Ch. 81The Ten Breaths of the Nine Hells Sword
Chapter Summary: The Ten Breaths of the Nine Hells Sword
Key Plot Points and Events
- Su Yi reflects on his previous life, when he never managed to open the Nine Hells Sword’s ninefold seal. However, he gained a fragment of its comprehension and used it to create the soul-cultivation method known as the He Transforms Freedom Sutra.
- The sutra is extraordinarily profound, potentially surpassing the supreme inheritances of both Buddhist and Daoist traditions. However, it is incomplete, having only been deduced to the Profound Illumination—Emperor Realm.
- In his new life, Su Yi decides to cultivate the sutra again and use the Nine Hells Sword to temper his soul. The method allows him to absorb and transform all kinds of worldly powers—including Spiritual Qi, Killing Intent, Yin Qi, sunlight, starlight, and the energy of mortals.
- While visualizing the Nine Hells Sword, Su Yi accidentally provokes the nine divine chains sealing it. Their terrifying powers erupt, nearly threatening to destroy his soul, but the sword itself suppresses them.
- This reveals that the Nine Hells Sword may be suppressing the nine seals rather than being suppressed by them, suggesting that the chains conceal secrets far more mysterious than Su Yi previously imagined.
- Su Yi persists with his visualization. He senses ten distinct powers: one from the Nine Hells Sword itself and nine from the sealing layers. He cannot comprehend most of them, but he successfully resonates with the power of the ninth seal.
- He realizes that the He Transforms Freedom Sutra originated from the ninth seal’s comprehension and functions like a key capable of gradually unlocking its mysteries. As his soul grows stronger, he should be able to uncover more of the seal’s secrets.
- The next morning, Su Yi leaves the Apricot Yellow Medical Hall to begin a new journey. The staff bid him farewell with genuine affection and respect.
- Imperial Guard Commander Nie Beihu waits with a carriage and offers to escort Su Yi to the city gates, where Lord Fu and others are waiting by the Great Cang River.
Character Developments
- Su Yi moves from hesitation to firm resolve, choosing to cultivate the incomplete He Transforms Freedom Sutra despite its limitations.
- His confidence in the sutra is reaffirmed, but he also shows caution and patience when confronted with the overwhelming power of the Nine Hells Sword.
- Su Yi gains an important breakthrough: he discovers a practical method for exploring the sword’s seals and confirms a connection between the sutra and the ninth seal.
- His departure marks a symbolic transition from his settled life in Guangling City toward a new stage of cultivation and adventure.
- The staff of Apricot Yellow Medical Hall have grown to admire Su Yi because of his generosity, calm bearing, and considerate treatment of others.
- Nie Beihu demonstrates respect for Su Yi by personally driving him to the city gate.
Significant Themes
- Rebirth and renewed opportunity: Su Yi’s second life gives him the chance to investigate mysteries that remained inaccessible in his former life.
- Persistence and gradual progress: Rather than attempting to force open the Nine Hells Sword, Su Yi finds a sustainable path of resonance and incremental discovery.
- Freedom versus limitation: The He Transforms Freedom Sutra embodies the ability to draw upon all powers of heaven and earth, breaking free from environmental and conventional restrictions.
- The relationship between danger and enlightenment: Su Yi’s breakthrough comes only after confronting a nearly fatal spiritual threat.
- Endings and beginnings: Locking the courtyard gate symbolizes Su Yi closing one chapter of his life and beginning another.
- Hidden truth and inversion: The apparent purpose of the nine chains is questioned; instead of restraining the sword, they may themselves be restrained by it.
Character Interactions
- Su Yi maintains a respectful and cordial relationship with the people of Apricot Yellow Medical Hall. Their farewell reflects the mutual trust and affection developed during his stay.
- He responds to their emotional farewell casually and warmly, encouraging them to return to their work rather than dwell on his departure.
- Nie Beihu addresses Su Yi respectfully as “Mister Su” and personally offers him transportation, establishing his continued support and deference.
- Su Yi’s departure is therefore not merely a solitary journey: it is witnessed by people who value him, while allies such as Nie Beihu help him move into the next phase of his path.