scary? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to misbehave, it’s hard to say who will suffer.”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As he entered the courtyard, he saw Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Ming Jing, approaching him, saying that Bi Zhen was waiting for him in the back garden.
The Rensheng Palace, once a royal retreat, naturally had a small garden in the back. Though not large, it was quite distinctive. Upon entering the garden, Mei Qing was greeted by lush greenery, with pine and cypress trees standing tall. Walking along the forest path, the deep green of the trees and the sound of the wind through the pines gave a sense of otherworldliness.
Not far ahead, at a turn in the path, there was a small stone platform with a pavilion that seemed ready to take flight. Ascending the steps, Mei Qing saw two ancient cypress trees towering into the sky like smoke pillars. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Taoist robe, was practicing an unknown set of martial arts under the cypress trees.
The rising sun in the east cast golden reflections on the pine needles, making Bi Zhen appear like a fairy from a painting. Her movements seemed fast yet slow, her hands drawing arcs like birds flying and flowers falling, gracefully moving around her body.
With a final motion, Bi Zhen brought her palms together, then pressed them downward, slowly coming to a stop and exhaling deeply, her entire body becoming still.
Mei Qing, who had been preoccupied with dueling Bi Zhen, hadn’t had much time to truly observe this beautiful Taoist master. Now, with a clear mind, he took the opportunity to admire her, thoroughly enjoying the sight.
Just as Mei Qing was lost in his reverie, Bi Zhen finished her practice and turned to him with a sweet smile, her eyes flashing with a strange light—boom, it happened again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing was prepared and didn’t lose his composure. He walked over slowly and sat on a stone bench, his eyes still on Bi Zhen as he smiled, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on water, but that was just a legend. Seeing Bi Zhen’s graceful movements today, it’s no less than a celestial dance, truly believable.”
Since they had agreed yesterday that their duel must come to an end, Mei Qing didn’t want to remain passive. With a thought, he openly expressed his admiration without hesitation.
Bi Zhen, hearing Mei Qing’s words, showed a hint of approval in her eyes and smiled, “How is it that overnight, you’ve become so clever, knowing how to break the illusion with words? But calling it a dance is embarrassing. This is the Nine Birds Exercise, a common guiding technique, nothing so graceful.”
“A guiding technique?” Mei Qing was momentarily stunned, then laughed, “So, guiding techniques are like martial arts or dynamic exercises? I always thought guiding was about directing the flow of energy through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen was also surprised for a moment, then burst into laughter, explaining to Mei Qing, “Directing the flow of energy is called ‘Qi Circulation.’ Guiding, however, is a physical technique. Although guiding also involves Qi Circulation, the two are not the same. For someone as learned as you, Mei, to make such a mistake, it’s quite amusing. I’m surprised you dared to say it.”
As she spoke, she walked over and sat on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing, laughing uncontrollably.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s flushed face after her long practice, found her even more captivating. As she laughed, he felt his heart stir and quickly calmed his mind, asking, “Bi Zhen, what’s so funny that you’re laughing so much?”
Bi Zhen shook her head slightly, “No particular reason, I just suddenly felt very relaxed and couldn’t help but laugh.”
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s pure, untainted smile, also felt a sense of ease and was about to laugh along.
At that moment, the vortex of energy in his heart tightened, causing a tremor, as if something was pulling it, making it unstable. Mei Qing was startled and quickly steadied his mind, realizing that Bi Zhen’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was even more dangerous.
However, this technique was not as easy to dispel as the previous one. Once it entered the heart, it was hard to remove. Though Mei Qing tried his best, his heart remained unsettled.
“Mei, you’re too attached. Since it’s not about desire, why force emptiness? Instead of struggling, why not let it flow naturally?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like a heavenly melody, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply.
Hearing Bi Zhen’s words, Mei Qing felt a sudden clarity and calmness, laughing heartily, “Indeed. When it’s time to laugh, why suppress it? Bi Zhen, your techniques are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Zhen smiled, “Mei, you’re making rapid progress. If I stay in the same place, it would be embarrassing. Just now, I felt a new understanding of this technique, and I hope you don’t mind my laughter.”
Mei Qing thanked her, “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But since you’re a Taoist, why talk about emptiness and desire? Since we’re dueling with techniques, why did you enlighten me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Ming Jing walked up with a simple wooden tea tray, placing it on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with wisps of steam rising. A delicate fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing the senses.
Bi Zhen gestured gracefully, picking up a cup of tea and gently inhaling its aroma before taking a small sip, her face showing a serene expression. Mei Qing, not standing on ceremony, took a cup and savored the taste, finding it slightly bitter at first, followed by a deep, fragrant aftertaste.
“Mei, do you know the origins of Taoism, from which era it began?” Bi Zhen asked, not answering Mei Qing’s question but posing one of her own.
“If I remember correctly, it originated from the Taoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the religion at Heming Mountain in Shu, marking the beginning of Taoism.”
“Mei, you’re quite knowledgeable. However, within Taoism, there are rituals, principles, and methods. The principles are derived from the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals have been passed down since Zhang Ling established the religion; and the methods originated from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Zhen explained.
“Are you referring to the Immortal School during the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The Immortal School was a faction during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, standing alongside Taoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike other schools that focused on governance, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, their fundamental goal was simple: immortality.
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words, “You’re not entirely wrong. Immortality is indeed the goal pursued by the Immortal School. However, the cultivation sought by the Immortal School is far more complex than those four words. It’s just that secular people, especially emperors, valued immortal techniques solely for longevity, and over time, the Immortal School became associated only with the pursuit of immortality.”
Then, Bi Zhen explained to Mei Qing the lineage of Taoism, which actually inherited from the ancient Taoist and Immortal schools. The principles were derived from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while the cultivation methods were largely adopted from the Immortal School.
“There are countless paths to cultivation; Taoist cultivation, Buddhist cultivation, and Confucian cultivation are all forms of cultivation. However, in Taoism, we refer to cultivation as ‘refinement’ because the path of the Golden Elixir begins with the word ‘refine.’ Broadly speaking, Taoist cultivation methods can be divided into two schools: Talismanic and Alchemical.”
“Talismanic cultivation focuses on refining Qi, while Alchemical cultivation focuses on refining the elixir. The Talismanic School is also known as the Talismanic Water School, where practitioners draw talismans and use the forces of Yin and Yang to harness the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are derived from the Celestial Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao schools of the Talismanic School. There are also other sects like Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which merged into the Zhengyi School during the Yuan Dynasty.”
“The Alchemical School, also known as the Golden Elixir School, can be further divided into Internal Alchemy and External Alchemy. External Alchemy involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs, which are then consumed to attain the Dao. The Nine Birds Guiding Technique I practiced earlier is considered part of External Alchemy.”
“However, External Alchemy has long been lost, and the alchemy techniques passed down in the world, falsely claiming to produce gold and silver, are mostly fraudulent and not to be trusted. Internal Alchemy, on the other hand, has gradually become the mainstream, representing the true path of cultivation.”
Internal Alchemy, also known as “Returning the Elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of External Alchemy to describe the cultivation of the human body. The body is the furnace, the essence and Qi are the ingredients, and the spirit is the fire, refining the elixir within the body to advance on the path of the Dao.
Initially, Internal Alchemy did not establish sects or widely recruit disciples like the Talismanic School. Instead, it was mostly passed down secretly among the people, rarely known to the world. Later, figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gained fame, especially Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who brought it to prominence.
It wasn’t until Wang Chongyang of the Northern Song Dynasty founded the Quanzhen School that Internal Alchemy began to establish a formal sect. Wang Chongyang, known as Wang Ji, had seven disciples, known as the Seven Masters of Quanzhen, who became famous throughout the land. As the sect was established in the north, it was also known as the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School, on the other hand, was passed down from Zhang Boduan, known as Ziyang Zhenren, and later through five generations to Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Masters of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun merged the Northern and Southern Schools, forming the Golden Elixir tradition as it is known today.
Today, there is only one chapter, and I feel quite ashamed…
I’m a bit tired, my brothers, let Old Ji catch his breath. I promise a double update tomorrow.
This part is quite challenging to write. Perhaps it’s tiring for you to read, but it’s even more exhausting for Old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter laugh, realizing that Bi Zhen must have harbored resentment towards him. She probably thought that he was deliberately retaliating against her for her previous attempt to ambush him during their duel, hence the teasing remarks. In truth, he was exactly as he appeared, but why couldn’t she believe it? She insisted on thinking that he had cultivated some kind of Taoist technique.
With a long sigh, Mei Qing said helplessly, “I’m afraid you’ve misunderstood me, Bi Zhen. I don’t know what Taoist techniques you’re referring to, but I truly haven’t studied any other forms of magic. If you’d like me to interpret these Taoist scriptures, it’s not impossible. However, many of the phrases are beyond my comprehension, and trying to explain them would be quite challenging. Perhaps you could briefly introduce me to the basic theories of Taoism, so I can have a better understanding and avoid making too many mistakes in my interpretations.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, seeing the sincerity on his face and finding it hard to believe he was lying. Yet, his words were something she couldn’t accept. After much deliberation, she finally spoke, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen School, which focuses on female alchemy. Naturally, it’s not something I can exchange with you. Fortunately, the Great Path of the Golden Elixir is universal. I’ll gift you another set of alchemical techniques, how about that?”
Mei Qing, hearing her words, knew she still didn’t trust him. He smiled wryly, “What would I do with your alchemical techniques? The profound terms written there are beyond my understanding. I was hoping you could explain them to me, so I don’t get lost while interpreting the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s eyes flickered, and only then did she begin to believe that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand Taoist principles. She was both surprised and doubtful. After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. Today, I’m not in the right state of mind. Starting tomorrow, please come back here, and I’ll explain everything I know to you.”
After a pause, she continued, “However, there’s one thing. Taoist techniques are traditionally passed down through master-disciple relationships, and it’s not customary for me to teach a fellow practitioner. But since you’ve already entered the Tao, and we are fellow practitioners, it’s acceptable for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Fellow Practitioner Mei?”
Mei Qing nodded, “I have no objections. But there’s one thing I’d like to ask. You keep calling me ‘Fellow Practitioner,’ which makes me a bit uncomfortable. If you don’t mind, just call me by my courtesy name, ‘San Qing,’ and please don’t refer to me as a fellow practitioner anymore.”
“San Qing?” Bi Zhen smiled, “I’m starting to believe you haven’t cultivated the Tao. What Taoist practitioner would dare to take such a name? How about I just call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. It’s also inconvenient for me to be addressed as ‘Bi Zhen’ by you.”
“That’s perfect,” Mei Qing said cheerfully, “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… can we skip the tests you’ve been putting me through?”
Bi Zhen’s face turned red, “That’s… a bit complicated. To be honest, initially, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about our duel. Only now have I realized that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m deeply entangled, unable to extricate myself. For a Taoist practitioner, the most feared thing is not knowing when a tribulation will strike. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for some time, hoping to cross this threshold and form the Golden Elixir, but the opportunity has been elusive. This time, sensing an opportunity, I believe our duel is my tribulation. If I overcome it, the sky’s the limit. If I don’t, I’m afraid I’ll never glimpse the Great Path in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel a bit frustrated, “So, our duel must continue? But… isn’t a tribulation something you can avoid? Why are you so insistent on holding on?”
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words, “You really don’t understand. For a Taoist practitioner, tribulations and opportunities go hand in hand. They’re not something you can simply avoid. And don’t be upset—this tribulation is mine, but it’s also yours. This opportunity is mine, but it’s also yours. If you weren’t a Taoist practitioner, I wouldn’t dare to test you with such a technique. Since we’ve reached this point, it’s almost time. Now, we both need to be extra cautious, hoping to unlock this together, and not let our guard down.”
Mei Qing sighed, “Alright, alright, whatever you say. Let’s duel then. It’s been going on for so long, what do I have to fear? Just be careful, if I can’t hold on one day, it’s you who’ll suffer.”
Bi Zhen giggled at Mei Qing’s words, “Why does that sound so scary? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to act recklessly, who knows who’ll suffer?”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As he entered the courtyard, he saw Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Ming Jing, approaching him, saying that Bi Zhen was waiting for him in the back garden.
The Rensheng Palace, once a royal retreat, naturally had a small garden in the back. Though not large, it was quite unique. Upon entering, Mei Qing was greeted by a lush landscape of pine and cypress trees. Walking along the forest path, the verdant greenery and the sound of the wind through the pines gave a sense of detachment from the world.
Not far ahead, at a bend in the path, there was a stone platform with a small pavilion that seemed to soar into the sky. Ascending the steps, Mei Qing saw two ancient cypress trees towering like pillars of smoke reaching into the heavens. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Taoist robe, was practicing an unknown set of martial arts under the cypress trees.
The rising sun in the east cast golden reflections off the pine needles, making Bi Zhen appear like a fairy from a painting. Her movements, seemingly fast yet slow, traced arcs like birds flying and flowers falling, gracefully flowing around her.
With a final motion, Bi Zhen brought her palms together and pressed them downward, slowly coming to a stop and exhaling deeply, her entire body still.
Mei Qing, who had been preoccupied with their duel, hadn’t had much time to truly observe this beautiful Taoist priestess. Now, with a clear mind, he took the opportunity to admire her, thoroughly enjoying the sight.
Just as Mei Qing was lost in his reverie, Bi Zhen finished her practice and turned to him with a sweet smile, her eyes flashing with a strange light—and then, with a loud boom, it began again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing was prepared this time and didn’t lose his composure. He walked over slowly and sat on a stone bench, his eyes still on Bi Zhen as he smiled, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on water, but that was just a legend. Seeing you dance today, you rival the heavens, and I’m not deceived.”
Since they had agreed yesterday that their duel must come to an end, Mei Qing decided not to remain passive. Inspired, he openly expressed his admiration without reservation.
Bi Zhen, hearing his words, showed a hint of approval in her eyes and smiled, “How is it that after just one night, you’ve become so clever, knowing how to break the illusion with words? But calling it a dance is a bit embarrassing. This is the Nine Animals Exercise, a common form of guiding energy. What’s so graceful about it?”
“Guiding energy?” Mei Qing was momentarily stunned, then laughed, “So, guiding energy is this kind of martial arts or movement exercise? I always thought it was about guiding the flow of energy through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen was also taken aback for a moment, then burst into laughter, explaining to Mei Qing, “The flow of energy is called ‘circulating qi.’ Guiding energy, however, is a physical technique. Although guiding energy involves circulating qi, the two are not the same. For someone as learned as you, Mei, to make such a mistake, aren’t you afraid people will laugh their teeth out? How dare you say such a thing?”
As she spoke, she sat down on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing, laughing uncontrollably.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s flushed face after her long practice, found her even more captivating. Her laughter only made his heart race more, so he quickly composed himself and asked, “Bi Zhen, what’s making you so happy that you’re laughing like this?”
Bi Zhen shook her head slightly, “No particular reason. I just suddenly feel very light-hearted and can’t help but laugh.”
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s pure, untainted smile, also felt a sense of lightness and was about to laugh along.
At that moment, the vortex of energy in his heart tightened, causing a sudden tremor, as if something was pulling at it, making it unstable. Mei Qing was startled and quickly focused his mind, realizing that Bi Zhen’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was even more dangerous.
However, this technique was not as easy to dispel as the previous one. Once it entered the heart, it was hard to remove. Though Mei Qing tried his best, his heart remained unsettled.
“You’re too attached, Mei. Since it’s not about desire, why force emptiness? Instead of struggling, why not let it flow naturally?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like a heavenly melody, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply within him.
Hearing her words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had been struck in his heart, and he suddenly calmed down, laughing heartily, “Indeed, that’s the way. When it’s time to laugh, laugh. Why suppress it? Bi Zhen, your techniques are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Zhen smiled, “Mei, you’re advancing rapidly. If I stay stagnant, wouldn’t it be embarrassing? Just now, I felt a new understanding of this technique, and I’m glad you found it amusing.”
Mei Qing thanked her, “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But since you’re a Taoist practitioner, why speak of emptiness and desire? Since we’re dueling with techniques, why bother to enlighten me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Ming Jing approached with a simple wooden tea tray, placing it on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with wisps of steam rising. A delicate fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing the senses.
Bi Zhen gestured gracefully, picking up a cup of tea and gently inhaling its aroma before taking a small sip, her face serene. Mei Qing, not standing on ceremony, also took a cup, savoring the taste. It was slightly bitter at first, but then a subtle fragrance filled his chest.
“Mei, do you know the origins of Taoism, from which era it began?” Bi Zhen asked, not answering his previous question.
“If I remember correctly, it originated from the Taoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the religion at Heming Mountain in Shu, and that’s how Taoism began.”
“You’re quite knowledgeable. However, within Taoism, there are rituals, principles, and techniques. The principles are derived from the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals have been passed down since Zhang Ling established the religion; and the techniques originated from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Zhen explained.
“Are you referring to the immortals of the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The immortals were a school of thought during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, standing alongside Taoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike other schools that focused on governance, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, their ultimate goal was simple: immortality.
Bi Zhen smiled at Mei Qing’s words, “You’re not entirely wrong. Immortality is indeed the goal pursued by the immortals. However, their cultivation aims for more than just those four words. But secular people, especially emperors, valued the techniques of immortals solely for longevity, and over time, the immortals became synonymous with seeking immortality.”
Then, Bi Zhen explained in detail that Taoism’s lineage actually stems from the ancient Taoist and immortal schools. Its principles are inherited from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while its practices are largely drawn from the teachings of immortals.
“The methods of cultivation are numerous; Taoist cultivation, like Buddhist and Confucian practices, is a form of cultivation. However, Taoism refers to cultivation as ‘refinement’ because the path of the Golden Elixir begins with the word ‘refine.’ Broadly speaking, Taoist cultivation can be divided into two schools: Talismanic and Alchemical.”
“Talismanic cultivation focuses on refining qi, while Alchemical cultivation focuses on refining elixirs. The Talismanic school, also known as the Talismanic Water School, involves drawing talismans and using the forces of yin and yang to manipulate the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are derived from the Talismanic school’s Heavenly Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao sects, among others like Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which merged during the Yuan Dynasty to form the Zhengyi School.”
“The Alchemical school, also known as the Golden Elixir School, can be further divided into Internal and External Alchemy. External Alchemy involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs, which are then consumed to achieve enlightenment. The Nine Animals Exercise I performed earlier is considered part of External Alchemy.”
“However, External Alchemy has long been lost, and the so-called alchemy practiced today, often referred to as ‘yellow and white,’ is mostly fraudulent and unreliable. Internal Alchemy, on the other hand, has become the mainstream, representing the true path of cultivation.”
Internal Alchemy, also known as “Returning Elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of External Alchemy to describe the process of refining the body. The body is the furnace, the essence and qi are the ingredients, and the spirit is the fire, refining these elements within the body to form the elixir and advance on the Great Path.
Initially, Internal Alchemy wasn’t as openly practiced as the Talismanic school, with its established sects and disciples. Instead, it was mostly passed down secretly among the people, rarely known to the world. Later, figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gained fame, especially Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who brought it to prominence.
It wasn’t until Wang Ji (three auspicious characters) of the Northern Song Dynasty founded the Quanzhen School that Internal Alchemy became an established religion. Wang Ji, known as Wang Chongyang, had seven disciples, collectively known as the Seven Ancestors of Quanzhen, who became famous throughout the land. Since the school was established in the north, it was also called the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School, on the other hand, was passed down from Zhang Boduan, known as the Purple Yang Master, and later through five generations to Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Ancestors of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun merged the Northern and Southern Schools, forming the Golden Elixir tradition as it is known today.
Today, there’s only one chapter, and I feel a bit ashamed…
I’m somewhat tired, my brothers, let Old Ji catch his breath. I promise a double update tomorrow.
This part is quite challenging to write. Perhaps it’s tiring for you to read, but it’s even more exhausting for Old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter laugh, realizing that Bi Zhen probably harbored resentment towards him. She likely thought that he was deliberately retaliating against her for her previous attempt to outmaneuver him in their duel, hence the teasing remarks. In truth, he was exactly as he appeared, but why couldn’t she believe it, insisting that he must have cultivated some Taoist arts?
With a long sigh, Mei Qing helplessly said, “I fear there’s a misunderstanding, Bi Zhen. I don’t know what Taoist arts you’re referring to, but I truly haven’t studied any other magical techniques. If you wish for me to interpret these Taoist scriptures, it’s not particularly difficult. However, many of the phrases are beyond my comprehension, making it quite challenging to provide accurate interpretations. Perhaps you could briefly explain the foundational theories of Taoist practices to me, so I can have a better understanding and avoid significant errors in my annotations.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long while, seeing the sincerity in his expression, which didn’t seem feigned, and she felt a wave of uncertainty. According to Mei Qing’s own words, Bi Zhen would never believe him. But the current situation left her without a reasonable explanation. After much deliberation, Bi Zhen made up her mind and said, “Very well, let’s proceed as you suggest. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen School, which is a female practice and naturally cannot be exchanged with you. Fortunately, the Great Path of the Golden Elixir is universal. I can offer you another set of alchemical methods, how about that?”
Seeing Bi Zhen’s response, Mei Qing knew she still didn’t trust him. He smiled wryly and said, “What would I do with your alchemical methods? The profound terms written there are beyond my comprehension. I was hoping you could explain them to me to avoid confusion when interpreting the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s eyes flickered, and only then did she begin to believe that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand Taoist principles. She was filled with doubt and uncertainty. After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “Very well, let’s proceed as you suggest. Today, my mind is unsettled. Starting tomorrow, please come here again, and I will explain everything I know to you.”
After a pause, she continued, “However, there’s one thing. Taoist practices are strictly passed down through master-disciple relationships, and it’s against the rules for me to teach Taoist methods to a fellow practitioner. But since you’ve already entered the path, and we are fellow practitioners, it seems acceptable for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Mei Qing?”
Mei Qing nodded and said, “I have no objections. But there’s one request. You keep addressing me as ‘fellow practitioner,’ which makes me quite uncomfortable. If you don’t mind, just call me by my courtesy name, ‘San Qing,’ and please don’t address me as ‘fellow practitioner’ anymore.”
“San Qing?” Bi Zhen smiled slightly. “I’m starting to believe that you haven’t cultivated Taoist practices. Which practitioner would dare to take such a name? Let me call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. Addressing me as ‘Zhenren’ makes me feel uneasy as well.”
“That’s perfect,” Mei Qing said with a cheerful mood. “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… can we skip the testing methods, Bi Zhen?”
Bi Zhen’s face turned red as she replied, “This matter… is indeed troublesome. To be honest, initially, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about our duel. Only now have I realized that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m deeply entangled, unable to extricate myself. For practitioners, the most feared thing is not knowing when a tribulation will come. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for quite some time, hoping to cross this threshold and condense the Golden Elixir, but the opportunity has been elusive. Now that I sense an opportunity, I believe this duel with you is my tribulation. If I pass it, the skies will be clear; if I fail, I may never glimpse the Great Path in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel frustrated. “So, our duel must continue? But… can’t tribulations be avoided? Why are you so insistent on holding on?”
Bi Zhen chuckled at Mei Qing’s words. “You really don’t understand. For practitioners, tribulations and opportunities go hand in hand; they can’t be avoided. And don’t be upset—this tribulation is mine, but it’s also yours. This opportunity is mine, but it’s also yours. If you weren’t a practitioner, I wouldn’t dare to test you with such methods. Since we’ve reached this point, it’s almost time. Now, we both need to be extra cautious, hoping to unlock this together, and not let our guard down.”
Mei Qing sighed. “Alright, alright, whatever you say. Let’s duel then. It’s been a while, and I’m not afraid. Just be careful; if I can’t hold on one day, you’ll be the one at a disadvantage.”
Bi Zhen giggled at Mei Qing’s words. “Why does it sound so scary? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to misbehave, who knows who will be at a disadvantage?”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As he entered the courtyard, he saw Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Ming Jing, approaching him, saying that Bi Zhen was waiting for him in the back garden.
The Rensheng Palace, once a royal retreat, naturally had a small garden in the back. Though not large, it was quite distinctive. As Mei Qing entered the garden, he was greeted by a lush view of pine and cypress trees. Walking along the forest path, the verdant scenery and the sound of the wind through the pines gave him a sense of detachment from the world.
Not far ahead, at a bend in the path, there was a small stone platform with a pavilion that seemed ready to take flight. Ascending the steps, Mei Qing saw two ancient cypress trees towering into the sky like pillars of smoke. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Taoist robe, was practicing an unknown set of movements under the cypress trees.
The rising sun cast golden reflections on the pine needles, making Bi Zhen appear like a fairy from a painting. Her movements seemed slow but were actually swift, her hands tracing arcs like birds flying or flowers falling, gracefully moving around her body.
With a final gesture, Bi Zhen brought her palms together, then pressed them downward, slowly coming to a stop and exhaling deeply, her entire body becoming still.
In recent days, Mei Qing had been so focused on his duel with Bi Zhen that he hadn’t truly observed this beautiful Taoist priestess. Now, with a clear mind, he took the opportunity to admire her, thoroughly enjoying the view.
Just as Mei Qing was lost in his reverie, Bi Zhen finished her practice and turned to him with a sweet smile, her eyes flashing with a strange light—and suddenly, it happened again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing was prepared and didn’t lose his composure. He walked over slowly and sat on a stone bench, his eyes still on Bi Zhen as he smiled and said, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on water, but that was just a legend. Seeing Bi Zhen’s graceful movements today, it’s no exaggeration to say she rivals the immortals.”
Since they had agreed the previous day that their duel must come to an end, Mei Qing decided not to remain passive. Feeling inspired, he openly expressed his admiration.
Bi Zhen’s eyes showed a hint of approval as she smiled and said, “How is it that overnight, you’ve become so clever, knowing how to use words to break through appearances? But calling it a dance is embarrassing. This is the Nine Birds Exercise, a common guiding technique. What’s so graceful about it?”
“A guiding technique?” Mei Qing was momentarily puzzled, then laughed. “So, guiding techniques are like these movements or exercises? I always thought guiding meant directing the flow of energy through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen was also taken aback for a moment, then burst into laughter, explaining to Mei Qing, “Directing the flow of energy is called ‘Qi circulation.’ Guiding techniques are physical exercises. Although guiding techniques are accompanied by Qi circulation methods, the two are not the same. For someone as learned as you, Mei Qing, to make such a mistake, it’s quite amusing. I’m surprised you dared to say it.”
As she spoke, she walked over and sat on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing, laughing uncontrollably.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s flushed face after her practice, found her even more captivating. Her continuous laughter made his heart race, and he quickly composed himself, asking, “Bi Zhen, what’s so amusing that you’re laughing so much?”
Bi Zhen shook her head slightly and replied, “No particular reason. I just suddenly felt very relaxed and couldn’t help but laugh.”
Seeing Bi Zhen’s pure, untainted smile, Mei Qing also felt a sense of ease and was about to laugh along.
At that moment, the vortex of energy within him tightened, causing a sudden tremor, as if something was pulling at it, making it unstable. Mei Qing was startled and quickly focused his mind, realizing that Bi Zhen’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was even more dangerous.
However, this method was not as easy to dispel as the previous flames of desire. Once it entered the heart, it was difficult to remove. Despite his efforts, Mei Qing’s heart remained unsettled.
“You’re too attached, Mei Qing. If it’s not about desire, why seek emptiness? Instead of struggling, why not let it flow naturally?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like heavenly music, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply within him.
Hearing Bi Zhen’s words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had been struck, and his heart suddenly calmed. He laughed and said, “Indeed. When it’s time to laugh, why suppress it? Bi Zhen, your methods are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Zhen smiled and said, “Mei Qing, you’re making rapid progress. If I stay stagnant, it would be embarrassing. Just now, I felt a new understanding of this method, and I hope you don’t mind my laughter.”
Mei Qing thanked her, “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But since you’re a Taoist, why speak of emptiness and desire? Since we’re dueling with methods, why remind me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Ming Jing approached with a simple wooden tea tray, placing it on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with wisps of steam rising. A delicate fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing the senses.
Bi Zhen gestured gracefully, picking up a cup of tea and gently inhaling its aroma before taking a small sip, her face showing a serene expression. Mei Qing also took a cup, savoring the taste, which was slightly bitter at first but then filled his chest with a subtle fragrance.
“Mei Qing, do you know the origins of Taoism, from which era it began?” Bi Zhen asked, not answering Mei Qing’s question but posing one of her own.
“If I remember correctly, it originated from the Taoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the Taoist religion at Heming Mountain in Shu, marking the formal beginning of Taoism.”
“Mei Qing, you’re quite knowledgeable. However, within Taoism, there are rituals, principles, and methods. The principles are derived from the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals have been passed down since Zhang Ling established the religion; and the methods originated from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Zhen explained.
“Are you referring to the immortals of the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The immortals were a school of thought during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, alongside Taoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike other schools that focused on governance, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, their fundamental goal was simple: immortality.
Bi Zhen smiled at Mei Qing’s response. “You’re not entirely wrong. Immortality was indeed the goal pursued by the immortals. However, their cultivation sought more than just those four words. But secular people, especially emperors, valued the techniques of immortals solely for longevity, and over time, the immortals became associated only with the pursuit of immortality.”
Bi Zhen then explained in detail that the inheritance of Taoism actually came from ancient Taoist and immortal traditions. Its principles were derived from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while its practices were largely adopted from the studies of immortals.
“There are countless paths to cultivation; Taoist cultivation, like Buddhist and Confucian practices, is a form of cultivation. The reason Taoism refers to ‘cultivation’ as ‘refinement’ is because the path of the Golden Elixir begins with the word ‘refine.’ Broadly speaking, Taoist cultivation methods are divided into two schools: Talismanic and Alchemical.”
“Talismanic cultivation focuses on refining Qi, while Alchemical cultivation focuses on refining the elixir. The Talismanic school is also known as the Talismanic Water School, which involves drawing talismans and using the forces of Yin and Yang to harness the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are derived from the Talismanic School’s Heavenly Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao traditions, along with other sects like Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which merged into the Zhengyi School during the Yuan Dynasty.”
“The Alchemical school, also known as the Golden Elixir School, is divided into Internal and External Alchemy. External Alchemy involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs for consumption to achieve enlightenment. The Nine Birds Guiding Technique I practiced earlier is considered part of External Alchemy.”
“However, External Alchemy has long been lost, and the alchemy practiced in the world today, often referred to as ‘Yellow and White,’ is mostly fraudulent and unreliable. Internal Alchemy has gradually become the mainstream, representing the true path of cultivation.”
Internal Alchemy, also known as “Returning the Elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of External Alchemy to describe the process of refining the body, with the body as the furnace, essence and Qi as the ingredients, and the spirit as the fire, refining the elixir within the body to achieve the Great Path.
Initially, Internal Alchemy was not as openly taught as the Talismanic School, with its mountain sects and widespread disciples. Instead, it was mostly passed down secretly among the people, rarely known to the world. Later, figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gained fame, especially Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who brought it to prominence.
It wasn’t until the Northern Song Dynasty, when Wang Ji (three auspicious characters) founded the Quanzhen School, that Internal Alchemy began to be formally taught. Wang Ji, known as Wang Chongyang, had seven disciples, known as the Seven Ancestors of Quanzhen, who became famous throughout the land. Since the school was established in the north, it was also known as the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School was passed down from Zhang Boduan, known as the Purple Yang Zhenren, and after five generations, it reached Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Ancestors of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun merged the Northern and Southern Schools, forming the Golden Elixir tradition as it is known today.
Today, only one chapter, my apologies…
I’m a bit tired, my brothers, let Old Ji catch his breath. I promise a double update tomorrow.
This part is quite challenging to write. Perhaps it’s tiring for you to read, but it’s even more exhausting for Old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter laugh, knowing that Bi Zhenren probably harbored resentment towards him. He guessed she must have thought he was deliberately retaliating against her for her previous attempt to outwit him in their duel, hence her teasing remarks. In truth, he was exactly as he appeared, so why couldn’t she believe him? She insisted on thinking he had mastered some Daoist technique.
With a long sigh, Mei Qing said helplessly, “Zhenren, you must have some misunderstanding about me. I don’t know what Daoist techniques you’re referring to, but I truly haven’t studied any other magic. If you wish for me to interpret these Daoist scriptures, it’s not particularly difficult. However, many of the phrases are beyond my understanding, making it quite challenging to explain. Perhaps you could briefly introduce me to the basic theories of Daoist practice, so I can have a better grasp and avoid making too many mistakes in my interpretations.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, seeing his sincere expression, which didn’t seem feigned, and felt a wave of uncertainty. According to Mei Qing’s own words, Bi Zhen would never believe him. But the current situation left her without a reasonable explanation. After much deliberation, Bi Zhen made up her mind and said, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen School, which is a female practice, naturally incompatible with yours. Fortunately, the Great Dao of the Golden Elixir is universal. I can offer you another set of elixir techniques. How does that sound?”
Seeing Bi Zhen’s response, Mei Qing knew she still didn’t trust him. He smiled wryly, “What would I do with your elixir techniques? The profound terms written there are beyond my comprehension. I was hoping you could explain some of them to me, so I don’t get lost while interpreting the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s eyes flickered, finally beginning to believe that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand Daoist principles. She was both surprised and doubtful. After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. Today, my mind is unsettled. Starting tomorrow, please return here, and I’ll explain everything I know to you.”
At this point, Bi Zhen paused for a moment, then continued, “However, there’s one thing to note. Daoist practices are entirely dependent on lineage. It’s against the rules for me to teach Daoist techniques to a fellow practitioner. But since you’ve already entered the Dao, and we are fellow practitioners, it seems acceptable for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Fellow Daoist Mei?”
Mei Qing nodded, “I have no objections. But there’s one thing I’d like to request. Zhenren, you keep addressing me as ‘Fellow Daoist,’ which makes me quite uncomfortable. If you don’t mind, just call me by my courtesy name, ‘San Qing,’ and please stop referring to me as ‘Fellow Daoist.'”
“San Qing?” Bi Zhen smiled, “I’m starting to believe you haven’t practiced Daoism. What Daoist would dare to take such a name? How about I call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. Addressing me as ‘Zhenren’ also makes me uncomfortable.”
“That’s perfect,” Mei Qing said cheerfully, “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… Bi Zhen, can we skip the test you had in mind?”
Bi Zhen’s face turned red, “This matter… is indeed troublesome. To be honest, initially, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about dueling with you. Only now have I realized that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m deeply entangled, unable to extricate myself. For a Daoist practitioner, the most feared thing is not knowing when a tribulation will come. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for some time, hoping to cross this threshold and condense the Golden Elixir, but the opportunity has been elusive. This time, sensing a slight opportunity, I believe this duel with you is my tribulation. If I pass it, the world will be my oyster; if not, I fear I’ll never glimpse the Great Dao in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel a bit frustrated, “So, we have to continue this duel? But—can’t we just avoid the tribulation? Why are you so insistent on holding onto it?”
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words, “You really don’t understand. For Daoist practitioners, tribulations and opportunities go hand in hand. How can you simply avoid them?—Don’t be upset, though. This tribulation is mine, but it’s also yours. This opportunity is mine, but it’s also yours. If you weren’t a Daoist practitioner, I wouldn’t dare to test you with such a powerful technique. Since we’ve reached this point, it’s almost time. Now, we both need to be extra cautious, hoping to unlock this together, and not let our guard down.”
Mei Qing said, “Alright, alright, whatever you say. Let’s duel, it’s been going on for so long, what do I have to fear? Just be careful, if I really can’t hold on one day, it’ll be you who suffers.”
Bi Zhen giggled at Mei Qing’s words, “Why does it sound so scary? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to act recklessly, who knows who will suffer?”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As soon as he entered the courtyard, he saw Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Ming Jing, approaching him, saying that Bi Zhen was waiting in the back garden and wanted Mei Qing to meet her there.
The Rensheng Palace, once a royal retreat, naturally had a small garden in the back. Though not large, it was quite distinctive. Upon entering the garden, Mei Qing was greeted by a lush expanse of pine and cypress trees. Walking along the forest path, the verdant greenery and the sound of the wind through the pines gave one a sense of detachment from the world.
After walking for a while, Mei Qing saw a small pavilion perched on a stone platform at a bend in the path. Ascending the steps, he saw two ancient cypress trees towering into the sky like smoke pillars. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Daoist robe, was practicing an unknown set of martial arts under the cypress trees.
At this moment, the sun rose in the east, casting golden reflections off the pine needles, making Bi Zhen appear like a fairy from a painting. Her movements seemed fast yet slow, her hands tracing arcs like birds flying and flowers falling, gracefully moving around her body.
With a final gesture, Bi Zhen brought her palms together, then pressed them down, slowly coming to a stop and exhaling deeply, her entire body becoming still.
In recent days, Mei Qing had been so focused on dueling with Bi Zhen that he hadn’t had much time to truly observe this beautiful Daoist priestess. Now, with a rare moment of peace, he took the opportunity to admire her, thoroughly enjoying the sight.
Unfortunately, just as Mei Qing was lost in his reverie, Bi Zhen had already finished her practice. She turned to Mei Qing with a sweet smile, her eyes flashing with a strange light—and with a loud bang, it began again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing was prepared, so he didn’t lose his composure. He walked over slowly and sat on a stone bench, his eyes still fixed on Bi Zhen as he smiled and said, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on water, but that was just a legend. Seeing Bi Zhen’s graceful movements today, they rival those of celestial beings. I believe it now.”
Since they had already agreed yesterday that their duel must come to an end, Mei Qing didn’t want to remain passive. With a thought, he didn’t shy away from expressing his admiration and spoke openly.
Hearing Mei Qing’s words, Bi Zhen’s eyes showed a hint of approval, and she smiled, “How is it that after just one night, you’ve become so clever, knowing how to break the illusion with words? But calling it a dance is embarrassing. This is the Nine Animals Exercise, a common form of Daoyin. What’s so graceful about it?”
“Daoyin?” Mei Qing was momentarily stunned, then laughed, “So Daoyin is this kind of martial arts or movement exercise? I always thought Daoyin was about guiding the flow of Qi through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen was also stunned for a moment, then burst into laughter, explaining to Mei Qing, “The flow of Qi is called Xingqi. Daoyin, however, is a physical exercise. Although Daoyin also involves Xingqi techniques, the two should not be confused. For someone as learned as you, Mei, to make such a joke, aren’t you afraid people will laugh their teeth out? How dare you say such a thing?”
As she spoke, she walked over and sat on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing, laughing uncontrollably.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s flushed face after her long practice, found her even more captivating. As she continued to laugh, he felt his heart stir and quickly calmed his mind, asking, “Bi Zhen, what’s so amusing that you’re laughing so heartily?”
Bi Zhen shook her head slightly, “No particular reason, I just suddenly felt very relaxed and couldn’t help but laugh.”
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s pure, untainted smile, also felt incredibly at ease and was about to laugh along.
At that moment, the vortex of Qi in his heart tightened, causing a sudden tremor, as if something was pulling at it, making it unstable. Mei Qing was startled and quickly focused his mind, realizing that Bi Zhen’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was even more dangerous.
However, this technique was not as easy to dispel as the previous lustful flames. Once it entered the heart, it was difficult to remove. Though Mei Qing tried his best, his heart remained unsettled, unable to calm down.
“You’re too attached, Qing. Since it’s not about desire, why force emptiness? Instead of struggling, why not let it flow naturally?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like a heavenly melody, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply within him.
Hearing Bi Zhen’s words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had been struck in his heart, and he suddenly calmed down, laughing heartily, “Indeed. When it’s time to laugh, why suppress it? Bi Zhen, your techniques are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Zhen smiled, “Qing, you’re making rapid progress. If I stay stagnant, wouldn’t it be embarrassing? Just now, I felt a sudden insight into this technique, and I’m glad you found it amusing.”
Mei Qing thanked her, “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But since you’re a Daoist, why talk about emptiness and desire? Since we’re dueling with techniques, why did you enlighten me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Ming Jing walked up the steps, carrying a simple wooden tea tray, which he placed on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with wisps of steam rising. A delicate fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing and invigorating.
Bi Zhen made a graceful gesture of invitation, gently picking up a cup of tea and bringing it to her nose to inhale its aroma before taking a small sip, her face showing a serene expression. Mei Qing, not standing on ceremony, also took a cup, savoring its flavor. The tea was slightly bitter at first, but then a subtle fragrance filled his chest.
“Qing, do you know the origins of Daoism, from which era it began?” Bi Zhen, instead of answering Mei Qing’s question, posed one of her own.
“If I remember correctly, it should have originated from the Daoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the Daoist religion at Heming Mountain in Shu, and that’s when Daoism began to spread.”
“Qing, you’re quite knowledgeable. However, within Daoism, there are rituals, principles, and techniques. The principles are derived from the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals have been passed down since Zhang Ling established the religion; and the techniques originated from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Zhen explained eloquently.
“Bi Zhen, are you referring to the School of Immortals during the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The School of Immortals was a faction during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, standing alongside Daoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike other schools that focused on governing, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, their fundamental goal was simple: immortality.
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words, “Qing, you’re not entirely wrong. Immortality is indeed the goal pursued by the School of Immortals. However, the cultivation sought by the School of Immortals is far more complex than those four words. But secular people, especially emperors, valued the techniques of immortals solely for longevity, and over time, the School of Immortals became synonymous with the pursuit of immortality.”
With that, Bi Zhen began to explain in detail the lineage of Daoism, which actually inherited from the ancient Daoist and Immortal schools. Its principles were derived from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while its practices were largely adopted from the teachings of immortals.
“The methods of cultivation are numerous; Daoist cultivation, like Buddhist and Confucian practices, is also a form of cultivation. However, the reason Daoism refers to ‘cultivation’ as ‘refinement’ is because the path of the Golden Elixir in Daoism begins with the character ‘refine.’ In general, Daoist cultivation methods can be divided into two schools: Talismanic and Elixir.”
“Talismanic cultivation focuses on refining Qi, while Elixir cultivation focuses on refining the elixir. The Talismanic school is also known as the Talismanic Water School, and its methods involve drawing talismans and using the forces of Yin and Yang to harness the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are passed down from the Celestial Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao schools of the Talismanic school. There are also many other sects, such as Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which merged into the Zhengyi Dao during the Yuan Dynasty.”
“The Elixir school is also known as the Golden Elixir School, which can be further divided into Internal Elixir and External Elixir. External Elixir involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs, which are then consumed to achieve enlightenment. The Nine Animals Daoyin technique I just performed can be considered part of the External Elixir.”
“However, the techniques of External Elixir have long been lost, and the alchemy practiced in the world today, falsely claiming to produce gold and silver, is mostly the work of charlatans and cannot be trusted. The methods of Internal Elixir have gradually become the mainstream, representing the true path of cultivation.”
The Internal Elixir, also known as the “Returned Elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of External Elixir to describe the practice of refining the body, using essence and Qi as the materials and the spirit as the furnace fire, to condense an elixir within the body and advance on the path of the Great Dao.
The path of Internal Elixir initially did not establish schools or widely accept disciples like the Talismanic school. Instead, it was mostly passed down secretly among the people, rarely known to the world. Later, figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gradually became known, especially Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who achieved great success, bringing the practice into the limelight.
It wasn’t until Wang Ji (three Ji) of the Northern Song Dynasty founded the Quanzhen School that a formal Daoist sect was established. Wang Ji, known as Wang Chongyang, had seven disciples, known as the Seven Masters of Quanzhen, who became famous throughout the land. As the sect was established in the north, it was also known as the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School was passed down from Zhang Boduan, the Purple Yang Zhenren, and after five generations, it reached Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Masters of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun merged the Northern and Southern Schools, forming the Golden Elixir Dao as it is known today.
Today, only one chapter is available, and I feel quite ashamed…
I’m a bit tired, my brothers. Let old Ji catch his breath for a while. I promise to double the updates tomorrow.
This section is quite challenging to write. Perhaps you all find it tiring to read, but old Ji finds it even more exhausting to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter laugh, knowing that Bi Zhen must have harbored resentment towards him. He guessed that she probably thought he was deliberately retaliating against her for her previous attempt to ambush him during their duel, hence his teasing remarks. In truth, he was exactly as he appeared, but why couldn’t she believe him? She insisted on thinking that he had cultivated some kind of mystical art.
With a long sigh, Mei Qing said helplessly, “I’m afraid there’s some misunderstanding, Zhenren. I don’t know what you mean by the cultivation of mystical arts, but I truly haven’t studied any other spells. If Zhenren wishes for me to interpret these volumes of Daoist scriptures, it’s not an impossible task. However, many of the phrases within are beyond my comprehension, and attempting to explain them would indeed be difficult. Perhaps Zhenren could briefly introduce me to the foundational theories of Daoist practices, so that I might have a better understanding and avoid making too many errors in my interpretations.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, seeing the sincerity on his face and finding it hard to believe he was being deceitful. Yet, according to Mei Qing’s own words, Bi Zhen couldn’t bring herself to trust him. The current situation left her without a reasonable explanation. After much deliberation, Bi Zhen made up her mind and said, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen School, which focuses on female alchemy. Naturally, it cannot be exchanged with you. Fortunately, the Great Dao of the Golden Elixir is universal. I’ll gift you another set of alchemical methods instead. How does that sound?”
Seeing Bi Zhen’s response, Mei Qing knew she still didn’t trust him. He smiled wryly and said, “What would I do with your alchemical methods? The profound terms written there are beyond my understanding. I merely wish to trouble Zhenren to explain some of them to me, so that I might avoid getting lost when interpreting the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s eyes flickered, and only then did she begin to believe that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand the Daoist principles. Her heart was filled with doubt and confusion. After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. Today, my mind is unsettled. Starting tomorrow, please come here again, and I’ll explain everything I know to you.”
After a pause, Bi Zhen continued, “However, there’s one thing I must say. The Daoist arts are entirely dependent on lineage. By all rights, I shouldn’t be teaching you these methods. But since you’ve already entered the Dao, and we are fellow practitioners, it seems acceptable for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Fellow Daoist Mei?”
Mei Qing nodded and said, “I have no objections. However, there’s one thing I’d like to ask. Zhenren keeps addressing me as ‘Fellow Daoist,’ which makes me quite uncomfortable. If Zhenren wishes to address me, please use my courtesy name, ‘San Qing,’ and refrain from calling me ‘Fellow Daoist.’”
“San Qing?” Bi Zhen smiled. “I’m beginning to believe that you haven’t cultivated the Dao. What cultivator would dare to take such a name? How about I simply call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. I also feel uncomfortable being addressed as ‘Zhenren.’”
“That’s perfect,” Mei Qing said cheerfully. “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… can we skip the tests, Bi Zhen?”
Bi Zhen’s face turned red as she replied, “That… is a bit troublesome. To be honest, at first, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about dueling with you. Only now have I realized that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m deeply entangled, unable to extricate myself. For cultivators, the most feared thing is not knowing when a tribulation will strike. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for some time, hoping to cross this threshold and condense my Golden Elixir, but the opportunity has yet to come. This time, I sensed a slight opportunity, and I believe that dueling with you is my tribulation. If I pass it, the skies will be clear; if I don’t, I’m afraid I’ll never glimpse the Great Dao in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel frustrated. “So, we have to continue this duel? But—can’t tribulations be avoided? Why are you so eager to hold on to this?”
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words. “You really don’t understand. For cultivators, tribulations and opportunities go hand in hand. How can they be avoided?—You don’t need to be upset. In fact, my tribulation is also your tribulation. My opportunity is also your opportunity. If you weren’t a cultivator, I wouldn’t dare to test you with such methods. Since we’ve reached this point, it’s almost time. Now, we should both be more cautious and strive to break free from this lock together. We must not slack off.”
Mei Qing said, “Fine, fine, whatever you say. Let’s duel then. It’s been a long time, and I’m not afraid. Just be careful that one day I might not be able to hold on, and it’ll be you who suffers.”
Bi Zhen giggled at Mei Qing’s words. “Why does that sound so scary? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to act recklessly, who knows who’ll suffer?”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As soon as he entered the courtyard, he saw Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Ming Jing, approaching him, saying that Bi Zhen was waiting for him in the back garden.
The Rensheng Palace, having once been a royal retreat, naturally had a small garden in the back. Though not large, it was quite unique. Upon entering the garden, Mei Qing was greeted by a lush expanse of pine and cypress trees. Walking along the forest path, the verdant greenery and the rustling of the pine needles in the wind gave one a sense of detachment from the world.
Not far ahead, at a bend in the path, there was a small stone platform with a pavilion that seemed ready to take flight. Ascending the steps, Mei Qing saw two ancient cypress trees towering like pillars of smoke into the sky. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Daoist robe, was practicing an unknown set of martial arts under the trees.
The sun had just risen in the east, casting golden reflections off the pine needles, making Bi Zhen appear like a fairy from a painting. Her movements seemed fast yet slow, her hands tracing arcs like birds in flight or falling petals, gracefully moving around her body.
With the final movement, Bi Zhen brought her palms together, then pressed them downward, slowly coming to a stop. She let out a long breath, and her entire body became still.
In recent days, Mei Qing had been so focused on dueling with Bi Zhen that he hadn’t truly taken the time to observe this beautiful Daoist priestess. Now, with a clear mind, he watched her for a long time, thoroughly enjoying the sight.
Unfortunately, just as Mei Qing was lost in admiration, Bi Zhen finished her practice and turned to him with a sweet smile. Her eyes seemed to flash with a strange light—and with a bang, it happened again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing was prepared, so he didn’t lose his composure. He walked over slowly and sat on a stone bench, his eyes still on Bi Zhen as he smiled and said, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on water, but that was just a legend. Seeing Bi Zhen’s graceful movements today, I can truly believe it.”
Since they had already agreed yesterday that their duel would come to an end, Mei Qing didn’t want to remain on the defensive. With a thought, he decided to openly express his admiration.
Bi Zhen’s eyes showed a hint of approval as she smiled and said, “How is it that you’ve become so clever overnight, knowing how to break through appearances with words? But calling it a dance is embarrassing. This is the Nine Animals Exercise, a common form of Daoyin. What’s so graceful about it?”
“Daoyin?” Mei Qing was momentarily stunned, then laughed. “So, Daoyin is this kind of martial art or movement practice? I always thought Daoyin was about guiding the flow of qi through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen was also taken aback for a moment, then burst into laughter. She explained to Mei Qing, “The flow of qi is called Xingqi. Daoyin, on the other hand, is a physical exercise. Although Daoyin is accompanied by Xingqi, the two should not be confused. For someone as learned as you, Mei Qing, to make such a mistake—if word got out, people would laugh their teeth out. How dare you say such a thing?”
As she spoke, she walked over and sat on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing as she continued to laugh.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s flushed face after her practice, found her even more captivating. As she laughed, he felt his heart stir, but he quickly composed himself and asked, “Bi Zhen, what’s so amusing that you’re laughing so happily?”
Bi Zhen shook her head slightly and replied, “No particular reason. I just suddenly felt very relaxed and couldn’t help but laugh.”
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s pure, untainted smile, also felt a sense of ease and was about to laugh along with her.
At that moment, the vortex of qi in his heart tightened, causing a sudden tremor. It felt as if something was pulling at him, making him feel unsteady. Mei Qing was startled and quickly focused his mind, realizing that Bi Zhen’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was even more dangerous.
However, this method was not as easy to dispel as the previous flames of desire. Once it entered the heart, it was difficult to remove. Although Mei Qing tried his best, his heart remained unsettled.
“You’re too attached, Qing. If it’s not about form, why cling to emptiness? Instead of struggling, why not let it flow naturally?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like a heavenly melody, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply within him.
Hearing Bi Zhen’s words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had been struck in his heart. He suddenly understood and calmed down, laughing heartily. “Indeed. When it’s time to laugh, why suppress it? Bi Zhen, your methods are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Zhen smiled and said, “Qing, you’re making rapid progress. If I stay stagnant, wouldn’t it be embarrassing? Just now, I felt a sudden insight into this method, and I’ve gained some benefits. I hope you don’t mind my laughter.”
Mei Qing thanked her, “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But since you’re a Daoist, why speak of emptiness and form? Since we’re dueling with methods, why did you choose to enlighten me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Ming Jing walked up with a simple wooden tea tray, placing it on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with wisps of steam rising gently. A faint fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing and invigorating.
Bi Zhen gestured gracefully, picking up a cup of tea and bringing it to her nose to savor the aroma before taking a small sip. Her face showed a serene expression. Mei Qing also took a cup, savoring the taste. It was slightly bitter at first, but then a subtle fragrance filled his chest.
“Qing, do you know the origins of Daoism and from which era it began?” Bi Zhen asked, not answering Mei Qing’s question directly.
“If I remember correctly, it originated from the Daoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the religion at Heming Mountain in Shu, and that’s how Daoism began to spread.”
“Qing, you’re quite knowledgeable. However, within Daoism, there are rituals, principles, and methods. The principles are derived from the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals were established by Zhang Ling and have been passed down since; the methods, however, originated from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Zhen explained.
“Are you referring to the Immortal School during the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The Immortal School was a faction during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, standing alongside Daoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike the other schools, which focused on governance, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, the Immortal School’s fundamental goal was simple: immortality.
Bi Zhen smiled at Mei Qing’s question. “You’re not entirely wrong. Immortality was indeed the goal of the Immortal School. However, what the Immortal School sought in their cultivation was far more complex than just those four words. It’s just that secular people, especially emperors, valued the Immortal School’s methods solely for immortality, and over time, the Immortal School became solely associated with the pursuit of immortality.”
She then explained to Mei Qing that the Daoist tradition was actually inherited from the ancient Daoist and Immortal schools. Its principles were derived from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while its cultivation methods were largely adopted from the Immortal School.
“The methods of cultivation are numerous; Daoist cultivation, like Buddhist and Confucian cultivation, is a form of practice. However, in Daoism, we refer to cultivation as ‘refinement’ because the path of the Golden Elixir begins with the word ‘refine.’ Broadly speaking, Daoist cultivation methods can be divided into two schools: Talismanic and Alchemical.”
“The Talismanic school refines qi, while the Alchemical school refines elixirs. The Talismanic school is also known as the Talismanic Water school, and its methods involve drawing talismans and using the forces of yin and yang to harness the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are derived from the Talismanic school’s Heavenly Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao sects. There are also other sects like Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which merged into the Zhengyi Dao during the Yuan Dynasty.”
“The Alchemical school is also known as the Golden Elixir school and can be further divided into Internal Alchemy and External Alchemy. External Alchemy involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs, which are then consumed to attain the Dao. The Nine Animals Daoyin technique I practiced earlier can be considered part of External Alchemy.”
“However, External Alchemy has long been lost, and the so-called alchemy practiced today is mostly fraudulent, unworthy of belief. Internal Alchemy, on the other hand, has gradually become the mainstream and is considered the proper path of cultivation.”
Internal Alchemy, also known as “Returning Elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of External Alchemy to describe the process of refining the body’s essence, qi, and spirit within the body, as if refining an elixir, to progress on the path of the Dao.
Initially, Internal Alchemy was not as openly taught as the Talismanic school, with its mountain sects and widespread disciples. Instead, it was mostly passed down secretly among the people, rarely known to the world. Later, figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gained fame, especially Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who brought it to prominence.
It wasn’t until Wang Ji (three auspicious characters) of the Northern Song Dynasty founded the Quanzhen School that Internal Alchemy became an established tradition. Wang Ji, known as Wang Chongyang, had seven disciples, known as the Seven Ancestors of Quanzhen, who became famous throughout the land. Since the school was established in the north, it was also known as the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School, on the other hand, was passed down from Zhang Boduan, the Purple Yang Zhenren, and later through five generations to Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Ancestors of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun merged the Northern and Southern Schools, forming the Golden Elixir tradition as it is known today.
Today, there’s only one chapter, and I feel a bit ashamed…
I’m a bit tired, my brothers, let Old Ji catch his breath. I promise to double the updates tomorrow.
This part is quite challenging to write. It might be tiring for you to read, but it’s even more exhausting for Old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter laugh, knowing that Bi Zhen probably harbored some resentment towards him. He guessed that she must have thought he was deliberately retaliating against her for her previous attempt to outwit him in their duel, hence her teasing words. In truth, that was exactly what had happened, but why couldn’t she believe it? She insisted on thinking that he had cultivated some kind of Taoist magic.
With a long sigh, Mei Qing helplessly said, “I’m afraid you’ve misunderstood me, Zhenren. I don’t know what Taoist magic you’re referring to, but I truly haven’t studied any other spells. If you’d like me to interpret these Taoist scriptures, it’s not too difficult. However, many of the phrases are beyond my understanding, and interpreting them would indeed be challenging. Perhaps you could briefly explain the basic theories of Taoist practice to me, so I can have a better grasp and avoid making too many mistakes in my annotations.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, seeing the sincerity on his face and finding it hard to believe he was lying. Yet, the situation left her without a reasonable explanation. After much deliberation, she finally made up her mind and said, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen School, which is a female practice, so naturally, I can’t exchange it with you. Fortunately, the Great Path of the Golden Elixir is universal, so I’ll gift you another set of alchemical methods. How does that sound?”
Seeing Bi Zhen’s response, Mei Qing knew she still didn’t trust him. He smiled wryly and said, “What would I do with your alchemical methods? The profound terms written there are beyond my comprehension. That’s why I wanted to trouble you to explain them to me, so I don’t get lost when interpreting the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s eyes flickered, and only then did she somewhat believe that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand Taoist principles. She was filled with doubt and uncertainty. After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. Today, I’m not in the right state of mind, so starting tomorrow, please come here again, and I’ll explain everything I know to you.”
At this point, Bi Zhen paused for a moment and then continued, “However, there’s one thing. Taoist practices are entirely dependent on lineage, and it’s absolutely not my place to teach Taoist methods to a fellow practitioner. But since you’ve already entered the path, and we are fellow practitioners, it seems acceptable for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Fellow Practitioner Mei?”
Mei Qing nodded and said, “I have no objections. But there’s one thing I’d like to ask. You keep calling me ‘Fellow Practitioner,’ and it’s quite uncomfortable for me. If you’d like, just call me by my courtesy name, ‘Sanqing,’ and please don’t refer to me as ‘Fellow Practitioner’ anymore.”
“Sanqing?” Bi Zhen smiled and said, “I’m starting to believe that you haven’t practiced Taoism. What Taoist practitioner would dare to take such a name? Why don’t I just call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. It feels awkward for you to call me ‘Zhenren.'”
“That sounds great,” Mei Qing said with a cheerful mood. “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… can we skip the test you had in mind?”
Hearing this, Bi Zhen’s face turned slightly red. “This matter… is indeed troublesome. To be honest, at first, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about dueling with you. Only now have I realized that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m already deeply entangled, unable to extricate myself. For a Taoist practitioner, the most feared thing is not knowing when a tribulation will come. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for some time now, hoping to cross this threshold and condense my Golden Elixir, but the opportunity has been elusive. Now that I sense a slight opportunity, I think this duel with you is my tribulation. If I can pass it, the skies will be clear; if not, I’m afraid I’ll never have the chance to glimpse the Great Path in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel a bit frustrated. “So, does that mean our duel has to continue? But—can’t we just avoid tribulations? Why are you so insistent on holding on?”
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words. “You really don’t understand. For a Taoist practitioner, tribulations and opportunities go hand in hand. How can you just avoid them?—Don’t be upset about it. In fact, my tribulation is also your tribulation. My opportunity is also your opportunity. If you weren’t a Taoist practitioner, I wouldn’t dare to test you with such methods. Since we’ve reached this point, it’s almost time. Now, we should both be more cautious and strive to unlock this lock together. We must not let our guard down.”
Mei Qing said, “Alright, alright, whatever you say. If we have to duel, then so be it. It’s been a long time, and I’m not afraid. Just be careful that one day I might not be able to hold on, and it’ll be you who suffers.”
Hearing Mei Qing’s words, Bi Zhen giggled. “Why does that sound so scary? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to act recklessly, it’s hard to say who will suffer.”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As soon as he entered the courtyard, he saw Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Mingjing, coming forward to greet him, saying that Bi Zhen was waiting for him in the back garden.
Since the Rensheng Palace was once a royal retreat, it naturally had a small garden in the back. Though not large, it was quite unique. As soon as Mei Qing entered the garden, he was greeted by lush greenery, with towering pines and cypresses everywhere. Walking along the forest path, the deep green of the trees and the sound of the wind through the pines gave him a sense of transcendence.
Not long after, he saw a small pavilion on a stone platform at a bend in the path. Climbing the steps, he saw two ancient cypresses reaching into the sky like pillars of smoke. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Taoist robe, was practicing an unknown set of martial arts under the cypresses.
The sun had just risen in the east, casting golden reflections off the pine needles, making Bi Zhen look like a fairy from a painting. Her movements seemed fast yet slow, her hands drawing arcs like birds flying and flowers falling, gracefully moving around her body.
With the final movement, Bi Zhen brought her palms together, then pressed them down, slowly coming to a stop and exhaling deeply, her entire body becoming still.
In recent days, Mei Qing had been so focused on dueling with Bi Zhen that he hadn’t had much time to truly observe this beautiful Taoist priestess. Now, with a clear mind, he took the opportunity to admire her, and it was a feast for his eyes.
Unfortunately, just as Mei Qing was lost in his reverie, Bi Zhen had already finished her practice. She turned to Mei Qing with a sweet smile, her eyes flashing with a strange light—and then, with a loud bang, it happened again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing was prepared, so he didn’t lose his composure. He slowly walked over and sat on a stone bench, his eyes still fixed on Bi Zhen as he smiled and said, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on waves, but that was just a legend. Seeing your graceful movements today, you truly rival the immortals. I believe it now.”
Since they had already agreed yesterday that their duel would have to come to an end, Mei Qing didn’t want to remain passive. With a thought, he decided to openly express his admiration.
Hearing Mei Qing’s words, Bi Zhen’s eyes showed a hint of approval, and she smiled. “How is it that after just one night, you’ve become so clever, knowing how to break through with words? But calling it a dance is embarrassing. This is just the Nine Birds Exercise, a common guiding method. What’s so graceful about it?”
“A guiding method?” Mei Qing was momentarily stunned, then laughed. “So, guiding methods are like these martial arts or movement exercises? I always thought guiding methods were about directing the flow of energy through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen was also taken aback for a moment, then burst into laughter, explaining to Mei Qing, “Directing the flow of energy is called ‘Qi circulation.’ Guiding methods are physical techniques. Although guiding methods also involve Qi circulation, the two are not the same. For someone as learned as you to make such a mistake, it’s quite amusing. Aren’t you afraid people will laugh at you for saying such things?”
As she spoke, she walked over and sat on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing as she continued to laugh.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s flushed face after her long practice, found her even more captivating. As she laughed, he felt his heart stir and quickly calmed his mind, asking, “Bi Zhen, what’s making you so happy that you can’t stop laughing?”
Bi Zhen shook her head slightly and replied, “No particular reason. I just suddenly felt very relaxed and couldn’t help but laugh.”
Seeing Bi Zhen’s pure, untainted smile, Mei Qing also felt a sense of ease and was about to laugh along with her.
At that moment, the vortex of energy in his heart tightened, causing a sudden tremor, as if something was pulling at it, making it unstable. Mei Qing was startled and quickly focused his mind, realizing that Bi Zhen’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was even more dangerous in its subtlety.
However, this method was not as easy to dispel as the previous flames of desire. Once it entered the heart, it was difficult to remove. Though Mei Qing tried his best, his heart remained unsettled.
“You’re too attached, Qing. Since it’s not about desire, why force emptiness? Instead of struggling, why not let it flow naturally?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like a heavenly melody, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply in his heart.
Hearing Bi Zhen’s words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had been struck in his mind, and he suddenly calmed down, laughing heartily. “Indeed, that’s the way. When it’s time to laugh, just laugh. Why force it? Bi Zhen, your methods are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Zhen smiled and said, “Qing, you’re making rapid progress. If I stay in the same place, wouldn’t it be embarrassing? Just now, I felt a sense of enlightenment and gained some insights into this method. I hope you don’t mind my laughter.”
Mei Qing thanked her, “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But since you’re a Taoist practitioner, why talk about emptiness and desire? Since we’re dueling with methods, why did you choose to enlighten me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Mingjing gracefully approached, carrying a simple wooden tea tray, which he placed on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with wisps of steam rising. A delicate fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing and invigorating.
Bi Zhen made a gentle gesture of invitation, gracefully picking up a cup of tea and bringing it to her nose to inhale its aroma before taking a small sip, her face showing a serene expression. Mei Qing didn’t stand on ceremony either, taking a cup and savoring its flavor. The tea was slightly bitter at first, but then a subtle fragrance filled his chest.
“Qing, do you know the origins of Taoism and from which era it stems?” Bi Zhen didn’t answer Mei Qing’s question but instead posed one of her own.
“If I remember correctly, it should be derived from the Taoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the religion at Heming Mountain in Shu, and that’s how Taoism began to spread.”
“Qing, you’re quite knowledgeable. However, within Taoism, there are rituals, principles, and methods. The principles are derived from the Taoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals have been passed down since Zhang Ling established the religion; and the methods originate from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Zhen explained.
“Are you referring to the Immortal School during the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The Immortal School was a faction during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, standing alongside Taoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike other schools that focused on governance, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, the fundamental goal of the Immortal School was simple: immortality.
Bi Zhen smiled at Mei Qing’s question. “You’re not entirely wrong. Immortality is indeed the goal pursued by the Immortal School. However, the cultivation sought by the Immortal School is far more complex than just those four words. It’s just that secular people, especially emperors, valued the techniques of immortality solely for the purpose of longevity, and over time, the Immortal School became associated only with the pursuit of immortality.”
With that, Bi Zhen began to explain in detail the lineage of Taoism, which actually inherits from the ancient Taoist and Immortal schools. Its principles are derived from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while its practices are largely based on the teachings of the Immortal School.
“The methods of cultivation are numerous; Taoist cultivation, Buddhist cultivation, and Confucian cultivation are all forms of cultivation. However, the reason Taoism refers to cultivation as ‘refinement’ is because the path of the Golden Elixir in Taoism begins with the concept of ‘refinement.’ Broadly speaking, Taoist cultivation methods can be divided into two schools: Talismanic and Alchemical.”
“Talismanic cultivation focuses on refining Qi, while Alchemical cultivation focuses on refining the elixir. The Talismanic school is also known as the Talismanic Water School, and its methods involve drawing talismans and using the forces of Yin and Yang to harness the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are derived from the Talismanic schools of the Celestial Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao, respectively. There are also other schools such as Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which merged into the Zhengyi Dao during the Yuan Dynasty.”
“The Alchemical school is also known as the Golden Elixir School and can be further divided into Internal Alchemy and External Alchemy. External Alchemy involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs, which are then consumed to achieve enlightenment. The Nine Birds Guiding Method I practiced earlier can be considered a form of External Alchemy.”
“However, External Alchemy has long been lost, and the alchemical techniques passed down in the world, often referred to as ‘Yellow and White,’ are mostly fraudulent and not to be trusted. Internal Alchemy, on the other hand, has gradually become the mainstream and is considered the proper path of cultivation.”
Internal Alchemy, also known as “Returning the Elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of External Alchemy to describe the practice of refining the body, essence, and spirit within the human body, treating the body as a furnace, essence as the medicine, and spirit as the fire, to condense the elixir and progress on the path of enlightenment.
Initially, Internal Alchemy did not establish schools or widely recruit disciples like the Talismanic school. Instead, it was mostly passed down secretly among the people, rarely known to the world. Later, figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gained fame, especially Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who became the great masters, and Internal Alchemy gradually became known to the world.
It wasn’t until Wang Ji (also known as Wang Chongyang) of the Northern Song Dynasty founded the Quanzhen School that a formal Taoist sect was established. Wang Ji, known as Wang Chongyang, had seven disciples, known as the Seven Masters of Quanzhen, who became famous throughout the land. Since the sect was established in the north, it was also known as the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School, on the other hand, was passed down from Zhang Boduan, the Purple Yang Master, and after five generations, it reached Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Masters of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun merged the Northern and Southern Schools into one, which is the Golden Elixir path we know today.
Today, there’s only one chapter. I feel a bit ashamed…
I’m somewhat tired, my brothers. Let Old Ji catch his breath. I promise a double update tomorrow.
This part isn’t easy to write. It might be tiring for you to read, but it’s even more exhausting for Old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter laugh, realizing that Bi Zhen probably harbored resentment towards him. She likely thought that he was deliberately provoking her as revenge for her previous attempt to ambush him during their duel. In truth, that was exactly what he had done, but why couldn’t she believe it? She insisted that he must have practiced some kind of Daoist technique.
With a long sigh, Mei Qing said helplessly, “I’m afraid you’ve misunderstood me, Bi Zhen. I don’t know what Daoist techniques you’re referring to, but I truly haven’t studied any other forms of magic. If you’d like me to interpret these Daoist scriptures, it wouldn’t be too difficult. However, many of the phrases are beyond my understanding, and trying to explain them would be quite challenging. Perhaps you could briefly introduce me to the basic theories of Daoism, so I can have a better grasp and avoid making too many mistakes in my interpretation.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, seeing the sincerity in his expression. She couldn’t help but feel conflicted. According to Mei Qing’s own words, Bi Zhen would never believe him. But the current situation left her without a reasonable explanation. After much deliberation, Bi Zhen made up her mind and said, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen School, which focuses on female alchemy. Naturally, I can’t exchange it with you. Fortunately, the Great Dao of the Golden Elixir is universal. I’ll gift you another set of alchemical methods. How does that sound?”
Mei Qing, hearing Bi Zhen’s words, knew she still didn’t trust him. He smiled wryly and said, “What would I do with your alchemical methods? The profound terms written there are beyond my comprehension. I was hoping you could explain some of them to me, so I don’t get lost when interpreting the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s eyes flickered, and only then did she begin to believe that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand Daoist principles. She was filled with doubt and uncertainty. After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “Very well, I’ll follow your suggestion. Today, I’m not in the right state of mind. Starting tomorrow, please come here again, and I’ll explain everything I know to you.”
She paused for a moment, then continued, “However, there’s one thing I must say. Daoist methods are entirely dependent on lineage. It’s not appropriate for me to teach Daoist techniques to a fellow practitioner. But since you’ve already entered the Dao, we are fellow practitioners, and it seems acceptable for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Mei Qing?”
Mei Qing nodded and said, “I have no objections. But there’s one thing I’d like to ask. You keep calling me ‘fellow practitioner,’ which makes me quite uncomfortable. If you don’t mind, just call me by my courtesy name, ‘San Qing,’ and please don’t refer to me as a fellow practitioner anymore.”
“San Qing?” Bi Zhen smiled. “I’m starting to believe that you haven’t practiced Daoism. What Daoist practitioner would dare to take such a name? Why don’t I just call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. It feels awkward for you to address me as ‘Bi Zhen.'”
“That sounds great,” Mei Qing said cheerfully. “Let’s start tomorrow. But… can we skip the test you had in mind?”
Bi Zhen blushed and said, “That… is a bit complicated. To be honest, at first, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about dueling with you. Only now have I realized that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m deeply entangled. For a Daoist practitioner, the most feared thing is not knowing when a tribulation will come. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for some time now, hoping to cross this threshold and form the Golden Elixir, but I haven’t found the right opportunity. This time, I sensed a slight opportunity, and I believe that dueling with you is my tribulation. If I can overcome it, the sky’s the limit. If I can’t, I’m afraid I’ll never glimpse the Great Dao in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel a bit frustrated. “So, this duel of ours has to continue? But… isn’t a tribulation something you can avoid? Why are you so insistent on holding onto it?”
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words. “You really don’t understand. For a Daoist practitioner, tribulations and opportunities go hand in hand. How can you simply avoid them? Don’t be upset. In fact, my tribulation is also your tribulation. My opportunity is also your opportunity. If you weren’t a Daoist practitioner, I wouldn’t dare to test you with such methods. Since we’ve reached this point, it’s almost time. Now, we should be even more cautious and strive to unlock this together. Don’t let your guard down.”
Mei Qing said, “Alright, alright, whatever you say. Let’s duel then. It’s been a long time, and I’m not afraid. Just be careful; if I can’t hold on one day, it’ll be you who suffers.”
Bi Zhen giggled at Mei Qing’s words. “Why does it sound so scary? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to act recklessly, who knows who will suffer?”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As he entered the courtyard, he saw Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Ming Jing, approaching him. Ming Jing informed him that Bi Zhen was waiting in the back garden and asked Mei Qing to meet her there.
The Rensheng Palace, once a royal retreat, naturally had a small garden in the back. Though not large, it was quite distinctive. As Mei Qing entered the garden, he was greeted by a lush landscape filled with pine and cypress trees. Walking along the forest path, he was surrounded by verdant greenery and the soothing sound of the wind through the pines, giving him a sense of detachment from the world.
After walking for a while, he saw a small pavilion perched on a stone platform at a bend in the path. Ascending the steps, he noticed two ancient cypress trees towering into the sky like pillars of smoke. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Daoist robe, was practicing an unknown form of martial arts under the cypress trees.
The sun had just risen in the east, casting golden reflections on the pine needles, making Bi Zhen appear like a fairy from a painting. Her movements seemed slow but were actually swift, her hands tracing arcs like birds flying and flowers falling, gracefully moving around her body.
With a final movement, Bi Zhen brought her hands together, then pressed them downward, slowly coming to a stop. She exhaled deeply, and her entire body became still.
In recent days, Mei Qing had been so focused on dueling with Bi Zhen that he hadn’t truly taken the time to observe this beautiful Daoist priestess. Now, with a clear mind, he had the opportunity to admire her for a long time, and it was a feast for his eyes.
Unfortunately, just as Mei Qing was lost in his reverie, Bi Zhen had finished her practice. She turned to him with a sweet smile, her eyes flashing with a strange light—and then, with a loud boom, it happened again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing was prepared, so he didn’t lose his composure. He walked over slowly and sat on a stone bench, his eyes still fixed on Bi Zhen as he smiled and said, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on water, but that was just a legend. Seeing you move so gracefully today, you truly rival the immortals. I can’t help but believe it.”
Since they had already agreed yesterday that their duel would come to an end, Mei Qing didn’t want to remain on the defensive. Feeling inspired, he openly expressed his admiration without hesitation.
Hearing Mei Qing’s words, Bi Zhen’s eyes showed a hint of approval. She smiled and said, “How is it that after just one night, you’ve become so clever, knowing how to break through with words? But calling it a dance is quite embarrassing. This is the Nine Birds Exercise, a common form of guiding technique. What’s so graceful about it?”
“A guiding technique?” Mei Qing was momentarily stunned, then laughed. “So, guiding techniques are these kinds of martial arts or dynamic exercises? I always thought guiding techniques were about directing the flow of energy through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen was also taken aback for a moment, then burst into laughter. She explained to Mei Qing, “Directing the flow of energy is called ‘moving qi.’ Guiding techniques are physical exercises. Although guiding techniques also involve moving qi, the two are not the same. For someone as learned as you, Mei Qing, to make such a mistake, I’m afraid people would laugh their teeth out if they heard. I can’t believe you dared to say it.”
As she spoke, she walked over and sat on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing as she continued to laugh.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s flushed face after her long practice, found her even more captivating. As she laughed, he felt his heart stir and quickly composed himself, asking, “Bi Zhen, what’s so amusing that you’re laughing so happily?”
Bi Zhen shook her head slightly and replied, “There’s no particular reason. I just suddenly felt very relaxed and couldn’t help but laugh.”
Seeing Bi Zhen’s serene smile, Mei Qing also felt a sense of ease and was about to laugh along with her.
At that moment, the vortex of energy in his chest tightened, causing a sudden tremor, as if something was pulling at it, making it unstable. Mei Qing was startled and quickly focused his mind, realizing that Bi Zhen’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was even more dangerous.
However, this method was not as easy to dispel as the previous flames of desire. Once it entered the heart, it was difficult to remove. Although Mei Qing tried his best, his heart remained unsettled.
“You’re too attached, Mei Qing. Since it’s not about desire, why try to empty it? Instead of struggling, why not let it flow naturally?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like a heavenly melody, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply within him.
Hearing Bi Zhen’s words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had been struck in his mind. He suddenly understood and calmed down, laughing heartily. “Indeed. When it’s time to laugh, just laugh. Why try to suppress it? Bi Zhen, your methods are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Zhen smiled and said, “You’re making rapid progress, Mei Qing. If I stay in the same place, wouldn’t it be embarrassing? Just now, I felt a sudden insight into this method, and I gained some benefit. I hope you don’t mind me laughing.”
Mei Qing thanked her, “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But since you’re a Daoist practitioner, why talk about emptiness and desire? Since we’re dueling with techniques, why did you feel the need to enlighten me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Ming Jing approached from below, carrying a simple wooden tea tray, which he placed on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with wisps of steam rising. A delicate fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing the senses.
Bi Zhen made a graceful gesture, picking up a cup of tea and bringing it to her nose to inhale its aroma. She then took a small sip, her expression serene. Mei Qing, not standing on ceremony, also took a cup and savored its flavor. The tea had a slight bitterness at first, followed by a deep, fragrant aftertaste.
“Mei Qing, do you know the origins of Daoism and from which era it began?” Bi Zhen asked, not answering Mei Qing’s question but posing one of her own.
“If I remember correctly, it originated from the Daoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the Daoist religion at Heming Mountain in Shu, and that’s how Daoism spread.”
“You’re quite knowledgeable. However, within Daoism, there are rituals, principles, and methods. The principles are derived from the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals have been passed down since Zhang Ling established the religion; and the methods originated from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Zhen explained.
“Are you referring to the immortals of the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The immortals were a school of thought during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, alongside Daoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike other schools that focused on governance, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, the fundamental goal of the immortals was simple: immortality.
Bi Zhen smiled at Mei Qing’s question. “You’re not entirely wrong. Immortality was indeed the goal pursued by the immortals. However, the cultivation sought by the immortals was far more complex than just those four words. But secular people, especially emperors, valued the techniques of the immortals solely for immortality, and over time, the immortals became associated only with the pursuit of immortality.”
She then explained to Mei Qing that the Daoist tradition actually inherited from the ancient Daoist and immortal schools. Its principles were derived from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while its practices were largely adopted from the teachings of the immortals.
“There are countless paths to cultivation; Daoist cultivation is similar to that of Buddhism and Confucianism. However, the reason Daoism refers to cultivation as ‘refinement’ is because the Daoist path of the Golden Elixir begins with the word ‘refine.’ Broadly speaking, Daoist cultivation methods can be divided into two schools: talismanic and alchemical.”
“Talismanic cultivation focuses on refining qi, while alchemical cultivation focuses on refining the elixir. The talismanic school is also known as the Talismanic Water School, and its methods involve drawing talismans and invoking the forces of yin and yang to harness the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are derived from the Heavenly Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao sects of the talismanic school. There are also other sects such as Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which merged during the Yuan Dynasty to form the Zhengyi Dao.”
“The alchemical school is also known as the Golden Elixir School and can be further divided into internal and external alchemy. External alchemy involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs, which are then consumed to achieve enlightenment. The Nine Birds Guiding Technique that I practiced earlier can be considered a form of external alchemy.”
“However, external alchemy has long been lost, and the so-called alchemical techniques passed down in the world, often referred to as ‘yellow and white,’ are mostly fraudulent and not to be trusted. Internal alchemy, on the other hand, has gradually become the mainstream and is considered the proper path of cultivation.”
Internal alchemy, also known as “returning the elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of external alchemy to describe the process of refining the body, essence, and spirit within the human body, much like refining medicine, to achieve the Great Dao.
Unlike the talismanic school, which established sects and recruited disciples, internal alchemy was mostly passed down secretly among the people and was rarely known to the world. Later, figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gained fame, especially Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who brought it to prominence.
It wasn’t until Wang Ji (three ‘ji’) of the Northern Song Dynasty founded the Quanzhen School that internal alchemy became an established sect. Wang Ji, also known as Wang Chongyang, had seven disciples, known as the Seven Masters of Quanzhen, who became famous throughout the land. Because the sect was established in the north, it was also known as the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School was passed down from Zhang Boduan, the Purple Yang Master, and after five generations, it reached Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Masters of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun merged the Northern and Southern Schools, forming the Golden Elixir tradition that is passed down today.
Today, there’s only one chapter, and I feel a bit ashamed…
I’m a bit tired, my brothers, let Old Ji catch his breath. I promise a double update tomorrow.
This part is quite challenging to write. It might be tiring for you to read, but it’s even more exhausting for Old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter laugh, realizing that Bi Zhen probably harbored some resentment towards him. She likely thought he was holding a grudge against her for her previous attempt to outmaneuver him in their duel, hence his playful teasing. In truth, he was just being himself, but for some reason, she insisted on believing he had mastered some mystical Daoist technique.
With a long sigh, Mei Qing said helplessly, “I think you might be misunderstanding me, Bi Zhen. I don’t know what Daoist techniques you’re referring to, but I truly haven’t studied any other forms of magic. If you’d like me to interpret these Daoist scriptures for you, it wouldn’t be too difficult. However, many of the phrases are beyond my comprehension, and interpreting them would be quite challenging. Perhaps you could briefly explain the basic theories of Daoist practice to me, so I can have a better understanding and avoid making too many mistakes in my interpretations.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, seeing the sincerity in his face and finding it hard to believe he was lying. Yet, his words were so unbelievable that she couldn’t find a reasonable explanation. After much deliberation, she finally made up her mind and said, “Very well, I’ll do as you suggest. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen School, which focuses on female alchemy and naturally cannot be exchanged with you. Fortunately, the Great Dao of the Golden Elixir is universal, so I’ll share another set of alchemical methods with you. How does that sound?”
Mei Qing, realizing that Bi Zhen still didn’t trust him, smiled wryly and said, “What would I do with your alchemical methods? The profound terms written there are beyond my understanding, which is why I wanted to trouble you to explain them to me, so I don’t get lost when interpreting the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s eyes flickered, and she finally began to believe that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand the Daoist principles. She hesitated for a moment before replying, “Very well, I’ll do as you suggest. Today, I’m not in the right state of mind, so starting tomorrow, please come back here, and I’ll explain everything I know to you.”
After a pause, she continued, “However, there’s one thing to note. Daoist practices are traditionally passed down from master to disciple, and it’s not customary for me to teach Daoist methods to a fellow practitioner. But since you’ve already entered the Dao, and we are fellow practitioners, it seems acceptable for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Fellow Daoist Mei?”
Mei Qing nodded and said, “I have no objections. But there’s one thing I’d like to ask. You keep calling me ‘Fellow Daoist,’ and it makes me a bit uncomfortable. If you don’t mind, just call me by my courtesy name, ‘San Qing,’ and please don’t address me as ‘Fellow Daoist’ anymore.”
“San Qing?” Bi Zhen smiled. “I’m starting to believe you haven’t practiced the Dao. What Daoist practitioner would dare to take such a name? How about I just call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. It feels awkward for you to address me as ‘Real Person.'”
“That sounds great,” Mei Qing said cheerfully. “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… can we skip the test you had in mind?”
Bi Zhen blushed slightly and said, “That… is a bit complicated. To be honest, at first, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about our duel. Only now have I realized that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m deeply entangled, unable to extricate myself. For a Daoist practitioner, the most feared thing is not knowing when a tribulation will strike. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for some time now, hoping to cross this threshold and condense my Golden Elixir, but the opportunity has eluded me. This time, I sensed a slight opportunity, and I believe that our duel is my tribulation. If I can overcome it, the skies will be clear; if not, I may never glimpse the Great Dao in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel a bit frustrated. “So, does that mean our duel has to continue? But… isn’t a tribulation something you can avoid? Why are you so eager to hold on to it?”
Bi Zhen chuckled at Mei Qing’s words. “You really don’t understand, do you? For a Daoist practitioner, tribulations and opportunities go hand in hand. How can you avoid them?—Don’t be upset. In fact, my tribulation is also your tribulation. My opportunity is also your opportunity. If you weren’t a Daoist practitioner, I wouldn’t dare to test you with such methods. Since we’ve reached this point, it’s almost time. Now, we should both be extra cautious and strive to unlock this together. Don’t let your guard down.”
Mei Qing sighed. “Alright, alright, whatever you say. Let’s continue the duel. It’s been going on for so long, what do I have to fear? Just be careful, if I can’t hold on one day, you’ll be the one to suffer.”
Bi Zhen giggled at Mei Qing’s words. “Why does that sound so scary? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to act recklessly, who knows who will suffer?”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As he entered the courtyard, he saw Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Ming Jing, approaching him, saying that Bi Zhen was waiting for him in the back garden.
The Rensheng Palace, once a royal retreat, naturally had a small garden in the back. Though not large, it was quite distinctive. As Mei Qing entered the garden, he was greeted by lush greenery, with pine and cypress trees standing tall. Walking along the forest path, the deep green of the trees and the sound of the wind through the pines gave him a sense of detachment from the world.
Not far ahead, he saw a small pavilion perched on a stone platform at a bend in the path. Climbing the steps, he saw two ancient cypress trees towering into the sky like pillars of smoke. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Daoist robe, was practicing an unknown set of martial arts under the trees.
The rising sun cast golden light on the pine needles, making Bi Zhen look like a fairy from a painting. Her movements appeared fast yet slow, her hands tracing arcs like birds in flight or falling petals, gracefully moving around her body.
With her final movement, Bi Zhen brought her palms together and pressed them downward, slowly coming to a stop and exhaling deeply, her entire body becoming still.
In recent days, Mei Qing had been so focused on their duel that he hadn’t had much time to truly observe this beautiful Daoist. Now, with a clear mind, he took the opportunity to admire her, thoroughly enjoying the sight.
Unfortunately, just as Mei Qing was lost in his reverie, Bi Zhen finished her practice and turned to him with a sweet smile, her eyes flashing with a strange light—and boom, it happened again.
Luckily, Mei Qing was prepared this time and didn’t lose his composure. He walked over and sat on a stone bench, his eyes still on Bi Zhen as he smiled and said, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on water, but that was just a legend. Seeing Bi Zhen’s graceful movements today, I can believe it’s true.”
Since they had agreed yesterday that their duel would have to come to an end, Mei Qing decided not to remain passive. Feeling inspired, he openly expressed his admiration.
Bi Zhen’s eyes showed a hint of approval as she smiled and said, “How is it that you’ve become so clever overnight, knowing how to break through appearances with words? But calling it a dance is a bit embarrassing. This is the Nine Birds Exercise, a common form of Daoist gymnastics. What’s so graceful about it?”
“Daoist gymnastics?” Mei Qing was momentarily stunned, then laughed. “So, this is what Daoist gymnastics is like? I always thought it was about guiding the flow of energy through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen was also surprised for a moment before bursting into laughter. She explained to Mei Qing, “Guiding the flow of energy is called ‘Qi circulation.’ Daoist gymnastics, on the other hand, is a form of physical exercise. Although Daoist gymnastics also involves Qi circulation, the two are not the same. For someone as learned as you to make such a mistake, I’m afraid people would laugh their teeth out if they heard it. How dare you say such a thing?”
As she spoke, she sat down on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing, laughing uncontrollably.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s flushed face after her practice, found her even more captivating. As she continued to laugh, he felt his heart stir and quickly composed himself, asking, “Bi Zhen, what’s so funny? Why are you laughing so much?”
Bi Zhen shook her head slightly and replied, “No particular reason. I just suddenly felt very relaxed and couldn’t help but laugh.”
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s pure and untainted smile, also felt a sense of ease and was about to laugh along with her.
At that moment, the vortex of energy in his heart tightened, causing a sudden tremor, as if something was pulling at it, making it unstable. Mei Qing was startled and quickly focused his mind, realizing that Bi Zhen’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was even more dangerous in its subtlety.
However, this method was not as easy to dispel as the previous flames of desire. Once it entered the heart, it was difficult to remove. Though Mei Qing tried his best, his heart remained unsettled, unable to calm down.
“You’re too attached, Young Master. Since it’s not about desire, why try to empty it? Instead of struggling, why not let it flow naturally?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like a heavenly melody, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply within him.
Hearing Bi Zhen’s words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had been struck in his mind, and he suddenly understood. He laughed and said, “Indeed. When it’s time to laugh, just laugh. Why force it? Bi Zhen, your methods are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Zhen smiled and said, “Young Master, you’re progressing rapidly. If I stay stagnant, it would be embarrassing. Just now, I felt a new insight into this method, and I hope you don’t mind my laughter.”
Mei Qing thanked her, “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But since you’re a Daoist, why talk about emptiness and desire? Since we’re dueling with methods, why did you feel the need to enlighten me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Ming Jing approached with a wooden tea tray, placing it on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with steam gently rising. A delicate fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing and invigorating.
Bi Zhen gestured gracefully, picking up a cup of tea and gently inhaling its aroma before taking a small sip, her face showing a serene expression. Mei Qing, not standing on ceremony, also took a cup, savoring the taste. It was slightly bitter at first, but then a subtle fragrance filled his chest.
“Young Master, do you know the origins of Daoism and from which era it stems?” Bi Zhen asked, not answering Mei Qing’s question but posing one of her own.
“If I remember correctly, it originated from the Daoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the Daoist religion at Heming Mountain in Shu, and that’s when Daoism as a religion began.”
“Young Master, you’re quite knowledgeable. However, within Daoism, there are rituals, principles, and methods. The principles are derived from the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals have been passed down since Zhang Ling established the religion; and the methods originated from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Zhen explained.
“Are you referring to the Immortal School during the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The Immortal School was a faction during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, standing alongside Daoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike other schools that focused on governance, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, the Immortal School’s primary goal was simple: immortality.
Bi Zhen smiled at Mei Qing’s words. “You’re not entirely wrong. Immortality is indeed the goal pursued by the Immortal School. However, the Immortal School’s practices are far more complex than just those four words. But secular people, especially emperors, valued the Immortal School’s techniques solely for immortality, and over time, the Immortal School became synonymous with the pursuit of immortality.”
Bi Zhen then went on to explain in detail the lineage of Daoism, which actually stems from the ancient Daoist and Immortal schools. Its principles are derived from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while its practices are largely influenced by the Immortal School.
“The methods of cultivation are numerous; Daoist cultivation, as well as Buddhist and Confucian cultivation, are all forms of practice. However, in Daoism, we refer to ‘cultivation’ as ‘refinement’ because the path of the Golden Elixir begins with the concept of ‘refinement.’ Broadly speaking, Daoist refinement methods can be divided into two schools: Talismanic and Alchemical.”
“Talismanic refinement focuses on Qi, while Alchemical refinement focuses on the Elixir. The Talismanic School is also known as the Talismanic Water School, and its methods involve drawing talismans and using the forces of Yin and Yang to harness the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are derived from the Talismanic School’s Heavenly Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao sects. There are also other sects like Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which merged during the Yuan Dynasty to form the Zhengyi Dao.”
“The Alchemical School, also known as the Golden Elixir School, can be further divided into Internal Alchemy and External Alchemy. External Alchemy involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs, which are then consumed to achieve enlightenment. The Nine Birds Exercise I practiced earlier can be considered a form of External Alchemy.”
“However, External Alchemy has long been lost, and the so-called alchemy techniques passed down in the world, often claiming to produce gold and silver, are mostly fraudulent and not to be trusted. Internal Alchemy, on the other hand, has gradually become the mainstream and is considered the proper path of cultivation.”
Internal Alchemy, also known as “Returning the Elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of External Alchemy to describe the process of refining the body, with the body as the furnace, essence and Qi as the ingredients, and the spirit as the fire, refining the elixir within the body to achieve the Great Dao.
Internal Alchemy did not initially establish sects or widely recruit disciples like the Talismanic School. Instead, it was mostly passed down secretly among the people, rarely known to the world. Later, figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gained fame, especially Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who brought it to prominence.
It wasn’t until the Northern Song Dynasty, when Wang Ji (also known as Wang Chongyang) founded the Quanzhen School, that Internal Alchemy began to establish itself as a religious sect. Wang Ji’s seven disciples, known as the Seven Masters of Quanzhen, became famous throughout the land. Since the sect was established in the north, it was also known as the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School, on the other hand, was passed down from Zhang Boduan, also known as Ziyang Zhenren, and later through five generations to Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Masters of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun merged the Northern and Southern Schools, forming the Golden Elixir Dao as it is known today.
Today, only one chapter, I feel ashamed…
I’m a bit tired, my brothers, let Old Ji catch his breath. I promise a double update tomorrow.
This part is quite challenging to write. It might be tiring for you to read, but it’s even more exhausting for Old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter laugh, realizing that Bi Zhen probably harbored resentment towards him. She must have thought that he was deliberately retaliating against her for her previous attempt to outwit him in a duel, hence the teasing remarks. In truth, that was exactly the case, but why couldn’t she believe it? She insisted on thinking that he had practiced some form of Taoist magic.
With a long sigh, Mei Qing helplessly said, “I’m afraid you have misunderstood me, Bi Zhen. I don’t know what Taoist magic you’re referring to, but I truly haven’t studied any other spells. If you wish for me to interpret these Taoist scriptures, it’s not particularly difficult. However, many of the phrases are beyond my comprehension, making it quite challenging to provide accurate explanations. Perhaps you could briefly explain the basic theories of Taoist practice to me, so I can have a better understanding and avoid making too many mistakes in my interpretations.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, seeing the sincerity on his face and finding it hard to believe he was lying. Yet, his words were something Bi Zhen couldn’t accept. After much deliberation, Bi Zhen finally made up her mind and said, “Very well, I’ll go along with you. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen School, which is a female practice, and naturally, I cannot exchange it with you. Fortunately, the path of the Golden Elixir is universal, so I will gift you another set of alchemical methods. How does that sound?”
Mei Qing, hearing Bi Zhen’s words, knew she still didn’t trust him. He smiled wryly and said, “What would I do with your alchemical methods? The esoteric terms written there are beyond my understanding. I was hoping you could explain some of them to me, so I don’t get lost when interpreting the scriptures.”
Bi Zhen’s eyes flickered, and only then did she begin to believe that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand Taoist principles. She was filled with doubt and confusion. After a moment of silence, she replied, “Very well, I’ll go along with you. Today, I’m not in the right state of mind, so starting tomorrow, please come back here, and I’ll explain everything I know to you.”
After a pause, Bi Zhen continued, “However, there’s one thing to note. Taoist practices are entirely dependent on lineage, and it’s generally not appropriate for me to teach you Taoist methods. But since you’ve already entered the path, and we are fellow practitioners, it seems acceptable for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Fellow Practitioner Mei?”
Mei Qing nodded and said, “I have no objections. But there’s one thing I’d like to ask. You keep calling me ‘Fellow Practitioner,’ which makes me quite uncomfortable. If you don’t mind, just call me by my courtesy name, ‘San Qing,’ and please stop referring to me as ‘Fellow Practitioner.'”
“San Qing, huh?” Bi Zhen smiled. “I’m starting to believe you haven’t practiced Taoism. What practitioner would dare to take such a name? How about I just call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. It feels awkward for you to call me ‘Bi Zhen’ as well.”
“That sounds great,” Mei Qing said cheerfully. “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… can we skip the test you had in mind?”
Bi Zhen blushed and said, “This… is indeed a bit troublesome. To be honest, initially, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about dueling with you. Only now have I realized that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m deeply entangled, unable to extricate myself. For practitioners, the most feared thing is not knowing when a tribulation will come. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for quite some time, hoping to cross this hurdle and condense my Golden Elixir, but the opportunity has been elusive. Now that I sense a slight opportunity, I believe this duel with you is my tribulation. If I pass it, the skies will be clear; if I don’t, I may never glimpse the Great Dao in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel frustrated. “So, this duel of ours has to continue? But… isn’t a tribulation something you can avoid? Why are you so insistent on holding onto it?”
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words. “You really don’t understand. For practitioners, tribulations and opportunities go hand in hand. How can you avoid them? Don’t be upset; in fact, my tribulation is also your tribulation. My opportunity is also your opportunity. If you weren’t a practitioner, I wouldn’t dare to test you with such methods. Since we’ve reached this point, it’s almost time. Now, we both need to be extra cautious, hoping to unlock this together, and not let our guard down.”
Mei Qing said, “Alright, alright, whatever you say. If we have to duel, then so be it. It’s been a long time, and I’m not afraid. Just be careful; if I can’t hold on one day, it’ll be you who suffers.”
Bi Zhen giggled at Mei Qing’s words. “Why make it sound so scary? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to act recklessly, who knows who will suffer?”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As he entered the courtyard, Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Ming Jing, approached him and said that Bi Zhen was waiting for him in the back garden.
The Rensheng Palace, once a royal retreat, naturally had a small garden in the back. Though not large, it was quite unique. Upon entering, Mei Qing was greeted by a lush landscape of pine and cypress trees. Walking along the forest path, the verdant scenery and the sound of the wind through the pines gave one a sense of detachment from the world.
After a short walk, Mei Qing saw a small pavilion on a stone platform at a bend in the path. Ascending the steps, he saw two ancient cypress trees towering into the sky like pillars of smoke. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Taoist robe, was practicing an unknown set of martial arts under the trees.
The rising sun cast golden reflections on the pine needles, making Bi Zhen look like a fairy from a painting. Her movements appeared fast yet slow, her hands drawing arcs like birds flying and flowers falling, gracefully moving around her body.
With a final movement, Bi Zhen brought her hands together, pressed them down, and slowly came to a stop, exhaling deeply and standing still.
Mei Qing, who had been preoccupied with dueling Bi Zhen, hadn’t had much time to truly observe this beautiful Taoist priestess. Now, with a clear mind, he took the opportunity to admire her, thoroughly enjoying the sight.
Unfortunately, just as Mei Qing was lost in his reverie, Bi Zhen finished her practice and turned to him with a sweet smile, her eyes flashing with a strange light—boom, it happened again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing was prepared and didn’t lose his composure. He walked over and sat on a stone bench, his eyes still on Bi Zhen as he smiled and said, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on water, but that was just a legend. Seeing Bi Zhen’s graceful movements today, it’s no wonder they believed in such tales.”
Since they had agreed yesterday that their duel must come to an end, Mei Qing didn’t want to remain passive. Inspired, he openly expressed his admiration without hesitation.
Bi Zhen, hearing Mei Qing’s words, showed a hint of approval in her eyes and smiled. “How is it that overnight, you’ve become so clever, knowing how to break the illusion with words? But calling it a dance is quite embarrassing. This is the Nine Birds Exercise, a common form of guiding energy. What’s so graceful about it?”
“Guiding energy?” Mei Qing was momentarily stunned, then laughed. “So, guiding energy is this kind of martial arts or dynamic exercise? I always thought guiding energy was about directing the flow of energy through the meridians.”
Bi Zhen was also taken aback for a moment, then burst into laughter, explaining to Mei Qing, “Directing the flow of energy is called ‘moving qi.’ Guiding energy, however, is a physical practice. Although guiding energy also involves moving qi, the two are not the same. For someone as learned as you, Mei Qing, to make such a mistake, it’s quite amusing. Aren’t you afraid people will laugh at you?”
As she spoke, she sat down on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing, laughing uncontrollably.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s flushed face after her long practice, found her even more captivating. Her laughter made his heart race, and he quickly composed himself, asking, “Bi Zhen, what’s so funny? Why are you laughing so much?”
Bi Zhen shook her head slightly and replied, “No particular reason. I just suddenly felt very relaxed and couldn’t help but laugh.”
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Zhen’s pure, untainted smile, also felt a sense of ease and was about to laugh along.
At that moment, the vortex of energy in his heart tightened, causing a sudden tremor, as if something was pulling at it, making him feel unsteady. Mei Qing was startled and quickly focused his mind, realizing that Bi Zhen’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was even more dangerous in its subtlety.
However, this method was not as easy to dispel as the previous flames of desire. Once it entered the heart, it was hard to remove. Though Mei Qing tried his best, his heart remained unsettled, unable to calm down.
“You’re too attached, Mei Qing. If it’s not about desire, why try to empty it? Instead of struggling, why not let it flow naturally?” Bi Zhen’s voice, like a heavenly melody, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply within him.
Hearing Bi Zhen’s words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had been struck in his heart, and he suddenly calmed down, laughing heartily. “Indeed, that’s the way. When it’s time to laugh, why suppress it? Bi Zhen, your methods are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Zhen smiled. “Mei Qing, you’re making rapid progress. If I stay stagnant, wouldn’t it be embarrassing? Just now, I felt a sudden insight into this method, and I hope you don’t mind me showing off.”
Mei Qing thanked her. “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Zhen. But since you’re a Taoist, why talk about emptiness and desire? Since we’re dueling with methods, why bother enlightening me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Ming Jing walked up with a simple wooden tea tray, placing it on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with wisps of steam rising. A delicate fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing and invigorating.
Bi Zhen gestured gracefully, picking up a cup of tea and gently inhaling its aroma before taking a small sip, her face showing a serene expression. Mei Qing, not standing on ceremony, also took a cup, savoring the taste. It was slightly bitter at first, but then a subtle fragrance filled his chest.
“Do you know the origins of Taoism, Mei Qing?” Bi Zhen asked, not answering his previous question.
“If I remember correctly, it originated from the Taoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the Taoist religion at Heming Mountain in Sichuan, and that’s how Taoism spread.”
“Very knowledgeable, Mei Qing. However, within Taoism, there are rituals, principles, and methods. The principles are derived from the teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals have been passed down since Zhang Ling established the religion; and the methods originated from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Zhen explained.
“Are you referring to the Immortal School during the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The Immortal School was a group during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, standing alongside Taoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike other schools that focused on governance, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, their fundamental goal was simple: immortality.
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s question. “You’re not entirely wrong. Immortality is indeed the goal of the Immortal School. However, their practice seeks more than just those four words. It’s just that secular people, especially emperors, valued the techniques of immortality solely for longevity, and over time, the Immortal School became associated only with the pursuit of immortality.”
She then went on to explain in detail the lineage of Taoism, which actually inherited from the ancient Taoist and Immortal schools. Its principles were derived from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while its practices were largely adopted from the Immortal School.
“The methods of practice are numerous; Taoist practice, Buddhist practice, and Confucian practice are all forms of cultivation. However, Taoism refers to ‘cultivation’ as ‘refinement’ because the path of the Golden Elixir begins with the word ‘refine.’ Broadly speaking, Taoist refinement methods are divided into two schools: Talismanic and Alchemical.”
“Talismanic refinement focuses on qi, while Alchemical refinement focuses on elixirs. The Talismanic School is also known as the Talismanic Water School, and its methods involve drawing talismans and using the forces of yin and yang to harness the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are derived from the Talismanic School’s Heavenly Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao sects. There are also other sects like Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which merged during the Yuan Dynasty to form the Zhengyi Dao.”
“The Alchemical School is also known as the Golden Elixir School and is divided into Internal and External Alchemy. External Alchemy involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs, which are then consumed to achieve enlightenment. The Nine Birds Exercise I practiced earlier can be considered a form of External Alchemy.”
“However, External Alchemy has long been lost, and the alchemical techniques passed down in the world, often referred to as ‘Yellow and White,’ are mostly fraudulent and not to be trusted. Internal Alchemy, on the other hand, has gradually become the mainstream, representing the true path of cultivation.”
Internal Alchemy, also known as “Returning Elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of External Alchemy to describe the practice of refining the body as a furnace, using essence and qi as the ingredients, and the spirit as the fire to condense an elixir within the body, thereby advancing on the path to the Great Dao.
Internal Alchemy did not initially establish sects or widely recruit disciples like the Talismanic School. Instead, it was mostly passed down secretly among the people, rarely known to the world. Later, figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gained fame, especially Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who brought it to prominence.
It wasn’t until the Northern Song Dynasty, when Wang Ji (three auspicious characters) founded the Quanzhen School, that a formal sect was established. Wang Ji, known as Wang Chongyang, had seven disciples, known as the Seven Masters of Quanzhen, who became famous throughout the land. Since the sect was established in the north, it was also known as the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School was passed down from Zhang Boduan, the Purple Yang Master, and after five generations, it reached Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Masters of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun merged the Northern and Southern Schools, forming the Golden Elixir path as it is known today.
Today, only one chapter, I feel ashamed…
I’m a bit tired, my brothers, let Old Ji catch his breath. I promise a double update tomorrow.
This part is not easy to write. It might be tiring for you to read, but it’s even more exhausting for Old Ji to write.
===================
Mei Qing let out a bitter smile, knowing that Bi Zhen must have harbored resentment towards him. She probably thought that he held a grudge against her for her previous attempt to outwit him in a duel, and thus was deliberately retaliating by teasing her. In reality, that was exactly the case, but why couldn’t she believe it, insisting that he must have practiced some kind of Taoist magic?
With a long sigh, Mei Qing helplessly said, “I’m afraid you have misunderstood me, Bi Zhen. I don’t know what Taoist magic you’re referring to, but I truly haven’t learned any other spells. If you wish for me to interpret these Taoist scriptures, it’s not a difficult task. However, many of the phrases are beyond my understanding, making it quite challenging to explain them. Perhaps you could briefly introduce me to the basic theories of Taoist practice, so I can have a better grasp and avoid making too many mistakes in my interpretations.”
Bi Zhen stared at Mei Qing for a long time, seeing his sincere expression, which didn’t seem fake, and she felt a wave of uncertainty. According to Mei Qing’s own words, Bi Zhen would never believe him. But the current situation also left Bi Zhen without a reasonable explanation. After much deliberation, Bi Zhen made up her mind and said, “Then let’s do as you say. However, what I’ve learned comes from the Pure Sect of the Quanzhen School, which is a female practice, and naturally, I cannot exchange it with you. Fortunately, the Great Dao of the Golden Elixir is interconnected, so I will gift you another set of alchemical methods. How does that sound?”
Mei Qing, hearing Bi Zhen’s words, knew she still didn’t trust him and said with a bitter smile, “What would I do with your alchemical methods? The profound words written on them are beyond my comprehension, so I wanted to trouble you to explain them to me, to avoid getting lost in the interpretation.”
Bi Zhen’s beautiful eyes flickered, and only then did she somewhat believe that Mei Qing truly didn’t understand Taoist principles. She felt a mix of surprise and doubt. After a moment of contemplation, she replied, “Then let’s do as you say. Today, my mind is unsettled, so starting tomorrow, please come here again, and I will explain everything I know to you.”
At this point, Bi Zhen paused for a while, then continued, “However, there’s one thing. Taoist practices are entirely dependent on lineage, and by principle, I should not be teaching you Taoist methods. But since you have already entered the Dao, and we are fellow practitioners, it seems acceptable for us to exchange knowledge. What do you think, Fellow Daoist Mei?”
Mei Qing nodded and said, “I have no objections. But there’s one thing I’d like to ask. You keep calling me ‘Fellow Daoist,’ which makes me quite uncomfortable. If you don’t mind, just call me by my courtesy name, ‘San Qing,’ and please don’t address me as Fellow Daoist anymore.”
“San Qing?” Bi Zhen smiled slightly, “I’m starting to believe that you haven’t practiced Taoism. Which Taoist practitioner would dare to take such a name? How about I just call you by your name, and you can call me Bi Zhen. I also feel uncomfortable being addressed as ‘Real Person.'”
“That sounds great,” Mei Qing said with a cheerful mood, “Then we’ll start tomorrow. But… can we skip the test you had in mind?”
Bi Zhen blushed slightly and said, “This matter… is indeed troublesome. To be honest, initially, I was just being stubborn and didn’t think much about dueling with you. Only now have I realized that my inner demons have been stirred, and I’m deeply entangled, unable to extricate myself. For a Taoist practitioner, the most feared thing is not knowing when a calamity will strike. I’ve been at the stage of Golden Liquid for quite some time, hoping to cross this hurdle and condense the Golden Elixir, but the opportunity has been elusive. Now that I sense a slight opportunity, I believe this duel with you is my calamity. If I can overcome it, the sky’s the limit; if not, I’m afraid I’ll never glimpse the Great Dao in this lifetime.”
Mei Qing couldn’t help but feel a bit frustrated, “So, does this mean our duel has to continue? But—can’t calamities be avoided? Why are you so eager to hold on?”
Bi Zhen laughed at Mei Qing’s words, “You really don’t understand. For Taoist practitioners, calamities and opportunities go hand in hand; they can’t be avoided. Don’t be upset; in fact, my calamity is also your calamity, and my opportunity is also your opportunity. If you weren’t a Taoist practitioner, I wouldn’t dare to test you with such a great method. Since we’ve reached this point, it’s almost time. Now, we should be even more cautious and strive to unlock this lock together, without any slack.”
Mei Qing said, “Alright, alright, whatever you say. Let’s duel then, it’s been a long time, and I’m not afraid. Just be careful, if I can’t hold on one day, it’s you who will suffer.”
Bi Zhen giggled at Mei Qing’s words, “Why does it sound so scary? To be honest, I have a few powerful items on me. If you dare to act recklessly, it’s hard to say who will suffer.”
The next morning, Mei Qing arrived at the Rensheng Palace earlier than usual. As soon as he entered the courtyard, he saw Bi Zhen’s young disciple, Ming Jing, coming forward to greet him, saying that Bi Zhen was waiting in the back garden and wanted Mei Qing to meet her there.
The Rensheng Palace, having once been a royal retreat, naturally had a small garden in the back. Though not large, it was quite distinctive. Upon entering the garden, one was greeted by a lush expanse of pine and cypress trees. Walking along the forest path, the verdant greenery and the sound of the pine breeze gave one a sense of transcendence.
Not far ahead, at a turn, there was a small stone platform with a pavilion that seemed ready to take flight. Ascending the steps, one could see two ancient cypress trees standing like pillars of smoke, reaching towards the sky. Bi Zhen, dressed in a plain Taoist robe, was practicing an unknown set of martial arts under the cypress trees.
At this moment, the sun rose in the east, casting golden reflections on the pine needles, making Bi Zhen appear like a fairy from a painting. Her movements seemed fast yet slow, her hands drawing arcs like birds flying and flowers falling, lingering around her body.
With the final movement, Bi Zhen brought her palms together, then pressed them down, slowly coming to a stop, exhaling a long breath, and her whole body became still.
In recent days, Mei Qing had been so focused on dueling with Bi Zhen that he hadn’t truly observed this beautiful Taoist priestess. This time, with a rare sense of peace, he watched her for a long time, thoroughly enjoying the sight.
Unfortunately, just as Mei Qing was feeling elated, Bi Zhen had already finished her practice and turned to him with a sweet smile, her eyes flashing with a strange light—and with a bang, it happened again.
Fortunately, Mei Qing was prepared, so he didn’t lose his composure. He slowly walked over and sat on a stone bench, his eyes still fixed on Bi Qing as he smiled and said, “The ancients spoke of fairies dancing on water, but that was just a legend. Seeing Bi Qing’s graceful movements today, which rival those of celestial beings, I can’t help but believe it.”
Since they had already agreed yesterday that their duel must come to an end, Mei Qing didn’t want to remain passive. With a thought, he didn’t shy away from expressing his admiration and spoke openly.
Bi Qing, hearing Mei Qing’s words, showed a hint of approval in her eyes and smiled, “How is it that after just one night, you’ve become so clever, knowing how to break the illusion with words? But calling it a dance is quite embarrassing. This is the Nine Birds Exercise, a common guiding method, nothing so graceful.”
“A guiding method?” Mei Qing was momentarily stunned, then laughed, “So, guiding methods are like this kind of martial arts or dynamic exercises? I always thought guiding methods were about directing the flow of energy through the meridians, hence the name.”
Bi Qing was also stunned for a moment, then burst into laughter, explaining to Mei Qing, “The flow of energy is called ‘Qi circulation.’ Guiding methods are physical techniques. Although guiding methods also involve Qi circulation, the two cannot be confused. For someone as learned as you, Mei Qing, to make such a joke, aren’t you afraid people will laugh their teeth out? How dare you say such a thing.”
As she spoke, she walked over and sat on the stone bench, her beautiful eyes fixed on Mei Qing, laughing uncontrollably.
Mei Qing, seeing Bi Qing’s flushed face after her long practice, found her even more captivating. As she continued to laugh, he felt his heart stir and quickly calmed his mind, asking, “Bi Qing, what’s making you so happy, laughing like this?”
Bi Qing shook her head slightly and replied, “No particular reason, I just suddenly feel very relaxed and can’t help but laugh.”
Mei Qing, looking at Bi Qing’s ethereal smile, also felt an immense sense of relaxation and was about to laugh along.
At that moment, the whirl of energy in his heart tightened, causing a sudden tremor, as if something was pulling at it, making it unstable. Mei Qing was shocked and quickly steadied his mind, realizing that Bi Qing’s laughter, though not as provocative as before, was perhaps even more dangerous.
However, this method was not as easy to dispel as the previous flames of desire. Once it entered the heart, it was difficult to remove. Although Mei Qing tried his best, his heart remained unsettled, unable to calm down.
“You’re getting caught up in appearances, Qing. Since it’s not about form, why seek emptiness? Instead of struggling, why not go with the flow?” Bi Qing’s voice, like a heavenly melody, rang in Mei Qing’s ears, resonating deeply within him.
Hearing Bi Qing’s words, Mei Qing felt as if a bell had been struck in his heart, and he suddenly calmed down, laughing heartily, “Indeed. When it’s time to laugh, why suppress it? Bi Qing, your methods are becoming more and more impressive.”
Bi Qing smiled slightly, “Qing, you’re making rapid progress. If I stay in the same place, wouldn’t it be embarrassing? Just now, I indeed felt something and gained some insights into this method, making you laugh.”
Mei Qing thanked her, “Thank you for your guidance, Bi Qing. But since you’re a Taoist, why talk about emptiness and form? Since we’re dueling with methods, why did you choose to enlighten me?”
At that moment, the young disciple Ming Jing gracefully approached from below, carrying a simple wooden tea tray, which he placed on the stone table. On it were two cups of clear tea, the liquid a translucent green, with wisps of steam rising. A faint fragrance wafted through the air, refreshing and invigorating.
Bi Qing made a graceful gesture of invitation, gently picking up a cup of tea and bringing it to her nose to savor the aroma before taking a small sip, her face showing a serene expression. Mei Qing didn’t stand on ceremony either, taking a cup and savoring the taste, which was slightly bitter at first but then released a subtle fragrance that permeated his chest.
“Qing, do you know the origins of Taoism, from which era it began?” Bi Qing, instead of answering Mei Qing’s question, posed a counter-question.
“If I remember correctly, it should have originated from the Taoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi during the pre-Qin period. Later, during the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Ling established the religion at Heming Mountain in Shu, and thus Taoism was passed down.”
“Qing, you’re quite knowledgeable. However, within Taoism, there are rituals, principles, and methods. The principles are derived from the Taoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi; the rituals have been passed down since Zhang Ling established the religion; and the methods originated from ancient immortals and alchemists,” Bi Qing explained eloquently.
“Are you referring to the Immortal School during the Spring and Autumn period?” Mei Qing asked.
The Immortal School referred to a faction during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, standing alongside Taoism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Legalism. Unlike other schools that focused on governing, self-cultivation, and strengthening the state, their fundamental goal was simple: immortality.
Bi Qing, hearing Mei Qing’s words, couldn’t help but laugh, “Qing, you’re not entirely wrong. Immortality is indeed the goal pursued by the Immortal School. However, the cultivation sought by the Immortal School is far more complex than just those four words. But secular people, especially emperors, valued the techniques of immortals and alchemists solely for immortality, and thus, over time, the Immortal School became solely associated with the pursuit of immortality.”
With that, Bi Qing explained to Mei Qing the inheritance of Taoism, which actually came from the ancient Taoist and Immortal schools. The principles were inherited from Laozi and Zhuangzi, while the cultivation methods were largely adopted from the Immortal School.
“There are countless paths to cultivation; Taoist cultivation, Buddhist cultivation, and Confucian cultivation are all forms of cultivation. However, the reason Taoism refers to ‘cultivation’ as ‘refinement’ is because the Taoist path of the Golden Elixir begins with the word ‘refine.’ Generally speaking, Taoist cultivation methods can be divided into two schools: Talismanic and Alchemical.”
“Talismanic cultivation refines Qi, while Alchemical cultivation refines the elixir. The Talismanic school is also known as the Talismanic Water School, whose methods involve drawing talismans and using the forces of Yin and Yang to harness the power of heaven and earth. The so-called Three Mountains Talismans—Longhu, Maoshan, and Gezao—are passed down from the Talismanic School’s Celestial Master, Shangqing, and Lingbao sects, among others such as Shenxiao, Donghua, and Tianxin, which merged into the Zhengyi Dao during the Yuan Dynasty.”
“The Alchemical school is also known as the Golden Elixir School, which can be further divided into Internal and External Alchemy. External Alchemy involves using furnaces to refine herbs and minerals into elixirs, which are then consumed to attain the Dao. The Nine Birds Guiding Method I practiced earlier can be considered part of External Alchemy.”
“However, External Alchemy has long been lost, and the alchemy techniques passed down in the world, falsely claiming to produce gold and silver, are mostly charlatans and cannot be trusted. Internal Alchemy, on the other hand, has gradually become the mainstream, being the correct path of cultivation.”
Internal Alchemy, also known as “Returning Elixir” or “Golden Elixir,” uses the metaphor of External Alchemy to describe the cultivation of the human body, treating the body as a furnace, essence and Qi as the ingredients, and the spirit as the fire, refining them into an elixir within the body to advance on the path of the Great Dao.
The path of Internal Alchemy did not initially establish sects and recruit disciples like the Talismanic School, but was mostly passed down secretly among the people, rarely known to the world. Later, figures like Wei Boyang, Zhang Guo, and Luo Gongyuan gradually became famous, especially Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who achieved great success, bringing Internal Alchemy to prominence.
It wasn’t until Wang Ji (three Ji characters) of the Northern Song Dynasty founded the Quanzhen School that a sect was established. Wang Ji, known as Wang Chongyang, had seven disciples, known as the Seven Ancestors of Quanzhen, who became famous throughout the world. As the sect was established in the north, it was also known as the Northern School of the Golden Elixir.
The Southern School was passed down from Zhang Boduan, the Purple Yang Real Person, and after five generations, it reached Bai Yuchan, known as the Five Ancestors of the Southern School. During the Yuan Dynasty, Li Daochun merged the Northern and Southern Schools into one, which is the current tradition of the Golden Elixir.
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