By now, Gu Chengming was completely absorbed in exploring the Free and Unfettered Art, intently taking apart the endless sword moves before him.
He fought with growing excitement, until the world in his eyes gradually narrowed to nothing but the paths of the sword moves and the flow of Spiritual Power.
At that moment, Su Qingmeng gritted her teeth and decided to risk everything.
The Spiritual Power within her erupted without reserve. Dazzling white light flared along her long sword, and she and the sword became one, transforming into a streak of brilliant light that pierced through the void.
Facing this sword strike, Gu Chengming, immersed in his test, gave it little thought.
Driven by the Free and Unfettered Art, his body instinctively made the optimal response.
He did not retreat. Instead, he stepped forward into that streak of brilliance, cutting precisely into the weakest point of Su Qingmeng's Sword Momentum.
Gu Chengming had completely forgotten that he'd originally intended to keep the match friendly. He'd also forgotten that his opponent was the Daoist who deserved to be shown some respect. His long sword swept out.
"Clang."
The spine of Gu Chengming's sword struck Su Qingmeng's wrist joint with pinpoint accuracy. Spiritual Power surged through her arm, leaving her right hand numb. The Sword Intent she had been building up instantly scattered, and the long sword in her hand nearly flew free.
"Clang."
Right after, Gu Chengming turned his wrist and brought the end of his sword hilt down, striking Su Qingmeng squarely on the right shoulder. He had gauged the force perfectly: it left her bones unharmed, yet crudely knocked her balance off-center.
"Clang."
Su Qingmeng staggered. Before she could regain her footing, Gu Chengming's scabbard swept across the backs of her knees. Her unbalanced legs could no longer