Ch. 861Triumphant Return
Key Plot Points and Events
- Cheng Tian inherits the Great Sage Equal to Heaven's relics, becoming a stand-in for the departed Monkey Brother.
- Cheng Tian's new equipment merges with his body, becoming Template Armament, usable only under the Great Sage template.
- Cheng Tian leads the sealing and refining of the Black Sun Tathagata, causing concern for Spirit Mountain but earning admiration from the Heavenly Court.
- Cheng Tian leaves Black Spirit Mountain without waiting for the Tathagata, expressing his displeasure at being treated as a subordinate.
- The Scorching Sun Legion returns triumphantly, having successfully completed the Great Expedition and received a bountiful harvest.
Character Developments
- Cheng Tian: Becomes more confident and assertive, showing disdain for being rewarded by Spirit Mountain. He also inherits the Great Sage's relics and powers.
- The Heavenly Court: Recognizes Cheng Tian's importance and potential alliance due to his "Daoist" inclination and grudge against Buddhism.
- Spirit Mountain: Becomes wary of Cheng Tian due to his sealing of the Black Sun Tathagata and his grudge against Guanyin.
Significant Themes
- Power and its consequences: Cheng Tian's newfound power brings both admiration and concern from different factions.
- Gratitude and obligation: Cheng Tian feels no obligation to Spirit Mountain for the sealing of the Black Sun Tathagata, as it was his own initiative.
- Alliance and conflict: The Heavenly Court sees potential in allying with Cheng Tian, while Spirit Mountain becomes wary of him.
Character Interactions
- Cheng Tian and the Heavenly Court: Cheng Tian's actions earn him respect and potential alliance from the Heavenly Court.
- Cheng Tian and Spirit Mountain: Cheng Tian's actions cause concern and wariness from Spirit Mountain, with no signs of a potential alliance.
- Cheng Tian and the Scorching Sun Legion: Cheng Tian leads the legion to a successful completion of the Great Expedition, earning them a bountiful harvest and a triumphant return.