Chapter Summaries

Key plot points and events

• With a year remaining before Hongjun’s lecture, Xuanxiao and the Three Pure Ones are invited to wait inside Zixiao Palace. Hongjun gives them seats, including three Heavenly Dao cushions to the Three Pure Ones.
• Xuanxiao recognizes the cushions’ value but considers them inferior to his Primordial Hall. He then calculates the true basis of the six future Sage seats and learns that only the Three Pure Ones’ seats are certain; the others depend on the right candidates and the balance between East and West.
• He observes prominent arrivals outside the palace, including Di Jun and Tai Yi, whose Demon Alliance is already gathering power. Xuanxiao expects the Demon Race to emerge, though he doubts it can easily unite the Primordial Wilderness.
• He also sees Hong Yun and Zhenyuanzi. Recalling Hong Yun’s traditionally tragic fate after surrendering a seat, Xuanxiao investigates and discovers that Hong Yun’s karmic connection with Kunpeng predates their births and is tied to both beings’ origins.

Character developments and interactions

• Xuanxiao demonstrates confidence in his insight and power, using calculations to question the history he remembers. He accepts that the Three Pure Ones benefit from their connection to Pangu, viewing their privileged position as deserved.
• Hongjun calmly hosts Xuanxiao and the Three Pure Ones, offering them places to sit.
• The Three Pure Ones accept Hongjun’s invitation and react with surprise to the cushions’ effects.
• Di Jun and Tai Yi appear as leaders associated with the growing Demon Alliance; Xuanxiao watches them but does not intervene.
• Hong Yun and Zhenyuanzi arrive together, with Hong Yun cheerful and Zhenyuanzi appearing resigned. Xuanxiao’s concern centers on Hong Yun’s possible future choices and their consequences.

Significant themes

• Destiny versus effort: Sagehood may look predetermined, but most seats go to those who earn them through cultivation, origins, and opportunity.
• Balance and cosmic order: The Heavenly Dao’s distribution of Sage seats reflects an East–West balance as well as the importance of the Great Dao of Creation.
• Unreliable inherited knowledge: Xuanxiao realizes that his remembered account was incomplete, since it came from beings unable to know the world’s deeper truths.
• Karma and hidden connections: Hong Yun and Kunpeng’s conflict has roots far older than their famous later encounter, suggesting that fate is shaped by unseen ties.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The chapter reveals the origins of the connection between Hong Yun and Kunpeng, linking both to the ancient Innate Divine Being Hun Kun.
• Hun Kun, one of the earliest and most powerful beings in the Primordial World, supported Hongjun’s faction against Shen Ni and the other Fierce Beasts, who sought to destroy the Primordial Wilderness.
• Although Hun Kun remained friends with Shen Ni and his allies, their ideological conflict led to the Fierce Beast Tribulation. His excessive trust resulted in him being ambushed and killed by those former friends.
• Before dying, Hun Kun’s true spirit split into two parts:
  • One part, carrying resentment from the betrayal, was absorbed by Kunpeng.
  • The other merged into Hong Yun before Hong Yun developed consciousness.
• Because of this shared origin, Hong Yun and Kunpeng are effectively continuations of Hun Kun and may eventually have been destined to fight over the other half of his spiritual inheritance.
• Xuanxiao reflects that their conflict might have occurred even without the famous incident involving Kunpeng giving up his seat in Zixiao Palace.
• The chapter clarifies that Hong Yun and Kunpeng originally obtained seats in Zixiao Palace partly because Hongjun owed Hun Kun a debt. Hun Kun had sacrificed himself to save Hongjun during the Fierce Beast Tribulation.
• Hongjun intended the seats as repayment, but the Heavenly Dao had reserved them for the Western pair, Jieyin and Zhunti. Hongjun’s plan therefore failed, though he later compensated Hong Yun with the final Primordial Violet Qi.
• In the remembered future, Hong Yun’s possession of the Violet Qi led to his tragic death, while Kunpeng suffered after creating the Demon Script and was forced to place his true spirit inside the Monster Summoning Banner.
• Xuanxiao recognizes that the current altered timeline may change both characters’ eventual fates.
• The chapter then shifts to the arrival of Ancestral Dragon, Yuanfeng, Shi Qilin, and Gui Mi outside Zixiao Palace to attend Hongjun’s lecture.
• Their arrival surprises the gathered cultivators because the four had previously withdrawn after establishing the Five Spirits Guardian Great Array.
• The four jokingly argue over why they came, ultimately admitting that all of them—including Yuanfeng and likely the others—came to hear Hongjun expound the Dao.
• They notice that Luohu is absent and debate whether he stayed away out of embarrassment because of his hostile relationship with Hongjun or whether he would still attend given his proximity to proving the Dao.

Character Developments

• Hun Kun is portrayed as powerful, sociable, trusting, and tragically naïve. His betrayal demonstrates the danger of kindness and misplaced faith in the Primordial World.
• Hong Yun inherits Hun Kun’s benevolent and friendship-oriented nature, making him vulnerable despite his connection to a powerful ancient spirit.
• Kunpeng inherits Hun Kun’s resentful half and develops a personality very different from Hun Kun’s, suggesting that betrayal fundamentally shaped his worldview.
• Hongjun is shown to possess a genuine sense of loyalty and indebtedness toward Hun Kun. His attempt to reward Hong Yun and Kunpeng was motivated by personal karma rather than manipulation by the Heavenly Dao.
• Xuanxiao acts as an insightful observer, connecting past events to possible future consequences while recognizing that the changed timeline may alter destiny.
• Ancestral Dragon, Yuanfeng, and Shi Qilin display pride and mild embarrassment but ultimately acknowledge their shared desire to learn from Hongjun.
• Gui Mi remains slow, detached, and half-asleep, contributing comic relief through his lethargic responses.

Significant Themes

• Betrayal and misplaced trust: Hun Kun’s death shows how friendship can become a fatal weakness in a world governed by power and survival.
• Cycles of karma and inheritance: Hong Yun and Kunpeng inherit not only Hun Kun’s spiritual essence but also the consequences of his past relationships and unresolved resentment.
• Fate versus altered destiny: Xuanxiao questions whether the remembered outcomes of Hong Yun and Kunpeng will still occur after the Primordial World’s history has changed.
• The cruelty of the cultivation world: Kindhearted figures such as Hun Kun and Hong Yun struggle to survive amid political conflict, ambition, and competition.
• Personal karma versus cosmic law: Hongjun’s debt to Hun Kun conflicts with the Heavenly Dao’s larger arrangements, showing the tension between individual obligations and predetermined order.
• The value of knowledge and opportunity: Even powerful ancient beings are willing to set aside pride and old agreements to attend Hongjun’s lecture.

Character Interactions

• Hun Kun’s friendship with Shen Ni and the other Fierce Beasts becomes the central source of his downfall when those allies turn against him.
• Hun Kun’s sacrifice creates a lasting bond of debt between himself and Hongjun, influencing the later allocation of the Zixiao Palace seats and the Primordial Violet Qi.
• Hong Yun and Kunpeng are connected through the two halves of Hun Kun’s true spirit, making their future conflict both personal and metaphysical.
• Xuanxiao silently observes Hongjun, causing Hongjun to worry that he has somehow offended the Dao Venerable.
• The four ancient beings engage in teasing and accusations, with Ancestral Dragon confronting Yuanfeng and Shi Qilin about their decision to attend the lecture.
• Shi Qilin resolves the disagreement by pointing out that all four are motivated by the same desire to hear the Dao.
• Their discussion of Luohu highlights the complicated relationship between Luohu and Hongjun and foreshadows possible tension surrounding the lecture.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• During the gathering outside Zixiao Palace, Luohu secretly possesses a fox at the mid-stage Grand Unity Golden Immortal realm by becoming its Heart Demon. The fox is close to breaking through to the late stage, giving Luohu a convenient excuse to enter the area and listen to Hongjun’s Dao sermon without appearing to acknowledge Hongjun directly.
• Luohu rationalizes that he is not truly attending the sermon voluntarily: he is merely parasitizing the fox as part of its impending Heart Demon Tribulation. He takes pride in having found this loophole despite his past rivalry and defeat by Hongjun.
• Xuanxiao sees through Luohu’s scheme. He realizes that the sermon is supported not only by Hongjun but also by the Heavenly Dao, which is using the event to strengthen the prestige of the Sage path. The Heavenly Dao will therefore not tolerate Luohu exploiting the gathering.
• Xuanxiao predicts that once the fox enters Zixiao Palace, the Heavenly Dao’s power will forcibly expel Luohu from its body.
• Xuanxiao reflects on the Primordial World’s limited capacity to support top-level experts. At present, it can accommodate only about twelve Sages or Primordial Grand Luo Golden Immortals, so the Heavenly Dao favors the creation of Sages—whom it can control—over independent Primordial Grand Luo Golden Immortals. Primordial Violet Qi is mentioned as a means of accelerating the birth of Sages.
• Xuanxiao decides to summon Gou Chen and the Ancestral Witches to hear the sermon, viewing the opportunity as beneficial and not considering attendance an acknowledgment of Hongjun’s superiority.
• While sensing Gou Chen’s location, Xuanxiao discovers that something unexpected has happened and immediately leaves the palace through a spatial gate without explaining himself to Hongjun.
• Hongjun is puzzled by Xuanxiao’s sudden departure, while the Three Pure Ones speculate that Gou Chen or the Ancestral Witches may have caused trouble.
• Elsewhere, the Ancestral Witches and the Witch Clan are in the Sea of Blood, consuming its foul substances and completely ignoring Hongjun’s sermon.

Character Developments

• Luohu is shown as cunning, prideful, and unwilling to openly submit to Hongjun. Despite being reduced to a defeated remnant, he remains resourceful and determined to seize opportunities for cultivation. His self-justification reveals both his lingering rivalry with Hongjun and his wounded pride.
• Xuanxiao demonstrates his superior insight and authority. He easily identifies Luohu’s plan, understands the Heavenly Dao’s larger political and spiritual objectives, and treats Hongjun as an administrator acting on behalf of the greater order.
• Hongjun appears powerful but comparatively uninformed. He cannot determine why Xuanxiao leaves, highlighting the gap between their status and abilities.
• Laozi provides a calm and perceptive interpretation of Xuanxiao’s departure, correctly suspecting that it concerns Gou Chen or the Ancestral Witches.
• Yuanshi displays bias against the Ancestral Witches and takes pleasure in the possibility that Xuanxiao may punish them.
• Tongtian shows his stronger emotional connection to the Ancestral Witches, worrying that Xuanxiao may deal with them too harshly.
• The Ancestral Witches remain unconcerned with orthodox cultivation politics, focusing instead on strengthening the Witch Clan by devouring the Sea of Blood’s corruption.

Significant Themes

• Pride and rivalry: Luohu’s refusal to attend Hongjun’s sermon openly reflects his inability to accept Hongjun’s victory and superior status.
• Cunning versus cosmic authority: Luohu believes he has found a loophole, but the Heavenly Dao’s broader control over the event makes his scheme futile.
• The rise of the Sage path: The Heavenly Dao actively shapes the Primordial World’s development by encouraging beings to become Sages rather than uncontrollable Primordial Grand Luo Golden Immortals.
• Power hierarchy and legitimacy: Xuanxiao regards Hongjun as a subordinate manager rather than an equal, emphasizing the difference between nominal authority and true influence.
• Cultivation and resource limits: The world’s limited capacity for supreme experts affects the Heavenly Dao’s policies and the future balance of power.
• Factional relationships: The different reactions of the Three Pure Ones reveal their differing attitudes toward Xuanxiao, Gou Chen, and the Ancestral Witches.

Character Interactions

• Luohu and Hongjun: Their former rivalry continues to shape Luohu’s behavior, even though Hongjun has become a Sage and Luohu has fallen.
• Xuanxiao and Luohu: Xuanxiao silently observes and understands Luohu’s deception, positioning himself as the superior strategist.
• Xuanxiao and Hongjun: Xuanxiao treats Hongjun as a useful subordinate, while Hongjun remains respectful but uncertain about Xuanxiao’s actions.
• The Three Pure Ones: Laozi, Yuanshi, and Tongtian communicate privately through exchanged glances. Laozi reasons calmly, Yuanshi expects the Ancestral Witches to be punished, and Tongtian worries about them.
• Xuanxiao and Gou Chen/Ancestral Witches: Xuanxiao intends to bring them to the sermon but abruptly departs after sensing trouble connected to them, setting up the chapter’s unresolved conflict.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuanxiao arrives in the Primordial Starry Sky for the first time.
• He meets Dou Mu Yuan Jun, the Mother of All Stars, who is accompanied by eight Star Lords, including Gou Chen.
• Gou Chen is in a coma, preparing to inherit the position of Lord of All Stars from Dou Mu Yuan Jun.
• Xuanxiao learns that Gou Chen will wake up within a year and that Dou Mu Yuan Jun regrets nothing about her decision to pass on her position.

Character Developments

• Xuanxiao: Shows nostalgia for his past battles and concern for Gou Chen's awakening.
• Dou Mu Yuan Jun: Reveals her understanding of her condition and her decision to pass on her position to Gou Chen for the sake of the Primordial Starry Sky.
• Gou Chen: Is in a coma, absorbing the power of the Lord of All Stars position, and will wake up within a year.

Significant Themes

• Power and Responsibility: Dou Mu Yuan Jun's decision to pass on her power to Gou Chen, understanding the importance of a Lord of All Stars for the Primordial Starry Sky.
• Fate and Destiny: Gou Chen's birth during a war and his subsequent journey to Thunder Marsh, influenced by the Thunder Great Dao.
• Regret and Acceptance: Dou Mu Yuan Jun's acceptance of her condition and her past decisions.

Character Interactions

• Xuanxiao and Dou Mu Yuan Jun: They recognize each other from the past, with Xuanxiao showing concern for Gou Chen's awakening.
• Dou Mu Yuan Jun and the Star Lords: They respectfully greet Xuanxiao upon Dou Mu Yuan Jun's command.
• Dou Mu Yuan Jun and Gou Chen: Implicitly, Dou Mu Yuan Jun is passing on her power and position to Gou Chen, showing faith in his future role as Lord of All Stars.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Dou Mu Yuan Jun, the Mother of All Stars, is nearing the end of her life and entrusts Gou Chen with the position of Lord of All Stars.
• Gou Chen successfully inherits the position, merging with the power of the stars.
• Dou Mu Yuan Jun falls into a deep slumber, leaving Gou Chen in charge of the Primordial Starry Sky.
• Xuanxiao promises to take care of Gou Chen and brings him, along with Zi Wei and the other eight star lords, to listen to Hongjun's sermon.
• Xuanxiao also brings the Ancestral Witches and, unintentionally, Minghe to the sermon.

Character Developments

• Gou Chen: Becomes the new Lord of All Stars, taking on the responsibility of protecting the Primordial Starry Sky. He shows concern for his mother's well-being and gratitude towards Xuanxiao.
• Dou Mu Yuan Jun: Falls into a deep slumber, entrusting Gou Chen with her powers and responsibilities. She expresses relief and confidence in Gou Chen's abilities.
• Xuanxiao: Demonstrates his role as a master and mentor, promising to take care of Gou Chen and bringing him and other star lords to Hongjun's sermon. He also brings the Ancestral Witches and Minghe, showing his foresight and influence.

Significant Themes

• Succession and Responsibility: The chapter explores the theme of succession, with Dou Mu Yuan Jun entrusting her powers and responsibilities to Gou Chen. Gou Chen, in turn, accepts these responsibilities, demonstrating his growth and maturity.
• Mentorship and Guidance: Xuanxiao's actions highlight the importance of mentorship and guidance, as he takes Gou Chen and other star lords under his wing, providing them with opportunities for growth and learning.

Character Interactions

• Dou Mu Yuan Jun and Gou Chen: Their interaction shows a mother's love and trust in her son, as Dou Mu Yuan Jun entrusts Gou Chen with her powers and responsibilities before falling into a deep slumber.
• Xuanxiao and Gou Chen: Xuanxiao's interaction with Gou Chen demonstrates his role as a master and mentor, promising to take care of Gou Chen and providing him with opportunities for growth.
• Xuanxiao and Hongjun: Their interaction shows Xuanxiao's respect for Hongjun's abilities and his desire to bring more people to listen to Hongjun's sermon, indicating his support for Hongjun's path to Dao.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuanxiao brings Minghe, Gou Chen, and the Ancestral Witches to Zixiao Palace for Hongjun's sermon.
• Xuanxiao punishes the Ancestral Witches and the Three Pure Ones with Divine Thunder to stop their argument.
• Xuanxiao summons Mo Yuan and two bolts of Divine Thunder to join them.
• Haotian and Yaochi open the doors of Zixiao Palace, allowing the crowd to enter.

Character Developments

• Xuanxiao demonstrates his power and authority, showing no mercy to those who displease him.
• Minghe shows fear and anxiety around Xuanxiao but is relieved when he learns he's there for his benefit.
• Mo Yuan switches from boastful to submissive upon realizing Xuanxiao is present.
• The Ancestral Dragon and the other three feel pressured upon entering Zixiao Palace and seeing Xuanxiao.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and authority, as seen through Xuanxiao's interactions with others.
• The anticipation and importance of Hongjun's sermon, drawing a large crowd.

Character Interactions

• Xuanxiao interacts with Minghe, Mo Yuan, and the Ancestral Witches, displaying dominance and control.
• The Ancestral Dragon and the other three interact with Xuanxiao, feeling his pressure and authority.
• Haotian and Yaochi work together to open the doors of Zixiao Palace.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ancestral Dragon and three others leave their posts to attend the gathering, causing unease when confronted by Xuanxiao.
• Futons placed in Zixiao Palace are avoided by attendees due to their perceived significance and fear of causing offense.
• Nuwa, Houtu, and Xuanming discuss Xuanxiao's preferences, overheard by him, leading to his frustration.

Character Developments

• Xuanxiao: Shows concern for the stability of the Primordial Era and disapproval of Ancestral Dragon's group leaving their posts. He feels helpless and frustrated due to misunderstandings about his preferences.
• Ancestral Dragon and others: Display unease and hesitation when confronted by Xuanxiao, showing their respect for his authority.
• Nuwa, Houtu, and Xuanming: Discuss Xuanxiao's preferences, revealing their curiosity and naivety.

Significant Themes

• Respect and Fear of Authority: Attendees show deference to Xuanxiao's presence and Ancestral Dragon's group's actions reflect their respect for his authority.
• Misunderstandings and Reputation: Xuanxiao's reputation is damaged due to misunderstandings about his preferences, highlighting the theme of reputation and its fragility.

Character Interactions

• Xuanxiao and Ancestral Dragon: Their interaction shows Xuanxiao's disapproval of Ancestral Dragon's group leaving their posts and their respect for his authority.
• Nuwa, Houtu, and Xuanming: Their interaction reveals their curiosity and naivety, as well as their misunderstanding of Xuanxiao's preferences.
• Attendees and Futons: Attendees' interaction with the futons shows their wariness, fear of causing offense, and the perceived significance of the futons.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shi Qilin sees Mo Yuan lying beside Xuanxiao, questioning how Mo Yuan became Xuanxiao's mount.
• Mo Yuan and Shi Qilin communicate via telepathy, with Mo Yuan boasting about his status and Shi Qilin expressing anger and disbelief.
• Xuanxiao overhears their conversation and finds it amusing.
• Ancestral Dragon and Yuan Feng secretly plot to send their clan members to Xuanxiao's tutelage.
• Shi Qilin reflects on Mo Yuan's flaws but decides to have him learn to please Xuanxiao for the Kirin Clan's future.
• Luohu, the Demon Ancestor, arrives hidden in a fox. He reveals himself after Hongjun exposes his presence.
• Luohu attempts to sit on the futon meant for a Heavenly Dao Saint, surprising Hongjun and Xuanxiao.

Character Developments

• Mo Yuan: Proves to Shi Qilin that he has become Xuanxiao's mount, showing pride and a hint of arrogance.
• Shi Qilin: Struggles to accept Mo Yuan's status, initially disbelieving and angry, but later decides to support Mo Yuan for the Kirin Clan's sake.
• Xuanxiao: Observes the interactions between Shi Qilin and Mo Yuan, finding amusement in their conversation.
• Luohu: Arrives at Zixiao Palace hidden, revealing himself after being exposed by Hongjun. Attempts to sit on the Heavenly Dao Saint's futon to provoke Hongjun.

Significant Themes

• Pride and arrogance (Mo Yuan)
• Disbelief and acceptance (Shi Qilin)
• Amusement and provocation (Xuanxiao, Luohu)
• Support for one's clan (Shi Qilin)

Character Interactions

• Mo Yuan and Shi Qilin: Telepathic communication filled with pride, anger, and eventual acceptance.
• Xuanxiao and Shi Qilin/Mo Yuan: Observes their interaction, finding amusement in their conversation.
• Luohu and Hongjun: Luohu provokes Hongjun by attempting to sit on the Heavenly Dao Saint's futon.
• Ancestral Dragon and Yuan Feng: Secretly plot to send their clan members to Xuanxiao's tutelage, jealous of Mo Yuan's status.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Hongjun's original plan for Zixiao Palace is disrupted by Xuanxiao's appearance.
• The futons meant to be the center of attention are ignored due to Xuanxiao's presence.
• Luohu attempts to sit on a specific futon, but Hongjun prevents him, causing Luohu's resentment.
• Hongjun pushes Luohu to stand with Ancestral Dragon and others, causing Luohu to vow revenge.
• Shi Qilin stands up to Luohu, revealing his son's connection to Xuanxiao.
• Luohu dismisses Shi Qilin but decides not to engage further.
• Hongjun looks to the Heavenly Dao for answers, feeling helpless about the changes.

Character Developments

• Hongjun: Shows distress and helplessness as his plans are disrupted. He demonstrates his power as a Saint by pushing Luohu away.
• Luohu: Exhibits pride, ruthlessness, and resentment. He's stopped by Hongjun and later dismisses Shi Qilin but avoids further conflict.
• Shi Qilin: Gains confidence and pride due to his son's connection to Xuanxiao. He stands up to Luohu, showing newfound courage.
• Heavenly Dao: Implied to be helpless and pathetic, as it can't control Xuanxiao.

Significant Themes

• The unpredictability of the Heavenly Dao and its plans.
• The power dynamics among the characters and their reactions to unexpected situations.
• The theme of pride and its consequences, shown through Luohu and Shi Qilin.

Character Interactions

• Hongjun vs. Luohu: Hongjun prevents Luohu from sitting on the futon, causing Luohu's resentment.
• Luohu vs. Shi Qilin: Luohu threatens Shi Qilin, but Shi Qilin stands up to him, revealing his son's connection to Xuanxiao.
• Hongjun vs. Heavenly Dao: Hongjun looks to the Heavenly Dao for answers, feeling helpless about the changes.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jieyin and Zhunti, despite Hongjun's attempts to hinder them, arrive at Zixiao Palace to hear the Dao.
• They approach the three empty cushions, sensing an opportunity linked to their future.
• Jieyin and Zhunti resolutely sit on the cushions, gambling on their ability to uncover the mystery and break free from Luohu's control.

Character Developments

• Hongjun: Realizes he underestimated Jieyin and Zhunti's perseverance and now accepts them as Saints.
• Jieyin and Zhunti: Display decisiveness and daring, hinting at a complex relationship with Luohu.
• Luohu: Shows concern and attempts to maintain control over Jieyin and Zhunti.
• Xuanxiao: Recognizes the intricate relationship between Luohu, Jieyin, and Zhunti, and admires Jieyin and Zhunti's courage.

Significant Themes

• The impartiality of the Heavenly Dao in selecting Saints.
• The complex relationships and power dynamics between characters.
• The theme of gambling and taking risks to achieve one's goals.

Character Interactions

• Hongjun and Jieyin/Zhunti: Hongjun initially tries to prevent them from becoming Saints but ultimately accepts their ascension.
• Jieyin and Zhunti: They display tacit understanding and mutual support, working together to break free from Luohu's control.
• Luohu and Jieyin/Zhunti: Luohu attempts to maintain control over Jieyin and Zhunti, while they try to break free.
• Xuanxiao and everyone: Xuanxiao observes the interactions and dynamics between characters, forming his own interpretations.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jieyin and Zhunti successfully take their seats, surprising Luohu.
• Hongjun announces Nuwa's destiny with the last seat, and she takes it.
• Xuanxiao reflects on his actions and the predetermined nature of events.

Character Developments

• Luohu: Realizes the potential of Jieyin and Zhunti, changes his attitude towards them, demonstrating his pragmatic and self-interested nature.
• Hongjun: Shows indifference to personal relationships, prioritizing the Primordial World's stability, and exhibits his emotional control.
• Xuanxiao: Reflects on his actions and the predetermined nature of events, feeling helpless and resigned.

Significant Themes

• Emotion vs. Emotionlessness: Luohu and Hongjun's contrasting cultivation paths, both ultimately serving their supreme Dao.
• Destiny and Free Will: Xuanxiao's contemplation on whether his actions are prearranged or self-driven.
• Self-Interest vs. Greater Good: Luohu's change in attitude towards Jieyin and Zhunti, and Hongjun's prioritization of the Primordial World over personal relationships.

Character Interactions

• Luohu and Jieyin/Zhunti: Luohu reassesses his opinion of Jieyin and Zhunti after they take their seats.
• Hongjun and Nuwa: Hongjun acknowledges Nuwa's destiny with the last seat, and Nuwa accepts it.
• Xuanxiao and Pangu (flashback): Xuanxiao reflects on his past interactions with Pangu, comparing them to his current experiences.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Hongjun begins his first sermon, lasting 30,000 years, with attendees' seats fixed.
• The sermon starts with the description of the Dao and its relationship with heaven, earth, and man.
• As the sermon progresses, Zixiao Palace transforms with golden lotuses, flowers, and Dao Rhymes, spreading across the Primordial Era.
• Hongjun's sermon evolves through various stages, including the One, Two, Three, Four, Five Elements, Seven Stars, Eight Trigrams, and Nine Palaces formations.
• Xuanxiao records everyone's reactions for future use, causing Hongjun's voice to falter briefly.
• After 29,000 years, only a few attendees can still understand Hongjun's sermon.

Character Developments

• Hongjun demonstrates his profound understanding of the Dao and his ability to teach it.
• Xuanxiao shows his mischievous side and his deep comprehension of the Dao.
• The Three Pure Ones show their advanced understanding of the Dao, partly due to Xuanxiao's influence.
• Ancestral Witches struggle to keep up with Hongjun's sermon, highlighting their unique path of cultivation.

Significant Themes

• The nature and mysteries of the Dao.
• The relationship between the Dao, heaven, earth, and man.
• The difficulty in comprehending and memorizing the Dao.
• The unique paths of cultivation for different beings.

Character Interactions

• Hongjun and Xuanxiao: Hongjun's sermon is briefly interrupted by Xuanxiao's mischief, showing a moment of helplessness.
• Attendees and Hongjun: Most attendees struggle to keep up with Hongjun's sermon, highlighting the difficulty in comprehending the Dao.
• The Three Pure Ones and Xuanxiao: The Three Pure Ones' advanced understanding of the Dao is partly due to Xuanxiao's influence, showing their close relationship.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Laozi's cultivation breaks through to the late stage of the Grand Luo Golden Immortal realm during Hongjun's sermon.
• Yuanshi and Tongtian's cultivation at the middle stage of Grand Luo Golden Immortal is further consolidated.
• The three-thousand-year period for the first sermon ends, and Hongjun stops preaching, awakening everyone present.
• Hongjun announces that the second sermon will begin in three Yuanhui (a unit of time).

Character Developments

• Laozi's pure heart for seeking the Dao is praised by Xuanxiao, but Xuanxiao worries about Laozi becoming heartless due to prolonged pure pursuit of the Dao.
• Xuanxiao deliberately imposes minor punishments on Laozi to maintain his emotional fluctuations and humanity.
• Jieyin and Zhunti, seeking protection from Xuanxiao, claim they received his guidance in the past, which Xuanxiao neither confirms nor denies.

Significant Themes

• The pure pursuit of the Dao and its potential dangers.
• The balance between divinity and humanity in cultivation.
• The influence of the Dao Venerable (Xuanxiao) and the respect he commands.

Character Interactions

• Xuanxiao praises Laozi's pure heart but worries about the consequences.
• Fuxi, Nuwa, Di Jun, and others bow to Xuanxiao as they leave, acknowledging his status as the Dao Venerable.
• Jieyin and Zhunti seek Xuanxiao's protection, claiming they received his guidance, and he neither confirms nor denies their claim.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gou Chen, now the Lord of All Stars, leaves to handle affairs in the Primordial Starry Sky, with Xuanxiao's permission.
• Xuanxiao warns Gou Chen about the Demon Alliance's leader, Di Jun.
• The Three Pure Ones offer their help to Gou Chen.
• Xuanxiao tasks Luohu and the other four spirits to guard the Primordial Era.
• Tongtian wakes the Ancestral Witches by shouting "Stop sleeping, it's time to eat!"
• Xuanxiao sends the Ancestral Witches back to the Sea of Blood to cultivate.

Character Developments

• Gou Chen takes on new responsibilities and receives advice from Xuanxiao.
• Xuanxiao shows concern for Gou Chen's safety and the Primordial Era's security.
• Tongtian demonstrates his unique method of waking the Ancestral Witches, revealing his naivety and eagerness to please Xuanxiao.
• Hongjun feels a sense of relief and joy at seeing Xuanxiao's frustration with the Ancestral Witches.

Significant Themes

• Responsibility and Duty: Characters like Gou Chen and Luohu take on new responsibilities, highlighting the importance of duty and the consequences of neglecting it.
• Power Dynamics: The interactions between Xuanxiao and the Ancestral Witches, as well as between Xuanxiao and Hongjun, illustrate the power dynamics among the characters.
• Humility and Pride: Tongtian's actions and subsequent obliviousness to Xuanxiao's displeasure contrast with the humility shown by other characters, highlighting the theme of pride.

Character Interactions

• Xuanxiao and Gou Chen: Xuanxiao offers guidance and warning to Gou Chen, demonstrating a mentor-mentee relationship.
• Xuanxiao and Tongtian: Xuanxiao's frustration with Tongtian's method and Tongtian's obliviousness to Xuanxiao's displeasure show a complex, somewhat strained relationship.
• Hongjun and Xuanxiao: Hongjun's barely concealed joy at Xuanxiao's frustration reveals a sense of relief and release from past suppression.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuanxiao and Hongjun discuss Hongjun's impending merger with the Heavenly Dao.
• Xuanxiao leaves, riding Mo Yuan, with the Three Pure Ones following.
• Xuanxiao, along with the Three Pure Ones, discovers a Gourd Vine in Buzhou Mountain, which can produce seven Supreme Grade Innate Spirit Treasures.
• Many powerful beings, including Di Jun, Tai Yi, Fuxi, Nuwa, and others, gather to vie for the Gourd Vine's treasures.

Character Developments

• Hongjun: Shows seriousness and determination in preparing for his merger with the Heavenly Dao.
• Xuanxiao: Demonstrates his power and status by seeing through the Innate Great Formation and understanding the Gourd Vine's true nature.
• Three Pure Ones: Display their curiosity and eagerness to explore the Gourd Vine's potential.

Significant Themes

• Power and Status: Xuanxiao's presence and actions highlight the significance of his status and power among the gathered beings.
• Opportunity and Ambition: The Gourd Vine represents an opportunity for the gathered beings to gain powerful treasures, fueling their ambition.

Character Interactions

• Hongjun and Xuanxiao: They discuss Hongjun's plans and Xuanxiao's departure, showing respect and camaraderie.
• Xuanxiao and the Three Pure Ones: They interact as they explore the Gourd Vine, with Xuanxiao showing mild amusement and the Three Pure Ones displaying curiosity and eagerness.
• Gathered Beings: They interact with tension and anticipation, eyeing Xuanxiao warily and the Gourd Vine covetously.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuanxiao assures everyone he won't compete for the valley's treasures, easing the tension.
• A thousand years pass, and the innate grand formation remains motionless, attracting more cultivators.
• Tongtian repeatedly attempts to break the formation but fails, instead finding it a valuable learning experience.
• Xuanxiao reveals that the valley contains a Top-tier Innate Spirit Root, the Gourd Vine, with six mature Supreme Grade Innate Spirit Treasure gourds and one semi-mature High Grade gourd.
• After a hundred years, the innate grand formation dissipates, and cultivators rush to claim the gourds. However, the gourds suddenly transform into rainbow light and escape.

Character Developments

• Xuanxiao demonstrates his credibility and impartiality by reassuring everyone about his intentions.
• Tongtian shows resilience and dedication in studying the grand formation, improving his formation array skills.
• Hongyun, Laozi, Tai Yi, and Di Jun display their speed, power, and cunning in trying to claim the gourds.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The cultivators' actions highlight the power dynamics among them, with Xuanxiao's status and strength keeping them in check.
• Greed and Ambition: The cultivators' single-minded pursuit of the gourds illustrates their greed and ambition, even in the face of Xuanxiao's presence.
• Patience and Persistence: Tongtian's dedication to studying the grand formation despite repeated failures showcases patience and persistence in the face of challenges.

Character Interactions

• Xuanxiao and the Cultivators: Xuanxiao's presence and words significantly influence the cultivators' actions and attitudes.
• Cultivators among Themselves: The cultivators interact competitively, each trying to outdo the others in claiming the gourds.
• Tongtian and the Grand Formation: Tongtian's interaction with the grand formation reveals his dedication to learning and growth.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Seven gourds, including six Supreme Grade and one High Grade Spirit Treasures, are drawn to Xuanxiao.
• Xuanxiao initially seems to claim the gourds but later decides to let them choose their own masters.
• The gourds choose the Three Pure Ones, Hongyun, Tai Yi, Nuwa, and surprisingly, Mo Yuan (Xuanxiao's mount) as their masters.

Character Developments

• Xuanxiao: Demonstrates his power and prestige, shows benevolence by letting the gourds choose their own masters.
• Mo Yuan: Becomes the master of a gourd, marking a significant opportunity for him and the Kirin Clan due to his new status as Xuanxiao's mount.

Significant Themes

• The power of spirit treasures and their attraction to certain individuals.
• The importance of benevolence and keeping one's word (Xuanxiao's actions).
• Karma and its effects on opportunities and outcomes (Mo Yuan and the Kirin Clan).

Character Interactions

• Xuanxiao's interaction with the gourds: He initially attracts them but later allows them to choose their own masters.
• The crowd's interaction with Xuanxiao: They are wary of his strength and prestige, and no one dares to defy him.
• Mo Yuan's interaction with the gourd: He is surprised and joyful when it chooses him as its master.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xuanxiao watches Mo Yuan's excitement over a High Grade Spiritual Treasure, which he finds amusing.
• Xuanxiao asks Mo Yuan for the gourd, which Mo Yuan reluctantly hands over after Xuanxiao explains he can fix its origin.
• Xuanxiao collects the gourd vine and Nine Heavens Breathing Soil into the Primordial Realm.
• The people present leave after the treasures have found their owners.
• Xuanxiao declines an invitation to return to Kunlun Mountain with the Three Pure Ones, stating he has other matters to attend to.
• Xuanxiao instructs Mo Yuan to take him to the closest clan group.

Character Developments

• Mo Yuan: Shows excitement over a High Grade Spiritual Treasure, reluctance in giving it to Xuanxiao, and later, eagerness to have Xuanxiao fix its origin. He also reveals his past experiences with Shi Qilin.
• Xuanxiao: Demonstrates amusement at Mo Yuan's excitement, honesty in not tricking Mo Yuan, and knowledge about the gourd's origin and how to fix it. He also shows understanding of the Saints' nature and their connection to the Three Pure Ones.

Significant Themes

• Trust and honesty: Xuanxiao's honesty with Mo Yuan contrasts with Shi Qilin's unscrupulousness, highlighting the importance of trust in relationships.
• Power dynamics: Mo Yuan's reluctance to give the gourd to Xuanxiao initially, despite Xuanxiao being his master, shows the influence of power dynamics on their interaction.

Character Interactions

• Xuanxiao and Mo Yuan: Their interaction shows a mix of amusement, honesty, and mutual respect, with Mo Yuan looking up to Xuanxiao as a master.
• Xuanxiao and the Three Pure Ones: Xuanxiao provides them with information about Saints and declines their invitation to return to Kunlun Mountain, maintaining a certain distance while still guiding them.
• The Three Pure Ones: They show eagerness to learn about Saints and disappointment at Xuanxiao's refusal to accompany them, revealing their growing attachment to him.

Key Plot Points and Events

• After Hongjun's sermon, many Divine Beings enter closed-door cultivation, leading to a brief period of peace in the Primordial World.
• Xuanxiao, riding Mo Yuan, travels among various races, collecting and studying their inherited runes.
• Xuanxiao plans to create a universal script for all beings in the Primordial World to facilitate communication and knowledge sharing.
• Xuanxiao and Mo Yuan decide to visit the Kirin clan, one of the three Innate Clans.

Character Developments

• Xuanxiao: Shows a desire to improve the Primordial World by creating a universal script, aiming to increase knowledge exchange and reduce disparities between beings.
• Mo Yuan: Reveals his pride in his Kirin clan status and his ambition to become the clan leader, despite Shi Qilin's presence.

Significant Themes

• Knowledge Sharing and Communication: Xuanxiao's plan to create a universal script highlights the importance of communication and knowledge sharing among different races.
• Disparities and Hierarchy: The solidified hierarchy among beings in the Primordial World is challenged by Xuanxiao's vision of a more diverse and powerful world.

Character Interactions

• Xuanxiao and Mo Yuan: Xuanxiao shares his vision with Mo Yuan, who struggles to understand the significance of Xuanxiao's plan. Mo Yuan then boasts about his status in the Kirin clan.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Mo Yuan returns to the Kirin Clan, expecting a warm welcome but is met with disdain by Lin Zhao, a Kirin elder.
• Mo Yuan reveals he has broken through to the Primordial Golden Immortal realm, shocking Lin Zhao.
• Mo Yuan admits he has taken Xuanxiao, the Dao Venerable, as his master, causing Lin Zhao to express disappointment and disbelief.
• Mo Yuan and Lin Zhao argue over Mo Yuan's worthiness to be Xuanxiao's mount.

Character Developments

• Mo Yuan: Despite his initial boasting, Mo Yuan feels embarrassed and ashamed when faced with Lin Zhao's disdain. He becomes defensive and proud when discussing his breakthrough and master.
• Lin Zhao: Initially disapproving and disappointed in Mo Yuan, Lin Zhao becomes enraged and contemptuous when he learns Mo Yuan has acknowledged Xuanxiao as his master.

Significant Themes

• Pride and Humility: Mo Yuan's pride in his breakthrough and master contrasts with Lin Zhao's disdain and disappointment.
• Respect and Worthiness: The argument between Mo Yuan and Lin Zhao revolves around Mo Yuan's worthiness to be Xuanxiao's mount.

Character Interactions

• Mo Yuan and Lin Zhao: Their interaction is tense and argumentative, with Lin Zhao expressing disapproval and Mo Yuan becoming defensive and proud.
• Mo Yuan and Xuanxiao: Though not present, Xuanxiao's influence is significant, with Mo Yuan proudly mentioning him as his master and Lin Zhao expressing disbelief at their connection.