Chapter Summaries

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Cheng discovers news articles about the upcoming semi-finals, with Lin Yuntian being his main opponent.
• He reviews his Vitality and Refinement Coefficient, finding them improved.
• The day before the semi-finals, Zhao Cheng attends a Vitality re-check, where he meets other contestants, including Lin Yuntian and Wang Mengchan.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng remains humble and focused on his training, despite his high Vitality.
• Lin Yuntian is portrayed as confident, sharp, and lethal, embodying the spirit of a young prodigy.
• Wang Mengchan is elegant and delicate, reminiscent of ancient nobility.

Significant Themes

• The importance of actual combat experience versus Vitality in swordsmanship is debated among the public.
• The contrast between Zhao Cheng's humble demeanor and his formidable Vitality highlights the idea that one should not judge a book by its cover.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Cheng observes and sizes up the other contestants, particularly Lin Yuntian and Wang Mengchan.
• There is no direct interaction among the characters in this chapter, as they are merely present at the same event.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Cheng's intuition about Wang Mengchan's unique swordsmanship path is confirmed.
• The World Sword Trial contestants' Vitality is tested. Lin Yuntian's Vitality increases by 0.1 in a month, sparking speculation about his use of a 'fairy pill'. Zhao Cheng's Vitality is revealed to be 7.0, astonishing everyone.

Character Developments

• Wang Mengchan is confirmed to be a prodigy with a unique swordsmanship path.
• Lin Yuntian shows composure and sportsmanship despite being shocked by Zhao Cheng's Vitality.
• Zhao Cheng remains calm despite the commotion caused by his Vitality, hinting at his inner satisfaction.

Significant Themes

• The path of swordsmanship is diverse and complex, with different valid paths.
• Talent and hard work are crucial in determining one's progress in swordsmanship.
• The World Sword Trial serves as a platform for contestants to showcase their skills and compete with others.

Character Interactions

• Lin Yuntian and Zhao Cheng share a competitive gaze after Lin Yuntian's Vitality test.
• Wang Mengchan reacts with surprise and admiration to Zhao Cheng's Vitality.
• The staff members and viewers are left bewildered and amazed by Zhao Cheng's Vitality.

• Key Plot Points and Events: The World Sword Trial semifinals begin with over a hundred Swordsmen competing. Lin Yuntian advances, but his confidence wavers upon seeing the youth in the stands. The online audience shifts from doubting the youth's Vitality to admiring his dominance.

Character Developments

• Lin Yuntian: Realizes the vast gap between him and the youth, causing him to question his own abilities.
• Zhao Cheng: Maintains his composure and dominance throughout the semifinals, earning admiration from the audience.
• Zhao Xiuxiu: Reminisces about her childhood with Zhao Cheng, feeling happy for his success but also a sense of melancholy.
• Significant Themes: The theme of destiny and one's place in the world is explored as Zhao Cheng's aura and dominance are compared to that of a king or god. The power of belief and confidence is also highlighted, as Lin Yuntian's wavering confidence contrasts with Zhao Cheng's unwavering assurance.
• Character Interactions: Zhao Cheng's presence intimidates Lin Yuntian, causing him to doubt his own abilities. Zhao Xiuxiu watches the livestream with her colleagues, reminiscing about their shared past.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Cheng spends days observing matches and cultivating in the Simulator, making significant progress in his swordsmanship and physical fitness.
• He decides to create a unique "Golden Body Chapter" for the Four Calamities Heaven-Reaching Sword after completing the "Hundred King Slaughter" achievement.
• In the final semi-final match, Zhao Cheng faces Lin Yuntian again and defeats him, showcasing his spiritual prowess and advancing his sword technique.
• Zhao Cheng and the top 30 competitors from Qing Province travel to the Capital City for the final competition.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng's talent and skills grow rapidly, both in the real world and within the Simulator. He becomes more confident and humble-brags about his abilities.
• Lin Yuntian experiences frustration and growth, adjusting his mindset and finding his fighting spirit after his first defeat by Zhao Cheng.

Significant Themes

• Talent and hard work: Zhao Cheng's exceptional talent allows him to progress rapidly, but he also puts in the effort to cultivate and improve.
• Spiritual power and mental realm: The battle between Zhao Cheng and Lin Yuntian highlights the importance of spiritual power and mental cultivation in swordsmanship.
• Growth and self-discovery: Lin Yuntian's journey illustrates the process of growth, frustration, and self-discovery in the face of adversity.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Cheng and Lin Yuntian's second encounter showcases the growth of both characters, with Zhao Cheng demonstrating his spiritual prowess and Lin Yuntian finding his fighting spirit.
• The top 30 competitors from Qing Province travel together to the Capital City, hinting at potential interactions and camaraderie among them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Cheng and his team arrive at Lingyun Pavilion for the World Sword Trial finals.
• Other contestants await Zhao Cheng's arrival, curious to see him in person.
• The national television crew captures the moment Zhao Cheng steps out of his car, but the commentary spins it as a display of unity among contestants.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng remains unfazed by the intense scrutiny of other contestants, demonstrating his mental fortitude and dominance.
• Li Xinghan, a contestant from another state, acknowledges Zhao Cheng's exceptional talent after a brief exchange of gazes.
• Zhao Xiaoxiang plans to attend the finals with Zhao Manyun and Zhao Dong, showing her growing interest in her brother's career.

Significant Themes

• Dominance and Intimidation: Zhao Cheng's mere presence and gaze intimidate other contestants, highlighting his overwhelming power and confidence.
• Media Spin: The national television crew's commentary misrepresents the scene to fit the narrative of unity and friendship, reflecting the influence of media on public perception.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Cheng and Other Contestants: Zhao Cheng's arrival sparks curiosity and awe among other contestants, who are eager to see him but also intimidated by his presence.
• Zhao Cheng and Zhao Xiaoxiang: Zhao Cheng and his younger sister exchange messages, showing their close bond and shared excitement for the upcoming event.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Cheng meets Li Qingmeng and Li Huang'er at the airport. They visit a museum to see authentic artifacts like the Sword Immortal scroll, Xuanyuan Sword, and Tai'e sword.
• Zhao Cheng picks up his niece, Zhao Xiaoxiang, from the airport. They have dinner together, and Zhao Dong, Zhao Xiaoxiang, and their friends engage in social media activity.
• Zhao Cheng begins his simulation at midnight, finding that the Sword Immortal scroll and the half-tripod hold no significant secrets. However, he gains fragments of ancient sword techniques from the spiritual imprints of the exhibited swords.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng: Shows pragmatism and interest in ancient artifacts, particularly their spiritual imprints. He demonstrates his exceptional talent and comprehension by reconstructing fragments of ancient sword techniques.
• Li Huang'er: Initiates the museum visit to strengthen bonds with friends.
• Zhao Xiaoxiang: Returns home, meets up with Zhao Cheng and his friends, and engages in social media activity, blocking Zhao Dong, Zhao Manyun, and Zhao Cheng from seeing her post.
• Zhao Dong: Initially nervous around Zhao Xiaoxiang, he later suggests a group photo and posts it on social media, reaping envy and jealousy from his friends.

Significant Themes

• The power of ancient artifacts and their spiritual imprints.
• The impact of social media and the envy, jealousy, and hatred it can evoke.
• The importance of friendship and maintaining bonds, as shown by Li Huang'er's initiative.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Cheng interacts with Li Qingmeng and Li Huang'er, sharing their interest in ancient artifacts.
• Zhao Xiaoxiang, Zhao Dong, and Zhao Manyun have dinner together, with Zhao Dong showing nervousness around Zhao Xiaoxiang initially.
• Zhao Xiaoxiang and Zhao Dong engage in social media activity, with Zhao Xiaoxiang blocking Zhao Cheng and his friends from seeing her post.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The World Sword Trial's first battle features Li Xinghan and Shen Xiaxi, both top contenders.
• Li Xinghan, with a Vitality of 6.5, is considered a strong favorite.
• The battle garners global attention, with many overseas viewers tuning in.
• Li Xinghan's extraordinary 'Clear Sword Heart' allows him to reflect and analyze his surroundings, giving him a significant advantage.
• Zhao Cheng's gaze, powerful and unique, penetrates Li Xinghan's defenses, causing a momentary fluctuation in his mental state.

Character Developments

• Li Xinghan: Demonstrates his exceptional mental prowess and 'Clear Sword Heart', but is momentarily affected by Zhao Cheng's gaze.
• Zhao Cheng: Reveals his powerful intent and artistic conception, rivaling that of a Sage, despite being only a Swordsman.

Significant Themes

• The importance of intent and artistic conception in cultivation.
• The power of the mind and mental prowess in combat.
• The global significance of the World Sword Trial.

Character Interactions

• Li Xinghan vs. Shen Xiaxi: The battle between these two top contenders is about to commence.
• Li Xinghan vs. Zhao Cheng: Li Xinghan is unnerved by Zhao Cheng's gaze, hinting at a future confrontation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Xinghan and Shen Xiaxi's match begins, with Shen Xiaxi wearing elaborate, divine robes.
• Shen Xiaxi's first strike, imbued with divine power, stuns Li Xinghan and the audience.
• Li Xinghan counters with his signature 'starry sky' sword intent, eventually winning the match with a radiant, decisive strike.

Character Developments

• Shen Xiaxi: Demonstrates her powerful, divine swordsmanship, but lacks the life-and-death tempering of Zhao Cheng, limiting her potential.
• Li Xinghan: Proves his genius with a brilliant, reflective sword intent, reflecting Heaven and Earth. He shows humility and determination by immediately leaving to meditate and prepare for his next match.

Significant Themes

• Divine Path vs. Tao: The ancient Yanhuang divine path's power is explored, with Shen Xiaxi's swordsmanship drawing from this lineage. However, Li Xinghan's sword intent reflects a more universal, Heaven-and-Earth-connected Tao.
• Romance and Beauty: Li Xinghan's sword intent is inspired by the beauty of the starry sky, reflecting his romantic nature and sensitivity.

Character Interactions

• Li Xinghan vs. Shen Xiaxi: Their duel highlights their distinct swordsmanship styles and mental states. Li Xinghan's victory demonstrates his superior swordsmanship and adaptability.
• Zhao Cheng's Observation: Zhao Cheng watches the match, analyzing both fighters' strengths and weaknesses, particularly noting Li Xinghan's need to readjust his mental state before facing him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The World Sword Trial continues with intense matches between various geniuses.
• Zhao Cheng watches and learns from these battles, broadening his understanding of swordsmanship and cultivation.
• On the third day, Zhao Cheng's match is finally announced: Zhao Cheng VS Sun Mingxuan.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng: Absorbs spiritual nourishment from watching battles, increasing his Martial Wisdom and Sword Nurturing Technique proficiency. His understanding of the Four Calamities Heaven-Reaching Sword deepens.
• Sun Mingxuan: Remains calm and confident despite drawing a match against Zhao Cheng, believing in his sword art and Heavenly Derivation lineage.

Significant Themes

• The accumulation of time and wisdom in Yanhuang swordsmanship.
• The benefits of observing and learning from others in cultivation.
• The subtleties of swordsmanship and spiritual cultivation.

Character Interactions

• The audience's anticipation and mixed emotions towards Sun Mingxuan drawing a match against Zhao Cheng.
• Zhao Cheng and Sun Mingxuan's contrasting auras as they walk onto the arena.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Sun Mingxuan challenges Zhao Cheng, wanting to test his sword's weight.
• Zhao Cheng, calm and unaggressive, acknowledges Sun Mingxuan's Heavenly Derivation Sword Path but finds it interesting but not as useful as raw power.
• The match begins with the starting bell. Sun Mingxuan calculates Zhao Cheng's strike, but Zhao Cheng's power is overwhelming.
• Zhao Cheng's strike sends Sun Mingxuan's sword flying, the first time this has happened in the World Sword Trial's history.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng: Confident in his strength, he views calculation (like Sun Mingxuan's) as less useful than raw power. His mindset has grown broader and more heroic after his recent experiences.
• Sun Mingxuan: Realizes the limitations of his Heavenly Derivation Sword Path when faced with Zhao Cheng's immense power. His mental state is shaken, and he struggles to maintain control over his body.

Significant Themes

• Power vs. Calculation: Zhao Cheng believes in raw power, while Sun Mingxuan relies on calculation. The match demonstrates the limits of calculation in the face of overwhelming power.
• Mental Strength: Both characters exhibit strong mental wills, but Zhao Cheng's is more dominant, suppressing Sun Mingxuan's.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Cheng and Sun Mingxuan engage in a brief conversation before their match, revealing their contrasting views on swordsmanship.
• During the match, Zhao Cheng's overwhelming power suppresses Sun Mingxuan's body and mind, leading to his defeat.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Sun Mingxuan's match against Zhao Cheng ends abruptly with Sun Mingxuan losing his sword.
• The livestream chat is abuzz with disbelief and awe at Zhao Cheng's power.
• Two contestants notice deep footprints on the arena floor, indicating the immense force of Zhao Cheng's strike.
• Li Xinghan returns after a few days, looking thinner but with brighter eyes, suggesting mental cultivation advancement.

Character Developments

• Sun Mingxuan: Realizes the immense power and mental prowess of Zhao Cheng, acknowledging his defeat.
• Li Xinghan: Advances his mental cultivation and clear Sword Heart, becoming even stronger after setbacks.

Significant Themes

• The power of mental cultivation and will: Zhao Cheng's mental power suppresses Sun Mingxuan, and Li Xinghan's mental advancement makes him stronger.
• Growth and improvement: Contestants notice Zhao Cheng's daily changes, feeling like ordinary people compared to his rapid progress.
• Acceptance of defeat and learning from it: Sun Mingxuan accepts his defeat and learns from it, while Li Xinghan uses setbacks to improve.

Character Interactions

• Sun Mingxuan and Zhao Cheng: Sun Mingxuan is overwhelmed by Zhao Cheng's strike, acknowledging his defeat and the vast difference in power.
• Li Xinghan and Zhao Cheng: Li Xinghan returns stronger, ready to face Zhao Cheng again, showing his determination to challenge him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Cheng continues to dominate the World Sword Trial, defeating all opponents with a single strike.
• The focus shifts from who can defeat Zhao Cheng to who can force him to use a second strike.
• Zhao Cheng's popularity skyrockets, with memes and reaction images circulating widely.
• The grand finals are nearing their end, with only two matches left, including Lin Yuntian vs. Li Xinghan.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng's mental power and Refinement Coefficient grow significantly due to his diligent practice and Void Kalpa's enhancement.
• Lin Yuntian and Li Xinghan grow more determined and resolved, viewing Zhao Cheng as a force pushing them to improve.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of strength and growth, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
• The impact of a dominant figure on the mindset and motivation of others.
• The charm and satisfaction found in the sword path and powerhouse mentality.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Cheng, Lin Yuntian, and Li Xinghan share a silent understanding of their growth and determination.
• The entire arena and many viewers feel a sense of sorrow and admiration for Lin Yuntian and Li Xinghan, who have been overshadowed by Zhao Cheng's dominance.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The final match of the World Sword Trial begins between Li Xinghan and Lin Yuntian.
• Both fighters exhibit extraordinary speed and mental prowess, making it difficult for spectators to follow their movements.
• The mental clash between them is described as a 'feast for the spirit', captivating the audience.
• Li Xinghan wins the match by a fraction of a second, setting up the final showdown with Zhao Cheng.
• Zhao Cheng and Li Xinghan face off in the final match, with Li Xinghan eager to test Zhao Cheng's swordsmanship.

Character Developments

• Li Xinghan reaches the peak of his mental and physical abilities, surpassing his previous limits due to the intense pressure and competition.
• Zhao Cheng is portrayed as an almost mythical figure, with his presence and influence pushing Li Xinghan to new heights.

Significant Themes

• The infinite possibilities of life and the human spirit.
• The importance of a worthy opponent in driving personal growth.
• The concept of 'seeing is believing' in human nature.

Character Interactions

• Li Xinghan and Lin Yuntian engage in a mental and physical duel, pushing each other to new limits.
• Li Xinghan and Zhao Cheng meet for the final match, with Li Xinghan expressing his eagerness to test Zhao Cheng's swordsmanship.
• The judging panel plays a crucial role in determining the winner of the match between Li Xinghan and Lin Yuntian.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Cheng and Li Xinghan's final battle begins.
• Zhao Cheng unleashes his full power, revealing a vast and immense mental realm.
• Zhao Cheng's sword strike severs Li Xinghan's sword, shatters his protective gear, yet leaves him unharmed.
• The audience chants Zhao Cheng's name in unison, recognizing his unprecedented achievement.
• **Character Developments

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Cheng and his group accept their awards at the flag-raising ceremony.
• Zhao Cheng's parents are interviewed by reporters, sharing anecdotes about his childhood, which they've embellished due to constant praise.
• Wu Yiran watches the news featuring Zhao Cheng and reflects on his transformation.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng: Becomes a national celebrity and symbol of pride for Xiangnan.
• Zhao Cheng's Parents: Grow accustomed to the attention and begin to embellish their memories of Zhao Cheng's childhood.
• Wu Yiran: Realizes the vast difference between the current Zhao Cheng and the one she knew, accepting that their lives are now on different paths.

Significant Themes

• Fame and its impact on individuals and society.
• The power of memory and how it can be influenced by external factors.
• Acceptance of change and one's place in life.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Cheng's parents interact with reporters, sharing stories about Zhao Cheng's childhood.
• Wu Yiran watches the news featuring Zhao Cheng and reflects on their past, while her mother speculates about their connection.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The chapter is an interview between Zhao Cheng, the youngest and most outstanding top scorer in history, and a young, talented host from the national television station.
• The interview is part of an annual tradition where the top scorer of each year is interviewed for a documentary series.
• The host is impressed by Zhao Cheng's extraordinary bearing and wisdom, despite his youth.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng: He is humble and wise, showing no arrogance despite his achievements. He possesses a great stability of mind, akin to a Saint, and has no attachment or obstruction. He believes in the power of wisdom and communication with the True Self Spirit.
• The Host: She is young, talented, and dignified. She is impressed by Zhao Cheng's bearing and wisdom, and she conducts the interview skillfully, keeping it interesting and purposeful.

Significant Themes

• The power of wisdom and its role in personal growth and achievement.
• The division of labor in society, with some people drawing the blueprint and others bringing it to fruition.
• The importance of humility and lack of attachment, even in the face of great success.

Character Interactions

• The host and Zhao Cheng engage in a casual yet purposeful conversation about swordsmanship and the way of the sword.
• The host asks Zhao Cheng about his standards for a partner, to which he gives a thoughtful answer.
• The audience participates in the interview through a live voting activity, with the host asking the three questions that received the most votes.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Cheng, in a live interview, sets a high standard for himself: being single-minded in his affections until death.
• He's asked about his plans to participate in the Senior Division (Universal Conflict), a prestigious event held every ten years, and responds ambiguously: "Next time, for sure."
• He's also asked about his preferred university among the three prestigious ones and says he hasn't decided yet.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng shows maturity and confidence in his interview, setting high personal standards and handling questions with diplomacy.
• The host is shown to be a fan of Zhao Cheng, seeking his contact information and an autograph.

Significant Themes

• Single-mindedness in love and devotion.
• Ambition and growth in martial arts, with Zhao Cheng aiming for the Universal Conflict in the future.
• University choices representing different styles of swordsmanship.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Cheng interacts with the host, answering her questions with thoughtful responses.
• The host expresses her fandom towards Zhao Cheng.
• Zhao Cheng travels back with his family, showing a close-knit relationship.

Key Plot Points and Events

• A grand three-day banquet is held at Zhao Cheng's home to celebrate his Martial Champion title.
• The event attracts numerous distant relatives and influential figures, including the Governor of Qing Province, Li Zhengshan.
• Li Zhengshan personally delivers a golden plaque from the central government, inscribed with the words "Talent of a Martial Champion," and has Zhao Cheng's achievements recited aloud.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng remains composed and unfazed by the attention and spectacle, demonstrating his maturity and experience beyond his years.
• Li Zhengshan shows a friendly and approachable demeanor towards Zhao Cheng, treating him with respect and admiration.

Significant Themes

• Reputation and Status: The grand celebration and the attendance of influential figures highlight the importance of reputation and status in society.
• Recognition and Legacy: The golden plaque and the recitation of Zhao Cheng's achievements emphasize the desire for recognition and the creation of a lasting legacy.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Cheng interacts with various relatives and influential figures, showcasing his poise and ease in such situations.
• Li Zhengshan's personal involvement and conversation with Zhao Cheng indicate a level of respect and interest in the young Martial Champion.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Cheng wins the World Sword Trial, becoming the top scholar, and is awarded a golden plaque.
• The banquet attendees, including Zhao Cheng's family, are in shock and disbelief at his achievement.
• Zhao Manyun and her friends, especially Wang Yunyan, reflect on their feelings towards Zhao Cheng.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng: He remains humble despite his monumental achievement, understanding that all living beings are equal. He doesn't hold himself above others but also doesn't allow anyone to hold themselves above him.
• Wang Yunyan: She realizes that Zhao Cheng is not meant for her and feels a sense of sorrow, understanding that meeting someone too stunning in one's youth can lead to constant comparisons later.

Significant Themes

• Humility in the face of greatness: Zhao Cheng's understanding that all living beings are equal, despite his incredible achievement, highlights the theme of humility.
• The unattainable: Wang Yunyan's realization that Zhao Cheng is not meant for her explores the theme of the unattainable, both in terms of love and personal growth.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Cheng and his family: They are left in shock and disbelief at his achievement, struggling to comprehend his new status.
• Wang Yunyan and Zhao Cheng: Wang Yunyan reflects on her feelings towards Zhao Cheng, understanding that they are not meant for each other.
• Zhao Cheng and Wu Nian: They discuss swordsmanship under the moonlight, with Wu Nian helping Zhao Cheng sort out his cultivation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Cheng decides to attend Qingshan University after receiving a call from a Myth who offers to take him as a nominal disciple for protection.
• Zhao Cheng meets his seventh senior fellow apprentice, Zhou Yanxi, at the airport, who drives him to Qingshan University.

Character Developments

• Zhao Cheng: Showcases his unique perspective on becoming a Sword Master, emphasizing creativity, eclecticism, and personal pathfinding.
• Zhou Yanxi: Revealed to be a steady and intelligent Saint, with a solid rock-like temperament. He recognizes Zhao Cheng's extraordinary potential.

Significant Themes

• The importance of creativity and personal innovation in achieving mastery.
• The difference between a nominal and true apprenticeship.
• The role of a mentor in providing shelter and guidance.
• The distinction between talent and effort in cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Cheng and the Myth: A phone call establishes a mentor-mentee relationship, with the Myth acknowledging Zhao Cheng's unique path.
• Zhao Cheng and Zhou Yanxi: They meet for the first time, with Zhou Yanxi observing Zhao Cheng's extraordinary aura and intent, while Zhao Cheng listens to Zhou Yanxi's stories about their teacher and the school.