Chapter 3, Cultivating Qi to Establish the Foundation, the Divine Intention is for Qian

Zhang Yan furrowed his brows slightly. In the past, his circulation of energy and pulse had always been smooth and effortless. However, this time he felt something was amiss; not only was his breath intermittent, but his movements were also quite sluggish, as if he were stumbling forward, constantly tripping over obstacles beneath his feet

Once this matter occurred, it seemed that I had already attracted the attention of certain individuals ahead of time, which was quicker than I had anticipated. Zhao Yuan was able to send someone to inform me overnight, showing no signs of fear or evasion, indicating that this person is indeed worthy of deep friendship

Zhang Yan stood up, clasped his hands behind his back, and paced back and forth in the room, contemplating how to cultivate his skills

Zhang Yan understood that this was not a time to be anxious; rather, it was essential to maintain a calm state of mind. Otherwise, once the demonic obstacles clouded his spiritual clarity, he would only sink deeper into the quagmire.

This result has triggered a chain reaction, and now disciples from the Three Views have gathered on Mount Cangwu. Among them is Hu Shengyu, an entry disciple from the Dexiu Temple, and the person in charge of this individual, Bian Qiao, is the one who sold the "Yongchuan Xing Shui Shu".

If neither of these two reasons applies, then it is possible that his cultivation method is not appropriate

Zhang Yan read the legal formula again, feeling perplexed in his heart

Zhang Yan turned his head to look, at this moment the sun was just rising, the clouds and mist were dispersing, the trees in the mountains were all bathed in golden hues, and the winding river below the cliff resembled a white silk ribbon. Occasionally, a few white-feathered red-crowned cranes flew past the path beneath his feet.

However, Zhang Yan felt neither joy nor sorrow in his heart, completely indifferent to it. By the time he reached the end, there was not a drop of ink left in his pen, yet in his eyes, the inscriptions continued to flow from his fingertips. Even without his conscious guidance, the internal energy followed the techniques, circulating through the meridians and clearing the obstructions one by one.

Zhang Yan flicked his brush, took a few quick steps, removed the stone slab blocking the door, opened the large door, and stepped out.

Thus ... ...

The Book of Changes in a previous life stated, "All day long, the strong continue; this is the path of repetition." Does this not imply that a gentleman must strive tirelessly, persisting repeatedly regardless of whether in favorable or adverse circumstances, in order to align with the righteous path of masculinity?

He sat down on the mat, gradually clearing all distractions from his mind. First, he practiced the entry-level heart technique to regulate his breath. After sitting in silence for half an hour, his heart was filled with a sense of tranquility and emptiness.

If he could see himself, he would discover that a layer of crystalline jade color was currently shimmering on his face, flowing continuously across his features, and his eyes were as bright as stars. This indicated that, starting today, he had taken a step into the realm of "Condensing Essence and Manifesting Intent" in the process of cultivating Yuan, and he was merely a hair's breadth away from the final step of "Essence Achieving Truth" in the cultivation of Yuan.

That is to embark on a long journey.

The path of cultivation is akin to a solitary bridge amidst a thousand troops and ten thousand horses, with no room for retreat; one can only move forward. Regardless of the myriad difficulties and dangers, one must regard it as a smooth path.

The inscriptions appear simple yet intricate, with profound meanings. Each character reflects the ultimate truths of the universe, and with just a few strokes, one can convey the life and death, flourishing and withering of all things in the world. This text on the Dao, through his interpretation at https://www.hetushu.com, has transformed into a lengthy discourse of several thousand words, yet when written in inscriptions, it amounts to merely six hundred characters.

Last night, Zhao Yuan actually began to take in Zhang Yan's words, but he thought that simply holding the Daoist scripture would allow him to endure. After repeated observation, he unknowingly started to practice. However, this particular method was related to a crucial insight, and he became overly eager in his efforts, which led to a mishap. As a result, he coughed up several mouthfuls of fresh blood and fainted.

He could not help but ponder, if at this moment he were still toiling daily in the cave, merely waiting for the providence of fate and solely emphasizing chance, would there still be today's opportunities?

Fortunately, he had just begun his cultivation, so he dispersed the internal energy he had just guided, steadied his mind, and started over from the beginning

Without the guidance of a master, a practitioner may inevitably become flustered and doubtful when faced with such circumstances, leading to a complete failure of their efforts. However, Zhang Yan, having experienced the cycles of life and death, possesses a resolute mind and remains calm as usual, with no inner turmoil. He remains indifferent to everything occurring within his body, allowing it to unfold naturally

If one were to say that his qualifications are the reason he cannot master a certain advanced technique, that might be plausible. However, if even the basic practices of circulating energy and guiding meridians are so obstructed, then the issue certainly does not lie there

He sat quietly for a moment, took a sheet of white paper, and began to rewrite the entire method. As the characters appeared one by one under his pen, his whole body gradually relaxed, and his mind slowly settled down.

On the path of cultivation, one will inevitably encounter various obstacles and difficulties. A moment of carelessness may lead one astray, resulting in a regression in cultivation, damage to the foundation of one's practice, or in severe cases, falling into madness, posing a threat to one's life

Upon thinking of this, he seemed to have an epiphany

After three years of diligent practice of the foundational techniques, I grasped the advanced methods in a single day. In just one night, I was able to condense my energy and establish my foundation, which can be described as a culmination of extensive preparation leading to a natural outcome.

Originally, Min Lou had only mentioned Zhang Yan's matter to a few close senior brothers, and many were unaware of it. Now, in order to protect his own reputation, he had no choice but to stand up and speak on behalf of Zhang Yan

At this moment, the benefits of having a teacher become evident; they not only provide guidance and instruction regularly but also offer support and protection at critical times, significantly reducing the dangers associated with cultivation. However, Zhang Yan is merely a registered disciple, lacking both a teacher and fellow practitioners to provide guidance and advice. As a result, he can only rely on himself to gradually explore and overcome the obstacles in his heart.

However, he stopped after only a short while

One must help oneself in order to receive assistance from heaven

Zhao Ying let out a cold snort, her face filled with resentment

Indeed, not long after, the vanished internal energy was once again gradually expelled from the Danqiao, but it seemed to be mixed with a trace of innate vital energy. This was then absorbed back into the Danqiao. After such back-and-forth breathing eight times, the internal energy and innate vital energy became indistinguishable, merging into one. When the internal energy slowly returned to the Danqiao for the ninth time, the Shenque point located within the navel suddenly gave a jolt

Boom

Upon returning to the cave, he lifted the stone slab to seal the door and began his seclusion.

Zhao Ying was truly unwilling to work for Zhang Yan. Now that she saw he was unwilling to descend the mountain, she was even more pleased with this situation, as it did not violate her brother's instructions. In her heart, she secretly thought: "The reckless little thief! He does not understand the severity of Bianqiao. Once that wicked servant arrives, there will be a good show to watch!"

After taking two steps, he suddenly stopped, looking in astonishment at his hands. This sealing stone weighed over 300 pounds. Although he was strong and healthy, he usually found it quite strenuous to move it. However, just now, he had merely lifted it slightly and moved the sealing stone aside.

After much contemplation, he discovered that there was indeed a feasible solution.

Indeed! How could I forget that this book was originally written in the style of the Shīwen!

Zhang Yan was taken aback upon hearing this. He looked at the woman's appearance, which bore a slight resemblance to Zhao Yuan. After a moment of thought, he suddenly realized and asked, "Is there something wrong with Senior Brother Zhao?"

Zhao Ying reluctantly exchanged a few words with Zhang Yan. Although their conversation was somewhat evasive, Zhang Yan still grasped the general context of the situation.

Zhang Yan felt utterly perplexed and inquired, "What does Miss Zhao mean?"

This is a necessary path before opening the celestial vein; whether one achieves success in the future, this step is crucial

There must be a way, and it is certainly hidden within the books

Zhang Yan's expression stiffened, his eyes opened wide, and he decisively halted his cultivation.

The entire process unfolded naturally, relying entirely on the true energy, and Zhang Yan did not make any deliberate effort to pursue it; his mind was completely immersed in the inscriptions he was writing.

After three hundred sixty-five rotations on this Sunday, the internal energy throughout the body rises and falls like the tides of the sea, pressing against various acupoints in waves.

The breath throughout the body began as a gentle trickle, continuous and dense. As it was written repeatedly through the method of circulating energy, the breath grew increasingly powerful, until it resembled a surging river, waves rising in a long stream, surging and rolling endlessly throughout the entire body.

At this moment, he not only does not feel fatigued, but rather feels refreshed, with his senses clear and his mind in a state of tranquility

He is not in a hurry to cultivate; instead, he washes his hands, changes his clothes, and lights the incense burner for nurturing his energy

Recently, a significant event occurred at Cangwu Mountain. Zhao Ying, his younger sister who was originally practicing in Tai'an, happened to be on the mountain. Upon hearing the news, she was greatly enraged, believing that Zhang Yan was merely a fraud, and went to confront Min Lou, demanding to know why he had harmed her elder brother

It is evident that one's determination to strive forward and to forge ahead is indeed an embodiment of the principles of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

However, the situation encountered this time is no different from the last time

Zhang Yan clenched his fists, took a deep breath, and silently reminded himself that this was merely the first step on the path of the Great Way. He must not become complacent, for there were many more perilous challenges and obstacles awaiting him. At this moment, it was indeed too early to feel joy.

Zhang Yan felt a surge of spirit, realizing he had found the right method. He wrote continuously, finishing the entire text of the Dharma in one go. After completing it, he did not pause; instead, he took out another sheet of blank paper and began to write it again.

"You little ... ..." Upon hearing this, Zhao Ying felt a surge of anger rising from within. She was about to unleash a torrent of curses, but upon seeing Zhang Yan's imposing demeanor and outstanding presence, the word "thief" that was on the tip of her tongue could not be uttered. Instead, she glared at him fiercely and said, "How dare you even ask? It is you who has caused my elder brother such suffering!"

He was filled with shock and anger. The servants of the three views often interacted, and although there was no explicit mention, no one had ever crossed the line. In his eyes, Zhang Yan's act of assisting Min Lou and Zhao Yuan in interpreting the erosion text was tantamount to cutting off his own source of income

The entire text on the pulse method has just been completed, and unexpectedly, the previously stagnant energy within him began to stir.

Is it possible that someone is privately interpreting the inscriptions?

She secretly cursed this fellow for having such a good appearance, no wonder he could deceive my elder brother

If he were to let go of it at this point, he could certainly rid himself of his obsession, but naturally, there would be no talk of enhancing his cultivation.

Upon learning of this matter, Bian Qiao's first reaction was that someone was being ostentatious and deceiving others, and he did not take it seriously. However, when Min Lou made an appearance, he felt that the situation was not simple. Min Lou had long been favored by the Master and would sooner or later become a disciple of the De Xiu Guan. He would definitely not speak carelessly.

Once everything is prepared, one may then begin to silently recite the incantation, guiding the internal energy to move gradually along the meridian pathways.

Zhang Yan's expression was calm as he said, "You go back and tell Brother Zhao that I am already aware of this matter. Thank him for informing me in a timely manner, and please assure him not to worry; I have my own arrangements."

However, this method was immediately rejected by Zhang Yan, firstly because the duration was too long, and secondly because there were too many variables

At this moment, a clear and melodious crane call echoed, lingering in the ears for a long time

At the hour of You, Zhang Yan returned to his residence

He stood at the edge of the cliff, radiant and full of spirit. The cool morning breeze brushed past him; although he wore only a Daoist robe, he felt no chill at all, allowing his garments to flutter in the wind

Zhao Yuan soon woke up and, upon learning of this matter, was greatly shocked. He called Zhao Ying over and scolded her severely, instructing her to immediately go and apologize to Zhang Yan, and to arrange for Zhang Yan to leave the mountain to avoid the storm.

Before long, the figure of a young woman, around seventeen or eighteen years old, came into view. She had her hair styled in a bun and wore a long, narrow-sleeved garment, presenting a masculine appearance. A sword was sheathed at her waist, and at first glance, she exuded a spirited aura. However, her slightly pointed chin gave off an impression that was somewhat unapproachable.

My name is Zhao Ying. The woman, with a cold expression, waved her hand and said: "Quickly pack your belongings and follow me down the mountain; delay may lead to unforeseen changes"

She approached Zhang Yan and looked at him with a gaze full of hostility, asking: "Are you Zhang Yan?"

As long as he is wholeheartedly devoted to cultivating this particular path, the obsession will always exist, which is inherently contrary to divine will. Consequently, he will inevitably be unable to forcibly continue his cultivation.

The answer is clearly no

Zhu Yuan refers to the practice of condensing the internal energy cultivated throughout the body into the Shenque acupoint, merging it seamlessly with the innate vital energy brought from the maternal womb, thereby planting the roots of immortality and spiritual essence.

Zhang Yan felt as if a jade hammer had gently struck the back of his head, a clear and melodious sound ringing in his ears. At first, his vision was filled with a white haze, followed by a brilliant light. Saliva naturally filled his mouth, flowing smoothly down his throat, accompanied by a wave of warmth that sank downwards, ultimately settling deep within his navel, finally coming to rest.

Gradually, the dense internal energy that had originally felt as stagnant as dead water began to stir, as if a hidden dragon was agitating it. It spread and expanded throughout the limbs and meridians, flowing and moving. After circulating around the body, it gathered and coalesced at the dantian, repeating this cycle endlessly.

His entire demeanor underwent a transformation, subtly exuding an ethereal quality

Zhang Yan's eyes flickered, and he decisively picked up a brush, dipped it in ink, took a piece of white paper, and meticulously rewrote the entire text of "Yongchuan Xingmai Method" in engraved script.

Perhaps it is precisely because the method is explained in great detail that he becomes overly deliberate in his practice, forgetting the true meaning of the natural flow of water as described in the Daoist texts

Zhao Ying is unwilling to apologize. In her heart, she still believes that Zhang Yan is a fraud, yet she does not dare to go against Zhao Yuan's words. She only thinks about driving Zhang Yan down the mountain to settle the matter.

Zhang Yanping had never seen this woman in his life, and replied: "It is indeed I, but who is the young lady?"

This six hundred words have thoroughly elucidated the method. The inscriptions used by the author of the book are already the most rudimentary and straightforward. Instead, he practiced based on the transcribed version after interpretation; is that not akin to borrowing a mirror to observe the moon, seeking the distant while neglecting the near?

He couldn't help but feel astonished. He had often heard people say that after a practitioner cultivates their essence, "their arms can generate a thousand pounds of strength, their eyes can pierce through heavy smoke and fog, their ears can discern the movements of insects and the songs of birds, almost akin to an immortal." It seems that this legend is indeed true

When this immense aura reached its peak, the door that had been tightly closed deep within the navel since birth suddenly trembled and surprisingly opened a small crack. The surging internal energy, as if it had found a channel for release, rushed in, and within a moment, it completely vanished. In an instant, the body felt entirely empty, leaving the person in a state of disarray, as if adrift in the void

When the entire "Yongchuan Pulse Method" was completed, his physical and mental state gradually adjusted to its best.

This is merely before the opening of the meridians. If in the future he acquires similar profound methods, would he really go sightseeing every time? That would be an excessive waste of time. Moreover, the reason he chose to enter seclusion immediately is that he has a vague feeling that tonight is the best opportunity for him to establish his foundation. If he misses it, who knows when the next chance will come.

The method does not contain any esoteric techniques such as reversing the flow of energy, deviating from the meridians, or the principles of positive and negative circulation. It is evident that this is the most authentic approach of the Xuanmen school. Every step is clearly outlined, detailing how to proceed, where to direct the energy, how to coordinate the acupoints, and how to correspond breathing. Everything is explained in great detail, to the point that it is almost as if a teacher is present to supervise and guide. Could there still be any issues with such a method?

This seems to be a deadlock of rings within rings

Upon thinking of this, Zhang Yan felt a stir in his heart. He picked up the method of circulation and reviewed it several times, until he reached the phrase "flowing down like water, its momentum is natural." At that moment, he vaguely sensed where the problem lay.

Despite identifying the crux of the issue, he still found himself unable to proceed

What could be the reason? Is it perhaps due to the essence of the method itself

Zhang Yan understood clearly and let out a quiet sigh. He had long noticed that Zhao Yuan was a person whose emotions were easily read on his face and whose thoughts were unpredictable. He had advised him to practice with caution, yet unexpectedly, problems still arose

There is a saying: "Internal energy merges, and the primordial essence is born."

Zhang Yan set down the Daoist scripture and began to ponder with a thoughtful expression.

At this moment, he showed a change in expression and suddenly turned his head to look at the other end of the walkway

Cultivation must not be forced; if one recklessly overexerts oneself, it will only undermine one's own foundation

Is it because of my own inadequate qualifications that I am unable to practice this technique?

He stared at the densely packed text on the paper, reading it back and forth several times, until his eyes began to ache. Suddenly, he straightened his back, and a flash of inspiration struck his mind!

Now he is highly perceptive, and from a distance, he can hear someone approaching him quickly.

He could not help but close his eyes and ponder. Since he had discerned the method from the travelogue, he could already be considered a "fated person." There was no reason for that senior to leave such an obvious flaw.

Zhang Yan suddenly paused his writing, and upon raising his head, he discovered that the ground was covered with the papers he had written.

However, Zhang Yan, being a disciple of the Shanyuan Temple, was not inclined to take direct action against others. After some thought, he realized that Zhao Yuan's situation provided him with a perfect excuse. He feigned concern and visited Zhao Yuan, stating that he would ensure justice for the Dexiu Temple.

A beam of white light penetrated through the hole left in the cave wall, and before I knew it, a night had already passed

As the light before him dimmed, Zhang Yan in the dark room could hardly conceal the joy in his heart. He never expected that the most crucial foundational method for opening the meridians would come so easily. Even with his skill in cultivating energy, he couldn't help but feel a slight excitement.

It is important to understand that the true methods of the Xuanmen school emphasize both divine intention and the techniques of practice, both of which are indispensable and complement each other. However, there exists a distinction between the roles of sovereign and minister; in this particular method, the divine intention is clearly prioritized over the techniques. When one practices, if they focus solely on the "techniques" while neglecting the "intention," they will reverse the order of importance. This excessive emphasis on meticulous refinement will naturally lead to a lower level of attainment

He shook his head

Visiting renowned mountains and scenic spots, appreciating the artistic conception of landscapes, waiting for the right moment in a state of tranquility, when the opportunity arises, everything will naturally fall into place, and the cultivation will be complete. This can also be regarded as the most aligned method of practice with the true essence of Daoism