I am about to die of old age, and I have awakened the character of longevity.

Chapter 233 Finally entered the Qi Refining Stage!
The Great Protector was very stubborn and refused to speak.

He obviously knew that he would have to say it in the end, but the reason for this was simply because the matter was of great importance, and he instinctively chose to avoid it.

hum.

Xie An briefly activated the palm seal. The Great Protector immediately felt an immense headache, grimaced, and veins bulged on his forehead. Finally, he had to speak.

"The wizard is my uncle."

Uncle?
No wonder the Eight-Armed Wizard trusts you so much!

This great protector is a treasure.

Xie An became even more confident about obtaining the spiritual plants next.

In order to ease the hostility and bad mood of some of the great protectors towards him, Xie An took the initiative to show goodwill and invited the great protectors into the living room for tea.

The Great Protector was very disgusted by this and felt that Xie An was very hypocritical, which made him want to vomit. But he was afraid of Xie An, so he had to pretend to thank him and walked into the living room with a smile.

After some small talk, under Xie An's threats, pressure and guidance, a lot of information was obtained.

The Great Protector's original name was Puyang Bai, and he was nearly three hundred years old. The eight-armed wizard was Puyang Qing. The uncle and nephew came from the Western Regions and had practiced in the ancient underground village for over two hundred years.

Because his uncle Puyang Qing was very talented when he was in the Western Regions, he was favored by Master Wu Ling. After he found the residual soul of Master Wu Ling in Yunzhou, he was blessed and his spiritual roots were awakened, and he began to cultivate immortality from then on.

Many years later, with the help of Puyang Qing, Puyang Baicai was blessed by the witch spirit and began to cultivate immortality.

However, Puyang Bai's spiritual roots were not good. He had four spiritual roots, which were considered pseudo spiritual roots. In addition, his talent was not high. After practicing for more than two hundred years, he still could not enter the first level of Qi Refining.

This made Puyang Bai feel very desperate.

After all, he was almost three hundred years old and was nearing the end of his life. Breaking through the first level of Qi Refining seemed a distant prospect, so he felt that he could not escape the fate of dying of old age.

Puyang Qing also cared deeply about his nephew and helped him many times.

But there is no way to support the wall with mud.

Gradually, Puyang Qing lost hope in his nephew and simply sent him to guard the medicinal garden.

After Xie An learned about it, he felt deeply saddened.

Even if a martial arts master celebrates his 300th birthday, it is just a flash of lightning in the long river of time, a matter of opening and closing one's eyes.

It will eventually come to an end.

Mortals will eventually escape birth, old age, sickness and death.

Only by embarking on the path of cultivating immortality and exploring the way to longevity can one gain a longer life.

The Tao is ruthless and immortality is vague.

This road is so difficult.

If you don't fight, you will eventually be buried in the long river of time, and eventually turn into a handful of yellow dust, dying with hatred.

Even Puyang Baitang, a first-rank Grandmaster, was like this. What about me, a fourth-rank Grandmaster and a half-baked immortal cultivator?
This further strengthened Xie An's determination to pursue the Tao.

He didn't want to be Madam Li, nor did he want to be Li Hongming. He certainly didn't want to follow in Brother Tang's footsteps.

call!
Xie An sighed deeply in his heart and slowly came to his senses. "What about Master Wu Ling?"

This is also what Xie An couldn't understand the most.

Isn't there no spiritual roots and spiritual energy in this world?
It was for this reason that the founder of the martial arts created the martial arts system, relying on reverse metamorphosis to unlock spiritual roots. This was considered a ray of hope for this world, the only remaining ray of light at dawn.

How can this witch spirit open people's spiritual roots by blessing them?

Could it be that this blessing is similar to the transformation created by the founder of martial arts?
If so, then this Lord Wu Ling...isn't he on the same level as the ancestor of martial arts?

But this doesn't make sense.

The martial arts ancestor created a martial arts system that has been passed down for five thousand years. Shouldn't it be the only and supreme one in this world?

After some arguing, Puyang Bai realized that resistance was pointless, so he said, "I don't know about that. I only know that our Western Regions have worshipped the statue of Master Wu Ling for generations. Only my uncle knows the details, and he never tells me. But I am sure that my uncle can communicate with Master Wu Ling."

Xie An urged for the seal and knew that Puyang Bai was not lying.

After further inquiring for some information, Xie An let Puyang Bai leave.

Then Xie An closed the door, returned to the room with the sack, and discussed the distribution matters with Chen Yuer.

For the first time, Chen Yuer was willing to take the smaller share and proposed a 70-30 split, on the grounds that Xie An had made great contributions this time.

Deep down, Xie An also wanted to get a bigger share, but for the sake of the long-term cooperation between the two sides, Xie An refused. "Looking at this action alone, my contribution is indeed greater. But if it weren't for Miss Chen, the Martial Saint, by my side, I wouldn't have the courage and confidence to do these things. Therefore, Miss Chen's invisible contribution cannot be underestimated. Let's split it 50-50."

Xie An was well aware of this. While he and Chen Yu'er were close friends, trusting each other immensely, they each had their own selfish motives, and neither wanted to suffer any loss. If they wanted to maintain a long-term, successful partnership, the distribution of benefits was no small matter.

The barriers between many people's hearts are accumulated from small things.

It is unavoidable even between father and son, let alone between Xie An and Chen Yuer?

This cooperative relationship was hard-earned.

Whether for the long term or for the present, Xie An maintained it carefully.

Chen Yuer stared at Xie An for a long time, sensing the determination in his eyes, and finally said, "Okay. It's fifty-fifty then."

After distributing the cold spirit grass, Chen Yuer returned to her room to meditate.

Xie An still had some miscellaneous matters to arrange.

On the one hand, he asked Master Huang to go out and tell Madam Ma that he was in seclusion here. If Madam Ma needed to refine the Xiantian Great Pill, she could come here and get a small amount of Hanling Grass.

In addition, Master Huang was asked to notify Su Yuqing that if Su Yuqing also needed Hanling Grass, she could come and get it.

As for Master Huang's cultivation of immortality, Xie An said that if he obtained the blessed method from Puyang Qing in the future, he would definitely help Master Huang open his spiritual roots.

Master Huang nodded in agreement.

After arranging all this, Xie An returned to his room and began to sit cross-legged. He took out the remaining fifty cold spirit grasses from the cloth bag, feeling very excited.

"These cold spirit grasses are growing better than those in the bronze gate before. Each one contains several times more spiritual energy. There is still a difference between those cultivated by humans and those grown in the wild."

He picked up the cold spirit grass one by one, looked at them carefully, and couldn't help but smile between his brows.

The two cold spirit grasses that were obtained from the Tianlong Gang leader Xiong Dali only contained a trace of spiritual energy in each.

But each plant of the cold spirit grass here is more than ten times larger.

Xie An activated his fate.

[Fifteen strands of spiritual energy detected, ready to be absorbed.]

[Twenty strands of spiritual energy detected, ready to be absorbed.]

【Thirty strands of spiritual energy detected, ready to be absorbed.】

【…】

More than eight hundred strands of spiritual energy!

Although there aren't as many as those inside the bronze gate, it doesn't matter. This is just the first batch of spiritual plants that Puyang Bai has obtained. There will be more later...

Xie An estimated that if Puyang Qing's medicine garden was emptied, there would be at least tens of thousands of strands of spiritual energy.

It is enough for me to break through to several levels of Qi Refining.

But this will take a long time.

When it comes to cultivating immortality, spiritual energy is only the foundation. The rest requires time and effort, slowly comprehending and refining.

But Xie An was not in a hurry, he had enough patience.

"Begin retreat."

Xie An took a deep breath, suppressed the distracting thoughts in his mind, and began to activate the Five Elements Spirit Tempering Method, absorbing spiritual energy bit by bit.

……

The Demon-Suppressing Division.

In a separate courtyard.

Master Huang found Su Yuqing and informed her of Xie An's situation in Longmen Town.

At first, Su Yuqing was only amazed at Xie An's great fortune, having actually found spiritual energy. But after learning about the wizard Puyang Bai, she stood up with a chuckle.

Bring down souls and turn bones into flesh, and bless and open spiritual roots.

There are such mysterious and unpredictable methods in this world! ?
If I get Puyang Qing's blessing, can I start cultivating immortality?

This is not the kind of charlatan from Qingwu County or Tiananbang. This is a real swindler who can start cultivating immortals.

Even a second-grade Grandmaster like Su Yuqing couldn't help but be moved.

There are countless martial arts masters in the world, and many have reached the Grandmaster level. The reason so many people risk their lives to unlock the secrets of the human body and reach the Grandmaster level is, on the one hand, to gain greater power, but more importantly... isn't it for the sake of a longer lifespan of three hundred years?

And who among those who have entered the Grandmaster stage would not want to become a Martial Saint and gain a lifespan of four hundred years?

Su Yuqing was already in her sixties, and although she was still young compared to the 300-year lifespan limit, she knew very well that time was fleeting and unforgiving, and that her life would eventually come to an end.

And to transform against the odds is to escape death.

With a shortcut right in front of her, how could she not be tempted?

"Thank you, Master Huang, for telling me. Please also thank Xie An for me," Su Yuqing said calmly. After chatting with Master Huang for a few words, Master Huang hurried away.

Su Yuqing walked to the eaves alone, looking at the bright moon in the sky outside, her heartbeat suddenly quickened. Xie An's figure could not help but appear in her mind.

She was grateful to Xie An for sharing such important information with her, and she also cherished her friendship with Xie An.

"Bone flesh, nurturing spirit plants... This means that, relying on Master Wu Ling's spirit summoning method, it is truly possible to cultivate immortality in this world. I wonder how efficient Puyang Qing is in utilizing the Martial Saint's withered bones, and how long it will last."

Logically speaking, although Puyang Qing's method is extremely amazing, he must continue to find the bones of the Martial Saint and peel off the flesh and blood of the Grandmaster.

Not for long.

Where are there so many withered bones of martial saints in this world?

However, this method may give birth to a few immortal cultivators.

that's enough.

The more Su Yuqing thought about it, the more excited she became.

After a long while, Su Yuqing slowly calmed down her emotions. "I can't let this disturb my mind. I'm determined to break through the Martial Saint. This is the martial arts I've persisted in for decades. I need to remain calm about this matter."

She forced herself to calm down.

"Puyang Qing has won over a large number of martial arts masters. The power he controls is so terrifying that it can threaten the very foundation of Daqian. For both public and private reasons, I must inform Master and Father. I hope the accuracy of the information will be a little vague to avoid affecting Xie An's plans."

If she told Ye Nantian everything, Ye Nantian would bring people to ruin Xie An's plan and interrupt Xie An's cultivation... This was not the result Su Yuqing wanted to see.

Since Xie An valued her so much as a friend, she naturally knew how to return the favor.

But as the eldest princess, she must not allow Puyang Qing's forces to threaten the foundation of Daqian.

This is her responsibility.

So, Su Yuqing found the Blood Eagle and sent a letter to the capital.

They only said that Yunzhou harbored an extremely powerful force that could destabilize the nation, but they didn't mention the location and core situation of this force. For the princess, who believed she was well versed in the rules of court, it was easy to obscure some of the information without leaving any trace.

Watching the blood eagle flapping its wings and leaving, Su Yuqing's beautiful face showed a hint of worry.

She knew that after Ye Nantian received the news, he would most likely come to Yunzhou in person.

She couldn't help but worry, what if Ye Nantian ran into Xie An and Chen Yu'er...

……

Master Huang returned to Qixing Village and informed Madam Ma of the situation, but he didn't go into detail. He only said that Xie An had obtained a small amount of Hanling grass, and if Madam Ma needed Hanling grass for alchemy, she could ask for it.

Mrs. Ma was greatly surprised when she heard this, and she first congratulated the Third Master from afar.

Madam Ma wanted a few stalks of Hanling grass, but she hesitated because she was not familiar with Master Huang. If Xie An himself or the girl were there, she would have asked.

With the Hanling Grass provided by Xie An, Madam Ma had successfully refined the Xiantian Great Pill. But she felt it wasn't good enough and wanted to continue improving it. Improvement meant failure and waste...

She was too embarrassed to ask for such a precious spiritual herb.

Master Huang saw what Madam Ma was thinking and said, "Madam Ma, why don't you come with me to Longmen Town?"

Mrs. Ma readily agreed.

She followed Master Huang to the villa in Longmen Town overnight and met Xie An.

Although Xie An was in seclusion, it was not a life-and-death situation, and he could still end it if someone knocked on the door.

Seeing that it was Jin Yuping, Xie An went out to entertain her in person and even took the initiative to make tea for Jin Yuping.

This made Jin Yuping feel very touched.

After some pleasantries, Xie An took the initiative to ask, "Miss Yuping, have you encountered any difficulties?"

Jin Yuping hesitated several times and hesitated to speak.

Xie An said: "Miss Yuping is not an outsider, just speak frankly."

Jin Yuping finally found the courage to speak, "Although I have refined the Xiantian Great Pill, its quality is not high. I would like to improve it and raise its quality. In addition, I have several other pill recipes that I would also like to try. If Third Master is not short of Hanling Grass, please give me a few plants."

"Don't worry, Third Master. If I improve the Xiantian Great Pill, or refine other Great Pills, I will definitely give them to you first. From now on, whenever you need me to refine pills, I will do my best."

After making this request, Jin Yuping looked at Xie An expectantly, but her heart was filled with anxiety, fearing that Xie An would reject her.

For a pharmacist who is obsessed with alchemy, alchemy is something as important as life.

If you do nothing and waste your life, it is no different from just living a life of idleness and waiting to die.

Xie An nodded, "Okay."

He took out three stalks of Hanling grass that were growing very well and handed them to Jin Yuping. "I don't really need the Xiantian Great Pill right now. If you can improve it, you might as well give me three. You can handle the rest yourself."

Jin Yuping took the cold spirit grass and bowed excitedly, "Thank you, Third Master."

After seeing Jin Yuping off, Xie An returned to the room again.

Although the Xiantian Great Pill cannot break through to the Martial Saint level, it is of great benefit to the second and third rank masters. Xie An thought that after Jin Yuping refines it, he will give it to Su Yuqing and Master Huang to take more.

Xiaobai, you need it too.

Since Xie An had already found the organization behind Gui Ye, Xie An summoned Xiao Bai back and hid in the underground village.

……

Five months passed quickly.

Another new year.

It was the 116th year of the Jingtai reign, and Xie An was 67 years old.

It's summer.

The weather in the desert became extremely hot.

In the Longmen Town villa, Xie An absorbed the last bit of spiritual energy in his room and practiced the Five Elements Spirit Tempering Method for half a day. Then he went to the courtyard to practice.

After a while, Xie An was so tired that he was sweating profusely. Not only were his clothes wet, but even his hair was wet.

Although such days were extremely boring, Xie An felt very excited, with a bright smile on his face.

There is no doubt that the progress in all aspects over the past six months has been very impressive.

[Ming Yu Gong: Great Cold 525/600]

[Current Longevity Level 2, Fusion Degree: 0/10000]

【Tip: Acquiring spiritual energy can improve the degree of fusion.】

[Tiger Qigong: 100%, Bear Qigong: 100%, Ape Qigong 100%, Deer Qigong 100%, Crane Qigong 100/100]

[Xuanwu Breathing Method (Postnatal Fourth Level): 4000/10000]

[Remaining Years: 68]

[Immortal Cultivation Technique: Five Elements Spirit Tempering Technique.]

[Qi Refining Level 6200 Progress: 10000/]

"The Mingyu Gong is almost complete, and the Xuanwu Breathing Technique is almost halfway there. I've reached over 60% of the first level of Qi Refining. Five months of hard training has been worth it. At this rate of progress, there's hope for Qi Refining."

During this period, although Xie An worked very hard to refine the Nine Elements Return to One, he was still a fourth-grade Grandmaster. He was not surprised by this result at all. After all, he had known for a long time that he did not have any extraordinary talent in martial arts.

Even a top genius like Su Yuqing needs several years to advance to the Grandmaster level, let alone Xie An?

Leaving the courtyard, I found Master Huang practicing martial arts in the yard. Chen Yu'er was sitting on a bench, holding a wine pot in her hand, taking a sip of wine from time to time, and occasionally giving Master Huang some pointers.

Chen Yuer was not a nosy person, but Master Huang was related to Beiliang, so she gave him some more pointers.

With the guidance of the Martial Saint, Master Huang's martial arts skills have greatly improved, and he has a good chance of reaching the second level.

When Xie An heard this, he was naturally happy for Master Huang and couldn't help but congratulate him.

The three of them had a simple dinner.

Afterwards, Xie An and Chen Yuer began to plot the second batch of spiritual plants.

Xie An had previously learned from Puyang Bai that five Martial Saint bones were buried underground in the medicine garden of the wizard Puyang Qing's ancestral hall. Because the Martial Saint bones were exceptionally hard and could be used for a long time, they could constantly replace the Grandmaster's flesh and blood, continuously nourishing the spiritual plants.

However, the Martial Saint's Bones also have an upper limit. After repeated use, the nourishing effect will become worse and worse.

Two of the Martial Saint's withered bones had been completely worn out over the course of time and were unusable. The other was on the verge of being scrapped and had little use. Only two of the Martial Saint's withered bones were truly useful.

It was also because of this that Xie An devised the theory of the exhaustion of spiritual plants.

Using this reason, he asked Puyang Bai to get a hundred plants of excellent Hanling grass.

Puyang Bai was extremely unwilling, but there was nothing he could do.

Moreover, Puyang Bai clearly felt that after five months of settling down, Xie An's mental willpower had become stronger and stronger, and the possibility of resistance had become smaller and smaller.

He felt that if this continued, something would happen sooner or later.

However, I want to get rid of the thieves, but I don’t have the energy to do so.

……

Time flies like a shuttle.

Two years passed in a flash.

A lot of things have happened in Yunzhou City in the past two years.

Ye Nantian has arrived in Yunzhou. On the one hand, he complies with the will of Emperor Jingtai and searches for the Northern Liang witch Chen Yuer. On the other hand, he searches for the wizard force that Su Yuqing mentioned, but he has not found anything.

Little Red Sugar is seventeen years old.

She grew into a graceful young lady and became a very outstanding martial artist in Yunzhou Taoist Temple.

He Chunli's son, He Zhijin, was already four years old, about to begin learning. His babbling brought endless joy to the Xie family.

Han Li became the chief of the Demon Suppression Division, which was a great honor for his family.

Yuhe's school is getting better and better.

Tang Qingfeng and Tang Qingyun also made great progress in their cultivation and reached the eighth-level martial artist realm, preparing to strive for the ninth-level martial artist realm.

Everyone is busy with their own affairs and living a good life.

Xie An naturally also worked diligently in seclusion to cultivate immortality.

In two years, Puyang Bai obtained four batches of spiritual plants.

This is a relatively mild approach.

Xie An could have let Puyang Bai pluck all the herbs from the herb garden at once, but that would have inevitably incurred Puyang Qing's wrath, with unpredictable consequences. To be on the safe side, Xie An chose to take it slow.

As the last batch of spiritual plants were almost absorbed, Xie An's progress in the Five Elements Spirit Tempering Method was very close to the first level of Qi Refining.

Just one last point.

But I just can't get past it.

Xie An knew that this was no longer a question of spiritual energy. There was enough spiritual energy.

There were two cold spirit grasses placed in front of him.

But he was surprised to find that no matter how much spiritual energy he absorbed from the cold spirit grass, he could not break through the first level of Qi Refining.

Embarrassed.

"what happened?"

Xie An was troubled by this problem for a long time.

Is it because I haven't undergone a reverse metamorphosis? I don't have spiritual roots?
That’s not right either.

Past facts have proven one thing: a second-level long life force is equivalent to a spiritual root. It can sense and absorb spiritual energy.

Otherwise, I wouldn’t have reached this point.

What's the problem?
No matter how calm Xie An's mentality was, he couldn't remain calm at this moment.

It had taken me seventeen years to get to this point. Now, I was only one step away from reaching the first level of Qi Refining, and yet I was stuck!?
How can anyone accept this?

Is it true that I, an old man, will never have any hope of becoming an immortal in this life?

call!
Xie An took a deep breath and forced himself to remain calm.

He tried to circulate the spiritual energy in his body, and there was no problem.

Five Elements Soul Tempering Method, no problem.

There is no problem with the fortune.

Soon, Xie An thought of a possibility - five-colored lotus?
Thinking of this, Xie An immediately took out the five-colored lotus to look at it, and found that this lotus was no different from the previous one, except that it emitted a faint five-colored halo, and there was a palm print of his own left on it.

Over the past few years, the five-colored lotus has not continued to absorb his lifespan.

Why is that?
Xie An called up the panel again.

I was shocked to find that the data had changed.

[Current Longevity Level 2, Fusion Degree: 0/10000]

【Tip: Acquiring spiritual energy can improve the degree of fusion.】

[Tiger Qigong: 100%, Bear Qigong: 100%, Ape Qigong 100%, Deer Qigong 100%, Crane Qigong 100/100]

[Xuanwu Breathing Method (Postnatal Fourth Level): 10000/10000]

[Ming Yu Gong: Great Cold 600/600]

"The Mingyu Gong is complete, and the acquired breathing method is also complete."

Two years was enough time for Xie An to change a lot of things, so it wasn't surprising to see such progress. It looked like nothing was wrong, but there was a small reminder behind the Xuanwu Breathing Technique.

[Tip: The transition from acquired breathing to innate breathing requires "reversal of breathing": acquired breathing is the sinking of turbid yin, while innate breathing is the rising of clear yang.]

Xie An realized it keenly: "Could it be a problem with the breathing method?"

Reverse breathing?

The Martial Saint's transformation?

It sounds a bit similar.

After reaching the pinnacle, a first-grade Grandmaster must undergo a life-threatening transformation before advancing to the Martial Saint stage, thereby unlocking his spiritual roots. However, he hadn't undergone this transformation, relying on his second-level long life form to directly absorb spiritual energy and begin his cultivation.

I think it is necessary to go through this breathing reversal to achieve the effect equivalent to the Martial Saint's transformation.

Thinking of this, Xie An felt more and more that this should be the problem.

Fortunately, I practiced fetal breathing, and after advancing, I was able to reverse my breathing.

Otherwise, I might not be able to enter the Qi Refining Stage.

Now that he had found the root cause, Xie An immediately began to respond to the prompts, began to feel the acquired breathing method, and looked for the possibility of reverse breathing.

Although the prompt is short, there are still clues to follow: the acquired breathing method is for the turbid yin to sink, and the innate breathing method is for the clear yang to rise.

So, what is Yin turbidity sedimentation?

What is Qingyang Shengteng?

After several days of trying, I still couldn't get it right.

Xie An had no choice but to give up and choose to go out for a walk.

As soon as I left the house, I saw Chen Yu'er leaning on a bench in the courtyard, drinking alone, looking very cool. Master Huang continued to practice martial arts in the courtyard, regardless of the weather. Every time he received guidance from Chen Yu'er, he would become particularly excited.

Seeing Xie An coming over, Chen Yuer said calmly, "Have you broken through to the Qi Refining Stage?"

Xie An smiled bitterly and shook his head.

When Chen Yuer heard this, her eyes darkened.

Deep down, she still hoped that Xie An would have a good outcome. After all, over the years, she had deeply felt Xie An's heart for the Tao and his aspiration for immortality. She was moved by Xie An's heart for the Tao.

People who work so hard should have good results.

"But what difficulties did you encounter?"

Xie An sat down next to Chen Yuer and asked, "Miss Chen, when you first reached the first level of Qi Refining, did you encounter any obstacles?"

Gulu!

Chen Yu'er raised her head and took a sip of peach blossom wine. "After the transformation, there are no more objective barriers."

Xie An was very envious, "I really envy Miss Chen."

Ha ha.

Chen Yu'er smiled and said, "Come on, even reversing your transformation is a life-or-death struggle. If you have any questions, just ask directly. No need to be polite with me."

Xie An smiled helplessly and said, "Can you tell me about the changes after the transformation?"

Chen Yu'er said, "Of course. After the reverse metamorphosis, one is reborn, and the acquired mortal body is transformed into an innate body. The bones, flesh, blood, lifespan, and vitality all undergo a fundamental transformation."

Xie An pointed out the key point, "Is there any change in breathing?"

"Of course. Acquired life forms use acquired, mundane breathing methods, inhaling pure air and exhaling foul air. Innate life forms, however, breathe differently. Based on the innate vital energy within the body, the inhaled air is reversed into pure, yang vital energy."

Xie An was very happy to hear this.

Sure enough!

The crux of the problem lies in this breathing method.

"Then Miss Chen, have you ever heard of breathing in reverse?"

"Reverse breathing?"

"Acquired breathing is the turbid yin that sinks, while innate breathing is the clear yang that rises. Is this true?"

Chen Yu'er stared at Xie An for a long time before finally realizing something. "You're stuck on the breathing method... I see. You haven't undergone the reverse metamorphosis, nor have you received the blessing the wizard mentioned. So, the final step to becoming an innate being requires reverse breathing. But don't panic. The fact that you can sense and absorb spiritual energy means you have spiritual roots. It's just that your situation is special, so you only need to complete the reverse breathing."

She thought for a moment and continued, "Do you know how the water in the tops of the giant trees in the sky comes from underground?"

"Steaming?"

"That's right. The turbid yin sinking of acquired breathing can be understood as tree roots absorbing water from the earth, which is a natural process. Meanwhile, the clear yang rising of innate breathing can be understood as the leaves and branches of a tree absorbing water, which needs to be transported through transpiration from the roots and trunk, reversing the process. This is how it can be broken."

hiss!
Xie An took a deep breath and stared at Chen Yuer with wide eyes.

This metaphor is so apt.

Previously, Xie An hadn't known how to do this, as he couldn't find a reference or comparison. Now Chen Yu'er had revealed the secret.

He is indeed worthy of being called the Martial Saint.

The Martial Saint's transformation wasn't simply about unlocking spiritual roots; it was a complete system. It was more effective than even blessings or longevity. Suddenly, Xie An felt that this martial arts ancestor was truly remarkable.

Xie An was so excited that he forgot that his face was very close to Chen Yuer's and he could smell each other's breath.

Chen Yu'er felt very uncomfortable being stared at by this guy, and her heartbeat accelerated a lot. "Since you know, why are you still in a daze? Go quickly."

Xie An finally came to his senses and bowed deeply: "Thank you Miss Chen for your guidance. I understand now."

If the person in front of him was not Chen Yu'er but a white fox, Xie An would definitely pick it up and give it a couple of big kisses to express his inner excitement.

What a pity, what a pity...

Xie An immediately returned to his room and began his retreat.

Another two months passed.

It's autumn.

Autumn rain is rare in the desert, and the climate remains dry and hot.

On this day, Xie An was sitting cross-legged in the room.

After two months of hard practice, Xie An's breathing method underwent a fundamental transformation.

I could clearly feel that my breathing was different from before, and I began to enter the Tuoyuexuguan breathing mode: the energy channels were connected.

Breathing flows along the Xiao Huan Dan: the true qi circulates through the five internal organs (kidney → liver → heart → spleen → lungs).

[Immortal Cultivation Technique: Five Elements Spirit Tempering Technique.]

[Qi Refining Level 9999 Progress: 10000/]

[Xuanwu Breathing Method (Innate Long Breathing Method): 1/10000]

call!
Xie An breathed a sigh of relief.

"I've finally entered the Xiantian Breathing Technique. I'll try to absorb spiritual energy and practice the Five Elements Spirit Tempering Technique."

Xie An absorbed the spiritual energy of a cold spirit grass and began to practice the Five Elements Spirit Tempering Method.

Xie An was only one point away from reaching the target, but it had taken him two full months to reach that point. Now that his acquired breathing technique had transformed into an innate breathing technique, Xie An had the confidence to break through to the Qi Refining stage.

You know, you just need to enter the Qi Refining Stage.

He then possesses combat power comparable to that of a Martial Saint.

How many people have dreamed of this all their lives?

Many first-rank masters at the peak of their powers dare not attempt bone-cutting and metamorphosis, as even if they do, they will face a high risk of death.

And Xie An now has this opportunity.

The closer he got to success, the more anxious Xie An became. He inevitably felt a sense of anxiety about gain and loss. Xie An knew this was normal, and the only thing he could do was to calm down, strengthen his resolve, and move forward courageously.

The road ahead is long, and we can only move forward.

……

Ten days later.

Xie An opened his eyes.

Those were eyes completely different from usual ones, bright, clear, and sharp, as if they had the ability to see through everything mundane.

Xie An also clung to a stream of transparent air, curling like smoke and rising like clear sunlight. It was fundamentally different from the usual cold and hot air. With every breath he exhaled, he exuded an aura completely different from the surrounding air, with a touch of immortality.

The color of his skin became radiant and he looked like a completely different person.

She no longer looked like a 30-year-old, but rather more youthful and graceful. The aura of life emanating from her was fundamentally different from her usual self.

Xie An opened the panel.

[Immortal Cultivation Technique: Five Elements Spirit Tempering Technique.]

[Qi Refining Level 1 Progress: 10000/]

【Remaining years: 268 years.】

"Finally entered the first level of Qi Refining Stage!" Xie An breathed a sigh of relief.

Looking at the remaining years displayed on the panel, Xie An's eyes became a little moist.

Seventeen years of hard training, seventeen years of searching for immortality.

From a small court official living under someone else's roof, to the incense master of the Tiger and Wolf Sect, to the Demon Suppression Commander of Qingwu County, to fleeing tens of thousands of miles, to hiding in Yunzhou for many years. He saw off old friends one after another... Now, he has finally entered the Qi Refining Stage.

Standing on the same level as the Martial Saint!
Only he himself knew how difficult this journey had been, how many years of suffering he had endured. Finally, in this place where the immortal path was cut off, he found his own path.

After being in a daze for a long time, Xie An stretched out his right hand and wiped the moisture from the corners of his eyes.

These are tears of joy and excitement, and also a gratitude to the hard-working and persevering self I once was.

"Still can't get carried away. This is just the beginning. Even in a world filled with spiritual energy, so many cultivators turned to dust, let alone a world now devoid of spiritual energy. The road ahead will still be difficult."

Xie An encouraged himself and adjusted his mood before walking out.

As soon as I went out, I saw Chen Yu'er standing outside in a dark red dress, looking very pretty. A bright smile appeared on her beautiful face. "I just felt the aura fluctuation in your room, so I came to check on you in case you got into any trouble."

Xie An looked at the woman in front of him, and felt inexplicably moved. "Thank you, Chen Yu'er."

Chen Yuer smiled and said, "Xie An, congratulations. You have entered the Qi Refining Stage."

Xie An thanked him again, "Thank you, Chen Yuer."

Without Chen Yu'er, it would have been difficult for Xie An to enter the Qi Refining Stage. At least it wouldn't have been so smooth, and he might never have had this opportunity again in his lifetime.

Chen Yuer extended her right hand and said, "Since you have entered the Qi Refining Stage, I should address you as Fellow Daoist."

Xie An stretched out his right hand and shook hands with the other party.

At this moment, Master Huang stopped practicing and came over, sweating profusely. "Brother Xie, have you entered the Qi Refining Stage? Are you comparable to the Canglong Martial Saint?"

Xie An and Master Huang gave each other a big hug. "I was lucky enough to pass away first. Thank you, Brother Huang, for your care and companionship over the years."

Master Huang was extremely excited for Xie An and patted him on the back repeatedly. "Congratulations, Brother Xie. As your brother, I'm really happy for you. In the hundred years since the founding of Daqian, only one Canglong Martial Saint has been born. Brother Xie is undoubtedly the second one. Congratulations."

Xie An was deeply moved and said, "Brother Huang will definitely find his destiny as an immortal and embark on the path of cultivating immortality in the future."

Master Huang burst into tears and said, "If I can do this, I will be honored."

After a few sighs, Xie An took the initiative to say, "This is a good day. I will personally prepare some ingredients and cook it here, and treat everyone to a good meal. Oh, and please ask Master Huang to go and invite Madam Ma and Su Yuqing over."

Although he has entered the Qi Refining Stage, which is comparable to that of a Martial Saint, Xie An still cares about his old friends.

Naturally, I have to go to Xie's house when I get back.

The next day.

Xie An's house in Longmen Inn became lively.

Su Yuqing came, Madam Ma also came, and Bai Hu was naturally there too.

The white fox had now undergone its third molting and was now a fourth-grade Grandmaster. While his rank wasn't high, his movements were uncanny and his abilities were immense. He could help with more and more things.

Xie An cooked the meal himself, with Madam Ma and Chef Huang helping him. White Fox squatted anxiously over the stove, occasionally using his paw to taste the food and comment on Xie An's cooking. Of course, it wasn't praise, just "this is so-so" and "that is so-so."

Xie An didn't care, he just laughed and scolded, "Brother, my cooking skills are just like this, if you like it, eat it, if you don't want to eat it, forget it."

The white fox snorted, "You just won't listen to advice."

Xie An handed the spatula to Bai Hu and said, "How about you come?"

The white fox immediately gave in. "You should do it. I won't comment. You're really sensitive."

Xie An resisted the urge to strangle it and continued to cook.

As night falls, dusk falls.

A sumptuous dinner was prepared, and everyone gathered around the table, enjoying the meal and chatting. Hearing that Xie An had entered the Qi Refining Stage, congratulations were unavoidable, and the atmosphere was joyful. However, Chen Yu'er and Su Yuqing seemed to be at odds, exchanging cold words and not looking at each other favorably. Perhaps they were only reluctantly sitting together for Xie An's sake.

After eating a few bites, Chen Yuer made an excuse of being tired and returned to her room in a depressed mood.

Xie An saw this and wanted to persuade her to stay, but considering that Chen Yu'er and Su Yuqing were from enemy countries, he did not speak.

After Chen Yu'er left, the atmosphere became much more natural.

Su Yuqing, who had never been a big drinker, picked up the large bowl, filled it up for herself, raised it up and said to Xie An, "Xie An, congratulations. I didn't expect you to become a Martial Saint even faster than me."

Xie An raised his wine bowl and clinked glasses with Su Yuqing.

Not long after, Master Huang frequently winked at Mrs. Ma. Mrs. Ma understood, and she and Master Huang left and went to the corner of the yard to chat with each other.

Only Xie An and Su Yuqing were left in the living room.

Su Yuqing was also not vague. She kept drinking tonight and talked about many things in the past.

Xie An looked back on the past with deep emotion, "Thank you so much, Princess, for your support along the way. If it weren't for you, I, Xie An, wouldn't have achieved what I have today. This bowl of wine is in honor of you, Princess."

Su Yuqing smiled faintly and said, "You are still so polite. Although you have become a Martial Saint, your temperament has not changed much. Then drink."

After three rounds of drinks, Su Yuqing gradually became more talkative. "Xie An, now that you have become a Martial Saint, you are the second Martial Saint of Daqian. Are you interested in joining the imperial court? If you are willing, the imperial court can build another Nantian Tower. It will have the same status as my master."

Xie An declined politely, "Thank you for your kindness, Princess. I, Xie An, am dedicated to immortality and have no interest in court affairs. But if Princess needs anything, I will certainly come to your aid."

Although Su Yuqing had been prepared for this answer, she couldn't help but sigh when she heard Xie An say it in person. "That's right. You are a rare person in Daqian who has found immortality. Eternal life is in sight. This is something that many people dream of. How could you be attached to the power of the court?"

Xie An asked, "Would the Princess be willing to join us in seeking immortality?"

Su Yuqing stared at Xie An, "You still remember the original agreement."

"I am not a dishonest person. Moreover, I consider the Princess a dear friend. The road to immortality is long. If there are like-minded people who would like to share this journey, they would be more helpful and supportive."

Su Yuqing glanced at the room where Chen Yu'er was. "Haven't you found someone who shares the same ideals as you? A close female friend at that. Isn't it wonderful to have you accompany me all the way?"

Xie An felt embarrassed.

Su Yuqing laughed and said, "Why, isn't it enough for you to despise one confidante? Are you thinking of having two relationships at the same time?"

Xie An was even more embarrassed and didn't know how to answer.

In fact, Su Yuqing misunderstood.

Xie An had no such idea.

But it seems that this kind of thing is difficult to explain, and the more I explain, the less clear it becomes.

Ha ha.

Su Yuqing smiled and said, "I'm just joking with you, don't take it seriously. I think Chen Yu'er is a nice person, and you two are a perfect match to seek immortal fate together."

Xie An really didn't dare let her continue, "Princess, I'm seriously inviting you."

Su Yuqing put away her teasing expression, looked up at the bright moon in the sky outside the door, and after a long while, she said, "Even if I want to find immortal fate, I need to become a Martial Saint. Currently, I am only a first-rank Grandmaster. I have decided that I will go for a reverse transformation in a few days. If I die, this life will be over. If by some chance I succeed in my reverse transformation, I might come to find you."

Xie An was shocked when he heard this.

Su Yuqing actually became a first-grade master.

He is truly a martial arts genius.

And she was actually preparing to reverse her transformation.

Such a resolute ambition shocked Xie An.

Xie An suddenly felt distressed. "The princess knows this. That Puyang Qing has mastered the method of blessing and summoning spirits. He can avoid the danger of reverse transformation and directly start cultivating immortals. We can work together to control this person and let him bless the princess."

Su Yuqing said, "You consider me a close friend, so I consider you a close friend as well. I appreciate your kindness. But I, Su Yuqing, have been determined to pursue the ultimate in martial arts since childhood, vowing to become a Martial Saint. After more than sixty years of striving, I have finally reached the level of a First-Rank Grandmaster. I am only one step away from opening the door to Martial Sainthood."

Perhaps a wizard's blessing is a shortcut, but I need to give myself an account of the hard work I've put in over the past sixty years. Otherwise, I'll have regrets in my life. I've made up my mind."

Xie An noticed the iron will in Su Yuqing's eyes and stopped trying to persuade her.

At this moment, Su Yuqing suddenly turned around and looked at Xie An, "By the way, Master has arrived in Yunzhou and is searching everywhere for Chen Yu'er and the wizard's village. I can't interfere in this matter, you need to be extremely careful. This is the end of today's meal, the taste... is really not that good."

After saying that, Su Yuqing stood up and was about to leave.

Xie An quickly stood up and said, "Princess, wait a minute. I have something for you."

Su Yuqing turned around and looked at Xie An with a smile, "Then I want to see what the Qi Refining Stage Martial Saint will give me."

(End of this chapter)