Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Shen, possessing the Blazing Fire, can absorb and use the Transcendent Source Matter of the deceased, shocking Tie Wu.
• Gu Shen constructs an Iron Throne in the Mental Domain, further astonishing Tie Wu.
• Gu Shen reveals his intention to make Tie Wu his Apostle to stand against the Source Tower.
• Gu Shen hints at being the Eighth God's Throne from the Old World, a rumor Tie Wu knows about.
• Gu Shen offers Tie Wu rebirth if he becomes his Apostle.

Character Developments

• Gu Shen: Shows his power and cunning, manipulating Tie Wu with hints and promises.
• Tie Wu: Realizes Gu Shen's power and potential, grapples with the revelation of the Eighth God's Throne.

Significant Themes

• Power and manipulation: Gu Shen uses his power to influence and control Tie Wu.
• Belief and reality: Gu Shen manipulates Tie Wu's beliefs to achieve his goals.
• Rebirth and new beginnings: Gu Shen offers Tie Wu a chance at rebirth, symbolizing new opportunities.

Character Interactions

• Gu Shen and Tie Wu: Gu Shen manipulates and guides Tie Wu, while Tie Wu struggles to accept Gu Shen's true identity and power.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Shen successfully resurrects Tie Wu, the Source Tower's Apostle, by condensing Transcendent Source Matter, marking the first step in a long war against the Source Tower.
• Gu Shen receives a message from Jiang Wan, a reporter, who wants to meet to discuss the 'Freedom Evening Party'.
• Jiang Wan shows Gu Shen a video recorded by a pinhole camera at the Freedom Auditorium, which reveals Zhao Qi, son of Councilor Zhao, entering the auditorium while everyone is asleep.

Character Developments

• Gu Shen: Successfully resurrects Tie Wu, showing his growing power and influence. He also demonstrates caution and wisdom in meeting Jiang Wan.
• Tie Wu: Now under Gu Shen's command, he is weakened and will need time to recover.
• Jiang Wan: Shows initiative and intelligence by contacting Gu Shen with the video evidence, displaying her potential as a key figure in the Transcendent world.

Significant Themes

• Power and influence: Gu Shen's ability to resurrect Tie Wu shows his growing power, while the video evidence in Jiang Wan's possession could significantly shift the balance of power in Great Capital.
• Trust and alliances: Gu Shen's success with Tie Wu relies on trust and timing, while Jiang Wan's decision to approach Gu Shen demonstrates her trust in him and her willingness to form an alliance.

Character Interactions

• Gu Shen and Tie Wu: Their interaction shows Gu Shen's ability to manipulate and control powerful figures, while Tie Wu's surrender indicates his desperation and vulnerability.
• Gu Shen and Jiang Wan: Their interaction reveals Jiang Wan's intelligence and intuition, as well as her trust in Gu Shen. It also shows Gu Shen's ability to inspire loyalty and trust in others.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Song Ci wakes up in a hospital ward after overdrawing his Divine Power from the Token.
• Gu Nanfeng reveals that Song Ci's injuries are severe, with 60% of his blood burned away and his retinas severely burned, requiring days to recover his vision.
• Song Ci learns that Tie Wu is dead, killed by the God of Wine's Throne during God's Advent, and Qin Ye committed suicide in detention.
• Gu Nanfeng reveals that the Token Song Ci possesses is not Mr. Gu Changzhi's, but one he obtained from the City of Light.

Character Developments

• Song Ci: Realizes the limits of his body and the consequences of overusing the Token's power. He becomes more cautious and responsible.
• Gu Nanfeng: Shows concern for Song Ci's well-being and reveals a secret about the Token's origin.

Significant Themes

• Consequences of overusing power: Song Ci's severe injuries highlight the dangers of reckless use of the Token's power.
• Secrecy and deception: Gu Nanfeng's revelation about the Token's origin introduces an element of secrecy and hidden truths.

Character Interactions

• Song Ci and Gu Nanfeng: Despite being new acquaintances, Song Ci feels a sense of security with Gu Nanfeng. They share a secret about the Token's origin, fostering a bond between them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Song Ci wakes up and has a conversation with Gu Nanfeng about the Awakening Act and the situation in East Continent.
• Gu Nanfeng reveals that Gu Changzhi cannot wake up from the Clear Tomb and asks Song Ci to keep this secret to safeguard the future of East Continent.
• Lu Nanzhi receives a recorded image from Jiang Wan, showing the auditorium during the Freedom Dance, which could be crucial evidence against Flower Banner.

Character Developments

• Song Ci: He shows understanding and agreement with Gu Nanfeng's request, demonstrating his loyalty and commitment to the cause.
• Gu Nanfeng: He reveals his opposition to the Awakening Act and his desire to change Changye, showing his determination and responsibility.
• Lu Nanzhi: She receives vital evidence from Jiang Wan, strengthening her position against Flower Banner. She also shows concern for Song Ci's well-being.

Significant Themes

• Secrets and Truth: The characters grapple with secrets that could change the course of events, such as Gu Changzhi's condition and the evidence against Flower Banner.
• Responsibility and Commitment: The characters show their dedication to their respective causes, whether it's Gu Nanfeng's desire to change Changye or Lu Nanzhi's fight against corruption.

Character Interactions

• Song Ci and Gu Nanfeng: They have a heart-to-heart conversation about the situation in East Continent, leading to Song Ci's agreement to keep Gu Changzhi's secret.
• Lu Nanzhi and Gu Shen: They discuss the recorded image from Jiang Wan, which could be a game-changer in Lu Nanzhi's fight against Flower Banner.
• Lu Nanzhi and Cui Zhongcheng: They have a silent, tense conversation over the phone, with Cui Zhongcheng revealing that the Councilor wants to talk to Lu Nanzhi.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Madam (Lu Nanzhi) meets Zhao Xilai, the old man who invited her, at Small Barren Mountain where her father is buried.
• Gu Shen and Gu Nanfeng accompany Madam, observing from a distance as she interacts with Zhao Xilai.
• Gu Shen senses Zhao Xilai's declining health, and Gu Nanfeng expresses his hope for Zhao Xilai's longevity due to the balance of power he brings to the Great Capital.

Character Developments

• Madam: Shows respect and affection towards her father's memory by visiting his grave annually.
• Zhao Xilai: Reveals his declining health but maintains a strong will, symbolized by his "dying man's last gleam of vitality."
• Gu Shen: Demonstrates his perceptiveness by sensing Zhao Xilai's health and understanding the political implications of Zhao Xilai's presence.
• Gu Nanfeng: Expresses his complex feelings about returning to Changye and hints at the complicated situation there.

Significant Themes

• The passage of time and the inevitability of aging and death, as reflected in the fallen leaves and Zhao Xilai's health.
• The balance of power and its impact on society, as seen through the relationship between Changye and the Great Capital.
• The weight of responsibility that comes with power, as experienced by Zhao Xilai and Gu Nanfeng.

Character Interactions

• Madam and Zhao Xilai: Their interaction is brief but meaningful, with Madam paying respect to her father's grave and Zhao Xilai expressing his purpose for the meeting.
• Gu Shen and Gu Nanfeng: They discuss the situation in Changye and Gu Nanfeng's invitation for Gu Shen to accompany him, hinting at their shared understanding of the political landscape and their mutual respect.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Cui Zhongcheng meets Zhao Qi in a secluded mountain area to discuss his future.
• Lu Nanzhi arrives with two companions, but Song Ci is not present.
• Cui Zhongcheng warns Zhao Qi about the consequences of staying in Great Capital and the possibility of going to North Continent.
• Gu Shen, Lu Nanzhi's aide and a new S-Rank Transcendent, approaches Zhao Qi's car for a private chat.

Character Developments

• Zhao Qi: Realizes the gravity of his situation and the potential danger from Song Ci. Struggles with his future choices.
• Cui Zhongcheng: Shows understanding of the political landscape and the power dynamics between Lu Nanzhi and the Zhao family.
• Gu Shen: Reveals his past encounter with Zhao Qi, demonstrating his strength and influence.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and political maneuvering in Great Capital.
• The consequences of past actions and the struggle for redemption.
• The importance of alliances and connections in maintaining power.

Character Interactions

• Cui Zhongcheng and Zhao Qi: Cui Zhongcheng warns Zhao Qi about the dangers he faces and the potential solutions, but ultimately leaves the decision to Zhao Qi.
• Gu Shen and Zhao Qi: Gu Shen reveals their past encounter, putting Zhao Qi on edge and hinting at potential consequences if Zhao Qi doesn't cooperate.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Shen confronts Zhao Qi, revealing he knows about Zhao Qi's involvement in the Freedom Auditorium incident.
• Gu Shen threatens Zhao Qi, warning him that Great Capital has many who will stand against him.
• Gu Shen physically assaults Zhao Qi, punching him and pinning him down with his ability, leaving him bloodied and helpless.

Character Developments

• Zhao Qi: Realizes the extent of Gu Shen's influence and power, experiences fear and desperation, and has a moment of self-reflection.
• Gu Shen: Shows his ruthless side, using physical force to instill fear in Zhao Qi, and demonstrates his ability to control metal.

Significant Themes

• Power and Influence: Gu Shen's actions highlight the power dynamics in Great Capital, with him being one of the most influential figures.
• Consequences of Actions: Zhao Qi's past actions catch up to him, and he faces the consequences, reflecting the theme of karma or cause and effect.
• Choice and Destiny: Gu Shen's words to Zhao Qi emphasize the idea that everyone has the choice to shape their own destiny.

Character Interactions

• Gu Shen vs. Zhao Qi: Gu Shen dominates the interaction, using threats and physical force to intimidate Zhao Qi, who is helpless and desperate.
• Gu Shen's Indifference: Gu Shen shows no remorse or sympathy for Zhao Qi's plight, emphasizing his ruthless nature.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Xilai, the powerful Councilor, visits Small Barren Mountain, Lu Cheng's tomb, after years of avoiding it due to guilt.
• Lu Nanzhi accompanies him and asks about the Lion Lane Massacre's mysteries and the Awakening Act's connection to Lion's Awakening Technology.
• Zhao Xilai reveals that Flower Banner received the Awakening Technology from the Federal Government years after Lu Cheng's death and has been investing heavily in the Awakening Act's promotion.
• He explains the Deep Sea's warning about the Five Continents' destruction and the act's purpose: to control Awakening and absorb Transcendent Source Matter to prevent order collapse.
• Zhao Xilai admits that East Continent is considered a small, sacrificable part for the Five Continents' preservation.

Character Developments

• Zhao Xilai: Shows remorse for his past actions, reveals his understanding of the Awakening Act's origins and purpose, and expresses his belief in the Deep Sea's guidance.
• Lu Nanzhi: Maintains her opposition to the Awakening Act despite understanding its potential benefits, questioning the Deep Sea's intentions.

Significant Themes

• Sacrifice for the greater good vs. individual rights and compassion.
• The inevitability of change and the lack of control over one's destiny.
• The consequences of humanity's actions on the environment and society.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Xilai and Lu Nanzhi: The mentor-mentee relationship is strained as they disagree on the Awakening Act's morality and necessity. Zhao Xilai tries to convince Lu Nanzhi, while she remains steadfast in her opposition.
• Zhao Xilai and Lu Cheng (in memory): Their past friendship and failed plans for Flower Banner are remembered, highlighting Zhao Xilai's guilt and regret.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Nanzhi reveals that the runaway train incident might have been a lie, making the victims' sacrifices meaningless.
• Zhao Xilai remembers that Lu Cheng, Lu Nanzhi's father, was a member of the Ancient Text Society, a group targeted by the Federal Government.
• Lu Nanzhi confirms she's a member of the Ancient Text Society and has the "Encrypted Gate," which the government seeks.
• Zhao Xilai visits Lu Cheng's grave, expressing his gratitude for Lu Nanzhi's safety and his desire to let go of past complexities.

Character Developments

• Lu Nanzhi: She comes to terms with her father's past and her role in the Ancient Text Society, displaying calm determination.
• Zhao Xilai: The old man grapples with his past guilt and finally finds peace, accepting Lu Nanzhi as his "daughter" and letting go of heavy topics.

Significant Themes

• Guilt and Redemption: Zhao Xilai's guilt over the Lion Lane Massacre and his role in it drives his actions and decisions.
• Loyalty and Betrayal: The Ancient Text Society's loyalty to their beliefs contrasts with the government's betrayal of trust.
• Memory and Legacy: Characters struggle with the weight of the past and the desire to honor or forget it.

Character Interactions

• Lu Nanzhi and Zhao Xilai: Their conversation reveals the truth about their pasts and strengthens their bond, with Zhao Xilai finally accepting Lu Nanzhi as his "daughter."
• Lu Nanzhi and Lu Cheng: Lu Nanzhi's visit to her father's grave signifies her acceptance of her family's past and her role in it.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Xilai, facing Lu Nanzhi, announces he will hand over Flower Banner to her, including his share of Lu Cheng's legacy.
• Zhao Xilai reveals he's doing this due to time constraints and external pressures, and to avoid further conflict.
• He sends emails to the City of Light and the Lin Family stating his decision, anticipating changes in their attitudes.
• Zhao Xilai asks Lu Nanzhi to spare his son, who was responsible for the Mental Exile incident at Freedom Auditorium.
• He requests to be buried on Small Barren Mountain after his death, near Lu Cheng's grave.

Character Developments

• Zhao Xilai: Accepts his impending death and the limitations of his power, choosing to step down and hand over Flower Banner to Lu Nanzhi. He shows remorse for his past actions and asks for leniency for his son.
• Lu Nanzhi: Shows understanding and compassion towards Zhao Xilai's situation, agreeing to spare his son and allowing him to be buried near Lu Cheng.

Significant Themes

• Ideals vs. Reality: Zhao Xilai reflects on the differences between his ideals and reality, and the consequences of his choices.
• Legacy and Succession: The handover of Flower Banner from Zhao Xilai to Lu Nanzhi highlights the importance of legacy and the challenges of succession.
• Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Lu Nanzhi's decision to spare Zhao Xilai's son and allow him to be buried near Lu Cheng suggests a willingness to forgive and reconcile.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Xilai and Lu Nanzhi: Their interaction is marked by mutual understanding and respect, with Zhao Xilai acknowledging Lu Nanzhi's capabilities and Lu Nanzhi showing compassion towards Zhao Xilai's situation.
• Zhao Xilai and Lu Cheng (in memory): Zhao Xilai reflects on his past with Lu Cheng, expressing regret for their falling out and a desire to be buried near him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Nanzhi leaves Small Barren Mountain after the meeting with Zhao Xilai.
• She finds Lu Nan Jin waiting at the foot of the mountain, who had witnessed the initial part of the meeting.
• Lu Nanzhi learns that Lu Nan Jin has not gone up the mountain after the Lantern was lit, indicating she didn't see Zhao Xilai's death.
• They walk back together, and Lu Nanzhi shares that she has taken back the Flower Banner shares.

Character Developments

• Lu Nanzhi: She shows growth in her leadership and decision-making, successfully negotiating with Zhao Xilai and taking back the Flower Banner shares. She also shows a more caring side towards Lu Nan Jin.
• Lu Nan Jin: She demonstrates restraint and maturity, choosing not to interfere in the meeting and accepting the outcome. She also expresses her desire to leave Great Capital to pursue greater strength.

Significant Themes

• Revenge and Justice: Lu Nan Jin's pursuit of justice and revenge for Lion Lane's victims remains a driving force, but she now understands that it's not as simple as she once thought.
• Sisterly Bond: The relationship between Lu Nanzhi and Lu Nan Jin is explored, showing their shared history, understanding, and support for each other.

Character Interactions

• Lu Nanzhi and Lu Nan Jin: Their interaction shows a deepening of their bond. They walk together like they used to, and Lu Nanzhi shares her success with Lu Nan Jin, showing trust and acceptance. Lu Nan Jin, in turn, shares her plans and feelings with her sister.
• Lu Nan Jin and Zhao Xilai: Though not physically present, Zhao Xilai's actions and fate influence Lu Nan Jin's decisions and growth.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Shen joins the Tribunal and becomes a member of the Federation Council.
• Gu Shen secretly takes over the declining Ancient Text Society and accumulates strength.
• The Transcendent world of the Five Continents begins to surface.
• Key characters like the "Owl" of the Eternal Foundation, Qin Ye, and Zhao Qi face consequences for their actions.

Character Developments

• Gu Shen: Realizes the true nature of the Federation Council and secretly builds power, grows from an ordinary person to a Transcendent.
• Lu Nan Jin: Leaves Great Capital, seeking justice for the Lion Lane case, and later decides to leave due to her experiences.

Significant Themes

• Justice and its interpretation.
• The difference between appearance and reality.
• The journey of self-discovery and growth.

Character Interactions

• Gu Shen and Lu Nan Jin: Their interactions highlight their differing views on justice and the Transcendent world.
• Gu Shen and other Federation Council members: Their dynamics showcase the political intrigue and Gu Shen's growing influence.
• Gu Shen and key antagonists: Their confrontations drive the plot and reveal the consequences of their actions.

Volume Assessment

• The volume served as an introduction to the story and characters, achieving its purpose satisfactorily.
• The pacing was slow due to the focus on world-building and character development.
• The average subscription exceeded 3,000, but the follow-up subscription declined during transition chapters.
• The author aims to control the rhythm more closely in the second volume, which will focus on "progression" as Gu Shen starts to "play cards."

Key Plot Points and Events

• A grand funeral is held for Zhao Xilai on Small Barren Mountain, attended by hundreds of influential figures from the Great Capital.
• Zhao Xilai's tombstone bears only his name and the inscription "Ambitious Person," reflecting his lifelong pursuit of power and influence.
• Lu Nanzhi, now the third official Councilor of the Great Capital, attends the funeral with a haggard expression.
• Gu Shen observes the funeral from a distance, accompanied by Chu Ling through a Mental Link. They discuss the concept of death and the afterlife.

Character Developments

• Zhao Qi, Zhao Xilai's son, kneels before his father's tombstone for hours, mourning his loss and likely reflecting on his own future.
• Lu Nanzhi, having inherited all of Zhao Xilai's assets and become the most powerful figure in the Great Capital, appears emotionally drained.
• Chu Ling, experiencing a mortal funeral for the first time, contemplates the nature of death and expresses a desire to go to a "Pure Land" if she were to die.

Significant Themes

• Death and the afterlife: Characters grapple with the concept of death and its implications, with Chu Ling expressing a desire for a peaceful end.
• Power and ambition: Zhao Xilai's life and legacy serve as a testament to the pursuit of power and influence, with his son Zhao Qi left to consider his own path.
• Legacy and inheritance: Lu Nanzhi's inheritance of Zhao Xilai's assets and position highlights the importance of legacy and the impact of one's actions on future generations.

Character Interactions

• Gu Shen and Chu Ling discuss the nature of death and the afterlife, with Gu Shen providing insights based on his knowledge and Chu Ling sharing her thoughts and desires.
• Zhao Qi's interaction with his father's tombstone reveals his emotional state and likely internal struggle.
• Lu Nanzhi's interaction with other attendees at the funeral reflects her new status and the weight of her responsibilities.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Xilai's funeral takes place on the Small Barren Mountain.
• After the funeral, Zhao Qi is taken away by Mad Dog, a confidant of the Cast Snow Grand Duke from North Continent, to be sent to Luo Yin City Fortress.
• Mad Dog delivers a strand of hair belonging to Senior Apprentice Sister Luo, containing a message from the Heavenly Eye Lord, to Zhou Jiren.

Character Developments

• Gu Shen: Shows calm and composed demeanor during the funeral, and demonstrates his mental power by resolving Mad Dog's oppressive aura with an umbrella.
• Zhao Qi: Accepts his punishment with filial piety, kneeling in front of his father's tablet until taken away by Mad Dog.
• Mad Dog (Duan Feng): Despite his fearsome appearance, speaks softly and respectfully to Zhou Jiren, demonstrating loyalty to his master and the ability to control his demeanor.

Significant Themes

• Death and Rebirth: The funeral serves as a reminder of the cycle of life and death, with Gu Shen quoting the priests of the South Continent, "Where there is death, there is new life."
• Punishment and Redemption: Zhao Qi's punishment reflects the theme of consequences for one's actions and the possibility of redemption through suffering.
• Power Dynamics: The interactions between characters highlight the power dynamics between the East and North Continents, as well as the respect given to the Grand Arbiter of the East Continent, Zhou Jiren.

Character Interactions

• Gu Shen and Zhou Jiren: Teacher and disciple interact, with Zhou Jiren revealing information about Mad Dog and the North Continent Fortress, and Gu Shen showing his mental power.
• Mad Dog and Zhao Qi: Mad Dog takes Zhao Qi away, showing no mercy despite Zhao Qi's sadness and filial piety.
• Mad Dog and Zhou Jiren: Mad Dog delivers a message from the Heavenly Eye Lord to Zhou Jiren, showing respect and deference to the Grand Arbiter.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wild Dog delivers a strand of hair from Senior Sister Luo Er, indicating she's in trouble outside North Continent.
• Teacher Zhou Jiren decides to leave for North Continent to help Senior Sister.
• Gu Shen learns that Lu Nan Jin plans to go to Changye City with Gu Nanfeng.
• Zhou Jiren warns Gu Shen about the challenges he'll face in Changye City.

Character Developments

• Gu Shen: Realizes the significance of his S-rank status and decides to go to Changye City to explore his heritage and the truth behind the Ancient Text Society.
• Zhou Jiren: Shows concern for Gu Shen's safety and provides guidance on handling potential challenges in Changye City.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics and politics within the Tribunal and the Five Continents.
• The importance of secrecy and caution when dealing with sensitive information and abilities.
• The responsibility and challenges that come with being an S-rank Transcendent.

Character Interactions

• Gu Shen and Zhou Jiren: Teacher and student discuss Gu Shen's plans to go to Changye City and the potential challenges he'll face.
• Wild Dog and Mr. Shu: Wild Dog delivers a message from Senior Sister Luo Er, leading to Zhou Jiren's decision to leave for North Continent.
• Gu Shen and Lu Nan Jin: Although not directly interacting in this chapter, their plans to go to Changye City are mentioned, foreshadowing potential interactions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Nanzhi, surrounded by many, faces pressure from external forces.
• Gu Shen arrives at the Memorial Ceremony, recognized for his contributions to major cases.
• Lu Nanzhi leaves the ceremony with Gu Shen, accompanied by Gu Zhi, Lu Nan Jin, and Gu Nanfeng.
• Gu Nanfeng plans to depart for Changye City the next day, seeking Lu Nanzhi's help.

Character Developments

• Gu Shen gains recognition for his work, maintaining a restrained demeanor.
• Lu Nanzhi shows political astuteness in handling the Memorial Ceremony.
• Gu Nanfeng demonstrates his strategic mind, seeking Lu Nanzhi's assistance for his return to Changye City.

Significant Themes

• The struggle for power and influence in the East Continent Council.
• The sincerity and insincerity of mourners at the Memorial Ceremony.
• The importance of alliances and assistance in navigating political landscapes.

Character Interactions

• Gu Shen clears the way for Lu Nanzhi, showing respect and deference.
• Lu Nanzhi and Gu Nanfeng discuss his return to Changye City, with Lu Nanzhi showing understanding and willingness to help.
• Gu Nanfeng seeks Lu Nanzhi's help, specifically asking for Grave Fiend, Xing Yun.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Gu Family of Changye is divided into two factions due to the Clear Tomb proposal: the radical New Faction and the conservative Old Faction.
• The New Faction opposes the Clear Tomb, preferring a public selection of the Fire Seed, while the Old Faction believes in Gu Changzhi's resurrection from the Clear Tomb.
• Gu Changzhi's state is unknown, disrupting the New Faction's plans and delaying the Old Faction's hopes for the God's Throne's revival.
• Gu Nanfeng plans to bring Xing Yun (Grave Fiend) to Changye City to explain his actions to the factions and strengthen his position as the future family head.

Character Developments

• Gu Nanfeng: He has grown in strength and status since leaving Changye, now bearing the title of Gu Changzhi's Apostle.
• Xing Yun (Grave Fiend): He has been living underground at Huazhi Building, waiting for an opportunity to escape Zhao Xilai's influence. He is eager to please Lu Nanzhi and Gu Nanfeng to secure his future.
• Lu Nanzhi: She is cautious around Xing Yun due to his reputation and the bad luck associated with him.

Significant Themes

• Power struggle within the Gu Family and the factions' differing views on the Clear Tomb.
• The unknown state of Gu Changzhi and the delayed revival of the God's Throne.
• The consequences of associating with the Grave Fiend and the concept of bad luck.

Character Interactions

• Gu Nanfeng and Gu Shen: They discuss the situation in Changye and the potential risks of bringing Xing Yun along.
• Lu Nanzhi and Xing Yun: Lu Nanzhi is wary of Xing Yun, while he tries to ingratiate himself with her.
• Gu Nanfeng and Xing Yun: They meet for the first time, and Xing Yun is shocked to learn Gu Nanfeng's identity.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Grave Fiend is captured by Gu Shen and Lu Nanzhi, fearing he'll be sent to Changye for trial.
• Gu Shen reveals that the Clear Tomb Act has taken effect, and the Grave Fiend's Apostle has appeared.
• Gu Shen introduces Gu Nanfeng as the future head of Changye, designated by the Tomb Keeper, and the Grave Fiend immediately pledges loyalty to him.
• Gu Shen visits Song Ci in the hospital before leaving for Changye, promising to keep an eye on Senior Apprentice Sister Xiao Lu and to catch up in strength.

Character Developments

• The Grave Fiend shows his adaptability and lack of principles, switching allegiances to Gu Nanfeng for his own survival.
• Gu Shen demonstrates his calm and strategic thinking, using the Grave Fiend's fear to his advantage and introducing Gu Nanfeng as a way to secure the Grave Fiend's loyalty.
• Song Ci, despite his injuries, maintains his humble and unassuming nature, not wanting to be burdened with the title of Apostle or 'White Parrot.'

Significant Themes

• Adaptation and survival in a changing political landscape.
• The power dynamics between different factions and the importance of allegiances.
• The struggle between personal ambition and humility.

Character Interactions

• Gu Shen manipulates the Grave Fiend's fear to secure his loyalty to Gu Nanfeng.
• Gu Shen visits Song Ci in the hospital, promising to watch over Senior Apprentice Sister Xiao Lu and to catch up in strength.
• The Grave Fiend immediately pledges loyalty to Gu Nanfeng, demonstrating his lack of principles and desire for self-preservation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group, including Gu Nanfeng, Lu Nan Jin, and Gu Shen, embarks on a 30-hour journey from Great Capital to Changye by car, despite the Grave Fiend's history of plane crashes.
• They discuss the differences in Transcendent cultivation methods between the Central Continent's reliance on the Deep Sea system and the North Continent's "Penetration Cultivation Method."
• Gu Nanfeng shares his insights about the limitations of the Deep Sea system in aiding Transcendent cultivation beyond the twelfth layer.
• The off-road vehicle hits an unknown object, causing it to lose control and eventually stop.

Character Developments

• Gu Nanfeng demonstrates his mastery of "Storm Cut" and shares his wisdom about Transcendent cultivation.
• Gu Shen shows curiosity and engages in the conversation, displaying his intellectual side.
• The Grave Fiend, though initially disruptive, shows restraint when Lu Nan Jin's weapon responds to his laughter.

Significant Themes

• The reliance on technology (Deep Sea system) versus self-reliance in Transcendent cultivation.
• The potential limitations of the Deep Sea system in aiding Transcendent cultivation beyond a certain point.
• The importance of personal experience and struggle in cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Gu Nanfeng and Gu Shen engage in a thoughtful discussion about Transcendent cultivation methods.
• The Grave Fiend's interaction with Lu Nan Jin's weapon serves as a reminder of his dangerous nature and the need for caution around him.
• The group's dynamic shows a level of camaraderie and mutual respect, despite their unique personalities and abilities.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group encounters a sudden tire blowout in the No Man's Land.
• Gu Shen suspects an unusual Transcendent aura or Mental Power fluctuation in the area.
• Gu Nanfeng identifies the cause as a sharp object puncturing the tire.
• Gu Shen discovers a mysterious object in the sky using his Blazing Fire Vision.
• Gu Nanfeng reveals that the object is a monitoring device from Changye City.
• The car experiences another tire blowout, but this time, Gu Nanfeng's Storm Cut intervenes.

Character Developments

• Gu Shen demonstrates his keen observation skills and caution by checking for any unusual auras or fluctuations.
• Gu Nanfeng shows his experience and calmness in handling unexpected situations.
• The Grave Fiend reveals its past journey to the Great Capital and expresses fear when suspected of being the "unclean thing."

Significant Themes

• Unluckiness: The group faces two consecutive tire blowouts, suggesting bad luck.
• Monitoring and surveillance: The object in the sky highlights the theme of being watched or tracked.
• Perception and awareness: Characters use their unique abilities to sense and perceive their environment.

Character Interactions

• Gu Shen and Gu Nanfeng work together to investigate the cause of the tire blowouts, showing mutual trust and respect.
• The Grave Fiend seeks comfort from Gu Shen when feeling threatened, indicating a growing bond between them.
• Lu Nan Jin remains observant and alert, contributing to the group's safety.