Ch. 381King Yama Sutra, Emperor's Sword
Key Plot Points and Events
- Zhong A Niu, a young man from Zhongnan, loses his parents early and relies on his younger sister. He's bullied for his ugly appearance and learns martial arts from an old master next door.
- Despite his achievements in the imperial examinations, Zhong A Niu is denied the top scholar title due to his appearance. He commits suicide in protest, leading to his descent into the Underworld.
- Zhong A Niu's soul encounters various ghostly obstacles and fights back, eventually reaching the Senluo Hall. He's sentenced to Avici Hell but is given a chance to atone by King Yama, becoming the Demon Exorcising True Lord.
- Zhong A Niu serves the Underworld, bringing order and reorganizing it. However, he's eventually sent to the mortal world by King Yama to avoid destruction at the hands of Dharma Corpses.
Character Developments
- Zhong A Niu: Starts as an ugly, bullied youth with a short temper. Through hard work and determination, he becomes a top scholar. After death, he fights against injustice in the Underworld, eventually becoming the Demon Exorcising True Lord.
- King Yama: The Underworld Son of Heaven, initially harsh but fair. He recognizes Zhong A Niu's potential and gives him a chance to atone for his sins.
Significant Themes
- Appearance vs. Character: Zhong A Niu's ugly appearance leads to prejudice, but his inner strength and determination prove his worth.
- Justice and Injustice: Zhong A Niu fights against injustice both in life and after death, highlighting the theme of standing up for what's right.
- Redemption and Atonement: Zhong A Niu's actions in the Underworld allow him to redeem his sins and atone for his past.
Character Interactions
- Zhong A Niu and the Old Martial Arts Master: Their relationship leads to Zhong A Niu learning martial arts and eventually becoming the Demon Exorcising True Lord.
- Zhong A Niu and King Yama: King Yama recognizes Zhong A Niu's potential and gives him a chance to atone, leading to their master-disciple relationship.