Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary: “Contempt, Disdain!”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• News spreads rapidly through the Zhou Estate that Zhou Lingxia has purchased Xiao Chen, a handsome but low-status Crossing Pig, as a personal plaything.
• The servants gossip openly and condemn Lingxia’s decision, believing it damages her reputation. Many of her secret admirers resent Xiao Chen and wish him harm.
• A Ying escorts Xiao Chen through the estate toward the Hall of Affairs. She blames him for worsening Lingxia’s already difficult situation and worries that her father, Zhou Ziyong, will react furiously.
• Xiao Chen remains silent at first, acknowledging that Lingxia has been criticized because of him. He privately vows to one day help her escape the constraints imposed by the Zhou Family.
• A Ying mocks this promise, insisting that Xiao Chen is powerless. Even a well-backed young master would need an Emperor-level supporter to challenge the Zhou Family.
• At the Hall of Affairs, Xiao Chen encounters numerous teenage and young adult King Realm cultivators serving as Zhou Family guards. He is shocked that such prodigies—legends in the Mortal World—are merely ordinary retainers in the Nether Realm.
• The chapter emphasizes the vast power gap between the Mortal World and the Nether Realm, as well as the immense strength of the Zhou Family.
• The guards ridicule Xiao Chen’s appearance, cultivation, lack of a Nether Registry, and suspected Void-Locking Divine Curse. They treat him as a useless, disposable creature who gained Lingxia’s favor only because of his handsome appearance.

2. Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Though treated with contempt, he displays restraint and growing determination. He feels guilty that Lingxia is being slandered because of him and forms the resolve to help her gain freedom someday. His calm response to A Ying’s insults also reveals a sharper, less submissive side.
• Zhou Lingxia: She does not appear directly, but her actions and reputation dominate the chapter. Her purchase of Xiao Chen is interpreted as rebellious and scandalous, while Xiao Chen recognizes that she never intended to truly harm him and even offered him freedom.
• A Ying: Her resentment toward Xiao Chen intensifies. Initially motivated by concern for Lingxia, she now views him as a shameless liar and powerless opportunist. Nevertheless, she remains responsible enough to warn him not to provoke the Zhou Family’s officials.
• The Zhou servants and guards: They reveal the rigid social hierarchy of the Nether Realm. Even those with extraordinary talent and King Realm cultivation are willing to serve a powerful clan, while a Crossing Pig without a Nether Registry is considered beneath ordinary servants.

3. Significant Themes

• Social hierarchy and prejudice: Status is determined by origin, registry, cultivation, and backing. Crossing Pigs occupy the lowest level of society, below even servants.
• The contrast between worlds: Achievements that are legendary in the Mortal World are commonplace in the Nether Realm, highlighting how insignificant Xiao Chen’s former standards are in his new environment.
• Reputation and public judgment: Lingxia’s personal choice immediately becomes gossip, showing how tightly powerful families control the behavior and image of their members.
• Powerlessness versus determination: Xiao Chen currently lacks status, freedom, and strength, yet he begins to develop the ambition to liberate Lingxia rather than remain merely her captive.
• Cruelty beneath civility: The servants formally respect their masters but privately indulge in vicious gossip and hatred, exposing the malice hidden beneath the Zhou Estate’s orderly appearance.
• Talent without backing: Even gifted King Realm cultivators may be reduced to servants if they lack powerful families or connections.

4. Character Interactions

• A Ying and Xiao Chen: Their exchange is openly hostile. A Ying blames him for Lingxia’s predicament and mocks his promise to save her. Xiao Chen does not argue at first, but his indifferent “Mm” eventually frustrates her and causes their tension to deepen.
• Xiao Chen and Zhou Lingxia: Although Lingxia is absent, Xiao Chen reflects on their relationship. He recognizes that she used him for her own purposes but also showed him genuine consideration by offering him freedom, creating a sense of obligation and loyalty.
• The servants and Lingxia: The servants admire Lingxia’s beauty and purity while condemning her for breaking social expectations. Their supposed concern is mixed with possessiveness, envy, and moral judgment.
• The guards and Xiao Chen: The guards mock him as an inferior Crossing Pig, speculate crudely about his relationship with Lingxia, and dismiss his future because of his curse and lack of a Nether Registry.

Chapter Summary: “Get Out! Get Out Now!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• A Ying brings Xiao Chen to the Zhou Family’s Guard Hall under Zhou Lingxia’s orders to obtain an identity plaque and secure Xiao Chen a position as a guard.
• Steward Liu Zhishi immediately recognizes Xiao Chen as the rumored “Crossing Pig” Zhou Lingxia supposedly purchased and kept for personal amusement.
• Liu assumes Zhou Lingxia is trying to force him to accept an unqualified person into the Guard Hall through her status and influence.
• He refuses to issue Xiao Chen an identity plaque, insisting that the Zhou Family’s rules prohibit a Crossing Pig from becoming a guard.
• Liu publicly humiliates both Xiao Chen and Zhou Lingxia, ordering them to leave and insulting Lingxia as an insignificant, unfavored collateral descendant.
• The surrounding guards and servants gossip about Zhou Lingxia’s alleged conflict with Zhang Ruolan over Xiao Chen, expressing jealousy and disbelief.
• Xiao Chen silently evaluates Liu’s cultivation, discovering that Liu is a King Realm Eighth Layer body cultivator with a Silver Body. Although powerful, Liu is weaker than Xiao Chen expected for a Guard Hall steward.
• Xiao Chen remains calm under Liu’s intimidation, surprising Liu, who believes ordinary Crossing Pigs should be terrified in the Nether Realm.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Demonstrates remarkable composure and confidence despite being publicly insulted and threatened. He secretly assesses Liu’s strength and realizes that, once his Void-Locking Runes disappear, he might be capable of fighting him.
• A Ying: Shows fear of Liu Zhishi but bravely carries out Zhou Lingxia’s orders. She becomes increasingly distressed as Liu insults Xiao Chen and her mistress.
• Liu Zhishi: Reveals himself as arrogant, harsh, and deeply concerned with hierarchy and rules. Though he believes he is defending the Zhou Family’s regulations, his treatment of Xiao Chen and Zhou Lingxia is also fueled by contempt and resentment.
• Zhou Lingxia: Does not appear directly, but her influence and reputation dominate the scene. Her effort to help Xiao Chen exposes her low status within the Zhou Family and provokes Liu’s anger.
• Zhang Ruolan: Also absent, but rumors of her confrontation with Zhou Lingxia establish that Xiao Chen has already become the subject of rivalry and gossip among the Zhou Estate’s residents.

Significant Themes

• Rigid social hierarchy: The Zhou Family’s servant and lineage system determines who may receive respect, opportunity, and protection.
• Prejudice and status-based judgment: Xiao Chen is dismissed solely because he is considered a Crossing Pig, regardless of his actual ability or hidden strength.
• Rules versus favoritism: Liu claims to uphold family rules, while the situation raises questions about whether rules are applied fairly or used to humiliate those with less influence.
• Hidden strength and mistaken identity: Xiao Chen’s Void-Locking Runes conceal his true abilities, causing others to underestimate him.
• Power, reputation, and gossip: Rumors about Xiao Chen and Zhou Lingxia shape everyone’s assumptions and intensify the conflict before Xiao Chen has even spoken.

Character Interactions

• A Ying and Liu Zhishi: A Ying approaches respectfully and nervously, while Liu responds with intimidation and suspicion.
• Liu Zhishi and Xiao Chen: Liu insults and dismisses Xiao Chen, expecting fear; Xiao Chen’s calm bow and steady gaze subtly challenge Liu’s assumptions.
• Liu Zhishi and Zhou Lingxia: Though Lingxia is absent, Liu uses the encounter to criticize her status and accuse her of abusing personal connections.
• Xiao Chen and the crowd: The spectators treat him with curiosity, jealousy, and contempt, viewing him as Lingxia’s favored possession rather than as an individual with unknown capabilities.

Chapter Summary: “Eve of the Assessment!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Chen arrives at the Zhou Family’s Guard Hall under the suppression of a Void-Locking Rune, which has sealed his King Source Energy. Although weakened, his physical strength is gradually recovering, and he estimates his current combat power to be around the first level of the Body King Realm.
• The guards insult Xiao Chen because of his low status as a “Crossing Pig,” accusing him of relying on his appearance and implying that Zhou Lingxia recruited him for improper reasons.
• Angered by their humiliation, Xiao Chen defends himself, insisting that Zhou Lingxia valued his talent and that their relationship was innocent.
• Steward Liu Wanxiong refuses to retract his insults and mocks the idea that a Crossing Pig could possess any real talent.
• A Ying apologizes to Liu on Xiao Chen’s behalf, fearing that Liu may kill him. Liu offers her a cruel choice: sever one of her arms, or allow Xiao Chen to undergo the Guard Hall assessment. If Xiao Chen passes, Liu promises to forgive him and publicly apologize to Zhou Lingxia.
• Xiao Chen prevents A Ying from sacrificing herself and volunteers for the assessment.
• The guards reveal rumors that Liu Wanxiong has secret ties to Zhang Heilu, suggesting that the assessment may be deliberately rigged against Xiao Chen.
• Although A Ying warns that the Void-Locking Rune prevents Xiao Chen from displaying King Realm power, Xiao Chen reveals that he cultivates both martial arts and body cultivation.
• The crowd dismisses this claim as impossible and assumes Xiao Chen is bluffing. Nevertheless, Xiao Chen demands that the assessment begin.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Demonstrates pride, courage, and defiance in the face of public humiliation. Rather than tolerate insults or allow A Ying to lose an arm for him, he chooses to risk the assessment. He also reveals that he possesses dual cultivation in martial arts and body refinement, hinting at significant hidden strength.
• A Ying: Initially dislikes Xiao Chen, but her kindness becomes evident when she repeatedly apologizes for him and considers sacrificing her arm to save his life. Her concern causes Xiao Chen’s opinion of her to improve.
• Liu Wanxiong: Is established as cruel, domineering, and potentially corrupt. He uses his authority to intimidate the guards and imposes an intentionally harsh condition on A Ying. His suspected connection to Zhang Heilu raises doubts about his impartiality.
• The Guards: Their contempt for Xiao Chen reflects the rigid prejudice against Crossing Pigs. They judge him by status and appearance, refusing to believe that he could possess exceptional abilities.
• Zhou Lingxia: Though absent, she influences the conflict because Xiao Chen claims she recruited him for his talent. Her reputation and relationship with him are used by both sides during the confrontation.

Significant Themes

• Prejudice and social hierarchy: Xiao Chen is dismissed solely because he is a Crossing Pig, showing how status determines how others perceive ability and worth.
• Hidden strength versus outward appearance: Xiao Chen’s delicate appearance causes everyone to underestimate him, while his Martial God Physique and dual cultivation remain concealed.
• Integrity and sacrifice: A Ying’s willingness to sacrifice an arm contrasts with Liu’s cruelty, while Xiao Chen’s refusal to let her suffer for him highlights his sense of responsibility.
• Authority and corruption: Liu uses his position to threaten others, and his alleged connection with the Zhang Family suggests that power within the Guard Hall may be abused for personal or political purposes.
• Defiance under oppression: Despite being weakened and surrounded by enemies, Xiao Chen refuses to submit and chooses to prove himself through action.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen confronts the guards and Liu Wanxiong after they insult both his status and his relationship with Zhou Lingxia.
• A Ying intervenes on Xiao Chen’s behalf, apologizing to Liu and attempting to prevent his execution.
• Liu manipulates A Ying by forcing her to choose between personal mutilation and Xiao Chen’s dangerous assessment.
• Xiao Chen rejects A Ying’s sacrifice and challenges Liu directly, turning the confrontation into a formal test.
• The guards mock Xiao Chen’s claim of dual cultivation, while Liu watches with hostility and apparent confidence that Xiao Chen will fail.

Chapter Summary: “Successive Assessments!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Chen enters the Guard Hall assessment with a calm, confident demeanor, drawing both mockery and curiosity from the Martial Kings present.
• Deacon Liu Wanxiong explains that the assessment has two stages:
  1. A realm test using a King Realm Stone.
  2. A combat test against a true-person opponent.
• Xiao Chen attempts to release his King Source Energy, but the Void-Locking Runes have sealed and devoured it, leaving him unable to display his martial cultivation.
• He then releases his vital blood instead. The King Realm Stone reacts explosively, revealing that he is a First Realm Body King.
• The revelation shocks the guards, who had dismissed him as an insignificant “Crossing Pig” from the Mortal World. They realize he cultivates both the martial and body paths.
• Although the Body King revelation proves Xiao Chen possesses rare talent and may be able to serve as Zhou Lingxia’s guard despite the Void-Locking Runes, Liu Wanxiong argues that his realm is still too low for the Zhou Family Guard Manor.
• Liu Wanxiong considers killing Xiao Chen or denying him the Guard Insignia, but refrains from openly violating his reputation and the assessment rules.
• A Ying tries to defend Xiao Chen, but Liu Wanxiong harshly reminds her of her low status and orders her not to interfere.
• Xiao Chen accepts the second, potentially lethal combat assessment because obtaining the Guard Insignia would provide him with identity, protection, and access to essential resources.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Reveals that he is not merely a martial cultivator but also a rare Body King. His composure, determination, and strategic thinking remain intact despite being sealed by the Void-Locking Runes. He recognizes that the assessment is dangerous but proceeds because the Guard Insignia is valuable.
• Liu Wanxiong: Displays hostility, prejudice, and political calculation. Though he wants to suppress or even eliminate Xiao Chen, he hesitates because doing so could damage his reputation. He plans to deny Xiao Chen the insignia even if he completes the assessment.
• A Ying: Her attitude changes from concern to admiration after learning Xiao Chen is a Body King. She recognizes that he could genuinely serve Zhou Lingxia, and she bravely attempts to defend him, though social hierarchy forces her into silence.
• The Martial Kings: Their contempt turns into surprise and grudging respect once Xiao Chen’s body cultivation is exposed. Some still belittle him because of his low realm and Mortal World origins.
• Zhou Lingxia: Though she does not appear directly, her vulnerable position as a collateral Zhou descendant is emphasized. Xiao Chen’s rare abilities could provide her with a powerful and valuable guard.

Significant Themes

• Hidden strength and underestimated talent: Xiao Chen’s apparent weakness conceals a rare and powerful body-cultivation foundation.
• Class and realm-based prejudice: Nether Realm society is rigidly hierarchical, and Xiao Chen is judged not only by strength but also by his origin and cultivation level.
• Institutional corruption and gatekeeping: Liu Wanxiong manipulates the assessment rules to maintain control and prevent Xiao Chen from gaining official status.
• Determination amid danger: Xiao Chen willingly faces a potentially deadly test because securing an identity and resources is essential to his survival.
• The value of unconventional cultivation: Body cultivators are rare and possess advantages that ordinary martial cultivators lack, allowing Xiao Chen to bypass the effects of the Void-Locking Runes.

Character Interactions

• Liu Wanxiong formally challenges Xiao Chen through the two-stage assessment while subtly seeking a reason to reject him.
• Xiao Chen’s release of vital blood overturns the guards’ earlier mockery and forces them to reassess him.
• A Ying expresses admiration and concern, then attempts to intervene on Xiao Chen’s behalf.
• Liu Wanxiong humiliates A Ying by invoking the strict social hierarchy and dismissing her as a mere maidservant.
• Xiao Chen reassures A Ying through his calm acceptance of the combat trial, choosing to continue despite the danger.

Chapter Summary: “A Single Punch Shatters the Bronze Body!”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Chen chooses to participate in the practical combat assessment despite the danger, knowing that obtaining a Zhou Estate Guard Insignia—and specifically becoming a King Guard—is essential for his survival and freedom in Changping Commandery.
• Liu Wanxiong, hostile toward Xiao Chen and eager to curry favor with Zhang Heilu, deliberately assigns him an opponent far above his apparent realm: Zhang Long, a Second-Layer Body King with a Perfect Bronze Body.
• The spectators immediately recognize the assessment as unfair. Since combat assessments normally match contestants with opponents of equivalent cultivation, they conclude that Liu Wanxiong is attempting to have Xiao Chen killed.
• Zhang Long is initially insulted at being ordered to fight someone from the lower realm, but Liu Wanxiong’s pressure forces him to comply. He then directs his humiliation and anger toward Xiao Chen.
• Despite A Ying’s desperate warning and the crowd’s belief that he is doomed, Xiao Chen calmly accepts the challenge. He realizes that his true physical strength, enhanced by his Indestructible Golden Body, far exceeds what his suppressed cultivation suggests.
• When Zhang Long threatens him, Xiao Chen attacks first with a single devastating punch.
• Zhang Long counters with the Silver-Gray Mountain Lord’s Tyrannical Charge Fist, but Xiao Chen’s punch destroys the technique and the Mountain Lord phantom.
• Zhang Long activates his Perfect Bronze Body to defend himself, yet Xiao Chen’s fist shatters the bronze armor and blasts him into a pillar, causing him to cough up large amounts of blood.
• The entire audience is left speechless after witnessing a supposedly weak First-Layer Body King defeat a Second-Layer Body King with one punch.

2. Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Demonstrates confidence, composure, and a clear understanding of his hidden advantages. Rather than fearing an opponent several realms above him, he considers Zhang Long’s strength manageable. His overwhelming punch reveals that his physical body is vastly stronger than his cultivation level suggests.
• Liu Wanxiong: Becomes increasingly malicious and overconfident. He believes Xiao Chen is helpless and openly mocks what he assumes is an attempt to survive through flattery. His plan to eliminate Xiao Chen instead exposes the danger of underestimating him.
• Zhang Long: Begins as a proud and contemptuous fighter who regards Xiao Chen as an insignificant “Crossing Pig.” His confidence collapses once Xiao Chen’s attack destroys his strongest techniques and defensive body.
• A Ying: Shows genuine concern for Xiao Chen and recognizes the deadly unfairness of the matchup. Her fear emphasizes how impossible the fight appears to ordinary observers.
• The young King Realm cultivators: Initially accept that Xiao Chen is certain to die, but their assumptions are overturned by his astonishing display of power. Their reactions also highlight the social prejudice against people from the Mortal World.

3. Significant Themes

• Underestimation and hidden strength: Xiao Chen’s apparent weakness is caused by his Void-Locking Spirit Curse and lower current realm, but his true combat ability and physical foundation are extraordinary.
• Abuse of power and injustice: Liu Wanxiong manipulates the assessment to target Xiao Chen, showing how authority can be used to eliminate outsiders and enforce hierarchy.
• Prejudice against lower-realm cultivators: Xiao Chen is repeatedly dismissed as a worthless “Crossing Pig,” demonstrating the contempt Nether Realm cultivators hold for those from the Mortal World.
• Confidence versus arrogance: Xiao Chen’s calm confidence is justified by his strength, while Zhang Long and Liu Wanxiong’s arrogance blinds them to the danger he poses.
• The importance of physical cultivation: The clash emphasizes the difference between Zhang Long’s Perfect Bronze Body and Xiao Chen’s far superior Indestructible Golden Body.

4. Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen and Liu Wanxiong: Their hostile relationship intensifies as Liu Wanxiong deliberately arranges a deadly opponent and mocks Xiao Chen’s chances. Xiao Chen’s response directly undermines Liu Wanxiong’s scheme.
• Xiao Chen and Zhang Long: Zhang Long treats Xiao Chen with contempt and murderous intent, while Xiao Chen responds with restrained anger and overwhelming force. Their brief battle ends before Zhang Long can meaningfully challenge him.
• A Ying and Xiao Chen: A Ying pleads with Xiao Chen not to fight, fearing his death, but he proceeds with confidence.
• Liu Wanxiong and Zhang Long: Liu Wanxiong commands Zhang Long to fight despite the mismatch. Zhang Long resents the order but obeys because he fears Liu Wanxiong’s authority.
• The spectators: Their reactions shift from ridicule and pity to shock and disbelief, while some continue making vulgar jokes about Xiao Chen’s relationship with Zhou Lingxia even as Zhang Long is being defeated.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Long, a Second Realm Body King renowned for his Perfect Bronze Body, challenges Xiao Chen, assuming his physical defense will make him nearly invincible.
• Xiao Chen defeats Zhang Long with a single devastating punch, leaving him vomiting blood, severely injured, and barely able to move.
• The spectators—including Liu Shu, Zhang Long’s friend, and A Ying—are stunned that a newly arrived Crossing Pig from the Mortal World has defeated an opponent from a higher realm.
• Liu Wanxiong realizes Xiao Chen’s potential and becomes even more determined to eliminate him. Because Xiao Chen won the duel fairly, Liu Wanxiong searches for a pretext to justify killing him.
• Liu Wanxiong pressures Liu Shu into attacking Xiao Chen under the guise of avenging Zhang Long. Although Liu Shu initially hesitates because the duel was fair and intervention would violate the rules, he ultimately launches a surprise attack.
• Liu Shu summons powerful lightning techniques and manifests a Three-Legged Thunder Crow, but Xiao Chen responds with his newly revealed Golden Body.
• Xiao Chen withstands the lightning, shatters Liu Shu’s attack, and defeats him with one punch, causing him to collapse beside Zhang Long.
• Liu Wanxiong identifies Xiao Chen’s technique as the legendary Indestructible Golden Body. The revelation shocks everyone, since the art is extraordinarily rare and supposedly impossible for someone as young as Xiao Chen to have cultivated so deeply.

2. Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: His status changes dramatically in the eyes of those present. Once dismissed as a weak and lowly Crossing Pig, he proves capable of defeating higher-realm opponents despite the restrictions imposed by his Void-Locking Spirit Curse. His Golden Body reveals an extraordinary foundation and suggests even greater future potential.
• Liu Shu: Initially portrayed as rational and unwilling to violate the rules, Liu Shu is manipulated through threats from Liu Wanxiong. His decision to attack damages his moral standing, especially because he uses a surprise attack after a fair duel.
• Liu Wanxiong: His fear and greed become more apparent. He recognizes Xiao Chen’s exceptional talent but chooses to eliminate him because of their existing enmity and his desire to curry favor with Zhang Heilu. Upon seeing the Golden Body, his ambition intensifies, as he covets the secret art for himself.
• Zhang Long: His reputation as an almost impervious body cultivator is destroyed when Xiao Chen defeats him instantly.
• A Ying: Her attitude toward Xiao Chen shifts. Though she had looked down on him because of his origin and lack of Nether Realm status, his appearance and overwhelming strength force her to reconsider his value.
• The onlookers: Their perception of Xiao Chen changes from contempt and skepticism to shock, fear, admiration, and envy.

3. Significant Themes

• Hidden potential and social prejudice: Xiao Chen is judged by his origin as a Crossing Pig, yet his ability proves that status and background do not determine true strength.
• Strength overcoming restrictions: Despite the Void-Locking Spirit Curse weakening his martial foundation, Xiao Chen defeats enemies across realms, emphasizing the extraordinary quality of his cultivation.
• Honor versus treachery: Xiao Chen’s fair victory contrasts sharply with Liu Shu’s shameless ambush and Liu Wanxiong’s manipulation, exposing the hypocrisy behind claims of loyalty and righteousness.
• Power, ambition, and opportunism: Liu Wanxiong treats relationships and lives as tools for advancement, showing how political calculation overrides justice.
• The value of rare knowledge: The Indestructible Golden Body is so precious that its revelation immediately transforms Xiao Chen from an opponent into a coveted target.
• Reputation and perception: The chapter demonstrates how quickly public opinion changes when someone reveals overwhelming power.

4. Character Interactions

• Liu Shu reacts with disbelief after seeing Zhang Long defeated and later debates whether to intervene.
• A Ying reassesses Xiao Chen after witnessing his strength, recognizing that his appearance is matched by remarkable combat ability.
• Liu Wanxiong manipulates and threatens Liu Shu into attacking Xiao Chen, exploiting Liu Shu’s friendship with Zhang Long.
• Xiao Chen confronts Liu Shu’s ambush with fury, rejecting the supposedly righteous justification for breaking the rules.
• The final revelation of the Indestructible Golden Body affects everyone present, especially Liu Wanxiong, whose admiration immediately becomes covetous ambition.

Chapter Summary: “A Sudden Reversal of Reputation!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Long is devastated after realizing Xiao Chen possesses an Indestructible Golden Body. Despite Zhang Long’s confidence in his own Bronze Body, Xiao Chen defeats him with a single casual punch while affected by the Void-Locking Spirit Curse.
• Liu Shu is also badly injured but earns Zhang Long’s gratitude. Zhang Long mistakenly believes Liu Shu sacrificed himself out of loyalty, only to learn that Attendant Liu was actually responsible for intervening.
• After discovering Xiao Chen’s talent, Liu Wanxiong’s attitude changes completely. He goes from attempting to suppress Xiao Chen to pretending to welcome and praise him.
• Liu Wanxiong secretly covets Xiao Chen’s Golden Body Secret Art and intends to use a forbidden blood-and-bone replacement technique to steal Xiao Chen’s talent, body, and spirit blood.
• Xiao Chen receives his King Guard identity plaque, granting him freedom to travel throughout the Zhou Family and Changping Commandery. Liu Wanxiong secretly incorporates Xiao Chen’s hair into the plaque, reminding Xiao Chen of the immense danger posed by an eighth-realm Body King.
• Liu Wanxiong offers Xiao Chen the prestigious position of Personal King Guard, including greater resources and special privileges. The offer shocks the other King Guards because such positions are normally reserved for elite veterans.
• Xiao Chen rejects the offer, choosing to remain loyal to Zhou Lingxia, who recognized and recruited him first. He leaves with A Ying despite Liu Wanxiong’s growing killing intent.
• Xiao Chen’s achievement causes public opinion about Zhou Lingxia to reverse. Instead of accusing her of keeping a low-status male companion, people now praise her for recognizing an extraordinary talent.
• Zhou Lingxia’s parents also abandon their anger after learning Xiao Chen possesses an Indestructible Golden Body and can fight across realms. Meanwhile, Zhou Lingxia anxiously waits in her room for news, unaware of the latest developments because A Ying has been away.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen is revealed to be far more powerful and talented than anyone expected. His Indestructible Golden Body gives him status, protection, and access to the Zhou Family’s power structure, but it also makes him a target for exploitation and assassination. He demonstrates loyalty and resolve by refusing Liu Wanxiong’s tempting offer.
• Liu Wanxiong is exposed as calculating and predatory. His friendliness is entirely false; he wants Xiao Chen’s cultivation method and intends to steal his physical gifts. His failed recruitment attempt turns his admiration into concealed hostility.
• Zhang Long suffers a humiliating collapse in confidence after realizing that his Bronze Body is insignificant compared with Xiao Chen’s Golden Body. His view of Liu Shu also changes, though partly because he misunderstands Liu Shu’s actions.
• Liu Shu appears shocked and frightened by Xiao Chen’s strength. Although Zhang Long sees him as loyal, Liu Shu honestly admits that the rescue was actually arranged by Attendant Liu.
• Zhou Lingxia benefits indirectly from Xiao Chen’s success. Her reputation changes from scandalous to perceptive, and her family’s hostility toward her disappears.
• A Ying shows courage by reminding Liu Wanxiong that Xiao Chen is Zhou Lingxia’s chosen guard, despite being intimidated by the powerful attendant.

Significant Themes

• Reputation is determined by power and talent. Xiao Chen is first mocked as a low-status “Crossing Pig,” but his Golden Body instantly transforms him into a valuable and respected figure.
• Hidden motives behind apparent goodwill. Liu Wanxiong’s sudden warmth is not generosity but a scheme to control and exploit Xiao Chen.
• Loyalty versus opportunity. Xiao Chen rejects wealth, status, and protection because he values Zhou Lingxia’s earlier recognition of him.
• Power creates both protection and danger. The King Guard plaque gives Xiao Chen freedom of movement, yet revealing his Golden Body also makes him a target for stronger figures.
• Social hierarchy and prejudice. The crowd and Zhou Lingxia’s parents quickly change their opinions once Xiao Chen proves his worth, exposing their shallow judgment.
• The importance of talent in body cultivation. The Indestructible Golden Body is presented as extraordinarily rare, making Xiao Chen’s youth and achievements almost unprecedented.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen and Liu Wanxiong: Their exchange shifts from formal hostility to false friendliness, culminating in Liu Wanxiong’s recruitment offer and Xiao Chen’s firm refusal. Their interaction establishes an ongoing conflict between Xiao Chen’s independence and Liu Wanxiong’s desire to control him.
• Zhang Long and Liu Shu: Zhang Long thanks Liu Shu for supposedly protecting him, but Liu Shu corrects him by revealing that Attendant Liu was responsible. The scene mixes Zhang Long’s emotional gratitude with Liu Shu’s blunt honesty.
• Liu Wanxiong and A Ying: A Ying nervously asserts Zhou Lingxia’s claim over Xiao Chen, but Liu Wanxiong ignores her, demonstrating his contempt for Zhou Lingxia’s branch and his confidence in his own authority.
• Xiao Chen and A Ying: Xiao Chen leaves with A Ying after rejecting Liu Wanxiong’s offer, reinforcing his loyalty to Zhou Lingxia and giving A Ying a role as his immediate companion and messenger.
• The King Guards and Xiao Chen: The veteran guards react with envy and disbelief to Xiao Chen’s rapid elevation, though his overwhelming talent leaves them unable to challenge his status.

Chapter Summary: “Black Estate? Black General?”

Key Plot Points and Events

• While the outside world is shaken by news of Xiao Chen’s victories, Zhou Lingxia anxiously waits for him and A Ying to return from the Guard Hall. She considers personally pleading with Liu Wanxiong to save them.
• Xiao Chen and A Ying return safely, and A Ying recounts how Xiao Chen’s Indestructible Golden Body allowed him to kill a Second Realm Body King and a Third Realm Martial King despite fighting across realms.
• It is revealed that Liu Wanxiong secretly cooperates with Zhang Heilu and attempted to kill Xiao Chen and A Ying. Xiao Chen realizes Liu’s true goal is likely to seize the secret sacred art behind his Golden Body.
• Xiao Chen explains that he is trapped by the Void-Locking Spirit Curse, which has severely weakened him. His special physique can supposedly devour the curse if supplied with enough spiritual treasures, allowing him to restore his strength and activate Martial God’s Power.
• Zhou Lingxia realizes that Xiao Chen’s physique may surpass even an Emperor Physique. Xiao Chen’s true identity as the bearer of the supreme Martial God Physique is emphasized, placing him among the rarest talents in existence.
• Zhou Lingxia offers Xiao Chen her final savings—nearly one hundred Nether Spirit Crystals—but Xiao Chen determines that they are far from sufficient and returns them, unwilling to exhaust her remaining resources.
• Since the Guard Hall’s missions are controlled by the hostile Liu Wanxiong, Zhou Lingxia suggests the Black Estate, an underground mission market where identity is ignored and Black Generals can earn spiritual treasures. However, it is dangerous and lawless, with frequent robberies between participants.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen demonstrates both overwhelming combat talent and caution. Though confident he can defeat Liu Wanxiong once his curse is removed, he understands that he is currently vulnerable and urgently needs resources.
• Zhou Lingxia becomes increasingly supportive and trusting of Xiao Chen. She is shocked by his talent but immediately offers her final savings to help him, revealing her generosity despite her own impoverished position.
• A Ying undergoes a major shift in attitude. Having previously looked down on Xiao Chen as a burden, she is now astonished by his strength and potential after witnessing his victories and learning about his extraordinary physique.
• Liu Wanxiong is established as a hidden antagonist. His alliance with Zhang Heilu and interest in Xiao Chen’s sacred art reveal his greed, treachery, and willingness to murder for power.

Significant Themes

• Hidden talent and underestimated individuals: Xiao Chen’s origins as a lower-realm youth conceal a physique and potential far beyond what the noble families recognize.
• Power, bloodline, and privilege: The Zhou Family’s strict control of its sacred arts shows how ancient clans reserve resources for direct-line geniuses, making talent and status inseparable from access to cultivation.
• Trust and loyalty: Zhou Lingxia’s willingness to sacrifice her last resources contrasts sharply with Liu Wanxiong’s betrayal and greed.
• Survival under oppression: Xiao Chen must find a way to remove the curse before Liu Wanxiong can exploit his weakness, forcing him to choose between dangerous opportunities and certain stagnation.
• Risk versus necessity: The Black Estate offers a possible path to wealth and freedom, but its lawless nature may expose Xiao Chen to new enemies and traps.

Character Interactions

• Zhou Lingxia and A Ying: A Ying reports the Guard Hall incident, while Zhou Lingxia reacts with alarm over Liu Wanxiong’s betrayal and Xiao Chen’s achievements.
• Zhou Lingxia and Xiao Chen: She warns him about Liu Wanxiong and offers her final Nether Spirit Crystals. Xiao Chen responds honestly about his physique and refuses to take resources she cannot spare.
• A Ying and Xiao Chen: A Ying’s admiration and respect grow after seeing Xiao Chen protect them and defeat powerful enemies.
• Xiao Chen and Liu Wanxiong: Though not directly confronting one another in this scene, their conflict intensifies. Liu seeks Xiao Chen’s secret art, while Xiao Chen plans to break the curse and eventually eliminate the threat.
• Zhou Lingxia and the Black Estate: Zhou Lingxia introduces the Black Estate as an alternative to Liu-controlled Guard Hall missions, opening the possibility of Xiao Chen’s next dangerous course of action.

Chapter Summary: “Unknown, Black Estate, Unease!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Chen’s Void-Locking Spirit Curse continues to severely weaken his combat power. To remove it, he needs spiritual treasures.
• Because Xiao Chen and Zhou Lingxia lack wealth, they have only two options: accept missions or enter the dangerous Black Estate.
• Missions may expose Xiao Chen to interference from Liu Wanxiong, while the Black Estate is unfamiliar and notoriously perilous.
• After considering the risks, Xiao Chen decides to recover overnight and investigate the Black Estate the following day.
• At the Zhang Estate, Zhang Ruolan waits for news that Zhou Lingxia has been punished for her alleged relationship with Xiao Chen. Instead, she learns that Xiao Chen defeated stronger opponents with only two punches and that Zhou Lingxia has gained praise for recruiting such a powerful talent.
• Jealous and furious, Zhang Ruolan views Xiao Chen as something she has lost to Zhou Lingxia. She also considers selling Wang Yunjie, whom she has quickly discarded after previously treating him as precious.
• Zhang Heilu, Zhou Lingxia’s enraged fiancé, confronts Zhang Ruolan. After hearing the full story, he destroys a table in anger and vows to punish Xiao Chen for humiliating him.
• Zhang Ruolan begs him not to kill Xiao Chen. Zhang Heilu agrees to merely teach Xiao Chen a lesson and return him alive, while ordering people to monitor him.
• Confident in his superior cultivation and the powerful Heavenly Deer King-Shattering Fist, Zhang Heilu plans to personally defeat Xiao Chen.
• As night passes, Xiao Chen lies awake, anxious about entering the Black Estate. Meanwhile, Zhou Lingxia’s parents instruct her to win Xiao Chen over and obtain the Ancient Golden Body Art.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Becomes increasingly pressured by his curse, poverty, hostile enemies, and the dangers of the Black Estate. Despite his unease, he remains determined to find a way forward.
• Zhou Lingxia: Shows practical concern for Xiao Chen and recognizes that the Black Estate may be their only remaining source of spiritual treasures. Her family, however, views Xiao Chen partly as a means to acquire the Ancient Golden Body Art.
• Zhang Ruolan: Reveals herself as possessive, jealous, and fickle. She regards Xiao Chen as a coveted possession and quickly turns against Wang Yunjie once he loses his usefulness.
• Zhang Heilu: Emerges as cruel, prideful, and deeply humiliated by rumors involving his fiancée. Although he initially wants Xiao Chen dead, he restrains himself because of Zhang Ruolan’s emotional appeals.

Significant Themes

• Desperation and limited choices: Xiao Chen must choose between two dangerous paths, showing how thoroughly his curse and lack of resources have trapped him.
• Power and reputation: Xiao Chen’s extraordinary battle performance improves Zhou Lingxia’s reputation while worsening Zhang Heilu’s humiliation.
• Possessiveness and exploitation: Zhang Ruolan treats men as possessions, while Zhou Lingxia’s family wants her to manipulate Xiao Chen for his cultivation technique.
• Unknown danger: The Black Estate represents both opportunity and potential death, intensifying the chapter’s atmosphere of suspense and unease.
• Underestimation of outsiders: Zhang Heilu dismisses Xiao Chen as a lower-realm “Crossing Pig,” despite Xiao Chen’s remarkable ability to defeat stronger opponents.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen and Zhou Lingxia: They discuss the curse and their lack of resources, ultimately deciding that Xiao Chen must investigate the Black Estate.
• Zhang Ruolan and her maid: The maid reports Xiao Chen’s achievements, triggering Ruolan’s jealousy and frustration over losing him to Zhou Lingxia.
• Zhang Ruolan and Zhang Heilu: Heilu condemns his sister’s failure, but her pleading persuades him to spare Xiao Chen’s life temporarily.
• Zhang Heilu and Xiao Chen: Though they do not meet directly in the chapter, Heilu declares Xiao Chen his target and prepares to confront him.
• Zhou Lingxia and her parents: Her parents pressure her to seduce or otherwise win over Xiao Chen in order to obtain the Ancient Golden Body Art.

Chapter Summary: “Approaching the Black Estate! The Savage Bull Demon!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhou Lingxia’s parents decide that the Zhou family may overlook Xiao Chen’s relationship with their daughter if he willingly shares his indestructible Golden Body secret art and cultivation insights.
• Because Xiao Chen is handsome, extraordinarily talented, and possesses a rare ancient Golden Body, they consider using Zhou Lingxia to win him over. However, they still intend to proceed with her arranged marriage to Zhang Heilu in a month, treating her relationship with Xiao Chen as temporary.
• Zhou Lingxia feels trapped by her family’s interests. Though she appears privileged as a young miss, she has little control over her own fate.
• At dawn, she sends her maid and close companion A Ying to guide Xiao Chen to the Black Estate, since the dangerous location is difficult to find and Zhou Lingxia cannot accompany him openly.
• Xiao Chen and A Ying leave the Zhou Estate. Their departure attracts attention from guards, servants, vendors, and hidden followers, many of whom report or monitor Xiao Chen after learning of his battle prowess and indestructible Golden Body.
• A Ying explains that the Black Estate appears every seven days in the Land of Evil Fog on Netherworld Mountain. It is a lawless trading ground where humans, demons, devils, specters, and other creatures may cooperate.
• The Black Estate enforces agreements made within its territory, but offers no protection once a person leaves. It trades rare treasures unavailable through ordinary channels, giving Xiao Chen hope that he may find something capable of breaking the Void-Locking Spirit Curse.
• Xiao Chen disguises himself as an ordinary soldier using a Zhou family insignia and an Illusion Spirit Stone, allowing him to pass beyond the city without being recognized as an unregistered outsider.
• He and A Ying reach Netherworld Mountain, where two enormous crimson-horned bull demons guard the entrance. Because the pair lack the required entrance insignias, the demons stop them and demand their identities.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Demonstrates caution and resourcefulness by disguising himself before leaving the city. He remains focused on finding a way to resist or destroy the Void-Locking Spirit Curse. His comments about the sealed Heaven Gate reveal his broader understanding of the limitations imposed on the Mortal World.
• Zhou Lingxia: Is shown as compassionate but powerless against her family’s political and economic demands. She risks helping Xiao Chen by sending A Ying, despite being unable to accompany him herself.
• A Ying: Reveals a sharp, sarcastic personality that contrasts with Zhou Lingxia’s gentleness. Her harsh manner is presented as a defense developed from years of mistreatment as a servant. Despite her complaints, she willingly enters danger to assist Xiao Chen.
• Zhou Lingxia’s Parents: Their anger toward Xiao Chen shifts into approval once they learn of his Golden Body and talent. They view marriage and romantic relationships primarily as tools for advancing family interests.

Significant Themes

• Family power versus personal freedom: Zhou Lingxia’s marriage prospects and relationships are controlled by her clan, emphasizing how aristocratic families sacrifice individual desires for collective gain.
• Value of talent and secret knowledge: Xiao Chen’s Golden Body transforms him from a disfavored outsider into a valuable asset whom the Zhou family hopes to recruit or manipulate.
• The duality of the world: The Black Estate represents the coexistence of opposing forces—humans and monsters, yin and yang, black and white—who may cooperate when profit is involved.
• Freedom and danger: The Black Estate offers unusual opportunities and temporary neutrality, but its lack of protection beyond its borders makes every transaction potentially life-threatening.
• Suppressed potential: Xiao Chen’s discussion of the sealed Heaven Gate suggests that the Mortal World contains great talents whose abilities are constrained by larger cosmic forces.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen and Zhou Lingxia’s relationship is complicated by her parents’ plans: they encourage the connection only because they hope to obtain his secret art, while still maintaining her arranged marriage.
• Xiao Chen and A Ying exchange questions and explanations during their journey. His respectful curiosity contrasts with her teasing and suspicious responses.
• A Ying’s loyalty to Zhou Lingxia is clear: although she openly complains to Xiao Chen, she accepts the dangerous task of guiding him.
• Xiao Chen’s growing interest in the Black Estate’s treasures, especially one that might counter the Void-Locking Spirit Curse, drives the journey toward the confrontation with the bull-demon guards.

Chapter Summary: “Getting It Without Any Effort...”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Chen and A Ying arrive at the ominous Black Estate, a dangerous Nether Realm marketplace, seeking an item capable of breaking Xiao Chen’s Void-Locking Spirit Curse.
• A bull-demon guard initially tries to turn them away, but Xiao Chen presents his Zhou Family King Guard badge. Recognizing the Zhou Family’s influence, the guard allows them entry after they pay two thousand Nether Copper Coins for forged access badges.
• Inside Black Estate, they encounter a bizarre and powerful assortment of beings, including demons, cultivators, strange beasts, and spirit merchants. Xiao Chen is especially startled by a tiny red-furred weasel-like creature whose aura resembles that of an enlightened immortal.
• The marketplace sells virtually everything: jobs, treasures, spiritual herbs, and even demon women offered as companions. Xiao Chen briefly looks at the women, provoking A Ying’s jealous and teasing reprimand.
• A vendor suddenly advertises Spirit-Breaking Pills, claiming they can shatter any Void-Locking curse. Xiao Chen rushes over, realizing the medicine may be exactly what he needs.
• The vendor demonstrates the pill’s authenticity. Its medicinal aura causes the rune sealing Xiao Chen’s glabella to tremble violently, confirming that the pill can weaken his curse.
• Xiao Chen is relieved and excited, but the vendor reveals that the pill is not for sale. He will exchange it only for an item he personally wants, leaving Xiao Chen to determine whether he can meet the demand.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Demonstrates courage by protecting the frightened A Ying and confronting the bull demon despite his own fear. His desperation to break the spirit curse remains central, but he becomes cautious after confirming the medicine’s effectiveness, recognizing that possessing the cure does not mean he can obtain it.
• A Ying: Shows loyalty by accompanying Xiao Chen into the dangerous Black Estate and paying the steep entrance fee despite its cost. She also displays a playful, jealous side when Xiao Chen looks at the demon women.
• Bull-demon guard: Initially hostile and dismissive, he becomes more respectful after recognizing Xiao Chen’s Zhou Family credentials.
• Spiritual Herbs vendor: Appears confident and commercially shrewd. He proves the pill is genuine but deliberately restricts the transaction to barter.
• Red-furred creature: Establishes the dangerous, unpredictable power of Black Estate’s inhabitants when its mere glance overwhelms Xiao Chen’s soul.

Significant Themes

• Power and status: The Zhou Family’s reputation allows Xiao Chen to enter a place where ordinary outsiders would be rejected, showing how social standing determines access and protection.
• Desperation and hope: Xiao Chen’s curse makes him feel constrained and powerless, so the Spirit-Breaking Pill represents sudden hope after an uncertain search.
• Danger beneath appearances: Black Estate resembles an ordinary market, but even its smallest or strangest inhabitants may possess terrifying cultivation and power.
• Commerce and exploitation: Everything is reduced to trade, from rare medicines to living companions. The pill’s exchange-only condition emphasizes that valuable solutions require an equally valuable price.
• Jealousy and affection: A Ying’s teasing reaction reveals her emotional attachment to Xiao Chen and adds a lighter, intimate contrast to the chapter’s darker setting.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen shields and reassures A Ying while negotiating with the bull demon.
• The bull demon judges Xiao Chen by his Zhou Family badge and grants him access after payment.
• Xiao Chen and A Ying jointly react with awe and fear to the red-furred creature, learning to restrain their curiosity in the face of superior power.
• A Ying scolds Xiao Chen for staring at the demon women, creating a playful moment that exposes their growing familiarity.
• Xiao Chen urgently questions the medicine vendor, while the vendor confirms the pill’s power but turns the discovery into a difficult barter negotiation.

Chapter Summary: “The Wang Clan, Overbearing!”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Chen attempts to buy a Spirit-Breaking Pill, but the stall owner refuses Nether Currency and will accept only two rare spiritual treasures: Thousand Mountains Essence and the Demonic Flame Heart.
• The stall owner explains that both treasures are exceptionally rare. Thousand Mountains Essence is produced by the legendary Thousand Mountains Tiger Talisman, a sacred artifact associated with the Mountain God.
• Xiao Chen secretly realizes that he possesses a wisp of Thousand Mountains Essence obtained in the Mortal World. To avoid attracting attention, he pretends not to recognize the treasure and leaves with A Ying.
• Once hidden, Xiao Chen reveals the truth to A Ying, who initially assumes he is imagining things. He disguises himself and returns to the stall, intending to trade the essence for the pill.
• Before he can complete the transaction, Wang Qingxue, a noble direct descendant of the Wang Clan, arrives with her silver-armored guardian, Commander Zhu, and claims the Spirit-Breaking Pill.
• Xiao Chen protests that he saw the pill first and argues that the Black Estate’s rule of trade should apply to everyone.
• Commander Zhu attempts to intimidate him by unleashing overwhelming King Source Energy, nearly forcing Xiao Chen to kneel.
• Just as Xiao Chen is about to be crushed by the pressure, a black-robed authority figure of the Black Estate intervenes and warns Commander Zhu to withdraw his power or be treated as an enemy of the Black Estate.

2. Character Developments

• Xiao Chen demonstrates caution, deception, and resourcefulness. He conceals his knowledge of Thousand Mountains Essence, disguises himself, and returns to negotiate rather than revealing his true advantage.
• His determination also becomes clear: because the Spirit-Breaking Pill may be vital to his survival and cultivation, he refuses to surrender it merely because Wang Qingxue has a higher status.
• A Ying remains protective and pragmatic. She worries about Xiao Chen’s safety, doubts his claim about possessing Thousand Mountains Essence, and repeatedly warns him not to offend the Wang Clan.
• The stall owner is shown to be experienced and fair-minded. He treats Xiao Chen without prejudice despite suspicions that Xiao Chen may be a low-status “Crossing Pig,” and he patiently explains the treasures he seeks.
• Wang Qingxue is introduced as a powerful and highly respected young prodigy of the Wang Clan. Her cold, noble presence causes the surrounding creatures to retreat.
• Commander Zhu embodies the Wang Clan’s arrogance and coercive power. He disregards the Black Estate’s trading rules and attempts to overpower Xiao Chen through intimidation.
• The black-robed official establishes that the Black Estate possesses its own authority and will not tolerate even powerful outsiders violating its rules.

3. Significant Themes

• Power and social hierarchy: The chapter emphasizes the rigid status system of the Nether Realm. A direct descendant of a first-rate clan can terrify ordinary cultivators simply through her identity.
• Rules versus privilege: Xiao Chen insists that the Black Estate’s marketplace rules should apply equally to everyone, while the Wang Clan assumes its influence places it above ordinary regulations.
• Concealment and survival: Xiao Chen must hide both his origins and his possession of Thousand Mountains Essence because revealing either could make him a target.
• Scarcity and opportunity: The Spirit-Breaking Pill and the two required treasures are extraordinarily rare, making the transaction a potentially life-changing opportunity.
• Hidden strength in an unfamiliar world: The chapter reinforces that appearances are unreliable in the Black Estate. Even someone dismissed as a “Crossing Pig” may possess extraordinary treasures or powerful backing.
• Defiance against oppression: Despite being physically overwhelmed, Xiao Chen refuses to submit willingly, showing his unwillingness to abandon what may be his only chance to obtain the pill.

4. Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen and the stall owner: Their exchange begins as a normal negotiation but becomes significant when Xiao Chen recognizes the importance of Thousand Mountains Essence. Xiao Chen deceives the owner about his knowledge while planning a return.
• Xiao Chen and A Ying: A Ying acts as his cautious companion and warns him against provoking powerful figures. Xiao Chen trusts her enough to reveal his secret but proceeds despite her doubts.
• Xiao Chen and Wang Qingxue’s faction: Their interaction is immediately hostile. Xiao Chen asserts his right to trade, while Commander Zhu responds with threats and force.
• Commander Zhu and Xiao Chen: Their confrontation exposes the extreme difference in power between them, with Commander Zhu nearly forcing Xiao Chen to his knees.
• The Black Estate official and Commander Zhu: The official interrupts the conflict and directly challenges the Wang Clan’s authority, insisting that the marketplace’s rules must be respected.

Chapter Summary: “Know No Heights?”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Commander Liu invokes the Wang Clan’s authority while confronting Zhang Zhishi, but Zhang Zhishi reminds him that the Black Estate has powerful backing of its own. Liu ultimately backs down when Wang Qingxue’s intervention suggests that continuing the conflict could provoke the Wang Clan’s enemies.
• Zhang Yang quietly withdraws, while Liu threatens Xiao Chen, warning him that the Black Estate’s dangerous surroundings will make it difficult for him to survive once he leaves.
• The original dispute concerns a Spirit-Breaking Pill. The stall owner wants either Thousand Mountains Essence or a Demonic Flame Heart in exchange, but neither has been found despite five years of searching.
• Wang Qingxue offers Earth Essence of Wu and then adds Ding Fire Essence, believing the combined treasures are sufficient compensation. The stall owner finally agrees to accept her offer.
• Before the exchange can be completed, Xiao Chen interrupts and claims that he possesses a strand of Thousand Mountains Essence, which he is willing to trade for the Spirit-Breaking Pill.
• The crowd is stunned, while Liu Minglong immediately mocks and condemns Xiao Chen, refusing to believe that someone of his mysterious and apparently insignificant appearance could possess such a legendary treasure.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen becomes increasingly angry at Liu Minglong’s repeated insults and abuse of authority. Though he has followed the rules, he refuses to surrender the pill after being publicly humiliated and decides to reveal—or pretend to reveal—that he possesses Thousand Mountains Essence.
• Liu Minglong is shown as arrogant, aggressive, and dependent on political power. He backs down when confronted by Zhang Zhishi and Wang Qingxue’s implications, but resumes threatening and belittling Xiao Chen once he feels secure.
• Wang Qingxue remains cold, proud, and highly status-conscious. She intervenes to prevent the conflict from escalating, then calmly attempts to obtain the pill through valuable spiritual treasures. Her displeasure becomes evident when Xiao Chen interrupts the deal.
• Zhang Zhishi demonstrates the Black Estate’s authority and successfully restrains Liu Minglong without needing a direct confrontation.
• The stall owner is torn between accepting the practical offer from Wang Qingxue and holding out for the rare treasures he truly needs. His skepticism toward Xiao Chen’s claim reflects how unbelievable Thousand Mountains Essence is.
• A Ying is frightened by Xiao Chen’s reckless behavior and fears that his interruption will bring disaster upon them.

Significant Themes

• Power and influence: The chapter contrasts the authority of ancient clans, the Black Estate, and Great Emperors, showing that even enormous powers must calculate carefully before provoking one another.
• Class prejudice and arrogance: Liu Minglong and the surrounding crowd judge Xiao Chen by his concealed appearance and lack of visible status, assuming he is weak, ignorant, and unworthy of possessing a rare treasure.
• Appearance versus reality: Xiao Chen’s hidden identity and understated presence cause others to underestimate him, while the true value of what he claims to possess remains uncertain.
• Greed, opportunity, and credibility: The stall owner has spent years seeking Thousand Mountains Essence, yet its rarity makes him distrust an unexpectedly convenient offer.
• Defiance against oppression: Xiao Chen’s interruption represents his refusal to yield to people who use social rank and power to suppress him.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Zhishi and Liu Minglong: Zhang Zhishi challenges Liu’s attempt to rely on the Wang Clan’s reputation. Liu retreats rather than risk a larger conflict.
• Wang Qingxue and Liu Minglong: Her silent intervention changes Liu’s behavior, revealing that even he fears the consequences of provoking the Wang Clan.
• Wang Qingxue and the stall owner: She negotiates respectfully but confidently, offering increasingly valuable spiritual essences until he agrees to trade.
• Liu Minglong and Xiao Chen: Their hostile exchange drives the chapter. Liu repeatedly mocks and threatens Xiao Chen, while Xiao Chen’s resentment culminates in his bold claim about Thousand Mountains Essence.
• Xiao Chen and the stall owner: Xiao Chen interrupts the transaction and presents himself as a potential solution to the stall owner’s five-year search, leaving the owner both excited and suspicious.

Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• At Black Estate, Xiao Chen is mocked by Liu Minglong of the Wang Clan after claiming that he possesses the legendary Thousand Mountains Essence, a treasure even the powerful Wang Clan has failed to obtain.
• Liu Minglong insults Xiao Chen as a suspicious, cloaked “rat,” while the surrounding spirits turn against him and assume he is boasting or attempting to disrupt the Wang Clan’s purchase of a Spirit-Breaking Pill.
• The stall owner, initially polite, also becomes skeptical and urges Xiao Chen to leave. A Ying repeatedly warns Xiao Chen to avoid provoking the Wang Clan.
• When Wang Qingxue threatens to punish him if he cannot produce the treasure, Xiao Chen reveals a strand of dim yellow Thousand Mountains Essence.
• The overwhelming earth-element power proves that the treasure is genuine. The stall owner is ecstatic, and the gathered spirits are shocked that Xiao Chen possesses something the Wang Clan could not acquire.
• Xiao Chen completes the transaction, exchanging the Thousand Mountains Essence for the Spirit-Breaking Pill, which he believes will destroy the Void-Locking Spirit Curse restraining him.
• Wang Qingxue immediately changes her attitude and politely asks Xiao Chen to sell the Wang Clan the pill instead, offering a future reward.
• Xiao Chen realizes that Wang Qingxue now suspects he belongs to a powerful faction or has an extraordinary backer. He deliberately adopts an arrogant persona, implying that the Wang Clan is beneath him.
• The chapter ends with the spectators speculating about Xiao Chen’s origins and wondering who might stand behind him.

2. Character Developments

• Xiao Chen shifts from defending himself against humiliation to confidently controlling the situation. By revealing the Thousand Mountains Essence, he proves his credibility and gains leverage over the Wang Clan. He also quickly recognizes Wang Qingxue’s mistaken assumption about his background and chooses to exploit it.
• Wang Qingxue undergoes the most obvious change. She begins as cold, threatening, and dismissive, but becomes gentle and respectful once Xiao Chen demonstrates his wealth and possible powerful connections.
• Liu Minglong remains arrogant and aggressive. His confidence in the Wang Clan’s superiority collapses into suspicion and hostility after Xiao Chen proves him wrong.
• A Ying is fearful and cautious, repeatedly urging Xiao Chen to withdraw because provoking the Wang Clan could lead to disaster. Her shock at the authenticity of the treasure reveals that she, too, had doubted him.
• The stall owner changes from courteous to skeptical, then to ecstatic upon seeing the treasure. Although he claims to follow Black Estate’s rules, his curiosity about Xiao Chen’s origins suggests self-interest beneath his amiable appearance.

3. Significant Themes

• Power and perception: Xiao Chen’s status changes instantly once he displays a rare treasure. The same people who mocked him begin treating him with respect, showing how reputation is shaped by visible power and wealth.
• Hidden identities and misjudgment: Black Estate is built around concealment, and everyone tries to infer the identities and backing of others. Xiao Chen benefits from being mysterious, while the Wang Clan misjudges him because of his cloak.
• Arrogance versus genuine strength: Liu Minglong assumes the Wang Clan’s power makes it untouchable, but Xiao Chen exposes the weakness of relying on reputation alone.
• Manipulation and survival: Xiao Chen deliberately allows Wang Qingxue to believe he has an extraordinary background. His arrogance is partly an act designed to protect himself and maintain an advantageous position.
• Value and status: The Thousand Mountains Essence is not only a valuable spiritual treasure; possessing it transforms Xiao Chen’s social standing and forces the Wang Clan to reconsider its relationship with him.

4. Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen and Liu Minglong: Their verbal confrontation centers on the Wang Clan’s supposed supremacy. Liu Minglong insults Xiao Chen, while Xiao Chen challenges the clan’s arrogance.
• Xiao Chen and the stall owner: Their relationship moves from tentative negotiation to mutual suspicion and finally a successful transaction. The stall owner verifies the treasure but probes too deeply into its origin.
• Xiao Chen and A Ying: A Ying acts as the voice of caution, trying to pull Xiao Chen away before the Wang Clan retaliates. Xiao Chen ignores her warnings and proves that his confidence was justified.
• Xiao Chen and Wang Qingxue: Their dynamic reverses completely. She first threatens him, then respectfully requests the Spirit-Breaking Pill after recognizing his potential importance. Xiao Chen responds by performing the role of an untouchable heir from an even greater power.
• The surrounding spirits: Their opinions follow the apparent balance of power. They first ridicule Xiao Chen, then admire and fear him after witnessing the Thousand Mountains Essence, highlighting the fickleness of public judgment.

Chapter Summary: “A Narrow Road for Enemies!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Chen continues disguising himself as an arrogant young master from a powerful Ancient Clan while confronting the Wang Clan. He openly insults Wang Qingxue and warns that an immense force stands behind him.
• Liu Minglong, furious at the insult, considers attacking Xiao Chen but ultimately restrains himself, intimidated by Xiao Chen’s confidence, mysterious treasures, and supposed backing.
• Wang Qingxue orders Liu Minglong to investigate Xiao Chen’s origins. If he has a powerful backer, she will let the matter go temporarily; if not, she intends to punish him severely.
• Xiao Chen and A Ying escape into the mountains, where Xiao Chen removes their disguises. His bluff succeeds because the Wang Clan believes he may truly belong to an overwhelming faction.
• Xiao Chen admits that he does technically have someone behind him—Moli—though A Ying mockingly points out that he is otherwise only a vulnerable Crossing Pig with no real support.
• Meanwhile, Zhang Ruolan, Zhang Heilu, and Liu Wanxiong meet to discuss capturing Xiao Chen. Their alliance is unstable because each wants something different:
  • Zhang Ruolan wants Xiao Chen for personal pleasure.
  • Zhang Heilu wants revenge because of his jealousy and humiliation.
  • Liu Wanxiong wants Xiao Chen’s Golden Body Secret Art.
• Scouts report that Xiao Chen and A Ying entered Netherworld Mountain, also known as the Land of Evil Fog, near the Black Estate. The three conspirators are shocked but relieved when they learn the pair safely withdrew.
• Liu Wanxiong becomes increasingly anxious that Xiao Chen might escape. However, because Xiao Chen is now a King Guard of the Zhou Estate, Liu refuses to attack openly and leaves the Zhang siblings to act.
• Xiao Chen and A Ying deliberately avoid returning directly to the city, traveling through the wilderness to evade pursuit. Xiao Chen repels repeated attacks from Mountain Demons and savage beasts while remaining alert to the danger posed by the Wang Clan.
• At the foot of the mountain, Zhang Ruolan and Zhang Heilu finally intercept them. Their powerful cultivation—King Three Realm and Fourth-Level King Realm—makes Xiao Chen realize the seriousness of the confrontation.
• The chapter ends with Zhang Heilu taunting Xiao Chen, insulting his appearance and accusing him of seducing Zhou Lingxia.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Becomes increasingly skilled at deception and psychological warfare. Although frightened internally, he convincingly projects the arrogance of a protected heir. He also demonstrates caution, tactical awareness, and combat ability while escaping through the mountains.
• A Ying: Remains terrified by Xiao Chen’s reckless bluffing but grows more impressed by his calmness and vigilance. She provides comic relief by reminding him that his supposed backing is mostly imaginary.
• Wang Qingxue: Her pride is deeply wounded by Xiao Chen’s contempt. She shifts from shock to determination, ordering a thorough investigation into his identity before deciding how to retaliate.
• Liu Minglong: Though furious and responsible for defending the Wang Clan’s dignity, he becomes cautious when faced with Xiao Chen’s mysterious origin and refuses to attack without certainty.
• Zhang Ruolan: Her obsession with Xiao Chen intensifies. She views him possessively as “her man” and is anxious about whether Zhou Lingxia has already gained him.
• Zhang Heilu: His jealousy and resentment dominate him. Humiliated by Xiao Chen’s connection with Zhou Lingxia, he eagerly seeks a chance to vent his anger.
• Liu Wanxiong: Remains focused on acquiring Xiao Chen’s Golden Body Secret Art. His greed conflicts with the need to avoid provoking the Zhou Estate.
• Zhou Lingxia: Though absent, she remains central to the conflict because of her connection to Xiao Chen and the jealousy she provokes in Zhang Heilu.
• Moli: Her existence gives Xiao Chen some genuine confidence that his claim of having a formidable backer is not entirely false.

Significant Themes

• Bluffing and hidden identity: Xiao Chen survives by presenting himself as someone far more powerful and well-connected than he appears.
• The danger of reputation: The Wang Clan and other factions hesitate to act because they fear the unknown power behind Xiao Chen, showing how status and perceived authority can be as influential as actual strength.
• Conflicting motives within alliances: The Zhang siblings and Liu Wanxiong cooperate only temporarily, since each seeks a different reward from Xiao Chen.
• Caution in a hostile world: Xiao Chen emphasizes that vigilance is essential because enemies can strike without warning, particularly when powerful clans are involved.
• Jealousy, possession, and desire: Zhang Ruolan’s lust and Zhang Heilu’s jealousy create personal motives that complicate the broader struggle over Xiao Chen’s techniques and identity.
• Strength versus strategy: Xiao Chen is outmatched by his enemies’ cultivation, but his disguises, deception, and careful movement allow him to delay or evade stronger opponents.

Important Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen verbally dominates Wang Qingxue and Liu Minglong, using threats and arrogance to make them fear his supposed background.
• A Ying reacts with panic to Xiao Chen’s performance, while Xiao Chen reassures her that his connection to Moli gives his words some truth.
• Zhang Ruolan, Zhang Heilu, and Liu Wanxiong argue over their competing claims to Xiao Chen and the Golden Body Secret Art.
• Liu Wanxiong warns the Zhang siblings not to underestimate Xiao Chen, but Zhang Heilu dismisses him as merely a Crossing Pig.
• Xiao Chen and A Ying attempt to evade their pursuers through the mountains, only to be confronted by the Zhang siblings.
• Zhang Heilu begins the final confrontation by insulting Xiao Chen and provoking him over Zhou Lingxia.

Chapter Summary: Golden Body Adamantine Divine Deer!

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhang Heilu confronts Xiao Chen after discovering that his sister, Zhang Ruolan, has chosen Xiao Chen—an unusual “Crossing Pig”—as her husband.
• Zhang Heilu initially agrees to spare Xiao Chen’s life at Ruolan’s request but intends to break all four of his limbs.
• Xiao Chen refuses to be intimidated and assesses Zhang Heilu’s strength. He realizes that, despite recently entering the Nether Realm, he may be capable of defeating ordinary Second- or Third-Realm Nether Kings, though Zhang Heilu is far more formidable.
• A Ying warns Xiao Chen that Zhang Heilu is a talented collateral descendant of the Ancient Zhang Clan and a master of the powerful Heavenly Deer King-Shattering Fist. His Wood-Spirit Heavenly Deer Divine Marrow gives him exceptional strength and profound foundations.
• Zhang Heilu launches a sudden punch without even using his signature technique. Xiao Chen reacts instinctively, and the two exchange a devastating blow that fractures the void and turns nearby boulders to ash.
• Although Zhang Heilu has a major advantage in cultivation realm, Xiao Chen manages to clash with him directly. Xiao Chen is pushed back slightly farther, but the outcome shocks everyone.
• Zhang Heilu becomes enraged after realizing that a First-Realm Body King has matched him. He announces that he will now use the Heavenly Deer King-Shattering Fist.
• Zhang Heilu gathers the power of the surrounding vegetation and manifests a gigantic, dark-green, three-horned deer formed from wood-spirit energy.
• Xiao Chen responds by activating his Golden Body and summoning an enormous golden manifestation. The chapter ends as the two powerful dharma manifestations collide.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Demonstrates extraordinary combat ability despite his lower cultivation realm, confirming that his Golden Body and physical foundation are far more powerful than ordinary cultivators’. However, the Void-Locking Spirit Curse and his lack of the Spirit-Breaking Pill continue to restrict him, making the battle genuinely dangerous.
• Zhang Heilu: Reveals himself as an arrogant but highly accomplished fist master. His confidence is shaken when Xiao Chen survives and matches his initial attack. His anger drives him to unleash his strongest technique.
• Zhang Ruolan: Publicly supports Xiao Chen and feels delighted by his strength, even briefly praising him during the fight. Her affection causes her to emotionally side with Xiao Chen against her own brother.
• A Ying: Acts as a cautious observer and adviser, emphasizing the enormous difference between Ancient Clan descendants and ordinary King Guards. Xiao Chen’s performance forces her to reconsider whether he may truly possess an extraordinary physique.

Significant Themes

• Reversal of status and retribution: Zhang Heilu’s family once abused its power over others, but now Zhang Ruolan’s chosen partner is someone the family considers beneath them.
• Strength beyond cultivation realm: The chapter emphasizes that battle power depends not only on realm but also on foundations, bloodline, physique, techniques, and inheritance.
• Prejudice against the Mortal World: Nether Realm beings view Mortal World cultivators as inherently inferior, making Xiao Chen’s ability to challenge Zhang Heilu especially shocking.
• Reality versus idealization: A Ying reflects that distant “pure lands” and legendary figures may seem perfect only because imagination fills the gap; proximity reveals their true limitations.
• Hidden potential: Xiao Chen’s performance suggests that his Golden Body may be far more extraordinary than others believe, possibly approaching the level of an Emperor Body.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Heilu treats Xiao Chen as an inferior thief and rival, while Xiao Chen directly challenges his arrogance.
• Zhang Ruolan pleads with her brother to spare Xiao Chen’s life, revealing both her attachment to Xiao Chen and her willingness to oppose her family.
• A Ying warns Xiao Chen about Zhang Heilu’s background and technique, helping him understand the danger of the confrontation.
• Zhang Heilu’s anger intensifies when Ruolan openly celebrates Xiao Chen’s strength, creating tension between the siblings.
• The chapter culminates in a direct contest between Zhang Heilu’s Heavenly Deer manifestation and Xiao Chen’s Golden Body.

Chapter Summary: “Zhou Lingxia’s Shock!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Chen clashes head-on with Zhang Heilu, who unleashes his powerful ultimate technique, the Heavenly Deer King-Shattering Fist.
• Although Xiao Chen has only recently entered the Nether Realm and is three realms below Zhang Heilu, his indestructible Golden Body allows him to withstand the attack without being defeated.
• Xiao Chen is still badly injured by the exchange. Rather than continue fighting—especially with Zhang Ruolan nearby and the possibility of a coordinated attack—he suppresses his injuries and escapes with A Ying.
• Zhang Ruolan is shocked by Xiao Chen’s sudden retreat, while Zhang Heilu is deeply humiliated that a much weaker opponent managed to resist his signature fist technique.
• Zhang Heilu convinces himself that Xiao Chen fled because he was ultimately weaker and vows to capture him the next time they meet.
• Back at the Zhang Family, Liu Wanxiong is stunned to learn that Zhang Heilu used his strongest technique and still failed to capture Xiao Chen. He privately blames the Zhang siblings but outwardly flatters Zhang Heilu.
• Liu Wanxiong offers to intervene personally if Zhang Heilu fails again, but Zhang Heilu refuses, determined to personally erase the humiliation.
• Xiao Chen returns injured to the Zhou Estate. Zhou Lingxia is alarmed by his condition and initially suspects an attack by the Black Estate.
• Xiao Chen reveals that Zhang Heilu was responsible. A Ying recounts the battle and explains that Xiao Chen endured the Heavenly Deer King-Shattering Fist, leaving Zhou Lingxia horrified.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Demonstrates extraordinary combat potential by challenging an opponent three realms above him. He shows strategic maturity by choosing retreat over a pointless death match, planning to recover with the Spirit-Breaking Pill before seeking revenge. Despite his achievement, he remains dissatisfied with his performance and believes his foundation and potential are still inadequate.
• Zhang Heilu: Suffers a major blow to his pride. His strongest technique fails to suppress Xiao Chen, yet he refuses to acknowledge the extent of his defeat and insists that Xiao Chen merely fled in weakness. His determination to fight again is driven largely by wounded dignity.
• Zhang Ruolan: Becomes genuinely surprised and cautious after witnessing Xiao Chen’s Golden Body. She also defends her brother when Liu Wanxiong accuses him of underestimating Xiao Chen.
• Liu Wanxiong: Grows increasingly anxious because Xiao Chen’s Golden Body remains beyond his grasp. He recognizes that the failed ambush will make future attempts far more difficult and considers personally taking action.
• A Ying: Is deeply impressed and shocked by Xiao Chen’s strength, especially because he regards his own performance as inadequate despite surviving Zhang Heilu’s ultimate attack.
• Zhou Lingxia: Shows concern and emotional sensitivity toward Xiao Chen, personally wiping the blood from his face. Learning that Zhang Heilu nearly killed him leaves her visibly shaken.

Significant Themes

• Hidden strength and underestimated potential: Xiao Chen’s low cultivation level conceals an extraordinary physical foundation and Golden Body.
• Pride versus reality: Zhang Heilu cannot accept that a weaker opponent resisted him, so he distorts the outcome to preserve his dignity.
• Strategic retreat: Xiao Chen’s decision to escape emphasizes that survival and preparation are more important than winning every immediate confrontation.
• Political and social hierarchy: Liu Wanxiong must flatter Zhang Heilu despite privately despising his failure because of Zhang Heilu’s superior status.
• Growing emotional concern: Zhou Lingxia’s reaction suggests increasing personal attachment and concern for Xiao Chen.

Important Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen and Zhang Heilu: Their brief battle establishes Xiao Chen as a serious threat despite his lower realm and intensifies their rivalry.
• Zhang Heilu and Zhang Ruolan: Ruolan witnesses her brother’s humiliation and later defends him before Liu Wanxiong.
• Liu Wanxiong and the Zhang siblings: Liu criticizes their failure, while Ruolan pushes back and reveals that Zhang Heilu used his strongest move.
• Liu Wanxiong and Zhang Heilu: Liu attempts to offer assistance, but Zhang Heilu rejects it to protect his pride.
• Zhou Lingxia and Xiao Chen: She tends to his injuries and reacts with shock when she learns who attacked him.
• A Ying and Zhou Lingxia: A Ying provides the full account of the battle, revealing the severity of Xiao Chen’s achievement and the danger posed by Zhang Heilu.

Chapter Summary: “Anxiously Swallowing the Pill!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhou Lingxia is shocked to learn that Zhang Heilu and Zhang Ruolan ambushed Xiao Chen, especially after Zhang Heilu used the powerful Heavenly Deer King-Shattering Fist.
• Although Zhang Heilu’s attack is an ancient Divine Ability far beyond the Mortal World’s usual level, Xiao Chen survives with only minor injuries. He admits that he is currently weaker than Zhang Heilu but believes the Spirit-Breaking Pill can remove the curse suppressing his cultivation and restore his strength.
• Xiao Chen explains the pill’s origin to Zhou Lingxia, though he conceals the true source of the Thousand Mountains Essence. He then borrows a secret chamber from the Zhou Family to refine the medicine.
• His immediate goals are to restore his cultivation, defeat Gray Three, reclaim the Demon Heaven Sect token, enter the Demon Heaven Sect, and eventually reach the center of the Nether Realm so he can find Moli within the You Family.
• Before Xiao Chen leaves, Zhou Lingxia hesitates, secretly struggling with a request from her parents.
• In the secret chamber, Xiao Chen examines the Spirit-Breaking Pill with both hope and anxiety. Worried that it might be counterfeit, he finally swallows it, placing his recovery entirely on its effects.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Demonstrates growing confidence and determination despite acknowledging his current inferiority to Zhang Heilu. His survival against the Heavenly Deer King-Shattering Fist reinforces his status as an extraordinary Mortal World cultivator. At the same time, his thoughts reveal vulnerability: he fears being powerless in the dangerous Nether Realm and desperately wants to regain control over his fate.
• Zhou Lingxia: Shows genuine concern for Xiao Chen and remains troubled by her parents’ demands. Her kindness conflicts with her desire to escape her unwanted marriage agreement with Zhang Heilu.
• A Ying: Continues to prioritize Zhou Lingxia’s happiness. Unlike her mistress, she believes asking Xiao Chen for the Indestructible Golden Body is justified repayment for saving his life and possibly the easiest way to end Zhou Lingxia’s marriage.
• Zhang Heilu: Is established as a formidable opponent whose ancient Divine Ability can threaten even Xiao Chen, though Xiao Chen’s survival suggests the gap between them may not remain permanent.

Significant Themes

• Power and helplessness: Xiao Chen’s lack of cultivation leaves him unable to control his own destiny, motivating his urgent attempt to restore his strength.
• Prejudice between realms: Nether Realm beings look down on Mortal World creatures as flawed and inferior, yet Xiao Chen’s Golden Body and resilience challenge those assumptions.
• Moral conflict and indebtedness: Zhou Lingxia’s family treats Xiao Chen’s Golden Body as something to obtain in exchange for saving his life, while Zhou Lingxia struggles with whether making such a request would violate her principles.
• Hope mixed with uncertainty: The Spirit-Breaking Pill represents Xiao Chen’s chance to break free from his curse, but he cannot fully verify its authenticity and must risk swallowing it.
• Freedom and personal choice: Zhou Lingxia’s marriage to Zhang Heilu and Xiao Chen’s desire to regain his cultivation both reflect struggles to escape forces controlling their lives.

Important Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen and Zhou Lingxia: Xiao Chen openly shares the story of the Spirit-Breaking Pill with Zhou Lingxia, trusting her good intentions. She warns him to be careful, though her hesitation hints at the secret request she has been ordered to make.
• Zhou Lingxia and A Ying: A Ying confronts Zhou Lingxia about her parents’ demands. Zhou Lingxia reveals that she must obtain Xiao Chen’s Golden Body Secret Art and retain him within the Zhou Family to have her engagement to Zhang Heilu dissolved. A Ying argues that the secret art is a fair price for Xiao Chen’s life, while Zhou Lingxia considers it too precious to request.
• Xiao Chen and the Spirit-Breaking Pill: Alone, Xiao Chen’s hopeful confidence gives way to suspicion and anxiety as he wonders whether the vendor sold him genuine medicine. Nevertheless, he swallows the pill, beginning the chapter’s major turning point.

Chapter Summary: “I Want to Kill!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Chen consumes the genuine Spirit-Breaking Pill in a secret chamber. Its powerful medicinal energy, aided by Void Inscriptions and the peak power of the void, begins destroying the Void-Locking Spirit Curse suppressing his cultivation.
• Over three days and nights, the curse is gradually burned away. Xiao Chen’s King Source Energy returns, his physical body is tempered, and the effects of the Nether Realm’s rejection on his body are significantly reduced.
• Xiao Chen successfully recovers his cultivation at the Fifth King Realm. He is relieved that he can now enter cities without concealing his aura from the beasts guarding the gates.
• He tests his restored strength with a punch that creates a massive azure serpent and tears through the clouds, confirming that his combat power has returned.
• Xiao Chen decides to seek revenge against Gray Three, who previously imprisoned him, attempted to sell him to Zhang Ruolan, and stole the elder’s token that could grant access to Dustmote Peak of the Demon Heaven Sect.
• Although Gray Three is only a Sixth-Realm Martial King, Xiao Chen recognizes that his Ashen Trickery Theft Power makes him exceptionally skilled at hiding and escaping. Xiao Chen therefore plans to kill him in a single decisive strike.
• When Zhou Lingxia and A Ying visit him, Xiao Chen reveals that his curse has been lifted. Despite Zhou Lingxia’s warning about the dangers of Changping, he declares that he is leaving to “kill someone.”

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Regains his Fifth King Realm cultivation and becomes physically stronger after the pill tempers his body. His confidence returns, but so does his ruthless determination to settle old scores. His guiding principle remains that those who harm him will be repaid many times over.
• Zhou Lingxia: Shows concern for Xiao Chen’s safety and reminds him that the Nether Realm is dangerous, particularly for someone new to Changping.
• A Ying: Is astonished by Xiao Chen’s rapid recovery and formidable strength. She teases him about his pride but is also visibly shocked by his accomplishments.
• Gray Three: Remains Xiao Chen’s primary target. His treachery and specialized escape techniques make him dangerous even though Xiao Chen is now stronger.
• Liu Wanxiong: Continues to represent a hidden threat. Xiao Chen suspects he was involved in Zhang Heilu’s assassination attempt and considers whether he could defeat the Eighth-Realm Martial King once fully prepared.

Significant Themes

• Recovery and rebirth: The destruction of the curse symbolizes Xiao Chen’s return from helplessness to power.
• Vengeance and justice: Xiao Chen believes betrayal and oppression must be repaid severely, making revenge a central motivation.
• Survival in a hostile world: The Nether Realm is portrayed as filled with danger, enemies, and uncertain alliances, requiring constant caution.
• Power and vulnerability: Even after recovering his cultivation, Xiao Chen understands that fighting across realms is more difficult in the Nether Realm and that strength alone is not enough.
• Destiny and struggle: The Star God Tribulation represents a future life-or-death trial, reinforcing the idea that Xiao Chen must carve out his own path through danger.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen internally assesses the threats posed by Zhang Heilu and Liu Wanxiong while considering the limits of his restored strength.
• After leaving seclusion, he encounters Zhou Lingxia and A Ying, who are amazed by his transformation from a suppressed First-Level Body King into a Fifth-Realm powerhouse.
• A Ying mocks Xiao Chen’s self-confidence after he calls himself “peerless beneath heaven,” while he calmly defends the claim.
• Zhou Lingxia attempts to caution him against acting recklessly, but Xiao Chen’s desire for revenge overrides her concern.
• The chapter ends with Xiao Chen bluntly announcing that his immediate purpose is to kill Gray Three.

Chapter Summary: “Brewing a Vicious Scheme!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao Chen reveals to Zhou Lingxia and A Ying that he intends to kill Gray Three, the Boar Hunter who previously captured him and nearly delivered him to Zhang Ruolan. Although Gray Three is a powerful Sixth Realm Martial King, Xiao Chen believes his restored King Source Energy gives him a chance to defeat him.
• Zhou Lingxia’s servant, A Ying, reveals that Zhou Lingxia wants to borrow Xiao Chen’s Golden Body Sacred Art. Her parents are using the marriage agreement to force her to marry Zhang Heilu, and possessing the technique might allow her to resist their demands and escape the marriage.
• Xiao Chen initially hesitates because the Ancient Golden Body Art is extremely valuable, but after learning that Zhou Lingxia’s freedom and happiness depend on it, he willingly gives her a simplified version of the Indestructible Diamond Sutra, inscribed on a Technique-Imprinting Stone Tablet.
• Zhou Lingxia is deeply moved by Xiao Chen’s generosity. Her feelings toward him change, and a new emotional bond begins to form.
• At the Zhang Estate, Zhang Ruolan remains obsessed with Xiao Chen and tormented by jealousy. Believing that Xiao Chen and Zhou Lingxia are together, she summons Gray Three and demands that he abduct Xiao Chen again.
• Gray Three initially refuses, citing the rules of the Boar Hunters and the taboo against abducting the same person twice. Zhang Ruolan offers him two hundred thousand, but he still prepares to leave.
• When money fails, Zhang Ruolan threatens Gray Three with the power of the Zhang Family and manifests a crimson blade, signaling that she is willing to use force to compel him.

Character Developments

• Xiao Chen: Becomes more determined to settle his grudge against Gray Three. He also demonstrates generosity and gratitude by giving away a priceless cultivation art to repay Zhou Lingxia for saving his life.
• Zhou Lingxia: Reveals her vulnerable position and the pressure imposed by her parents. Xiao Chen’s sacrifice gives her hope of escaping her forced marriage, while her gratitude and admiration for him begin developing into romantic feelings.
• A Ying: Acts as Zhou Lingxia’s outspoken protector, confronting Xiao Chen on her mistress’s behalf, though Zhou Lingxia repeatedly tries to restrain her.
• Zhang Ruolan: Grows increasingly jealous, irrational, and possessive. Her fixation on Xiao Chen drives her to abandon caution and threaten Gray Three.
• Gray Three: Remains crafty and profit-minded but is also concerned with professional rules and the consequences of offending the Zhou Family. His hesitation reveals that even his greed has limits—at least until Zhang Ruolan escalates the confrontation.

Significant Themes

• Debts of gratitude and reciprocity: Xiao Chen considers Zhou Lingxia’s life-saving help more valuable than the Golden Body Sacred Art, emphasizing personal loyalty over material wealth.
• Freedom versus coercion: Zhou Lingxia’s parents treat her marriage as a transaction, while Xiao Chen’s gift offers her a means to resist being used for family gain.
• Jealousy and obsession: Zhang Ruolan’s inability to accept Xiao Chen’s association with Zhou Lingxia drives her toward increasingly dangerous actions.
• Rules versus personal desire: Gray Three’s professional code conflicts with Zhang Ruolan’s demands and lucrative payment.
• Power and exploitation: The chapter contrasts the Zhou and Zhang families’ influence with the vulnerability of individuals caught in their political and marital schemes.

Important Character Interactions

• Xiao Chen and Zhou Lingxia discuss Gray Three and her forced marriage, establishing mutual trust.
• A Ying confronts Xiao Chen about the Golden Body Sacred Art, while Zhou Lingxia struggles to ask for help.
• Xiao Chen’s gift profoundly affects Zhou Lingxia and strengthens their emotional connection.
• Zhang Ruolan pressures Gray Three to abduct Xiao Chen again, first through payment and then through threats, setting up a dangerous conflict between the Boar Hunter, the Zhang Family, and Xiao Chen.