Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Sheng meets with his ancestors, Zhao Xuanjing and Zhao Hongyun, on Desolate Island.
• He shares his future insights, causing them shock.
• Zhao Sheng undergoes the Heavenly Fire Tribulation and successfully passes it.
• Dongzhenzi (Zhao Sheng's avatar) and the Zizaitian Devil Master discuss the outcome of the battle between Han Lin and Zhang Xusheng, leading to a draw.

Character Developments

• Zhao Sheng's cultivation and understanding of the laws of the Great Dao deepen.
• Zhao Sheng's ancestors, Zhao Xuanjing and Zhao Hongyun, are revealed to be avatars of Great Venerables.
• Dongzhenzi (Zhao Sheng's avatar) shows restraint and wisdom in his negotiations with the Zizaitian Devil Master.

Significant Themes

• The power and danger of foreseeing the future.
• The challenges and rewards of cultivation and ascension.
• The importance of wisdom and restraint in negotiations.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng interacts with his ancestors, Zhao Xuanjing and Zhao Hongyun, sharing insights and learning from them.
• Dongzhenzi (Zhao Sheng's avatar) interacts with the Zizaitian Devil Master, negotiating a draw in the battle between Han Lin and Zhang Xusheng.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Sheng receives the Golden Silk Scroll from Dongzhenzi, containing the Great Brightness Fundamental Mantra.
• After three thousand years, Zhao Sheng receives the Eight Trigrams Jade Tablet, signaling Second Ancestor Zhao Hongyun's ascension.
• Zhao Hongyun successfully ascends, but an unknown immortal attacks the Ascension Gate Tower with a sword.

Character Developments

• Zhao Sheng: Becomes more powerful and confident, merging his spirit with heaven and earth, and comprehending the Great Dao.
• Dongzhenzi: Attempts to convert Zhao Sheng to Buddhism, but Zhao Sheng declines.
• Zhao Hongyun: Ascends to Immortal Heaven after cultivating to perfection.

Significant Themes

• Ascension: The ultimate goal of cultivators, symbolizing the highest achievement in power and status.
• Conversion: Dongzhenzi's attempt to convert Zhao Sheng to Buddhism highlights the theme of maintaining one's principles and not being swayed by external influences.
• Family and Loyalty: Zhao Sheng's unwavering support for his ancestors and clan demonstrates the importance of family and loyalty in his character.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng and Dongzhenzi: Their interaction shows Dongzhenzi's attempt to convert Zhao Sheng and Zhao Sheng's refusal, highlighting their differing principles.
• Zhao Sheng, Zhao Xuanjing, and Zhao Hongyun: Their interaction demonstrates the strong bond between family members and their shared goal of ascension.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Immortal Slaying Sword, Human Seed Bag, and Manggu Bell appear to assassinate Tian Yunzi during his ascension, but fail.
• Tian Yunzi successfully ascends and becomes immortal, causing Sweet Dew Spirit Rain to fall across the Grand Yi Spirit Realm.
• A heaven-blotting gray fog descends, freezing time and targeting Tian Yunzi and Zhao Sheng.

Character Developments

• Zhao Sheng: Recognizes the Heaven-Reaching Spirit Treasures and understands the origin of the "human tribulation." Experiences fear and desperation when the Fate Demon's fog appears.
• Zhao Xuanjing: Shows anger and determination to settle the score with the attackers.
• Tian Yunzi: Successfully ascends to immortality, becoming the first immortal in the Grand Yi Spirit Realm in countless years.

Significant Themes

• The struggle between righteous and demonic paths in cultivation.
• The consequences and rewards of ascension.
• The power of Heaven-Reaching Spirit Treasures and their role in the "human tribulation."
• The mysterious and ominous nature of the Fate Demon.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng and Zhao Xuanjing: Work together to protect Tian Yunzi and later discuss their plans.
• Zhao Sheng and Zhao Sanyue: The First Ancestor praises Zhao Sheng for his handling of the situation.
• Tian Yunzi and the Venerable Ones: The Venerable Ones congratulate Tian Yunzi on his ascension.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Sheng encounters the Fate Demon again, who reveals it has let them meet once more due to fate.
• The Fate Demon offers Zhao Sheng a deal: ascend to immortality immediately, but pay a price in the future.
• Zhao Sheng declines, instead asking the Fate Demon to resolve the 'Chaos' hidden danger.
• The Fate Demon agrees and warns Zhao Sheng not to ascend to the immortal heavens.
• Zhao Sheng realizes the warning is connected to the Supreme Dao Ancestor and the two Innate Dao Artifacts he possesses.

Character Developments

• Zhao Sheng: Realizes the gravity of the 'Chaos' danger and the importance of the Fate Demon's warning. He understands that he owes a significant 'karma' to the Fate Demon.
• Zhao Hongyun (Second Ancestor): Ascends to Immortal Heaven. The Fate Demon reveals that he too made a transaction with it in the past.
• The Fate Demon: Shows interest in Zhao Sheng due to his possession of Innate Sacred Artifacts. It warns Zhao Sheng about the dangers of ascending to the immortal heavens.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of deals with powerful entities (Fate Demon).
• The dangers of ascending to immortality and the mysteries surrounding the Supreme Dao Ancestor.
• The importance of wisdom and caution in decision-making (Zhao Sheng's realization of the 'karma' he owes).

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng and the Fate Demon: Engage in a transaction, with Zhao Sheng asking the Fate Demon to resolve the 'Chaos' danger. The Fate Demon warns Zhao Sheng not to ascend to the immortal heavens.
• Zhao Sheng and Zhao Xuanjing (Old Ancestor): The Old Ancestor comforts Zhao Sheng after Zhao Hongyun's ascension, expressing his belief in Zhao Sheng's potential to prove the Dao and ascend.
• Zhao Sheng and Zhao Hongyun: Zhao Sheng is not concerned with Zhao Hongyun's future fate, believing that being accepted by the Fate Demon as a favored one might even be a good thing.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Xuanjing and Zhao Sheng find the "Duan She Li Method" left behind by Zhao Hongyun in Tianyun Dongtian.
• They spend over a hundred years comprehending the method, improving their state of mind.
• Zhao Sheng returns to Tianyun Dongtian, learns about the clan's events, and issues dharma decrees.
• He returns to Five Elements Dongtian, where the Five Zhas awaken and he begins refining the Lesser Wind-Calming Pearl.

Character Developments

• Zhao Xuanjing gains significant insights from the Duan She Li Method, improving his state of mind.
• Zhao Sheng takes on more responsibilities within the clan, showing growth as a leader.
• The Five Zhas grow and awaken, ready to face the world.

Significant Themes

• The importance of legacy and guidance from ancestors (Zhao Hongyun's Duan She Li Method).
• The passage of time and its impact on personal growth and clan development.
• The responsibility of leadership and decision-making (Zhao Sheng's return and dharma decrees).

Character Interactions

• Zhao Xuanjing and Zhao Sheng work together to find and comprehend the Duan She Li Method, showing unity and mutual respect.
• Zhao Sheng interacts with the three Void Return Realm clan elders, demonstrating his leadership and concern for the clan's well-being.
• Zhao Sheng interacts with the Five Zhas, showing guidance and support as they grow and awaken.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• In the bottomless rift beneath the Tiancong Mountain Range, Qi Ru Xian meets the resurrected Zizaitian Devil Master, an ancient Alien Demon in the form of a colossal jade-boned skeleton.
• The two reveal that they have been cooperating for countless years. Qi Ru Xian secretly helped the Alien Demons locate the Grand Yi Spirit Realm, while Zizaitian Devil Master assisted with a larger scheme involving the Thirty-Three Star Heavens and the Myriad Stars Grand Formation.
• Qi Ru Xian confirms that the Thirty-Three Star Heavens have entered their proper celestial tracks. He intends to manipulate the formation so that Chaos will run wild across the Four Saints Continent.
• His plan is to cause Zhao Subduing Dragon’s likely death, weaken the Spirit Controlling Immortal Sect, and allow the Alien Demon race to occupy the continent. In return, Qi Ru Xian hopes to gain admission into Saint Ancestor Rahu’s tutelage, even as a nominal disciple.
• Zizaitian Devil Master remains suspicious, recognizing that Qi Ru Xian’s ambitions probably extend beyond what he has revealed. Nevertheless, he agrees to deploy thirty-three incarnations to oversee the star heavens.
• Qi Ru Xian activates the Nine Heavens Star Instrument and begins altering the trajectories of the stars. The Grand Yi Spirit Realm becomes enclosed within a vast network of space-time trajectories, while control of the Myriad Stars Grand Formation gradually shifts into Qi Ru Xian’s hands.
• These changes subtly disturb Chaos, sealed beneath the Divine Continent, but Zhao Xuanjing detects no clear abnormality.
• Two hundred years later, Zhao Sheng obtains the Lesser Wind-Calming Pearl and decides to undergo the terrifying Bi Wind Tribulation.
• During the tribulation, the invisible Bi Wind silently erodes his Primordial Spirit. His defensive arts prove useless, but the Lesser Wind-Calming Pearl freezes the surrounding space-time and protects his soul. When the tribulation intensifies, he reinforces the pearl with Five-Colored Divine Light and uses the Hundred Lifetimes Book as an additional defense.
• Zhao Sheng successfully survives the Bi Wind Tribulation and experiences a massive increase in Primordial Spirit strength, lifespan, and perception. However, the sudden power increase also produces arrogant and conceited thoughts, which he recognizes and suppresses.
• After the tribulation, a vast demonic tide appears within his Purple Palace Soul Sea. Zhao Sheng destroys nearly all of the demons with Five Elements Divine Wind, but one strange octopus-like demon repeatedly revives.
• Realizing that the creature is an indestructible heart demon born from an unresolved obsession, Zhao Sheng stops trying to kill it and questions its origin.
• The demon takes the form of an aloof Daoist nun named “Unattainable,” causing Zhao Sheng to associate it with one of Buddhism’s Eight Sufferings. He rejects the demon’s interpretation, declaring that it is merely an obsession within his own heart rather than a genuine spiritual truth.
• When Zhao Sheng attempts to erase the nun’s form, the disguise collapses and the demon returns to its enormous beast form, revealing that its true nature remains unresolved.

Character Developments

• Qi Ru Xian is shown to be a manipulative, long-term conspirator willing to betray his own disciple and cooperate with demons for personal advancement. His ultimate desire is to enter Saint Ancestor Rahu’s tutelage, suggesting enormous ambition and a willingness to sacrifice entire realms to achieve it.
• Zizaitian Devil Master is cynical, treacherous, and wary of Qi Ru Xian. He openly mocks Qi Ru Xian’s treatment of his disciple and recognizes that Qi Ru Xian has concealed motives, though he still cooperates because the plan benefits the Alien Demons.
• Zhao Sheng advances greatly after surviving the Bi Wind Tribulation, gaining extraordinary spiritual perception and power. More importantly, he demonstrates self-awareness by recognizing that his newfound strength has caused arrogance and by resisting those thoughts.
• Zhao Sheng’s confrontation with the heart demon reveals that he still possesses unresolved obsessions. He begins approaching the problem through introspection rather than brute force.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and betrayal: Qi Ru Xian’s alliance with the Alien Demons and his betrayal of his disciple show how ambition can override loyalty and morality.
• Manipulation of cosmic order: The alteration of star trajectories and the encirclement of the Grand Yi Spirit Realm demonstrate how immense schemes can operate gradually and invisibly.
• Power and arrogance: Zhao Sheng’s successful tribulation grants him extraordinary strength but also creates dangerous conceit, emphasizing that spiritual advancement can produce new psychological trials.
• The nature of inner demons: The heart demon is not simply an external enemy; it is a manifestation of Zhao Sheng’s own unresolved attachments and obsessions.
• Cognitive and spiritual obstacles: Zhao Sheng views the Eight Sufferings not merely as truths to be accepted, but as possible cognitive traps that may bind practitioners more deeply to religious dependence and demonic thoughts.
• Form versus essence: The heart demon changes from a beast into a Daoist nun, but its underlying nature remains unchanged, illustrating that appearances and names do not alter inner reality.

Character Interactions

• Qi Ru Xian and Zizaitian Devil Master exchange threats, accusations, and mockery while negotiating their alliance. Their relationship is based on mutual benefit rather than trust.
• Qi Ru Xian tries to assert dominance by restraining the Devil Master with the Nine Heavens Star Rings and demanding absolute obedience.
• Zizaitian Devil Master challenges Qi Ru Xian’s motives and condemns his betrayal of Tian Yunzi, but ultimately accepts his role in the larger plan.
• Zhao Xuanjing briefly reacts to Chaos’s disturbance, though he fails to uncover the cause.
• Zhao Sheng confronts the heart demon directly, first attempting to destroy it, then questioning it and challenging its identity as “Unattainable.” The encounter becomes an internal struggle over whether the demon represents an external doctrine or one of Zhao Sheng’s own obsessions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Sheng returns to Five Elements Dongtian and encounters Stone Spirit, who informs him about recent earthquakes and deaths in Divine Continent.
• Zhao Sheng discovers that Chaos, the primordial force, is causing the disturbances. He travels to the earth's core to investigate.
• Zhao Sheng finds that the Spirit Realm's gravity has changed due to a rare multi-star alignment celestial phenomenon, which has agitated Chaos.
• Qi Ru Xian, a powerful diviner, is trying to manipulate the stars to cause chaos and destroy the Divine Continent and the Zhao Clan.

Character Developments

• Zhao Sheng: Shows his power and control over Chaos, advances his Dao attainment, and demonstrates his concern for the well-being of his clan and the Divine Continent.
• Stone Spirit: Shows fear of Zhao Sheng and tries to avoid him, but ultimately provides him with important information.
• Qi Ru Xian: Struggles to understand why his divinations are not coming true, and becomes more determined to cause destruction.

Significant Themes

• The power of divination and its limitations.
• The consequences of manipulating natural forces for personal gain.
• The interconnectedness of the universe and its phenomena.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng and Stone Spirit: Stone Spirit fears Zhao Sheng but provides him with information, showing a complex relationship.
• Zhao Sheng and Qi Ru Xian: Their goals are opposed; Zhao Sheng is trying to maintain order, while Qi Ru Xian is trying to cause chaos.

Summary

Plot Points and Events

• The sun and moon cycle, and stars align, indicating a significant celestial event.
• Zhao Xuanjing and Zhao Sheng observe the stars and discuss Zhao Xuanjing's plan to refine Chaos into an external incarnation.
• Zhao Xuanjing reveals his intention to use Chaos to become immortal, despite the risks.
• Chaos is suppressed, and Zhao Xuanjing begins the refinement process.
• The Divine Continent experiences multiple disasters, causing it to sink and resulting in the deaths of countless living beings.
• Zhao Sheng discovers that Zhao Xuanjing's potential limit is a Golden Immortal.

Character Developments

• Zhao Xuanjing: Determined to refine Chaos to become immortal, despite the risks and consequences.
• Zhao Sheng: Initially opposed to Zhao Xuanjing's plan but ultimately supports him. He becomes increasingly worried about the consequences of Zhao Xuanjing's actions.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and its consequences: Zhao Xuanjing's desire to become immortal drives him to take great risks, affecting not only himself but also the entire Divine Continent.
• The power of fate and destiny: The alignment of stars and the appearance of the Hundred Lifetimes Book suggest that certain events are predestined.
• The burden of responsibility: Zhao Sheng feels the weight of his duty to protect the Divine Continent and its inhabitants, as well as his loyalty to Zhao Xuanjing.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Xuanjing and Zhao Sheng: The two have a close relationship, with Zhao Sheng acting as Zhao Xuanjing's confidant and advisor. Despite their differing views on refining Chaos, they ultimately support each other.
• Zhao Sheng and Old Stonemason: The two work together to suppress Chaos and ensure the success of Zhao Xuanjing's plan. Old Stonemason sacrifices himself to help Chaos become more obedient.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chaos, now a massive celestial body, forms a Star Ring and senses an anomaly in the stars' trajectories.
• Zhao Xuanjing (Chaos) discovers that the Multi-Star Alignment is artificial and attacks the responsible parties.
• Thirty-three Void Return Realm cultivators, known as Star Masters, are captured and later killed by Zhao Xuanjing.
• Zhao Sheng identifies one of the corpses as Layman Dongyang, an incarnation of the Zizaitian Devil Lord and the Star Master of Pure Light Realm.

Character Developments

• Zhao Xuanjing: Attains the body of Chaos, gains immense power, and becomes enraged upon discovering the truth behind the Multi-Star Alignment.
• Zhao Sheng: Recognizes the captured cultivators and reveals his past connection to the Zizaitian Devil Lord.
• Layman Dongyang: Revealed to be an incarnation of the Zizaitian Devil Lord and the Star Master of Pure Light Realm.

Significant Themes

• Power and revenge: Zhao Xuanjing's newfound power fuels his desire for vengeance against the Zizaitian Devil Lord.
• Deception and manipulation: The Zizaitian Devil Lord's use of multiple incarnations and control over the Star Masters highlights its cunning and manipulative nature.
• Caution and patience: Zhao Sheng advises Zhao Xuanjing to exercise caution and take a long-term approach to dealing with the Zizaitian Devil Lord.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Xuanjing and Zhao Sheng: The duo works together, with Zhao Sheng providing crucial information and advising Zhao Xuanjing on how to handle the situation with the Zizaitian Devil Lord.
• Zhao Xuanjing and the Star Masters: Zhao Xuanjing captures and later kills the Star Masters responsible for the Multi-Star Alignment, revealing his immense power and fury.

Chapter Summary: The Sky is Changing in the Grand Yi Spirit Realm

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Zizaitian Devil Master and Qi Ru Xian’s plan fails when Chaos discovers and destroys thirty-three Void Return Realm incarnations. The Devil Master loses all thirty-three incarnations and is forced to self-destruct his Primordial Spirits to prevent further exposure.
• Qi Ru Xian concludes that the Devil Master’s identity may already be compromised, though he reassures him that the situation can still be salvaged. The two secretly reconcile and begin plotting another scheme, while deliberately avoiding discussion of the Three Sages Zhao Clan.
• Inside the Earth Core Grotto-Heaven, Zhao Sheng learns that Zhao Xuanjing can ascend to Immortal Heaven whenever he wishes, but no longer needs to do so. As a descendant of the Innate Origin Race, Zhao Xuanjing can instead fully awaken and cultivate his bloodline as his supreme Dao.
• Zhao Xuanjing instructs Zhao Sheng to deliver the bodies of the defeated incarnations to Tai Yi Spirit Palace after several days.
• Tai Yi Spirit Palace and the various powers discover that thirty-three Star Lords and their Lifebound Soul Lamps have vanished simultaneously. Xue Yunqing investigates but finds no evidence, prompting even Grand Yi Immortal Venerable to intervene.
• Zhao Xuanjing reveals a trace of his power to Grand Yi Immortal Venerable and fights him across the void to a draw. This proves that Zhao Xuanjing’s strength is comparable to that of a Longevity True Immortal.
• Zhao Sheng personally explains the truth to Tai Yi Spirit Palace: the missing Star Lords had become incarnations of the Zizaitian Devil Master, and the Devil Master had suffered a major defeat at Zhao Xuanjing’s hands. To avoid provoking an almost unkillable Devil Path expert or exposing their own failure, Tai Yi Spirit Palace and other major forces conceal the truth.
• Tai Yi Spirit Palace’s attitude toward the Three Sages Zhao Clan changes dramatically. Formerly suppressive, it now seeks to build a closer alliance with them. Other ancient sects gradually learn that the Devil Master was defeated, though few understand the full extent of Zhao Xuanjing’s strength.
• A hundred years later, another devil tide erupts in Zhao Sheng’s Soul Sea. He uses the Great Brightness Fundamental Mantra through the Bald Broken Brush to annihilate countless heart demons.
• A powerful Fear Heart Demon survives temporarily, taking Zhao Sheng’s appearance and claiming that fear can never destroy itself. Zhao Sheng rejects this challenge and burns it away with the Great Brightness Buddha Fire.
• Over the following centuries, Zhao Sheng repeatedly confronts and eliminates heart demons representing rage, hatred, foolishness, greed, and other emotions. These trials purify his Primordial Spirit, strengthen his mana, and perfect his Dao heart.
• As his Dao heart approaches perfection, the Ascension Gate Tower’s pull becomes increasingly strong, and Zhao Sheng realizes that he may soon be ready to prove his Dao and ascend.
• At the Nine Nether Prison, Zhao Sheng discovers vast deposits of Cloud Sky Stones, clearly arranged by Zhao Xuanjing. He realizes that the ancestor is preparing the Divine Continent, likely for future movement or ascension-related purposes.
• Zhao Sheng and the Zhao Clan’s avatars begin clearing prisoners from the Nine Nether Prison, exiling clan members across the myriad worlds and collecting Law Crystals and rare heavenly materials.
• Nearly a thousand years later, Zhao Xuanxian, the Fourth Ancestor’s second True Inheritance Disciple, successfully opens his Dongtian and advances to the Body Integration Realm. His achievement shocks the Zhao Clan and the ancient sects because of his extraordinary youth.

Character Developments

• Zhao Xuanjing is revealed to have reached a terrifying level of power after transforming into Chaos. He no longer depends on conventional ascension, relying instead on the supreme potential of the Innate Origin Race bloodline. His confidence, preparation, and strategic caution demonstrate his status as the Zhao Clan’s hidden pillar.
• Zhao Sheng grows steadily stronger through repeated Heart Demon trials. His ability to face and destroy manifestations of fear, hatred, greed, rage, and foolishness shows that his mind and Dao heart are becoming increasingly stable and flawless. He is approaching the threshold of ascension.
• The Zizaitian Devil Master suffers a major strategic and personal setback. The destruction of thirty-three Void Return incarnations exposes the danger posed by Chaos and leaves him suspicious of Qi Ru Xian, though Qi Ru Xian successfully rekindles his hope and preserves their alliance.
• Qi Ru Xian remains composed and calculating even after failure. He manipulates the Devil Master’s emotions, turns panic into renewed confidence, and immediately begins planning their next move.
• Zhao Xuanxian emerges as a rising prodigy. Opening his Dongtian before the age of nine thousand places him among the youngest Body Integration experts in recorded Spirit Realm history and marks him as one of the Zhao Clan’s future pillars.

Significant Themes

• The balance of power is shifting. Zhao Xuanjing’s transformation into Chaos and victory over the Devil Master fundamentally alter the political and martial landscape of the Grand Yi Spirit Realm.
• Hidden strength and concealed truth dominate the chapter. The Zhao Clan deliberately hides Zhao Xuanjing’s true power, while Tai Yi Spirit Palace and other forces suppress the scandal surrounding the Devil Master’s incarnations.
• The dangers of underestimating an opponent are emphasized through the Devil Master’s defeat. Chaos’s power exceeds expectations, forcing the Devil Master and Qi Ru Xian to revise their plans.
• Self-mastery and purification are central to Zhao Sheng’s cultivation. His destruction of successive Heart Demons symbolizes the refinement of his emotions and the perfection of his Dao heart.
• Bloodline destiny versus conventional cultivation is highlighted by Zhao Xuanjing. His Innate Origin Race heritage offers a path beyond ordinary Dao cultivation and ascension.
• The rise of a new generation is represented by Zhao Xuanxian’s breakthrough, suggesting that the Zhao Clan’s power will continue expanding even as its older figures approach ascension.

Character Interactions

• The confrontation between Qi Ru Xian and the Zizaitian Devil Master reveals tension within their alliance, with the Devil Master blaming Qi Ru Xian for the failed plan and the loss of his incarnations. Qi Ru Xian calms him through reassurance and strategic manipulation.
• Zhao Sheng and Zhao Xuanjing share a mentor-like exchange in which Zhao Xuanjing explains his unusual path to immortality and gives Zhao Sheng practical instructions concerning the defeated incarnations.
• Zhao Xuanjing and Grand Yi Immortal Venerable indirectly clash across the void, ending in a draw and establishing Zhao Xuanjing as an equal to a True Immortal.
• Zhao Sheng confronts the Fear Heart Demon, which adopts his form and attempts to exploit his fear. Zhao Sheng rejects its argument and destroys it, symbolizing his refusal to be ruled by his own weaknesses.
• The Zhao Clan and Tai Yi Spirit Palace undergo a major diplomatic reversal: after learning that Zhao Xuanjing defeated the Devil Master, Tai Yi Spirit Palace abandons its former suppression and begins actively seeking cooperation with the clan.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Sheng transmits his teachings to Yuan Hong and Zhao Xuanxian before leaving for No-Return Heaven.
• Zhao Sheng arrives at No-Return Heaven and encounters the Lord of Yong Kingdom, who warns him about the Honghuang Continent.
• Zhao Sheng enters the Honghuang Continent, where he experiences extreme gravity and the absence of Heaven and Earth Spiritual Energy.

Character Developments

• Yuan Hong receives the Subhuti Unhindered Seal and the Unimpeded Heaven Roaming Art.
• Zhao Xuanxian receives the Primordial Indestructible Body and the Size Altering Immortal Art, along with the Lesser Wind-Calming Pearl.
• Stone Spirit transforms into a Jade Qilin and accompanies Zhao Sheng to No-Return Heaven.
• The Lord of Yong Kingdom is revealed to be a Tribulation Transcending Great Venerable.

Significant Themes

• The dangers and mysteries of No-Return Heaven and the Honghuang Continent.
• The transmission of knowledge and power from master to disciples.
• The passage of time and the flow of Lifespan.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng imparts teachings to Yuan Hong and Zhao Xuanxian, demonstrating his care and guidance as a master.
• Zhao Sheng and the Lord of Yong Kingdom exchange information about No-Return Heaven, showing mutual respect and caution.
• Zhao Sheng and Stone Spirit form a bond, with Stone Spirit demonstrating loyalty and concern for his master's well-being.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Sheng and Stone Spirit find an irregular crystal on the Gobi, which reveals a vast mountain range within when examined.
• Zhao Sheng encounters two cultivators, Wei Manzi and a young woman, fighting over an Immortal Qi Stone. He intervenes and takes the stone.
• Zhao Sheng leaves, and the two cultivators are left staring at each other.

Character Developments

• Zhao Sheng demonstrates his power and kindness, intervening in the fight and taking the Immortal Qi Stone without killing the cultivators.
• Stone Spirit shows loyalty and eagerness to please his master, Zhao Sheng.
• Wei Manzi and the young woman reveal their skills and determination in battle but are no match for Zhao Sheng's power.

Significant Themes

• Power and its responsible use: Zhao Sheng uses his power to prevent a fight to the death, showing that power should be used for good.
• The microcosm and macrocosm: The crystal containing a vast mountain range represents the interconnectedness of the universe and the idea that great things can come from small beginnings.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng interacts with the two cultivators, showing kindness and power, and takes the Immortal Qi Stone without harming them.
• Wei Manzi and the young woman interact through battle, showing their determination and skills, but ultimately submit to Zhao Sheng's power.

Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Sheng, after obtaining an Immortal Qi Stone, arrives at the Ancient Ascension Array guarded by eight Heaven-Reaching Pillars.
• He defeats the first guardian, a white-haired old man, and takes his place.
• Zhao Sheng refines Immortal Qi from the pillar, enhancing his mana and physical body.
• He visits each of the seven other array guardians, challenging them and demanding a wisp of Immortal Qi each time.

Character Developments

• Zhao Sheng demonstrates his strength and determination in obtaining Immortal Qi, showing his resolve in becoming immortal.
• The array guardians, particularly Old Monk Jiu Jie and Tiannan Ancestor, show fear and reluctance in facing Zhao Sheng, highlighting their desire to keep their positions and Immortal Qi.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of Immortal Qi and immortality is a central theme, driving Zhao Sheng's actions and the guardians' reluctance to part with their precious resources.
• The power dynamics between Zhao Sheng and the guardians illustrate the theme of strength and intimidation in the cultivation world.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng interacts with each of the array guardians, either challenging them or demanding Immortal Qi, showing his dominance and single-minded pursuit of his goal.
• The guardians, in turn, show varying degrees of fear, reluctance, and submission in the face of Zhao Sheng's power.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Sheng (Hunyuan Daoist) refines seven wisps of immortal qi in two years and seven months, advancing his physical body and Mana.
• Stone Spirit (Jade Qilin) demands and receives compensation from Zhao Sheng.
• A Wanderer named Song Huzi offers a broken blade in exchange for two wisps of immortal qi, which Zhao Sheng accepts.
• Old Monk Jiu Jie contacts Zhao Sheng, proposing an alliance among the array guardians to resist external enemies.
• The Ancient Ascension Array opens, and Zhao Sheng, along with other array guardians, defend against invading Wanderers.
• Jiu Jie offers thirty strands of immortal qi in exchange for Zhao Sheng's help in ascending to the Second Heaven.

Character Developments

• Zhao Sheng's strength increases as he refines more immortal qi, approaching the level of a True Immortal.
• Stone Spirit's behavior and temperament become more like a divine beast qilin.
• Old Monk Jiu Jie shows cunning and desperation, offering a large amount of immortal qi to secure Zhao Sheng's help.

Significant Themes

• Power and strength: Zhao Sheng's growing power makes him nearly invincible, leading to feelings of loneliness and boredom.
• Alliances and cooperation: The array guardians form an alliance to resist external enemies, highlighting the importance of cooperation in the face of overwhelming odds.
• Greed and desperation: Old Monk Jiu Jie's offer of thirty strands of immortal qi shows his desperation and willingness to make significant sacrifices to achieve his goals.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng and Stone Spirit: Zhao Sheng interacts with Stone Spirit, promising to compensate it for its help and acknowledging its growing independence.
• Zhao Sheng and Song Huzi: Zhao Sheng trades two wisps of immortal qi for a broken blade from Song Huzi, showing his willingness to make deals with others.
• Zhao Sheng and Old Monk Jiu Jie: The two discuss the alliance and Jiu Jie's offer of immortal qi, highlighting their mutual respect and understanding.
• The array guardians: The array guardians work together to defend against invading Wanderers, showcasing their teamwork and coordination.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Sheng, after a powerful display, forces the formation guardians to offer immortal qi in exchange for staying in the formation.
• He and the others are then pulled into the next layer of the ancient formation, experiencing a drastic change in environment.
• Zhao Sheng finds himself in a world with gravity a hundred thousand times stronger than before, with a vast wasteland and a mysterious, hostile forest.

Character Developments

• Zhao Sheng demonstrates his power and dominance, showing no mercy to those who defy him.
• The formation guardians, initially defiant, quickly submit to Zhao Sheng's authority once they witness his strength.

Significant Themes

• Power and Dominance: Zhao Sheng's actions emphasize the importance of strength and power in this world, as the formation guardians quickly submit to him once they realize his might.
• Adaptation: The drastic change in environment highlights the characters' ability to adapt to new circumstances, as Zhao Sheng quickly assesses and responds to the new world's conditions.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng interacts with the formation guardians, initially threatening them and later allowing them to stay in exchange for immortal qi.
• Zhao Sheng communicates with the Stone Spirit, his Jade Qilin, showing a mix of sternness and understanding towards its complaints.

Key Plot Points and Events

1. Zhao Sheng (Hunyuan) arrives at the second layer of Honghuang Continent and meets the Evergreen Ancestor (Song Gan), a fellow cultivator from their home realm.
2. Song Gan explains the harsh environment and the presence of the Three Loose Immortals, who control the Ancient Ascension Array at the continent's center.
3. Zhao Sheng attempts to trade for Immortal Qi with several Tribulation Transcending Great Venerables, but fails to secure any.
4. He arrives at the Ancient Ascension Array, where the Three Loose Immortals reside, and stops at the outskirts of the plain, not approaching the array.

Character Developments

1. Zhao Sheng (Hunyuan): Zhao Sheng demonstrates his patience and persistence in trying to secure Immortal Qi, despite initial failures. He also shows caution by not approaching the Ancient Ascension Array without understanding the situation better.
2. Evergreen Ancestor (Song Gan): Song Gan reveals his low-key nature and provides valuable information about the second heaven and its inhabitants, showing concern for Zhao Sheng's safety.

Significant Themes

1. Caution and Patience: Zhao Sheng exhibits caution in dealing with the powerful beings on the second heaven and patience in his attempts to secure Immortal Qi.
2. Harsh Environment: The second heaven's harsh environment is a significant theme, affecting the behavior and decisions of its inhabitants.
3. Territorial Division: The division of territories among Tribulation Transcending Great Venerables is another important theme, influencing their interactions and conflicts.

Character Interactions

1. Zhao Sheng and Evergreen Ancestor: They share a bond as cultivators from the same realm, leading to a friendly exchange of information and warnings.
2. Zhao Sheng and other Tribulation Transcending Great Venerables: Zhao Sheng attempts to trade with several of these powerful beings, but their interactions are brief and unsuccessful.
3. Zhao Sheng and the Three Loose Immortals: Although they do not meet in this chapter, the Three Loose Immortals are a significant presence, influencing Zhao Sheng's actions and decisions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Sheng arrives at the Ancient Ascension Array and encounters the Sword Immortal's aura.
• He discovers the Divination Immortal's golden coffin and learns about Qi Ru Xian's past.
• Zhao Sheng meets with other array guardians who complain about their poor cultivation spots.
• He goes to meet the Divination Immortal, who awakens after sensing his powerful aura.

Character Developments

• Zhao Sheng demonstrates his caution and strategic thinking by not provoking the Sword Immortal and by being mindful of the Divination Immortal's reputation.
• The Divination Immortal, Shenjizi, is revealed to be Qi Ru Xian, the former sect master of the Supreme Sect, and a formidable figure with a hidden malice towards the Zhao Clan.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics among cultivators and the respect given to those with greater strength.
• The importance of caution and strategic thinking in dealing with powerful enemies.
• The theme of hidden identities and pasts, as revealed by Shenjizi's true identity.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng and the Sword Immortal: Their auras clash, but Zhao Sheng retreats to avoid a fight.
• Zhao Sheng and the Divination Immortal: They meet, and Shenjizi is impressed by Zhao Sheng's aura and treasure.
• Zhao Sheng and the other array guardians: They complain about their cultivation spots, and Zhao Sheng agrees with their plan to seize better spots.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Sheng seeks permission to cultivate near the Ancient Array from Shenjizi, the Senior Divination Immortal.
• Shenjizi sets a trial: Zhao Sheng must touch him to pass.
• Zhao Sheng attempts various attacks, but Shenjizi remains unharmed due to his mastery of Buddhist emptiness principles.
• Zhao Sheng uses the Life and Death Broken Brush to freeze Shenjizi briefly, allowing him to land a near-fatal sword strike.
• Shenjizi heals and acknowledges Zhao Sheng's victory, warning him about the trials ahead.

Character Developments

• Zhao Sheng: Demonstrates exceptional strength, intelligence, and resourcefulness in his battle against Shenjizi. He uses his foreknowledge and various divine abilities to try and land a hit on Shenjizi.
• Shenjizi: Proves to be an incredibly powerful and wise opponent. He easily evades Zhao Sheng's attacks and shows a deep understanding of Buddhist principles. He acknowledges Zhao Sheng's victory and offers him a warning about future trials.

Significant Themes

• Foreknowledge vs. Dao Artifacts: The chapter explores the limits of foreknowledge (Zhao Sheng's ability) against powerful Dao artifacts or techniques (Shenjizi's mastery of emptiness principles). Despite Zhao Sheng's ability to see into the future, Shenjizi's defenses prove nearly impenetrable.
• Wisdom and Intelligence: Both characters display exceptional wisdom and intelligence. Shenjizi's ability to deduce the origin of Zhao Sheng's freezing technique and his overall strategic prowess are highlighted, while Zhao Sheng's quick thinking and adaptability are showcased in his attempts to land a hit on Shenjizi.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng and Shenjizi: The primary interaction in this chapter is between Zhao Sheng and Shenjizi. Their exchange is a battle of wits and strength, with both characters showing immense respect for each other's abilities. Despite the competitive nature of their interaction, there is an underlying camaraderie, with Shenjizi offering Zhao Sheng a warning about future trials after their duel.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Sheng meets the Snail Ancestor, who is revealed to be a naturally born earth spirit like Stone Spirit.
• Zhao Sheng passes the trial by leaving a mark on the Snail Ancestor's shell, demonstrating his power and respecting the rules.
• Stone Spirit and the Snail Ancestor go out to play, leaving Zhao Sheng to continue his journey through the Ancient Array.
• Zhao Sheng faces the Sword Immortal, who tests him with a strike containing pure power of slaughter and the Great Dao divine ability of "a sword drawn must strike."
• Zhao Sheng passes the trial, and the Sword Immortal, Sword Madman, expresses interest in him, planning to meet again in the future.

Character Developments

• Zhao Sheng: Shows respect for the rules and the Snail Ancestor, demonstrates his power and resilience in facing the Sword Immortal's trial.
• Snail Ancestor: Revealed to be a naturally born earth spirit, shows excitement and curiosity in meeting Stone Spirit, and displays a strong defensive power.
• Sword Madman: Shows a cold, stern demeanor, cultivates the heartless sword path, and expresses interest in Zhao Sheng after his trial.

Significant Themes

• Respect for rules and opponents.
• Power and resilience in the face of challenges.
• Interest and curiosity in meeting new beings.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Sheng and Snail Ancestor: Respectful and curious, with Zhao Sheng passing the trial and showing understanding of the rules.
• Zhao Sheng and Sword Madman: Respectful and cautious, with Sword Madman testing Zhao Sheng and expressing interest in him after the trial.
• Stone Spirit and Snail Ancestor: Excited and curious, with Stone Spirit urging the Snail Ancestor to go out and play together.

Key Plot Points and Events

+ Zhao Sheng establishes his residence near the Ancient Ascension Array and begins cultivating.
+ Jiu Jie and other Great Venerables, backed by Zhao Sheng, seize territories in the north of the continent, causing unrest.
+ Zhao Sheng accepts tributes of Immortal Qi from various Great Venerables.
+ Zhao Sheng enters No-Return Heaven in his true body, shocking the other Great Venerables.
+ Zhao Sheng spars with Sword Madman, exchanging the incomplete Golden Light Myriad Weapon Art for 100,000 wisps of Immortal Qi.

Character Developments

+ Zhao Sheng continues to refine Immortal Qi, advancing his mana transformation and True Immortal body evolution.
+ Jiu Jie and the other Great Venerables gain territories and power under Zhao Sheng's protection.
+ Sword Madman obtains the incomplete Golden Light Myriad Weapon Art.

Significant Themes

+ The struggle for power and resources among the Great Venerables.
+ The pursuit of Immortal Qi for cultivation and advancement.
+ The risks and rewards of entering No-Return Heaven.

Character Interactions

+ Zhao Sheng interacts with Jiu Jie, guiding and protecting him.
+ Zhao Sheng spars with Sword Madman, exchanging an incomplete immortal art for Immortal Qi.
+ Zhao Sheng accepts tributes from various Great Venerables, gaining their loyalty and respect.