Chapter 32: Method of Corpse Severance

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"Husband, the concept of corpse severance pertains to the transformation of form, shedding the mortal shell in pursuit of truth, and the escape and alteration of the physical body. Thus, it is also metaphorically called 'cicada sloughing,' like the cicada leaving its skin to transform its bones, conserving its vital energy within a cave. Only then can it ascend and become a true immortal."

"Corpses can dissolve in different ways, such as through weapons, staff, fire, or water. Historical records mention a person named Dan, whose body did not decay for several years after death and who was resurrected post mortem. Other alchemists may substitute an object, a staff, clothing, a sword, etc."

In the time of Emperor Wu of Han, there was an alchemist who was killed by government officials. When the officials ordered his coffin to be opened, his body was nowhere to be found, only a pair of bamboo staffs remained.