Chapter Summaries

Key plot points and events

• The Heavenly Dao releases an unprecedented sea of merit after Nuwa creates humanity. Nuwa receives 70%, the humans collectively receive 20%, and the remaining 10% is divided between the creation vine and Xuanxiao.
• The vine becomes a Merit Spiritual Treasure. Xuanxiao gives his share to the first human, who already serves as his hidden avatar; a Merit Golden Wheel appears behind him.
• Aided by merit and primordial violet qi, Nuwa breaks through to Sagehood. Her Dao manifestation appears, and she declares that she has created humanity to fill the world and continue its life.
• Heavenly signs confirm her achievement: the Primordial World welcomes its second Sage and a new race.

Character developments and interactions

• Nuwa completes her transformation into a Sage and publicly claims responsibility for humanity’s creation.
• Xuanxiao reveals more of his long-range strategy. Recognizing humans as the Humanity Path’s representative race, he places an unseen avatar among them and gives it the merit he receives.
• Xuanxiao’s earlier interventions have reshaped the world’s balance: the Starry Sky Clan remains influential under Gou Chen, the Ancestral Witches have developed primordial spirits and moved to the Underworld, and the Heavenly, Earthly, and Humanity Paths cooperate rather than struggle for control.
• Beings across the Primordial Wilderness debate who has become a Sage, with some suspecting Laozi and others identifying Nuwa from her manifestation.

Significant themes

• Creation and renewal: Humanity’s birth marks a new era in the Primordial World.
• Merit and destiny: Merit rewards creation, empowers Nuwa’s ascension, and becomes a resource for Xuanxiao’s plans.
• Balance and intervention: Xuanxiao’s actions alter the world’s established rivalries and redirect the destinies of entire races.
• Power and recognition: Nuwa’s Sagehood is made unmistakable through cosmic signs, while her creation reshapes how all beings understand the world.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Human Path, a child, revives and calls Xuanxiao (Dao Venerable) 'Daddy', causing a stir.
• Nuwa, having attained Dao, is urged to create a world in Outer Heaven but seeks Xuanxiao's help to find a suitable place for the Human Race to live.
• Xuanxiao agrees to help but emphasizes the importance of the Human Race relying on their own strength.
• Nuwa appoints the Twelve Zodiac Beasts as guardian divine beasts for the Human Race and entrusts Xuanxiao with a Spirit Pearl to protect them for one Yuanhui.

Character Developments

• Xuanxiao (Dao Venerable): Shows a caring side towards the Human Path, revealing he is Pangu's brother. He emphasizes the importance of the Human Race's independence.
• Nuwa: Becomes a Saint and is tasked with creating a world. She shows concern for the Human Race's well-being and entrusts their care to Xuanxiao.
• Human Path: Revives and displays childish behavior, calling Xuanxiao 'Daddy'. He is later comforted by Xuanxiao.
• Twelve Zodiac Beasts: Are appointed as guardian divine beasts for the Human Race by Nuwa.

Significant Themes

• Protection vs. Independence: Nuwa wants to protect the Human Race, while Xuanxiao emphasizes their need to rely on their own strength for long-term development.
• Responsibility and Entrustment: Nuwa entrusts the care of the Human Race to Xuanxiao and the Twelve Zodiac Beasts, highlighting the importance of responsibility in their roles.

Character Interactions

• Xuanxiao and Human Path: The Human Path initially calls Xuanxiao 'Daddy', causing Xuanxiao to react with surprise and displeasure. Later, Xuanxiao comforts the Human Path, showing a softer side.
• Nuwa and Xuanxiao: Nuwa seeks Xuanxiao's help for the Human Race, and they discuss the Human Race's future. Xuanxiao provides guidance, and Nuwa entrusts the Spirit Pearl to him.
• Nuwa and Twelve Zodiac Beasts: Nuwa appoints the Twelve Zodiac Beasts as guardians for the Human Race, showing her trust in them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Nuwa, a Saint, reappears in the Primordial World's void and announces her intention to create a new realm, 'Wa Huang Tian', for the Chan Creation Great Dao.
• Nuwa's declaration excites countless Primordial beings who prostrate themselves in reverence.
• Nuwa departs, leaving the Human Race in a state of panic. Xuanxiao, their protector, takes them to a safe, barren land near the East Sea.
• Nuwa creates Wa Huang Tian in Outer Heaven, drawing the attention of Ancestral Dragon and the other three.
• Xuanxiao leaves the Human Race and the Twelve Zodiac Beasts at the East Sea shore, entrusting Wu with the care of the Human Path and the Zodiac Beasts with their protection.

Character Developments

• Nuwa: Establishes herself as a powerful Saint, creating a new realm and inspiring reverence among Primordial beings.
• Xuanxiao: Demonstrates his care for the Human Race, ensuring their safety and making arrangements for their future.
• Wu: Accepts the responsibility of caring for the Human Path, marking a significant role in the Human Race's development.

Significant Themes

• Destiny and Fate: Nuwa's creation of Wa Huang Tian and Xuanxiao's entrusting of the Human Path to Wu highlight the theme of destiny and fate, as these actions shape the future of the Human Race.
• Power and Responsibility: Nuwa's Saintly might and Xuanxiao's divine powers emphasize the theme of power and responsibility, as they use their strength to guide and protect the Human Race.

Character Interactions

• Nuwa and Ancestral Dragon: They greet each other respectfully, acknowledging their shared purpose in creating realms for their respective Dao paths.
• Xuanxiao and Wu: Xuanxiao entrusts Wu with the care of the Human Path, marking a significant moment in their relationship and Wu's role in the Human Race's development.
• The Heavenly Dao, the Earthly Dao, and Xuanxiao: They discuss the arrangement of the Human Path, displaying their shared concern for its future and the balance of the Primordial World.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Nuwa preaches the Dao of Creation in Wa Huang Tian, attracting numerous beings from the Primordial World.
• The Human Race, led by Wu, decides to settle on the shores of the East Sea and focus on self-improvement.
• Nuwa's sermon lasts for three thousand years and is highly rewarding for the attendees.

Character Developments

• Wu demonstrates leadership and wisdom in guiding the Human Race.
• Nuwa shows her maturity and responsibility as a Saint, focusing on her duty to the Heavenly Dao.
• The Three Pure Ones, despite their initial reservations, acknowledge Nuwa's status and address her as a Fellow Daoist.

Significant Themes

• The importance of self-improvement and independence, as exemplified by the Human Race.
• The responsibility of a Saint, as demonstrated by Nuwa's sermon.
• The power dynamics and relationships among the beings in the Primordial World.

Character Interactions

• Wu and the first female human: Wu shows understanding and leadership in guiding the Human Race.
• Nuwa and Fuxi: Nuwa's affection for her brother is evident, but she respects his decision to pursue his own Dao path.
• Nuwa and the Three Pure Ones: Nuwa acknowledges their potential to become Saints and addresses them as Fellow Daoists.
• Nuwa and the attendees of the sermon: Nuwa imparts her knowledge of the Dao of Creation, benefiting the attendees greatly.

Concise Chapter Summary

Key plot points

• Fuxi leaves Wa Huang Tian to pursue his Dao in the Primordial Wilderness, despite Nuwa’s fears. Nuwa accepts his choice, asks him to contact her if he encounters danger, and then seals her realm to cultivate.
• Nuwa’s attainment of Sagehood draws the attention of powerful beings, who investigate the human race she created, hoping to learn what made it instrumental in her success.
• The observers find humans physically weak and unremarkable, though their population has grown enormously. Many ordinary humans die while struggling to find food and water in the dangerous world.
• Nuwa watches their suffering without intervening. She believes humanity must endure hardship and grow through its own effort to fulfill its destined role in the Humanity Path; interference could undermine that destiny.
• Zhunti and Jieyin also study the humans, hoping to uncover clues about the Primordial Violet Qi. They find nothing remarkable and conclude that directly seizing humans would risk provoking Nuwa.
• Jieyin advises patience and suggests that, since Nuwa attained Sagehood through merit, they should seek opportunities to accumulate merit. The two depart to pursue that approach.

Character developments

• Fuxi shows firm independence, choosing his own path even though it means leaving his sister’s protection.
• Nuwa is deeply concerned for Fuxi and the humans, but accepts both his decision and humanity’s need to face hardship without her intervention.
• Jieyin is cautious and reflective: he restrains Zhunti’s reckless idea and proposes patience, travel, and merit-building instead.
• Zhunti remains ambitious and frustrated by the mystery of the Primordial Violet Qi, but ultimately follows Jieyin’s warning and advice.

Significant themes

• Destiny versus intervention: Even great power cannot—or should not—override the larger course set for humanity.
• Growth through hardship: Humans must survive and develop through their own resilience if they are to fulfill their role.
• Merit as a path to Sagehood: Nuwa’s achievement leads Jieyin to consider merit-building as a possible route to awakening their own Primordial Violet Qi.
• The limits of power and knowledge: The observers cannot identify what makes humans significant, and even Nuwa cannot simply reshape their fate.

Character interactions

• Nuwa and Fuxi part affectionately but disagree about whether it is safer to remain in Wa Huang Tian.
• The powerful visitors are deterred from approaching the humans by Nuwa’s lingering protective aura.
• Zhunti hints at exploiting the human race, but Jieyin immediately forbids it, emphasizing the danger of provoking Nuwa.
• Jieyin reassures Zhunti that their lack of progress is not unique and redirects him toward seeking merit.

Plot points and events

• After powerful beings stop watching from the void, Wu reflects on humanity’s vulnerability and resolves to help it develop faster.
• Hong—the Humanity Path in the form of a child—runs to Wu after Erya takes his beloved doll. Erya apologizes, and Hong generously lets her keep it after Wu promises to make him another.
• The next morning, Hong learns Erya has died after accidentally eating poisonous heartbreak grass. Grief-stricken, he rejects the returned doll and wishes only to play with her again.
• Hong’s sorrow causes his power to surge: blood rain falls across the Primordial Wilderness, spreading grief among its inhabitants. The Heavenly Dao and Earthly Dao observe but decide not to intervene.
• Wu calms Hong by explaining reincarnation and telling him Erya has entered the Netherworld Underworld. When Hong asks to see her, the Earthly Dao opens a passage, and Wu takes him there.

Character developments and interactions

• Wu balances concern for humanity’s future with patience and affection for Hong. He comforts Hong through grief, while recognizing that his current human form limits what he can do.
• Hong is introduced as powerful in essence but emotionally childlike. His attachment to the doll gives way to profound grief for Erya, revealing the dangerous force behind his emotions.
• Erya is kind and lively, apologizing for taking the doll; her sudden death makes the children’s promised outing impossible.
• Erya’s mother is devastated by her daughter’s death and returns the doll, prompting Hong’s realization that it no longer matters without Erya.
• The Earthly Dao quietly helps by opening a route to the Netherworld, while the Heavenly Dao agrees to let events unfold.

Significant themes

• Fragility and mortality: Humanity is vulnerable both to cosmic powers and to ordinary dangers in its world.
• Grief and attachment: Hong’s sorrow over a friend’s death overwhelms his childish concern for a possession.
• Power and emotion: Hong’s grief has consequences across the entire Primordial Wilderness, underscoring the danger of his hidden nature.
• Compassion and hope: Wu’s comfort and the promise of reincarnation offer Hong a way to face loss, though not to undo it.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu and Hong enter the Netherworld Underworld, drawing the attention of countless souls.
• Xuanming and Houtu, Wu's nieces, appear and sense a familiar aura from Wu.
• Xuanming playfully interacts with Hong, while Houtu apologizes to Wu for her sister's behavior.
• Wu reveals his identity, shocking Xuanming and Houtu.
• Wu introduces Hong as the Human Path, one of the wills of the Primordial world, astonishing Xuanming and Houtu.

Character Developments

• Wu: Maintains his mysterious and composed demeanor, revealing his identity to his nieces.
• Hong: Initially curious and disappointed, then assertive and confused upon learning about his identity.
• Xuanming: Playful and mischievous, initially unaware of Wu's identity, becomes shocked and respectful upon learning it.
• Houtu: Polite and apologetic, initially unaware of Wu's identity, becomes shocked and respectful upon learning it.

Significant Themes

• Identity and recognition: Characters struggle to recognize Wu's true identity and grapple with the implications of Hong's identity as the Human Path.
• Power dynamics: The presence of Wu and Hong, especially Hong's true identity, disrupts the power dynamics of the Netherworld Underworld.

Character Interactions

• Wu and Hong: Wu patiently explains the challenges of finding Er Ya to Hong, while Hong expresses his displeasure and later defiance.
• Wu and Xuanming/Houtu: Wu interacts with his nieces, revealing his identity and introducing Hong as the Human Path, causing them to reevaluate their behavior and Hong's true nature.
• Xuanming and Hong: Xuanming playfully teases Hong, while Hong initially resists and later expresses confusion about his identity.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu, Houtu, Xuanming, and Hong arrive in the Netherworld Underworld to find Erya.
• Wu reveals he's using a Human Race avatar with no cultivation.
• Houtu and Xuanming agree to help find Erya, who's near the entrance to Samsara.
• Erya's soul is revived temporarily to interact with Hong.
• Wu gifts a strand of Primordial Violet Qi to Houtu for her path to sainthood.
• Another strand of Primordial Violet Qi is sent to Minghe in the Sea of Blood.

Character Developments

• Wu: Shows care for Hong and understanding of the Netherworld's rules, refusing to interfere with Erya's Samsara.
• Houtu: Demonstrates respect and understanding towards Wu, accepting the Primordial Violet Qi for her path.
• Xuanming: Initially playful and mischievous, she becomes serious when reminded of the Human Path's karma.
• Hong: Exhibits genuine affection for Erya, accepting her eventual reincarnation as part of his cultivation trial.
• Erya: Briefly regains her memories and interacts with Hong before returning to her muddled state.

Significant Themes

• Cultivation and Growth: Hong's pain of separation is a trial for his cultivation.
• Interference and Non-Interference: Wu advises against interfering with Samsara's order.
• Gifts and Karma: Wu gifts Primordial Violet Qi to Houtu, while Xuanming avoids the Human Path's karma.

Character Interactions

• Wu and Hong: Wu guides Hong, helping him understand and accept Erya's reincarnation.
• Houtu and Xuanming: The sisters work together to find Erya and respect Wu's decisions.
• Hong and Erya: They briefly reunite, highlighting Hong's affection and Erya's temporary clarity.
• Wu and Houtu: Wu gifts Houtu Primordial Violet Qi, showing his support for her path.

Chapter Summary: “Parting”

Key plot points and events

• Wu realizes that the two strands of Primordial Violet Qi show Xuanxiao has sensed his earlier conversation with Houtu.
• As Wu and Hong prepare to leave the Netherworld, Hong says goodbye to Erya. Erya explains that she must be reincarnated, and Hong reluctantly accepts her departure.
• Hong’s farewell blesses Erya with Spirit Light from the Humanity Path. This allows her to enter the Heavenly Human Path—an unusually auspicious rebirth given the merit she earned in life. As Erya departs, Hong grows slightly taller, reflecting how experience and emotion accelerate his development.
• Houtu opens a spatial passage so Wu and Hong can leave. Xuanming urges Houtu to study the Primordial Violet Qi, warning that conflict between the Demon Race and the Immortal Court may draw in the Witch Clan. A path to Sagehood could offer the clan new hope.
• Back among the humans, Wu and Hong find that people respect them but also fear them. Wu comforts Erya’s mother, then announces that he and Hong are leaving.
• After nearly a century of travel, Wu returns to the human race’s Holy Land. The Three Ancestors welcome him and ask about his search for a cultivation method suited to humans.
• Wu explains that he must remain unawakened by other cultivation paths while developing a method from the beginning. He enters seclusion in the Martial Ancestor Hall, with Hong sleeping beside him.

Character developments and interactions

• Hong shows growing emotional maturity: he accepts that Erya must move on, offers her a heartfelt blessing, and asks Wu whether they might meet again. His feelings appear to advance his unusual growth.
• Erya accepts reincarnation as the beginning of her own journey. Her farewell with Hong is tender and bittersweet.
• Wu remains committed to creating a cultivation path specifically for humanity, even though refusing to cultivate himself carries risks. He also reassures Erya’s mother and continues to protect and guide Hong.
• Houtu considers the significance of the Primordial Violet Qi, while Xuanming presses her to prepare for rising political and military tensions.
• The Three Ancestors respect Wu’s dedication but initially worry that his refusal to cultivate could be dangerous. They ultimately accept his reasoning. They are also uneasy about caring for Hong because of his immense, difficult-to-control power.

Significant themes

• Parting and renewal: Erya’s reincarnation closes one chapter of her life, while Hong’s blessing offers hope for her next one.
• Emotional experience as growth: Hong’s feelings and relationships directly contribute to his development.
• Humanity’s independent path: Wu insists that humans need a cultivation method of their own, untainted by methods designed for other beings.
• Uncertain futures and preparation: The looming conflict among powerful factions makes Houtu’s potential path to Sagehood and Wu’s work for humanity especially urgent.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu attempts to unlock the Innate Dao Body's potential to advance the Human Race but faces initial failure and severe backlash, losing his cultivation.
• Wu spends 30,000 years in the Martial Hall, deducing cultivation methods, with frequent explosions indicating his progress.
• The Human Race's population growth is slow and stagnant, with high mortality rates among newborns.
• Human Race tribesmen venture out to explore and gather resources, facing high risks and casualties.
• The Holy Mother's protection is nearing its halfway point, raising concerns about the Human Race's survival.

Character Developments

• Wu: Persistent in his pursuit of unlocking the Human Race's potential, despite setbacks and the passage of time.
• Suirenshi: Pragmatic and determined to advance the Human Race, even at the cost of sacrifices.
• Youchaoshi: Worried about the Human Race's future and the loss of tribesmen, but understands the necessity of taking risks for growth.
• Ziyishi: Supports Suirenshi's decisions and is hopeful about the Human Race's prospects.

Significant Themes

• The struggle for survival and development of the Human Race in the Primordial World.
• The necessity of taking risks and making sacrifices for growth and progress.
• The importance of cultivating one's own strength rather than relying on external protection.

Character Interactions

• Wu and Hong: Hong's power unconsciously heals Wu's injuries, boosting his determination to continue his pursuit.
• Suirenshi, Youchaoshi, and Ziyishi: They discuss the Human Race's situation, with Suirenshi and Ziyishi advocating for taking risks, while Youchaoshi expresses concern for the losses incurred.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Laozi, guided by the Primordial Violet Qi, arrives at the shore of the East Sea, the land of the Human Race.
• Nuwa senses Laozi's arrival and understands that his chance to become a Saint is related to the Human Race.
• Laozi enters the Human Race settlement, observing their hunting and labor activities, comparing them to the Witch Clan.
• Laozi seeks an audience with Wu, his second uncle, in the Human Race's Holy Land to understand his connection to the Human Race.
• Wu advises Laozi to integrate into the Human Race to uncover its mysteries and his opportunity to become a Saint.

Character Developments

• Laozi: Shows excitement and anticipation upon arriving at the Human Race's land. He demonstrates respect and humility towards Nuwa and Wu, seeking their guidance.
• Nuwa: Recognizes Laozi's potential and decides not to interfere with his plans, hoping to gain a favor from him in the future.
• Wu: Maintains a calm and steady demeanor despite his strange physical state. He provides guidance to Laozi, revealing that integration into the Human Race is key to uncovering its mysteries.

Significant Themes

• The Human Race's uniqueness and potential for allowing Saints to be born.
• The importance of integration and understanding from within a group or species.
• The potential benefits and drawbacks of interfering with another's path to Sainthood.

Character Interactions

• Laozi and Nuwa: Laozi expresses gratitude to Nuwa for not interfering, while Nuwa acknowledges his potential and decides not to interfere.
• Laozi and Wu: Laozi seeks Wu's guidance, and Wu advises him to integrate into the Human Race to find his opportunity to become a Saint.

Chapter Summary: Martial Dao (Part 1)

Key Plot Points and Events

• After Laozi departs, Wu ends his secluded cultivation and examines the results of his research into the human body.
• He determines that the body contains 129,600 acupoints, including 1,296 major acupoints, each surrounded by 99 minor acupoints.
• Wu conceptualizes the human body as a miniature universe, with acupoints corresponding to stars and major acupoints functioning like small worlds.
• He develops the Martial Dao, a cultivation system based on visualization charts that allow practitioners to activate and strengthen their acupoints step by step.
• His ultimate creation is the Cosmic Visualization Chart, which maps the body’s acupoints onto a vast cosmic star system. It includes golden stars for the major acupoints, silver stars for the minor acupoints, and a lightning-filled central sea that serves as both an anchor and energy-refining furnace.
• Wu has already activated 30,600 acupoints, giving him strength comparable to a perfected Grand Unity Golden Immortal. He estimates that activating half the acupoints would make him a perfected Grand Luo Golden Immortal, while activating all of them could raise him to the perfected Primordial Golden Immortal realm.
• He also theorizes that awakening the Chaos Godfiends within the acupoints would allow him to advance into even higher realms, though these predictions remain untested.
• Wu creates hundreds of additional visualization charts for different cultivation paths and stores them in a copy of Book Mountain, intending to make them available to the human race.
• He leaves Martial Hall, resolving to spread Martial Dao and begin humanity’s rise.
• His emergence causes a major commotion, attracting Suirenshi, Youchaoshi, Ziyishi, the Twelve Zodiac Beasts, and many other humans, who eagerly ask whether he has found a cultivation method suitable for them.

Character Development

• Wu progresses from solitary researcher to a founder and teacher. His study of the body evolves into a complete cultivation system designed not only for himself but for the entire human race.
• His confidence grows as he recognizes that Martial Dao is nearing maturity, though he remains aware that its higher realms are still speculative and must be explored personally.
• The human race’s leaders and protectors become increasingly hopeful. Their longstanding frustration over humanity’s lack of an independent cultivation method gives way to anticipation at Wu’s breakthrough.
• Laozi’s future role is foreshadowed, as Wu expects him to create the Golden Core Great Dao and establish the Human Teachings.

Significant Themes

• The human body as a universe: Wu’s system reflects the idea that the body contains cosmic structures and infinite potential.
• Human self-reliance and advancement: Martial Dao is intended to give humanity its own path to strength rather than forcing it to depend on outside races or traditions.
• Knowledge and preparation: Wu creates many cultivation charts and preserves them in Book Mountain, emphasizing the importance of making wisdom accessible to future generations.
• The relationship between cultivation and civilization: The Taichu Realm has become a major center of learning and exchange, but humanity cannot fully participate until it develops sufficient strength.
• Exploration of the unknown: Wu’s predictions about higher realms are ambitious but uncertain, underscoring that Martial Dao is an unfinished path requiring continued discovery.

Character Interactions

• Wu briefly observes the sleeping Human Dao with amused helplessness, showing a softer and more personal side.
• He works independently after Laozi’s departure but remains connected to Laozi’s coming contributions to human cultivation.
• Upon Wu’s emergence, Ziyishi directly and urgently asks whether he has created a cultivation method for humanity, expressing the expectations of the entire race.
• Suirenshi, Youchaoshi, Ziyishi, and the Twelve Zodiac Beasts gather around Wu, reflecting their roles as humanity’s leaders and guardians.
• The Twelve Zodiac Beasts, despite being powerful Grand Unity Golden Immortals and having guided humans for years, admit through their anticipation that they have been unable to establish a truly effective cultivation system themselves.
  The chapter concludes just as Wu is about to reveal the Martial Dao to the gathered human race.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wu demonstrates his terrifying pressure and a cosmic star map, shocking the Twelve Zodiac Beasts and the Human Race leaders.
• Wu reveals the cultivation method he's comprehended, naming it "Martial Dao," with Visualization Method as its core.
• Wu shares the Martial Dao information with the Human Race leaders and the Twelve Zodiac Beasts.
• Wu presents a copy of the Supreme Grade Innate Spirit Treasure, Book Mountain, containing various visualization diagrams for Martial Dao cultivation.
• The Human Race leaders discuss how to distribute and manage the Martial Dao books.

Character Developments

• Wu: Shows his power and reveals the Martial Dao, bringing hope to the Human Race.
• The Twelve Zodiac Beasts: Recognize the uniqueness and potential of the Martial Dao, and Wu's background.
• The Human Race leaders: Express their excitement and determination to distribute the Martial Dao books.

Significant Themes

• Hope: The Martial Dao brings hope for the Human Race's future.
• Power and Respect: Wu's display of power earns him respect from the Twelve Zodiac Beasts and the Human Race leaders.
• Unity: The Human Race leaders and the Twelve Zodiac Beasts work together to plan the distribution of the Martial Dao books.

Character Interactions

• Wu and the Twelve Zodiac Beasts: Wu demonstrates his power, and the Zodiac Beasts acknowledge the Martial Dao's uniqueness.
• Wu and the Human Race leaders: Wu shares the Martial Dao and the Book Mountain, and the leaders express their gratitude and determination.
• The Human Race leaders among themselves: They discuss the distribution and management of the Martial Dao books, showing unity and cooperation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Laozi, in seclusion, is visited by his disciple Xuandu who brings a cultivation method called the Martial Dao, created by the Martial Ancestor (Wu).
• Laozi cannot view the Martial Dao visualization diagrams as he is not human, but he advises Xuandu to choose the Golden Core visualization diagram.
• After Xuandu chooses the Golden Core visualization diagram, the book dissipates, and Wu's voice transmission directs Laozi to the Taichu Realm's Book Mountain to exchange for the Martial Dao.
• Laozi exchanges for Martial Dao visualization diagrams and spends ten thousand years studying them.
• He creates the Golden Core Dao by combining his understanding of the Great Dao, Pill Dao, and the Human Race's Martial Dao.
• Laozi offers the Golden Core Dao to Xuandu, who accepts after some hesitation.

Character Developments

• Laozi: He demonstrates his wisdom, patience, and dedication to his disciple's cultivation. He also shows curiosity and respect for Wu's creation, the Martial Dao.
• Xuandu: Xuandu shows enthusiasm and eagerness in his cultivation journey. He is also respectful and trusting of his Master, Laozi. He initially hesitates to accept the Golden Core Dao but ultimately does so.

Significant Themes

• Cultivation and Growth: The chapter emphasizes the long-term dedication and effort required for cultivation and growth, both for the cultivator and the cultivation method itself.
• Master-Disciple Relationship: The bond between Laozi and Xuandu is highlighted, with Laozi patiently guiding Xuandu and Xuandu trusting and respecting his Master.

Character Interactions

• Laozi and Xuandu: Their interaction is characterized by mutual respect and trust. Laozi patiently guides Xuandu, while Xuandu is eager to learn from his Master.
• Laozi and Wu (Martial Ancestor): Although not directly interacting, Laozi's respect and curiosity towards Wu's creation, the Martial Dao, is evident.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuandu successfully forms a Golden Core, achieving Earth Immortal-level strength through Laozi’s Golden Core Dao. His breakthrough signifies that Laozi’s newly created cultivation path is nearing completion.
• At the same time, the Primordial Violet Qi within Laozi suddenly reacts, drawing in Heavenly Dao power and connecting with the Heaven-Opening Merit in his body. This suggests that Laozi is being pushed toward sainthood.
• Unwilling to become a Saint prematurely, Laozi calls for help from Yuanshi. A bolt of lightning enters his body and suppresses the disturbance, allowing Laozi to avoid immediate advancement. He then enters seclusion and instructs Xuandu to continue cultivating independently.
• The same brief disturbance affects the Primordial Violet Qi of Yuanshi, Tongtian, Zhenyuanzi, Jieyin, and Zhunti. None of them understand its cause, though Jieyin and Zhunti interpret it as a possible sign that their opportunities to attain sainthood are approaching.
• Zhunti reveals that he is anxious to become a Saint so that he and Jieyin can escape the control of a mysterious powerful figure. Jieyin quickly warns him not to speak carelessly.
• Various figures react to the developments. Zhenyuanzi worries about Hong Yun, while Mo Yuan realizes that Laozi may soon attain sainthood and begins considering whether he should advance as well.
• Gou Chen reaches the threshold of the Primordial Unity realm and undergoes his tribulation beyond Great Luo Heaven. Rather than resisting the lightning, he swallows the tribulation bolts and uses them to temper his body.
• After several hundred years, Gou Chen successfully survives the Primordial Unity Tribulation, attains the Primordial Unity realm, and enters seclusion to stabilize his cultivation.
• Other ancient powerhouses, including Ancestral Dragon and Shi Qilin, sense Gou Chen’s breakthrough. Mo Yuan considers advancing himself but ultimately decides to wait because his foundation is not yet fully prepared.

Character Developments

• Xuandu takes a major step forward by forming his Golden Core and becoming an Earth Immortal through the Golden Core Dao. His success validates Laozi’s cultivation system.
• Laozi demonstrates both mastery and caution. Although he is close to sainthood, he deliberately suppresses the process because he does not want to advance before he is ready.
• Yuanshi assists Laozi by sending lightning that calms the unstable Primordial Violet Qi, showing his ability to intervene decisively when necessary.
• Zhunti becomes increasingly anxious and desperate to attain sainthood, revealing that he and Jieyin are constrained by an unnamed superior force.
• Jieyin remains more composed and cautious, warning Zhunti to conceal sensitive information.
• Gou Chen displays overwhelming confidence and physical strength. He treats the terrifying tribulation as nourishment, proving the exceptional nature of his Thunder Great Dao cultivation.
• Mo Yuan shows prudence despite feeling pressure from the breakthroughs around him. He chooses not to force his own advancement until he is fully prepared.

Significant Themes

• The danger of premature advancement: Laozi’s refusal to attain sainthood immediately emphasizes that greater power is not always desirable if the timing and conditions are wrong.
• Cultivation and innovation: Xuandu’s Golden Core marks the maturation of Laozi’s original Dao, highlighting the importance of creating and successfully transmitting a new cultivation path.
• The Heavenly Dao’s influence: The disturbance in the Primordial Violet Qi suggests that the Heavenly Dao is actively shaping or accelerating the path toward sainthood.
• Patience versus anxiety: Zhunti’s desperation contrasts with Jieyin’s restraint and Mo Yuan’s caution, showing different responses to the pressure of pursuing higher realms.
• Overwhelming strength: Gou Chen’s effortless consumption of tribulation lightning establishes him as an exceptionally powerful cultivator and presents tribulation not merely as an obstacle, but as a resource for growth.
• Hidden control and freedom: Zhunti’s mention of escaping “that person’s control” introduces an underlying political and existential conflict involving powerful beings seeking independence.

Character Interactions

• Xuandu joyfully reports his breakthrough to Laozi, who responds with pride and approval.
• Laozi asks Yuanshi for assistance when his Primordial Violet Qi becomes unstable; Yuanshi’s lightning successfully suppresses the disturbance.
• Laozi then gives Xuandu instructions before departing for seclusion.
• Zhunti and Jieyin discuss the strange reaction in their Primordial Violet Qi. Zhunti voices his anxiety, while Jieyin cautions him against revealing their dependence on a mysterious controller.
• Zi Wei, Po Jun, Wen Qu, and the other Star Lords observe Gou Chen’s tribulation. They worry for him, but Zi Wei and Wen Qu reassure them that his strength and connection to the Dao Venerable make success likely.
• Gou Chen’s triumphant breakthrough is observed by multiple ancient powerhouses, including Shi Qilin and Mo Yuan, prompting them to reassess their own cultivation progress.

Chapter Summary: “Three Pure Ones Attain Sainthood”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Laozi senses that the time is right to break through to the Primordial Unity realm. To avoid harming humanity, he leaves the East Sea and travels to an uninhabited region before undergoing his tribulation.
• The Primordial Unity tribulation reacts strangely to the Heaven-Opening Merit within Laozi. Instead of attacking him with destructive lightning, it transforms into lightning tribulation liquid and flows into his body.
• The tribulation liquid rapidly strengthens Laozi, allowing him to break through effortlessly into the Primordial Grand Luo Golden Immortal realm.
• After his breakthrough, the lightning suppressing the Primordial Violet Qi in his body disappears. Laozi allows the Violet Qi to surge freely, triggering the process of attaining Sainthood.
• Laozi establishes the Human Teachings, promising to guide all virtuous beings—regardless of race—toward the righteous path and longevity. He uses the Taiji Diagram to suppress and stabilize the sect’s fortune.
• Vast merit descends, and Laozi becomes the first of the Three Pure Ones to attain the Dao and become a Sage.
• Yuanshi and Tongtian are inspired and affected by Laozi’s breakthrough. Their own Primordial Violet Qi and Heaven-Opening Merit resonate with his power, causing them to abandon their previous pursuit of Primordial Unity and accept the path to Sainthood.
• Yuanshi establishes the Chan Sect, focused on explaining the principles of the Dao, clarifying universal truths, and accepting beings with righteous foundations. He uses the Pangu Banner to suppress its fortune and becomes a Sage.
• Tongtian establishes the Interception Sect, whose doctrine welcomes all beings regardless of race, status, wisdom, or background. Its purpose is to offer every living creature a chance at immortality and a path to the Dao. He uses the Primordial Sword to suppress the sect’s fortune and also becomes a Sage.
• The Primordial Wilderness is shaken by the birth of three Sages in succession. Attention then turns toward the Western Mount Sumeru and the Mountain of Myriad Longevities, where three other holders of Primordial Violet Qi remain.

Character Developments

• Laozi demonstrates his calmness, compassion, and concern for humanity by choosing a remote breakthrough location. His effortless advancement reveals the immense advantage provided by Pangu’s Heaven-Opening Merit.
• Laozi moves from quietly pursuing cultivation to openly taking responsibility for guiding living beings. His establishment of Human Teachings reflects a more active and benevolent role.
• Yuanshi presents himself as a teacher of order, principles, and orthodox understanding. His Chan Sect emphasizes proper foundations and the clarification of the Dao.
• Tongtian reveals a more inclusive and compassionate philosophy. His Interception Sect seeks to give all beings, including those from different races and unconventional paths, an opportunity to cultivate.
• Yuanshi and Tongtian initially hesitate but ultimately follow Laozi’s example, accepting Sainthood rather than continuing to pursue Primordial Unity independently.
• Mo Yuan recognizes Laozi’s extraordinary strength and predicts that Laozi may soon rival or surpass Ancestral Dragon and the other powerful figures.
• Tongtian notices that Laozi’s Sage aura appears stronger than Nuwa’s, raising questions about the unusual source of Laozi’s power.

Significant Themes

• Merit and destiny: Laozi’s Heaven-Opening Merit transforms his tribulation and makes his advancement extraordinarily smooth, emphasizing the decisive role of accumulated merit.
• Pangu’s legacy: All three Pure Ones invoke their identity as Pangu’s orthodox descendants and continue his Dao lineage through their respective teachings.
• Different approaches to salvation: Human Teachings emphasize virtue, Chan Sect emphasizes understanding and orthodoxy, while Interception Sect emphasizes opportunity and universal inclusion.
• Leadership and responsibility: Attaining immense power is linked with establishing institutions to guide and save other living beings.
• Fate versus personal choice: Although the Three Pure Ones are connected by the same origin and Primordial Violet Qi, each chooses a distinct doctrine reflecting his personality and ideals.
• The widening power struggle: The simultaneous rise of three Sages changes the balance of power in the Primordial Wilderness and sets up the likely reactions of the remaining Violet Qi holders.

Important Character Interactions

• Laozi’s breakthrough indirectly stimulates Yuanshi and Tongtian through their shared connection as the Three Pure Ones.
• Yuanshi and Tongtian celebrate Laozi’s achievement, with Tongtian specifically questioning why Laozi’s aura surpasses Nuwa’s.
• Yuanshi and Tongtian appear before Laozi in their Dao-body forms and establish their teachings in succession, creating a symbolic moment of unity among the Three Pure Ones.
• Yuanshi looks toward Tongtian after attaining Sainthood, prompting Tongtian to deliver his own declaration.
• The wider living beings of the Primordial Wilderness collectively react with awe and shock, while powerful figures such as Mo Yuan assess the implications of Laozi’s rise.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhenyuanzi, after receiving guidance from Hongjun, establishes the Spirit Religion using the Book of Earth and his Ginseng Fruit Tree form to suppress its destiny, becoming the fifth Saint.
• Jieyin and Zhunti, brothers who cultivate the Buddhist path, establish the Western Religion together using the Blessing Vajra and Twelve-Grade Merit Golden Lotus. They borrow Merit from the Heavenly Dao to become Saints simultaneously, becoming the sixth and seventh Saints.

Character Developments

• Zhenyuanzi: Gains clarity on his path to Sainthood, establishes the Spirit Religion, and becomes the fifth Saint.
• Jieyin and Zhunti: Overcome their hesitation, establish the Western Religion together, and become the sixth and seventh Saints by borrowing Merit from the Heavenly Dao.

Significant Themes

• The path to Sainthood and the challenges faced by cultivators.
• The role of religions in guiding and protecting beings in the Primordial World.
• The consequences of borrowing Merit from the Heavenly Dao and the potential control it exerts.

Character Interactions

• Zhenyuanzi and Hongjun: Hongjun guides Zhenyuanzi towards his path to Sainthood.
• Jieyin and Zhunti: The brothers support each other in their decision to establish the Western Religion and become Saints together.
• The Six Saints: They acknowledge each other's achievements and express congratulations upon becoming Saints.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The beings of the Primordial Wilderness witness Jieyin and Zhunti attaining Sagehood through borrowed Heavenly Dao Merit. Many wonder whether merit can be borrowed for cultivation, but Xuanxiao recognizes that their success depends primarily on possessing Primordial Violet Qi and forming a karmic connection with the Heavenly Dao.
• The chapter explains that Jieyin and Zhunti’s merit is not a free gift: they owe a massive karmic debt to the Heavenly Dao. Because their primordial spirits are entrusted to the Heavenly Dao, they must constantly serve it and participate in major events to repay what they borrowed.
• After becoming Sages, Zhenyuanzi announces that he will go to the Outer Heaven to establish his own world. Newly ascended Sages are expected to create worlds there to strengthen and defend the Primordial World.
• The chapter clarifies why several powerful figures have not opened Outer Heavenly worlds:
  • Xuanxiao is too occupied with other responsibilities.
  • Yang Mei guards the Netherworld Underworld.
  • Luohu’s Demon Realm already serves as the Primordial World’s balancing dark side.
  • Gou Chen’s world is integrated into Great Luo Heaven rather than located in the Outer Heaven.
• Zhenyuanzi, Jieyin, and Zhunti depart. The Three Pure Ones remain briefly, exchange a meaningful glance, and then leave after Tongtian displays a suspiciously mischievous smile.
• Gou Chen, observing Tongtian’s expression from Great Luo Heaven, suddenly understands the Three Pure Ones’ plan. He becomes excited and immediately leaves to take action.
• Meanwhile, the Starry Sky Clan discusses Xi He’s request for assistance against the Immortal Court. Although Xi He is their sister and now the Demon Race’s Empress, the clan decides not to intervene, fearing that involvement in the Demon Race’s conflict will create lasting complications.
• Zi Wei agrees to personally explain the refusal to Xi He and travels to the Demon Race. The other Star Lords disperse.
• Gou Chen, pleased to remain uninvolved in the political dispute, focuses instead on his own “more important” matter. The chapter ends with a horrifying scream echoing across heaven and earth, apparently connected to the Three Pure Ones’ departure and Gou Chen’s new scheme.

Character Developments

• Xuanxiao demonstrates deep insight into the nature of Heavenly Dao Merit and karmic debt. He understands that Jieyin and Zhunti’s Sagehood comes with severe obligations rather than true freedom.
• Jieyin and Zhunti are portrayed as unwilling servants of the Heavenly Dao. Their frequent interference in Primordial Wilderness affairs is explained as the result of pressure to repay their enormous debt.
• Zhenyuanzi accepts the responsibilities of Sagehood and takes the initiative to establish a world in the Outer Heaven.
• Tongtian reveals a cunning and playful side through his unexplained smile, suggesting that the Three Pure Ones have devised some unusual plan.
• Gou Chen proves perceptive by immediately understanding Tongtian’s intention. He is also shown as pragmatic and unwilling to become entangled in the Demon Race’s conflict.
• Zi Wei acts as the responsible leader of the Starry Sky Clan, making the final decision to reject Xi He’s request and taking responsibility for delivering the message.
• Xi He is shown as increasingly devoted to her role as Demon Race Empress, creating tension between her political loyalties and her relationship with her Starry Sky Clan siblings.

Significant Themes

• Power comes with obligation: Sagehood and Heavenly Dao Merit are not simply sources of strength; they impose binding karmic debts and responsibilities.
• Heavenly control and lack of freedom: Jieyin and Zhunti’s fate illustrates how even Sages can become tools of the Heavenly Dao when their power is obtained through debt.
• Balance within the world: The Netherworld, Demon Realm, and Outer Heavenly worlds each serve structural purposes in maintaining the Primordial World’s stability.
• Political neutrality versus family loyalty: The Starry Sky Clan struggles between helping Xi He as a sister and avoiding involvement in the Demon Race–Immortal Court conflict.
• Hidden schemes and impending consequences: Tongtian’s mysterious smile, Gou Chen’s sudden departure, and the final scream create suspense around an unseen plan whose effects are likely to be severe.

Important Character Interactions

• Xuanxiao mentally evaluates the other beings’ misunderstanding of borrowed merit and recognizes the hidden cost behind Jieyin and Zhunti’s advancement.
• The newly ascended Sages exchange farewells as they depart to fulfill their respective duties.
• The Three Pure Ones communicate silently through their exchanged glances, with Tongtian’s grin conveying a plan understood only by his brothers and Gou Chen.
• The Star Lords debate whether to answer Xi He’s request for aid. Wen Qu emphasizes neutrality, Wu Qu worries about hurting Xi He, and Zi Wei ultimately settles the matter.
• Zi Wei takes on the task of speaking with Xi He directly, while Gou Chen deliberately distances himself from the dispute.
• The closing scream links Gou Chen’s mysterious mission to the Three Pure Ones’ apparent scheme and sets up the chapter’s impending tragedy.

Summary: “The Cautious One Among the Cautious”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Mo Yuan realizes from Tongtian’s laughter that the newly ascended Three Pure Ones intend to ambush him before he reaches Primordial Unity.
• He immediately flees Immortal Volcano, using concealment techniques, karma-hiding abilities, and numerous powerful talismans to erase his trail.
• After repeatedly shifting locations, Mo Yuan hides in a desolate region of nothingness and briefly believes he is safe.
• Tongtian soon appears, reminding him that Sages can easily track and locate him. The Three Pure Ones—Laozi, Yuanshi, and Tongtian—confront Mo Yuan.
• Mo Yuan adopts a submissive, flattering attitude, claiming that he is merely “judging the situation,” while secretly vowing revenge.
• The Three Pure Ones attack him with their supreme treasures: Tongtian’s Primordial Sword, Laozi’s Taiji Diagram, and Yuanshi’s Pangu Banner. His defensive seals are destroyed, and he is brutally beaten.
• Gou Chen arrives and is invited to join the assault. Although he initially appears sympathetic, he admits that the others have already beaten Mo Yuan so badly that he feels embarrassed to hit him.
• Just as Gou Chen strikes him, Mo Yuan transforms into a jade token, revealing that the target was only a substitute clone.
• The Three Pure Ones and Gou Chen are shocked that they failed to detect the deception.
• In reality, Mo Yuan used the Jade Talisman Xuanxiao gave him to teleport to the Primordial Realm. Everything after his escape was staged through a highly convincing substitute body.
• Safe in the Primordial Realm, Mo Yuan smugly reflects on his successful trick. He acknowledges that he should eventually reach the Primordial Grand Luo Golden Immortal realm, though he still shows no immediate intention of breaking through.

Character Developments

• Mo Yuan: Demonstrates extreme caution, resourcefulness, and talent for survival. Although outwardly cowardly and submissive, he remains cunning and vengeful, successfully deceiving multiple powerful immortals and escaping punishment.
• Tongtian: Enjoys humiliating Mo Yuan and takes the lead in provoking and beating him. His confidence in the Three Pure Ones’ superiority is undermined by Mo Yuan’s escape.
• Yuanshi: Mocks Mo Yuan’s sudden submissiveness, revealing familiarity with his normally unruly personality.
• Laozi: Usually composed and restrained, but even he takes pleasure in Mo Yuan’s predicament and participates in the attack.
• Gou Chen: Appears more compassionate than the Three Pure Ones, but ultimately joins the mockery and attempts to strike Mo Yuan.
• The Three Pure Ones collectively: Their recent Sagehood gives them overwhelming power, but their failure to detect Mo Yuan’s substitute leaves them shocked and frustrated.

Significant Themes

• Caution and survival: Mo Yuan’s careful preparation and willingness to flee allow him to overcome opponents far stronger than himself.
• Deception versus raw power: Despite the Three Pure Ones’ superior cultivation and treasures, Mo Yuan defeats their expectations through disguise and misdirection rather than direct combat.
• Humiliation and revenge: The beating is treated as comic revenge for Mo Yuan’s past behavior, while Mo Yuan privately promises to retaliate once he becomes powerful enough.
• Overconfidence: The Three Pure Ones assume they have cornered Mo Yuan, and their certainty prevents them from recognizing the clone.
• Power progression: Mo Yuan’s escape emphasizes both the limits of his current cultivation and the growing need for him to attain the Primordial Grand Luo Golden Immortal realm.

Character Interactions

• Mo Yuan flatters the Three Pure Ones while secretly insulting and threatening them in his thoughts.
• Yuanshi and Tongtian tease Mo Yuan over his change from an unruly figure into a submissive one.
• The Three Pure Ones bond through their shared amusement at punishing Mo Yuan.
• Gou Chen’s arrival turns the beating into a group spectacle; his apparent sympathy quickly becomes another source of humiliation.
• Mo Yuan’s final transformation into a jade token reverses the power dynamic, leaving all four attackers embarrassed and impressed by his ingenuity.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gou Chen, Tongtian, and Yuanshi decide to create their own worlds in the Thirty-three Heavens after failing to find Mo Yuan's avatar.
• Zi Wei, enraged after an argument with Xi He, greets the Three Pure Ones and Gou Chen.
• Xi He, upset about her brothers' refusal to help the Demon Race, discusses the Little Golden Crows' misbehavior with Di Jun.
• Di Jun decides to exile the Little Golden Crows to the South Sea to temper their character and appease the Demon Race's people.

Character Developments

• Gou Chen shows regret for not finding Mo Yuan's avatar and agrees to create worlds in the Thirty-three Heavens.
• Zi Wei shows anger and frustration regarding Xi He's actions.
• Xi He shows concern for her children and reluctance to let them be exiled, but ultimately agrees for their own good.
• Di Jun shows firmness in his decision to exile the Little Golden Crows and patience in explaining his reasons to Xi He.

Significant Themes

• Family bonds and responsibilities (Gou Chen's concern for his clan, Xi He's love for her children)
• Growth and tempering (Di Jun's decision to exile the Little Golden Crows to help them grow)
• Consequences of actions (Di Jun's decision to exile the Little Golden Crows due to their misbehavior)

Character Interactions

• Gou Chen, Tongtian, and Yuanshi discuss their plans to create worlds together.
• Zi Wei greets the Three Pure Ones and Gou Chen, showing respect and familiarity.
• Xi He and Di Jun discuss the Little Golden Crows' misbehavior, with Di Jun making the final decision to exile them.
• Xi He shows reluctance to let her children be exiled but ultimately agrees, showing her understanding of Di Jun's reasons.