Contents
- 1Biodata
- 2Background
- 2.1Early Life
- 2.2Stagnation and Breakthrough
- 2.3Rise to Prominence
- 2.4Further Growth and Seclusion
- 3Plot Overview
- 4Power Progression
- 5Abilities
- 5.1Swordsmanship
- 5.2Innate Geng Metal Sword Qi
- 5.3Mysterious Heaven Ice Soul Sword Qi
- 5.4Immortal-Slaying Gourd (Wine Gourd)
- 6Equipment
- 7Relationships
- 7.1Tian Ling'er
- 7.2Lu Xueqi
- 7.3Zhang Xiaofan
- 7.4Bi Yao
- 7.5Shang Zhengliang
- 7.6Qi Hao
- 7.7Jin Ping'er
- 7.8Xiao Bai
- 7.9Faxiang
Biodata
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Li Xiaoyu |
| Alias | None known |
| Species | Human |
| Gender | Male |
| Affiliation | Green Cloud Sect (Morning Sun Peak), Leader of the Dawn Squad |
| Status | Alive |
| First Appearance | Chapter 9 (Master and Disciple's Night Talk) |
Background
Early Life
Li Xiaoyu began his cultivation as a prodigy on Morning Sun Peak, one of the seven peaks of the Green Cloud Sect. As a youth, he showed exceptional talent and was paired with Tian Ling'er, his childhood friend and cultivation partner, as the two most promising disciples of their generation. However, his progress came to an abrupt halt at the second level of the Jade Purity Realm, where he remained stuck for six long years 1. During this period of stagnation, his spiritual energy fluctuations became weak and stagnant, and the once-hopeful Morning Sun Peak disciples began to view him as a failure. His master, Peak Master Shang Zhengliang, grew increasingly disappointed, and the courtyard of Li Xiaoyu's simple wooden hut fell into neglect, overgrown with weeds and layered with dust 2. Tian Ling'er, meanwhile, advanced to the fourth level of the Jade Purity Realm and, seeking a more powerful partner, gifted Li Xiaoyu a bead given to her by Senior Brother Qi Hao, effectively ending their partnership 1.
The true cause of Li Xiaoyu's stagnation was the Immortal-Slaying Gourd, a mysterious wine gourd he had carried for years. It was not an ordinary vessel; the gourd had been silently absorbing the spiritual energy from his six years of bitter cultivation, refining it within its own space. This hidden devouring process left his meridians parched and his cultivation base frozen at the second level 2. Despite this setback, Li Xiaoyu continued to practice daily, arriving at the Martial Arts Arena at dawn to inhale the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, though his efforts bore no visible fruit 2.
Stagnation and Breakthrough
The turning point came on a fateful day when Li Xiaoyu, driven by frustration and acceptance of Tian Ling'er's departure, walked to the edge of a cliff and drank deeply from his gourd 1. As he drank, a pure, warm current began to surge from his dantian—a stream of energy a hundred times purer and a thousand times more robust than the Taiji Profound Clarity Path spiritual energy he had painstakingly cultivated. This energy poured into his parched meridians like sweet rain after a long drought, shattering the bottleneck that had plagued him for six years. He broke through to the third level of the Jade Purity Realm in an instant, and then continued advancing: third level mid-stage, late-stage, peak, until a thunderous roar signaled his entry into the fourth level of the Jade Purity Realm, also known as the Object-Driving Realm 1. His spiritual power surged more than tenfold, and he found he could move a pebble with his mind—a hallmark of the new realm 1.
That night, Li Xiaoyu discovered the truth about his gourd. In his meditation, he realized the gourd was no ordinary artifact but the legendary Immortal-Slaying Gourd, a divine treasure that had been refining his cultivation for six years. The energy it returned was pure and majestic, far surpassing that of ordinary cultivators 2. With this realization, he made a solemn vow: "From this day forward, I, Li Xiaoyu, live only for myself, and for the pursuit of immortality!" His Daoist resolve hardened, and he spent the night stabilizing his newfound realm 2. The next morning, Shang Zhengliang sensed the change—a powerful, pure aura emanating from Li Xiaoyu's hut, as conspicuous as a bonfire in the dark. He rushed to investigate, suspecting demonic arts, but a probe of Li Xiaoyu's spiritual energy revealed only pure, righteous Taiji Profound Clarity energy, its density shocking even the Upper Purity Realm master 3. Shang Zhengliang accepted the breakthrough as genuine insight gained from breaking a heart demon, and he advised Li Xiaoyu to keep a low profile to avoid scrutiny 3.
Rise to Prominence
Word of Li Xiaoyu's sudden breakthrough spread quickly. At the Morning Sun Assembly, Senior Disciple Shen Tiandou, shocked and jealous, challenged Li Xiaoyu openly. Li Xiaoyu remained calm, declining an immediate duel and instead proposing a fair competition, displaying maturity and wisdom beyond his years 4. The encounter marked the beginning of his return to recognition. Shang Zhengliang, feeling guilty for his past neglect, summoned Li Xiaoyu for a night talk, apologized for his coldness, and formally passed down the Autumn Water Sword—a treasure that symbolized the master's highest expectations 9. He also warned Li Xiaoyu that the sect leader and other peaks would be watching him closely 9.
Li Xiaoyu's strength soon proved itself in battle. He defeated a fifth-level Jade Purity Realm opponent in a single move, confirming his status as a dark horse 18. Around this time, he encountered the eccentric diviner Zhou Yixian in Heyang City, who accurately read his past and future, hinting at a grand destiny and a potential legendary role 12. Although Li Xiaoyu remained guarded, the encounter reinforced his sense of an extraordinary path ahead.
Shortly after, an invitation for Tian Ling'er's coming-of-age ceremony—a thinly veiled husband-selection contest—was sent to all peaks, deliberately excluding Li Xiaoyu. While his fellow disciples seethed with indignation, Li Xiaoyu remained unperturbed, focusing on his cultivation and the mission Shang Zhengliang assigned him: investigating monster attacks in Nameless Town 10. This mission provided practical experience and further growth.
Further Growth and Seclusion
Li Xiaoyu's cultivation continued to accelerate. During an exploration with companions, he encountered a wall inscribed with characters from the legendary Heavenly Tome, where all present experienced profound enlightenment. Li Xiaoyu's understanding of the Dao reached a new realm, and he felt ready to break through to the seventh level of the Jade Purity Realm 38. His journey then led him deeper into the secrets of the Immortal-Slaying Gourd. Guided by the wise fox spirit Xiao Bai, he learned that the gourd was a spiritual treasure with its own will and Dao, requiring primordial power to grow. Xiao Bai advised him to seek treasures in the perilous Far North Ice Plains to strengthen the gourd's sword qi 93. She also mentioned an impending catastrophe, spurring Li Xiaoyu's determination to protect what he cared about 93. He subsequently learned of the Northern Profound Dark Iron, a material that could grant his sword qi freezing abilities, and set his sights on the Far North, even as he received an urgent mission from Sect Leader Daoist Daoxuan to deal with the Styx Sect near Wind-Snow City—a mission that lay on his planned route 94.
The culmination of his early efforts came when Li Xiaoyu entered a period of secluded cultivation. He fed the Immortal-Slaying Gourd various heavenly materials and earthly treasures, causing it to transform: its internal space expanded, forming seas of energy for different elements and yin-yang powers. After consuming all the treasures, the gourd fed him chaotic energy that pushed his cultivation to the Upper Purity Realm, accompanied by a celestial phenomenon—a Seven-Colored Divine Dragon appearing in the sky 73. Upon emerging, Li Xiaoyu declined a celebratory ceremony, visiting instead the cliff where he had his original epiphany, and discovered that his breakthrough had awakened the Mystic Fire Mirror, allowing him to activate the Pure Essence Fire 74. He later refined the Black Water Profound Snake and subjugated it as the guardian of his gourd, evolving his primordial sword qi into the "Profound Heaven Dragon Chant," more than ten times more powerful than before, and ascended to the peak of the Upper Purity Realm 162. This rapid rise, however, also drew the attention of jealous rivals, such as Xiao Yicai, who secretly reported his achievements to Daoist Daoxuan, setting the stage for future conflict 162.
Plot Overview
- First Encounter with Lu Xueqi: Li Xiaoyu is confronted by Lu Xueqi, who senses the power of his Immortal-Slaying Gourd through her divine sword Tianya, but he deflects her inquiry and leaves without revealing the treasure. 7
- Resource Dispute with Shen Tiandou: Li Xiaoyu faces Shen Tiandou in a sparring match to settle a dispute over cultivation resources, remaining composed under pressure. 7
- Qi Hao and Tian Ling'er's Provocation: After Li Xiaoyu becomes Morning Sun Peak's head disciple, Qi Hao and Tian Ling'er visit to provoke him, claiming they are in love. Li Xiaoyu dismisses them calmly, declaring their paths are different, and they leave in disgrace. 16
- The Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament Begins: The tournament opens, and Li Xiaoyu approaches the neglected Zhang Xiaofan, offering encouragement and praise for his diligence. Zhang Xiaofan draws a bye in the first round, drawing laughter. 17
- First Round Victory: Li Xiaoyu defeats Sun He of Sunset Glow Peak with a single finger, shocking the audience and earning praise from the peak masters. 17
- Semi-Final Match Against Lu Xueqi: Li Xiaoyu faces Lu Xueqi in the semi-finals. He neutralizes her powerful ice crystal attack with a fundamental sword stance, counters her superior techniques with precise movements, and eventually borrows the edge of the Innate Geng Metal Sword Qi within his wine gourd to block her full-force strike. 19 20
- Injury and Lu Xueqi's Care: Li Xiaoyu is severely injured after using the Divine Sword Thunder Control Technique against Lu Xueqi. She secretly delivers Cold Jade Ointment to treat his wounds, revealing her affection. 23
- Final Defeat of Qi Hao: On the final day of the tournament, Li Xiaoyu defeats Qi Hao with a single strike using his wine gourd, creating a massive crater and winning the championship for Morning Sun Peak. 23 25
- Choosing the Red Flame Crystal: At the award ceremony, Li Xiaoyu chooses a Red Flame Crystal instead of more powerful magical treasures, planning to feed its energy to the Immortal-Slaying Gourd. 25 26
- Mission to Kongsang Mountain: Li Xiaoyu is summoned to Heaven-Reaching Peak, where Sect Leader Daoist Daoxuan appoints him leader of a four-member team—including Lu Xueqi, Qi Hao, and Zhang Xiaofan—to investigate demon sect activity near Kongsang Mountain. The team descends to Heyang City to gather information. 26 27
- Standoff at Liubo Mountain: Li Xiaoyu and Lu Xueqi arrive at Liubo Mountain to find the righteous path and the Demon Sect in a standoff. They reunite with Zhang Xiaofan, and Jin Ping'er appears, provoking Lu Xueqi. 47
- Journey to the Southern Border: Li Xiaoyu decides to keep his promise to the demon fox family and goes to the Southern Border, accompanied by Lu Xueqi. They arrive at Kui Water Village and learn about the Incense Burning Valley. 75
- Confrontation at Incense Burning Valley: Li Xiaoyu and Lu Xueqi travel to the Incense Burning Valley, where they encounter the hostile senior disciple Li Xun. Li Xiaoyu insists on meeting Valley Master Yun and gains entry. 76
- One Move Suppresses Twin Prodigies: Li Xun challenges Li Xiaoyu to a duel. Li Xiaoyu accepts and proposes to fight both Li Xun and Yan Hong simultaneously. The two attack with their signature techniques, but Li Xiaoyu reveals his Upper Purity Realm aura, pressuring them. 77
- Sword Dance Under the Moon: On the Moon-Watching Terrace, Lu Xueqi performs a sword dance for Li Xiaoyu, expressing her love through her technique. After the dance, Li Xiaoyu kisses her, marking their official relationship. 86
- Morning Sun Peak's Reinforcements: After the relationship becomes known, Master Shuiyue attacks Li Xiaoyu. Shang Zhengliang arrives to protect him, and Sect Leader Daoist Daoxuan intervenes, mediating the conflict. 89
Power Progression
| Cultivation Realm | Level | Chapter/Time of Breakthrough | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jade Purity Realm | 4th Layer | Chapter 1 & 2 | Breakthrough from 2nd layer after trance with gourd; also achieved Object-Driving Realm. |
| Upper Purity Realm | Initial | Chapter 73 & 74 | Breakthrough triggered by Immortal-Slaying Gourd consuming treasures; celestial phenomenon with Seven-Colored Divine Dragon. |
| Upper Purity Realm | Peak | Chapter 162 | After refining Black Water Profound Snake; evolved primordial sword qi to “Profound Heaven Dragon Chant.” |
| Taiqing Realm | Initial | Chapter 192 | Achieved through dual cultivation with Lu Xueqi; both broke through simultaneously. |
Abilities
Swordsmanship
Li Xiaoyu demonstrates exceptional mastery of swordsmanship fundamentals, rooted in a deep understanding of the Dao and spiritual energy. His style emphasizes rhythmic, precise movements that neutralize even the most powerful techniques through control rather than brute force. He can defeat opponents far above his apparent realm with a single, perfectly executed strike, relying on overwhelming spiritual power and flawless technique.
- Neutralized Lu Xueqi’s ice crystal attack with a simple, fundamental sword stance, showcasing his control and Dao comprehension 20.
- Countered Lu Xueqi’s entire assault of Small Bamboo Peak sword techniques using only precise, rhythmic movements 20.
- Shattered Shen Tiandou’s Bedrock Sword and defeated him in one strike, claiming the position of Head Disciple 8.
- Defeated a fifth-level Jade Purity Realm opponent in a single move during the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament 18.
- Struck down Qi Hao in the tournament finals with one blow, creating a massive crater and winning the championship 25.
Innate Geng Metal Sword Qi
Li Xiaoyu’s primary sword qi, stored within the Immortal-Slaying Gourd, is a devastating energy that can be deployed in two ways: releasing the entire qi as a massive attack, or imbuing it into his magic sword for temporary enhancement. The sword qi possesses immense destructive power, capable of annihilating large groups of enemies and even destroying life-bound artifacts. It can also be used to enhance his swordsmanship in close combat.
- Unleashed the sword qi from the gourd to clear a horde of Bloodthirsty Demonic Rats in the Nameless Cave, revealing the cave’s true purpose 15.
- Borrowed the edge of the Innate Geng Metal Sword Qi to enhance his Autumn Water Sword, enabling him to block Lu Xueqi’s full-force strike in the tournament 20.
- Effortlessly turned four Upper Purity Realm Demon Sect elders to dust with a single strike, causing the Demon Sect army to flee in panic 68.
- Used the transformed sword qi within the gourd to annihilate the Styx Sect Master’s body and soul, destroying the Myriad Soul Banner in the process 105.
Mysterious Heaven Ice Soul Sword Qi
After devouring 30% of the Northern Profound Dark Iron Vein’s energy, Li Xiaoyu cultivated this new sword qi, which possesses freezing properties. The transformation also empowered his Immortal-Slaying Gourd. This sword qi grants him the ability to seal regions and imbue attacks with extreme cold.
- Cultivated the Mysterious Heaven Ice Soul Sword Qi by absorbing energy from the Northern Profound Dark Iron Vein, guarded for seven days by the Dawn Squad 110.
- Sealed the Ice Abyss upon returning to the surface after the energy devouring 110.
- Later used the sword qi to augment his attacks, though specific combat applications are not detailed in the provided context.
Immortal-Slaying Gourd (Wine Gourd)
The Immortal-Slaying Gourd, often called the Wine Gourd, is a divine artifact that serves as Li Xiaoyu’s primary tool for storing and deploying sword qi, as well as devouring and absorbing external energies. It can consume enemy attacks, transform them into cultivational energy, and unleash devastating sword qi strikes. It also functions as a physical weapon, capable of delivering crushing blows.
- Devoured a portion of Lu Xueqi’s Divine Sword Thunder Control lightning bolt, preventing mutual destruction 21.
- Absorbed the entire Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation unleashed by Daoist Daoxuan, transforming its power into cultivation energy for Li Xiaoyu 195.
- Devoured 30% of the Northern Profound Dark Iron Vein’s energy, leading to the metamorphosis of the gourd itself and the cultivation of a new sword qi 110.
- Consumed the Myriad Soul Banner and the True Form of the Ghost King, destroying the Styx Sect Master’s life-bound artifact 105.
- Struck Qi Hao with the gourd in the tournament finals, defeating him instantly 25.
Equipment
| Item | Description | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Immortal-Slaying Gourd (Wine Gourd) | A divine artifact initially disguised as an ordinary wine gourd. It absorbs the owner's cultivation, but after awakening, it reveals its true nature as the Immortal-Slaying Gourd. It can store and unleash Innate Geng Metal Sword Qi, devour attacks and formations, and grow stronger by consuming heavenly materials and earthly treasures. The gourd has its own will and Dao, requiring primordial power to evolve. Its internal space can expand and form seas of energy for different elements. 2 5 93 73 | Central artifact of the story. It transforms Li Xiaoyu from a stagnant cultivator into a powerful figure. The gourd absorbs the Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation, turning its energy into cultivation 195. It defeats multiple Demon Sect elders with a lightning net 67 68, consumes the Myriad Soul Banner to destroy the Styx Sect Master 105, and after devouring part of the Northern Profound Dark Iron Vein, it cultivates a new Mysterious Heaven Ice Soul Sword Qi 110. The gourd's growth drives Li Xiaoyu's power and shapes major battles. |
| Autumn Water Sword | Li Xiaoyu's magic sword, used in combat. It is typically wielded with spiritual energy, but can be temporarily enhanced by borrowing the edge of the Innate Geng Metal Sword Qi from the Immortal-Slaying Gourd. 20 | Used in the duel against Lu Xueqi during the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament. When enhanced with the gourd's sword qi, the Autumn Water Sword blocks Lu Xueqi's full-force strike head-on, surprising the watching masters 20. It represents Li Xiaoyu's primary weapon for personal combat. |
| Mystic Fire Mirror | A treasure gifted to Li Xiaoyu by the Three-Tailed Demon Fox as repayment for reviving the Six-Tailed Demon Fox. The mirror is presumably a fire-aligned artifact, though its exact powers are not described. 45 | Functions as both a reward and a commission. The Three-Tailed Demon Fox asks Li Xiaoyu to use it—or its connection—to rescue the Nine-Tail Celestial Fox from Incense Burning Valley, binding him to a significant long-term quest 45. |
| Red Flame Crystal | A heavenly treasure containing intense fire energy. It was offered as a prize in the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament, alongside the Six Harmonies Mirror. Li Xiaoyu chose it over the more powerful mirror. 26 | Demonstrates Li Xiaoyu's strategic thinking: he selects the crystal specifically to feed its energy to the Immortal-Slaying Gourd, prioritizing the gourd's growth over immediate personal power. The crystal is studied and then consumed by the gourd, contributing to its evolution 26 73. |
| Tianya | Lu Xueqi's divine sword, a powerful spiritual weapon of Small Bamboo Peak. It is attuned to her spirit and can be controlled mentally for enhanced speed and power. 20 | In Chapter 7, Tianya senses the Immortal-Slaying Gourd's power, causing Lu Xueqi to confront Li Xiaoyu—marking the first major interaction between the two characters 7. In the duel, Lu Xueqi uses Tianya with spirit control, forcing Li Xiaoyu to enhance the Autumn Water Sword to match it 20. |
| Myriad Soul Banner | A life-bound artifact of the Styx Sect Master, containing countless souls and immense demonic power. It is described as the Styx Sect Master's greatest treasure. 105 | The Immortal-Slaying Gourd consumes the Myriad Soul Banner along with the True Form of the Ghost King, destroying the Styx Sect Master's life-bound artifact and breaking his power. This act leads to the Styx Sect Master's desperate final attack and ultimate annihilation 105. |
| Undying Divine Medicine | A legendary elixir of immortality located within the Treasury of the Heavenly Emperor. It rests on an altar inside a vast starry space. 123 | The ultimate prize sought by both Green Cloud Sect and Demon Sect factions in the Treasury expedition. Though it is accidentally eaten by Ghost Li's Three-Eyed Spirit Monkey, Little Gray, its presence drives the entire conflict and represents the theme of immortality and power 123. |
| Six Harmonies Mirror | A powerful magic treasure offered as an alternative prize in the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament. It is described as more powerful than the Red Flame Crystal in conventional terms. 26 | Mentioned to highlight Li Xiaoyu's choice: he specifically rejects the Six Harmonies Mirror in favor of the Red Flame Crystal, a decision that underscores his commitment to the gourd's growth over immediate personal benefit 26. Not used directly. |
| Ancient Immortal-Slaying Sword | A legendary divine sword wielded by Daoist Daoxuan. It carries a Demonic Obsession that can corrupt its user. 195 | Used in the climax of the conflict between Li Xiaoyu and Daoist Daoxuan. Daoxuan attempts an all-out attack with the sword after his Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation is devoured, but his obsession leads to his downfall 195. The sword itself is a symbol of ultimate power and corruption. |
| Northern Profound Dark Iron Vein | A vast underground vein of primordial energy located in the Far North Ice Plains. Li Xiaoyu succeeds in devouring 30% of its energy. 110 | While not a portable item, this vein is a resource consumed by the Immortal-Slaying Gourd. The devouring triggers a metamorphosis, granting Li Xiaoyu the Mysterious Heaven Ice Soul Sword Qi and significantly advancing his cultivation. The energy fluctuations attract demonic beasts and rogue cultivators 110. |
Relationships
Tian Ling'er
Li Xiaoyu and Tian Ling'er share a history rooted in their youth on Morning Sun Peak, where she was once his close friend and an object of his affection. However, after Li Xiaoyu’s transformation into the head disciple and his rapid rise in power, Tian Ling'er’s decision to align herself with Qi Hao — and her subsequent visit to Morning Sun Peak with Qi Hao to provoke Li Xiaoyu — permanently fractured their bond. Li Xiaoyu’s composed and dismissive response to that provocation left Tian Ling'er filled with regret and shame as she realized what she had lost 16. Watching from afar during the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament and later during the battle against the Demon Sect, Tian Ling'er struggles with jealousy and a desire to prove herself, painfully aware of the widening gap between her own accomplishments and Li Xiaoyu’s legendary status 25 54.
- Tian Ling'er visits Morning Sun Peak with Qi Hao to provoke Li Xiaoyu, but he remains indifferent and dismisses them, causing her to feel regret and shame as she realizes his transformation 16.
- During the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament, Tian Ling'er witnesses Li Xiaoyu’s overwhelming victory over Qi Hao and becomes acutely aware of the chasm between her cultivation and his 25.
- At the battle against the Demon Sect and the Kui Ox, Tian Ling'er watches Qi Hao fight while feeling jealousy and resentment towards Li Xiaoyu, Lu Xueqi, and Zhang Xiaofan fighting together, fueling her desire to prove herself 54.
Lu Xueqi
Li Xiaoyu and Lu Xueqi’s relationship is one of deep mutual affection and growing intimacy, evolving from rivalry during the tournament to a bond widely recognized and envied among the younger generation of the Green Cloud Sect. Their connection is built on shared experiences of danger, personal sacrifice, and a profound understanding of the Dao. Despite opposition — particularly from Lu Xueqi’s master, Shuiyue, who confines Lu Xueqi to the Cliff of Reflection and summons Li Xiaoyu — both remain resolute in defending their love 87.
- After Li Xiaoyu is severely injured in the finals, Lu Xueqi secretly delivers the precious Cold Jade Ointment to treat his wounds, showing her care and concern 23.
- At Liubo Mountain, Li Xiaoyu and Lu Xueqi display growing closeness and understanding, with Li Xiaoyu protecting her from Jin Ping'er’s teasing and their reunion warming those around them 47.
- Li Xiaoyu decides to travel to the Southern Border to rescue the Nine-Tail Celestial Fox, and Lu Xueqi insists on accompanying him, sharing the dangers and experiences of the journey 75.
- After returning from Incense Burning Valley, Lu Xueqi takes Li Xiaoyu to the Moon-Watching Terrace on Small Bamboo Peak, where they share a quiet, romantic moment under the full moon 85.
- News of their relationship reaches Master Shuiyue, who disapproves and confines Lu Xueqi. Li Xiaoyu is summoned, but both remain determined to protect their love 87.
Zhang Xiaofan
Li Xiaoyu serves as a steadfast senior brother, mentor, and friend to Zhang Xiaofan, offering encouragement during his lowest moments and guiding him through the trials of cultivation and personal loss. Their bond is one of unwavering trust and mutual support, from the early days of the martial arts tournament to the perilous journey into the Space-Time Interlayer to save Bi Yao. Li Xiaoyu’s wisdom and selflessness repeatedly help Zhang Xiaofan find his path, even when Zhang Xiaofan is consumed by hatred and obsession 17 125 218.
- At the start of the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament, Li Xiaoyu approaches the ignored Zhang Xiaofan, praises his diligence, and encourages him, boosting his confidence 17.
- In the Blood-Dripping Cave, Li Xiaoyu reunites with Zhang Xiaofan and Bi Yao, and afterward takes charge of the group’s decisions, with Zhang Xiaofan showing complete trust and loyalty 36 37.
- During a Dao Discourse, Li Xiaoyu shares a profound understanding of the Dao, helping Zhang Xiaofan (then Ghost Li) begin to question his obsession with resurrecting Bi Yao and offering him a glimmer of hope by revealing an ancient fragment of the Ghost Path General Outline 125.
- When Zhang Xiaofan decides to bear the burden of saving Bi Yao alone, Li Xiaoyu refuses to let him face it alone and accompanies him into the unstable Space-Time Interlayer, clearing the path for Zhang Xiaofan to reach Bi Yao 213 218.
Bi Yao
Li Xiaoyu’s interactions with Bi Yao are marked by a mixture of caution, mediation, and a degree of playful tension. He is aware of her true identity as a demon cultist from the start and remains wary, yet he treats her with a measure of respect and diplomacy. Bi Yao, in turn, shows a playful interest in both Li Xiaoyu and Zhang Xiaofan, often provoking or teasing. Li Xiaoyu’s role as a mediator becomes crucial to prevent open conflict between Bi Yao and Lu Xueqi 29 37.
- At the Mountain Sea Pavilion, Bi Yao mocks Zhang Xiaofan’s order of simple food, but when Li Xiaoyu defends him with eloquence, she is impressed and introduces herself as ‘You Ji’, showing interest in Li Xiaoyu’s stories about Green Cloud Mountain 29.
- In the Blood-Dripping Cave, Bi Yao’s provocative behavior and Lu Xueqi’s hostility nearly lead to a fight, but Li Xiaoyu steps in to mediate, preventing immediate conflict and convincing the group to work together to find an exit 37.
Shang Zhengliang
Shang Zhengliang, the master of Morning Sun Peak, shares a deeply respectful and affectionate bond with Li Xiaoyu. He takes immense pride in his disciple’s accomplishments and is fiercely protective, often expressing worry for Li Xiaoyu’s safety and supporting his romantic relationship with Lu Xueqi against external opposition. Their relationship exemplifies a traditional master-disciple bond strengthened by mutual trust and care.
- After Li Xiaoyu is severely injured in the tournament finals, Shang Zhengliang expresses deep concern and tries to persuade him not to participate in the finals due to his injuries 23.
- Before Li Xiaoyu sets off for the Southern Border, Shang Zhengliang gives him a Breath-Concealing Jade for protection, showing his care and worry 75.
- When Master Shuiyue disapproves of Li Xiaoyu and Lu Xueqi’s relationship, Shang Zhengliang supports the couple and reacts with anger towards Shuiyue’s interference 87.
Qi Hao
Li Xiaoyu’s relationship with Qi Hao is defined by rivalry, contempt, and a decisive power demonstration that humiliates Qi Hao. Li Xiaoyu shows no hostility beyond dismissing Qi Hao as insignificant, treating his provocations with cold indifference. The final confrontation in the tournament solidifies Li Xiaoyu’s supremacy and leaves Qi Hao and his master resentful.
- Qi Hao visits Morning Sun Peak with Tian Ling’er to provoke Li Xiaoyu, but Li Xiaoyu remains composed, declares their paths different, and sends them away in disgrace 16.
- In the finals of the Seven Meridians Martial Arts Tournament, Li Xiaoyu defeats Qi Hao with a single strike using the wine gourd, creating a massive crater and shocking the entire audience 25.
Jin Ping'er
Jin Ping'er, a member of the Joyous Union Sect, interacts with Li Xiaoyu through flirtatious provocation and later through respectful parting. She tests his composure and teases Lu Xueqi about their relationship, but Li Xiaoyu remains unflappable. After their shared adventures in Incense Burning Valley, they part on amicable terms, with Jin Ping'er expressing appreciation for the care shown to her during the journey.
- At Liubo Mountain, Jin Ping'er provokes Lu Xueqi by teasing her about her relationship with Li Xiaoyu, but Li Xiaoyu protects Lu Xueqi and deflects the taunts 47.
- After the events at Incense Burning Valley, Jin Ping'er bids farewell to Li Xiaoyu and Lu Xueqi, expressing gratitude for their care during the journey 85.
Xiao Bai
Xiao Bai, the Nine-Tail Celestial Fox transformed into human form, shares a cordial and grateful relationship with Li Xiaoyu. He keeps his promise to her family by investigating her imprisonment in Incense Burning Valley, and she later joins the group to rescue her son. They part with mutual affection and respect.
- After being freed from the Incense Burning Valley, Xiao Bai expresses gratitude and affection towards Li Xiaoyu and Lu Xueqi before setting off to find her son 85.
- During the journey to the Space-Time Interlayer, Xiao Bai decides to accompany Zhang Xiaofan, showing her trust in Li Xiaoyu’s leadership and the group’s unity 213.
Faxiang
Faxiang, a monk from Heavenly Sound Temple, is a fellow righteous-path ally who fights alongside Li Xiaoyu. Their relationship is one of mutual respect and cooperation, especially during the climactic battles against the Demon Sect and later when deciding to help Zhang Xiaofan.
- During the battle against the Demon Sect and the Kui Ox, Li Xiaoyu, Lu Xueqi, Zhang Xiaofan, and Faxiang fight back-to-back, protecting one another amidst the chaos 54.
- When the plan to enter the Space-Time Interlayer is formed, Faxiang decides to join the mission despite the risks, showing his compassion and trust in Li Xiaoyu and the group 213.