In the stillness of the night, Li Baolong held the two translated pages of yellow paper in his hands. He seemed to see once again the figures of Yun Jizi and his disciple Yi Tianyi in the back mountains of Qingcheng. He knew that he might be the one chosen by fate. Li Baolong also secretly resolved to follow the path Yi Tianyi had taken, to unveil the mystery of this heavenly book, to explore the unknown world of Taoist magic, to obtain the great Taoist arts, to benefit the world, and to bring peace and protection to humanity.
During this time, Li Baolong often sat alone by the window late at night, using the faint moonlight to practice the beginner's techniques recorded by the old Taoist priest Yi Tianyi. He strictly followed the instructions for every movement and every breath. When practicing the art of mental perception, he closed his eyes, trying to calm his mind as still as water, attempting to capture the subtle atmosphere around him. This time was different from before; he seemed to occasionally perceive a faint ripple, like a breeze stirring ripples on a lake. Though subtle, it excited him greatly.
While practicing mind control, he chose several ants he had caught in the yard during the day as his test subjects. He concentrated his mind, trying to connect his thoughts with the ants and guide their actions. At first, the ants showed no reaction, continuing their busy work. But Li Baolong was not discouraged; he tried again and again, his forehead gradually covered in sweat. Finally, one ant seemed to be affected by something, deviating from its original path. This small success gave Li Baolong a glimmer of hope and fueled his passion for exploring the celestial book.
However, as his cultivation deepened, Li Baolong encountered many difficulties. Sometimes, when practicing the art of mind perception, he would be disturbed by external distractions, his thoughts running wild and difficult to control. This not only prevented him from perceiving his surroundings but also caused him excruciating headaches. In practicing the art of mind control, he found his mental energy was being consumed immensely, leaving him utterly exhausted after each attempt, and several times he nearly fainted from overexertion. But Li Baolong did not give up. He knew that the path of cultivation was inherently arduous, and only by overcoming these difficulties could he truly unlock the secrets of the Heavenly Book.
During a session of practicing the art of telepathy, Li Baolong entered a wondrous state. He felt as if he had broken free from the constraints of his physical body, his soul floating in the air. He saw the flowers, plants, and trees in the courtyard; they were no longer static objects, but living spirits. The flowers trembled slightly, as if communicating with him; the branches and leaves swayed gently, as if guiding his way. This wondrous feeling captivated him, and he didn't know how long it had been before slowly emerging from this state. This experience strengthened his belief in the wonder of the Heavenly Book and filled him with anticipation for his future cultivation.
Winter break arrived unexpectedly, and Li Baolong's small house was quiet and peaceful, the perfect place for cultivation. He sat upright by the window, dressed in loose clothes, sunlight streaming through the mottled glass and falling on the half-finished ancient book.
Since unlocking the Heavenly Book's cultivation method, Li Baolong felt as if he had stepped into a completely new world. With each practice session, he could feel subtle changes within himself. The slight nearsightedness that had once troubled him quietly disappeared, and his eyes were now clear and bright, seemingly able to perceive the smallest details of the world. He looked up into the distance, and the outlines of the mountains and the tracks of birds were all clearly visible, as if they were right next to him. As time passed, Li Baolong progressed further and further on the path of cultivating the Heavenly Book's techniques. Although he faced numerous difficulties, he always maintained a curiosity about the unknown and a reverence for the Dao, advancing step by step, exploring the depths of that mysterious and captivating world of Daoist arts.
As the Spring Festival approaches, the streets and alleys of the city are filled with a strong festive atmosphere. Li Baolong arrived at Sister Honghong's dance hall, where colorful lights flashed, music was deafening, and the laughter of customers mingled together, making business exceptionally booming.
Watching Sister Honghong busily working, Li Baolong felt a pang of sympathy. He stepped forward to help, using his quick wit to navigate the dance hall and maintain order. Seeing Sister Honghong's exhausted yet determined appearance, Li Baolong couldn't help but approach her, gently taking the stack of beer glasses from her hands and whispering, "Sister Honghong, take a break, I'll take care of things here." Sister Honghong looked up at him, her eyes filled with gratitude and tenderness. She smoothed the sweat-dampened strands of hair at her temples and replied, "Baolong, thank you for your hard work."
After finishing their work, the two went to rest in a small corner backstage of the dance hall. Sister Honghong sat on a chair, gently rubbing her ankle. Seeing this, Li Baolong quickly squatted down, gently lifted her foot, placed it on his lap, and carefully massaged it, asking with concern, "Sister Honghong, does your foot hurt?" Sister Honghong blushed slightly and playfully scolded, "It's a little sore. You're such a thoughtful child." Li Baolong looked up at her, his eyes focused, "As long as Sister Honghong feels better, that's all that matters."
However, Li Baolong knew this wasn't a long-term solution. He suggested to Sister Honghong that they hire a capable helper. Coincidentally, they met a deliveryman for the dance hall, Hu Guoqing, a retired soldier. In his forties, he came from a nearby rural area. Because his wife was unwell and unable to work, he had come to Chengdu alone to support his family. Hu Guoqing was tall and upright, with a determined and decisive look in his eyes. He was efficient and efficient, and Sister Honghong hired him at a high salary. Since he joined, the dance hall's affairs have been managed very well.
In this way, Li Baolong and Sister Honghong were finally freed from their busy affairs. Li Baolong was able to devote more time to his studies and Taoist practice. On weekdays, he stayed at home, immersing himself in the ancient and mysterious Taoist insights. Each study and comprehension made him feel as if he were in a completely new spiritual world, constantly exploring his connection with heaven and earth.
Every weekend, he would come to the dance hall. At this time, the dance hall was operating smoothly amidst its lively atmosphere. Li Baolong would stand in a corner, quietly watching the people dancing freely on the dance floor, a smile unconsciously playing on his lips. Sister Honghong would also come to his side during her free time. She would gently take Li Baolong's arm, rest her head on his shoulder, and whisper, "Baolong, how's your Taoist practice going lately?" Li Baolong turned his head, looking at Sister Honghong so close to him, his heart racing slightly. He raised his hand and placed it on Sister Honghong's, replying, "Yes, I've gained quite a few new insights. I'll tell you about them slowly when I have time."
Two people, taking advantage of the early morning lull in customers, sneaked out to the back courtyard of the dance hall. Gazing at the starry night sky, Sister Honghong closed her eyes, a contented smile on her face as she felt the gentle breeze. Li Baolong stood behind her, gently wrapping his arms around her waist, resting his chin on her head, and whispered, "Sister Honghong, moments like this are truly beautiful." Sister Honghong turned around, hooking her arms around Li Baolong's neck, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him: "With you here, every day is wonderful." Then, their faces slowly drew closer, and in the warm sunlight, they gently kissed, as if the whole world consisted only of their heartbeats and breaths.
Continue read on readnovelmtl.com
