Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary: “Little Ten!”

Plot and events

Li Tianming visits the Ganfeng Eternal Empire’s imperial palace with Jiang Feiling and An Ning to study its Entropy Source, though his real objective is to steal the one belonging to the Myriad Realms Eternal Empire. After secretly approaching the enormous, energy-like Entropy Source, he realizes its power comes from constant destruction and reconstruction, making it far more profound than its furnace-like appearance suggests.
His main obstacle is not the Entropy Source itself, but the tens of thousands of powerful Dao Formations protecting it. He locates a relatively weak point and begins testing the defenses with his Thieving Heaven Hand. However, Little Ten’s egg suddenly reacts violently to the Entropy Source, releasing a similar aura and threatening to expose Li Tianming. He immediately retreats with Weisheng Moran’s Realm Starball.
Back at the Heavenly Emperor Sect, Li Tianming concludes that his current Heaven-Stealing Eye is not strong enough to breach the protections, especially those of the more heavily defended Myriad Realms Eternal Empire. He therefore decides that he must further develop his abilities, particularly with Xiao Xiao’s help, before attempting the theft.

Character developments

• Li Tianming gains a clearer understanding of the Entropy Source and recognizes the scale of the challenge ahead. His confidence remains intact, but he acknowledges that careful preparation and stronger abilities are necessary.
• Little Ten displays an intense instinctive attraction to the Entropy Source, losing control when brought near it. This suggests that the Entropy Source may be crucial to Little Ten’s development or nature.
• Little Nine is unsettled by Little Ten’s aura, showing that even another powerful companion beast views it as dangerous or abnormal.
• Lin Xiaoxiao has grown significantly stronger within the Demon Nest. Her Demon Empress Physique, Bloodcharmer Pupils, and eighteen layers of Fate-Reincarnation Primordial Evil Demon Eyes highlight her rapidly increasing potential. Her Demon Empress instincts also become more pronounced.

Character interactions

Li Tianming carefully reassures and restrains Little Ten when it reacts to the Entropy Source. Weisheng Moran helps the group escape using the Realm Starball, while An Ning questions Li Tianming about the defensive formations. Later, Li Tianming reunites with Lin Xiaoxiao in the Phantom Whale. Their meeting quickly becomes intimate, reflecting the influence of her Demon Empress instincts and their established relationship.

Significant themes

• Power and preparation: Even Li Tianming’s exceptional abilities are insufficient against the Entropy Source’s defenses, emphasizing the need for growth before taking major risks.
• Instinct versus control: Little Ten’s uncontrollable reaction and Lin Xiaoxiao’s Demon Empress instincts show how innate urges can affect decision-making.
• The mystery of Little Ten: Its unusual connection to the Entropy Source hints that it may possess a deeper, possibly transformative relationship with this extraordinary power.
• Risk and strategy: Li Tianming’s retreat demonstrates that success depends not only on strength but also on timing, secrecy, and avoiding premature action.

Chapter Summary: “Farewell, Martial Immortal Group”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Inside the Phantom Whale, Li Tianming and Lin Xiaoxiao use the Primordial Evil Demon Rays to refine Demon Honey. After an exhausting process, Lin Xiaoxiao’s Demon Empress Honey Flower is completely drained, but the Heaven-Stealing Eye in Li Tianming’s palm shows no sign of evolving.
• Li Tianming and Lin Xiaoxiao conclude that Little Ten’s evolution may require a much greater amount of energy or another method. Li considers investigating new possibilities after joining the Republic Divine Heaven, rather than recklessly attempting to use the dangerous Entropy Source in the Inner Territory.
• An Ning agrees that they should avoid approaching the Entropy Source unless absolutely necessary. Although helping Little Ten is important, exposing its existence or losing control of the treasure would be far too dangerous.
• Li Tianming returns to the Burning Spirit Realm and travels to Beacon Ruins using Zi Zhen’s Realm Starball and the Space-Stabilizing Butterfly.
• The third round of the Myriad Sects Imperial War begins. Beacon Ruins is filled with excitement, as citizens gather to watch the remaining 128 elite participants compete.
• Public attention centers not only on the rankings but also on whether any contestant will impress the observers from the Republic Divine Heaven enough to gain entry into the Inner Territory. Winning the tournament alone does not guarantee this opportunity.
• Jiang Feiling possesses Li Tianming’s body and conceals her power within the Purgatory Heart as he heads toward the Myriad Sects War Domain, located between the Myriad Sects Imperial Tower and the imperial palace.
• Before entering the battlefield, Li Tianming encounters the four members of the Martial Immortal Group: Wu Huan, Wu Zhi, Han Xuan, and Mu Xilan. They hint that the upcoming battle will also determine the continuation of his assessment.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming: Becomes more cautious and pragmatic. Although he remains determined to help Little Ten and advance the Heaven-Stealing Eye, he recognizes the danger of relying on uncertain plans. He also continues to display confidence and humor when dealing with the Martial Immortal Group.
• Lin Xiaoxiao: Supports Li Tianming’s reasoning and accepts that Little Ten’s evolution may take time. Her cooperation with him deepens their trust and intimacy, though the process leaves her physically exhausted.
• An Ning: Shows lingering fear from the Entropy Source incident and argues for restraint. Her concern emphasizes the need to protect Little Ten’s secret.
• Jiang Feiling: Continues assisting Li Tianming by possessing his body and concealing her strength, allowing them to move through Beacon Ruins without drawing attention.
• The Martial Immortal Group: Remains deliberately unreadable. Wu Huan emphasizes that their neutral attitudes are part of their official duty, while Wu Zhi’s cryptic warning suggests that Li Tianming’s next performance may be especially important.

Significant Themes

• Caution versus ambition: Li Tianming wants to accelerate Little Ten’s evolution but recognizes that pursuing power recklessly could cause disaster.
• Uncertainty and preparation: The characters acknowledge that future possibilities are speculative, while only tangible resources and observable results can be trusted.
• Merit and hidden judgment: The Imperial War is publicly presented as a fair competition, but the real reward—entry into the Republic Divine Heaven—depends on the secret evaluations of its observers.
• Public spectacle and private motives: The tournament has become a citywide carnival, yet the participants and evaluators conceal their identities, intentions, and true objectives.
• Assessment beyond victory: Li Tianming’s performance is being judged not only by battlefield success but also by qualities that the Martial Immortal Group has not revealed.

Character Interactions

• Li Tianming and Lin Xiaoxiao share an intimate, cooperative moment while attempting to advance the Heaven-Stealing Eye and Little Ten’s evolution. They discuss the limits of their current approach and agree not to force the process.
• An Ning voices her concerns to Li Tianming, reinforcing their shared decision to avoid the Entropy Source unless no alternative remains.
• Li Tianming exchanges teasing remarks with the Martial Immortal Group. Han Xuan responds playfully, Wu Huan explains their detached conduct, and Wu Zhi offers a mysterious warning before the group proceeds toward the War Domain.

Chapter Summary: “The Third Round Begins!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After speaking with Wu Huan and the other assessment candidates, Li Tianming heads toward the Myriad Sects War Domain. Although they disappear into the crowd, Silver Dust allows him to track their movements as they secretly observe him.
• Ji Qingyue playfully approaches Li Tianming, followed soon afterward by her elder sister, Ji Ziling, the imperial eldest princess.
• Li Tianming asks Ji Ziling for information about the Martial Immortal Group assessment. She admits that even the Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor does not know the exact details. While Li Tianming is stronger than most candidates, passing is not guaranteed.
• Ji Ziling suggests that, should Li Tianming fail, he could work for the Ganfeng Eternal Empire. Ji Qingyue enthusiastically proposes that he become an official and remain in Ganfeng, but Ji Ziling rebukes her, insisting that Li Tianming should pursue the much greater opportunities available in Republic Divine Heaven.
• The sisters note that, because the Li Heavenly Emperor Sect has become a First-Tier Subsidiary Sect of the Ganfeng Eternal Empire, Li Tianming is already considered one of their own.
• Ji Qingyue asks about Ling’er, and Li Tianming explains that she prefers avoiding crowds and is watching the competition elsewhere.
• Li Tianming, accompanied by the two princesses, reaches the enormous Myriad Sects War Domain. The public recognizes him and speculates about his role in the Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor’s decision to elevate several Outer Territory sects.
• The chapter concludes with the introduction of the massive circular battlefield, constructed from galactic meteorites and Dao ores and protected by an immensely powerful Dao Formation. Tens of thousands of influential Outer Territory powerhouses begin taking their seats to watch the next round.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming: Remains focused and cautious about the assessment, recognizing that his strength does not guarantee success. He also continues to gain political importance and public attention due to the Li Heavenly Emperor Sect’s new status.
• Ji Qingyue: Displays her usual playful and carefree personality, teasing Li Tianming and suggesting he remain in Ganfeng so they can spend more time together. Her comments also reveal her attachment to him.
• Ji Ziling: Acts as the more mature and responsible sister. She supports Li Tianming while emphasizing the importance of ambition and the superior opportunities in Republic Divine Heaven. Her warm attitude confirms her goodwill toward him.
• Ling’er: Though absent, she is characterized as someone who dislikes crowds and prefers observing from a private location.
• Wu Huan and the other candidates: Continue secretly monitoring Li Tianming, suggesting that they view him as a significant rival or target.

Significant Themes

• Ambition versus comfort: Ji Qingyue’s wish for Li Tianming to stay in Ganfeng contrasts with Ji Ziling’s insistence that he pursue greater challenges and opportunities.
• Uncertainty and competition: Even extraordinary strength cannot guarantee success in the assessment; candidates must still perform under unknown conditions.
• Political influence and status: Li Tianming’s growing importance is reflected in the Li Heavenly Emperor Sect’s promotion and the public’s speculation about his influence over the Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor.
• Public reputation: Li Tianming’s appearance immediately attracts attention, showing that his past achievements and recent political impact have made him widely known.
• Fairness and preparation: The enormous, heavily reinforced battlefield demonstrates the scale and seriousness of the Myriad Sects Imperial War and is designed to ensure that participants can fight without outside interference.

Character Interactions

• Ji Qingyue playfully tries to provoke a reaction from Li Tianming, while he responds with restrained humor and remains focused on the assessment.
• Ji Ziling offers Li Tianming realistic advice and reassurance, while Ji Qingyue jokingly tries to persuade him to abandon the greater opportunity of Republic Divine Heaven.
• Ji Ziling physically and verbally restrains Ji Qingyue’s careless suggestion, highlighting the contrast between the sisters’ personalities.
• The two princesses’ presence gives Li Tianming easier passage through the crowd and reinforces his close relationship with the imperial family.

Chapter Summary: Fengxian Spirit Island

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Tianming, Ji Ziling, and Ji Qingyue observe the Myriad Sects Imperial War from a privileged Outer Territory sect viewing area.
• The major leaders of several powerful Outer Territory sects, including the Heavenly Emperor Sect, have stayed away because their presence could expose them to danger. Their status offers protection, but only overwhelming strength provides true security.
• The competition draws increasingly distinguished spectators. Rulers and powerful figures from fourth- and fifth-level Inner Territory star systems arrive at the Myriad Sects Imperial Tower to watch the final stages of the war.
• Ji Qingyue explains that rulers of third-level star systems occupy an even more prestigious location within the imperial city.
• Li Tianming notices the sudden appearance of Fengxian Spirit Island, a magnificent portable Dao treasure belonging to the Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor. The floating island contains a vast aerial garden and more than a thousand seats, making it a luxurious venue for elite guests.
• The Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor and the Abyss Prince host several allied Heavenly Emperors from other third-level star systems, including the Weaving Delusion, Morning Tide, Torrent Origin, and Origin Blood Heavenly Emperors.
• The Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor searches the crowded war domain for someone—implicitly Li Tianming—but cannot find him.
• A tense, indirect exchange follows between the Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor and the Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor. Their polite words conceal disagreement over Li Tianming and the people surrounding him, leaving the atmosphere strained.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming remains observant and politically perceptive. He understands that the absence of the Outer Territory sect leaders reflects caution rather than indifference, and he recognizes the importance of the elite gathering in the imperial city.
• Ji Qingyue reveals her familiarity with imperial treasures and seating arrangements. Her excitement over Fengxian Spirit Island adds a more youthful and personal side to her character.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor appears confident, diplomatic, and composed. He deliberately counters the Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor’s veiled accusations without openly escalating the confrontation.
• Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor maintains a relaxed exterior but is clearly resentful and suspicious. His search for Li Tianming and his warnings about “using the wrong person” reveal his continuing hostility.
• Abyss Prince recognizes the political tension but remains silent, choosing loyalty to the Ganfeng Imperial Family and the preservation of its dignity over openly supporting the Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor.

Significant Themes

• Power as the ultimate protection: Titles and political affiliations offer limited safety; only absolute strength guarantees survival and confidence.
• Political maneuvering and hidden hostility: Courteous dialogue between powerful figures can conceal threats, accusations, and competing agendas.
• Hierarchy and status: The chapter emphasizes the vast differences between Outer Territory sects, fourth- and fifth-level star systems, and third-level star-system rulers.
• Public spectacle versus private conflict: The Myriad Sects Imperial War appears to be a grand celebration of genius, but the gathering also serves as a stage for political observation, alliances, and veiled confrontation.
• Luxury and imperial authority: Fengxian Spirit Island symbolizes the wealth, influence, and refined power of the Ganfeng Imperial Family.

Character Interactions

• Li Tianming speaks with Ji Ziling and Ji Qingyue about the absence of their elders and the privileges granted to Outer Territory sects.
• Ji Qingyue explains the distinctions between various levels of seating and introduces Li Tianming to Fengxian Spirit Island.
• The Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor and Abyss Prince host allied Heavenly Emperors in the island’s aerial garden.
• The Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor and Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor exchange polite but pointed remarks about talent selection and loyalty. Their conversation exposes unresolved conflict over Li Tianming.
• The Abyss Prince observes the exchange but avoids intervening, highlighting the political delicacy of the situation.

Summary of “A Tacit Understanding”

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Heavenly Emperors present suppress an earlier disagreement, choosing to maintain a united and courteous atmosphere before the Myriad Sects Imperial War begins.
• More than a thousand rulers and high-ranking officials from Third-Tier Star System affiliate nations arrive at Fengxian Spirit Island. Although they exchange friendly greetings, everyone understands that their apparent alliance is largely ceremonial and politically motivated.
• The remaining 128 participants in the Imperial War are introduced as exceptionally powerful young geniuses, most of them imperial princes or princesses from Third-Tier affiliate nations. Lower-ranked affiliate nations are excluded entirely, emphasizing the enormous gap in status and strength.
• The participants nominally belong to Outer Territory sects, though their true origins in Inner Territory affiliate nations are an open secret that no one dares expose.
• Li Tianming observes the diverse contestants, including powerful ghosts, gods, Primordial Chaos pupils, Star Realm Clan members, and unfamiliar races.
• Ji Qingyue reacts to the gathering with admiration but also laziness, joking that the many powerful geniuses will protect the future so she can live comfortably. Ji Ziling silently accepts that Qingyue is unlikely to change without a major personal shock.
• The atmosphere changes dramatically when two mysterious dignitaries arrive: the golden-robed Han Patrol Envoy and the silver-robed Liu Patrol Envoy.
• More than a thousand rulers—including the Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor—kneel and greet the two envoys with profound respect. Their authority is clearly far greater than that of the ordinary Heavenly Emperors and affiliate-nation rulers.
• The chapter ends with the gathered crowds shocked and confused about the envoys’ identities, just as someone begins to reveal the truth.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming remains observant, studying the contestants and recognizing the extraordinary scale and diversity of the competition.
• Ji Qingyue displays her carefree, unambitious personality, treating the gathering’s powerful participants as a reason to avoid striving herself.
• Ji Ziling becomes resigned to Qingyue’s nature. Rather than continuing to pressure her, she decides that Qingyue’s happiness may be enough, revealing a mixture of affection, concern, and helplessness.
• Han and Liu Patrol Envoys are established as figures of overwhelming authority. Their calm, restrained behavior contrasts sharply with the extreme reverence shown by the assembled rulers.
• The Heavenly Emperors and affiliate rulers demonstrate political caution: they suppress disputes publicly, maintain a façade of cooperation, and submit immediately to superior authority.

Significant Themes

• Political performance versus genuine loyalty: The rulers act like close allies, but the narration emphasizes that their relationships are fragile and based on circumstance.
• Hierarchy and power: The exclusion of lower-ranked nations and the rulers’ submission to the patrol envoys reveal a rigid social and political order.
• Hidden identities and tacit agreements: The participants’ true affiliations are widely known but deliberately left unspoken, showing how silence preserves political stability.
• Ambition versus complacency: Ji Qingyue’s carefree attitude contrasts with the immense effort and talent represented by the Imperial War participants.
• The limits of authority: Even the most powerful figures in the Inner and Outer Territories are shown to be subordinate to forces or institutions far above them.

Important Character Interactions

• The Heavenly Emperors collectively smooth over their dispute, choosing diplomacy over confrontation.
• The Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor and the Abyss Prince host the arriving rulers, exchanging cordial words despite the lack of deep trust between their nations.
• Ji Qingyue comments to Ji Ziling about the abundance of powerful geniuses; Ji Ziling responds internally with resigned concern rather than openly arguing.
• The assembled rulers greet Han and Liu Patrol Envoys with unanimous kneeling submission, creating one of the chapter’s most striking displays of power.
• The surrounding spectators react with astonishment, questioning who could command such respect from the highest-ranking rulers in the region.

Chapter Summary

• Arrival of supreme overseers: Two highly revered Republic Divine Heaven officials arrive at Fengxian Spirit Island: the Han Patrol Envoy, who oversees the Inner Territory, and the Liu Patrol Envoy, who oversees the Outer Territory. Their presence causes the Inner Territory’s rulers and Heavenly Emperors to show extreme respect and fear, since the envoys possess the authority to investigate and judge them.
• Secrets about Republic Divine Heaven: Li Tianming learns from Ji Ziling that the Republic Inspectors are aware that the Inner Territory monopolizes advancement slots to Republic Divine Heaven, though they have not openly intervened. Ji Ziling also reveals that Liu Patrol Envoy is a powerful patron of the Ganfeng Imperial Family. This explains part of the family’s influence and why the Ganfeng Eternal Empire was able to host the Myriad Sects Imperial War.
• Appearance of the Ancient Martial Immortal: A third major figure arrives: an imposing old man in black-and-white robes surrounded by sword-shaped phantoms. His presence intimidates even the kneeling Heavenly Emperors. Silver Dust identifies him as extremely dangerous, while Ji Ziling names him the Sword-Bearing Martial Immortal, commonly called the Ancient Martial Immortal, from the Martial Immortal Corona Borealis Great Wall.
• Importance to Li Tianming: The Ancient Martial Immortal is one of the main figures presiding over the Martial Immortal assessment. Li Tianming realizes that his judgment may determine whether he and the other candidates can enter the Martial Immortal Group.
• Competition for advancement: Ji Ziling explains that more than thirty of the 128 participants in the Myriad Sects Imperial War are being evaluated for advancement, including Li Tianming, Sui Shen Yao, Jiang Feiling, and others. Ji Qingyue questions why the remaining participants would fight if they cannot directly enter Republic Divine Heaven. Ji Ziling replies that any contestant might defeat a qualified candidate and seize their opportunity, while exceptional performance could also improve their prospects of inheriting their nation’s throne.
• Character interactions: Li Tianming shows his usual curiosity and willingness to probe sensitive political matters, while Ji Ziling responds protectively, withholding information she considers dangerous. She modestly explains that her family’s powerful backing is meant to strengthen Ganfeng rather than boast. Ji Qingyue remains carefree and dependent on her family, prompting Ji Ziling to worry that she lacks the forcefulness needed for political struggles. Their affectionate sisterly exchange contrasts with the tense political atmosphere.
• Closing development: The Ancient Martial Immortal joins the two Patrol Envoys at the highest seats overlooking the Myriad Sects War Domain. The three powerful elders are now positioned to observe and judge the upcoming battle of geniuses, raising the stakes of the competition and Li Tianming’s assessment.

Chapter Summary: “Mirror Flowers, Water Moon”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• The third and final round of the Myriad Sects Imperial War begins under the watch of three major figures from Republic Divine Heaven: Ancient Martial Immortal, Han Patrol Envoy, and Liu Patrol Envoy.
• Only 128 contestants remain after two rounds of selection. They will now compete in an elimination-style arena tournament within the Myriad Sects War Domain.
• The tournament will determine not only the champion but also the complete rankings through additional matches for the top sixteen, top eight, and other placements.
• Liu Patrol Envoy questions Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor about recently promoting several weak Outer Territory sects to First-Tier Subsidiary Sect status. Ganfeng explains that he did so to remove restrictions on Li Tianming, the only genuine Outer Territory contestant still remaining.
• Liu warns Ganfeng not to overstep, suggesting that his actions could make him a target. This reveals political tension surrounding Li Tianming’s participation.
• The three supreme observers appear to represent different interests: Liu seeks to strengthen her influence in the Inner Territory, Han controls the Inner Territory and remains difficult to read, while Ancient Martial Immortal commands widespread respect.
• Ganfeng announces the beginning of the final round. Ancient Martial Immortal uses a strange, unstable sword to draw the combatants.
• The first duel is revealed: Li Tianming, contestant seventeen, will face Jing Shuiyue, contestant twenty-nine of the Lifeless Thousand Illusions Sect.
• The crowd considers Jing Shuiyue vastly stronger than Li Tianming’s previous opponents and assumes his tournament run may end immediately.
• Both fighters enter the Myriad Sects War Domain, preparing for battle.

2. Character Developments

• Li Tianming: Remains calm and confident despite being matched against a powerful opponent in the opening round. His anticipation for the elite battles shows his desire to prove himself on the largest stage.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor: Demonstrates that he is actively protecting and supporting Li Tianming, even at political risk. His explanation to Liu shows both loyalty and awareness of Li’s importance.
• Liu Patrol Envoy: Establishes herself as cautious and politically strategic. She does not directly oppose Ganfeng but warns him to control his actions.
• Han Patrol Envoy: Appears detached and unreadable. His cryptic smile hints that he may understand more about the tournament’s hidden manipulation than he reveals.
• Ancient Martial Immortal: Is portrayed as highly respected and authoritative. His role in drawing the matches reinforces his importance to the competition.
• Ji Qingyue and Ji Ziling: Ji Qingyue enthusiastically encourages Li Tianming, while Ji Ziling worries that her conspicuous support may create unnecessary pressure or attention.
• Jing Shuiyue: Introduced as an elegant and mysterious powerhouse. Her connection to the Myriad Realms Eternal Empire suggests that her identity within the Lifeless Thousand Illusions Sect is likely only a cover.

3. Significant Themes

• Political manipulation behind meritocratic competition: Although the tournament is presented as a fair selection of geniuses, many contestants have been filtered or supported by powerful factions for political purposes.
• Outer Territory versus Inner Territory inequality: Li Tianming is the only true Outer Territory contestant left, while most others merely possess nominal Outer Territory affiliations. His survival exposes the unfairness of the selection system.
• Hidden identities and deception: Jing Shuiyue’s apparent affiliation with the Lifeless Thousand Illusions Sect conceals her likely origins in the Myriad Realms Eternal Empire.
• Power and influence: The tournament is not merely a contest of strength; it is also a struggle among the factions represented by Liu, Han, Ancient Martial Immortal, and Ganfeng.
• Pressure and composure: While others view Li Tianming’s matchup as overwhelming, he remains composed, suggesting confidence in his own ability and refusal to be intimidated by reputation.

4. Character Interactions

• Liu Patrol Envoy and Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor: Liu confronts Ganfeng about assisting Li Tianming. Their exchange reveals both her authority and Ganfeng’s willingness to risk political backlash on Li’s behalf.
• Han Patrol Envoy and Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor: Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor flatters Han, but Han dismisses the need for personal recognition and claims that only the emergence of a true outstanding genius matters.
• Li Tianming, Ji Qingyue, and Ji Ziling: Ji Qingyue loudly urges Li to win the championship, while Ji Ziling attempts to restrain her enthusiasm. Their interaction provides encouragement and lightness before the serious battle.
• Li Tianming and Jing Shuiyue: They meet as the first combatants of the final round. The crowd expects Jing Shuiyue to dominate, setting up Li Tianming as an underdog and emphasizing the significance of their impending confrontation.

Chapter Summary: “A Winning Start”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Tianming faces Jing Shuiyue, revealed to be the daughter of the Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor and known as the “Princess Water Moon.” She is estimated to be a Sixth-Tier Evolution Realm cultivator.
• The opposing factions, including the Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor and the Lifeless Thousand Illusions Sect, expect Jing Shuiyue to defeat Li Tianming and eliminate him from the assessment.
• Jing Shuiyue is supported by the Martial Immortal Group and openly declares that she intends to avenge Li Tianming’s destruction of powerful experts from a Myriad Realms subsidiary sect.
• Li Tianming remains calm and accepts the battle as an opportunity to test and consolidate his newly learned Chaos Sword Path.
• Jing Shuiyue summons her Mirror Flowers, Water Moon Illusory God, an Illusory God resembling a lake with a bright moon suspended at its center.
• Li Tianming unleashes his full power, including his Primordial Chaos Vein Field, seven Astral Realm divine swords, and the dual forms of the Eastern Emperor Sword.
• His combined techniques, Heaven-Matching Virtue and Epoch Burial, overwhelm Jing Shuiyue immediately. The attacks illuminate and then devastate the battlefield, stripping away layers of the arena.
• Jing Shuiyue is forced to reveal her Astral God Origin, effectively losing the battle after a single exchange.
• The spectators are stunned that a cultivator from the Outer Territory has overwhelmingly defeated a Sixth-Tier Evolution Realm genius from the Inner Territory.
• The Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor is enraged and frustrated, while Inspector Han is embarrassed that the geniuses of his jurisdiction failed to overcome Li Tianming.
• Ancient Martial Immortal becomes interested in Li Tianming’s origins and questions whether he is truly native to the Outer Territory. The Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor confirms that he is.
• The chapter ends with Inspector Han asking the Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor what he knows about Li Tianming, and the latter hesitating before admitting that he knows something.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming: Demonstrates a major increase in strength and confidence. He remains composed despite widespread doubt and uses the battle to refine his Chaos Sword Path. His decisive victory establishes him as a force capable of surpassing the supposed divide between the Outer and Inner Territories.
• Jing Shuiyue: Begins the battle confident and vengeful, believing her bloodline and cultivation will allow her to crush Li Tianming. Her confidence collapses when she is nearly defeated before making a meaningful attack.
• Wu Huan: Continues to support Li Tianming’s selection, expressing confidence that he is stronger than the local geniuses and worth the gamble.
• Wu Zhi: Initially presents the selection as a mere official duty but is indirectly revealed to be involved in backing Li Tianming.
• Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor: Shifts from smug anticipation to shock and anger when Jing Shuiyue is defeated. His personal hostility toward Li Tianming becomes even more pronounced.
• Ancient Martial Immortal: Develops curiosity about Li Tianming, recognizing that his strength is extraordinary enough to challenge assumptions about Outer Territory cultivators.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor: Publicly confirms Li Tianming’s origins and subtly promotes his character and potential as someone deserving of cultivation.

Significant Themes

• Defying social and territorial boundaries: Li Tianming overturns the belief that Outer Territory cultivators are inherently inferior to Inner Territory geniuses.
• Talent versus resources and bloodline: Jing Shuiyue represents the advantages of powerful ancestry and abundant resources, while Li Tianming’s victory suggests that exceptional potential can emerge despite limited origins.
• Underestimation and reversal: Characters who mock Li Tianming are forced to confront his overwhelming strength almost immediately.
• Personal vengeance and political conflict: Jing Shuiyue’s battle is motivated by her family’s grudge against Li Tianming, showing how personal combat is tied to larger factional rivalries.
• Recognition of hidden potential: Li Tianming’s performance attracts the attention of powerful figures, suggesting that his victory may alter his status and the political balance around the assessment.

Character Interactions

• Jing Shuiyue confronts Li Tianming with threats of vengeance on behalf of her father and the Myriad Realms. Li Tianming dismisses her threats and insists that their battle should determine who is stronger.
• Wu Huan defends the decision to choose Li Tianming, while Wu Zhi and the opposing faction debate whether he is capable of competing with Inner Territory geniuses.
• Han Xuan argues that Li Tianming’s previous victories should not be dismissed, directly challenging those who ridicule the choice.
• The Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor reacts with visible frustration to his daughter’s defeat.
• Ancient Martial Immortal questions the Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor about Li Tianming’s origin, signaling that Li Tianming’s performance has attracted high-level attention.
• Inspector Han presses the Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor for information about Li Tianming, setting up a possible revelation about Li Tianming’s background.

Chapter Summary: “Second Battle!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor explains Li Tianming’s background and previous achievements to Inspector Han, revealing that Li has already proven himself capable of competing with the strongest geniuses of the Inner Territory.
• Inspector Han recognizes the hostility between Li Tianming and the Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor but advises patience, noting that the real conflict has only begun.
• Li Tianming’s decisive victory over Jing Shuiyue confirms his eligibility as a serious candidate for advancement to the Republic Divine Heaven. The chapter explains that there are multiple paths into the Republic Divine Heaven, including the elite Martial Immortal Group assessment and the more public selection process.
• While the remaining battles of the round are fought, Li Tianming watches the matches and gathers information with the help of Ji Qingyue and Ji Ziling. He also chats with An Ning, Jiang Feiling, and others within the Supreme Unity Tower.
• Several days later, Li Tianming enters the next stage of the tournament, fighting for advancement from the final sixty-four contestants to thirty-two.
• His opponent is Yuan Heng, a Fifth-Order Evolution Realm warrior from the Yuan Wang Sect and the Yuan Chi Eternal Empire. Yuan Heng is the son of the Yuan Chi Heavenly Emperor, who expects him to struggle against Li Tianming.
• Before the battle, Yuan Heng activates his powerful ghosts-and-gods bloodline. His body grows to three meters, his features become monstrous, horns and fangs emerge, and large scales form a natural armor resembling a self-repairing dao treasure.
• Despite his terrifying transformation, Yuan Heng remains courteous and formally asks Li Tianming for guidance, signaling the beginning of the second battle.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming: His reputation rises significantly after defeating Jing Shuiyue. He is now recognized as a genuine contender among the Inner Territory’s elite rather than an unknown outsider. He also demonstrates preparation and strategic awareness by studying potential opponents.
• Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor: He is frustrated by Li Tianming’s success and the elimination of his child, but he is forced to remain passive because the Imperial War is still underway.
• Inspector Han: His attitude toward Li Tianming changes after learning about Li’s origins and accomplishments. He begins viewing Li as a significant figure in the tournament.
• Yuan Heng: Although not considered talented enough for the Martial Immortal Group assessment, Yuan Heng displays strong discipline and courtesy. His transformation reveals the formidable power of the Chi-Blood-style ghosts-and-gods lineage.
• Yuan Chi Heavenly Emperor and Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor: Their friendly conversation shows a long-standing relationship. Yuan Chi is realistic about his son’s chances, while Ganfeng lightly consoles him and discusses their own children’s shortcomings.

Significant Themes

• Recognition through strength: Li Tianming’s victory forces powerful figures to acknowledge his abilities, showing how results can overturn prejudice and doubt.
• Political restraint and hidden conflict: The hostility between Li and the Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor remains unresolved because the tournament’s rules and public scrutiny prevent direct retaliation.
• Multiple paths to advancement: The chapter highlights the layered power structure of the Republic Divine Heaven and the different routes through which talented individuals may gain entry.
• Bloodline and identity: The contrast between the Sourceblood Clan and Chi-Blood Clan reflects differing beliefs about how ghosts and gods should develop their strength—through human-like forms or the full awakening of their primitive bloodline.
• Courtesy amid violence: Yuan Heng’s polite behavior, even while transforming into a terrifying warrior, emphasizes that monstrous appearance and civilized conduct are not mutually exclusive.

Character Interactions

• The Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor reluctantly informs Inspector Han about Li Tianming, while Inspector Han responds with cautious interest and warns him not to act prematurely.
• Ji Qingyue and Ji Ziling assist Li Tianming by providing information unavailable even through Silver Dust, strengthening their cooperation.
• Li maintains friendly conversations with An Ning, Jiang Feiling, and others while waiting between matches.
• Ganfeng and Yuan Chi Heavenly Emperors exchange teasing, familiar remarks about their children, revealing their close friendship.
• Li Tianming and Yuan Heng formally introduce themselves and salute one another before the battle, establishing a respectful but imminent confrontation.

Chapter Summary: “The More Skills, the Better”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Tianming faces Yuan Heng in the sixty-four-to-thirty-two advancement round.
• Rather than using his Eastern Emperor Sword or full strength, Li fights barehanded while fused with his lifebound beasts.
• The battle becomes an intense physical contest, with both fighters exchanging powerful blows and later using divine abilities.
• Although Yuan Heng is a formidable opponent, Li Tianming’s superior strength eventually wins out. Yuan concedes after sustaining serious injuries.
• Li deliberately spares Yuan Heng instead of defeating him so severely that he would be reduced to Astral God Origin. Their nations are allied, and neither fighter bears any personal grudge.
• Yuan Heng exchanges Communication Star Towers with Li and invites him to visit the Yuan Chi Eternal Empire, establishing a friendly connection.
• After advancing to the top thirty-two, Li discusses the competition with Ji Ziling and Ji Qingyue. He remains cautious, acknowledging that stronger opponents may appear later.
• The next round is especially important because it reduces the competitors to sixteen and heavily influences selection for the Martial Immortal Group, which has only about thirty potential assessment slots.
• Li’s next opponent is Sen Xia’an, a green-haired Forest Spirit Clan genius and Infinite Beastmaster from the Forest Spirit Eternal Empire.
• Sen Xia’an can use her Forest Spirit Mark to grant intelligence to Dao Plants, allowing her army to fight with sophisticated coordination.
• Li cannot reveal the Evil Ghost Legion because of the rumors surrounding the Destiny Sin Clan, so he relies on Yinghuo’s Purgatory Fire and Xianxian’s black tentacles.
• These abilities easily burn and absorb Sen Xia’an’s Dao Plants, allowing Li to win decisively and advance into the top sixteen.
• Aurora warns that the remaining opponents will be genuine top-tier geniuses.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming: Demonstrates that his abilities extend far beyond swordsmanship. He proves capable of overwhelming opponents through physical strength, divine abilities, and tactical flexibility. Despite his victories, he remains humble and cautious, refusing to assume that winning the championship will be easy. He also shows restraint by sparing Yuan Heng and carefully concealing the Evil Ghost Legion.
• Yuan Heng: Initially confident and focused, he becomes impressed by Li’s physical power. He accepts defeat honorably and develops a friendly relationship with Li.
• Ji Ziling: Continues to act as a knowledgeable guide and supporter. She recognizes Li’s potential and explains that even a loss against a powerful opponent might still earn him consideration for the Martial Immortal Group.
• Ji Qingyue: Offers enthusiastic encouragement, confidently believing Li will secure a place in the Martial Immortal Group.
• Sen Xia’an: Introduced as a highly talented Forest Spirit Clan warrior whose intelligent Dao Plant army represents a distinctive and powerful combat style, though she is unable to withstand Li’s specialized abilities.
• Aurora: Emphasizes the growing difficulty of the tournament as the remaining competitors become stronger.

Significant Themes

• Versatility as strength: Li’s ability to combine physical combat, swordsmanship, divine abilities, and lifebound beasts allows him to overcome varied opponents.
• Restraint and diplomacy: Li’s decision not to destroy Yuan Heng reflects political awareness and respect, showing that victory does not require unnecessary cruelty.
• Caution amid success: Li refuses to become arrogant after advancing easily, recognizing that the tournament’s strongest challengers have yet to appear.
• Hidden power and secrecy: Li conceals the Evil Ghost Legion because of the possible connection to the Destiny Sin Clan, suggesting that his greatest abilities may carry political or personal danger.
• Different paths to power: Sen Xia’an’s intelligent Dao Plant army contrasts with Li’s overwhelming, direct power, highlighting the diversity of cultivation methods.
• Competition and political selection: The tournament is not merely a contest but also an assessment for entry into the prestigious Martial Immortal Group, raising the stakes of every battle.

Character Interactions

• Li and Yuan Heng exchange respectful dialogue during and after their battle, developing mutual admiration and a friendly alliance.
• Ji Ziling and Ji Qingyue congratulate Li and discuss his prospects, with Ji Ziling offering realistic guidance and Ji Qingyue expressing unwavering confidence.
• Li respectfully introduces himself to Sen Xia’an before their match but quickly overwhelms her army once the battle begins.
• Aurora’s warning at the end reinforces the transition from preliminary victories to the truly demanding stage of the tournament.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• After easily winning his own battle, Li Tianming remains cautious and studies the other competitors rather than becoming arrogant.
• The sixteen finalists of the Myriad Sects Imperial War are determined. Silver Dust confirms that every surviving contestant is being observed by an assessor from the Martial Immortal Group, indicating that all finalists are assessment targets.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor announces a one-month rest period before the next stage of the competition. The crowd enthusiastically praises and worships him.
• Ji Qingyue celebrates Li Tianming’s advancement and jokingly invites him to tour the imperial palace with her and Ling’er. Ji Ziling reprimands her for treating the situation too casually, and Li Tianming later bids farewell to both sisters.
• Li Tianming returns to the Myriad Sects War Hall with the other finalists. Observers discuss how extraordinary his rise is—from an unknown Outer Territory cultivator with no powerful backing to a top-sixteen contestant.
• He retreats to the Destiny Hall and uses an Ancient Star Palace to cultivate. After roughly ten days, he successfully breaks through to the twelfth-order Godseed Realm, reaching the realm’s peak and moving one step closer to the Evolution Realm.
• Shortly after his breakthrough, Ji Ziling contacts him and says that Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor has summoned him to the imperial palace.
• Ji Ziling personally arrives in a violet cosmic warship to escort him. Their treatment of Li Tianming causes others to speculate that the imperial family is trying to win him over, possibly even as a future son-in-law.
• During the journey, Ji Ziling reveals that the imperial family’s powerful patron is Liu Patrol Envoy. Li Tianming realizes that this figure may already have noticed his existence.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming: Demonstrates humility, strategic awareness, and continued ambition. He uses the month-long break productively, successfully advancing to the peak of the Godseed Realm. His growing importance is reflected in the imperial family’s personal attention and in the public’s recognition of his achievements.
• Ji Qingyue: Openly admires and praises Li Tianming, calling him an exceptional teammate. Her playful suggestion that he tour the palace highlights her friendly and affectionate personality.
• Ji Ziling: Acts more seriously and responsibly than her sister, while remaining supportive of Li Tianming. Her personal escort of him shows the imperial family’s trust and interest in him.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor: Maintains a majestic public image while taking a direct interest in Li Tianming’s future.
• Liu Patrol Envoy: Though not yet seen, his influence becomes increasingly significant as the imperial family’s patron and a potentially powerful figure aware of Li Tianming.

Significant Themes

• Humility amid success: Li Tianming refuses to underestimate future opponents despite rapidly gaining fame.
• Growth through battle and cultivation: His experiences in the tournament translate directly into insight and a major breakthrough.
• Rising status and political attention: Li Tianming’s achievements are drawing notice from powerful factions, transforming him from an obscure outsider into an important figure.
• Imperial favor and hidden power structures: The royal family’s special treatment suggests political maneuvering and foreshadows Li Tianming’s involvement with even greater forces.
• The contrast between friendship and political seriousness: Ji Qingyue’s playful attitude contrasts with Ji Ziling’s caution and the increasingly serious consequences of Li Tianming’s rise.

Character Interactions

• Li Tianming and Ji Qingyue exchange friendly congratulations, with Qingyue enthusiastically praising him and inviting him to spend time with her.
• Ji Ziling corrects Qingyue’s joking behavior but warmly congratulates Li Tianming and asks about his plans.
• After Li Tianming’s breakthrough, Ji Ziling contacts him on behalf of the emperor and escorts him personally to the palace.
• In private, Ji Ziling hints at the importance of Liu Patrol Envoy, prompting Li Tianming to recognize that a powerful external figure may now be watching him.

Chapter Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Ji Ziling explains to Li Tianming that Liu Patrol Envoy—not Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor—summoned him.
• She outlines two possible paths for Li Tianming:
  • Martial Immortal Corona Borealis Great Wall: Service in a dangerous border defense region dominated by warfare, where advancement depends on military merit.
  • Republic Divine Heaven: A prosperous imperial center where Liu Patrol Envoy may secure him an official position with safer and potentially greater opportunities for advancement.
• Ji Ziling warns Li Tianming not to choose the frontier impulsively out of hatred for the Primordial Evil Demons. Supporting the rear can be as valuable to the nation as fighting on the frontlines.
• She reveals that the Great Wall protects the universe against countless alien races, including vast numbers of extremely powerful Primordial Evil Demons from beyond their borders.
• Li Tianming and Ji Ziling arrive at the imperial city and proceed to Pill Star Hall, where Liu Patrol Envoy and Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor are waiting.
• Liu Patrol Envoy questions Li Tianming about his views on the two possible destinations. He answers cautiously, saying he must first win the next four rounds and earn the right to serve before making a choice, and that he will follow her arrangements.
• Satisfied with his measured response, Liu Patrol Envoy then implies that Jiang Feiling and Weisheng Moran—“the people behind” him—must have additional reasons for arranging the meeting.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming demonstrates composure, political awareness, and restraint. Rather than prematurely favoring one path, he focuses on proving himself first and avoids falling into Liu Patrol Envoy’s verbal traps.
• He shows a practical understanding of the difference between military service and bureaucratic advancement, while maintaining flexibility about his future.
• Ji Ziling acts as an adviser, educating Li Tianming about the political and strategic significance of both destinations and cautioning him against emotionally driven decisions.
• Liu Patrol Envoy is established as a powerful, perceptive political figure who carefully tests Li Tianming’s ambition, judgment, and sense of propriety.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor remains largely silent, allowing Liu Patrol Envoy, as the higher-ranking figure, to lead the conversation.

Significant Themes

• Risk versus security: The frontier offers danger and rapid advancement through military merit, while the imperial center offers stability, official influence, and safer cultivation.
• Political judgment and ambition: Success depends not only on strength but also on navigating powerful figures and choosing the right patron.
• Duty beyond the battlefield: The chapter emphasizes that serving the nation includes both fighting at the front and maintaining the rear.
• Emotional restraint: Li Tianming’s ability to separate personal hatred of the Primordial Evil Demons from strategic decision-making is presented as a sign of maturity.
• Hidden motives and political testing: Liu Patrol Envoy’s questions are designed to expose Li Tianming’s assumptions and uncover the intentions of those supporting him.

Character Interactions

• Ji Ziling and Li Tianming have a mentor-like discussion, with her offering strategic guidance and him asking direct, informed questions.
• In the audience at Pill Star Hall, Li Tianming formally greets Liu Patrol Envoy and Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor while maintaining calm dignity.
• Liu Patrol Envoy controls the meeting and tests Li Tianming through carefully worded questions. Li Tianming responds respectfully but avoids committing himself prematurely.
• The chapter ends with Liu Patrol Envoy probing the involvement of Jiang Feiling and Weisheng Moran, signaling that the meeting concerns more than Li Tianming’s career options.

Chapter Summary: “Liu and Jiang”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Tianming meets Liu Patrol Envoy, who wishes to see the two mysterious women connected to him.
• He openly identifies Jiang Feiling as his Dao partner and claims she is currently in Beacon Ruins, but conceals Weisheng Moran’s identity by saying she is in seclusion.
• Liu Patrol Envoy insists that Weisheng Moran leave seclusion and travel to meet her, even if the journey takes a year. Li Tianming reluctantly agrees while recognizing that Liu is determined to meet her.
• Liu then orders Jiang Feiling to appear first. Li Tianming stages a communication through the Communication Star Tower, while Ji Ziling travels to bring Jiang Feiling to the palace.
• Jiang Feiling arrives and formally introduces herself to Liu Patrol Envoy and Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor.
• Liu closely examines Jiang Feiling, questioning her origins and the reason she and Li Tianming became Dao partners.
• Jiang claims to be an orphan from the Outer Territory with no knowledge of her true family or birthplace. She also explains that Li Tianming once saved and cared for her, leading them to become partners after enduring hardships together.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming: Demonstrates caution and political awareness by revealing only Jiang Feiling while protecting Weisheng Moran’s identity. He skillfully improvises explanations and coordinates the deception despite Liu’s pressure.
• Jiang Feiling: Displays remarkable composure and acting ability, convincingly presenting herself as an orphan with an unknown past. She supports Li Tianming’s strategy without needing direct explanation.
• Liu Patrol Envoy: Appears calm, authoritative, and perceptive. Though not openly hostile, she scrutinizes Jiang Feiling closely and shows strong determination to meet Weisheng Moran.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor: Attempts to ease the tension and establish a sense of familial connection between Liu and Jiang by emphasizing their shared Divine Ruins Clan heritage.
• Ji Ziling: Cooperates with Li Tianming and Jiang Feiling’s arrangements, though she jokingly complains about repeatedly acting as their transport.
• Li Tianming’s companions: Yinghuo, White Wind, and Little Nine humorously comment on Jiang Feiling’s skill at lying, reinforcing the group’s familiar and playful dynamic.

Significant Themes

• Secrecy and political maneuvering: Li Tianming must balance honesty with concealment, protecting his allies while maintaining cooperation with powerful figures.
• Identity and origins: Jiang Feiling’s unknown background becomes a central mystery, with Liu suggesting that her true family may be powerful or significant.
• Loyalty and partnership: Jiang’s explanation emphasizes that shared hardship and Li Tianming’s past protection—not status or strength—formed the basis of their relationship.
• Performance and deception: Both Li Tianming and Jiang Feiling rely on convincing fabricated stories to survive intense scrutiny.
• Power and social hierarchy: Liu’s commanding attitude and Ganfeng’s careful mediation highlight the influence of status, authority, and bloodline.

Character Interactions

• Liu questions Li Tianming about the women around him, forcing him to defend his secrecy.
• Li and Jiang communicate through mutual understanding, cooperating seamlessly in their deception.
• Liu and Jiang engage in a polite but probing exchange, with Liu testing Jiang’s temperament and history.
• Ganfeng tries to bring Liu and Jiang closer by framing Liu as an elder relative.
• Jiang presents her relationship with Li Tianming as one founded on rescue, care, and shared suffering, leaving Liu intrigued by their unlikely union.

Chapter Summary: “Creating Miracles”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Liu Patrol Envoy interrogates Li Tianming and Jiang Feiling in Pill Star Hall, attempting to uncover Li’s true background and identify the mysterious backer supporting him.
• Li and Jiang provide carefully mixed truths and falsehoods. Liu cannot verify their claims and eventually dismisses them, saying they will speak again when Li’s other backer appears.
• After leaving the imperial city, Li and Jiang discuss their performance. Li praises Jiang for convincingly portraying her role, while Jiang asks what they should do next. Li adopts a calm, adaptable attitude, deciding to handle problems as they arise.
• Liu later explains to Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor and Ji Ziling that she is investigating Li because his background is unclear. She is unwilling to invest in or recruit a talented youth whose origins and loyalties remain uncertain.
• Ganfeng reveals that he protected Li’s sect from Wan Jing and elevated it to a First-Tier Subsidiary Sect. He frames this as a worthwhile investment in a courageous and talented young man, though Liu suspects he may be taking a significant risk.
• The investigation is temporarily suspended, and Li retains a chance of joining Republic Divine Heaven if he continues to perform well.
• After a month’s rest, the Myriad Sects Imperial War resumes with the top-sixteen stage. The arena is filled with spectators from the Inner and Outer Territories, many of whom are eager to see whether Li can continue his unexpected winning streak.
• Public opinion is divided. Some speculate that Li might win the championship, while others dismiss the possibility because he comes from a minor sect.
• Liu Patrol Envoy, Han Patrol Envoy, Ancient Martial Immortal, and other powerful figures arrive to watch the matches. Han and the Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor criticize the attention surrounding Li, while Liu views his boldness more favorably.
• Ancient Martial Immortal offers a more neutral assessment: Li’s fame is largely imposed on him by outsiders, and his true character will be revealed by whether he remains calm and focused under the pressure.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming: Demonstrates composure and flexibility after the interrogation. Rather than panicking over Liu’s suspicions or the public scrutiny, he remains confident and determined to proceed step by step. His growing reputation makes him both a potential asset and a target.
• Jiang Feiling: Shows strong acting ability and loyalty, convincingly supporting Li’s fabricated background. She remains practical, redirecting Li’s attention away from celebrating their successful deception and toward planning their next move.
• Liu Patrol Envoy: Reveals herself to be cautious, politically perceptive, and highly analytical. Although suspicious of Li, she is not automatically hostile and recognizes that his unconventional personality could benefit the stagnant political environment.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor: Continues to support Li, presenting his intervention on Li’s behalf as an investment in talent. His defense of Li suggests he sees considerable potential in him, even if others consider the decision risky.
• Han Patrol Envoy and Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor: Display skepticism and hostility toward Li, interpreting his prominence as evidence of immaturity or excessive flamboyance.
• Ancient Martial Immortal: Acts as the most objective observer, emphasizing that Li should be judged by his response to external pressure rather than by rumors or public opinion.

Significant Themes

• Trust and hidden identities: Li’s uncertain origins make him valuable yet dangerous, forcing him and Jiang to rely on deception while powerful figures investigate them.
• Reputation and public judgment: Li’s fame is shaped largely by outsiders. The chapter questions whether public attention reflects genuine merit or merely political hostility and speculation.
• Talent versus background: Liu and Ganfeng debate whether Li’s potential justifies overlooking the uncertainty surrounding his origins.
• Composure under pressure: Ancient Martial Immortal highlights that Li’s true worth will be shown by whether he can remain steady amid praise, criticism, and political scrutiny.
• Youth and disruption: Liu sees Li’s bold, unconventional behavior as potentially beneficial in a rigid and stagnant system, while others regard the same qualities as immaturity.

Character Interactions

• Li Tianming and Jiang Feiling: Support one another after the interrogation, with Li praising Jiang’s performance and Jiang urging him to focus on their next steps.
• Liu Patrol Envoy and Li/Jiang: Liu conducts a polite but probing interrogation, seeking information about Li’s backer and background.
• Liu Patrol Envoy and Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor: Liu challenges Ganfeng’s decision to support Li, while Ganfeng argues that Li’s courage and talent make him worth protecting.
• Han Patrol Envoy and Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor: They share a critical view of Li’s prominence and temperament.
• Liu Patrol Envoy and Ancient Martial Immortal: Both defend the possibility that Li’s unconventional personality has value, though Ancient Martial Immortal stresses that Li must prove his stability through his actions.

Chapter Summary: “Top Ten of the Inner Territory”

Key Plot Points and Events

• The round of sixteen of the Myriad Sects Imperial War begins under the watch of numerous powerful figures.
• Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor challenges the legitimacy of Li Tianming’s advancement from a minor sect, implying that the tournament’s arrangements may have been manipulated.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor firmly defends the tournament’s fairness, stating that the rules and matchups are random and overseen by Republic Divine Heaven.
• Other powerful figures join the dispute:
  • Yuan Chi Heavenly Emperor argues that Li Tianming may simply possess hidden strength and good fortune.
  • Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor subtly supports Chaos Demon’s doubts and criticizes the tournament’s organization.
  • Liu Patrol Envoy points out that Chaos Demon’s son, Lone Fiend, is among the participants and suggests that a match between him and Li Tianming could settle the question of Li’s ability.
• The surrounding powerhouses clearly divide into opposing camps, reflecting growing political tension between the two patrol envoys and their allies.
• Ancient Martial Immortal ends the argument and begins drawing the next matchups.
• After several battles, Li Tianming is finally selected to fight contestant number nine: Lone Fiend.
• The crowd reacts with alarm because Lone Fiend is known for brutally overwhelming his opponents and forcing them to beg for mercy.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming: Remains calm and confident despite becoming the target of suspicion and political hostility. Thanks to Silver Dust and Ji Ziling’s information, he understands the significance of his opponent and prepares cautiously.
• Lone Fiend: Is established as a terrifying and ruthless combatant. He is the son of Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor and the little crown prince of the First Chaos Demon Empire. He has dominated every previous battle, rarely allowing opponents to survive more than ten moves.
• Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor: Displays pride in his son while attempting to undermine Li Tianming’s legitimacy. His reaction to the possibility of Lone Fiend fighting Li reveals his personal stake in the match.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor: Defends the integrity of the competition and indirectly supports Li Tianming’s right to compete.
• Ji Ziling: Provides Li Tianming with valuable intelligence about Lone Fiend and warns him to remain careful.
• Ancient Martial Immortal: Acts as the stern authority overseeing the tournament, shutting down the political confrontation and maintaining order.

Significant Themes

• Fairness versus manipulation: The chapter questions whether Li Tianming’s unexpected rise is legitimate or the result of hidden arrangements.
• Political factionalism: The tournament is also a contest between powerful imperial factions, with the surrounding Heavenly Emperors using the event to challenge one another.
• The pressure of reputation: Li Tianming must prove himself not only to his opponent but also to the powerful observers who doubt his advancement.
• Hidden strength and appearances: Li’s previous struggles may have concealed his true ability, while Lone Fiend’s reputation creates a formidable psychological threat before the battle even begins.
• Nepotism and personal stakes: Because Lone Fiend is Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor’s son, the match carries implications beyond the competition itself.

Character Interactions

• Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor directly confronts Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor over Li Tianming’s participation.
• Yuan Chi Heavenly Emperor attempts to ease the dispute but is challenged by Chaos Demon.
• Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor supports Chaos Demon’s insinuations in a more subtle manner.
• Liu Patrol Envoy provocatively suggests that Lone Fiend should face Li Tianming, exposing the connection between the two.
• Ji Ziling privately warns Li Tianming about Lone Fiend’s status and strength, while Li reassures her that he will proceed carefully.
• The chapter ends with Li Tianming and Lone Fiend facing one another as the crowd anticipates a brutal and politically significant battle.

Chapter Summary:

Chaos Demon Crown Prince

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Tianming is matched against Lone Fiend in the top sixteen of the Myriad Sects Imperial War.
• Spectators are shocked by the pairing because Lone Fiend has dominated every previous opponent, usually crushing them decisively. Li Tianming, while successful, has appeared to struggle more in earlier battles.
• The powerful figures observing from Fengxian Spirit Island discuss the match. The Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor reveals that Lone Fiend belongs to a subordinate sect of the First Chaos Demon Empire and expresses confidence that he will defeat Li Tianming.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor and Yuan Chi Heavenly Emperor remain neutral, emphasizing that victory should determine who deserves to advance.
• In the arena, Lone Fiend mocks Li Tianming’s origins, mixed bloodline, and status as an outsider from a minor sect. Li Tianming responds calmly, challenging Lone Fiend’s assumed superiority.
• Lone Fiend declares that he will use the battle to crush Li Tianming’s evaluation and prevent him from gaining the attention of powerful organizations.
• He activates his ghost god transformation, becoming a terrifying, beast-like figure covered in scales, bone spurs, claws, and a massive spiked tail.
• Observers identify him as a member of the Chaos Demon Race, suggesting a powerful connection to the First Chaos Demon Empire and the Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor.
• Lone Fiend’s strength is revealed to be at the Eighth-Tier Evolution Realm, creating serious pressure for Li Tianming, who is currently at the Twelfth-Order Godseed Realm.

2. Character Developments

• Li Tianming demonstrates composure, confidence, and sharp verbal resistance despite Lone Fiend’s contempt. Rather than being provoked, he turns Lone Fiend’s bloodline-based arrogance against him by arguing that actual combat ability matters more than heritage.
• Lone Fiend is characterized as arrogant, ruthless, and deeply prejudiced toward people of lower status or mixed bloodlines. His confidence comes from both his overwhelming battle record and his powerful backing.
• Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor openly supports Lone Fiend and appears pleased by the prospect of Li Tianming’s defeat.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor continues to defend the principle of fair competition without openly favoring either fighter.
• Sui Shen Yao correctly assesses the danger of Lone Fiend’s cultivation level, recognizing that Li Tianming is facing an opponent significantly stronger than those he has previously defeated.

3. Significant Themes

• Merit versus bloodline and background: Lone Fiend believes noble ancestry and racial purity make him inherently superior, while Li Tianming argues that strength should be judged by ability rather than origin.
• Prejudice and social hierarchy: Lone Fiend’s insults reflect the broader divide between powerful inner-territory factions and cultivators from supposedly inferior outer-territory sects.
• Hidden backing and political power: The chapter emphasizes that Lone Fiend can act recklessly because influential figures and an immense empire stand behind him.
• Underdog confrontation: Li Tianming faces a widely favored opponent whose reputation and cultivation level appear superior, setting up a major test of Li Tianming’s growth.
• Evaluation beyond victory: The battle is not only about advancing in the tournament; it may determine whether Li Tianming attracts the attention of powerful organizations within Republic Divine Heaven.

4. Character Interactions

• Spectators debate why Lone Fiend can offend powerful people without suffering consequences, contrasting him with Li Tianming, who has also caused trouble but relies more on individual protection.
• The Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor provocatively tells Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor that Lone Fiend’s victory should not cause resentment, while Ganfeng calmly replies that the stronger fighter deserves to win.
• In the arena, Lone Fiend insults Li Tianming’s origins and mixed bloodline, calling him an inferior “wild chicken” and a potential stepping stone.
• Li Tianming counters with sarcasm, pointing out that if Lone Fiend loses to someone he considers inferior, Lone Fiend’s own status will be undermined.
• The exchange ends with Lone Fiend abandoning verbal attacks and transforming into his monstrous Chaos Demon form, signaling the beginning of the battle.

Chapter Summary: War of Ghosts and Gods

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Tianming’s companions fuse into his body, granting him a powerful “ghostly god” battle form. Yinghuo enhances his right arm with fiery sword-feathers, while Miaomiao covers his left arm in chaotic lightning and fur. Xianxian, Lanhuang, and the others also contribute beastly traits without revealing their independent forms.
• Lone Fiend, transformed into a massive ghostly god, mocks Li Tianming and urges him to use all his known abilities, such as his Astral Realm and Pulse Field. Li Tianming refuses, claiming that his fused physical abilities alone are sufficient to defeat him.
• Their exchange provokes strong reactions from the spectators and several Heavenly Emperors. The Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor condemns Li Tianming’s arrogance, while the Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor suggests that his confidence may be justified. The officials Ancient Martial Immortal, Liu, and Han remain unreadable.
• Lone Fiend launches a ferocious close-range assault. Despite his enormous size and superior cultivation, Li Tianming blocks and counters the attacks using only his enhanced arms and physical strength.
• The battle spreads across the entire Myriad Sects War Domain. Contrary to everyone’s expectations, Li Tianming is not overwhelmed and manages to fight Lone Fiend almost evenly.
• Lone Fiend realizes that Li Tianming had been concealing his true strength and concludes that he must also possess Eighth-Layer Evolution Realm-level combat power. Li Tianming lets him maintain this misunderstanding rather than revealing that his actual cultivation is far lower.
• When Lone Fiend’s attacks fail to secure victory, An Ning offers to join the fight. Li Tianming refuses, explaining that he wants to use Lone Fiend as a stepping stone to demonstrate their strength and establish his reputation.
• Lone Fiend then activates the Chaos Demon Clan’s supreme divine ability, the Blood-Skull Berserk Body. His body expands dramatically, blackened blood qi erupts from cracks in his flesh, and his strength and speed soar.
• The enhancement finally gives Lone Fiend a clear advantage. His strikes begin numbing Li Tianming’s arms, and Li Tianming is forced to rely on combat experience and technique to compensate for the gap in raw power.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming: Displays greater physical strength and confidence than before, deliberately limiting himself to his fused ghostly god abilities. He demonstrates strategic thinking by refusing An Ning’s assistance, prioritizing the opportunity to make a public statement about his power.
• Yinghuo and Miaomiao: Show their usual contrasting personalities—Yinghuo is eager and aggressive, while Miaomiao is reluctant but cooperates. Both remain loyal and contribute essential combat abilities.
• An Ning: Acts as a supportive and concerned ally. Although ready to fight, she respects Li Tianming’s decision to continue alone.
• Lone Fiend: Begins the battle arrogant and dismissive, but his attitude shifts as he recognizes Li Tianming’s unexpected strength. Though impressed, he remains confident and escalates by using his clan’s ultimate berserk technique.
• The Heavenly Emperors and spectators: Their assumptions about Li Tianming are shaken. His performance forces them to reconsider his strength and potential, while the officials’ silence maintains suspense around his true importance.

Significant Themes

• Hidden strength and misdirection: Li Tianming conceals his true cultivation and allows Lone Fiend to draw the wrong conclusion about his power.
• Arrogance versus confidence: Li Tianming’s provocative confidence initially appears reckless, but his performance suggests that it may be grounded in genuine ability.
• Reputation and public victory: Li Tianming is not merely trying to win; he wants to defeat Lone Fiend in a way that establishes his strength before the watching factions.
• Teamwork and unity: Although the companions do not appear separately, their fusion shows that Li Tianming’s power depends on the combined abilities and loyalty of his entire team.
• Strength versus technique: The battle contrasts Lone Fiend’s overwhelming physical force with Li Tianming’s adaptability, combat experience, and tactical judgment.

Important Character Interactions

• Li Tianming’s companions encourage him to fight after Lone Fiend belittles his fusion form.
• Lone Fiend challenges Li Tianming to reveal his full abilities, prompting Li Tianming’s defiant refusal.
• The Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor criticizes Li Tianming, while the Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor defends the possibility that his confidence is justified.
• An Ning offers assistance during Lone Fiend’s attack, but Li Tianming persuades her to remain out of the battle so he can make a stronger impression.
• Yinghuo reassures An Ning that the companions can support Li Tianming, reinforcing the group’s loyalty and unity.

Chapter Summary: “Of Some Value”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Tianming faces Lone Fiend, a powerful Eighth-Tier Evolution Realm warrior of the Chaos Demon Race who has activated a divine ability that greatly increases his speed and ferocity.
• Lone Fiend initially believes Li Tianming cannot defeat him, but Li Tianming reveals that he, too, possesses numerous divine abilities through his lifebound beasts.
• Li Tianming unleashes a coordinated combination of abilities:
  • Chaos Thunder and the Rebirth Realm Pool through his left fist
  • Purgatory Fire through his body and attacks
  • Mountain-Sea Primordial Force and the Origin World Tree’s vitality through his legs
  • The Dominion Star Ring and Kun Heaven Star Furnace to strengthen his crushing kick
• His attacks break both of Lone Fiend’s arms and force him to his knees.
• Lone Fiend briefly escapes and regenerates his arms, but Li Tianming quickly resumes his assault using Thousandfold Rushing Thunder, Mystic Furnace Life Prison, Nine Heavens Thunder Sword, and Worldsplit Sword Plumes.
• The combined thunder and fire attacks penetrate Lone Fiend’s exposed flesh, leaving him unconscious and unable to continue fighting.
• Li Tianming deliberately stops before destroying Lone Fiend’s Astral God Origin, choosing to leave a better impression on the observers, especially Liu Patrol Envoy.
• The spectators are stunned by the result. Li Tianming has completely defeated a powerful Chaos Demon genius without using his Astral Realm, pulse field, or full swordsmanship.
• The Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor is visibly angered and humiliated by Lone Fiend’s defeat.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor asks Liu Patrol Envoy and Ancient Martial Immortal to evaluate Li Tianming. Both acknowledge his strength, with Ancient Martial Immortal calling him “of some value.”
• Ganfeng realizes Li Tianming has successfully established a strong first impression and may now have two possible paths available to him, though Weisheng Moran’s eventual arrival remains an important variable.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming: Demonstrates that his true strength lies not only in physical power but in seamlessly integrating multiple divine abilities into every movement. His cooperation with his lifebound beasts allows him to multitask beyond what ordinary cultivators can achieve. He also shows restraint and political awareness by sparing Lone Fiend once victory is secured.
• Lone Fiend: Begins the battle confident and aggressive, but becomes shocked and overwhelmed when Li Tianming counters his divine ability. Despite his immense physical strength and regenerative capacity, he is ultimately reduced to an unconscious and humiliated state.
• Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor: Suffers a serious blow to his pride after seeing the First Chaos Demon Empire’s crown prince decisively defeated. His cold reaction suggests possible future hostility toward Li Tianming.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor: Becomes increasingly confident that Li Tianming can gain recognition and secure favorable opportunities.
• Liu Patrol Envoy and Ancient Martial Immortal: Both shift toward viewing Li Tianming as a valuable and potentially recruitable talent.

Significant Themes

• Hidden strength and underestimated ability: Li Tianming overturns Lone Fiend’s assumption that he has already shown his full power.
• Cooperation and unity: His combat style depends on coordination with his lifebound beasts, emphasizing that he does not fight alone.
• Innovation in combat: Li Tianming transforms divine abilities normally used separately into integrated enhancements for his punches, kicks, movement, and defense.
• Humiliation and political consequences: Lone Fiend’s defeat damages the prestige of the Chaos Demon Race and may provoke retaliation from its emperor.
• Strength as social value: Li Tianming’s victory changes how influential figures assess him, proving that combat ability can overcome doubts about his background and character.
• Restraint and strategy: By sparing Lone Fiend’s Astral God Origin, Li Tianming shows that victory is not his only concern; he is also managing his public image and political prospects.

Important Character Interactions

• Li Tianming verbally challenges Lone Fiend’s confidence by reminding him that he also possesses divine abilities.
• Lone Fiend’s initial arrogance gives way to shock as Li Tianming breaks through his defenses.
• Li Tianming’s controlled decision to stop attacking after Lone Fiend is incapacitated contrasts with the brutal nature of the fight.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor uses Li Tianming’s performance to question Liu Patrol Envoy and Ancient Martial Immortal about his worth.
• Liu Patrol Envoy gives Li Tianming a positive evaluation, while Ancient Martial Immortal acknowledges that his combat strength makes him valuable.
• The battle creates a divide between those impressed by Li Tianming and the angered Chaos Demon Heavenly Emperor, setting up potential future conflict.

Chapter Summary: “Floating Light”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Tianming’s victory over Lone Fiend dramatically changes how the Inner and Outer Territory factions view him. Once considered merely an obscure Outer Territory genius, he has now advanced into the final eight of the Myriad Sects Imperial War—an extraordinarily rare achievement for someone of his background.
• After the battle, Ji Qingyue and Ji Ziling congratulate him. Ji Ziling explains that his clever method of defeating Lone Fiend has impressed the Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor and may give him an opportunity to gain official support, provided Weisheng Moran reaches Beacon Ruins and confirms that Li Tianming’s origins are legitimate.
• Li Tianming remains cautious, reminding them that two more rounds remain and that the remaining competitors are all exceptionally powerful.
• The advancement round concludes, and the tournament immediately begins the final eight-to-four battles. Thanks to the Origin Spirit Spring, all surviving contestants are restored to peak condition, so no further break is needed.
• Ancient Martial Immortal randomly selects participants numbered two and eight. Li Tianming, participant number two, is chosen to fight first.
• His opponent is revealed to be Weisheng Xiling, a young princess of the First Floating Light Empire and a cultivator specializing in Illusory Gods. Because Illusory God cultivators are particularly effective against ghostfiends, she represents a serious challenge for Li Tianming.
• Weisheng Xiling introduces herself warmly and without arrogance, while Li Tianming publicly identifies himself as a member of the Li Heavenly Emperor Clan through its affiliation with the Ganfeng Eternal Empire.
• Before the battle begins, the leaders observe the matchup. The Floating Light Empress confirms Xiling’s status as a genius from one of her subsidiary sects.
• Ancient Martial Immortal praises Xiling’s talent despite her lack of discipline and unexpectedly offers to personally take her in and nurture her if she wins. The Floating Light Empress reacts with disbelief, creating a cliffhanger before the fight.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming: His status rises sharply after defeating Lone Fiend. He gains recognition from powerful figures but remains disciplined and wary, refusing to celebrate prematurely. His public declaration of his affiliation also reinforces the political strategy surrounding his identity.
• Ji Ziling: She continues acting as a perceptive adviser, explaining how Li Tianming’s victory benefits the Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor’s plans and warning him about the strength of the remaining contestants.
• Ji Qingyue: She remains cheerful and playful, but jokingly suggests that she must monitor Li Tianming because Ling’er is absent and he may attract other women’s attention.
• Weisheng Xiling: She is introduced as a powerful Inner Territory princess, yet behaves in a friendly, lively, and unconventional manner. Her lack of royal arrogance contrasts with her formidable background.
• Floating Light Empress: She is portrayed as dignified, aloof, and restrained. Her surprise at Ancient Martial Immortal’s offer reveals how extraordinary and unexpected his interest in Xiling is.
• Ancient Martial Immortal: His praise and offer to mentor Xiling establish her as a highly promising talent, even though he recognizes her immaturity and lack of discipline.

Significant Themes

• Rise from obscurity: Li Tianming’s progress highlights the possibility of an Outer Territory genius overcoming immense social and political disadvantages.
• Talent versus background: The tournament is not only a test of combat ability but also a system in which powerful factions evaluate and recruit exceptional individuals.
• Caution amid success: Li Tianming’s refusal to become complacent emphasizes the danger of celebrating before the tournament is over.
• Political alliances and legitimacy: His connection to the Ganfeng Eternal Empire and the planned verification of his background show that advancement depends on both strength and political recognition.
• Contrasting personalities: Weisheng Xiling’s informal, playful conduct contrasts with her royal status and formidable cultivation, while the Floating Light Empress embodies traditional imperial dignity.
• Mentorship and succession: Ancient Martial Immortal’s offer suggests that the strongest figures are already identifying potential successors and future pillars of power.

Character Interactions

• Li Tianming speaks with Ji Qingyue and Ji Ziling after his victory, receiving congratulations, strategic advice, and warnings.
• Ji Qingyue jokes about watching Li Tianming closely in Ling’er’s absence, while Ji Ziling cautions her not to interfere with his progress.
• Li Tianming and Weisheng Xiling formally introduce themselves before the crowd. Their brief handshake presents Xiling as approachable and Li Tianming as careful and politically aware.
• The Floating Light Empress discusses Xiling’s flaws and potential with Ancient Martial Immortal.
• Ancient Martial Immortal’s unexpected offer to mentor Xiling astonishes the Floating Light Empress, ending the chapter on a note of intrigue before the decisive battle begins.

Chapter Summary: “Phantom Ray”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Before the battle, Ancient Martial Immortal publicly declares that he favors Weisheng Xiling, an accomplished Illusory God cultivator. He explains that an old friend asked him to look for talented practitioners of this path.
• Fuguang Empress excitedly thanks Ancient Martial Immortal, though she acknowledges that Li Tianming remains a formidable opponent.
• Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor takes pleasure in the situation, believing either outcome will benefit him: Li Tianming’s defeat would please everyone, while victory might place Li Tianming in opposition to Ancient Martial Immortal. Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor worries about the political consequences but trusts that winning the entire competition would silence criticism.
• In the Myriad Sects War Domain, Li Tianming faces Weisheng Xiling in a match determining entry into the top four.
• Weisheng Xiling releases her Illusory God, the Phantom Ray Dream River Phantasm, creating a vast swarm of winged, fish-like Phantom Rays. They launch a barrage of illusion-based attacks.
• Li Tianming relies on Little Six’s three fused souls—White Wind, White Night, and White Ling—to neutralize the soul attacks. The illusions have no effect on him, surprising Weisheng Xiling.
• Weisheng Xiling then changes tactics. Her Phantom Rays alternate between illusion and physical form, allowing them to bypass Li Tianming’s defenses. Li Tianming detects the danger and summons An Ning’s Supreme Unity Tower, which intercepts and exposes the Phantom Rays’ physical forms.
• She condenses the entire Illusory God into one enormous Phantom Ray and attempts to swallow Li Tianming in a destructive vortex.
• Following An Ning’s plan, Li Tianming throws the Supreme Unity Tower into the Phantom Ray’s mouth while charging directly at Weisheng Xiling.
• An Ning attacks from within the Illusory God, using spear phantoms to dismantle it from the inside. Weisheng Xiling loses control of her Illusory God, which then explodes.
• With her strongest weapon destroyed and without Lone Fiend’s physical strength, Weisheng Xiling is quickly driven to the edge of the battlefield. She concedes defeat.
• Li Tianming wins and officially advances to the top four, leaving the spectators stunned.

Character Developments

• Li Tianming demonstrates exceptional adaptability and tactical awareness. Rather than relying solely on overwhelming force, he combines Little Six’s soul protection, An Ning’s unique ability to counter Illusory Gods, and his own swordsmanship.
• An Ning proves that the Supreme Unity Tower is especially effective against Illusory Gods. She can survive inside their attacks and damage them from within, making her a decisive factor in the victory.
• Little Six’s three souls reveal their true usefulness by completely neutralizing Weisheng Xiling’s soul-based illusions.
• Weisheng Xiling is shown to be an intelligent and versatile combatant. After realizing that her soul attacks are ineffective, she rapidly changes tactics and attempts to end the match with a concentrated attack. However, she is ultimately outmaneuvered.
• Ancient Martial Immortal’s preference for Weisheng Xiling raises the political stakes surrounding the match and increases the significance of Li Tianming’s victory.

Significant Themes

• Adaptation over brute strength: Li Tianming succeeds by recognizing the nature of each attack and changing his strategy accordingly.
• Hidden abilities and deception: Both fighters conceal or gradually reveal their methods. The Phantom Rays’ shift between illusion and reality demonstrates how appearances can be used as weapons.
• Political pressure and reputation: The battle is not merely a contest of strength. Li Tianming’s performance affects how powerful figures view him and may influence future alliances.
• Teamwork and trust: Li Tianming’s victory depends on cooperation with Little Six and An Ning. He trusts An Ning’s plan without hesitation, allowing them to exploit the Illusory God’s greatest weakness.
• The danger of underestimating an opponent: Ancient Martial Immortal and others favor Weisheng Xiling, but Li Tianming’s unusual abilities completely overturn expectations.

Character Interactions

• Ancient Martial Immortal publicly favors Weisheng Xiling, creating tension with Li Tianming’s supporters.
• Ganfeng Heavenly Emperor worries that the match could place Li Tianming against Ancient Martial Immortal, while Myriad Realms Heavenly Emperor looks forward to either possible outcome.
• Weisheng Xiling initially attacks confidently and later praises Li Tianming’s ability after he counters her techniques.
• Li Tianming and An Ning coordinate closely during the decisive exchange, with An Ning instructing him to use the Supreme Unity Tower as bait.
• After losing her Illusory God, Weisheng Xiling acknowledges Li Tianming’s overwhelming advantage and willingly concedes.