Did I Give You Permission to Join the Table?

Feng Ya wanted to say a few more words.

However, Gu Chengming didn't even spare her a glance.

He simply let his gaze sweep casually over the corpse that was currently dissolving into black liquid.

"I had thought that this 'Filth'—which makes even second realm cultivators tremble with fear and avoid getting close—would be something truly terrifying. Looking at it now..."

Gu Chengming let out a light chuckle. "It's nothing more than this."

Feng Ya's face turned from red to white, then from white to a sickly green.

When someone kills a monster you didn't dare to face without taking a single scratch, and then tells you to your face that it was 'nothing much,' what else can you say?

Anything she said would only lead to further self-humiliation.

She stared fixedly at Gu Chengming's calm profile. Finally, she pressed her lips together tightly and, without a word, transformed into a streak of light, rushing into the night without looking back. There was a certain pathetic quality to her frantic escape.

Watching Feng Ya's departing figure, Song Qing, who was standing nearby, also looked incredibly awkward. His usually silver tongue seemed to have failed him at this moment.

"Brother Gu, this..."

Song Qing gave a bitter smile. He originally wanted to say a few things, but realized he didn't really have a leg to stand on.

After all, he had also hesitated and shrunk back just now.

Looking at Gu Chengming's silhouette, a sense of self-shame couldn't help but rise in his heart.

'We practice the Dao and constantly claim it's to eliminate demons and protect the way, but when the moment truly comes, we always think first of how to preserve ourselves and keep our Dao foundations intact.'

Song Qing sighed inwardly, his expression gaining a touch of reflection.

'On the contrary, Brother Gu, though only in the first realm, possesses a fearless and undaunted Sword Heart. Perhaps this is why the Wenjian Sect can be the leader of sword cultivators, while we can only practice arts.'

After this battle, his desire to befriend Gu Chengming lost some of its utilitarian nature and gained a few more parts of genuine respect.

"Brother Gu, please wait a moment. I will send a message for the division to come and handle the aftermath."

Song Qing cupped his hands and said no more. He turned to the side, crushed a sound transmission talisman, and began setting up an array to purify the remaining filthy Qi.

Gu Chengming didn't pay any attention to Song Qing's internal monologue.

He turned around, his gaze falling on the corner of the alley.

There, over a dozen commoners who had just escaped the gates of hell were trembling with fear.

Most were the elderly, the weak, women, and children. Although they were out of danger now, the terrifying black mist and the monster's roars still lingered in their minds. Their faces were pale, and they were visibly shaken.

In particular, a little girl on the outer edge, looking no more than five or six years old with her hair in twin buns, had her small floral jacket covered in dust.

She was clutching her mother's skirt tightly, her large eyes filled with tears as she looked timidly at Gu Chengming, her small body shaking uncontrollably.

Gu Chengming retracted the murderous aura surrounding him, trying to make his expression look as gentle as possible as he walked over slowly.

He crouched down until his eyes were level with the little girl's. "It's okay now."

The little girl sniffled and tried to nod, but couldn't help but sob again. She was clearly terrified; that surge of fear was stuck in her throat, unable to be spat out or swallowed down.

Seeing this, Gu Chengming thought for a moment.

He looked around, and his gaze suddenly landed on an old willow tree at the mouth of the alley.

Though the willow tree was somewhat withered from the previous erosion of Yin Qi, a few green leaves still clung to the branches, retaining some life.

He stood up, plucked a long, thin willow leaf, wiped it clean with his fingertips, and then crouched back down in front of the little girl.

"Don't be afraid. How about I play a tune for you?"

The little girl froze for a moment, and with tears still in her eyes, she nodded blankly.

Gu Chengming smiled and gently pressed the willow leaf to his lips.

When he was a child, before he started school, this was one of the few things he enjoyed playing with.

Though he had no knowledge of music theory or tones, as long as he could make a sound, it was fun.

He took a deep breath and puffed out his cheeks.

"Heee—Zeee—!"

How should one describe this sound?

It was neither melodious nor elegant. While one could barely discern a tune, it was mostly just... ridiculous.

"Pfft."

The little girl was startled by the sudden, strange noise. The tears that were welling in her eyes were instantly sucked back in, followed by an uncontrollable burst of laughter as she smiled through her tears.

The other children nearby, who were still immersed in fear, couldn't help but peek out upon hearing this comical sound. One by one, they covered their mouths and giggled.

Even the adults felt their tense nerves relax amidst the out-of-tune melody, their faces showing the relieved smiles of survivors.

Gu Chengming didn't feel embarrassed seeing the children's smiles; instead, he blew even harder, even intentionally changing the pitch to produce several more absurd tremolos.

Right then.

Inside his Sea of Consciousness, a soft ripple suddenly appeared.

【Flowing Cloud Following Moon saw the young man crouching on the ground with puffed-out cheeks, and also saw the innocent smiles blooming in the ruined alley.】

【It listened to you play a tune with your clumsy musicality. Though the sound was cacophonous and grating, it somehow brought a touch of warmth to the heart.】

【Flowing Cloud Following Moon Favorability +10】

【Current Favorability: 55/Friendly】

Gu Chengming was stunned. It turned out that winning over Flowing Cloud Following Moon didn't require beautiful music after all.

Thinking of this, he smiled and patted the little girl's head.

Before long, a series of hurried and orderly footsteps broke the silence of the alley.

Song Qing hurried back, leading a squad of Night Guards clad in black iron light armor.

These men, who spent their years in the dark underbelly of the capital, were naturally efficient. Without needing many words, they skillfully took out various talismans and Dharma tools to begin cleaning up the filth, comforting the frightened civilians, and repairing the damaged walls.

Song Qing stood at the mouth of the alley, his gaze sweeping over the remains of the Filth Corpse Demon being carried away by two Night Guards. He then looked at Gu Chengming, who was dressed in green and bowing his head to wipe his sword blade, his eyes filled with complex emotions he couldn't hide.

"Brother Gu."

Song Qing let out a long sigh, his tone containing both respect and an indescribable sense of self-shame.

"It's only your first day in the capital, and your waist token hasn't even gotten warm yet, but you've already slain a Second Realm, Middle Stage evil that left us helpless. This kind of record is rare even among the Inner Sect senior brothers who specialize in slaughter."

"Compared to you, Brother Gu, I truly feel ashamed."

He was genuinely impressed.

In the world of cultivation, the capable take precedence. Even if Gu Chengming was only at the First Realm, Ninth Level, his composure in the face of danger and his one-strike-to-the-throat method were enough for Song Qing to cast aside all contempt and treat him as an equal, or even a superior.

Hearing this, Gu Chengming sighed in his heart; he actually had to add one third realm evil to that count.

"Senior Brother Song overpraises me. It was just a matter of having the right counter-measure."

He gave a casual excuse, then seemed to remember something and asked as if unintentionally:

"By the way, Senior Brother Song. I have just joined the Night Guard Division and am not yet familiar with the rules."

"I wonder... what is the protocol for private fights between colleagues? If a conflict arises during a mission, how does the division handle it?"

"Private fights?"

Song Qing was stunned, clearly not expecting Gu Chengming's train of thought to jump so quickly.

He didn't think much of it, assuming it was just a newcomer's curiosity about the rules, and replied casually:

"Well... the Night Guard Division is, after all, a military-style office; it values spirit. Although killing each other is forbidden on the surface, the higher-ups mostly turn a blind eye to disputes or private duels between colleagues, as long as no one dies."

"Moreover, there's an unwritten rule in this division—merit is logic."

"If a dispute arises because of a mission, or if there's a private grudge that eventually reaches the Enforcement Hall... the division will usually favor whoever has more merit and a stronger fist."

"After all, for Daqian, a blade that can kill demons and get things done is a good blade. As for what personal grudges are stained on the hilt, who cares as long as it doesn't affect the big picture?"

"I see..."

Gu Chengming nodded thoughtfully.

The rules of the Night Guard Division suited him quite well and would save him a lot of trouble.

It seemed there was now another reason to accumulate more merit besides gaining Zhou Li's favorability?

Gu Chengming thought to himself.

Since one could be 'treated leniently' even for heavily injuring a colleague as long as they had enough merit, then that Feng Ya from the Yunyue Sect...

Song Qing only now realized the implication. Though he was usually boisterous, he wasn't a fool.

Recalling Feng Ya who had just left and the undisguised tension between the two, he reacted instantly.

"You... you couldn't possibly be thinking..."

"Senior Brother Song, I am a man who holds grudges."

Gu Chengming turned his head and reached out, gently patting Song Qing's somewhat stiff shoulder. His tone was gentle as he said helplessly:

"After all, it's only polite to return a favor in kind, wouldn't you say?"

"Yes... quite right, quite right."

Song Qing wiped the cold sweat from his brow, gaining a new impression of this Brother Gu.

After handling the follow-up matters, Gu Chengming declined Song Qing's offer to escort him back to the inn and returned to Listening to Rain Pavilion alone under the moonlight.

It was already late at night. The lights in the inn's lobby were dim, with only a dozing waiter still guarding the counter.

Gu Chengming went upstairs quietly and pushed open his room door.

Inside, the candlelight flickered.

A purple figure was sitting by the window, holding a jade slip. Her brow was furrowed, and her expression carried a hint of fatigue and worry.

It was Yu Wenqiu.

Seeing Gu Chengming return, Yu Wenqiu put down the jade slip and looked up, her peach-blossom eyes lacking some of their usual laziness.

"You're back?"

"Yes."

Gu Chengming closed the door, walked to the table, sat down, poured himself a cup of cold tea, and drained it in one gulp before asking:

"Elder, how did your... visit to your friends go today?"

Yu Wenqiu was silent for a moment, then sighed and rubbed her brow irritably.

"Not great."

She pointed to the jade slip on the table, her tone heavy.

"I went to the Ministry of Rites and the Imperial Observatory today to find a few disciples who left the mountain years ago and are now serving in Daqian."

"I originally thought that even if they didn't have real power, since we are all under the Wenjian Sect, there should be some old ties and we could look out for each other."

"But who would have thought..."

Yu Wenqiu gave a bitter smile. "Their lives now are even harder than we imagined."

"The one in the Imperial Observatory was originally in a key position responsible for observing the stars and deducing the national fortune, but now he's been pushed aside to the bench of revising calendars. He deals with piles of old papers all day and can't even see the Emperor's face."

"The one in the Ministry of Rites is even worse. A dignified third realm sword cultivator was actually assigned to handle the trivialities of sweeping for sacrifices. Any job with even a bit of real power has been taken by others using various excuses."

"Moreover, they were very evasive in their speech, as if they were all wary of something and didn't dare say much."

Speaking to this point, Yu Wenqiu sighed.

"I probed a bit, and although they didn't say it explicitly, the meaning is already very clear."

"Someone is targeting the Wenjian Sect."

"Or rather, in the officialdom of the capital, there is a conscious effort to isolate and suppress officials and disciples from the Wenjian Sect."

Gu Chengming's brow also furrowed upon hearing this.

"In that case, has the Elder managed to find out which faction is behind this?"

This was very important.

If it was just other sects, it would be fine; at most, they would just trip each other up.

But if it was the attitude of the Daqian Royal Family... then their training this time would truly be in trouble.

Yu Wenqiu hesitated for a moment.

She stood up, walked to the window, closed it tightly, and then casually set up a sound-isolating barrier.

Only after doing all this did she turn around, look at Gu Chengming, and lower her voice.

"I didn't find out the specific faction; those disciples were all tight-lipped."

"But..."

She extended a finger, pointed toward the ceiling, and then pressed it down slightly, her tone becoming exceptionally cautious.

"The disciple in the Imperial Observatory gave me a hint before I left."

"He said that from now on, we must be extremely careful regarding... the Imperial City."

Gu Chengming's heart skipped a beat. "The Imperial City? Is it the Son of Heaven?"

"No."

Yu Wenqiu shook her head.

"The current Son of Heaven, although a bit... ahem, a bit fond of grand achievements, his attitude toward our Wenjian Sect is still quite polite. After all, he still needs us to suppress the national fortune."

"What is certain is that this undercurrent targeting us does not originate from him."

"But..." Yu Wenqiu took a deep breath and said slowly, "It is at least someone below the Son of Heaven but above ten thousand people."

Gu Chengming thought to himself that it was still manageable then.

If it were the Emperor of Daqian, who possessed the concentrated Imperial Dragon Qi, it would be truly troublesome to deal with.

But if it wasn't him, at least a solution could be found.

At this moment, the night watchman outside struck the wooden clapper; the night was deep.

Yu Wenqiu glanced at Gu Chengming, suddenly reached out and snatched the teacup from his hand, placing it on the table with a light 'clack'.

She shifted into a comfortable position, resting her chin on one hand. Her peach-blossom eyes regained their usual laziness and mirth, as if she wanted to sweep away the gloom in the room.

"Alright, don't think too much. We're here for training, not to suffer. If it really doesn't work out, we can just leave."

"In this capital of Daqian, besides those scheming messes, there are plenty of fun places."

"Little Gu, do you know that in this capital, there are Three Wonders?"

Gu Chengming snapped out of it and, seeing Yu Wenqiu's enthusiastic look, knew she wanted to lighten the mood, so he cooperated with a curious expression.

"Your disciple is ignorant; I would like to hear the details."

"The first wonder, naturally, is the storytellers under the overpasses."

Yu Wenqiu's eyes sparkled, as if she had returned to the days when she used to sneak out of the Night Guard Division to listen to stories.

"The storytellers there aren't like the ones in our sect's market city. Especially that Li Jiangxian—the sword legends he tells make our Wenjian Sect's moves sound absolutely divine. You must go listen when you have time; you might even gain some inspiration for your sword path."

"The second wonder is the breakfast in the East Market."

Yu Wenqiu licked her lips, seemingly reminiscing.

"The gold silk pastry there melts in your mouth, and the eight treasure tofu brain is savory and fresh. With their special chili oil... back then, I... ahem, back then, to get a hot bite, I had to get up before dawn to queue."

"Think about it, someone like me who can sleep until noon and absolutely refuses to get up would bow my head for it. Can the taste be bad?"

'Even though you say it's good, I don't eat savory tofu brain.'

"As for the third wonder..."

At this point, Yu Wenqiu suddenly stopped, her eyes holding a hint of mischief.

She leaned in closer and whispered mysteriously, "It's the flower boats on the Qinhuai River."

"That's the gathering place for the romantic scholars of Daqian. When night falls, both banks are brightly lit, and the sound of music on the river never stops."

"The girls on those flower boats are all Inner Sect female cultivators of the Hehuan Sect. They are proficient in the four arts and are all incredibly beautiful. Especially the annual selection of the Courtesan Queen—that scene is so grand that even many fourth realm cultivators will disguise themselves to join the fun."

"Back then, I..."

She subconsciously wanted to boast, but suddenly remembered she was a female cultivator and didn't have the equipment.

She had to stop, coughed twice, and forced a recovery.

"Back then, to investigate a case of a charm demon causing trouble, I had to infiltrate those flower boats and go undercover for several days."

"That battle was fraught with danger..."

Gu Chengming looked at Yu Wenqiu's increasingly suspicious and defensive expression and finally couldn't help but burst out laughing.

"The Elder has worked hard."

"For the sect and for the people of Daqian, the Elder did not hesitate to risk her life and go deep into such places of entertainment. You are truly a role model for our generation."

"If there is an opportunity in the future, your disciple will certainly go to the banks of the Qinhuai River to pay his respects and see the place where the Elder once fought."

"Go, go, go! Stop making fun of me!"

Yu Wenqiu's face turned red from his laughter. She gave him a dirty look and lightly tapped Gu Chengming's head.

Though it was a reprimand, her tone didn't hold much anger; instead, it carried a sense of intimacy.

After this bit of banter, the heavy and oppressive atmosphere in the room finally dissipated completely.

"Alright."

Yu Wenqiu stretched and stood up with a yawn.

"The stories are finished, and the boasting is done. It's late; I should go back and rest."

"Tomorrow you have to officially report for duty at the Night Guard Division. On your first day, don't be late and give them an excuse to pick on you."

She walked to the door, paused slightly, and didn't turn back. She just spoke with her back to Gu Chengming, her voice much softer.

"Little Gu, in this capital, although there are many rules and many bad people, don't keep yourself too tense."

"Eat what you want, drink what you want, play when you can. If the sky falls, the tall ones will hold it up. If the tall ones can't hold it, there's still me."

"...It's fine to be a bit more free-spirited."

With that, she waved her hand and pushed the door open, her purple skirt disappearing into the night.

Gu Chengming stood frozen for a long time, looking at the door that had closed again.

"Free-spirited, huh..."

【Hundred Bones Resonating thought for a moment and suddenly realized. Does this sentence mean we are allowed to kill people and dispose of their bodies?】

Gu Chengming didn't answer, but just smiled and whispered, "Thank you, Elder."

The next day, as the first light of dawn appeared, before the ancient bell in the Night Guard Division used to warn of demonic auras had even rung, a file regarding the demon slaying in the market the previous night had already quietly landed on Vice commander Liu's desk.

Vice commander Liu was holding a cup of freshly brewed strong tea. As his gaze swept over the wet ink on the file, his mouth, which had been blowing on the tea foam, froze. He stood there as if he had been hit by a freezing spell.

"He killed another one?"

He put down the teacup, rubbed his eyes in disbelief, and confirmed the name on it again—Gu Chengming.

Target slain: Second Realm, Middle Stage "Filth Corpse Demon."

Battle record evaluation: Single person, single sword, completely unharmed. One-hit kill.

Vice commander Liu felt his teeth ache.

If yesterday's third realm "Nightmare Wandering Corpse" could be attributed to the kid carrying some top-tier secret treasure that specifically countered souls, or some defect in the evil itself making it a special case...

But last night's Second Realm, Middle Stage corpse demon was a genuine tough nut to crack.

That thing was covered in filth; ordinary second realm cultivators would steer clear of it for fear of corrupting their Dao foundation. But this kid? It was only his first day on the job, his Night Guard uniform wasn't even warm yet, and he just happened to slaughter such a menace while out for a stroll?

Hidden Dragon Courtyard, side hall.

The morning sun shone through the carved window frames, spilling onto the smooth bluestone floor.

When Gu Chengming stepped into the hall, the brand-new Night Guard brocade robe he wore lacked the ruggedness of a typical Night Guard member and had a bit more of a casual air. Only the Tinglan Sword at his waist faintly radiated a coldness that warned strangers not to approach.

Inside the hall, Song Qing, An Shan, and that junior banner Li Dujiang were already seated.

"Brother Gu! You're finally here!"

Seeing Gu Chengming enter, Song Qing's eyes lit up. He stopped spinning the fiery red pearl in his hand and directly came forward to greet him, his face full of the pride of 'my brother is so cool'.

"I was just telling Brother Li and Brother An Shan about last night. Brother Gu's strike was truly stunning... I thought about it all night, and besides the word 'admirable,' I really can't think of any other term."

An Shan, though not a man of many words, also had eyes full of respect.

In the main seat, the perpetually sickly Li Dujiang had a very faint smile on his face as his gaze landed on Gu Chengming.

"The sword cultivators of the Wenjian Sect truly have the most transparent Sword Hearts. I, Li, am impressed."

This wasn't polite talk; it was genuine recognition.

"Senior brothers, you overpraise me," Gu Chengming cupped his hands in return. "I just relied on the sharpness of my sword and the fact that my cultivation art happened to counter that evil. In any other scenario, I might not have been so lucky."

They exchanged a few more pleasantries, and the atmosphere became quite harmonious.

This squad named Tianshu, though its members had different personalities, were all elites from major sects. Once they recognized each other's strength, getting along was much simpler than dealing with those scheming old foxes in officialdom.

After three rounds of tea, Gu Chengming looked around. As if suddenly remembering something, his eyes flickered slightly, and he asked casually:

"By the way, why don't I see that... Fellow Daoist Feng Ya from the Yunyue Sect today?"

"Since we are working in the same squad, it might be inconvenient if one person is missing, right?"

As soon as these words were spoken, the air in the hall seemed to freeze for a moment.

An Shan scratched his head, clearly not catching any hidden meaning.

Only Song Qing, who was drinking tea, suddenly jerked his hand, almost spilling the tea on his robe.

He put down the cup, looking at Gu Chengming with a strange and complex expression, his Adam's apple bobbing with difficulty.

'It shouldn't be what I'm thinking, right...?'

Although he also felt Feng Ya's temper was indeed annoying, they were colleagues after all, and this was the Night Guard Division. If someone actually died...

"Um... Brother Gu."

Song Qing gave a dry laugh, trying to ease the atmosphere and also confirm Gu Chengming's intentions.

"Junior Sister Feng... she probably has something that delayed her? After all, she's a female cultivator; they always have more trivial matters. We're all from the same circle; a little friction is just in the past, haha... haha..."

Gu Chengming looked at Song Qing's nervous appearance and found it funny.

"What does Senior Brother Song mean? I was just asking casually. After all, we are in the same squad; it's only right to show some concern."

Song Qing: "..."

Just as Song Qing was unsure of Gu Chengming's attitude, Li Dujiang in the main seat spoke up.

"She requested leave today."

"Leave?" Gu Chengming raised an eyebrow.

"Yes."

Li Dujiang took a sip of his goji berry tea. "She said that to eliminate the demon last night, she exhausted herself greatly and needs to go into closed-door cultivation for a few days to recover."

Song Qing couldn't hold it in and almost burst out laughing.

Last night, besides standing on the wall for a bit and throwing two useless talismans, Feng Ya hadn't even touched the edge of that black mist. Where did the exhaustion come from?

This was clearly her pride being crushed by Gu Chengming, and she didn't have the face to see people, or she was afraid of being mocked by him again, so she simply hid away.

Gu Chengming also chuckled and shook his head, saying nothing more.

Since she was hiding, he would let it go for now. In any case, there was plenty of time ahead in Daqian.

"Alright, since everyone isn't here, let's just practice on our own today."

Li Dujiang put down his teacup, seemed to remember something, and suddenly said as his gaze swept over everyone:

"By the way, there's one more thing."

"In three days, the Night Guard Division will hold a welcome banquet to celebrate the recent arrival of newcomers and also as a small internal gathering for us."

"At that time, besides several Vice commanders, our Director might also make an appearance."

"The Director?"

Gu Chengming had done his homework before coming and knew this big figure was extremely mysterious and held immense power. He was one of the few giants in Daqian who could truly intimidate all factions besides the Emperor.

"Is this Director very powerful?" Gu Chengming asked tentatively.

"More than just powerful!"

Song Qing lowered his voice, his tone carrying a hint of exaggerated amazement.

"Brother Gu, do you know why our Night Guard Division can remain independent from the Six Ministries, and even those Princes and Dukes have to give us some face?"

"It's all because the Director is holding it up alone!"

"Rumor has it that decades ago, when a demon tide broke out in the Northern Border, three peak fifth realm Great Demons joined forces to invade. The border army collapsed, and it was this Director who, with a single ruler, stood outside the national gate and forcibly suppressed those three Great Demons right there. Since then, the demonic aura was swept away, the Northern Border became peaceful, and for ten years, no barbarian horses dared to look toward Yin Mountain."

"And five years ago, when evils secretly gathered in the capital and conspired with high-ranking officials... it was also the Director who went straight into the vermilion gates of those grand mansions and, under the glaring eyes of the high officials, executed the traitors right on the steps."

"Then..."

Gu Chengming's heart stirred, remembering Yu Wenqiu's previous instruction to show off the "Zhou Rites Heavenly Rectifying Art" in front of the Director if he had the chance.

He originally thought it was because this heart method had something special that could win the Director's favor. But hearing Song Qing's description, this Director was clearly a ruthless character who decided matters with slaughter. Would such a person like a heart method like "Zhou Rites" that emphasized rules?

"I wonder what the Director's personality is like normally?"

Gu Chengming asked curiously, "Is she serious and old-fashioned? Or... as the rumors say?"

However.

As soon as this question was asked, the side hall, which had been chatting heatedly, instantly fell into an eerie silence.

Song Qing shut his mouth, his eyes starting to wander as he stared blankly at the ceiling. An Shan lowered his head, concentrating on counting the ants on the ground.

Even the usually steady Li Dujiang's hand holding the teacup paused for a moment, and then he silently drank his tea as if he hadn't heard the question.

When they were talking about strength just now, everyone was enthusiastic. Why did they all become so tight-lipped as if they had some unspeakable secret the moment personality was mentioned?

Gu Chengming became even more curious.

"Senior brothers?" he followed up.

Li Dujiang put down his teacup, sighed, finally looked up, and asked helplessly in return:

"Chengming, why are you so curious about the Director's personality?"

Gu Chengming hesitated for a moment but decided to tell half the truth.

"To be honest, before I left, a sect elder mentioned that the heart method I practice seems to have some connection with the Director. If I could get some guidance from her, it might be of great benefit to my cultivation."

"That's why I wanted to learn more, so I don't accidentally offend her when the time comes."

"A heart method?"

Li Dujiang was stunned, a flash of surprise in his eyes.

"What heart method do you practice, Chengming?"

Gu Chengming sat up straight and said seriously:

"The Zhou Rites Heavenly Rectifying Art."

"..."

Hearing this name.

Li Dujiang's expression instantly became extremely colorful.

"So that's how it is..."

Li Dujiang let out a long breath, looking at Gu Chengming, wanting to speak but stopping himself. Finally, he spoke slowly, his tone eerie:

"Your sect elder was right."

"Because this 'Zhou Rites Heavenly Rectifying Art'...

"Was personally created by Director Zhou when she was studying at the Imperial Academy."

"?"

Hearing the title "Director Zhou," a question mark appeared over Gu Chengming's head.

He seemed to realize something.

Time flew by, and several days passed in the blink of an eye.

After making do for a few nights in the somewhat dilapidated guest rooms of Listening to Rain Pavilion, Gu Chengming ultimately couldn't bear to let his Elder continue to suffer.

In a quiet area called Jishan Neighborhood on the west side of the capital, he rented a small, independent courtyard house. Although the house wasn't large, it was elegant.

In the courtyard, there was an old osmanthus tree and a water well. The neighbors were mostly scholars or retired minor officials, and the environment was quite peaceful, perfectly matching Yu Wenqiu's desire to 'hide in the city.'

Gu Chengming moved a lounge chair with a thick, soft cushion under the shade of the tree. Watching Yu Wenqiu lie down contentedly with a satisfied sigh, he felt both helpless and amused.

With everything settled, life gradually fell into a routine.

Gu Chengming reported for duty at the Night Guard Division every day. Although he was just a nominal Night Guard, he was doing quite well in the division thanks to his record of killing two high-level evils and the intentional care from Vice commander Liu.

In his spare time, he would practice his sword in the courtyard or chat with Yu Wenqiu about the gossip in the capital.

Elder Yu might be lazy, but she wasn't idle.

She managed to get a pile of the latest novels and official gazettes from the capital. Every day, she would lie under the tree, cracking melon seeds while educating Gu Chengming on the shifting winds in the capital—which prince had taken another concubine, or which young lord was fighting over a girl in a brothel.

This kind of life, filled with the flavor of the mundane world, allowed Gu Chengming's heart, which had been tense since entering Daqian, to gradually relax.

Until three days later.

The Night Guard Division, welcome banquet.

At dusk, the Night Guard Division was decorated with lanterns and streamers.

The training ground, which was usually solemn and stern, had been transformed into an open-air banquet venue today.

Dozens of large rosewood round tables were lined up, covered with delicacies from the mountains and seas, spiritual wines, and fine brews.

Although it was an internal gathering, it was still a government office, so the necessary pomp was present.

Gu Chengming changed into clean casual clothes, with the black iron waist token symbolizing his identity hanging at his waist. Under the guidance of Vice commander Liu, he came to the table belonging to the Hidden Dragon Courtyard.

At this time, the banquet had not yet officially begun, but the venue was already bustling with people.

The Night Guard members had also rarely restrained their ferocity today, each clinking glasses and calling each other brothers; the atmosphere was quite lively.

"Brother Gu! Over here!"

From far away, Song Qing's voice drifted over.

Gu Chengming followed the sound and saw Song Qing standing by a table, waving a half-eaten roast chicken in his hand and greeting him without any regard for his image.

At that table, besides Song Qing, there was the burly but always somewhat restrained An Shan, and the perpetually pale junior banner Li Dujiang, who coughed lightly from time to time. Feng Ya was still nowhere to be seen.

"Senior brothers, you've arrived quite early."

He sat down in the empty seat next to them and cupped his hands to everyone.

"Naturally. This welcome banquet is a rare grand event in our division."

Song Qing chuckled and poured a cup of wine for Gu Chengming.

"Normally everyone is out there risking their lives; this is the only time we can gather to boast and relax. And I heard the food is good today—that 'Dragon and Phoenix Auspiciousness' dish is made with the meat of a second realm demon bird. Very nourishing!"

An Shan smiled honestly beside him and said in a muffled voice:

"I came specifically for the meat. I have a big appetite; usually, all my salary goes to buying meat, and I'm still never full."

Li Dujiang put down his teacup and looked at Gu Chengming with a gentle gaze.

"It's good that you're here. Although it's a banquet today, the rules of the division cannot be discarded. Especially if the Director arrives later, remember to be cautious in your words and actions; do not lose your manners."

At the mention of manners, Song Qing, who was just laughing, suddenly changed his expression as if he had remembered something terrifying. He quickly put down the roast chicken and sat up straight.

"Right, right, right. Brother Li is right to remind us."

Song Qing lowered his voice and said to Gu Chengming with lingering fear, "Brother Gu, you just got here so you don't know. Our Director Zhou, though she protects her own, values rules and etiquette above all else."

"You can act however you want in private, but in a formal setting like this, if anyone dares to be disrespectful, the consequences are very dire."

Gu Chengming asked, "How dire?"

Song Qing looked around to make sure Vice commander Liu wasn't nearby, then leaned into Gu Chengming's ear and said mysteriously:

"You know Vice commander Liu, right? The one who brought you in."

Gu Chengming nodded.

Old Brother Liu was a good person. Although he had a bit of a bureaucratic air, he had been truly good to him.

"Back when Vice commander Liu was first promoted to chiliarch, he was also full of high spirits. Once at a year-end victory banquet, he had a few too many cups of Dragon-Tiger Brew. That wine is strong; it went straight to his head. He lost his composure a bit and was caught by Director Zhou. He was beaten senseless."

Gu Chengming couldn't help but imagine the scene of a female teacher brutally beating Vice commander Liu.

"So, Brother Gu, if the Director comes later, we just keep our heads down and eat. Speak less, and don't get drunk and rowdy."

Song Qing concluded with lingering fear.

Gu Chengming nodded, deeply agreeing.

The banquet soon began.

Perhaps because Director Zhou had yet to arrive, the initially somewhat stiff atmosphere gradually became lively.

Song Qing was the type of person who forgot the pain once the wound healed. After a few cups of wine, his previous warning was thrown to the wind.

He pulled Gu Chengming and An Shan along and began to talk excitedly about his romantic escapades all over Daqian, from the courtesans of Jiangnan to the demonesses of the Northern Border. An Shan listened with wide eyes, even forgetting to eat his meat.

Li Dujiang didn't participate but didn't stop them either, just quietly drinking tea and occasionally inserting a few sharp comments.

The nearby Night Guard members were even more exaggerated; one or two had even started fighting after getting drunk.

After several rounds of wine and many dishes had been served...

Just as everyone was having a great time and Gu Chengming was also preparing to relax and taste that legendary Dragon and Phoenix Auspiciousness...

A discordant figure suddenly appeared at the entrance of the training ground.

The figure wasn't wearing the standard brocade robe of the Night Guard, but a moon-white flowing cloud skirt embroidered with the unique insignia of the Yunyue Sect. It was exceptionally eye-catching among the crowd of black-clad Night Guards.

Feng Ya walked to the table. She didn't salute Li Dujiang, the team leader, nor did she greet the others. She didn't even look at Gu Chengming. She simply pulled out the empty chair and sat down.

'Clack.'

She casually slapped her sword onto the table, making the bowls and plates rattle and spilling soup everywhere.

Then, she took a pair of chopsticks for herself and directly reached for the plate of the most precious Dragon and Phoenix Auspiciousness that had just been served, picking up the fattest piece of spiritual meat to put in her mouth.

She completely ignored everyone else present. The previously warm atmosphere instantly turned cold.

Song Qing's words got stuck in his throat as he looked at Feng Ya awkwardly, not knowing what to say.

Li Dujiang frowned. However, at that moment, a voice suddenly rang out.

"Fellow Daoist Feng Ya."

Gu Chengming put down his wine cup.

"You—" Feng Ya wanted to say something, but before the words could leave her mouth, her vision blurred.

'Boom—!'

Gu Chengming's figure surged forward!

He was so fast that even Li Dujiang, sitting right next to him, didn't have time to react before a hand had already gripped her throat tightly!

'Thud!'

A muffled sound echoed.

Feng Ya was slammed directly onto the table by this immense force!

Bowls and plates flew, and wine splashed everywhere.

That face, which had been full of arrogance a moment ago, was now pressed firmly against the cold tabletop. She wanted to struggle and mobilize her spiritual power to resist, but for some reason, her spiritual power stalled for a moment.

Gu Chengming's fingers tightened slightly as he spoke slowly:

"Entering without being invited, and showing no respect to your seniors."

"Having no sense of camaraderie, and no heart of reverence."

"Did I give you permission to join the table?"

【The Zhou Rites Heavenly Rectifying Art was stunned.】

【After a long while, it reacted and was immediately overjoyed.】

【Good! Excellent!! This is how it should be! This is exactly what it wanted to see!!】

【Zhou Rites Heavenly Rectifying Art Favorability +5】