"The path of cultivation consists of refining essence, refining qi, and refining spirit. These are but different methods of cultivation and none are superior to the others. Those who refine their essence, polish and temper their bodies, aiming for physical immortality; those who refine qi, harbor a vital breath within, merging their qi with the universe, aiming for ceaseless primordial qi; and those who refine the spirit concern themselves with forging the soul and nourishing the spirit, allowing it to leave the body unharmed, aiming for an immortal spirit. I humbly practice all three paths, aspiring for an indestructible body, infinite qi, and an everlasting spirit. Once such a realm is reached, one is considered a true immortal, eternally existing in the world..."
In the public lecture area of the Taoist Academy, a nine-zhang high platform stood in the center, Pei Xuanjing, clad in a Taoist robe and holding a Sanbao Jade Ruyi in his hand, was elucidating his path of cultivation.