Chapter Nine, Qingyang Palace

Moreover, this old man had a stern expression, with his brows sharply extending to his gray temples. Even in his youth, he was not someone easy to deal with. Upon seeing Wang Cunyie enter, he opened his eyes and directly asked, "You are Wang Cunyie, the direct disciple of Xie Cheng. Why have you only just arrived?"

This half volume of the Dan Yun Method Record is merely an introductory lesson for novice disciples; it is not particularly difficult, yet it is not something that outsiders can interpret at will. However, the current interpretation is both profound and accessible. While it may not cover every aspect in detail, it is nonetheless meticulous and thorough, and this is only half a volume

After a pause, he continued, "My master has passed away, and I must observe a year of mourning before I dare to seek guidance."

Wang Cunye, upon hearing the old Daoist say this, responded in a deep voice: "Yes, I take my leave, esteemed elder."

The three deacons, seeing him write so freely, all became serious and were silently astonished

After a moment, a voice came from inside: "Come in"

Upon taking a glance, I could not help but exclaim, "What a beautiful character!"

Two large stone lions are crouching in front of the main gate, and there are hundreds of steps leading up, guarded only by two young acolytes, giving an impression of desolation and neglect. From a distance, one can see numerous halls and pavilions standing majestically on the mountain, yet there is not a hint of decay.

After a moment of daze, Wang Cunyue entered the Mei Pavilion, quietly waiting until an hour had passed, when the old Daoist steward finally approached, holding the scroll of the Qingyang Dao Palace in his hand

Wang Cunye did not take it to heart; instead, he deliberately flipped through the pages for a moment longer. Then, with a slight smile, he picked up the inkstone and silently began to grind the ink. In a short while, the ink was ready, rich and glossy.

"In our Daoist sect, there are countless true scriptures, each with its own emphasis. Some convey profound principles in subtle words, while others cover a wide array of topics. The key lies in one's understanding. I will present to you half of this 'Dan Yun Fa Lu' for your reading. After half an hour, you shall explain it to us," the elder Daoist said, as he casually pulled out a thin volume from the bookshelf behind him, which was indeed the 'Dan Yun Fa Lu', placing it before Wang Cunyue. "You may interpret it as you wish; whatever you can comprehend is what you shall convey"

This examination at the door is conducted for the sake of the broader community, allowing for assessments to be made at any time, unlike the regular examinations held by the authorities, such as the county and provincial tests.

A person must undergo an assessment to be qualified as a Daoist. Daoists are devoted to the Great Dao and diligent in their proper conduct, thus earning the title of "One-Lu Daoist." Although they do not belong to a specific rank, they are considered legitimate Daoists.

The two gatekeepers, upon seeing Wang Cunye dressed in a cloud-patterned dark blue Daoist robe, did not dare to be negligent. They quickly came down and asked, "What business do you have, fellow Daoist? If you have matters to discuss, please specify whom you wish to see, and I will go in to report. If there is nothing urgent..."

Wang Cunye formally bowed in greeting, which immediately left the Taoist priest feeling somewhat flattered and surprised, saying, "How could I dare, how could I dare? Please, esteemed brother, come in!"

Upon reaching the two hundredth level, one can see a pavilion and jade tower halfway up the mountain. Above the hall hangs a blue background golden plaque inscribed with the three characters "Yunxiao Palace" in an iron brush and silver hook style, embodying a sense of grandeur and majesty amidst the ethereal.

Wang Cunye did not take it to heart, turning around and striding through the main entrance of the Qingyang Dao Palace.

Having gained such insight from half a scroll, the steward's gaze towards Wang Cunyue immediately changed.

He shouted outside again, "Qingyue, please take this gentleman to the Lianxin Pavilion to rest, and bring him over tomorrow morning at the hour of Chen."

The disciple humbly submits to the Way, aspiring to advance in the path of practice, and hopes for the support of the responsible party. Wang Cunyue replied.

The old master listened, seemingly in agreement, and gave a slight smile. Then, his expression became serious as he began the formal proceedings,淡淡问着: "Why have you come?"

In front of the hall, there is a pond, within which numerous lotus flowers bloom, subtly dotting the surface, creating an exceptionally serene and pure atmosphere. It truly is a place of great fortune.

After speaking, he turned around to inform the steward of Qingyang Dao Palace

Wang Cunye stood up to take it and replied, "Yes!"

Upon seeing the steward enter, Wang Cunyue rose to his feet, performed a salute, and said, "I have the honor of meeting the esteemed steward!"

The assessment and verification of qualifications for the Qingyang Dao Palace, issued by mhetushu.com.com, are documented in two copies: one is kept in this Daoist cultivation temple, and the other is archived in the Qingyang Dao Palace.

After speaking, he silently looked over and saw four or five lines, unable to hide his astonishment. As the surprise deepened, he finally fixed his gaze on Wang Cunye, staring blankly and speechless.

At this point, the young Taoist smiled and said, "It is better not to linger around the entrance of the Qingyang Dao Palace, as this place does not receive offerings and is a tranquil area"

A steward approached, picked up the scroll, and said to Wang Cunyie, "I will preside over this matter."

Wang Cunye, seeing that the young monk was gentle and courteous, quickly cupped his hands and said, "I dare not impose, but I would appreciate it if you could inform the steward at Qingyang Dao Palace that Wang Cunye from Dayan Temple has come to pay a visit and wishes to request an assessment of my Daoist practice"

The Taoist acolytes are not disciples who can cultivate spells and internal practices; they merely serve as miscellaneous attendants in the Qingyang Palace. If the master is in a good mood, they might impart one or two martial arts techniques, but if the mood is poor, they can only endure it.

Wang Cunye bowed respectfully and said, "Thank you to this deacon."

The elder priest nodded to Wang Cunye, saying, "This is your file from the Qingyang Dao Palace, and it generally matches what you have stated. This identity verification is now complete. However, you are currently only a lay believer. To advance in the Daoist practice, we still need to assess your level."

Five clouds float, the colorful phoenix returns, from afar I see the golden boy bringing the imperial edict, in the palace, the rain and dew fall abundantly, the Prime Minister respectfully bows at the immortal steps At this moment, my heart stirs with true literature, and I can recite it fluently and eloquently

Several deacons raised a few more questions, reciting them fluently, exchanging glances, and revealing a slight sense of satisfaction

Standing in front of the plum tree, Wang Cunyue appeared somewhat dazed

The old deacon said lightly, "You should accompany me to verify with the other two deacons; they have been waiting in the Vermilion Bird side hall. A Taoist priest has requested that the three of us provide joint testimony, and we must not be careless."

To understand the interpretation of the Daoist texts and scriptures is indeed a matter that requires considerable thought; often, one may hesitate for a long time over just a few lines. The ease with which I write now truly indicates the presence of innate wisdom within me

The Taoist boy said to Wang Cunyue, "Fellow Daoist, allow me to return and report, and I kindly ask the Daoist priest to wait a moment"

What is the content of Chapter 2 of Volume 7? The old priest asked pointedly.

"Yes!" Wang Cunye gently lifted the door curtain, revealing an old Taoist priest sitting cross-legged on a couch with his eyes closed. This priest wore a cloud-patterned robe and a tall crown, yet his face appeared quite young, resembling a middle-aged man. If it were not for his flowing white hair, one might almost mistake him for a man merely in his forties.

Half an hour later, Wang Cunye stood up and saluted the three stewards, saying, "I have completed my task. May I ask which steward is here to provide feedback?"

Wang Cunye slightly focused his mind, and the tortoise shell emitted a beam of clear light, instantly absorbing the text he was observing and transforming it into a mass of cloud-like vapor. This vapor flowed and gradually condensed, yet only half a character was formed.

In a moment, they arrived at the Vermilion Bird Side Hall. Upon entering, they found two attendants already present. One of the attendants directly said, "Let us begin!"

Though it is but half a character, a mere touch causes the profound meaning to flow forth instantly; however, half a character cannot endure for long. After a brief moment, with a loud "boom," it dissipates into thin air.

Qingyang Dao Palace is located in the western part of the city, under the jurisdiction of Xicheng District. After a short while, Wang Cunye had already arrived at the entrance of Qingyang Dao Palace

Wang Cunye, following the memories of this body, arrived at the Plum Pavilion. The pavilion is elegant and ancient, with windows that reflect its charm. Not far away stands a massive plum tree, which surely provides a refreshing respite in the summer.

...The Emperor's decree shines brilliantly in the Purple Tenuity, the golden palace ascends swiftly like the wind, all directions heed the command and return in reverence, the three realms hear the call and all look up in dependence... Wang Cunye recited without hesitation

He then said to Wang Cunye, "Esteemed friend, please follow me"

At this moment, the two stewards also looked at the paper, exchanging glances. One of the stewards stood up and said to Wang Cunyie, "Interpreting the scriptures requires much mental effort. Very well, you may rest today and return here tomorrow to take the examination again"

Wang Cunye listened and revealed a faint smile, bowing respectfully to the Taoist boy and saying, "Thank you for your efforts"

Wang Cunye walked to the table, sat down, and carefully examined the Dan Yun Fa Lu. He flipped through more than ten pages and found that it merely contained slightly elevated Daoist techniques

Wang Cunye dipped his brush into the ink, spread out the paper, and secured it with a paperweight. He then wrote vigorously, occasionally pausing to silently gaze at the contents of the Dan Yun Fa Lu.

What is the content of Chapter 11 of Volume 5? At this time, a different steward spoke up and asked, which is also to prevent cheating

Congratulations, young friend, you have passed the interpretation of the scripture. I will write the evaluation and the remaining two deacons will conduct the assessment while I observe and testify.

Wang Cunye responded affirmatively and followed behind the steward to the Zhuque Side Hall

Above the main entrance, a plaque made of purple wood is suspended, on which the four characters "Qingyang Dao Gong" are inscribed in gold paint with a jade-like quality. The strokes and turns are graceful, yet upon seeing it, Wang Cunye felt a sudden jolt in his heart, sensing an inexplicable pressure. He thought to himself that this might indeed be the essence of the brush carrying the Dao's charm.

This familiar scene evokes memories of the past, which I thought I had stored away in my mind and gradually forgotten. Yet, I did not realize that now, when I recall them, they feel as vivid as if they were just yesterday

The disciple has thoroughly studied the nine volumes, and I kindly request the steward to conduct a review. Wang Cunyue then explained each of the nine volumes in detail

Wang Cunye, upon being asked by him, did not dare to be negligent. He bent deeply at the waist and performed a gesture of respect typical of a junior, replying: "Indeed, I am a junior scholar."

Moreover, if it is the "Shang Miao Dao Shu," how could the Qingyang Dao Palace allow ordinary disciples to view it freely? Furthermore, the assessments used should not be too difficult.

The interpretation of the Taoist scriptures requires a certain level of foundational knowledge and the ability to harmonize with one's own vital energy. Only then can one discern the heights and depths of understanding. It is not sufficient to rely solely on external sources; one must also possess innate talent and insight to carefully deduce and derive meaningful insights.

The Qingyang Dao Palace is remarkably ancient and simple, adorned with lush green cypress trees. It is built against the mountains, situated in a bustling city yet completely unaffected by the mundane hustle and bustle. It exudes an ethereal and ancient charm, with glacial waters and a serene tranquility.

A young acolyte rushed in, deeply bowing to the three stewards, and replied, "Yes, I shall obey the command of my superiors"

Everything has vanished without a trace; now the old master has passed away, and my junior sister is struggling in anguish.

After performing a bow, he exited the side hall and headed towards the Xuanwu side hall located to the east of the Daoist temple

The assessment begins. Those who cultivate the Way must thoroughly study the seven volumes of scriptures. Let me test you. " The elder Daoist said lightly, "Which seven volumes are you well-versed in?"

The other two attendants should respond: "Proceed!"

Before long, the Taoist boy ran out and said to Wang Cunye, "Esteemed fellow Taoist, the steward is already waiting for you in the main hall"

The positions, order, and titles of the Daoist priests each have their own hierarchy, and the distinctions of respect and status must not be disregarded. If you wish to pursue the Dao, you should go to the side hall to test your abilities. Having stated this standard inquiry, the old Daoist waved his hand and said, "You should first go to the Plum Pavilion and wait. I will come to find you after I verify your identity."

The standards for the classification of the Daoist sects in this world are extremely strict. Only those sincere and devout believers who have submitted to the Dao, as well as preparatory disciples, may be recorded in the Daoist register, referred to as "Qingxin Shanxin". This designation does not yet qualify one as a Daoist priest

Three years ago, Xie Cheng brought him and his junior sister here, and he still vaguely remembers their appearance and laughter from that year

To obtain the qualification of a Taoist priest, it is necessary to verify one's identity accurately before proceeding

On this bookshelf, there are all half volumes of Taoist scriptures, totaling one thousand volumes, from which one can randomly select.

This is certainly not a reason; the predecessor fundamentally lacked the assurance to pass through. However, at this moment, it can be stated in this manner

Continuing onward, after ascending another hundred steps, he arrived at the main hall. Wang Cunye approached and first bowed respectfully, saying: "I, Wang Cunye of the Dayan Temple, request an audience with the officiant"