Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Imperial Astronomical Bureau discovers corpses hanging in the sky, moving towards the Western Capital.
• Director Tang Muhe reports this to the Grand Secretariat, causing alarm.
• Grand Scholar Yan Xianshi resigns, along with other high officials, amidst the growing panic.
• More people go missing, and the number of hanging corpses increases, causing widespread fear.
• The corpses are found to be connected to an old case, suggesting the murderer is trying to force out the true culprit.
• The Governor of Xinxiang is still vacant, and the Yan family is offered the position but declines due to the danger.
• An imperial decree allows scholars from Xinxiang to take their exams in other provinces.

Character Developments

• Director Tang Muhe: Shows concern and responsibility towards the celestial phenomenon and its potential threat to the Western Capital.
• Grand Scholar Yan Xianshi: Resigns from his position, hinting at a hidden agenda. He seems to have knowledge about the old case and the true culprit.
• Eunuch Feng (Director Feng): Resigns and visits Yan Xianshi, revealing his continued interest in the old case and the Great Ming Treasure Ship.
• Chen Shi: Recovers from the incident with Created Being Xiao Wu and receives an invitation to a Rogue Cultivator Gathering. He reflects on his relationship with Created Being Xiao Wu and Chen Tang.
• Li Tianqing: Achieves the Third-Revolving Golden Core stage, expressing confidence in passing the imperial examination.

Significant Themes

• Fear of the unknown: The unknown enemy and the method of their attacks cause widespread panic and unease in the Western Capital.
• Power dynamics: The resignations of high officials, including Yan Xianshi and Eunuch Feng, suggest a shift in power and influence within the government.
• The past catching up: The old case resurfaces, suggesting that the past actions of characters have consequences that may still affect them.

Character Interactions

• Yan Xianshi and Eunuch Feng: They discuss the old case, Created Being Xiao Wu's methods, and the Great Ming Treasure Ship, revealing their shared interest in these matters.
• Chen Shi and Li Tianqing: They discuss Created Being Xiao Wu and Chen Tang, with Chen Shi reflecting on his relationship with them. They also discuss the imperial examination and Li Tianqing's progress in cultivation.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi and Li Tianqing part ways, with Li Tianqing returning to the Li family and Chen Shi preparing for the imperial examinations.
• Chen Shi encounters simple folk customs and malevolent spirits in Gongzhou, including human heads on stakes and hanging ropes, and demons consuming human blood and souls.
• Chen Shi arrives in Gongzhou Provincial City, where he encounters brokers trying to sell him to a farm, and a tall man from his hometown who warns him about the dangers of working in Gongzhou.
• Chen Shi is tricked into signing a contract and is sold to a restaurant owner.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi: He becomes more determined to pass the imperial examinations and returns to his studies, graduating from his teacher, Scholar Zhu. He also demonstrates his fighting skills and bravery when dealing with thieves and yamen runners.
• Li Tianqing: He returns home to the Li family, intending to meet up with Chen Shi later for the rogue cultivator gathering and imperial examinations.

Significant Themes

• The dangers and simplicity of folk customs in Gongzhou.
• The power dynamics and exploitation of scholars in Gongzhou Provincial City.
• The contrast between the simple folk of Xinxiang and the outstanding people of Gongzhou.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and Li Tianqing: They part ways amicably, with Li Tianqing expressing his desire to find Xiao Jin in the Western Capital if he passes the recommended scholar exam.
• Chen Shi and the tall man from Qiaowan Town: The tall man warns Chen Shi about the dangers of working in Gongzhou and offers to help him join the Gongzhou Talisman Master Association.
• Chen Shi and the restaurant owner: Chen Shi is tricked into signing a contract and is sold to the restaurant owner, highlighting the exploitation of scholars in Gongzhou.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi is sold to an innkeeper in Gongzhou Provincial City.
• The innkeeper sends six burly men to capture Chen Shi, but he defends himself using chopsticks and a short sword, ultimately killing the innkeeper.
• The innkeeper's Golden Core goes out of control, destroying the inn and killing everyone inside.
• Hu Feifei, a fellow student from Wencai Academy, rescues Chen Shi and takes him to meet the Provincial Education Commissioner.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi demonstrates his combat skills and quick thinking, using improvised weapons to defend against multiple attackers.
• Hu Feifei shows her cunning and resourcefulness, having sold human traffickers herself and guiding Chen Shi to the Provincial Education Commissioner.
• The innkeeper is revealed to be connected to high officials in Gongzhou Provincial City, highlighting the corruption and influence of powerful figures.

Significant Themes

• Corruption and Power: The innkeeper's connections to high officials and the human trafficking business reflect the corruption and abuse of power in society.
• The Struggle of Scholars: Chen Shi's experiences, including being sold and the challenges he faces, illustrate the difficulties and struggles of scholars in this world.
• Change and Adaptation: Chen Shi's determination to change the world and Hu Feifei's ability to adapt and navigate her circumstances highlight the theme of change and adaptation.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and Hu Feifei's interaction shows their camaraderie and shared experiences as fellow scholars.
• Chen Shi's encounter with the innkeeper and his men showcases his combat skills and resourcefulness in the face of danger.
• The innkeeper's interaction with Chen Shi reveals the corrupt and dangerous nature of the human trafficking business in Gongzhou Provincial City.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi and Hu Feifei arrive at the Governor-General's Academy and are assigned to the Official Posthouse.
• They witness a procession of the Red Mountain Hall, a Talisman Master association worshipping the Red Mountain Empress.
• Chen Shi learns about the Cao Lao Association and the Yan Lao Association, two other powerful groups in Gongzhou.
• He encounters the boat girl and her father again and learns about their business on the Minjiang River.
• Chen Shi sees several places in Gongzhou with strong incense and deep demonic energy, indicating the presence of powerful Malevolent Spirit Godmothers.
• At the Official Posthouse, Chen Shi witnesses a Malevolent Spirit gnawing on the foot of a sleeping scholar.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi: Chen Shi shows curiosity and concern about the Malevolent Spirit Godmothers in Gongzhou. He also expresses worry about the potential chaos they might cause.
• Hu Feifei: Hu Feifei is excited about finding a suitable husband among the scholars but is also anxious about the possibility of her chosen husband failing the examinations.
• Zhao Kaiyun: Zhao Kaiyun provides information about the various Talisman Master associations and Malevolent Spirit Godmothers in Gongzhou. He also expresses confidence in the government's ability to maintain order.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics and potential dangers of worshipping Malevolent Spirits as Godmothers.
• The impact of the Autumn Provincial Examination on the lives and aspirations of the scholars.
• The contrast between the government's confidence in maintaining order and Chen Shi's concerns about the growing Malevolent Spirit problem.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and Hu Feifei: They joke and tease each other throughout their journey to the Official Posthouse.
• Chen Shi and Zhao Kaiyun: Chen Shi interacts with Zhao Kaiyun, learning valuable information about Gongzhou's Talisman Master associations and Malevolent Spirit Godmothers.
• Chen Shi and the boat girl: Chen Shi is happy to encounter the boat girl and her father again, expressing his well-wishes for their success in business.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi encounters a black bear spirit eating a scholar at the Official Posthouse.
• The bear spirit is revealed to be a woman who transformed using the Beast Transformation Technique.
• Chen Shi and Zhao Kaiyun take the woman's token to Red Mountain Hall for protection.
• The Blood Taisui at Red Mountain Hall is actively absorbing moonlight without turning into a malevolent spirit.
• The Tianmu Association sends a powerful female cultivator to attack Red Mountain Hall for avenging their disciple's death.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi demonstrates his exceptional talisman skills, impressing the Red Mountain Hall's Director Lu.
• Zhao Kaiyun shows kindness and willingness to help Chen Shi, despite the potential danger.
• The Blood Taisui's unusual behavior suggests it might be under the control or influence of the Red Mountain Empress.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between different factions in Gongzhou, such as the Tianmu Association and Red Mountain Hall.
• The dual nature of talismans and their users, who can be both benevolent and malevolent.
• The influence of moonlight on cultivators and the potential consequences of absorbing it.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and Zhao Kaiyun form a quick bond, with Zhao Kaiyun helping Chen Shi despite the risks.
• Chen Shi impresses Director Lu with his talisman skills, leading to an offer to join Red Mountain Hall.
• The Red Mountain Empress and the Tianmu Association's cultivator exchange threats, setting the stage for a potential conflict.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi is attacked and captured by the old woman from the Tianmu Association using her tongues and evil qi.
• Director Lu and Director Xiao attempt to rescue Chen Shi but are injured and unable to stop the old woman.
• The porcelain white crane, Crane Boy, comes to life and saves Chen Shi, then takes him to the Red Mountain Empress for healing.
• The Red Mountain Empress, a Blood Taisui, refines the moonlight to heal Chen Shi and remove the evil qi.
• Chen Shi discovers that the Red Mountain Empress has a girlish voice and personality, unlike the solemn and dignified image she presents to others.
• The Red Mountain Empress asks Chen Shi to take her out to play, and he agrees.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi: Broadens his horizons, realizes his cultivation level is still low, and agrees to take the Red Mountain Empress out to play.
• Red Mountain Empress: Reveals her true form and personality to Chen Shi, expressing her restlessness and desire to leave the Red Mountain Hall.
• Crane Boy: Acts as a messenger and intermediary between the Red Mountain Empress and others, maintaining her solemn image.

Significant Themes

• The power of moonlight and its malevolent energy.
• The contrast between the Red Mountain Empress's true personality and the solemn image she presents to others.
• The importance of cultivation and self-awareness in the face of powerful enemies.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and the Red Mountain Empress: They develop a friendly relationship as she heals him, and he agrees to take her out to play.
• Chen Shi and Crane Boy: They interact briefly, with Crane Boy warning Chen Shi not to reveal the Red Mountain Empress's secrets.
• The Red Mountain Empress and Crane Boy: They have a mentor-mentee relationship, with Crane Boy acting as a guide and intermediary for the Empress.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Red Mountain Empress helps Chen Shi regulate his energy, bringing him comfort and aiding his cultivation.
• Chen Shi joins the Red Mountain Hall as an instructor and is exempt from daily street promotions.
• Chen Shi and the Red Mountain Empress explore Gongzhou City, with the Empress buying various items and toys.
• They encounter beggars from the Tianmu Association blocking the streets, and Chen Shi learns about the association's activities.
• Chen Shi and the Red Mountain Empress visit Yanxia Ridge, where the Empress emerged, and discover a suspended Mazu Temple.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi: He joins the Red Mountain Hall, learns about the Tianmu Association, and discovers a new temple.
• Red Mountain Empress: She explores Gongzhou City, expresses concern about the Tianmu Association's growing power, and reveals more about her origins.
• Black Pot: It struggles to control the scene, managing the perceptions of hundreds of people.

Significant Themes

• The contrast between the prosperity of Gongzhou City and the desolation of Yanxia Ridge, highlighting the impact of the ancient battle.
• The power dynamics between the Red Mountain Hall and the Tianmu Association, with the Tianmu Association growing stronger.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and the Red Mountain Empress: They spend the day together, with the Empress leading Chen Shi around the city and later accompanying him to Yanxia Ridge.
• Chen Shi and Black Pot: Chen Shi notices Black Pot's unusual behavior but decides not to abandon it.
• Chen Shi and the Tianmu Association: Chen Shi learns about the association's activities and encounters Tianmu's sinister gaze.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi visits the Mazu Temple on the cliff, finding it dilapidated and empty.
• He offers incense, and the Red Mountain Empress feels a disturbance in the temple.
• Chen Shi meditates and experiences a breakthrough in his cultivation.
• He returns to Gongzhou City and decides to stay at Red Mountain Hall.
• Han Mingyu, an instructor from the Tianmu Association, confronts Chen Shi, blaming him for his disciple's death.
• Han Mingyu releases Life Harvesting Dolls to attack Chen Shi.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi's cultivation improves significantly after meditating at the Mazu Temple.
• The Red Mountain Empress reveals she has an agreement with other associations not to cause too much trouble.
• Han Mingyu is grieving and seeking revenge for his disciple's death.

Significant Themes

• The power of incense and fire energy in temples.
• The corruption and evil practices of the Tianmu Association.
• The importance of rules and agreements among different associations.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and the Red Mountain Empress interact, with Chen Shi promising to take her out to play if she helps him against the Tianmu Association.
• Chen Shi and Han Mingyu have a tense confrontation, leading to a potential fight.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi, enraged, uses his immense Blood Essence to enhance his physical prowess, shattering the bluestone slab beneath him.
• Han Mingyu summons a Life Harvesting Doll to defend against Chen Shi, but Chen Shi easily destroys it, causing Han Mingyu to flee.
• Chen Shi uses his Rebirth Talismans to send the vengeful souls of the Life Harvesting Dolls to the Underworld.
• Chen Shi pursues Han Mingyu, killing eleven Tianmu Association cultivators along the way.
• Chen Shi arrives at the Life Harvesting Hall, where he finds Han Mingyu and kills him, vowing to eliminate the entire hall.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi demonstrates his formidable strength and ruthlessness, prioritizing justice over peace.
• Han Mingyu shows cowardice and desperation, fleeing from Chen Shi and underestimating his opponent.
• The disciples of the Life Harvesting Hall display a mix of fear, curiosity, and loyalty to their cause.

Significant Themes

• Justice vs. Corruption: Chen Shi's relentless pursuit of justice contrasts with the corrupt practices of the Tianmu Association.
• Power and its Consequences: The Life Harvesting Dolls, a symbol of the association's power, also represent the consequences of their evil actions.
• Moral Ambiguity: The disciples of the Life Harvesting Hall show a mix of fear and loyalty, raising questions about their moral stance.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi vs. Han Mingyu: Chen Shi's relentless pursuit and eventual killing of Han Mingyu highlight the power dynamics and moral conflict between them.
• Chen Shi and Red Mountain Empress: Their interaction shows Chen Shi's determination and Red Mountain Empress's acceptance of his actions, leading to a bargain between them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi agrees to destroy the Life Harvesting Hall in three days.
• Instructor Hu and the Life Harvesting Hall disciples set up an ambush, but Chen Shi senses and evades their attacks.
• Chen Shi swiftly eliminates all the disciples in the front courtyard using his superior speed, senses, and the Stabbing Sword Style.
• Instructor Hu is killed, and the Life Harvesting Dolls attack the corpses and houses.
• Chen Shi senses a powerful Nascent Soul Realm expert in the backyard and hesitates to act.
• Chen Shi sees Zhao Kaiyun, his former classmate, crawling out of a cellar, and decides to stay and fight.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi demonstrates his exceptional senses, speed, and combat skills, easily defeating the Life Harvesting Hall disciples.
• Instructor Hu shows his power as a seven-revolution Golden Core cultivator but is ultimately killed by Chen Shi.
• Zhao Kaiyun, Chen Shi's former classmate, is found in a dire state, pleading for Chen Shi to kill him.

Significant Themes

• The cruelty and inhumanity of the Life Harvesting Hall's practices.
• The power of determination and resolve in the face of adversity, as shown by Chen Shi and Zhao Kaiyun.
• The consequences of one's actions and the importance of redemption, hinted at through Chen Shi's decision to stay and fight.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and the Life Harvesting Hall disciples engage in a one-sided battle, with Chen Shi easily defeating them.
• Chen Shi confronts Instructor Hu, ultimately killing him with his Stabbing Sword Style.
• Chen Shi encounters Zhao Kaiyun, leading to a moment of hesitation and a decision to stay and fight.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi, in a rage, uses a powerful talisman to summon wind and thunder, destroying the Life Harvesting Hall's defenses.
• Yu Daozhi, the hall master, tries to retreat and regroup but is forced into a fight.
• Chen Shi, using his Tian Peng form, battles Yu Daozhi, ultimately killing him with the help of the Red Mountain Empress.
• Chen Shi then clears the remaining disciples and avenges Zhao Kaiyun, who had been killed earlier.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi: Shows immense power and battle intent, using divine stillness and a berserk state to defeat a Nascent Soul cultivator. He also displays strong emotions, particularly anger and determination to avenge Zhao Kaiyun.
• Yu Daozhi: Initially cautious and steady, he is forced into a fight and ultimately dies. His fear of death is revealed, showing a weakness despite his cultivation level.
• Zhao Kaiyun: Though he dies early in the chapter, his death serves as a catalyst for Chen Shi's rage and vengeance.

Significant Themes

• Power and Cultivation: The chapter highlights the difference in power between cultivation realms, with Chen Shi's divine stillness and berserk state allowing him to challenge a higher realm cultivator.
• Fear and Determination: Both Chen Shi and Yu Daozhi experience fear, but Chen Shi's determination to avenge Zhao Kaiyun overrides his fear, while Yu Daozhi's fear of death leads to his downfall.
• Vengeance: The theme of vengeance is central to the chapter, driving Chen Shi's actions and ultimately leading to the destruction of the Life Harvesting Hall.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and Yu Daozhi: Their interaction is a battle of wits and power, with Chen Shi's combat prowess and tactics ultimately overcoming Yu Daozhi's caution and cultivation level.
• Chen Shi and Zhao Kaiyun: Though Zhao Kaiyun dies early, his death serves as a catalyst for Chen Shi's actions, highlighting their bond and Chen Shi's determination to avenge him.
• Chen Shi and Red Mountain Empress: The Empress plays a minor role, but her intervention helps Chen Shi defeat Yu Daozhi, showing their cooperative relationship.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi arrives at Red Mountain Hall, carrying Zhao Kaiyun's lifeless body.
• He reveals he wiped out Tianmu Association's Life Harvesting Hall.
• The Hall Master of Red Mountain Hall returns, relieving Director Lu's burden.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi: Shows exceptional combat skills and fearlessness, following the rules of the True King era to raze the incense hall. He is severely injured but recovers with the help of Red Mountain Hall's doctor.
• Hall Master Yu: Absent initially, but his return instills confidence in Director Lu and the others, as they believe he can handle any retaliation from Tianmu Association.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The balance of power between different halls and associations is a significant theme. The return of Hall Master Yu shifts the power dynamics in Red Mountain Hall's favor.
• Retribution: The consequences of Chen Shi's actions at the Life Harvesting Hall highlight the theme of retribution. His actions have severe repercussions, not just for him but also for Red Mountain Hall and the other halls involved.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and Director Lu: Director Lu is initially worried about Chen Shi's actions but is relieved when the Hall Master returns. He is also impressed by Chen Shi's feat.
• Hall Master Yu and Director Lu: The Hall Master's return reassures Director Lu, who had been anxious about handling potential retaliation from Tianmu Association. Their interaction shows the Hall Master's importance in Red Mountain Hall's hierarchy.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Thunderstorm arrives in Gongzhou City.
• Yutian City, the Hall Master of Red Mountain Hall, meets Chen Shi, expressing admiration for his actions against the Tianmu Association.
• The Tianmu Association's Hall Master, Wu Daozheng, arrives, leading to a confrontation.
• Yutian City refines the power of the Tianmu clone, creating a blood-red bead.
• Red Mountain Hall's Talisman Masters engage with the Tianmu Association's cultivators.
• The divine manifestation of Tianmu attacks, capturing Talisman Masters and bystanders.
• The Red Mountain Empress joins the fight, attacking Tianmu.
• Chen Shi arrives on his wooden cart, encouraging Yutian City to fight without mercy.

Character Developments

• Yutian City: Reveals his past as a poor scholar who failed the exam and became a Talisman Master. He admires Chen Shi's spirit and offers support.
• Chen Shi: Struggles with his injuries but remains determined to join the fight. He shows knowledge of the Master's teachings, encouraging Yutian City.
• Red Mountain Empress: Demonstrates her violent nature and powerful fighting abilities.

Significant Themes

• Unity and brotherhood among Talisman Masters.
• The power of determination and spirit in the face of adversity.
• The consequences of past actions and the importance of learning from them.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and Yutian City: They form a bond over their shared experiences and goals.
• Yutian City and Wu Daozheng: Their long-standing rivalry comes to a head.
• The Red Mountain Empress and Tianmu: Their divine manifestations clash, showcasing their power and aggression.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tianmu is struck by Red Mountain Empress and crashes into the Minjiang River, causing massive waves and chaos.
• Wu Daozheng, the Tianmu Association Hall Master, is defeated by Yutian City and flees towards the Xia residence.
• Xia Luoying, the eldest son of Commander Xia, arrives and orders a cease to the hostilities.
• Garrison Eunuch Cen Xuefu arrives to support Yutian City, suggesting a resolution where the Red Mountain Hall takes responsibility for Chen Shi's actions.
• Chen Shi's name is mysteriously forgotten by everyone present, including Yutian City and Red Mountain Empress, causing them to be unable to recall it.
• Tianmu and Wu Daozheng flee in fear, and Eunuch Cen departs, warning Yutian City about the malevolent spirit.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi: His name is mysteriously forgotten by everyone, suggesting he might have some unknown power or connection to a malevolent spirit.
• Yutian City: Stands firm against the Tianmu Association and is willing to protect Chen Shi, even when faced with pressure from Eunuch Cen and Commander Xia.
• Wu Daozheng: Shows cowardice and prioritizes his own safety over his association's members, fleeing when faced with danger.
• Tianmu: Exhibits fear when she should be confident, suggesting she might have a secret or weakness.

Significant Themes

• Power and Influence: The interactions between Yutian City, Eunuch Cen, and Commander Xia highlight the importance of power and influence in Gongzhou City.
• Fear and Cowardice: Several characters, including Wu Daozheng and Tianmu, display fear and cowardice when faced with danger or the unknown.
• Memory and Identity: The mysterious forgetting of Chen Shi's name raises questions about memory, identity, and the power of the unknown.

Character Interactions

• Yutian City and Chen Shi: Yutian City shows support and protection towards Chen Shi, even when faced with pressure from higher authorities.
• Tianmu and Wu Daozheng: Their interaction shows their shared fear and cowardice, as they both flee when faced with the unknown.
• Eunuch Cen and Commander Xia: Their interaction highlights their power dynamics and influence in Gongzhou City.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi's name is repeatedly forgotten by everyone he meets, indicating a curse or magical effect.
• Chen Shi receives a letter from Li Tianqing via a paper crane, detailing his journey and experiences.
• Yutian City offers Chen Shi a blood bead and the Great Method of Crimson Blood Incarnation to cultivate a second Golden Core and Nascent Soul for an external incarnation.
• Chen Shi demonstrates how to open the Heavenly Gate and have the Golden Core emerge safely, curing Gu Yunshu, a paralyzed cultivator.
• Chen Shi reveals that his grandfather taught him the correct method of opening the Heavenly Gate and locking it to prevent vital Yang energy leakage.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi: Shows his knowledge of cultivation and ability to heal others, further establishing his mysterious and powerful nature.
• Yutian City: Realizes the error in his and Red Mountain Hall's cultivation methods, leading to many deaths among instructors and directors. He becomes more humble and eager to learn from Chen Shi.
• Gu Yunshu: Regains his mobility and consciousness after Chen Shi helps him open his Heavenly Gate.

Significant Themes

• The importance of true inheritance and correct teachings in cultivation.
• The dangers and misconceptions surrounding the cultivation process, particularly opening the Heavenly Gate.
• The power of knowledge and guidance in overcoming obstacles.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and Yutian City: Chen Shi teaches Yutian City the correct method of opening the Heavenly Gate, leading to a shift in their dynamic, with Yutian City becoming more respectful and eager to learn from Chen Shi.
• Chen Shi and Gu Yunshu: Chen Shi helps Gu Yunshu open his Heavenly Gate, curing his paralysis and restoring his consciousness.
• Chen Shi and Li Tianqing: They exchange letters via paper crane, showing their continued friendship and support for one another.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi helps Gu Yunshu open the Heavenly Gate, leading to a breakthrough in his cultivation.
• Red Mountain Hall's instructors gather, eager to learn Chen Shi's methods.
• Yu Tiancheng, the Hall Master, experiences demonization due to cultivating incorrectly over the years.
• Chen Shi teaches the hall's Talisman Masters the secrets of locking the Heavenly Gate and cultivating Golden Cores.
• Several Talisman Masters successfully cultivate Nascent Souls, and more make significant progress.
• Chen Shi enters seclusion to open his Heavenly Gate and emerges with a Fourth-Revolving Golden Core.
• Black Pot is discovered reading a ghost book and using a stove to enter another world, where it retrieves a scroll.

Character Developments

• Gu Yunshu: Awakens and regains mobility after Chen Shi's help.
• Yu Tiancheng: Struggles with demonization due to incorrect cultivation methods.
• Chen Shi: Heals from his injuries, opens his Heavenly Gate, and discovers he can manipulate objects with his Golden Core.
• Black Pot: Demonstrates the ability to read ghost language and enter another world, showing diligence in studying its abilities.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of incorrect cultivation methods.
• The struggle between demonization and self-control.
• The pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and Gu Yunshu: They bond over their shared physical inconveniences and discuss Yu Tiancheng's demonization.
• Chen Shi and Black Pot: Chen Shi observes Black Pot reading a ghost book and entering another world, sparking his curiosity about Black Pot's origins and abilities.
• Red Mountain Hall's Talisman Masters and Chen Shi: They eagerly seek Chen Shi's guidance on cultivating Golden Cores and opening the Heavenly Gate.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi learns about Hall Master Yu's critical condition from Crane Boy, who reveals that Yu is struggling with malevolent energy.
• Li Tianqing travels to Gongzhou and encounters a peculiar boatman and his daughter, who may be underworld officials. He also meets an old monk, Kuzhu, and his disciple.
• The painted boat is briefly pulled into the Underworld, but Kuzhu's Golden Body Bodhisattva saves them.
• Li Tianqing arrives in Gongzhou and sees Chen Shi's wanted poster, realizing Chen Shi is in trouble.
• Chen Shi and Li Tianqing reunite at the Official Posthouse. Later, the old monk Kuzhu dies, causing a commotion.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi: He shows concern for Hall Master Yu's condition and is determined to help. He also demonstrates his cleverness in dealing with Crane Boy.
• Li Tianqing: He grows more perceptive and cautious, realizing the danger on the painted boat and the corruption in Gongzhou. He also forgets Chen Shi's name due to Malevolent Spirits' influence.
• Kuzhu: The old monk's health deteriorates, and he eventually dies, causing a disturbance.
• Black Pot: It's shown to have some influence over people's memories, as it's scolded by Chen Shi for Li Tianqing forgetting his name.

Significant Themes

• Cultivation and Corruption: The theme of cultivation is prevalent, with Chen Shi's concern for Hall Master Yu's cultivation struggle and the old monk Kuzhu's advanced age and eventual death. Corruption is also hinted at in Gongzhou City.
• Fate and Destiny: The painted boat's brief journey into the Underworld and the old monk's death suggest that fate and destiny are at play, guiding characters towards certain events.
• Friendship and Loyalty: Chen Shi and Li Tianqing's reunion emphasizes their friendship, while Black Pot's influence over memories hints at loyalty and the consequences of betrayal.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and Crane Boy: Chen Shi uses his charm and gifts to persuade Crane Boy to reveal information about Hall Master Yu.
• Li Tianqing and the boatman's daughter: They have a playful exchange, with the daughter teasing Li Tianqing about his past.
• Li Tianqing and Chen Shi: Their reunion is filled with joy and relief, but Li Tianqing's forgetfulness of Chen Shi's name causes some tension.
• Kuzhu and the boatman: There's a tense standoff between the old monk and the boatman, hinting at their past conflict or misunderstanding.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chen Shi and Li Tianqing discuss the Black Pot's origins and its possible connection to the boat girl and her father.
• Chan Master Kuzhu dies, and his Golden Body is taken to the Daxing Zen Temple.
• Chen Shi and Li Tianqing try to warn the scholars in the Official Posthouse about the danger in Gongzhou City, with Hu Feifei helping to evacuate them.
• Chen Shi and Li Tianqing rush to Red Mountain Hall to warn everyone about the impending danger.

Character Developments

• Chen Shi: Shows concern for the safety of the people in Gongzhou City, demonstrating his responsibility and courage.
• Li Tianqing: Shows loyalty and support to Chen Shi, willing to face potential charges with him.
• Monk Wuchen: Shows ambition and worldliness, seeking academic achievements and a better temple for his master's Golden Body.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of prolonged life and the dangers of demonic transformation.
• The responsibilities of those who know about impending dangers and their decisions to act or not.
• The contrast between Monk Wuchen's worldly ambitions and the detachment expected of Buddhist monks.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and Li Tianqing: Their bond deepens as they face potential danger together.
• Chen Shi and Monk Wuchen: Chen Shi shows respect for Monk Wuchen's knowledge but remains cautious about his intentions.
• Chen Shi and the Red Mountain Hall members: Chen Shi tries to convince them to evacuate the city, but they hesitate due to the potential consequences.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Red Mountain Hall warns the city about Chan Master Kuzhu's impending demon transformation, causing panic.
• Governor Fei Tianzheng and other high officials initially plan to suppress the news and punish Yutian City, but they flee when they learn about the demon transformation's signs.
• Bailiff Tang, who investigated Daxing Zen Temple, transforms into a mushroom and spreads spores, causing more transformations.
• The high officials abandon the city, leaving the citizens to fend for themselves.

Character Developments

• Governor Fei Tianzheng prioritizes his own safety over the citizens' welfare.
• General Xia is anxious about his son's safety and tries to find him before fleeing.
• Chen Shi and Li Tianqing witness the transformation and realize the city's dire situation.

Significant Themes

• Power and Corruption: High officials prioritize their interests over the common people's safety.
• Fate and Inevitability: The impending demon transformation is inevitable, and the citizens have little time to escape.
• Courage and Responsibility: Chen Shi and Li Tianqing try to find a solution to save the city despite the dire situation.

Character Interactions

• Chen Shi and Li Tianqing discuss the situation and Chen Shi comes up with a plan to use the Head of Empress Shi Ji to create a Ghost and God Domain.
• Governor Fei Tianzheng and the high officials interact, initially planning to suppress the news but ultimately fleeing in panic.
• General Xia interacts with his mansion steward, showing concern for his son's safety.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Tianqing realizes Empress Shi Ji can counter Kuzhu's Demon Domain by petrifying people, saving the city.
• Chen Shi summons the Head of Shi Ji using Red Mountain Empress's power, causing a Ghost and God Domain that petrifies everyone in Gongzhou City.
• Yutian City, corrupted by evil, escapes Red Mountain Hall and is pursued by Crane Boy.
• Many high officials, including Governor Fei Tianzheng, General Xia, and Censor Zhang, decide to fight Kuzhu's Primordial Spirit at Daxing Zen Temple.
• Granny Sha, the bearded man, and Green Goat discuss the situation, with Green Goat eager to fight Kuzhu's Primordial Spirit.

Character Developments

• Li Tianqing shows understanding and quick thinking, realizing Empress Shi Ji's power can counter the Demon Domain.
• Chen Shi demonstrates determination and resourcefulness in summoning the Head of Shi Ji to save the city.
• Red Mountain Empress shows selflessness in helping Chen Shi, despite knowing the risk to her own power.
• Yutian City's corruption by evil is revealed, showing the power of the evil influence in Gongzhou City.
• High officials like Governor Fei Tianzheng, General Xia, and Censor Zhang show resolve in facing the Primordial Spirit Demon Transformation, willing to fight for their cities and families.
• Granny Sha, the bearded man, and Green Goat show their strategic thinking and eagerness to fight, revealing their power and confidence.

Significant Themes

• The power of ancient artifacts and deities, as seen in the Head of Shi Ji's Ghost and God Domain.
• The corruption and influence of evil, affecting even powerful cultivators like Yutian City.
• The resolve and determination of individuals in the face of overwhelming danger, shown by the high officials and the three cultivators.
• The luck and misfortune of Li Tianqing, as discussed by Granny Sha, highlighting the theme of fate and destiny.

Character Interactions

• Li Tianqing and Chen Shi work together to save the city, showing Li Tianqing's growth and understanding of the situation.
• Red Mountain Empress and Chen Shi collaborate to summon the Head of Shi Ji, demonstrating their trust and cooperation.
• Governor Fei Tianzheng, General Xia, and Censor Zhang interact, showing their resolve and strategic thinking in facing the Demon Domain.
• Granny Sha, the bearded man, and Green Goat discuss the situation, revealing their power, confidence, and eagerness to fight.