Ch. 661The Curtain Falls
Key Plot Points and Events
- The top ten alchemists are announced, including unexpected dark horses like Pill Demon and Niu Sanren.
- Wu Gudu gives Ashina Luo a forbidden pill, the Great Soul Pill, to temporarily boost his soul power.
- Shen Wuyang is given Epiphyllum Dew by the Sun Moon Kingdom to guarantee pill patterns for three hours.
- The final round requires contestants to refine the Fourth Grade Heavenly Aspect Pill, with three chances per person.
- Pill Demon uses Exotic Thunder to refine pills, causing two explosions from Niu Sanren and Jin E Duo.
- Pill Demon successfully refines a Two-patterned Heavenly Aspect Pill, seemingly securing the championship.
- The judging panel later disqualifies Pill Demon, Ashina Luo, and Shen Wuyang for cheating.
Character Developments
- Ashina Luo shows improved Fire Control and detail grasp.
- Shen Wuyang demonstrates smooth and flawless refining technique.
- Pill Demon showcases exceptional skill, refining a Two-patterned pill with Exotic Thunder.
- Wu Gudu reveals his willingness to bend rules to secure victory.
Significant Themes
- The importance of soul power and control in alchemy.
- The role of external factors (cauldrons, flames) versus innate talent and skill.
- The tension between fair competition and the desire to win at any cost.
Character Interactions
- Wu Gudu and Ashina Luo: Wu Gudu provides Ashina Luo with a forbidden pill to gain an advantage.
- Shen Wuyang and the Sun Moon Kingdom: Shen Wuyang is given Epiphyllum Dew to secure victory.
- Pill Demon and the other contestants: Pill Demon's skill and use of Exotic Thunder put pressure on the others.
- The judging panel and the contestants: The panel's decision to disqualify Pill Demon, Ashina Luo, and Shen Wuyang creates tension and shock.