Ch. 281Establishing the Underworld
Key Plot Points and Events
- The Roman Empire establishes Christianity as the state religion, leading to widespread acceptance and Baptisms.
- Constantine moves the capital to Byzantium and orders the construction of a new city.
- The Underworld is reorganized and renamed the Ghost Gate Pass, with deceased souls proceeding directly to judgment.
- Three outcomes for judged souls: punishment, living in the Land of Bliss, or retention for use as Ghost Messengers or in Xing Tian's forces.
- Yan Nu allows captured cultivators to leave, spreading news of his power and the Underworld's establishment.
Character Developments
- Constantine: Maintains power and refuses to abolish slavery despite Christian influence, prioritizing Rome's glory.
- Athanasius: Stands firm in his beliefs, predicts Rome's decline, and leaves after a tense confrontation with Constantine.
- Yan Nu: Shows mercy to captured cultivators, allowing them to leave and spreading news of his power and the Underworld.
Significant Themes
- The clash between religious beliefs and political power, as seen in Constantine's acceptance of Christianity but refusal to abolish slavery.
- The establishment of the Underworld and its role in judgment and rehabilitation of souls.
- The power dynamics between different factions, with Yan Nu's growing strength and the major sects' response to his actions.
Character Interactions
- Constantine and Athanasius: Their tense conversation highlights the conflict between religious beliefs and political power, with Constantine prioritizing Rome's glory and Athanasius predicting Rome's decline due to Constantine's actions.
- Yan Nu and captured cultivators: Yan Nu's decision to let them leave shows mercy and understanding, while the cultivators' response highlights their desire to survive and their newfound respect for Yan Nu's power.