Gu Chengming

Biodata

Feature	Detail
Name	Gu Chengming 1 5 6 17 27 32 40 47 53 54 55 60 73 76 80 81 100 104 106 107 108 109 113 115 116 120 125 127 131 176 196 243 260 268 285 296 303
Sect	Wenjian Sect, Huiyuan Gate 1 100 276
Realm	First Realm Level Three (initially) 5 6; First Realm Level Five 32 47; First Realm Level Six 53 54; First Realm Level Eight 80; First Realm Level Nine 109; Second Realm 115; Peak of the Second Realm 40 146; Third Realm 146 230 243; Third Realm Level Three 176 260; Third Realm Level Five 195
Cultivation Methods	Huiyuan Sword Technique (Beginner), Clear Heart Art (Beginner) 1; Zhou Li Tian Ren Zheng Xin Fa 80 81; Hundred Bones Cry 53; Primordial Emperor Technique 53; Pure Heart Art 108; Mortal World Illusory Body Technique 122 268; Yin Yang Creation Strategy 203 230; Free and Unfettered Art 196 285
Attributes	Strength 8, Agility 7, Constitution 2, Spirit 12, Charm 25 1; Constitution 5 after Hundred Bones Cry reaches the Friendly stage 25; Constitution further increases by 3 and his lifespan rises to 63 years 63; Charm 32 230; Agility increased by 2 through the Mortal World Illusory Body Technique 268
Status (initial)	Damaged Innate Talent (continuously accumulating negative buffs), Essence Blood Depletion (current HP cap permanently reduced by 30%, and continuously decaying daily, estimated remaining lifespan: 87 days) 1
Affiliation	Town Night Division; initially a Night Patrol Guard, later Deputy Commander 104 109 113 127 131 243
Mentor	Ren Wencai 32 40 53 60 80 81 176 185 260
Teacher	Yu Wenqiu 115
Merits	Second meritorious official in a major case concluded by the Director 131; Slew two Third Realm Malevolent Spirits and several Second Realm ones within one month of service 127; resolved the Joyful Union Sect crisis 243; helped thwart the Longevity Sect's Heavenly Que plot and released the Law Position's power as the rule of “Peace Under Heaven” 268
Superior	Zhou Qingmu (Director of Town Night Division) 113 131 243
Colleagues	Song Qing 106 108 109 115 116 120; Feng Ya 108 115; Xu Huaiyi 153 243 256; Chu Heng and Jiang Yun of Sitian Mansion 161 245 247
Position	Leader of Wenjian Sect's younger generation for the Sect Competition 196 295
Law Positions	Free Heaven 285; briefly controlled the Longevity Devouring Heaven Dao Array's Law Position power before releasing it as a public rule 180 268

Physical Description

Gu Chengming is a young man with sharp eyebrows, bright eyes, and a tall, upright posture, possessing a natural handsomeness that makes him difficult to ignore 27. His appearance is often described as having "extraordinary immortal grace" 2. He maintains a neat and tidy appearance, often seen in a simple blue or green robe without ostentatious accessories 70 71 108. When attending formal events, he dresses in a brand-new Sect robe, with his hair tied up and his Tinglan Sword at his waist 80. His charm is noted to be as high as twenty-five 27 116, later increasing to thirty-two 230.

• He can appear disheveled when practicing his sword, with sweat-soaked clothes and wet fringe clinging to his forehead 2.
• His posture is described as being as upright as a pine tree 116.
• He has delicate features and a clean aura 6.
• When under the influence of the Primordial Emperor Technique, his arrogance and eccentric behavior become more pronounced 69.
• After breaking through to the Second Realm, his aura becomes contained and deep, making him appear like a mortal with vigorous blood and qi if not deliberately probed 115.
• In an illusion, he is perceived as an "underdeveloped" girl of about fifteen, which surprises an Elder who expected a perfect image 133.
• His exceptional appearance and captivating sword practice attract the attention of Daoning Gate's female disciples, who repeatedly sneak into Huiyuan Gate's Back Mountain to watch him 204 206 290.
• The Mortal World Art makes his numerous karmic connections particularly conspicuous to other cultivators of Mortal World techniques, complicating his ability to conceal his identity 140.

Character Background

Gu Chengming, an orphan, was brought to the Wenjian Sect by a traveling elder after wandering in the mortal world since childhood 52. His background records are notably clean, leading some, like Elder Zhao Wuji, to suspect he might be the sole survivor of a destroyed immortal cultivation family or harbor an unspeakable secret 52. Within the sect, his early years were marked by hardship; for two of his three years, his cultivation resources were claimed by someone else, a situation that would typically foster resentment in other disciples 24.

Despite these challenges, Gu Chengming demonstrated exceptional talent and a firm Dao Heart, quickly progressing in his cultivation 53 81. His rapid advancement, particularly in the complex Zhou Li Tian Ren Zheng Xin Fa, surprised his master, Ren Wencai 81. He also possesses remarkable social acumen, skillfully navigating interactions with sect elders and earning their favor 81. Gu Chengming's unique cultivation methods, such as practicing the Hundred Bones Cry technique, sometimes cause commotion and misunderstanding among the elders, though he resourcefully explains his actions 53. He is known for his ability to comprehend sword arts, even claiming to have self-comprehended techniques that resemble those of other sects 69.

Gu Chengming's character is shaped by his experiences, including an intense spar with Li Demonzi of the Yunyue Sect, which enhanced his reputation 69. He also developed an interest in the "Imperial Court Path" from his past, viewing cultivation as a means to engage with the world and pursue official titles within the Da Gan Dynasty 73. His journey led him to break through to the Second Realm, where he discovered a dragon-shaped qi seed resonating with the Capital City's Dragon Qi 115. He was eventually accepted into the Inner Sect and assigned to go to Da Gan for experience, accompanied by Elder Yu Wenqiu 97.

During his Da Gan experience, Gu Chengming rapidly accumulated accomplishments within the Town Night Division, becoming a trusted subordinate of Director Zhou Qingmu and ultimately being promoted to Deputy Commander 121 243. His involvement in the Joyful Union Sect crisis, the Northern Border, and the Heavenly Que Secret Realm established a reputation that far surpassed that of his peers 243 280. After the Zhou Shrine and Heavenly Que events, he returned to Wenjian Sect as a Third Realm cultivator and was selected to lead its younger generation in the Sect Competition 192 196 260.

Abilities

Sword Chess

Gu Chengming possesses a unique feature called "Sword Chess," which allows him to form "Bonds" with sword techniques 88. This system simplifies complex information about his sword techniques and their interactions 87.

• Applications:
  • Increases the power of bonded sword techniques and adds unique effects 88.
  • Allows for the activation of "Sword Array" when three or more "Magic Sword" type weapons are equipped or controlled simultaneously 123 125.
  • Enables the control of multiple flying swords with divine sense, increasing their attack frequency and agility, and sharing Sword Intent bonuses 123 125.
  • Facilitates the formation of specific arrays like the "Three Talents Sword Array" 125.
  • Later supports the Tenfold Perfection Sword Formation, allowing Gu Chengming to deploy ten flying swords in battle 205 221.
  • Includes Sword Chess entries such as “Sword Intent (Entangle)” and “Da Gan,” whose requirements became easier after Huiyuan Sword Art evolved 93.
• Limitations:
  • Primarily incorporates sword techniques, excluding other cultivation methods like Hundred Bones, Pure Heart Art, Myriad Wonders, or Zhou Li 87.

Primordial Emperor Technique

This technique is a CG (Computer Graphic) unlocked for Hundred Bones, transforming it into "Hundred Heavenly Emperor" 51.

• Applications:
  • Grants the "Primordial Emperor Qi" buff, doubling physical defense 51.
  • Confers the "Emperor" state for 30 minutes 51.
  • Causes a warm aura to surge through Gu Chengming's body, making his physical form appear firm and metallic, and instilling a sense of nobility 51.
  • The cooldown shortens and unlock progress increases with repeated use 51.
  • Can be actively used in combat, such as to block attacks 130.
  • Works with Hundred Bones Cry and Law Position-based damage amplifications to produce devastating physical strikes 180 205 289.
• Limitations:
  • Has a 3-day cooldown initially 51.
  • Can influence Gu Chengming's behavior, making him more arrogant and eccentric 69.

Flowing Cloud Following Moon

This is a sword technique that appeared as an independent entry in Gu Chengming's system in fragmentary form 40.

• Applications:
  • Demonstrates advanced swordsmanship, allowing Gu Chengming to easily defeat opponents of higher cultivation levels 56.
  • Can be used as a movement technique for dodging and weaving 130.
  • Its core characteristic is "entanglement," allowing it to latch onto an opponent's sword, dissolve attacks, and counter-restrain movements 16.
  • Can create an invisible net of momentum to suppress opponents, making their movements sluggish 97.
  • Can apply stacks of "Entangle" to reduce an enemy's Agility 88 130.
• Limitations:
  • Initially expressed resentment towards Gu Chengming and Huiyuan Sword Art 40.

Mortal World Illusory Body Technique

This is an unconventional evasion technique that Gu Chengming chose despite its heretical reputation and Deputy Commander Liu's concerns 122.

• Applications:
  • Makes movements dreamlike and illusory 122.
  • Capable of masking killing intent 122.
  • Can unleash astonishing speed in a short period 122.
  • At mastery, can create illusory bodies indistinguishable from reality to confuse opponents 122.
  • Can perceive karmic threads and assess people with unusual sensitivity, such as identifying Jiang Yun as someone worth watching 163 247.
  • Its Dao Conduit CG was fully unlocked after the Heavenly Que crisis, raising its favorability to “Like” and granting Gu Chengming two Agility points 268.
• Limitations:
  • Requires high Charm (19 points) and Agility (11 points) 122.
  • Extremely prone to qi deviation and madness if one has weak willpower 122.
  • Regarded as a heretical path by orthodox cultivators due to its subtle and treacherous nature 122.
  • Its karmic perception makes Gu Chengming's many connections vulnerable to detection by Joyful Union Sect cultivators 140.

Zhou Li Tian Ren Zheng Xin Fa

This is a complex mental cultivation method that Gu Chengming progresses rapidly in 81.

• Applications:
  • Can resonate with the vast Da Gan National Fortune, aiding in breakthroughs 114.
  • Possesses a "formation-like" quality, capable of establishing a "ritual" order 129.
  • Can identify and highlight any existence that does not conform to its established order or harbors ill intentions 129.
  • Enables Gu Chengming to use the Ritual Law Eye to expose illusions and serve as a formation's eye against evil influences 131.
  • Can assess a target according to ritual, righteousness, humanity, wisdom, loyalty, filial piety, and related standards, producing powerful Law Position-based damage amplification effects 180 255 256.
  • Reached full favorability during the Heavenly Que crisis, helping Gu Chengming sever and shatter a contaminated Law Position 268.
  • Its completed CG grants effects that allow its principles to permeate Gu Chengming's wider cultivation system and grants the protective “Legacy of Peace,” which counters the Longevity Sect's corruption of history and Law Positions 184.
• Limitations:
  • Gu Chengming tends to utilize its passive abilities, sometimes forgetting its active functions 129.

Insightful Eyes

A passive skill gained when Clear Heart Art's favorability reached the "Liked" stage 41.

• Applications:
  • Allows Gu Chengming to see through opponents' intentions 41.
  • Grants new dialogue options 41.
  • Continues to appear during emotionally significant exchanges with Yu Wenqiu, presenting responses aligned with reason, teasing, or Gu Chengming's true feelings 191 275.
  • Helps Gu Chengming intuit Yu Wenqiu's self-doubt and emotional state 190 274.

Huiyuan Sword Art

A sword art that Gu Chengming deeply understands and uses 11.

• Applications:
  • Can be used to automatically practice sword techniques 58.
  • Includes basic techniques like "Redirect" to diffuse attacks 27.
  • Can be used to entangle and control opponents 88.
  • Can be used in conjunction with "Demon Quelling Sword Art" for entanglement and control 88.
  • Its evolved Sword Chess qualities allow Gu Chengming to develop increasingly sophisticated Sword Intent and sword-array combinations 93 125.
  • Is currently the only cultivation method with which Gu Chengming has successfully integrated the Yin Yang Creation Strategy into a Sword Domain 205.
• Limitations:
  • Requires significant resources (blood qi and vital essence) to cultivate, necessitating spiritual medicines and blood food to avoid damage to one's origin or shortened lifespan 6.
  • Many inner sect elders do not understand it as deeply as Gu Chengming 11.

Yin Yang Creation Strategy

A cultivation method Gu Chengming uses to project internal characteristics into external reality and explore Sword Domains 203 204.

• Applications:
  • Produces a faint pink domain-like halo that alters the atmosphere and suppresses motion within its range 204.
  • Allows Gu Chengming to make cultivation-method characteristics the primary body of his sword art, rather than merely infusing them into sword moves 204.
  • Has been successfully integrated with Huiyuan Sword Art to form a Sword Domain 205.
  • Its favorability increase to “Fond” granted Gu Chengming two Charm points and accompanied his breakthrough into the Third Realm 230.
• Limitations:
  • Requires substantial mental and spiritual energy, and prolonged immersion may cause Gu Chengming to lose awareness of his surroundings 282.
  • Early attempts at forming a stable domain collapsed after only a few breaths 203.

Free and Unfettered Art

A cultivation method associated with an unorthodox senior of Wenjian Sect and later initiated by Gu Chengming 187 196.

• Applications:
  • Its favorability rises when Gu Chengming uses unconventional yet effective methods to aid fellow disciples and the sect 196.
  • Gu Chengming can explore it during sword sparring, gaining insights into its combat potential 282.
  • Its favorability later reaches the “Friendly” stage, alongside Gu Chengming receiving the Law Position of Free Heaven 285.
  • While sparring with Su Qingmeng, its influence allows Gu Chengming to perceive the principles, spiritual-power circulation, and essential Sword Dao behind her techniques with extraordinary clarity, then reproduce a similar sword move 281.
• Limitations:
  • Initially provides no visible statistics or mechanics despite being initiated 196.
  • Its use can be mentally draining and may cause dangerous over-immersion 282.

Hundred Bones Cry

A body-refining cultivation method whose favorability grants Gu Chengming physical enhancements and which later identifies itself as Hundred Heavenly Emperor 25 51 63.

• Applications:
  • Raises Gu Chengming's Constitution and lifespan as its favorability improves 25 32 63.
  • Provides immense body-refining strength, allowing its power to be incorporated into Gu Chengming's punches 180.
  • Can assist Gu Chengming under the invocation “Hundred Heavenly Emperor, aid me,” greatly amplifying his physical attacks when combined with other buffs 180 205 289.
  • Physically manifested as a white-haired girl after the Sect Competition's opening events, retaining her identity and power as Hundred Heavenly Emperor 303.
• Limitations:
  • Its physical manifestation is unexplained and appears connected to locked cultivation-method functions, missing memories, and a possible time reversal 303.

Power Progression

Cultivation Level	Techniques	Significant Events	Date
First Realm Level Four	Huiyuan Sword Art, Clear Heart Art	Breaks through during a cultivation session; Liu Enchuan considers taking him as a disciple 21.
First Realm Level Five	Hundred Bones Cry, Flowing Light Sword Shadow	Refines Dragon Blood Grass, raises Hundred Bones' favorability, improves his Constitution and lifespan, and breaks through 32.
First Realm Level Six	Hundred Bones Resounding, Primordial Emperor Technique	Breaks through after using the improved Primordial Emperor Technique; clears up misunderstandings with Elders Ren and Zhao about his cultivation method 53 54.
First Realm Level Seven	Primordial Emperor Technique	Gu Chengming aims to reach this level to confidently win against the Yunyue Sect genius 60.
First Realm Level Eight	Hundred Bones Resonance, Primordial Emperor Technique, Zhou Li Tian Ren Zheng Xin Fa	Completes the second stage of the Primordial Emperor Technique; breaks through from Level Six in a few days due to a sudden insight while practicing a body refining technique 69 75. Begins practicing Zhou Li Tian Ren Zheng Xin Fa 78 80.
First Realm Level Nine	Huiyuan Sword Art, Zhou Li Tian Ren Zheng Xin Fa	Cultivation reaches this level; "Huiyuan Sword Art" evolves, unlocking new "Sword Chess" entries; defeats You Yuyao in a competition 93 96.
Second Realm	Zhou Li Tian Ren Zheng Xin Fa, Pure Heart Art	Emerges from seclusion after breaking through, conceals his aura, and discovers a dragon-shaped qi seed resonating with the Capital City's Dragon Qi 115.
Peak of the Second Realm	Mortal World Illusory Body Technique, Yin Yang Creation Strategy	Cultivation rises through the late Second Realm and reaches its peak under the influence of Mortal World Qi 146 230.
Third Realm	Yin Yang Creation Strategy, Hundred Bones Cry	Breaks through into the Third Realm after the Yin Yang Creation Strategy's favorability rises to “Fond” 230.
Third Realm Level Three	Zhou Li Tian Ren Zheng Xin Fa, Burial Sword Mound, Tenfold Perfection Sword Formation	After the Zhou Li Bond Event and Heavenly Que expedition, annihilates ambushing rogue cultivators and reunites with Ren Wencai, who is shocked by his advancement 176 221 260.
Third Realm Level Five	Huiyuan Sword Art, Hundred Bones Cry, Yin Yang Creation Strategy	Breaks through again while preparing for the Sect Competition; his base Spiritual Power, sword art, and physical strength increase accordingly 195.

Character Relationships

• Ren Wencai: Gu Chengming's mentor and the Grand Elder of the Wenjian Sect. He recognizes Gu Chengming's potential and secretly trains him, showing favoritism and pride in his progress 32 34 49 60 81 93. Ren Wencai also uses Gu Chengming to represent the sect in competitions and to gain influence 60 80. After reuniting with Gu Chengming in Heavenly Que, he is astonished by his disciple's growth from First Realm Level Nine to Third Realm Level Three in two years 176 185 260.
• Yu Wenqiu: Gu Chengming's teacher and a close friend. She shows concern for Gu Chengming, offers guidance, and has a playful side, even writing fanfiction based on his storybook 60 71 79 80 86 97 109 115. She accompanies Gu Chengming on missions and warns him about revealing his secrets 97 115. Their bond deepens during their time in Da Gan; Gu Chengming recognizes her emotional struggles, takes her through the Capital City to lift her spirits, and expresses sincere gratitude for her constant support 190 191 274 275.
• Jiang Lu: Gu Chengming's junior brother. He shows loyalty and concern for Gu Chengming, often helping him and benefiting from their association 15 28 32 41 42. He is aware of Gu Chengming's hidden talents and respects his abilities 15 28.
• Liu Enchuan: An elder in the Wenjian Sect and Jiang Lu's master. He is initially concerned about Gu Chengming's progress but becomes pleased with his performance and respects him 15 71 81.
• Zhao Wuji: An elder from Qingfeng Sect. He is impressed by Gu Chengming's talent and offers him support and mentorship 81 97. He spars with Gu Chengming, acknowledging his skill 97.
• Song Qing: An esteemed disciple of the Heavenly Peak Sect and a colleague in the Town Night Division. He quickly develops respect for Gu Chengming's combat prowess and views him as an equal or superior, seeking his companionship and advice 106 107 109 115 116.
• Lu Che: A senior brother who believes Gu Chengming has many "Dao Companions" due to his charm 77 83 107. He seeks Gu Chengming's advice on romantic matters 77. Gu Chengming's prior advice helps Lu Che overcome a cultivation bottleneck and develop a seven-sword formation based on storybook character archetypes 206 290.
• Hundred Bones: A cultivation method that develops affection for Gu Chengming, increasing his attributes and showing unwavering loyalty 14 32 108. It later manifests physically as a white-haired girl identifying herself as Hundred Heavenly Emperor, though the cause of this manifestation remains unclear 303.
• Zhou Li Tian Ren Zheng Xin Fa: A complex mental cultivation method that Gu Chengming cultivates. It has a strong personality, is initially biased against female cultivators, but is tolerant of other cultivation methods and can be persuaded by Gu Chengming's arguments 79 80 85 131. It grows increasingly proactive in major crises and reaches full favorability during the Heavenly Que incident 170 268.
• Feng Ya: A Bitter Sword Cultivator from the Yunyue Sect and a rival. She is defeated and injured by Gu Chengming, leading her to avoid him and focus on her own cultivation 60 115 109.
• Deputy Commander Liu: Gu Chengming's superior in the Town Night Division. He is surprised by Gu Chengming's uncanny ability to encounter incidents that lead to achievements 125.
• Zhou Qingmu: The Director of the Town Night Division and Gu Chengming's superior. She is impressed by his composure, ritual conduct, and achievements, entrusting him with increasingly important responsibilities before promoting him to Deputy Commander 113 121 131 243. After the Heavenly Que crisis, she develops greater respect and trust for his selflessness 268 274.
• Su Qingmeng: Daoning Gate's Dao Child and a frequent sparring partner. She initially challenged Gu Chengming, but after repeated defeats she became determined to learn from him; their daily sword practice improves both of their swordsmanship 197 199 205 282. Her regular visits cause Daoning Gate disciples and elders to suspect Gu Chengming's intentions 204 288 290.
• Shen Qianqiu: Wenjian Sect's Sect Master. He recognizes Gu Chengming's extraordinary accomplishments, entrusts him with leadership of the sect's younger generation, and sees him as an example of a true Sword Cultivator 192 196 268.
• Xu Huaiyi: An Imperial Observatory cultivator who cooperates with Gu Chengming in investigating hidden threats connected to the Longevity Sect and Zhou Shrine 153 243 256.
• Ji Yixi: The Second Princess of Da Gan. She provides Gu Chengming intelligence concerning the Floating White Dragon King and Floating Sky Mysterious Mirror, forming a cooperative relationship with him 126 211 295.
• Han Che: A Fifth Realm Peak elder of Guizang Gate lineage. He is initially cautious of Gu Chengming and the Burial Sword Mound, then becomes astonished by his achievements and interested in his Sword Dao 275 276.
• Free and Unfettered Art: A recently initiated cultivation method whose unconventional character appeals to Gu Chengming's methods, though it initially gives him no concrete mechanical feedback 196 285.

Notable Events

• Gu Chengming's Cultivation Stagnates Gu Chengming's cultivation remains at First Realm Level Three, a rare occurrence in the Wenjian Sect, and he faces the risk of being expelled 2.
• Gu Chengming Meets Elder Yu Wenqiu Gu Chengming visits the Sword Repository Pavilion to claim cultivation resources and meets Elder Yu Wenqiu, who provides him with a token for an Elder-level Cultivation Method as compensation for some missing resources 5.
• Gu Chengming Breaks Through to First Realm Level Four Gu Chengming breaks through to First Realm Level Four during a cultivation session 21.
• Gu Chengming Breaks Through to First Realm Level Five After refining Dragon Blood Grass with Hundred Bones Cry, Gu Chengming improves his Constitution, extends his remaining lifespan to six years, and breaks through 32.
• Ren Wencai Protects Gu Chengming After Gu Chengming is severely injured attempting to leave an imprint on the Sword Seeking Stone, Ren Wencai reveals he protected Gu Chengming's heart meridian, saving his life 39.
• Gu Chengming Leaves a Mark on the Sword Seeking Stone Despite grave injuries, Gu Chengming leaves a mark revealing peak Second Realm potential; Ren Wencai conceals this discovery from others 40.
• Gu Chengming Breaks Through to First Realm Level Six Gu Chengming successfully breaks through to First Realm Level Six after using the improved Primordial Emperor Technique 53.
• Ren Wencai Warns Gu Chengming About Elder Yu Wenqiu Ren Wencai warns Gu Chengming to avoid interacting with Elder Yu Wenqiu 53.
• Gu Chengming's Grand Competition Performance Gu Chengming's performance in a grand competition, where he placed seventh despite being First Realm Level Six, draws attention and gossip 55.
• Gu Chengming Spars with Li Demonzi Gu Chengming has an intense spar with Li Demonzi from the Yunyue Sect, impressing the audience and sect elders 69.
• Gu Chengming Receives Rewards and a Scripture Repository Pass Gu Chengming receives a reward from Ren Wencai, including a Scripture Repository Third Floor Pass, Spirit Stones, and Nourishing Origin Pills. He decides to use the pass to exchange for a high-level cultivation method 70.
• Gu Chengming Draws "Great Dao's Sound" While cultivating, Gu Chengming draws the "Great Dao's Sound" into his body, pushing him to First Realm Level Eight but causing his Spiritual Power to become unstable 75.
• Gu Chengming Advances in Zhou Li Tian Ren Zheng Xin Fa Gu Chengming's cultivation in the Zhou Li Tian Ren Zheng Xin Fa advances to First Realm Level Eight 80.
• Gu Chengming Hosts a Thank You Feast Gu Chengming hosts a thank you feast for Ren Wencai, inviting Elder Liu Enchuan and, unexpectedly, Elder Zhao Wuji 80.
• Gu Chengming Impresses Elders at a Banquet Gu Chengming skillfully navigates conversations with Elders Ren Wencai and Liu Enchuan at a banquet, earning their favor 81.
• Zhao Wuji Offers Support to Gu Chengming Zhao Wuji, an elder from Qingfeng Sect, takes a liking to Gu Chengming and offers him support if he ever feels mistreated in Huiyuan Gate 81.
• Gu Chengming Receives Inner Sect Disciple Waist Token Gu Chengming receives an Inner Sect Disciple waist token, which will officially make him an Inner Sect Disciple once he breaks through to the Second Realm and ignites his Soul Lamp 85.
• Gu Chengming Receives Rewards for Slaughter Platform Actions Gu Chengming receives generous rewards from Elder Ren for his actions on the Slaughter Platform 93.
• Gu Chengming's "Huiyuan Sword Art" Evolves Gu Chengming discovers that his "Huiyuan Sword Art" has evolved due to his recent experiences 93.
• Gu Chengming Reaches First Realm Level Nine Gu Chengming's cultivation reaches First Realm Level Nine 93.
• Kong Zheng Visits Gu Chengming Kong Zheng visits Gu Chengming late at night, discussing the Dao and laws, and gifts him a token from the Great Gan's Hall of Punishment 95.
• Sect Leader Returns and Discusses Tianque Journey The Sect Leader, Shen Qianqiu, returns, and a meeting is held to discuss the journey to Tianque 95.
• Gu Chengming Spars with Zhao Wuji Gu Chengming spars with Zhao Wuji, who is suppressing his realm, and wins the match 97.
• Gu Chengming Becomes an Inner Sect Disciple Gu Chengming is officially accepted into the Inner Sect and becomes an Inner Sect Disciple after igniting his Soul Lamp 97.
• Gu Chengming Assigned to Da Gan The Sect Master, Shen Qianqiu, assigns Gu Chengming to go to Da Gan for experience, with Elder Yu Wenqiu accompanying him 97.
• Gu Chengming Breaks Through to Second Realm Gu Chengming emerges from seclusion, having broken through to the Second Realm 115.
• Gu Chengming Discovers Dragon-Shaped Qi Seed Gu Chengming discovers a dragon-shaped qi seed in his sea of qi, which resonates with the Dragon Qi of the Capital City 115.
• Yu Wenqiu Warns Gu Chengming About Dragon Qi Yu Wenqiu warns Gu Chengming not to reveal his dragon-shaped qi seed to others, especially not to the Da Gan royal family 115.
• Feng Ya Enters Seclusion Feng Ya goes into seclusion due to embarrassment and a desire to improve her realm 115.
• Gu Chengming Encounters Malevolent Spirits and Robber Cultivators Gu Chengming, while working for the Town Night Division, repeatedly encounters Malevolent Spirits and Robber Cultivators, leading Deputy Commander Liu to comment on his uncanny ability to attract such incidents 125.
• Gu Chengming Breaks Through to the Third Realm Gu Chengming's cultivation rises from the late Second Realm through Second Realm perfection and into the Third Realm under the influence of Mortal World Qi and the Yin Yang Creation Strategy 146 230.
• Gu Chengming Becomes Deputy Commander Following the Joyful Union Sect crisis, Zhou Qingmu promotes Gu Chengming to Deputy Commander of the Town Night Division 243.
• Gu Chengming Enters the Heavenly Que Secret Realm Gu Chengming investigates the Zhou Shrine and the Longevity Sect's plot alongside cultivators from multiple Da Gan institutions 245 256.
• Gu Chengming Reaches Third Realm Level Three After the Zhou Li Bond Event, Gu Chengming annihilates rogue cultivators after being teleported from the Zhou Shrine, shocking Ren Wencai with his advancement 176 260.
• Gu Chengming Obtains the Burial Sword Mound Gu Chengming refines and brings back the enormous Burial Sword Mound after the Heavenly Que events, concealing it when necessary to avoid attracting attention 192 260 275.
• Gu Chengming Saves Heavenly Que Gu Chengming severs Zhou Qingmu's connection to the contaminated Law Position, shatters it, clears the Filth Tide, and releases its power as the rule of “Peace Under Heaven” 268.
• Gu Chengming Is Chosen to Lead Wenjian Sect's Younger Generation Shen Qianqiu appoints Gu Chengming to lead the sect's younger generation in the coming Sect Competition 196 295.
• Gu Chengming Develops a Huiyuan Sword Domain Through the Yin Yang Creation Strategy, Gu Chengming succeeds in forming a Sword Domain based on Huiyuan Sword Art 204 205.
• Gu Chengming Receives the Free Heaven Law Position Gu Chengming experiences a vision of the Life-Defying Tribulation-Slaying True Monarch and receives the Free Heaven Law Position from Demon Orb Immortal 285.
• Gu Chengming Enters the Floating Sky Mysterious Mirror Gu Chengming receives a Sub-Mirror for the Sect Competition, names it “Called Dad After Losing,” and wins a series of virtual battles 295 296.
• Hundred Bones Cry Physically Manifests Hundred Bones Cry unexpectedly appears in physical form as a white-haired girl, prompting Gu Chengming to investigate the connection between her manifestation, missing memories, and a possible time reversal 303.

Themes

The narrative explores several overarching themes, including the journey of cultivation and personal growth, the complexities of political intrigue and societal structures, and the significance of mentorship and interpersonal relationships. It also delves into the power of will and determination, the importance of maintaining one's principles, and the tension between orthodox and unconventional paths in cultivation 115 109 93 41 103 122 119 21 126 78 52.

• Cultivation and Growth: Gu Chengming's continuous breakthroughs and advancements in his cultivation, such as reaching the Second Realm and mastering new sword arts, highlight the theme of personal development and the pursuit of enlightenment 115 93 21. This is further emphasized by Feng Ya's decision to seclude herself for improvement after her defeat 115. His later advancement into the Third Realm and beyond demonstrates both the benefits and dangers of unnaturally rapid progress 176 195 230 243.
• Political Intrigue and Bureaucracy: The story frequently touches upon the intricate power dynamics within the Capital City and the Da Gan Dynasty, including the isolation of the Wenjian Sect in officialdom and the maneuvering of various factions 109 121 126 100 116. The connection between cultivation and governance is also explored, with discussions about imperial examinations and the "Imperial Court Path" 93 73. Gu Chengming's promotion to Deputy Commander further embeds him in conflicts between the Town Night Division, Court of Diplomatic Relations, and other institutions 161 243 245.
• Mentorship and Guidance: The relationships between Gu Chengming and his mentors, Yu Wenqiu and Ren Wencai, underscore the importance of guidance and support in a cultivator's journey. Yu Wenqiu's warnings about political complexities and Ren Wencai's concern for Gu Chengming's rapid advancement exemplify this theme 115 93 109 34 80 53 21 95. As Gu Chengming outgrows ordinary expectations, Ren Wencai must reassess his role as his master 176 185.
• Righteousness and Principles: Gu Chengming's unwavering commitment to his principles, such as his refusal to compromise his integrity when facing false authority or his adherence to etiquette and order, demonstrates the theme of righteousness versus evil and the importance of a firm Dao Heart 103 85 78 24 95. This culminates in his decision to release Law Position power for the benefit of all Heavenly Que cultivators rather than retaining it for himself 268.
• Unconventional Paths and Individualism: The narrative explores the tension between orthodox and unorthodox cultivation methods, with Gu Chengming often pursuing unique techniques or being recognized for his "Ancient Bitter Sword" path 122 21 42 53. His ability to adapt and his independent thinking are consistently highlighted 122 119 65. His Mortal World Art, Free and Unfettered Art, storybook-influenced methods, and Sword Domain experiments extend this theme 196 204 206 285.
• Interpersonal Relationships and Camaraderie: The evolving bonds between characters, such as Gu Chengming's friendship with Song Qing, his close relationship with Yu Wenqiu, and the respect he earns from his colleagues, illustrate the theme of camaraderie and mutual support 115 109 80 126 111. His sparring relationship with Su Qingmeng similarly develops from competition into mutual improvement 199 205 282.
• The Power of Storytelling: Yu Wenqiu's strong emotional connection to Gu Chengming's storybook and her creation of fanfiction based on it emphasize the impact of narrative and its ability to evoke feelings and create connections 80 126 36 97 17 86. Storytelling also directly influences cultivation, most visibly in Lu Che's storybook-character-based sword formation 206 290.
• Fate and Opportunity: The recurring instances of Gu Chengming encountering significant events, such as Malevolent Spirits or Robber Cultivators, are noted by Deputy Commander Liu as if "lining up to crash into you, as if rushing to hand you performance achievements," suggesting a theme of destiny or being a magnet for opportunities 125. The Zhou Shrine, Heavenly Que, and Free Heaven events further connect his growth to forces of fate, karma, and ancient calamity 176 268 285.