Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lin Dong, a modern youth, transmigrates to the Primordial Era with a weak foundation, struggling to cultivate due to his "Innate Leaky Qi Sacred Body."
• He receives an "Unscrupulous System" that offers a luxurious beginner's gift package, including the Primordial Dao Body, Pangu's Essence Blood, Nine Revolutions Primordial Profound Art, and Heavenly Secret Concealment Mask.
• Lin Dong fuses the Primordial Dao Body and cultivates the Nine Revolutions Primordial Profound Art, directly reaching the late stage of Grand Unity Golden Immortal in 81,000 years.
• He decides to follow the Dao of Strength, choosing the moniker "Xuan Wazi," and steps out to explore the Primordial Era.

Character Developments

• Lin Dong, now Xuan Wazi, overcomes his cultivation bottleneck and gains immense power, boosting his confidence and ambition.
• The Unscrupulous System is revealed to be a mischievous entity with a questionable past, providing powerful rewards but also raising concerns.

Significant Themes

• Overcoming adversity: Xuan Wazi's journey from a weak cultivator to a powerful immortal highlights the theme of perseverance and growth despite initial disadvantages.
• Power and ambition: With his newfound strength, Xuan Wazi develops ambitions to explore the Primordial Era and challenge its powerful beings.
• The path to enlightenment: Xuan Wazi considers different paths to becoming a Sage, ultimately choosing the Dao of Strength.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi interacts with the Unscrupulous System, which provides him with powerful rewards and guides his cultivation, despite its questionable methods and origins.
• Xuan Wazi's decision to choose the Dao of Strength and the moniker "Xuan Wazi" reflects his growing confidence and ambition, setting the stage for his adventures in the Primordial Era.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lin Dong, now Xuan Wazi, explores the Primordial World and Mount Buzhou.
• He discovers and collects innate materials like Spiritual Roots, ores, and True Water.
• He witnesses the Dragon Clan bullying a Phoenix Clan member, Fire Feather.
• Xuan Wazi intervenes, using stealth and pranks to disrupt the dragons' attack and drive them away.
• He earns Fire Feather's gratitude and a reward from the system.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi (Lin Dong) demonstrates his newfound power and cunning, using his Primordial Unity Golden Immortal stage and stealth skills to outmaneuver Profound Immortal dragons.
• Fire Feather shows resilience and resourcefulness in defending herself against the dragons.

Significant Themes

• The theme of 'Not Being a Person' is further explored as Xuan Wazi uses pranks and trickery to disrupt the dragons' plans.
• The theme of power dynamics is evident in the dragons' bullying of Fire Feather and their subsequent retreat when faced with a stronger opponent (Xuan Wazi).

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi interacts with Fire Feather, saving her and earning her gratitude.
• He indirectly interacts with the Dragon Clan members, Ao Qing and Ao Chi, using stealth and pranks to disrupt their plans and cause them frustration and resentment.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi travels to the Kirin Tribe's central region, maintaining his Daoist guise.
• He reaches the Kirin Ancestral Abyss, a vast mountain range filled with spiritual energy and auspicious creatures.
• Xuan Wazi sets up an illusion to make some spirit fruits smell like a skunk beast, causing the Kirin to react with disgust and confusion.
• He uses an ethereal voice to mock the Kirin, claiming that 'stench' is part of the Great Dao, and leaves before they can find him.
• The Kirin are left pondering his words, with Elder Lin Sheng respectfully asking for a meeting.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi continues to display his mischievous and prankster nature, using illusions and manipulation to toy with the Kirin.
• Elder Lin Sheng, a Golden Immortal Kirin, shows curiosity and respect towards the mysterious voice, indicating a thoughtful and open-minded nature.

Significant Themes

• Appearance vs Reality: Xuan Wazi's illusions and disguises highlight the contrast between appearance and reality, a common theme in his interactions.
• The Great Dao: The mysterious voice's teachings on fragrance and stench as part of the Great Dao introduce the theme of personal interpretation and understanding of the cultivation path.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi interacts with the Kirin Tribe, playing a trickster role, manipulating and provoking them for his amusement.
• The Kirin, particularly Elder Lin Sheng, show confusion, curiosity, and respect towards the mysterious voice, leading to a moment of philosophical reflection.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi infiltrates the Immortal Volcano, home of the Phoenix Clan.
• He discovers a Nirvana ritual involving a giant egg on a Seven-Colored Altar.
• Xuan Wazi introduces a wisp of Taiyin Cold Marrow energy, disrupting the ritual.
• The little phoenix hatches with unusual crimson and pale blue feathers, indicating the presence of both ultimate yang and Taiyin energy.
• Xuan Wazi leaves a cryptic message and escapes before the Phoenix Clan can react.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi demonstrates his cunning and mischievous nature, enjoying the chaos he creates.
• The Phoenix Clan Elders show concern and fear for the ritual's success, then shock and delight at the little phoenix's unique appearance.

Significant Themes

• The theme of chaos and order, with Xuan Wazi's actions disrupting the Phoenix Clan's plans.
• The exploration of the Primordial World's environment and its inhabitants.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi interacts with the Phoenix Clan indirectly, observing their rituals and leaving a cryptic message.
• The Phoenix Clan Elders interact with each other, sharing their shock, fear, and eventual delight at the little phoenix's hatching.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi, motivated by the system's main quest and rewards, begins to systematically instigate conflicts between the three clans (Dragon, Kirin, and Phoenix).
• He infiltrates sensitive areas, using his [Heavenly Secret Concealment Mask] and late-stage Grand Unity Golden Immortal cultivation to remain undetected.
• Xuan Wazi orchestrates various provocations, such as impersonating clan members, causing damage, and leaving behind evidence to frame the other clans.
• The tensions between the three clans escalate from small-scale skirmishes to large-scale battles due to Xuan Wazi's manipulations.
• He collects treasures and materials left behind or lost during the conflicts, accumulating a significant fortune.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi: He becomes more determined and strategic in his actions, driven by the system's quest. He demonstrates exceptional acting skills and cunning in his provocations.
• Ao Qing (Dragon Clan): He remains unaware of Xuan Wazi's actions and is likely brooding over his recent reprimand.
• Demon Ancestor Luohu: He observes the growing conflicts between the three clans with satisfaction.
• Daoist Hongjun: He notices the increasing chaos and struggles to deduce the heavenly secrets behind it.

Significant Themes

• Manipulation and Provocation: Xuan Wazi's actions highlight the theme of manipulation and provocation, showing how small actions can escalate into large-scale conflicts.
• Karma and Resentment: The growing mutual resentment between the three clans is a significant theme, with Xuan Wazi's actions adding to this karma.
• Chaos and Order: The chapter explores the balance between chaos and order, with Xuan Wazi's actions disrupting the balance and drawing the attention of powerful beings like Demon Ancestor Luohu and Daoist Hongjun.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi and the Three Clans: Xuan Wazi interacts with members of the three clans primarily through deception and provocation, causing mistrust and conflict.
• Xuan Wazi and the System: Their relationship is one of mutual benefit, with Xuan Wazi driven by the system's quest and rewards.
• Demon Ancestor Luohu and Daoist Hongjun: Both observe the growing chaos in the Primordial Era, with Luohu smiling at the developments and Hongjun frowning in concern. Their interactions are implied rather than direct.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tensions between the Dragon, Phoenix, and Kirin tribes escalate, leading to a massive legion-level clash on the border between the Western and Central lands.
• Xuan Wazi, hidden within an invisibility formation, scavenges spiritual treasures, natal blood essence, and origin fragments from the battlefield, while also provoking the leaders of the three tribes into cursing him.
• Deep within the Western lands, Demon Ancestor Luohu absorbs the dense negative energy from the battle, further empowering his demonic path.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi continues to exploit the chaos for personal gain and to provoke curses, increasing his 'Points of Being Not Human'.
• The leaders of the three tribes (Ya Zi, Yan Ling, and Pan Shi) become more hostile towards each other due to the 'accidents' orchestrated by Xuan Wazi.

Significant Themes

• Conflict and Escalation: The conflict between the three tribes reaches a boiling point, leading to a massive battle and further fueling the Great Tribulation.
• Exploitation of Chaos: Xuan Wazi's actions highlight his opportunistic nature, taking advantage of the situation for personal gain.
• Absorption of Negative Energy: Luohu's absorption of the negative energy from the battle underscores the connection between the Great Tribulation and the demonic path.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi and the Three Tribes: Xuan Wazi's actions indirectly cause the three tribes to blame each other, further escalating the conflict.
• Xuan Wazi and Luohu: Although they haven't interacted directly, Luohu's awareness of Xuan Wazi's influence on the battle hints at a potential future interaction.
• The Three Tribes: The leaders of the three tribes (Ya Zi, Yan Ling, and Pan Shi) interact primarily through hostile exchanges, further straining their relationships.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Great Tribulation's battle rages on, with less than one in ten elites surviving.
• Xuan Wazi, hidden, harvests treasures from the battle, provoking the three Grand Unity Golden Immortals.
• The three Ancestors (Ancestral Dragon, Primordial Phoenix, First Kirin) appear, ready for a final, destructive battle.
• Xuan Wazi disrupts their battle with a prank, causing their attacks to collide imperfectly, leading to their near mutual destruction.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi: Becomes a late-stage Grand Unity Golden Immortal, gains Chaos Bead, Thirty-Six-Grade Creation Green Lotus, and essence blood of the three Ancestors.
• The three Ancestors: Their remnant souls are bound by karma after their near mutual destruction.

Significant Themes

• Karma and sin: The tribes' actions lead to their downfall, and the Ancestors' remnant souls are bound by karma.
• Profit from chaos: Xuan Wazi benefits greatly from the Great Tribulation and the tribes' conflict.
• The power of provocation: Xuan Wazi's prank disrupts the Ancestors' battle, changing the course of events.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi interacts with the three Grand Unity Golden Immortals and the three Ancestors, provoking them and ultimately disrupting their battle.
• The three Ancestors interact with each other, deciding to engage in a final, destructive battle.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Dragon-Han Initial Tribulation ends with the near annihilation of the Dragon, Phoenix, and Kirin clans, leaving the Primordial Era in ruins.
• Xuan Wazi, having left the battle, inventories his gains: advanced cultivation, numerous treasures, and three supreme treasures plus fifteen drops of ancestral blood essence from the system.
• He observes the Primordial Era post-tribulation, noticing the retreat of the three clans and the emergence of other powerful beings.
• He senses the growing demonic energy in the West, attributed to Luohu, and the improving Xuanmen immortal energy in the East, associated with Old Ancestor Hongjun.
• The system warns Xuan Wazi about Luohu's Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation and advises him to improve his survival capabilities.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi: Advances to the Grand Perfection of the Grand Unity Golden Immortal realm, gains significant treasures and blood essence, and plans to improve his strength by refining the blood essence and comprehending the Chaos Bead and Creation Green Lotus.
• Luohu: Strengthens his demonic energy and refines the Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation, preparing for the Dao-Demon conflict.
• Old Ancestor Hongjun: Improves his Xuanmen immortal energy, setting up a potential confrontation with Luohu.

Significant Themes

• The collapse of the old order and the rise of new powers in the Primordial Era.
• The conflict between Dao and Demon, foreshadowed by the growing demonic energy in the West and the improving Xuanmen immortal energy in the East.
• The importance of self-improvement and caution in the face of powerful enemies.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi interacts with the system, inventorying his gains and receiving warnings about Luohu's Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation.
• The growing demonic energy in the West and the improving Xuanmen immortal energy in the East indirectly interact, setting the stage for a potential conflict.
• Xuan Wazi's plans to improve his strength are influenced by the growing demonic energy and the system's warnings.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi enters a deep seclusion to cultivate and refine the gains from the Dragon-Han Initial Tribulation.
• He preliminary refines the Chaos Bead, gaining its protective powers.
• He condenses the Innate Geng Metal Qi (dragon) and Innate Wutu Earth Qi (kirin) from the blood essences.
• He comprehends his Dao of Grand Unity, gaining a clearer path forward.
• After three thousand years, he finds the Primordial Era has changed drastically, with a growing conflict between Dao and Demon.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi's cultivation deepens, and he gains a clearer understanding of his Dao.
• The Three Clans have fallen from their former glory.
• New powerful beings, like the Three Pure Ones, Di Jun, Tai Yi, Nuwa, Fuxi, and Zhen Yuanzi, are rising.

Significant Themes

• Cultivation and refinement of power.
• The passage of time and change in the world.
• The growing conflict between Dao and Demon.
• Xuan Wazi's unique Dao and his role in the Primordial Era.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi interacts with the Chaos Bead, the blood essences, and his own Dao.
• He considers visiting Kunlun Mountain to see the Three Pure Ones and instill his ideas.
• He reflects on the changes in the Primordial Era and plans to participate in the upcoming storm.

Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi, disguised as Xuan Yunzi, visits Kunlun Mountain to meet the Three Pure Ones.
• He discusses the Tao with Laozi, impressing him with his unique insights.
• Primordial Heavenly Venerate, the second of the Three Pure Ones, becomes displeased with Xuan Wazi's words.
• Tongtian, the third of the Three Pure Ones, finds Xuan Wazi's perspective interesting.
• Xuan Wazi leaves, inviting himself to return another day.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi demonstrates his ability to adapt and deceive, gaining the interest of Laozi and Tongtian.
• Laozi shows a calm and thoughtful demeanor, appreciating Xuan Wazi's insights.
• Primordial Heavenly Venerate displays his stern and disapproving nature.
• Tongtian reveals his rebellious and straightforward personality, aligning with Xuan Wazi's views.

Significant Themes

• The nature of the Tao and its interpretations.
• The differences in perspective among the Three Pure Ones.
• The value of "stubbornness" and unconventional views in cultivation.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi interacts with the Three Pure Ones, subtly provoking Primordial Heavenly Venerate while impressing Laozi and Tongtian.
• The Three Pure Ones have their first disagreement due to Xuan Wazi's influence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi visits Wuzhuang Temple on Longevity Mountain, home to the Innate Spiritual Root Ginseng Fruit Tree.
• He meets Zhen Yuanzi, the ancestor of Earth Immortals, and Old Ancestor Hong Yun, and has a discussion on the Tao with them and Sect Master Tongtian.
• Zhen Yuanzi offers Xuan Wazi a Ginseng Fruit, which significantly improves his magical power, heals his internal injuries, and sharpens his comprehension of laws.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi: Shows his unique perspective on the Tao, gains the respect of Zhen Yuanzi and Hong Yun, and strengthens his bond with Tongtian. He also gains a new divine ability, 'Sleeve Universe'.
• Zhen Yuanzi: Recognizes Xuan Wazi's extraordinary demeanor and unique Taoist realm, leading to a desire to befriend him.
• Hong Yun: Finds Xuan Wazi's ideas resonating with his own occasional desire for change.

Significant Themes

• The value of unique perspectives and unconventional thinking in the Tao.
• The power of friendship and mutual respect among cultivators.
• The benefits of experiencing and learning from different environments and people.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi interacts with Zhen Yuanzi, Hong Yun, and Tongtian, engaging in a discussion on the Tao that challenges their perspectives and leads to mutual respect.
• Xuan Wazi's departure from Wuzhuang Temple is marked by warm farewells, indicating the positive impact he had on the other cultivators.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi travels to the Solar Star, the source of extreme yang and light in the Primordial Era.
• He senses Di Jun and Tai Yi cultivating near the core, guarded by Demon Clan soldiers.
• Xuan Wazi subtly integrates a trace of Primordial Phoenix Blood Essence into the Solar Star's True Solar Fire, aiming to cause future friction for Di Jun and Tai Yi.
• He attempts to steal a branch from the Fusang Tree but is nearly discovered by Tai Yi, who senses an unusual presence.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi demonstrates his cunning and daring, planting a "landmine" for Di Jun and Tai Yi, and attempting to steal from the Fusang Tree.
• Tai Yi showcases his high alertness and power, nearly detecting Xuan Wazi's presence.

Significant Themes

• Cunning and deception: Xuan Wazi uses his wit to cause potential future trouble for Di Jun and Tai Yi.
• Power dynamics: Tai Yi's alertness and strength are highlighted, showing the danger of provoking powerful beings in the Primordial Era.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi interacts indirectly with Di Jun and Tai Yi, planting the Primordial Phoenix Blood Essence and nearly being caught by Tai Yi.
• No direct interactions occur between Xuan Wazi and other characters in this chapter.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi leaves the Solar Star and heads to the Lunar Star.
• He observes the Lunar Star's environment and senses the presence of the Lunar Goddesses, Xi He and Chang Xi.
• Xuan Wazi plants a "mischievous" idea, using a drop of Ancestral Dragon Blood Essence to create a subtle, misleading aura on the Moon Crystal Stone plaza.
• Xi He and Chang Xi sense the unusual aura and become confused and vigilant.
• Xuan Wazi receives rewards from the system for his actions: the Divine Ability 'Lunar Concealment Technique' and a segment of Innate Spiritual Material 'Laurel Divine Branch'.
• He decides to head to Mount Buzhou to prepare for the upcoming Dao-Demon conflict and attempt to break through to the Grand Unity Golden Immortal realm.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi: Becomes more confident and excited about his adventures, showing a desire to grow stronger and participate in the upcoming conflict.
• Xi He and Chang Xi: Become suspicious and vigilant due to the mysterious aura on their star, showing their protective nature towards their home.

Significant Themes

• Deception and manipulation: Xuan Wazi uses his cunning to create confusion among the Lunar Goddesses.
• Power dynamics: The Lunar Goddesses' reaction to the mysterious aura highlights their defensive stance and the importance of their home's security.
• Preparation and growth: Xuan Wazi's decision to head to Mount Buzhou emphasizes his desire to improve his cultivation and readiness for the upcoming conflict.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi and the Lunar Goddesses: Xuan Wazi's actions create confusion and vigilance in the Lunar Goddesses without direct interaction.
• Xi He and Chang Xi: The sisters' interaction shows their close bond and shared concern for their home's safety.

Chapter Summary: Awakening the Dao at Mount Buzhou, Five Qi Returning to the Origin

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi returns to Mount Buzhou, the place where he first began his cultivation and once spent countless years trapped by his “leaky Qi” physique. He now returns vastly stronger, possessing a Primordial Dao Body, the Chaos Bead, and cultivation at the Great Perfection of the Grand Unity Golden Immortal realm.
• He settles in a secluded valley, establishes powerful restrictions, and uses the Chaos Bead to conceal heavenly secrets before attempting his breakthrough.
• To complete the Five Qi Returning to the Origin, he condenses the remaining three elemental qi:
  • Liver Wood Qi using Innate Wood Spirit Qi and the Laurel Divine Branch.
  • Heart Fire Qi using the remaining Primordial Phoenix Blood Essence.
  • Kidney Water Qi using Profound Origin Heavy Water and his understanding of water laws.
• These combine with the previously formed Spleen Earth Qi and Lung Metal Qi, creating the complete Five Elements within his body.
• Xuan Wazi carefully guides the qi through their cycles of mutual generation and restraint. Rather than rigidly suppressing conflicts, he allows controlled clashes and reversals, using his unique Dao comprehension to discover a dynamic balance.
• The five qi eventually leave the organs and merge in the middle dantian into a chaotic-colored origin qi, forming the embryonic foundation of his future Grand Unity Dao Fruit.
• He successfully breaks through to the Early-stage Grand Unity Golden Immortal realm, transcending the river of fate and gaining greater freedom from its control.
• The breakthrough produces auspicious phenomena, including golden lotuses, sweet springs, and heavenly Dao music.
• The system rewards him with:
  • The divine ability

Five Elements Great Escape

• The low-grade innate spiritual treasure

Five-Colored Heaven Net

• Further awakening of his Primordial Dao Body
• Improved refinement of the Chaos Bead
• After consolidating his cultivation, Xuan Wazi observes that the Dao-Demon Conflict is about to erupt. He leaves Mount Buzhou and heads toward the western battlefield, eager to encounter Luo Hou and Hongjun and profit from the coming great tribulation.

Character Development

• Xuan Wazi completes a major transformation from a once-weak and frustrated cultivator into a genuine supreme expert of the Primordial World.
• His breakthrough confirms that his cultivation path is based not merely on inherited techniques or treasures, but on his own understanding of balance, freedom, and opposition.
• His Dao heart of “obstinacy” proves crucial. His refusal to follow rigid conventions allows him to harmonize the Five Elements through flexibility, controlled conflict, and reversal.
• He gains increased confidence and ambition. Rather than remaining secluded after reaching Grand Unity, he immediately seeks out the Dao-Demon battlefield and the opportunity for greater advancement.
• His attitude remains characteristically irreverent and pragmatic, as shown by his joking interpretation of the new escape technique and capture treasure.

Significant Themes

• Transformation and personal growth: Mount Buzhou symbolizes Xuan Wazi’s journey from helpless beginner to powerful Dao cultivator.
• Balance through opposition: The Five Elements demonstrate that harmony does not require eliminating conflict; generation and restraint must coexist dynamically.
• Freedom versus destiny: By transcending the river of fate, Xuan Wazi gains a higher degree of autonomy, though he remains under the broader authority of the Heavenly Dao.
• Individual Dao and nonconformity: His unconventional “obstinate” approach allows him to create a unique path instead of merely obeying established rules.
• Preparation before crisis: His breakthrough occurs just as the Dao-Demon Conflict reaches its climax, positioning him to enter the coming upheaval at a critical moment.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi’s primary interactions are with the natural forces and spiritual inheritances he uses in cultivation: the Laurel Divine Branch, Phoenix Blood Essence, Profound Origin Heavy Water, and the Five Elements themselves.
• His relationship with the system continues to shape his progress, as it rewards his breakthrough with new abilities and treasures.
• Though Luo Hou and Hongjun do not appear directly, they become the next major figures in Xuan Wazi’s path as he heads toward their impending confrontation on the Dao-Demon battlefield.
• Xuan Wazi’s interaction with Mount Buzhou is emotionally significant: the mountain serves as both a reminder of his former weakness and the setting for his decisive advancement.

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi has just reached Zenith Heaven Golden Immortal and transcended the river of fate. Sensing the Dao-Demon Conflict, he travels west to the desolate former battlefield, intending to act as a hidden "fisherman."
• He discovers Luo Hou has completed the Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation and the God-Slaying Spear, establishing the foundation of the demonic path at the site of Mount Sumeru. Luo Hou's aura is at peak Quasi-Saint.
• Hongjun arrives with Old Ancestor Yin-Yang, Old Ancestor Qiankun, and Great Immortal Yang Mei, demanding Luo Hou stop.
• Luo Hou mocks Hongjun and activates the Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation.
• Hongjun convinces the three ancestors that the formation requires four cultivators of equal realm to break it. Each takes a gate:
  • Hongjun — Immortal-Slaying Gate (east)
  • Yin-Yang — Lesser Immortal Gate (west)
  • Qiankun — Trapping Immortal Gate (south)
  • Yang Mei — Absolute Immortal Gate (north)
• The great battle erupts as the formation fully activates.
• Xuan Wazi sees through Hongjun's hidden scheme and receives a system notice: main quest "The Fisherman Profits" will be issued at a critical moment.

2. Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi: Newly powerful, cautious, and opportunistic. He deliberately stays hidden, waits for chaos, and plans to exploit the conflict. He sees himself as a "true fisherman."
• Hongjun: Revealed as deeply manipulative and calculating. He has already severed his Three Corpses (good, evil, obsession), meaning he alone could technically enter four gates, but he conceals this. He intends to use the three ancestors as cannon fodder to bear karmic backlash and weaken potential rivals before his future union with the Dao.
• Luo Hou: Ambitious and unrepentant, fully embracing slaughter as his path to Dao. Confident in his formation, he welcomes the challenge.
• The Three Ancestors: Mostly sincere but deceived. Yin-Yang and Qiankun are earnest heroes; Yang Mei is more detached and privately suspects Hongjun of hiding something, but stays silent.

3. Significant Themes

• Schemes within schemes: Both Hongjun and Xuan Wazi are plotting behind the scenes while the visible battle is Dao vs. demons.
• "The Fisherman Profits": The idea that the true winner is not the strongest but the one who waits and exploits others' struggles.
• Deceptive appearances: Hongjun presents himself as righteous and helpless while secretly engineering the downfall of allies and rivals.
• Karmic consequence and sacrifice: Hongjun deliberately shifts the formation's backlash onto the three ancestors, treating them as disposable tools.
• Ambition vs. ruthless pragmatism: Luo Hou's open brutality contrasts with Hongjun's concealed ruthlessness.

4. Character Interactions

• Hongjun vs. Luo Hou: Public confrontation; Hongjun speaks of Heaven's justice, Luo Hou scorns him as a hypocrite.
• Hongjun vs. Three Ancestors: Hongjun plays the humble, reliant ally, "asking" for their help while secretly intending to use them up.
• Yang Mei's silent suspicion: He doesn't voice his doubt, but his wariness hints at future tension.
• Xuan Wazi's perspective: He observes Hongjun's hidden coldness, internally mocks him, and privately anticipates profiting from the chaos.

Chapter Summary: “Sword Formation Shattered, the Fisherman Profits”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• The four Chaos-era powerhouses—Hongjun, Yin-Yang, Qiankun, and Yang Mei—battle Luo Hou’s Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation, each entering one of its four gates.
• Hongjun remains largely uninjured while secretly observing the others and calculating how to use their deaths to his advantage. Yang Mei evades the formation through his supreme spatial abilities, but Yin-Yang and Qiankun are steadily overwhelmed.
• Luo Hou strengthens the Lesser Immortal and Immortal-Trapping Gates, targeting Yin-Yang and Qiankun for destruction. Their treasures—the Yin-Yang Mirror and Qiankun Cauldron—begin to fail, leaving both ancestors near death.
• Realizing that both Luo Hou and Hongjun intend to sacrifice them for their own benefit, Yin-Yang and Qiankun choose mutual destruction. They self-detonate their Quasi-Saint origins, unleashing catastrophic power within the formation.
• The explosions severely damage the Lesser Immortal and Immortal-Trapping Gates, disrupt the connections between all four gates, and nearly destroy the entire Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation. Luo Hou suffers devastating backlash, while Hongjun is forced to defend himself. Yang Mei escapes into the void and leaves the Primordial World.
• Taking advantage of the chaos, Xuan Wazi activates the Chaos Bead and infiltrates the collapsing formation. He steals the Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation diagram and the Four Immortal-Slaying Swords.
• He then seizes Luo Hou’s God-Slaying Spear, using the Chaos Bead to resist its terrifying killing intent. To further insult Luo Hou, Xuan Wazi strikes him with Chaos Qi imbued with the Dao rhythm of “stubbornness.”
• Luo Hou mistakenly assumes Xuan Wazi is a hidden scheme of Hongjun and burns the last of his strength to pursue him. His final attack fails, but his desperate extraction of power destroys the western earth veins completely.
• Xuan Wazi escapes safely with the stolen treasures. His system rewards him with the Innate Spiritual Treasure Bell of Misfortune and a Fragment of the Great Dao of Strength.

2. Character Developments

• Hongjun: Reveals his calculating, opportunistic nature. He is willing to let Yin-Yang and Qiankun die if it benefits him, but becomes furious when Xuan Wazi steals the treasures he expected to obtain. He also develops a deeper suspicion and killing intent toward Xuan Wazi, whom he views as a dangerous “Great Dao Anomaly.”
• Luo Hou: Shifts from confident formation master to desperate, severely wounded survivor. His rage and attachment to the God-Slaying Spear drive him to burn his remaining demonic essence and sacrifice the western earth veins, worsening his downfall.
• Yin-Yang and Qiankun: Though initially overwhelmed, they regain dignity and agency by refusing to become Hongjun’s or Luo Hou’s pawns. Their self-destruction becomes a final act of defiance and vengeance.
• Yang Mei: Demonstrates exceptional spatial mastery and pragmatism. Once the formation is broken and the situation becomes unfavorable, he immediately withdraws rather than risk further damage.
• Xuan Wazi: Fully embraces his role as a hidden opportunist. He avoids direct confrontation, waits for the perfect moment, steals the most valuable treasures, provokes both enemies, and escapes before they can retaliate. His confidence and ambitions grow substantially after obtaining the Strength Dao fragment.

3. Significant Themes

• The fisherman profits from conflict: The central theme is that a hidden third party can gain the most when powerful factions exhaust one another.
• Betrayal and exploitation: Hongjun’s willingness to sacrifice allies and Luo Hou’s ruthless treatment of his opponents create the conditions for Yin-Yang and Qiankun’s rebellion.
• Defiance in death: Yin-Yang and Qiankun choose self-destruction rather than submission, turning defeat into revenge against both Luo Hou and Hongjun.
• Greed and opportunism: Xuan Wazi’s shameless theft is portrayed humorously but also establishes him as a clever and dangerous player in the larger struggle.
• The cost of ambition: Luo Hou’s desperation destroys the western earth veins, showing how the pursuit of victory can devastate the world itself.
• Fate and hidden variables: Xuan Wazi’s system identifies the perfect moment for intervention, while Hongjun’s inability to predict or divine him suggests that unexpected anomalies can disrupt even the most elaborate plans.

4. Character Interactions

• Hongjun and the other three ancestors: Hongjun silently watches Yin-Yang and Qiankun weaken, treating them as expendable sacrifices rather than comrades.
• Yin-Yang and Qiankun: They exchange a final glance and unite in resentment, directing their last attack against both Luo Hou and Hongjun.
• Luo Hou and his enemies: Luo Hou focuses the formation’s power on killing Yin-Yang and Qiankun, only to have their deaths cripple his formation and injure him.
• Yang Mei and the battlefield: After assessing the destruction, Yang Mei chooses survival and abandons the conflict entirely.
• Xuan Wazi and Luo Hou: Xuan Wazi steals Luo Hou’s weapons, mocks him, and escapes, leaving Luo Hou enraged and humiliated.
• Luo Hou and Hongjun: Luo Hou wrongly accuses Hongjun of arranging the theft, while Hongjun is forced to bear the blame despite having no involvement.
• Xuan Wazi and the system: The system rewards his successful “fisherman” strategy, reinforcing his confidence and providing him with powerful tools for future cultivation and schemes.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi, within the Chaos Bead, prepares to refine the spoils from the battle between Dao and Demon: the Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation, the four Immortal-Slaying swords, and the God-Slaying Spear.
• He successfully refines the Immortal-Slaying Sword Formation and subdues the God-Slaying Spear, significantly increasing his combat power.
• The system triggers a new main quest: 'First Guest of Zixiao Palace,' tasking Xuan Wazi to reach Hongjun's first Zixiao Palace sermon and seize the first futon seat.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi demonstrates his growth and power by successfully refining powerful weapons and facing the God-Slaying Spear's malevolent energy.
• Hongjun is revealed to be on the brink of becoming a Saint and hosting a Zixiao Palace sermon.

Significant Themes

• The power of will and determination, as seen in Xuan Wazi's ability to subdue the God-Slaying Spear.
• The consequences of one's actions, with Xuan Wazi's past deeds (snatching the Immortal-Slaying Sword and God-Slaying Spear) influencing his new quest.

Character Interactions

• Although not present, Hongjun's actions and status as a soon-to-be Saint create a new challenge and goal for Xuan Wazi.
• Xuan Wazi's interaction with the system leads to a new quest, setting the stage for further conflict and growth.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi emerges from seclusion, sensing the arrival of a Saint.
• Hongjun, the new Saint, establishes Zixiao Palace and invites cultivators to listen to his teachings.
• Xuan Wazi uses his power to reach Zixiao Palace first and secures the first cushion.
• Other powerful cultivators arrive, filling the six cushions, with Jieyin and Zhunti left without seats.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi: Demonstrates his power and determination by securing the first cushion, showing his ambition and competitiveness.
• Taiqing Laozi: Shows his speed and calm demeanor, securing the second cushion.
• Yuqing Yuanshi, Shangqing Tongtian, Nuwa, and Hong Yun: Each secures a cushion, showing their strength and status.
• Jieyin and Zhunti: Arrive late and are left without cushions, displaying their resentment and desperation.

Significant Themes

• Competition and ambition among cultivators.
• The arrival of a Saint and the opportunity for growth and enlightenment.
• The struggle for resources and status, even among powerful cultivators.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi and Taiqing Laozi: Briefly interact, with Laozi acknowledging Xuan Wazi's speed and Xuan Wazi securing the main seat.
• Xuan Wazi and Hong Yun: Xuan Wazi advises Hong Yun not to yield his seat to Jieyin and Zhunti, showing his strategic thinking.
• Jieyin and Zhunti vs. Hong Yun: The Western duo attempts to evoke sympathy from Hong Yun, but he remains firm, showing his resolve and understanding of the situation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Dao Ancestor Hongjun lectures on the Grand Unity Golden Immortal path at Zixiao Palace.
• Xuan Wazi, seated at the head, gains insights and strengthens his Late-stage Grand Unity realm.
• After the lecture, Xuan Wazi invites Tongtian, Nuwa, and Hong Yun for a private discussion.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi: He reveals his unique insights on the Dao, subtly influencing the others. He also warns them about the dangers of the Quasi-Saint path and becoming Saints through merit.
• Tongtian: He becomes more determined to prove the Dao through strength and laws, not just self-protection.
• Nuwa: She realizes her destined great mission of creation and merit.
• Hong Yun: He understands the potential danger of his fortune and decides to go into seclusion under Zhen Yuanzi's protection.

Significant Themes

• Freedom vs. Constraint: Xuan Wazi emphasizes the importance of freedom and the dangers of being constrained by the Heavenly Dao.
• Proving the Dao vs. Becoming a Saint: The chapter explores the differences and challenges of these two paths.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi and the others: Xuan Wazi uses his unique insights to guide Tongtian, Nuwa, and Hong Yun, subtly influencing their future paths.
• Tongtian, Nuwa, and Hong Yun: They discuss and share their insights, becoming more aware of the challenges and dangers ahead.

Plot Points and Events

• Xuan Wazi, after parting with Tongtian, Nuwa, and Hong Yun, returns to Mount Buzhou to find the Innate Gourd Vine.
• He discovers and collects several Innate Spiritual Materials along the way.
• After decades of searching, he finds the gourd vine hidden within a grotto-heaven, guarded by an innate restriction.
• He successfully plucks all seven gourds and the entire vine, including the Chaos Gourd, before the other cultivators can arrive.

Character Developments

• Xuan Wazi demonstrates his patience, perception, and strategic thinking in finding and obtaining the gourds.
• The other cultivators, including the Three Pure Ones, Nuwa, Di Jun, and Tai Yi, are unaware of Xuan Wazi's actions and arrive too late to claim their supposed treasures.

Significant Themes

• Opportunity and fate: Xuan Wazi seizes the opportunity to obtain the treasures before others, altering the original "plot" and demonstrating his ability to shape his own fate.
• Patience and perseverance: Xuan Wazi's diligent search and careful approach to the innate restriction highlight the importance of these traits in achieving his goals.
• Greed and ambition: Xuan Wazi's unhesitant taking of all seven gourds, including those meant for others, shows his ambition and disregard for the consequences.

Character Interactions

• Xuan Wazi interacts with the innate restriction and the gourd vine, demonstrating his ability to overcome obstacles and adapt to new situations.
• The other cultivators, though not directly interacting with Xuan Wazi, show their confusion and frustration at the missing treasure, highlighting their lack of awareness of Xuan Wazi's actions.