Li Mu

Biodata

Feature	Detail
Name	Li Bumu (original name Li Mu) 1 19
Alias	Little Sword Immortal (小剑仙) 19; Mount Hua Sword Immortal 20
Sect	Mount Hua Sect (Sword Faction) 1 16
Generation	“Bu” generation (disciples with the middle character “Bu”) 46
Master	Zhou Qingyun 2 16
Age	19 years old upon transmigration; early twenties by the time of the Five Mountains Martial Gathering 1 22
Cultivation Level	Second-rate realm (initially); later recognized as the foremost of the “Bu” generation, able to defeat multiple first-rate experts 1 46
Notable Skills	Mastered the Nurturing Self Sword Technique, Thirteen Styles of Gentle Breeze, Life-Taking Three Immortals Sword; attained basic sword mastery and a faint trace of sword intent (the Qi of Haoran) 6 19
Distinguishing Traits	Possesses the rare “Qi of Haoran” sword intent; known for his humility, strategic thinking, and emotional intelligence 11 12 19
Notable Achievements	Defeated Cang Mountain Swordsman Liu Gongju, Mount Song’s Zuo Lengchan, Mount Tai’s Mo Yueran, and several other renowned martial artists; placed third in the Mount Hua Sect grand competition 16 19 23

Background

Li Mu transmigrated into the body of a nineteen-year-old disciple of the Mount Hua Sect, finding himself in the world of Smiling Proud Wanderer during the sect's peak era—a time when its strength rivaled Shaolin and Wudang, with over thirty first-rate experts and hundreds of inner-sect disciples 1. However, beneath this prosperity, the Mount Hua Sect was tense with internal strife between the Sword Sect and Qi Sect, a conflict rooted not merely in philosophical differences but in a struggle for power and the distribution of resources 1 2. The two factions had already broken out in at least five brawls in the three months before Li Mu's arrival, and he—having lived two lives and valuing self-preservation—was determined to avoid becoming cannon fodder in the inevitable clash 1. Li Mu understood that the conflict would likely be triggered by an upcoming grand competition, and he resolved to focus on cultivating his strength while navigating the sect's treacherous politics 1 3.

• Initial Sword Practice and Realization of Danger: Shortly after transmigrating, Li Mu was leading a group of youths in sword practice on Luoyan Peak, his demeanor stern. He learned from Senior Brother Liu Bufan that the sect's grand competition was approaching, which he feared would ignite the Sword-Qi conflict 1.
• Learning the Sect's Internal Dynamics: Li Mu and Liu Bufan reached the main courtyard, where Li Mu's master, Zhou Qingyun, and Martial Uncle Yu Qingfeng were engrossed in a chess game. Li Mu absorbed the tension between Sword and Qi sects and learned about the upcoming sect-wide competition. Zhou Qingyun noticed Li Mu's breakthrough to the second-rate realm, acknowledging his progress 2.
• Breakthrough and Master's Guidance: Zhou Qingyun reassured Li Mu that the competition—with outsiders present—would not devolve into a bloody Sword-Qi clash. He exempted Li Mu from sect missions for three years to focus on cultivation, emphasizing foundation-building 3.
• Emergence from Seclusion with Progress: After half a year of seclusion, Li Mu emerged with significant advancements. His basic sword techniques reached their peak, and he mastered advanced Sword Sect legacies like the "Thirteen Styles of Gentle Breeze" and the "Life-Taking Three Immortals Sword," even sensing a faint trace of "sword intent." His martial arts were now completely incomparable to six months prior 6.
• Integration and Cautious Spotlight Management: Li Mu integrated into the small circle of disciples due to his revealed cultivation level and wisdom. He was careful not to hog the spotlight, knowing that standing out too much could trap him on Mount Hua and drag him into Sword-Qi infighting 9 10.
• Participation in the Five Mountains Gathering: The Five Mountains Sword Sects gathered for a competition. Li Mu accompanied his master to receive visiting guests and assessed the strengths of disciples from other sects, understanding the political landscape 10.
• Sect Disputes and Resource Acquisition: After an impressive performance in the competition, Sword Sect elders praised Li Mu to belittle the Qi Sect. Sect Leader Ning Qingyu defused tension and promised focused cultivation for talented disciples. Zhou Qingyun successfully requested more resources for Li Mu 15.
• Victory and Rising Influence: Li Mu defeated Wang Buyao, securing third place in the inner sect competition. This victory gained him confidence and recognition, and Zhou Qingyun saw an opportunity to make Li Mu the next core disciple of the Sword Sect 16.
• Duel with Liu Gongju and "Little Sword Immortal" Title: Li Mu challenged and defeated the Cang Mountain Swordsman, Liu Gongju, displaying exceptional skill and restraint. The victory earned him the nickname "Little Sword Immortal" and attracted the attention of elders Feng Qingyang and Sect Leader Ning Qingyu 19.
• Access to Scripture Library and Further Challenges: Ning Qingyu granted Li Mu free access to the Mount Hua Sect's Scripture Library, a gesture that bought Li Mu's loyalty. Li Mu then challenged and defeated several famous martial artists, solidifying his reputation as "Mount Hua Sword Immortal" 20.
• Leadership Role at Five Mountains Martial Gathering: After the sect's martial arts tournament, Li Mu was hailed as the "most gifted swordsman of the younger generation." Ning Qingyu appointed him as the leader to interact with the four other sects, and Li Mu challenged and defeated Zuo Lengchan and Mo Yueran 22 23.
• Decision to Seclude for Three Years: Facing pressure from factions and having become a prominent figure, Li Mu sought advice from Zhou Qingyun. Following his master's suggestion, Li Mu applied to seclude himself in the Scripture Library for three years to avoid sect infighting and focus on breaking through to the first-rate realm 24.
• Delaying Tactic Against Sword Sect Pressure: When the Sword Sect faction, led by Elder Wang Qingyuan, pressured Li Mu to step down from the competition for sect leader, Li Mu employed a "delaying tactic," claiming he needed to go into seclusion for a cultivation breakthrough. This avoided direct conflict and allowed him to withdraw from the power struggle 41.

Cultivation Method

Mount Hua Mental Method

The Mount Hua Mental Method serves as the foundational internal energy technique for all Mount Hua Sect disciples, emphasizing uprightness, balance, and safety above all else 5. It is a Taoist-influenced cultivation method that shares its philosophical roots with the Quanzhen Mental Method, prioritizing inner peace and the reduction of distracting thoughts 4. While its cultivation speed is notoriously slow—especially after the fourth level, where it becomes less than one-third the speed of ordinary techniques—it compensates by solidifying the practitioner's foundation and weakening cultivation bottlenecks 3. For Li Mu, enhanced by the Mysterious Jade Disc's optimization, the technique becomes perfectly suited for "hacking," integrating internal energy circulation into daily activities such as eating and sleeping 5. This makes it, in practice, faster than most methods when combined with the Jade Disc's assistance 4. Essentially a "survivalist technique," its later levels embody a philosophy of non-action and non-contention, allowing those with a pure heart to cultivate automatically around the clock 4. Its greatest significance lies in its unlimited potential—theoretically cultivable up to the innate realm—making it one of the most promising foundation-building techniques in the Mount Hua Sect 3.

• Orthodox and Safe: The technique is upright, balanced, and safe, designed to minimize the risk of deviation or injury during cultivation 5.
• No Upper Limit: There is no known ceiling to its cultivation potential, theoretically allowing advancement to the innate realm 3.
• Foundation Solidification: It strengthens the practitioner's internal foundation and weakens the difficulty of realm breakthroughs, though it does not guarantee them 3.
• Auto-Circulation Capability: When combined with the Jade Disc's optimization, it integrates cultivation into daily life, allowing automatic internal energy circulation at all times 5.
• "Survivalist" Philosophy: The technique's later stages embrace Taoist non-action, rewarding those with few distracting thoughts and a non-competitive nature 4.
• Optimizable via Deduction: The Mysterious Jade Disc can tailor the technique to the individual, increasing cultivation speed by fifty percent without active assistance, and up to threefold with active assistance 4.

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Hunyuan Skill

The Hunyuan Skill is one of the Nine Great Skills and a widely circulated internal energy technique within the Mount Hua Sect, typically adopted by disciples after breaking through to the second-rate realm 4. Unlike the Mount Hua Mental Method's gentle nature, the Hunyuan Skill is aggressive, prioritizing offensive power and faster cultivation speed 4 5. This makes it ideal for Mount Hua disciples who regularly face the Demonic Cult in combat, as its internal energy possesses formidable attack power 4. However, its cultivation requirements are demanding; ordinary practitioners without a solid internal energy foundation risk damaging their meridians 4. After being optimized by the Mysterious Jade Disc, its power becomes extraordinary, though it still lacks the "hackable" integration into daily life that the Mount Hua Mental Method offers 5. Despite its advantages, Li Mu ultimately chose the Mount Hua Mental Method over the Hunyuan Skill, valuing safety, unlimited potential, and the ability to cultivate continuously over raw speed and aggression 5.

• Aggressive Attributes: The technique produces internal energy with strong offensive properties, suited for direct combat 4.
• Faster Cultivation: Compared to the Mount Hua Mental Method, the Hunyuan Skill offers significantly higher cultivation speed, especially in the early stages 4.
• High Requirements: Requires a certain internal energy foundation; those without sufficient cultivation may find their meridians unable to withstand the technique 4.
• Widely Circulated: As one of the Nine Great Skills, it is the most common second-stage internal method for Mount Hua disciples after their initial breakthrough 4.
• Reputable Lineage: As one of the Nine Skills, it holds a much louder reputation in the martial arts world than the Mount Hua Mental Method 4.

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Nurturing Self Sword Technique

The Nurturing Self Sword Technique is a profound sword legacy of the Mount Hua Sect that integrates the concept of "Haoran Zhengqi" (the noble spirit) into its swordplay 6. Though it appears unremarkable among the sect's many sword techniques, its underlying philosophy is exceptionally deep, and it became Li Mu's favorite technique 6. Through its practice, Li Mu began to sense a faint, elusive trace of "sword intent"—a rare achievement that, within the entire Mount Hua Sect, only the supreme expert Feng Qingyang had previously touched upon 6. While Li Mu's cultivation level was insufficient to truly comprehend sword intent, even this preliminary sensation immensely benefited his swordsmanship 6. The technique's nature is one of restraint and self-cultivation, reflecting the Taoist principles that also underpin the Mount Hua Mental Method 6.

• Integrates Haoran Zhengqi: The sword technique channels the noble spirit into its movements, granting it a righteous and profound quality 6.
• Facilitates Sword Intent: Practicing this technique allowed Li Mu to sense a faint trace of sword intent, a state achieved by very few in the martial world 6.
• Philosophical Depth: Despite its modest appearance, the technique embodies a deep philosophical concept that rewards dedicated cultivation 6.

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Other Notable Techniques

Beyond the primary methods, the Mount Hua Sect's Scripture Library houses numerous other legacies that contribute to a disciple's cultivation. The Purple Mist Divine Skill is the foremost of the nine great skills of Mount Hua, but its contents are exclusive to the sect leader's lineage and not accessible to ordinary disciples 29 4. The Thirteen Styles of Gentle Breeze and the Life-Taking Three Immortals Sword are advanced Sword Sect legacies that Li Mu mastered to great completion, demonstrating his high level of sword technique proficiency 6. Basic sword techniques, when practiced to their peak, form the foundation upon which all advanced swordsmanship is built 6. The Haoran Zhengqi principle itself, while not a standalone cultivation method, is a recurring philosophical and technical element integrated into various sword techniques and is central to the Nurturing Self Sword Technique 6.

Martial Arts

Thirteen Styles of Gentle Breeze

A legacy of the Mount Hua Sect's Sword Sect, the Thirteen Styles of Gentle Breeze is an ethereal sword technique known for its elusive and flowing movements. Li Mu mastered this technique to great completion during his seclusion 6. In combat, the style is characterized by its speed and unpredictability; when executed with Li Mu's elegant movement technique, the practitioner appears "as if present yet absent, as if solid yet illusory, as if changing yet unchanged" 14. This made it exceptionally difficult for opponents to defend against, as demonstrated when Li Mu pressed Wang Buyao, forcing the senior disciple into a wary defensive stance 14. The technique's primary strength lies in its disorienting nature, allowing the user to confound and outmaneuver foes of higher cultivation.

• Strengths: Extremely fast and difficult to track; pairs well with advanced movement techniques; can overpower opponents of similar or higher realm when used adeptly.
• Limitations: Requires exceptional speed and footwork to reach full potential; may be less effective against opponents with superior defensive techniques or those who can anticipate its flow.

Life-Taking Three Immortals Sword

Also a Sword Sect legacy, this is a high-level sword technique that Li Mu brought to great completion during his cultivation 6. Its signature is a majestic Sword Qi accompanied by sword shadows that "carried a threat that could repel an entire army, leaving no room for defense" 19. When Li Mu unleashed it against the Cang Mountain Swordsman Liu Gongju, the sheer momentum reversed the duel, forcing Liu Gongju to retreat hastily and ultimately concede 19. The technique is direct and overwhelming, designed to break through an enemy’s guard with overwhelming force.

• Strengths: Devastating offensive power; large area of effect; creates a near-impenetrable offensive pressure that forces opponents onto the back foot.
• Limitations: High energy demand—using it reportedly depletes internal energy quickly; requires precise timing to execute effectively; may be less useful against agile or evasive opponents who can avoid the initial burst.

Nurturing Self Sword Technique

Though not flashy among Mount Hua's many legacies, the Nurturing Self Sword Technique is noted for its profound underlying concept: integrating "Haoran Zhengqi" (the noble spirit) directly into the sword strokes 6. This philosophical foundation made it deeply compatible with practitioners of upright character, such as Yue Buqun, whom Li Mu advised to focus on refining it 12. While practicing this technique, Li Mu sensed a faint, elusive trace of "sword intent," a rare achievement even among veteran swordsmen 6. The technique fosters a connection between the user’s inner spirit and their martial arts, potentially paving the way to higher realms.

• Strengths: Deep compatibility with righteous disposition; may aid in comprehending sword intent; reliable and steady progression; suitable for long-term cultivation.
• Limitations: Not visually spectacular; requires strong moral grounding to reach its highest potential; relatively slow in immediate combat effectiveness compared to more aggressive techniques.

Mount Hua Basic Sword Techniques

The foundational sword techniques of the Mount Hua Sect consist of simple cuts, thrusts, and slashes that every disciple learns. While basic, when raised to the level of Paragon, these humble moves become extraordinary. Zhou Qingyun observed that Li Mu’s perfected basic techniques "could unleash power no less than that of a top-tier technique" 9. The faint sword intent Li Mu wove into these moves placed extraordinary pressure even on a master like Zhou Qingyun, forcing him to rely on internal energy advantage to maintain the upper hand 9.

• Strengths: Universally learned, so difficult to counter by surprise; at Paragon, comparable in power to advanced techniques; subtle incorporation of sword intent enhances effectiveness.
• Limitations: Without Paragon, easily countered by superior techniques; require immense time and practice to reach peak; do not offer special effects or unique capabilities.

Sword Intent Comprehension

Sword intent is a rare and advanced state in swordsmanship—a threshold that very few in the jianghu cross. In the Mount Hua Sect, only Feng Qingyang had touched this realm before Li Mu began to sense it while practicing the Nurturing Self Sword Technique 6. Even a faint, elusive sensation of sword intent greatly benefits a swordsman’s practice, sharpening their instincts and the quality of their strikes. Li Mu’s possession of this ability was recognized by both Feng Qingyang and Sect Leader Ning Qingyu, who noted that comprehending intent is a prerequisite for breaking through to the supreme realm 20. The Haoran Sword Intent, specifically tied to the Nurturing Self technique, gave Li Mu a unique aura that made him appear as a "humble gentleman" 19 20.

• Strengths: Greatly amplifies the power of any sword technique; enables attacks that are nearly impossible to predict or block; marks the practitioner as a potential supreme expert.
• Limitations: Extremely rare and difficult to cultivate; requires a profound philosophical or moral foundation (as with Haoran Sword Intent); cannot be forced—only developed through deep understanding and practice.

Power Progression

Realm	Time/Chapter	Key Details
Second-rate (breakthrough)	Before Chapter 2 (shortly after transmigration)	Li Mu breaks through to the second-rate realm with the help of the Jade Disc. His master Zhou Qingyun notes his aura is thick and solid, indicating effort. 1 2
Second-rate (late stage)	After half a year of seclusion (Chapter 6–7)	Li Mu emerges from seclusion; his cultivation has advanced to the late stage of the Second-rate realm. He also peaks his basic sword techniques and completes the "Thirteen Styles of Gentle Breeze" and "Life-Taking Three Immortals Sword." 6 7
Second-rate (peak?) — competition phase	Chapter 11–14	During the grand competition, Li Mu intentionally conceals his full power. He defeats Yue Buqun and later challenges Wang Buyao, showcasing elegant movement and swordsmanship without revealing his true cultivation level. 11 14
First-rate (breakthrough)	After months of study in the Scripture Library (Chapter 29)	Li Mu smoothly breaks through to the First-Rate realm using sect resources, but stops to avoid damaging his foundation. He prioritizes stability over rapid progress, spending months in the Scripture Library absorbing martial arts philosophy. 29
First-rate (minor realm breakthrough)	Over half a year of bitter practice (Chapter 45)	Li Mu breaks through a single minor realm within the First-Rate stage, finding cultivation increasingly difficult. He notes the limited use of external aids and the growing time required for each advancement. 45
Second-rate to first-rate (others observed)	Throughout chapters 3–16	Wang Buyao touches the threshold of the First-Rate realm after his duel with Li Mu; Zhou Qingyun mentions that becoming a first-rate expert typically takes eight to ten years from second-rate under normal circumstances. 16 3
Resource-based progression	Chapters 15, 17, 24	Sect rewards and resource allocation accelerate Li Mu’s cultivation. He uses the Mount Hua Mental Method for its foundation-building properties, and later gains access to core inheritances and auxiliary resources after becoming a candidate for core disciple. 15 17 24

Key Achievements

• Defeated Liu Gongju, earning the nickname "Little Sword Immortal": In a duel on the sect’s arena, Li Mu—a young Mount Hua disciple—defeated the arrogant Cang Mountain Swordsman, Liu Gongju, displaying exceptional skill, restraint, and gentlemanly conduct. The victory impressed sect elders Feng Qingyang and Ning Qingyu, with Feng Qingyang recognizing Li Mu’s grasp of sword intent and Ning Qingyu seeing him as a potential pillar of Mount Hua. The nickname “Little Sword Immortal” spread among the disciples, boosting Li Mu’s reputation and signaling the rise of a new talent within the sect 19.

• Secured third place in the inner sect competition, earning recognition as a potential core disciple: Li Mu defeated Wang Buyao to take third place in the Mount Hua Sect’s grand competition. This achievement not only gained him respect from peers and elders but also positioned him as a candidate for the next core disciple of the Sword Sect. His master, Zhou Qingyun, saw an opportunity to increase his lineage’s influence, and the victory demonstrated Li Mu’s strategic thinking—he balanced competing for resources without provoking unnecessary conflict 16.

• Granted free access to the Mount Hua Sect’s Scripture Library by Sect Leader Ning Qingyu: After Li Mu’s impressive performance and growing reputation, Ning Qingyu rewarded him with unrestricted access to the sect’s Scripture Library—a rare privilege typically reserved for core disciples. This access allowed Li Mu to study advanced martial arts texts and techniques, accelerating his cultivation and deepening his knowledge of sword intent. Li Mu acknowledged the favor and was moved by the sect leader’s generosity, though he remained puzzled about the internal politics behind it 20.

• Defeated three famous experts in succession, earning the title “Mount Hua Sword Immortal”: Li Mu challenged and defeated three renowned martial artists—Senior Bashan Swordsman Wang, Senior Northwest Blade King Yang, and others—in a series of arena bouts. Despite sustaining heavy internal energy depletion, he conducted each match with restraint, allowing his opponents to walk away unharmed. This display of both power and mercy improved his reputation throughout the pugilistic world, and the title “Mount Hua Sword Immortal” became widely recognized, though the “Little” prefix persisted 20.

• Hailed as the “most gifted swordsman of the younger generation” after the Five Mountains Martial Gathering: Following the successful conclusion of the Mount Hua Sect’s tournament, Li Mu’s fame spread across the martial world. He was publicly acclaimed as the “most gifted swordsman of the younger generation,” a title that elevated his status far beyond the sect. This achievement also led to Ning Qingyu appointing Li Mu as the leader to interact with the four other sects of the Five Mountains Alliance, replacing Cai and Yao 22.

• Demonstrated exceptional swordsmanship and movement technique in his duel with Wang Buyao: During the grand competition, Li Mu faced Wang Buyao, a senior disciple, and showcased his elegant movement technique and mastery of the Thirteen Styles of Gentle Breeze. Although he did not reveal his true cultivation level, his performance forced Wang Buyao to become wary and ultimately recognize Li Mu’s potential threat. The duel earned Li Mu additional respect from onlookers and demonstrated his ability to compete at a high level without full disclosure of his abilities 14.

• Received praise from Feng Qingyang and Ning Qingyu, signaling support from top sect leaders: Feng Qingyang, the legendary Sword Saint, noted that Li Mu had grasped sword intent—a rare accomplishment—though he regretted it was the Qi of Haoran rather than a more aggressive form. Ning Qingyu, upon witnessing Li Mu’s growth, was moved to remark that “First there was Feng Qingyang, and now there is another Li Bumu. It is heaven’s will that our Mount Hua Sect shall flourish!” 19. This endorsement from the sect’s two most powerful figures solidified Li Mu’s standing and opened doors to further opportunities.

• Broke through to the second-rate realm and held his own against First-Rate experts: Li Mu’s cultivation advanced to the second-rate realm after diligent practice, and he demonstrated the ability to spar with his master, Zhou Qingyun, a First-Rate cultivator, holding his own despite the internal energy gap. Zhou Qingyun commented that Li Mu’s sword technique was nearing Great Completion and that he could even match an average First-Rate expert 9. This breakthrough was seen as a sign of his extraordinary talent and hard work.

• Mastered multiple advanced sword techniques and reached Great Completion in key legacies: Over half a year of secluded cultivation, Li Mu perfected the “Thirteen Styles of Gentle Breeze” and the “Life-Taking Three Immortals Sword,” two demanding Sword Sect legacies. He also deeply appreciated the “Nurturing Self Sword Technique,” whose profound concept he found especially valuable. This mastery made him a formidable combatant and earned him the admiration of his peers and superiors 6.

• Gained a wave of supporters among peers through strategic humility and mentorship: In the early rounds of the grand competition, Li Mu not only won his matches but also took time to provide suggestions to junior brothers on their shortcomings. One lucky individual even achieved a breakthrough on the spot. This behavior earned him a surge of popularity and a loyal following among his fellow disciples, enhancing his influence within the sect without provoking envy from the senior members 12.

• Avoided direct confrontation with the Sword Sect faction while still advancing his position: When the Sword Sect faction, led by Elder Wang Qingyuan, pressured Li Mu to step down from the sect leader competition during Ning Qingyu’s absence, Li Mu deftly avoided a direct clash by claiming he needed to enter seclusion for a cultivation breakthrough. This “delaying tactic” allowed him to preserve his standing and avoid being forced into a disadvantageous position while the Sword Sect faction pushed forward their candidate, Cai Buli. The move demonstrated Li Mu’s political acumen and long-term strategic thinking 41.

• Earned recognition from Grand-Uncle Liu of the Qi Sect, hinting at potential as Young Sect Leader: In a conversation with Grand-Uncle Liu, a senior Qi Sect elder, Li Mu was told that if he were a Qi Sect disciple, based on his achievements, the elder would demand Ning Qingyu name him Young Sect Leader. Though the comment was qualified by the fact that Li Mu belonged to the Sword Sect, it underscored the high regard in which he was held even by members of the opposite faction 38.

Relationships

Zhou Qingyun

The relationship between Li Mu and his master, Zhou Qingyun, forms the bedrock of Li Mu's position within Mount Hua. Zhou Qingyun is not merely a teacher of martial arts but a political patron and strategic guide. From the beginning, he demonstrates a clear pride in Li Mu’s rapid progress, acknowledging his breakthrough to the second-rate realm with satisfaction while expressing disappointment in other disciples like Liu Bufan 2. He exempts Li Mu from sect missions for three years to allow focused cultivation, showing a deep care for his disciple’s foundation-building 3. Their bond is one of mutual respect and growing trust; Li Mu regularly reports to his master for guidance, and Zhou Qingyun reciprocates by revealing the sect leader’s favor and advising Li Mu on how to navigate internal politics 20. A key example of this mentorship is Zhou Qingyun’s advice that Li Mu should avoid defeating Cai Buli and Yao Buzhou in the ranking matches, a calculated move to prevent unwanted attention and preserve his long-term standing 12. Zhou Qingyun also selects opponents for Li Mu to teach him harsh jianghu lessons, such as never lowering his guard, which Li Mu acknowledges as valuable instruction despite his dislike of being manipulated 20. As Li Mu’s victories accumulate, Zhou Qingyun sees an opportunity to increase his lineage’s influence by supporting Li Mu as the next core disciple of the Sword Sect, explicitly discussing this potential and the power struggles it entails with his disciple 16. The master-disciple relationship is thus characterized by a blend of genuine care, strategic acumen, and a shared ambition to elevate their faction within the sect.

Liu Bufan

Liu Bufan serves as Li Mu’s closest peer and a constant companion during his early days at Mount Hua. Their relationship is one of friendly camaraderie mixed with subtle tension born from Liu Bufan’s envy. Liu Bufan is depicted as somewhat naive about the sect’s internal politics, often acting impulsively—for instance, he brazenly approaches Zhou Qingyun and Yu Qingfeng during their chess game to present Li Mu 2. He shows loyalty and concern for Li Mu, but his understanding of the sect’s dynamics is limited 2. As Li Mu’s cultivation advances rapidly—reaching the late stage of the second-rate realm within half a year—Liu Bufan’s envy becomes palpable. He sighs that Li Mu truly has deep fortune, and his congratulations carry a hint of sourness, though Li Mu perceives sincerity behind it 7. Despite this jealousy, Liu Bufan actively seeks Li Mu’s company, demonstrating a level of maturity in controlling his emotions 7. He also warns Li Mu about the strength of opponents like Yue Buqun, expressing genuine concern for his safety 11. Liu Bufan, as an orphan of the sect whose parents died in the line of duty, receives preferential treatment from their master, which Li Mu understands and does not resent 2. Their relationship is defined by this dynamic: Liu Bufan is both a friend and a barometer of the envy Li Mu’s success generates within the sect.

Wang Buyao

The relationship between Li Mu and Wang Buyao evolves from rivalry to a strategic alliance. Initially, they are opponents in the inner sect competition, where Li Mu defeats Wang Buyao, securing third place 16. This defeat, however, proves transformative for Wang Buyao: he gains insight into the importance of cultivation breakthroughs over competition victories and decides to enter seclusion for a breakthrough 16. Li Mu gains respect for his senior brother as a result of this duel 16. Following the competition, Wang Buyao shows understanding and support for Li Mu’s decisions, as seen when he endorses Li Mu’s appointment as leader to interact with the four sects at the Five Mountains Martial Gathering 22. This backing is motivated partly by Wang Buyao’s own rediscovered path from their battle 22. Their alignment deepens into a temporary alliance against Cai Buli and Yao Buzhou, with Li Mu and Wang Buyao subtly criticizing the other pair and causing tension 47. Li Mu acknowledges Wang Buyao’s role in his improved position within the sect, while Wang Buyao, after breaking through to the first-rate realm, becomes dissatisfied with Yao Buzhou’s resource hoarding and forms a small clique, which aligns with Li Mu’s interests in dividing the Qi Sect 44 46. Their relationship is thus founded on a pragmatic understanding: each recognizes the other’s utility in achieving their respective goals.

Cai Buli

Li Mu’s relationship with Cai Buli is fundamentally adversarial, rooted in the internal strife between the Sword and Qi sects and the competition for succession. Cai Buli is a prominent disciple of the Sword Sect, the grandson of the founding ancestor of the Sword Sect faction, and he commands the loyalty of many elders and disciples through blood ties 41. Li Mu’s meteoric rise directly threatens Cai Buli’s position as the favored candidate for core disciple 16. This tension is exacerbated by the sect leader, Ning Qingyu, who promotes Li Mu’s status, including elevating his seating position, which Cai Buli perceives as a direct challenge 46. Their interactions are marked by open hostility. In one meeting, Li Mu and Wang Buyao subtly criticize Cai Buli, provoking him to lose his composure, smash a tea table, and scold them both—an outburst that violates sect rules and shows Cai Buli’s poor temperament and impulsiveness 47. The conflict has layer beyond mere rivalry; factional strife is intertwined with personal grievances, including a love triangle that has bred deep-seated resentment among the senior disciples 46. Despite this, Li Mu recognizes that Cai Buli, for all his faults, is not a true mastermind but a tool manipulated by his elders 44 49. Their relationship is therefore a microcosm of the Sword-Qi conflict, characterized by political maneuvering, mutual distrust, and overt confrontation.

Yao Buzhou

The relationship between Li Mu and Yao Buzhou is more calculating than that with Cai Buli, but equally antagonistic. Yao Buzhou, the senior disciple of the Qi Sect, initially holds a dominant position within the sect, commanding respect due to his seniority and the absence of better alternatives 42 46. Li Mu, however, actively works to undermine Yao Buzhou’s standing. He does this by indirectly pushing Wang Buyao to break through and form a dissident clique within the Qi Sect, fracturing Yao Buzhou’s support base 44. Li Mu also directly manipulates the perception of their alliance with Wang Buyao to create discord 47. Despite this, Yao Buzhou proves more rational and cautious than Cai Buli—he refrains from opposing Li Mu merely for the sake of opposition, as shown when he agrees with Li Mu’s conservative stance on the anti-demonic coalition 49. Li Mu makes a careful assessment of Yao Buzhou’s character, noting his ability to remain rational under pressure 49. However, Yao Buzhou’s weakness is his fear of his master and his failure to take responsibility during disputes, which Li Mu exploits 47. The seating arrangement change that declares Li Mu the foremost of the “Bu” generation is a direct challenge to Yao Buzhou’s seniority and a warning from Ning Qingyu 46. Their relationship is thus a cold war of influence and manipulation, with Li Mu steadily eroding Yao Buzhou’s power.

Ning Qingyu

Li Mu’s relationship with the Mount Hua Sect Leader, Ning Qingyu, is one of favor and calculated manipulation. Ning Qingyu, who aspires to elevate Mount Hua to equality with Shaolin and Wudang, sees Li Mu as a potential “humble gentleman” and invests in his rise 20. This begins early: after Li Mu’s victories in the grand competition, Ning Qingyu grants him unrestricted access to the Mount Hua Scripture Library—an unprecedented favor that stuns even Li Mu, who recognizes it as a direct patronage 20. Ning Qingyu also promotes Li Mu’s status by elevating his seating position, making him the foremost of the “Bu” generation, doing so without consulting the Qi Sect elders—a move Li Mu understands as a calculated warning to Yao Buzhou and a scheme to manipulate the succession competition 46. During the Five Mountains Martial Gathering, Ning Qingyu temporarily replaces Cai and Yao with Li Mu as the leader to interact with the four sects, explicitly to avoid embarrassment due to the off-form senior disciples 22. Li Mu is aware that Ning Qingyu’s favor comes with strings attached—there are schemes behind the kindness—but he accepts the benefits nonetheless, recognizing that Ning Qingyu is well-liked and that this patronage secures his position 20. Their relationship is thus transactional but mutually beneficial: Ning Qingyu gains a loyal and talented instrument to balance internal factions, while Li Mu receives resources, status, and protection.

Yue Buqun

Li Mu’s relationship with Yue Buqun, a fellow disciple of the same generation, is characterized by mutual respect and strategic courtesy. They meet in the second round of the grand competition, where Li Mu intentionally holds back to maintain a facade of equality, not wanting to humiliate Yue Buqun despite his superior skill 11. Yue Buqun reciprocates by displaying a gentlemanly demeanor, acknowledging Li Mu’s skill and addressing him as “Senior Brother” despite being the same age 11. Their bout ends with mutual flattery, which boosts both their reputations and impresses the sect elders 12. Li Mu recognizes that Yue Buqun is refined, detached, and politically astute—someone who flatters Li Mu to gain favor 12. Li Mu also reflects that if Yue Buqun had not been under excessive pressure and distracted by miscellaneous affairs, he might have reached the supreme realm 22. Their relationship remains cordial and competitive, with both understanding the importance of reputation and alliances in the sect.

Feng Qingyang

Feng Qingyang, an elder of the Sword Sect, has a relationship with Li Mu that reflects the broader factional tensions. Feng Qingyang expresses displeasure at decisions made by Wang Buyao that affect Li Mu’s role, but this displeasure is directed at Wang Buyao rather than at Li Mu personally 22. However, his ability to influence outcomes is limited, so he can only vent dissatisfaction through his tone 22. Feng Qingyang is among the youngest elders and has yet to take on disciples, placing him in a different position from the other faction leaders 6. Despite being a Sword Sect elder, Feng Qingyang respects Li Mu’s talent and displays a grudging acceptance of his prominence 20. Li Mu recognizes that Ning Qingyu’s favor wins over even Sword Sect disciples like Feng Qingyang, indicating that the elder is not openly hostile to Li Mu 20. Their relationship is thus one of careful neutrality: Feng Qingyang is not an ally but nor is he a direct enemy, and Li Mu navigates their interactions with the awareness that the Sword-Qi divide colors every relationship within the sect.

Sect Politics

The Mount Hua Sect is embroiled in a deep, multi-layered political struggle, rooted in the long-standing rivalry between the Sword and Qi factions. This internal strife has been intensified by the severe injury of Sect Leader Ning Qingyu, which has created a power vacuum and accelerated the competition for the next successor 41 43. Ning Qingyu, a skilled diplomat, has historically balanced the factions by supporting talented individuals from both sides—such as Feng Qingyang from the Sword Sect—and maintaining a veneer of fairness, but his injury has weakened his ability to suppress conflict 15 20 22. Within the Sword Sect, the succession is contested between Cai Buli, backed by a bloc of elders led by Feng Qingshan and Wang Qingyuan (who are tied to the founding ancestor Cai Zifeng), and the rising star Li Mu, who has garnered support from Zhou Qingyun and even the influential Feng Qingyang 41 44. The Qi Sect is also fractured; Yao Buzhou lacks a strong ancestral patron and faces growing dissatisfaction among elders, especially after Li Mu’s emergence as a more compelling candidate 42. The sect’s precarious finances—annual expenditures of around one million taels—and the external threat from the Demonic Cult further complicate the political landscape, as decisions about expansion and resource allocation become flashpoints for factional maneuvering 27 45. In this volatile environment, Li Mu has navigated the politics with a mixture of shrewd tactics, strategic retreats, and calculated advances.

• Tactic: Using a "delaying tactic" to avoid direct confrontation. When the Sword Sect faction, led by Wang Qingyuan, pressed him to step down from the succession competition, Li Mu claimed a sudden need for seclusion to break through a cultivation bottleneck, thus sidestepping a forced abdication without openly defying the elders 41. Outcome: The Sword Sect faction pushed forward Cai Buli as the successor during Li Mu’s absence, but Li Mu preserved his standing and avoided an early, unwinnable conflict 41.

• Tactic: Voluntarily entering prolonged seclusion to escape the power struggle. After becoming a prominent figure following his competition victory, Li Mu sought Zhou Qingyun’s advice and decided to seclude himself in the Scripture Library for three years 24. This was a deliberate withdrawal from the intensifying infighting, as the Cai and Yao factions were being forced to prove themselves through merit in external operations. Outcome: By stepping back, Li Mu prevented the Cai and Yao factions from uniting against him; their alliance was dismantled, and the pressure on Li Mu dissipated, while he gained uninterrupted access to the sect’s core knowledge and resources 24.

• Tactic: Concealing true strength and avoiding defeating rival successors in ranking matches. On Zhou Qingyun’s advice, Li Mu deliberately did not defeat Cai Buli or Yao Buzhou during the grand competition, understanding that standing out too much would invite schemes and unwanted attention 12. Outcome: Li Mu avoided becoming the primary target of the established factions, allowing him to accumulate influence and resources gradually without triggering a united opposition 12 16.

• Tactic: Building reputation and support through public challenges. Rather than directly challenging Cai Buli, Li Mu focused on raising his status by defeating famous martial experts on the sect’s arena, earning the nickname "Little Sword Immortal" and the recognition of elders like Feng Qingyang and Ning Qingyu 17 19 20. Outcome: Li Mu gained widespread acclaim among the younger disciples and secured the backing of neutral elders; his reputation as a humble and skilled swordsman strengthened his position as a viable alternative to Cai Buli 17 19 41.

• Tactic: Using the challenge system to acquire resources and knowledge. Li Mu took advantage of the sect’s competition reward system, where defeating three first-rate experts from a list earned double the grand competition’s first-place rewards 15 17. Outcome: He obtained rare resources and free access to the Scripture Library, which materially boosted his cultivation and gave him leverage in future negotiations, all while maintaining the appearance of following the sect’s rules 17 20.

• Tactic: Exhibiting patience and waiting for opposing factions to make mistakes. After the Demonic Cult’s attack, when the Qi Sect and Sword Sect factions intensified their power struggle, Li Mu advised Zhou Qingyun to adopt a wait-and-see approach rather than engaging directly 43. Outcome: The opposing factions overreached; the Sword Sect’s internal unity fractured, and Cai Buli’s supporters grew overconfident, leading to resentment among other disciples and a decline in their support 43 44.

• Tactic: Refusing to be lured into conflict, forcing opponents to act first. Li Mu ignored the Sword Sect’s attempts to provoke him into a confrontation, choosing instead to remain in seclusion and off the political stage 44. Outcome: The expected infighting within the Sword Sect never materialized; instead, the Qi Sect suffered a rift, and the Cai faction could not rally enough support to eliminate Li Mu without appearing intolerant, thus neutralizing their advantage 44.

• Tactic: Suppressing internal dissent through overwhelming force when leading junior disciples. When Li Mu was placed in charge of a large group of junior brothers and sisters during an external mission, he dealt with constant brawls and conflicts by adopting a "primitive and brutal method—suppression through force" 25. Outcome: He maintained order and discipline within the group, proving his leadership capabilities, though it came at the cost of personal exhaustion and some resentment from those he disciplined 25.