Sword Intent.
Gu Chengming chewed on the term that had just escaped Ren Wencai's lips.
He wasn't entirely unfamiliar with it. He remembered Elder Ren once saying that his sword already had the embryonic form of Sword Intent, and he seemed to have the same assessment of Li Mozi.
Thinking back now, this so-called Sword Intent was probably a benchmark used to measure a sword cultivator’s level in this cultivation world?
Just as the first and second realms distinguished cultivation bases, Sword Intent, Sword Momentum, and Jianxin... were likely used to distinguish the superiority of sword techniques.
"What a pity..."
Gu Chengming sighed inwardly with regret.
Back when he played "Xianmen," he had focused all his attention on researching the romance targets and looking at the character art. He had mostly skipped through the background settings and combat systems.
If he had known back then that he would experience this firsthand, he would have memorized every word of those millions of lines of game text.
Composing himself, Gu Chengming cupped his hands with his sword and asked sincerely, "May I ask, Master, exactly what makes this Sword Intent so mysterious? And how can your disciple determine if I have truly... mastered it?"
Hearing this, a flash of astonishment crossed Ren Wencai’s face, which quickly shifted into an extremely complex and peculiar expression.
"You..."
Ren Wencai opened his mouth, but seeing Gu Chengming’s sincere face, he didn't know what to say for a moment.
He didn't even know what Sword Intent was—didn't even have a proper concept of it—yet he had managed to achieve it in a muddled state?
If this got out, who knew how many sword cultivators would have their dao hearts shattered.
Ren Wencai suddenly recalled a speech his own previous Seat Holder had given while patting his head many years ago, when he first joined the Huiyuan Gate.
Remember, in all the myriad Great Daos of this world—be it alchemy, talismans, tools, or arrays—all require talent. But as for sword cultivation... it is the most logical, and yet the most illogical.
Practicing hard for ten years might make you an expert. But to become a true master, to cultivate Sword Intent, hard work alone is not enough.
Sword cultivators, like any of the other myriad Daos, require talent. The only difference is that practicing the sword at least offers a glimmer of hope.
At the time, Ren Wencai, who prided himself on his extraordinary natural talent, had listened to those words, but they hadn't struck him as particularly profound.
Later, he became an elder and saw countless brilliant geniuses, as well as many mediocre people who tried to make up for their lack of talent with hard work. He thought he had seen through the weight of the word "talent."
But only today, looking at Gu Chengming, did he realize his understanding of those words was still too shallow.
Ren Wencai shook off his thoughts, sighed, and began to explain.
"The so-called Sword Intent is ethereal and difficult to describe. Ordinary sword moves injure the body and cut the form, but a move infused with Sword Intent injures the spirit and cuts the intent."
"When you strike, you are no longer limited by the barriers of forms, nor by the amount of spiritual power you possess. Instead, you can impose your 'will' upon your opponent. You can make the wind stop for you, make the clouds part for you, and cause your opponent to quail before the battle even begins, heavily suppressed by your presence..."
"That is Sword Intent."
As Gu Chengming listened, he had a sudden realization. He thought to himself: Isn't this just the stage where your skills start adding debuffs and status effects?
In that case, it seemed he truly had cultivated Sword Intent?
"The fact that you could grasp this layer proves you have indeed crossed the threshold. This Entanglement Sword Intent may not be known for its sheer lethality, but in battle, it often leaves the opponent with no place to exert their strength. If used properly, fighting above your realm is not impossible."
"This is a good thing."
Having confirmed Gu Chengming's strength, Ren Wencai was quite pleased. He turned around and reached out toward the interior of the house.
"Buzz—"
Following a ripple in the space, a grey, unremarkable-looking storage pouch fell into his hand.
However, the spiritual light circulating on this pouch was much heavier than that of a regular storage pouch. One could faintly see it was covered in dense, complex restrictive formations and talismans.
"Take this."
Ren Wencai handed the pouch to Gu Chengming. Though his tone was casual, the hand holding the pouch was exceptionally solemn.
"Inside are some things you might find useful."
"There are a few advanced techniques suitable for a sword cultivator with... well, a 'wild' path like yours. There are also several magic treasures I obtained during my early travels or refined myself."
"However, to prevent you from biting off more than you can chew or becoming aggressive and picking fights because you have powerful weapons, I have placed several restrictions on it."
Ren Wencai pointed to the talismans on the storage pouch.
"You can open the first layer of the restriction now. The items inside are sufficient for you until the early stage of the second realm."
"Once your cultivation improves and you break through to the middle stage of the second realm, the subsequent restrictions will unlock on their own."
Gu Chengming took the storage pouch with both hands and felt it sink heavily. After hesitating, he couldn't help but say, "These techniques and treasures... wouldn't it be better if you personally bestowed them upon me once my cultivation reached that level in the future?"
Is he making final arrangements?
Giving everything at once and setting unlock conditions... this looked like he was either settling his affairs or planning to go somewhere very far for a long time?
Ren Wencai seemed to read Gu Chengming’s mind and said, "The Inner Sect is not like the Outer Sect. There are more rules, and more trouble."
"Now that you've achieved Sword Intent, your entry into the Inner Sect is set in stone. According to sect regulations, after Inner Sect disciples spend some time recovering within the sect, they must accept sect missions and descend the mountain for experience, rolling around in the mortal world."
"The current situation in the Daqian Dynasty is unstable, and demons are stirring. This journey could last anywhere from half a year to as long as three or five years."
Ren Wencai paused here.
"And... I also have an old matter of my own to settle recently."
"Once I leave, the road is long, and the return date is uncertain."
"I fear that if you encounter difficulties or hit a bottleneck while I'm not around, it will delay your cultivation."
"So, it’s better to prepare in advance."
An old matter?
Gu Chengming’s heart stirred. He recalled the news he’d seen at the Myriad Wonders Gathering about Liu Changfeng of the Cloud Moon Sect being "bagged" by a rogue cultivator. He also thought of the past disciple story Yu Wenqiu mentioned, and the expressions of the other elders whenever this Elder Ren was mentioned. He chose not to ask further.
"One more thing."
Ren Wencai suddenly seemed to remember something. "The techniques and artifacts in this bag were all carefully selected by me. Especially those artifacts; most are sets that complement the techniques."
"If you don't like them or they don't feel right in your hand, it's fine to let them gather dust in a corner."
"But if you want to sell them... you’d best not sell them separately! And don't just dump them at some pawnshop that doesn't know their worth!"
Gu Chengming’s heart skipped a beat.
This tone, this expression, and the subtext of "absolutely don't let outsiders know"...
"Elder Ren..." Gu Chengming swallowed hard and asked tentatively, "These wouldn't happen to be... battle spoils from your 'chivalrous' days, would they?"
It wasn't that he was being cynical. Elder Ren’s proficiency in "ambushing people from behind" was common knowledge. Combined with this secretive attitude, it was hard not to think about "selling stolen goods."
If these were truly hot goods and he used them outside, only to be recognized by the victim...
"These are all clean treasures!"
Ren Wencai seemed to catch the implication and grumbled in annoyance, "I mean these items are part of a set! Do you understand what a set is?"
"If you don't know the market and sell them off cheaply as individual parts, you're a spendthrift! It would be a waste of god-given treasures!"
"If someone really takes an interest, remember to sell the matching parts to them as a whole! Really fleece... cough, charge them a fair and high price!"
Hearing this, Gu Chengming breathed a sigh of relief.
As long as they weren't stolen goods.
"Alright, everything that needed saying has been said."
Ren Wencai waved his hand. He seemed to have lifted a heavy burden, his entire being looking much more relaxed.
"Since you've already mastered Sword Intent, reaching the second realm isn't as critical for you. Sect rules are fixed, but people are adaptable. Sword Intent is a stepping stone more effective than any cultivation level."
"Return and rest well for a few days to stabilize your realm and familiarize yourself with your new means."
"In a few days, once the Sect Master returns from his travels, I will personally take you to the Merit Hall to light your soul lamp and officially finalize your status as an Inner Sect disciple."
"Yes, disciple obeys."
"Go on, go on."
Ren Wencai waved his hand and didn't look at him again, lying back down in the wicker hammock and closing his eyes as if he were weary.
Gu Chengming straightened up, took one last look at this master—who was usually frivolous but incredibly reliable in critical moments—and turned to walk softly out of the small courtyard.
As the courtyard gate closed with a creak.
Ren Wencai, who had been resting with his eyes closed, slowly opened them.
He listened to the receding footsteps, his gaze piercing through the courtyard walls toward the sea of clouds.
The sun was setting, staining the cloud layer an blood-red hue.
"Finally... it's all settled."
Ren Wencai murmured to himself in a voice barely audible, "Yuan Qing, oh Yuan Qing... this time, I hope I didn't misjudge the boy."
He pulled a piece of soul jade from his robes—shattered long ago and devoid of light. It had been left by that disciple decades ago when he departed.
Ren Wencai rubbed the broken jade, a flash of liberation in his eyes. Then, he applied a little pressure with his palm.
Crack. The shattered jade turned into fine powder and drifted away with the wind.
"Whether it be fortune or calamity, the path has been paved. As for the rest... it depends on his own fate."
He let out a long breath, as if a weight that had pressed on his heart for years had finally been set down.
The mountain wind rose, sweeping up fallen petals. In the courtyard, the old man poured himself a cup of wine and downed it in one gulp toward the setting sun.
The night was deep, and the moon hung in the center of the sky.
After returning from Elder Ren Wencai’s place, Gu Chengming didn't rush to rest. Instead, he sat beneath the old pagoda tree in the yard, wiping his Tinglan Sword by the moonlight.
Ren Wencai’s final words and that storage pouch had left him feeling quite moved. On the long path of cultivation, being protected by a good mentor was truly a stroke of fortune.
Just as his mind settled and he prepared to head inside, a set of steady and powerful footsteps stopped before his courtyard gate.
There was no knock or shout, only a solemn, mountain-like aura that slowly seeped through the cracks of the door.
Gu Chengming’s heart stirred. He had felt this aura not long ago at the Bright Mirror Platform.
He hurried to his feet, walked to the gate, and pulled the bolt.
Standing outside was none other than the man who oversaw the Wenjian Sect's Enforcement Hall, the famously impartial "Black-faced God"—Kong Zheng.
Today, Kong Zheng wasn't wearing his intricate robes of office. Instead, he wore a simple set of black cloth clothes, his hair tied with a wooden pin rather than a jade crown. Though he lacked the suffocating pressure of his usual demeanor, the rigid seriousness etched into his bones was impossible to hide.
"Elder Kong?"
Gu Chengming was somewhat surprised. He stepped aside and bowed. "I didn't expect such a visit late at night. Disciple was remiss in greeting you; please, come in."
Kong Zheng nodded slightly. His gaze swept over Gu Chengming, and for once, his perpetually tight face softened. "I didn't interrupt your cultivation, did I?"
"You're too kind, Elder. I happened to be brewing tea. You've come at the perfect time."
The two sat down at the stone table. Gu Chengming brewed a fresh pot of hot tea and respectfully handed a cup to Kong Zheng.
Kong Zheng took the cup but didn't drink immediately. He watched the tea leaves floating in the cup and was silent for a moment before speaking slowly.
"At the Bright Mirror Platform today... I returned and mentally reenacted that world you constructed in the heart-questioning illusion several times."
He looked up, his deep eyes staring straight at Gu Chengming with both inquiry and a hint of confusion.
"Ruler as ruler, subject as subject, father as father, son as son—everyone in their proper place, acting according to rites. This is indeed the Great Dao of Confucian governance, and the legal principles favored by the Daqian Dynasty."
"But... there is one thing I do not understand."
Kong Zheng set down the tea cup and leaned forward slightly, that sense of pressure resurfacing.
"Strict laws can certainly stabilize the world. But human hearts are treacherous; they are the hardest things in this world to fathom. If someone harbors selfish desires—obeying the rites in name but actually breaking the laws—what then? If this 'rite' is only skin-deep and not in the bones and blood, what then?"
What Kong Zheng was confused about was the barrier between "law" and the "heart." He cultivated the Legalist sword and followed the Confucian rites. Having spent half his life enforcing laws and punishing evil, he often felt human hearts were unpredictable. Though laws were strict and could control the body, they struggled to control the heart; though the rules were detailed and could prohibit actions, they struggled to prohibit desires.
Gu Chengming knew well that the Confucianism of this world largely followed the philosophy of "Preserving Heavenly Principles, Eliminating Human Desires," focusing on the investigation of things to gain external knowledge of Heavenly principles. Kong Zheng’s struggle lay right here.
Kong Zheng meant to speak of laws, saying that heaven and earth have constants—the square and the circle—and as human desires overflow, they must be boxed in by strict laws and governed by heavy punishments to restore order.
However, having listened seriously, Gu Chengming didn't speak of laws or rules. Instead, he spoke of how the heart in its essence is neither good nor evil; it is only with the movement of intent that good and evil arise. Knowing what is good and what is evil is the 'Innate Goodness,' and to act for good and remove evil is the 'Investigation of Things.'
Kong Zheng frowned, feeling these words were rebellious. Yet he seemed to see the formerly distinct lines between good, evil, and law merging together within the square inch of these four phrases.
What he had believed in the past was that "knowledge comes before action." One must first investigate all the principles in the world before one can handle its affairs. Thus, he had delved into law scrolls until his hair turned white, seeking deep knowledge before daring to act with precision.
Yet Gu Chengming said that knowledge is the beginning of action, and action is the completion of knowledge. The two cannot be separated. There is no such thing as knowing but not doing; to know and not do is simply to not yet know.
Then he touched upon the theory of the "Unity of Knowing and Doing."
He stated that knowledge is the beginning of action and action is the culmination of knowledge. If one understands this, then simply saying "knowledge" implies the existence of action; simply saying "action" implies the existence of knowledge. Like a person drinking water, they know whether it is hot or cold for themselves. Like seeing a beautiful sight, the moment one sees it, one is pleased. Like smelling a foul odor, the moment one hears it, one is repulsed. This is true knowledge; this is true action.
People fail to unite knowing and doing because of selfish desires. It is easy to break a thief in the mountains, but hard to break the thief in the heart.
Laws can only bind the external; only by reaching 'Innate Goodness' can one rectify the root.
If the heart is like a clear mirror, untouched by dust, it responds to all things naturally and acts with ultimate impartiality.
At such a time, there is no need to deliberately follow rites, for every movement matches them; there is no need to forcibly follow laws, for every word and action aligns with them.
This is what is called "Following one’s heart’s desires without overstepping the boundaries."
When he finished, the room fell silent.
【The Zhou Rites Heavenly Rectifying Art heard the theory of 'The Heart is Principle.' It originally intended to dismiss it as arrogance but, after reflecting, felt it carried substance.】
【The more it listened, the more shocked it became. In the past, it only knew how to use rites to judge others, but it did not know how to prove the Dao through the heart. Today it finally understands the true essence of 'self-discipline to restore rites'—it lies not in the body, but in the heart.】
【Affection of the Zhou Rites Heavenly Rectifying Art +10】
【Current Affection: 28/Acquaintance】
Seeing this surge in affection, Gu Chengming’s heart settled.
He knew discussing the Dao had to be a step-by-step process. If he said something too far ahead of its time, it would only make the Art think he was speaking nonsense. This level was apparently just right.
And for Elder Kong before him, it was the same.
After a long time, Kong Zheng finally snapped out of it.
He slowly set down the tea, which had long since gone cold. Without a word, he stood up and gave Gu Chengming an extremely solemn bow—not as a superior, but as an equal.
This bow had nothing to do with cultivation base; it was solely out of respect for hearing the Dao.
Gu Chengming quickly stood to return the bow, not daring to be negligent.
As Kong Zheng straightened his body, a rare smile of relief finally appeared on his perpetually tense, black-skinned face.
Then, he flicked his wrist. A token made of black iron, radiating a chilling aura, appeared in his palm.
The token was rectangular, with Bi'an swallowing-beast patterns carved around the edge. On the front were the words "Discipline Law," and on the back was an ancient and powerful character: "Qian."
This was not a standard token of the Wenjian Sect.
"Keep this."
Kong Zheng handed the token to Gu Chengming. Though his tone was still stiff, it lacked the usual superiority and carried a bit more expectation.
"This is a token from the Judiciary Division of the Daqian Criminal Bureau."
"I once served in Daqian in my younger years... think of it as a remnant of that old karma."
"Now that you're in the Inner Sect, you will inevitably have to travel to Daqian for experience. The officialdom there is a tangled web of roots; the waters are very deep. But as long as you are investigating a case or encounter some legal dispute, with this token, you can directly access historical criminal records and case notes. You can even take discretionary actions as needed, saving yourself many unnecessary troubles."
Gu Chengming was stunned.
A token from the Judiciary Division of the Daqian Criminal Bureau?
This was no ordinary keepsake. Daqian was a nation ruled by law. Inner sect disciples, and even true inheritance disciples of many major sects, often had to behave like cowed children when they went to Daqian.
Having this thing would eliminate more than half his potential troubles.
He wondered how a sect elder like Kong Zheng could possess such a high-level token of authority from Daqian.
Moreover, by the sound of it, his status over there was not low?
But on second thought, the Wenjian Sect had a deep relationship with Daqian; Guizang Gate disciples could even become officials. It was somewhat reasonable for the Head of the Enforcement Hall to hold a side position in Daqian.
"Disciple would not dare refuse a gift from an elder."
Gu Chengming took the token with both hands. It felt icy and heavy in his grip. A wave of murderous aura followed through his fingertips, causing the 《Monster-Trapping Sword Manual》 inside his body to tremble, clearly sensing a kindred aura.
"Mm."
"Many thanks for Elder Kong’s generous gift! Disciple will surely use this token well and live up to your trust."
Kong Zheng nodded, seemingly unwilling to talk more about his past. He reverted to his "do not approach" persona.
"Now that the discussion of the Dao is over, I will not stay any longer."
"I must return and carefully ponder your words. If you encounter an unsolvable situation in Daqian in the future, take this token to the Ministry of Justice in the capital and find a man named Kong En. He will help you."
With that, Kong Zheng didn't wait for Gu Chengming to see him off. With a sweep of his wide sleeves, his body turned into a streak of light and instantly vanished into the night.
Main Peak of Wenjian Sect, Golden Summit Hall.
The sea of clouds churned, and nine bell tolls echoed through the mountains—a sound that rang out only to welcome the Sect Master back home.
Inside the hall, hundreds of long-burning shark-oil lamps illuminated the space as if it were day.
Upon the ceiling, star maps shifted, faintly projecting a vast and unfathomable pressure.
A middle-aged man dressed in Daoist robes stood with his hands behind his back on the high platform in the center of the hall.
His face looked no more than forty, yet the hair at his temples had turned white. This person was the current Sect Master of Wenjian Sect—Shen Qianqiu.
Below the stage, arranged on both sides, were the Seat Holders of various peaks and the powerful elders of the sect.
The atmosphere was not relaxed as it usually was, but rather carried a sense of gravity.
Years ago, Sect Master Shen Qianqiu had traveled to the bitter cold lands of the far north. There, he accidentally observed an anomaly in the celestial alignment—an ancient place left by a powerful being of old. This place was called "Tianque," and rumors said it held ultimate opportunities for ascension.
However, opportunity was often accompanied by great terror. The chaotic currents around Tianque were fierce; the slightest mistake would mean death and the erasure of one's path. Furthermore, the opening window was extremely short; once missed, one would have to wait another century.
Every elder present was aware of this, including Ren Wencai, who had been stuck at the peak of the fourth realm for over a hundred years.
Among the crowd, Ren Wencai unconsciously rubbed his sleeve.
Peak of the fourth realm—a single step away, yet it was a natural chasm. With his lifespan drawing to an end and his essence blood fading...
If he didn't take the gamble now, he would likely remain here for the rest of his life and turn into a handful of yellow earth.
That was why he had been in such a hurry to pave the road for Gu Chengming before he left.
During the meeting, some expressed concern about Ren Wencai’s participation. They stated bluntly that Huiyuan Gate now relied solely on him to survive. If an accident occurred, that lineage’s inheritance would be completely broken. Furthermore, he had only just accepted Gu Chengming; it seemed overly hasty to risk his life at Tianque before the boy could prove himself.
Ren Wencai, however, appeared remarkably carefree. He felt Gu Chengming's progress was incredibly fast; if he didn't seek a breakthrough now, in a few years he would likely lose the ability to even teach the boy.
Rather than sitting around waiting for death, he would rather fight for that slim chance at the fifth realm. If he succeeded, he could return and shield his disciple. Even if he failed, he had already made his final arrangements and firmly believed that with Gu Chengming’s adaptability, the boy could find a footing in the sect.
Ultimately, the roster for the journey to Tianque was finalized.
Aside from Sect Master Shen Qianqiu, Ren Wencai, Zhao Wuji, and two other elders who had been stuck at bottlenecks for many years were also included.
In the Golden Summit Hall, the candle flames flickered lower.
As the various elders departed, silence returned to the hall.
Only the sound of the clouds churning outside and the occasional cry of a crane could be faintly heard through the windows.
Shen Qianqiu stood alone on the platform, in no rush to go to the rear hall to rest.
With his hands behind his back, he looked through the open hall doors toward the dots of light flickering in the Outer Sect area far in the distance.
That was the foundation of the Wenjian Sect, the home of countless low-level disciples who were still struggling in the valleys, longing to soar.
Although he was the Sect Master, he was actually quite meticulous.
Years ago, reflecting on how difficult it was for Outer Sect disciples to practice and how those with weak resolve often quit halfway, he had used his own insights into the path of the soul to casually create a minor technique called the 《All Wonders Same Source Method》.
Though it was called "Same Source," there were actually no profound mysteries in it. It merely used the principle of spiritual resonance to apply a kind of psychological suggestion to the practitioners—an impression of "I am not alone on the Dao" and "Everyone is practicing together." This served to stabilize their dao hearts and erase their sense of isolation.
He hadn't put his name on it at the time, merely having the Scripture Pavilion mix it in with the other basic techniques for distribution, considering it a casual move on a chessboard.
"I wonder how that technique is spreading among the Outer Sect nowadays?"
Recalling this old matter, Shen Qianqiu’s heart stirred.
Since he was about to travel far, seeing the seed he’d planted back then before he left could be considered a form of solace.
If the effect was decent, he might have someone promote it slightly in the future; it could be seen as a blessing left for the sect.
With this thought, Shen Qianqiu hesitated no longer.
He sat cross-legged on a cushion and slowly closed his eyes. Relying on the sliver of original induction he’d left when creating the method, his divine sense stretched out like gossamer, instantly bypassing the multiple restrictions of the Inner Sect and blanketing the massive population of the Outer Sect.
However, in the next moment.
Shen Qianqiu felt a "buzz" in his brain. He nearly jumped right off his cushion.
According to his original design, the 《All Wonders Same Source Method》 should only have been a sparse, weak net. Disciples inside it could only feel a vague resonance, like looking at flowers through a fog—vaguely there, vaguely not.
But what he felt now was a massive, independent realm separate from the existing world.
—Who the hell overhauled my All Wonders Same Source Method into this?!
Alarm bells rang in Shen Qianqiu’s mind.
Was there an external enemy invading? Or was a demonic cultivator lurking in the sect, using this technique to collect the soul power of the disciples?
As the Sect Master, his first reaction was for the safety of the sect.
Without time to think, his massive divine sense merged into the "Myriad Wonders Gathering."
Inside, countless points of light were floating and colliding. And at the center of these lights floated several massive... leaderboards... formed from mental projections?
Shen Qianqiu steadied his mind, forcing down his emotions to look closer.
In the most conspicuous spot, he saw a "post" glowing red with extreme heat.
【Rational Discussion: Is Gu Chengming a 'Pearl Buried in the Dust' in Huiyuan Gate? Can that old... cough, Elder Ren actually teach him properly? I feel like he'd be better off coming to our Qingfeng Gate.】
Shen Qianqiu: "..."
Looking at this title, he couldn't stop the corners of his mouth from twitching.
Patiently, he controlled his mental thought to click into it.
The poster was clearly prepared, listing the various advantages of the Qingfeng Gate in great detail.
He discussed everything from Elder Zhao Wuji’s steady sword style and Qingfeng Gate’s superior geographical location to their meticulous care for their disciples. Finally, he concluded—that for a peerless genius like Gu Chengming to stay in the declining Huiyuan Gate was a tragic waste, and only Qingfeng Gate could be his ultimate destination.
However, what truly made this post go viral wasn't the argument itself, but the divine sense rebuttals below it.
【Qingfeng Gate? With Zhao Wuji’s pathetic skills? You clearly don’t know that back then, Elder Zhao was chased all over the mountains by a third realm beast in the 'Nether Secret Realm.' He only saved face because Elder Ren went back to bail him out.】
【And don’t forget that Sect Grand Competition hundreds of years ago. Elder Zhao vowed to take first place, but when he fought the Senior Sister from Daoning Gate, he didn’t have the heart to strike and got knocked off the stage instead. In the end, he didn't even make it into the top sixteen.】
【Besides, Qingfeng Gate is covered in snow year-round. You call that superior geography?】
Each of these replies, though anonymous, listed Zhao Wuji’s dark history in such exquisite detail that they seemed better informed than Zhao Wuji himself.
Finally, the original poster lost their cool.
【Ren Wencai! I knew it was you! That previous post about 'Whether Zhao Wuji is the number one of the younger generation' was also you being snarky in the comments!】
【Oh, struck a nerve? Who is Ren Wencai? I am merely a passerby who can't stand Qingfeng Gate. What, your sect is allowed to poach disciples, but a passerby can't speak a word of justice?】
Shen Qianqiu exited the post. Having seemingly identified the two individuals bickering, he felt somewhat helpless.
However, after this observation, the worry that had been hanging over his head finally dissipated.
Harmless. This thing was harmless.
Though it appeared chaotic, its underlying logic was incredibly profound.
It utilized the original resonance properties of the 《All Wonders Same Source Method》 to construct a massive mental network. Disciples could exchange insights, trade goods, or even vent their emotions. This interaction of consciousness was itself an excellent method for soul refinement.
“This… is this truly the art I originally created?”
As the Sect Leader, Shen Qianqiu considered his cultivation celestial and his experience vast.
Yet, looking at it today, he realized that in front of this ‘mysterious art-reformer,’ he was practically a novice apprentice.
“Could it be one of those reclusive Grand-Patriarchs? Perhaps they couldn’t stand my crude techniques anymore and secretly stepped in to fix it?” Shen Qianqiu speculated inwardly.
“Though it deviates from my original intention, the effects… are certainly more beneficial than detrimental.” Shen Qianqiu shook his head with a bitter smile.
“Forget it, forget it.”
“Since it is the handiwork of a senior expert, I shall simply feign ignorance.”
The following morning.
You Yuyao somehow learned that Gu Chengming had advanced to the First Realm, Ninth Level.
What was supposed to be a spar between peers turned into an undisputed route due to Gu Chengming’s overwhelming sword momentum.
Faced with such an unpredictable gap in strength, You Yuyao found her various techniques useless. Within moments, she fell into a disadvantage.
Looking at this fellow disciple who had progressed with such supernatural speed, You Yuyao’s heart was filled with complex emotions—she was both awestruck by his growth and sentimental about the abyss that had formed between them.
Despite this, she displayed the typical open-mindedness of a sword cultivator. She didn't dwell on a temporary defeat. After realizing the gap, she sheathed her sword and stopped, accepting the loss with grace and composure.
Before Gu Chengming could even catch his breath, Ren Wencai arrived in a frantic rush.
Looking at his disciple’s thick, perfected aura, the old man nodded in satisfaction and announced he was taking him to light his soul lamp.
The Golden Summit Hall.
Today, the Main Peak was exceptionally lively. Between the surging seas of clouds, several streaks of light landed one after another.
Ordinarily, when a disciple entered the Inner Sect, they would at most go through the motions at the Sect Affairs Hall, where a deacon on duty would light a soul lamp to finalize it.
But today, the array of personnel was rather substantial. Not only was Sect Leader Shen Qianqiu seated high upon the dais, but even several influential elders, who usually kept to themselves, were all present.
In particular, Zhao Wuji of Qingfeng Gate had arrived earliest. Though his aged face was taut, the urgent look in his eyes—as if saying, 'I want to see what tricks you’re playing'—was impossible to hide.
Just yesterday, that old fossil Ren Wencai had sent him a mysterious sound transmission, saying he was bringing his disciple to light a soul lamp today and that he 'must come to witness it, lest he regret it later.'
Zhao Wuji truly hadn't expected Gu Chengming to advance to the second realm so quickly. Was the boy even human?
He was skeptical but curious, so he came.
At the same time, footsteps echoed from outside the hall.
Ren Wencai walked with his hands behind his back, followed by Gu Chengming dressed in green robes.
After a careful inspection, Zhao Wuji breathed a long sigh of relief.
His originally tensed body slumped back against his chair.
“First Realm, Ninth Level.” Good, good.
While going from the eighth to the ninth level in half a month was still shocking, it was at least within the realm of understanding. But immediately following that, a wave of nameless irritation surged in Zhao Wuji’s heart.
He dragged all of them out here early in the morning just to see his disciple break through a minor stage?
Wenjian Sect’s rules were strict: one could not enter the Inner Sect without reaching the second realm. While the ninth level was only a step away from the second realm, that single step was often a heavenly chasm.
Some disciples stayed stuck at this bottleneck for three to five years without making an inch of progress.
If you aren’t at the second realm, you are still an Outer Sect disciple.
For Ren Wencai to lead him into the Golden Summit Hall with such fanfare and even demand the Sect Leader personally light the lamp—wasn't this just breaking the rules purely to show off?
High on the platform, Shen Qianqiu also frowned slightly, a flash of confusion in his eyes.
Though he admired Gu Chengming and was willing to give Ren Wencai face, rules were, after all, rules.
“While Gu Chengming possesses extraordinary talent, his cultivation is still shallow. Entering the Inner Sect before the second realm might not be well-received by the public.”
“Sect Leader Senior Brother, Junior Brother Zhao, stay calm. Rules are dead, but people are alive.” Ren Wencai pointed to Gu Chengming behind him.
“The sect laws state one needs the second realm to enter the Inner Sect, but there is an unwritten rule: if a disciple’s combat power can rival the second realm, they can be admitted as an exception upon approval from the Council of Elders.”
Zhao Wuji laughed out of anger. Fighting across minor levels was fine—they were geniuses in their youth and could certainly manage that. But the gap between the First Realm, Ninth Level, and the second realm was a whole major realm. You think you can jump that?
To Zhao Wuji, Ren Wencai was just intentionally showing off.
Gu Chengming, however, was somewhat puzzled. Hadn’t Elder Ren said that mastering Sword Intent was enough to enter the Inner Sect directly? Why wasn't he mentioning it at all?
Thinking of this, his expression turned odd as he realized Ren Wencai’s intent.
He’s even doing a slow buildup for a grand reveal. Elder Ren, you're quite devious.
Right then, he felt a strange gaze landing on him. Gu Chengming instinctively turned to look.
In the elder seats to the right, Yu Wenqiu, dressed in purple, was watching him.
At this moment, Elder Yu’s expression was equally subtle.
Gu Chengming noticed her gaze.
He was surprised, thinking, Does Elder Yu also know I've mastered Sword Intent? How does she know?
Then he quickly remembered what Yu Wenqiu had told him about her technique—the Heavenly Eye.
No way… that technique seems quite powerful.
“Ahem.”
Ren Wencai coughed lightly, finally showing his hand.
“Junior Brother Zhao, since you don’t believe it, why don’t you personally step out to test my disciple?”
“Of course, you are a senior and a fourth realm sword cultivator; you cannot bully the young. You only need to suppress your cultivation to the early stage of the second realm. If he luckily wins a move or two… then I ask you to witness and acknowledge my disciple’s eligibility for the Inner Sect. How about it?”
Zhao Wuji didn't agree immediately. He narrowed his eyes.
He knew this old fox too well. Usually, in such situations, he was digging a hole for someone to fall into.
However, he thought left and right and looked Gu Chengming up and down again. There was nothing special.
He was just a First Realm, Ninth Level disciple with a solid foundation.
Since things had reached this point, he might as well agree.
If he really did get played and helped the old fox pull off a grand show, he’d at least make the old man buy him dinner.
Besides, he truly didn’t think Gu Chengming could beat him.
Thinking this, Zhao Wuji chuckled and stood in the center of the hall, one hand behind his back, gesturing with the other toward Gu Chengming.
“Very well. Nephew Gu, please.”
“Let your Uncle see exactly how much weight this 'rivaling the second realm' claim holds.”
The air in the hall turned stagnant.
Zhao Wuji stood in the arena, his spiritual pressure receding like a tide, instantly compressing down to the early stage of the second realm.
With one hand behind his back and fingers of the other held like a sword, he looked relaxed, possessing the calm grace of a senior instructing a junior.
“Make your move.”
As the words fell, the wind rose.
Gu Chengming didn't hesitate. His steps shifted slightly as his figure moved like floating clouds emerging from a valley. He closed the distance in an instant, his sword unsheathing silently. The blade pointed diagonally, aiming straight for Zhao Wuji’s right shoulder.
This strike was not fast, nor did it carry the momentum of thunder.
Zhao Wuji lifted his gaze slightly, intending to flick his finger and deflect the blade.
In his view, such a straightforward sword move was full of openings. With a light tap, Gu Chengming would be left completely exposed.
However, finger and sword met.
There was no sound of metal clashing, only a soft 'hiss' like tearing silk.
Gu Chengming’s wrist trembled. The Tinglan Sword wasn't deflected; instead, it wound around the spiritual light of those fingertips and slid up Zhao Wuji’s arm.
【Sword Intent (Entangle): Activated.】
Zhao Wuji’s brow twitched.
“Some skill.”
He thought inwardly. Remaining stationary, he tilted his body to avoid the edge, his finger-sword changing from a stab to a shave, slicing toward Gu Chengming’s wrist pulse.
Gu Chengming pressed forward instead of retreating, his sword following his movements.
【Bond Activated: Rising Clouds.】
The sword light suddenly accelerated.
What had been a somewhat sluggish move instantly produced afterimages. The Tinglan Sword traced a bizarre semicircle in the air, not only avoiding Zhao Wuji’s shave but also slashing upward at his ribs from an incredibly tricky angle.
This transition was smooth as flowing water, the change between fast and slow devoid of any jerkiness.
Zhao Wuji let out a small gasp and had to retreat half a step.
One step back led to many more.
Gu Chengming pressed his advantage. Sword light fell like rain, not a storm, but a continuous drizzle—each strike only aiming to graze.
Zhao Wuji felt the air around him gradually thicken.
It wasn't obvious at first; he simply thought the kid’s spiritual power was a bit odd. But after ten moves, the sensation became intense.
Moving his hand was like moving through water; stepping felt like being stuck in mud.
Each time he channeled his energy, it required thirty percent more effort than usual. That omnipresent resistance clung to him like a shadow.
“What style is this?”
Though Zhao Wuji had suppressed his realm, his insight remained. Normal first realm disciples' sword moves, no matter how exquisite, were just variations in technique. But Gu Chengming’s sword was clearly suppressing him through momentum, weaving an invisible web.
He let out a low grunt, no longer tangling with Gu Chengming in those close quarters.
The spiritual power in his body surged, and the sword light at his fingertips expanded by three feet, turning into a silken ribbon that swept out. This move, called “Water Severing Flow,” focused on using raw strength to break through skill.
However, there was no panic in Gu Chengming’s eyes. His sword bloomed in the air, lightly meeting the sweeping sword light.
He wasn't blocking it; he was guiding it.
Zhao Wuji felt the force in his hand divert as his intended strike was pulled uncontrollably downward. Using the gap, Gu Chengming’s figure flashed again.
【Rising Clouds: Layers stacking.】
The sword light became airtight, each strike as light as a feather, withdrawing the moment it touched.
Zhao Wuji felt a sickening, sticky sensation from all directions. He wanted to counter-attack, but every punch or finger he threw felt like hitting a ball of cotton, and the force was even being used by his opponent to rebound.
Thirty moves, fifty moves, eighty moves.
The hall was so quiet a pin could be heard.
The elders who had originally come for a show were now all leaning forward slightly.
They saw clearly.
In the arena, Gu Chengming was actually suppressing Zhao Wuji!
Even if Zhao Wuji had suppressed his cultivation, how rich was his combat experience? Yet he was being held in place by a greenhorn using this frustrating combat style!
Zhao Wuji became more frustrated the more he fought. Just as he was about to mobilize his spiritual power, it cut off without warning.
The spiritual pressure gathered in his palm vanished instantly. The breath he had gathered was choked in his chest.
My spiritual power... why did it suddenly stagnate?!
In that split second.
The sound of the wind died. Gu Chengming’s sword had arrived.
The tip of the sword hovered half an inch in front of Zhao Wuji’s brow.
Immediately after, Gu Chengming flipped his wrist, sheathed the sword, retreated three steps, and bowed respectfully.
“Uncle, thank you for going easy on me.”
Zhao Wuji didn't move. He lowered his hands and abruptly turned to look at Ren Wencai, who was holding a teacup nearby, unable to hide his smirking lips.
Ren Wencai took a leisurely sip of tea. Feeling Zhao Wuji’s murderous glare, he slowly looked up and feigned surprise.
“Oh, Junior Brother Zhao, you miscalculated.”
“Well? Did I lie about him 'rivaling the second realm'?”
Seeing Ren Wencai’s triumphant face, Zhao Wuji’s teeth itched with the urge to dump the tea on his head.
Damn it, Ren Wencai! I knew you had some scheme cooked up!
Zhao Wuji took a deep breath, suppressing his frustration.
A loss was a loss.
As an elder, if he made excuses now, he would lose not just face, but his dignity as a Peak Master.
“A fine Entanglement Technique, a fine Sword Intent.”
Zhao Wuji dispersed the spiritual light from his fingertips. Looking at the nephew before him who was neither humble nor arrogant, the anger in his eyes faded, replaced by a complex look of praise.
“Senior Brother Ren was right. Your Sword Intent has matured. Although you lack second realm cultivation, you possess second realm combat power. You are truly worthy of Inner Sect status.”
“Thank you for the acknowledgement, Uncle.” Gu Chengming bowed again.
High on the dais, Sect Leader Shen Qianqiu nodded slightly, his eyes showing appreciation.
As the Sect Leader, his vision was broader than Zhao Wuji’s.
Gu Chengming’s series of moves just now seemed to be simple 'entanglement' and 'trapping,' but they actually contained the wonders of Yin and Yang transformation and using the opponent's strength. Especially that moment of spiritual interruption at the end—even he was impressed.
“In that case, do any of the elders have further objections?”
Shen Qianqiu surveyed the room, his voice gentle but carrying an undeniable authority.
Seeing Zhao Wuji admit defeat, the other elders naturally had no objections and nodded in agreement.
Deep within the Sect Affairs Hall, in the Soul Lamp Pavilion.
This was one of Wenjian Sect’s most core forbidden areas. Thousands of everlasting lamps burned here, each flame representing the life and soul of an Inner Sect disciple.
The person lives as long as the lamp stays lit.
Following the Sect Leader’s guidance, Gu Chengming squeezed out a drop of essence blood and let it fall into the purple-gold lotus lamp that belonged to him.
Hum—
The essence blood entered the lamp and instantly transformed into a crimson-gold flame. It soared upward, establishing a faint, ethereal connection with Gu Chengming’s soul.
Shen Qianqiu looked at the vigorous flame and nodded with satisfaction.
“From this day forth, you are a true Inner Sect disciple of the Wenjian Sect. The honor and shame of the sect now rest upon your shoulders.”
“I understand.” Gu Chengming bowed.
Once finished, Shen Qianqiu did not dismiss the group. Instead, he took Gu Chengming and several core elders to a side hall for a meeting.
“Chengming.”
Shen Qianqiu sat down, his expression becoming slightly more serious.
“Though you have entered the Inner Sect and possess Sword Intent, you ultimately lack experience.”
“Within the sect, while we have the Sect-Protecting Array and elders in residence, it is too sheltered.”
“My intention is for you to rest within the sect for three months to stabilize your realm and familiarize yourself with Inner Sect resources and arts. After three months, you will take the sect credentials and descend the mountain to the Great Qian.”
“Firstly, to experience the mortal world and temper your heart. Secondly, to represent the sect and serve as a deterrent to any who would act against us.”
“I obey your command.” Gu Chengming accepted without hesitation.
Once the official business was finished, the atmosphere relaxed.
Shen Qianqiu offered a few more pointers on cultivation before preparing to let everyone leave. However, right then…
Yu Wenqiu, who had been standing in the corner in a state of being 'somewhere else entirely' the whole time, let out a microscopic sigh.
Elder Yu was worried.
With Gu Chengming leaving for the distant Great Qian, he would be gone for several years.
What would happen to her 'spiritual food'? What about her unfinished novels?
And those tens of thousands of words of fanfiction she just edited—she hadn't even found someone to share her insights with yet!
Without Gu Chengming, who in this dead-silent Inner Sect would understand her 'Angsty Master-Disciple Love'? Who could discuss those wild plot ideas with her?
Would she have to return to her old days of just sleeping and staring into space, with the occasional visit to the Cangjian Pavilion to flip through old books?
So boring.
She shot Gu Chengming a sulky glance, wondering if she should force the boy to write out the outline for the next several hundred thousand words during these three months.
High in his seat, Shen Qianqiu suddenly scanned the room.
“Elder Yu.”
Shen Qianqiu spoke, his voice gentle.
Yu Wenqiu, caught daydreaming, was startled. She instinctively stood straight and looked up blankly.
“Ah? Does the Sect Leader have instructions?”
“Elder Yu, you shall go with Gu Chengming.”
“It will serve as both guardianship and… ahem, a chance for you to clear your head. Don’t stay cooped up in the sect all day.”
Yu Wenqiu blinked, pointed a slender finger at her nose, and then opened her mouth in disbelief.
“Me?”
Three months in the world of cultivation was but a blink of an eye.
During this time, Gu Chengming stabilized his realm, picked a few practical minor arts from the Scripture Repository, and refined his set of dharma treasures.
As for that 《Passionate Sword Art》, while he didn't study it deeply, he read through it as if it were a miscellaneous book, preparing for his future spar with Senior Brother Lu Che.
Once everything was settled, the day of departure arrived.
A small willow-leaf-shaped flying boat sliced through the sky, carrying the two of them slowly away from the Main Peak. The wind whistled, flapping their clothes.
Gu Chengming stood at the stern and instinctively looked back.
His gaze traveled over the layers of cloud seas, past the towering Golden Summit Hall, and finally settled on the slightly lower, yet most vibrant part of the sect—the Back Mountain.
Even from this distance, he could see the curls of cooking smoke rising from there. It was particularly conspicuous amidst the cold celestial mists, yet it radiated a sense of peace and warmth.
Vaguely, he seemed to hear the shouts and cheers coming from the Training Ground at the front mountain. Countless Outer Sect disciples were sweating there, struggling for a chance to 'leap the dragon's gate.'
Gu Chengming withdrew his gaze and looked to his side.
He saw Elder Yu, who usually wouldn't move even if the heavens fell unless she found a comfortable position, now carrying her small bundle of novels. She looked like an eggplant hit by frost—wilting and sighing miserably.
“Sect Leader Senior Brother has ruined me…”
Yu Wenqiu looked at the long road down the mountain with a face full of gloom.
How could she not understand the deeper meaning behind Shen Qianqiu’s words? 'Guardianship' and 'clearing her head' were just excuses. He clearly thought she was too lazy in the sect and used this chance to kick her down the mountain for some experience.
Seeing her depressed state, Gu Chengming suppressed a smile and comforted her.
“Actually, the Great Qian is very prosperous and lively. There are many new novels and foods. It might not be that boring.”
“Novels and food can't compare to lying on a bamboo chair…”
Yu Wenqiu grumbled, but now that the decree was set, she could only accept her fate.
She waved her hand listlessly and took the lead, riding a somewhat lazy streak of purple light.
“Whatever, let's go. We'll leave early and come back early. If we can finish things within three years, I might still make it back for a sip of fresh peach blossom wine.”
Gu Chengming laughed in spite of himself, his expression then turning serious.
He turned around, facing the vast, boundless sea of clouds and the distant, unknown direction of the Great Qian, a land filled with opportunities and challenges.
The mountain wind blew past, his green robes fluttering.
At that moment, the semi-transparent frame that had been silent for a long time slowly floated into his field of vision, carrying the sentimental tone of a storyteller.
【Qingxin Art looks at this scene of the billowing clouds and the image of a boy and his sword about to set off into the distance. It feels this moment is much like the suspenseful, lingering final chapter of the first volume of a novel.】
【The youth carries his sword from the mountain gate, a beauty by his side. Behind him are the expectations of the sect; before him is the vast mortal world and the treachery of the court.】
【It ponders for a moment and decides that if this volume needed a title, it would perhaps be…】
【—Sword Leaves Huiyuan.】
【Qingxin Art Favorability +5】
【Current Favorability: 80 / Like】
Clouds surged, and the scrolls gently closed.
(End of Volume 1: Sword Leaves Huiyuan)
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